Archive for the ‘Events’ Category

Joe DiMaggio called Satchel Paige “the best and fastest pitcher I’ve ever faced.” His pitching was amazing, and his showboating was legendary. His career highlights span five decades. Pronounced the greatest pitcher in the history of the Negro Leagues, Paige compiled such feats as 64 consecutive scoreless innings, a stretch of 21 straight wins, and a 31–4 record in 1933. In 1971, Satchel Paige received the ultimate honor when he was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame. Emmy award–winning storyteller Bobby Norfolk brings us a brand-new program celebrating the life and achievements of this great icon of American sports. Just in time to heighten World Series excitement! Register at 1-800-613-3163.

Janet Burnett, a Master Gardener from the University of Illinois Extension, will present a program on fall gardening, specifically, fall planting and preparing your garden and yard for winter. Register at 1-800-613-3163.

George Portz & The Friends of Bluegrass is one of the most versatile performing groups in the area as they blend their fiery Bluegrass roots with some traditional Irish and Louisiana Cajun music. Their “Cajun Set” has won raves from crowds throughout the Midwest. This five-piece musical group’s enthusiasm, top-notch musical ability, wit and humor are always evident during their performances. George, the group’s leader and founder, has won more than 130 first-place fiddling championships, played for two Presidents and performed at the Grand Ole Opry. George’s musical philosophy is to always “leave ’em wanting more”… and they always do! Register at 1-800-613-3163.

Gary and Roberta Gordon have been influenced by the great music of their era. Baptized by Bluegrass Music in 1973, this husband and wife team have made wonderful folk music ever since. Harmony singing is their signature as they accompany themselves on guitar, Dobro and Appalachian autoharp. The Gordons have toured the U.S. and Europe extensively since the 1970s. Their latest CD, “Our Time,” was one of the top 10 folk records of 2008 on folk radio charts. Register at 1-800-613-3163.

Barry Cloyd is a Midwestern-based, full-time touring singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist and educator who has spent a lifetime creating a performance style that brings history alive through story and song. Based on Carl Sandburg’s collected volume of American folk songs, the American Songbag takes you on a journey through time, revisiting American history, from sod-busting pioneer days to the westward migration, the steamboat era, the Civil War, and up to the Great Depression. Join us for this wonderful event touring American history through our great folk music. Register at 1-800-613-3163. Note: This program will last approximately 1½ hours.

From Handel to Joplin to John Phillip Sousa, musicians have traveled the world by way of rivers, lakes and oceans. Join the flute and tuba duo Double Play as they present “Water Music,” featuring unique arrangements of some of the world’s most popular music. Register at 1-800-613-3163.