Friday, August 21, 2009

Sunday from 1:30 to 4 pm, Madison Vets for Peace, Socialist Potluck and Wisconsin Friends of the Lincoln Brigade will host a birthday party for Clarence Kailin at the Gates of Heaven Synagogue in James Madison Park, at Gorham and Butler Street. Light refreshments, cake and ice cream will be served. There will be an open mike for participants to share their memories.

The 6th Annual Midwest Gypsy Swing Festival will be held this weekend at Art in the Barn, 5927 Adams Road in Fitchburg. The 2-day event will feature Harmonious Wail, Caravan Gypsy Swing Ensemble, the Robin Nolan trio from Amsterdam and more. Details online at midwestgypsyswingfest.com

Saturday, the Women4Women Summer Picnic will be held at the park shelter at Governor Nelson State Park from 2 till 10 pm. Outdoor games, swimming, hiking and cooking-out are planned. Bring an entrée for yourself to grill, a dish to share, your own beverages, plate and utensils, and any outdoor games. Women and children guests are invited. More info at 255-8582.

Saturday at Demetral Park, at the corner of Packers and Commercial Avenue, The 100 Black Men of Madison will distribute 1,600 backpacks to needy students from 11 am to 1 pm. This event is “first come, first served” and will be held rain or shine. A free picnic lunch will also be served. More info at 347-9715 or 469-5213.

Saturday, Bay Creek Neighborhood kids are hosting a food and school supply drive at the corner of West Lakeside Street and Lawrence Street. The wagon drive runs from 10 am until 2 pm. Supplies collected will benefit families that utilize the St. Marks Lutheran Church Food Pantry located at 605 Spruce Street. Monetary donations will also be accepted. More info at 772-1242.

Saturday the Wisconsin Tibet Association will sponsor a "Walk for Tibet" event. Participants will gather at Brittingham Park, opposite Midway Asian Food store, at 1:00 pm and start the walk to the State Capitol. "Walk for Tibet" will be organized once every month until March 2010. More info at wistib.org.