Community Calendar

https://www.wsc.edu/art-gallery

A dedicated ensemble of volunteers was formed shortly after the arrival of the Kyai Rengga Manis Everist Gamelan. Eventually being given the name of Tatag, the group exemplifies the characteristics of what the name means: strong will, strong determination, showing compassion. Members of the group have ranged in age from 6 to 80, and members commute from as far away as Orange City.

Membership is open to anyone who is interested - no prior music experience is necessary. They rehearse once a week for 60 minutes.

A live stream of this concert will be available to watch for free on our website at https://www.nmmusd.org/nmm-live-video

https://www.wsc.edu/art-gallery

Discovery Saturday: AANHPI Heritage Month

Learn the ukulele with Vermillion music educator Gretchen Burbach at two fun and informative ukulele discovery sessions at 11:30 and 1:30. Learn a chord, a couple strumming patterns—and maybe even a song—at 11:30 AM and 1:30 PM that day. We will have several ukuleles on hand for you to play, or bring your own!

Then, stay for a spotlight talks on the NMM's Javanese gamelan at 2:15 and 3:15, as well as a chance to play in this amazing ensemble with educator, Anna Van Kley, at 2:30. All activities are included with museum admission.

Additionally, families are invited to join the NMM’s Music Storytime at 10:30 a.m., where Van Kley will read a story and lead children to explore the museum. Music Storytime is free and sponsored by the M.A. Everist Foundation. Discovery Saturdays at the NMM occur on the first Saturday of each month, offering a variety of activities and educational tours throughout the museum.

https://www.wsc.edu/art-gallery

On Sunday, May 4, 2025, at 2:00 pm, the Betty Strong Encounter Center welcomes Dr. Bruce Forbes, Professor Emeritus of Religious Studies, Morningside University. Admission is free with a reception to follow.

He will offer a presentation lightheartedly titled "Church History in One Easy Lesson," from Christian beginnings to today, with visual illustrations. His talk will attempt to explain the oft asked question of why there are so many different Christian groups.

Forbes formal academic training is in the history of Christianity, but he has also developed a special interest in the analysis of popular culture. Forbes is a former department chair and professor of religious studies at Morningside College in Sioux City, Iowa. He is the co-editor of two books: Religion and Popular Culture in America, co-edited with Jeffrey H. Mahan, and Rapture, Revelation and the End Times: An Exploration of the Left Behind Series (2004), co-edited with Djeanne Halgren Kilde. He is also the author of two non-fiction books: Christmas: A Candid History (2007) and America's Favorite Holidays: Candid Histories (2015).

https://www.wsc.edu/art-gallery

https://www.wsc.edu/art-gallery

Join the Western Iowa Tech Community Choir. Vocal Music Instructor and Director of Choral Activities, William Darwin, Jr., will be leading the choir on Tuesday nights. Every level of singer is welcome. The choir will perform at least once a semester. Singing in a choir is incredible for your well-being. Numerous studies show it can relieve stress, boost the immune system, and build a sense of belonging. Join the WITCC community choir to create lovely harmony in your life.

Join the Western Iowa Tech Community Choir. Vocal Music Instructor and Director of Choral Activities, William Darwin, Jr. will be leading the choir on Tuesday nights. Every level of singer is welcome. The choir will perform at least once a semester. Singing in a choir is incredible for your well-being. Numerous studies show it can relieve stress, boost the immune system and build a sense of belonging. Join the WITCC community choir to create lovely harmony in your life.