Wisconsin Union: Lineup of Free Madison Jazz Festival Events, Including World-Renowned Headliners, Will Come to the Terrace June 15-16

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 21, 2024

Contact Information:
Shauna Breneman, Public Relations and Communications Officer, Wisconsin Union
Email: sbreneman@wisc.edu
Phone: (608) 262-8862

READ RELEASE ONLINE: union.wisc.edu/about/news/2024-madison-jazz-festival

LINEUP OF FREE MADISON JAZZ FESTIVAL EVENTS, INCLUDING WORLD-RENOWNED HEADLINERS, WILL COME TO THE TERRACE JUNE 15-16

MADISON – The annual tradition, the Madison Jazz Festival, will return to the outdoor dining and entertainment destination the Memorial Union Terrace June 15-16 with free jazz performances presented by the Wisconsin Union Theater (WUT) and the Arts + Literature Laboratory.

The Madison Jazz Festival at the Terrace will feature headliners the Orrin Evans Quartet on June 15 and the Dee Dee Bridgewater Quartet: “We Exist!” on June 16. Seating for Madison Jazz Fest shows at the Terrace is available on a first-come, first-served basis. During inclement weather, Madison Jazz Festival events scheduled to take place at the Terrace will move to Shannon Hall in the nearby building Memorial Union, when possible.

The full Jazz Fest lineup at the Terrace includes:

• June 15:
  • 1-2 p.m. – Madison Jazz Fest High School All Stars
  • 3-4:30 p.m. – Gerri DiMaggio and Friends featuring Peter Dominguez
  • 5-6:15 p.m. – Heirloom
  • 7-8:30 p.m. – Orrin Evans Quartet
  • 9-10:30 p.m. – “¡Azucar! A celebration Honoring Celia Cruz,” featuring Betty Guerrero y La Combi
• June 16:
  • 1-2:15 p.m. – A.S.T.R.O.
  • 3-4:15 p.m. – John Christensen Quartet with Russ Johnson
  • 5-6:15 p.m. – Pawan Benjamin Trio with Javier Santiago and Jeremiah Collier
  • 7-8:30 p.m. – Dee Dee Bridgewater Quartet: “We Exist!”

            “We are excited for the return of this quintessential Madison summertime event and even more excited that all the Terrace performances, even the headliners, will be free of charge,” WUT Director Elizabeth Snodgrass said. “The Madison Jazz Festival and the Memorial Union Terrace are two of Madison’s best ways to gather in community, and Madisonians will get to celebrate both Wisconsin-based and internationally-renowned jazz musicians all in the same place and for free.”

GRAMMY-nominated jazz pianist, composer, and bandleader Orrin Evans will lead the Orrin Evans Quartet during its free June 15 performance and has been a leader in jazz innovation throughout his three-decades-long career. He has become known for infusing other genres into jazz, such as blues and soul. In addition to Evans, the ensemble includes drummer Justin Faulkner, bassist Vicente Archer and saxophonist Caleb Wheeler Curtis.

            “I go head-first for a lot of things,” Evans has said. “I like to stretch out. Wherever the music takes me, I’m going there.”

GRAMMY and Tony Award-winning vocalist, musical theater star and producer Dee Dee Bridgewater will conclude the festival with the Dee Dee Bridgewater Quartet on June 16 at the Terrace. Bridgewater’s “We Exist!” tour focuses on the struggles women have faced and the successes women have achieved through their talent. Bridgewater earned her Tony for her work playing Glinda in “The Wiz.” The jazz songstress enjoys re-envisioning jazz classics. Her mentors have included Dizzy Gillespie, Clark Terry, Dexter Gordon, Sonny Rollins and Betty Carter.

“I hope that I will be exploring things until I don’t have the voice, or until my body gives out, or until they both give out, or until I just leave this Earth,” said Bridgewater in an interview with Morgan Enos of GRAMMY.com.

In addition to the free events at the Terrace June 15-16, other Madison Jazz Festival free and ticketed events will occur throughout Madison June 7-14, including performances by Raul Midón on June 8 and Miguel Zenón and Luis Perdomo “El Arte Del Bolero” on June 10.

The WUT team recently announced its 2024-2025 season of what’s next now — the Theater’s new tag line — with up-and-coming musicians, vocalists and dancers as well as renowned artists in performing arts. The lineup includes the Theater’s annual cornerstone series in jazz and classical as well as the new Black Box Sessions featuring hip-hop music. The 2024-2025 season also includes two theatrical productions as well as the return of Japanese Taiko drumming. Current subscribers can renew now; general public sales for subscriptions and single tickets start on May 28.

Patrons can support future Wisconsin Union Theater and Wisconsin Union events as well as student leadership opportunities by making purchases at the Memorial Union Terrace, the Memorial Union, Union South, Wisconsin Union markets and cafes, and TerraceStore.union.wisc.edu. Supporters can also make events like this and performing arts student leadership roles possible by giving tax-deductible donations here.

Patrons can visit union.wisc.edu/madison-jazz-festival for the WUT-hosted Madison Jazz Festival lineup and details about the WUT-hosted festival events. Details about the rest of the Jazz Festival events can be found at madisonjazzfestivalwi.org.

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About the Wisconsin Union Theater

For more than 80 years, the Wisconsin Union Theater (WUT) has served as a center for cultural activity in the heart of the University of Wisconsin–Madison campus. WUT presents an annual season of performing arts and hosts hundreds of rental events in Shannon Hall and the Play Circle in Memorial Union. WUT has an extensive history of presenting world-renowned musicians, dancers, actors, and speakers and strives to create an equitable, diverse, and inclusive place for all. WUT is part of the Wisconsin Union, a membership organization that blends study and leisure to create unique out-of-classroom opportunities. Learn more: union.wisc.edu/wisconsin-union-theater.

Backflip Creative Marketing experiments with commercial advertising in a Backflippy way!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Backflip Creative Marketing Experiments with Commercial Advertising in a Backflippy Way!

Madison, WI – May 17, 2024 – Backflip, a trailblazer in creative marketing and video production, is thrilled to announce its latest venture into commercial advertising. With a distinctive approach that blends creativity, strategy, and a touch of ‘Backflippy’ magic, Backflip is stepping into the landscape of broadcast TV advertising for one of its toughest clients: itself.

Our recent “Sell More, Better” TV commercial is a testament to our commitment to pushing boundaries and delivering exceptional results for our clients. This commercial is not just about selling a product; it’s about telling a story that resonates with audiences and drives meaningful engagement.

A fresh take on self-promotion

At Backflip, we believe that effective advertising is about more than just getting your message out there—it’s about making a lasting impression with something awesome. Our “Sell More, Better” commercial exemplifies this philosophy by combining top-notch cinematography, comedic narratives and performances, and the ever-useful tool: repetition. Also, we employed the use of repetition.

The Challenge of Marketing Ourselves

Creating a commercial for our own brand presented a unique set of challenges. As a marketing agency, we are often our own toughest critics. The task required us to step back and objectively view our brand through the eyes of our audience. It involved a deep introspection into what makes Backflip unique and how we can effectively communicate that to potential clients.

Our team tackled this challenge head-on, leveraging our collective expertise to produce a commercial that highlights our capabilities and captures the essence of who we are. Love it or hate it, you’ll absolutely remember it. The process was a valuable exercise in self-reflection and creativity, ultimately resulting in a product that makes us feel incredibly proud.

About Backflip

Backflip is a full-service creative marketing agency based in Madison, WI. We specialize in branding, video production, web design, and digital marketing, offering a holistic approach to help businesses grow and thrive in today’s competitive market.

We invite businesses looking to elevate their marketing efforts to join us in this exciting journey. Whether you’re a small business aiming to increase local visibility or a large corporation seeking to enhance your brand presence, Backflip has the expertise and creativity to help you succeed.

For more information about our services or to see our “Sell More, Better” TV commercial, visit our website at letsbackflip.com.

Wisconsin Union, Bucky’s Varsity Meats Debut New Beef Snack Sticks

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 16, 2024

Contact Information:
Shauna Breneman, Wisconsin Union Public Relations and Communications Officer
Email: sbreneman@wisc.edu
Phone: (608) 262-8862

READ RELEASE ONLINE: union.wisc.edu/about/news/snacksticks

WISCONSIN UNION, BUCKY’S VARSITY MEATS DEBUT NEW BEEF SNACK STICKS

MADISON – The Wisconsin Union and Bucky’s Varsity Meats teams have developed and launched a brand-new product, called the Wisconsin Union Beef Snack Sticks, which supports hands-on student learning and leadership opportunities.

Customers can purchase the Wisconsin Union Beef Snack Sticks at the following Wisconsin Union dining locations: Badger Markets in Engineering, Ingraham, Memorial Union, and Union South; Capital Café in Grainger Hall; Carte in Memorial Union; the Chazen Café; and Sett Recreation in Union South.

The Wisconsin Union and Varsity Meats began a collaborative beef snack sticks development process in spring 2022. Together, they developed beef sticks that combine 100% Angus beef with the nutty, earthy, slightly sweet flavor of mustard seeds, the tanginess of ground mustard and the subtle sweetness of garlic. The recipe development process included the teams taste-testing several batches before arriving at the final flavor combination.

Bucky’s Varsity Meats crafts the beef sticks on campus with meat sourced from campus-run farms and local businesses.         

“Collaborating with Bucky’s Varsity Meats was the perfect opportunity to support meat science learning at UW–Madison by creating beef snack sticks that help fund animal and dairy sciences education and Wisconsin Union student leadership opportunities,” said Carl Korz, Wisconsin Union associate director for dining and hospitality services. “We’ve created a protein-packed, delicious way to power people’s days, which is locally made, from ingredients-sourcing to production. Production takes place less than two miles from all the Wisconsin Union Beef Snack Stick outlets.”

Wisconsin Union Beef Snack Stick purchases support the Wisconsin Union’s low-cost and free events and student leadership opportunities as well as the Meat Science and Animal Biologics Discovery program real-world learning opportunities.

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About the Wisconsin Union

The non-profit Wisconsin Union strives to enhance and support student leadership and community engagement, including through recreational, cultural, educational and social opportunities and by providing world-class support services, such as in event management. The Wisconsin Union includes student leadership opportunities available through the Wisconsin Union Directorate, the Center for Leadership and Involvement, the Wisconsin Singers, the StudentPrint, Fraternity and Sorority Life, and the Wisconsin Homecoming Committee; Memorial Union; Union South; various dining options throughout downtown Madison; the University Club; UW Conferences & Events; and the Fluno Center. Learn more about the Union and its tradition of providing experiences for a lifetime: union.wisc.edu.

About Bucky’s Varsity Meats

Established in 2020, Bucky’s Varsity Meats is a full-service meat shop at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. Varsity Meats is student-driven and committed to education and showcasing the variety of products and cuts produced at its facility, the Meat Science and Animal Biologics Discovery Building. It is an important part of the Meat Science and Animal Biologics Discovery program in the Department of Animal & Dairy Sciences at the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences. Learn more at varsitymeats.cals.wisc.edu.

Middleton Chamber of Commerce: Mission: Workforce Alliance Announces Strategic Partnership with Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce

Middleton, WI – 5/15/2024 – Mission Workforce Alliance (MWA) is proud to announce a new strategic partnership with the Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce a dedicated initiative aimed at integrating transitioning service members into the local workforce. This collaboration marks a significant commitment to addressing the workforce challenges facing the region while supporting veteran transition into civilian careers.

Mission Workforce Alliance, operated by the Middleton Chamber of Commerce Foundation, connects businesses with highly skilled veterans, offering a rich pool of talent in fields ranging from IT and engineering to project management and finance. With over 200,000 service members transitioning annually, this partnership provides Wisconsin businesses exclusive access to a diverse and capable workforce ready to meet the demands of today’s industries.

David Minor, President + CEO Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce, says “I’m excited to emphasize the importance of programs like Mission: Workforce Alliance and the need for partnerships between chambers across Wisconsin. MWA serves as a vital link between transitioning service members and businesses, allowing us to harness their unique skills for the benefit of our economy.”

MWA’s collaboration with the Eau Claire Chamber not only aims to fill the growing number of vacancies but also supports Wisconsin’s broader economic development strategy. By welcoming veterans into its communities, Wisconsin strengthens its workforce with individuals renowned for their leadership, technical expertise, and dedication.

“We are thrilled to announce our partnership with the Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce, marking a significant first step in taking our Mission: Workforce Alliance program statewide. This collaboration not only strengthens our commitment to connecting Wisconsin’s transitioning service members to meaningful careers but also sets a precedent for other communities to join us in this vital initiative,” says Kate Miller, President & CEO, Middleton Chamber of Commerce.

**About Mission Workforce Alliance:**

Mission Workforce Alliance assists in bridging the gap between transitioning service members and the business community, enhancing workforce readiness and economic growth. Through simplified recruitment processes and tailored training programs, MWA ensures that veterans can effectively transition to civilian employment, contributing to the economic vitality of their new communities.

**Contact:**
Kate Miller
President + CEO
888.384.4482
kate@missionworkforcealliance.org

For more information about how to get involved with Mission Workforce Alliance, visit: https://www.missionworkforcealliance.org/).

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Wisconsin Union: Limited-Edition, Badger Red Mini Terrace Chair Celebrates 175th UW–Madison Anniversary

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 14, 2024

Contact Information:
Shauna Breneman, Public Relations and Communications Officer, Wisconsin Union
Email: sbreneman@wisc.edu
Phone: (608) 262-8862

READ RELEASE ONLINE: union.wisc.edu/about/news/175-chair

LIMITED-EDITION, BADGER RED MINI TERRACE CHAIR CELEBRATES 175TH UW–MADISON ANNIVERSARY

MADISON – A limited-edition, Badger Red, mini Terrace chair 175 years in the making — with a sunny lakefront and 175 in its chairback — recently made its debut at Badger Markets at Memorial Union and Union South and in the Online Terrace Store in celebration of the 175th anniversary of the University of Wisconsin–Madison.

The Wisconsin Union team and the UW–Madison Office of Strategic Communication collaborated to create the new mini chair as part of the university’s yearlong anniversary celebration and celebration of the Wisconsin Idea, a belief that UW–Madison’s teaching, research and public service should push beyond the boundaries of campus to improve the lives of all.

Wisconsin-based Wisco Industries crafted and painted the 4-inch-tall chairs. The Wisconsin Union currently has about 1,700 available for purchase. The team does not anticipate producing additional 175th anniversary chairs.

“We’re proud to celebrate the university’s 175th anniversary with this special edition of one of our most beloved icons, the Terrace chair,” said Vice Chancellor for University Relations Charles Hoslet, who led the 175th anniversary celebration for campus. “Purchasing a chair is a great way to join in the celebration with Badgers everywhere.”

Funds raised from the limited-edition chair sales will in part go to the Chancellor’s Annual Fund, which has historically supported the university’s students as well as helped make the Wisconsin Idea possible in many ways, including the providing of student financial support, the recruitment and retention of faculty, and the exploration of new research possibilities. Sales will also support student leadership opportunities as well as free and low-cost events at the Wisconsin Union.

“For more than 110 years, the Wisconsin Union has been part of UW–Madison, striving to expand learning beyond the classroom and to make a difference in the lives of students, faculty, staff, visitors and community members,” said Mark Guthier, associate vice chancellor for Student Affairs and the Wisconsin Union director. “The 175th mini Terrace chair is the perfect opportunity to celebrate our shared history of supporting the Wisconsin Idea, the incredible ways UW–Madison is changing the world, as well as the university’s supporters.”

The Wisconsin Union’s previous limited-edition mini chairs have included a cow-print chair in 2019 supporting the UW School of Veterinary Medicine; a 2020 Earth-themed chair that supported the UW–Madison Green Fund; a 2023 purple and teal chair supporting University Health Services’ Suicide Prevention Fund; and a 2024 multi-hued chair that supports the Multicultural Student Center’s (MSC’s) food insecurity initiatives.

Patrons can currently purchase a limited supply of the 175th mini chairs, the cow-print mini chairs, and the multi-hued MSC chairs in the Wisconsin Union’s Badger Markets at Memorial Union and Union South and the Union’s online store, while supplies last. The Wisconsin Union team sells red, green, yellow and orange mini Terrace chairs and tables as well as full-size white and red Terrace chairs and tables year-round.

The full-size yellow, orange and green Terrace chairs that inspire the Wisconsin Union’s mini Terrace chairs appear at the Union’s lakefront outdoor dining and entertainment destination the Memorial Union Terrace each year for a summer by the lake. Summer by the Lake at the Terrace includes dozens of free and low-cost art events, free concerts, free film showings and low-cost outdoor recreation experiences. Patrons can learn more about Terrace season at TerraceSummer.com.

To learn about the 175th anniversary celebration and UW–Madison, visit 175.wisc.edu.

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About the Wisconsin Union

The non-profit Wisconsin Union strives to enhance and support student leadership and community engagement, including through recreational, cultural, educational and social opportunities and by providing world-class support services, such as in event management. The Wisconsin Union includes student leadership opportunities available through the Wisconsin Union Directorate, the Center for Leadership and Involvement, the Wisconsin Singers, StudentPrint, Fraternity and Sorority Life, and the Wisconsin Homecoming Committee; Memorial Union; Union South; various dining options throughout downtown Madison; the University Club; UW Conferences & Events; and the Fluno Center. Learn more about the Union and its tradition of providing experiences for a lifetime: union.wisc.edu.

About the UW–Madison 175th Anniversary

From 1848 to today, UW–Madison has been home to both dreamers and doers. Badgers are driven by public service, pushing beyond our boundaries and solving society’s largest problems. We call it the Wisconsin Idea. Because this is where an idea can change the world. Learn more: 175.wisc.edu.