2Do La Crosse January/February 2015

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La Crosse

VOLUME Three| Issue One January / February 2015 Š2015 Mueller Media, Inc.

Publisher Rick Mueller Editor Michelle Jerome Account Representatives Rachel Albrechtson Michelle Jerome Jenna Walker Lee Worrell Writers Heidi Blanke Michael Scott Sara Walters Graphic Designers Will Adamany Jason Keeney Josh Walker Copy Editor Susan Miller Distribution Page Hartmann

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in

Email info@muellermediacorp.com or call (608) 796-8780 to get your advertisement in the next issue of 2do La Crosse.

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LIKE 2DOLACROSSE

Mueller Media publishing marketing out-of-home advertising

MuellerMediaCorp.com (608) 796-8780 2Do La Crosse is published bi-monthly by Mueller Media, Inc., 3120 South Ave., La Crosse, WI 54601.

Readers are encouraged to verify information directly with organizers of events and activities in this publication. ŠMueller Media, Inc. All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. 2Do La Crosse does not necessarily endorse the claims or contents of advertising or editorial materials.

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es as you go! ti vi ti ac n fu e es th f of Check - Winter Rec-Fest, page 7, January 14-31 - Mt. La Crosse, pg 16 - Dark La Crosse Tour: The Radio Show, January 15 - Rockin’ For HorseSense, January 17 - The YMCA Valentine’s Sweetheart Dance, February 13 - The YMCA Valentine’s Heart Throb Walk Run, February 14 - Frozen River Film Festival, page 19, February 18-22 - Finnottes, page 22 - Digger’s Sting, page 25 - Polar Plunge, page 12, March 7 See details on these and more great ideas of what 2do in the calendar, page 27

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FAMILY FUN

Winter Rec-Fest Putting the Festival Back in Winter Rec-Fest

By Sara Walters

For many years, the fun of Winter Rec-Fest has been spread throughout La Crosse. But this year, the city’s parks and recreation department is taking a different approach.

“We want to turn that first Saturday into a more festive atmosphere,” said event coordinator,

Jared Flick. “We’re putting everything at one location, Copeland Park, so we have a more centralized location for participants.”

This marks one of the only changes on the lineup for the January festival, which is

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celebrating its 29th year. The goal of the event is to “offer a variety of wintertime activities to a large number of participants — young and old alike.”

Flick is hoping the older crowd will appreciate the Copeland change. “We get a lot of participation from outdoor sports teams,” said Flick. By hosting the adult kickball, softball and broomball tournaments all in the same park on Saturday, Jan. 24, he believes these players will have a better opportunity to watch other games and socialize. In the past, numerous fields across the city were used, spreading out participants across town. Having one centralized location also better fits the number of staff required to make Winter Rec-Fest happen.

Although a good portion of the action will be

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happening at Copeland Park, the rest of the city will also be buzzing with activity, as in years past. The popular co-rec snow volleyball tournament will be happening at the Alpine Inn and Nutbush City Limits. Green Island Ice Arena has a full schedule of hockey, curling and figure skating, and Forest Hills will once again lend itself to Friday Family Fun Night, an event packed with sledding, snowshoeing and a fireworks display. For those who prefer a warmer environment, The Eagles Club will be hosting a Euchre/Sheepshead tournament.

Warmth, unfortunately, is not something Winter Rec-Fest is known for. Often falling during some of the winter’s coldest weeks, Flick and his staff are prepared for last minute changes.

“We’ve had some extreme cold before. What we do is modify game time so people aren’t exposed as long,” he said. Youth activities, for the most part, are held indoors to keep kids

FAMILY FUN safe from frigid temperatures.

It’s the kids of La Crosse that are the reason for Winter Rec-Fest in the first place. One of two primary fundraisers for the Youth Enrichment Association (YEA), the event helps pay for sporting equipment and T-shirts for kids involved in Parks and Recreation activities. It also provides scholarships for students who receive free and reduced-price lunch to ensure everyone has the chance to participate.

Kids are also at the forefront of the Winter RecFest button design contest. A winner is chosen each year to have his or her drawing on the festival’s button, sold at city facilities for $2 and required for entry at all events.

One event that draws both young and old is the Snowflake Medallion Hunt. Following

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the clues and finding the medallion, hidden somewhere in the city, could win you $500.

Although Flick said the popularity of this event is hard to track, he knows citizens love it. “It’s hard to tell how many people participate, but if you drive around the parks there’s lots of foot traffic,” he said. Calls to City Hall also seem to increase when the medallion hunt starts, with inquisitive searchers wondering if the treasure has yet to be found.

In a city filled with these kinds of willing participants, hosting an event like Winter Rec-Fest is a no-brainer. Some surrounding communities offer similar winter festivals,

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but none compare to the size of La Crosse’s.

“We have great participation,” shared Flick, attributing some of the success to low registration fees for the adult sports, which draw in many teams. He is anticipating six to eight teams for the kickball tournament and 12 to 16 for softball, a solid turnout by any standards.

This year’s festivities kick off on Wednesday, Jan. 14, and run through Saturday, Jan. 31.

Winter Rec-Fest January 14-31, 2015

29th Annual

FAMILY FUN 2015 Winter Rec-Fest Events • Boys & Girls Basketball Tournament • Broomball Tournament • Co-Rec Snow Volleyball Tournament • Curling • Figure Skating Exhibition • Ice Fishing Derby • Euchre/Sheepshead Tournament • Fireworks at Forest Hills Golf Course • Frosty Feet Kickball Tournament • Poage Park Skate Party • Mighty Mites Hockey Jamboree • One Pitch Snow Softball Tournament • Skate, Pass, & Score Contest • Snow Shoe Trials • Snowflake Medallion Hunt • Torchlight Ski & Hike • Twilight Sledding • Winter Rec-Fest Medallion Hunt For more info: (608) 789-7533 www.cityoflacrosse.org See ad on the back cover for more details.

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Polar Plunge Freezin’ for a Reason

By Sara Heaser

An idiom that is a toss-up for Wisconsin: “March. In like a lion, out like a lamb.”

And by the time March nears, some of us are desperate for the cold to end, ready for a balmy spring day to enjoy outside.

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So spending a brisk March afternoon on the banks of Pettibone Beach sounds a bit nuts, right? Well, more than 800 brave souls could be on to something nutty … and fun.

That’s how many jumped into the Mississippi during last year’s Polar Plunge in La Crosse, raising more than $130,000 for Special Olympics Wisconsin. And according to the official Special Olympics website, Wisconsin plungers have donated more than $18 million to Wisconsin athletes through the event. This year’s Coulee Region Polar Plunge is Saturday, March 7, and has a lot in store for both participants and spectators. The Freezin’ for a Reason 5K, also a fundraiser for Special Olympics, starts at 10 a.m, and if you’re up for the whole experience, you can warm up with a run and cool down with a plunge. Along with hot tubs for the fearless and a spectator’s platform, there’s an entertainment tent (heated!)

BE ACTIVE featuring food for purchase from local vendors, kid-friendly activities, souvenirs to peruse, and live music to boot. If frigid water isn’t your thing, consider registering for the shameless “Too Chicken to Plunge” option or volunteering at the event. Most plungers don’t go it alone: gather friends, family, neighbors and colleagues to create a team (with costumes, of course!). “Corporate Challenge,” “Toss your Boss,” “Plunge University” and “Pee Wee Plunge” for the kids are all registration options.

New this year is the SUPER PLUNGE, which sounds more like a dare than an invitation: Super Plungers raise a minimum of $1,000 and take the plunge five times. Fundraise for a great cause, contribute to the La Crosse community, and embrace the chill of winter with gusto March 7, 2015!

For more information about the Plunge, 5K, fundraising tips, and online registration, visit specialolympicswisconsin.org or contact Kerry Gloede of the La Crosse Parks & Rec Department at 608-789-7596, www.cityoflacrosse.org.

Saturday, March 7

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If You Go Date: March 7 Location: Pettibone Beach, with free shuttle service to and from Pettibone.

Schedule: 10 a.m.: Freezin’ for a Reason 5K start.

11 a.m.: Freezin’ for a Reason 5K awards.

12-3 p.m.: Plunge Time!

Cost for plungers: $75 in raised funds.

Cost for spectators: FREE! www.cityoflacrosse.org 14

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Mt. La Crosse

A Wisconsin Winter Wonderland

By Becca Dargartz

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STAY & PLAY Since 1959, skiers of all ages and abilities have been hitting the slopes at Mt. La Crosse. Mt. La Crosse offers the widest variety of skiing and snowboarding terrain in the Midwest, but it goes beyond skiing and snowboarding.

There is a chalet that offers a private room for parties during the winter and summer months, and there is also a full ski and snowboard retail store that specializes in boot fitting, equipment and winter apparel.

friendly staff will get you fully equipped and prepared for a day (and night) on the mountain.

“There are scenic slopes and trails that offer a great variety from beginner terrain to an exhilarating experts-only double black diamond run,” says Breidel.

From December through early March, Mt. La Crosse offers activities for people to participate in together during the cold, snowy winter months. Mt. La Crosse is a fun experience for families in the area without having to travel or stay indoors.

“We have a very family-friendly atmosphere,” says manager Darci Breidel.

In order to be open and successful, Mt. La Crosse makes its own snow for their slopes, trails and terrain park. They offer Wisconsin’s longest run, Mid-America’s steepest trail and three chairlifts. A

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STAY & PLAY Mt. La Crosse Ski Area N5549 Old Town Hall Rd. La Crosse, WI 54601 Phone: 608-788-0044 Website: mtlacrosse.com

If You Go Sign up for lessons: Whether you are new to the slopes or going for the first time in years, standing at the top of a mountain and hoping you will figure out how to ski is actually not recommended.

Fortunately, Mt. La Crosse does a great job of accommodating new skiers and snowboarders with lessons. Make reservations at least three days in advance to guarantee you will get in.

Try something new: If your New Year’s resolution is to try something new, or if you just want to fully experience a Wisconsin winter wonderland, there is a full rental shop

complete with skis, boots, helmets, snowboards and snowboard boots.

Make it a family affair: Bundle up with family and friends to make memories in the snow. Mt. La Crosse offers weekly specials throughout the season that include discounts on lift tickets and rentals, but Family Night is one of the most popular events offered every Saturday (regular season) from 4-9 p.m.

Stay out late: With hours until 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and Sunday until 7 p.m., you can stay active in the dark.

Come for the skiing, stay for the socializing and the scenic views.

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NEIGHB0RS

Frozen River Will Warm Your Heart

By Michael Scott

The middle of February can be cruel. Even if you are a winter activity enthusiast, some of the most die-hard winter lovers begin to lose heart just after Valentine’s Day. Luckily, our dear neighbors to the north pop the corn and invite everyone to five days of some of the finest independent documentaries on the planet. The Frozen River Film Festival (FRFF) in Winona, Minn., not only shows award-winning films from around the globe but also includes workshops, speakers, music and food — a perfect combination to warm our hearts and ignite our minds with new ideas and lifechanging perspectives. This year FRFF will run from Feb. 18 to 22.

Life changing is a great way to describe the Frozen River Film Festival. I have attended the festival nearly every year since its inception, and every time I have walked away with a greater understanding of the natural and

human condition that influences the decisions I make from that point forward. Chalk up another success for the festival since their mission statement is to “offer documentary films and programming that engage, educate and activate our community to become involved in the world.”

The films chosen for the festival are generally adventure films, environmental issues, and documentaries about other cultures.

Some personal highlights from years past included seeing an early viewing of the film “Chasing Ice” just before it became a hot topic in the media. The film documents the efforts of nature photographer James Balog to show the profound effects of a warming planet in the Arctic. The climax comes when the filmmakers capture 1.8 cubic miles of ice that separates from a glacier and then tumbles into the ocean.

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To put that into perspective, imagine almost all of Manhattan suddenly falling into the sea. If you had doubts about global warming, this film should firmly put that issue to rest for good.

this remarkable story, but they also invited a drama teacher and a student that were featured in the documentary. It was a Q&A session I will never forget.

My favorite film from the FRFF was “Shakespeare High.” This documentary was produced by Kevin Spacey and tells the inspiring story of California high school students competing in a Shakespeare drama competition. The students highlighted in the film are burdened by poverty and violence, but through drama and Shakespeare, you see their lives transformed. Among the alumni of this 100-year-old program are A-list actors that include Spacey, Val Kilmer and Richard Dreyfuss. It wasn’t enough that the FRFF viewed

A buzz is forming about a film this year called “Miners Shot Down.” This film tells the brutal story of a wildcat strike in South Africa where a mining company fired on workers, killing 34 and injuring many more. The Frozen River Film Festival mission is to open your eyes to the world, and this opportunity should not be missed. A full schedule of events, ticketing information and volunteer opportunities can be found on the Frozen River Film Festival website at frff.org.

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NEIGHB0RS

If You Go Frozen River Film Festival Feb. 18-22 Most screenings take place on the campus of Winona State University.

Tickets and schedule at frff.org.

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Nut and Chocolate Shop

By Heidi Blanke Finnottes Nut and Chocolate Shop offers delectable treats year-round, but Valentine’s Day makes them even more enticing. Red boxes with hand-picked selections of candies and nuts are just the beginning. Whatever your love’s sweet tooth desires, Finnottes can fill the bill.

The small store, nestled on Main Street in La Crosse, has been a mainstay downtown since 1986. Owners Laurie and Frank Finn began the business with six containers of nuts, and, after trying multiple locations, settled into their present bright and inviting space. Their current inventory comes from “listening to our customers,” says Laurie.

From large boxes of filled chocolates to nuts, popcorn, ice cream and novelty sweets, Finnottes has a seemingly endless variety of goodies for all age groups. Kids will love the novelty shaped candies while adults will drool over dark chocolate and dipped fruit; even sugar-free items are on hand. “We have sponge candy year-round, 12 kinds of malted

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milk balls, and salt water taffy.” Laurie named just a few of the candies not stocked in most stores. “Sea salt caramels are off-the-charts popular right now.”Laurie herself is a candy lover, saying, “I eat some every day.” Peanut butter and chocolate is her favorite. Though the store doesn’t produce its own confections, it prides itself on ordering from U.S. familyowned businesses. “They’re the experts; we get to share it with everybody else.”

To keep the candy in perfect shape, Laurie says, “We run the air conditioning eight months a year, so everything in the store is protected from the heat.”

Need wedding favors? “Start early,” Laurie advises, as some candies cannot be shipped during the warmer months. Finnottes is expert at storing your selection until the big day.

Every holiday has its specialties, with Christmas and Easter offering the greatest varieties. While a number of gift boxes can be ordered online, the selection is greater,

SHOP LOCAL and a whole lot more fun, in person. That way, advises Laurie, “you can find the unique things and be personally helped” in finding the perfect treat.

Finnottes is more than a business for Laurie; it’s a special place filled with personal histories.

Laurie tells of the man who has been coming to the store for 25 years to buy his wife’s favorite chocolates, and of caramel apples sent yearly to a college student. “I want people to have a great time when they’re in here,” she says. “We have a huge selection and fabulous quality.” Surrounded by hundreds of tempting choices, you’ll have a smile on your face just walking through the door.

If You Go 417 Main Street La Crosse, WI 54601 Phone: 608-782-3184 Website: Finnottes.com Email: Laurie@Finnottes.com Hours Monday-Wednesday: 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Thursday: 9 a.m.-7 p.m.

Friday: 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Saturday: 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Check for extended Valentine’s Day hours.

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SHOP LOCAL Since

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TASTE IT

Digger’s Sting All threads lead to Digger’s Sting

By Michael Scott

I could write plenty of wonderful things about Digger’s Sting, but let’s conduct a little social media experiment so you don’t have to rely entirely on my opinion.

Utilizing the social media platform of your choice, ask the question, “Where can I get a decent cocktail in La Crosse?”

Digger’s Sting is going to be a popular reply.

You are going to read responses instructing you to order the Moscow Mule or the classic Manhattan. Someone will most certainly mention the wide variety of specialty martinis as delicious as their names, including the Babe Ruth, the Sophia Loren and the Louis Armstrong. Your friends and followers will tell you, when it comes to cocktails, Digger’s Sting is one of the best places in town.

Now type in, “I am entertaining some very important clients and I need a quiet little place with great steaks and seafood.

Recommendations?” The friends and tweeters will again be raving about Digger’s Sting.

The steaks, prime rib and baby back ribs are among the finest in town. Everyone is going to have a favorite among the fine cuts they grill and sear to perfection, but don’t miss out on the seafood. The chef, Steve Young, is originally from Hawaii and his skill in choosing and preparing seafood is unmatched in the region. The reports from your social media feed are going to encourage you to order a wide variety of menu items, so plan to make several trips in the future.

Let’s try this one more time. Type, “I need to make this date special. What is the best

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TASTE IT place in town when it comes to an unmatched combination of great food and a classic atmosphere?” Digger’s Sting just might be the unanimous response on this one. It has been around for 46 years and most of the decor is original. The result is a very cool, classic dinner club atmosphere with Dean Martin, Bing Crosby and Ella Fitzgerald serenading you throughout the evening. The original owner, Victor Skaff, took a great deal of pride in his music, and the staff at Digger’s carries on the tradition with the finest jukebox in the city. The best part: Your musical selections are free of charge. The classic sounds meld with the classic atmosphere and you end up with an evening not soon forgotten.

See for yourself. All threads will lead to Digger’s Sting. Because when you get so much right, people are going to talk.

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If You Go Digger’s Sting 122 3rd Street N. La Crosse, WI 54601 Monday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Tuesday through Friday: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Saturday: 4 p.m.-10 p.m.

CALENDAR Ongoing Events & Activities

All Glazed Up: Sip & Paint Canvas Painting classes are held every Tuesday at 6 pm and Thursday at 6:30 pm. Cost: $30, includes canvas, paint and instructed lesson. Call ahead to register and BYOB. 205 Pearl St, La Crosse.

(608) 782-7248; www.allglazedup.com.

Basic Nutritional & Herbal Therapies: Laurie Stiers MSN, FNP-BC; CH, presents varied programs on herbology, teas, tinctures, gardening, health and more. Herbs All Around, 1033 Caledonia St.; (608) 780-2255; www.herbsallaround.com.

Cameron Park Farmers Market: A wide variety of vendors offer fresh local produce, meat, dairy, eggs, baked goods, honey, maple syrup, other food, crafts and more. WINTER MARKET LOCATION AND HOURS: The State Room in UW-L’s Cartwright Center, sponsored by Students for Sustainability and University Centers.

Saturdays from 10 am-1pm.

Children’s After School Pottery: Tuesdays from 4-5:30 pm. Generous Earth Pottery, downtown La Crosse. For children ages 8 and older. Kids will work on the potter’s wheel or build by hand. $15 per session. 321 Main St., La Crosse; (608) 782-3904; www.generousearthpottery.com.

Chinese Language Class: 11-11:45 am. Learn Chinese in a fun, relaxed setting for free! 2nd and 4th Saturdays/month; Dim Sum Tea Shop, 221 Pearl St.; (608) 738-1221.

Fayze’s Evenings Out: Tuesday - Half Price Tap Beer Night - Get all your favorite tap beers at half price every Tuesday at Fayze’s, 3:30 pm to close. Thursday - Date Night - Treat your sweetheart to a night downtown, and enjoy half price bottles of wine every Thursday at Fayze’s,

3:30 pm to close.; (608) 784-9548; www.

Fayzes.com.

Elements Yoga Studio: Various classes available including Unnata Aerial Yoga. Check our schedule online or come to the studio for more information. 9550 US Highway 16 Frontage Road, Onalaska; (608) 799.5599; www. theelementsyogastudio.com.

Indoor Disc Golf Putting League: Hone your putting skills and have a couple pints every Tuesday night from 6 to 8 pm at the Pearl Street Brewery, 1401 St Andrew St, La Crosse; (608) 784-4832; www.pearlstreetbrewery.com. Hosted by the Mississippi Valley Disc Golf Club, mvdgc. com.

Outdoor Connection: Rent outdoor gear from the UW-L Recreational Eagle Center! Open to the public and offers a wide variety of equipment for adventures big and small. Summer hours are 10 am–6 pm, Mondays-Saturdays. 1601 Badger St, La Crosse; (608) 785-8680; www.uwlax.edu/ recsports.

Pearl Street Brewery: New events every month including live music every Friday from 6 to 9 pm!

1401 St Andrew St, La Crosse; (608) 7844832; www.pearlstreetbrewery.com.

Pottery Classes: Learn pottery basics or discover new skills. “Wheel Deals” available! Children & adult classes, Paint Your Own, Jewelry & Glass Fusing, and more! Generous Earth Pottery, 321 Main St. La Crosse; (608) 782-3904; www. generousearthpottery.com.

Root Note: More than just a fabulous crêperie, coffee shop, and art gallery. LIVE MUSIC. LIVE

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MUSIC. LIVE MUSIC. Oh, and we have live music! Stay updated at: www.facebook.com/ theRootNote/events.

Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe: Looking for a place of spiritual refreshment and renewal? Visit the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Come as an individual, a family, group of friends, group of co-workers or church group. For hours and other information, go to www.guadalupeshrine.org, or contact the Shrine’s Pilgrimage Coordinator if you need assistance with planning your visit at (608) 782.5440 or gmarco@guadalupeshrine.org.

Tea Tasting Party: Learn about teas while sampling a variety. Dumplings and egg tarts included with take-home loose tea sample. 1st Tuesdays/month at 6pm ($6 pre-pay, $8 at door) AND 3rd Saturdays/month ($8 pre-pay, $10 at door); Dim Sum Tea Shop, 221 Pearl St.; (608) 738-1221.

Trail Work Days: Get excited to dig in! Volunteer for trail restoration and building. Varying days.

Outdoor Recreation Alliance (ORA), La Crosse; www.NaturesPlaceToPlay.com.

Twelve Angry Men: Feb. 13-Mar. 1. Twelve strangers are sequestered away on a hot, steamy afternoon to deliver a verdict in a trial that appears open and shut. But one juror fights to convince the others that the case may not be as black and white as it seems. The twelve confront one another and their own prejudices in a struggle to deliver justice in an often unjust system. www.webercenterfortheperformingarts.org.

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Winter Rec-Fest: Jan. 14-31. It’s time for Winter Rec-Fest! The City of La Crosse Parks & Recreation Dept. brings on the fun each year! Skating, sledding, fireworks, euchre, hockey, a medallion hunt, volleyball, ice fishing … the list goes on and on! Buttons are $2. Go to www.laxwinterrecfest. com.

West Side Story in Concert: Jan. 30-31; Feb. 6-8. Two young star-crossed lovers, embedded in rival gangs of different ethnic backgrounds, struggle to create a world in which their love can flourish in this passionate and dangerous musical. The Viterbo Theatre and Music Theatre Department will present a concert version of this timeless story. $20. www. webercenterfortheperformingarts.org.

YMCA Family Fun Nights: Jan. 10 from 5-8 pm at YMCA-North, and Jan. 17 at 5-8 pm at YMCALa Crosse. Members are free; non-members pay $10. Join the YMCA for swimming, games, crafts and activities. No need to pre-register. (608) 782-9622; www.laxymca.org.

Yoga with Tammy Z: Yoga is for everybody!

We offer a variety of classes for every level of experience. First class is FREE! Contact us for schedules. 432 Cass St., La Crosse; (608) 3861217.

CALENDAR Upcoming Events & Activities

Jan 10

Jan 15

YMCA Family Fun Night: 5-8 pm. The YMCA cherishes family time. That’s why we promote spending quality time together as a family. Join us for all-ages swimming, games, crafts and activities. No need to pre-register. Member Fee: Free. Non-Member Fee: $10 per family. YMCANorth. (608) 782-9622; www.laxymca.org.

Open Mic Night: 8 pm at the Root Note, 115 4th St. S., La Crosse.

Dark La Crosse Tour- The Radio Show: 7:30 pm.

Learn about the seedier side of La Crosse’s past in this new stage production in the format of an old-time radio show. The Pump House, 119 King St., La Crosse.

Jan 14 Jan 17 DIY Floral Arrangements: Create your own seasonal floral arrangement! You will be given direction in designing your arrangement. All supplies are included to create your own unique and beautiful piece to take home. $28. Pre-reg encouraged. At Flowers by Guenthers, 310 Sand Lake Road, Onalaska. (608) 783-2140; www. flowersbyguenthers.com.

Jan 14-31 Winter Rec-Fest: It’s time for Winter Rec-Fest!

The City of La Crosse Parks & Recreation Dept. brings on the fun each year! Skating, sledding, fireworks, euchre, hockey, a medallion hunt, volleyball, ice fishing … the list goes on and on! www.laxwinterrecfest.com.

Rising Stars Concerto Competition: 2:30 pm.

Final competition between six instrumental and piano finalists, performing with the La Crosse Symphony Orchestra. Viterbo Recital Hall, La Crosse; www.viterbo.edu.

Rockin’ for HorseSense: 7 pm. Benefit for HorseSense for Special Riders; live music by The Remainders. $10 ahead, $15 at the door.

Radisson Ballroom in La Crosse. Tickets: $10 ahead, $15 at the door. www.hssr.org.

YMCA Family Fun Night: 5-8 pm. The YMCA cherishes family time. That’s why we promote spending quality time together as a family. Join us for all-ages swimming, games, crafts and activities. No need to pre-register. Member Fee:

Fresh new looks arrive daily including purses & accessories.

M, T, W, F 10:30-5 Thurs. 10:30-6 • Sat. 10:30-3 1400 West Ave. S. • La Crosse, WI La Crosse’s Finest Consignment Apparel for over 30 years!

608.785.1220

www.thesecondshowing.com

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Free. Non-Member Fee: $10 per family. YMCALa Crosse. (608) 782-9622; www.laxymca.org.

YMCA Ski Day at Mt. La Crosse: January 17 from 1-6 pm at Mt. La Crosse. Lift and ski rental for $25, lift and snowboard rental for $35.

Includes a hotdog meal. (608) 782-9622; www. laxymca.org.

Jan 22 Blue Man Group: 7:30 pm at the La Crosse Center. Doors open at 7. Theatrical haze, strobe lights and blacklights used during this production.

Tickets: $31.50, $41.50, $57.50 and $67.50. www.lacrossecenter.com.

Open Mic Night: 8 pm at the Root Note, 115 4th St. S., La Crosse.

Buckcherry: 7pm. See this popular band LIVE at the La Crosse Center! General admission. $27 in advance, $32 day of show. www.lacrossecenter. com.

Jan 30-31 Monster Trucks: Pit party from 6-7 pm each night!

Show starts at 7:30 pm. www.lacrossecenter. com.

Mardi Gras Costume Ball: 5:30-11:30 pm.

Exquisite dinner, art & dessert auction, and LIVE

YMCA Family Fun Night: 5-8 pm. The YMCA cherishes family time. That’s why we promote spending quality time together as a family. Join us for all-ages swimming, games, crafts, and activities. No need to pre-register. Member Fee: Free. Non-Member Fee: $10 per family. YMCALa Crosse. (608) 782-9622; www.laxymca.org.

Feb 11 My Funny Valentine: 7:30 pm. An evening of hilarious and heartwarming standup comedy. $24. www.webercenterfortheperformingarts.org.

Mardi Gras Bourbon Street Bash: 5:30-7:30 pm. Hors d’oeuvres and beer! At The Freight House, 107 Vine St., La Crosse. www. lacrossemardigras.com.

Jan 29

Feb 7

music by Pick6! At The Waterfront Cargill Room, 328 Front St., downtown La Crosse. www. lacrossemardigras.com.

Feb 12-15 Boat, Sport, Travel, RV & Hunting Show: 12th from 5 am-10 pm, 13th from 11 am-10 pm, 14th from 11 am-10 pm, 15th from 11 am-5 pm. At the La Crosse Center. www.lacrossecenter.com.

Feb 13 Valentine’s Sweetheart Dance: 7-9 pm. Have fun at the Valentine’s Sweetheart Dance! Dads, Granddads, Uncles, or anyone who is a positive role model for a girl will need to dust off their dancing shoes and get ready to create memories.

Join us Every Week

for our DIY Events Call (608) 783-2140 or register at

flowersbyguenthers.com

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Come for a night of fun and leave with your own beautiful bouquet! is exlusive DIY oral design event is instructor led and open to all ages!

Great for Birthday Parties and Team Building!

Register Today, Space is limited!

CALENDAR This is a fun night full of dancing and light refreshments. YMCA-La Crosse. $8 in advance or $10 the day of the event. (608) 782-9622; www.laxymca.org.

us for all-ages swimming, games, crafts and activities. No need to pre-register. Member Fee: Free. Non-Member Fee: $10 per family. YMCANorth. (608) 782-9622; www.laxymca.org.

Feb 14

Mar 7

YMCA Valentine’s Heart Throb Walk Run: 8 am start time. $18. Keep active this winter with our Winter Walk Run Series! YMCA-North. (608) 782-9622; www.laxymca.org.

Polar Plunge: You’ll be “Freezin’ for a Reason” at this annual frigid fundraiser for Special Olympics!

Participate in the 5K and the Plunge! At Pettibone Beach, La Crosse. www.cityoflacrosse.org.

Feb 17 Mardi Gras Fat Tuesday Celebration: Join the fun for this annual event! At Dock 7 at the Boothill Pub, 1501 St. Andrew St., La Crosse. www. lacrossemardigras.com.

Feb 18-22 Frozen River Film Festival: Film showings meant to engage, entice, educate! There will be extra activities this year in addition to the film line-up!

Winona, MN. Tickets and schedule at frff.org.

Feb 21 Lee Brice and Chris Young with The Brothers Osborne: 7:30 pm. Performing LIVE at the La Crosse Center! $28 or $38. www. lacrossecenter.com.

YMCA Family Fun Night: 5-8 pm. The YMCA cherishes family time. That’s why we promote spending quality time together as a family. Join

HiStoric

Pearl St. WeSt

(608) 781-6800 • facebook.com/BlueMoonOnalaska Hwy 35 North, overlooking Lake Onalaska Open 7 days a week at 6am

tHe Pearl ice cream Parlor Soda Fountain & conFectionery Pearl coFFee SHoP grand Hotel ballroom & gallery art • 211 Pearl tJ’S la croSSe SHoP cHeddarHeadS giFt gallery

200 Pearl St. • la CroSSe, WI • 608-784-8899

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