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VOLUME TWO| Issue Three July/August 2014
©2014 Mueller Media, Inc.
Editor
Michelle Jerome
Account Representatives
Jeremy Elisius Michelle Jerome
Graphic Designers
Sections
KIDS 10
DuRunRun for Kids!
BE ACTIVE
Running in the River Valley
Sailing in the Coulee Region
14
ARTS 24
Great River Folk Festival
2VOLUNTEER 27
EcoPark Volunteering
DO LOCAL
Storytelling Festival
34
CALENDAR 40 Favorite Events & Hidden Gems!
Jackie Miller Will Adamany
Copy Editor Susan Miller
Contributing Writers
Emily Faeth Geri Parlin Heidi Griminger Blanke Leah Call Michael Scott
Photo Credits Cover Photo Contributed by Mark Kastel and the La Crosse Sailing Club Pages 10, 11, 12: Michelle Cox Page tab photo details: Lee Harwell All other photos: Subject ’s contribution
Distribution
Page Hartmann
ATTENTION:
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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. ©Mueller 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.
My son was an atypical toddler. I could hardly keep my daughters near my side when they were little because they loved to run as fast and as far as possible. Meanwhile, my son liked to pretty much play in one spot while constructing Legos and hammering nails — caring less about chasing other toddlers. We used to worry whether this was normal. Over the years he picked up the pace a bit, but truly surprised me when he decided to give a youth duathlon a shot. The Chad Erickson Memorial DuRunRun was the first race where he biked and ran along with countless other children. The sight of him nearing the finishing corner became locked in my memory in contrast to visions of the little guy who never ran. I was so proud of him and have enjoyed watching him enter other running and biking races since then. The DuRunRun allows kids to try racing without any intimidation and enjoy some fun activities while at the event. Check out the details on page 10! Everyone has a unique path, and my love of the natural world has led to my current position in publishing. A few moons ago (or so), I volunteered at the Hixon Forest Nature Center taking children on field trips through the woods and marsh, planting milkweed, and fulfilling other needed tasks. At one point the nature center changed locations and developed into the EcoPark, where I continued to volunteer while in college. Eventually I obtained an internship there and was later hired. As a volunteer, I was happy to pitch in whenever I could, and if I didn’t know how to do something they needed, I figured it out. (One of their greatest needs was in marketing. I taught myself the skills necessary to help them, which then led to my current career.) My favorite experiences in volunteering (over the span of almost a decade) were at the EcoPark with the children — digging in dirt, looking for birds and bugs, watching kids’ excitement over a monarch sighting, and learning from Stephanie Hanna, the education coordinator. The EcoPark is still developing, but the heart of the organization is getting kids out into nature, and those kids find their way there through volunteers. If you love the outdoors and know that kids are awesome, I highly recommend sharing your time with them. Find out how on page 27! Summertime in our region brings so many exciting activities! Some of my favorite festivals are featured in this issue, along with insight into some other ways to keep active in our land of bluffs and rivers. Have fun reading ways to
“Discover Your City!”
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Chad Erickson Memorial
DuRunRun
By Geri Parlin
You are never too young to exercise. Want proof? Check out the Diaper Dash at this year’s Chad Erickson Memorial DuRunRun on September 14. That’s where you’ll see 2-year-olds lined up for a 50-yard dash. They may be dashing their fastest on wobbly little legs, but they aren’t exactly aware of race etiquette. “We have a really wide path,” said organizer Kerry Gloede with a laugh. “That’s
pretty fun to watch. There’s usually a parent on one end and one on the other end,” she said, to ensure each 2-year-old makes it across the finish line. The actual DuRunRun race is for ages 3 to 12 and involves running, biking, and then more running, with distances getting longer as children get older. Sheryl Solberg’s three children have been involved for all nine years of the event. She said her family was first attracted to the event because she has a child in the autism spectrum, so she was familiar
Children enjoying the DuRunRun followed by Cadets and mascots 10
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Kids with Special Olympics, which benefits from the event. But they stuck with it, she said, because it is fun. “We keep our kids hopping all summer long,” Solberg said. “The whole family does it together because they have all kinds of stuff,” she said, including craft projects, a bounce house and other activities. “We’re looking for things to do as a family and we’ve used Special Olympics services.” Gloede said other events had been tried before the DuRunRun, but they didn’t really get off the ground because they were more geared to adults. “There was an event similar to this in Madison, and the Erickson family has 2th
1 l! Annua
always supported Special Olympics. It was a perfect fit. And it is so much fun. Families love it and kids love it. I think it’s a really fun family morning.” And families turn out no matter the weather, Gloede said. “Last year we had 160 kids and it poured rain. We thought for sure nobody was going to come, but they just kept coming.” You can register in advance at www. CityofLaCrosse.org/Parks, but if your family is more spur of the moment, you can also register the day of the event. Geri Parlin is a retired reporter who is anything but retired. Besides blogging and gardening, she spends much of her time at auctions, flea markets and rummage sales looking for undiscovered Cont. pg.12...
•Stories •Music •Crafts •Book Store •Pig Roast •And More!
Sept 5th & 6th Myrick Park
FRI 6-9pm Scary Stories Snacks
2014 DuRunRun Kids’ Duathlon
Riverside Park Sept 14, 2014 ● 8am-12pm $15 registration includes: t-shirt goodie bag breakfast activities snacks!
SAT Noon-10pm Noon: Hans Mayer 6-9:30pm: Adult Cabaret
LaCrosseStoryFest.com
**Kids must bring bike and helmet** www.CityofLaCrosse.org/Parks
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treasures. You can read her blog at: geriparlin@wordpress.com.
Time to Get Registered! What: The Chad Erickson Memorial DuRunRun, a run-bikerun for children ages 3 to12 When: Sunday, Sept. 14, 8 am to noon Where: Riverside Park Registration: $15, which includes the race, a t-shirt, goodie bag, breakfast, and activities. About the run: Children can raise pledges to earn prizes; event benefits Special Olympics and is sponsored by the Erickson Family and put on by the city ’s Parks and Recreation Department. Information: www.CityofLaCrosse.org /Parks
A young athlete biking the DuRunRun
Youth r Outdoo! st e F July 12, 2014
2014 ACTIVITIES Archery Birdwatching Boat Driving Bowfishing Camping Canoeing/Kayaking Casting Game Dog Demos Ducks on a Stick Electrofishing Fish Dissection/Cleaning Fish Printing Fly Fishing Fur Identification Games Geocaching Hiking Fish Identification FREE hot dog! Invertebrate Investigations Raffle prize Live Trout Fishing the whole s for family! Minnow Races Mountain Biking Mississippi River Pontoon Scoop on Soil Storytelling
11am - 2pm Copeland Park
CHANGED
FREE! LOCATION!
for kids A chance a IN W to mbo! rod/reel co
Contact: Jay Odegaard (608) 789-7593 or Heidi Keuler (608) 783-8417
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Toni Paisley Photography
Kids
REaLitY tv Don’t just watch, get involved! Try a new activity and gain real-life experiences that help improve your health and well-being. At the La Crosse Area Family YMCA we offer activities that allow adults and children of all ages the opportunity to play, explore, and find new adventures. Visit us today!
Handmade Pottery Children & Adult Classes 321 Main St. La Crosse, WI 608-782-3904 www.generousearthpottery.com
upcoming EvEnts • Kids Tri - July 12 • Kids Marathon - August 10-September 28 • Youth 3-on-3 Tournament - September 14 • YMCA Maple Leaf Walk Run - September 27
Visit www.LaXYmca.oRg for information
Buy 1 cone, get 1 free!
Paint Your Own Pottery Jewelry & Glass Fusing Week-Long and Mini Summer Camps
(of equal or lesser value, with this coupon)
Exp. 9/13/14
205 Pearl St. La Crosse, WI 608-782-7248 www.allglazedup.com
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Running in the River Valley By Emily Faeth The Driftless Region so many of us call home has inspired untold numbers of people in every facet of life. The deep river valleys, coulees, and rugged bluffs which were bypassed by the last continental glacier millennia ago have inspired artists, musicians, farmers, writers, restaurateurs, and business people of all stripes. Of course, as residents of the Coulee Region, we’re all familiar with the boundless opportunities for recreational and athletic activities our natural surroundings offer
us, as well. From the serpentine trails of Hixon Forest to the leisurely paths along the Mississippi, one sport in particular seems to be picking up pace — and it may be one of the area’s most versatile and accessible activities for those looking to tone up, chill out, or simply take in the sights. Running, it seems, has something to offer everyone. Mike Gilbertson hasn’t always been a runner. While the Holmen Public School employee was active in sports such as
Mike Gilbertson with his wife, Stacy 14
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Be Active football and baseball in high school, it wasn’t until relatively recently that he began to take to the streets of Holmen — and beyond. After his sister began running in order to get back into shape after having a child, Gilbertson was inspired to follow her lead. In the past 2 years, he says, he’s lost approximately 125 lbs. But while fitness is certainly one of his goals, Gilbertson has turned his hobby into a one-man philanthropic mission. “Most of the races and events I enter are for cancer awareness,” he says. Gilbertson also is equipped with an app on his phone called Charity Miles. “Every time I run, it tracks the distance and it gives to a charity that you can select.” The app pays fifty cents for every mile one runs, all while taking nothing out of the runner’s pocket. While Gilbertson does run occasionally with friends or as a part of events, such as a 12-member team relay from Madison to Chicago recently, running remains for him a largely independent activity. “Whatever’s stressing you out, whatever happened that day ... you go out there, and it all just goes away for awhile,” he says. As a working mother, Janice Schreier is no stranger to early mornings or long, exhausting days. But when a friend asked her if she’d like to go running at 5:30 a.m., Schreier initially questioned her friend’s sanity. “I said, ‘Are you crazy?’” she laughs, recalling. These days, though, Schreier serves as
Janice Schreier with her husband, Brian, and their sons, Joey & Nolan coordinator of La Crescent’s “Strong Women Run” running club. The group began about four years ago as a Saturday morning group, but these days, you might find yourself weaving around these ladies most mornings. “Everyone in the group, I think, is a mother. And most of us, if not all, work outside of the home,” says Schreier. The running group, whose ranks include teachers, doctors, and nurses, provides a welcome respite from corralling children to school and activities, and also has the muchwelcome side effect of a great workout. “[Running] definitely helps us keep up with the kids,” she says. If you’ve wandered the streets of Downtown La Crosse recently, you may have noticed a new addition along Main
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Street. This past spring, UW-L graduate and running enthusiast Tyler Heinz opened Grand Bluff Running, a full-service running store, at 509 Main. “Being a specialty store, part of our goal is to create and develop the running community,” says Heinz. “It made sense for us to be in the hub of La Crosse. The downtown area is on the rebound from where it was ten, even five years ago, and we knew we wanted to be here to help it grow and also to benefit from that growth.” Grand Bluff Running offers a broad range of running attire, from t-shirts, tanks and shorts to shoes, as well as running accessories. The store also offers custom shoe fittings and running clinics. In order to find the best shoe to promote health, comfort and strength for runners, staff
members record a client’s gait while they walk or run on a treadmill for 30 seconds, and then select a variety of shoes which suit the client’s style of walking or running. This reduces the likelihood of strain or injury. Heinz and the rest of Grand Bluff Running seem most passionate, though, when it comes to the running community that they hope to help nurture in the La Crosse area. “We partnered with Dublin Square recently” for a Pub Run, says Heinz. “We went on a three-mile, really easy run. It’s just a fun, social event, and afterwards Dublin offered drink and food specials for us. We met probably 15 new people. It’s just a great way to get to know each other.” Heinz
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Be Active anticipates many more such events, including those for the bar-averse. Whether you’re a seasoned runner, someone who’s intimidated by the spandex-clad droves, or you just haven’t dusted off your college running shoes in a few decades, there’s clearly a spot for you in the Driftless Region’s running community. Even if the health benefits alone aren’t enough to spur you to action, perhaps a few extra minutes of enjoying our lush surroundings each day will do the trick. Emily Faeth is a freelance writer living in Madison, Wisconsin. She’s considering taking up running in order to keep up with her cats, Pablo and Tallulah.
Tyler Heinz, Owner of Grand Bluff Running
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Sailing in the Coulee Region
The La Crosse Sailing Club By Heidi Griminger Blanke
While most people in the Coulee Region are used to seeing motor boats and barges on area rivers, sailboats are not as common. However, on most summer Tuesday and Thursday evenings, Lake Onalaska is dotted with the boats as members of the La Crosse Sailing Club head to the water for everything from Olympic- level racing to casual novice sailing. Boating isn’t limited to those nights, however. Weekends are popular for more informal sailing. The club has about 100 family memberships and is open to anyone with a 18
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sailboat. Member Mark Kastel, a longtime sailing enthusiast, says “the club has members that range from people who are beginning to sail to folks that race on a very high level nationally.” The club started in the early 1950’s, though sailing began on that body of water shortly after Lock and Dam Number Seven created Lake Onalaska. The majority of club members keep their boats at the club site, located on the north end of French Island, adjacent to Nelson Park. The club does not have a
Be Active building per se, but does make use of a pavilion on the grounds. Kastel explains the three main types of sailboats used by club members. “The boats range from small, Day Sailers, boats that people can go out on an afternoon and cruise around, to larger cruising Keel Boats that folks either use for pleasure or racing. We have a fleet of Lasers, which are an Olympic- class boat.” Membership is not cost prohibitive, ranging from $200 to $500, depending on boat size. In larger cities, those costs can run much higher. “It’s incredibly economical to go sailing in La Crosse. If you lived in Chicago or Milwaukee, it costs thousands if you belong to a yacht club.” Even Lake Pepin has much higher costs.
Kastel enjoys being with people who simply “want to have fun with boats.” He proudly states that La Crosse Sailing Club members are an “egalitarian crowd,” with members of all ages and from all walks of life. “We have a club member who is in his eighties, still racing competitively. He’s one of the best sailors at the club.” The club keeps a wonderful level of informality. “It’s not like Milwaukee, where everyone is in blue blazers in their dining room,” jokes Kastel. The club is run by members on a volunteer basis, not by paid staff, with two work days a year going towards decreased dues. “We’re all very supportive of each other. I’ve been racing all my life and I’ve
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never found a group of more congenial, friendly folks to compete with. We all support each other,” he says. “We help newer folks get up to speed.” Monthly themed socials, such as Caribbean Night or Steak Fry, are held throughout sailing season; in June, the club held a Non-sailing Spouse’s Pontoon Party. Two regattas are held in September, one geared towards the Laser fleet and the other culminating in a fish boil; out-of-town competitors are invited. The club is trying to arrange opportunities for people who do not own a boat, but want to learn to sail. “Right now, there are no formal lessons, but, if
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Kurt Schroeder of the La Crosse Sailing Club 20
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people have an interest, they should let us know,� Kastel says. The club does own one Laser boat that can be lent. Kastel encourages anyone with an interest in sailing to contact the club. You just might find yourself lifting across Lake Onalaska on a gentle breeze. For more information, visit www.lax-sailing.org or email laxsailing@gmail.com. Heidi Griminger Blanke, Ph.D. writes from La Crosse, WI. She was on a sailboat one time and mostly adores watching these beautiful, graceful boats from the shore.
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Mark Kastel of the La Crosse Sailing Club 22
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By Emily Faeth When the month of August begins to draw to a close, many families throughout the Coulee Region begin the yearly ritual of packing away the grilling equipment and the pool toys, flip flops and tank tops, replacing them with newly purchased school clothes, lunch boxes, and Halloween costume plans. The transition from summer to fall — and in many cases, a new school year — can be a melancholy time for many. Thankfully, La Crosse has one more festival up its sleeve to keep your family and friends out in the
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summer sunshine and dancing into the night. The 39th annual Great River Folk Fest is gearing up to be a party to remember, one last blissful summer hurrah. Regular attendees will notice a major change in this year’s fest, though — for the first time, the fest will be moving from its usual home on the UW-La Crosse campus to downtown’s Riverside Park. After some nudging from the City of La Crosse, in particular the Parks Department, the festival’s organizers decided the move would greatly benefit the event, as well
Arts Shortly after, various artists including Claudia Schmidt performed Rogers’ song on Garrison Keillor’s A Prairie Home Companion. Keillor loved the song so much that he wrote to Rogers, inviting her to perform on his show many times over the years. “As a result of my appearances on [Home Companion], I gained some notoriety I may not have otherwise,” says Rogers, a Michigan native who now hails from Connecticut. “And that’s how I ended up becoming involved in the [GRFF].”
Sally Rogers as the community as a whole. As Dave Schipper, one of the fest’s co-organizers and performers, says, “[Riverside Park] is just the best spot for the fest. There’s more foot traffic ... it’s more accessible for a lot of people. And of course, the river is beautiful.” In particular, the City and Parks Department sought to emphasize the festival’s family-friendly atmosphere and community involvement. A prime example of the kind of community inclusiveness the Great River Folk Fest fosters is the story of how nationally renowned folk musician and artist Sally Rogers came to be involved with the fest. Rogers, who is returning to this year’s fest after a brief hiatus, was a nascent musician fresh out of college and living in Michigan when she crafted her song “Lovely Agnes,” a tribute to her grandmother.
Along with Rogers, many other artists will be performing, including Johnson City, Tennessee’s The Barefoot Movement; regional favorites the EverGreen Grass Band; Nashville’s Colin O’Brien; and many others. The festival’s musical acts (obviously) center on folk music, but showcase the range of the thriving genre, with elements of bluegrass, Americana, rock, and even some country twang. In addition to the musical guests, attendees at this year’s fest will also be treated to a broad range of handicrafts and artwork. Woodworkers, jewelry makers, potters, quilters, weavers, and many others will flood the bank of Riverside Park this August, making the GRFF a must-stop for lovers of fine, handcrafted household furnishings. Yearly favorites and winners of last year’s Crafters’ Choice Award, Dennis and Kathy Fry, will return to display, among other items, their handcrafted wooden music stands, which musicians such as co-organizer Schipper swear by.
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Of course, being a family-friendly event, there’s plenty to keep the little ones busy. Local mother-of-two Tina McGuire says, “They have fantastic organized events for children. Last year they had rock painting, a large parachute, and face painting.” McGuire, who plans to attend again this year, says she hopes the fest’s move will encourage newcomers to the event. Indeed, she paints quite the enticing picture. “Sitting in the sunshine, on the grass, listening to folk music ... a lot of times, I feel like what La Crosse [needs] is culture. This brings in some of that.” Emily Faeth is a freelance writer currently living in Madison, WI. She is a 2011 graduate of the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse’s English program. Follow her adventures at shesgonemad608.blogspot.com.
Photo by C.D. Smith
Weber Center
for the
If you go…
The 39th annual Great River Folk Fest will run from August 22-24 at Riverside Park in Historic Downtown La Crosse. At the time of this writing, a full schedule of events is being developed, but the festival will open with a Friday night concert at 7:30 pm and conclude with a Farewell concert at 4:30 pm on Sunday. All events are family-friendly and appropriate for all ages. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit greatriverfolkfest.org for details, or check in with fest sponsors The People’s Food Co-op.
Happy holidays! Performing Arts
So much to see and do! Check us out!
www.webercenterfortheperformingarts.org 428 Front Street South, La Crosse, WI 54601 • 608-784-9292
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EcoPark Education Coordinator, Stephanie Hanna (far left), and volunteers share the wonder of the La Crosse River Marsh
Volunteers Help EcoPark Accomplish its Mission By Leah Call
Project: Myrick Hixon EcoPark Mission: To empower individuals and communities to experience and explore healthy, vibrant, safe and sustainable lifestyles. Vital to Mission Completion: Numerous volunteers with a desire to preserve, protect and enjoy the natural beauty of the Coulee Region.
Nearly everyone in the Coulee Region has benefited from an experience at Myrick Hixon EcoPark, whether through a school field trip, a hike through the forest, a bike ride on the marsh trail or simply a picnic and visit to the EcoPark Center. Now it’s your turn to give back and have some fun at the same time. Cont. pg.28...
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Since 1983 EcoPark has provided Hanna estimates that EcoPark enlists hands-on, play-based education to the help of 150 to 200 volunteers over 120,000 area children and countannually. “We haven’t had trouble getless adults. EcoPark nurtures a passion ting volunteers in the past, but we can for nature through its educational always use more.” programs, which occur primarily from “Our current big need is for folks at spring through fall with some winter the front desk, and there is always an activities. None of this could happen ongoing need for people to help with without the help of those willing to school programs,” adds Hanna. share their time and talents. “There are actually only three people employed by Myrick Hixon Ecopark, so everything we do is done with the help of volunteers,” says EcoPark education coordinator Stephanie Hanna, a biologist and teacher, who has worked at EcoPark for over 15 years.
College students make up a large portion of the volunteers that help with EcoPark’s two biggest fundraising events: the River to Ridge Run/ Walk that takes place in May and the Enchanted Forest held on the last two Saturdays in October.
Hanna teaches and coordinates educational programs on a range of nature-focused topics including owls, frogs, bees, edible plants and training to use a map and compass, just to name a few.
Enchanted Forest is a non-scary trickor-treat hike for kids along the marsh trail. Volunteers are needed to dress in costume and give out candy along the trail. The 2014 Enchanted Forest takes place on October 18 and 25.
While she leads some of the programs herself, Hanna finds area experts to handle others. For example, the Busy as a Bee program scheduled for Thursday mornings throughout June and July is taught by volunteer Ken Balts, a beekeeping expert. And Willie and Katie Bittner of Great Lakes Trailbuilders will share the story of their 2013 trip to Bhutan in a one-time presentation on August 19.
In addition to assisting with school and summer day camp programs, other volunteer opportunities include caring for critters; assistance in the gift shop and at the front desk; greeters; gardeners and landscapers; and help with various marketing initiatives such as distributing posters and brochures.
Many of the programs offered at EcoPark are free. Some programs require a minimal fee. 28
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Hanna invites anyone interested in being outside and working with kids to consider volunteering at EcoPark. It is a great opportunity for students looking for experience to put on a resume.
2 Volunteer
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EcoPark Volunteers having fun at Enchanted Forest
All volunteers must agree to a background check. “That is our policy because, of course, we work with kids,” explains Hanna. To obtain a volunteer packet that describes volunteer opportunities at Myrick Hixon EcoPark, go to www.mhecopark.org and click on support and then volunteer. Those interested in volunteering can also contact shanna@mhecopark.org or 608-784-0303. Westby-based freelance writer Leah Call has fond memories of Myrick Park and now enjoys taking her own family to EcoPark.
EcoPark July/August 2014 Programs July Reptile Rap with Matt: July 9, 16, 23, 30 Repair Café: July 9 Busy as a Bee: July 10, 17, 24, 31 Story-time Yoga at the EcoPark: July 11, 18, 25 Getting Lost and Staying Found: July 12 Marsh Mystery Matchup I: July 22 August Story-time Yoga at the EcoPark: August 1, 8 Marsh Walk with Chuck Lee (ages 18 & over): August 5 Reptile Rap with Matt: August 6, 13, 20, 27 Owl Prowl: August 8 Repair Café: August 13 Bhutan Trailbuilding: August 19
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Volunteer Opportunities American Red Cross - Scenic Bluffs Chapter: American Red Cross prevents and alleviates human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors. Volunteers can support blood drives, train to respond to disasters, teach lifesaving First Aid/CPR classes, support our Armed Forces, assist at special events and more! 2927 Losey Blvd S, La Crosse, WI; volunteerwestern.wi@redcross.org; 877-618-6628 ext. 5822; www.redcross.org /wi/ la-crosse Children’s Museum of La Crosse: Lend a Hand! Volunteers are an important part of the Children’s Museum team. If you are enthusiastic, reliable and fond of children, check into our current volunteer opportunities. Possible fun includes special event help, face painting, crafts and games, and much more! (608) 784-2652 x226; christina@funmuseum.org; www.funmuseum.org Crossfire Youth Center: Crossfire seeks to transform the lives of local teens by providing safe and fun activities. Crossfire is always seeking volunteers who have a heart to serve. Volunteer opportunities include assisting in weight lifting, archery, outdoor activities, and our Friday night party alternative. 608-784-6565; amanda@ crossfire4u.com; crossfire4u.com Coulee Region Humane Society: Volunteers provide care for the animals, making sure they are clean and have fresh food and water and a little one on one time. Inquire about age requirements. Because of the time involved in training, we ask that volunteers make a minimum three month commitment. Duties available include: cleaning, dog kennel and cat kennel assistants, housekeeping and laundry, and grounds maintenance. (608) 781-4014; www.couleehumane.com Coulee Wildlife Rehabilitation Center: Volunteer opportunities are limited to cleaning or to experienced wild animal handlers. (608) 483-2610 Couleecap, Inc.: Couleecap helps people in need with housing, food, transportation, and more. Volunteering is a great way to become involved with Couleecap. We often need volunteers in our food pantries and to serve on our Board of Directors or County Planning Committees. 201 Melby St., Westby, WI (Serving Crawford, La Crosse, Monroe, and Vernon counties); contactus@couleecap.org; www.couleecap.org EcoPark: The EcoPark’s mission is to empower individuals and communities to experience and explore healthy, vibrant, safe, and sustainable lifestyles. We depend on a team of dedicated volunteers to help with a variety of tasks including leading school groups, welcoming visitors, gift shop clerk, caring for the aquarium animals, helping with clerical duties, helping with special events and many other fun tasks. You can make an important and lasting contribution to our mission by sharing your time and talents. (608) 784-0303; info@mhecopark.org Great River Folk Festival: Be a part of this great community tradition. There’s always room for more help at the ticket gates, info tent, food area, and children’s area. Join the set-up or take-down crews to perform a vital function and not miss any of the Fest! Admission is free on the day you volunteer. We also welcome
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2 Volunteer planning help throughout the year. (608) 784-3033; grff@greatriverfolkfest.org; www.greatriverfolkfest.org Great Rivers United Way: Great Rivers United Way Volunteer Center hosts an array of volunteer opportunities. Give an hour. Give a Saturday. Give your best. We all have special talents. Things we can do to help. And when we reach out a hand to one, we influence the condition of all. There are hundreds of volunteer options available every day. Give the gift of you. Volunteer. (608) 796-1400; jlarsen@gruw. org; www.greatriversunitedway.org /volunteer-2 Grow Your Brain: There are many opportunities to volunteer with Grow Your Brain, including the “Fall Festival on the Farm”! From garden work, to working with children, to fun tasks like painting the shed, there’s something for many! jamie@ growyourbrainlax.org; www.growyourbrainlax.org Habitat for Humanity/ReStore: For Women Build, construction, Critical Home Repair, ReStore, special events or office work, contact Bekky Mayfield, Volunteer Coordinator for Habitat for Humanity, at volunteer@habitatlacrosse.org or 608.785.2375 X1604. Hillview Urban Agriculture Center: The mission of Hillview is to create a healthy community through a local, sustainable, and accessible food system. We have volunteer opportunities in the following programs: Market Baskets, vermicomposting, various gardening tasks, hoop house construction, fundraising, grant writing, and marketing. (608) 786-0338; vicki@vsm5.com; www.hillviewuac.org Continued on page 32...
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The Hunger Task Force of La Crosse: The Hunger Task Force works to alleviate hunger in the Coulee Region through two programs: The Food Recovery Program and The Kane Street Community Garden. Tasks and info: Food Recovery Program driving for deliveries, sorting, truck loading and unloading, clerical, special event duties. (608) 793-1002; lacrossehunger@centurytel.net. Kane St. Community Garden - preparing and planting, weeding, harvesting. (608) 386-3319; kanestreetgarden@gmail.com; www.lacrossehtf.org Kinstone Academy of Applied Permaculture: We are dedicated to teaching people how to live more sustainably through the use of Permaculture principles and design. Critical thinking skills and hands-on practice are core to our offerings. We have volunteer opportunities in the following areas: food forest maintenance, composting, various gardening tasks, various natural building construction projects, stone work, fundraising, grant writing, videography, and marketing. (608) 687-3332; inquiry@kinstonecircle.com with VOLUNTEER in the subject; www. KinstoneCircle.com La Crescent Animal Rescue: We are committed to being a no-kill shelter, which means we are always looking for both foster and permanent homes for the animals left in our care. At our facility, volunteer tasks available include cat and/or dog care, cleaning, clerical, and animal transportation. Must be 16 years of age. 523 S Chestnut St, La Crescent, MN. (507) 895-2066;www.lacrescentanimalrescue. blogspot.com La Crosse Area Family YMCA: Imagine volunteering for one of the most respected human services organizations in the world, where your work positively influences the lives of others. Apply your experience, knowledge, creativity and energy, and build your resume while discovering new talents. Opportunities include special events, Youth Sports coaching, Miracle League Baseball Buddies, Teen Center, and much more. (608) 782-9622; Y-North: 400 Mason St., Onalaska; Y-La Crosse: 1140 Main St., La Crosse; www.laxymca.org La Crosse County Historical Society: To volunteer with the La Crosse County Historical Society could mean many things. From re-enacting to helping with collections, exhibit design, museum interpreters - there are no shortages of jobs we need help with! (608)782-1980; ww.lchsweb.org La Crosse Storytelling Festival: Myrick Park. La Crosse is fortunate to host the only storytelling festival in the State of Wisconsin. Volunteer duties will include: ticket-taking, working in the silent auction or book store areas, helping with the children’s area, serving food, stage decoration, and setting up/taking down equipment. You will volunteer for a 3 hour shift and then you will receive a FREE ticket to the event! sara.slayton@gmail.com; www.lacrossestoryfest.com Outdoor Recreation Alliance (ORA): The Outdoor Recreation Alliance seeks to optimize world-class outdoor recreational opportunities. Volunteers are needed for various activities, including trail work. www.naturesplacetoplay.com Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe: The mission of the Shrine includes being a place of religious pilgrimage, serving the spiritual needs of God’s people in an environment of peace and quiet. Volunteer needs include care of flower beds, trail maintenance, upkeep of devotional areas, indoor cleaning, welcoming and assisting
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2 Volunteer pilgrims in various areas such as the Votive Candle Chapel and Gift Shop. www.guadalupeshrine.org /volunteer. Steppin’ Out in Pink: Volunteers are needed to make Steppin’ Out in Pink, walk for local breast cancer research, programs and services at Gundersen Health System a success. Opportunities range from helping at t-shirt pickup days, setup, crossing guards, take down and more! The walk is Saturday, Sept. 6th. Visit our website to see how you can make a difference www.steppinoutinpink.org. WAFER Food Pantry: WAFER food pantry serves the low-income, food-insecure population throughout La Crosse and Houston Counties. In addition to volunteer opportunities during food distribution hours, WAFER offers a monthly Food Fair (usually held the 4th Saturday of the month) and Senior Share, a food package delivery program. Volunteer opportunities are available for any age and can include food packing and stocking, unloading trucks, helping during the food fair, delivery, and much more. 403 Causeway Blvd, La Crosse; 608-782-6003; waferfoodpantry@ centurytel.net; waferlacrosse.org Wisconsin Conservation Corps: WisCorps engages youth and young adults in direct conservation projects on public lands across the state. Volunteer opportunities include trail maintenance, tree planting, event assistance, and more! (608) 7822494; staff@wiscorps.org; www.wiscorps.org. Youth Outdoor Fest: Tons of activities to celebrate kids getting outdoors! Volunteers needed to assist in various activities, set-up, and tear-down. Copeland Park. (608) 789-7593; www.CityofLaCrosse.org /Parks YWCA of the Coulee Region: There are many different ways to get involved and volunteer with the YWCA. The YWCA believes everyone has something to contribute and receive from participation within the YWCA community. Currently we are looking for volunteers to help with special events, support our adaptive swimming and gardening programs, and coordinate activities for the women in our housing programs. 608.781.2783 ext.228; mhilligoss@ywcalax.org; ywcalax.org
Please let these organizations know that you saw them in 2Do La Crosse! They like to know how the word spreads. Thanks! To include a Volunteer Listing in 2Do La Crosse for your organization, email: michelle@2dolax.com.
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La Crosse
Storytelling Festival
*Not just for kids By Michael Scott
Author Philip Pullman wrote, “After nourishment, shelter and companionship, stories are the thing we need most in the world.” How fortunate we are in this community to have the largest, longest-running and wellknown storytelling festival in the state of Wisconsin. Every September, always the weekend after Labor Day, nationally renowned storytellers, musicians and other performing artists gather in Myrick Park. Together they weave an unforgettable experience designed to entertain and inspire the entire family.
Now in its 12th year, the La Crosse Storytelling Festival has become a much-anticipated event that marks the end of summer and welcomes the arrival of autumn. There is no better way to enjoy a cool fall day and evening than to hear master craftspeople, equipped with nothing but words, voice and a microphone, practice an ancient and, oftentimes, misunderstood art form. Event organizer, Terry Visger, has been with the festival since its inception in 2003. “In the beginning, awareness was lean. Now at least 70% of the people I talk
Featured Stor ytellers:
Andy Offutt Irwin 34
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Celia Ferran
Kenny Salwey
Do Local mostly, there are stories. Nationally touring tellers perform tales for the whole family. Hans Mayer and other local songwriters play concerts to clear the ears’ palate and help make the transition from story to story. There will also be magic and juggling to round out the day’s entertainment.
A young reader enjoying the Children’s Area with have, at the very least, heard of it.” More and more attend with every passing year. Visger states that a formula for the festival has developed and, other than a few tweaks here and there, the event unfolds as it does every year. The fun begins Friday night with Tales of the Creepy and Scary. Everyone loves a good ghost story, and the tales start mild and get scarier as the night progresses. The audience is allowed to choose their threshold. The events on Saturday start at noon. There is food and a silent auction but,
On Saturday evening, starting at 6:30 pm, comes the Adult Cabaret. This should not be missed! One of the misconceptions of storytelling is that it is something exclusively for children. Being a featured performer and this year’s Cabaret emcee, I like to describe the evening performance as a heightened form of stand-up comedy. Heightened in the fact that making an audience member laugh is not the main objective, and a whole range of emotions can be explored. This range is what makes newcomers to the event take notice, and why fans of the festival keep returning year after year. There is an impressive line-up of renowned storytellers this year. First there is local celebrity and author Kenny Salwey. Weaving tales of life in the wilds of the Mississippi River valley, Salwey is someone every screen-addicted child should experience. He will perform several times throughout the day on Saturday.
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Also in the line-up are Sadarri and Celia Farren. Sadarri is a gifted writer/storyteller and, in addition to numerous dialects and character voices, shares her upbeat stories in English, Spanish, French, Haitian Creole and Sign Language. Celia Farran is returning to the festival for a third time. She is a musician/storyteller that has been described as “a cross between an Earthy Enya, Joan Baez and Tina Fey. Headlining the La Crosse Storytelling Festival is Andy Offutt Irwin. He is one of the most sought-after comedic storytellers in the United States — with good reason. I saw him perform last year at Northlands
Storytelling Conference, and simply put, don’t miss this opportunity to see him perform. One of the best I’ve ever seen. Period. The La Crosse Storytelling Festival takes place Friday and Saturday, September 5th and 6th. Go to Lacrossestoryfest.com for more information. Michael Scott is a professional storyteller and the host of The Old School Variety Show. The show highlights local tellers and other performing artists, every 3rd Saturday of the month from September through May.
An audience listens intently to a storyteller 36
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Fall Festival on theFarm Sat, Sept�� | �-�pm th
Tickets include: Organic Hog Roast & Refreshments (veg option available!) Children’s Activities Live Music Garden Art Cooking Demo Fundraiser for
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Evening Features 3:30pm to Close: SUN: Free Dessert Night MON: Kids Eat Free TUE: Tap Beer Night 1/2 Price! WED: Fish Fry All You Can Eat THU: Date Night
Half priced bottles of wine!
FRI: Fish Fry All You Can Eat SAT: Surf ‘n’ Turf Night
GrowYourBrainLaX.org
at Deep Roots Community Farm W���� County Road YY, La Crosse
www.fayzes.com 135 4th St S, La Crosse | (608)784-9548
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Ongoing Events & Activities
n 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 n Camp Curiosity Summer Day Camps: June – August. Pack your imagination for the coolest summer fun around at the Children’s Museum of La Crosse! Build It, Kids Cuisine, Young Artists, and more! 1, 3, and 5 day sessions. Ages 4-12. Preregistration and pre-payment is required. Registration is now open. (608) 784-2652; www.funmuseum.org nn 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. Music entertainment most Friday evenings from 5:15 - 7:15 and free yoga classes every other market day starting in June. Farmers Market Every FridayMay 3rd to Oct 25th; 4-8 pm; Cameron Park Market Association; Cameron Park on King St., downtown La Crosse; (608) 433-6708; www.cameronparkmarket.org n Chinese Language Class: Learn Chinese in a fun, relaxed setting for free! 11:0011:45am; 2nd and 4th Saturdays; Dim Sum Tea Shop 221 Pearl St.; (608) 738-1221 n Driftwood School – Middle School Registration: A new independent middle school is opening in La Crosse this Fall. Driftwood School provides an inquirybased approach to education that engages the whole child – mind, body, and spirit – by emphasizing learning by doing, connecting academic subjects to real world applications, and teaching social and environmental responsibility. Now enrolling Grades 6-8. 715 Rose St, La Crosse; (608) 780-0426;http://driftwoodschool.org /. n Driftwood School Summer Adventures: Affordable childcare meets summer camp. Children in Grades 1-8 are invited to explore nature, go canoeing, visit community gardens, take care of farm animals, create nature art, and much more! Visit our online calendar to pick days that fit your schedule. 715 Rose St, La Crosse; (608) 780-0426;http://driftwoodschool.org / nnn EcoPark Ongoing FREE Offerings: There are so many! Read page 29 or check us out online for more info! 789 Myrick Park Dr., La Crosse (608) 784-0303; www. mhecopark.org
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Calendar n Fayze’s Evenings Out: Tuesday - Half Price Tap Beer Night - Get all your favorite tap beers at half price every Tuesday at Fayze's, 3:30pm to close. Thursday - Date Night - Treat your sweetheart to a night downtown, and enjoy half price bottles of wine every Thursday at Fayze's, 3:30pm to close.; (608) 784-9548; www.Fayzes.com n Hixon House Tours: Memorial Day through Labor Day. Wed-Sun 10am-2pm (with last tour starting at 2pm). Adults $8, Seniors & Students $6, Children 5-12 $5 (4 and under free), Members are free. 7th and Badger. Confirm open times within. (608)782-1980; www.lchsweb.org n Mary Poppins – The Broadway Musical: Sept. 5 – 21. Music, magic, and a spoonful of sugar! The beloved family classic, Mary Poppins, comes to the stage in the most supercalifragilisticexpialidocious musical of all time! Step in time to join everyone’s favorite nanny, Mary Poppins, as she teaches Jane, Michael, Winifred, and George Banks how to be a family again. Weber Center for the Performing Arts. Lychee Theater. www.webercenterfortheperformingarts.org n 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 a.m.–6 pm Mondays-Saturdays. 1601 Badger St , La Crosse. 608-785-8680 www.uwlax.edu/recsports n Paddle Time (Co-ed Group Paddle): Tuesdays, June-Aug. 6:00pm-8:00pm. Cost: $20 with rental, $25 (day of registration), $5 with own boat. Check locations online. (608) 793-1470; www.threeriversoutdoors.com. nn Pearl Street Brewery: New events every month including live music every Friday from 6 to 9! 1401 St Andrew St, La Crosse. (608) 784-4832 www.pearlstreetbrewery.com n 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 nn 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, church group. For hours and other information: www.guadalupeshrine.org, or contact the Shrine’s Pilgrimage Coordinator if you need assistance with planning your visit 608.782.5440 gmarco@ guadalupeshrine.org. n Some Enchanted Evening - The Songs of Rodgers and Hammerstein: July 10-26. More so than any composer and lyricist who have written for the stage, the songs of Rodgers & Hammerstein have become an integral part of our everyday lives. We sing them in the shower, we dance to them in ballrooms, we hear them on the radio and in clubs and, yes, in elevators and supermarkets too. This stunning collection of compositions places five performers in a theatrical setting-first ‘backstage,’ where the songs are sung as personal interplay, and then ‘onstage.’ Weber Center for the Performing Arts. Cleary Terrace. Visit: www.webercenterfortheperformingarts.org n Summer Organ Recital Series at the Shrine: 3:00 p.m, Sundays. Listen to the magnificent 54 rank Noack Pipe Organ. Organists from around the country. Free admission (freewill offering will be accepted). Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe, 5250 Justin Rd, La Crosse, La Crosse. www.guadalupeshrine.org /events/ organ-concerts
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n Tai Chi Chuan and Wing Chun Kung Fu Class: Learn This Chinese form of exercise utilizing slow and deliberate movement. NO CHARGE; 2:00p.m.-4:00p.m.; Every Sunday; to be held at Riverside Park at the fountain, East Veterans Memorial Drive n Tea Tasting Party: Learn about teas while sampling a variety. Dumplings and egg tarts included with take-home loose tea sample. 1st Tuesdays/month-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 nn The Root Note: From open mic night to poetry readings to highly acclaimed musical performances, the Root Note hosts live entertainment weekly. This morethan-a-coffee-shop-crêperie is a hub to other goings on such as Repair Café, art showings, beer brew clubs, and so much more. Check out their Facebook page or stop in for schedules. 115 4th St. South, La Crosse. (608) 782-7668 nn 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 nn Tour de Pearl: Peddling for Pints: May – September. Join Pearl Street Brewery ’s 2014 Tour de Pearl and register and Ride for a chance to win a custom designed bicycle! Registration fee includes Tour Shirt and goodies. (608) 784-4832; www.PearlStreetBrewery.com nn Women Build Program: May – November. Gather your friends and start a Women Build team to fundraise money and build homes in 2014. Each team consists of 6 – 10 women that pledge to raise $1,000 and build up to two days on the site. In 2013, 18 Women Build teams raised $33,000 and contributed more than 1,500 hours to the construction of the home. To register, contact Bekky Mayfield, 608.785.2375 X1604 or volunteer@habitatlacrosse.org nn YMCA Kids Marathon presented by Bronston Chiropractic: Train with local celebrities as you work your way to eating well, moving more and spending time with family. Kids run a full marathon over the course of 8 weeks through weekly training meetings and physical activities they can do on their own or with their family. The final mile is run on the Maple Leaf Walk Run Course. $20.00 Saturdays at 9am from Aug 9-Sept 27. Various locations throughout La Crosse & Onalaska. 608-782-9622 www.laxymca.org – click on events tab. n 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) 386-1217
Upcoming Events & Activities
Jul 12 nn Youth Outdoor Fest: Tons of activities to celebrate kids getting outdoors! A small sample includes archery, bowfishing, canoeing, geocaching, hiking, and so much more! The day includes a chance for kids to win a rod/reel combo! Raffle prizes for the whole family! 11a-3p. NEW LOCATION due to flooding. Now at COPELAND PARK. FREE. (608) 789-7593; www.CityofLaCrosse.org /Parks
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Calendar n Hixon House Ice Cream Social: Tours of the house will be going on as well as ice cream and other treats served in the Hixon House yard, right next to the beautiful gardens on the property. 11a-4p (last tour at 3p). 7th and Badger. La Crosse County Historical Society; (608)782-1980; www.lchsweb.org
nn Macryn Strong: All Day Long: 1:00pm. A Fundraisier for a Little Boy ’s Fight to Beat Cancer: Live Music, entertainment, and more! Celebrate this little hero while pitching in to help him and his family. For more info: www.Facebook.com/ MacrynStrong; Stacy Johnson (608)738-6765; stacy@couleepromotions.com
Jul 19 n Rail Fair: 10am-4pm. Celebrate railroads and trains! For the hobbyist and the spectator! Hobby sale, model railroad flea market and swap meet. Guided tour of the 4000 Locomotive, Caboose and Grand Crossing Tower. Copeland Park. (608) 781-9383 www.4000foundation.com
nn Kids From Wisconsin: 7:00pm. As the official “Premiere Musical Ambassadors” for the State of Wisconsin, Kids from Wisconsin has been delighting audiences throughout Wisconsin and across the country for 45 years. Their high-energy, exciting performances feature 20 singer/dancers and a 13-piece show band, all chosen from among the State’s finest musicians between the ages of 15 and 20. Weber Center for the Performing Arts. Lychee Theater. www.webercenterfortheperformingarts.org
Aug 2 n The Home Run 9K/5K Fun Run/Walk: Copeland Park. The race will take participants across the Black River and through scenic portions of French Island. Three-person relay option for the 9K. Live Music, Face Painting, Mascot Olympics, Local Celebrity Dunk Tank, B.A. Burrito Eating Relay, Shenanigans Fun Zone, Raffle for Packer Tickets and Hall of Fame Memorabilia, A Day with Loggers Players, Coaches, and Staff. contact Keith Lease at Coulee Council on Addictions at 608.784.4177 or keith@couleecouncil.org.
n Rock’n the Docks: A summer concert event for adults 21+ years of age featuring 4 local and regional bands. $10 – through-Aug 2, $15 – at the gate on August 2nd. Huck Finn’s on the Water - 129 Marina Dr, La Crosse, WI. 608-782-9622 www. laxymca.org – Click on Events Tab.
Aug 8 - 10 n 10th Annual La Crosse Irishfest: World-class Irish performers and entertainment, wee folk area with Irish dance lessons, sheep shearing, storytelling, games and activities, Irish cuisine and local brews, cultural tent featuring music, genealogy, Irish dance, storytelling and more! www.irishfestlacrosse.org
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Aug 9 n Senior Expo Presented by RSVP: A one-stop shop for families and individuals as they plan their own future or the future of their loved ones. Enjoy vendors, speakers, and a fashion show. Valley View Mall 3800 Hwy 16, La Crosse, www. myvalleyview.com
Aug 15-17 & 21-24 n Parade of Homes: Thurs & Fri: 5 - 8 pm; Sat & Sun: noon- 5 pm. Tour homes that give a wonderful glimpse into the possibilities a home can offer. See the best in sound, appliances, flooring and cabinets. $7 in advance, $10 at the door. Children 5 and under free. www.labaparadeofhomes.com
Aug 20 n American Red Cross Blood Drive at the Mall: 12-4:30 pm - Center Court. Valley View Mall 3800 Hwy 16, La Crosse, www.myvalleyview.com
Aug 22-24 nnn Great River Folk Festival: Western Wisconsin’s weekend for the best in contemporary and traditional folk and Americana music. Overlapping sessions at three sites feature music round-robins, jams and dedicated workshops. The traditional crafts fair includes pottery, fabric arts, jewelry, baskets, glassware, wood work, and more. Comic Juggler Paul Halter returns to the Children’s area, along with miniconcerts and other quality activities for kids. Traditional and ethnic selections and great desserts are available all day. NEW LOCATION: RIVERSIDE PARK. Tickets & more info: (608) 784-3033; grff@greatriverfolkfest.org; www.greatriverfolkfest.org
Aug 23 n Valley View Mall’s Back to School Block Party: 10am - 4pm. The Back to School Block Party includes interactive vendor exhibits, free entertainment, a clothing drive, make-up and hair demonstrations, great deals on all of your back to school must haves and jcpenney & Macy ’s Back to School Fashion Show. Valley View Mall 3800 Hwy 16, La Crosse, www.myvalleyview.com
Sep 5 & 6 nnn La Crosse Storytelling Festival: The 12th Annual Story Fest will be held on September 5 & 6 at the Myrick Park Main Shelter. Friday Night is “ Tales of the Creepy and Scary ” – a family favorite! Saturday features 2 storytelling stages (one just for children), a children’s activity area, fine food, beverages, a silent auction, book store, juggler, magician, and caricaturist. Saturday evening is the ever-popular “Adult Cabaret ” at which we serve snacks, soft drinks, beer, and wine. Come
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Calendar hear national, regional, and local storytellers and musicians at this family-friendly event. Tickets are available at the gate. This is the original Wisconsin Storytelling Festival! sara.slayton @gmail.com; www.lacrossestoryfest.com
Sep 5-7 nn 17th Annual Elvis Explosion: Sept.5-7. Semi-finals Fri 7pm, and Sat 2:30 & 7pm. Finals on Sun at 1pm. An exciting international showcase and competition featuring the world’s top Elvis Tribute Artists, benefitting the local area chapter of the Children’s Miracle Network. La Crosse Center, 300 Harborview Plz, La Crosse. 608-785-7464 www.elvisexplosion.info
Sep 6 nn Steppin’ Out in Pink: 9 a.m. – 12: 30 p.m. Join us for our 9th annual walk for local breast cancer research, programs and services at Gundersen Health System. The walk is 4.5 miles of fun! Register now at www.steppinoutinpink.org.
Sep 6 & 7 n Made in Wisconsin Show: Vendors will showcase products proudly made in Wisconsin. Center Court. Valley View Mall 3800 Hwy 16, La Crosse, www.myvalleyview.com
Sep 13 nnnn Fall Festival on the Farm: 3pm-7pm. Your Brain presents an evening of fun and fundraising on the farm! Tickets include: Local Hog Roast & Refreshments (veg option available!), Children’s Activities, Live Music, Garden Art, Cooking Demo, and more! Adults: $18, Children: $13. Proceeds to benefit Grow Your Brain. Event held at Deep Roots Community Farm, W4406 County Road; La Crosse. www.growyourbrainlax.org
Sep 14 nn YMCA’s Oktoberfest Youth 3-on-3 Tournament: 9am. A 3-on-3 tournament for boys and girls in 4th-8th grades. It ’s a great way for kids to be healthy and active while developing their skills. All proceeds from the event will benefit our Strong Kids AAU Basketball Fund. $60.00 per team. YMCA-La Crosse Branch – 1140 Main Street, La Crosse, WI. 9am-6pm. 608-782-9622. www.laxymca.org
nn 9th Annual Chad Erickson Memorial DuRunRun Kids’ Duathlon: 8am-Noon. Riverside Park. $15 reg. includes t-shirt, goodie bag, breakfast, snacks, and more! Kids must bring own bike and helmet! www.CityofLaCrosse.org /Parks
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Sep 25-28 nnnn 54th Annual La Crosse Oktoberfest: Four days, Three parades, Two fest grounds, One great time! Complete details online. www.oktoberfestusa.com
Sep 26-28 nnnn 42nd Annual Warrens Cranberry Festival : 7am-5pm. Warrens, WI. The World’s Largest Cranberry Festival boasting 850 arts & crafts booths, 350 flea & antique booths, 100 farm market booths and 100 food vendors, and 120,000 visitors annually! Cranberry marsh tours, live music and performances, recipe contests, a parade at noon on Sunday, and more! www.cranfest.com
Sep 27 nn YMCA Maple Leaf Walk Run sponsored by Ballweg Midwest Toyota: Full details online. 608-782-9622. www.laxymca.org
Nov 1 nn 3rd Annual Halloween Bash: Mark your calendars for this fun event and fundraiser presented by La Crosse Magazine! Live music by Brat Pack Radio! Cash prizes for Halloween Costume Contests! Watch for more details! www.lacrosse-magazine.com
Macryn Strong : All Day Long
. 1 pm
fundraiser for Macryn Mannel 's fight to beat cancer
July 12, 2014
Holmen American Legion
For more info: MacrynStrong Stacy Johnson (608)738-6765 stacy@couleepromotions.com
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Five year old, Macryn Mannel, of Holmen, a big fan of WWE and a sports fanatic, was diagnosed with Stage 3 Non Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, known as Burkitt's Lymphoma on Tuesday, April 1st, 2014. Burkitt's is recognized as the fastest growing human tumor, associated with impaired immunity and is rapidly fatal. In children, like Macryn, prompt intensive chemotherapy usually cures the disease, leading to a long term survival rate of 60-90%. However, such a rapid response to chemotherapy can be hazardous to Macryn, as a phenomenon called "Tumor Lysis Syndrome" could occur. Further treatment will be needed for the next 6 or more months. Show your support for this little guy to win this battle against cancer! Come join him and his family at the "Macryn Strong : All Day Long" fundraiser!
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August 15, 16, 17 and 21, 22, 23 & 24 Hours:
Thurs & Fri’s: 5 to 8 pm Sat & Sun: Noon to 5 pm Tickets $7 until August 16th, $10 after and available at the door Children 5 and under free.
www.labaparadeofhomes.com