The 2do Calendar: arts, be active, kids & more! p. 26!
2
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March & April
La Crosse Discover Your City!
5th Annual Earth Fair
A Secret Too Long: The volunteers behind your favorite outdoor resources
Grandad Half Marathon
See What’s Inside... visit us on the web at www.2dolax.com
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Sections
do
Welcome to the inaugural issue of 2Do La Crosse! Our goal is to bring
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awareness to events and activities in the La Crosse area. Each person who lives here might know of what’s going on in their “circles” but might like to know what else there is to do. Maybe a new fitness event, a tea tasting, experiential classes in cooking or health, or intriguing insight into the arts will excite you.
VOLUME ONE | Issue One
March/ April | 2013 MJ Ventures, Inc. PO Box 61 Onalaska, WI 54650 (888) 752-2279 | info@2DoLaX.com ©2013 MJ Ventures, Inc.
ARTS 4
Our city is truly unique with its inviting nature trails (explore HPT on page 16), alluring rivers, growing and diverse arts scene, numerous family activities, and a generous, caring community to top it off. A newcomer to La Crosse might be amazed to know there is a fundraiser here nearly every week, especially our beloved 5K Run/Walks.
KIDS 4
La Crosse
Earth Fair Excitement
BE ACTIVE
Discover Your City! Like 2dolacrosse
Meet Toni Rae Parish, former owner of Vintage Vogue Learn about the NEW Grandad Half Marathon
A Pump House Gallery art review
ISSUE FEATURE
Editor/Publisher
MJ Ventures, Inc.
Human Powered Trails interpretive map
16
2VOLUNTEER 18
Account Representative
Creative Director
Cooking classes at the People’s Food Co-op Contact 2Do La Crosse for the following opportunities:
Michelle Jerome
Clinton Grabhorn
Administrative Assistant Erica Black
Contributing Writers
Amber Miller Andrew Chulyk Briana Rupel Steve Hansen
Photo Credits
City of La Crosse Parks & Recreation: 11 Lee Harwell: Cover, pgs. 4, 8, 10, 14, 22, 26 Outdoor Recreation Alliance: 16, 18 People’s Food Co-op: 22, 24 Robbie Young: 18
Distribution
Citywide Marketing Services 2 | www.2DoLaX.com
Trail work volunteers featured
2Do La Crosse features the radiating goodness of our community through articles on small, family and co-op owned local businesses, volunteerism, and charities and their fundraisers. In fact, we are committed to donating two pages of free advertising to area non-profits and charities each issue. To “get your good on”, check out the start of our Volunteer Opportunities listings on page 20. Thanks for reading us! We’re excited to help you “Discover Your City!”
DO LOCAL
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CALENDAR 26 Favorite events & hidden gems!
Our Mission:
The mission of 2Do La Crosse is to encourage community involvement by highlighting local events and activities for the residents and visitors of the La Crosse, Wisconsin area. 2Do La Crosse is published bi-monthly by MJ Ventures, Inc., PO Box 61, Onalaska, WI 54650. Readers are encouraged to verify information directly with organizers of events and activities in this publication. ©MJ Ventures, 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.
-Michelle Jerome
Advertise with 2Do La Crosse! Contact us for the following opportunities: Calendar Listings Volunteer Listings Advertising
2
do
La Crosse
info@2dolax.com www.2DoLaX.com (888) 752-2279
“Instant human, just add coffee”
Homemade soups & desserts Organic & fair trade coffees
327 Pearl St. La Crosse, WI (608)796.1200
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Spread the Love: Earth Fair
2013By Amber Miller
What a lucky bunch of people we La Crosse residents and visitors are! We reside in one of the most beautiful and unique places in the world, and in addition to the amazing natural features of the area, we also have parks galore, treelined boulevards, miles upon miles of trails, and a marsh right in the middle of our city. It appears we are a g roup who values the earth, and it all comes together this spring in the fabulously fun and diverse Earth Fair. The Coulee Partners for Sustainability, the La Crosse Area YMCA, and the Earth Fair Committee will be presenting this free event on 4 | www.2DoLaX.com
Sunday, April 21 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Myrick Park, with the g oal of fostering a sense of community, sustainability, and fun! A Recycling Fair will also be held in conjunction with the Earth Fair on Sunday, April 21 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Emerson School, and this will be quite an event in and of itself. Paper shredding, as well as ink cartridge and electronics recycling will be provided free of charge. You can swing by the Recycling Fair on your way to the Earth Fair and drop off recyclables, as well as nonperishable food donations for WAFER. Talk about earning some extra kar ma points! The Earth Fair itself will be a bustling hub of activities featuring the region’s finest in Continued on pg . 6
E rthFa Firair Ea arth LaLa Crosse, Wisconsin Crosse, Wisconsin
Presented by Coulee Partners for Sustainability, Presented by Coulee Partners for Sustainability, La Crosse Area Family YMCA & the Earth Fair Committee La Crosse Area Family YMCA & the Earth Fair Committee
2 0 1 3
Go Green in 2013!
SUNDAY, APRIL 21, 2013 11am - 5pm Myrick Park & the EcoPark 789 Myrick Park Drive
FREE!
Hans Mayer Concert! Live Raptors! Storytelling! Grand Green Prizes! Electricity Bicycle! Recycle Art Crafts! Hands On Learning Activities! And so much more! NEW! Earth Day Dash for Kids! Register at the Y!
CELEBRATING PARTNERS
Visit www.EarthFairLaCrosse.org Like www.facebook.com/CouleePartnersforSustainabilityLaCrosse
www.2DoLaX.com | 5
Kids Continued fr om pg. 4 sustainability. There will be green vendors galore, the first far mer’s market of the year, live music and perfor mances, eco presentations, and plenty of activities for even the tiniest tree hug gers, including a concert by the beloved Hans Mayer. If you pedal to the fair, you can even take advantage of the bike valet and free bike inspection. This event definitely has something for ever yone, from tai chi and a seed lending librar y to live raptor demonstrations
and a dr um circle. Kids are especially guaranteed to have fun with events like a puppet parade, a trail building activity, recycled arts and crafts, and the new Earth Day Dash for kids hosted by the YMCA. A prog ram called “Let’s Go Outdoors!” will be sure to engage the little ones, and the prog ram organizer, Libby Thorson, has one simple but critical g oal: “to show kids (and adults) how to play outside again!” In addition to all the fun and g ood vibes, you might even be one of the lucky winners of North Side Community Pool 816 Sill St. Erickson Pool 2412 Losey Blvd. S Memorial Pool 1901 Campbell Rd. Black River Beach 1433 Rose St.
Swimm i is alm ng season ost he re!
Pettibone Beach 374 S. Pettibone Dr.
Swim Lesson Registration Begins April 13th th
City Pools and Beaches open June 8
For details: (608) 789-8640 www.CityofLaCrosse.org/Parks
some g reat prizes. If you’re one of the first 500 families to show up, you’ll score a reusable bag from Fowler and Hammer, and there will be spin-to-win door prizes all day. If you’re particularly lucky, you might even win one of the coveted Grand Green Prizes. Bringing food items for WAFER and stopping by the Recycling Fair increase your odds of getting your hands on them! La Crosse has been holding an Earth Fair for the past four years—a tradition that will hopefully continue. This is an event that has plenty for all interests and ages, with a universal message. As one of the organizers, Vicki Miller, succinctly put it, “the Earth Fair is an event that brings together the entire community to celebrate and appreciate Earth, the only home we have.” And celebrate we will, at Earth Fair 2013! For more infor mation on Earth Fair 2013, the Recycling Fair, or to register kids for the Earth Day Dash, visit www. EarthFairLaCrosse.org!
Three floors of hands-on exhibits, gift shop & more + special activities: (*) Included with admission ($) Fee / Registration required Weekly Preschool Programming
(*) 10:30 am Tues: Sparkling STEM ($) 10:30 am Some Wed: Spanish (*) 10:30 am Thurs: Little Learners (*) 10:30 am Fridays: Wee Move
(*) Let’s Get Curious: Curious George exhibit At the Museum now to May 12 ($) Night (out) At the Museum Fri, March 8, 5:30-8 pm &/or Fri, April 12, 5:30-8 pm ($) Easter Egg-Stravaganza Thur, March 28, 5:30-7:30 pm OR Fri, March 29, 9:30-11:30 am (*) Wee Bit O’ Fun St. Pat’s Program Sun, March 17, 1:00-3:00 pm Contact the Museum or check funmuseum.org for more information
207 5th Ave. S, La Crosse
Photos courtesy of Michelle Cox
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www.2DoLaX.com | 7
Be Active the river trail for pleasure, the Human Powered trails for challenge.”
‘It Surrounds Us Everywhere’
Changing gears but staying active After selling Vintage Vogue, Toni stopped bike-commuting to work, but maintained her commitment to being active outside on the trails and the river. “In our area,” she said, “we are so lucky because we have all four seasons and the g reatness of what the river and bluffs have to offer.”
A Day in the Life of Toni Rae Parish by Steve Hansen
S ometimes I hear people g rip-
ing about being bored in La Crosse. My response is impatient, but consistent. “Turn off the TV and go play outside!” I preach. Living in the La Crosse area, we have such abundant options for outdoor fun. Regardless of your physical abilities, there’s something for ever yone, including hiking, biking, paddling, fishing, skiing, r unning, and bird watching. And it’s not just exercise or recreation—you can build time outside into your daily life. Toni Parish, a longtime resident and for mer owner of Vintage Vogue, knows this fact well. “To me, the secret of finding something to do in this area is knowing where to look. It’s so simple because it surrounds us ever ywhere,” Parish said. When she owned 8 | www.2DoLaX.com
“Become aware of nature. It brings natural beauty and emotion into your life, silently feeding your soul.” her vintage clothing store in downtown La Crosse, she bikecommuted to the store on a regular basis—a 10-mile ride. “I’ve been cycling as a commuter for years, both on and off road,” Parish said. “The marsh trail for commuting,
The trails in the area are a favorite for Toni. “It’s hard to beat walking, hiking, and trail r unning through the marsh, Hixon Forest, or the short but sweet Halfway Creek Trail,” Toni said. The marsh trails, Hixon Forest trails, Human Powered Trails, the Great River State Trail, and the La Crosse River State Trail are all interconnected, as well, so you can just keep going for many hours if the mood strikes you. When snow conditions per mit, Toni straps on skis and heads Continued on pg. 10
www.premierfitness.org (608) 793-1300 505 King Street, La Crosse, WI
{lower level of the King on 5th Building}
FREE fitness classes with membership! Cardio Kickboxing Basic Training Zumba Spin Yoga Cardio Dance Crunch Time Group Strength RESOLUTION “DO-OVER” SPECIAL: MARCH ONLY $19.99/month for full membership! Bring in this ad for 1 free class! See 2Do La Crosse Calendar!
www.2DoLaX.com | 9
Be Active Continued fr om pg. 9 back to the trails. “I do Nordic skiing versus downhill because it’s more peaceful and there are so many great places to g o nearby,” Parish added. “But it’s not what I do or what I have done that matters, it’s how I live day to day,” Toni said. “Tr ying to do what I can to make a difference in a positive way. And to do that you have to maintain wellness— physical, mental, and spiritual.
I’m nurtured by the seasons of nature and through silent sports.” After a lifetime of playing outside, Toni offered some gentle wisdom. “Become aware of nature,” she said. “It brings natural beauty and emotion into your life, silently feeding your soul.” Steve Hansen is a freelance writer and blog ger at thefarmhousemedia. com.
The Grandad of Them All
City fitness fest morphs into scenic race By Briana Rupel March is finally here and, though we Wisconsinites know to expect one last dump-load of snow, there’s no doubt spring is inching closer. The sun lingers a little longer; the birds chirp a little louder. For some, that only means spring cleaning is on the horizon. But if you just can’t wait to get outdoors and get active, it’s time for you to tug on your sneakers and start training for the Festival Foods Grandad Half Marathon! 10 | www.2DoLaX.com
Seasoned vets, take note: You may be looking ahead in your calendars wondering where the Festival Foods La Crosse Fitness Festival is. That festival has morphed into this one and revamped its events. This year, there’s something for ever yone, even if you don’t consider yourself a r unner...yet! Due to a small turnout last year and inconvenience of road Continued on pg. 12 www.2DoLaX.com | 11
Be Active
Be Active Continued fr om pg. 11 closures on the community, the full marathon has not been brought back. Instead, the focus has been completely on re-doing the half-marathon route to really showcase the La Crosse community and stand out from other races. “There’s one of these kinds of events ever y weekend in the state of Wisconsin and they’re all kinda doing the same thing,” explains Jay Odegaard of La Crosse Parks, Recreation, & Forestr y. “We needed to do something a little different.”
Same day appointments close to home
Jannie Boldt and family
Franciscan Healthcare ma yoc linich ealth system .org For same day appointments call
12 | www.2DoLaX.com
800-362-5454
In years past, r unners would pad down the pavement from Pettibone Beach to Myrick Park. This year, the halfmarathon will instead start high atop Grandad Bluff and uniquely continue three miles downhill through the forests of the bluffs before winding through our neighborhoods and finally finishing at scenic Riverside Park. “We’re starting on the secondmost visited overlook in Wisconsin and finishing on one of the largest rivers in the countr y,” says Odegaard. Ready to lace up yet? Maybe the route appeals to you, but you’re just not in for a full 13-mile r un. Consider finding a pal and conquering the race together with the new 2-person relay option. “You have the first r unner start the six-and-ahalf miles, take the timing belt off, give it to their partner and they can finish race,” Odegaard explains. There’s also the popular 5K Run/Walk that winds through the marsh on the paved path, as well as free youth races in the 100, 400, and 800 yard dash. If your kids have been
cooped up too long this winter, “It’s something that takes a lot encourage them to train with of work,” says Odegaard, “but you! we get people coming in from Or, if you’d rather cr uise along all over the countr y; we want to make sure we’re putting on a the pavement than pound it, high quality event.” there are many cycling routes mapped out, from a 5-mile No matter what level you’re ride through marsh trails to at, there are plenty of opporan advanced 62-mile ride through the hills of the Coulee tunities for adults and kids Region. For those of you who to finally get outside and get are fueled by competition, look active! for the r unning and bicycling time trials which will provide a You may register online, personal physical challenge, all and even find helpful training tips at www. while capturing the unbelievFestivalFoodsGrandadHalf.com able scener y of the area.
Kayak & Canoe Rentals Outdoor Programming Guided Paddle Groups Active Apparel Outdoor Gear 400 Main St, La Crosse, WI (608) 793-1470
www.ThreeRiversOutdoors.com
www.2DoLaX.com | 13
Arts
Arts in Review
By Andrew Chulyk
Pump House Regional Art Center Kader Gallery February 28 – April 6, 2013 Joni and Mallory Beinborn A Mother and Daughter Equine Fascination Six million years ago Equus caballus, the horse that we know today, began its long journey to the 21st centur y. Depicted in the Lascaux Caves of France, domesticated 6000 years ago on the steppes of Eurasia, Equus caballus has earned a place in the histor y of mankind, as ser vant, companion and transportation. They are creatures of wonder and amazement. Joni and Mallory Beinborn’s current exhibition titled “A Mother and Daughters Equine Fascination” now at the Pump House in La Crosse, provides the viewer a glimpse into the souls of horses. Through the use of pastel painting and photography, they create highly detailed images of horses in motion, standing, staring and ridden. Particularly evocative are 14 | www.2DoLaX.com
the close-ups, partial portraits, off to the side, the horse’s eye reflecting something hidden and deep or as in Mallory’s photograph “Self Portrait”, the image of the artist herself. Joni’s pastels images are exquisitely rendered. Chalk pastel is a difficult and fragile medium, but what she does with it is sublime. The paintings are almost photographic; her compositions are complex, but comfortable. Mallory’s photographs display strength and vigor, her compositions flirting with the abstract. Her work challenges the viewer to look deeper, to feel the horse’s power and mystique as she does. This show is truly a unique experience that affords viewers the opportunity to explore horses in new way and to share the “Equine Fascination”. Toni Chanelle Paisley Sim-pli-ci-ter Simply of Its Own Nature Displayed in the Front Gallery of the Pump House are the photographs of Toni Chanelle Paisley. Most prominent are her close-up shots of classic car details such as hood ornaments, tail lights, logos and chrome.
Paisley prints her photographs on dye infused aluminum sheets. This gives her images a slick, glossy appearance that compliments the subject matter. These small objects and details become monumental in the lens of her camera. Isolated from their context with minimum background, they appear to be almost posing for the shot. In one image, a tail fin detail takes on an alien and sinister appearance. Without reference points to ground her photographs, Paisley is able to take the viewer past conventional perception. Her two pieces, Chiascura I and Chiascura II are revelries of chrome reflection, liquid dark
and light grounded only by the cars’ logos. In contrast, her photograph of a large open red poppy floating against a black background is invocative of an alien world. It pulls the viewer in close, but reveals nothing of its mysteries. Likewise, a grouping of four bird photographs has each bird seeming to pose for its portrait quite comfortable in their smugness. Paisleys work reveals a hidden world full of detail that escapes our vision. By focusing her camera on that world she focuses our attention on what we miss.
Cavalier Theater & Lounge 114 & 118 5th Avenue North, La Crosse, Wisconsin f
www.CavalierTheater.com www.2DoLaX.com | 15
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Grandad Bluff Park
Illustrator’s Notes Living in the La Crosse area for seven years has provided me an abundant amount of time to explore what the Hixon Forest and its surrounding areas have to offer. It was the goal of this map to feature many of the shared-use trails in the Upper Hixon area that have served hikers, bikers, and horseback riders since the mid 90s. Enjoy!
er d lowilhea a tr
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This map was created to celebrate what hundreds of locals and visitors have discovered: a hidden gem crafted from the passion of countless volunteers. Each trail has a name; each handmade bridge has memories; each “money log” tells a story. These trails find their home in the bluffland forests and prairies of La Crosse, Wisconsin. To explore HPT for yourself, travel Bliss Road (East) up Grandad Bluff to turn a left onto Highway FA (North) for one mile and you have arrived!
2 Volunteer
A Secret Too Long
The volunteers behind your favorite outdoor resources
Birth of ORA
Human Powered Trails broke new ground in creating and maintaining places to play outside. That group, however, was limited in its mission, and has been absorbed into the Outdoor Recreation Alliance, or ORA.
ging roads that don’t follow the land’s contours, so they aren’t suitable for sustainable trails. ORA is getting a jump on the project by working with the loggers to design roads that can be transformed into sustainable trails.
Beyond the trails, rivers, and roads, ORA is working to engage more people and businesses in the use of our resources. One project involves Continued on pg. 20
By Steve Hanson Why the change? Robbie Young, a veteran volunteer specializing in trailDid you know that the La Crosse building and trail maintenance, said area, also known as the 7 Rivers ReORA is a more-inclusive group. gion, is a world-class destination for outdoor recreation? A combination “It’s not just mountain bikers and of uncommon natural assets and un- hikers—ORA is for the paddlers, common volunteers has created what skiers, flyfishers, and road cyclists. the Outdoor Recreation Alliance It’s more professionally administered, calls “Nature’s Place to Play.” The with grant funding, corporate parttrails, roads, rivers, marshes, bluffs, nerships, and more professional trail parks, and forests provide year-round work. That allows for a huge increase fun for people who love the outin trail building. But volunteers still doors. But maintaining our networks have a role!” explained Young, a of natural resources is frequently the 27-year-old who recently campaigned labor of unheralded volunteers. for mayor of La Crosse. “Build it right. Build it once.” That’s the idea behind the 12 miles of shared-use trails on the bluffs of La Crosse. They’re often referred to as “Human Powered Trails” because of the volunteer group that developed them starting in the mid-1990s, and because of the human-powered recreation they invite. For hiking, mountain biking, nordic skiing, snowshoeing, and birdwatching, the quality of the bluff trails raised the bar for outdoor recreation in the 7 Rivers Region.
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What does ORA have planned? Upcoming projects may include a shelter in Hixon Forest, an improved canoe landing on the La Crosse River in Riverside Park, more water trails, and more trails in Hixon Forest. Young said his volunteers can build about a mile of trail in a year. Hiring pros might get the total to 10 miles per year. ORA is also more inclusive in the region. Volunteers are working in the old Onalaska landfill to design trails before the property is logged. Normally, Robbie said, loggers build logwww.2DoLaX.com | 19
2 Volunteer
Volunteer Opportunities 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, ver mi-composting, various gardening tasks, hoop house constr uction, fundraising, grant writing, and marketing. (612) 4235375; novak.andj@gmail.com; www. hillviewuac.org
Continued fr om pg. 19 trail maps and signage on water trails, bike routes, and hiking/skiing/ mountain bike trails. Consistent signage will mark these routes and help all users find their way. Businesses will have the opportunity to sponsor some of these projects, and they’ll also benefit as more visitors travel here to use the routes. You can keep up with ORA at their web site, www.naturesplacetoplay. com. Steve Hansen is a freelance writer and blogger at thefarmhousemedia.com.
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Outdoor Recreation Alliance (ORA):
Artistic photo renditions of your artwork
Mountain Biking HPT
leeharwellphotography.com (608) 785.0262
Veteran Volunteer Robbie Young
Art Object Photography
The Outdoor Recreation Alliance seeks to optimize world-class outdoor recreational opportunities. Volunteers are needed for various activities, including trail work. www. naturesplacetoplay.com
Wisconsin Conservation Corps:
WisCorps engages youth and young adults in direct conser vation projects on public lands across the state. Volunteer opportunities include trail maintenance, tree planting, event assistance, and more! (608) 782-2494; staff@wiscorps.org; www.wiscorps. org. To include a Volunteer Listing in 2Do La Crosse for your organization, email: info@2dolax.com. www.2DoLaX.com | 21
Do Local
Cook Creatively with Co-op Classes
By Briana Rupel
H ave you ever wished you
could create food as intricate and stunning as a sushi roll? Do you get stuck ever y summer with such an abundance of tomatoes that go to waste before you even know what to do with them? Or maybe the only cooking utensil you ever really wield is a heavy-duty can opener. No matter what kind of capability you have in the kitchen, the People’s Food
Co-op in Downtown La Crosse has a Creative Cooking Class you will enjoy! Roughly twice a month, twohour classes are held in the second-floor community room and var y between demonstrative or interactive. “Sometimes we get people who want to get their hands dirty, so to speak,”
says Brad Smith, of PFC’s Member Ser vices. For those who enjoy that kind of hands-on learning experience, look for a class like “Cooking with Curr y”, where you’ll help whip up curr yflavored meat and vegetarian dishes. If you’re not ready to get your hands dirty quite yet, you might enjoy something like “Charcuterie School on the Go,” a recently-offered class where the owner of Milwaukee’s own Bolzano Artisan Meats came to talk salami, then paired his whole lineup of cured meats with local beer and cheese. Hands on or off, there’s no
Natural Cleansing Programs Herbal Therapies Holistic Body Work & More
St. Patrick’s Day Parade Saturday, March 16th - Starts at noon 6th Annual Parade in Downtown La Crosse!
Spring Fling Friday, April 12th from 5 to 9 p.m. Stores are open late to kick off new spring trends, products, fashions, sales and special events!
check out our cooking class schedule online!
Downtown Walk Around
People’s Food Co-op
downtown La Crosse www.pfc.coop • 608.784.5798
local • organics • fair trade • artisan cheeses & breads • deli special diet • specialty & ethnic foods • organic body care vitamins & supplements
22 | www.2DoLaX.com
Course instr uctors range from knowledgeable employees of the Co-op to chefs and owners of area companies. One of the more popular courses so far has been a homemade pasta sauce class taught by Peter Robertson, CEO of RP’s Pasta Company in Madison. Smith says Robertson eagerly approached the Co-op with the idea. “He knew we sold his product,” Smith explains, “so he said ‘Hey, I’d love to come Continued on pg. 24
things to do DOWNTOWN
HERBS ALL AROUND
shop co-op shop local
question you’ll leave with a lot of new knowledge and a happy belly!
Downtown Mainstreet Inc.
www.herbsallaround.com
Laurie Stiers MSN, FNP-BC; CH | (608)780-2255 1033 Caledonia St., La Crosse | Tue-Fri, 12p-6p
608 - 784 - 0440
Friday, May 3rd through Friday, June 7th Take the challenge. Pick up your Downtown Walk Around card and visit participating businesses to be eligible for great prizes!
Check our website often for information and new events W W W. L AC R O S S E D O W N T O W N . C O M
www.2DoLaX.com | 23
Do Local teach a class on g our met pasta making!’ It was so popular that the first class filled up within a couple of days.” A second r un in Febr uar y of the class was equally as successful. With continual demand, you can be sure to see this one offered again in the future. At only $15 for Co-op members and $25 for non-members, these classes are a cheap alternative to a typical night out in La Crosse and a g reat opportunity to get fed while learning skills you can use in your own kitchen for years to come!
Upcoming Cla sses:
Thursday, March 21 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Sushi Rules! Tuesday, March 26 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.
You may register and pay in person at the Co-op, or by phone: 608.784.5798 For class information go to www.pfc.coop, follow www.twitter.com/pfccoop, or pick up the Co-op Newsletter at the stor e.
7 Pastas! 7 S au ce s ! 14 Toppin gs!
Magically prepared ...right before your eyes! Dine in, carry out, or drive through today!
www.AhzPasta.com • (608)788-PASTA (7278)
91 Copeland Ave., La Crosse, WI
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DumKipdlsing Class!
Salmon, Scallops, and Snapper
Share tea and learn to make dumplings! www.dimsumteashop.com 221 Pearl St, La Crosse (608) 738-1221
318 Pearl Street, La Crosse, WI
Continued from pg . 23
and NEW
upstairs!
Martini Bar
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Calendar n n
Kids Be Active
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Arts 2volunteer
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Do Local
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 Cameron Park Farmers Market: Description: 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 Friday-May 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/month; Dim Sum Tea Shop 221 Pearl St.; (608) 738-1221 n Downtown Walk Around: Take the challenge. Pick up your Downtown Walk Around card and visit participating businesses to be eligible for great prizes!; Downtown Mainstreet; (608) 784-0440; www.LaCrosseDowntown.com n Premier Fitness Group Fitness Classes: Basic Training; A challenging workout that combines intense cardio and weight training. 60 min.; Thursdays at 5:30pm Cardio Dance: Fun dance workout from Hip Hop to Jazz to Modern! 60 min.; Tuesdays at 6:30pm Cardio Kickboxing: A challenging class inspired by martial arts and boxing. 60 min.; Mondays and Wednesdays at 5:30pm Core & Stretch: Concentration on core muscle groups.; Wednesdays at 8:15am Crunch Time: A quick ab workout to add to your program! 15 min.; Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6:45am; Fridays at 8:45am Group Strength: Complete toning and strengthening workout. 60 min.; Saturdays at 8:00am Open Boxing: Supervised session. Heavy bags, speed bag, or double ended bag. 60 min.; Wednesdays at 6:30pm Spin Express: A lunch hour quick spin class! 30 min.; Tuesdays and Thursdays at 12:15pm Yoga: A mind and body class that will increase your strength and flexibility. 60 min.; Mon26 | www.2DoLaX.com
days and Thursdays at 6:30pm; Wednesdays at 12:15pm; Saturday at 10:00am Zumba: Latin and international music mixing body sculpting moves and easy dance steps. 60 min.; Mondays and Fridays at 5:45am; Tuesdays at 5:30pm; Saturdays at 11:00am All Premier Fitness Group Classes included free with membership.; 505 King St. (lower level); (608) 793-1300; www.premierfitness.org n Tai Chi Chuan and Wing Chun Kung Fu Class: Learn this Chinese form of exercise utilizing slow and deliberate movement. No charge.; 12:00pm-2:00pm; Every Sunday; Winter and Spring to be held at Dim Sum Tea Shop 221 Pearl St.; Summer and Fall to be held at Riverside Park, East Veterans Memorial Drive; (608) 738-1221 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
Upcoming Events & Activities
Wed, March 20th
n Homebrew Club; 7pm; Root Note 115 4th St.; (608) 782-7668; www.TheRootNote.com Thur, March 21st n Salmon, Scallops, and Snapper Cooking Class: Join seafood guru, Andrew Meyer, as he demonstrates creative styles for preparing salmon, sea scallops, and red snapper. Bring a notebook and your appetite for this fun affair. 42 hour pre-registration required. Call for fee.; 6:00pm-8:00pm; People’s Food Co-op 315 5th Ave. S.; (608) 784-5798; www.peoplesfoodcoop.com Fri, March 22nd n DnA Cranberry Wine Tasting; 4-7 pm; Side Note Bottle Shop 123 4th St.; (608) 7694277 Sun, March 24th n Kayak Eskimo Roll & Rescues Clinic: Learn essential paddling skills to increase safety and confidence in the safe environment of an indoor pool. ACA certified instructors available. Presented by Three Rivers Outdoors. Pre-registration and payment required.; 6:30-8:30pm; To be held at YMCA North 400 Mason St., Onalaska; (608) 793-1470; www. ThreeRiversOutdoors.com
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Calendar Tues, March 26th n Sushi Rules!: Thippi Fleckenstein returns to teach one of her most popular classes, Sushi! This hands-on class will teach you how to prepare and roll your own sushi. Dishes will include California and various vegetarian rolls. Note: we will not be using raw foods for this session. 42 hour pre-registration required. Call for fee.; 6:00pm-8:00pm; People’s Food Co-op 315 5th Ave. S.; (608) 784-5798; www.peoplesfoodcoop.com
6:30-8:30pm; To be held at YMCA North 400 Mason St., Onalaska; (608) 793-1470; www. ThreeRiversOutdoors.com
Thur, March 28th
Fri, April 12th
n Easter EGG-Stravaganza: Indoor egg hunt, craft, games, museum play and more for ages 2-7 with adult. $5 per child Museum members / $10 per child non-members (adults free). Pre-registration and pre-payment required.; 5:30-7:30pm; Children’s Museum of La Crosse 207 5th Ave S.; (608) 784-2562; www.funmuseum.org
n Spring Fling: Downtown stores are open late to kick off new spring trends, products, fashions, sales and special events!; 5:00-9:00pm; Downtown Mainstreet; (608) 784-0440; www.LaCrosseDowntown.com
Fri, March 29th n Easter EGG-Stravaganza: Indoor egg hunt, craft, games, museum play and more for ages 2-7 with adult. $5 per child Museum members / $10 per child non-members (adults free). Pre-registration and pre-payment required.; 9:30-11:30am; Children’s Museum of La Crosse 207 5th Ave S.; (608) 784-2562; www.funmuseum.org n Ida Jo LIVE; 8pm; Root Note 115 4th St.; (608) 782-7668; www.TheRootNote.com Sat, March 30th n Luke Callen LIVE; 8pm; Root Note 115 4th St.; (608) 782-7668; www.TheRootNote. com Fri, April 5th n Pocket Vinyl LIVE; 8pm; Root Note 115 4th St.; (608) 782-7668; www.TheRootNote. com Sat, April 6th n Vermicomposting Workshop: Turn your food waste into black gold with worms. Cheri Schuyler, of Hillview Urban Agriculture Center, an expert in composting with worms, will be ready to share the latest composting techniques.; 10:30am; La Crosse Public Library 800 Main St.; (608) 789-7136; www.lacrosselibrary.org n The Poor Nobodys LIVE; Root Note 115 4th St.; (608) 782-7668; www.TheRootNote. com Sun, April 7th n Kayak Eskimo Roll & Rescues Clinic: Learn essential paddling skills to increase safety and confidence in the safe environment of an indoor pool. ACA certified instructors available. Presented by Three Rivers Outdoors. Pre-registration and payment required.; 28 | www.2DoLaX.com
Wed, April 10th n Repair Café: Bring your goods that need fixing or your skills for fixing goods.; 7pm; Root Note 115 4th St.; (608) 782-7668; www.TheRootNote.com
n Night(out) at the Museum: For ages 3-11 without adult. You get a night out on the town and your children get a night out at the Museum. $10 per child Museum members / $15 per child non-members. Pre-registration and pre-payment required.; 5:30-8:00pm; Children’s Museum of La Crosse 207 5th Ave S.; (608) 784-2562; www.funmuseum.org n Shivering Timbers LIVE; Root Note 115 4th St.; (608) 782-7668; www.TheRootNote. com Sat, April 13th n Spectacular Container Gardens: Jeff Epping, of Olbrich Botanical Garden, demonstrates how to create breathtaking container gardens for your home. Sponsored by Trees Today Nursery and Le Gardiniste Guild.; 10:30am; La Crosse Public Library 800 Main St.; (608) 789-7136; www.lacrosselibrary.org n Ruben LIVE; 8pm; Root Note 115 4th St.; (608) 782-7668; www.TheRootNote.com n Swim Lesson Registration Begins; City of La Crosse Parks & Recreation swim lessons available!; (608) 789-8640; www.CityofLaCrosse.org/Parks Friday, April 19th n The Great American Art Recession: Come celebrate the spring graduating class at The UW – La Crosse Center for the Arts; 5:30-7:30 p.m Sat, April 20th n Trail Work Days: Get excited to dig in! Volunteer for trail restoration and building.; 9:00am; Outdoor Recreation Alliance (ORA); La Crosse; www.NaturesPlaceToPlay.com n Spring Cleaning Day: Take part in this annual volunteer event to clean-up natural areas in La Crosse!; www.EarthFairLaCrosse.org Remember to check the Ongoing section of the calendar on page 26!
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Calendar Sun, April 21st nn Explore the Earth-Healthy Kids Day and Earth Day Dash: The Children’s Area at the Earth Fair will include YMCA Healthy Kids Day booths with recycling/up-cycling activities, assembling a healthy snack, the blender bike and a healthy foods coloring activity. The Dash includes children aged 3-10. The race will start 30 seconds apart (young ones can go with a parent through the race). There will be 6 stations to complete, with each station requiring participation before continuing on to the next station.; 10:30am race start; (608) 782-9622; www.laxymca.org n Earth Fair 2013: “Go Green in 2013!” at the 5th annual Earth Fair presented by Coulee Partners for Sustainability, the La Crosse Area Family YMCA, and the Earth Fair Committee! This FREE event will feature children’s activities, live music and performances (including Hans Mayer), and Grand Green Prizes! There will also be “green” vendor booths and a farmers’ market, eco presentations, interactive displays, and so much more!; 11:00am-5:00pm; Myrick Park and the EcoPark 789 Myrick Park Dr.; www.EarthFairLaCrosse.org and www.cpslax.org n Recycling Fair: On your way to Earth Fair 2013, bring your items to recycle and nonperishable food items to donate to the WAFER food pantry.; 10:00am-4:00pm; Emerson Elementary School, 2101 Campbell Rd.; www.EarthFairLaCrosse.org and www.cpslax.org n Seed Library Workshop at Earth Fair 2013: Learn more about seed saving and register for the “Seed Library”!; Time TBA; at the EcoPark; (608) 789-7136; www.LaCrosseLibrary. org n The Four Potatoes LIVE 2pm & Kristy Larson Honky Tonk Trio LIVE 3pm; Root Note 115 4th St.; (608) 782-7668; www.TheRootNote.com n Kayak Eskimo Roll & Rescues Clinic: Learn essential paddling skills to increase safety and confidence in the safe environment of an indoor pool. ACA certified instructors available. Presented by Three Rivers Outdoors. Pre-registration and payment required.; 6:30-8:30pm; To be held at YMCA North 400 Mason St., Onalaska; (608) 793-1470; www. ThreeRiversOutdoors.com Fri, April 26th n Tasters Eve Between The Bluff Pre Party Hinterland Tasting; 4-7 pm; Side Note Bottle Shop 123 4th St.; (608) 769-4277 Sat, April 27th n Monday Mornings@Main-Seed Savers Exchange: Bill Musser, Archivist at Seed Savers Exchange.; 9:30am; La Crosse Public Library 800 Main St.; (608) 789-7136; www. lacrosselibrary.org n We Are The Willows LIVE; 8pm; Root Note 115 4th St.; (608) 782-7668; www.TheRootNote.com 30 | www.2DoLaX.com
Fri, May 3rd n Intentional Living: A Pathway to Peace: Life experiences transform your perspective and the ways in which you decide to live. For many, these experiences are so significant that it shifts you into thinking and feeling differently about the world. During the conference, we will listen to stories that will enlighten and inspire us all to find new ways to experience peace. $60 to $120. Pre-registration and pre-payment required. May 3-4; Franciscan Spirituality Center; 920 Market St.; (608) 791-5295; FSCenter@fspa. org; www.FSCenter.org n Festival Foods Grandad Half Marathon: Health & Fitness Expo/Packet Pick-up; Packet pick-up for Half Marathon, Half Marathon Relay, 5K Run/Walk, and Bike Tours. Registration available for all events. Limited registration available for Half Marathon events.; 4:00-8:00pm; Radisson Center 200 2nd St. S.; (608) 789-7533; www.FestivalFoodsGrandadHalf.com n Festival Foods Grandad Half Marathon: Cycling & Running Time Trials; 4:00pm; 27th & Main St.; (608) 789-7533; www.FestivalFoodsGrandadHalf.com Sat, May 4th n Festival Foods Grandad Half Marathon: Yoga in the Park; 6:00am; Riverside Park- East Veterans Memorial Drive Coulee Region Bike Tours-32, 43, & 62 mile; 7:30am tour start; Riverside Park Three Rivers 5K Run and 5K Walk; 8:00am race start; Riverside Park Festival Foods Grandad Half Marathon & 2-Person Relay; 8:00am race start; GRANDAD BLUFF Criterium; 9:00am race start; Riverside Park Coulee Region Bike Tours-5 mile; 9:30am tour start; Riverside Park n Riverside Youth Races; 3:00pm race start (get there early to register); Riverside Park All Festival Foods Grandad Half Marathon events info: (608) 789-7533; www.FestivalFoodsGrandadHalf.com Mon, May 6th n Trail Work Days: Get excited to dig in! Volunteer for trail restoration and building.; 6:00pm; Outdoor Recreation Alliance (ORA); La Crosse; www.NaturesPlaceToPlay.com Sat, May 11th n Chance to Bloom: My Food Journey Continues: Thippi Fleckenstein, a Jamie Oliver Food Revolution Team Hero, activist for local food, and cooking demonstrator will share her passion for cooking, gardening, and food education.; 10:30am; La Crosse Public Library 800 Main St.; (608) 789-7136; www.lacrosselibrary.org Remember to check the Ongoing section of the calendar on page 26! www.2DoLaX.com | 31
Conquer the Bluff! Register now at www.FestivalFoodsGrandadHalf.com Half Marathon 2-Person Half Marathon Relay 5K Run/Walk Bike Tours Running & Cycling Time Trials Cycling Criterium Free Youth Races
May 3-4, 2013
La Crosse, WI
FestivalFoodsGrandadHalf.com
Benefitting the St. Clare Health Mission, Youth Enrichment Association (YEA), and Special Recreation of La Crosse, WI.