volume 1, Issue 4
December 2014
Q&A WITH THE BIG MAN STONE’S THROW ECOVILLAGE
ARE YOU ON THE NAUGHTY OR NICE LIST? PG. 15
SHELTERING OUR HOMELESS
LIVING THE SUSTAINABILITY DREAM PG. 13
LOCAL GROUPS EXPAND EFFORTS PG. 14 KlutchChronicle.com \\ December, 2014
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30 Days for Set$30 your roots and GROW with us! This is more than a yoga studio, it’s a community where we empower each other to move our bodies, explore our minds, and connect with our true nature. We offer a variety of yoga classes that will help you develop or deepen your practice. Root Down Yoga is La Crosse’s only hot yoga studio offering Power Vinyasa yoga in the tradition of Baron Baptiste – a style of yoga that is accessible to everyone regardless of age, ability, or experience. Power Vinyasa • Yin Yoga • Absolute Beginner’s Class Guided Meditation • Prenatal • Yoga Nidra
Join us in Tulum, Mexico for a beach and yoga retreat Jan. 17-24, 2015 1217 Caledonia St., Suite A, La Crosse, WI 54603 Phone 608-519-2467 • www.rootdownyogastudio.com
1278 RUDY ST. ONALASKA, WI 54650 608.779.4844 FREE WIFI AND FREE SUPERVISED PLAYROOM BIOLIFEPLASMA.COM
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December, 2014 // KlutchChronicle.com
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EDITOR’S NOTE Casey Kulinski I’m just going to come right out and say it — it is too cold (although Michelle is apparently loving it)! I was not prepared this year, as usual, and I was that girl running around using a sweater and scarf in place of a jacket when it hit 19 degrees. That being said, as it gets colder we all know what that means: It’s holiday time! While I admit I get caught up in the hustle and bustle of trying to find that perfect gift for that special someone (AKA: my puppy), I want to encourage you to think about those who are less fortunate this year. The Coulee Region has a lot of great resources for those who are in need of a bed or food, but they always need volunteers (see page 14). Some of my greatest memories are of helping out at a food pantry or donating my extra blankets and clothes to the local warming shelters. If you don’t have time to volunteer this year, skip Black Friday and participate in #GivingTuesday — a day to come together and donate to local nonprofits (see the calendar section for more details). Either way, embrace the cold and your generous spirit this year! Happy Holidays; see you in the New Year!
CULTURE AND ENTERTAINMENT IN THE COULEE REGION ISSUE NO. 4 // DECEMBER, 2014 WWW.KLUTCHCHRONICLE.COM
ABOUT KLUTCH CHRONICLE Klutch Chronicle brings a fresh and edgy look into the dynamic culture, lifestyles, and entertainment scene in the Coulee Region Community!
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A WORD FROM THE ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER
OFFICES: 3120 South Ave La Crosse WI 54601
Michelle L. Jerome Embrace winter. Yup. Embrace it. It’s blustery. It’s white and fluffy. It smells of eggnog, pine needles and oyster stew (well, maybe not all families get in on the oyster stew). We freeze off some nose hairs each season, but that’s because we’re Sconnie-bred. And if you moved here, you have a greater reason to love winter because you chose it! Years ago I got a dose of the S.A.D. (Seasonal Affective Disorder) business, and it’s lame. I bought some long johns and winter boots and became a volunteer naturalist. Carting those kids around to play nature-themed games made me forget about the freezing temps as we “I-spied” cardinals and raccoon tracks. Fast-forward to now: I am so stoked to ride my newly customized Fat Bike that my Mr. bought for me to ride this winter. Some years it takes me until January to become acclimated. This year, I became a tundra soul even before Thanksgiving hit. In casual conversation about winter biking, a lady told me that I’m a hearty woman. I’ll take that as one of the best compliments a Sconnie lass can get. Figure out what moves you when it’s chilly out, and love this life! The cold’s not quitting for a while. Love it or leave it. p.s. We’re looking for artists, so email us something amazing so you can show off how fancy you are.
PHONE: 608-796-8780 EMAIL: info@muellermediacorp.com FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/klutchchronicle www.klutchchronicle.com
THE KLUTCH CREW:
ARTWORK ON THE COVER “At Least, That’s What We’ll Tell Them” Pen-and-ink with digital color separations.
by Jacob Speer
inside
Drawing human figures has always been a struggle for me because if you get something wrong, everyone notices. On the other hand, I’ve never been interested in creating something that is ultra-realistic. With this drawing though, I wanted to create an anatomically correct figure by using what’s inside of us. For me, a way to show something human was to show the parts that make us human, versus the layer on top that’s so easy to get “wrong”. The original drawing is pen-and-ink, but with many of my drawings, I scan them and digitally color them so they can take on a new life. More information can be found by visiting Jacob’s online portfolio: www.jacobspeer.com
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Klutch Live What’s Up
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Hometown Headlines The Scoop on our region
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Family What’s most important
17
Food & Drink Down the hatch
27
Volunteer Do onto others...
28
Klutch Calendar Coming down the pipe
m or e. ..
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Technology Geeks unite
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A&E A monthly dose of culture
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Health and Fitness Taking care of you
9 Attraction of the Month 10 Meet & Cheese 12 The Word from City Hall 12 WTF? Stories 15 Q&A with Santa 17 Drink of the Month 19 App Review 24 Tunes 30 On the Flip Side
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December, 2014 // KlutchChronicle.com
Publisher: Rick Mueller Associate Publisher: Michelle Jerome Editor: Casey Kulinski Creative Director: Jason Keeney Graphic Designers: Will Adamany and Josh Walker Advertising Strategists: Lee Worrell, Rachel Albrechtson, Jenna Walker Copy Editor: Susan Miller Photographers: Bruce Defries, Jenna Walker Distribution: Citywide Marketing Services Advertising Info: You know you want to be seen in Klutch! Contact us by email or call 608-796-8780 for more information on rates, distribution, and sizes. Contributor/Submissions: Please submit art and writing samples for our submissions pages at http://klutchchronicle.com/writing-art-submissions/. Interested in contributing to Klutch? Please contact info@muellermediacorp.com Internships/Jobs: Internships are available at Klutch! Check us out and apply at klutchchronicle.com
www.klutchchronicle.com
MUSINGS OF
AN EX-PAT
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or its size, La Crosse is stacked with fine dining establishments. From the celebration of how plentiful the local harvest can be, to a taste of foreign cuisine, La Crosse does not lack in places to eat. In fact, the diversity of food options and the fine quality one can acquire in the city are noteworthy. There are, of course, the national chain staples that deserve a nod; you can go anywhere in America and know TGI Fridays will have the same steak and potatoes you order in La Crosse. The city is also no stranger to the ubiquitous fast food chain. I say all of this to address an area of the food industry that, although it has picked up more steam in the last few years, is still really lacking in La Crosse: local grab and go, street food, and food trucks. My fascination with food you can eat while you walk around probably dates back to my childhood attendance of the Dane County Fair. Here I was introduced to the walking taco, which I have stayed in a loving relationship with ever since (for those of you unfamiliar, it is everything you would get in a high school lunch taco salad jammed into a Fritos corn chip bag with a spork). I fell in love that day between the bites of pure sour cream and the moments where it reached its peak of homogeneity. I imagine many of you have your favorite memories of childhood food on a stick or have delved into the sometimes dicey realm of carnival and street food. I hope you have been rewarded. I know I take a chance every time I get.
ante. Maybe some decoration, a festive theme now and then, and if you are selling gyros, where are the Doric columns? I admit, with just a handful of licensed street food vendors, street food is still in its infancy in La Crosse. I will concede some strongholds (Chicago’s Beef & Etc. and Maid-Rite come to mind), but La Crosse is a graveyard of decent spots to get a quick bite to eat for those of us with some history in the city. I think food trucks and street food could be the solution, allowing the myriad culinary minds in La Crosse the opportunity to provide people with food they are blown away by.
1001 12th Ave. South Onalaska, WI 54650 (608) 783-4477
paradisepoolandspaonline.com
I do not want to seem like the comments section on the Tribune website, but I think we need less government regulation on this burgeoning, cultural, tourist-attracting business opportunity. The transition is, frankly, moving too slowly. It was two years ago that current owners of street food carts in La Crosse were saying there should really be a great burrito truck in town. Well there is — in Winona! We were outdone by Prairie du Chien 105 years ago with their street-sale Pete’s Hamburgers stand. For me, my money is on the guy I saw here with a hip-hop inspired Korean/Tex-Mex/ Southern fully wrapped graffiti-mobile. That tightly rolled, juicy, and satisfying Korean burrito was da bomb! Actually, someone could steal the show with the four-cheese fold. - By Blake Auler-Murphy
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In 2012 a few street food establishments caught some local attention, both from media and local legislators. Even in these articles you get a sense that there is a lot lacking in what could be provided to customers if the field had a few more competitors, and the current competitors upped the
All dressed up like grown-ups: Joanie Williamson and Paul Friday at Yesterday’s VIP party. Photo: Bob Good
KlutchChronicle.com \\ December, 2014
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PEEPS PLACES Each month we will be bringing Klutch Live to a new venue around the Coulee Region- you don’t want to miss this event!
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december th 11 at 6-8pm Come on down for a night at Café D’Vine with us! Bring your coupon for one FREE glass of wine or a café latte and hang with our awesome staff!
Your f bever irst tasty age is FREE!!
FREE
Open Daily at 7am for Breakfast
Glass of Wine or Café Latte
Healthy Lunches and Gluten Free Options. Dinner Wednesday thru Saturday Featuring local items changing weekly • ½ off wine by the glass • $1.00 off bottled beer and mixed cocktails
3pm - 7pm On December 11th, 2014 during the Klutch Live event at Café D’Vine.
9550 US Highway 16 Frontage Road, Onalaska, WI 54650
Valid December 11, 2014 at Café D’Vine from 6-8pm only. Limit one per customer, may not be copied or reproduced in any way without permission from Klutch Chronicle.
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• 25% off of all bottles of Wine in house or off Sale
December, 2014 // KlutchChronicle.com
(608) 779-0411 www.cafedvineonalaska.com
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NOVEMBER KLUTCH LIVE EVENT - JAVAVINO
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ell another successful Klutch Live is in the books! Hosted by JavaVino, patrons were treated to a free glass of house wine or bottle of beer and live tunes from Winona’s Mike Munson. The coffee shop and wine bar combo made for an excellent destination for a snowy Saturday night. At each event Klutch staff (including myself) go around and say hi, introduce ourselves, and get some photos. This last event was no exception! JV-goers were
enjoying it all - vino, delicious burgers, appetizers, specialty drinks (you have to try the chai martini!), and desserts. Some of my favorite parts: Hearing “I’ve never been here before, but I saw it in Klutch so I thought I would check it out!” and “This is a great idea-I haven’t seen Klutch yet, but I am definitely going to look for it from now on.” That being said, err typed, join us this month at Café D’Vine for some more great food, drinks, and of course some Klutch company!
KlutchChronicle.com \\ December, 2014
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truths 2 anda lie
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Rudolph Edition
By: Katie Svitavsky
Test your knowledge of the Christmas classic! The “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” Christmas special was filmed mostly in Japan.
Ehh..
In the original production, Santa and his crew said they would come back for the toys on the Island of Misfit Toys, but they never did. The producers later added a scene in which Santa remembers the Misfits after angry mail they received from children.
During the entire film, Rudolph is never shown blinking his eyes are open the entire time. Source: thefw.com
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While many people enjoy getting cologne, perfumes, lotions, and the like, there’s something too personal about this gift. A clear (or not so clear … especially if the deodorant leaves white residue on your shirts like mine) message that the recipient has poor hygiene, there’s really no way to frame this positively.
The lie: Rudolph indeed blinks! A stop-motion film with felt characters is borderline creepy enough; can you actually imagine if Rudolph or the other characters never blinked?
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Give a gift that’s really valuable to someone’s health.
This holiday season, treat yourself or someone you love with a Y gift card, good for a wide variety of our programs. Here are a few popular gift ideas: • Youth, Family and Adult Memberships • Personal Training or Massage Therapy
Especially awkward when coming from a family member like your grandmother, who continually reminds you that at this age she was already married with two children.
A re-gifted gift:
Wow, that antique purple monkey lamp looks familiar … because you gave it to them three years ago as a gift, and it is still in the box you wrapped it in. Gee thanks! Make sure you remember who you received those “unique” gifts from so if you do re-gift it, it is done tastefully.
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Lingerie:
This gift’s appropriateness is giverdependent. From a significant other this may be an okay gift, but if it comes from, say, your parents, or again your grandmother who is concerned about your love life, it’s another story.
holidays are the time to think of others... share your issue of Klutch with somebody special.
After you’re done reading it of course.
FACIALS, BODY WRAPS
AND WAXING
NOW OFFERING
• Adult and Youth Program classes
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Dating site membership:
Deodorant:
In the same vein as purchasing deodorant, most people don’t want to receive a gift that tells them what self-improvements they should make. This item earns a “maybe” or even a “proceed with caution” from Klutch. Unless you really know the recipient will not take offense or see your gift as a not-so-subtle suggestion that they need to lose weight, we suggest you stay away from most weight-related items unless the recipient specifically asks for it.
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608 782 9622 www.LAxYMCA.oRG
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*Present this pass to the Member Services Desk at time of visit. Anyone 18+ must present photo I.D. at time of use. Children under age 8 must be accompanied by an adult at all times. One coupon per visit, per household, per a month. Expires 1/15/14 CoDE: CoUPoN
modernbodyskincare.com • (608) 788-0022 4010 Mormon Coulee Rd., La Crosse, WI
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December, 2014 // KlutchChronicle.com
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Awkward gifts to receive.
Dieting books:
THE GiFT iS JUST THE GIFT CARD BEGiNNiNG.
.Than
headlines
yep
oop The Sc THE COULEE REGION
FROM
Rotary Lights Romantics,
You’re Invited
Rotary Lights Wedding Reunion: Mississippi Memories Made To make the 20 year anniversary of the Rotary Lights even more special, Kelly Cleary, owner of Distinction Wedding and Event Planning, is hosting a free event at the Radisson Hotel on Dec. 13 for couples that became engaged, married, or met at the Rotary Lights. All couples that have taken advantage of the romantic ambiance at the Rotary Lights are invited to come and join in on the reunion and cocktail party. It will take place at the Radisson Hotel Ballroom from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. There will be passed hors d’oeuvres and drinks. Hot cocoa and a sugar cookie bar will be available, so children are welcome to come along too. This is a time to share stories and celebrate the commitments that have been made within this La Crosse tradition. “Something in La Crosse has been a part of your life and it was life changing. Let us celebrate with you and make it a night out,” says Cleary. Please RSVP so you won’t miss out on a gift bag full of date night goodies. Also, you can expect some musical entertainment and door prizes such as a spa package, an overnight stay, and a carriage ride through the lights. Cleary says, “Make us your first stop on your evening out. It’s a great time to go through the lights and reminisce.” Hundreds of couples have gotten married, engaged, and met at the La Crosse Rotary Lights in the past 20 years. It is a beautiful way to celebrate the holidays in a charitable way along the Mississippi River. Surrounded by lighted baubles and cuddled up next to a loved one, men and women across the state have been inspired to commit to spending the rest of their lives together. On average, three couples are married at the Rotary Lights each year. Cleary already knows that two ceremonies will take place on the night of this reunion party. Who knew 3 million little lights could inspire so much love? Cleary describes how the trend has grown over the past 20 years. She said, “It gets bigger every year and
Article: Morgan Weibel
HOME TOWN
Thanksgiving memories are still fresh in our minds, but the soft glow of twinkling lights against white snow is bringing the Christmas season to life. Over the past few weeks Riverside Park has been buzzing with volunteers, local organizations and schools setting up the magnificent displays for the 20th year of Rotary Lights in La Crosse. Rotary Lights has grown over the past 20 years; for many people in the La Crosse and surrounding communities, it has become a holiday tradition. There are thousands upon thousands of lights put on display in the park, there are carriage rides and hayrides for couples or families, kids have a chance to see Santa and eight of his famous reindeer, and there is even a 5k sponsored by Rotary Lights. (You get to bust out those ugly Christmas sweaters for this one! See page 26 for more details!) However, something that is more amazing than the festive atmosphere created by this holiday tradition is what is given back to the community. Though admission is free to see the Lights, those that go are encouraged to bring monetary or non-perishable food donations. The Rotary Lights Committee and Board in turn donate these items to area food pantries. Over the past 20 years Rotary Lights has donated more than 2 million items. During this holiday season, take part in one of our favorite community traditions and go see the spectacular light displays down in Riverside. It may be cold (don’t worry, you can drive through in your nice warm car), but the view will make up for it!
there’s always something new.” There is now a heart display that lights up the words, “Will you marry me?” Volunteers will even help you set up your proposal at this spot, and when you are ready they’ll turn on the display to light up that million dollar question. As far as anyone knows, a proposal has yet to be denied at the Rotary Lights. It begs the question, what is it about this place? One couple from Westby, Wis., shared their story. They became engaged at the Rotary Lights Dec. 12, 2012. Collin Olerud planned a surprise proposal for Natasha. “The Rotary Lights is a special place for Collin and I, as it was our winter tradition for just the two of us to go and enjoy each other and the beautiful scene,” describes Natasha. The Rotary Lights have become a winter tradition for many others, and after 20 years Pat Stephens, president of Rotary Lights, decided it was time to recognize these couples and celebrate them. “Collin and I have continued to keep up our tradition, and I know it is one tradition that will last a lifetime.” Collin and Natasha were happily married on June 28, 2014. Cleary believes a deep family tradition and the giving hearts of this community contribute to the cause for all of the proposals and marriages. “I think in this area we are very generous. Think of all of the food donated. We are a community that comes together. I think there’s something about Christmas, Christmas lights, and family events. At that time of year I think is when everyone’s hearts are giving. It’s become a tradition for families. It’s a magical time of year.” Come for this cocktail hour so your life-changing event can be celebrated. Once again, this is a completely free event, created to celebrate your love. Stop by for cocktails and entertainment. Don’t forget to RSVP in one of these ways to ensure you receive your gift bag: Call Kelly Cleary at 608-397-4178, email at rlmissmemoriesmade@ gmail.com, or make contact via Facebook at https:// www.facebook.com/RLMississippiMemories.
More information can be found at www. rotarylights.org. IF YOU GO: When: Nov. 28-Jan. 1, 2015; 5-10 p.m. Where: Riverside Park (downtown) La Crosse
Photo by Unknown, Rotary Lights Engagement 2012, Collin and Natasha Olerud
Cost: Free; however, monetary and/or non-perishable food donations are encouraged. Special Events: Rotary Lights Parade - Nov. 28, 5 p.m.
TLA Photography, Wedding Day 2014
Visit Santa - every night, 5-8 p.m. Reindeer - Dec. 1-24 Live Nativity - Nov. 29-30, Dec. 1, 7-8, 14-15, 21-22 & 25 Free Family Hayrides - Dec. 3, 10, 17 & 23, 5-8 p.m. Ecumenical Service - Dec. 24, 5:30 p.m. @ Ice Castle Ugly Sweater 5K - Dec. 14, 3 p.m. See page 26 for more details
KlutchChronicle.com \\ December, 2014
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at Three Rivers Outdoors
’s t a h W
YOUR HOLIDAY SHOPPING SOLUTION!
k c e D on
December 8th FROM 5-7pm
Come Meet the Studio 16 staff and say Cheese for Klutch cameras! Enjoy a FREE class at the event! Prize drawing of one month UNLIMITED free classes! Event special: Sign up for the 30 days for $30 UNLIMITED classes special and receive an additional class FREE!
Snowshoe & XC Ski Equipment Winter Gear Outdoor Programming
The North Face Mountain Hardwear Arc'teryx | Exofficio
Choose your FREE class by pre-registering and mentioning Klutch Meet & Cheese today! Call (608) 779-0411 5:15pm Functional Fitness 5:30pm Gentle Flow Yoga 6:00pm Fitness Obstacle Course
608.779.0411
400 Main St, La Crosse, WI
9550 US Highway 16 Frontage Road Onalaska, WI 54650 (Near Treehouse Gift just past Valley View Mall) www.studio16onalaska.com
ThreeRiversOutdoors.com
Interested in hosting a Meet and Cheese event?
(608) 793-1470
Like Us! www.Facebook.com/ThreeRiversOutdoors 10
December, 2014 // KlutchChronicle.com
Visit our website www.klutchchronicle.com or call 608-796-8780 for more details.
Adventure Awaits.
Article: Becca Dargatz
THREE RIVERS OUTDOORS
S
tarting a new outdoor venture can be difficult and intimidating, but with knowledgeable staff to help you find the right equipment, and outdoor program events for any skill level, Three Rivers Outdoors provides assistance throughout the entire process. Three Rivers Outdoors opened in La Crosse in 2000. While it has undergone some changes over the years, current owner Bill Nelson has been around long enough to know that the most important part of the business is maintaining customer relationships. Nelson first became the manager in March 2001 and became the second owner when he purchased the company in November 2005. Over the years some brands have changed, but kayaking, canoeing, climbing, backpacking, hiking, and camping equipment and apparel can all be found in the store. Three Rivers Outdoors has significantly expanded the outdoor programming they offer as well. There are kayak groups and daytrips throughout spring, summer and fall. During the winter there are cross-country trips. Each trip can consist of up to 25 participants plus staff. In addition to the outdoor programs, Three Rivers Outdoors also offers equipment for rent. “We have folks who have never been in a kayak or have never been on a pair of
so they can help steer customers in the right direction, especially if they are really interested in something but don’t know a lot about it, or even if they do and just want a different perspective on it.” The staff and products are what truly set Three Rivers Outdoors apart from similar stores in the area. Staff members have the experience, knowledge and training to help customers find the right product, apparel, and the right fit for any season. Nelson says camping, backpacking and rock climbing are always very popular in the area during spring and summer months, and while they carry products for all of these activities, kayaking is the most popular activity they carry products for right now. “Kayaking has been trending upwards for the last few years, and it is still very popular in the La Crosse area,” says Nelson. In addition to the classic outdoor activities, Three Rivers Outdoors makes sure they stay up on all of the trendy outdoor activities, too. Stand up paddleboards have become increasingly popular, and people interested in the activity might consider renting a paddleboard from Three Rivers Outdoors to check it out first. During the winter months, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing products are always popular. Three Rivers Outdoors also carries winter apparel from base layers and warm socks, to winter jackets and snow pants. “What we have found is that crosscountry skiing is as popular as it’s ever been,” says Nelson. “Snowshoeing, kind of like kayaking, has really taken off. It’s easy for people to get into, it can be a really good workout, it allows you to go out to areas that you wouldn’t normally be able to with just boots on, and most of all it is affordable.”
“We have folks who have never been in a kayak or have never been on a pair of snowshoes before,” says Nelson. “We also have a lot of experienced folks who just love being a part of the group and being around that atmosphere.” Bill Nelson
snowshoes before,” says Nelson. “We also have a lot of experienced folks who just love being a part of the group and being around that atmosphere.” To properly run a business, it is always important to have a staff that shares the company’s vision. For Nelson, hiring people who are knowledgeable and experienced in the outdoors and in outdoor products is essential. “Our staff members continue training with our specific products after they are hired,” says Nelson. “We find folks that are friendly, personable and knowledgeable
From the beginning of his time at Three Rivers Outdoors, Nelson has loved working with customers and his staff. Combining personal interests with his professional career has been a great success for Nelson, though he admits the behind-thescenes business part is not the fun part. For Nelson, the fun part is getting the products and going to the buying shows to pick out the right mix of stuff for the next year so the shop can help the customers find exactly what they need. “I stress this with my staff, and they fully believe it as well, we are building relationships,” says Nelson. “It is our return
Bill Nelson, Three Rivers Outdoors Owner customers, and our members, that make this all worthwhile and keep us in business.” As for the future of Three Rivers Outdoors, Nelson would like to continue to expand the local business, and at some point he thinks it would be fun to find a new location, one not too close, but not too far away, where they could set up another store to reach new customers. One thing is certain, no matter the location: the staff at Three Rivers Outdoors will always be enthusiastic and willing to help the customer find exactly what they need or want. Three Rivers Outdoors is located at 400 Main Street in La Crosse. Phone number: (608) 793-1470 Check out the website at threeriversoutdoors.com for outdoor program schedules and rental information.
400 Main St. La Crosse, WI 54601 (608) 793-1470
threeriversoutdoors.com
KlutchChronicle.com \\ December, 2014
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headlines HALL
THE WORD
CITY
oop The Sc THE COULEE REGION
FROM
HOME TOWN
COUNTY WHEEL TAX: “Wheel Tax”: Vehicle registration fee proposed for La Crosse County. An additional $20 fee would be added to your yearly vehicle registration under this proposal, which seeks to help fund improvements to La Crosse County roads. The board voted to postpone their vote on the measure until January, citing lack of information about the effects of the fee. Currently, Wisconsin’s vehicle registration fee is $75, which goes to the state. If approved, La Crosse County would see an additional $1.76 million. The measure is in response to the cost of materials for road construction increasing in recent years.
ELECTION RESULTS Republicans won big in federal and state elections. More locally, Democratic candidates fared better, but the real winners were the incumbents. Check out the latest vote totals from this area and around the state:
GOVERNOR: SCOTT WALKER / MARY BURKE 1.26 MILLION / 1.21 MILLION
ATTORNEY GENERAL: BRAD SCHIMEL / SUSAN HAPP 1.21 MILLION / 1.07 MILLION
SECRETARY OF STATE: DOUG LA FOLLETTE / JULIAN BRADLEY 1.16 MILLION / 1.07 MILLION
3RD CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT: RON KIND / TONY KURTZ 155,221 / 118,669
31ST STATE SENATE: KATHLEEN VINEHOUT / MEL PITTMAN 35,477 / 32,271
94TH ASSEMBLY: STEVE DOYLE / TRACIE HAPPEL 13,652 / 11,606
95TH ASSEMBLY: JILL BILLINGS / WRITE IN 17,029 / 676
96TH ASSEMBLY: LEE NERISON / PETE FLESCH 12,209 / 8,459
70TH ASSEMBLY: NANCY VANDERMEER / AMY SUE VRUWINK 11,759 / 10,495 REFERENDUMS: YES NO
MINIMUM WAGE (LA CROSSE COUNTY) 28,792 / 18,182
MEDICAID EXPANSION (LA CROSSE COUNTY) 32,768 / 13,509
TRANSPORTATION FUND (WISCONSIN) 1.72 MILLION / 433,446
SHILLING ASSUMES MINORITY LEADER POSITION After a disappointing election for Democrats, Wisconsin State Senator Jennifer Shilling was unanimously selected to be the minority leader of the Wisconsin State Senate, replacing Milwaukee Senator Chris Larson. Shilling represents the La Crosse area, west to Hillsboro, and south to Prairie du Chien. Republicans have a 19-14 advantage in the Senate and a 63-35 advantage in the Assembly.
FROM
inside scoop
UW-L STUDENT CENTER There has been talk over the last few years that UW-La Crosse would be getting a new student center, and with all the construction dust that has been flying, there is no doubt the project has started! The groundbreaking ceremony took place Oct. 17 with faculty, staff and students present. The construction has an estimated completion date of fall 2016. Cartwright Center, the current student center, opened in 1958 when there were only a couple thousand students on campus. With the larger student population today, Cartwright Center does not have the capacity for all of the additional demands, making the new center a much needed change. The new student center is located in the middle of campus on the corner of Badger and
and will have many lounge spaces with gas fireplaces and hangout areas for students to study and relax in. For students wanting to get together to work on group projects, or student organizations looking for a place to meet, there will be meeting rooms to better fit the size of student organization programming. There are also plans for a multipurpose room (larger than the current Valhalla) and an entertainment café. While currently this $55 million student-funded project has no set name, it is sure to make an amazing addition to the campus. East Avenue, and there is a lot in store for this building. Inspired by the natural local landscape and topography, the new student center is meant to function as the “living room of the campus”
Information found at www.uwlax.edu/studentcenter/
YMCA Some big changes are going to start happening around the La Crosse and Onalaska communities next year, and these changes will be beneficial for everyone. The YMCA has been in the La Crosse area for more than 100 years, and they plan to get bigger and better in the years to come. A few weeks ago, the La Crosse YMCA officially announced the expansion that has been in the works for some time; they announced that it includes changes to both the La Crosse and Onalaska locations, as well as improvements for the Community Teen Center. The first step for this expansion is fundraising, and this fundraising is happening right now. Through the support of “people dedicated to strengthening our community,” the Y hopes to have enough funds raised by the end of the year. The next step, which is estimated to begin next spring, would be the actual construction of each facility. Individuals and families in the La Crosse area have used the YMCA facility in La Crosse for quite some time, and that use is starting
to take its toll. Updates, and lots of them, are what will be coming to the La Crosse YMCA. There will be “the community’s first Healthy Living Center …, a new second floor wellness center, creation of more gathering spaces …, a new elevator and improved layout [to] provide access to [the] Healthy Living Center, wellness center, pool and locker rooms for those with limited mobility, and updated and improved mechanical systems.” The Onalaska (or North) facility is much newer than the La Crosse location, but could still use some improvements. The community overwhelmingly utilizes the location and this has led “to a crowded facility and overprogramming in certain key areas.” This popularity is why there will be an “expanded wellness center, an expanded walking and jogging track, an additional gymnasium …, an additional fitness studio, and a new multipurpose room to support youth and family programming.” The third expansion, the new Community Teen Center, will be an upgrade to a better
facility for a program that has done so much for young adults in the La Crosse community. The new Teen Center will include “a gathering space/main room, a kitchen and eat-in area, a music room, an art room and a technology center.” None of these changes are just so the YMCA will be “up-to-date”; these changes are being put into place so the programs at all the YMCA locations are available to as many people in the La Crosse community as possible. This organization has done so much for the La Crosse area over the last 100 years, so why not do something for them? Get involved with one of their after-school programs, volunteer for an upcoming event, or even help them reach their goal for this expansion. The expansion is projected to be done by spring of 2016.
Information for this article found at www.laxymca.org/ donate/capital-campaign/ - By Jenna Smith
#WTF!? Man swallowed by anaconda for, you guessed it, television special
AMERICA’S FIRST CAT CAFÉ OPENS IN OAKLAND
Oh, the strange things people do for television. Discovery Channel’s latest attempt at capturing an audience’s attention is airing a special in which Paul Rosolie, a living man, is swallowed whole by an anaconda, though the degree of bad*ss-ery significantly declines after we find out he’s wearing a snake-proof suit. Spoiler alert: Our host comes out on top (though we’re not really sure how, logistically), or at least able to type, because he keeps tweeting about it. To get the anaconda to actually swallow Rosolie, according to the advertisement, he douses himself in pig blood Carrie-style and cuddles up next to the snake. The show, set to appear on Dec. 9, already has animal rights activists upset, as they characterize the show as exploitative and cruel. They have reportedly asked Discovery to not air the special at all as they believe the incident caused undue harm and distress to the animal along with being physically exhausting. Though these arguments are valid, chances are that we won’t see it anyway; if Discovery chooses to air the special in the face of protest, we’ll probably avoid it or flip the channel, just out of general disgust.
America’s first cat café has opened in Oakland, Calif. Stop by, order a latte or a cup of kit-tea, and pay purr hour to hang out with the coolest cats in town. Though this is the first café of its kind in the US, cat cafés are nothing new. They began in Taiwan where many apartment dwellers cannot own pets, but the idea caught fire in Japan, where there are currently more than 150 cat cafés. Cities including Vienna, Budapest, Tokyo, Paris, Munich, London, Madrid and Dubai all already feature cat cafés. One of the reasons the cafés are just cat-ching on right now in the US is because of current health regulations: Oakland’s café is the first to successfully navigate the process. What sets Cat Town Café apart, however, is that their cats are adoptable, and can find furrever homes when customers come to visit. We wish we could be there right me-now!
- By Katie Svitavsky
- By Katie Svitavsky
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December, 2014 // KlutchChronicle.com
HOME TOWN
headlines (from our neighbors!) Designing Community at
Stone’s Throw Ecovillage Have you ever wanted to design your own neighborhood? The last time you put some serious thought into that question may have been when you were 8 years old, playing with a Lego or Lincoln Logs set, or perhaps when you were creating a computerized subdivision in The Sims. While many people do eventually have an opportunity to construct their own homes, not many have the chance to design an entire neighborhood, which is exactly what the folks who are a part of Stone’s Throw Ecovillage, located just a “stone’s throw” away from Viroqua, are doing — creating their own neighborhood based on interacting with neighbors and respecting the environment by living sustainably. For the residents of Stone’s Throw, a sense of community is absolutely essential for the village to function. Since residents have a shared commitment to reducing their carbon footprint and impact on the environment, living in Stone’s Throw enables neighbors to be neighbors again. “Ecovillages are places where people work and play together, share resources and celebrate together. It is a human-scale community where it is possible for people to get to know each other,” explains Kathy Doerfer, a member of Stone’s Throw. In the initial stages of development after purchasing 12 acres of land in March 2014, the village will feature clusters of individually owned houses surrounding a common house. The common house is equipped with guest rooms, laundry facilities, and space for gatherings and storage, which enables individuals to build smaller homes. Currently, Stone’s Throw is made up of five household members, two of whom are on the land, and they are actively recruiting new members. Each member will build a private home (of course, Stone’s Throw encourages homebuilders to use local materials and to construct energy-efficient homes) on their own individually owned lot, and the rest of the land will be communally owned. The plan for this land includes ponds, shared wells, water management swales, and a grey water system. Another place where sustainability and community intersect is in organic food production. Food forests, which the village
By Katie Svitavsky
is planning to construct, produce fruit, nuts, greens and the like. In addition, gardens producing organic vegetables and space for chickens (to harvest eggs) are in the works, with the final site design planned for completion next spring. There are several benefits to living in this kind of community, Doerfer emphasizes. Apart from the obvious environmental benefits living in an ecovillage provides, residents can expect benefits from other individuals in the community. Because residents are connected to each other, they are able to share resources — whether that’s sharing yard tools or offering baby-sitting or help with manual labor. Also, Stone’s Throw offers some community meals as well as social and learning activities, creating community through personal connection. Because they are currently designing the community, now is an especially exciting time to join Stone’s Throw. As articulated by the village’s website, joining is an opportunity to “build the home of your dreams in the community of your dreams,” dreams that you can actually see become reality as you influence the design process. Louise Luedtke, another member of Stone’s Throw, describes how the village makes decisions by consensus: “Unlike decisions made by majority vote, decisions made by consensus have the input and support of all participants. A proposal is made, discussed and modified until everyone is satisfied. All members are expected to participate.” If all of that doesn’t convince you to pack your bags, consider the location of Stone’s Throw; honestly, the Viroqua area is just a cool place to live. “Living in Viroqua exposes one to so many great opportunities to experience cutting-edge culture in a small rural town,” says Doerfer. “The organic scene is what draws a lot of people here. A rich agricultural base has attracted a plethora of educational options from pre-k to adult continued learning. The arts abound here. We have a vibrant theatre community, visual arts, local writers, music. It is a rich, rich environment to live in, to raise kids in, to retire in.”
Members gathered together for a permaculture weekend workshop.
Planting mixed windbreak of hazelnuts, white pine, white cedar, elderberry.
The 15-house concept for Stone’s Throw.
Are you interested? Becoming a member of Stone’s Throw involves getting to know the current members by attending an open house or potluck gathering, or scheduling a time to visit. (It’s best not to drop in unannounced, as it may not be a good time to visit.) Prospective members will need to attend a minimum of four business meetings. There is an initial cost to become a member that is applied to the purchase of a lot.
Stone’s Throw is actively recruiting additional members so they can move forward. For more information email stonesthrowviroqua@gmail.com, call 608-637-6620, or visit their website at stonesthrowcommunity.wordpress.com.
KlutchChronicle.com \\ December, 2014
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headlines
oop The Sc THE COULEE REGION
Article: Sara Walters
HOME TOWN
PROVIDING A HOME FOR THE HOMELESS
Local organizations offer warmth this winter.
A
nyone who has ever driven down West Avenue on a winter evening has seen the line of homeless men and women outside First Baptist Church. It has become an image that’s hard to forget, a profound symbol of a local problem. Although far from a metropolitan area, La Crosse has its fair share of homeless people. In 2013, the local Salvation Army Emergency Shelter, which has a capacity of 80, provided 21,149 nights of shelter for men, women and families, according to Kelley Bundy, director of social services. “We are almost always near or at capacity,” she said. Mary Fitzpatrick, executive director of the La Crosse Warming Center, a new facility located at 413 S. Third St., has seen a similar turnout. On Nov. 4, only the
FROM
fourth night since opening their doors, the Warming Center had 31 guests, just shy of its 35-person capacity. “There’s more [homeless individuals] than you realize,” said Fitzpatrick. Despite public perception, Fitzpatrick shared that guests at the center are sometimes there for reasons that are out of their control, such as transitioning between housing or waiting for disability assistance. Some of them aren’t even unemployed. In fact, Fitzpatrick’s team of volunteers provide wake up calls for guests who need to head off to work in the morning. Although the Warming Center, unlike the Salvation Army, allows visitors who have been drinking, that is very seldom the case. “Most of the people that show up don’t seem like they’ve been drinking,” said Fitzpatrick. In general, the average guest is someone who has found themselves jobless, evicted or facing bad credit. Almost always, they’ve been there more than once. “Most of them are not transient,” added Fitzpatrick. Sadly, it’s not just single men and women who are experiencing homelessness in our city. “Most nights, our family rooms are full and we have to turn at least one family [away],” said Bundy. The Warming Center is not equipped for families, but Fitzpatrick also noted this problem. “Every school has homeless students,” she said. As winter approaches, these facilities will team up to protect men and women from the dangerous weather. “In the winter we are able to work with Catholic Charities and refer people back and forth to make sure no
one is sleeping outside,” said Bundy. Ensuring that no one is left in the cold hasn’t always been easy. Cramped quarters at the previous Catholic Charities shelter at First Baptist caused 300 people to be turned away last year. That’s when organizers joined forces with Rick Staff, president of Gerrard-Hoeschler Realtors. Staff stepped in to help find and purchase a building that could be a permanent warming facility. Providing the necessary real estate knowledge and, along with his wife, Nancy Gerrard, the endowment of the building, Staff and Catholic Charities made the vision a reality for this winter season. But making sure the homeless are warm isn’t their only goal. “The point is not just to get them out of the weather, but to also get them out of their situation,” Staff said. Initial conversations about a drop-in center have started, including discussions of life and job skill training, along with the addition of mental health staff. So far, the response from guests at the Warming Center has been very positive. “The space has a really good feel to it. It feels like a welcoming place. Hospitality is a big part of what we want to offer,” said Fitzpatrick. The facility offers an eat-in kitchen, a sleeping area, a clothes closet, laundry and showers. Many fear, though, that providing an improved shelter will invite more homeless people to the area. As Staff sees it, this isn’t a real concern. “It’s a friendly place that people want to come to, but it’s also a place of last resort.” He hopes the presence of a
larger shelter — nearly double the capacity of First Baptist — will improve the livability of the community by cutting down on people sleeping in parking ramps and loitering at the public library. Shelter facilities are in place for when the snow flies, but volunteers are needed to keep these resources up and running all year. The Warming Center alone needs a minimum of 42 volunteers a week, so opportunities are endless. To find out more about how you can help battle homelessness in La Crosse, contact the organizations below.
How You Can Help
Volunteer at the Warming Center: Help in the kitchen, join the cleaning crew and more. Contact Mary Fitzpatrick at 608-519-8020. Join the Homeless Coalition: Professionals, concerned community members and formerly homeless individuals meet once a month to discuss issues. Contact Kim Cable at 608-782-4877. Lend a hand at the Salvation Army: Volunteer opportunities abound! Contact Kelley Bundy at 608-782-4938.
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We’ve all heard of food drives and food pantries, especially around the holiday season. That’s because hunger is a real issue in most communities and the holidays are a feel-good time of year when folks feel compelled to help others. My wish is that we all remember there are people in need year-round. This season, we’re on board to plug food drives and food pantries because they need us to donate. In addition, I have personally benefited in my time of need from food pantries. I’m not ashamed of this. It’s food. We all need to eat. Many of us have families and bust our butts to earn a living, but sometimes it’s difficult to pay for all we need. So we grow what food we can, earn what money we can, and when we’re in a position to share, we give what we can. If you’re able to share, show off your finest sense of altruism and bring some cans or boxes of non-perishable food to your local drive or pantry. Let’s keep in mind that the Coulee Region is an amazing place to live … with its hidden problems. Approximately 23 percent of people in the cities of La Crosse and Winona are living below poverty level - nearly double that of Wisconsin as a whole (U.S. Census Bureau). These aren’t people unwilling to work; these numbers are largely comprised of children, the elderly, and working parents. I think we all get it. Let’s care for each other. Your next step is to grab the foods you can, put them in a bag, and get it in the right hands. Our next step is to tell you how and where.
All locations have varying hours of drop-off availability. Please contact your closest location before donating. If you are in need, please reach out to any of these organizations. Your community is here for you. source - quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/states
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December, 2014 // KlutchChronicle.com
By Michelle Jerome
CATHOLIC CHARITIES FOOD PANTRY 3710 East Ave South, La Crosse (608) 782-0710 HOKAH AREA FOOD SHELF 57 Main Street, Hokah, MN THE HUNGER TASK FORCE 1240 Clinton St., La Crosse (608) 793-1002 www.lacrossehtf.org LA CRESCENT AREA FOOD SHELF 21 North Hill, La Crescent, MN LIVING FAITH FOOD PANTRY 852 N. Main St., Viroqua (608) 637-7410 ONALASKA EMERGENCY FOOD BASKET 735 Sand Lake Rd., Onalaska RIVER OF LIFE 1214 County Road PH, Onalaska (608) 782-2780 THE SALVATION ARMY 223 N. 8th St., La Crosse (608) 782-6126 www.centralusa.salvationarmy.org SEMCAC RUSHFORD FOOD SHELF 113 E Jessie St., Rushford, MN (507) 864-8224 WAFER 403 Causeway Blvd., La Crosse (608) 782-6003 www.waferlacrosse.org WINONA VOLUNTEER SERVICES 402 E Second St., Winona, MN (507) 452-5591
Santa
Holidayheadlines
Q&A with
By Morgan Weibel
I couldn’t make it to the North Pole, but I met jolly old St. Nick here while he was visiting. Not only did I submit my Christmas list, but he revealed some of his secrets.
Q: What’s your favorite kind of cookie? A: Oh, chocolate chip.
Q: Santa, what have you been doing to get ready for Christmas this year? A: Getting my Santa Suit out, making sure that all of the fur is in place and the bells are on tight. I’ve got to make sure my cape is ready to go too because I put that over the top. The last thing I do is set myself up for the insane asylum on the 26th.
Q: Which kind of milk do you prefer? A: I like chocolate.
Q: How do you know who’s been naughty or nice? A: Some children will say, “I haven’t been good, but do I still get a present?” And I’ll say, “Well yes: coal.” But usually it’s the way you have to learn the children. You can pretty much tell if a child has been good or not by their reaction. Q: Which reindeer is your favorite? A: Donner. That’s because he’s Rudolph’s dad. But they’re all my favorites because when you’ve got Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen and Rudolph, they get a little upset otherwise. I’ve got a lot of elves, but the reindeer have a monopoly on everything. I can say anything I want to the elves and they know they’re not going to get any cookies. For the reindeer I have one word, and it straightens them right out. Do you know what I call them? Venison. Q: How does Rudolph’s nose stay bright? A: It is something that was done with magic. This is also something his wife, Clarice, thinks is cute. He could have lost it, but I need him too much on the sleigh rides. Q: How do you make it to all of those houses in one night? A: It’s called a time warp. I slow down time with the time machine. I can do that with some of the special equipment that’s been put on my sleigh by elves. Q: What if the house doesn’t have a fireplace? A: I have magic dust I can use to open the door. And a lot of the times I’ll come down the chimney by doing the proper type of magic. Once a child asked me if I had a flame-retardant suit, and I told him I had a special suit for delivering presents. And he said, “Good, because sometimes we have a fire going and we don’t want you to burn your butt.”
Q: Does Mrs. Claus ever deliver the presents with you? A: No, she has to stay and keep the elves in line because they are troublesome. Like when Hermey wanted to become a dentist. I needed her there. Q: What is the best part about being Santa Claus? A: The smiles of the little children and the great stories some of them tell. Just hearing the stories brings warmth to my heart and a smile to my face. I also asked how he became Santa. His father was Santa Claus too, and he didn’t know it until many years later when he was a teenager. He found the suit in the closet. He comes from generations of Santas. My favorite story was a time Santa met with five generations of ladies at one of his appearances. The youngest was 6 years old, and it was her mother, her mother, her mother, and lastly, her mother. The oldest one, a little old lady, sat on his lap and she said, “Santa, do you know what I want?” Santa said, “No, what do you want?” “I’d love to have a man with a beard,” she replied to Santa’s surprise. “How old are you?” “I’m going to be 96. How old are you, Santa?” “As old as dirt.” “And you know what, Santa?” “What?” “You and me could make some mean mud pies together.” Santa has many stories about all of the people he has met over the years. He is writing them down in a book called, “The Man Behind the Suit.” You can visit him at the Rotary Lights. This is Santa’s 13th year at the Rotary Lights, and he enjoys seeing familiar faces. Santa is warm, jolly and generous as the stories go. He assured me I wouldn’t be getting coal this year.
DIY floral design event at Flowers By Guenthers to benefit the Carilee Fund at the Gundersen Medical Foundation.
KlutchChronicle.com \\ December, 2014
15
family
uff fun st THE
FOR FAMILY
NOVEMBER 28-JANUARY 1, 2015 LA CROSSE ROTARY LIGHTS Every night @ Riverside Park • Come and see brilliant lighting displays put together by local organizations during the holiday season. You can visit Santa while you are there, and his eight reindeer will be there the 1st to the 23rd! Nonperishable foods and donations accepted! DECEMBER 3, 5, & 6 COULEE REGION CHILL VS KENAI RIVER BROWN BEARS 7 pm-9:30 pm @ Onalaska OmniCenter • Tickets: Adults $10; students & children $6. DECEMBER 3, 10, 17, & 23 FAMILY HAYRIDES 5 pm-8 pm @ Rotary Lights • Free. • Take your family on a fun hayride through Riverside Park to see all of the festive Rotary Lights this winter! DECEMBER 6 YMCA JINGLE BELL WALK RUN/RUDOLPH’S DASH 8 am-12 pm @ YMCA North (Onalaska) • Registration: $36 through 11/28, $45 for 11/29-12/5, $50 day of event. • Participate in this part of the Walk Run Series to stay warm during the winter. To register go to www. laxymca.org/events/winter-walk-run-series/jingle-bellwalk-run/. DECEMBER 6 BUILDING BRICKS OF HOPE LEGO CONTEST All Day @ Valley View Mall • Registration: Free. • Families or individuals (Grades K-8) can participate in this contest to benefit Hope Academy. Prizes will be given for each division; come and put your Lego creativity on display! DECEMBER 6 & 7 NORSKEDALEN’S OLD-FASHIONED CHRISTMAS 10 am-4 pm on Dec. 6 & 11 am-3 pm on Dec. 7 @ Norskedalen Nature & Heritage Center (E4465 US Hwy 14/61, Coon Valley, WI 54623) Tickets: Varies. • Enjoy all the Christmas traditions at Norskedalen, and even get your Christmas tree while here! There is going to be a scavenger hunt for kids and so much more! For more information go to the “Special Events” on the “Experience Norskedalen” page at www.norskedalen.org. DECEMBER 10 LEGO MOVIE 2:30 pm-4:15 pm @ La Crosse Main Library • Free. • Take the afternoon off and bring your kids to see one of the year’s most popular family movies. DECEMBER 11-14; 17-21 A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS 7:30 pm (2 pm on Dec. 13, 14, 20 & 21) @ Lyche Theatre (Theatre G) • Tickets: $12 military, $17 students, $24 Sat & Sun matinees, $28 evening shows. • See Charlie Brown and the rest of the Peanuts gang come to life on stage this coming winter! DECEMBER 12 & 13 THE NUTCRACKER BALLET 7 pm @ Viterbo Fine Arts Center • Tickets: $18/adult, $14/children (12 & under).
DECEMBER 13 COULEE REGION CHILL VS AUSTIN BRUINS 7 pm-9:30 pm @ Onalaska OmniCenter • Tickets: Adults $10; students & children $6. DECEMBER 19 & 20 COULEE REGION CHILL VS ST. LOUIS JR. BLUES 7 pm-9:30 pm @ Onalaska OmniCenter • Tickets: Adults $10; students & children $6. DECEMBER 20 SANTA AND MRS. CLAUS COME TO TOWN 9:15 am-1:45 pm @ La Crosse Area Libraries • Free. Santa and Mrs. Claus will make their way around town, so make sure your child has a chance to see them! • (9:15-10:15 am, Holmen Library; 10:45-11:45 am, West Salem Library; 12:45-1:45 am, Onalaska Library) DECEMBER 24- JANUARY 2, 2015 NO SCHOOL PARTY AT SHENANIGANS 11 am-9 pm • Tickets: $15 (or $30 for “Eat & Play” combo) • No school, so why not have a blast playing tons of games and attractions! More info at www. shenanigansfun.com/no-school-days-15-unlimitedattractions-pass. DECEMBER 27 TEEN DJ DANCE PARTY 8 pm-11 pm @ Shenanigans Family Entertainment Center • Tickets: $10 (for entry; other costs for food/drinks). • For teens 14-19 years old. Let your kids have a night on the town, while you get the night off, at Shenanigans! DECEMBER 28 ROCK & SKATE 5 pm-8 pm @ OmniCenter • Tickets: Unknown. • Come and have one last family day before the New Year begins! DECEMBER 29 YMCA - YOUTH SNOW TUBING TRIP 10 am-4 pm • Tickets: $40 family member; $50 youth member; $60 community member. • For kids 7-14 years old. Let your kids have a day away from home filled with sledding and fun! More information at www. laxymca.org/events/youth-snow-tubing-trip/. DECEMBER 31 HAPPY NOON YEAR 10 am-12 pm @ Children’s Museum • Tickets: Free with Museum admission. Midnight may be too late for your little ones to ring in the New Year, so why not let them ring it in at noon at the Children’s Museum with noisemakers, party hats and more! DECEMBER 31 NEW YEAR’S OVERNIGHT 8 pm-8 am @ YMCA-La Crosse • Tickets: Family member fee $25, additional children $5 each; youth member fee $35, additional children $5 each; nonmember fee $50, additional children $5 each. • Let your children have a little fun this coming New Year’s! More information at www.laxymca.org/events/new-years-eveovernight/. DECEMBER 31 SKYROCKER’S NEW YEAR’S EVE FIREWORKS DISPLAY Ring in the New Year while watching the annual fireworks display on the Bluff.
DECEMBER 13 THE FRIGID HAWAIIAN 5K 9 am-11 am @ G-E-T Middle School (19650 Prairie Ridge Ln., Galesville) • Registration: $10 through 11/30, $13 for 12/1-12/11, $15 for 12/12-12/13.Though it will be cold, come and run in your Hawaiian best! More information at www.thefrigidhawaiian5k.com.
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16
COULEE REGION CHILLDOWN
Outdoor winter activities for the entire family.
Article: Alyssa Schulte
NOVEMBER 15- DECEMBER 24 VISIT SANTA CLAUS All day (unless otherwise stated) @ Valley View Mall Free. • Visit Santa to tell him your Christmas wish and take a picture with him while you are there!
EVENTS W
e’ve stuffed ourselves silly with turkey, reluctantly pulled forth our snow boots from their hiding place in the rear of the closet, and have slowly and painfully come to accept that, yes, winter has indeed come once again to the Coulee Region. As the temperatures plummet, the flurries begin to fly, and the icy roads become nearly impassable, it’s important to remember (especially if you have children suffering from cabin fever) that outdoor fun, even in these chch-chilly months, is completely possible. Let’s start with an obvious, tried-andtrue pastime that has been thrilling Wisconsinites of all ages for as long as there have been snowy hills and brave souls seeking adventure. Sledding, of course! Grab yourself a good sled, toboggan, snow tube, whatever … and head for the hills. Literally. La Crosse and the surrounding areas offer plenty of sloping inclines to suit your sledding needs; however, if you don’t have a suitable hill to call your very own, you might want to check out these local hotspots (in no particular order):
SLEDDING HOTSPOTS
FOR THE FAM
OmniCenter Hill, 255 Riders Club Road, Onalaska (Van Riper Park) Fort McCoy (Whitetail Ridge Ski Area) Forest Hills Golf Course, 600 Losey Blvd. N, La Crosse Viroqua Park Bowl, W South St., Viroqua
Other outdoor winter activities that are offered in our area include: ice skating, downhill skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, snowshoeing … basically, combine the word “snow” or “ice” and some random verb, and boom! Winter fun! Where to go for these activities? Head to Mt. La Crosse for skiing and snowboarding, the Green Island Ice Arena for skating lessons, and once it gets below freezing, even tread atop the mighty Mississippi for some ice fishing. Or, if you’re more of a festive sort, you really can’t go wrong with the classic Rotary Lights in Riverside Park. There’s nothing better (or colder) than strolling through the park with a steaming cup of cocoa, a thick pair of mittens, and a good group of friends. And since it is the season of giving, all they request
December, 2014 // KlutchChronicle.com
is a food or cash donation to assist the less fortunate. The lights turn on the day after Thanksgiving, November 28. Take a peek at page 9 featuring the lights as our attraction of the month! But hey, winter’s not for everybody, right? If you’re the type of person who prefers to hunker down during these cold months, perhaps hibernating as much as possible, your best option might be to curl up next to a raging fire with a good book (or maybe your favorite binge-worthy Netflix series) and a hot mug of something delicious. (We’ve got you covered there, too — make sure to check out the lovely apple cider recipe below.) If you do head outside, be aware of the dangers of extreme cold and BUNDLE UP! If you’ve lived in Wisconsin for even one winter season, you know the drill. Wool socks, sturdy boots, and loads and loads of layers. Some of my favorite childhood memories involve crudely-built snowmen, burying a mini trampoline on our big hill as a sort of crazy snow jump, and coming in from the cold to my smiling mother yelling at us to not track in snow, all the while managing to balance three mugs of hot chocolate in two hands. Why not make some of these memories for yourself? Brave the winter weather; get outside!
Crock-Pot Apple Cider
(from Bakerette.com) Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 1 hour 30 minutes Total time: approximately 1 hour 35 minutes Ingredients: • 1 gallon apple cider • 1 cup brown sugar • 4 cinnamon sticks • 1 sliced orange • 1 teaspoon whole cloves Instructions: 1. Combine all ingredients in your crock-pot. Stir until the brown sugar dissolves. 2. Turn your crock-pot on low heat and let it simmer for an hour and a half to two hours. 3. Remove the cinnamon sticks and the cloves before serving. (If you want to, ahem, age your cider up a bit, simply add a pinch of nutmeg and about two cups of spiced rum per gallon of cider … it’ll warm you right up!)
food & drink
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satisf
TASTE YOURBUDS
LOCALLY LOCALLY OWNED, OWNED, LOCALLY LOCALLY ROASTED ROASTED FRESH FRESH COFFEE COFFEE
the daily grind THE SEARCH FOR THE BEST JAVA IN TOWN by Alyssa Schulte
With the many places in town you can go to grab a cup of your much-needed morning jumpstart, how do you know if you’re really getting the best? Don’t let your morning (or whenever) cup of coffee become part of a boring daily grind! Try something new, something truly invigorating. And if you’re ready for that change, I’m here to point you in the right direction — the path to a truly delectable and, yes, eye-opening, cup of joe. This review takes a peek at three area establishments that truly shine at what they do: brewing a delicious cup of coffee. To keep my experience at each location as similar as possible, I decided to add none of my typical frills to any of the coffees I’d taste. Meaning, of course, no sugar, no creamer, no honey … just a simple, fullycaffeinated cup of mud at each locale. I visited three charming spots, all located in La Crosse: MOKA, The Root Note, and Bean Juice. MOKA, a quaint little coffee shop nestled on West Avenue, boasts a warm, inviting atmosphere, friendly baristas, and a delicious aroma of roasting beans that lovingly smacks you right in the face as you enter. Named after their famous mochas, a simple cup of coffee from MOKA is still an experience. Amidst their awesome-sounding seasonal options, I stuck with the French roast. Full-bodied, smooth, and leaving
no hint of that bitter aftertaste I’ve grown to expect from most black coffees, I thoroughly enjoyed the entire cup, wishing (even though I still had a lot more coffee to consume on my miniature, highly caffeinated adventure) that I’d ordered a large instead of a small. The Root Note, one of my all-time favorite downtown spots, immediately feels like home when you enter. Displaying the work of local artists on their unique walls, offering tasty organic options for even the pickiest of eaters, and becoming known as one of the best music venues in the area, The Root Note is quite obviously much more than a coffee shop. Serving handcrafted coffee from Viroqua-based Kickapoo Coffee, they offer a variety of equally appealing daily brews. I selected a Colombia roast, the first sip surprising me with a hint of fruit (cherry, perhaps?) and something slightly bitter. The taste was even and consistent throughout, although I admit to cheating a bit and adding some sugar. (Shhh!) As I finished the last drop, I noticed my hands starting to shake … and it wasn’t from the cold. It could only mean one thing … I needed another cup of coffee, of course. On to the next! Last, but only because it was where my coffeetasting adventure concluded, is Bean Juice, a location I’m ashamed to admit I’d never visited before this review. Located on 19th Street, this little gem of
food review - Dim Sum Tea Shop Eager to try something new, Olivia, Casey, and I traveled to Pearl Street downtown to the Dim Sum Tea Shop. Recommended to us by the lovely Michelle, the shop is a quaint and quiet little place where you can get tea and food, as well as traditional Chinese knickknacks. Kelly Deng, the owner, opened the teashop in 2010 as Cha Guan Tea Shop in the Doerflinger building, but the shop moved to a new location on Pearl Street in 2012. Kelly is originally from China, and the authenticity of the food shows in the preparation, presentation and flavor. After sitting down and scanning the many drink options, we were immediately waited upon. Michelle ordered Golden Yunnan, which is a black tea that can be served either hot or cold, and Casey, Olivia and I tried different bubble teas: Casey had chai, Olivia had taro and I had mango. What makes bubble tea unique, especially at Dim Sum, is that there are over 15 flavors and you can get it plain (without the tapioca pearls/ bubbles), as a smoothie or as a slush. I never had bubble tea before, so trying it was an adventure, but I would recommend it to anyone who is willing to try something new. In addition to the drink options, there are many food options as well. Olivia and I both
got a barbecue pork Bao and some steamed buns, but I also had pork egg rolls while she opted for dumpling soup with pork filling. In Chinese cuisine, the Bao is a steamed bun or bread-like item that can have a variety of fillings in it. Olivia and I both enjoyed ours; the sweetness of the bun balanced out well with the saltiness of the pork. The steamed buns were sweet as well (they tasted like extremely soft pretzels) and they were served with a sweet custard dipping sauce. Casey and Michelle ordered more of a variety, trying some of the vegetarian options for their dishes. Michelle ordered seafood Shaomai, egg tarts, veggie dumpling soup and veggie spring rolls. Shaomai is a traditional Chinese dumpling with a variety of fillings; these are served in bite-sized or individual portions. The egg tarts are small, baked pastry crusts filled with custard (possibly the custard that was served with the steamed buns). Casey had veggie spring rolls as well, along with chicken dumplings (obviously not vegetarian) and wonton soup. In the Chinese tradition, wontons are another form of dumpling and are served with a clear broth when ordered as a soup. Something that should be emphasized about Dim Sum Tea Shop is that all of the
a coffee shop is lovely, comforting and welcoming. With a food menu that looked enticing (I’m sure I’ll be back for a visit over a lunch hour or two), as well as an assortment of baked goods right as you enter, the folks at Bean Juice know how to draw you in. But, I digress. Back to the coffee! Here I opted for the Ethiopian brew of the day. Smooth and dark, with a nice finish and a pleasing aroma, I really enjoyed everything about this brew, and again, I drank it down like a person dying of thirst. When it comes to atmosphere, all three are viable havens for a gathering of friends, whether it is for good music (The Root Note), a great mocha (MOKA), or a relaxing conversation (Bean Juice). Based on these and past experiences, and, of course, the great coffee, I will certainly be back to visit all three. For more information on these wonderful local establishments, take a peek at their respective online homes (and then go visit in person, as a steaming cup of coffee simply cannot be beamed to you from cyberspace … yet). www.beanjuicecoffee.com www.mokacoffee.co www.therootnote.com
Every tuesday
OPENTIME ON STORY 9:30-10:00 AM SUNDAYS Always 1 coffee when FROM you bring your 8-3 own mug $
.50
$ .50 ALWAYS 1 COFFEE WHEN Homemade food served YOUBreakfast BRING YOUR andOWN LunchMUG
1 1lb
$ off
of coffee beans
*limit of one per customer per visit
Mmm
like coffee?
, Fooo
od!
food tasted fresh, and from our table we could see Kelly making the food we ordered. No partitions or stepping into a back room to make the food, she shows you that she makes everything by hand. As soon as the food was prepared, it was out in front of us in no time. Other amenities Dim Sum has to offer are its many events. They offer tea tasting parties held the first Tuesday of every month for only $8 per person, and anyone is welcome; you learn more about tea and how to make good tea. They also offer private tea tasting parties and dumpling classes, vegetarian yoga nights, as well as a dumpling fun day. More information on all of these events, along with contact information, can be found on their website. (While you are at their website, you can even order tea!) This may not have been my first experience with Chinese food, but it was my first time trying foods that are more traditional, and I have to say I want to go back for more! If you are looking for something that is small, filling and fresh, I would definitely recommend Dim Sum Tea Shop. - By Jenna Smith
KlutchChronicle.com \\ December, 2014
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know what else you should like... us!
technology
t
connec
like IT,
get IT?!
LETS TALK Gift-Giving … It’s in the Cards! The calendar has once again rolled around to the annual ritual of holiday shopping, where the vast majority of us are caught between the true joy of gift-giving and the sometimes gut-wrenching angst of trying to fulfill all those holiday obligations. Each year brings about the same trepidation of trying to determine what to get for someone who: 1) seems to have just about everything, 2) doesn’t really need or want anything, or, 3) we barely know well enough but still feel bound to buy something. What do you get your uncle’s brother’s nephew’s former roommate? If you really need an off-the-wall idea, how about a $4000 titanium toothbrush with a 3-year warranty? (Seriously, Google “luxury toothbrush!”) Of course, technology has a solution for the morass of purchasing holiday presents: the tiny and nearly ubiquitous gift card, the second most given gift in the United States, ranking first among women and placing
third among men. While it hardly seems like a “technology,” if it hadn’t been for the unintended consequences of another technology, the gift card might have evolved much differently. Twenty years ago, the gift certificate was king; the general public was happy and comfortable with gift certificates, so the technology that makes gift cards possible did not come about because consumers demanded it. Quite the contrary. The technology for gift cards was implemented as a defense against the consumerism of imaging technologies, specifically color copiers and printers. Made affordable to the masses in the early 1990s, it didn’t take long for average folks to figure out how to use these new technologies to create realistic gift certificate facsimiles. As a response to the significant number of redeemed counterfeit gift certificates, Blockbuster, in 1994, issued the first plastic gift cards to thwart otherwise lawabiding people from getting free stuff. And the rest, as they say, is history.
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To wax nostalgically, the gift certificate had a stronger emotional bond between the merchant and buyer than today’s gift card. The gift-giver had to consciously decide on a merchant (no racks of gift certificates at the local Target store to choose from), make the special trip to the merchant, personally ask for a gift certificate, make a thoughtful decision on the dollar amount, and the merchant would handwrite the amount. It had a personal touch that’s lost with today’s antiseptic (albeit technologically evolved) gift cards. Even though well over half of us will receive at least one gift card this holiday season, what’s more surprising is the number of gift cards that go unused. Whether it’s forgetfulness, lethargy or apathy … or possibly just because they get lost … it’s estimated up to 25 percent of all gift cards purchased will not be used in the first year. And it’s further estimated another 10 percent of a gift card’s value is wasted due to fees, penalties, expiration dates or neglect, when a card is used once and forgotten while any remaining balance gets eaten up by fees. (Of course, not all cards have fees … but you already know to read the fine print, right? … You’re welcome!) It’s not to say gift cards are bad ideas, and even if they are, the convenience alone in our busy, hustling world may be worth any fees or penalties. Gift cards can be purchased almost anywhere, available right up by the checkout counter (does anyone call them cash registers anymore?) so you can’t miss them. Plus, technology allows the gift card to be easily credited with any dollar amount. If you’re not sure of the remaining balance, it’s as easy as a click (or tap) away using the
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Internet. And since 25 percent of us will take over a year to realize we stuffed our gift cards in the top sock drawer, we may not remember how much was originally posted on the card … again, just a click away. What’s more, you don’t have to use a gift card all at once, whereas in the days of the gift certificate you were almost obligated to use the entire face value. Re-issuing a new gift certificate for the unused portion was considered bad form, if the merchant even allowed it. But, just as the gift card took over the domain of the gift certificate, so too is the gift card beginning to see its dominance weakened by yet another technology. “There’s an app for that,” to quote the popular saying. Banks, credit card companies and merchants are creating “gift card apps,” which are tablet and smartphone applications that eliminate the need for plastic. While just getting started and probably a number of years from mass popularity, “virtual” gift cards are on the horizon, offering technology advances that a physical card cannot provide, like notifying you of an impending expiration, alerting you when your balance is low, strengthening security, and much more. So there’s more to that unassuming piece of plastic than a fancy design on the face. Like most things, gift cards have their pros and cons. As always, buyer beware. Nonetheless, the gift card certainly makes it easier to shop for those hard-to-buy-for people. But then again, how cool is a $4000 titanium toothbrush?! - Brian Boettcher Brian is the chief information officer at Altra Federal Credit Union, as well as a writer and speaker about the technologies that shape our world.
Make the kids put away the groceries so you can spend some time with us!
technology
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Bonus features: • Recipe Saving: Entire recipes can be saved and added to whichever list you choose.
APP REVIEW: OUR GROCERIES
List-keeping app worthy of phone space.
I
Article: Michelle Jerome
• Speech to Text: Say what you want and the app types it for you.
’m really lovin’ this never-forgetyour-grocery-list-again app! It’s more than just keeping a list of tea, tofu and cheese. (So maybe your list is more exciting than mine …) My rule is that if an app is costing me time, it’s not worth the space it’s taking up on my phone (social networking aside). Categorization makes this listkeeping app highly useful and worthy of phone space. Each user can create new list titles and product names, or you can upload the barcode scanner and it’ll record the product for you. Once you get what’s on your list, just tap the product name and it drops down to another list of “crossed off” items. These items stay on the crossed off list until you delete them, or you can tap them again and they pop back to your main list for the next time you hit up the store. When we created our list titles, we made lists for a remodeling project, a trip to Colorado, and of course, the titles of the grocery stores we were hitting up that day. To top it off, for the stores I go to most frequently, I can further categorize each product by what section or isle of the store it’s in. This avoids backtracking because you forgot a tomato in the produce section! If you want to get really savvy, you can create lists of just about anything (eg.: canned questions to ask your in-laws at your next holiday get together).
• List Sharing: The same list can be shared with anyone else who has the app after sending them permission. • Computer Syncing: The whole app is offered from your Mac or PC so you can whip up a list from your keyboard and it’ll be ready on your remote device.
• Display Alternatives: Dark, Light, and Fresh are three fancy options to choose from for the look of your app. • Capitalization: The first letter of a new product entry can be automatically capitalized. This option is great for the OCD in all of us. Cons: • A little strip of ads scroll across the top unless you want to upgrade for $4.99 (which isn’t a bad price either way).
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Things we want you to know: A new Retail Installment Contract Required. $40 device act fee and credit approval may apply. Regulatory Cost Recovery Fee applies (currently $1.57/line/month; this is not a tax or gvmt. required charge. Add. fees, taxes and terms apply and vary by svc. and eqmt. See store or uscellular.com for details. 4G LTE not available in all areas. See uscellular.com/4G for complete coverage details. 4G LTE service provided through King Street Wireless, a partner of U.S. Cellular. LTE is a trademark of ETSI. Promotional Device: subject to change. U.S. Cellular MasterCard Debit Card issued by MetaBank pursuant to a license from MasterCard International Incorporated. Cardholders are subject to terms and conditions of the card as set forth by the issuing bank. Card does not have cash access and can be used at any merchants that accept MasterCard debit cards. Card valid through expiration date shown on front of card. Allow 10-12 weeks for processing. Application and data network usage charges may apply when accessing applications. Contract Payoff Promo: Must port in current number to U.S.Cellular and purchase new Smartphone or tablet through a Retail Installment Contract on a Shared Connect Plan. Submit final bill identifying early-terminatioin fee (ETF) charged by carrier within 60 days of activation date to www.uscellular.com/contractpayoff or via mail to U.S. Cellular® Contract Payoff Program 5591-61; PO Box 752257; El Paso, TX 88575-2257. Customer will be reimbursed for the ETF reflected on final bill up to $350/line. Reimbursement in form of a U.S. Cellular MasterCard® Debit Card issued by MetaBank™ Member FDIC pursuant to license from MasterCard International Incorporated. This card does not have cash access and can be used at any merchant location that accepts MasterCard Debit Cards within the U.S. only. Card valid through expiration date shown of front of card. PA337204 KlutchChronicle.com \\ December, 2014 Prior Approval #
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LOVIN’ LOCAL ARTISTS December Talent: Jamie Cooper: “The Paddle-grapher”
J
Article: Katie Keefe
A&E visual arts
amie Cooper has the gift of turning photos into an inspired work of art. Whether it’s a family photo shoot or the skyline of a Wisconsin sunrise, he is willing to capture the moment and call it his own. But sight isn’t the only sense Jamie has used to form a hobby into a profession; he can create with his hands as well. He is a dignified woodworker
specializing in canoe paddles. I guess you could christen him as a “paddle-grapher.” The hybrid of both hobbies can make one really believe that you can form your passions into careers. Jamie has put a lot of hard work into pieces that will make you want to take a second and third … well, just an all-out, mouth-dropping stare at his photos and paddles. Photography Born and raised in La Crosse, Wis., Jamie still resides in the area and enjoys the outdoors, appreciating everything the Driftless region can offer for his work and for his outdoorsy self. “I was always that child that picked up the camera at family outings and used it. I did pretty much every art class in high school I was able to do, and I
signed up not owning a camera and spent a couple months researching what camera suited for me. When I bought my camera I instantly fell in love. I kind of hit the ground running with it. I opened the box and I knew exactly how to use everything,” Jamie says. Jamie continued his education at Saint Mary’s University in Winona and majored in graphic design. This was helpful because he learned more about composition and color theory to strengthen his craft. He focused more on the design aspects of what he could capture. Jamie designed his own photography website at www.jamiecooperphotography. com to share his work and to network; he can also be reached on Facebook at Jamie Cooper Photography. Jamie tends to any photography event or need for his clientele. “Landscapes I enjoy doing more, but if you ask me to take a picture, I’ll love it no matter the experience,” he says. You can tell he is dedicated to finding the emotional appeal in every experience or situation by simply observing the quality of his images. “The thing that keeps me going is when I go on trips and document my own [journey], and those images turn out most powerful for me,” Jamie says. Paddle Making Jamie’s photography talents were soon to be joined by his woodworking talents. While attending Saint Mary’s, he helped design rope courses where he learned about carpentry and the design of the courses. This influenced him to tackle his next project: building a canoe. Canoeing is a favorite pastime of Jamie’s. “My parents took us on canoeing daytrips. It was something to keep us outside. My all-time favorite trip is the Boundary Waters when I was a boy scout. Perrot State Park in Trempealeau, Wis., also has a soft spot on me.” His parents influenced him to start small and eventually work toward the canoe goal as his woodworking skills reached a higher level. Together they came to the conclusion that Jamie should start carving paddles for canoes. Before carving, Jamie meets with his customer and carefully seeks what they really want out of the paddle so it will fit their needs and personality. The pieces of wood often turn into something with
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December, 2014 // KlutchChronicle.com
sentimental value for his clients (especially fellow canoeing enthusiasts), so it’s vital for him to know what they want. The process of Jamie’s paddle making does not consist of Jamie making a weekly trip to Home Depot. This is the real deal — authentic, straight from the wood pile with help from family and friends who supply him the wood. Common woods Jamie uses for his paddle projects are: bass wood, black walnut and cherry. “Every paddle I make is intended to be fully used and abused. I have a line of artistic painted paddles, but those are also 100 percent functional. I encourage people to use them. I’m a fan of functional and practical art.” Jamie is currently practicing his wood burning skills to make the paddles more authentic and personable for future clients. If you look carefully, some of Jamie’s paddles make cameos in the photography on his website. Future Projects If you could not tell already, Jamie Cooper is an artist on a mission, seeking the next project that will satisfy his artistic thirst. He plans to continue carving paddles, adding to his photo gallery, and traveling. His upcoming project in the next couple of years is putting together a book on the cycle of fly fishing. Even though it is only in the beginning stages right now, there is no doubt this man will get it done. His dedication and solid work ethic have proven that he will find a way to craft his own style into whatever he sets his mind to.
A&E showtime
DECEMBER RELEASES Black or White Release Date: December 3rd, 2014 Genres: Drama Wild Release Date: December 5th, 2014 Genres: Docudrama, Biography Pioneer Release Date: December 5th, 2014 Genres: Thriller The Pyramid Release Date: December 5th, 2014 Genres: Horror By the Gun Release Date: December 5th, 2014 Genres: Crime drama Dying of the Light Release Date: December 5th, 2014 Genres: Action, Thriller The Barefoot Artist Release Date: December 5th, 2014 Genres: Documentary Exodus: Gods and Kings Release Date: December 12th, 2014 Genres: Action, Historical drama, Adventure Top Five Release Date: December 5th, 2014 Genres: Comedy After the Fall Release Date: December 12th, 2014 Genres: Crime drama Legend of the NeverBeast Release Date: December 12th, 2014 Genres: Children, Adventure, Fantasy, Animated Free the Nipple Release Date: December 12th, 2014 Genres: Comedy Red Morning Release Date: December 14th, 2014 Genres: Adventure
The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies Release Date: December 17th, 2014 Genres: Fantasy, Adventure Mr. Turner Release Date: December 19th, 2014 Genres: Docudrama, Biography Annie Release Date: December 19th, 2014 Genres: Musical comedy Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb Release Date: December 19th, 2014 Genres: Comedy, Adventure, Fantasy Big Eyes Release Date: December 25th, 2014 Genres: Docudrama, Biography Leviathan Release Date: December 25th, 2014 Genres: Drama, Dark comedy Unbroken Release Date: December 25th, 2014 Genres: Biography, War, Historical drama Into the Woods Release Date: December 25th, 2014 Genres: Musical, Fantasy The Interview Release Date: December 25th, 2014 Genres: Comedy, Action A Most Violent Year Release Date: December 31st, 2014 Genres: Drama, Thriller Check Local Listings for times and availability.
2032 Ward Avenue La Crosse, WI 54601 (608) 791-1999 www.marcustheatres.com
Photographer’s granddaughter, Adelyne Huenink enjoys her first Trick-or-Treat adventure on the 2700 block in La Crosse. Photo: Bob Good
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A&E showtime
&
Show Tell S
Steve Kiedrowski T H E 3 RD A N N U A L
BLACK WHITE
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By: Becca Dargatz
teve Kiedrowski is not what you might expect. When I first saw him sitting at Dublin Square Irish Pub, he was wearing a University of Wisconsin-La Crosse sweatshirt and sipping a soda. He tells me he had just finished working out at the YMCA, and I quickly learn Kiedrowski lives a very active life, both physically and professionally. During the next half-hour he talked about his ideas, passions, and stories about the arts, and above everything else, that he is proud to be a part of the La Crosse community. Kiedrowski grew up just north of La Crosse in the Centerville/Trempealeau area. He has been working in the graphic business for the last 40 years, but he has always had a freelance business on the side that consists of artwork, writing, acting and photography. While Kiedrowski retired this past August, his busy life has now slowed down very much, but he tells me he no longer has to get up at 3:30 a.m., and I am not surprised that it has been a welcomed change. Recently, the city of La Crosse asked him to put on an independent film festival because he has been in 12 films, including Fort McCoy, and has a strong acting presence in the community. Kiedrowski also does plays, theatre reenactments, cemetery walks, and basically anything else that has to do with acting.
What has been your favorite role as an actor? My favorite role was playing the character of a boxer. I am not afraid to change my appearance, and I think of myself as a character actor, so I shaved my head and grew a goatee. Originally, the character was a salesman, but the director knew that I boxed, and because I belonged to a boxing club in Winona, they changed the character to a boxer. We even shot some scenes at the Boxing Club in Winona.
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Tell me about the awards you have won.
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Well, independent films have Telly Awards. Actually, the same company that makes the Academy Awards makes the Telly Awards. It is tall, heavy, and has a similar shaped body with wings. It would make a great paperweight! Also, something fun, I have won awards for my Halloween costumes the last three years in a row. My most recent costume was a zombie nerd with blood and hanging flesh everywhere.
For more information, Visit
What would you say is your favorite part of your work?
tangledhickory.com
Working with so many kinds of people. I guess you have
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December, 2014 // KlutchChronicle.com
to be a people person to be in this craft, and there are so many different, diverse personalities, especially in film and theatre. It is a joy to see all the different kinds of characters you meet. Who has been your biggest inspiration? I had a very good art teacher in high school, Allen Goetzman from Winona, Minn. He helped me with art, and when I graduated from high school he gave me all of my artwork that he had kept. He steered me in the right direction when it came to graphic arts and stayed with me my whole life. I got into acting late in life. I had my own television show drawing political cartoons, so being in front of the camera was not a problem for me, and I also worked in public relations and sales, so I guess I was a people person. One day I saw something about a local movie being made in Winona, so I thought that was probably something I could do. I tried out, got the part, and I have been acting ever since. What is on your radar as far as future work? I hope to do another film festival next spring. I also write books. I have a writing partner with that; it’s my cousin, Dave Marcou. We have written seven books together. A lot of them were “Spirit” books. They are more like picture books, not just our pictures, but pictures of our friends that we have incorporated together. So, we might be working on another book in the future. Tell me why you are proud to be from La Crosse when it comes to the arts. La Crosse has a lot of theatre activity going on. There are also a lot of graphic and art studios downtown, but I would like to see more. That is why I am beating the drum for small, independent films. There are a lot of students who are interested in filmmaking and I would like a venue to show it. It is great when you can take a hobby and transform it into a career. Do you have any advice for aspiring thespians? You are never too young to start and to get involved in as many plays as you can, speeches in English class, or if you are older, it does not mean you cannot get into acting like I did. One thing I have always lived by is that it is never a wrong time to do the right thing. So, it does not matter if you are 8 or 78, if you want to get into something, go for it.
A&E
showtime
THE PLAY IS
DIY
ZZZZZZ
THE THING
The holiday gift-giving season is upon us once again. Time to acquire more generally unneeded stuff destined for a landfill. Yet, you don’t have to go that route. Research shows that experiences make us happier than things. Many savvy gift givers are starting to take note of that and give gifts accordingly. Under the tree will be gifts of trips to a zoo, a wilderness hike or a professional baseball game, as well as gifts of going to a museum, a new city, or (drum roll, please) a trip to the theatre! Giving the gift of the theatre is great way to create shared memories and bring the family together. This is a present that can be opened early because our region has many productions to excite the whole family this December. At the beautiful Weber Center for the Performing Arts, La Crosse Community Theatre presents “A Charlie Brown Christmas.” This play, from creator Charles M. Schulz, is based on the beloved television special. The adaption for the stage was written by Eric Schaeffer and features (another drum roll, please) the music of Vince Guaraldi. You and your family watch it every year anyway, and now is your chance to see it live on stage. La Crosse Community Theatre is one of only a few amateur community theatres to be given the rights to this production, so you mustn’t waste this opportunity. The production will run from Dec. 11 through Dec. 21 with specially added dates and matinees to accommodate all of us who can’t get enough of Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Linus, Lucy and all the gang. Right next door, The Pump House Regional Arts Center will present “Mistletoe and Mayhem.” This cabaret-style show will put you in the holiday spirit with a night of music, dance, comedy and storytelling. The production will run Dec. 11 through Dec. 14. At the Viterbo University Fine Arts Center, a favorite La Crosse holiday theatre tradition will be celebrating an important anniversary. This is the 25th year La Crosse Dance Centre has been performing this timeless ballet featuring the score of Pyotr Tchaikovsky. “The Nutcracker” was first performed in 1892 and, strangely, was not very popular at the time. Since then, it has grown enormously popular. In fact, major American ballet companies generate around 40 percent of their annual ticket revenues from performances of “The Nutcracker.” With that popularity in mind, be sure to get your tickets early for the Dec. 12 or Dec. 13 performance. Perhaps your family would like to do a little “over the river and through the woods” this year. If so, make a trip to Lanesboro, Minn. and the Commonweal Theatre. From now until Dec. 21, they will be performing “Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some).” A farce written by Michael Carleton, James Fitzgerald and John K. Alvarez, this raucous comedy is about three actors that decide instead of performing “A Christmas Carol” yet again, they’ll perform every Christmas story that has ever been told, hence the title. Frosty, the Grinch, Rudolph and George Bailey all make cameos. Speaking of “A Christmas Carol” and celebrating anniversaries, the Guthrie Theatre in Minneapolis, Minn., one of the finest regional professional theatres in the country, will present the transformation of Ebenezer Scrooge for its 40th season. For 40 years, they have produced this perennial favorite that received a new adaption by Crispin Whittell in 2010. There is a way to make a trip to the Guthrie an even more memorable holiday experience for you and your family; take the train. The Amtrak Empire Builder pulls away from the La Crosse depot daily a few minutes after 7 p.m. and arrives in St. Paul around 10 p.m. Green Line light rail in the Twin Cities then takes you into the dazzling holiday lights of downtown Minneapolis. Stay in a fine hotel nearby, explore a wide variety of dining experiences, and your family is walking distance to the gorgeous Guthrie Theatre. The return trip departs in the morning and pulls you through the snow-covered landscape of the Upper Mississippi River Wildlife Refuge and arrives back in La Crosse before lunch. I can’t think of anyone on my list who wouldn’t enjoy that! Give the gift of theatre this year. All theatres sell gift certificates and special packages, so please make them an important stop during your holiday shopping. - By Michael Scott
How to Nap like a Champ
by: Casey Kulinski Ok, I don’t mean to brag but I’ll admit I am pretty much the best napper around. Whether it is a 20-minute “snap,” as I like to call it, or a two-hour horizontal life pause, I can do it all. Ask anyone I know and they will tell you of my gift, and that when I nap, I mean business. I have mastered the skill through years of practice and research (but mostly practice), so this month I have compiled the following few tips to help you get the most out of your nap! Tip #1: Decide how long you want to sleep before you lay down, and set an alarm. A 20-minute nap will enhance your alertness and concentration, help put you in a better mood, and ensure you wake up refreshed. A 45-minute snooze may include REM sleep, which may also help your creativity and sensory processing. Caution: You may feel a little groggy waking from this nap. A longer 90- to 120-minute nap will usually include all stages of sleep (including REM and deep, slow-wave sleep), which can help your memory and attentiveness, and also help to catch you up on some lost sleep. (Who here actually gets the recommended eight hours??) If you are going to sleep over that 45-minute mark, aim to hit at least 90 minutes. This will limit the grogginess by allowing you to wake from your REM sleep cycle. Tip #2: Find a comfortable place where you won’t be disturbed. This sounds like common sense, but a lot of people will fall asleep with the TV on or nap in a place with lots of light and noise. This can hinder the quality of sleep you are getting and make your nap less effective. If it is hard for you to find your own Zen paradise, try some earplugs or eyeshades to limit distractions. Tip #3: Aim to sleep in the afternoon. You know that post-lunch grogginess you get? That’s your body’s natural nap alarm going off! In this case, hit the snooze button and literally take a snooze! Usually the hours between 1 and 4 p.m. will give you the best nap that won’t affect your night’s rest. Tip #4: Sleep slightly elevated. This will help you to not fall into such a deep sleep, which will make it easier to wake up and continue on with your day! Tip #5: Caffeinate your nap. Studies have shown that drinking a caffeinated beverage just before a nap will actually help. The caffeine will kick in 20 to 30 minutes later and will help wake you up and limit your post-siesta grogginess.
BONUS: Are you a lark or an owl?
While we all have our own spirit animal (mine is a butterfly), I am referring to what may be the best time for you to nap! If you are a lark, you are prone to waking up earlier (as early as 6 a.m.) and going to sleep earlier (around 9 or 10 p.m.). This means you should nap closer to 1 p.m. If you are an owl, you prefer to go to bed after midnight and wake up at 8 or 9 a.m., which means you should nap closer to 3 p.m. So next time you feel Mr. Sandman tugging on your shoulder for that midday nap, go ahead and give it a try (that is, if you aren’t working, or driving, or supposed to be doing something else)! Till next time, happy napping, friends! Source: http://www.boston.com/bostonglobe/ideas/naps/
Local rapper, Taco Destiny of Roommates dressed up as a Hot Dog for a Halloween performance at Dublin Square. Photo: Bob Good
Do you have a DIY you would like to share or see in future issues? Send your DIY to
casey@muellermediacorp.com KlutchChronicle.com \\ December, 2014
23
Dream about more Klutch during your nap? we’re right here when you wakey www.klutchchronicle.com and here
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SAVE THE WAREHOUSE The Warehouse has been providing a community service to musicians and local youth for ages.
A
bout 20 years ago, I entered a doorway at 320 Pearl St. with a couple of my best girl friends and we made our way up a welllit, painted black stairwell into a room filled with energy, punk rock hair, and teenagers. We jumped and danced and jammed to the throbbing vibration of a band we just learned of. We had our homegrown “Teen Spirit” that Nirvana taught us to own. We couldn’t get in
trouble because we were having the right kind of fun and the Warehouse kept this haven safe. Anyone who pays attention to the local headlines knows this hometown staple is in financial straits. This musical hub that gives bands a chance to shine, and teens and all music lovers a positive venue to enjoy, has become a 501(c)(3) nonprofit (Warehouse Alliance) to give it a shot at revival. This only makes sense since the Warehouse has been providing a community service to musicians and local youth for ages. (Some bands even “made it big” after playing at the Warehouse!) Warehouse advocates have busted their tails by holding campaigns and fundraisers to save the place, and hundreds of fans have pitched in their dollars in full support amidst a daunting building foreclosure. My thought is that with all the love this place gets and deserves, it would be beautiful if an angel donor
came swooping down to save the day. In the meantime, they fundraise on! Grab your best friends and go show your love at their upcoming fundraising shows on Dec. 20, 23, 26 and 27. Updates will be available on their website at www. warehouserocks.com. - By Michelle Jerome
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REVIEW NAME: Dead Air Disco GENRE: Dark, Grungy-Pop Band Members: Jason Lajter (Vocals/Lead guitarist) Jesse Stinnard (Bass) Aaron LaGrange (Drums) “Can I have one of your guitars?” was the question Jason Lajter, lead singer and guitarist of the band Dead Air Disco, heard a year ago when his son Oliver was rummaging through his things. His instant answer was “No.” “But you don’t even play them.” This was the fuel to the musical fire that Jason left 10 years ago. And because of Oliver and a few friends in other bands, his passion for playing music sparked back up again this past year. “For my 18th birthday my brother gave me a guitar, so like any good punk I started a band the next day not knowing what I was doing at all. I played a couple shows that went horribly and quit,” Lajter said. Ten years later with huge inspiration from another local band, Porcupine, and his son Oliver, Lajter decided it was time to create the art he left behind years ago. He rallied some bandmates that were located in different cities, and through a lot of time and patience made it work to collaborate and create music. Drummer Aaron LaGrange (Beloit, Wis.), bass player Jesse Stinnard (Athens, Ga.) and Lajter on the lead guitar and vocals were dubbed as ‘Dead Air Disco,’ influenced by a short story written by Lajter where one of the themes was for people to embrace silence because the world is a ‘constant buzz.’ The band recorded their first album together which came out this past July titled, “Defend by the Quiet,” which references Lajter’s 10 year musical absence. The album can be purchased for $10 at Deaf Ear Records in La Crosse, Wis., on the band’s website at https://deadairdisco.bandcamp.com, or by contacting Jason via Facebook; he has a “trunkful” in his car wherever he goes. “Defend by the Quiet” has 17 tracks that will inspire appreciation for the guitar chords, melodic bass, and unlimited accents on the drum set. Its dark and hefty guitar riffs will make you want to nod your head, maybe even throw a few air punches in too. The band has a great balance of not sounding “too heavy,” but enough pulsation to make you sense what
they are feeling. All the songs are written by Lajter and are based on personal experiences. “I wanted the CD to stay honest. There’s no auto-tune or anything,” Lajter chuckled. “My goal was to make the album that I wanted to with the people I wanted to. And I nailed it.” If you are a Nirvana fanatic, you’re in luck because Lajter’s biggest musical influence was, in fact, Nirvana. You will feel a dark, nostalgic grunge-era tone that Dead Air Disco molds into its own dark, grungy-pop genre. “My biggest musical memory was when I saw the live music video footage of Lithium where he [Kurt Cobain] is diving into the drums and I was like, ‘I think I can do that; that looks fun.’ That was my biggest memory. That’s where, even before I got a guitar, I wanted to be in a band.” Dead Air Disco has performed and raged in the Madison scene but is just beginning to dabble in the La Crosse musical scene. Lajter hopes within the year, after applying to more venues and networking, the band will make more appearances. Check them out on their Facebook page to get more info and updates on the band. “I wouldn’t have it any other way right now; I just wish I could sell a few more CDs.” Dead Air Disco is eager to perform more often in the La Crosse area and in general. Lajter also hopes to have a sophomore album ready by next spring. Check them out on YouTube and hear for yourself the Dead Air Disco tracks and music videos via J. Worm; let’s give that “dead air” a lot more breathing room to express those musical talents right here in La Crosse, Wis. - By Katie Keefe
DON’T FORGET TO BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY PARTIES!
Local. Organic. Delicious.
In This Moment at The La Crosse Center. Photo: Bob Good Try our different grades of Wonderful Organic Maple Syrup! KlutchChronicle.com \\ December, 2014
25
health & fitness
ss wellne MIND, BODY
FOR &SOLE
WINTER FUN RUNS
By: Sara Walters
Jingle Bell Run
Cabin Fever Dash
Ugly Sweater 5K
The first installment of the YMCA’s Winter Running Series, the Jingle Bell Run, promises to warm you up for the winter race season. Scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 6, this event is the first of three races intended to inspire runners to stick to their goals through rain, sleet, and of course, snow. With a 5K, a 5 mile, and Rudolph’s Dash for kids, the Jingle Bell Run is an affair for the whole family. Runners start at the Onalaska YMCA and wind their way through the surrounding neighborhood. The same route is used for the next two races in the series, the New Year’s Resolution Run in January and the Heart Throb Run in February, to allow participants to easily track their improvements. Runners take their mark at 8 a.m. for the 5 mile and 8:15 a.m. for the 5K. A pancake breakfast follows at 10:30 a.m.
If you’re looking to set a new personal best, head across the river to Winona, Minn., on Saturday, Feb. 7, for the 4th annual Cabin Fever Dash. A fast, flat, out and back course on East Lake, the Cabin Fever Dash is a winter race for speed demons. Featuring a 5K and a 1-mile fun run, the event is put on by Winona Women in Business. Not only is this an opportunity to turn up the tempo, but it’s also a way to contribute to a positive cause. Proceeds from the Cabin Fever Dash support the Vicki Decker Scholarship, which is offered to students who strive for personal and professional growth. Named for the founding chair of the Women in Business organization, the scholarship is intended to provide opportunities for women to grow through leadership, education and networking. The Cabin Fever Dash kicks off at 9 a.m. at the Lake Park Lodge.
If you’ve ever participated in a road race, you’ve given some thought to your attire. But when you lace up for the Ugly Sweater 5K, there’s no guesswork involved. For once, donning your most appalling apparel is protocol. The idea behind this funny, familyfriendly event, scheduled for Sunday, Dec. 14, came from the rebranding of the original Rotary Lights 5K. When Rotary After Hours, a La Crosse-based group of young, enthusiastic business leaders, took the reins in 2013, they decided a hilarious holiday theme would help give the event a fresh spin. “Last year many participants had a lot of fun dressing up in their ugly sweaters and covering themselves in holiday decorations,” said Meg Carey, event chair. “We decided to continue the theme again this year.” Although the race, previously attended by such holiday celebrities as Buddy the Elf and The Grinch, is held in jest, the cause it supports holds true to the spirit of giving. The funds raised support two important literacy projects. Internationally, it raises money for a school district in Uganda where students are in desperate need of supplies and accommodations. Locally, the race provides funding for the R.E.A.D. Clinic, a youth tutoring center. An important cause combined with a fun-loving theme has proven to be a winning combination for the Ugly Sweater 5K. It also doesn’t hurt that the race, which starts at 4 p.m. outside the Radisson near the Three Rivers Lodge, gets runners in the holiday spirit by finishing through the tunnel of lights at Riverside Park.
www.laxymca.org/events/winter-walk-run-series/
www.wibwinona.org/dash
www.oneugly5k.com
RACE TIPS
By: Casey Kulinski
Now that you know there are some great fun runs coming up this winter season, there is no excuse for not getting out there and completing your first 5K! Below are some tips for making your first race (or maybe your 20th) a personal best! • Run the course beforehand: This will help you become more comfortable with the terrain and show you where you will need to push yourself or take it slower during the race in order to make your goal. • Don’t try new stuff: The week of the race is not the time to buy new shoes or running gear. You want to be comfortable, so stick with what you know! There is nothing more uncomfortable than stiff shoes or an itchy shirt while you are trying to run. • Carbo loading: While they say to eat a big bowl of pasta the night before, it is actually more effective to eat your carbs incrementally in order to avoid upsetting your stomach and feeling sluggish. • Get ready the night before: Pick up your race packet and lay everything out! Nothing is worse than being up at 6 a.m. and trying to find that other tennis shoe you misplaced. • Set two goals: Set one goal you would hit if you ran your best race. Set another goal you could still hit if you were having an off day or if the weather conditions weren’t the best. Either way you should still feel great for getting out and doing the race!
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December, 2014 // KlutchChronicle.com
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volunteer
g
BETTERMENT OF OUR FORCOMMUNITY
YOU CAN DO
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. BETHANY LUTHERAN HOMES: Volunteers may assist with recreational activities, read aloud to residents, help with writing, assist with special events, help with weekly outings, manicures, one-on-one visits, sing-alongs, gardening, mail delivery, crafts, playing games, helping with computers, doing errands or shopping, helping with walks or outdoor time, teaching a special talent, and more. Download a volunteer form at www.bethanylutheranhomes.org or call 608.406.3900. BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF THE 7 RIVERS REGION: Volunteers enroll through Big Brothers Big Sisters and following an interview, references and a background check, are oriented and introduced to a little brother or little sister by BBBS staff. Regular support is available to assure that the relationship builds over time, and any logistical problems are resolved. For more info, please email Lyndsey Langer at llanger@7riversbbbs. org or Jeff Murawski at jmurawski@7riversbbbs.org or call 608.782.2227. BOYS AND GIRLS CLUBS OF GREATER LA CROSSE: Volunteers are a vital part of many programs at the Boys and Girls Clubs. Opportunities are available in many areas, including athletics, tutoring, game room management, recreation, special events and clerical areas. Your involvement and support is encouraged. For more information, please call 608.782.3926, or visit their website to fill out the volunteer application at www.bgcgl.org. CHILDREN’S MUSEUM: 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 current volunteer opportunities and contact us soon! Visit their website to fill out a volunteer application at www.funmuseum.org or call 608.784.2652. COULEE REGION HUMANE SOCIETY: Volunteers needed to help care for animals and collect donations for animals. For more information, call 608.781.4014. For a list of current opportunities, or to fill out an application, click the Volunteer link at www. couleehumane.com. COULEE REGION UNITED SOCCER ASSOCIATION (CRUSA): Help with concessions, trash removal, fundraising events, and tournament staff at the La Crosse area Field for Kids Facility in Industrial Park. For more information about volunteering, contact Vanessa Machado (volunteer organizer) at crusasoccer@gmail. com or check out their website: www.crusa-soccer. com. 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. FRANCISCAN SPIRITUALITY CENTER: Volunteers provide the hospitality that makes FSC such a special place. They provide refreshment setup, work at the front desk, greet visitors and help with special events. Shifts are as little as one hour, primarily evenings and weekends. No special skills are needed. FSC is dedicated to anyone seeking God, meaning and wholeness. We’re at 920 Market Street, La Crosse. Please contact Linda Kerrigan at lkerrigan@fspa. org or 608-791-5276. More information about FSC at FSCenter.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. 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. HORSESENSE FOR SPECIAL RIDERS: Be a “side walker” or horse leader, exercise the therapy horses, muck out the barns, help with special events. Email executivedirector@hssrweb.org, call 608.791.4868 or fill out the online volunteer form at www.hssr.org. HUNGER TASK FORCE Assist in the Food Recovery program. Volunteers are needed to pick up and deliver food items, stock and inventory food items, and assist with office/clerical work. Visit www.lacrossehtf.org/volunteer to sign up! 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: Volunteers are critically important to carrying out our mission, so we ask our program volunteers to go through an application and screening process similar to that of our paid staff members. This process ensures that the best fit is made between the new volunteer and the program they are matched with, while also ensuring the safety of our members, participants, staff and all of our volunteers. View volunteer opportunities with La Crosse’s largest youth-serving organization and fill out an application at the Get Involved link at www.laxymca.org. 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. WAFER Volunteers are needed to sort and stock food, help clients, and assist with general upkeep. If you would like to join their growing team, call 782-6003 or email info@waferlacrosse.org. WARMING CENTER OF LA CROSSE: Volunteer for supplying dinner for the homeless, check-in, overnight watch, or morning clean up. Call Catholic Charities’ Mary Fitzpatrick at 608.782.0710 ext. 220 for more information or to volunteer.
COMMUNITY INVESTMENT VOLUNTEERS - LIVE UNITED Great Rivers United Way is seeking grant reviewers to help determine 2015 grant funding.
Article: Jason Larsen
GET INVOLVED
WHAT
helpin
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reat Rivers United Way is seeking community members from our fivecounty region to share their views, ideas and experiences about community nonprofit programs. Community investment volunteers review grant applications and evaluate program information provided by Great Rivers United Way’s partner programs. Great Rivers United Way is unique among grant makers in that all of the group’s funding and decision making are volunteer led. It’s a great way to learn more about our thriving nonprofit community. It’s also a great way to have a say in where our community’s donated dollars go! As a community investment volunteer you’ll review local grant applications and rate programs based on a predetermined scale. Those ratings will then help determine the funding that local nonprofit programs will receive from the donations made available by United Way’s 2014-2015 campaign. They’re also seeking note takers for the wrap-up meetings in January. Note takers will volunteer for just a few hours keeping meeting notes. “Serving as a community investment volunteer is a powerful experience. Not only does it give community members a chance to learn about the local programs that Great Rivers United Way funds, but it will also give you sense of how local donations strengthen individuals and families within our region,” says Jason Larsen, community impact director. Last year community investment volunteers ultimately decided on funding 74 programs focusing on education, income and health within Houston, La Crosse, Monroe, Trempealeau and Vernon counties. As made apparent by this year’s applications, the need within our area continues to grow, as 78 programs have been submitted for consideration. In total, Great Rivers United Way will recruit more than 100 local volunteers to help decide how to best infuse funds into our local nonprofit community. Who: We’re still in need of 30+ dedicated community volunteers who would like to learn more about the programs funded by Great Rivers United Way. What: You’ll review and rate five grant applications to help determine funding. When: The timeline to volunteer is as follows: • Sign up to volunteer now! • Choose from several one-time training sessions held in December. • Choose from three review meetings held in January. Where: There are two in-person meetings at various locations (you decide when you sign up online), and you’ll be able to work from the comfort of your own home! The volunteer commitment is 5-7 hours on your own time. For those who are interested in becoming a volunteer, the complete registration process is available on the Great Rivers United Way website at www.gruw.org/ volunteer under ‘Community Investment Volunteers.’ For further information, please contact Jason Larsen at 608-796-1400 or jlarsen@gruw.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) 782-2494; staff@ wiscorps.org; www.wiscorps.org.
From Australia: Twelve Foot Ninja opens for In This Moment at The La Crosse Center. Photo: Bob Good
Place your FREE listing! Email info@muellermediacorp.com with your volunteer opportunity or calendar event. Listings are subject to approval and may be edited for content or space. KlutchChronicle.com \\ December, 2014
27
sup IN THE COULEE REGION (WHAT’S UP)
Local events calendar for December 2014
All events are subject to change, call ahead for details. Listings in the calendar are free. If you have an event that you would like to include in an upcoming issue, go to our website www.klutchchronicle.com or call 608-796-8780.
DECEMBER 1
SPORTS: UW-LA CROSSE WOMEN’S GYMNASTICS VS. WINONA STATE 6:30-9:30 pm @ Mitchell Hall, UW-La Crosse Cost: $4 for youth/seniors; $6 for adults.
MUSIC AND NIGHTLIFE: KICKAPOO BARN DANCE 6:30-9:30 pm @ The Ark in Viroqua Live radio broadcast and musical variety show.
DECEMBER 2
SPORTS: VITERBO MEN’S BASKETBALL VS. MARTIN LUTHER COLLEGE 7:30 pm @ Viterbo University.
TRIVIA: ROOT NOTE TRIVIA 8 pm @ The Root Note in La Crosse Free.
TRIVIA: ROOT NOTE TRIVIA 8 pm @ The Root Note in La Crosse Free. MUSIC: ROOT NOTE JAZZ 8 pm @ The Root Note in La Crosse Free. FOOD AND DRINK: TEA TASTING PARTY 6-7:15 pm @ Dim Sum Tea Shop in La Crosse Tickets: $8, includes dumplings, egg tart and tea. DIY: CANVAS PAINTING CLASS 6-9 pm @ All Glazed Up in La Crosse Cost: $30, includes canvas, paint and instructed lesson. Call ahead to register and BYOB. FOOD AND DRINK: FEMINISM ON TAP AND #GIVINGTUESDAY 5-7 pm @ Pearl Street Brewery. Black Friday, Cyber Monday, #GivingTuesday. Be a part of the global movement! Join Options Clinic, New Horizons and the YWCA La Crosse and GIVE BACK. https://www.facebook.com/ FeminismOnTapLaCrosse
DECEMBER 3
SPORTS: COULEE REGION CHILL VS. KENAI RIVER BROWN BEARS 6 pm @ Green Island Ice Arena in La Crosse Cost: $6 for students/military/seniors; $10 for adults. SPORTS: UW-L MEN’S BASKETBALL VS. UW-PLATTEVILLE 7 pm @ Mitchell Hall, UW-L Cost: $4 for youth/seniors; $6 for adults. ARTS/DIY: OPEN FIGURE PAINTING/DRAWING 9 am-12 pm @ The Ark in Viroqua Cost: $10, bring your own supplies. EXERCISE AND OUTDOORS: LAUGHTER CIRCLE SOCIAL CLUB 7-8 pm @ The Ark in Viroqua Cost: $2 per person, this class features laughter as exercise. FOOD AND DRINK: FREE WHEELIN’ WEDNESDAY 4-8 pm @ Pearl Street Brewery in La Crosse Free pint if you ride your bike down to the tasting room. DIY: FLOWER ARRANGEMENTS 6-8 pm @ Flowers by Guenthers in Onalaska Cost: $28.
DECEMBER 4
FOOD AND DRINK/OTHER: ADULT RECESS: BREWOLOGY 5-8 pm @ Children’s Museum of La Crosse Cost: $10; must be 21+. Explore the Children’s Museum and learn the science behind brewing beer from Pearl Street brewmasters. Games, live music from TUGG, snacks, free pint glass and one fill. DIY: CANVAS PAINTING CLASS 6:30-9 pm @ All Glazed Up in La Crosse Cost: $30, includes canvas, paint and instructed lesson. Call ahead to register and BYOB. MUSIC: OPEN MIC NIGHT 8 pm @ The Root Note in La Crosse Free.
DECEMBER 5
SPORTS: VITERBO WOMEN’S BASKETBALL VS. MARTIN LUTHER COLLEGE 5:30 pm @ Viterbo University. ARTS: FIRST FRIDAY MEET AND GREET 6-8 pm @ Gallery La Crosse in downtown La Crosse Free casual artists’ reception. THEATRE AND PERFORMANCE: COMEDY NIGHT 8:30 pm @ Black River Bar and Grill in La Crosse Features comics from HBO, Comedy Central, etc.
THEATRE AND PERFORMANCE: RUMORS 7:30 pm @ Toland Theatre in Center for Fine Arts, UW-L Cost: $5 for UW-L students; $14 seniors/non-UW-L students; $16 adults. Four couples, attending an anniversary party where the evening’s events aren’t going according to plan, try to conceal their host’s apparent suicide in this farcical play.
DECEMBER 6
SPORTS: UW-LA CROSSE WRESTLING MEET 9 am-3:30 pm @ Mitchell Hall, UW-La Crosse Cost: $4 for youth/seniors; $6 for adults. COMMUNITY: WINTER FARMER’S MARKET 10 am-1 pm @ UW-La Crosse Cartwright Center Free. COMMUNITY: OLD-FASHIONED CHRISTMAS All day @ Norskedalen Nature Center in Coon Valley Cost: $6-$15. Horse-drawn wagon rides, music, food, scavenger hunt, decoration making. Santa will appear from noon to 2 pm! EXERCISE AND OUTDOORS: SNOWSHOE STROLL 11 am-3 pm @ Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center in Lanesboro, MN Cost: $10 per person, includes snowshoe rental and guided tour. Reservations recommended. FOOD AND DRINK: BREWERY TOUR 12-5 pm @ Pearl Street Brewery in La Crosse Tours start on the hour; free souvenir pint glass. THEATRE AND PERFORMANCE: RUMORS 2 pm and 7:30 pm @ Toland Theatre in Center for Fine Arts, UW-L Cost: $5 for UW-L students; $14 seniors/non-UW-L students; $16 adults. Four couples, attending an anniversary party where the evening’s events aren’t going according to plan, try to conceal their host’s apparent suicide in this farcical play. OTHER: BMX RACING 4:30 pm @ Toad’s Cove Arena BMX in La Crosse Free for spectators. SPORTS: UW-LA CROSSE MEN’S BASKETBALL VS. UW-STOUT 3-6 pm @ Mitchell Hall, UW-La Crosse Cost: $4 for youth/seniors; $6 for adults. DIY: CANVAS PAINTING CLASS 6-9 pm @ All Glazed Up in La Crosse Cost: $30, includes canvas, paint and instructed lesson. Call ahead to register and BYOB. ARTS: HANDEL’S MESSIAH 7:30 pm @ Viterbo University Cost: $12-$18. MUSIC AND NIGHTLIFE: THE PARAMEDIC W. ALONG CAME A SPIDER AND CHORDER 6:30 pm @ The Warehouse in downtown La Crosse Tickets: $10/$9 with nonperishable food item. EXERCISE: MUSICAL FAMILY YOGA WORKSHOPS AT ROOT DOWN YOGA Little Sprouts, 9:00-10:00am and Saplings, 1:00-2:00pm In this family workshop we will pair the asanas of yoga with songs, musical games, instruments, and developmentally appropriate rhythm activities. $15 for one parent / one child Register online at www. rootdownyogastudio.com
DECEMBER 7
THEATRE AND PERFORMANCE: RUMORS 2 pm @ Toland Theatre in Center for Fine Arts, UW-L Cost: $5 for UW-L students; $14 seniors/non-UW-L students; $16 adults. Four couples, attending an anniversary party where the evening’s events aren’t going according to plan, try to conceal their host’s apparent suicide in this farcical play.
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DECEMBER 8
THEATRE AND PERFORMANCE: OLD MAIN CHRISTMAS SHOW, STORIES AND MUSIC 12-2 pm @ Old Main Arts Center in Galesville Cost: Free will donation.
DECEMBER 9
MUSIC: ROOT NOTE JAZZ 8 pm @ The Root Note in La Crosse Free. FOOD AND DRINK: TEA TASTING PARTY 6-7:15 pm @ Dim Sum Tea Shop in La Crosse Tickets: $8, includes dumplings, egg tart and tea. DIY: CANVAS PAINTING CLASS 6-9 pm @ All Glazed Up in La Crosse Cost: $30, includes canvas, paint and instructed lesson. Call ahead to register and BYOB.
DECEMBER 10
ARTS/DIY: OPEN FIGURE PAINTING/DRAWING 9 am-12 pm @ The Ark in Viroqua Cost: $10, bring your own supplies. EXERCISE AND OUTDOORS: LAUGHTER CIRCLE SOCIAL CLUB 7-8 pm @ The Ark in Viroqua Cost: $2 per person, this class features laughter as exercise. MUSIC AND NIGHTLIFE: DAN BERGER’S SONGWRITER’S CORNER 5 pm @ Robins Nest in La Crosse Free, La Crosse area songwriters perform original music. OTHER/MUSIC: SHAMANIC JOURNEY DRUM MEDITATION 7:30-9 pm @ The Ark in Viroqua Cost: $2 per person, this class features laughter as exercise. FOOD AND DRINK: FREE WHEELIN’ WEDNESDAY 4-8 pm @ Pearl Street Brewery in La Crosse Free pint if you ride your bike down to the tasting room. DIY: FLOWER ARRANGEMENTS 6-8 pm @ Flowers by Guenthers in Onalaska Cost: $28.
DECEMBER 11
THEATRE AND PERFORMANCE: RUMORS 7:30 pm @ Toland Theatre in Center for Fine Arts, UW-L Cost: $5 for UW-L students; $14 seniors/non-UW-L students; $16 adults. Four couples, attending an anniversary party where the evening’s events aren’t going according to plan, try to conceal their host’s apparent suicide in this farcical play.
DECEMBER 12
THEATRE AND PERFORMANCE: RUMORS 7:30 pm @ Toland Theatre in Center for Fine Arts, UW-L Cost: $5 for UW-L students; $14 seniors/non-UW-L students; $16 adults. Four couples, attending an anniversary party where the evening’s events aren’t going according to plan, try to conceal their host’s apparent suicide in this farcical play. THEATRE AND PERFORMANCE: A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS 7:30 pm @ Weber Center in La Crosse Cost: $12 for military, $17 for students; $28. Lucy asks Charlie Brown to direct the town’s annual Christmas show, and the Peanuts learn the true meaning of Christmas. THEATRE AND PERFORMANCE: TRUTH BE TOLD: LOST AND FOUND 6:30-10:30 pm @ The Ark in Viroqua Cost: $10 per person; evening of storytelling. THEATRE AND PERFORMANCE: MISTLETOE & MAYHEM 7:30 pm @ Pump House in La Crosse Cost: $15-$21. The Pump House celebrates the holidays with dance, comedy, music and storytelling. MUSIC AND NIGHTLIFE: THE PARTY FOUL W. ALL MY FRIENDS ARE DEAD AND URSA MINOR 6:30 pm @ The Warehouse in downtown La Crosse Cost: $10/$9 with nonperishable food item.
DECEMBER 13
SPORTS: VITERBO MEN’S BASKETBALL VS. UW-RIVER FALLS 5 pm @ Viterbo University. THEATRE AND PERFORMANCE: A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS 2 pm and 7:30 pm @ Weber Center in La Crosse Cost: $12 for military, $17 for students; $28; matinees $24. Lucy asks Charlie Brown to direct the town’s annual Christmas show, and the Peanuts learn the true meaning of Christmas. THEATRE AND PERFORMANCE: RUMORS 7:30 pm @ Toland Theatre in Center for Fine Arts, UW-L Cost: $5 for UW-L students; $14 seniors/non-UW-L students; $16 adults. Four couples, attending an anniversary party where the evening’s events aren’t going according to plan, try to conceal their host’s apparent suicide in this farcical play. THEATRE AND PERFORMANCE: MISTLETOE & MAYHEM 7:30 pm @ Pump House in La Crosse Cost: $15-$21. The Pump House celebrates the holidays with dance, comedy, music and storytelling.
DECEMBER 14
COMMUNITY: INTERNATIONAL FOLK DANCING 6-9:30 pm @ The Ark in Viroqua Learn folk dances from all over the world.
THEATRE AND PERFORMANCE: A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS 7:30 pm @ Weber Center in La Crosse Cost: $12 for military, $17 for students; $28. Lucy asks Charlie Brown to direct the town’s annual Christmas show, and the Peanuts learn the true meaning of Christmas.
THEATRE AND PERFORMANCE: A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS 2 pm @ Weber Center in La Crosse Cost: $12 for military, $17 for students; matinees $24. Lucy asks Charlie Brown to direct the town’s annual Christmas show, and the Peanuts learn the true meaning of Christmas.
THEATRE AND PERFORMANCE: MISTLETOE & MAYHEM 7:30 pm @ Pump House in La Crosse Cost: $15-$21 The Pump House celebrates the holidays with dance, comedy, music and storytelling.
THEATRE AND PERFORMANCE: MISTLETOE & MAYHEM 2 pm @ Pump House in La Crosse Cost: $15-$21. The Pump House celebrates the holidays with dance, comedy, music and storytelling.
MUSIC AND NIGHTLIFE: OPEN MIC NIGHT 8 pm @ The Root Note in La Crosse Free.
DIY: PAINT AND POUR 1-3:30 pm @ Pump House in La Crosse Cost: $35, includes all supplies and first glass of wine.
DIY: CANVAS PAINTING CLASS 6:30-9 pm @ All Glazed Up in La Crosse Cost: $30, includes canvas, paint and instructed lesson. BYOB.
DECEMBER 15
KLUTCH LIVE @ CAFÉ D’VINE 6-8 pm Come get a free drink on us and meet the Klutch staff!
TRIVIA: ROOT NOTE TRIVIA 8 pm @ The Root Note in La Crosse Free.
December, 2014 // KlutchChronicle.com
DIY: PAINT AND POUR 7-9:30 pm @ Pump House in La Crosse Cost: $35, includes all supplies and first glass of wine.
sup IN THE COULEE REGION (WHAT’S UP)
MUSIC: ROOT NOTE JAZZ 8 pm @ The Root Note in La Crosse Free. FOOD AND DRINK: TEA TASTING PARTY 6-7:15 pm @ Dim Sum Tea Shop in La Crosse Tickets: $8, includes dumplings, egg tart and tea. DIY: CANVAS PAINTING CLASS 6-9 pm @ All Glazed Up in La Crosse Cost: $30, includes canvas, paint and instructed lesson. Call ahead to register and BYOB. SPORTS: VITERBO MEN’S BASKETBALL VS. UW-RIVER FALLS 5 pm @ Viterbo University.
DECEMBER 17
2 pm and 7:30 pm @ Weber Center in La Crosse Cost: $12 for military, $17 for students; $28 for adults; matinees $24. Lucy asks Charlie Brown to direct the town’s annual Christmas show, and the Peanuts learn the true meaning of Christmas. THEATRE AND PERFORMANCE: OLD SCHOOL VARIETY SHOW 8 pm @ Pump House in La Crosse Cost: $18 in advance, $21 day of. A collection of local performers come together for a unique, unrehearsed performance with a holiday theme. MUSIC AND NIGHTLIFE: TERRAFORM W. RENDER THE WASTELANDS 6:30 pm @ The Warehouse in downtown La Crosse Cost: $10/$9 with nonperishable food item.
ARTS/DIY: OPEN FIGURE PAINTING/DRAWING 9 am-12 pm @ The Ark in Viroqua Cost: $10, bring your own supplies.
MUSIC AND NIGHTLIFE: PAT WATTERS BAND 9 pm-1 am @ Overtime Sports Bar in La Crosse No cover.
FOOD AND DRINK: FREE WHEELIN’ WEDNESDAY 4-8 pm @ Pearl Street Brewery in La Crosse Free pint if you ride your bike down to the tasting room. DIY: FLOWER ARRANGEMENTS 6-8 pm @ Flowers by Guenthers in Onalaska Cost: $28.
DECEMBER 21
EXERCISE AND OUTDOORS: LAUGHTER CIRCLE SOCIAL CLUB 7-8 pm @ The Ark in Viroqua Cost: $2 per person, this class features laughter as exercise. THEATRE AND PERFORMANCE: A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS 7:30 pm @ Weber Center in La Crosse Cost: $12 for military, $17 for students; $28 for adults. Lucy asks Charlie Brown to direct the town’s annual Christmas show, and the Peanuts learn the true meaning of Christmas. MUSIC AND NIGHTLIFE: STRING TIES: “HOLIDAY BLUEGRASS” 7:30 pm @ Pump House in La Crosse Cost: $21 in advance; $25 day of.
DECEMBER 18
MUSIC AND NIGHTLIFE: OPEN MIC NIGHT 8 pm @ The Root Note in La Crosse Free. DIY: CANVAS PAINTING CLASS 6:30-9 pm @ All Glazed Up in La Crosse Cost: $30, includes canvas, paint and instructed lesson. BYOB. THEATRE AND PERFORMANCE: A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS 7:30 pm @ Weber Center in La Crosse Cost: $12 for military, $17 for students; $28 for adults Lucy asks Charlie Brown to direct the town’s annual Christmas show, and the Peanuts learn the true meaning of Christmas. MUSIC AND NIGHTLIFE: STRING TIES: “HOLIDAY BLUEGRASS” 7:30 pm @ Pump House in La Crosse Cost: $21 in advance; $25 day of.
DECEMBER 19
THEATRE AND PERFORMANCE: A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS 7:30 pm @ Weber Center in La Crosse Cost: $12 for military, $17 for students; $28 for adults. Lucy asks Charlie Brown to direct the town’s annual Christmas show, and the Peanuts learn the true meaning of Christmas.
DECEMBER 20
COMMUNITY: 4TH ANNUAL WINTER SOLSTICE SOUND PRAYER 7-9 pm @ The Ark in Viroqua Bring drums, gongs, shakers, bowls — anything that makes a rhythmic sound. THEATRE/PERFORMANCE, FOOD/DRINK: CHOCOLATE SOIREE 2 pm @ Logan Middle School in La Crosse Cost: $5 for adults; $3 for K-12, show choir performances by several La Crosse show choirs followed by a buffet of chocolate. THEATRE AND PERFORMANCE: A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS
COMMUNITY: ADVENT HYMN SING 7 pm @ Christ Episcopal Church in La Crosse Free, suggested donation $5, bring a nonperishable food item for WAFER, sing carols and hymns with the La Crosse Chamber Chorale. THEATRE AND PERFORMANCE: A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS 2 pm @ Weber Center in La Crosse Cost: $12 for military, $17 for students; matinees $24. Lucy asks Charlie Brown to direct the town’s annual Christmas show, and the Peanuts learn the true meaning of Christmas.
DECEMBER 22
TRIVIA: ROOT NOTE TRIVIA 8 pm @ The Root Note in La Crosse Free. THEATRE AND PERFORMANCE: IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE 7:30 pm @ Heider Center for the Arts in West Salem Cost: $18-$20. This Christmas classic is performed as a live radio broadcast in front of an audience.
Weber Center
DECEMBER 23
MUSIC ROOT: NOTE JAZZ 8 pm @ The Root Note in La Crosse Free.
DIY: CANVAS PAINTING CLASS 6-9 pm @ All Glazed Up in La Crosse Cost: $30, includes canvas, paint and instructed lesson. Call ahead to register and BYOB.
DECEMBER 25 HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
DECEMBER 28
COMMUNITY: INTERNATIONAL FOLK DANCING 6-9:30 pm @ The Ark in Viroqua Learn folk dances from all over the world. EXERCISE: GUIDED MEDITATION AT ROOT DOWN YOGA This class will begin with 30 minutes of mindful movement, followed by 30 minutes of various guided meditation practices. Register online at www. rootdownyogastudio.com DECEMBER LATE NIGHTS Thursday and Fridays in December Come downtown for the tradition of late night shopping, holiday caroling, refreshments, family fun and more!
DECEMBER 29
TRIVIA: ROOT NOTE TRIVIA 8 pm @ The Root Note in La Crosse Free.
DECEMBER 31
MUSIC AND NIGHTLIFE: MONKEY WRENCH 10:30 pm @ Overtime Sports Bar in La Crosse. MUSIC AND NIGHTLIFE: PUMP HOUSE NEW YEAR 8 pm-Midnight @ Pump House in La Crosse Tickets: $75-$85. Ring in the New Year Vegas-style!
for the
Performing Arts
So much to see and do! Check it out!
FOOD AND DRINK: TEA TASTING PARTY 6-7:15 pm @ Dim Sum Tea Shop in La Crosse Tickets: $8, includes dumplings, egg tart and tea.
Photo by Theresa M. Smerud
DECEMBER 16
Discounts available for students!
webercenterfortheperformingarts.org 428 Front Street South, La Crosse, WI 54601
608-784-9292
KlutchChronicle.com \\ December, 2014
29
from a New Angle.
flip side
Information
I’m not sure what to do this holiday season. My husband and I have three kids, our oldest son he had with his ex. Our son comes with us to two holiday celebrations (one at each of our parents’) and usually goes to a couple with his mom. This year, his ex plans to take her son on vacation during the time of both our celebrations. Our son is only ten and would really be missing out on these precious times with our families. My husband has tried asking her to switch the dates but she won’t compromise. What can he do or tell her? Regards, We Just Want Happy Kids Happy Kids, I have conflicting emotions during holiday seasons. On one hand, the joy and togetherness converge to create a warm and festive ambiance. On the other hand, there are family complications, clashing personalities and often letdown expectations. When everything balances nicely it is a glorious occasion that everyone can enjoy. As adults and parents it seems like we more frequently have to manage the chaos. It can be hard to deal with and even more difficult to celebrate. It reminds me of a captivating ballet production. To the people enjoying the show it appears elegant and beautiful; the dancers almost make the technicalities seem ‘easy.’ The brutal reality, however, is what takes place behind the scenes to ensure everyone can enjoy a good show. I think your husband took a good first step in trying to reason with his ex-wife. At this point it appears the ex-wife will not budge on her vacation plans, and any further discussion or protest will likely result in an argument. This won’t solve anything. My first suggestion is to be the more mature adults by rearranging your holiday celebrations by a few days. Conceding on the days you celebrate to guarantee the son’s participation sounds like something you shouldn’t have to do, and you’re right. However, this is about the family celebrating together. Because your celebration involves other people (I.E., your parents, etc.), I am guessing this may not be an easy option. My secondary suggestion would be to go through the celebrations with the son on Skype. Again, this sounds like a hassle, but it would allow him to see everyone and participate via the web. It certainly isn’t the ideal solution, but it wouldn’t be the first time families had to use the Internet to stay connected over the holidays. A tertiary, and my favorite, suggestion is this: forge your own tradition. Realize that the holidays will be a scheduling struggle again in the future. Maybe, instead of celebrating on the traditional dates and times, you can celebrate before or after on a date of your choice. I might even call it ‘Family Holiday’ to make it sound like more fun! Correspond with the ex-wife to tell her how much it means that this doesn’t ever have to happen to your son again, and then make the best out of it. The options can be endless! I knew a family that took everyone on a cruise for a week every January. They loved it and it worked for their scheduling needs. My final piece of advice is this: Do not lose sight of what is important. Flexible people get a lot further in life than those who are unwilling to bend or negotiate. Be the source of solutions, and keep doing your best to hold the family together. Above all else, stay happy and stay healthy! Liv
Need Advice?
Email Liv at info@muellermediacorp.com and skip that $250 therapy session.
on the
Dear Liv,
the Name of Cold n I ! p o St By: Briana Rupel
S
ometimes a girl is damned if she does, and damned if she doesn’t. A couple issues past, I lamented about people commanding stoic servers to smile (Vol. 1, Issue 2). One recent afternoon in the service industry, I humorously encountered the opposite: “Ugh,” one of my customers drawled in sincere annoyance, “stop being so cheerful. It’s cold out.” Heavy white crystals had paired off in an interminable sky and waltzed in the wind, giving me an extra spring in my step. Refreshingly, the first true sign of any season is like reconnecting with an old friend: It’s been a long time, but upon immediately falling back into right where you left off, you soon realize how much you’ve missed them. Unfortunately I always seem to forget that “The Weather” is what Wisconsinites love to complain about most. I’ll be the first to admit that the initial onslaught of belowfreezing temps is a shock to my system too. If my brain hasn’t yet trained my hands to subconsciously tug on my hat and mittens before I lock the door and leave, the frigid walk from the bus stop will. And the evenings when the sun has ducked down long before I get home from work are a true test of my resolve to do anything more productive than mashing buttons on the remote. Lots of glorious naps are taken during these first dark days, and lots of glorious carbs are consumed. But then, as with most situations we humans encounter, our bodies adapt. And, lest we all find the means — or desire! — to truck it on down to Florida, we owe it to ourselves to stop carelessly throwing out stale complaints about the cold to our neighbors and co-workers. Stop and think for a second about how many conversations start out with something like, “Man, this weather really sucks,” or “I hate winter.” Maybe it’s not just the lack of daylight that’s bringing us down, but having to be surrounded by so much negative grumbling around this time of year. I talk to hundreds of people a week. By Friday I want to make like a bear and hibernate, and not because of the cold. We’ve become so jaded about winter because the only association most of us have with it anymore involves chores: scraping the ice off your windshield before you’ve had your coffee, shoveling your sidewalk before you can make dinner, having to scrounge up extra money for a higher heating bill, and driving to work in
30
December, 2014 // KlutchChronicle.com
a snowstorm because you can’t afford to take time off. Come summertime, we make plenty of time to play; what’s stopping us from making winter enjoyable too? Growing up in Central Wisconsin, my brother and I spent almost every waking hour of the weekend bundled up, tearing around the snowy yard and coursing the parameters of the house on the hunt for the best icicles. We built elaborate snow forts and used tippedover wheelbarrows to shield ourselves from well-aimed snowballs. We scooted around until white tufts of synthetic insulation poked through the knees of our snowpants. Mom would poke her head out the door and ask, “Aren’t you guys cold yet?” We’d holler back in our best convincing tone, “Noooo!” Really, we were chilled to the bone at that point, clusters of snow chunks eventually clinging like little burrs to our wrists, exposed where our jackets didn’t quite meet up with our mittens. But letting the cold ruin the day was never even a consideration — because we were having too much fun. On my fridge there’s a page ripped out of a magazine with a quote from George Bernard Shaw: “We don’t stop playing because we grow old. We grow old because we stop playing.” What would happen if you decided you weren’t going to suffer through another winter, but have fun with it instead? How could your mood change if you just bundled up one afternoon and got some sunshine? You don’t have to be an expert snowboarder to get active outdoors. Go ice fishing. Join a broomball league. Grab a friend and walk through the park. Rent snowshoes and explore beyond the trails. Last weekend the sun finally peeked through the clouds and hung out for the rest of the afternoon. I crossed the river into Minnesota and hiked around Great River Bluffs State Park, which has seriously some of the best lookouts in the area. I got a bird’s eye view of the paper-thin ice sheets starting to creep their way through the sloughs and into the main channel of the Mississippi. After not even a mile, I was already starting to warm up and having to unzip a layer. The woods were completely still except for one whitetail bounding through the tall brown grass, and the languid creaking of tree trunks bending in the breeze. By the time I came full-circle, my cheeks were rosy, and I felt relaxed and refreshed. Now that’s nothing to complain about.
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