SEVEN December 2015

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SEVEN | Issue #6 | December, 2015

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Featuring a bright and joyful musical score, this tale of love and sacrifice is a perfect parable for the season.

Featuring

Mel Carroll (The City: Her) Tom Desjarlais (Soapy Smith) Andrew Scott Helman (Willy Porter) Michael Kruse (The City: Him) Grace Riness (Della Dillingham) Matt Wudi (Jim Dillingham)

It is Christmas in New York in 1910. A young married couple is not looking forward to the holidays. With no money for gifts, Jim and Della show their love by giving up their most prized possessions.

Musical—Theatre G

Give a gift that lasts all year long!

La Crosse Communi ty Theatre

December 10–20, 2015

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428 Front St S La Crosse, WI 54601 608-784-9292

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428 Front St S La Crosse, WI 54601 608-784-9292

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Inside

6 Urbanist 7 (Almost) Famous Locals

About SEVEN explores the dynamic community, culture and arts world of the Seven Rivers Region.

8 The Arts 16 Business

14 17

Contact Phone: 608-780-3853

18 Sip n’ Taste

Email: contact@thesevenspot.com Mail: PO Box 762,

Onalaska, WI 54650

24 Limelight

Web: TheSevenSpot.com Facebook: TheSevenSpot

25 Subject Matter

Twitter: @thesevenspot Support Advertising sustains the celebration of musicians, festivals, thespians, artists, and the vibrant community that calls the Seven Rivers Region home.

26 Family

22

26 Fitness

Phone: 608-780-3853 Email: michelle@thesevenspot.com

27 Listings

from the publisher

This publication is printed monthly

by Humble Mountain Press, LLC and distributed throughout the Seven Rivers Region. Readers are encouraged to verify event information with organizations and businesses directly. Humble Mountain Press, LLC does not necessarily endorse the claims or contents of advertising or editorial materials.

Makers is a revitalized term that initiates feelings of warmth and nostalgia. Makers are creators of performance, music, artwork, dance—anything that comes from within. SEVEN continually aims to bring makers to the forefront, and this month we’ve focused on artisans and chefs. Wintertime and the holiday season encourage us to join our friends and family to give of ourselves, make food and goodness with them, and create memories to cherish. During this time of giving and sharing, we should think of our local artisans and chefs. They find inspiration throughout the year to share their talents with us, creating gifts we can, in turn, share with others.

Copyright 2015 by Humble Mountain Press, LLC. All rights reserved. All material, including artwork, advertisements, and editorial, may not be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher.

29 Volunteer Listings

13

A note

PUB INFO

30 Writer’s Block

The cover for this issue is so fitting. It’s 100% about makers. Crafters designed the label which hangs from a hand-forged steel bicycle which is standing at Pedal, Ink., an artist’s gallery! Yes, the label says Made in (Wisconsin). Regardless of political lines, Midwesterners know the label could’ve shown Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa…and felt the same power of the symbol of a Midwestern state—the power and comfort of home. In this issue, we continue to celebrate the makers of the Seven Rivers Region.

As the year becomes renewed, I’m excited for what’s to come and want to thank those who create SEVEN… the Makers of SEVEN. Every writer, every photographer, every guest of our pages. And those who support the Makers: every reader who continues to visit our pages, every monetary supporter who believes in the mission, and my family who has been patient during the growing phase of this project. And to Nick. I will never be able to thank you enough. Then, there are people who have been there before the start, who push into long hours, and truly give of themselves each and every issue. SEVEN exists only with all of these people, and especially with Jason and Leah. You guys keep this ship afloat! Thanks for being you. And for letting me drive you nuts.

TheSevenSpot.com

To The Makers!

Michelle L. Jerome

On the Cover Cover Photo: Dahli Durley, “Made in Wisco”, Artistic Photography “This image captures a small, quiet moment among the bustling traffic of bike and art enthusiasts at the Pedal Ink Art Show at the Pearl Street Brewery Warehouse last month. I’ve always been a Wisco Believer, living here most of my life and recognizing that there’s a lot of great, unexpected things happening here, especially in this rad little town of La Crosse, Wis. There’s a sort of pride I took when shooting this moment; that Wisconsin, with its can-do attitude and Midwestern cheese-eatingbeer-appreciating heart, can do anything—even build a top-of-theline bike that can compete with any other brand from any other state and any other country, ANY DANG DAY. Bikes are made in Wisconsin.

Good folk are made in Wisconsin. Dreams are made and followed in Wisconsin. What a great place to hang a hat and call home.”

Art in Photo: Liz and Paul Reardon, “Blue Steel Bike Merchandise Tag,” Card Stock and Burlap “Paul came up with the idea for a tag to go with his personally built bikes to list the custom geometry inside this card. He wanted the burlap and I made the die-cut. We feel sharing the idea of local is important because everything on our custom bikes is in-house. I used the shape of Wisconsin not only because the bikes are made in Wisconsin, but because the shape of the state is visually appealing and has become well-recognized.”

Deborah Nerud Writer

Yasmynn Rain Writer

Theresa Smerud Photograher

Lee Walraven Writer

Todd Wohlert Writer & Proofreader

A.J. Moore Writer

Michael Scott Writer

Jess Witkins Writer

Andrew Londre Writer

Briana Rupel Writer

Brett Werner Writer

Jason Keeney Crew Chief & Graphic Designer

Michelle L. Jerome Crew Captain

Lee Harwell Photographer

Joe Hart Writer

Bob Good Photographer

Dahli Durley Photographer

Joerg Droll Writer

Becca Dargatz Writer & Calendar Editor

Tegan Daly Writer

Leah Call Copy Editor & Writer

Heidi Griminger Blanke, Ph.D Writer

Chad Berger Photographer

The CREW

The local talent dedicated to bringing you a fresh look at our region.

URBANIST

By: Andrew Londre

THE URBANIST PROCESS

OLD SCHOOL VARIETY SHOW November 21, 7:30 pm Michael Scott gathers a wide variety of performing artists to present this unique seasonal show.

Tickets $18 - $21

thepumphouse.org

| 608.784.1434

SEVEN | Issue #6 | December, 2015

er t f a g in n e v e r u o y y o Enj ! s u h it w s t h ig L y r a t Ro

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100 Harborview Plaza La Crosse, WI 54601 www.4sisterslacrosse.com

(608) 782-8213

I

n 2012 I graduated from UW-La Crosse with double major in political science and public administration. Engaging people in the political and public process is a big passion of mine.

But these passions have also led me to great frustration, because, despite the fact that there are so many things that need to change in our world, such a small group of people participate in the process. A process that is simple and open to everyone and has great influence over our future.

Want bike lanes in your neighborhood? Attend your neighborhood association meetings and as many city council meetings it takes to get what you want. Be loud, persuasive and persistent.

Oh, all you do is ride in the Beer By Bike Brigade once a month? City Council meetings aren’t your style? Well, that’s why we don’t have bike lanes.

Think we should be making national investments in better schools, public infrastructure, healthcare, innovation, space exploration? Then you better vote! Oh, you don’t vote? Well, if the country elects Donald Trump as the Commander-in-Chief, that’s on you.

But undoubtedly, far too many people won’t vote in 2016 for the President, let alone in local elections, and even fewer will participate in important public meetings. This has always frustrated me. Clearly some people just don’t care. If you cared, you’d show up.

That’s the basic underlying principle of most public, private, nonprofit institutions in America.

If you care, show up. But recently, I had a profound, mind-splosion.

Is it purely coincidental that local meetings and elections always seem to attract the same small group of people who generally skew older and whiter, more conservative, affluent, educated, powerful, biased, loud? What if the people who don’t “show up” do care, have opinions and would like to have their voice heard? What if the real problem is the way public participation and public engagement is thought of and measured? Maybe that is what needs to change? What if the underlying problem is not the public, but it is actually the process?

Mind. Blown.

Changing the process It’s amazing how revolutionary this is among the population of “change makers.” And I’m kind of ashamed at how long it took me to realize this.

But now that I am aware of it, I see it everywhere, when I’ve gone to public meetings about neighborhoods, or art in our city, or transportation, I’ve always been frustrated that I am often the only young person in the room.

People don’t “show up” because most venues and meeting formats feel tired, lame, bureaucratic, intimidating, unfamiliar, redundant and unproductive. The people who do “show up” (people like me) do so because they either have a ton of time on their hands or they have a financial or deeply personal stake in what’s being discussed/decided and also–importantly– understand how the process works and how to get value from it.

There is an obvious reason why more people ride in the Beer By Bike Brigade than come to the city’s Bike-Ped Planning meetings—riding with the Brigade is fun, approachable and you know more than a week in advance when it’s going to happen! What if important public meetings were run that way?

There is a reason why so many people come to La Crosse SOUP and so few go to neighborhood association meetings. SOUP is fun, inspiring, accessible, and at the end, you made an undeniable difference.

Finding solutions This realization is the reason why I recently joined a national firm of urban innovators called, Urbanlocity, which seeks to tackle big, seemingly intractable community challenges including this one.

Our world is ever changing and yet the way the public is engaged in shaping their future has remained almost entirely unchanged for decades.

Thankfully, there are solutions. Local organizations, like Beer By Bike Brigade and La Crosse SOUP are showing that sometimes the best solutions to bring people together are low-tech hightouch solutions on small budgets that put “fun” first. Then there are groups such as NEWAUKEE which are transforming public opinions about cities like Milwaukee through parties and social events. Organizations like Next Stop Democracy strives to boost voter turnout in Philadelphia by making voting look more fun by hosting pop-up musical performances and hanging fun “Vote Here” signs designed by 60 local street artists outside voting locations on Election Day. There are tech-based solutions, too, such as online platforms that allow people to share their thoughts and opinions about public projects from the comfort of their home or through their smart phone when they have time, rather than just by offering a single public meeting.

Let’s change the way we change things.

Andrew Londre wears many hats-currently serving on eight local, regional and national boards, with a focus on neighborhoods and urban revitalization. Andrew started a number of new organizations and initiatives-most recently La Crosse SOUP-and has worked in many sectors: government, nonprofit, cooperatives and small businesses. In 2014, he was honored as a NextCity Vanguard.

Have feedback? Share your thoughts on the Urbanist with the SEVEN Facebook page: www.Facebook.com/TheSevenSpot.

FAMOUS LOCALS

JANE MCWILLIAMS

“W

ould you like to try…?” might be the best catchphrase for La Crosse resident Jane McWilliams. With a lifetime of adventure, travel and work in a variety of human service positions, McWilliams continues to reach out to the public as a demo coordinator for People’s Food Co-op (PFC) in La Crosse. “I love it,” says the 57-year-

old McWilliams. “I love meeting new people. I love seeing the regulars. I learn a lot about food and organics, and I get a lot of energy from my coworkers.”

Her experiences as “the sample lady” have allowed her to connect with a wide variety of customers, including fellow ex-pats who recognize McWilliam’s English accent. Hailing from Castleford in Yorkshire, England, where her father,

Jeffrey Bywater, was an award-winning pig farmer during WWII, McWilliams has resided in Saudi Arabia, Malaysia and America (Texas; 8 yrs., Wisconsin; 16).

Her husband John’s work has allowed them to travel widely. “We got to really know each other by writing letters,” McWilliams states of the couple’s twoyear pen-pal friendship that eventually bloomed into a 30-year romance.

McWilliams has had vast experience in human services. After receiving her degree from Hemsworth Technical College as a residential social worker, she worked in children’s homes and with senior citizens and Alzheimer’s patients.

Time spent at British Home Stores (BHS), where she worked as a shop assistant, a supervisor and a staff manager’s assistant underlines her commitment to customer communication and service. A PFC employee since 2004 and demo coordinator since 2007, McWilliams started out at Hackberry’s Bistro (above PFC) but chose to move downstairs because of increased pain from rheumatoid arthritis. “I loved it up there, but serving is physically taxing,” says McWilliams. “Once a position opened up to demo products, I thought that sounded interesting.”

A double knee replacement in 2014

Article and Photos By: Deborah Nerud

enabled McWilliams to find a new cache of energy for her work and for her daughter Rachel’s family, which includes grandchildren Whitby (6) and Abbey (3 ½). “I’m one of those stereotypical grandmas—I absolutely adore them,” says McWilliams.

A lover of good food and great restaurants, McWilliams enjoys showing off what PFC has to offer. “I have a great time hearing people’s stories when they stop by to try something, and I love being able to talk about really good food.”

With eight years experience expanding the palates of the curious, McWilliams offers a smile when asked about her favorite sample. Without hesitation she says one word: “Cheese.”

Deborah Nerud is a ukulele-playing mama-of-two/writer/gardener/pie baker/cyclist/runner/performer with work published in Coulee Region Women and Coulee Parenting Connection. A firm believer in the emotional power of pen and paper, she still loves sending (and receiving) letters via USPS and will happily send you a note in the mail.

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SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |

(Almost)

7

THE ARTS THE 10 LETTERS PROJECT TOM DESJARLAIS By: Michael Scott

Article: Jess Witkins The 10 Letters Project is a correspondence between makers. Based on the emails between two friends, Jen Lee and Tim Manley, they chronicled the process of creative work and what it means to be in the thick of it. Lee was touring with her documentary, Indie Kindred. Manley had just released his debut book, Alice in Tumblr-land. Across cities and sometimes states, despite loaded schedules and obligations, they wrote to one another. What transpired, was an archive of inspiration and intimacy. Two makers, inviting one another into their worlds.

Here in the Seven Rivers Region, writers and makers Deborah Nerud and Jess Witkins recreate the project. One new letter printed over the course of each month for 10 months. Neither of them seeing it before you do. Watch what unfolds.

To learn more about the project, visit www.10lettersproject.com.

November 28, 2015 Dear Deborah,

SEVEN | Issue #6 | December, 2015

photo: Theresa Smerud

8

Tom Desjarlais has performed in multiple community and small grassroots theatre shows. His professionalism always shines on stage and behind the scenes.

He puts in endless hours of work for his love of theatre. And the local theatre community, in turn, loves him.

Desjarlais recently retired from his job as an account executive for a local outdoor sign company. He also has a long history in the radio business, where I suspect he perfected his low, baritone, soothing speaking and singing voice.

His journey in theatre started in high school. What was his first production?

“Too long ago to remember,” he says. “I remember I loved it.”

College brought Desjarlais to Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, where he got involved with the local community theatre troupe and was a cast member in some 15 productions over a 12-year span. His favorite during that time was playing Mr. Sowerberry, the Mortician, in the musical Oliver. It is ironic that his favorite character would be slimy, spineless and greedy: the complete opposite of Desjarlais as a cast member. You may never find a more giving and selfless actor.

A move to Marshfield, Wisconsin, marked a hiatus from theatre for Desjarlais.

Then after moving to La Crosse, he returned to the boards in October 2009 in Jeff Daniel’s “Escanaba in da Moonlight.” Desjarlais’ Midwest charm came through in this comedic tale of deer hunting camp. Lucky for us, the theatre bug had locked its jaws into Desjarlais once more.

Since his return to theatre he has been in numerous productions: West Side Story, Mary Poppins, Twelve Angry Men, A Christmas Story and Fantasticks. He doesn’t have a favorite type of production. Musical, farce, drama, comedy, big cast, small cast—all hold special and unique opportunities for Desjarlais.

His favorite part of being in the local community theatre scene is watching young performers develop, blossom and move on to bigger and better things. “We have a very talented theatre community with great leadership. I just love being a part of it.”

His advice to someone who has never done theatre? “Audition! The people you meet are so wonderful, and there is nothing like being a member of a cast. Not just the actors but everyone. There are around five volunteers for every actor you see on stage. It’s an experience like no other.”

Desjarlais will play Soapy Smith in the upcoming production, “The Gifts of the Magi,” at The Weber Center and the La Crosse Community Theatre, December 10-20. Tickets can be purchased at lacrossecommunitytheatre.org or by calling the box office at 608-784-9292.

Michael Scott is a freelance writer and advertising copywriter. He is the creator and voice talent for Rose Jewelers “Rose Files” radio campaign and the host of The Old School Variety Show.

er

Lett

4

I am not a winter person. I was born in early autumn, and I crave those sun-filled days with golden leaves and the scent of campfires. As someone who has worked the last eight years in an office environment without windows, winter feels like a perpetual nighttime: an unending cold, darkness. Forgive me, but I think that’s enough to make anyone want to burst through a wall like the Kool-Aid man, leaving a body outline in the brick and mortar. “Oh yah!”

I recently read this study about people in Norway (I think it was Norway - it was someplace cold like that) and how they have a positive attitude about winter which helps them enjoy it. Instead of complaining about the season’s unyielding dark days, they focus on the things they love about it. For example, they don’t stay inside all the time, they participate in winter sports and recreation. And when they are inside, they delight in the company of friends and family wrapped up in blankets, sitting in a room illuminated by candlelight.

Ok, I thought, hint taken. I should stop grumbling about winter like a cranky, old bear. Although that’s a poor metaphor, because what do bears have to be so upset about? They get to hibernate. Wankers!

What I mean to say is, the article made me pause. What is it I love about the Midwest tundra that keeps me grounded in this river town?

I love sitting in the Coulee Region’s coffee shops late at night with my hands wrapped around a warm mug, watching the snow fall. I love the Rotary Lights and the people that volunteer to stand in that bitter cold and collect food for the hungry. I love the act of dressing in so many layers that people look like marshmallows shuffling across parking lots in their puffer jackets and parkas. And I, too, love the quiet glow of candlelight in an otherwise dim room.

So I’m going to do my best to look at winter for the unique moments of joy it can bring, instead of only its downside. Perhaps your last letter’s notes of gratitude sunk in and steeped for me. I’m going to take your advice and enjoy the freedom of knowing I can get up, stretch and take a deep breath if I need to.

What’s keeping your heart warm, friend?

Love and extra blankets, Jess

Jess Witkins is a writer, blogger, and sometimes funny. Her mission: making pathetic look cool since 1985. She can be found in the coulee region’s many coffee shops and wordmongering at http://jesswitkins.wordpress.com.

Left to Right; Dan, Kari, Sylva, Elisi, Tim and Erik

CROOKED WILLOW Rooted in Family

W

hen Crooked Willow gets together, it’s truly a family gathering. As a Folk/Americana/Roots string band formed in friendship and connected through music, they take audiences on a journey through reimagined covers and original works.

Listeners are surprised when they realize they’re hearing a Lady Gaga song revitalized with a new Americana flair. Vocalist and guitar player Tim Waller shares, “If we hear something we can change or make a little greater, like Lady Gaga, we’ll try it.” Folk Lady Gaga? Yes! And it’s beautiful.

Waller’s original, personal upbeat ballad “Honey Bee” tells the story of a girl he met on the Mississippi: “There ain’t no other for a guy like me,” he croons. The song is especially endearing since Waller’s Honey Bee is Elisi Smith, Crooked Willow lead singer on tenor banjo and kazoo. Waller and Smith have been sweethearts since middle school, says Waller. This lifelong connection was created alongside their love of music.

The connection grew when they started playing with old high school friends. That “turned into this musical band somehow,” explains Waller. Since each band member has full-time jobs ranging from school music teacher, nurse, social worker and Master’s student of Education, finding time to practice is a challenge. Most of the band members have children ranging

in ages from two to nine. The kids are in tow at each practice and most shows. “When we practice, sometimes we each bring a dish to share and all the kids play,” says Smith. Waller adds, “Occasionally, our son will sing with us on stage.”

Crooked Willow’s unique blend of melodies and toe-tapping rhythms were inspired by Gillian Welch of “O Brother, Where Art Thou?” fame. Waller says they “learned her [Welch’s] songs which opened the doors to traditional music and influenced what we do now. We’re Americana, not necessarily Bluegrass.”

Other artists they cover include Dave Rawlings, Old Crow Medicine Show and Shovels & Rope. And the band’s name?

Waller and Smith chose Crooked Willow to carry on the tradition of naming what (and who) they love after trees. Their two children are named Juniper and Cypress.

Find a time this December or January [see dates below] to gather your friends and enjoy the music of Crooked Willow, a band that is rooted in family.

Band Members Elisi Smith - Lead vocals, tenor banjo, kazoo Dan Driesen - Lead guitar Tim Waller - Vocals and guitar Erik Hanson - Bass Kari Gallagher - Fiddle Sylva Hanson – Washboard

GO: Crooked Willow Upcoming Gigs: December 5: Elmaro Winery December 27: Root Note December 31: Root Note January 29: With Pigtown Fling at Leo and Leona’s Connect: thecrookedwillowband@gmail.com 608-385-6785 www.facebook.com/crookedwillowband

SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |

Article: Lee Neves Photos: Bob Good

9

THE ARTS

Artisan [ahr-tuh-zuh n] noun

• a person skilled in an applied art; a craftsperson • a person or company that makes a high-quality or distinctive product in small quantities, usually by hand or using traditional methods • a person that makes the world go ‘round Renaissance people—that’s what many think of when they recall the word, artisan. In a day when forging, knitting and crafting by hand is a rarity, many think of years past. Yet, artisans are everywhere— and their numbers continue to grow. As people realize we innately have a yearning to create, they are turning to the world of hand-fashioned and personally made art. In a season of giving and sharing, turn

SEVEN | Issue #6 | December, 2015

Diana Hobson, winemaker and owner of DnA Vintners, knows a good cranberry. “All of the cranberries in my wine are harvested by hand,” Hobson states. With nearly one pound of fresh fruit in every bottle she produces, Hobson, of Sparta, is proud of the great relationship she has formed

10

Heidi Barreyro finds artistic inspiration everywhere, including board game pieces.

Over the last four years, this self-taught artisan has turned Scrabble® tiles into jewelry, key chains, cuff links and more.

Decorations of all types find their way to one side of the tiles, from periodic elements

with Hableman Brothers, grower of the cranberries featured in DnA’s award-winning cranberry wines.

“Farm to table is key,” Hobson asserts, when asked about the success of her product. “People appreciate buying things that are local. They love it.

I love making it.”

DnA is in its tenth year delivering homemade cranberry and fruit wines to local shelves, selling over 1,000 cases per year. With growing popularity, DnA now reaches a wider audience via directship orders that span the nation and earn world-wide acclaim. Hobson has won awards in a variety of events, taking gold medals on earrings to mini collages on pendants.

Barreyro researched various methods for affixing and protecting the art before perfecting the method she now uses. Then she reached into her childhood Scrabble game and got to work. Friends and family know to pick up the tile sets if they come across them. “The older, the better,” says Barreyro. “The wood has a better finish from the old sets.”

Many of her creations focus on a particular interest group or organization. For example, she has created designs specific to bicycling, Oktoberfest and Uffda Fest.

While Barreyro enjoys crafting designs with a Wisconsin theme, she is also partial to those featuring pieces of old books and those reflecting the Alpine theme of her Swiss-German heritage. She has even created pieces of tile jewelry meant to be worn with traditional dirndls. Lately, she’s been adding some bling with gems or

to local artisans for ideas and presents to give…or presents to make. Give them a call to learn more about their craft, find out how to gift their pieces to your loved ones, or even to tell them you think their creations are wonderful.

Introducing…The Artisans:

DIANA HOBSON Article: Deborah Nerud Photo: Dahli Durley in both the Women’s International and in the U.S. National Wine Competition. Most recently, the Frost Watch Orange (cranberry and orange) was the top-seller for the wine garden at the 2015 Milwaukee State Fair.

DnA features five main cranberry wines and one rhubarb wine: Frost Watch Red (semisweet), Sweet Paradise (sweet), Chocolate Paradise (chocolate-infused), Frost Watch Orange and Cranrhuby (cranberry and rhubarb 50/50 blend). All can be found in local grocery and specialty stores.

Try these wines starring local cranberries this holiday season. DnA’s newly-renovated tasting room at 1229 Caledonia St., La Crosse, Wis., is open to the public. Stop in and sample the wine that started with Hobson’s fascination with the winemaking process and became a true passion. Learn about tasting schedules and locations on DnA Vintners’ Facebook page or website.

Connect with Diana Hobson:

Phone: 608-498-0582 Email: Diana@dnavintners.com Website: www.dnavintners.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/dnavintners Found at: People’s Food Co-op and Festival Foods in La Crosse; and at retailers in Black River Falls, Mauston, Sparta, Spencer, Tomah, Warrens and Westby

HEIDI BARREYRO

Currently, Barreyro sells her creations through her Hoop-Di-Doo website, (updates coming soon) and is considering an Etsy site.

Meanwhile, view her tiles first hand at the stores listed below.

Article: Heidi Griminger Blanke Photo: Dahli Durley sparkles.

While Barreyro has some ready-made tiles, she is wide open to custom design and will gladly work with a customer to create distinct pieces for that person. If it can fit or be shrunk to fit on a Scrabble tile, Barreyro can craft it. How about an eight-tile bracelet featuring important memories, or even your child’s drawings? The list of uses for these artistic tiles is endless: magnets, wine charms, Christmas ornaments, bookmarks.

Looking for gift ideas for co-workers or book club members? You’re certain to score points with Barreyro’s unique and personal tile art.

Connect with Heidi Barreyro:

Phone: 608-787-0999 Email: lubimi@centurytel.net Website: www.hoopdidoo.com Found at: at the following shops in La Crosse, WI: Inspired, 1516 Market St.; Pearl Street Books, 323 Pearl St.; and Dimsum Tea Shop, 221 Pearl St.

Article: Tegan Daly Photo: Dahli Durley

If you spend time in downtown La Crosse, you’ll likely cross paths with a lot of creative locals, one of whom is multi-talented artisan Stephanie Sharp. You might see Sharp in

a coffee shop holding a distinctive mug: a mason jar tucked into a knitted sleeve complete with a handle. These colorful, smart, yet simple mason jar cozies are just one small example of Sharp’s creativity. She explores many other mediums, including mixed media, jewelry, painting, clay, metalwork, encaustics, photography and music. Sharp, like many artists, is happiest when she is creating, a characteristic she says she probably picked up as a child watching her woodworker father. Some of her earliest memories are of making crafts with found objects around the Missouri farm where she

DAVE SIKORSKI Article: Joe Hart Photos: Dahli Durley

It all started with a class assignment.

Wisconsin Dells native Dave Sikorski had recently earned his Bachelor’s degree in art and creative writing from UW-La Crosse, and was honing his graphic design skills at Western Tech. The assignment was to create a fictional brand identity for a company.

By the time he’d turned in his homework, Sikorski had made up his mind to create not just the brand, but the company itself.

Thus was born Collapsing Sun Threads,

a La Crosse-based graphic T-shirt company.

For Sikorski, the company is an outlet for his passion for printing. “I fell in love with the process of printmaking—from screen to wood cut and everything in between,” he says.

Sikorski’s designs are crisp, creative and contemporary. “I am a very organized person with a propensity for cohesive symmetry and line segments,” he says. His inspiration, he adds, frequently comes from religious iconography. “The symbols are often related to different cultures and religions then skewed to fit my personal ideology of life,” he explains.

Few things make more universally appropriate gifts for Midwesterners than warm, durable, winter gear. Since life in Wisconsin doesn’t stop for the weather, it’s a gift anyone will love. You can find a variety of handcrafted gift options made of wool from alpacas raised locally at Hickory Wind Farm near Bangor.

Alpaca fleece is softer and lighter than sheep’s wool, but just as warm.

It is considered hypoallergenic and, according to Nadine Beezley of Hickory Wind Farm, is often compared to cashmere.

Beezley bought her first alpaca in 2004 after taking early retirement from her

Each product comes with a description that Sikorski says reflects his personal life philosophy. Identity, for instance, he describes as an image of the “centered self” and “complete awareness in believing in yourself above all else.”

Unlike many shirt makers, Sikorski uses non-toxic, waterbased ink. Twelve percent of every sale is donated to the nonprofit organization Amnesty International.

Since he launched the company in May, business has steadily increased, largely through wordof-mouth appreciation of Sikorski’s design work. “People in the community are getting excited about my art,” he says. “I often get asked, ‘When is the new design coming out?’ The best feeling in the world is seeing a product that I’ve put countless hours in creating being worn and displayed.”

NADINE BEEZLEY Article: Tegan Daly Photo: Chad Berger career at UW-La Crosse in order to pursue her passion for farming. She raises awardwinning Huacaya alpacas, which are native to the Altiplano region of the Andes in South America. Alpacas were domesticated by the Inca thousands of years ago, and have been bred for the softness and quality of their fleece, as well as their good-natured personalities. Beezley’s original plan was to raise alpacas strictly for breeding stock, but eventually, inspired by her mother’s interest in alpaca yarn production, began selling both yarn and finished products such as hats, scarves, baby booties, mittens and

the spoons. “The nourishment that they delivered to families,” she adds. “There’s just something comforting about that.”

Connect with Stephanie Sharp: Website: www.blissfulheartstudio.com Found at: www.etsy.com/shop/ blissfulheartstudio

Connect with Dave Sikorski:

Phone: 608-963-9399 Email: sikorski.davi@gmail.com Website: www.collapsingsun.bigcartel.com Found at: The Root Note, La Crosse, WI; Black Squrl Skate Shop, La Crosse, WI

shawls. The yarn is soft and cushiony, yet durable, and wicks away moisture. Beezley says, “Once you use alpaca yarn, it spoils you.”

At Beezley’s farm shop, you’ll find items made with fleece from her animals and a variety of yarn, as well as Fair Trade products from Peru and high-quality socks. The shop is open on Sundays, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. through January, or by appointment. Beezley also sells her products at a number of craft shows and festivals, which are updated on her website. This holiday season, consider a gift that any Wisconsinite would be thrilled to receive! Who’s ready for a trip to the farm?

Connect with Nadine Beezley:

Phone: 608-486-4868 Email: alpacas_hwf@centurytel.net Website: www.hickorywindfarm.com Found at: Hickory Wind Farm Store, N7080 Garves Coulee Road, Bangor WI, and at various events noted on the website

SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |

STEPHANIE SHARP

grew up.

“My friends call me a renaissance woman, because I love learning new skills and techniques,” says Sharp. One of her newer explorations is making cuff bracelets out of vintage silverplated spoons.

She embellishes the bracelets with inspirational and clever quotes, adding an even more personalized feel. If you’re looking for a unique gift, consider one of Sharp’s bracelets.

Jewelry like this is created with intention and offers gift givers a refreshing option in a market saturated with mass produced products. Sharp takes custom orders or you can purchase already completed pieces.

While making the bracelets, Sharp says she imagines the kitchens that once used

11

THE ARTS ALI KAUSS Article: Becca Dargatz Contributed Photos

Ali Kauss was born in Brookefield, Wis., but raised in Scottsdale, Ariz. She graduated from Arizona State University in 2002 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Metalsmithing and an emphasis in jewelry making. After moving to Alaska for a short time, Kauss and her husband, along with their two children, moved to a 116-acre farm in Loganville, Wisconsin. There they founded

artist retreat called The Bricolage, a French word that loosely translates to “using what you have.” The Bricolage provides space, as well as workshops, for individuals to connect with nature and the creative process.

Kauss’ jewelry is primarily sterling silver, with additions of copper, brass, pearls, stones and found objects. Each piece is oneof-a-kind or part of a limited edition and is constructed using a variety of techniques, including soldering, fusing, piercing, folding, raising, riveting and cold-connecting. Kauss makes all the chains and clasps by hand, and strives to create unusual settings to hold the objects rather than using machine-made

DOUG BILYEU Article: Joe Hart Photos: Dahli Durley

When Doug Bilyeu was an art student at UW-La Crosse, he happened to stumble upon a blacksmithing demonstration while wandering through the art building. “I watched for a bit and decided I wanted to do that,” he remembers. Thirty years later, he’s still pounding steel.

Bilyeu runs a metalworking shop in the former La Crosse Footwear complex, where he does mostly commissioned work. “I don’t advertise a lot,” he says. “I get enough work, and I get to pick and choose what I want to do.”

His most common projects are gates, rails, fences and light fixtures—and he not only makes them from scratch, but also restores older projects. Currently, he’s fixing five sections of a wrought-iron cemetery fence that were destroyed in a car crash.

He has made some sculptures as well, but he prefers art that is used in everyday life. “My whole deal is functional art,” Bilyeu

SEVEN | Issue #6 | December, 2015

MONICA ORBAN

12

Article: Leah Call Photos: Chad Berger

Hand-dyed scarves, hand-knit caps, oil and watercolor paintings, wood crafts and woolen ornaments are among the many unique items you’ll find at the Nisse House of Art on Main Street in Westby, Wis. The shop is a haven for local art with more than 50 area artists displaying their wares. “There is art in every nook and cranny here. We do have some vintage, but we really try to focus on local art,” says owner Monica Orban.

With plenty of holiday gift options, this shop also offers a fun alternative: Make your

own.

Some of the same artists that sell their creations at Nisse House also teach and inspire others. Rosemaling, silk scarf dying, quilting and basket making are just a few of the classes that bring people together in the name of art. Orban herself teaches courses on terrariums, container gardens, bonsai and topiary. Nisse House is for the community, says Orban, and it’s important that people feel safe to express themselves.

With a background in science and a creative spirit, Orban moved to the area from Michigan. She purchased a farm, practiced sustainable agriculture and later worked as

items. “Aesthetic inconsistencies within the adornments reflect a rebellion of the manmade sense of perfection, and asymmetry reflects the human touch, not the soul-less

Connect with Ali Kauss:

Phone: 608-322-9237 Email: alikauss@gmail.com Website: www.kaussart.com Found at: The Bricolage, E5838 Feldman Rd. Loganville WI 608-371-4160

machine,” says Kauss. “My work is intuitive and each step informs the next.”

Expressing individuality and grace, while also providing a sense of joy and a feeling of nobility, Kauss’ pieces are created as a celebration of life.

Kauss loves commission work and working directly with clients. For her creating a piece unique to each customer is an empowering interaction. “It is why supporting local artists is so important,” she says. “You get to invest in your community, buy something unique, have the ability to meet the maker, and keep art alive.”

Galleries with Kauss’ work: The Artisan, Paoli, WI (Trunk Show – Dec. 5, 10-3) Outside The Lines Gallery, Dubuque, IA Outside The Lines Gallery, Galena, IL Oracle, Kansas City, MO VIVA, Viroqua, WI Objects, Scottsdale, AZ The Cornerstone, Baraboo, WI

explains. “I want to make something you can use, something that’s custom made, and it serves a purpose. Sculpture’s functionality is you stand there and look at it; I want people to put their hands on it and use it.”

As a result, his work isn’t in showrooms or galleries, but in countless homes and fields throughout the region. He’s considering building up a backlog of smaller items such as trivets and candleholders, but he’s careful in how he proceeds. “In all the time I’ve been doing this, I’ve never really made the same thing twice,” he says. “I’m not out in the mass production world, because that would drive me nuts.”

Bilyeu prefers instead the unique commissions that come to him—like the farmer who fell asleep on his tractor and knocked over his old windmill. “He [the farmer] asked, ‘Can you take that and make a ceiling fan out of it?’ and I said ‘sure!’ So now he has an eight-foot-one-inch ceiling fan in his living room.”

Call it crazy or call it a creative challenge— Bilyeu calls it a good time. “Stuff like that is senior event coordinator for Organic Valley before discovering the building that would become the Nisse House.

“There are so many artists here in this area,” she adds. “Throw a stick and you’re going to hit an artist; you’re going to hit a musician; you’re going to hit someone in the theatre or in the healing arts. You’re going to hit a farmer. Let’s face it, we’re all artists.”

And while Orban doesn’t actually throw sticks, she does regularly throw out opportunities to practice a range of art forms. Upcoming classes include a Vikingstyle knitted metal jewelry-making class and rosemaling classes. Subscribe to the newsletter at nissehouse.com or follow Nisse House on Facebook to find out about class offerings.

Orban also envisions a number of pop-up courses. “It might be oil painting, drawing, it might be mending—we do mending and altered clothing classes—so bring your project, and we’ll work with you. Or just stop in and say, ‘hey, I want to make something.’ It is kind of a maker station here.”

really fun,” he says. “Look, I don’t have to do this work, I like to do this work.”

Connect with Doug Bilyeu: Phone: 608-769-1763 Email: z2444@yahoo.com Website: www.cityforgelax.com

Connect with Monica Orban:

Phone: 608-634-2090 Email: art@NisseHouse.com Website: www.nissehouse.com Found at: 211 S. Main Street, Westby, WI

Olivia Dubiel and Calahan W. Skogman in ‘A Streetcar Named Desire

A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE Article: Heidi Griminger Blanke Photos: Dahli Durley

in realism and one involving intense emotions, explains Cherne. It is truly a learning process. “It requires these actors to maintain a character and emotional intensity of ups and downs through a fairly long play,” says Cherne.

“So it really stretches their ability to act.”

The content is timeless: sexual violence and domestic abuse at one end and the role of truth and beauty at the other. The UWL version will feature its own interpretation.

Cherne says, “We’re stressing the environment outside the apartment.

We’re making parallels with what’s going on inside the apartment with what’s going on outside the apartment within a wider society. And we’re also emphasizing what’s going on in Blanche’s mind.”

For students, it’s a look into the way mental health and women’s places in society were viewed in the 1940s; shame and secrecy surrounded both. Cherne

brought in experts in mental health and domestic abuse to help students better understand the internal and societal struggles.

Male student actors, says Cherne, needed “to step inside the character of a male who would hit his wife, who would commit a sexual assault. They really want to understand that, so they can portray it. The women in the play questioned why women stay in relationships like this. How do they deal with it?” The goal of those questions, notes Cherne, “…to understand how their characters think and feel, and how they act based on those thoughts and feelings.”

Though the play is quite serious, the students did have some lighter moments centered around the staged confrontations. One of the students developed the choreography. “They have a great time doing that,” says Cherne.

Set aside some time to attend UWL’s staging of this Tennessee William’s Pulitzer Prize winning drama. It will pull at your heartstrings and leave you wondering how, or if, the world has changed.

Heidi Griminger Blanke congratulates the students involved with “A Streetcar Named Desire.” Break a leg!

GO: A Streetcar Named Desire Where: Toland Theatre, UWL Center for the Arts, 16th & Vine Streets, La Crosse WI When: Dec. 4-5 and 10-12: 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 6 and 13: 2 p.m.

Tickets: Tickets go on sale Monday, Nov. 30 at 1 p.m. $16 adults; $14 seniors/non UWL students; $5 UWL students.

Info: Box office: 608-785-8522 www.uwlax.edu/Theatre-Arts/Seasonlisting

SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |

T

he University of Wisconsin-La Crosse (UWL) production of “A Streetcar Named Desire” has just as much meaning today as it did when it was penned nearly sixty years ago. Director Beth Cherne calls it a deep and riveting drama. She notes, “It says a lot about the way we live our lives and what and who to value in our lives.”

The classic was chosen so that UWL students could experience a play based

13

THE ARTS

Jeff Sipe’s hand showcasing his print, ‘Ride Bikes with Your Friends’

PEDAL, INK. First Underground Pop-up Art Show a Success

SEVEN | Issue #6 | December, 2015

Article: Lee Neves Photos: Dahli Durley

14

Liz and Paul Reardon

Kris Morgan Brown with her print on left, ‘Travelers’

Blue Steel Bikes

Children play near Elizabeth Reardon’s ‘Wisconsin No. 3’

Amy Moss with her print, ‘Turn of the Wheel Through the La Crosse River Marsh Trail’

Pedal, Ink. Artist List 1. Amy Moss - ‘Turn of the Wheel Through the La Crosse River Marsh Trail’ 2. Misha Bolstad - ‘Roll-On’ 3. Andrea Glick - ‘Bike on the Trail’

A

up art show. Each display print was carefully hung from chrome binder clips attached to framing wire strewn between metal posts. Paul Reardon, Blue Steel Bikes owner, showcased his custom, handmade bicycles as an event bonus. The first-time event was truly a success with more than 125 sold prints, equaling $2,500 in sales for the artists.

Additionally, new relationships were forged in the name of bicycles and art.

One artist had a request for his print to be made into a shirt; another had requests for her piece to be enlarged for a holiday gift. The community can still request prints from most of the artists.

And for next year? Young says they will “possibly be expanding the medium, accepting other kinds of art, create more of an art show exhibit; because some artists might want to sell just one painting instead of 20 prints of one.” Regardless, the heart of the show will be to celebrate the marriage of bicycles and art.

5. Chandra Sherin - ‘On a Bike Her Wings Appear’ 6. Sam Servais - Untitled 7. Dale Westaby - ‘I Bike Everywhere’ 8. Sabrina Bruehling - ‘Bike La Crosse’ 9. Justin Wade Heimer - ‘Bike Country’ 10. Chuck Berendes - ‘Forward’ 11. Christina Cox - ‘Low Life’

Cody Bartz with his print, ‘Sunset Rides Around the Driftless’

12. Kris Morgan Brown - ‘Travellers’ 13. Jodene Warden - ‘I Bike Coulee Region’ 14. Elizabeth Reardon - ‘Wisconsin No. 3’ 15. Kevin Miller - ‘Between the Lines’ 16. Landon Sheely - ‘bicycle’ 17. Daniel Johnson - ‘Crank heArt’ 18. Jake Phillips - ‘The Highrider’ 19. Jeff Sipe - ‘Ride Bikes with Your Friends’ 20. Cody Bartz - ‘Sunset Rides Around the Driftless’

For updates, www.facebook.com/PedalInkLaX.

Sam Servais’ Untitled print

SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |

few hundred people gathered throughout the afternoon of November 7 on the third floor of Pearl Street Brewery’s reclaimed old factory building for the first annual Pedal Ink. pop-up art show. The gist: local artists create a piece of bicycle-themed 2D art, make 26 prints of it (one to hang, 25 to sell), pay $25 to get in the show, and sell each print at $20 for the artist to keep. This concept was inspired

by ARTCRANK, a similar event out of Minneapolis. Event organizers, Robbie Young and Mario Youakim, both highly involved in the local bicycling scene, felt connecting the art and cycling communities made sense. “We knew the event would be a fun thing to do to get some exposure for local artists and to provide an audience of bicyclists to them,” says Young. “It’s easy to bring these people out for a party.”

PSB sponsored the venue, which added an industrial aesthetic, associated with an underground pop-

4. Marty Sobeck - ‘Barn Find’

Pedal Ink. Organizers, Robbie Young and Mario Youakim

Beautiful folks whose names we didn’t catch.

Bicycle Enthusiast and Art Fan, Jim Cavanaugh

15

BUSINESS

MERINGUE Cakes, Cookies and More

Article: Jess Witkins Photos: Theresa Smerud

SEVEN | Issue #6 | December, 2015

M

16

eringue owner Jen Barney had one primary goal for her business.

“I wanted Meringue to be more than just an average bakery.”

Mission accomplished. Described as a full-circle bakery, Meringue incorporates locally sourced ingredients and buys from small, family-owned businesses.

Meringue’s menu houses all the basics you know and love for your cake, cupcake and candy cravings.

But a phone call to Barney will result in a rundown of the best seasonal ingredients she has to offer to make your order a truly delectable one. “I let the ingredients shine and try not to complicate things,” says Barney. “I make everything from scratch and fresh to order.”

A graduate of Le Cordon Bleu in Minneapolis, Barney believes, “When a dessert is made with integrity and skill, it tastes better.” Growing up, Barney saw firsthand the power of a well-prepared meal by watching her grandmother in the kitchen. She read her grandmother’s cookbooks like some people read

novels, and dreamed up the desserts she would bake one day. “It isn’t even about eating—just about community and sharing an experience.”

Though cooking and baking were always integral in Barney’s young adult life, she didn’t immediately pursue a career as a pastry chef. She started her education intending to be an art teacher and worked a brief stint as a correctional officer. In order to de-stress, she would bake. “I turned holiday baking into an Olympic sport.”

When she saw a commercial on television for a Pastry Chef Associates Degree, a lightbulb went off. Art and food can be combined? Barney transferred to Le Cordon Bleu the following semester.

“Desserts can tell a story, and I want every dessert I make to reflect each client and the occasion,” says Barney.

Her specialty is wedding cakes, but she supplies area restaurants, coffee shops and hotels with fresh pastries and baked goods. Barney is committed to ensuring a great baking experience for her clients and the community. She has

even started a YouTube channel and blog, offering baking tips and tricks.

Let Meringue handle some of your holiday baking. In December all French Macarons are 20% off. Meringue also offers free delivery on December 23 to all locations within 15 miles from downtown La Crosse. The December holiday dessert menu includes yule logs, freshly made brittle, toffee and

pumpkin cheesecake. How could you resist? Check out Meringue and taste the joy!

Meringue currently uses kitchen rental space at Pogreba Restaurant in La Crosse. To place an order for pickup or delivery, call 608-780-3982.

For menu and more information, go to www.meringuecakes.com.

What is The DAMN TASTY? Simply this—fresh food, made with love.

Raised in La Crescent, Nicole Norman Elliott, age 35, now a La Crosse chef and entrepreneur, grew The DAMN TASTY out of a deep love for food. “I’ve always been obsessed with food,” Elliott asserts. “I used to collect ‘The Taste of Home’ magazine and cut out the articles—even when I was a kid.”

Elliott, who attended culinary school at Kendall College in Illinois, has worked in numerous La Crosse bars and restaurants.

Her time spent at The Waterfront in La Crosse expanded her repertoire in the food industry, allowing her to highlight her talents and creativity. She recalls running the lunch line there. “I was given a lot of creative freedom, had access to the freshest ingredients, and I felt like I honed my skills.”

Elliott credits numerous businesses and individuals for their impact on her decision to

FRESH, FLAVORFUL AND DAMN TASTY Article: Deborah Nerud Photos: Dahli Durley

create The DAMN TASTY in March of 2015.

After working in food service for La Crosse County, where her responsibilities included menu planning and preparation of meals for the jail, Meals on Wheels and numerous other groups, Elliott discovered her talent for planning and implementing meals on a large scale. She worked the numbers with her husband, James Elliott, and realized that launching her own independent catering business was a feasible goal. And with the help of Heather Johnson at the Coulee Region Business Center (CRBC), that goal became a reality.

CRBC on 1100 Kane St. in La Crosse, Wis., is home to 18 member businesses, including The DAMN TASTY, Wyatt Bicycle and Task Karate. The center offers affordable space, resources, business guidance and access to a full-service, shared-use commercial kitchen.

Though The DAMN TASTY doesn’t have a traditional storefront, Elliott encourages the curious—and hungry—to stop by. “We offer lunch delivery only on Thursdays and Fridays from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., but we are prepping and catering seven days a week,” says Elliott.

The DAMN Tasty has a rotating menu that features a wide variety of soups, sandwiches, and specialty entrees, including chicken pot pie, pork enchiladas suizas and butter chicken in a curry coconut sauce. In all her offerings, Elliott successfully highlights her favorite flavors using the freshest ingredients. “I love big, in-yourface, intense cuisines, like Thai, Mexican and Cajun, where every element is packed with flavor,” she adds.

Elliott’s food venture has seen a lot of growth, and word-of-mouth has been the best advertisement thus far. “People are spreading the word, especially on Facebook,” Elliott notes.

With a team of three (Emmy Carlson, Babs Stiers and Jeff Brennan), Elliott and The DAMN TASTY offer free delivery, accept all major credit cards and are looking to the future. “My dream is to go fully organic and to connect with other local businesses that share my artistic vision for the best local, organic and sustainable product.”

As mother to Jade (18 mos.), and stepmother to Shaylyn (13) and Dallis (19), Elliott’s dreams for The DAMN TASTY are well-rooted by family, a desire to be close to

the land and a deep respect for her product.

Elliott emphasizes, “The DAMN TASTY is fresh, it’s made with love, and every week I can take a picture of a 28-foot table that is loaded with the fresh produce we use for our meals. I know that we are among an elite group that offer everything fresh and from scratch.”

Elliott shared a recipe on 22 of this issue, so SEVEN readers can try it out in their own kitchens.

What: The DAMN TASTY: A catering and lunch delivery business Where: Coulee Region Business Center; 1100 Kane St., La Crosse, WI Media: www.thedamntastylax.com www.facebook.com/theDamnTastyLax Phone: 608-782-1973

NEED A RIDE? Safe Escape is On Its Way Article: Jess Witkins

Some people get their good ideas in the shower. For Chris and Beth Swertfeger, it came while driving home from South Carolina.

“We had lots of time to kill on the 20-hour drive back, and this idea came up … ‘wouldn’t it be great if when you were out on the town, and knew you needed a cab home, that you could get your car back with you as well?’” recalls Chris Swertfeger.

The couple was just starting their family, and Chris had been working for PACAL LLC in La Crosse for over a decade. When the business shut down in July, they decided it was as good a time as any to try out their business

endeavor.

Safe Escape, which officially launched in October, is a driver service similar to a taxi, except not only do the Swertfegers transport you home, they also drive your car there. Operating Thursday through Saturday, 8:00 p.m. to 3:00 a.m., Safe Escape eliminates the worry of leaving your vehicle behind and having to pick it up the next day—or most importantly driving while intoxicated.

With holiday party season approaching, keep Safe Escape in mind. You can plan your Safe Escape ahead of time or as needed by calling 608-350-1898 or booking through the website. While they operate similar to

a taxi service, a contract and proof of insurance is required.

“We look at every ride we give as a potentially life-saving opportunity for our patrons and other drivers on the road,” says Beth. “On Halloween night, we had a woman call us at 2:30 in the morning—which was actually 3:30 a.m. to us, because of daylight savings time—who needed a ride. None of the cab companies were even answering their phones at that time. She was so

thankful that we were available, able to drive her manual transmission car, and that it would be there for her in the morning. It was great to know she wouldn’t be forced to make a bad decision just to drive or try to walk home.”

To learn more about Safe Escape, check out YourSafeEscape.com, where you’ll find terms of service, contract and the online booking option.

SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |

Photos: Bob Good

17

SIP N' TASTE Something to Crow About By: Nancy Nosher

FOOD Review

There’s something decadent about going out for dinner in the middle of the week, so I make it a habit to indulge myself often. This week, three dining companions and I ate at The Old Crow.

First off, before I forget: order the macaroni and cheese, but more on that later. A second word of advice: get there between 3:00 and 6:00 p.m. in order to partake of discounted drinks and appetizers. Silly me, missed it by ten minutes.

Old Crow is a sizeable space, with high-top tables, typical tables and a large central bar with seating. Spacious ceilings and few walls means the noise level can get up there, especially when there’s a crowd. Our server was polite and attentive, but it would be nice if glasses of water and flatware for everyone was automatic.

The beer and bourbon menus are extensive. You could have a different drink every week and still not partake of them all. One of my dining companions opted for the evening’s featured New Glarus, which turned out to be quite flowery. The dark beer aficionados went with Central Water Mud Puppy Porter, a beer with deep flavor that opened up as it warmed.

I tried a bottle of Tyranena Three Beaches Honey Blond, perfect for a warmish fall evening.

On to the food. My companions ordered burgers: the B4 (Big Bacon Brisket Burger), a monster topped with cheese, onions, and horseradish; and the Cordon Bleu Burger, topped with chicken, ham, bacon, and cheese (nice and juicy). Every burger arrives two patties high, though you can request a single, and your choice of side. Get the macaroni and cheese, but I repeat myself. This M&C doesn’t come from any blue box. The sauce is rich, as in butter and cream, and cheesy, but not overly so. It’s also an entrée, so grab some children and use them as an excuse to order big bowls of the stuff.

WINE

by Wohlert

SEVEN | Issue #6 | December, 2015

WINE 18

Review

By: Todd Wohlert

TINY BUBBLES

Let It Flow, Don Ho Usually when people bring out the bubbly, it is for celebrations: weddings, anniversaries, launching a boat, or just to show everyone how rich you are (or pretend to be) and how much you don’t care about spending ridiculous amounts of money, i.e., rappers in the ‘90s.

Sparkling wine had a simpler, uglier start. Effervescence was initially a defect in wine. Some random yeasts would get into the almost finished wine and start a second fermentation causing bubbles to form and corks to pop. Back in the dark ages when this happened, they thought it was the work of the devil and would dump everything and find some naughty people to burn at the stake. As time went on and people became more rational, they figured out how to control this second fermentation to actually produce some tasty beverages.

So, how do you make sparkling wine?

There are three basic ways, but first you have to make some wine. Grow the grapes, harvest the grapes, ferment the grapes, then make the wine.

After you have the wine, you do a controlled second fermentation where

I wasn’t in a meat mood and ordered the Burrito Burger, a black bean patty garnished with salsa, sour cream, guacamole, cheese, lettuce and Doritos (on the side, please) and fries. Unfortunately, the patty was so soft, it fell apart and I ended up eating my “burger” with a fork. The fries were next - a mix of curly, waffle and straight, sprinkled with seasoning.

When you’re ready to indulge yourself, check out the Old Crow. Overall, the burgers are delicious, the toppings varied, and the macaroni and cheese to die for. The wine list is scant, but the beer and bourbon offerings robust. Head to the corner of Third and Main and see for yourself.

Nancy Nosher has been eating all her life. Her favorite foods are wine and chocolate, but she’ll settle for pistachio-crusted Ahi tuna, blueberries with cream and her own frosted chocolate chip brownies.

She doesn’t like brats, but she’s a nice person anyway.

GO:

The Old Crow 100 3rd Street S., La Crosse, WI

608-519-5400

www.theoldcrow.com

Hours: Monday-Thursday: 11 a.m.–2 a.m.

Friday and Saturday: 11 a.m.–2:30 a.m.

Sunday: 11 a.m.–midnight

you add more sugar and yeast. The traditional or Champagne method is to do this in the bottle. It involves a lot of manual labor and gives you really tiny bubbles which is part of the reason those sparkling wines cost so much. The second way is the Charmat method where you do the second fermentation in a big tank. Once the wine gets bubbly, you transfer it to the individual bottles. This makes the wine more affordable, but you lose some quality. The final method, Carbon injection (CO2), does not involve a second fermentation or quality. It’s what is used to make soda pop and really cheap bubbly, too. The bubbles are large and dissipate quickly.

This is the stuff served at most lame weddings. The head table gets the Champagne. The guest tables get the cheap truck stop bubbly, which tastes weird and will probably give you a headache and/or bowel distress.

Sparkling wines have varying levels of sweetness (like grandmas) and that is prominently labeled on the bottle. Starting with the driest and going to the sweetest, you have: Brut Nature, Extra Brut, Brut, Extra Dry, Dry or Sec, Demi-Sec, Sweet or Doux, and sugarbomb. (Ok, that last one was mine, but it should be a technical term, especially in the Midwest).

Every major wine-making country has their own sparkling wine.

Obviously, Champagne is the most famous and people mistakenly call all sparkling wine Champagne, which the wine makers from Champagne don’t like and have used litigation to show their displeasure. There are also examples from other countries. Italy has Moscato d’Asti, Brachetto d’Acqui and Prosecco. Spain has Cava. France also has Cremant, in addition to Champagne. Germany has Sekt. Portugal has Espumante.

Russia has Sovetskoye Shampanskoye. (I am not even sure how to pronounce that one.)

This month’s featured wine is Parxet Cuvee 21 Cava from Spain. This is a fine, delicate wine; pale in hue with a greenish tinge, fine, persistent bubbles and good mousse. Full, fruity and intensely flavored, this is a great food wine or a great base for Mimosas or Bellinis.

Todd Wohlert works for Purple Feet Wines, a member of the Winebow Group. He is not an expert in wines but he unfortunately knows more that 99% of the people in the state. His goal is to change that to 98% by the end of the year.

Style: English Keeping Ale / Winter Warmer Brewer: Summit Brewery, St. Paul, Minn.

Price Point: $9 / six pack of 12 oz. bottles

at local retailer

BEER

Winter Ale

Alcohol by Volume: 6.1%

By: A.J. Moore

Appearance: Deep earthy brown with brilliant clarity. There is

absolutely no evidence of flocculent yeast or haze in this beer whatsoever.

The moderate carbonation makes for a really controllable pour and raises a rocky bubbly head that collapses rather quickly. The head dissipates into a persistent layer of foam and small bubbles of mixed sizes, leaving thick bands of lacing as the surface descends.

Aroma: Classic nutty aroma most commonly associated with brown ales followed by hints of light roast coffee, fig, brown sugar and the unmistakable fruity esters of traditional English ale yeasts. There is also a very mild sweet smell of ground whole grains and clean straw.

Taste: First, there is no distinct or obvious “holiday spice” flavor, which is fitting as this is not a traditionally spiced style. Instead this draft settles comfortably in the middle ground between a Northern Brown Ale and a Barleywine. It’s surprisingly light and clean, with flavors of mild chocolate malts, baked cherries and plums, brown bread and cold lightly-roasted coffee. Hop character is not particularly distinct, aside from some slight spiciness and florals and a touch of bitterness as a parting note that is faintly reminiscent of a certain eponymous chocolate orange candy.

Review

Presence: Although relatively lighter in body than expected, there’s a peculiar silkiness to it that provides a pleasant mouthfeel without being particularly cloying or heavy. The moderate carbonation and balanced hop bitterness give it a distinct warm and peppery effect on the tongue, yet the finish is exceptionally clean and light in a way that I would compare to well-aged lager beers. There is only the faintest trace of alcohol warmth.

X-Factors and Overall: This beer reflects all of the best characteristics of an English Northern Brown ale and dials them up to 11.

It’s both subtle and complex with spicy, nutty, fruity and warming flavors and aromas, yet it maintains a balance of body and finish that makes it exceptionally drinkable and satisfying.

As the snow swirls and the ice gets thicker, look to this versatile perennial favorite to be a steady regular in the chalet, your ice shack, your backpack or your recliner. It will also make a fine accompaniment to your favorite holiday fare.

Until then, Cheers!

A.J. Moore is a renaissance man. In addition to writing, tabletop gaming, smelting, blacksmithing, woodworking and restoring antique hand tools, A.J. is a homebrewer, occasional beer judge and member of the La Crosse LAGERS homebrewer club.

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SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |

WING NIGHT

19

SIP N' TASTE

Luke Zahm. Contributed photo.

THE COMFORT OF FOOD SEVEN | Issue #6 | December, 2015

Article: Joerg Droll

W

arming, rich and flavorful food is great any time of year. But as the temperatures drop, we tend to gravitate toward the gravy and mashed potatoes even more.

Defining Comfort Food How do we define comfort food?

There are several different aspects that are equally relevant. First and foremost, it’s all about culture. Comfort foods tend to be traditional foods and 20 every region, country, culture and even

every family has its own traditions.

Where an Englishman (or woman) will yearn for Sheppard’s pie, a German will long for Schweinebraten mit Knoedeln (roast of pork with dumplings).

Secondly the climate plays a role. As we’ve already mentioned, comfort food—at least in our culture—tends to play a bigger role in fall and winter than during the hot summer months.

This of course is easily explained through anthropology: As winter nears, our body signals that it needs more fat storage to make it through the next

(short) ice age. Thirdly, stress seems to be an activator of the glutton in us all.

Yup, that’s why we have that candy bar stash in our desk drawer. And finally, gender plays a certain role. Where men tend to lean towards not so lean and savory foods (think steak, pork, pasta), women seem to prefer sweets (i.e. ice cream, desserts, chocolate).

From the Mouths of Chefs To help explain our comfort food cravings, we talked to three chefs from the near and not so near. We wanted

to hear it from the pros who make a living creating food for us.

Gavin Keeling For Gavin Keeling, executive chef at Trempealeau Hotel, comfort food is all about family tradition. “My family has moved around a lot. Whenever we made it back to Albuquerque, New Mexico, we’d celebrate the family gatherings through the green chili.”

The Keeling clan would head out and buy up to 50 pounds of roasted green chilies. “In the Southwest you

the restaurant is fish and chips, and it has all the things a comfort food requires. People love it and it goes great with beer.”

A lot of Anchor’s regulars are from Ireland, Great Britain and Australia, and it seems at least that part of the Common Wealth crave fish and chips as their comfort food, and it’s a welcome reason to reminisce about their origins. “That’s how we as owners feel. It brings us home and makes me especially think of my native Tipperary and my dad, who would bring home fish and chips wrapped in newspaper for my five siblings, my mum and me. Happy memories of us kids and our parents munching on our favorite food.”

Joerg Droll is a freelance writer from Germany. Prior to moving to the United States, he spent 20 years at various men’s lifestyle publications working his way up from intern to managing editor at the German editions of magazines like Playboy, Men’s Health, GQ and MAXIM.

Celebrity Chef Comfort Food Gordon Ramsay (UK) Beef & ale stew Bubble & squeak jacket potato - egg and cabbage filled potato Pear & ginger galette (“Gordon Ramsay’s Home Cooking”) Tim Mälzer (DE) Labskaus - Stew of beets, beef, potatoes and pickled herring (Tim Mälzer.info) Jamie Oliver (UK) Winter Nights Chilli - Pork belly and brisket chilli with rustic bread and apple/onion salsa (Yes, chili can be spelled with two Ls.) (jamieoliver.com) Jacques Papin (FR) Onion Soup (cookinglight.com) Nick Stellino (IT) Polpettine di pollo in umido - Chicken Soup with Meatballs (nickstellino.com)

Kathryn (on left) and wife and Anchor co-owner, Jenny Crouser, enjoying fish and chips. Contributed photo. then simmers for hours and hours to give us a demi as thick as molasses made up of concentrated beef flavor.”

Luke Zahm Making food from scratch and using seasonal and local food is equally important to Luke Zahm, owner and chef at Viroqua’s Driftless Cafe. “Our menu changes every day, based on what is available from our farmers and in season. Every dish becomes seasonal, which is in essence, the ultimate expression of comfort food.”

His personal comfort food: “I can’t talk about comfort food without paying a nod to my recently passed grandmother, who was one of the primary influences of cooking for me.

She made the most amazing fried chicken.” And what makes grandma’s fried chicken so great? “It’s literally everything a kid from Wisconsin dreams about in fried chicken—salty, hints of black pepper, a nice crust, juicy tender meat and a touch of cayenne to round it out.” Chef Luke says he’s used this recipe often, including at his restaurant, and it is this dish that kind of defined him as a chef in Viroqua.

Kathryn Hayes Kathryn Hayes, co-owner of the Anchor Fish and Chips in the heart of northeast Minneapolis handles the comfort food question in her typical Irish, pragmatic way. “Our staple at

SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |

will find these huge roadside chili roasters everywhere. My dad still calls them ‘squirrel cages’. We’d grab a bunch of them, often mixing the different spice levels, drag them home and spend the next five hours cleaning the peppers.”

To this day, whenever Keeling makes it to Texas, he and the family will get their chili on. “It’s a lot of work, but after one day, we’ll have enough cleaned and frozen chilies to make it through the year.”

And what does one do with all those chilies? “Man, we put them in everything. Green chili salsa with your eggs in the morning. Green chili mixed with the pork in your empanadas for lunch, and if we’re grilling steak for dinner, it’ll come with a red wine, onion and green chili reduction.”

At his restaurant, Chef Gavin takes it easier on the chilies. “We have one dish that we take off the menu every spring and people basically start hounding us in late summer to get it back on.” That dish is the humble meat loaf. “We make everything from scratch, and people seem to appreciate that fact and the work that goes into it.” Even seemingly miniscule details like the caramelized onion and smoked bacon gravy gets the kitchen’s full attention. “The base for the gravy is a beef demi glace that literally takes days to make. It goes from roasted bones to a stock and

Gavin Keeling. Photo: Bob Good.

21

No storefront?

No problem

Local, seasonal, sustainable foods are key to business for two La Crosse-based food entrepreneurs: Nicole Norman Elliott, owner of The DAMN TASTY, and Shawn McManus, owner of Savory Creations. Both chefs own and operate businesses that offer a unique variety of flavors and menus that reflect the bounty of the Coulee Region.

The chefs were asked to provide a description of their business and background, as well as a recipe that best represents their culinary style; a recipe a novice could cook, yet a seasoned tongue could appreciate.

Article: Deborah Nerud

Photo: Dahli Durley

The DAMN TASTY

Nicole Norman Elliott’s The DAMN TASTY is a labor of love, where ingredients and recipes are delivered with a lot of heart. When talking about her lunch and catering business, Elliott says, “I love my job. I go home every day feeling good about what I’ve done.” Read more about The DAMN TASTY, Nicole Norman Elliott, and the beauty of living in a regional picnic basket in this issue on page 17.

From Nicole Norman Elliott: “One of my favorite holiday ingredients is puff pastry, because it is so versatile. My favorite thing to make is this Tomato, Bacon and Gruyere Tart, which can be made for brunch served with a simple salad, or even as a tasty breakfast dish served with an over-easy egg and fruit! These could also be made into individual tartlets for a quick appetizer. The possibilities are endless! Enjoy!”

t yere Tar

& Gru , Bacon

SEVEN | Issue #6 | December, 2015

Tomato

22

astry of puff p rated 1 sheet g , e ruyer umbled 2 cups G oked bacon, cr ced sli co 4 slices matoes, thinly to a m o 3R

Photo: Dahli Durley Who: Nicole Norman Elliott What: The DAMN TASTY: A catering and lunch delivery business Where: Coulee Region Business Center; 1100 Kane St., La Crosse, WI Phone: 608-782-1973 Media: www.thedamntastylax.com www.facebook.com/theDamnTastyLax Gift Tip: Free delivery makes the gift of lunch a piece of cake!

1 egg r on wate 1 teaspo r, thyme pe Salt, pep Flour

a le onto rectang h c in .

4 s 1 t. ree by400 deg to a 10- ed baking shee astry in oven to n p t li a t ff e n u ides h e e p r f m 1. P arch eet o e long s awed sh ; transfer to a p er on th d th r o 1 b t u h c 2. Roll o floured surface ve a 2-in re to lea u s g lightly in k , ma taste.

Gruyere pper to e le p k d in n r a p 3. S ed sides d salt astry. the fold to seal. yme, an n th w , o s of the p d e to ay ch n, toma all the w t ends and pin ith baco all slits r o m h s s t e u c th 4. Top w d f sides, an old in ½ inch o water. in long F . ts n e 5. Fold v 1 tsp. of ll h a it m w s n g inutes. beate creatin ith egg out 30 m b w a y , n tr s w a bro the p l golden 6. Brush ees unti r g e d 0 at 40 7. Bake

Photo: Lee Harwell

Savory Creations

Shawn McManus, a chef with deep roots in California and Wisconsin, is owner and operator of Savory Creations, an Old Towne North La Crosse catering business that also offers cooking classes. “I love food, I love learning about food, and I love teaching people about the amazing ingredients you can find in our area,” states McManus.

Leaving the fast-paced California lifestyle after extensive culinary training at Orange Coast College and successful employment in the southern California food industry was a huge decision for McManus. He adds, “I moved to this region to slow down, to become better in touch the soil, the farmers and my family.”

His featured recipe highlights a fusion of flavors and ingredients which are mostly available locally. When prepared in the style of Chef McManus, this dish will wow your friends and family at upcoming holiday gatherings.

filets of wh ite fish (se orange rou Yield: 4 se a bass, ghy, halibu rvings 1 tablespo t, etc.)

5 cups extr o n fr es h a virgin oli ro se m ary (rough chopped) ve oil 6 fresh saff ron thread 1 tablespo s 1 cup heav on fresh ch y cream opped garl ¼ cup dry 1 fresh bay ic (fine) white win leaf (can su e 6 cups rou bstitute 1 5 whole b gh choppe dry) lack pepp d kale (an 3 tablespo ercorns y variety) 4 cups fin on choppe gerling po d prosciutto K tatoes (ha o sh er sa lt and crack lved) ed pepper Method: 1. Pre-heat oven to 40 0 2. Toss ha lved potato degrees (non-conve ction). es with ½ olive oil (p tablespoo inch salt a n of garlic 3. Place th nd pepper , rosemary e potatoes ). and 2 table on a half sh minutes o spoons of e et pan or ty r pical casser 4. Add salt until or until lightl y browned ole dish an to taste. . d bake for 5. Heat oli 35 ve oil in a la rg e degrees). D sauce pan o o r n d o u t tch oven o boil.

6. Pat dow n medium n the fish high heat. filets with 7. Carefull (max. 180 a clean tow y add the el fi o le r t p to the hot aper towel check if th oil. Poach ey are don filets appro until dried on both e is by the flak sides x. 7 ing texture the interior temp o 8. In a sau f 155 degre -8 minutes. The tru . té pan, he e test to es o r more. Als at the cho protrude o o you can pped prosc nto the pa tell iu tto on me n. Approx minutes. T dium heat . 5 minute urn the he u n ti s. l the fat st Add chop at until kale arts to ped kale, st slightly so to high and add win ir and coo ftens. e, garlic, p k for 3 inch salt a Enjoy Tog nd pepper ether!!! . Cook

Photo: Lee Harwell Who: Chef Shawn McManus What: Savory Creations: A catering business that also offers cooking classes Where: 1230 Caledonia St., La Crosse, WI Phone: 608-519-3542 Email: savorycreationsllc@gmail.com Media: www.savorycreations.org www.facebook.com/savorycreationslacrosse Gift Tip: Check the website in December for early-bird gift card specials; gift cards can be used for public or private classes (min. of 6 students).

SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |

Olive Oil P oached Wh ite Fish With Saffro n Crème & Rosemary Roasted F ingerling P With Wine otatoes Bra ised Ka le a Ingredien n d R e ts: ndered Pro sciutto 4 4-6 oz.

23

LIMELIGHT PREPPING FOR ZOMBIES Article: Jess Witkins Photos: Contributed

A

s a fan of both “The Walking Dead” graphic novels and TV show, I was intrigued by a group called Zombie Squad.

I had to know more. So I sat down with local chapter president and vice president, Benjamin and Jessie Chrysler (AKA: Cadillac and Toledo) for a little Zombie Squad 101.

SEVEN | Issue #6 | December, 2015

Q: What is the Zombie Squad?

A: Zombie Squad is an international 501(c)3 non-profit organization that focuses on things such as disaster preparedness and recovery, community service and undead eradication. The theory behind our organization is that when you’re prepared for the zombie apocalypse, you’re prepared for anything.

Q: What’s the story behind the nicknames?

A: Our nicknames aren’t mandatory but add a little fun to interaction. The official Zombie Squad page has wonderful member forums which give a great social outlet as well as vital information. Many of our nicknames come from that. It’s always exciting when you meet other chapter members and get to put a face to a screen name.

Q: What kind of projects has the local chapter completed?

24

A: Since we were founded two years ago, we braved the Polar Plunge and our fourperson team made the top 10 area team list for most donations! We’re very proud of that!

We have a stretch of HWY 33 that’s under our care (cleaning up zombie bits and road litter).

We’re also involved with volunteering at lots of events, including La Crosse’s first Comic-Con! We were super excited to have a table, host a panel, quarantine a zombie outbreak and help judge the cosplay events.

Q: What’s something everyone can do this winter to be better prepared?

A: Don’t forget about vehicle preparedness! Make sure your car maintenance is caught up before winter strikes. Keep an emergency blanket, flashlight, handwarmers, hat and gloves, jumper cables, spare tire, jack, small tool set, tire iron, flares or emergency flashers, collapsible shovel, and sand/kitty litter (for tire traction) in your trunk. Wisconsin winters are particularly nasty, so a little extra caution and preparedness go a long way.

Q: What kind of help are you looking for?

A: We are always looking for new members and contacts. We love being involved with organizations that parallel our goals, or any organization that would like to collaborate. And if you’ve ever had a conversation about what you’d do during the zombie apocalypse, you’ll fit right in with us.

For more details on the organization, topics, preparedness tips, zombie discussions and other awesome information, check out www. zombiehunters.org.

GO: Check out a Meeting Where: Top Shots in La Crosse, WI When: December 15, 7 p.m.

Info: Facebook page at facebook.com/ ZSC052

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SUBJECT MATTER BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO THE MARSH ROAD

By Guest Writer, James Longhurst

Who decides if we need a new road?

When it comes to state highways, the state favors building new roads. Ever since the federal government agreed to partially fund state highways in 1916, it required states to have their own highway departments.

Before then, there was really no such thing as a professional highway engineer. By 1926 a Wisconsin State Highway Commission was building a State Trunk Highway System of taxpayer-funded, paved roads. Engineers created their own design guidebooks and standard measurements of traffic like Level of Service (or LOS): a grade based on how many cars could flow through an intersection in a given amount of time. It privileges constantly expanding new roads and adding lanes.

This is where WISDOT, or the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, comes from.

Its engineers focus on building a network of new state highways with a mix of federal and state funds. They focus on roads for private automobiles and freight; they occasionally work on other topics including airports, connections to railroads and (very) rarely transit.

Freeway Revolts After World War II, a bigger idea took hold: not just state highways, but a new inter-state system, funded by federally collected gas taxes. These controlledaccess highways would not only connect cities, but go through them.

Building interstate highways through major cities fit the idea of urban renewal: using the opportunity to level entire neighborhoods considered blighted. Of course, many people who lived there didn’t agree, and so throughout the 1950s and ‘60s, a series of freeway revolts took place in cities across the nation. Local communities fought against the state highway departments and the city boosters that supported them; sometimes they were successful, and sometimes not. Where highways were built, they often paved over historic communities of color or immigrant neighborhoods, and forced the construction of new public housing to replace what was razed. It left a lot of bad blood.

In 1962, in an attempt to help state DOTs get along better with locals, the federal government created a whole new thing:

a Metropolitan Planning Organization, or MPO. They were supposed to be neutral meeting grounds, in between the states and the many divided municipalities that might or might not want highways built through them. Funded mostly through state DOTs, they’d create plans that reflected the agreement of all the local cities and towns.

Every moderately populated region needed its own MPO, and in 1966 the La Crosse Area Planning Committee, or LAPC, was created. With expert staffers, community members and a committee of elected officials, the LAPC gathers data and writes long-term plans for all kinds of transit, pedestrians, bicycles, freight haulers and cars.

Think about the Environment Things got more interesting in 1969 with the National Environmental Policy Act. That law created the EPA and required new federally funded projects to demonstrate they had thought about the environment and consulted the public in a deliberative process. Planners had to demonstrate that in a lengthy Environmental Impact Statement. Not having an EIS, or enough public participation, could lead to legal challenges.

Option 5B-1 All of these came into play in the 1990s, when WISDOT proposed building a new road through the La Crosse Marsh, known as option 5B-1. They predicted that the area’s population, the number of cars and the miles that people drove in those cars would all increase. As these numbers went up, the LOS grade would go down at existing intersections.

While the citizens of La Crosse voted in a referendum against option 5B-1 in 1998, WISDOT maintained that the vote didn’t really stop them; the project stayed listed by name (“enumerated”) in state law, although nobody actually set aside any money to pay for it, and 5B-1 was never built.

The LAPC moved on from the contentious 5B-1 in the following decade, creating several new plans. Completed in 2013, “Coulee Vision 2050” said that the region preferred not to build new roads to serve commuters. It also recommended dropping LOS; urban planners had thrown that car-centric measurement into doubt.

Americans weren’t driving as much as they used to, making old predictions of alwaysclimbing demand obsolete. People who think about cities worry that building more roads just encourages people to live further away, driving more and draining taxes out of the cities where they work.

Return of 5B-1 That’s where matters stayed until 2014, when the powerful Transportation Projects Commission, including the governor and key state lawmakers, decided that the old 5B-1 project should either move forward or disappear. After trying to get the LAPC to agree that local leaders and mayors would support whatever plan they came up with, WISDOT proposed something new: a PEL, or “Planning and Environmental Linkages” process, meant to quickly weed out bad ideas in a series of public meetings to find what everyone agreed on.

WISDOT promised that everything was on the table in the new Coulee Region Transportation Study. But the project listed in state law seemed to require that money only be spent on new roads or new lanes.

Meanwhile the City of La Crosse, worried that WISDOT was going to recommend a marsh road yet again, also tried something new: they hired a consultant and created their own City Transportation Vision, emphasizing quality of life and creative solutions without building a new state highway.

Writing about the PEL process in the August issue of SEVEN, Andrew Ryan Londre thought that “Thankfully . . . we won’t see recommendations for a new road through the Marsh, or widened roads in the city itself.” But it increasingly looks like that’s exactly what WISDOT will recommend next spring.

In November, WISDOT presented their preferred options to the LAPC; all of the 6 include new roads or expanded lanes in town, and a new version of the 5B-1 marsh road was still listed. The year-long PEL process had quickly ended up in a familiar place: suggesting a version of the decades-

old 5B-1, disregarding both previous LAPC plans and the City Transportation Vision.

It’s easy to see why a road through the La Crosse Marsh gets people riled up; some see it as a way to build the local economy; others fear it would damage what makes La Crosse great, livable and sustainable; and still others just want to drive to work faster.

In the end, though, it’s the people who get to decide if we build a new road; it might be a messy process, but it’s a democratic one.

So who decides if we build a new road?

You do. The PEL process is open to public comment, and after that there’s still the EIS, the LAPC, as well as local government and state funding decisions. If you have an opinion, it’s time to get involved in making the decision.

James Longhurst studies the history of urban and environmental policy at the University of Wisconsin - La Crosse.

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SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |

W

hat in the world is happening in the La Crosse River Marsh? Do we need a new road, and who gets to make the decision? WISDOT, PEL, LAPC, 5B-1: it’s a complex story with a strange cast of characters and a lot of history.

25

COLLEGE CORNER

By Yasmynn Rain

Photos: Contributed

Dear Little Sister

Yasmynn (on left) taking her little sister Teyah to a Mayday Parade concert

SEVEN | Issue #6 | December, 2015

Dear Little Sister,

26

Nothing you worry about in high school is going to matter once you graduate, I promise.

Whatever you do, do it for yourself. Your outfit and makeup don’t need to be “on fleek” every day, and neither do your grades. You’re allowed to fail and make mistakes, but learn from them! If you do anything in high school, learn and grow as a person. Don’t let any boy or girl distract you from what’s important. Your education and well-being are so much more important than a relationship.

Don’t change for anyone. There is only one you, and you are here for a reason, and it sure isn’t to fit someone else’s mold. Work on being your own person and voicing your opinion. You will always be there for yourself, and you have to prepare and practice for being strong on your own. Stay open-minded and accepting. You’re going to come across every kind of person in high school, just be nice to all of them. You don’t have to be friends with or take a liking to everyone, but be civil. At the same time, be firm if someone makes you uncomfortable. You don’t have to smile and nod at sexist comments just to save face. You don’t have to laugh at everything a boy says to validate him, and you don’t have to give respect to disrespectful teachers, just because they’re adults.

You are not your GPA. You are so much more than just a number, no matter what anyone says. GPA does not measure your worth, experiences or who you are as a person. Keep singing! Stay in show choir and give it your all. The best memories from school are going to come from your extracurriculars. Don’t rush your time at school either. I know the work is going to drain you, teachers will drive you nuts and some days you’ll just want to shut down, but keep going.

Get the most out of petting the animals at home! I can’t tell you how much I wish I could come home to a cat every day. Tell mom you love her more.

I know she gets down your throat sometimes, but it’s her job. My job is to make sure you don’t make the same mistakes I have. You’re gonna be great in everything you do, school and otherwise. If you ever need advice, call me.

I’ve been there.

--Your Big Sister Yasmynn Rain is an Onalaska High School alumnus and is excited to share her college experience with SEVEN. She digs Doctor Who, live concerts and anything to do with Marching Band…especially the trumpet section.

45NRTH Cobrafist By: Radventure Dad, aka Brett Werner

I

t’s Fat Bike Season!!

The singletrack steeds have been put away in their stables and the 4” tires are back on the trail. If you haven’t tried fat biking yet, you’re missing out. Fat biking is a great way to stay active in the winter, especially when the ski season in the Seven Rivers Region seems to be getting shorter every year. As with everything in the Radventure Dad world, another activity means more gear and less space in the garage!

This time of year, a visit to your local bike shop isn’t usually on your to-do list, but it should be. Shops in the Midwest are getting excited about Fat Biking and stocking up on related clothing, shoes, helmets, studded tires and more to get you geared up for winter riding.

One item on every winter rider’s wish list: bar mitts, or pogies as they’re known in the Velo world. They come in all shapes and sizes, so make sure you check into which options work best for you.

For me, I needed something for Fat Biking in Winter. Maintaining the tactile feel of the brake levers and shifters is a must for me, so wearing bulky winter gloves was never an option. Enter the 45NRTH Cobrafist, a technical fat biking pogie for those that expect a lot out of their gear. They’re constructed out of a wind and water resistant fabric and lined with PrimaLoft insulation, so even on the coldest days you’ll have a cozy little spot for your digits!

These things are so warm it took me a few rides to realize that I didn’t need much more than my standard long finger MTB gloves to keep my hands warm. On those warm, sunny days, it’s nice to open the zipper vents (both top and bottom) to regulate the temperature.

Installation is fairly simple and only requires a few standard bicycle-related tools. First you’ll want to size them up to determine where the foam donut will be installed. This handy little item seals the handlebar and cable areas and keeps the Cobrafist in an upright position.

The included metal bar plugs replace your (most likely) plastic bar plugs and secure the pogies in place. If you’re unsure on the installation or fit of your pogies, contact your local bike shop for assistance.

Another great feature on the Cobrafists are the zippered inner pockets. I’ve used them to stow my phone, snacks and more, and the best part is that everything stays warm…much nicer than trying to eat a frozen Clif Bar when it’s 10 degrees outside!

Stay tuned for next month’s Gear Garage…we’re riding Fat Bikes! There are so many choices on the market this year, we’ll be exploring all the options available in the Seven Rivers Region, so you can decide which one is the one for you. Trust me, there’s one for everyone!

ears, Cheers and G ad Radventure D

Brett Werner is Thee Radventure Dad. Mountain biking, downhill skiing, camping, snowshoeing, volunteer trail building, just about anything that gets him and his family outside and he’s there. With lifelong experience in recreation and equipment, his goal is to get other families geared up for outdoor fun.

YMCA WINTER RUNNING SERIES Article: Lee Walraven Looking for a challenge this winter? Need something to keep you motivated during the winter months? The La Crosse Area Family YMCA kicks off its annual Winter Running Series with the Jingle Bell 5K Run/Walk and the Rudolph Dash for kids on December 5 at Y-North in Onalaska. A pancake breakfast is included in the festivities! The Jingle Bell Run is just one race in the series. There’s also the New Year’s Resolution Run on January 9 and the Valentine’s Heart Throb Run on February 13. All races begin at 8:00 a.m. for the 5 Mile and 8:15 a.m. for the 5k.

Proceeds from the Winter Running Series support the Y’s mission to strengthen

community. This is done in part by offering financial assistance to community members to participate in programs such as LIVESTRONG®, which supports cancer survivors; swim lessons for youth; and the YMCA Teen Center, which is open to all teens in the community.

For more information visit the YMCA’s website at www.laxymca.org/events/ winter-walk-run-series.

Lee Walraven, MS, ACSM-RCEP is the Healthy Living Director at the La Crosse Area Family YMCA.

YOUR GUIDE TO SEVEN RIVERS REGION EVENTS, FARMERS MARKETS, BLOOD DRIVES, VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES AND SO MUCH MORE. Have something you would like to list in an upcoming issue?

All listings are subject to change. It’s always a good idea to review event directly ahead of time.

All listings are free, visit our website at TheSevenSpot.com or email contact@thesevenspot.com.

Ongoing

Blood Drives

Aikido: “The Way of Harmony” is a Wisdom Tradition of personal refinement based on a Japanese Samurai martial art of non-resistance. Mon./Wed. 6:30–8 pm.

Myrick Park Center. Winter session through Feb. 27. Try a class for free. 608-789-8690, CityofLaCrosse.org/Parks.

Express Suites River Port Inn, 900 Bruski Dr., Winona, Minn.

Dec 02: 2–6 p.m.

All Glazed Up/Canvas Creation: Sip & Paint Canvas Painting classes. Check calendar for days and paintings. Cost: $30, includes canvas, paint and instructed lesson.

Call ahead to register and BYOB. 309 Pearl St, La Crosse, 608-782-7248, www.allglazedup.com.

Basic Nutritional & Herbal Therapies: Varied programs on herbology, teas, tinctures, gardening, health and more. Herbs All Around, 1033 Caledonia St., 608-7802255, www.herbsallaround.com.

Centering Prayer: Experience the stillness of community prayer. 5:30-6:15 p.m. every Tuesday, free. Franciscan Spirituality Center, 920 Market St., La Crosse, www.FSCenter.org.

Chinese Language Class: 11–11:45 a.m.

Learn Chinese in a fun, relaxed setting for free! 2nd and 4th Saturdays/month at Dim Sum Tea Shop, 221 Pearl St., 608-738-1221.

Outdoor Connection: Rent outdoor gear from the UW–L Recreational Eagle Center!

Open to the public and offers a wide variety of equipment for adventures big and small.

1601 Badger St., La Crosse, 608–785–8680, www.uwlax.edu/recsports.

Pearl Street Brewery: New events every month including live music every Friday from 6–9 p.m. and brewery tours every Saturday noon–5 p.m.! 1401 St. Andrew St., La Crosse, 608–784–4832, www.pearlstreetbrewery.com.

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

Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe: Come as an individual, family, group of friends, group of co–workers, or church group. www.guadalupeshrine.org, 608-782-5440.

Tea Tasting Party: Learn about teas while sampling a variety. Dumplings and egg tarts included with take-home loose tea sample.

1st Tuesday/month at 6 p.m. ($6 pre-pay, $8 at door) AND 3rd Saturday/month ($8 prepay, $10 at door). Dim Sum Tea Shop, 221 Pearl St., 608-738-1221.

Yoga with Tammy Z: Yoga is for everybody! We offer a variety of classes for every level of experience. First class is FREE! Contact us for schedules. 432 Cass St., La Crosse, 608-386-1217, tammyzyoga.com.

La Crosse Blood Donation Center, 1431 State Hwy 16, La Crosse Tuesdays: 10:45 a.m.–5:45 p.m. and 1:30 p.m.–6:30 p.m.

Wednesdays: 10:45 a.m.–5:45 p.m.

Dec. 4, 11, 18: 7:30 a.m.–11 a.m.

Dec. 19: 8 a.m.–noon La Crosse County Health & Human Services, 300 N Fourth St., La Crosse, Wis. Dec.8: 10:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m.

SAP Americas Incorporated, 332 Front St. S., Riverside Center II, 3rd Floor, La Crosse, Wis. Dec.10: 9 a.m.–2 p.m.

St. Matthews Evangelical Lutheran Church, 303 N Main St., La Crosse, Wis. Dec. 14: 1–6 p.m.

Valley View Mall, 3800 State Rd 16, La Crosse, Wis. Dec. 31: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Upcoming

DECEMBER 3 La Crosse Regional Tourism Expo and

Hospitality Job Fair. Participating area businesses will showcase their attractions, activities and services to fellow stakeholders in the industry as well as to the community at large. Admission is free, but registration is required. Visit explorelacrosse.com/expo for more information. 10 a.m. –5 p.m., La Crosse Center, 300 Harborview Plaza, La Crosse, WI. Learn to make lefse with Inez Blank, Carol Mills and Irene Wood. Learn how to make lefse from three Norwegian sisters who have made lefse together since childhood and now carry on their mother’s annual tradition! Inez and her sisters will demonstrate the process, their techniques, and then go “hands-on,” with the three sisters helping everyone make lefse to take home! Recipe and tips included. $15 members; $25 nonmembers. 5:30-7:30 pm. People’s Food Co-Op, 315 5th Avenue South, La Crosse, WI, 608-787-5798, www.pfc.coop/calendar/event.

DECEMBER 4-5, 10-12, 6, 13 University of Wisconsin–La Crosse

Theatre presents “A Streetcar Named Desire,” by Tennessee Williams.

Directed by Beth Cherne in the Toland Theatre, Center for the Arts. December 4-5 & 10-12 at 7:30 pm. December 6 & 13 at 2:00 pm. Ticket prices: $16 adults; $14 seniors/non UWL students; $5 UWL students. www.uwlax.edu/Theatre-Arts.

DECEMBER 4-6 Christmas Radio Show at Theatre

du Mississippi. Tickets are $18 Adults, $7 Students. December 4 and 5, 7:30 pm.

December 6, 2 pm. Masonic Temple, 255 Main Street, Winona. www.theatredumiss.org.

DECEMBER 4 Pleasant Ridge Holiday Faire. A

festive evening for adults with live music from Ridgetones, a delicious farm-to-table dinner, exquisite holiday shopping, and a silent auction at Pleasant Ridge Waldorf School. Admission for Faire only $8; Faire and dinner $15; Faire, dinner, and dance $25; Faire and dance $18; dance only $15.

Tickets available at the door. Pleasant Ridge Waldorf School, 431 E. Court Street, Viroqua, www.pleasantridgewaldorf.org, 608-637-2229.

DECEMBER 5 Cameron Park Indoor Farmers

Market at UW-L. Local vendors with breads, jewelry, plants, pottery and more. 10 a.m.–1 p.m. State Room of UW-L Cartwright Center, parking in lot C-1. www.cameronparkmarket.org.

Family Advent Celebration, Mary and Joseph, an angel and shepherds will share

stories as your family creates an Advent wreath with games, prizes, and holiday refreshments. $30 per household. 9-11:30 a.m. Franciscan Spirituality Center, 920 Market St., La Crosse, www.FSCenter.org, 608-791-5295.

Jingle Bell Walk Run presented by UMR. Stay active and warm this winter with the first run in the winter series; the Jingle Bell Walk Run. 5 Mile, 5k and Rudolph’s Dash for kids. 5 Mile start: 8 a.m. and 5k start: 8:15 a.m. www.laxymca.org/ events.

Pleasant Ridge Holiday Faire: A holiday Faire for the entire family.

Children’s crafts and gift making, puppet plays, artisan vendors, children’s raffle, silent auction, bake sale, lunch and live entertainment. Free admission. Pleasant Ridge Waldorf School, 431 E. Court Street, Viroqua, Wis. www.pleasantridgewaldorf. org, 608-637-2229.

DECEMBER 5-6 31st Annual Old-Fashioned

Christmas. Celebrate a “Patchwork Christmas.” Come see the quilt display in the Heritage room by Joyce Abernathy and the museum committee, as well as the patchwork decoration all around the site for the holiday event. Sat. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. & Sun. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Norskedalen Nature &

DOWNTOWN IN DECEMBER Shop ‘Til 8 on Thursday, Cocktails and Carols on Friday Article: Becca Dargatz Downtown La Crosse has a lot to offer year round, but downtown shops make this holiday season even greater with extended store hours with tons of unique gift ideas. Shopping local supports these businesses and helps the region’s economic growth.

For a great selection and friendly help with all of your shopping, stop in to your favorite stores downtown until 8 p.m. on Thursdays throughout December (excluding holidays).

After a day of shopping downtown, stop by The Bistro in the Courtyard by Marriott for Cocktails and Carols, on Fridays in December—December 4, 11 and 18—from 7:00–9:00 p.m. The Bistro created the event to bring the community together for holiday fun and a good cause. Enjoy the beautiful river views, live music and discounted cocktails all while contributing to the Children’s Miracle Network (CMN).

CMN’s mission is to raise funds and awareness for local children’s hospitals.

The Bistro staff, along with local musicians Beth Ekern Lakmann, Greg Bashaw and Jen Burch and Friends, are helping to support that mission.

Bradley Heuser, the General Manager at Courtyard by Marriott, looks forward

to the community discovering all that The Bistro has to offer while contributing to CMN. “All tips to the musicians will be donated to the CMN, along with individual contributions during the event,” says Heuser.

The Bistro offers refreshing breakfast choices in the morning and a variety of dinner, beer, wine and cocktail options in the evening.

Plan to shop local in Downtown La Crosse this December and enjoy Cocktails and Carols afterward at The Bistro—it’s for the kids.

GO: Downtown La Crosse Shop ‘Til 8 Thursdays in December Cocktails and Carols The Bistro in the Courtyard by Marriott, 500 Front St. S, La Crosse, WI December 4, 11 and 18 from 7–9 p.m.

SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |

LISTINGS

December 2015

27

LISTINGS December 2015 Heritage Center, N455 O Ophus Rd., Coon Valley, WI. www.Norskedalen.org.

WI, 608-787-5798, www.pfc.coop/calendar/ event.

100 Miles of Christmas. Experience oldfashion, home-spun Christmas celebrations while exploring quaint shops for unique gifts. 100milesofchristmas.org.

DECEMBER 10 Mindfulness skills for the holiday

Viterbo University presents “Christmas Around the World.” Joy to all the world from composers around the world. The Viterbo University music department presents and international Christmas with carols, lullabies, and folk songs for the Christmas season from many traditions. Dec. 5 at 7:30 p.m. & Dec. 6 at 2 p.m. www.viterbo.edu/fine-arts-center.

DECEMBER 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20 Trester Trolley Christmas Lights

Tour in Winona. A Christmas lights tour aboard the Trester Trolley. 6:30 p.m. or 8:30 p.m. departure from the downtown Merchant’s bank parking lot for a one hour tour of Winona’s best holiday lights. Cost is $10 per person, and kids under 5 are free.

Reservations required by calling 507-4299101, www.trestertrolley.com.

DECEMBER 7 DIY home spa and homemade gifts

with Elena from Aura Cacia. From body care to home cleaning, learn about the many uses of essential oils. $10 members; $20 nonmembers. 5:30-7:00 pm. People’s Food Co-Op, 315 5th Avenue South, La Crosse,

season with Lamont McPherson. Every year there are media stories about stress and anxiety associated with the holidays. Take an evening break, create some peaceful time for yourself, and learn techniques that you can use far beyond the holiday season. The class is free, a PFC gift to the community, but you must register. 5:30-7:30 p.m. People’s Food Co-Op, 315 5th Avenue South, La Crosse, WI, 608-787-5798, www.pfc.coop/calendar/event.

DECEMBER 10-20 La Crosse Community Theatre

presents “The Gifts of the Magi—the most precious gifts of all can’t be bought.” A perfect play to remember what is important during the holiday season. Dec. 10-12, 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 12-13, 2 p.m.; Dec. 16-19, 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 19-20, 2 p.m. La Crosse Community Theatre, 428 Front St. S, La Crosse, www.lacrossecommunitytheatre.org.

DECEMBER 11-12 Viterbo University and the La

Crosse Dance Centre presents the 26th annual “Nutcracker Ballet.”

This timeless tale tells the adventure of self-discovery for Maria, who receives a Nutcracker Doll from her Godfather Drosselmeyer on Christmas Eve. Dec. 11

at 7:30 p.m. and Dec 12 at 2 p.m. Tickets for adults are $19 and children under 18 are $16. www.viterbo.edu/fine-arts-center.

DECEMBER 12 & 19 Cameron Park Indoor Farmers

Market at Valley View Mall. Local vendors with breads, jewelry, plants, pottery and more. 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Valley View Mall, 3800 State Rd 16, www.cameronparkmarket.org.

DECEMBER 13 Driftless Folk School Class: Artful

Holiday Baking. Holiday baking can be nutritious, delicious, and beautiful using whole grain flours, toasted nuts, gluten free recipes and flavorful herbs. Each participant will go home with a variety of treats and recipes to share at the holiday table. 1-4:30 p.m. Cost $45 class, $10 material fee.

Viroqua, WI, 608-632-3348.

Driftless Folk School Class: Remedies to Boost Your Immune System. Want to fight off that illness that’s spreading around the office or you kid’s school? Start by boosting your immune system with fire cider, immune tonic teas, and other natural products. You will go home with products you make in class and knowledge for how to make more. 1-4:30 p.m. Cost $45 class, $10 material fee. Viroqua, WI, 608-632-3348.

DECEMBER 19

MWMF Thank you for voting us #1 Tattoo Parlor and Piercing Establishment!

(608) 782-8287

SEVEN | Issue #6 | December, 2015

327 Main Street, La Crosse, WI

28

MindAlteringTats.com

wn La Crosse to n w o D S, ve A th 5 5 1 1 737 (608) 782-0

After several years of growth and positive publicity, including a 2015 “Best Music Festival in Minnesota” nomination

by Twin Cities City Pages, Mid West Music Fest (MWMF) is bringing its successful artistic and economic development model to La Crosse in 2016. In addition to the regular three-day festival, which

Old School Variety Show with Michael Scott. A delightful evening of music, story and a wide variety of performing arts. 7:30 p.m. Tickets available at thepumphouse.org. The Pump House, 119 King St. www.oldschoolvarietyshow.com.

DECEMBER 31 New Year’s Even Overnight at the

YMCA-La Crosse Branch. A party just for kids! Youth 7-12 years old can ring in the New Year at the Y and enjoy the night in a safe and structured atmosphere while playing games, swimming, watching movies, and having fun. Starts 8 p.m. on Dec. 31 and end at 8 a.m. on Jan 1.

Registration is required. Stop by the YMCA Member Services Desk. www.laxymca.org/events.

Children’s Museum of La Crosse presents “Happy Noon Year.” Make a party hat and noisemaker and join in a noisy countdown to noon. Included with museum admission. 207 5th Ave S. www.funmuseum.org.

Pump House New Year: á Paris. Share in laughter and fun while the Pump House wines and dines you into 2016. Dress for this elegant evening is black-tie optional.

One ticket for $75, two tickets for $125, or four tickets for $200. 8 p.m.–midnight.

Pump House Regional Art Center, 119 King St. 608-785-1434, www.thepumphouse.org/ event/ph-parisnye.

SAVE THE DATES Mid West Music Fest La Crosse, WI: April 16, 2016

Winona, MN: April 28-30, 2016

will be held in Winona for the seventh year on April 28-30, 2016, MWMF will host a multi-venue day of music in historic downtown La Crosse on April 16.

Tickets are on sale now with special holiday pricing at www.midwestmusicfest. org/tickets.

NEW! Breakfast Lunch Dinner Cocktails Hours

Sun-Th 7 am - 10 pm Fri & Sat 7 am - 11 pm

$5.99 El Rodeo Breakfast Feast

$wit4h c.o9up9 on

Two eggs any style, hash browns or American fries, bacon or sausage and toast

Tax and beverage not included - 2 feasts per coupon Coupon valid during breakfast serving hours only. Expires12/31/15 Photo: Minneapolis “Picked to Click in 2016” act Bad Bad Hats at MWMF 2015

To add your free volunteer listing, email contact@thesevenspot.com.

American Red Cross - Scenic Bluffs Chapter:

Volunteers can help with blood drives, train for disaster response, teach First Aid/CPR classes, support our Armed Forces, assist at special events and more! 2927 Losey Blvd. S., La Crosse; volunteerwestern.wi@redcross.org; 877-618-6628, ext. 5822; www.redcross.org/wi/la-crosse.

Big Brothers Big Sisters:

Volunteer to become a Big Brother, Big Sister, Big Couple or Big Family to mentor youth, ages 5-14, in our community. There are also special events and other volunteer opportunities. 432 Division Street, La Crosse; (608) 782-2227; info@7riversbbbs.org; www.7riversbbbs.org.

Children’s Museum of La Crosse:

Volunteers are an important part of the Children’s Museum team. If you are upbeat, responsible and love kids, volunteer with us! Opportunities include special events, face painting, crafts and games, and much more! 608-784-2652, ext. 226; christina@funmuseum.org; www.funmuseum. org.

Crossfire Youth Center:

Crossfire seeks to transform the lives of local teens by providing safe and fun activities. Volunteer opportunities include assisting in weight lifting, archery, outdoor activities and our Friday night party alternative. 608-784-6565; amanda@crossfire4u.com; crossfire4u.com.

The Outdoor Recreation Alliance seeks to optimize world-class outdoor recreational opportunities. Volunteers are needed for various activities including trail work. www. naturesplacetoplay.com.

Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe:

Volunteer needs: gardening, trail maintenance, upkeep of devotional areas, indoor cleaning, greeting visitors. www.guadalupeshrine.org/volunteer.

WAFER Food Pantry:

Opportunities: food packing and stocking, unloading trucks, helping during the food fair, delivery and much more. 403 Causeway Blvd, La Crosse; 608-782-6003; waferfoodpantry@centurytel.net; waferlacrosse.org.

WisCorps:

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.

YWCA La Crosse:

Special events, helping with our transitional housing program, CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) for Kids, and our Teen Services programs. info@ywcalax.org.

Couleecap, Inc.:

Couleecap helps people in need with housing, food, transportation and more. 201 Melby St., Westby (Serving Crawford, La Crosse, Monroe and Vernon counties); contactus@couleecap.org; www.couleecap.org.

Bachelor Degree Completion

Great Rivers United Way:

• Health Care Management

• Accounting

Great Rivers United Way Volunteer Center hosts an array of volunteer opportunities. www.ugetconnected.org.

• Organizational Management

Grow La Crosse:

• Management Information Systems

From garden work to working with children to event help, there’s something for many! www. growlacrosse.org/get-involved.

• Servant Leadership

Habitat for Humanity/ReStore:

Evening and online classes available.

Building homes for those in need, office work and special events. volunteer@habitatlacrosse.org; 608-785-2375, ext. 7003.

Hillview Urban Agriculture Center:

The mission of Hillview is to create a healthy community through a local, sustainable and accessible food system. Volunteer opportunities: Market Baskets, vermicomposting, various gardening tasks, fundraising, grant writing and marketing. 608-786-0338; vicki@vsm5.com; www.hillviewuac.org.

The Hunger Task Force of La Crosse:

Tasks and info: Food Recovery Program—driving for deliveries, sorting, truck loading and unloading, clerical, special event duties; 608-793-1002; lacrossehunger@centurytel.net.

Kane St. Community Garden—preparing and planting, weeding, harvesting; 608-386-3319; kanestreetgarden@gmail.com; www.lacrossehtf.org.

Graduate Programs

Kinstone Academy of Applied Permaculture:

Master of Business Administration

Dedicated to teaching people how to live more sustainably through the use of permaculture principles and design. Critical thinking skills and hands-on practice are core to our offerings.

We have volunteer opportunities in the following areas: food forest maintenance, composting, various gardening tasks, various natural building construction projects, stone work, fundraising, grant writing, videography and marketing. 608-687-3332; inquiry@kinstonecircle.com with VOLUNTEER in the subject; www.KinstoneCircle.com.

• Flexible class schedules (one evening per week) and online options available • Connect with a network of professionals

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. Volunteer tasks: 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

Master of Arts in Servant Leadership • Classes offered in convenient Friday evening/Saturday format or two-week summer institute

La Crosse Area Family YMCA:

Opportunities include special events, youth sports coaching, Miracle League Baseball Buddies, Teen Center and much more. 608-782-9622; Y-North: 400 Mason St., Onalaska; Y-La Crosse: 1140 Main St., La Crosse; www.laxymca.org.

• Learn to articulate a vision of servant leadership as a vocation

Lakeview Health Center

Many opportunities with flexible hours on a regular or occasional basis. Recreation and leisure programs, provide visits and/or share a talent or special interest.

West Salem, WI (608)786-1400 x 40195; lrose@lacrossecounty.

Outdoor Recreation Alliance (ORA):

• Gain an understanding of organizational mission, culture, and dynamics 1-888-VITERBO business.viterbo.edu

Apply now for January start.

SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |

• Optional specializations in: Health Care Management, Project Management, International Business, Ethical Leadership

29

WRITER’S BLOCK

Mr. Morgan

“W

hen I was young, I knew everything...” They say our sense of smell is most connected to memory, but as soon as my speakers spilled the opening line of the classic ‘90s lament “The Freshmen,” I was instantly thrown back into the halls of D.C. Everest Junior High. Normally I’d try to keep those most awkward years stuffed in the closet, but sometimes you find yourself perched at a desk procrastinating on adult stuff and even the most cringe-worthy memories are a welcome form of escape. Plus, if you happened to have actually been a moody high school Freshman when this morose song became a chart-topper, it’s easy to go back to that beatific time when the sullen stars aligned. On this day though, my memory jumped over all the unrequited crushes and landed in a safe spot: Mr. Morgan’s English class.

Mr. Morgan had a reputation. Not the kind that gets your name scrawled in a bathroom stall, but one that keeps kids’ fingers crossed as they tear open next year’s class schedule with the sheer hope of see-

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ing his name on their timetable. He was known for his sense of humor; it wasn’t unusual to walk into class and see him sitting nonchalantly at his desk wearing a set of those black glasses with the plastic nose attached, just for fun. And he had an arsenal of props stashed in his desk that he would tie into the lesson to keep things interesting. But his sense of humor was merely a catalyst in his ability to break the shells of every one of us; from the tough kid with his arms crossed perpetually over his chest, to the shy girl who’d rather slink to the nurse’s office than speak in front of the class.

The day we began the poetry unit, Mr. Morgan strolled through the door with a boombox in one hand. Over the weekend we were to have each chosen one song from our favorite CD to play for the class. Passionate discussions ensued as we pored over the poetics of artists ranging from Black Sabbath to Biggie Smalls. As always, Mr. Morgan had found a way to relate to us, and as we were assigned the next task of writing our own poem, I heard no grumbles. Instead, the brains of my peers buzzed audibly with excitement.

But my homework was already done. I used to scribble stories as a kid and had recently turned to poetry in an attempt to sort through the vast wonderings of my teenage life. Still, I had never shared those poems with anyone, and I was anxious. My anxiety peaked a few days later when Mr. Morgan returned my homework with a note asking to speak with me after class. I knew why I was in trouble. I had scribed the ever-so-melodramatic line “dragging on an interminable cigarette.” (So I listened to a lot of Ani DiFranco.) ‘But I don’t even smoke!’ I would insist.

“Do you write a lot?” Mr. Morgan asked me after class, with no mention of my atrocity. I shrugged with insecure affirmation.

“Well, you should write more,” he encouraged. Huh? “...because this is really good stuff.”

For the rest of the school year, I would regularly drop off a small stack of my writing on my teacher’s desk quietly on my way out of class. He became a mentor to me; offering suggestions, praise and even criticism, which is something I finally learned how to take constructively. During a time in my life when I struggled to open up, I became, through writing, surprisingly comfortable sharing the stuff I kept nestled deep alongside my bones. Still, when Mr. Morgan asked for a volunteer to read one of their poems in front of the class, my instinct was to feign sickness and duck out. My head was down, but I shifted my eyes around the room. Damn it; I knew he wanted me to read. It was only because of this and the piercing quietness of the room that I feebly raised my hand. As I made my way to face my peers, I hated my hands for shaking. I didn’t look up once as I read with white knuckles from my notebook. When I finally stopped and peeked up, the class was clapping. Some were smiling, and I let a smile sneak onto my lips, too. I had never had the guts to share my writing—let alone my feelings— before. Now my peers, too, were giving me affirmation of a job well done. Up until that point in my life, I had never once felt that confident.

Back at my desk, I smiled at these memories and decided to do what any adult living in contemporary times would. ‘I wonder if he’s still teaching?’ I thought, as I typed his name and my former school into the Google search bar. I didn’t know what I expected to find, but when an obituary in my hometown newspaper topped the list of search results, a reflexive gasp forced its way out of my mouth, as if I’d been punched in the gut.

As my wide eyes began to water, I was initially surprised at how affected I was. Outside of the year I spent in his classroom over a decade prior, I didn’t really know this man. But as I read, I learned that after retiring, he had co-founded a soup kitchen where he volunteered cooking and cleaning. I learned he remained an advocate for the youth by serving as a guardian ad litem for children who needed someone the most. I mourned for the kind soul I was just being introduced to and was grateful for the part of him I did know: The warm-hearted teacher whose influence still sticks with me to this day. We should all be so lucky.

I threw my bag down as soon as I got home and dug through the closet for my 1997 yearbook. I raced through the staff photos, needing to recall what it was he had written. “Briana,” it began, in inky blue cursive, “I want an autographed copy of the book—or maybe a CD if you add music. Have a wonderful life. -P. Morgan” I look at the pictures of his colleagues surrounding him. Most look up at an angle away from the camera with a pseudo-smile that doesn’t fool anybody. But my teacher grins proudly, looking right into the lens, exhibiting the same enthusiasm he always showed his students. Thank you, Mr. Morgan. This one’s for you.

Briana Rupel is a born and bred Wisconsinite. She is continually inspired by the Seven Rivers Region’s natural beauty, the talent of its local musicians and the stories of everyday people.

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