February SEVEN 2016 | The People of SEVEN Issue

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February 2016

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#8

The People of SEVEN

The 1st Annual Edition

Horseshoes and Hand Grenades

An Interview with Adam Greuel

Empowering Girls

Shannon Krautkramer’s Compassion

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Contact an attorney at Moen Sheehan Meyer, Ltd today for the peace of mind well thought out present and future elder care advice provides, and ensure the safety and protection of your family.

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SEVEN | Issue #8 | February, 2016

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Inside

PUB INFO

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

6 The Arts

Contact Phone: 608-780-3853 Email: contact@thesevenspot.com

11 Limelight

Mail: PO Box 762,

Onalaska, WI 54650 Web: TheSevenSpot.com Facebook: TheSevenSpot

15 College Corner 16 Sip n’ Taste

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18 The People of SEVEN 27 Listings

A note

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30 Volunteer Listings

from the publisher I’m thrilled to present the 1st Annual Edition of the People of SEVEN! It was heartwarming and exciting to watch the nominations come in for so many wonderful people throughout our regional community. It would be wonderful to honor every single person that was nominated. Granted, the selection process was not taken lightly. It is our honor to share their stories with you.

As SEVEN transforms and grows, I have exciting news to share! The beautiful and talented folks that work on SEVEN, whom we lovingly call The Crew, changes monthly as they are independent contributors.

Beginning with the January 16 issue, Deborah Nerud has “come on board” as Associate Editor, and the February 16 issue marks the start of a semester’s work for new SEVEN Intern, Austin Sargent! I’m delighted to join these people, along with the rest of The Crew on our professional and life journeys!

Aaaand…more news! I can barely contain my excitement for the new SEVEN website! The new website promises to be a useful and integrative tool, a resource, a journal for our community. I will even go so far as to say that this website will be a gift to everyone who utilizes it. We’ll launch your new website March 1st! Woohoo!

Michelle L. Jerome

On the

Cover

SEVEN presents the following people and groups in the 1st Annual Edition of the People of SEVEN (left to right, top to bottom): Hans Mayer, Andrew Londre, Andy Hughes, Bjorn Bergman, Bob Good, Carter Mandel, Corry Van Aelstyn, Beer By Bike Brigade, Toril Fischer, Jeff Sherin, Matt Boshcka, Ana Skemp, Steve Michaels, Stephen Harm, Randy Thomson, Todd and Jennifer Wiedenhaft, Fran Swift, Greg Parmeter.

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

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

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.

Though SEVEN is free, please take just one copy. Anyone removing papers in bulk from our distribution points will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.

Copyright 2016 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.

TheSevenSpot.com

Austin Sargent Intern & Writer

Todd Wohlert Writer & Calendar Editor

Susan Hessel Writer

Joe Hart Writer

A.J. Moore Writer

Briana Rupel Writer

Jess Witkins Writer

Haakon Nelson Writer

Bob Good Photographer

Jason Keeney Crew Chief & Graphic Designer

Joseph O’Brien Writer

Sara Walters Writer

Parker Forsell Writer

Michelle L. Jerome Crew Captain

Deborah Nerud Associate Editor & Writer

Theresa Smerud Photographer

Dahli Durley Photographer

Chad Berger Photographer

Leah Call Copy Editor & Writer

Heidi Griminger Blanke, Ph.D Writer

The CREW

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

THE ARTS

takes the stage at 8:30 p.m. Both acts will perform together throughout the night.

The Pearl Street Brewery will supply a free keg of beer and food will be provided by The DAMN TASTY catering. Food and drink are included in the cost of the $15 ticket.

A TRIBUTE TO DOUG SEBRANEK The 2nd Annual Valentine’s Day Black Tie Ball Article: Haakon Nelson

SEVEN | Issue #8 | February, 2016

On the very last day of 2015, the local music scene and the bluegrass world at large lost one of its greatest proponents with the passing of Doug Sebranek. Known widely for his advocacy of the music he loved so much, Sebranek helped to found Larryfest, the Wisconsin folk festival now in its 19th year. Sebranek was born in La Crosse and lived in Coon Valley. He helped make the hills of this region echo with the sounds of genuine Americana. Though he didn’t play bluegrass himself, his tireless organizing helped to establish it as a mainstay in the live music of the area.

Such a legacy deserves a fitting tribute.

That is just what his friends and family plan

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to do with the “2nd Annual Black Tie Ball,” on February 13 at Leo and Leona’s Tavern and Dance Hall in Bangor. The event, featuring popular local act TUGG, will be dedicated to Doug Sebranek’s memory.

Half of all proceeds will go to assist Leo and Leona’s with their mission of bringing folk and bluegrass to the area and to help Doug’s family. There could be no better send off than this.

TUGG’s Andrew Hughes says the Black Tie Ball was originally conceived as a “fun way for TUGG to dress up in the suits we had for our annual Halloween show.”

Hughes adds, “There were lots of people dressed up and we had an incredible time!”

CHARLIE PARR at the Root Note Article: Haakon Nelson Photo: Peter Lee

Dressing up is encouraged, while not strictly enforced. Whether one chooses to dress in their Sunday best or something just warm and comfy, the main focus of this year’s ball is on people getting together, hearing good music and enjoying themselves. Anyone suffering the doldrums of February’s cold can find warm music and warm people at the 2nd Annual Black Tie Ball. Do it for the music. Do it for the community. Do it for Doug.

Those who choose to attend are encouraged to arrive early and ride-share if possible, as this is expected to be quite a busy affair. Music starts at 7:00 p.m. with Fayme Rochelle and Tripp Evenson. TUGG

February is a hard month to ignore, especially in Wisconsin. For anyone wanting an evening escape, your best bet is to meander down to the Root Note to hear the folk- and blues-rich sounds of Charlie Parr, playing February 18 and 19. Both shows should be standalone experiences. Friday’s show will also feature opener Dead Horses; Saturday’s show will start with the banjo duo Matt Ray and Trevor James (of Tin Can Gin).

With a constant touring schedule and numerous recordings, Duluth’s Charlie Parr is truly one of Minnesota’s own wandering sons. For nearly 30 years, he has been bringing his amalgamated sound—meshing the varied folk music of America—to countless audiences. One has only to look at his touring schedule to see he covers more road in a week than many do in a year.

A regular presence on Public Radio, Parr is featured on multiple soundtracks and is the subject of the documentary “Meeting Charlie Parr.” Combined with his own thirteen (and counting) albums, the staggering output of Mr. Parr belies his modest self-description as “shy,” and “easily confused.” Once he starts playing his resonator guitar, any shyness evaporates.

Haakon Nelson, a local experimental musician, was born in La Crosse, raised in Winona and returned to La Crosse four years ago. His writing has appeared in Virus! magazine and TheQuietus.com.

He is a father of a 13-year-old son and a drinker of much coffee.

GO: 2nd Annual Valentine’s Day Black Tie Ball Where: Leo & Leona’s W1436 State Road 33, Bangor, WI When: Feb. 13, 6:30 p.m. (Arrive early and rideshare. Tickets sell out fast and parking is limited.)

Hailing from Milwaukee, Dead Horses mixes both old and new folk elements to create something wholly unique.

This acoustic trio projects a sound one wouldn’t guess from their modest setup and a complexity unexpected from their respective ages.

Matt Ray and Trevor James both come with lengthy performing pedigrees (Matt Ray and Those Damn Horses, Tin Can Gin), and are now pairing Matt’s bluegrass style with Trevor’s folk storytelling to produce a full roots experience.

GO: Charlie Parr at the Root Note Where: Root Note, 115 4th Street South, La Crosse, WI When: Feb. 18-19, Music starts at 8:45 p.m.

Tickets: Presale $12; at door $15

PROF AT THE CAVALIER A Rude Awakening

Give me everything under the ceiling, this is perfect/Hallelujah! Say it again!

Hallelujah!”

Just don’t forget to wear your Sunday best when you go to church with Prof.

“It’s gonna be crazy,” he warns, only slightly kidding. “Bring some protective eyewear and a safety jacket when you come to the show.”

Article: Briana Rupel Photos: BlueG Productions

party.”

Prof signed with Minneapolis indie record label Rhymesayers in 2013, but his quick wit, clever word play and unabashed bravado gained him recognition long before.

“It started at parties,” Prof describes, “freestyling and battling my friends. I kinda developed a reputation of having a sharp tongue, making people laugh. I went to shows around the city, freestyled outside, built a name, and then started doing (my own) shows, and, you know, the rest is history.”

The respect for Prof’s cunning musicality is steadfast, and only continues to grow.

In 2012, Minneapolis’ City Pages named

him one of Minnesota’s 20 best rappers, and he remains the only rap artist to sell out Minneapolis’ renowned First Avenue without the backing of Minnesota Public Radio’s 89.3 The Current.

But while his recorded music is undeniably legit, a lesson in Prof remains incomplete without experiencing his epic stage performance. There will be crowd-surfing. There most likely will be Jameson. There hopefully won’t be any more broken bones.

“There’s nothing but the realest in the building,” he boasts in the crescendoing chorus of the track “Church” on his 2015 release, Liability, “There’s no way to describe just how I’m feeling/

GO: Prof at the Cavalier Where: Cavalier Theater & Lounge 114 5th Ave N, La Crosse, WI When: Feb. 11 - 8 p.m.

Info: www.cavaliertheater.com

SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |

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ftentimes, music lovers will describe the experience of an amazing live show as going to their kind of church. But if you’re looking for an awakening, don’t expect Minneapolis rapper Prof to be preaching from the pulpit. Instead, he’ll be the restless cousin kicking you under the pew, whispering nasty jokes in your ear in a sole attempt to get you to break into inappropriately timed laughter.

“When people come to a show for the first time, I kinda laugh,” he says, “‘cause I’m like ‘Oh man, they don’t even know...’ It’s almost like not being in on an inside joke or something. They don’t know what to expect.”

Don’t expect to kick back in your cushy theater seat and nod your head to some mellow beats. When Prof is in the house, you can expect one hell of a raucous party. After all, this is a guy who rang in the new year by rocking the stage so hard he broke his toe at his sold out show in St. Cloud. But freshly rehabilitated, thanks in part to a lengthy beach vacation in Belize, Prof is ready for the first stop on his Gasoline Run tour.

He’s played La Crosse a couple of times before, but this time he’s bringing some buddies along for the ride.

“I’ve got a good friend of mine with me, Mike Mictlan; he’s been rockin’ for over a decade with the (Minneapolis hip hop collective) Doomtree crew. He’s been traveling around the country with them for a long time. Then I’m bringing another close homie of mine, Mac Irv. He’s a little bit new to rap. He was actually a point guard on the Minnesota Gophers basketball team. It should be a

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THE ARTS

Behind A Series

the Scenes

Behind the Scenes features multi-issue chronicles from the people involved in what’s happening in the Seven Rivers Region. In our first series, Parker Forsell keeps you on the beat of April’s Mid West Music Fest as it’s in the making.

Series 1, Part 2: Mid West Music Fest (MWMF) with Parker Forsell, MWMF Managing Director set at another venue.

It is all part of the collective music fever that hits the town. For a brief moment music and community meet. Bands land future gigs, fans fall in love with new artists, and together it feels like there’s nothing that a good dose of art and rock and roll can’t solve.

SEVEN | Issue #8 | February, 2016

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he ball is starting to roll downhill toward the musical circus that is Mid West Music Fest (MWMF) taking place Saturday, April 16 in La Crosse and April 28-30 in Winona, Minn. After seven years of building music and community in Winona, the fest is following a similar plan in La Crosse—working with the local music scene and its supporters to deliver a visual and aural feast. Year one in La Crosse will feature several local acts, while also mixing in popular Twin Cities bands and up-and-coming original artists from throughout the Midwest.

Between the festival’s music committee and years of connecting with artists on the road, in clubs and on the festival circuit, we’ve become confident in offering an eclectic line-up.

For instance, in 2014 we hit up friends at the iconic music recording and online hub Daytrotter (www.daytrotter.com) to let us know of some of their favorite Iowa bands. That’s how we found Land of Blood and Sunshine, Gloom Balloon

and Christopher the Conquered, favored acts of the music committee, who will debut in La Crosse on April 16.

Through our friends The People Brothers Band, we were introduced to De La Buena, a ten-piece band out of Milwaukee that has been electrifying audiences with their brand of AfroCuban and Latin Jazz (also coming to La Crosse).

Music fest fever Whether you are four or 74, it’s easy to get caught up in the amplified atmosphere that occurs at MWMF when you bring together 80-100 artists and 700-800 fans per day. Friendships form between artists and between audiences and artists, and our rural river town becomes a music mecca like Minneapolis or Austin, Texas, for the day. There are so many good shows happening that the audience has to make difficult choices to attend one show over another or half a show and then scurry to catch the back end of a

MWMF Pre-Party If you are looking for a taste of what’s to come, there is a MWMF Pre-Party concert on February 26 at The Root Note at 8:00 p.m., featuring Twin Cities veteran Lucy Michelle. For almost a decade, Michelle has been making irresistible music: first through her mountain gypsy band The Velvet Lapelles, and then with a beautiful solo record “Attack of the Heart.”

Friends John Munson (Semisonic), Chan Poling (The Suburbs) and Chris Koza have joined her on record and also on select dates (including 2015 MWMF in Winona).

While everything Michelle has done has wowed audiences, most people were not prepared for her latest band, Little Fevers (little-fevers.com), a super catchy sugar pop band. The interwebs have been buzzing, and we are excited to present them for the first time in the area. Madison duo Oh My Love (ohmylovemusic.com) are also a special act that wowed the music committee with their sweet electropop. Fans of Sylvan Esso don’t want to

show up late, because Oh My Love’s smooth grooves along with Hannah Luree’s hypnotic delivery will surely get the party moving early.

GO: www.midwestmusicfest.org MWMF Pre-Party Concerts Feb. 12 at Ed’s (No Name) Bar, Winona, MN – 9 p.m.

With Reina del Cid and Gabriel Douglas of 4onthefloor Feb. 26 at The Root Note, La Crosse, WI – 8 p.m.

With Little Fevers and Oh My Love Sponsored in part by SEVEN

Parker Forsell is the Managing Director of the four-day, 11-stage, 400+ musician Mid West Music Fest and founder of Ocooch Mountain Music. Since 1992, Forsell has been organizing events, music performances and grassroots community networks of consumers, farmers and musicians. He has been a publisher and editor (Dandelion Whine, Stinging Nettle, Biodynamic Journal), farm hand, non-profit organizer (Angelic Organics Learning Center, Land Stewardship Project), booking agent, band manager and record producer. He is a UW-La Crosse alum living in Winona, Minn.

HORSESHOES AND HAND GRENADES An Interview with Adam Greuel

Article: Haakon Nelson Photo: Contributed

How has the tour been so far?

Awesome. We hit a lot of these new communities and get to build a new fan base and see these “bucket list” rooms, places we’ve read about or just heard bootleg recordings from. The response has been super positive, and we’ve met a lot of kind, interesting people. Feels like we’re growing as a band, both musically and personally.

Any memorable shows/incidents?

All of them have been cool on their

own. Nashville was a funny one, as it was during the “Great Snow Storm.” The venue had cancelled the show, leaving a lot of people bummed. We worked with our booking agent to get another show booked. That one was quite memorable, as it was one of those shows where adversity happens and ends up being quite magical.

Do you find that tours like this, where you travel through such musically diverse areas, add to your own material?

Oh yeah, totally. One big thing for our band is we’re all songwriters, all five of us. For me personally, and I know for the others, landscape plays a big role in our writing. You know, we’ve travelled through the Appalachians, where a lot of this roots music came from. And then there are the people you meet and the stories you share on the way.

As a band with generally younger members, do you encounter much surprise that you’re working with more traditional material and instruments?

No, it’s always been natural for us.

I think we’ve always enjoyed making music. There’s something about acoustic instruments. There’s a simplicity there, there’s an earthy element to them. I think we’re just attracted to them, and there’s been a wave of interest among young people for acoustic instruments. Not to mention, just because we play this style of music, doesn’t mean we’re doing it in the style of people like Bill Monroe.

We’re making our own sound from it.

According to the bio on your site, your band sprang out of a memorable party, where a love of beer and acoustic music combined. Do you consciously try to maintain that same sense of fun in your music?

Yeah, life’s too short to not have fun.

I think we learned quickly as individuals that we wanted to do something with our lives we truly enjoy. We try to bring that with us and to build that sentiment around. We want people to be themselves, to embrace life and to make the good times even better.

Any plans yet, for after the tour?

Yeah, definitely. It’s been one of our longer tours, so I think when it’s all done, we all look forward to getting back and seeing friends and family. Myself personally, I’m going to get back and do some outdoor stuff and get out and about. It’s been nice touring, but we’re looking forward to getting back to Wisconsin.

GO: Horseshoes and Hand Grenades Where: Cavalier Theater & Lounge 118 5th Ave S. La Crosse, WI When: Feb. 26-27 Info: www.cavaliertheater.com

SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |

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ince 2010, Horseshoes and Hand Grenades has been crafting joyful folk music and traveling throughout the country to share that same excitement. Utilizing acoustic instruments and up to five-part harmonies in their vocals, this quintet does not worry about the limits of categorization. In their music, you can hear elements as disparate as German Polka and Cajun Zydeco. I spoke to band member Adam Greuel, during a stop in Pennsylvania on the group’s East Coast tour:

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THE ARTS

Bringing History and Art Together

Article: Susan T. Hessel Logo Design: Sonja Schrag

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he objects of our lives tell great stories about individuals and society to anyone willing to listen.

That’s an idea behind [art]ifact, a collaborative project of the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse (UW-L) History Department, the Pump House Regional Arts Center and the La Crosse County Historical Society.

UW-L student historians each

researched an object, which an artist interpreted. Both the original objects and artwork will be exhibited at the Pump House, 119 King St., La Crosse, from February 24 to April 17.

The class originated from a fall 2013 UW-L class in which students Ariel Reker, Mathis Jama and Amanda Drummon designed a potential community history project.

It was such a good idea, a year-long

SEVEN | Issue #8 | February, 2016

A whole life approach to women’s health

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course based on their concept began in fall 2015 at the La Crosse County Historical Society headquarters. Ariel Beaujot, an assistant professor of history known for her innovative projects, led the class.

“The biggest issue with history is it is not approachable; it is not accessible to people. That’s what Public and Policy History tries to fix in a lot of ways,” says Reker, a UW-L senior in Archeology and Public and Policy History. “[art]ifact shows how well community projects can work.”

Sophomore Katrina Bjornstad studied a cream-colored dress of cotton, silk and lace that La Crosse dressmaker Augusta Dobe made for her wedding to Arthur Beutler. “According to an interview her son had with the La Crosse County Historical Society, she could listen to the customer and then create the dress just the way she wanted. She was inspiring,” says Bjornstad.

James North, an American history major from the University of Kent in England, studied a Hmong knife made

by Tong Khai Vang. “Most important is community and resurgence of tradition and making sure that even though the Hmong are not in their native land, they can continue their traditions in the future,” North says.

Reker is pleased with the project’s evolution. “A lot of people are hesitant to work with people and organizations, because they are afraid of the logistics behind it,” Reker notes. “Peggy Derrick from the Historical Society and Toni Asher from the Pump House are amazing. They constantly help us improve and provide experience that we wouldn’t have.”

An Opening Gala Reception will be held from 6-7:30 p.m. on February 26.

There will also be talks open to the public Sundays at 2 p.m. on February 28, March 6, and April 3, 10 and 17, where the artists and historians discuss their process.

More information at www.art-ifact.org

The Center for Women’s Health.

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Mayo Clinic Health System - Franciscan Healthcare La Crosse – 700 West Ave. S. To schedule an appointment, call 608-392-9891 or 800-535-9055 ext. 6240 Onalaska – 191 Theater Road. To schedule an appointment, call 608-392-5003 mayoclinichealthsystem.org

Photo: Marc Manke

LIMELIGHT

Celebration and Education to Uplift Women and Girls

Article: Jess Witkins

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t’s a startling fact that 1 in 3 women will be raped or beaten in her lifetime. Globally, that’s one billion women. You can help stop it.

Local nonprofit New Horizons Shelter and Outreach Centers, Inc. is joining forces for the fifth year with more than 17 area nonprofits, organizations and community groups to rise up for V-Day and put an end to violence against women and girls. Founded in 1998 by activist and playwright, Eve Ensler, V-Day is an ongoing taskforce that works globally to empower women and raise awareness and funds towards stopping gender-specific violence. The organization addresses both local and international concerns, including sex trafficking and domestic violence as well as child marriages and female genital mutilation.

On Valentine’s Day 2012, V-Day launched an additional campaign called One Billion Rising, based on the shocking statistics of violence still targeting women. And La Crosse, Wis.,

was there for the start. Now, in their fifth year of activism, joining over 200 countries and countless international and local events, New Horizons is hosting their largest One Billion Rising campaign yet.

“I believe once you have educated someone with knowledge about the atrocities that are occurring worldwide, they cannot turn away from making changes that will help women stay safe and encourage empowerment for the victims,” says New Horizons diversity advocate Sherri Larsen.

The local V-Day event will take place on February 14 at Valley View Mall from 10:00 a.m.– 2:00 p.m. The event is free to the public, though donations to the shelter are welcome. A short program will take place at noon featuring a bilingual poet, a singer and the traditional flash mob dance. So often after an attack, a victim will struggle with the loss of power, of feeling no longer in control of their own body.

It’s a difficult process for many to feel comfortable in their own skin again.

For that reason, dance has always been a part of One Billion Rising. It is a symbolic and spiritual reclaiming of the body for ourselves.

“Even though I am not the world’s greatest dancer,” says Larsen, “I enjoy being a part of this. My granddaughters enjoy it too. Each year we have more dancers join us to be a part of something bigger than ourselves.”

This year, La Crosse Rises welcomes three local dance studios to its flash mob, which includes the participating nonprofits and community members alike. The public is welcome to attend any of the free practices at the studios or learn the dance from home via video. Rehearsals and the training video can be found on the local Facebook page, La Crosse Rises OBR.

Wondering what the impact is in our community? “In 2015, we had 144 adults seek shelter, and 116 children,” says Jen Scaccio, youth and family advocate at New Horizons. Additionally, there were 784 new individuals who sought agency services last year.

“These numbers are a reflection of the significant rise in our service needs,” Scaccio explains, “which makes One Billion Rising much more important.”

This year’s event theme is Listen!

Act! Rise! Larsen hopes attendees focus on the word listen. “It is the voices of victims that need a platform to be heard. If we stop and listen, we can hear them, and we can help them become survivors.”

GO: One Billion Rising, a V-Day global initiative Where: Valley View Mall When: Feb. 14, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., program at noon Why: To end violence against women and girls

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The best way to experience the unique combination at the Y is to see it for yourself. Present coupon below for a free visit*. Visit www.laxymca.org for more information LA CROSSE AREA FAMiLY YMCA YMCA-LA CROSSE BRANCH 1140 Main Street, La Crosse

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ONE BILLION RISING

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SEVEN | Issue #8 | February, 2016

LIMELIGHT

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: e f i L e h t n i y A Da

GITA PAI Article: Jess Witkins Photos: Theresa Smerud

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ne might define the work happening in the Coulee Region as collaboration with a cause. For Gita Pai, assistant professor of history at UW-La Crosse (UW-L), that’s exactly what inspires her about this area. Pai is working with Mahruq Khan from the Women’s Gender and Sexuality Studies Department and Nabamita Dutta from the Economics Department to bring the South Asian Film Festival to La Crosse, a full week of free film showings and discussion.

The idea behind the festival came about with the 2015 film release of “India’s Daughter,” a film depicting a 2012 rape case and trial. “The film elicited a lot of discussion about the plight of women in India, not only in my classroom, but also around the world,” says Pai. To understand the importance of the festival, you want to get to know Gita Pai.

people grow up and decide to stay, decide to raise a family. I think that’s what is happening in many parts of India, too.”

9:25 a.m. - First and Second Class - The British Empire and Ghandi’s India.

This semester Pai and her students are joined by a few retired community members. “I have some non-traditional students who asked if they could audit my class,” explains Pai. At first, they offered to just sit and listen, but Pai wants them to get involved.

“In a classroom of 60 students, I’m the only person of color, or there will be one other student.” She looks forward to the perspectives shared amongst a more diverse classroom. “I want them to participate. I believe in collaborative learning.”

6:30 a.m. - Wake Up and Stretch.

“I’ll try to do a little bit of yoga, and then eat breakfast, get ready and catch the early morning bus to campus,” says Pai, a morning person. No stranger to early classes, she recognizes that many of her students commute from rural areas and are used to getting up early.

9 p.m. – Bed. When asked when she turns in for the night, she laughs. “I aim for nine.” A true historian and educator, Pai tends to stay up past her bedtime and read.

“Somewhere between nine and eleven.”

12:40 p.m. - Research Seminar.

A requirement for all history majors is their research seminar. Pai works with a dozen students whose topics cover a wide range of history. “My specialty is in South Asian Studies. But in this class, I have students covering a French designer, one doing very local history, someone’s doing it on the civil war, someone who’s interested in the Syrian crisis...It’s exciting, but it’s nerve-wracking as well.”

8 a.m. - Arrive on Campus.

Teaching three courses this semester, Pai focuses on the history of South Asia, the geographic area comprised of Pakistan, India, Nepal, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. Her office walls are lined with her reading library. “Most people don’t know there was a point in history where the center of trade and commerce was India,” she says.

4 p.m. - End of Classes and Committee Meetings.

Pai is involved in several committees on campus and off, all of which focus on diversity inclusiveness.

She is advisor for the Phi Alpha Theta, the history honors society, and recently became a part of a program that mentors incoming international students to help acclimate them to the area. Once a month she also participates in the Pump House Film Society, viewing and discussing a variety of cinematic works.

It’s easy to see from the work Pai does in her classroom and in the community that giving voice to diverse perspectives is important to her. The labor of putting a film festival together is no small task, especially one that tackles crime, outsourcing of jobs, LGBT issues and India’s caste system. This year, the festival focuses on stories from India with the question, Who can speak for India’s women?

“We wanted to show examples of women who are challenging the patriarchy,” says Pai. “To help those who are interested in feminism and women’s studies explore the woman of color. Our goal was to present images of women who are not necessarily oppressed, so that people can have a more nuanced view of women in India.”

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.

Having taught at UW-L for five years now, she has learned to give people a cultural context. “India has been in the news over the last few years because of high rape incidences. But we don’t hear about the sense of family and community. Like in the Midwest,

5 p.m. – Home.

At home, Pai enjoys cooking her own Indian food, getting a workout in, and talking with her family. Pai’s parents, husband and children live in California, so she divides her time between states. Her husband is a neurologist, her daughter is recently married and finishing her pediatric residence, and her son is working for a startup company. “We face time, text message or call every night,” says Pai, whose father is dealing with Alzheimer’s, so technology also allows her to check in with her parents in between visits.

South Asian Film Festival Gita is working with her colleagues on the South Asian Film Festival to bring awareness to issues of South Asian countries and to celebrate South Asian culture.

Where: 1309 Centennial Hall UW-La Crosse When: Feb. 29 - March 7, 6 p.m.

For a list of film showings visit: www.uwlax.edu/south-asian-filmfest

SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |

GO:

13

LIMELIGHT

EMPOWERING GIRLS Shannon Krautkramer’s Caring Gesture Strengthens a Ugandan Community

Article: Susan T. Hessel Photos: Contributed

SEVEN | Issue #8 | February, 2016

W

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hat a difference a year made in the life of Shannon Krautkramer, who never imagined making a first trip to Uganda, let alone a second. That was before she learned why girls in developing countries drop out of school. Unable to run to the store for sanitary supplies, these girls missed school up to seven days a month when they had their periods. Unable to keep up, they drop out, marry young and have babies.

“I was just broken up that these girls drop out of school so young,” says Krautkramer.

Krautkramer learned about Days for Girls International, which seeks to keep girls in school by providing them with quality sustainable hygiene kits utilizing sewn fabric to use during their periods.

At a women’s Christian conference, Krautkramer attended a one-time workshop to sew the kits. “Something clicked,” she says. “I felt this was something I needed to be involved in.”

She and Annie Mwebaza, a nanny from Uganda residing in West Salem for a year, started sewing the kits weekly. After Mwebaza’s fiancé said there were 25 girls in his school in dan-

ger of dropping out, the two women made 25 kits. Soon they were up to 100.

When Krautkramer joked about taking kits to Uganda herself, her husband Jason said, “I think you are supposed to take those kits to Uganda and teach the girls how to use them. The Lord will provide a way for us to do that.”

Three months later, using the Gofundme.com crowdsourcing website, Krautkramer had the funding. In August 2015, about a month after her friend returned to Uganda, she took 109 kits there.

“I wasn’t expecting to see the need that I saw and how blessed the women felt in receiving a kit. They kept saying it was life-changing,” recalls Krautkramer. “I was handing out kits, and they were gone. We made an announcement that we had no more and 100 girls left.” Sixty-five stayed to put their names on a waiting list.

Another friend took the 65 kits to Uganda at Christmas. The woman who was next in line when Krautkramer handed out the kits received the first one. In a photo of the happy girls, the next-in-line woman was there with a huge smile. “They didn’t think this was going to happen at all,” explains Krautkramer. “They couldn’t believe

we kept that promise.”

Krautkramer and others will return to Uganda in November 2016. In addition to finished kits, they will teach women in Uganda to make their own kits using “people-powered,” treadle sewing machines.

“They do have electricity in Uganda, but it is not very reliable. Sometimes there are blackouts for days at a time.

That’s why we will teach them how to make kits using a treadle machine,” says Krautkramer.

What is so powerful about the program is that absences of girls from school have declined from 36 percent to 8 percent in Uganda.

Want to help? Monthly sewing events are from 1-4 p.m., February 28, March 13, April 17, and then will be held the third week for each month beginning in May at First Free Church, 123 Mason Street, Onalaska.

To learn other ways to help Days for Girls, contact onalaskawi@daysforgirls.org, or visit the Onalaska team’s Facebook page, https://www. facebook.com/Days-for-Girls-Onalaska-WI-Team-1587438761526796.

Susan T. Hessel is a freelance writer and personal historian who loves writing stories about people who do good in this world.

COLLEGE CORNER

By Austin Sargent

Photo: Contributed

The Problem with Graduation

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Austin Sargent has joined SEVEN as an Intern. Austin is an artist, advocate, and soon-to-be graduate from Viterbo University with a major in Musical Theatre and a minor in Arts Administration. Usually, you can find Austin in a coffee shop, at a show or at the bar, and if he’s not there he’s probably napping.

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SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |

H

ere we are. The beginning of another semester. And for me, the beginning of the last semester. The impending doom of graduation is staring me in the face, and suddenly every essay, quiz and attendance point means more than it ever has before. As I think about the future, it’s a strange mix of anxiety, hope and nervousness. Hoping that this really expensive piece of paper with my name on it will help me into the workforce to begin a new chapter in my adult life.

What is most confusing about graduation is what everyone says I should do after. It seems like every time I visit home the only question I hear is “what are you going to do next?” No matter what answer I give, it never seems to be good enough for the aunt or neighbor or barista who asked. Each person has their own version of what “success” is and their own advice on how to achieve it.

Some people I talk to say that now is the time to travel and see all the things you’ve always wanted to see. It’s the time to backpack through Europe or spend the summer at an artist compound in Portland. They say “travel while you are young,” and they show me pictures of their own kids standing next to the Grand Canyon or the Space Needle or the World’s Largest Yarn Ball.

Others say that young graduates need to start their careers immediately.

Begin paying into their 401Ks or Roth IRAs or maybe even set up a retirement fund. These people say that young graduates are prime candidates for hire, and moving to a brand new city is an essential first step on the path to success. Young grads have skills no one else has, including internet literacy, social media and computer programming. They can tweet, share, like or pin their way straight into a cubicle.

My mother says I need to move back home and spend some time with family, so we can take our “last family vacation” (which is never really the last one). She says that I should enjoy living rent-free for a while and appreciate having my groceries paid for. I should reconnect with high school friends and old bosses and go back to the people who know me best.

So what is a young graduate to do? Do I continue waiting for Godot, or do I go out and take the world by storm? The answer I’ve come up with for myself is: Wait. Continue to enjoy my last few semesters in La Crosse and then wait until April to figure it out. I have way too many things going on now to even possibly hope to plan for the future. My advice to myself and to other graduates is to live in the moment and soak it all in. Stop listening to “what you should do” and start taking the steps to achieve what you will do.

Be realistic and optimistic and embrace the scary nervous excitedness of the next few months. Be smart and be brave. And I’ll see you all in May.

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15

SIP N' TASTE

FOOD Review

Jules Coffee House By: Lee Neves

February calls for a warm cup of delicious, hearty soup. On a recent visit, Jules Coffee House in downtown La Crosse took the cake (or cupcake) for a perfect soup. Chartreuse walls with hanging art and an eclectic range of music create a coffee shop vibe perfect for an afternoon lunch. Soup choices change occasionally and, based on past visits, each variety is scrumptious. My options were Veggie Chili, Veggie Lentil and Potato Leek, all available by the cup or bowl. I ordered a cup of Veggie Lentil which comes with a roll and pat of butter (on request). Upon inquiry, I discovered that all of the ingredients of this vegetable broth-based soup are organically grown. The barista on staff was cheerful and brought out my soup about ten minutes later, heated to a perfect temperature. The slight wait is what I would expect for a soup handmade on site. The flavor of bite-size chunks of carrot, celery and potato were complemented by savory stewed lentils. My European-style hard roll had old world flair with a layer of flour on the bottom, an ideally chewy crust and light, airy inside.

For my beverage, I chose All Day Breakfast black tea from a display of a variety of loose leaf teas by The Republic of Tea. (The fact that loose leaf is the norm at Jules is a bonus!) The barista placed just the right amount of tea leaves into a thin paper linen and tied it closed before pouring hot water over the sachet into my ceramic cup…tea done right!

When ordering, my attention was drawn to the baked treats in the display case next to the register. Chocolate chip oatmeal walnut

WINE

by Wohlert

SEVEN | Issue #8 | February, 2016

WINE 16

Review

By: Todd Wohlert

WINEMAKERS: What’s in a name?

This month’s column is tinged with a little sadness. I had the pleasure and honor of meeting Walter Schug in the summer of 2014 at his winery in Carneros in Sonoma, California. Schug passed away in October. This is my tribute to him, because he left such an impression on me.

Originally from Germany, Schug grew up in the wine business, because his father was a Pinot Noir vineyard manager. He came to the U.S. with his new wife in the early 1960s and worked for Gallo Brothers. He made a name for himself with Phelps Wine in Napa, where he developed their famous Insignia red blend (which costs $200-$300 a bottle these days… a bottle!).

Schug has always loved Pinot Noir, even when you couldn’t give it away. This may be hard to believe now, but in the late ‘70s/early ‘80s no one wanted it, and wine makers were tearing out their vineyards. Schug believed in it and asked to take over Phelps’ Pinot Noir production and put it out under his own label.

cookies, fudge butter cookie sandwiches, banana nut bread and mocha cupcakes…it was hard to choose. I opted for a mocha cupcake after learning it was made from scratch with Valrhona cocoa powder and espresso with a light cream cheese frosting. A hint of espresso enhanced the moist richness of the velvety dark chocolate of this gourmet cupcake.

When I finished my delightful lunch, I could’ve left my dishes on my table, but a dish tub near the kitchen entrance suggested that people leave their dishes in it. I always opt for this helpful gesture.

Jules Coffee House’ mission to provide handmade great food to go with their coffee (and wine!) is uncompromised, perfected and warming year-round.

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After a few successful years, he struck out on his own and set up shop in the Carneros part of Sonoma. They told him that he was crazy, but he knew that the breezes from the ocean would make great wine-making possible with this fussy varietal.

Skip ahead 30+ years to a small group of people from Wisconsin on a business trip. It was dry and hot in Sonoma when we get there for our tour. We were told that Schug wasn’t going to be there. Like any good tourist, I jumped out of the car and started taking pictures of everything, so I could post it on FB. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw a shock of grey hair coming out of the main building. I looked at him and recognized him.

It was Walter Schug! He had decided to come to the complex, just because he felt like it. He ended up taking us on a tour and showing us around. He was so passionate about wine-making and had so many stories, I just wanted to run away and live in his vineyards. The thing he said that really stuck with me is “we don’t beat the sh** out of our wines.” He was a firm believer in letting the wine develop naturally and not tinkering with it in unnatural ways.

There is a great video on their website (www.schugwinery.com) where you can hear Schug himself talking about his history, his vision and his wine.

In the tradition of Walter Schug’s home estate in Germany, their Rouge de Noirs Sparkling Pinot Noir is a celebration of the intense yet delicate flavors the Pinot Noir grape has to offer.

Like a Brut Rose only darker, this “saignée method” bubbly has vibrant berry flavors and a brilliant red color rarely found in a sparkling wine. The second fermentation is done in bottle, or “methode traditionelle”—the same as in Champagne. This wine would be fantastic with lightly seasoned salmon or chocolatedipped strawberries.

Todd Wohlert works for Purple Feet Wines, a member of the Winebow Group. He is the most requested wine advisor in the Seven Rivers Region, making weekly appearances and spreading the gospel of good wine.

Style: Belgian Ale with spices Brewer: Lift Bridge Brewing Company, Stillwater, Minn.

Price Point: $8 / 22 oz. bottle at local retailers Alcohol by Volume: 7%

BEER Review

Biscotti

Presence: While not particularly heavy on the palate, the lower-

By: A.J. Moore

Appearance: Copper brown with absolute crystalline clarity. Carbonation is subtle and unexpectedly low volume for a Belgian-inspired brew. The head is fizzy and dissipates gradually into a ring on the edge of the glass that descends with no sign of lacing or spotting. A steady stream of super fine bubbles persists to suspend the aroma from top to bottom.

Aroma: True to its namesake, the primary aroma is reminiscent of toasted pastries, sweet biscuits, warm sugars and shortbread cookies. Additionally there are faint hints of orange peel, vanilla anise and pepper. The yeast esters are distinctly Belgian with hints of syrup and fermented dark fruit.

Taste: The very first flavors are fruity and light with a big hit of honey. Immediately following, peppery notes of Grains of Paradise kick in with brief piquant hints of cardamom, evergreen and oak.

Those flavors gently round themselves out toward clove, ginger and cinnamon as it warms on the tongue. The final note returns to bigger and rounder flavors of amber malts, vanilla bean and buckwheat honey. The hop bitterness is mild and complementary with only a hint of spiciness in the aftertaste.

volume carbonation seems to really pay off in adding a perception of substance and creaminess to the mouthfeel that is really delightful. The spices add a level of pepperiness that is a playful and effective counterbalance to the sweet malt in the absence of more assertive hopping. There is only the faintest perception of alcohol warmth in the very latest of the palate.

X-Factors and Overall: Subtlety. Admittedly, at first taste I was a little underwhelmed, but as this beer warms it really opens up and the delicate balance of flavors begin to show off a beautiful medley of fruity yeast esters, peppery and woodsy Grains of Paradise, round malts, vanilla, honey and a very faint sweet complement of spices. Do not dread the heavy hand of anise that tastes more of Grandma’s medicine cabinet; the delicate hand of the brewer has balanced it perfectly.

Stoke up the fire, pour a pair of tulip glasses full of this one and curl up in a cozy spot with your valentine. You won’t regret it.

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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17

Welcome to the 1st Annual Edition of the People of SEVEN! A great number of people were nominated by community members to recognize those who inspire, innovate and give within the Seven Rivers Region. Of these people, 18 nominees are honored in this issue of SEVEN. Cheers to the People of SEVEN!

Andrew Hughes

Local musician Andy Hughes was nominated for People of SEVEN because of “his dedication and time spent teaching music to young children at the Boys & Girls Club,” as well as “for being an outstanding human being.”

Article: Haakon Nelson Photo: Bob Good

H

ughes was first exposed to the Boys & Girls Club through his father, Peter Hughes, who was involved with numerous projects there and served on the board of directors for many years. “This program would not happen without the very long list of people that help,” says Hughes.

“Initially, I was invited as an instructor, and a point of contact to other local musicians in the community. After participating that first week, I was completely hooked. I tell Mike

Desmond [Director of the Boys & Girls Club] all the time that I think I get more out of this than the kids do.”

Hughes says encouraging young musicians is critical. “I know first-hand how important it is, to encourage young people to experiment with music,” he notes. “When I was a junior at Central High School, I went to shows at The Warehouse. I wanted to be like the bands I saw; so I started my own

and haven’t looked back. I met my wife, Becky, through music...and music is a huge part of our life. My oldest daughter was in the first Guitar Academy class and plans to participate again. That is pretty special!”

Hughes moved to the area as a high school sophomore. After graduating from Central High, he attended UW-La Crosse. It was at there that his band TUGG was formed, originally to perform at parties. He has been

married to his wife Becky for 11 years, and they have two beautiful daughters: Marley (9) and Maya (6). While music is a favorite in their household, they also enjoy skiing, hiking, basketball and other sports, and playing with their yellow Labrador and two cats. Hughes is an avid home brewer and member of the local brewing club, the LAGERS.

Fran Swift

It’s easy to see why Fran Swift was nominated for People of SEVEN when her goal for the parents she works with is to help them build and believe in their own confidence as parents.

SEVEN | Issue #8 | February, 2016

Article: Jess Witkins Photo: Contributed

18

T

wenty years ago, a board member of the Family Resource Center, now the Parenting Place, recommended Fran Swift to cover a long maternity leave as a parent educator. She was hired. And she was hooked. With a background in first and second grade education, she credits the seasoned educators she encountered in her early teaching career with illustrating what a strong community looks like when it supports parents and families.

“Parenting is a beautiful experience, but it also can be one of the most

challenging, especially in today’s superfast and often hectic world,” says Swift.

“Families are often under a lot of stress and pressure. Communities are at their best when the family well-being, education, success and sense of community are recognized, supported and interwoven.”

It’s easy to see why Fran Swift was nominated for People of SEVEN when her goal for the parents she works with is to help them build and believe in their own confidence as parents. “There’s no such thing as a perfect parent,” she says. “I would love

for all parents to trust themselves, trust their heart. When it comes to knowing what their children need—to pay attention also to their own needs and to trust their children’s natural development.”

She’s an advocate for the free programming available at The Parenting Place such as Play Shoppes, Muscles in Motion and the annual Children’s Festival.

These activities allow parents to interact with their kids in hands-on play as well as create relationships with other families in the area.

When not working at The Parenting Place, Swift can often be found reading books about parenting. However, she manages to pursue her other passions like baking and writing, as well. Swift and her husband, Dick, live on La Crosse’s south side and enjoy walking their dog, Tootsie, through La Crosse River Marsh trails and Riverside Park. The couple has two grown children and are happy grandparents to a one-year-old grandson named Theo.

Carter Mandel

Carter Mandel’s curiosity has led him onto a path of altruism, community service and community engagement. Beginning with the simple question of “why,” Mandel identified a need, investigated and researched the issue, and sourced a solution. Not too shabby for a nine-year old.

Article: Deborah Nerud Photo: Dahli Durley

I

t all began when Mandel, an E2 (grades 3, 4, 5) Meadowview Intermediate Montessori student at Sparta, witnessed people lined up for the warming shelter. “We would be leaving choir practice, and I would see people huddled up in the cold like moths around a light bulb,” he recalls. “I started wondering, ‘Why are they doing that? What are they waiting for?’ No one should have to wait outside for something when it’s really cold. I decided I needed to do something about that.”

Project: Winter is Coming was conceived

after Mandel joined his dad, Todd Mandel, and Todd’s partner, Heather Linville, at La Crosse SOUP. He remembers his first impression of the monthly crowd-sourced fundraising event: “I thought it would be boring, but people were actually having fun—it was really cool. I started going in June and have been to every one since then.”

With support from his dad (Todd Mandel is Community Development Director for CouleeCap), his family and multiple community organizations, banks and individuals, Mandel sourced over 700

clothing items and raised over $450 on razoo. com (a crowd-sourced funding website). The donations were distributed to New Horizons and the Salvation Army shelters.

“I’ve never done anything that big in my life,” says Mandel. “It made me feel amazing—to get to all these different companies, to get all these donations—it was awesome to know people would feel warm for the winter.”

Currently Mandel is a volunteer assistant for the Civil Air Patrol with hopes to fully

join when he reaches the entrance age of 12.

Also a member of the La Crosse Boy Choir, Mandel plans to pitch at another La Crosse SOUP event, stating, “I wanna do something really unique that other people might not think to do—like cooking with kids.”

Mandel’s positive attitude, curiosity and empathetic nature pulses through his approach toward doing good. “Look for what you believe in,” he says. “If you see something bad in it, try to change it for the better.”

Andrew Londre

“Andrew works to revitalize our community and has done so many things to do just that: La Crosse SOUP, neighborhood beautification efforts and committees, Co.Mill and Co.Starters for local entrepreneurs, SOUP Summit and a ton of other things. Plus, he’s a nice guy!” ~The Nominator

I

n another life, People of SEVEN honoree Andrew Londre could have been a hatter (perhaps mad, but in a brilliant way)—so many different lids does he wear these days.

Having served as La Crosse County supervisor (2012-2014), SEVEN’s own Londre founded the La Crosse Neighborhood Development Corporation and sits on the board of directors for the People’s Food Co-op. He’s Business and Income Developer for La Crosse Couleecap, Inc. and also works as Director of Community Engagement and Strategy

for the La Crosse office of the national urban design firm Urbanlocity. Londre was named 2014 Next City Vanguard, a national honor for young urban leaders. And he serves up La Crosse SOUP, a monthly live crowd-funding event that raises money for community projects with a menu of hot soup and warm fellowship.

greatness. Those who nominated him recognize that steady visionary quality.

But enough about Londre’s hats. These days, what matters is the glasses he wears.

And if nice guys can finish first—and make what they do last—Londre is a likely candidate. “When I was 18, I ran for town supervisor in Shelby and lost by six votes,” he says. “It stinks when that sort of thing happens, but you don’t let that put the brakes on the avenues you can pursue to add value to where you live.”

With a vision to make La Crosse great, Londre has been fixing his gaze on ways for the La Crosse community to own its

By making even the peripheral central to his outlook, Londre has turned what he sees as a kaleidoscope of silver linings for

La Crosse into a portfolio of growth for the region. “I describe it this way,” he says. “Two things have always been true about me: I love public service, and I have ADD. Part of the reason I’m always involved in a hundred different initiatives in the community is because of these two realities: I have this inability to do one thing at a time, and I care so much about the community I’m a part of and want to make it better.”

SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |

Article: Joseph O’Brien Photo: Bob Good

19

Beer By Bike Brigade

A person that received multiple nominations insists that one of his greatest contributions to our community exceeds him—the Beer By Bike Brigade (BBBB). This convergence of life enthusiasts was built from the idea of getting some friends together for “a silly little bicycle barhop.” In numbers, this bicycle barhop went from about 30 to upwards of 400 in the summer months.

Article: Lee Neves Photo: Bob Good

I

f you’re wondering, “What is this bike brigade… a bunch of drinkers loitering our streets?” In reality, maybe. In essence, the BBBB is so much more. The group meets up monthly, typically starting near the La Crosse River Marsh trailhead at Riverside Park on a Saturday afternoon.

From there, the eve kicks off with a bullhorn pep talk from the over-the-top-fun-loving founder to welcome everyone, remind them how awesome they are, give a preview of the schedule, and check that they brought bicycle lights. The pack then leaves in a careful procession into the trail. The dress code includes bike wear, beach wear, tutus, dresses, superhero costumes, the annual holiday array of Santas, and just about anything else. Each ride unintentionally

could be a bicycle show: beach cruisers, banana-seat bikes, fatbikes, discount store bikes, souped-up vintage bikes, road bikes, tandem bikes, dirt bikes…every bike qualifies for this ride!

The “barhop” is really just the framework for this group of experienced and inexperienced cyclists to enjoy camaraderie of a night well-spent. Yes, beers are consumed, but that’s not the focus of this group. The energy that emanates from the newly made friendships combined with the sights of nature and the cityscape at dusk are reminiscent of more innocent, playful days; and the sheer joy of every single person on the ride makes the Brigade come alive. For some “Brigaders” this gathering is a reminder that life should be well-lived.

If this isn’t enough reason to nominate BBBB, there’s also the fundraisers and events. The founder of BBBB is often offered money to run the event, especially since he and his lovely partner purchase and distribute a fun adult beverage on a bicycle trailer to everyone at a halfway point stop. While he has never accepted a dime, the BBBB founder felt the power of this gathering of positive people could grow into a community asset. Thus a handful of annual fundraisers and events were born: Brat Fry Party, The Chili Slam, Bike Winter Fashion Show, Pedal, Ink. Art Show (in partnership with Robbie Young). BBBB has also participated in the La Crosse Community Thanksgiving Dinner and a holiday food drive and ride through Rotary

Lights to deliver the food via bike trailer.

Whew! All proceeds from the fundraisers go to community members in need through local non-profit organizations such as the Boys and Girls Club, Habitat for Humanity, and others.

For the first time, a fundraiser for BBBB will be held…but not by them! La Crosse restaurant, The Old Crow, will hold March Macness, a mac-n-cheese cookoff on March 5. A $5 donation buys a sampling of a variety of mac-n-cheese entries from local restaurants. The Old Crow knows that BBBB will turn the money into a community gift for local children…most likely a set of new bikes!

Randy Thomson

“He teaches the kids respect and he practices what he preaches. He doesn’t just run a business; he runs a home for a lot of these kids.” ~The Nominator

SEVEN | Issue #8 | February, 2016

Article: Joe Hart Photo: Bob Good

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lenty of people believe that athletics build character, but few sports have values embedded as deeply in their practice as the martial arts. After all, some forms of this ancient physical training were developed by Buddhist monks or nuns; many feature distinct spiritual components and strict codes of behavior. And unlike many sports, martial arts insists on adherence to the codes both on and off the competition grounds.

Little wonder, then, that so many turn

20 to karate, taekwondo, aikido and similar

classes to gain confidence, centeredness and meaning in a complex world.

For Randy Thomson, owner of Task Karate and a teacher since 1987, these rules are simple: Don’t use karate the wrong way; be respectful; and do your best. “I talk to the kids and adults about these things all the time,” he says. “I talk to the kids about what respect means, who you should respect; and most importantly I show them respect and concern, so I teach them by example.”

Thomson, a native of La Crosse, traces

his fascination with karate back to his childhood. “My aunt would take us to the drive-in movies,” he recalls. “We would watch Bruce Lee and ‘Kung Fu Theater’-type shows.”

regularly challenges his students to give back to their communities. Donating food, cleaning public spaces and joining in events such as the Polar Plunge are activities in which the students regularly participate.

In time, he transformed what he saw on the silver screen into a gold-standard life as a karate teacher.

Thomson says that he is simply doing his part to make the world a better place.

“Imagine if everyone in the world followed my rules,” he says. “It would be nice if some people weren’t so selfish, and we all took care of each other.”

For Thomson’s students, learning about respect goes beyond mastering karate moves, competing in tournaments and engaging in locker-room conversations. Thomson

Bob Good

For People of SEVEN honoree Bob Good, it’s all about image. Not his own, but the one he sees through the viewfinder of his Canon SLR digital camera.

Article: Joseph O’Brien Photo: Dahli Durley

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is nomination states, “Since Bob came to town and turned that magnificent fisheye lens toward our local artists, musicians and all other walks of life, outsiders and the locally unaware have become enlightened to some of the great things happening in the downtown area that might’ve otherwise gone unnoticed.”

Hailing from Helena, Mont., Good has worked the last 25 years as an industrial mechanic and electrician around the country before settling in as maintenance manager at Torrance Casting in La Crosse. It was only about three years ago that Good felt a need

to do something with his hands after his shift ended at Torrance.

As a techy, Good found camerawork a natural fit. “I had a burning itch to do something more creative,” he says. “I didn’t have a strong outlet at the time…

Then it seems I got into the deep end of photography right away and people received it well.”

Although naturally reserved, Good is good at sticking out in a crowd—if only when he’s pointing a camera lens at the subject at hand. When he’s not clicking for rock

concerts at the Warehouse or capturing the madness of monster truck rallies and roller derbies, he serves as go-to photographer for Midwest Family Broadcasting La Crosse and even manages to capture front page news right here at SEVEN. A man of few words (except when it comes to cameras), Good would rather let the thousand-words’-worth of each picture he takes do the talking, and hopes his work helps create a living, breathing community, one frame at a time.

isolate yourself, playing video games or blogging,” he says. “Events, concerts, charity dances—anything you have to enjoy in person—it’s critical that we get back to things like that. It definitely shows up in photos. When we’re with each other, we show more emotion on our faces than when we’re talking into a device.”

“It’s gotten to where it’s really easy to

Corry Van Aelstyn

“Corry is an amazing person who is involved in the community and leads by example. She is engaged in multiple organizations and groups where she not only participates, but also provides leadership, wisdom and a kind heart. Her personality, character and positive attitude always lifts others, and she is always sure to put a smile on your face.” ~The Nominators

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onsider the people who’ve had the greatest impact on your life, your thinking, your choices. There may be a pop star or a writer among them, but chances are, the most important among them are simple, everyday folks who persevere in the face of obstacles, give more than they take and lead by example. Folks like Corry Van Aelstyn.

A mother, real estate agent and breast cancer survivor, Van Aelstyn was nominated by multiple readers who called out her leadership and inspiration. She was born in the Netherlands; her parents moved to the United States in the mid-1950s. “We left

our whole family and village behind for the many opportunities in the USA. Risky, but my parents were willing to take the chance to give us all a better life,” says Van Aelstyn, who first came to La Crosse to study at UWL. “I fell in love with the river and the bluffs and of course a young man. I never left. La Crosse is home.”

In July 2013, Van Aelstyn was diagnosed with Stage II breast cancer and battled it with chemotherapy and multiple surgeries.

“It has had a huge impact on my life,” she says. “I learned during those long days who is important and what is important. Cancer opened my eyes. I love this life, and I want

to stay here and live my best life.”

In her case, that means giving back to the community she says have given her so much.

She’s joined other cancer survivors in the Big Blue Dragon Boat events sponsored by Mayo Clinic and other organizations. These boat races are specifically designed to help recover from a mastectomy, while also raising awareness for cancer support.

Van Aelstyn’s latest adventure is to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Located in Tanzania and towering at 16,000 feet, it is Africa’s largest mountain and has long lured climbers who want a physical challenge. Van Aelstyn

is using the adventure to raise money for Haiti’s ongoing earthquake recovery. (Learn more about her climb here: https://www. gofundme.com/7yjustbj.)

For Van Aelstyn, who plans to start the climb next year, it’s not only about physical strength and service to others—it’s about living life to the fullest. “Life is a joyful thing,” she says. “It has thrown me some curve balls but it’s not about those down times, it’s about the journey and loving the trip.”

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Bjorn Bergman

“It seems like anytime something great is happening, his name pops up, because he’s making it happen.” That’s what the nominator says about Bjorn Bergman, Viroqua Food Co-op (VFC) Outreach Coordinator. Whether picking produce from his garden or cultivating community at the VFC, Bergman is indeed making things happen.

Article: Joseph O’Brien Photo: Chad Berger

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ergman is involved in a number of local projects. Besides working as VFC’s event planner, he’s a regular fixture at county meetings to support the Vernon County Farm-to-School program, which delivers area produce to local schools. He’s a board member of the Viroqua Chamber Main Street to promote local business, and he teaches at Viroqua’s Driftless Folk School where he and his wife Heidi Krattiger also host RampFest, showcasing the wild onion for which the event is named.

As important as the yin of outreach is, Bergman also reserves time for the yang of “inreach” at his own doorstep. “My wife and I have big gardens in our front yard in Viroqua,” he says. “People are always stopping by and picking tomatoes from our cherry tomato plants and will sit and talk.

We share gardening tips and help people with gardening.”

You may have heard and seen Bergman and not known it – as he costars with VFC’s Marketing and Membership Manager

Charlene Elderkin in the Co-op’s TV and radio commercials. “Maybe it comes under the common denominator that I’m the one in the marketing department who is least averse to appearing on TV and radio,” he says with a laugh. “I guess I do an OK job. I have to give credit to Charlene – she writes everything and coaches me through it.”

Bergman also specializes in love stories.

As the VFC newsletter scribe, he chronicles the passionate romance that VFC’s 175+ producers have with the land. Bergman does

what he can to make sure everyone knows these stories and encourages them to tell their own.

“Meeting producers and encouraging people to stick out their necks and grow their own food—that’s really important,” Bergman says. “In all I do, I see myself as crafting those connections.”

Ana Skemp

“Ana has generously opened up her farm/home to show children the importance and beauty of nature, allow for interaction with farm animals and to teach about the vegetables that she grows for her family and to bring to the Cameron Street Farmer’s Market.” ~The Nominator

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hen it comes to nurturing the community, there’s no one more dedicated to the job than People of SEVEN nominee Ana Skemp, co-founder of Grow La Crosse. Skemp’s contribution to the region’s knowledge of food and its sources is far-reaching. Not only does she help connect children to healthy food through school gardens, cooking classes and education on the food desert issue, but she also extends her home to children at the Deep Roots Community Farm. Her nominator shared, “Ana has generously opened up her farm/home to show children

the importance and beauty of nature, allow for interaction with farm animals and to teach about the vegetables that she grows for her family and to bring to the Cameron Street Farmer’s Market.”

Skemp plans and conducts field trips as well as hosts farm camps and a farm immersion program. She is making great strides in educating younger generations about growing and eating healthy foods.

“This past summer, over 90 percent of the 1,000 kids who visited our farm gave kale a thumbs up. That is significant,” says Skemp,

who has big dreams for these youngsters.

“I want them to be excited to harvest food and take it home with recipes to share with their own families. I want to educate them about the reasons why we choose organic and sustainable farming practices. I want them to understand all the work that goes into producing food, but to also see and experience the joy in that work.”

When she’s not holding field trips throughout the school year and summer, or planning Grow La Crosse’s Fall Festival on the Farm, Skemp finds time to enjoy

art projects with her own kids, ages 3, 4, 6 and 8. She also likes riding her horses and making things with her hands.

As she continues to develop her programming and share her love of the land with the youth of La Crosse, Skemp stresses engaging in daily farm work, connecting food to the source, respectfully interacting with animals and learning about conservation. These are goals dear to her heart and her pursuit of them is the reason she was chosen for People of SEVEN.

Hans Mayer

Hans Mayer is an amazing storyteller. In a matter of three hours, the tetherball conversation with Mayer has bounced between touring with Tori Amos, working at The Pump House, performing in Switzerland with Joan Baez, a little brother who actually ate bugs, working on stage crew for The Grateful Dead, living with Multiple Sclerosis, building Native American wooden flutes, performing on Austin City Limits with Bill Miller, recording in Nashville, building government buildings in Washington, D.C., and creating a life filled with amazing friends and spectacular music.

Article: Deborah Nerud Photo: Bob Good

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ike a migratory bird on a prevailing wind, Mayer has traveled the nation extensively. From an early life in Twin Lakes, Wis., to time spent living on remote Orcas Island (Wash.), to Tucson, Ariz., and Minneapolis, Minn., he has established a prolific musical career with a remarkable list of influences, friends and connections around the world. A recent return to La Crosse with his wife, Caroline Erickson, has brought the independent artist back to his home territory. Part of the original Pump House crew, Mayer served as Musician in Residence in 1979 and as project coordinator and music coordinator for the Pump House music program. His energy and love for the area is deeply rooted.

Mayer states, “There’s something about this area that produces great people and great musicians.”

Mayer’s passion for guitar started at age 5, but it wasn’t until he was 12 that he was allowed his first six-string—told his fingers

were too small prior to that age—with studio recordings beginning at age 17. Interwoven in Mayer’s musical tapestry is a family history that includes his brother (Kit Mayer) and cousin (Cody Apple) who are also gifted musicians, as well as Mayer’s grandmother, Marcella Fox, a talented cellist and pianist who performed throughout the nation with the original Chautauqua tent show (now known as Big Top Chautauqua). Her influence features largely in Mayer’s life; her stories and band photos are featured in his solo album, “Nana’s Waltz.”

Not unlike his prolific grandmother, Mayer has performed and recorded widely, with an impressive list of musicians. Most notably is Mayer’s work with GrammyAward winning musician and composer, Bill Miller. The two have worked and toured together extensively; Mayer has been featured on five of Miller’s albums. Along with Miller and John Smith, Mayer has formed and performed with multiple musical

groups, including Northern Comfort, Dr. Scholl’s Revenge, Blind Baby Olin and the Workbenches, Jawbone and Hot Sauce.

Mayer is known for his children’s and family music. What began with a request for a kid’s public radio show theme song flourished into a successful performance career (including Mayer’s annual holiday show, “Happy Little Elves”) that has spanned multiple decades and has resulted in nine studio albums (most of which have been co-written with Frank Gosar, an Oregonian public radio host).

When asked about his involvement with children’s and family music, Mayer mentions the cyclical nature of his audiences. “I really love that parents who saw me as kids are coming back to the shows now, with their own children.”

Regardless the style or instrument he chooses, Mayer’s energy and enthusiasm for

music, performance, writing and creating is invigorating, dynamic and continually evolving. Mayer is excited to be back in the Seven Rivers Region: “Some of the best musicians I’ve ever played with are in this area. I love it here.”

Titles: Musician, Award-Winning Recording Artist, Carpenter Awards: Multiple, including Independent Music Award, Parents’ Choice Award, Children’s Instruments: Guitar, mandolin, bass guitar, Native American flute Albums: 9 children’s albums, 2 instrumental, 1 adult (Hans Mayer & Hot Sauce) Catch Hans Mayer on February 27 at 11:00 a.m. at the La Crosse Children’s Museum Birthday Party and at 8:00 p.m. with The Mayer Brothers Band at the Historic Trempealeau Hotel.

Greg Parmeter

People of SEVEN nominee and hard-working Artistic Director for La Crosse Community Theatre (LCT) Greg Parmeter knocks himself out when it comes to theatre. Sometimes literally.

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appreciates all the work he [Parmeter] does, but he deserves a huge thank you from our community for what he does for the local theatre scene!”

That same enthusiasm—without the headache—permeates Parmeter’s work today.

His nomination states: “I know everyone

Originally hailing from Huron, S.D., Parmeter graduated with a Master of Fine Arts from the Johnny Carson School of Theatre and Film (University of NebraskaLincoln) and worked professionally with various production companies around the U.S. Shortly after his wife Mandy Parmeter was hired as LTC’s costume supervisor, the

hen I was in high school I knocked my head on the stage floor and knocked myself out cold in the middle of a scene,” he recalls. “Thankfully, I had to lay there for a couple pages in the script behind the couch I was supposed to be hiding behind anyway.

So that by the time my cue line came along, I woke up and I was able to finish the play.”

artistic directorship opened up and the couple made La Crosse their home.

Hard knocks aside, Parmeter’s love for theatre sprang from his days in high school “doing shows for the fun of it.”

“I did a few shows early in college when it dawned on me that this may be the thing I want to do with my life,” he says. “It was one of those things where I gradually came into it as a career through doing shows and the experience of being an actor.”

Nowadays, as artistic director Parmeter still finds time to take roles in productions here and there, but most of his workdays are committed to ensuring that LCT’s aesthetic vision stays real. “Whenever I look at a script or a project, I ask, ‘Does this have the potential to improve the community—either because it teaches us something or brings us together or simply gives us an opportunity to laugh together?’”

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Article: Joseph O’Brien Photo: Bob Good

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Toril Fisher

“Life is short – let’s eat well, let’s celebrate the beauty around us, and let’s come together and be grateful.” ~Toril Fisher

Article: Joseph O’Brien Photo: Chad Berger

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hen People of SEVEN honoree Toril Fisher first planted black salsify on her “beyond organic” farm in rural La Farge, she didn’t know what to expect. At harvest time, she began pulling up what looked like shriveled little carrots char-burnt as snake’s tails dipped in pitch.

“I said, ‘Dang, that’s ugly!’ but we sent it out to a lot of the restaurant chefs we send our produce to in the area, and they loved it,” she says. “It’s an ugly root but it tastes like oysters, and they did wonderful things with it.”

Toril Fisher and husband Drew Fisher dug a niche for themselves when they started Second Cloud on the Left Farm in 2011. The Fishers raise produce on the 27-acre plot, specializing in storied heirlooms, endangered species and the flat-out uncommon (though not as ugly as black salsify).

Having studied art at the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Pacific Lutheran University, Tacoma, Wash., Fisher is also an accomplished painter. She sees farming and art as two sides of the same canvas. Her philosophy: If farming is the art of growing

life, then art is the harvesting of life’s hidden detail.

“As a farmer, you really do have that respect for things on a granular level,” she says.

“Art gives me the opportunity to translate the awareness of such beauty onto canvas.

How am I going to capture in a picture the temperature, the wind, the energy of what nature brings forth?” (It’s fitting that Fisher’s first name, Toril, is the feminine form of Thor, god of bad weather and good fertility.)

As her nomination notes, Fisher specializes in “farming with mindfulness. She is a fierce

advocate for biodiversity.” She is also alert to the power of potential in her work as Development Coordinator for WDRT (91.3 FM) Driftless Community Radio, Viroqua, where she helps raise funds for community radio through underwriting and grant writing.

“I like to think I serve as a reminder to people to celebrate community,” she says of her role as farmer, artist and fundraiser. “Life is short – let’s eat well, let’s celebrate the beauty around us, and let’s come together and be grateful.”

Matt Boshcka

Boshcka’s selflessness shows through to others. That’s evident in the statement of his nominator: “He’s always doing great things in our town, and has even helped people in St. Lucia. He is more than a business owner. He cares about our community.”

SEVEN | Issue #8 | February, 2016

Article: Haakon Nelson Photo: Dahli Durley

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att Boshcka is the co-owner of Dublin Square, Burger Fusion and the Valley High Golf Club. He volunteers his time with several organizations, including Mobile Meals of La Crosse, Rotary Youth Leadership Award (RYLA) camps and Rotary Club of La Crosse. Boshcka was awarded Rotarian of the Year by La Crosse’s downtown club in 2015 and recently received Outstanding Restaurateur of the Year by the Wisconsin Restaurant Association’s La Crosse Chapter.

When asked how he got his start with Mobile Meals, Boshcka states, “I can’t pinpoint the exact time, but I remember

doing them when I was 8 or 9 years old, with my mom. She was a great mentor to me and instilled the principles of hard work, dreaming big and getting involved with the community.”

As for the RYLA camps, it was “through my involvement with Rotary I started doing RYLA camp four years ago,” explains Boshcka. “It is a fun-filled weekend where we work with high school sophomores from across the state on leadership and ethics.

They then take what they learned and apply it at their schools, households, churches and communities.”

Assisting with Mobile Meals at such a young age, as well as assisting in such efforts as Kid’s Coulee in Myrick Park, Boshcka’s life has been one of giving back. “I think it tops the charts if you were to put giving back to the community on a rating scale,” he says. “I do it because I care about this community, and on a macro level, I care about making a difference, albeit a small one, in the world we live. I get much joy out of volunteer work and giving back to a community that has been so giving to me my entire life.”

Boshcka’s selflessness shows through to others. That’s evident in the statement of his nominator: “He’s always doing great things

in our town, and has even helped people in St. Lucia. He is more than a business owner.

He cares about our community. He works really hard, but still knows how to have fun.”

(Boshcka volunteered his time helping those in need on the island nation St. Lucia as part of the Good News Project!)

Born and raised in La Crosse and a graduate of Central High and UW-La Crosse, Boshcka worked in finance and sales, before entering the hospitality business.

He enjoys sports, reading, hanging out with friends, camping, being on the river, coaching youth and attending concerts.

Steve Harm

For Harm, the music is important—but even more so is creating a safe and comfortable space for teenagers. “Stand on the corner of Third and Pearl on a Friday or Saturday night and try to tell me that La Crosse teens don’t need something to do,” he says. “You literally can’t go anywhere—to a bowling alley, or a restaurant—without someone drinking beer. And that’s fine; I’m not anti-alcohol.

But the teens need somewhere to go.”

Article: Joe Hart Photo: Bob Good

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ne of the ironies of the music industry as we know it is that it lives and dies on alcohol consumption. While listening rooms, coffee shops and small concert halls (leaving aside stadium rock) contribute to audiences, bars and taverns remain the mainstay of any thriving music scene. That’s unfortunate, since some of the most avid and engaged music fans just happen to be younger than 21 years of age.

For the last quarter-century, catering to these young fans has been the passion and purpose of Steve Harm, who runs La Crosse’s all-ages venue The Warehouse, which turns 25

this year. Harm is a musician, who at a young age gave up performing in order to facilitate the performance of others. He stumbled into the original venue back in the early 1990s, when downtown La Crosse was far from thriving. And over the years he’s built it into an impressive, drug- and alcohol-free performance space that has hosted hundreds of worldtouring bands like Everclear, the Descendants and the Dead Milkmen, as well as thousands of lesser-known bands, both national and local.

For Harm, the music is important—but even more so is creating a safe and comfortable space for teenagers. “Stand on the corner of Third

and Pearl on a Friday or Saturday night and try to tell me that La Crosse teens don’t need something to do,” he says. “You literally can’t go anywhere—to a bowling alley, or a restaurant— without someone drinking beer. And that’s fine; I’m not anti-alcohol. But the teens need somewhere to go.”

Finances have always been precarious; the reason music and booze are bed partners, after all, is that alcohol sales pay the bills of most venues. Recently, Harm rebooted the club as a non-profit organization and is raising funds online to help pay back taxes and other bills.

It’s not an easy sell. Unlike other nonprofits geared toward teens, there’s no overt therapy and minimal adult supervision. Rather, the Warehouse is a sort of free, safe zone where kids can safely learn to express themselves and find a foothold in a tough world.

“They aren’t necessarily your totally average kids,” explains Harm, “but it’s awesome to see them open up when they are given some trust and some responsibility.”

Learn more about the Warehouse and contribute to its mission here: www.gofundme. com/allages.

Steve Michaels

“As an active PTO member at Hamilton Elementary, I feel I can confidently say Steve Michaels is the best principal a parent and a child could hope for. Every idea I’ve mentioned to Mr. Michaels, whether for the school, for my kids or for the community, has been met with a resounding, ‘Yeah, let’s try it.’

He’s a tireless worker, he’s an advocate for compassion and diversity, and he genuinely loves his job.

La Crosse is lucky to have him.” ~The Nominator

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y the numbers: Steve Michaels is a father of three, a principal of Hamilton and S.O.T.A 1, and a Supervisor of Fine Arts for one entire school district. Raised by educators (his mother taught English, his father was a choir director), Michaels—along with his wife, Deb Michaels, a music teacher at Hintgen Elementary—is currently raising Jacob (7), Maddie (5) and Ben (2).

Both Michaels and his wife are deeply invested in the District of La Crosse school system. “I think good communication— following up with parents and educators, making connections and fostering good relationships—is top of the list for everyone here,” says Michaels.

“With our own kids in this system, as a parent, that’s what matters most to me.”

Michaels’ efforts in the school district are reflected in his accolades, which include the Distinguished Administrator Award for Music, the Distinguished Art Administrator Award, and the La Crosse Public Education Foundation District Administrator’s Award. The honor he holds closest to his heart, however, is the “Best Boss Award,” presented and awarded by the entirety of both schools’ populations, all of whom were bedecked in mustaches and paper ties (Michaels’ standard uniform). Michaels recalls, “I was absolutely shocked and honored. It was the best thing. It was a total surprise.”

Michaels’ accolades are a result of a deep passion and commitment to the schools and community at large, and his efforts

have been widely lauded. In the five years he’s been at Hamilton and S.O.T.A, he has successfully advocated and implemented La Crosse’s first year-round school at Hamilton.

With dynamic community engagement, he has fostered cooperation with the school community and several local schools, businesses and organizations, including Viterbo, the YMCA, the Boys & Girls Club, Gundersen Health System, the Powell/Poage/Hamilton Neighborhood Association, the FSPA, Hillview Urban Agricultural Center, Mayo Clinic Health Systems and the City of La Crosse. Michaels’ enthusiasm for community and the arts resulted in the Compassion Project, a community-wide discussion about compassion led by children’s art.

Entering his sixth year at both schools, Michaels wants to continue to deepen the community connection within the school, aiming for an in-house wellness center/clinic, an expansion for the two schools and a yearround middle school for Hamilton students.

“In any job like this, where the district has been so supportive, there’s the ability to get so many wonderful things done. I’m happy,” says Michaels.

Reflecting on his time, Michaels elaborates, “I love my job. I love coming here. I love the people I work with. I want to think I can help as much as possible. I know I can’t be 100%, but I want to be as close to 100% as I can.”

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Todd and Jennifer Wiedenhaft

“They are business owners, but they are doing it 100% right. They get to know their patrons, they build relationships with area organizations, events, musicians, business owners, and truly are a gem to have in the Seven Rivers Region. They are just damn good people!”

Article: Heidi Blanke Photo: Dahli Durley

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odd and Jennifer Wiedenhaft so enjoyed sitting at their home Tiki bar drinking wine, they decided to share that love with the rest of the region. In 2012, they opened the Onalaska winery Lost Island Wine and have since added Skeleton Crew Brewery and Tiki Hut Home Brew Supplies. And when they are not at their day jobs, they produce forty types of wine and help people brew their own beer. On top of all that, they make it a priority to give back to their community.

says, “We carry cheese from Nordic Creamery (Westby), Fat Man’s BBQ (Wausau), pick Strawberries from Jolivette Family Farms in West Salem that we use in our award winning Chocolate Strawberry Cyclone, use apples and pumpkins from Bauer’s Market in La Crescent and use red grapes from a vineyard in Minnesota. On the brewery side of things, we will be donating spent grains to Clearwater Farms in Onalaska, and we plan to use locally grown hops in some of our beers.”

The Wiedenhafts are committed to purchasing local as much as possible. Todd

Some of their community involvement hits close to home. Jennifer plans to

celebrate her 18th cervical-cancer-free year with a fundraiser for Riah’s Rainbow, an organization that provides arts and crafts supplies to young hospital patients. In March, $1.00 of every bottle of wine sold will be used to purchase coloring books and crayons for pediatric patients at Mayo Clinic Health System-Franciscan Healthcare and Gundersen Health System.

As a Logistics Health Inc. employee, Jennifer is well aware of how her employer impacts service men and women. Todd says he and Jennifer worked together to design two special wines called White Angel and

Red Devil. “We released the wines on Armed Forces Day in May 2015, and decided to take $1.00 for every bottle sold and donate it to the local branch of Operation Home Front,” says Todd. “At the end of 2015, we sent a check for $383.”

From promoting area wine tours to school supply drives to simply being a friend to all, Todd and Jennifer Wiedenhaft are committed to making their community better.

As their nominator so aptly stated, “They just promote doing good.”

Jeff Sharin

“It’s all good.”

That’s the favorite expression of People of SEVEN honoree Jeff Sharin. And the catchphrase sums up the life and sounds of this master guitarist.

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ust talk to the people who have seen his fingers climb like lightning up the frets.

Or talk to those who have benefited from his patience and wisdom at Dave’s Guitar Shop, where he works as a sales representative, ships six- and twelve-strings around the world, and holds a humble court as all-around guitar guru for beginners, experts and even an occasional celebrity, including country star Vince Gill.

Talk to them all and hear what those who nominated him have heard: “Not only does Jeff have an extraordinary gift for playing

guitar, he has so much joy in inspiring and encouraging younger people to get involved and play music.”

And maybe bands Sharin played with locally—Disorient Express, Present State, The Torture Kings and The Sonic Beats—are not household names like Steppenwolf, Marshall Tucker Band and REO Speedwagon (bands he’s opened up for at the La Crosse Center). But that’s OK by Sharin. It’s all good.

And maybe Sharin didn’t learn guitar

the usual way—bending notes the other way around and reaching down deep for a high note—which probably explains why his strum, slide and sustain alwaysa thrill a crowd head over heels. “I’m a left-handed guitar player,” says Sharin. “My brother started playing guitar and didn’t keep up with it, so I’d play his guitar when he wasn’t—and he was right-handed. I’d have fun playing it upside down. I’d done that for years until I got my own left-handed guitar.”

“Then I started listening to records,” continues Sharin. “I’d turn the LPs down

to half speed, and I’d learn all these neat Beatles songs and Jimi Hendrix and even Merle Haggard. His guitar player is one of my favorites.”

Yep. It’s all good.

And you know what else is all good?

“People always want to play guitar, and so it looks like a good horizon,” Sharin says about working and playing in the community. “I’m all good with that.”

LISTINGS

February 2016 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 free, visit our website at TheSevenSpot.com or email contact@thesevenspot.com.

Hello

SEVEN readers!

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

Want to list your event in SEVEN? Ready to see it in print AND online?

Submit your event at: www.thesevenspot.com/submit-your-event.

Online calendar release with the new SEVEN website launch March 1st, 2016!

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., La Crosse, 608-780-2255, 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.

Margaret Edson’s Wit – A Performance: Feb. 11–28 Dr. Vivian Bearing has spent years teaching the brilliant sonnets of English poet John Donne. When she is diagnosed with terminal cancer, Vivian applies her aggressive and rational probing of literature toward examining her own life and mortality. As her illness evolves, so does her relationship with herself and those around her, leading to a transformation that is both humorous and profound. La Crosse Community Theatre. www.lacrossecommunitytheatre.org 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

February 13: 7:30am – 2:00pm., La Crosse Blood Donation Center, 1431 State Hwy 16

February 29: 1:00pm – 6:00pm., Coon Valley Lutheran Church, 1005 Central Ave, Coon Valley

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

February 15: 12:00 – 5:30pm., Westby Coon Prairie Church, 500 S Main St, Westby

March 1: 10:45am – 5:45pm., La Crosse Blood Donation Center, 1431 State Hwy 16

South Asian Film Festival: UW-La Crosse. Feb. 29 – Mar. 7. For a list of film showings visit: www.uwlax.edu/southasian-filmfest 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 pre– pay, $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.

BLOOD DRIVES www.redcross.org Tuesdays: 10:45am – 5:45pm., La Crosse Blood Donation Center, 1431 State Hwy 16

12:00 – 6:00pm., St Anne Extended Healthcare, 1347 W Broadway, Winona February 16: 10:00am – 4:30pm., Barney Community Center, 1000 E Montgomery St, Sparta 1:00 – 7:00pm., Ettrick Community Center, 22750 Washington, Ettrick February 19: 12:00 – 5:00pm., Taylor Community Center, 420 2nd St, Taylor February 20: 8:00am – noon, La Crosse Blood Donation Center, 1431 State Hwy 16 February 23: 12:00 – 6:00pm., American Legion Post #9, 302 E Sarnia, Winona 9:00am – 3:00pm., MN State College Southeast TC, 1250 Homer Rd, Winona February 26: 8:30am – 2:00pm., Onalaska High School, 700 Hilltopper, Onalaska February 27: 7:30am – 2:00pm., La Crosse Blood Donation Center, 1431 State Hwy 16 9:30am – 2:30pm., Winona Middle School, 1570 Homer Rd, Winona

12:00 – 5:30pm., Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 504 S Main, Viroqua 12:00 – 6:00pm., First Congregational Church, 161 W Broadway, Winona

upcoming

Feb 5 Moors & McCumber

A debut Pump House performance!

Folk Musicians Moors & McCumber have embarked on a journey into the elusive land of greatness. Wielding an assortment of instruments, this duo brings their audiences to life with catchy melodies that are big, bright, and electrifying to watch. Tickets for Pump House members are $18 in advance, $21 day of show. Tickets for the general public are $21 in advance, $25 day of show.

Tickets available at The Pump House.

7:30pm. The Pump House, 119 King Street, La Crosse. thepumphouse.org/ events

Wednesdays: 10:45am – 5:45pm., La Crosse Blood Donation Center, 1431 State Hwy 16 February 8: 12:30pm – 5:30pm., Presbyterian Church, 625 W Franklin Street, West Salem February 9: 11:00am – 6:00pm., UWL Cartwright Center, 1725 State St, La Crosse February 9, 10, 11: 11:00am – 5:00pm., WSU Student Union – Kryzsko Commons, W 9th St, Winona February 10, 11: 11:00am – 6:00pm., UWL Cartwright Center, 1725 State St, La Crosse February 11: 1:00 – 6:00pm., Watkins Manor, 175 E Wabasha, Winona

Mexican Cuisine

All D Happy Haoy ur!

2 for 1 Lime M argaritas Sun-Tue

Lunch - Dinner - Cocktails | Sun-Thu: 11am - 10pm • Fri-Sat: 11am - 11pm

Buy One, Get One Free Entree!

Please present coupon before ordering. Offer expires 3/5/16. Not valid with any other offers.

115 5th Ave S, Downtown La Crosse • (608) 782-0737

SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |

ONGOING

27

LISTINGS February 2016 Feb 9 Homemade truffles with cheese and

wine pairing Delicious, rich dark chocolate truffles are easy to make and vary with endless flavors, spices, and herbs! Come join Linda Riddle, PFC’s member services manager, for a fun evening of truffle making and sharing, including a final pairing of the chocolates with select cheeses and wine. Everyone will go home with a Valentine’s box of mixed truffles! Participants must be 21 years old to sign up for this class. $15 members; $25 non-members; 5:307:00pm. People’s Food Co-op, 315 5th Avenue South, La Crosse, pfc.coop/ calendar/event.

Feb 11 Prof

Hip-hop sensation Live at Cavalier Theater & Lounge, 114 5th Ave N, La Crosse, WI. www.cavaliertheater.com Read about it in this issue of SEVEN! Coulee Region Unscripted: “Mythed Connections” Devoted to long-form improv, La Crosse’s newest comedy troupe uses ideas from the audience to explore everything from simple bedtime rituals to life’s most pivotal moments. Tickets are $12 in advance, $15 day of show.

Tickets available at The Pump House.

7:30pm. The Pump House, 119 King Street, La Crosse. thepumphouse.org/ events Trempealeau Hotel: Ric Gillman and T Bruce Bowers And as an extra special treat we bring you Emmy nominated violinist extraordinaire T Bruce Bowers and

12-string-afficionado Ric Gillman. These full blooded instrumentalists, insanely talented storytellers and delightful vocalists are sure to bring two beautiful nights of music to Trempealeau.

Recently joining forces they have collaborated on pieces for theme songs on the public radio exchange and are finishing their first CD together comprised of original songs and some new twists on classics. 7pm.

Feb 12 Mid West Music Fest Pre-Party

Concert With Reina del Cid and Gabriel Douglas of 4onthefloor at Ed’s (No Name) Bar, Winona, MN – 9:00 p.m. Read about it in this issue of SEVEN! Coulee Region Unscripted: “Mythed Connections” See Feb 11 description.

Trempealeau Hotel: Ric Gillman and T Bruce Bowers See Feb 11 description.

Winona Winter Carnival The Winter Carnival has something for everyone to celebrate the wintertime beauty in our community!

Winona Masons Sock Hop Dance, Mid West Music Fest Presents: Reina del Cid at Ed’s (No Name) Bar, Cabin Fever Dash, MCA Carnival in the Snow Art Workshop, Winona Farmers & Artisan Market, Goose Bump Jump, Saint Marys University Cardinal Plunge, 22nd Annual Winona National Bank Chili Cook Off, Hot Chocolate Walk with Pointour, MMAM & GRSF Valentine’s Day Bash, Sweetheart Skate, ReKindling Project, and more. www.winonawintercarnival.com

SEVEN | Issue #8 | February, 2016

Feb 13 2nd Annual Black Tie Ball with TUGG

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ARTISTS CALL: Calling all writers, aspiring writers, or people with a story of motherhood to share to read their own words about motherhood at the Weber Center for the debut performance of Listen to Your Mother scheduled for 7:30 p.m., Saturday, April 30th.

All ages, genders, ethnicities, variety of writers invited to audition (nonmothers welcome). Bring your own original humorous, poignant, and soulful words about the beauty, the beast, and the barely-rested that is motherhood (or about your mother/person who raised you).

Auditions are by appointment only February 20th, 22nd, and 24th at Franciscan Spirituality Center, 920 Market Street, La Crosse, WI. Audition pieces should not exceed 5 minutes.

For more details or to schedule an appointment, ltymlacrosse@gmail. com with the word “AUDITION” in the subject line. Please include your name and availability.

Reggae music from TUGG with very special guests Fayme Rochelle & Tripp Evenson. In memory of Doug Sebranek, 50% of all proceeds will go to the Sebranek family and Leo & Leona’s. Pearl St beer and food from The Damn Tasty while it lasts.

6:30 pm. $15 at the door. Leo & Leona’s, Newburg Corners, Hwy 33. leoandleonas.com/events.html Winona Winter Carnival See Feb 12 description.

Coulee Region Unscripted: “Mythed Connections” See Feb 11 description.

Winona Farmers Market. Sharing the Love - Soup Cook Off & Silent Auction Fundraiser. 10am - 1pm. East End Rec Center, 210 Zumbro Street. winonafarmersmarket.com Red velvet beet cupcakes and more!

A PFC/Grow La Crosse class for kids!

Sweet treats can be part of a healthy diet when made with fruits and vegetables. Join Ana Skemp of Grow La Crosse to make, bake, and decorate beet red velvet cupcakes and black bean cupcakes with guava frosting.

While the cupcakes bake, we’ll do an art project together, designing and

creating vegetable superheroes. Ana Skemp is the mother of three, a farmer, and one of the founders of Grow La Crosse. Best for kids ages 4–12. $10 members; $20 non-members; 10:0011:30am. People’s Food Co-op, 315 5th Avenue South, La Crosse, pfc.coop/ calendar/event.

Trempealeau Hotel: Christopher Rude The Minnesota native and classically trained guitarist now resides in West Salem, teaches guitar and loves to perform classical music for audiences in the tri-state area. Having studied all things guitar in Denver and at UW-L, Christopher plays weddings, special events and concerts and is sure to turn his gig at The Hotel into a magical night of intricate compositions and expert musicianship. 7pm.

Feb 14 One Billion Rising

A VDay global initiative to end violence against women and girls at Valley View Mall, La Crosse, WI. 10:00 a.m. – Noon.

Read about it in this issue of SEVEN! Winona Winter Carnival See Feb 12 description.

Feb 16 Page Series – 20,000 Leagues Under

the Sea Join Captain Nemo, Professor Elaine Aronnax and harpooner Ned Land aboard the Nautilus as they explore the undersea world in this electrifying adaptation of Jules Verne’s 19th century classic. With lavish sets and costumes, lively music, and stunning deep ocean videography, 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea brings to life world geography and aquatic life from coral reefs to the Arctic Circle. Tickets: $14 Adults; $6 Seniors & Students. 6:30 p.m. Page Theatre, Saint Mary’s University, 700 Terrace Heights, Winona. pagetheatre. org/events.

The Peking Acrobats The Peking Acrobats exhibit the stunning artistry of the Chinese acrobatic tradition with breathtaking precision and athleticism. Daring maneuvers atop a precarious pagoda of chairs, powerful precision tumbling, somersaulting and gymnastics, and amazing displays of contortion, flexibility, and control are just part of this magnificent show. Tickets: $21.25 - $39.00. 7:30pm. Viterbo UniversityMain Theatre, 929 Jackson Street, La Crosse. viterbo.edu/fine-arts-center/ buy-tickets-now

Feb 18 The Power of Community: How Cuba Survived Peak Oil, A Documentary Free movie & organic popcorn! 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. The Ark, 401 E Jefferson St., Viroqua, WI. www.viroquafood.coop

Page Series - Solas Hailed as “Irish-America’s most influential band” by NPR’s Thistle & Shamrock, Solas has been entertaining audiences since 1996. Through fresh

and unexpected arrangements of age-old tunes, compelling and topical originals and covers and unparalleled musicianship, Solas continues to define the path for the Celtic music world and drive the genre forward. Tickets: $27 Adults; $24 Seniors & Students.

7:30 p.m. Page Theatre, Saint Mary’s University, 700 Terrace Heights, Winona. pagetheatre.org/events.

The Manhattan Dolls “Rockin’ With The Dolls, a 50s/60s Revue” Rock and Roll, the cool beat of Motown, and the sweet harmonies of girl groups filled the 50s and 60s. Tap your feet while enjoying songs made famous on American Bandstand and played on the jukebox in your favorite diner. $24 adult and $22 for students or senior citizens. 7:30 pm. Heider Center for the Arts, 405 East Hamlin Street, West Salem. heidercenter.org/ mainstage.php Charlie Parr & the Dead Horses Live at the Root Note, La Crosse, WI. 8:30 p.m. Read about it in this issue of SEVEN!

Feb 19 Charlie Parr & Matt Ray/Trevor

James (of Tin Can Gin) Live at the Root Note, La Crosse, WI. 8:30 p.m. Read about it in this issue of SEVEN!

Feb 20

Rockin’ in a Winter FUNderland The F.U.N. group in collaboration with Downtown Mainstreet, Inc.’s family friendly event turns Cameron Park into a Winter FUNderland!

Snowman building contests, snow volleyball tournament, snowball toss, food and more from 2 – 6:00 p.m. at Cameron Park. Sign up your Volleyball Team today!

Thaw Out Party hosted by the Cavalier Theater with live entertainment from The Groove Station and Mario Street. Music from 6 – 11:00 p.m., no cover, donations accepted to raise money for improvements to Cameron Park. www.lacrossedowntown.com

Old School Variety Show A delightful evening of music, story, and a wide variety of performing arts.

Every show is brand new and never rehearsed. Each and every show takes on its own natural rhythm dictated by the invited performers. The show is as fresh to the entertainers on stage as it is to the audience. Tickets are $18 in advance, $21 day of show. 7:30pm.

The Pump House, 119 King Street, La Crosse. thepumphouse.org/events

LISTINGS February 2016 class!

Sweet treats can be part of a healthy diet when made with fruits and vegetables. Join Ana Skemp of Grow La Crosse to make, bake, and decorate beet red velvet cupcakes and black bean cupcakes with guava frosting.

While the cupcakes bake, we’ll do an art project together, designing and creating vegetable superheroes. Ana Skemp is the mother of three, a farmer, and one of the founders of Grow La Crosse. Best for kids ages 4–12. $15 members; $25 non-members; 6:007:30pm. People’s Food Co-op, 315 5th Avenue South, La Crosse, pfc.coop/ calendar/event.

Voces8 The British vocal ensemble Voces8 is now established as one of the most versatile and best-loved singing groups in the world. Touring extensively throughout Europe, North America, and Asia, the ensemble performs a repertory from Renaissance polyphony to contemporary commissions and arrangements. Tickets: $18.70 $36.00. 7:30pm. Viterbo UniversityMain Theatre, 929 Jackson Street, La Crosse. viterbo.edu/fine-arts-center/ buy-tickets-now

MOSES Organic Farming Conference See Feb 24 description.

Frozen River Film Festival: Frederick Ndabaramiye Keynote Frederick Ndabaramiye is a survivor of the Rwandan genocide during the 1990s, during which he lost his hands and was left for dead. Ndabaramiye has used his experiences and his faith to help rehabilitate and inspire others through his work at the Ubumwe Community Center and his handicap cycling team, I Am Able. He is an avid painter and tours worldwide sharing his message of hope. This Frozen River Film Festival keynote event will feature a short documentary, I Am Able, and speech by Ndabaramiye. Tickets: $12. 7:30 p.m. Page Theatre, Saint Mary’s University, 700 Terrace Heights, Winona. pagetheatre.org/events.

Horseshoes & Hand Grenades Live performance at Cavalier Theater & Lounge, 118 5th Ave S La Crosse, WI. www.cavaliertheater.com Read about it in this issue of SEVEN! Mid West Music Fest Pre-Party Concert With Little Fevers and Oh My Love at the Root Note, La Crosse, WI – 8:00 p.m. Sponsored in part by SEVEN. Read about it in this issue of SEVEN!

Feb 24 Feb 27 MOSES Organic Farming Conference MOSES Organic Farming Conference The country’s largest event about organic and sustainable farming comes to La Crosse. It features a two-floor exhibit hall with vendors selling products for organic growers, 65 workshops on farming topics, a film festival, organic meals, and more. A one-day pass is $140. See mosesorganic.org/conference.

Cleanses: Necessary or not?

Bonnie Kreckow, a clinical herbalist from Winona, will guide you and answer questions you may have on cleansing.

Her class will help you to understand your body and connect to it by listening and paying attention to the signs it gives you. Do you need a cleanse, a dietary change, or just some herbal maintenance? You will enjoy teas and herbal samples during this class. $10 members; $20 nonmembers; 6:007:30pm. People’s Food Co-op, 315 5th Avenue South, La Crosse, pfc.coop/ calendar/event.

Feb 26 [art]ifact

Opening Gala Reception. 6:00-7:30 p.m. www.art-ifact.org Read about it in this issue of SEVEN!

See Feb 24 description.

Lynn Biddick Singer/songwriter, and piano, mountain dulcimer, and harmonium player originally from La Crosse, Biddick moved to Boston to attend Berklee College of Music where she majored in piano and composition.

She started busking in Boston and Cambridge, which led to gigs in clubs and coffeehouses across New England.

Biddick has now returned to La Crosse, where she continues her multi-tasking ways as a singer, songwriter, choir director, piano, voice and music teacher, and harmonium player in the Coulee Celtic Band. Tickets are $15 in advance, $18 day of show. 7:30pm.

The Pump House, 119 King Street, La Crosse. thepumphouse.org/events Trempealeau Hotel: Mayer Brothers Band Hans and Kit Mayer are joined by miscellaneous, mischievous members of their 80’s heart throb band Blind Baby Olin. Check them out to hear some of the best rock ‘n roll from the 60s to today as Kit, Hans and company blow the roof off the Hotel. 8pm.

Winona Farmers Market 9:00 a.m. – Noon. East End Rec Center, 210 Zumbro Street. www.winonafarmersmarket.com Horseshoes & Hand Grenades Live performance at Cavalier Theater & Lounge, 118 5th Ave S La Crosse, WI. www.cavaliertheater.com Read about it in this issue of SEVEN! La Crescent Farmers Market. 9am12pm. La Crescent Community Center (Fire Station), 336 South 1st Street. lacrescentfarmersmarket.blogspot.com

Feb 28 Days for Girls Sewing Event

Want to help young girls and women?

A small act of kindness means a lot!

First Free Church, 123 Mason Street, Onalaska. Read about it in this issue of SEVEN! ZooZoo Imago Theatre’s ZooZoo presents a menagerie like no other. Firefly bug eyes, hungry anteaters, introverted frogs, cantankerous polar bears, insomniac hippos, and tricky penguins fill the stage with wit, wonder, and mesmerizing mayhem. Comedy, illusion, physical finesse, and original music combine in Imago’s beloved wordless productions, hailed by critics and family audiences alike. Tickets: $8.00 $16.00. 7:30pm. Viterbo UniversityMain Theatre, 929 Jackson Street, La Crosse. viterbo.edu/fine-arts-center/ buy-tickets-now

in the aftermath of war and conflict, compassion and forgiveness provide the only means by which we will heal.

Tickets: $18.70 - $36.00. 7:30pm.

Viterbo University-Main Theatre, 929 Jackson Street, La Crosse. viterbo.edu/ fine-arts-center/buy-tickets-now

March 12 Winona Farmers Market. 9am -

12pm. East End Rec Center, 210 Zumbro Street. winonafarmersmarket. com

p.s. Hi again SEVEN readers!

In case you missed it… Ready to see your event in print AND online? Submit your event at: www.thesevenspot. com/submit-your-event. Online calendar release with the new SEVEN website launch March 1st, 2016!

Taste of Trempealeau at Trempealeau Library Join the community at this annual fund raiser to help keep the lights on in our favorite place for books, movies and so much more. There will be sweet and savory treats, wine and beer tastings, music by Crooked Willow, and a silent auction with great prizes. Did we mention it’s for a good cause? 4pm.

March 2 Book Club: The Good Life

The work of homesteaders Scott and Helen Nearing provoked thought and changed lives. How is their vision understood in 2016? A one volume edition, The Good Life, brings together their classic Living the Good Life and Continuing the Good Life, available at the library, IndieBound.org, etc. We will read the book independently and come together for a discussion facilitated by Faith Anacker. Read The Good Life, save the date, and come to PFC for tea, snacks, and conversation inspired by the book and the Nearings! Free; 6:007:30pm. People’s Food Co-op, 315 5th Avenue South, La Crosse, pfc.coop/ calendar/event.

Montana Repertory Theatre: All My Sons The power of Arthur Miller’s story about war’s consequences for both veterans and civilians - of honor and sacrifice, of guilt, honesty, hope, and love - is as relevant today as when the play premiered in 1947. ‘All My Sons’ teaches us that as we struggle

SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |

Feb 23 Tapping into spring: Maple syrup

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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.

Outdoor Recreation Alliance (ORA):

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

Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalu pe:

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:

• Accounting

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

• Health Care Management

Grow La Crosse:

• Organizational Management

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

• Management Information Systems

Habitat for Humanity/ReStore:

• Servant Leadership

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

Evening and online classes available.

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.

Kids and Mentors Outdoors (KAMO):

Mentors engage youth between 9-16 in a variety of outdoor activities year-round. Adults with an education background are of particular interest to the group. Contact Michael Brown at brownmtjc@gmail.com or (608) 799-5037 for details.

Graduate Programs

SEVEN | Issue #8 | February, 2016

Kinstone Academy of Applied Permaculture:

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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.

Master of Business Administration

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

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

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

Master of Arts in Servant Leadership

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.

• Classes offered in convenient Friday evening/Saturday format or two-week summer institute

La Crosse County Historical Society:

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

Assist in giving tours of the Hixon House; greet the summer river boats; serve as Trolley Guides, re-enactors and gift shop assistants. An informational meeting will be held on Monday, March 14. Call 608-782-5936 or 608-782-1980 if interested.

• Gain an understanding of organizational mission, culture, and dynamics

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.

1-888-VITERBO business.viterbo.edu

Apply now for January start.

open 7 days 7 am–10 pm grocery • produce • in-house bakery • full-service meat & seafood • made-from-scratch deli • soups and sandwiches • coffee bar • wine & beer • body care • vitamins • local food & favorites

Good. Honest. Local.

315 5th Avenue S La Crosse, WI 608-784-5798 www.pfc.coop

Local Laptop Service & Sales

eat week D O W N T O W N L A C R O S S E

Get a flavor for downtown by sampling our top cafes, bistros, restaurants and ethnic eateries.

Enjoy three-course meals and special treats!

Just pick your starter, entrée and dessert from a list of preselected favorites, then enjoy your culinary tour of downtown La Crosse.

L AC RO S S E D OW N TOW N . CO M

784-0440

(608) 406-4044 219 7th St S, La Crosse, WI www.orangecomputerlax.com

Cameron Park * Downtown La Crosse * February 20, 2016 L AC RO S S E D OW N TOW N . CO M

784-0440

SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |

March 1st - March 7th

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509 Main St La Crosse, WI 608.782.8227 Mon-Fri: 10-7 Saturday: 10-6 Sunday: 12-4

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BIG RESULTS FOR SMALL BUSINESS

Sales • Service • Smiles BlueSteelBikes.com Schedule your custom fitting: (970) 470-6668

Hand-crafted Steel Bicycle Frames | Custom built to order

Meet you at Bluffside!

Bluffside Tavern ~Hike, bike, or drive!~

At the bottom of Grandad Bluff. 2712 Main St, La Crosse

Come as you are!

608-791-5295

Meeting monthly: Divorce Recovery, Drumming Circle, Mindfulness Practices for Stress Reduction, Imago Dei Women’s Group, Art as Prayer, nature journaling and more!

920 Market Street, La Crosse

www.FSCenter.org

Custom tattoos eSt.

608-785-8200

2011 206 South 4th St. La Crosse, Wi

2344 Hwy 16, La Crosse Chick-ah-Boom.com

salon & spa New Client Special ~ 30% Off! 1 Service with Selected Stylists 608.785.5030

Best Tattoo Artist Jake “Knuckles” Phillips