Up North Action July 2023

Art & Inspiration Through Observation

The scenic beauty of Northern Wisconsin and the U.P. of Michigan is a source of inspiration for many artists. From plein air painters capturing the sunsets on Lake Superior to Native American artisans with cultural traditions expressed through complex beadwork, quillwork, and basket weaving to woodcarvers sculpting intricate details of woodland animals, the art scene in this region is alive and thriving.

Artists may capture the natural beauty of the area, such as shimmering lakes, dense forests, and towering trees in their metal work and photography. For those interested in the arts or the culture of the Northwoods, a visit to the region is a must.

Whether you are a seasoned collector or just looking to be inspired, a visit to this northern paradise will surely satisfy your craving for artistic beauty and creativity. If you’re looking for Art related events, refer to articles within this issue and at

UpNorthAction.com. Summer of 2023 is still bursting with a phenomenal art scene!

As we celebrate America’s independence, be sure to take a moment, look around and see what inspires you.

See you at the fireworks,

Margaret Rautio

Cover Photo: Pirates Hideaway

Map & Index

NORTHEAST REGION - page 8

Covering the following counties:

Florence • Forest • Marinette

Oconto • Menominee • Shawano

NORTHCENTRAL REGION - page 11

Covering the following counties:

Iron • Vilas • Price • Oneida • Lincoln

Langlade • Taylor • Marathon

NORTHWEST REGION - page 40

Covering the following counties:

Ashland • Bayfield • Douglas • Burnett

Washburn • Sawyer • Rusk • Barron

Polk • St. Croix • Dunn • Chippewa

U.P. MICHIGAN REGION - page 50

Covering the following counties:

Baraga • Gogebic • Ontonagon • Houghton

Iron • Dickinson • Menominee

Can’t MissSummer Events

July is a great time to head to the Northwoods of Wisconsin and the U.P. of Michigan. The air is warm, the days are long and filled with sunshine, and the nights are cool - perfect for a campfire and roasting marshmallows. Many events featured or listed in this issue, and on our companion website (UpNorthAction.com), are within a short drive of each other. So, the gas gauge needle will stay near the full mark!

Nearly every community has a celebration underway in July or August with county fairs on the top of every kid’s wish list. Be sure to check Up North Action events calendar online and in this issue for Fun-tastic Fairs near you!

You can’t go wrong with any of our Northwoods’ events, including the Heritage Days Festival from July 29 to August 13 in Iron County, WI. The Iron County events take place throughout

multiple towns and are sure to please! You can read more about the festival in this issue.

If honoring local history and viewing grand performances are your thing, be sure to plan a trip to a Pow Wow! There is great pageantry with exquisitely constructed regalia that is handmade and includes feathers, shells, bones, beadwork and sometimes family heirlooms. Everything on the regalia usually has significance to the dancer. Seeing the regalia -- including the bustles and headdresses -- up close, you can see the intricacies and craftsmanship that go into each piece, a pattern that makes the colors flash and swirl when the dancer begins to move. Lac Courte Oreilles Honor the Earth Homecoming Celebration & Pow Wow is scheduled for July 13-16 in Hayward. The Bear River Pow Wow is happening on July 7-9 in Lac du Flambeau with ad-

ditional Pow Wows scheduled for July 4, 11, 18 & 25 and August 1, 8 & 15 at the Waaswaaganing Indian Bowl Living Arts and Cultural Center in Lac du Flambeau.

When you’ve been in business long enough to have a great following, it’s time to give back. Whether you’re a fisherman, or know one, there’s no better place for gift shopping (including for yourself) than the Musky Shop in Minocqua. On Saturday, July 15, Musky Shop is holding its Summer Bash from 11am to 4pm. Musky gear vendors will open at 11am. Five renowned fishing guides will host a power panel of fishing advice. Scheduled are Russ Smith, Steve Herbeck, Joe Bucher, Randy Howell and Steven Paul. There will be food and drinks, raffles and prizes, and all followed by Live 360 podcast. Admission is free.

Wouldn’t it be nice to go back in time and witness the “Paul Bunyans” of the time as they competed in lumberjack games and competitions? We can’t take you back in time, but we can take you to Hayward where the Lumberjack World Championships will be held July 19-22. Men and women, both professional and amateurs, will compete in head-to-head competition in logrolling, boom running, sawing, chopping, axe throwing and speed climbing. Food, vendors, foot race/walk and tons of live music add to the allure of this annual event. If you can’t make the World Championships, check out the weekly Scheer’s Lumberjack Shows in Hayward and Woodruff.

If entertainment is what you want, entertainment is what you will get at Lake Superior Big Top Chautauqua near Bayfield. Their season runs June through September featuring international headliners, regional talent, and original productions. They bill it as “Music Under the Stars All Summer Long.” During just July, you can select from 20 musical performances, a film and a comedy show, all under the 900-seat theater tent. And in August? Well, it’s jam-packed with similar concerts and performances. There are food and beverage concessions and a merchandise tent also. Moving across the state we come to the charming community of Grantsburg. The World Championship Snowmobile Watercross event will be held on July 14-16. Come experience the thrill of snowmobiling over water and enjoy the festivities. This high energy event will feature live music, top racers, street dance, displays, kid’s play area, food and beverage vendors, amazing fireworks and much more. Event hours are: Friday 11am-12:30am, Saturday 8am-12:30am and Sunday 8am-5pm.

Thirty-eight of northern Wisconsin’s finest artists will participate in the North Woods Art Tours - opening the doors of their studios and galleries to the public on July 28, 29 & 30 and October 6, 7 & 8 from 10am to 5pm daily. The tour is free and self-guided. Enjoy a behind the scenes view of where and how artists create work in all media.

Want more art? The Emberlight Festival offers 32 Summer Events! The Essence of the Artist season brings over 30 unforgettable events to Ironwood, Michigan. The Emberlight Festival’s annual celebration of world-class art kicks off on July 1 and runs through August 26. Centered around the theme, “Essence of the Artist”, more than 150 local, regional and international artists will spark imaginations and ignite learning through a dazzling array of music, film, theater, and visual art in the beautiful natural surroundings and historic halls of Ironwood, Michigan. Learn more in this issue of Action.

If you love bluegrass music, then you don’t want to miss the 34th annual Midsummer Bluegrass Festival on the Cozy Cove Tavern grounds in Manitowish Waters. Dates of the festival are Thursday, July 27 through Sunday, July 30. You will see and hear a number of well-known bluegrass artists and bands, including four progressive bluegrass bands. Learn more in this issue of Action or visit MidSummerBluegrass.com to see the full schedule and ticket information.

Be sure to return later this summer to Minocqua for the Dragon Boat Festival. The all-day races will take place Saturday, Aug. 19. In addition to the races (sign-ups are still being taken), there will be live music, children’s activities, and beer/food tents. Learn more in this issue of Action.

The above is a small sample of events that await visitors to the Northwoods. Learn more in this issue of Action, or go to our website: UpNorthAction.com.

LCO Honor the Earth Pow Wow

e Pow Wow is an authentic Ojibwe tradition and is America’s largest Honor the Earth Homecoming Celebration and Pow Wow.

If unique artwork is what trips your trigger, mark your calendars for these fun events!

Northeast Region

CALENDAR

July 1 Townsend - Kids Fishing Tournament

July 1 Mountain - Independence Day Celebration

July 2 Crivitz - Car Show & Music

July 3 Oconto - Waterfest

July 3 Gillett - Memorial Truck Show

July 8 Shawano - Shawano Fest

July 14-16 Lakewood - Mardi Gras

July 15 Florence - Quilt Show & Strawberry Social

July 16 Oconto - Walleye Open

July 20 Mountain - Doty Fire Dept. Picnic

July 21 Shawano - Smalley Beach Bash

July 29 Crandon - Kentuck Day Festival

July 29-30 Lena - Dirt City Motorplex Duel

Treat the Family to a Water Ski Show

CRIVITZ - Tucked away in the far northeastern part of the Badger State are two outstanding water ski teams that hail from the same community. They are two of the nearly 30 water ski teams in Wisconsin that put on great family entertainment each summer.

Wisconsin is the Water Ski Show Capital of the World with more water ski show teams than any other place in the world, according to the Wisconsin Water Ski Federation. Nearly all are non-profit organizations with members ranging from pre-teens to older adults.

Human pyramids (4-tiers!), barefoot skiing, jumping, large ballet lines, swivel skiing and strap doubles are just a few of the acts packed into an action-filled water ski show by the two Crivitz teams. The shows are free; however, they do accept donations during their shows. The money helps them purchase equipment, gas and new boats from time to time.

Bring a blanket, chairs and sunglasses as you enjoy the shows,

which generally last about an hour.

Let’s get to some introductions to these two Crivitz teams, which include members who have skied professionally all over the world.

The Crivitz Ski Cats club performs water ski shows on Lake Noquebay from June through August. The Ski Cats have been entertaining for over 50 years providing fun for the entire family. They perform Wednesdays and select Saturdays at 6:30 p.m. at Lake Noquebay Park, W6188 County Hwy. GG, about six miles east of Crivitz. The Ski Cats have a concession stand. There is a $5 entry fee to the county park. For more information, visit CrivitzSkiCats.org.

The Twin Bridge Water Ski Team has been performing on High Falls Flowage for over 40 years. The water ski team performs every Thursday and Saturday with shows starting at 6:30 p.m. at Stephenson Town Park in Crivitz. Their season goes from late June through late August. The concession stand serves popcorn along with cold drinks. For more information, visit TwinBridgeSkiTeam.com.

Slip-Sliddin’ Away in Oconto County

OCONTO COUNTY - Who needs an indoor waterpark? Slippery Rock is a natural rock formation in the Oconto River that forms a water slide. It’s one of the biggest family attractions at Oconto County’s Chute Pond Park and Campground in Mountain, Wisconsin. Taking the natural water slide from the lake, and continuing down and around the dam, is fun and entertaining for children and adults with tubes and small rafts.

Oconto County’s Chute Pond Park and Campground is 167 acres located on the east shore of Chute Pond. It stretches along the Oconto River and is adjacent to the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. There are 74 available camping sites, 17 of which are designated as ATV/UTV sites. The ATV sites have direct access to the 450-mile ATV/UTV trail system in the county.

Chute Pond Park and Campground’s other amenities include: handicap-accessible restrooms and showers, electric outlets at most sites, picnic tables and fire rings at each site, free Wi-Fi around the field house, beach, and boat launch, boat launch (accessible for a fee) and trailer parking, chil-

C o u n t y OCONTO

Experience the sheer joy of offroading through Wisconsin's gorgeous Northwoods in Oconto County. Whether you're a novice rider or an experienced offroader, our trails will surely please. Enjoy beautiful views, take on our challenging terrain, and explore the scenic forests just a few miles away.

dren’s playground, large-group camping sites and RV dump station (for a fee). Additional amenities include; a rentable pavilion, swimming beach, park store, which sells firewood, ice cream, and other necessities, hiking trails, boat and kayak rentals, on-shore lakeside fishing dock, class 1 trout fishing on the Oconto River and river tubing access.

Chute Pond County Park and Campground is located less than 1 mile north of the intersection of State Highway 32/64 in the Town

of Mountain, Oconto County. To make a reservation to camp there, call (715) 276-6261. For information on other fun things to do in Oconto County, visit ocontocounty.org.

Don't miss out - experience the thrill of ATVing and UTVing in Oconto County this summer!

Request a visitor guide today at

surely views, on our ATVing UTVing visitor OCONTOCOUNTY.ORG

Crandon Invites Visitors to Kentuck Day

CRANDON - Your summer bucket list should include a visit to Crandon’s Kentuck Day, an all-day celebration of the community’s heritage, coupled with a large arts and crafts festival, expansive car show and ethnic food. The 2023 event will be Saturday, July 29, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Kentuck Klassic Car Show is a display of show vehicles new and old, brought in by enthusiasts from across the Northwoods. The car show is held on the shaded grounds of the Weber-Hill Funeral Home, just across the street from the Courthouse Square. Both events are free, and visitors can walk back and forth between the two.

Approximately 75 artists and vendors are expected at the arts and crafts show on the Courthouse Square. They will be selling finely crafted and original items such as silk floral designs, scrolled wood items, photographs, honey products and wildlife art. The flea market on Polk Street will have about two dozen vendors.

In addition, there will be sidewalk sales and music on the courthouse grounds. For more information, visit the Forest County Chamber of Commerce’s website at visitforestcounty.com.

Northcentral Region

CALENDAR

July 2 St. Germain - Freedom 5K Fun Run

July 3 Tomahawk - Arts & Crafts Fair

July 4 Land O’ Lakes - Lando Center 3Bear 5K Run

July 6-9 Rhinelander - Hodag Country Music Festival

July 7-9 Lac du Flambeau - Bear River Pow Wow

July 15 Eagle River - Burger Bash Arts & Crafts Show

July 15 Mercer - Mercer Backyard BBQ Cook-Off

July 15 Phelps - Fireman’s Picnic & Pig Roast

July 19 Boulder Junction - Sidewalk Sales & Strawberry Social

July 20 Boulder Junction - Northwoods Hamburger Social Fly-In

July 20-23 Manitowish Waters - Manito Art League Art Show

July 21-23 Merrill - Fastpitch Softball Tournament

July 22-23 Gleason - Burgr95 & Fork Horner’s 47 Gravel Bike

July 23 Land O’ Lakes - Airport Day

July 27-28 Phelps - Slo-Pitch Softball Tournament

July 27-30 Manitowish Waters - Bluegrass Music Festival

July 27-30 Rhinelander - Oneida Co. Fair

July 27-30 Antigo - Langlade Co Fair

July 28-30 Area wide - Northwoods Summer Art Tour

July 29 Land O’ Lakes - Northwoods Stock Music Fest

Bluegrass Music Festival Sets the Stage for Summertime Tunes

MANITOWISH WATERS - Set among the towering pine trees and lake-dotted landscape in Manitowish Waters comes some of the sweetest bluegrass music you will ever hear. The 34th annual Midsummer Bluegrass Music Festival on Thursday - Sunday, July 27-30, will feature music by artists and bands from all over the nation.

Hosted by the Cozy Cove Tavern & Restaurant, this year’s outdoor event (Wisconsin’s longest running bluegrass festival) features three headline bands/artists: The Tim O’Brien Band, Seth Mulder & Midnight Run, and The Mark Hembree Band.

Band leader, Tim O’Brien, is a Grammy Award Winning, Singer/ Songwriter and Muti-instrumentalist who became a leading figure in the world of contemporary bluegrass - most notably in the quartet, Hot Rize. In 2015 he won a Grammy as a member of the bluegrass supergroup, The Earls of Leicester.

Hailing from the Gateway of the Great Smoky Mountains, Seth Mulder & Midnight Run present a high-energy show filled with

July 29 St. Germain - Northwoods Blues Fest

July 29 Conover - Ride with Leinie

July 29 Merrill - Black Squirrel Scurry & Lobster Fest

July 29-30 Wausau - Hmong Sports, Music and Arts Festival

July 29-Aug. 13 Hurley - Iron Co. Heritage Days

nostalgic entertainment and tight harmonies built around their curated set list of original material and lost covers. When not touring festivals across the United States, Canada and Europe, they perform as the house band for the Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.

As leader of The Mark Hembree Band, Mr. Hembree’s credentials include being a co-founder of the Nashville Bluegrass Band and author of the book: “On The Bus With Bill Monroe”. His 5-year tenure as a Bluegrass Boy with Bill Monroe gives this year’s Festival an extra stamp of Bluegrass authenticity.

Daily and weekend passes (includes walk-in tent camping onsite) are among the ticket options. RV or trailer camping is also available; all campsites are rustic.

Cozy Cove is located on 5786 U.S. Highway 51. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. Visit MidSummerBluegrass.com to see the full schedule and detailed ticket information.

Mercer Area is a Natural for Fishing Adventures

MERCER - Iron County boasts nearly 200 lakes, streams and rivers that will bring big smiles on the faces of anglers anxious to enjoy the great outdoors in one of the prettiest parts of the Northwoods. Whether your trip Up North consists of a solo adventure, or with fishing buddies or family, summer is a perfect time to explore these exceptional bodies of water and make fond memories for a lifetime. Each water body is unique and offers excellent opportunities to bring the makings of a fish fry back to the cabin or a trophy fish to be mounted. You can find plenty of fresh bait and a variety of tackle, along with helpful advice from the folks who fish for a living in the greater Mercer area. Hook up with a guide or explore on your own. Here’s a sampling of area lakes to wet your line:

• San Domingo Lake - Located in the east central portion of the Mercer area, just off Hwy. 51 with a private landing. Just 39 acres, but 20 feet deep with northern pike, largemouth bass and panfish.

• French Lake - Located in the Springstead area, just north of Hwy. 182, 92 acres and 16 feet deep. Musky, walleye, bass and panfish.

• Little Martha Lake - No public landing, so you will need to be a lodging guest on this private access lake located in the northcentral area of Mercer. Musky, northern, largemouth bass and panfish are abundant.

• Pike Lake - Located in the central portion of Mercer with a private landing available. At 194 acres and some 80 feet deep, it hosts musky, walleye, northern, bass and panfish.

• Grand Portage Lake - Also known as Tank Lake, the 144acre lake is located in central Mercer with a public boat landing. Roaming the lake are walleye, musky, northern, bass and panfish.

• Weber Lake - Another small lake at 35 acres, it receives little fishing pressure so the action is great for walleye, bass, crappie and panfish. Located in the west central area of Mercer.

• Spider Lake - Located in the north central portion of the Mercer area, just east of Hwy. H, access is by a public boat landing. Score big with musky, northern pike, walleye, smallmouth bass and panfish.

• Fisher Lake - One of three lakes of the Turtle River Chain of Lakes, 42 acres and 25 feet deep. Musky, northern pike, walleye,

largemouth bass and panfish. Located in the east central portion of Mercer area, east of Hwy. H.

• Lake of the Falls - Located in the western portion of the Mercer area, just north of Hwy. FF. At 338 acres and 23 feet deep, it has plenty of room for northern pike, walleye, musky, smallmouth bass and panfish to roam.

• Boot Lake - Located in the Springstead area north of Hwy. 182, with a public boat landing, 180 acres and 16 feet deep. Musky, northern pike, walleye, bass and panfish.

• Turtle-Flambeau Flowage - Located in the southern portion of the Mercer area, north of Hwy. 182 and off Hwy. FF with access from three boat landings. At a massive 19,000 acres and a maximum depth of 50 feet, it offers anglers and wildlife watchers a near “Canadian” wilderness experience close to home. Musky, northern pike, smallmouth bass, walleye and panfish.

The summer North Woods Art Tour is right around the corner!

MULTI-COUNTY - Awaken your sense of wonder and explore some of the Northwood’s most beautiful backroads. Travel through the charming, friendly, small communities of Iron, Vilas, Oneida and Lincoln counties. Visit artists’ private studios seldom open to the public. Thirty-eight of northern Wisconsin’s finest artists will participate in the 2023 Summer and Fall North Woods Art Tours – opening the doors of their studios and galleries to the public on July 28, 29 & 30 and October 6, 7 & 8 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. The tour is free and self-guided. Enjoy a behind the scenes view of where and how artists create work in all media. Enjoy it your way. Create your own custom experience. Visit as many or as few studios as your interest and time allow. The tour is organized into 36 unique sites. You are free to come and go as you wish. For more information refer to northwoodsarttour.com.

2040 W Saarnio Rd, Mercer

‘County of Trails’ offers Cycling Adventures

LANGLADE COUNTY - Whether you are a beginning cyclist looking for a relaxing ride or an experienced cyclist looking for a technical mountain bike trail, Langlade County - often referred to as “the County of Trails”- supplies every type of cyclist with a diverse array of riding options. Choose from winding forest trails, serene paths through bucolic farmlands, routes near city amenities, and scenic trails around Langlade County’s many lakes. Here are several trails that are most popular with area cyclists.

Antigo Single-Track Mountain Bike Trail - The trailhead is located at N1985 Dump Road in Antigo. The total length of the trail is 3 miles and is open year-round.

Antigo Walking/Biking Trail - From the trailhead on 4th Avenue, east of Highway 45, you will ride along the perimeter of Antigo Lake and Springbrook before the trail takes you into the forest. The City of Antigo’s walking/biking trail is over 2 miles long.

City of Antigo Bike Route - Made possible through community sponsorship, this signed and designated City-Wide Bike Route will have crossings at 4th, 7th, and 10th Avenues.

Gartzke Flowage Recreation Area - Offers 6 scenic miles of riding for cyclists of every ability level. Access the trail at W6379 5th Avenue Road in Bryant.

Moccasin Lake Trail - Provides 5.5 miles of excellent riding for all abilities. Access this trail off Moccasin Lake Road, west of Elcho.

Nicolet Roche Trail Mountain Bike Trail - A 20-mile adventure. Access the Nicolet Roche Trail at the south end of Boulder Lake Campground, Van Alstine Road, or Highway 64, east of Langlade.

Wolf River Mountain Bike Trails - Access 6 miles of challenging terrain from the Bear Paw Adventure Resort in White Lake or from Nicolet Roche Trail. Please be mindful of seasonal closures and property owners’ requests.

Wolf River State Trail - Supplying 33.4 miles of mountain bike trail from White Lake to Lake Metonga in Forest County. Access the trail in downtown White Lake; park along Highway M/Lake Street near the intersection with Maple Street.

Veteran’s Memorial Park/Jack Lake Trail - Although new in 2017, the 12 miles of fast, flowing single- and double-track mountain bike trails of Veteran’s Memorial Park have quickly become a local favorite. Veteran’s Memorial Park is located 15 miles north of Antigo, in Deerbrook. The trailhead is located in the southwest corner of the park’s lot, near the campgrounds entrance.

More information on trails and other fun adventures is available at langladecounty.org.

Rock Falls

Double the Sweetness at Dan’s Minocqua Fudge

MINOCQUA - Dan’s Minocqua Fudge is a beloved storefront located in the heart of Minocqua. For years, locals and tourists alike have been flocking downtown to this charming fudge, candy and ice-cream shop to indulge in their delicious homemade treats.

Coming soon, the beloved fudge shop is adding an additional location to accommodate their growing demand with another facility for both production and retail sales. This new facility will be located at 7499 US Hwy 51 in Minocqua. Watch for it’s opening later this summer!

With more space and advanced equipment, Dan’s Minocqua Fudge can ramp up its production to meet their customers’ requests. The new retail sales area will allow customers to watch the fudge and candy being made right before their eyes just like at the historic downtown location. The experience invites customers to be a part of the process and see exactly how the famous candy is created.

Dan’s Minocqua Fudge has been crafting their homemade fudge for over 56 years. Using only the highest quality, natural ingredients, the fudge is hand-stirred in copper kettles and poured onto marble slabs to cool. The result is a rich, creamy and decadent treat that is simply irresistible. In addition to quality products, the staff is friendly and passionate about their craft, delighting in the joy they bring to each and every customer.

Along with their signature fudge, Dan’s Minocqua Fudge offers a variety of candies, taffy, and caramel apples, ensuring that there is something for everyone. The new facility is set to create even more delicious sweets and candies to choose from, that people of all ages can enjoy.

Whether you’re a local or just passing through, be sure to stop by Dan’s Minocqua Fudge’s two locations for a sweet trip down memory lane. Can’t make it into the stores? Coming soon is their NEW website on which you can purchase and ship goodies right to your home! Look for that feature in the near future at eatmorefudge.com.

Come Join the FUN!

JULY LAKESIDE LIVE MUSIC SCHEDULE

Saturday, July 1st: Gareth Murphy 6-9 PM

Sunday, July 2nd: Santy & Son 3-6 PM

Thursday, July 6th: Scott Kirby 6-9 PM

Friday, July 7th: Soul Child 6-9 PM

Saturday, July 8th: Josh Otte 6-9 PM

Sunday, July 9th: Bret & Frisk 3-6 PM

Thursday, July 13th: TBD 6-9 PM

Friday, July 14th: Bret Winters 6-9 PM

Saturday, July 15th: TBD 6-9 PM

Sunday, July 16th: Nicolet Dropouts 3-6 PM

Thursday, July 20th: Scott Kirby 6-9 PM

Friday, July 21st: Olivia England 6-9 PM

Saturday, July 22nd: TBD 6-9 PM

Sunday, July 23rd: Bret & Frisk 3-6 PM

Thursday, July 27th: Scott Kirby

Friday, July 28th: Jason Moon

Saturday, July 29th: Evan Pingel

Sunday, July 30th: David Walters

There’s so much to experience at Wildwood Wildlife Park Zoo & Safari. Our lush 259 acres are home to over 2,000 animals from around the world. Take your zoo visit to the next level with animal feedings, tram ride, animal programs and other incredible experiences. There’s something for everyone! Wildwood Wildlife Park is all about providing special experiences that last a lifetime with every visit no matter your age!

OFFERING EXTRAORDINARY ANIMAL EXPERIENCES

Hand Feeding: Goat, aoudad, and sheep - an experience for all ages. Stroll leisurely throughout the park, where the deer roam among you and have them eat right out of your hand. Experience magical moments with our goats and watch them frolic all over and even feed them their special treats!

Parakeet Encounter: Surround yourself in the beauty of our Budgie Buddies aviary, and experience the excitement where you can handfeed budgies.

Snow Leopard: Stop by and watch these unique magnificent cats as they run and jump and may even follow you in their outdoor habitat.

Penguin Cove- This immersive exhibit is home to a cozy colony of endangered African BlackFooted Penguins.

White-Handed Gibbon: Guests will watch these most agile animals on the planet, as they easily move hand over hand with their body suspended below, a movement called brachiation.

Giraffe Encounter: Get eye to eye with the tallest and most fascinating animals in the world during the giraffe feeding.

Flamingo: Our guests will often find our flamingos marching in their exhibit during the Flamingo Mingle! A memorable experience that will tickle you pink!

Siamang: A performance and sound that guests will never forget! You will have the opportunity to hear these silly monkeys as they fill up their air sack to call outwhich can be heard over 2 miles away!

Koi and Trout Feeding: Buy trout pellets from the feed machines and toss into the pond and see the entire surface come alive with a frenzy of trout or koi. Guests can just sit and relax in this peaceful and tranquil area.

Primates & Reptile Center: Featuring North American, Desert and Rainforest habitats. Learn about these creepy, crawly critters and come nose to nose to a lemur and hear them vocalize while the sloth’s siesta all day long.

Amphitheater: Learn about your favorite animals during our Zoo Chats and meet our animal ambassadors.

William E. Gardner Educational Center: The educational center is full of amazing things to see and do. You will peer into the world of honeybees and witness honeybees performing their specialized duties to produce honey. Other activities includeartifacts, microscopes, amphibians, snakes, lizards, arthropods, and insect displays.

Safari Tram Ride: Jump on the tram and enjoy a narrated journey winding through the sprawling woods. Spot Zebra grazing near a spring fed pond, watch Eland studding across an open field. Search for the camouflaged

Scimitar Horned Oryx concealed in the thickets or the Wildebeest sunning on the savannah.

COME SPEND THE DAY WITH US AND YOU WILL FIND A MILLION REASONS TO SMILE. WE CAN'T WAIT TO SHOW YOU AROUND.

Experience the Northwoods at Iron Co. Heritage Days Festival

IRON COUNTY, WI - Mark your calendar for a trip to Iron County, Wisconsin, later this summer when local communities will celebrate the Iron County Heritage Days Festival. The 2023 dates are July 29 to August 13

The Heritage Festival will let you experience Iron County’s past through a self-guided tour at the Iron County Historical Museum and Little Finland. Or take a drive through the area’s attractions and see historic log structures, a B47 Memorial and more.

There’s more to experience, including; Hurley Quarterback Club Golf Tournament, Heritage Days Parade, Iron County Historical Society Museum Open House, Hurley Quarterback Club Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, Mercer Loon Festival Dance, Mercer Loon Day Arts and Crafts Fair, Saint Mary’s Church Bazaar, Mercer Turtle Lake Duck Race, Iron County Fair, Northwoods Wildlife & Wetlands Club Gun Show, Paavo Nurmi Marathon & Bike the Paavo!

For updated event information, visit ironcountywi. com

Paddles Up! Dragon Boat Festival Roars in Minocqua

MINOCQUA - The Minocqua Dragon Boat Festival is roaring against cancer again on Saturday, August 19 at Torpy Park in downtown Minocqua.

Sponsored by the Howard Young Foundation, the annual Minocqua Dragon Boat Festival will showcase fun-loving novice and experienced paddlers and their drummers in boat-to-boat competition on Lake Minocqua. In qualifying heats, three teams (each maximum of 20 paddlers and 1 drummer) race over the 300 meter-course in colorful dragon boats. The festival features both competitive club teams and recreational community teams.

All participants and spectators enjoy live music, children’s activities, a merchandise tent, and food and beer tents.

This year, all proceeds will go towards hospital projects including a new service line for oncology chemotherapy infusions at Howard Young Medical Center, Woodruff. The project will be matched by hospital owner, Aspirus. Since the inaugural festival in 2016, the festival has raised more than $1 million to benefit Howard Young Medical Center, Aspirus Eagle River Hospital, the Aspirus Tick-Borne Illness Center, and Autism Services.

If you want to get in the action, gather up family, friends, and co-workers and sign up at minocquadragonboat.com. No prior paddling experience is necessary. The cost is $900 per team

(that’s less than $43 per person for a team of 21) and $600 for a competitive dragon boat club and for the junior division (ages 12-18) teams. Individuals may also register to be placed in a team. Most teams also gather up pledges for the Howard Young Foundation.

Team registration includes: • 1 practice session the night before the event; • Racing a minimum of 2 times on race day on a 300m race course, and • All equipment, including boat, life vests, paddles and a steersperson/coach.

Volunteers are needed to do everything from holding boats to putting up signs. From greeting guests or getting teams ready to race, there is a job for everyone. Register to be a volunteer at minocquadragonboat.com or contact the Howard Young Foundation at 715-439-4005.

Learn more about the event at minocquadragonboat.com.

Photo credit to Geri Miller

All Ages will Love the Go-Karts, Trail Rides & Mini-Golf at Holiday Acres

MINOCQUA - Holiday Acres Recreation Park in Minocqua has welcomed and entertained Northwoods visitors and local residents for 52 years, and the fun today is just as exciting as it was when this facility first opened!

The complex is a complete entertainment package for all ages, offering horse and pony rides, exciting go-kart racing and relaxing and fun mini-golf.

Up for a spin around the go-kart track? Holiday Acres boasts three excellent tracks, including the original Super Track.

When it’s time to relax there are a couple outstanding choices. First, take a 45-minute guided ride on gentle horses and ponies through the 40 acres of scenic woods that surround Holiday Acres. Rides leave on the hour daily. The little cowpokes will be talking about the ride on their favorite pony for weeks afterwards! Reservations are suggested (715-356-4400).

Challenge family and friends to a round of golf on the 18-hole miniature golf course, with outstanding landscaping features such as rivers, ponds and waterfalls. Golf under the sun or under the lights at night.

Holiday Acres is located on U.S. Highway 51 just south of the Island of Minocqua. Open daily at 9 a.m. May-October. Visit holidayacresminocqua.com for more details.

Lumberjacks Welcome Visitors to Woodruff

No matter how good a log roller is, he or she will end up in the water eventually. It’s a cold swim before those first few shows of the season.

WOODRUFF - Weeks before the official start of summer, Scheer’s Lumberjack Shows begins preparing for the upcoming season. 2023 will mark the 42nd year that Fred Scheer’s Lumberjack Shows have been entertaining area visitors on Woodland Lake in downtown Woodruff.

A spin-off of the famous Scheer’s Lumberjack Shows that began in Hayward, the Woodruff show features the same world-class athletes in a performance that is identical in entertaining value to the Hayward venue. Preparing the site for the summer performances involves maintenance to guarantee the safety of performers, as well as guests. The climbing poles that rise 60 to 90 feet into the air are inspected and the pads are secured in place.

“When you are climbing that pole at record speed, the last thing you want on your mind is its stability,” says Cassidy Scheer, world champion pole climber.

The log dogs on which the lumberjacks stand and swing razor sharp axes in the event called the underhand chop are checked for structural safety. The specially turned cedar logs used for the logrolling and boom-run events are pulled out of storage and replaced if necessary.

The gear and equipment used by the lumberjacks are also checked for safety. Steel-toed boots, leather leg chaps, climbing belts and gaffs (the spikes on the side of a climber’s shoes) must be in tip-

top shape to protect the performers. They inspect and repair the special leather guards that are placed over a portion of saw blades to protect children as they cross-cut saw with the lumberjacks during the kids matinees.

In addition to the lumberjack gear, the show site is prepared for the throng of summer guests who arrive with the warm weather. Bleachers, walkways and the handicap ramp are checked and the landscaping is refreshed.

How about all the logs the lumberjacks saw and chop? Over 20 tons of aspen logs are hauled to the site throughout the summer. Logs need to be uniform in diameter and stripped of bark – the same guidelines adhered to in the Lumberjack World Championships.

The season starts Memorial Day weekend and runs through Labor Day weekend. The Lumberjacks are eager to entertain and display the athleticism they’ve worked hard to keep tuned during the winter months.

With everything checked out, cleaned up, and the staff eager to get another season underway, there is one element of the shows that cannot be controlled. That is the temperature of the water in Woodland Lake or Lake Hayward. Plan your trip to Sheer’s Lumberjack Show! For more information about Sheer’s Lumberjack shows go to sheerslumberjackshow.com.

Celebrating 70!

WOODRUFF - Have you heard the story of the “Million Penny Parade,” or high school geometry teacher Otto Burich who was the force behind the 1953 parade, and that of Dr. Kate Pelham Newcomb, widely known as the “Angel on Snowshoes?”

It’s all spelled out at the Dr. Kate Museum in Woodruff. Nearby at the corner of 2nd Avenue and Hemlock Street, is the “World’s Largest Penny,” which was constructed to commemorate the success of “Million Penny” campaign in 1953 to raise funds to construct the original local hospital. This year marks the 70th anniversary of the Million Penny Parade!

Special events to celebrate this occasion on Saturday, July 15, include a parade, classic car show, kid’s activities, food vendors, beer and music provided by Richie Yrkovich and his polka band.

There’s more to see at the museum, including items about the Arbor Vitae-Woodruff grade school and about the town of Woodruff itself.

The Dr. Kate Museum is located at 923 2nd Avenue in Woodruff and is open during the summer months on Monday through Friday from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Admission is by donation. For more information on the exciting 70th Celebration visit drkatemuseum.org.

7 Museums in 1 at the Pioneer Park Historical Complex

RHINELANDER - Step back in time and visit the oldest logging museum in the country at the Pioneer Park Historical Complex. Founded in 1932, the Historical Complex features a complete collection of 1800s era logging tools, photos, and equipment, and of course, a Hodag exhibit! Visitors will be treated to 7 museums in 1 location! Unique exhibits can be found within these separate buildings.

Reds Antique Sawmill Museum featuring a 100+ year old sawmill. One Room Schoolhouse Museum; an authentic one room rural school building restored to turn of the century condition, with accompanying collection.

The Wisconsin Civilian Conservation Corps Museum; one of the best CCC Museums in the state, housed in a replica camp building with an excellent collection of artifacts, photos, and more.

Antique Fire Truck Building; Two Antique Firetrucks and a Fire Wagon on display.

Duke’s Antique Outboard Motor and Boat Museum; featuring over 100 antique outboard boat motors showcasing northern Wisconsin’s boating history.

Rhinelander Railroad Museum; featuring a historic Soo Line Depot, narrow gauge locomotive, and awesome model railroad layout.

Hands on Wisconsin history and fun for folks of all ages!

2023 Season Hours Memorial Day Weekend - Labor Day Weekend:

Closed on Mondays, Open Tuesday - Saturday: 10am - 5pm, Sundays: 12noon - 4pm. *Closed July 4th and July 24th-27th, for Oneida County Fair Setup at Pioneer Park. After Labor Day; Open Saturdays 10am - 5pm and Sundays 12noon - 4pm through September.

The Pioneer Park Historical Complex is located at 705 Martin Lynch Drive within Pioneer Park. For more information, call 715369-5004 or go to www.rhinelanderpphc.com. PPHC is a City of Rhinelander owned and operated Public Museum.

Find your Fun at Hawks Nest Outfitters

EAGLE RIVER - Find your fun this summer with the help of Hawks Nest Outfitters in Eagle River. Celebrating 50 years, this watersports recreation company offers a variety of outdoor equipment rentals, organized waterway routes and other resources to help visitors enjoy the natural beauty and excitement of the Northwoods.

Hawks Nest Outfitters provides everything visitors need to unlock the outdoor experiences in Wisconsin’s Northwoods including kayaks, canoes, tubes, life jackets and paddles. From equipment rentals to comprehensive resources, they’ve got visitors covered for all of their outdoor adventure needs. Hawks Nest Outfitters make it easy for everyone to enjoy all that northern Wisconsin has to offer.

Need to rent? Rental equipment includes everything visitors need to experience the region to the fullest, including tandem kayaks, canoes and fishing kayaks. They also offer delivery making it easy to customize the perfect outdoor adventure at your favorite lake or waterway.

Services at Hawks Nest don’t stop at equipment rentals. They also offer expertly organized waterway routes, from shorter one-and-a-half hour trips to five-hour trips, depending on the chosen route. These scouted out and planned routes can take visitors to some of the most beautiful and remote locales in the Northwoods.

Hawks Nest Outfitters is located directly on the Wisconsin River at 6141 WI-70 in Eagle River. Find more information and book your rental or trip at hawksnestoutfitters.com.

Gallop and Paddle Away The Perfect Day

CONOVER - Explore nature in Conover this summer! Among the woods and waters encompassing the Conover area are Vilas County Horse Trails. Landover Saddle Club helps maintain this network of riding lanes connected to the River Road Equestrian Campground.

Covering nearly 20 miles in three marked loops, each equestrian route is linked by connector trails. It’s a classic Northwoods landscape featuring gently rolling terrain and mixed hardwoods dotted with pine trees. The marked loops have wide grassy surfaces and are non-motorized. Most of the connector trails are located on an old railroad grade, remnant of the historic era that is respectfully shared with motorized recreational vehicles. Plan your equestrian adventure today!

Conover boasts 33 lakes and many riverways, over 6000 acres of fun on the water, whatever your choice of enjoying it. This is surrounded by nearly 25,000 acres of serene county forest lands. Enjoy the relaxing glide of a canoe or kayak on any local lake or take a day trip down the Wisconsin River. The peace and tranquility of Conover’s heavily wooded waterways allow relaxation for the quiet sport enthusiast. Some fan favorite waterways include;

Upper Buckatabon Springs State Natural Area

This natural area features a complex of at least five undeveloped soft-water springs and spring ponds that drain into the upper reaches of the Wisconsin River. From the intersection of US

Highway 45 and County K West go 4.7 miles west to Buckatabon Creek. The site lies north of the road.

Wisconsin River Centennial Trail-Trip 1

Length: 25 miles Time: 11.5 hours

This first trip from the dam on Lac Vieux Desert to the River Road Landing in Conover runs the gamut from narrow but passable (be prepared for beaver dams and deadfalls) through twists and turns (may need to walk through a stretch of low hazard rapids) to broad floodplain with occasional oxbows and moderately fast current. There are some portages (by the dam, across the road, and some beaver dams). There are also several landings suitable for take-out or putin. There are also two campsites (one night only) along the route at Rummels Road and the Buckatabon Creek.

Wisconsin River Centennial Trail-Trip 2

Length: 23 miles Time: 9 hours

This trip segment from the River Road Landing in Conover to the beginning of the Rainbow Flowage crosses the broad floodplains through Watersmeet Lake (slow current with boat traffic) to the Otter Rapids Dam area. From the dam to Hwy O, the tailwater area is fast with many boulders. The river channel narrows through the wooded uplands and marshy lowlands to the beginning of the Rainbow Flowage. Winds can make crossing the flowage difficult. There are portages by the dams along with several landings suitable for takeout or put-in. No camping is allowed on the reservoir shoreline.

Wisconsin River Carry-In Access Points in Conover

• Rummels Road • Hegemann Road & County Highway K West • River Road • Heart Lake Road

Check out conover.org for help in planning your perfect trip to Conover any time of the year.

Find your Treasure at the St. Germain Flea Market

ST. GERMAIN - If you’re searching for a fun way to spend your day and find some unique items, the Saint Germain Flea Market is not to be missed! Hosted by the St. Germain Firefighters Association, this flea market is one of the largest in the midwest and is famous for offering unique treasures and a friendly atmosphere.

Expect to find everything from custom art work and jewelry to retro items and collectibles. The market is open 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. every Monday from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Visitors can enjoy live music and delicious food while browsing the wares. With dozens of vendors and new discoveries at every turn, the Saint Germain Flea Market is a must-visit destination for antique lovers and bargain hunters alike. For more information or to sign up to be a vendor, visit stgermainfire.com. The St. Germain Flea Market is located at the intersection of Highway 155 and Highway 70 in St. Germain, behind the fire station.

Northwest Region

CALENDAR

July 1 Hayward - Cardboard Boat Race

July 2 Spooner - Art Festival

July 3 Amery - 5K Fun Run

July 6-8 Spooner - Rodeo

July 7-8 Rice Lake - Shoreline Sprints & Distance Rollerski Races

July 7-9 Turtle Lake - Inter-County Fair

July 8 Chetek - Brew & Ribfest

July 8 Sanborn - Pioneer Days

July 8-9 Centuria - Memory Days

July 9 Stone Lake - Pie & Ice Cream Social

July 14-15 Ashland - Bay Days Festival

July 14-16 Hayward - LCO Honor the Earth

Pow Wow

July 14-16 St. Croix Falls - Wannigan

Days-River Spirit Celebration

July 15 Balsam Lake - Bass Classic Fishing

Tournament

July 16 St. Croix Falls - Woolly Mtn. Bike Race

July 19-22 Rice Lake - Barron Co. Fair

July 19-22 Hayward - Lumberjack World Championships

July 20-23 Ladysmith - Mardi Gras Arts & Crafts Fair

July 21-23 Luck - Lucky Days Festival

July 22 Shell Lake - Triathlon

July 22-23 Iron River - Blueberry Festival

July 22-23 Frederic - Indianhead Gem & Mineral Show

July 23 Centuria - Chasing Bigfoot 25, 5K and 10K

July 27-30 St. Croix Falls - Polk County Fair

July 28-30 Cameron - Red Cedar River

Rendezvous

July 28-30 Butternut – Pioneer Days

July 29-31 Cameron - Frontier Living Day Camp

July 29 Mellen - Penokee Range Classic Bike Races

July 29 Washburn - North Coast Car Show

Don’t Miss the Lumberjack World Championships

HAYWARD - Former title holders will battle fellow lumberjacks during the 63rd annual Lumberjack World Championships on July 19-22 in the Lumberjack Bowl in Hayward.

The international competition showcases athletes competing for a purse of more than $76,000 in a variety of timber sports, including, logrolling, boom running, sawing, chopping, axe throwing and speed climbing. Quarterfinals are Thursday, semifinals are Friday and the finals are Saturday. Live music, food trucks and vendors all three days. For more details and tickets go to lumberjackbowl.com. During the competition, here’s what you will see:

• Log Rolling - Lumberjacks and lumberjills run atop spinning, floating logs in an attempt to topple their opponents. Difficulty increases as the logs get smaller.

• Boom Running - Competitors sprint atop a “boom” - a series of linked, floating logs - from one dock to another and back, as logs begin to spin out of control.

• Speed Pole Climbing - Lumberjacks compete in the breathtaking speed pole climb as they scale a 60′ or 90′ pole and back to earth in record time.

• Chopping - Lumberjacks and lumberjills sharpen up their axes

to compete in the high intensity standing chop, underhand chop, springboard chop, and standing block chop.

• Throwing - Precision is the name of the game as competitors throw a double-bit axe as close to the center of a target as possible.

• Sawing - Sawdust will fly when lumberjacks and lumberjills attack white pine in a head-to-head competition using a crosscut saw or a souped-up chainsaw in a variety of fast and furious events.

This year’s events will add another night of live music on Wednesday by The Jayhawks with special opening guest Martin Zellar and The Hardways performing on the Big Stage! Special tickets required for this show.

Other featured music throughout the weekend include Molly & the Danger Band, Steve Beguhn and Braedon Hoecherl.

You’re also invited to take part in the Birkie Lumberjack 5K RunWalk. It starts at 8 a.m. Saturday on Hall of Fame Drive just outside the Lumberjack Bowl gate. Register at lumberjackbowl.com. For more information and to purchase tickets online, go to LumberjackWorldChampionships.com.

Get Carried Away on the Madeline Island Ferry

BAYFIELD - Madeline Island Ferry Line provides transportation between the picturesque towns of La Pointe and Bayfield. The 25-minute voyage provides spectacular views of the Lake itself and several of the 22 Apostle Islands.

Whether you choose to bring your car, bicycle or walk on, you’re sure to find plenty to keep you occupied for a full day, or just a morning or afternoon. Madeline Island offers lots of fresh air, miles of sandy beaches, hiking trails, downtown strolls and a flat place to bike. Immerse yourself in nature by exploring Big Bay Town Park by canoe, or kayak to the sea caves at Big Bay State Park with your own kayak or with a guided tour.

Get carried away on the Madeline Island Ferry Line for what is sure to be a memorable trip. Check the schedule on madferry.com and plan your trip or tour today.

EVERY NIGHT IS UNFORGETTABLE AT THE BIG TOP!

One of the most unique venues in the U.S. From the biggest names in the Nation, to the brightest stars in the area, there’s something for everyone at Lake Superior Big Top Chautauqua.

This is just a small taste of all the big things on the Big Top stage this year. For the most current schedule, scan the code below, go to the web, or stop by the box office— then plan a date to come see an unforgettable show!

Come see a show at The Tent!

The Big Top venue is located at the base of Mt Ashwabay, approx. 3 miles south of Bayfield, Wisconsin.

32525 Ski Hill Rd, Bayfield, WI 54814

Stop in and see us year-round. The Backstage, Box Office, and Gift Shop 84810 State Hwy 13, Bayfield, WI 54814 www.bigtop.org | 715.373.5552

Scan QR code for details and the most up to date schedule or visit bigtop.org/calendar

Fun Places to Visit in Polk County

ST. CROIX FALLS - Tops on our list of fun places to see in Polk County is Interstate State Park, part of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. The reason for its ranking is its dazzling beauty. But it also offers a bevy of other pursuits, including hiking, kayaking/canoeing, camping, swimming, and rock climbing. The two paddlewheels that ply this stretch of the St. Croix offers a unique view of those towering cliffs. Pothole Trail with its namesake holes drilled in the rocks from a raging flood eons ago shouldn’t be missed.

OSCEOLA - The city of Osceola has a charming downtown with plenty of gift shops, eateries and ice cream shops. What captures our attention in the downtown however is Cascade Falls. Down, down, down we go on wooden steps (134 if we remember correctly) to a small stream that tumbles over the rocks. You can slip behind the falls or take a cooling shower. During evening hours, the falling water is bathed in colored lights. Back on higher ground, hop on the Osceola & St. Croix Valley Railway passenger train departing from the Osceola Depot.

ST. CROIX FALLS - Spend time and sip your worries away at a winery. Polk County has three - all in St. Croix Falls including; Dancing Dragonfly Winery, Chateau St. Croix Winery & Vineyard and Deer Lake Winery. Plan a trip and pick up some of your favorites!

DRESSER - Trollhaugen Outdoor Recreation operates zip lines and a high ropes challenge course from spring to autumn. Visitors are sure to create amazing memories!

BALSAM LAKE - The Polk County Museum in Balsam Lake showcases the unique importance of Polk County through historic and cultural artifacts and exhibits – all providing a fascinating look at their past and housed in a beautiful building built in 1899. Visitors are invited to discover the historic treasures that fill this former county courthouse now on the National Register of Historic Places. It’s located on Main Street. The handicap accessible museum also hosts special exhibits throughout its season. Guided tours are available: call 715-485-9269 for more information. There are also the Clear Lake Historical Museum, Frederic Depot/Museum, Luck Area Historical Society and Museum, Osceola and St Croix Valley Railway, and Turtle Lake Museum.

TURTLE LAKE - The Cattail Trail runs for about 18 miles along the abandoned railroad bed from Amery to Almena and crosses right through Turtle Lake. A nice restroom facility and paved parking and loading zone are located at the junction of the Cattail and Northern Railroad Trails. Railway Park is just off the trail and to the west of the facility. A picnic shelter and tables are available. You will be able to find dining and other recreational opportunities not too far from the trail. The Northern Railroad Trail is now owned and managed by Barron County. It can be accessed in Turtle Lake and it runs for approximately 13 miles to Cumberland, with access to downtown Cumberland. The Cattail Trail and Northern Railroad Trail are multi-use trails. Information for trails is available through the Polk County Parks Department at 715-485-9294.

In The Zone

By Troy Prosa, TAP Architecture, St. Croix Falls WI

Just like no two fingerprints are alike, the same could be said about cabins and the properties they rest upon. Each cabin has a unique history and story to tell. With countless family gatherings that span generations, the cabin provides a communal space for life experiences.

Determining the condition of the cabin was discussed in our previous article “The Big Question: Remodel or Rebuild a Lake Cabin?” and is a critical step in assessing your options. However, that alone might not be the only consideration when trying to determine whether to remodel or rebuild.

Zoning is an immense topic and plays a vital role in almost any construction project. Each municipality has their own ordinances with a variety of limits and exceptions, so we can’t cover all aspects of local building codes, rules, and other regulations one might encounter. However, there are four key zoning considerations for any remodel or rebuild project:

1. ZONING DISTRICT

Most of the regulations that apply to your property will be determined by your zoning district. Existing cabins will be subject to requirements for a “dwelling” or an “accessory structure,” depending on what amenities they contain. Additionally, the year the cabin was originally built might determine if it must be considered “conforming“ or “nonconforming” with current rules. Since many cabins were built prior to today’s rules and regulations, they are not likely to be conforming to present-day standards. However, they might be considered exempt or “grandfathered in” regarding some of the current regulations. It is important to know which regulations apply to your project before you go too far with your remodeling or rebuilding plans.

2. LOT SIZE

The size or area of your property (lot size) is an important feature in assessing what limits might be imposed on your property. You will typically need to conform to requirements for permeable green space, like lawns or vegetative growth, that have the ability to allow moisture to pass through them. Your impervious surfaces, like buildings and paved areas, do not have the

ability to allow moisture through and will typically be limited to a maximum percentage of your total lot size area. The number of dwellings on a lot (density requirements) can also be directly determined by lot size. This means the size of your property plays a critical role in the size of your addition to the existing cabin or a new cabin. The larger the lot size, the larger the buildable area.

3. SETBACKS

Setback requirements are a crucial factor in determining not only building placement but also how it relates to site lines and other amenities your lot offers. These rules, which dictate the minimum distance between a building and the property line, typically include all four sides of your property (front, back and sides). Lake properties are also subject to the Ordinary High-Water Mark (OHWM) setback. These distance requirements usually are different for the dwelling structure and the accessory structure, and there may be additional types of setbacks requirements depending on your property.

4. HEIGHT

Local ordinances will define your height requirements, but different municipalities can have different methods for determining building height. This can have a significant impact on design, so it is important to understand the rules in your zoning district before you finalize the overall height of your remodel, addition, or new cabin.

These are just four of the many ordinances that will factor into your remodel or new cabin project. A thorough zoning review during the Project Programming or Pre-Design phase can identify those options and assist in determining the best course of action to take as you remodel, rebuild, or build new.

Troy Prosa is the principal architect at TAP Architecture, which specializes in architectural design for high-end lake homes in Wisconsin and Minnesota. TAP collaborates with clients to transform their vision into innovative, modern, thoughtful home design. Learn more at tap-architecture.com

Discover & Explore the Famous Lake Chippewa Flowage

HAYWARD - The Lake Chippewa Flowage - fondly known as “The Big Chip” - is a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts. It’s been preserved in its pristine wilderness state for current and future generations to enjoy.

The Lake Chippewa Flowage Resort Association (LCFRA) welcomes you to vacation in one of the prettiest areas of the Northwoods, with world-class fishing on the famed Big Chip.

With its massive size - over 200 miles of undeveloped shoreline and 140 islands - a lake map is highly suggested for navigation. A map of the Flowage showing all resort locations, associate memberships, fish cribs, camping islands, and original lakebeds is available at most LCFRA member businesses and at the Hayward Lakes Welcome Center in downtown Hayward. The association’s website is chippewaflowage.com.

You might also consider hiring a professional fishing guide who can put you on fish in short order.

More about the Flowage - In 1924, the Wisconsin/Minnesota Power and Light Company completed the dam across the Chippewa River, backing up the waters of 11 natural lakes, nine natural rivers, and numerous streams and ponds to form Lake Chippewa Flowage.

It’s Wisconsin’s third-largest lake (and largest wilderness lake) with over 17,000 acres of water. Chippewa Flowage fishing is some of the finest in the Midwest. It is home to the world-re-

cord muskellunge: a 69-pound, 11-ounce monster taken by Louis Spray in 1949 and upheld by the Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame as one of the best-documented world record musky of all time. Walleye, black crappie, musky, and bluegill are the most popular species among Flowage anglers today. DNR fishery management strategies are aimed at optimizing conditions for the reproduction, growth, and survival to preferred sizes of these species in particular.

Perch numbers are on the rise, and the smallmouth fishery has become outstanding in the darker, river-connected waters of the eastern basin. Largemouth bass and northern pike are present in ever-increasing numbers - particularly in the clearer, weedier western basin.

The LCFRA encourages anglers to keep any northern pike under 24” in length. Register your catch at LCFRA member establishments, with each registration giving you the chance to win some of the thousands of dollars in cash and prizes.

Several resorts and other groups sponsor fishing tournaments on The Big Chip. Among the largest are these two: the Musky Hunt Fishing Tournament and the Professional Musky Tournament Trail Ranger Boats World Championship, both in September. If you’re a golfer, don’t forget your clubs! There are 10 golf courses within a half-hour’s drive of the Flowage’s many resorts. There is also lots of shopping from unique shops of the North to name-brand retailers. Various attractions and museums will keep the family busy and happy throughout your stay, too!

Logging Lore Comes Alive at Scheer’s Lumberjack Shows

HAYWARD - Logging has been a vital part of Wisconsin’s history dating back into the late 1800’s, and the life of the lumberjack remains a vivid element of Wisconsin folklore.

Before the days of rail roads and highways, loggers would often float their harvested logs down the rivers to the nearest sawmills. Lumberjacks would often have to go out on the floating mass of logs to clear jams that often occurred when floating wood down streams. Little did they know that their dangerous occupation would later become a demanding athletic pursuit.

Many of the Scheer kids’ family spent numerous summers balancing and rolling on the logs on Lake Hayward in the bay of Lumberjack Bowl…the home of the Lumberjack World Championships Competition. Their summer fun trained them to become fierce competitors in the logrolling event (birling) of the Lumberjack World Championships (LWC) held in Hayward every July. Eventually they expanded their activities and became skillful at the boom run and pole climbing, as well as other events that were part of the LWC.

In 1981, Fred and Robert Scheer established the original Scheer’s Lumberjack Show and used their lumberjack skills to entertain area tourists. More than a demonstration, the show features a competition between two lumberjack teams as they do 10 different events, including log rolling, pole climbing and crosscut saw. Cheering the teams on gets the crowd involved in the show and down-home humor has everybody chuckling.

The original venue for the show in 1981 was a small dock on the shore of Lake Hayward, behind what was then Windmill Square. The show’s lumberjacks delighted small crowds and it soon became apparent the production needed more space. In 1985 the Scheer brothers opened a second Show in Woodruff, WI and in 1988 they moved their Hayward Show to Lumberjack Village. The Hayward Show is now in its 43rd year of operation

Fred is now the sole owner of Fred Scheer’s Lumberjack Shows and the Lumberjack Village. Training young athletes to be lumberjacks is still a fulfilling role for Fred. Through the years many lumberjacks have come, performed and moved on to other careers. Numerous world champion logrollers, pole climbers and boom-runners had their start as apprentices in Fred Scheer’s lumberjack Show and the cast has always included world champion lumberjacks. A world champion log roller himself, Fred occasionally delights audiences by personally participating in a show.

“If you’re doing what you love, then nothing else matters....until you fall into either of the lakes during the pre-season. Then being good at water sports matters,” jokes Deven Blair, show manager.

For all the years Scheer’s Lumberjack Shows has been in Hayward and Woodruff, it continues to draw crowds. One might say that a visit to northern Wisconsin isn’t complete without seeing a Scheer’s Lumberjack Show.

U.P. RegionMichigan

CALENDAR

June 24-July 4 Bessemer - 4th of July Festival

July 1-August 26 Ironwood - Emberlight Festival

July 1 Bessemer - Lake States Mud Races

July 2 Ramsay - 4th of July Street Dance & Fireworks

July 3 Wakefield - Sunday Lake Fireworks

July 7-8 Iron River - U.P. Championship Rodeo

July 7-9 Crystal Falls - Bass Festival

July 12-15 Ironwood - Festival Ironwood

July 14-15 Aura - Aura Jamboree

July 15-16 Iron Mountain - Gus Macker Basketball

July 21-23 Ojibwa Campground - Pow Wow

July 21-23 Ontonagon - Copperfest Heritage Festival

July 28-30 Ontonagon County Fair

July 29-30 Wakefield - Gus Macker Basketball

July 30-August 5 Wakefield - American Power Boat Races

Biking through Baraga County

BARAGA COUNTY - Biking the paved roads, gravel sideroads and logging trails of Baraga County, MI is the “Goldilocks” of exploring the Northwoods - not so fast as in a vehicle where you miss something, not so slow as walking where the day’s hours fade away before the next attraction.

Bring your bike and make Baraga County your hub to explore not only the friendly towns, but also to Marquette or Houghton in the neighboring counties. As you pedal your road bike or fat bike, you’ll come across breathtaking waterfalls, historical sites, roadhouses for a tasty burger and fries, and much more, including sunsets over Lake Superior that make even the locals’ hearts skip a beat!

Check out these suggested tour routes with family and friends:

Mountain Biking

Tour De Mt. Arvon - 29 miles

Road Biking

Tour da Aura - 26 miles

Tour da Skanee - 51 miles

Tour da Pequaming - 22 miles

Tour da Baraga - 5.6 mile

For more details on biking and other fun things to do in Baraga County, go to visitbaragacounty.com.

Ottawa National Forest - Waterfall Adventures

IRONWOOD - The Ottawa National Forest makes up a very large part of the Western U.P., and is home to many exciting and exceedingly beautiful waterfalls. Located on Black River Harbor Road north of Ironwood, the National Black River Scenic Byway includes the following waterfalls: Great Conglomerate, Potawatomi, Gorge, Sandstone, and Rainbow. As you visit, stop and take notice of the signs explaining the conglomerate rock formations.

Great Conglomerate Falls - This is a very large and wellmarked waterfall which is divided by a wide conglomerate rock formation.

Potawatomi FallsPotawatomi, which is barrier free (from Gorge Parking Lot), is one of the most beautiful waterfalls on the Black River. This waterfall is well marked. A restroom is available at this site. Walking trail is approximately 1/8 mile. Shares common road in with Gorge Falls and 2 separate parking lots.

Gorge Falls - This conglomerate canyon has a 34 foot drop. Potawatomi and Gorge Falls are accessible by the same parking area. Walking trail is approximately 1/8 mile.

Emberlight Festival offers 32 Summer Events

IRONWOOD - The Essence of the Artist season brings over 30 unforgettable events to Ironwood, Michigan.

The Emberlight Festival’s annual celebration of world-class art kicks off on July 1 and runs through August 26. Centered around the theme, “Essence of the Artist”, more than 150 local, regional and international artists will spark imaginations and ignite learning through a dazzling array of music, film, theater, and visual art in the beautiful natural surroundings and historic halls of Ironwood, Michigan.

Sandstone Falls - This waterfall meanders over rocks giving it a unique appearance. It is located on a beautiful spot on the Black River, with a well-marked, short 1/4 mile walking trail.

Rainbow Falls - A beautiful waterfall that is extremely photogenic on the East part of the River. Enjoy the scenery on your 1/2 mile walk to the waterfall. Take is easy, there are many stairs.

To get to the falls from Hwy. US 2 in Bessemer take Powderhorn Road North. When you come to the T in the road at the stop sign, make a left hand turn on Black River Rd. You will find all the waterfalls on this Road. This road is approximately 14 miles long, ending in the only Harbor & Marina operated by the USDA Forest Service in the lower 48 states.

The season features Main Stage guest headliner, powerhouse soprano Ann Tomey, back by popular demand. Additional highlights include concerts with stars of classical music and Broadway stages; an International Film Festival with more than 800 submissions from 70 countries; free Behind the Curtain talkbacks with visiting artists; and five weekends of dynamic Performance Infusions by artists from across the region.

Also featured are 17 Art in the Park installations, two commissioned visual artworks, and Buyer and Cellar, Emberlight’s first theatrical production. It’s an exciting season with something for everyone!

2023 ticket passes and individual ticket sales are available now. For more information go to emberlight.org. To sponsor an event or make a donation, please contact donate@emberlight.org.

Up in the Clouds

Gogebic County - Capture the magnificent landscapes that only the Upper Peninsula of Michigan can provide with a trip to the International Copper Peak Ski Flying Hill and Recreation Complex, northeast of Ironwood. The mammoth structure rises some 241 feet above the crest of Chippewa Hill. Thousands of visitors each year enjoy riding the chairlift 819 feet to the crest of the hill. Then the 18-story elevator ride takes about 55 seconds to reach the observation deck. Climbing the final 60 feet of stairs to the top starting gate allows the visitor to “experience” the feelings of the ski flyer about to launch himself down the 469-foot inrun. The view overlooking Lake Superior, the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, and the Porcupine Mountain Wilderness State Park is truly impressive. Find more information at copperpeak.net.

ADVENTURE ADVENTURE RIDE RIDE

Festival Ironwood Features Music, Food and Activities For All

Ironwood - Festival Ironwood, occurring on July 12 - 15, is a community-wide Summer Celebration for the whole family. Each day has its own special round of live music, food, and family activities.

Located in downtown Ironwood’s Historic Depot Park, Festival Ironwood also links up with the special Emberlight Festival of the Arts exhibits that are inside the Depot during Festival days. Cornhole, volleyball, and pool tournaments; foot races, and sand castle building are just a few of the activities that make Festival Ironwood the place to be!

Saturday July 15 unites the Old Depot Car show with the Arts & Craft Vendors show - over 150 classic cars/tractors/antique motor vehicles display while 70+ artisan vendor tents offer a myriad of hand-craft items.

All this in addition to live music and dance under the Big Top! To view the full schedule, go to ironwoodchamber.org.

Celebrate the 4th of July in Gogebic County

Gogebic County - Wakefield, Bessemer, and Ramsay, Michigan will be host to amazing Independence Day events offering parades and fireworks on different days, so you can be sure of catching each of the wonderful evening displays!

Ramsay, MI leads off on Sunday, July 2 with the Rumble Over the River street dance from 6-10pm, followed by their fireworks display at 10pm.

The neighboring town of Wakefield holds their 4th of July parade on Monday, July 3, followed by a tremendous fireworks display over Sunday Lake at 10pm.

Rounding out the holiday, the week-long Bessemer Blast 4th of July Festival culminates on Tuesday, the 4th, with a parade at 7:00 and the “Thunder on the Mountain” fireworks display at 10:00. A complete schedule of the Bessemer Blast 4th of July Festival can be found at bessemer4th.com.

Upcoming Events

June 24 - July 4: Bessemer 4th Festival; parade 7/4

July 1 - August 26: Ironwood’s Emberlight Festival of the Arts

July 2: 4th of July Street Dance & Fireworks, Ramsay, MI

July 3: Wakefield Sunday Lake Fireworks

July 12-15: Festival Ironwood at Depot Park

July 21-23: Ontonagon, MI Copperfest Heritage Festival

July 28–30: Ontonagon County Fair

July 29–30: Wakefield’s Gus Macker Basketball

July 30 – August 5: American Power Boat Assn. Wakefield