Winter Fun 2014 by Daily Globe

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2014-15 Travel Guide for The Northwoods

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BREAKFAST FAVORITES: Bluegill & Eggs, Stuffed French Toast, Homemade Hash & Eggs, Biscuits & Gravy & Fisherman’s Feast LUNCH SPECIALTIES: French Dip, Hot Turkey Sandwich, Pulled Pork, 1/2 and 1/3 pound burgers and and Fresh Salads DINNER ENTREES: Full dinner menu with Steaks, Pasta, Ribs, & Seafood

16 UNIT MOTEL Including 2 Kitchen Suites on peaceful Boot Lake. Boats available for your convenience. GROUP RATES AVAILABLE! OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK AT 7AM. SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR RATES AND PACKAGE PLANS.

www.skyviewlodge.com • Email: skyviewldge@yahoo.com

SKYVIEW

Lodge & Supper Club

Page 2 – Winter Fun & Dining Guide

Located on Cty. Hwy. W Presque Isle, Wisconsin 54557

715-686-2928

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Come Enjoy Presque Isle

P.I. PUB PRESQUE ISLE, WI

TAP BEER 75¢ Tappers DAILY 11-6

HOME OF THE “AWESOME BURGER” BEST HOMEMADE PIZZAS AROUND KCS’ KILLER CHILI & SOUPS

GRILLED SANDWICHES • WRAPS APPETIZERS • SALADS • LOW CARB PLATES HOT & COLD BEVERAGES • KIDS MENU DAILY LUNCH & DINNER SPECIALS

HAPPY HOUR MON.-FRI. 11AM-6PM $4.50 16 OZ. BLOODYS W/7 OZ. BEER SAT.-SUN. 11-5 SPORTS ON 5 TVS • VIDEO GAMES • POOL • JUKE BOX MEATLOAF MONDAY “WING DINGS” TUESDAY WACKY WEDNESDAY - 1/2 PRICE PIZZA FISH/SMELT FRY FRIDAY COD A.U.C.E. MEXICAN SUNDAY BAR & KITCHEN 11:00 A.M. - CLOSE

11583 COUNTY HWY. B • 715-686-2522

Looking for a Vacation, a Memory that awaits you “Up North” with family and friends. TOWN: Presque Isle Boulder Jct Manitowish Waters Land O’Lakes

TYPE: Cabins Homes Condos Lodges

ACTIVITIES: Snowmobiling Cross Country Skiing Snow Shoeing Fishing Boats

We have just the right home for You. Renting WEEKLY or MONTHLY. www.NorthwoodsHomeRentals.com info@northwoodshomerentals.com On-line Booking (715)686-2126

Presque Isle

Yacht Club

UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT

Chili • Burgers • Pizzas & more Open 7 days a week

(715) 686-2423

Downtown Presque Isle

Thoma’s Mini-Mart

On the Corner of Hwy B & W - Presque Isle 24-HOUR 715-686-2480 PAY AT THE PUMP Open 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Seven Days a Week Memorial Day to Labor Day

Gas – Oil – Licenses – Live Bait – Ice Beer – Pop – Liquor – Wine – Ice Cream Milk – Bread – Eggs – Candy – ATM DVD & Movie Rentals – Cigarettes Plus So Much More – Stop In and Check Us Out! Our Gas Contains No Ethanol

8279 Main Street Presque Isle, Wisconsin 54557 Phone 715-686-2193

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK FROM 7-2

Serving Breakfast All Day Homemade Donuts Served Daily Saturday & Sunday Breakfast Buffet 8-1 Monday-Friday Breakfast & Lunch Specials YOUR HOSTS: Linda Harrison, Jack Harrison, Crystal Heil Winter Fun & Dining Guide – Page 3

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Index of

advertizers

Abelman Clothing & Footwear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Agogebic Press . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 America’s Best Value Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Antonio’s Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Arbor Vitae Homes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Around The Corner Pub . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Ashland Lake Superior Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Aspirus Grandview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Bad River Lodge & Casino . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Ben Franklin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Big Powderhorn Mountain Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Big Snow Resorts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Big Valley Ford Chrysler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Black River Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Burgers Bar & Grill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 C & M Oil/U.S. Service Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Char’s Café . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Christ Lutheran Parish . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Cloverland Motor Sports, Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Creative Spirits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Days Inn. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Downtown Art Place . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Eagle Bluff Condominiums. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Explorer’s Point Restaurant & Blue Heron Bar . . . . . 45 Forslund Building Supply. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 G.T.C. Auto Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Gogebic Community College . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Gogebic-Iron County Airport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Gooch’s A-One Bar & Grill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Gresham Firearms, LLC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 H.O.P.E. Animal Shelter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Haven North Condos. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Headwaters Polaris . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Heart of the North. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Hobby Wheel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Hoop N’ Holler Tavern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Iron County Community Credit Union . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Ironwood Snowmobile Olympus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Ironwood Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 JW’s BBQ & Brew . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Kikkebusch Glassworks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Konteka Black Bear Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Lac Vieux Desert Resort Casino. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Lake Gogebic Area Chamber of Commerce . . . . . . . . . 48 Lake Gogebic Motel & Sled Rental. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Lake Gogebic Outpost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Lake of the Torches Resort Casino. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Lake Tomahawk Meat Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Land O’ Lakes Recreation Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Last Wilderness Café . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Liberty Bell Chalet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Lutey’s Flower Shop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Ma’s Place Café . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Mike’s Family Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Molly Cooper’s Restaurant & Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Mountain View Lodges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 New England Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Northwoods Home Rentals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Olde Suffolk Ale House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Olkie’s Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 P.I. Pub . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Plunkett’s Pest Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Powder Hound Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Presque Isle Yacht Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Re/Max Action North Realty. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Rigoni’s Bakery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 RJ Hoeft Construction Co., Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Sixth Street Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Skyview Lodge & Supper Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Smokey’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 SS Sport Store, Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 St Mary’s of the Seven Dolars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 State Bank of Ewen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Steigers Ace Hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Stormy Kromer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Sunday Lake Supermarket. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Superior Sauna & Steam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Sylvania Outfitters, Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Tacconelli’s down towne . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Tacconelli’s To Go Pizza & Deli . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 The Other Side Glass Gallery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 The Porkies Ski Hill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 The Real Estate Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 The Timber’s Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Theatre North . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Thoma’s Mini Mart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Timberline Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Timbers Food & Spirits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Uptown Café . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Your Place Rental . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Z Place Gallery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Winter Fun • yourdailyglobe.com Winter Fun and Dining Guide 2014-15 is published annually by the Daily Globe Inc.

cover photo

Writing and Photography Ralph Ansami, Larry Holcombe, Jason Juno, Cortney Ofstad, Sheena Trepanier and Jan Tucker For more information about this guide or other products from the Daily Globe, call 906-932-2211 or email: ° Sue Mizell, Publisher, smizell@yourdailyglobe.com ° Larry Holcombe, Managing Editor, lholcombe@yourdailyglobe.com ° Gary Pennington, Advertising Manager, gpennington@yourdailyglobe.com Page 4 – Winter Fun & Dining Guide

The Sisu Ski Fest includes a series of cross country races that end in downtown Ironwood during a January weekend.

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welcome to winter wonderland

he Gogebic Range is full of natural beauty all year round, but its deep snow winters remain the most popular time of the year for visitors. Snowmobilers, downhill skiers, cross-country skiers and snowshoers find a myriad of winter playland opportunities. More than 400 miles of constantly groomed snowmobile trails, an array of alpine ski resorts, many kilometers of groomed Nordic ski trails and an abundance of wilderness to snowshoe through await outdoor enthusiasts. A long weekend of fun in the snow won’t be enough for any family —

plan a week on the Gogebic-Iron Range and visit the many shops and restaurants that dot the main streets of Ironwood, Hurley, Bessemer, Wakefield and surrounding towns. Take in a rare treat at one of Ironwood’s live theaters — many shows are performed by local talent. Discover the area’s rich history and how it turned from rugged wilderness where loggers fought to stay alive, to the quaint small-town America it has become by touring one or all of the local history museums. The Iron County Historical Society’s Museum is open year-round in Hurley and downtown Ironwood features a museum in Depot Park. Skiers can try one hill after another or choose the one that suits

them best, including the college-run Mt. Zion on the campus of Gogebic Community College, Big Powderhorn Mountain, Indianhead, Blackjack, Whitecap or the Porcupine Mountains. Bundle up and go inside to the Pat O’Donnell Civic Center, also on the college campus. The civic center has open ice-skating hours throughout the winter. A snack bar is available and there are training poles for the young ones who are just learning to skate. While on the GCC campus, try snow tubing down Mt. Zion. There are lodging options for any budget or taste and eateries found nowhere else. Seeing and experiencing the Gogebic Range covered with snow is proof that family vacations don’t require beaches and warm temperatures. Rather than hibernating through winter, embrace and enjoy the season and its snow at any number of events or venues across the Gogebic Range.

Winter Fun & Dining Guide – Page 5

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winter fun partners

Indianhead Mountain Resort / Blackjack Ski Area

wo Big Snow Country ski resorts are merging for the 201415 winter season. Indianhead Mountain Resort, near Wakefield, this summer confirmed a deal selling its assets to Blackjack Ski Area, near Bessemer, combining the two Gogebic County resorts which are separated by about five miles. Along with Big Powderhorn Mountain near Bessemer and Whitecap Mountain, near Upson, Wis., Blackjack and Indianhead make up the big four of major skiing destinations in Big Snow Country. The four ski resorts offer a combined 125 trails, from slopes for the novice to runs that challenge experts.

Continued on page 8 Page 6 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Winter Fun & Dining Guide

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COMPASSIONATE T CARE EVERY SEASON

Pests T Taake O

WALK-IN CLINIC

NEWLLY RENOVATED T EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT!

W ASPIRUS GRAND VIEW ALSO OFFERS

(906) 932-2525 932 www.aspirusgrandview.org

local 906-932-0992 toll-free 877-571-7100

On US Hwy 2 between Ironwood d and Bessemer

ser vic e@plunk etts .net Earning Your o Trust Since 1915

w w w. p l u n k e t t s . n e t

G e t R i d o f P e s t s TToo d a y, y , t h e P l u n k e t t ’s ’ s Wa Wa y !

Porcupine Mountains www.porkiesfun.com

2013-2014 SKI HILL RATES SEASON PASSES

Individual $175

Family $395

LIFT TICKETS

Full Day Adult $35 Full Day Junior (17 and Under) $27 Half Day Adult (1pm-5pm) $27 Half Day Junior (1pm-5pm) $20 Winter Fun & Dining Guide – Page 7

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Continued from page 6 Blackjack Ski Area boasts a vertical drop of 490 feet, spread over 135 acres. The bigger Indianhead has a 638-foot vertical drop over 230 acres. Both average more than 200 inches of annual snowfall. Blackjack LLC, owner of Blackjack Mountain Resort, executed the definitive agreement to acquire the assets of Indianhead, for a single ski and snowboard experience. “We are extremely excited about the opportunity to operate these resorts and tailor our offerings to produce the best possible ski experience to Midwest skiers,” said Barry Bolich, general manager of Indianhead. “We already have the best snow, and together we would have the best terrain and the best runs, and the ability to offer all of this in a seamless one-ticket package,” he said. Bolich indicated a one-ticket package will be good for both resorts, calling it a “single ski and snowboard experience.” The merger didn't come as a complete surprise as in March, the two resorts Page 8 – Winter Fun & Dining Guide

had announced a BIG Pass, an interchangeable, all-access season pass valid at both Blackjack and Indianhead. Blackjack has seen a revitalization in the past few winters under new ownership and Indianhead was voted Best

“

Indianhead and Blackjack offer fun for the whole family.

Family Resort in the Midwest in 2013 by readers of Onthesnow.com. At Indianhead, alpine skiers enjoy the downhill runs and boarders are challenged with an Olympic-size half pipe and terrain park.

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Insulate and Save On Heating and Cooling Costs!

TOUR THE H ISTORIC I RONWOOD THEATRE

• Learn the Theatre’s fascinating 87 year history • View the beautiful Italian Renaissance interior • Check out the rare, fully-restored Barton organ • Stand on stage - imagine a full-house before you!

The U.S. Department of Energy recommends a minimum of R-49 for attics in the U.P. & Northern Wisconsin.

WINTER TOURS BY APPOINTMENT

Quality Shows Year-round Box Office open Wed.-Fri. Noon-4:30 p.m. 109 E. Aurora Street, Ironwood, MI Check website for forthcoming shows and events www.ironwoodtheatre.net 906.932.0618

“What is your R-Value?”

Sylvania Outfitters, Inc.

Keep your homes warm this winter & your attics cool this summer with Johns Manville products installed by Forslund Building Supply, Inc. Call for a quote today!!

CROSS COUNTRY SKI CENTER

E5108 Jackson Rd. Ironwood, MI

* 24 KM of “TIDD-TECH” GROOMED TRAILS FOR THE CLASSICAL SKIER Connects to an Additional 32 K of Ungroomed Ski Trails In the Sylvania Wilderness * SKI SHOP & SKI RENTALS * HOT & COLD DRINKS AND SNACKS AVAILABLE 1 Mile West of Watersmeet, Michigan On U.S. Hwy. 2

906-358-4766

Series Winner Payout $25,,0000

9 BIG BIG RACES RAC RA ACEES 2015 TLR CUP Schedule

Open Daily 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

800-545-6963 906-932-2311 www.forslund.com “We’re in your neighborhood, when quality counts, with expert advice”

$120,,0000+ Total Seriiees Payout. e New Vinsteag Pur $18,000

2015 ChampiognsSheipries Ice Oval Racin

IRONWOOD SNOWMOBILE OLYMPUS

COMING TO THE GOGEBIC COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS January 3 & 4, 2015 GREAT RACING SINCE 1968

Where Legends Race! ironwoodsnowmobileolympus.com Winter Fun & Dining Guide – Page 9

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mountain of

family fun

Big Powderhorn Mountain

ig Powderhorn Mountain is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2014, and is busy gearing up for the upcoming winter season. The tentative season opener is set for Dec. 12, weather permitting. But coming off nearly 200 inches of snow last winter, Powderhorn officials will be looking to repeat those numbers, with an earlier start to winter this year preferable. Big Powderhorn Mountain Resort was recognized for two consecutive years as having the "Best Downhill Terrain" in the Midwest by OnTheSnow.com, the web's most visited snow skiing site. The resort, which opened for the 1963'64 season, lost its main lodge in a fire in January 2011. Big Powderhorn then invested about $3 million in a modern, energy-efficient and "skier-friendly" lodge positioned near Caribou Lodge. The facility is called Gun Barrel Lodge, conveniently located right next to three ski lifts, with the beginners' area right at the base of the lodge. Inside, the lodge features heated concrete and three fireplaces. The ski resort offers 23 skiable acres, with 33 trails and three terrain parks. It has an uphill capacity of 10,800 skiers per Page 10 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Winter Fun & Dining Guide

hour, and the longest run is a full mile. There are nine double chairlifts and a beginners handle tow. The tubing park also has a handle tow, and there's a lighted outdoor ice rink. Big Powderhorn offers night skiing during the holidays and most Saturdays. On New Year's Eve, there's a torchlight parade and fireworks over the mountain. The resort makes snow over 93 percent of its terrain. It boasts a grooming department that takes pride in the snow conditions every night for the next day's skiing. Ownership of the resort changed for the 2009-'10 season, and the success of the change is measured in the resort being named one of the 13 best small businesses of 2010 by the Michigan Small Business and Technology Development Center. Big Powderhorn was selected from among 15,000 companies for its success in sales, employees, business strategy and economic impact on the community.

Lodging and skiing are available in a Bavarian-style village that comes to life with snow. Food is available at the Caribou Lodge and the Hideout Grill and Bar, along with live music and entertainment. Rental ski and snowboard equipment is available, along with lessons. For more information about lift tickets and accommodations, visit Big Powderhorn's website, bigpowderhorn.net, or call 906-932-4838 or 800-501-7669.

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13355 N. US Hwy. 51 Hurley, WI 54534 (715) 561-3500 Toll Free 1-800-Days-Inn® www.hurleydaysinn.com

A FULL SERVICE BANK

• Indoor saline (mineral) pool, whirlpool & sauna (open 24 hours) • FREE Daybreak® Breakfast • Computer kiosk with internet access • Business, Kitchenette & Whirlpool Suites available • Free Hi-speed WIFI Internet • Copy/Fax service available • Pets welcomed in designated rooms • Pizza • Beer • Wine • ATM

State Bank of Ewen

906-988-2821 Ewen, MI

WELCOME WINTER

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1,960 sq. ft. 3 BR, 2.5 BA, full basement, furnished, attached 3 car garage. Call for appointment to see this beauty. NOW $289,900 $299,900

NEW HERITAGE MODULAR 3 BR,

new shingles, deck, carpet, paint, windows. ONLy $21,900

MAjEsTIc HOME IN TIMBER RIDGE RE

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appliances, 2BR, 2BA, storageCA, porch, garage. shed, newer roof. $35,900 JUST $19,900

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furnished, CA, storage. Enjoy the deer from your deck. $25,900 $18,900

2 BA, den, open concept, drywall T/O, tray ceiling, corner shower.

SEE US S LAST BEFORE YOU BUY... COME IN AND SAY HELLO. CALL FOR FREE

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www.avhome".#om • 888-901-3911

• Tubs & Showers • Central Air • Furnaces • Water Heaters • Doors • Windows • Rubber Roofs Winter Fun & Dining Guide – Page 11

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“ penokeerise

Whitecap, Thunderhead and Eagles Nest mountains make up the ski resort. They are part of the ancient Penokee Range.

“

Whitecap Mountains

rom downhill skiing, to snowboarding, to cross country skiing, Whitecap Mountains has it all. Located in Iron County, Whitecap features 43 downhill ski runs, from double black diamond expert trails, to easy slopes for beginners, as well as a cross country skiing trail. The trail is groomed twice a day and leaves straight from the lodge. Weather depending, Whitecap would like to begin the ski season around Thanksgiving. Located on beautiful Weber Lake, near Upson and Iron Belt, ski-in and ski-out lodging and ski packages are offered for families or groups, with trail-side condominiums. Located on the western end of the Lake Superior Snowbelt, Whitecap is just west of Hurley and Ironwood. Whitecap is located 20 miles west of Hurley, off Wisconsin 77. Look for the Whitecap Mountains/Skye Golf turn-off immediately past the town of Iron Belt, then travel 3.5 miles on County E to the resort. Page 12 – Winter Fun & Dining Guide

There's a bunny hill with a rope tow and a polar bear bowl with a magic carpet lift for smaller skiers. The main lodge restaurant and bakery/deli are open during ski season, along with a full service ski and snowboard rental and repair show and gift shop. Ski hill operators make snow nightly on the more challenging runs when Mother Nature doesn't cooperate. Whitecap, Thunderhead and Eagles Nest mountains make up the ski resort, and they're part of the ancient Penokee Range. There's plenty of skiing for everybody at every skill level, and skiers report they like how the area for beginners is separated from the main ski traffic. Whitecap Lodge offers rooms and suites, many with kitchens and all with Wi-Fi access. There's a swimming pool and huge hot tub for relaxation after a day on the slopes. The Davos Chalet can also hold groups up to 40 people. For more information, call 715-561-2227, or visit skiwhitecap.com.

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Gresham Firearms, LLC -over 400 guns to choose from-

Tues-Fri 12pm-6pm Sat 10am-6pm Or by appointment

906-364-7242 212 E. Aurora St., Ironwood Greshamfirearms.com

1710 E Cloverland Dr. Ironwood, MI 49938 906-932-4110 – 888-734-4877 5211 Hwy 51 Mercer, WI 54534 715-476-2323 – 877-350-2323 www.RemaxActionNorth.com

Effective November 17, 2014 (subject to change) Destination

Origin 4:40 A.M.

ABELMAN Clothing & Footwear Apparel and Footwear for Winter Sports W TER OU

EAR

TS HA

TS BOO

ES SHO

RS VES AYE L E GLO BAS

Snowshoeing – Walking – Running Downhill and X Country Skiing • Snowmobiling

Shop Us Online www.abelmanclothing.com 327 S. Sophie Street, Bessemer, MI 49911 (906) 663-4411 (800) 313-4776

11:00 A.M. 5:15 P.M.

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Winter Fun & Dining Guide – Page 13

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inclinedto

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Mt. Zion at Gogebic Community College

t. Zion, located on the Gogebic Community College campus in Ironwood, has been serving the community since 1937 and is the oldest winter recreation complex in “Big Snow Country”. Mt. Zion has 10 slopes and trails that allow people of all ages the opportunity to ski or snowboard, as well as a snow-

Page 14 – Winter Fun & Dining Guide

tubing park. There are three tubing chutes at Mt. Zion and a lift so you don't have to waste any time trudging back up to the top of the hill. Quality ski and snowboard rentals are available, as is access to the snack bar. There is also a free cross country ski trail for folks to use. In addition to group rates, GCC students are allowed to ski or snowboard for free, as are senior citizens 62 years and older. Students in the ski area management (SAM) program run the facility, learning snowmaking and grooming as part of maintaining Mt. Zion for public use. The SAM program provides technical and academic study as well as internships at major ski resorts in the Midwest and others throughout the country. SAM students earn credits through onsite training classes such as ski area layout, snowmaking fundamentals, emergency response, slope grooming and classroom courses such as business. Graduates of the SAM program may choose to pursue a bachelor's degree in ski area business management through an agreement with Northern Michigan University in Marquette. For more information, visit gogebic.edu.

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endless paradise

ith Hurley and Mercer serving as hubs, Iron County offers more than 500 miles of groomed snowmobile trails. Called the Snow Capital of Wisconsin, the annual snowfall often exceeds 200 inches. With plenty of lodging and snowmobile rentals, the county comes alive with sleds during snowy winter weekends. Snowblanketed forests filled with the sights and sounds of the Wisconsin northwoods is what allures many

snowmobilers to Iron County. Riders can also experience the mining heritage of days gone by with many remnants of how Iron County received its name. From the Iron Horse Trail in Hurley, the ride to Saxon and Gurney covers 12 miles, with places to stop for gas, food and refreshments along the way. A ride on Trail 2 to Saxon Harbor is a pleasant diversion for the avid snowmobiler. A journey on Trail 17 guides riders south along the Upper Peninsula border past beautiful Pine Lake. The trail crosses many rivers and creeks, offering excellent viewing of wildlife and the natural splendor common to Iron County.

“

Trail 77 takes a southwestern course through the rich historic iron mining towns of Montreal, Pence and Iron Belt, with a unique opportunity to view the Plummer Mine Headframe, the only remaining mine headframe in Wisconsin. Heading in the other direction, a longer trail leads to Mercer, the Loon Capital of the world. From there, a choice trail of interest is Corridor 8, which travels west of Mercer, past the Lake of the Falls scenic area and the Turtle Flambeau Flowage. This trail meanders through beautifully wooded, well-groomed trails on its way toward Ashland County. Also in the southern section of Iron County, Springstead, located on Trail 182, welcomes riders to enjoy well-marked trails that wander through dense, snow-covered forests for a unique winter experience.

Iron County offers more than 500 miles of groomed snowmobile trails.

Page 16 – Winter Fun & Dining Guide

”

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trails to

nowmobiling in the western Upper Peninsula has more than trails to offer. Spectacular scenery, from Lake Superior to inland waterfalls, make the Gogebic County area a destination for many sled riders. There are groomed trails, unplowed logging roads and secluded national forest trails throughout our area. Trail grooming begins early and continues until the snow melts, or the calendar says the trails must be closed. The Gogebic Range Trail Authority has three groomers out on the trails and offers daily updates on rail conditions. Lake Gogebic and Watersmeet groomers also smooth out the trails. Watersmeet is the gateway to Big Snow Country, with professionally groomed cross country and snowmobile trails, along with winter lodging and dining, including a casino. Page 18 – Winter Fun & Dining Guide

explore

The Watersmeet area snowmobile trails link with hundreds of miles of trails throughout the Upper Peninsula. Watch for deer and other wildlife on he trails and give the wild critters plenty of room to roam. Never run behind deer as they don’t have the lungs for long, fast running and they can get stressed out by the cold weather and deep snows of a Big Snow Country winter. Watch for groomers both day and nigh, Pull over or at least slow down and wait for the groomer operator to signal the rider through. Snowmobilers should always stay on marked trails and never stray off to private property, as clubs can lose easements if landowners' rights are not respected. Also, trespassing tickets may be issued. For a snowmobile report of Gogebic County trails, call 800-522-5657 any time. That’s the number for the Western Upper Peninsula Visitors and Convention Bureau, which is the authority for winter reports.

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Winter Fun & Dining Guide – Page 19

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shoreline beckons T

he members of the North Country Snowmobile Club are getting their equipment primed for what they hope will be a busy snowmobiling season in Ontonagon. Jim Altenburg leads the rejuvenated North Country group which oversees the grooming of 90 miles of trails in northern Ontonagon County. The trails link Ontonagon to Greenland, White Pine, Silver City and what Altenburg calls the “jewel” Porcupine Mountains. The North Country Club has three groomers, eight to 10 operators, who groom every night or day. Altenburg said snowmobiling was down to about 70 percent last year because of the cold weather and snow depths in a wide area. Some regions which never get snow set records, he noted. With tourism a major part of the economy, it is im-

Page 20 – Winter Fun & Dining Guide

portantvisitors know what is available and where the trails are located. North County snowmobile.com has maps which clearly show the trails and Altenburg said they are easy to view and print. The group is excited with the recent partnership it has received from the village of Ontonagon. The village has a new business loop. It permits snowmobilers to enter the business district and userestaurants, bars and shops. The loop ismarked on the maps and signs are posted along the route. Altenburg said the Ontonagon trails connect with the hot-bed of snowmobiling, the Bergland area and to Wakefield, as well as Greenland and the Copper Country. The club president said withimproved access and clear maps, he hopes to make Ontonagon a destination point on visitors' agendas.

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;

Look for special lantern-lit crosscountry ski events.

â&#x20AC;?

wilderness awaits Porcupine Mountains

t the Porcupine Mountains State Park, there are plenty of activities, no matter what the weather. In winter, back-packers can spend time hiking favorite spots and staying in the four yurts and three cabins outfitted for winter. The wood stove, insulation and construction of the yurts keeps campers cozy, even in the worst of weather. The yurts and cabins are very popular, so campers are encouraged to get reservations in for their favorite time of the winter soon. Park naturalist Bob Wild said that reservations can be made by using the Porcupine Mountain Park web-page, or calling 906-885- 5275. The Porkies have over 42 kilometers of groomed cross country ski trails. Wild said one of the most popular weekly events is the lantern-lit skiing and snowshoe hike Page 22 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Winter Fun & Dining Guide

on Saturday nights. Skiers stop along the trail for a hot cider drink and social visiting. Wild aid snowshoeing has become more popular each year, probably because snowshoes are relatively inexpensive and lightweight. Some snowshoes are available for use at the park for guided hikes only, but there are snowshoes available to rent at the ski chalet. Many people believe there is no snowmobiling in the Porcupine Mountain State Park, but that is not true. Wild said the beauty of the Lake of the Clouds is available all year around and snowmobilers can head up M107, all the way to the Lake of the Clouds. During the winter, other interpretive programs may also be available and Wild suggests those planning on visiting the Porkies go onto the website, where visitors are introduced to the rich wilderness of the state park.

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endless trails

ross-country ski trails from Montreal to Mercer in northern Wisconsin’s Iron County and into the western Upper Peninsula offer access to a variety of terrain and scenery.

Except for the privately-owned ABR, trails are maintained and groomed by volunteers – equipment and fuel is a major expense for these local ski clubs. Daily use fees are deposited on

an honor system in boxes at the trailheads or warming houses. Conditions, amenities, trail markers and degree of difficulty vary widely. There are areas where cellphones do not work.

the Warm-Up Trail, the Cabin Trail, part of the Wolf Loop, and through the field. A bonfire and woodstove, hot chocolate and other refreshments will await skiers at the cabin. Trail use is free for this event. Trails are groomed by volunteers as conditions allow. Hiking, snowshoeing and dogs are allowed only on untracked portions of trails. Suggested trail-use donation is $8 per adult, $5 per child, $1 per dog or $20 for however many in a vehicle. For more information and trail maps, visit skimecca.org.

The Penokee Rangers, a volunteer organization, maintains the trail and sets the track. Donations are accepted for trail upkeep. For more information, visit norwiski.com or skinnyski.com. A map is available at norwiski.com/trail_details.php?id=126

Wolverine Nordic Ski Trails Wolverine Nordic Ski Trails in Ironwood offer five loops totaling 24 kilometer of skiing for striders and skaters. Wolverine is a nonprofit group that promotes Nordic skiing in and around Gogebic County in the western U.P. Abundant snow coupled with the natural rolling terrain of the northern hardwood forest makes for good skiing and snowshoeing. There is a warming chalet at the trailheads, with a view of the historic wood skijump structure that was part of the club’s original activities. It is no longer in use. A snowshoeing trail has been marked with blue metal markers, with the trailhead marked to the right and left of the ski jump near the chalet. Upcoming events include the Aspirus Grand View YooperBeiner snowshoe race on Feb. 22. In the past, the Wolverine has also hosted the Grand View Challenge, the first Junior Olympic Qualifier of the year. A date has yet to be set for this event. The suggested trail-use donation is $10 per person. For more information, visit wolverinenordic.com, call 906-932-0347 or email uptrek@gmail.com. A map is available at wolverinenordic.com/trail-maps.html

MECCA MECCA in Mercer, Wis., grooms about 18 km of trails across a combination of state, Iron County, town of Mercer and private land. The ski club dates back about 20 years. There are two trailheads, Little Turtle Trailhead and Cabin Trailhead, the site of a chalet built of logs cut and prepared by club members. The chalet has a changing room and wax bench, woodstove and hot chocolate. It is usually open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. during ski season. The club’s annual candlelight ski is the last Saturday in January from 6 to 9 p.m. It will be at the Cabin Trailhead, loop around Page 24 – Winter Fun & Dining Guide

Uller Trail Uller Trail at Upson, Wis., is billed as the most remote ski trail in Wisconsin. Skiing with a companion is recommended along this 30 km trail system described as “hilly and remote.” The Uller Trailhead is at Weber Lake at the base of Whitecap Mountains downhill ski resort, just off County E. The trail runs north into the Pence area, north of Wisconsin 77.

Montreal Nordic Ski Trails Montreal Nordic Ski Trails, in the former mining company town of Montreal, Wis. (just west of Hurley along Wisconsin 77), range from easy to quite difficult. Easiest access to this 15 km trail system is from the old city hall parking lot, on Wisconsin 77, along the west branch of the Montreal River. The Penokee Rangers groom these trails. Donation boxes are located throughout the trail system. For more information, visit norwiski.com or skinnyski.com.

continued on page 24

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Winter Fun & Dining Guide – Page 25

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from page 22

ABR Trails ABR Trails are located in Erwin Township, just south of Ironwood, at E5299 West Pioneer Road. A few additional kilometers of trail have been added for cross country skiers at the Active Backwoods Retreats trails along the Montreal River, in the area of Ironwood’s Norrie Park. More than 60 km of trails are open to skiing, operated by Eric Anderson and Angela Santini. There’s also a snowshoe trail and opportunities for skijoring with dog teams. Lodging accommodations are available at the ski complex. Ski equipment may be rented or purchased at ABR’s ski shop. For more information or trail conditions, visit skiabr.com or call 906-9323502.

Milje’s Ski Trails Milje’s Ski Trails are located 2 miles east of Wakefield on County Road 519, also known as Chaney Lake Road. A family-run, classic-only ski area, Milje’s has everything to offer for a novice to an advanced Alpine skier. Over 10 km of beautiful, pristine and scenic trails wind through the woods next to cedar swamps, dense forest and through patches of pines. A new warming shack and parking area are available. Milje’s has been owned by the Miljevich family of Wakefield for nearly 90 years and has been run as Nordic Ski Trails for more than 30. Build a fire in the warming shack and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature after a ski run, or sit on one of many resting benches throughout the trail system to be at one with the forest. Milje’s is a donation-only ski area that is frequented by locals and visitors alike. For more information, visit skimiljes.com.

Miners Memorial Hertiage Park The Miners Memorial Heritage Park in Ironwood provides the Miners Ski Trail for cross-country skiing and showshoeing. The park encompasses former iron ore mining locations within the city. The park consists of the Miners Ski Trail (4.3 km), the Aurora loop (1.6 km) and the Pabst loop (1.8 km). The Miners trailhead begins at Lorensen Baseball Field in Ironwood. Various activities of the annual Sisu Ski Fest are held at the park. For more information, visit fmmhp.com. Page 26 – Winter Fun & Dining Guide

sisu ski fest I

t takes some sisu to take part in this challenging but fun race. The fifth Sisu Ski Fest is set for Jan. 10, 2015, in downtown Ironwood. Sisu is a Finnish word that means "special strength and stubborn determination to continue and overcome in the moment of adversity; a combination of stamina, courage and obstinacy held in reserve for hard times." The "Finnish Line" is on Aurora Street in downtown Ironwood. The 42-kilometer Sisu full-marathon is the signature race with many also taking part in the 21K Heikki Lunta half-

marathon. There are also Junior Sisu 3K and 5K races with a kids' loppett fun race also. New last year were snowshoeing races at Milje's Ski Trails in Wakefield. The timed events are 2K, 5K and 10K. Registration may be done by mail, online or phone. The scenic race courses have gone by bluffs, river views, mining areas and Hiawatha, the world's tallest Native American statue. Results will be provided by a professional timing service. Visit sisuskifest.com for more information. A link to the registration form is available there.

Book Across the Bay

he popular Book Across the Bay will be held Feb. 14, 2015. Skiers and snowshoers trek 10 kilometers from Ashland to Washburn across the Chequamegon Bay. Ashland is located 40 miles to the west of the Gogebic Range.

The race goes over the frozen surface of Lake Superior and is held at night with light provided by the stars in the sky and up to 1,000 candles in luminaries along the route. Racers are asked to park in Washburn and take a shuttle to Ashland. Buses ran last

year from 2:30 to 5:30. The race started at 6 p.m. behind the Hotel Chequamegon in Ashland. Those were There is a heated tent at the finish line. Visit batb.org for more information or call the Ashland Chamber of Commerce at 800-2849484.

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drop a line

“

Lake Superior and numerous inland lakes offer abundant fishing opportunities.

”

Ice fishing

alleyes and other gamefish can be difficult to catch through the ice, but there's an alternative for the winter angler who wants to bring home some fillets. Northern pike are plentiful on the Gogebic Range and can be relatively easy to pull through the ice hole on a winter day. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources advises doing a little homework and finding a hotspot. Lake Gogebic and the Gile Flowage are two bodies of water that can not only provide a lot of pike, but may produce walleyes and panfish, as well. Most lakes in Gogebic County and Iron County, Wis., contain pike in solid numbers. Northern pike will suspend in the water column. They can be found along deep rocky bars, but for the most part are going to be associated with vegetation. Vegetation is where food generally is located in the form of baitfish and also provides concealment for a stalking predator, like northern pike. In most inland lakes, vegetation extends to depths of 10 to 15 feet. Find vegetation like skunk-weed and northern pike will be there, as well. Many anglers set tip-ups place with the bait a certain distance off the bottom. For example, say the water depth is 12 feet. Find bottom and set the bait one or two feet off bottom. Page 28 – Winter Fun & Dining Guide

If fishing in vegetation, a general rule is to think in halves. For 12 feet of water, place the bait at six feet. Predators like northern pike cruise the water column. Even if they are near the bottom, they can find prey above them. In shallows, especially during early ice, northern pike will frequent water less than five feet deep. Place one tip-up shallow. Another simple way to catch pike is to use the bottom half of a rod, with a regular spincast reel. Simply stick the rod in the snow and place a bobber in the hole, adjusting the bait at the desired level. When the bobber begins bouncing as the pike takes the minnow or chub, let the fish make a run, then give the rod a firm jerk and the hook will be set. The drag should be set rather loosely and the fish will likely tire out faster than in the summer. Northern pike are usually active all day. Show up at noon and the fish should cooperate. They'll take live bait or bite on dead smelt or chub heads. Fishermen should be careful when handling pike. Because their teeth are every bit as sharp as those of the musky, the ice can quickly turn red if the fish aren't handled with gloves. Pike fillets in a skillet are second to none, but they require removal of troublesome “Y” bones. Learn to remove them or have an expert to do the job of cleaning the fish.

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GALLERY & STUDIO

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Winter Fun & Dining Guide – Page 29

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frozen fun Patrick Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Donnell Civic Center

he Pat O'Donnell Civic Center, located on the campus of Gogebic Community College in Ironwood, provides a location for community members to enjoy open skating during the winter months. The center, which celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2013, also hosted roller skating this past summer. The O'Donnell ice rink is home of the Ironwood Fighting Yoopers jun-

Page 30 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Winter Fun & Dining Guide

ior hockey team, and also offers a venue for numerous one-day events like concerts, circuses and home and trade shows. The center is supported by taxpayers' millage and it was constructed primarily as a recreational center for youth of the Gogebic Range. The building contains around 28,000 square feet with an ice surface of 17,000 square feet. There is also bleacher seating for

1,000 people, plus additional seating for as many as 2,000, if required, at floor level for large gatherings. Open skating is already underway with normal scheduled hours to begin the second week of November, running through mid-March. Open skating hours are 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, and Wednesdays from 1 to 3 p.m. For more information call, 906932-0602.

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Rigoniâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bakery 30600 US Hwy 2 Ashland, WI 54806 (715)682-5235 www.AshlandLodge.com The Lake Superior Lodge is your journeyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s end! We are located 100 feet from the rustic shoreline where you will find a pleasant, scenic, relaxing year-round vacation and outdoor sports enthusiast destination. Book your summer vacation, wedding, or family reunion with us today!

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“

The parade kicks of at 6 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 5, and travels down main street in Ironwood.

wintercelebrations

Jack Frost Festival

he 20th annual Jack Frost Festival is themed “Santa's Memories” in honor and remembrance of Marvin Tassava Sr., who played Santa for many years. The festival features a variety of holidaythemed activities including downtown Ironwood dressed up in lights and decorations and the Jack Frost Festival Parade of Lights. There are also gingerbread houses in the windows of local shops, as well as shows and performances at the Historic Ironwood Theatre.

Page 32 – Winter Fun & Dining Guide

This year's parade will begin at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 5, but festivities begin in early November as local businesses start decorating their windows for the yearly contest. The competition winner will be determined by a panel of judges, with the winner awarded a traveling trophy on parade day. Typical events during the festival's lineup have included a gingerbread workshop, tree lighting ceremony, raffles and an appearance by Santa and Mrs. Claus.

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Mountain View Lodges Silver City, MI On Snowmobile Trail #1... Just 3 miles from the ski hill... 906-885-5256 www.mvlonthetrail.com

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zoom Ironwood Snowmobile Olympus

he Ironwood Olympus snowmobile races are set for Jan. 3-4, 2015 at the Gogebic County Fairgrounds on the west side of Ironwood, on U.S. 2. The USSA races include the TLR Cup, which starts the nine-race series at Ironwood with race 1 on Saturday and race 2 on Sunday. The final will be 15 laps. In 2014, drivers were racing between 102-106 mph in Ironwood.

Page 34 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Winter Fun & Dining Guide

zoom

The new series to be run in Ironwood, Hooper Lites, is like the Nationwide Series in NASCAR. It is designed with a slower sled and is cheaper to race in. It will also include several vintage classes. The Ironwood track is described as "historic and very fast half-mile." The race website is ironwoodsnowmobileolympus.com.

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Nov. 29

• Christmas Walk Kids’ Day, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Boulder Junction, Wis. Christmas shopping house, activites and lunch with Santa and Mrs. Clause. boulderjct.org or 715-385-2400.

winter events — 2014 —

November

• Open skating offered Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 6:30-8:30 p.m., and Wednesdays from 1-3 p.m., Pat O’Donnell Civic Center, Ironwood Township.

Nov. 1

• Kimball Homemakers craft show, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Kimball Community Center, Kimball, Wis. • Christmas in November, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Presque Isle Community Center. Includes luncheon, tables of handcrafted items, raffle tickets. 715-686-2409. • Chequamegon Symphony Orchestra in concert, “Travels for Orchestra,” 7:30 p.m., Alvord Theatre, Northland College, Ashland, Wis. 715-682-0446.

Nov. 7

• 4th annual HIT Idol, 7 p.m., Historic IronwoodTheatre, Ironwood. ironwoodtheatre.net.

Nov. 8

• Chick-uamegon 5k/10k and 20-mile bike race. Bike race to start at 9 a.m. and foot races at 11 a.m., Ashland, Wis. • Naima Adedapo in concert, 7 p.m., Historic Ironwood Theatre, Ironwood. ironwoodtheatre.net.

Nov. 11

• Veteran's Day Memorial Service, 11 a.m. to noon at the Veteran's Memorial Triangle, Boulder Junction, Wis. 715-385-2302.

December

• Open skating offered Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 6:30-8:30 p.m., and Wednesdays from 1-3 p.m., Pat O’Donnell Civic Center, Ironwood Township. • Night skiing, Tuesdays, 6 p.m., Wolverine Ski Trails, Ironwood Township. Email wolverine@gmail.com for specific locations.

First weekend

• Bessemer Christmas tree lighting ceremony and Christmas movie. Lighting at Christmas Tree Square, Sophie Street, featuring Washington Elementary School Choir; children’s Christmas movie follows at Bessemer City Hall auditorium. bessemerchamber.org.

Dec. 1 Nov. 15-30

• Firearm deer season in Michigan. michigan.gov/deer. • 4th Annual Great Shopping Escape, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Boulder Junction, Wis. Shopping sales throughout downtown Boulder Junction and at the community center.

Nov. 22

• Mercer Lioness Christmas Bazaar, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Mercer Community Center, Mercer, Wis. Including craft and bake sale, raffle baskets, food and beverages. 715-476-2564.

• Snowmobile trails open in Michigan, weather permitting.

Dec. 2

• Tree of Love lighting ceremony, 6:30 p.m., Aspirus Grand View Hospital, Ironwood.

Dec. 4-7

• Historic Ironwood Theatre holiday auction, featuring furniture, sporting goods, sleigh rides and more. ironwoodtheatre.net or 906-932-0618.

Dec. 5-7

• Firearm deer season opens in Wisconsin. dnr.wi.gov/topic/hunt/deer.html.

• 20th annual Jack Frost Festival, Ironwood. Featuring Festival of Lights parade, downtown Ironwood, gingerbread house display, Gogebic Range Concert Band performance at the Historic Ironwood Theatre, raffle and other events. ironwoodchamber.org/jackfrostfestival.h tml.

Nov. 28

Dec. 6

Nov. 22-30

• Wisconsin firearm deer season

Nov. 23

• 26th annual Christmas Walk, 4 to 8 p.m., Boulder Junction, Wis. A welcome to the holiday season with visits from Mr. and Mrs. Clause, lighting of town Christmas tree, sleigh rides and treats, boulderjct.org or 715-385-2400. • 21st Annual Boulder Junction Lioness Christmas Craft Fair, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Boulder Junction Library. Includes handmade items, lunch and drawing for the annual Christmas Cash raffle. 715-3853256.

• Hometown Christmas, Ontonagon. With children’s activities, craft fair, dances, hayrides, fireworks and parade. ontonagonmi.org or 906-884-4735. • Frozen Rundra race, 10 a.m., starts at Gogebic-Ontonagon Community Action Agency, 100 S. Mill St., Bessemer. With breakfast buffet and 50/50 raffle. gocaa.org or 906-667-0283. • 51st annual Garland City of the North Christmas parade, 4:30 p.m., Main Street, Ashland, Wis. 715-682-2500. Winter Fun & Dining Guide – Page 35

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• Chequamegon Symphony Orchestra in concert, “A family concert for children of all ages,” 7:30 p.m., Alvord Theatre, Northland College, Ashland, Wis. 715682-0446.

Dec. 6-8

• Christmas at the Crossing, Bruce Crossing. Featuring visits with Santa, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. EST, Depot Gallery, and lunch at the Bruce Crossing VFW. • Santa comes to Loon Town, Mercer, Wis. With wreathing of Claire d’Loon, parade, and Christmas tree lighting. mercercc.com, 715-476-2389.

Dec. 7

• Mercer Lioness Senior Christmas Party, Mercer Senior Center, Mercer. 715-4762241. • Chamber Singers Christmas concert, 5:30 p.m., Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church, Ironwood. ironwoodchamber.org.

Dec. 12

• Aspirus-Ontonagon Christmas concert, 7 p.m., Ontonagon Theater of Performing Arts. ontonagontheater.org.

Dec. 14

• Boulder Junction Children's Christmas Party, 1:30 to 4 p.m., community center, Boulder Junction, Wis. Including Santa and Mrs. Clause visit, gifts and sing-along.

Dec. 19

• Ashland Chamber Music Society presents Handel’s “Messiah,” 7:30 p.m., Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church, Ashland, Wis. 715-682-5795. • Anticipated opening day of Blackjack Mountain.

Dec. 26-Jan.17

• Mercer Sno-Goers annual poker run, Mercer, Wis., area. mercercc.com or 715476-7878.

Dec. 26-31

• Moonlight snowshoeing and bonfires, nightly at 6 p.m., Indianhead Mountain

Resort, Wakefield. indianheadmtn.com. • Nightly live music, Big Powderhorn Mountain Resort, Bessemer.

Dec. 27

• 8th Annual Between the Holidays Celebration, 4 to 6:30 p.m., Boulder Junction Winter Park. Activities include chili dump, bonfire, music, ice skating, sledding and fireworks. 715-385-2400 or boulderjct.org.

Dec. 27-Jan. 3

• Night skiing at Blackjack Mountain, 4 to 8 p.m.

Dec. 27

• Lantern light cross-country skiing, Porcupine Mountains winter recreation area, near Silver City.

Dec. 31

• Torchlight parade and fireworks, Big Powderhorn Mountain Resort, Bessemer. • New Year’s Eve party, Blackjack Ski Resort, Bessemer. • New Year’s celebration, Indianhead Mountain Resort, Wakefield. Brad Emanuel music, torchlight parade and fireworks. • Lantern light cross-country skiing, Porcupine Mountains winter recreation area, near Silver City.

— 2015 — January

winter fun 2014_Layout 1 11/5/14 2:58 PM Page 37

ine Ski Trails, Ironwood Township. Email wolverine@gmail.com for specific locations. • Chairlift snowshoe hikes, Saturdays, and lantern light cross-country skiing, Saturday evenings, Porcupine Mountains winter recreation area, near Silver City. porkiesfun.com.

Jan. 3-4

• Ironwood Snowmobile Olympus, vintage and professional snowmobile races, Gogebic County Fairgrounds, Ironwood. ironwoodsnowmobileolympus.com.

Jan. 4-17

• College weeks at Indianhead Mountain Resort, Wakefield, and Blackjack Mountain, Bessemer.

Jan. 10-11

• Retro weekend at Blackjack Mountain, Bessemer. Straight ski contest, retro outfit contest.

Jan. 16-19

• Martin Luther King Jr. weekend, special events at area ski hills.

Jan. 19-25

• Sisu Ski Fest, with 42-kilometer full cross-country ski marathon, 21K Heikki Lunta half-marathon, Junior Sisu 3K and 5K races, and leisure Taste ‘N’ Tour, downtown Ironwood; and 2K, 5K and 10K snowshoe races, Milje’s Ski Trails, Wakefield. sisuskifest.com.

February

Saturday evenings, Porcupine Mountains winter recreation area, near Silver City. porkiesfun.com.

Feb. 7

• Germanfest at Blackjack Mountain, Bessemer. Including german food and beer tasting.

Feb. 13-16

• President’s Day weekend, Indianhead

Jan. 24

• Brewski Mircrobrew Festival, featuring local, regional and national microbrews, Indianhead Mountain Resort, Wakefield.

Jan. 24-25

• Yooper Fest Weekend at Blackjack Mountain, Bessemer. Yooper games, crowning of king and queen yooper.

Jan. 31

• Justin Donner Memorial Ice Fishing Tournament, 7 a.m.-5 p.m., Turtle Flambeau Flowage, near Mercer, Wis. Headquartered at Donner’s Bay Resort. 715-476-2555. • Candlelight ski, 6-9 p.m., MECCA Trails, Mercer, Wis. Free trail use, snowshoers welcome. Includes bonfire, hot chocolate and refreshments. skimecca.org. • Mercer Sno-Goers breakfast at the Around the Corner Pub, 7 to 11 a.m. • Warren Nelson and Friends concert, 7:30 p.m., Historic Ironwood Theatre, Ironwood. ironwoodtheatre.net.

Winter Fun & Dining Guide – Page 37

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Mountain Resort, Wakefield, and Blackjack Mountain, Bessemer. Mardi Gras Bash. Some proceeds from ticket sales benefit Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin.

Feb. 14

• 19th annual Book Across the Bay, 6 p.m., 10-kilometer classic and skate-skiing event, travels across the Chequamegon Bay from Ashland, Wis., to near Bayfield, Wis. batb.org or 800284-9484.

Feb. 21

• Mercer Lions Ice Fishing Jamboree, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Carow Park, Mercer. Cash prizes for top three places, raffles, games, and food. 715-476-0166. • Snowburst Winter Carnival, Porcupine Mountains winter recreation area, near Silver City. Including ski and snowshoe races, children’s activities, live music, food, torchlight parade and fireworks. porkiesfun.com. • 7th Annual Frozen Tozen Winter Fest, Boulder Junction, Wis. A day of ice fishing Allequash Lake, with activites including turkey bowling, timed snowshoe run and additional winter games.

Feb. 21-22

• Snowfest Weekend at Blackjack Mountain, Bessemer. Including snow castle

building, bonfires, ice bar and penquin races.

Feb. 28

• Big Snow Resorts Cardboard race series race #1, Blackjack Mountain, Bessemer.

Feb. 28-March 1

• Claus Kraetke Memorial Ice Fishing Jamboree, Turtle Flambeau Flowage, near Mercer, Wis. Includes hot food, warm and cold beverages and raffle tickets. 715-476-2555.

March

March 7

• Big Snow Resorts Cardboard race series race #2, Indianhead Resort, Wakefield.

March 14-15

• Big Snow Resorts Bikini Race Series semi-finals, at Indianhead Mountain, Wakefield.

March 15

• St. Patrick's Day Corn Beef Sandwich Luncheon, noon to 2 p.m., St. Isaac Joques Catholic Church, Mercer. 715-4762697. Page 38 – Winter Fun & Dining Guide

March 20-21

• Mountain Top Music Festival, featuring 10 bands all weekend, Indianhead Mountain Resort, Wakefield.

March 21

• Slush Cup Pond Skimming, Indianhead Mountain Resort, Wakefield.

March 28

• Boulder Junction Lioness Club Easter Bunny Breakfast and Egg Hunt, 9 a.m. to noon, community center, Boulder Junction, Wis. Including egg hunt, breakfast.

March 28-29

• Pirate Weekend-Peg-Leg Race, Treasure Hunt and Party, Blackjack Mountain, Bessemer.

April 4

• Big Snow Resorts Bikini Race Series finals, Blackjack Mountain, Bessemer. • Soups On! noon to 1:30 p.m., community center, Boulder Junction, Wis.

April 11

• Slush Cup and Flamingo Party, Blackjack Mountain, Bessemer. • Chequamegon Symphony Orchestra in concert, “Choral Music of Brahms and Beethoven,” 7:30 p.m., Presbyterian-Congregational Church, Ashland, Wis.

April 19

• Mercer Lions annual Easter egg hunt, 10-11 a.m., Mercer (Wis.) School.

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worship