Best of the Holidays 2020 by Volume One Magazine

M A K I NG T H E

STAY HEALTHY. STAY SAFE. ENJOY. If you’re looking to make this holiday season one of the hap-hap-happiest, be sure to follow CDC and Eau Claire City-County Health Department guidelines to help prevent the spread of COVID-19!

BEST OF

THE

Consider these simple tips: Travel. Consider where you celebrate. If there are higher cases at your mom and pop’s house, think twice about whether it’s safe to gather there. Consider a virtual gathering! Location. Weigh the pros and cons of indoor versus outdoor gatherings. Indoor gatherings pose a higher risk due to poor ventilation. Maybe this year is the year for a family sledding or skiing trip for the holidays. Duration. Aim for short and sweet gatherings. The longer you’re exposed to others, the more likely you are to catch COVID-19.

It's the Holidays in the Chippewa Valley! TIME TO CELEBRATE ANY WAY YOU CAN.

Numbers. This year, try to skip holiday parties and raves. Opt for simple, smaller celebrations with only close family and friends. Behavior. If you plan to travel for the holidays, ensure you and other attendees self-quarantine for 14 days to lower the risk of infection. Make it a point to ensure six feet of social distance at gatherings, wash your hands, and wear a mask to engage in safe behavior! Good rules of thumb for this year’s holiday season are to social distance, wear a mask, and wash your hands. Act as if everyone you know – including yourself – may have COVID-19. Get creative! Think outside the box! Don’t let COVID-19 make your holidays a bummer – start some safe new traditions. And, while you’re at it, try not to shoot your eye out. Happy holidays from all of us at Volume One!

www.VolumeOne.org

Bring out your twinkling lights, your

Well ... do you? This year, it seems like

holly and jolly, your mistletoe, your

everything has been turned upside

dreidels and menorahs, your Christmas

down as a result of these unprecedent-

trees, and cinnamon-scented wreaths.

ed, uncertain, unusual (OK, you get it)

Dust off your ugly sweaters and your fes-

times, and the holiday season is no dif-

tive socks, your balsam and cedar can-

ferent. That doesn’t mean you can’t have

dles, and your stockings to hang by the

a jolly holiday spirit! We here at Volume

chimney with care. That’s right, folks:

One want to make sure you have the

It’s the holiday season in the Chippewa

hap-hap-happiest holiday season possi-

Valley, and you know what that means.

ble, so we’ve compiled a list of things to

| NOVEMBER 12, 2020

SUBMITTED PHOTO

DON’T MISS

Feel the Magic of the Moscow Ballet Great Russian Nutcracker

If there’s one holiday tradition the pandemic can’t take away, it’s seeing the dazzling Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker – only this year, you can watch from the best seat in the house: the couch, the floor, your bed, the kitchen table, on the toilet – hey! We won’t judge. Sit wherever you’d like! Presented by the Pablo Center at the Confluence, this year’s performance offers unique backstage glances at how the magic is made. “Hear it first-hand from world-class artists, designers, and the creators of this cherished production,” the description says. The performance is at 7pm Saturday, Dec. 19, and tickets start at $24.99, with the ability to watch the performance through Perigon webcasting. For more information, contact info@pablocenter.org or find the event on the calendar at pablocenter.org. –Rebecca Mennecke

PHOTO BY ANDREA PAULSETH

do, things to see, and ways to celebrate the holiday season that are safe – and fun! From enjoying the lights at Irvine Park to competing in gingerbread house contests; from snagging a photo with Santa to sledding down your favorite local hills, now’s the perfect time to get creative – and maybe start some new family traditions, too. So get cozy – grab some peppermint hot cocoa and your favorite snuggly blanket – and dig into this festive issue all about making the best of the holiday season.

CELEBRATE

GIVE A LITTLE LOVE WITH THE LGBTQ RESOURCE CENTER HOLIDAY CARD EXCHANGE Nothing brings good tidings of great joy quite like a handmade holiday card, and you have the opportunity to join a holiday card exchange with the Chippewa Valley LGBTQ+ Community Center. If you would like to participate, all you have to do is sign up on their Facebook page with your name and address (and any other info you think is relevant). Signup is open until Wednesday, Nov. 18; after that you can expect a holiday card in the mail! “The holidays can be a difficult time of the year, more so with the pandemic this year,” the group said in a Facebook post. “Why not spread a little joy and watch your mailbox fill with good tidings?” For more information, check out www.facebook.com/lgbtcommunitycenter. –Rebecca Mennecke

| NOVEMBER 12, 2020

PHOTO BY ANDREA PAULSETH

LIGHTS UP

DASHING THROUGH THE SNOW, DRIVING THROUGH THE PARK

Though the weather outside might be frightful, the lights will still be delightful. One of the Chippewa Valley’s favorite festive traditions – the Christmas Village at Chippewa Falls’ Irvine Park – will deck the halls for its 33rd anniversary. Open daily starting Thanksgiving Day, the Christmas Village will light up every day from 7am to 9:30pm, open to both traffic and walk-throughs. On Christmas Eve, the display will stay open until midnight. The last chance to see these mesmerizing lights is Jan. 1. Due to the pandemic, some activities will not take place, including the Run for the Lights, Walk Through the Park, horse-drawn wagon rides, and

LET IT DOUGH

walk-only nights. “It takes about 10 weeks to set up the village,” said Dick Hebert, the city’s Parks, Recreation, and Forestry director. There will be approximately 300 to 400 volunteers this year, and thousands of volunteers have helped over the course of the event’s 33 years. “Everyone has a reason why the Christmas Village is important to them,” Hebert said. “‘There (are) a plethora of reasons why the village means so much to individuals and families.” The village has more than 100,000 lights and 200 painted plywood displays. Every year it draws in new viewers and returning visitors. The event is free, though donations are appreciated. –Abigail Bostwick

MAKE SOMETHING SWEET FOR THE CHIPPEWA VALLEY MUSEUM GINGERBREAD HOUSE CONTEST If you’re looking for a way to let the good times roll, grab your cookie cutters and measuring cups and get baking for this year’s gingerbread house competition at the Chippewa Valley Museum. Registration runs Nov. 7 through Nov. 21 at cvmuseum.com, and there is a$5 entry fee. From Nov. 30-Dec. 4, you can see all the masterful gingerbread creations at the museum – or from Dec. 5 through Dec. 19 virtually. (All of these plans are, of course, dependent on the Eau Claire City-County Health Department’s advice on COVID-19.) There will be fan-favorite voting and prizes. Happy baking! –Rebecca Mennecke

www.VolumeOne.org

| NOVEMBER 12, 2020

PHOTO BY TAYLOR SMITH

AT THE RINK

LATER SKATER: THREE PLACES TO ICE SKATE IN THE VALLEY words by

julie quinn

OUTDOORS

INDOORS

Boyd Park 1202 Fairway Street, Eau Claire Bundle up and brave the winter cold while skating at Boyd Neighborhood Park! This beautiful park features a family-friendly outdoor ice-skating rink and a snow-banked hockey rink open to the public. School’s Out Skating hours begin Dec. 26 from 11am-8pm. Beginning Jan. 2, open skate hours will run 4-8pm Monday through Friday as well as11am-8pm Saturday and Sunday. Don’t forget to socially distance! For more information, call (715)-839-5032.

Pinehurst Park 3523 Delbert Road, Eau Claire Enjoy Eau Claire’s winter wonderland at Pinehurst Park. In addition to hockey and general ice-skating rinks, Pinehurst Park features a snowboard terrain area, ski trails, and sledding, skiing, and snowboarding hills. Through the park’s “Gear Share Program,” individuals can check out recreational equipment for free at Pinehurst Winter Recreation Area. And as always, be sure to socially distance to keep yourself, and others, safe.

HO HO HO

Hobbs Ice Arena 915 Menomonie St, Eau Claire Whether you want to impress a date with your Olympic figure skater dance moves or practice your hockey skills for the next match, this ice arena offers three different rinks available for open skate, freestyle skate, open hockey, broomball, and pickleball! Both youth and adult programs are available. Registration is required. Before entering the facility, skaters must call (715)-8398559 to answer a pre-screening health questionnaire. Upon entering, skaters must sanitize their hands and complete a health screening. Face coverings and social distancing are required on and off the rink. The arena is open Monday through Saturday from 8am-10pm. Skate times vary, so be sure to go online for more information at eauclairewi.gov.

WIN HOLIDAY SWEEPSTAKES AND SNAG A PHOTO WITH SANTA

Main Street Chippewa Falls kicks off the holidays in downtown Chippewa Falls with a Christmas Sweepstakes – winners get $500 in gift certificates – and a walking tour of 50 retailers to encourage locals to think, shop, and buy local. Santa is top of mind. Kiddos can get a photo with a seven-foot tall St. Nick at the Main Street Chippewa Falls office, 514 N. Bridge St. On Facebook and YouTube, Santa and Ms. Claus will talk to viewers, share baking and crafts, and read The Night Before Christmas on Dec. 24. Main Street Chippewa Falls is also continuing its popular Santa letters. For details, visit chippewafallsmainst.org or facebook.com/chippewafallsmainstreet. –Barbara Arnold PHOTO BY ANDREA PAULSETH

www.VolumeOne.org

| NOVEMBER 12, 2020

TAKE A SIP

The Eggnog Latte from Scatterbrain Cafe in Downsville is a must-try this holiday season, featuring eggnog, nutmeg, and house espresso.

Wanna warm up? THESE SEASONAL CAFE DRINKS SHOULD DO THE TRICK

The Jack Frost Latte – served with crushed peppermint – will make its holiday appearance at Marion’s Legacy in Menomonie.

For tea-lovers, Marion’s Legacy also has the amazing Roasted Chestnut Tea Latte.

words by

The Acoustic Café in Menomonie will serve up their famous Peppermint Mocha closer to Christmas. Don’t miss it.

The Coffee Grounds in Eau Claire offers a Gingerbread Coffee available for purchase by the bag – something to brew and enjoy at home.

emily nelson

| NOVEMBER 12, 2020

WHEN IT COMES TO YOUR HOLIDAY SHOPPING THIS YEAR

MAKE MAKE IT B u y g if ts lo ca lly, w h et h er o nlin e or in - store, to help t h e C h i p p e wa Va lle y ’ s reta ilers, resta u rants, an d ve n u es s u r v ive THIS DE E P LY C H AL L E N GIN G Y E A R . It’s no secret the pandemic has pushed many of our local retailers, restaurants, and venues to a breaking point in 2020. With deep losses mounting, for many, this holiday season is their last chance to try and break even and survive into 2021. Thankfully, you can help make that survival possible – and you can do it in a variety of safe ways that meet your needs. With their businesses and employees at stake, most local establishments have established rigorous safety protocols for in-store shopping, and have invested in their online shopping capabilities to offer safe and easy shop-from-home options for those who still want to support local stores at this critical time. Doing so means your gifts can not only bring joy to those who receive them, but they can matter on a whole other level, keeping doors open and employment up across our community.

SO THIS YEAR ... SKIP AMAZON. SKIP WAL-MART. THINK LOCAL, BUY LOCAL, & SUPPORT THE CHIPPEWA VALLEY We don’t want to live in a community that allowed itself to lose some great local restaurants, unique retailers, or important venues and non-profits. But that’s exactly what’s possible post-pandemic, if we all don’t take ownership of the situation and support local businesses and organizations more than ever before. Right now!

www.VolumeOne.org

| NOVEMBER 12, 2020

MATTER MA MATTER

As yo u pl an yo ur holiday g if ts an d comm unit y g iv ing , cons id er the list b elow as inspiration , then dis cuss what actions are r ig ht for yo u an d yo ur family :

Safely visit local shops & restaurants in person. Small stores mean smaller crowds. Call ahead if you want to check on their pandemic policies. Check if your favorite local shops offer online or call-in shopping. There could be easy curbside, in-store pick up, or shipping options. Buy gift cards to your favorite local restaurants, to use now or to save for the future. They make great stocking stuffers.

Enjoy a fun holiday meal – order local delivery or curbside pick-up, and tip workers as much (or more) than you would dining in. Support local non-profits and venues with donations and gift card purchases. Many of their events and fundraisers are cancelled or struggling, so your investment can mean a lot. Spread the word. You have the power to make this a movement. Encourage your friends and family to do the same this year, and make the effort to support local.

and finally...

TAK E T HE P L ED GE . Commit to #MakeItMatter by shopping locally as much as possible this year. Visit VolumeOne.org/MakeItMatter to take the pledge, add your name to the movement, and find tools to help inspire your friends and family to join you in standing up for the Chippewa Valley when it matters most.

f rom your fr iends at | NOVEMBER 12, 2020

www.VolumeOne.org

| NOVEMBER 12, 2020

BAH HUM PUG

ADOPTING AND PAMPERING A NEW FUZZY FRIEND OVER THE HOLIDAYS

Hot dog! While it feels like time froze in March, the holiday season is almost here. It’s already a popular time to adopt a pet, but tack on a pandemic, and local humane associations are busier than ever! Shelley Janke, executive director at the Eau Claire County Humane Association, said that because of COVID-19, applicants might experience a delay in the adoption process. “We’ve been struggling to keep up with the demand,” Janke shared. “More people want animals because more people are working from home now.” However, it’s still important to save time by filling out your application ahead of time to meet the animals. Additionally, Lisa Drenckhahn – volunteer and event coordinator at the Dunn County Humane Society – said your furry friends need time to adjust to their surroundings. “The holidays are a very fun and festive time, but all of the commotion can be scary and stressful,” Drenckhahn said. When it comes to pampering your pets and making them comfortable, the options are endless. Drenckhahn suggested going to the dog park or taking your four-legged friend for a walk, and Janke recommended getting your pets groomed or picking up interactive cat and dog toys. Jim Reiman, the owner of Tropic Waters Pet Center in Eau Claire echoed this sentiment, adding that interactive toys are great for other pets, too. “We have all kinds of bird toys; they are really interactive and playful,” Reiman said. “Also, we have toys for rabbits, and the wheel or hamster ball is great for hamsters.” In addition to toys, Tropic Waters has lots of fun treats – from holiday cookies for pups to yummy food for fish. However, Reiman emphasized that spending time with your pets is the best gift of all. “They want that social interaction,” Reiman said. For more information, check out The Eau Claire County Humane Association at eccha.org, The Dunn County Humane Society at dunncountyhumanesociety. org, the Chippewa Humane Association at chippewahumane.com, and Tropic Waters Pet Center at tropicwaterspets.com. –Natalie Rosenkranz

NEW TRADITIONS

Start a Holiday scavenger hunt

Every year since I was a wee little young’un, my mom would organize an elaborate “book hunt” on Christmas Eve, where she would hide an assortment of books wrapped in holiday-themed paper for us kiddos to find. Though this holiday season might be a little different as a result of the – well, you-know-what – don’t let social distancing or pandemic worries eliminate your holiday cheer, and start your own (safe) holiday scavenger hunt! You can special order books from Dotters Books or Bookends on Main to support indie bookstores through the holiday season while spreading holiday joy to your own family. If books aren’t really your thing, don’t fret! You can substitute literally anything that brings you joy for this fun holiday tradition: local snacks, cheerful games, local art, records of your favorite tunes, coffee grounds from local coffee shops, mugs – you name it! Happy holidays! –Rebecca Mennecke | NOVEMBER 12, 2020

TWINKLE TWINKLE

GAZE IN WONDER AT THE CLEARWATER PARADE OF LIGHTS Light up this year’s holiday festivities with the Eau Claire Parks, Recreation, and Forestry’s Clearwater Parade of Lights. This first-ever lights and decoration contest – hosted in collaboration with Market & Johnson and the Chippewa Valley Home Builders Association – runs from Dec. 2-4, with winners announced on Dec. 7. Judging is based on outdoor lighting, décor, and “curb appeal,” as viewed from the street. Backyards and side yards don’t count, so make this a “Hallelujah” moment like National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, and set up all your lights out front. (Just don’t plug ’em all in one outlet!) Winning categories include Best Use of Lights, Most Entertaining, Most Creative Theme, and Judge’s Choice. Winners will then be posted on Facebook at www.facebook.com/cityofecpr from Dec. 7-13 for the People’s Choice Award, which will be announced on Monday, Dec. 14. Prizes include a lawn sign for category winners and social media recognition – and the knowledge that you’re spreading joy to your community! Entry for the contest is $7 for residential and $15 for commercial properties. Proceeds benefit Youth Recreation Scholarships. The deadline to register is Sunday, Nov. 29. You can register online at eauclaire.maxgalaxy. net. –Rebecca Mennecke PHOTO BY ANDREA PAULSETH

LITTLE STAR

BRINGING HOLIDAY CLASSICS TO THE STAGE

The Eau Claire Children’s Theatre jingles into the holiday season with two shows hitting the stages this November and December. Join Buddy the Elf as he spreads the joy of Santa, Christmas, and the four main food groups (candy, candy canes, candy corns, and syrup) with all his friends in the lively musical, Elf: The Musical – an encore of last year's show. Though the cast was cut from 51 to 31 people in order to safely social distance, Executive Director Wayne Marek still expects the show to be a hit. The production will run from Nov. 20 to Nov. 22 at the Lismore Hotel in the Wilson Ballroom. Tickets for the show can be found on the Eau Claire Children's Theatre’s website (www.ecct.org). If you are looking for something that appeals to a younger crowd, join beloved children’s book character Junie B. Jones as she learns just what the holiday season is about in Jingle Bells, Batman Smells. When Junie B. Jones draws her nemesis’s name in the class Secret Santa gift exchange, she has already started plotting on how she will get her revenge. Will a bag of rocks be enough to stop this tattle tale from ruining Junie B.’s fun, or will Junie B. have a change of heart? The show will be performed at The Oxford (1814 N. Oxford Ave.) on Dec. 11-13, 18, and 19. Tickets can be found at ecct.org and will go on sale on Nov. 16. –Hayley Jacobson

www.VolumeOne.org

| NOVEMBER 12, 2020

www.VolumeOne.org

| NOVEMBER 12, 2020

TURN THE PAGE

DIVE INTO SOME FESTIVE ‑ AND LOCAL - READS compiled by

THIS PRODUCT AVAILABLE!

julie quinn

205 N. Dewey St.

FOR KIDS

FOR YOUNG ADULTS

"Calvin the Cookie Maker"

"Secret Santa: The Mystery of the Stereoscope"

"Secret Santa: The Mystery of the Magic Watch"

"Secret Santa: The Mystery of the LOST GUITAR"

by David Tank (Menomonie)

When Sam and his younger sister, Abby, find a mysterious stereoscope and 3D photographs of Santa Claus, they begin to question the man behind the beard. Suddenly trapped in 1893, the siblings travel through time and discover “The Night Before Christmas” is part of an elaborate plan to conceal the true identity of Santa Claus. Will they be able to return to the present and solve the mystery?

If you enjoyed Sam, Abby, and Nick’s first adventure, get ready to unwrap the sequel. Christmas meets the Roaring Twenties in this time traveling whirlwind. When Abby finds herself locked in the past, Sam and Nick must return her to the present.

The third installment of the Secret Santa series just dropped! Watch out for David Tank’s new third book, which hit The Local Store shelves just in time for this holiday season. Join Sam, Abby, and Justin as they travel back to 1968 in search of their grandfather’s long-lost guitar – and navigate how to get back to the present.

by Caroline Akervik (Eau Claire) Wisconsin youngster Calvin is met with the holiday blues. A cooking show on TV inspires Calvin to create a delicious Christmas cookie book of his own. He tries to show his parents his latest creation, but they are wrapped up in the craziness of the Christmas season to pay any attention. Will Calvin be able to enjoy the holidays – and possibly a cookie or two?

FOR GROWN-UPS

"Christmas Comeback (To Me)"

"Starr Tree Farm"

by Caroline Akervik (Eau Claire)

Mystery, romance, and Christmas cross paths in this holiday thriller! Devastated by the lack of progress in the police investigation of her husband’s murder almost one year earlier, Laura Tanner retreats to her relative’s Christmas tree farm in Crystal Springs, Wisconsin, hoping her private investigator uncle will be able to crack the case.

International Hockey League goalie Erik Engen has returned to his hometown in Noelle, Wisconsin, for the annual Nutcracker Festival. Erik soon learns his former lover, artist Stella Larson, has returned to Noelle as well. The two quickly realize the feelings between them haven’t changed.

by Ellen Parker

| NOVEMBER 12, 2020

Drainage Ditch Run Menomonie It’s a crazy drainage

ditch on the southeastern side of Lake Menomonie that leads out onto the lake. It might be a lot of fun, but definitely watch out for the black ice.

TOWS THE SEASON

Dunn County Snow Park 620 17th St SE, Menomonie On

the east side of the fairgrounds, there’s a hill that the water tower sits on, ominously looming over the site. Volunteers have recently spend a lot of time clearing brush, stumps, and debris from the hill, then setting up erosion precautions to create a low maintenance yet fun place for local snow goers. Like any hill, it’s still “ride at your own risk.”

STAY ON YOUR TOES FOR PINEHURST'S NEW TOW

The Flats Hill Eau Claire Look to the left going down

Pumphouse Road hill, descending from the East Hill of Chippewa Falls, and you’ll find winter bliss just waiting. A sledding hill for all ages and skill levels, this place is wide open, with little to no risk of hitting any trees. Be careful of your speed, though, because legends of the hill have been known to clear the train tracks with one epic run.

Forrest Hill aka “Seven Bumps” aka “Dead Man’s Hill”

Eau Claire Right next to the Forrest Hill Cemetery (on Huebsch Boulevard) on the East Side Hill, the slope is small and gentle with no major obstacles. (Just the thing for weak-hearted novices.) In recent years, its easy accessibility has made it a favorite among area snowboarders, but don’t be intimidated by them. If there is an altercation over a collision, they will have a hard time chasing you with their feet strapped to those boards.

Mount Simon 100 Addison Ave., Eau Claire 49-acre park located on Dell’s Pond with access off either Madison Street or Birch Street. This park offers a boat landing and dock, 2 picnic pavilions, 2 lighted sand volleyball courts, and an 9-hole disc golf course. Mt. Simon Park is also home to Eau Claire’s Babe Ruth Baseball program.

Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds Back Entrance

225 Edward St., Chippewa Falls The walk-in entrance to the grounds across from Irvine Park provides a perfect pat to safely walk to the top of a rather steep hill. Low person-on-tree collision rates have kept local kids sliding there for years.

Oakwood Hills Eau Claire There’s a great little (unsu-

pervised) hill near the Oakwood Hills Warming House on Golf Road. The hill is open Sat. and Sun. 1-6pm, and could be a pleasant alternative to some of the aforementioned and slightly more treacherous places.

Pinehurst Hill 3523 Delbert Road, Eau Claire • eau-

clairewi.gov On Eau Claire’s north side, the behemoth Pinehurst Hill stands as the mother of all sledding hills. This formidable giant was a downhill ski run with a towrope throughout the early 70s. Be careful: if you don’t brake or turn, you’ll end up in a parking lot. Try not to hit anyone climbing up the hill, and pay attention so you don’t get hit yourself.

UWEC Campus Hill Eau Claire Feeling adventurous, or

perhaps like getting flat-out arrested? It has long been rumored that the most exciting hill in Eau Claire is also one of the most rare. With the perfect conditions, “The Hill” shooting down from upper campus gets covered with freezing rain then snow and becomes completely impassible. Mach 2 is potentially capable, but make sure to dodge the gate at the bottom... and the cops.

X-Hill Eau Claire Just across the road from Chippewa

Valley Airport’s runways, it’s a real treat when jets fly overhead, close enough that you can feel your chest rattle. A crisscross hill unofficially called the “X-Hill,” you can start at one of two steep, twin trajectories that cross each other at a wicked intersection before going off in any number of directions. This is never the same ride twice and the risk for some intense crashes is high. So if you are on the hill, consider yourself forewarned and, therefore, fair game.

www.VolumeOne.org

PHOTO BY ANDREA PAULSETH

HIT THE SLOPES

SLIDE INTO THE SEASON AT THESE LOCAL SLEDDING HILLS

With chilly weather and snow-filled days soon upon us, there are plenty of amazing sledding hills to occupy your day. Eau Claire’s Pinehurst Park is renowned for its formidable sledding hill: Volume One readers have ranked it the area’s No. 1 sledding hill for seven consecutive years in our Best of the Chippewa Valley poll. For something a bit lighter, head over to Northstar Middle School, or check out the ever-popular Seven Bumps Hill next to Forest Hill Cemetery in Eau Claire. If you prefer skiing over sledding, visit the Hickory Ridge Cross-Country Ski Trails in Bloomer or Tower Ridge Recreation Area’s ski trail near Eau Claire, both of which offer about 20 kilometers of winding scenic trails to meander on a sunny winter’s day. –Hayley Jacobson

| NOVEMBER 12, 2020

Pinehurst Park is sprucing up to have a new cable tow installed by this winter, according to Andy Wians, a secretary for the board of directors of the park. “(The tow) might not be operational for this season,” Wians said, “but it’s exciting to see the progress.” Currently, skiers, snowboarders, or sledders have to trek back up the hill after each trip down – but when the tow is installed, it will be available for anyone. Other improvements at Pinehurst include a terrain park for skiers and snowboarders – featuring jumps and rails – alongside paths for mountain biking in the summer and fat biking and snowshoeing in the winter. There is also an area dedicated to tubing and sledding. There are lights on for hiking late at night, and they’re on until 10pm, according to Wians. The snowshoe route will be marked in order to keep people on the trail and from getting lost. At the park, there is a local gear share that allows people to borrow snowshoes, sleds, and broom hockey equipment for free. Later this season, Pinehurst Park is hoping to have its second annual Banked Slalom race, in which skiers and snowboarders will be timed on a course featuring jumps and turns. Last year the race drew more than 50 racers and 20 observers, and Wians says he is hoping for even more this year. Local photographer Rachel Urban is planning to release a snowboarding zine on Thanksgiving to raise money for the park. For details, follow @_rachel_urban on Instagram, and while you’re there, follow @pinehurstproject for updates on the work that’s being done! –Will Seward

| NOVEMBER 12, 2020

www.VolumeOne.org

| NOVEMBER 12, 2020

PHOTO BY ANDREA PAULSETH

DO SOME GOOD

GIVE THE GIFT OF GIVING

This year, more people face unemployment and financial insecurity than in years past, so if you’re able it’s the perfect time to give back to the community through local charitable organizations. The Spirit of Christmas in Chippewa Falls offers holiday gifts to underprivileged families and individuals in Chippewa County, with a focus on children aged 17 and under as a result of generous donations from people like you! There are also numerous nonprofit organizations that help folks in need year round, such as Hope Gospel Mission, Feed My People Food Bank, The Community Table in Eau Claire, the multiple community tables in Menomonie, the St. Francis Food Pantry, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Wisconsin, Bolton Refuge House, Can Do Canines, Boys & Girls Clubs of the Greater Chippewa Valley, local humane associations, and more! A complete list of local charities and volunteer opportunities is available at VolumeOne.org. –Rebecca Mennecke

GROUPED GIFTS

SNAG A CURATED GIFT BASKET FROM THE LOCAL STORE

Are you looking for a perfect gift for family and friends this holiday season, but haven’t got a clue where to start? Check out The Local Store’s thoughtful gift baskets with options ranging from beer and cheese baskets to games and activities baskets for the kiddos. “This year, shopping local is more important than ever,” said Lindsey Quinnies, The Local Store’s manager. “Small, local businesses depend on their community first for both the financial support to come out on the other side of this pandemic and the morale boost to keep fighting another day.” Prices range from $25 to $107, and baskets can be shipped directly to your loved ones for a COVID-friendly holiday surprise. Some of our personal favorites include the Sweet Treats set ($30), the Sawdust City Snack Pack ($30), Cozy Night In ($49), Sweet Aromas ($25), or the classic Self-Care set ($55). You can also build your own online or in-store using a sweet Wisconsin-shaped basket. Throw in a few extra goodies from your favorite Chippewa Valley shops, and you’re good to go for the holidays! “Hopefully we can make this holiday season as fun and stress-free as possible while helping you support local makers,” Quinnies said. “Stop in to see all that this community has to offer.” –Rebecca Mennecke | NOVEMBER 12, 2020

TRADITIONAL TREAT

MAKE PURPLE STICKY RICE TO CELEBRATE THE HMOOB NEW YEAR recipe by

yia lor • intro by rebecca mennecke

Around this time of year, writer Yia Lor’s mom makes purple sticky rice. “We do eat it throughout the year, but it’s special around this time because of the Hmoob New Year,” Lor said. Her mom dyes white sticky rice with purple corn stalk, since purple sticky rice is difficult to get and harder to process for steaming. This year, Lor dyed white sticky rice with purple carrots, and the color turned out *chef’s kiss* beauti-

fully. “It’s a simple recipe,” she said, “and we usually eat it with Hmoob sausage, chicken, or some other grilled meat, and there’s almost always a type of pepper sauce at the table.” Most of the time, Hmoob (a.k.a. Hmong) recipes are made for lots of people – so smaller recipes aren’t always written down in precise measurements. But here’s Lor’s best guess for smaller portions for you and your family to try.

Mov Nplaum Dub (Purple/Dark Sticky Rice) • 5 sticks of purple carrots (other options for dying are purple corn stalk or even red beets!) • 2 cups of white sticky rice (sometimes called sweet rice or glutinous rice) • About 10 cups of water Wash and chop the carrots. Then, boil them in a large pot with about 10 cups of water. Boil for about 10-15 minutes. Pour carrots and juice through a strainer, and keep the juice. (Eat the carrots!) Soak the white sticky rice in the purple carrot juice overnight, or for 12 hours. Make sure the juice is at least a few inches above the rice, as the rice will expand as it soaks. Drain the juice after 12 hours. Place rice in a steamer, cover, and steam for 30-45 minutes. If you want a sweeter version, you can mix in a can of coconut milk, shredded coconut, bananas, and red mung beans before steaming. For this sweeter version, Lor prefers to steam in banana leaves. These are a real treat! Happy New Year!

www.VolumeOne.org

| NOVEMBER 12, 2020

Hillside Dental

| NOVEMBER 12, 2020

www.VolumeOne.org

| NOVEMBER 12, 2020

SUBMITTED PHOTO

DASH AWAY ALL

MEET RUDOLPH AND THE GANG UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

Want to know something you probably didn’t know about reindeer? They’re enormous sweetie pies. That, and male reindeer shed their antlers in the winter, whereas female reindeer keep theirs through the winter. That means the reindeer guiding Santa’s sleigh this Christmas are some really strong female leads. If you’re looking to learn more about reindeer, look no further than Noël Productions of Osseo, where the Fritz family raises herds of real, live reindeer. “We really cherish our reindeer herds,” said Hannah Fritz, a second-generation reindeer farmer. “You know, there aren’t very many reindeer in the lower 48 (states) … One reindeer is just as magical as 50.” If you’re looking for a fun addition to your family celebrations or socially distant company festivities, you can book a reindeer to join in on the holiday fun. “A lot of adults don’t even realize that reindeer are a real animal that people can raise,” Fritz said. And, they come in many colors, including light brown, dark brown, and white (Pinto). Reindeer also have very unique personalities, Fritz said. They have a gentle temperament and often imprint on a specific human. In fact, they’ve been domesticated for more than 3,000 years, as some Scandinavians historically relied on them for food, fiber, milk, and transportation. To book time with the reindeer, contact Noël Productions through their Facebook at www.facebook.com/livereindeer. As a result of the pandemic, they’re working to offer more customizable, individualized appointments to chill with these furry friends. The sooner you book them, the better. These busy fellas have some prepping to do for Christmas! –Rebecca Mennecke

SOMETHING NEW

GET CREATIVE AND START A NEW HOLIDAY TRADITION

The big question this holiday season is: How can we celebrate the holidays during the current COVID-19 situation? If you usually plan to have a large family gathering for Thanksgiving, a smaller, quieter Thanksgiving may be the way to go this year. Try gathering virtually to watch football or a family movie together. Holiday shopping, too, will look quite a bit different. Many local stores will offer their products online, by curbside pickup, and with limited people in store in order to comply with social distancing guidelines. Buying gifts that align with the new COVID normal may be thoughtful and useful: Think about purchasing gifts such as coffee or book subscription boxes, along with attractive and stylish face coverings. If you want to start a new tradition with your family, get creative! One idea is to make a Night Before Christmas Box. The box could include items such as new pajamas, packets of hot cocoa, popcorn, a new Christmas book and a Christmas movie. It will be a personal and thoughtful tradition your family will want to continue for years to come. The most important thing is to stay safe, and have fun! –Caitlin Boyle | NOVEMBER 12, 2020

TIMBER!

SPRUCE UP YOUR SPRUCE WITH THESE FANTASTIC LOCAL TREE FARMS

Albrecht's Nursery & Orchard

Curvue Hideaway + Trees

Lowes Creek Tree Farm

Bryan's Christmas Trees

13941 98th Ave., Chippewa Falls • (715) 723-8001 • Monday-Sunday 9am-5pm • albrechtsnursery. com • During the holiday season, Albrecht’s is home to a wide variety of Christmas tree options – and a mission to grow fruit, produce, and greenery organically. The styles of trees offered include spruce, fir, yew, and pine. The specific styles of each can be found online at albrechtsnursery. com.

6760 Curvue Road, Eau Claire • (715) 878-4366 • Friday 10am-6pm, Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 11am-4pm • ctreesonc.com • Curvue’s goal is to accommodate families with an easy-access opportunity to experience the “timeless” tradition of hand-choosing a Christmas tree. The styles of trees offered include balsam fir and fraser fir, priced from $30 to $70 depending on the height of the tree.

S9475 Lowes Creek Road, Eleva • (715) 878-4166 • Monday-Saturday 9am-7pm, Sunday 11am-7pm • lowescreek-treefarm.com • Lowes Creek Tree Farm sets out to offer the best quality plants and trees for local landscapes, and the perfect Christmas tree for the holiday season. Their holiday season selection will open on Nov. 14, and select fir and pine types will be available.

70th Street, Eau Claire • (715) 8350284 • Monday-Sunday 9am-5:30pm • bryanstrees.com • At the Eau Claire location, Bryan’s sells both pre-cut trees and the experience to select your own and cut down with provided hand saws. All “Choose and Cut” trees are priced at $50, cash or check. Species of trees offered include fraser fir, balsam fir, and canaan fir.

PHOTO BY KELLY WHITMAN

www.VolumeOne.org

| NOVEMBER 12, 2020

www.VolumeOne.org

| NOVEMBER 12, 2020

SENT WITH LOVE

UP YOUR CHRISTMAS CARD GAME WITH THE HELP FROM THE HAPPY STAMPERS

The holidays may look different this year, but even the pandemic can’t stop the magical gift of giving. This holiday season, consider sending homemade cards to your family, friends, or someone in need. “People really appreciate getting homemade cards,” said Karen Johnson, who owns Happy Stampers, 307 E. Clairemont Ave. “The recipients save them more than a regular store-bought greeting card. They know that they meant enough to them to take their time to design a card and mail it out instead of just going into a store and saying, ‘Oh, this one will work.’ You can personalize the card and make it special.” But crafting your own holiday card isn’t always easy. An assortment of colors, stickers, and paper can certainly look intimidating, especially when you want to create the perfect card for someone special. “Simple always looks better than overdone,” Johnson said. Happy Stampers, a stationery store with an extensive variety of stamps, inks, and papers, offers Take ‘N Make card kits, featuring a different card each week. Throughout November and December, the cards will be holiday themed. The card kit comes with a pre-stamped design ready for crafters to take

home and put together. “It’s a wonderful hobby,” Johnson said. But the holiday fun doesn’t stop there! Happy Stampers also hosts card-making classes geared toward a medium-range skill level, though anyone is welcome to join. Classes will be held in person in a spacious classroom, perfect for social distancing. Masks are required, and tables are cleaned between customers. Crafters are now required to bring their own supplies

– paper trimmers, scissors, adhesives, tweezers, coloring tools – due to safety regulations. These social hour classes are open to the public on a first-come, first-serve basis with a cap of eight participants. The next classes, titled “Christmas Is Coming,” will be held Nov. 9 from 1-2:30pm and again from 5-6:30pm. To register, visit Happy Stampers, call (715)-835-4006, or go to happystamperswisconsin.com. –Julie Quinn

| NOVEMBER 12, 2020

www.VolumeOne.org

| NOVEMBER 12, 2020