Best of Chippewa Falls 2022

Best O f CHIPPEWA FALLS

Supported by: Mason Companies • Northwestern Bank • Leinie Lodge • Go Chippewa FallsBest O f CHIPPEWA FALLS

CHIPPEWA FALLS: NORTHWOODS BEAUTY MEETS SMALL-CITY CHARM

Over the past few decades, Chippewa Falls has quietly done what countless other Midwestern towns and cities haven’t: It’s flourished. What’s more, it’s done so on its own terms. Tucked into the Northwoods of Wisconsin, Chippewa Falls has never been content to bank on its smalltown charm. Yes, it’s a charming place to live or visit, but it’s so much more. Chippewa Falls is a true community. We love referring to this region as “The Chippewa Valley,” but doing so often hides the individual experiences each city has to offer. Each burg has its own history, its own vibe, and its own path forward. And Chippewa Falls has what many consider to be the area’s most unique sense of self. Few places in the Valley offer the same blend of natural beauty and urban comfort. The people here take pride in their city and in each other. The downtown area alone is one of the Chippewa Valley’s crown jewels, mixing the small town ambience everyone raves about with businesses and experiences exclusive to Chippewa Falls. The signature industries in town – ranging from a historic brewery to modern manufacturers – generate a thriving atmosphere. Chippewa Falls maintains some of the best parks you’re likely to find anywhere, and the city’s beloved annual events pull people together in the best of ways. Through all of this, the idea of a “Wisconsin life” rings clear. In these pages, we’ve put together some of the best things Chippewa Falls has to offer. See what you find.

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PERFORMING IN THE PARK

SUMMER MUSIC, MOVIES RETURN TO RIVERFRONT PARK

words by PARKER REED

Can you think of anything better than taking in a free concert or movie in a beautiful outdoor setting on the water? (We tried, and we couldn’t come up with anything.)

Riverfront Park in Chippewa Falls annually plays host to a Sunday concert series featuring prominent local artists, as well as hosts three or four outdoor family-friendly movie screenings for Chippewa Valley residents. City organizers are gearing up for another fun-filled summer season of events, including added programming primed to excite attendees.

“Events at the Riverfront are a very important part of celebrating the arts and providing safe space for the community to come together and celebrate music, movies, firework show, and tree lighting event,” said John Jimenez, director of the Chippewa Falls Parks, Recreation and Forestry Department. “We look

forward to continually expanding the programming and events that will take place at the Riverfront in the future.”

This year’s concert series will take place each Sunday at the park between June 12 and Aug. 12, with each concert consisting of two hours of live music. This year’s lineup includes (in order of appearance) The Cragars, JFT Party Band, Driftless Revelers, Bear Creek Band/Mark Croft, Raquel and the Wildflowers, Stefan Geisinger Band, Kyle Renfro Trio, The Big Deeks, Home Grown Tomatoes, and All In. Every group plays a mixture of cover songs and originals, making each performance one that any music fan can enjoy.

“This year we have a diverse lineup of bands that I am sure will bring people from our community and surrounding communities to Riverfront,” Jimenez said. “In addition, we have a fireworks show slated to take place on July 2 after

our extended show. We are hosting two very popular bands on this evening, and it should be a lot of fun! We are also excited to have food trucks available throughout the concert series.”

While no dates or films have been announced for the Movies at the Riverfront Series, Jimenez said he and city officials are finalizing the lineup which should be available in the coming weeks. In past years, Movies at the Riverfront have featured favorites such as Jaws, Trolls: World Tour, and The Mighty Ducks.

Every year the concerts and movies at the beautiful, newly created Riverfront Park in downtown Chippewa Falls attracts thousands of attendees, quickly becoming a summer staple in the Chippewa Valley.

For more information on Music and Movies at the Riverfront, visit their Facebook page.

FUN IN THE SUN: Events have proliferated at Riverfront Park in Chippewa Falls, including regular concerts and movie screenings.

OKTOBERFEST TOASTS FAMILY

words by PARKER REED | photos by REBECCA MENNECKE

Prost! One of Chippewa Falls' premiere events is back and better than ever in 2022.

Chippewa Falls Oktoberfest at the Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds has been a marquee attraction in the Chippewa Valley ever since its inception in 2003. The family-friendly German heritage event has been the site of lagerheavy memories for the past 19 years, and this year the festival is set for Friday, Sept. 16, and Saturday, Sept. 17.

“Our Oktoberfest is such a family-friendly event,” Tasha Weiss, programs director at the Chippewa Falls Area Chamber of Commerce said. “It’s a great place for families to come out to. This event ends up being a pseudo-family reunion for a lot of people, so being able to host that is phenomenal. The event was actually started as a way for us to honor our German heritage in the Chippewa Valley, but now it’s also a great event for people outside of the Chippewa Valley to come in and celebrate as well, and see how great the city of Chippewa Falls is.”

Each year Oktoberfest begins with the new festmeister and festmeisterin (Oktoberfest royalty) being crowned at Leinenkugel’s Brewery in downtown Chippewa Falls. Following a precession and toast, the festivities are up and running. This year will bring new kids’ activities and glockenspiel acts, including music from the likes of Brass Barn Polka Band, Bavarian Musikmeisters, Copper Box, Gary’s Ridgeland Dutchmen, Big Deeks, The Swing Crew, and over 30 other diverse performances on four different stages.

And it wouldn’t be Oktoberfest without their signature brand

of competitions, this year will feature kid versions to include the whole family. The stein holding, sauerkraut eating, and keg rolling competitions will be back in full swing this fall, as well as familyfriendly entertainment playing an even larger role in this year’s lineup of events.

“It doesn’t really feel like fall yet until Oktoberfest happens,” longtime attendee Jason Jahns said. “It’ll be good to get back out to the fairgrounds for the weekend, and I’m really excited about us all getting back together again for another fun weekend.”

The catalyst for starting a Chippewa Falls edition of Oktoberfest began in 2003, when approximately 7080% of Chippewa Falls residents had at least some German heritage. It attracts about 14,000 attendees annually. The festival is a version of the original Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany, which is held over a two-week period and ends on the first Sunday in October. It began in 1810 as a celebration of the marriage of the crown prince of Bavaria, who later became King Ludwig I, to Princess Therese von SachsenHildburghausen.

While the pandemic is showing signs of slowing down, Chippewa Falls Oktoberfest organizers are remaining vigilant in their pursuit to keep their attendees safe and will continue to heed public health officials’ advice. They will also be wiping down tables and encouraging social distancing whenever feasible.

For more information on the 2022 edition of Chippewa Falls Oktoberfest, visit their Facebook page or gochippewacounty.com/oktoberfest.

CHEERS TO BEERS: With nearly 15,000 annual attendees, Chippewa Falls Oktoberfest is one of the largest events in the Chippewa Valley.

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THE GREAT OUTDOORS

WINTER, SPRING, SUMMER, AND FALL – CHIPPEWA AREA HAS OUTDOOR OPTIONS FOR ALL SEASONS

words by SAWYER HOFF

With an abundance of hiking and biking trails plus beautiful lakes and rivers to explore, whether it’s a sunny summer or snowy winter, outdoor recreation is not hard to find in the Chippewa County.

CHIPPEWA COUNTRY FOREST

For a little bit of everything, the Chippewa County Forest is a prime destination. Much of the forest is located in the northern part of the county, and owes its rolling terrain being along the terminal moraine of the last glacier. You can bike, hike, camp, tube, ski, fish, hunt, paddle, and just about anything else in these 33,000 acres of beauty.

CHIPPEWA COUNTY ATV TRAILS

If you fancy a bumpier ride, these ATV trails span more than 23 miles and run throughout the Chippewa County Forest. There are three parking lots and entrances to the trail: 157th Avenue, Bloomer; 24375 Deerfly Trail, New Auburn; and 22974 County Highway M, Holcombe.

DEER FLY TRAIL AREA

This 8,500-acre trail area is part of the Chippewa Country Forest and is great for hunting, camping, fishing, or just exploring. Don’t be scared by the name – there aren’t that many deer flies.

ERICKSON PARK

Glen Loch Road, Chippewa Falls

Another great area for biking and hiking, but with 400 feet of breath-taking shorelines overlooking Glen Loch in Chippewa Falls. Hop in the water or a boat if you want to explore the area. The park features handicapped-accessible boardwalk and boat launch, as well as a bridge that connects to Irvine Park.

IRVINE PARK AND ZOO

125 Bridgewater Ave., Chippewa Falls

A great place to take the kiddos! There is a petting zoo, a preserved schoolhouse and log cabin, hiking trails, and an overlook of the Glen Loch Dam.

JOAS PARK NATURE RESERVE

12651 50th Ave., Chippewa Falls

Joe Joas donated this land to keep it free from development and so it could be studied and enjoyed by the public. There are biking and hiking trails as well as skiing opportunities in the snowy months.

LAKE WISSOTA STATE PARK

18127 County Highway O, Chippewa Falls

For hiking with a view, check out more than 11 miles of trails along the shoreline of 6,000-acre Lake Wissota and stay the night in one of the 116 campsites. You can also rent canoes, kayaks, and skis.

OLD ABE STATE TRAIL

What used to be an abandoned railroad is now a stellar trail for bikers, hikers, horseback riders, and in-line skaters. It connects two state parks and several different trails.

RAY'S BEACH

On the south side of Lake Wissota, this cute beach offers a great place to cool off as well as picnic tables to enjoys a whole day in the sun.

RIVERVIEW RESERVE TRAIL /

AREA 178

Seymour Cray Sr Boulevard, Chippewa Falls

Hot dam! Check out the Xcel Energy dam on the paved and unpaved trails on this reserve. It connects to the Duncan Creek Parkway Trail and the Old Abe State Trail, and is great for biking, hiking, exploring, and snowshoeing in the winter.

RIVER ROAD CROSS-COUNTRY SKI TRAIL

For those cold-blooded creatures who like to venture into the snow, this trail – located 2.5 miles north of Cornell – is perfect for crosscountry skiing and snowshoeing. Beginners can try out the River Road while more experienced skiers are welcome on the blue trail, and intermediate skiers have a place on the yellow trail.

RIVER ROAD SKI TRAIL

RIVERVIEW RESERVE TRAIL

IRVINE PARK AND ZOO

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THE BEST IN TOWN

HERE’S WHAT OUR READERS SAY IS THE BEST STUFF THAT CHIPPEWA FALLS HAS TO OFFER

words by V1 STAFF

What would a Best of Chippewa Falls guide be without a list of the best stuff the community has to offer? We’ve combed through our annual Best of the Chippewa Valley Reader Poll to find the top-tier locations, experiences, and more from Chippewa Falls (and a bit beyond in some cases). In wasn’t that hard: Folks across the Valley know that some of the most enjoyable things around are found right in Chippewa Falls. Here’s a peek!

BEST RESTAURANT IN CHIPPEWA FALLS

1. SHEELEY HOUSE SALOON

2. CONNELL’S SUPPER CLUB

3. CHIPPEWA FAMILY RESTAURANT

Sheeley House Saloon (236 W. River St.) has both history and delicious food on its side, moving from second place last year to first place for 2022. Their truffle fries are a must! (Plus, legend has it that the place is haunted: In fact, it ranked No. 1 in the poll as Best Place to Spot a Ghost.) Connell’s Supper Club (18525 50th Ave.) remains a traditional favorite. Oh, and don’t forget to order a storied brandy Old Fashioned. In third place, Chippewa Family Restaurant (1701 Kennedy Road) serves quality home-cooked meals for an affordable price that are sure to please any foodie in the Valley. –Stephanie Nesja

BEST PLACE FOR SWEETS (NON-ICE CREAM)

1. CHIPPEWA CANDY SHOP

2. JOSEF’S CHEESECAKE

3. THE NOSTALGIC BEAN

So you’ve got a hankering for something sweet, but not sure where to go, or what you want? Check out the Chippewa Candy Shop (322 N. Bridge St., Chippewa Falls), where you can find a diverse array of sweet treasures. Josef’s Cheesecake (29 W. Spring St., Chippewa Falls) offers unique cheesecake cupcakes – miniature cheesecakes that come in a rotating selection of 450plus flavors. Check out the baked goods from The Nostalgic Bean (1403 Lynn Ave., Altoona), which pair well with coffee. All of these tasty locations show us that you don't need to just have ice cream if your sweet tooth is calling for something to satisfy it. –Sawyer Hoff

BEST EVENT OF THE PAST YEAR

1. IRVINE PARK CHRISTMAS LIGHTS

2. NORTHERN WISCONSIN STATE FAIR

3. FARM TECHNOLOGY DAYS

For more than 35 years, the Irvine Park Christmas Lights in Chippewa Falls have lit up area residents’ lives every holiday season. After having to take 2020 off, the Northern Wisconsin State Fair returned with a bang and had one of its best years yet. Nearly a week of music, rides, and delicious food made for a memorable time. Helping to bolster the agricultural community across the Chippewa Valley, Wisconsin Farm Technology Days, hosted by Huntsinger Farms outside Eau Claire, offered a fun and informative time, teaching coun try and city folk alike about agriculture. –Parker Reed

BEST SUPPER CLUB

1. CONNELL’S SUPPER CLUB

2. CONNELL’S CLUB 23

3. JAKE’S SUPPER CLUB

Volume One readers yet again voted Connell’s not only No. 1 this year, but also No. 2! With two locations, Connell’s Supper Club (18525 50th Ave., Chippewa Falls) and Connell’s Club 12 (E11295 U.S. Highway 12, Fall Creek) offer similar menus with homemade fare. Located on Tainter Lake, Jake’s Supper Club (E5690 County Road D, Menomonie) has remained a longtime favorite. Make sure to grab yourself a brandy Old Fashioned at any of these fine establishments! –Stephanie Nesja

SHEELEY HOUSE SALOON

CHIPPEWA CANDY SHOP

Supported by: Mason Companies • Northwestern Bank • Leinie Lodge • Go Chippewa Falls Best O f CHIPPEWA FALLS

BARN AGAIN: STATE FAIRGROUNDS PLAN BIG UPGRADES

WITH A DONATION HERE, AND A DONATION

THERE, THEIR PROJECT IS SLATED TO BE FINISHED BY THE 2023 FAIR SEASON

words by SAWYER HOFF | photo by TAYLOR SMITH

The Northern Wisconsin State Fair's iconic Red Barn coliseum was determined to be unusable in April 2019 due to structural issues. But hold onto your horses (and sheep and cows) because the Barn Replacement Project is in full swing.

After 130 years on the fairgrounds, a portion of the Red Barn collapsed, and the Fair Board thought it best to completely replace the barn area. There are four new barns slated for construction as well as a FEMA safe room, toilet, and shower building with a concession stand on the side.

The total needed for the project is roughly $6 million. While this number may seem daunting, 80% of this cost has already been met. But with $1 million still needed, the Fair Board is asking for donations for these new barns.

fairgrounds for generations. They’ll also play a role in the impact on the local economy and tourism that the fairgrounds have even when the fair isn’t running.

“The buildings have to change,” Volk said. “Because what’s here today is no longer relevant for tomorrow. Whether it be technology, whether it be storm sewers, water, or anything else; 90% of the infrastructure here has been replaced, except for the barn area.”

Volk estimates that the new barns will have an annual economic impact of nearly $20 million on Chippewa Falls.

The 2022 Northern Wisconsin State Fair will run July 12-17 at the fairgrounds in Chippewa Falls. For schedule and ticket details, visit nwsfa.com.

The new coliseum will be named the Custer Coliseum, thanks to the donation from Ken Custer over at Custer Farms. The Custer Coliseum will host two programs each month for continued agricultural education for the public.

“We’re creating an agricultural campus,” said Rusty Volk, executive director of the Northern Wisconsin State Fair. “If the public is not aware of why farmers do what they do, they’re not going to get any support.”

These barns will be important for the continuation of agricultural education and animal exhibition that has been part of the

A groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for Aug. 8 that will include the start of the construction, the unveiling of a new logo, a new website, and the complete rebranding of the State Fair. With enough support, the project is hoped to be completed before the 2023 State Fair, which will be the 125th edition of the fair.

When you donate, your family or business name will be displayed for many to see and for future generations to appreciate. To donate, you can reach out to Executive Director, Rusty Volk at rvolk@nwsfa.com or (715) 7232861. Any additional funds will be going toward updates to the Youth Exhibit Hall and the Horse Barn. The fair is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, making all donations taxdeductible.

“The sky is the limit when it comes to youth education in agriculture,” Volk said.

Supported by: Mason Companies • Northwestern Bank • Leinie Lodge • Go Chippewa Falls Best O f CHIPPEWA FALLS

Supported by: Mason Companies • Northwestern Bank • Leinie Lodge • Go Chippewa FallsBest O f CHIPPEWA FALLS

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CHIPPEWA KNOWS CHRISTMAS

COMMUNITY TAKES HOLIDAYS SERIOUSLY

words by V1 STAFF | photo by ANDREA PAULSETH

IRVINE PARK CHRISTMAS VILLAGE

A nearly four-decade-long tradition, the illuminated Christmas village in Irvine Park is the main attraction for holiday joy in Chippewa Falls. It features over 60,000 lights arranged by volunteers in historical, Victorian-era, and holiday-themed displays. It opens to the public on Thanksgiving night, and is open to the public through New Years Day. Be sure to get there after dusk for the best experience while you walk or take a driving tour.

HORSE DRAWN WAGON RIDES

If you’re reading this in summer, then you’ve got time to plan ahead for Chippewa Falls Downtown horse drawn wagon rides. This holiday tradition through the beautiful Irvine Park Christmas Village and downtown Chippewa Falls sells out almost immediately when tickets go on sale. Expect tickets to be $7 per person and to go on sale in early November, sold in-person at the Family Fare Supermarket. Make this the year that you don’t miss out on this Chippewa Falls tradition.

BRIDGE TO WONDERLAND

Generally held the first Saturday in December (for 2022, that means Dec. 3), the Bridge to Wonderland parade features more than 50 illuminated, musical floats, walking groups, and animal entries lighting up the winter skies. Head to Riverfront Park after the parade for an after party featuring music, food, refreshments, and family fun.

SANTA'S ARRIVAL & SANTA HOUSE

No holiday celebration is complete without a visit to the big man himself. Mr. & Mrs. Claus arrive on the Friday of Thanksgiving weekend at the BMO Harris parking lot (411 N. Bridge St.). On Saturdays until Christmas, you can visit them in the fully holiday-decorated Rutledge House (404 N. Bridge St.).

KEEP YOUR EYE OUT

A number of other Chippewa Falls businesses often host holiday-themed events. The Heyde Center hosts a Holiday Tea and Christmas plays, the Leinie Lodge holds holiday shopping markets, and Lilydale Dance Hall has hosted holiday swing dances.

Supported by: Mason Companies • Northwestern Bank • Leinie Lodge • Go Chippewa Falls Best O f CHIPPEWA FALLS

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BANKING ON COMMUNITY

NORTHWESTERN BANK HAS BEEN BEDROCK OF CITY FOR MORE THAN A CENTURY

words by TOM GIFFEY

Northwestern Bank has been a community fixture – figuratively and literally in Chippewa Falls since it opened its doors in 1904. The main office has always been located on the city’s historic Bridge Street, and the current stately brick building has served the bank and its customers since 1925. For more than a century, the bank has been able to change with the times and ensure its customers have modern banking solutions.

As with any institution, Northwestern is composed of much more than its physical structure. It’s made of the commercial developments and home purchases the bank has financed. It’s the fabric of the community it has strengthened through supporting community projects and nonprofit groups. It’s the goodwill its employees have generated through more than a century of work in the community. There are few businesses or organizations in Chippewa Falls that haven’t been positively impacted by Northwestern Bank in one way or another.

As a community bank, Northwestern serves a smaller geographic area than a larger commercial bank, and its main customers tend to be small and medium-sized businesses. Likewise, its staff, shareholders, and board members are local as well and can adjust their decisions to fit the specific needs of customers. This flexibility has allowed the bank to stay independent.

“People bank local for the same reasons you shop local – you have a relationship with your banker and tellers, the money stays local and funds jobs locally,” said Jerry Jacobson, the bank’s president. “Larger banks have their marketing, HR, IT, and bookkeeping functions centralized at headquarters hundreds of miles away. When you support a local, community bank you support the creation of these jobs locally.”

'SENSE OF COMMUNITY'

Being smaller and locally focused also helps keep Northwestern Bank closer to the needs of the community, employees say. “One of the qualities that drew me to Northwestern Bank was the culture of generosity and sense of community the bank employees and board displayed when I would meet them around town or at the bank,” said Tracey Smiskey, Eau Claire market president. “I wanted to be a part of a place that valued giving back to the community both through donations and volunteering.”

The bank gives to more than 450 organizations

annually, and recent donations have gone to the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Chippewa Valley, the Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds, the Chippewa Area History Center, the Chippewa Falls Senior Center, and many more. Employees also volunteered more than 1,400 hours last year for local organizations, including the Boys & Girls Club Advisory Board, the Chippewa Falls Area Chamber of Commerce, the Children’s Museum of Eau Claire, and the Pablo Center at the Confluence.

Such community involvement is vital, said Jamie Leibrandt, the bank’s market president. “Our employees and their families live here, my family lives here, my kids go to school here, and I believe it’s important to ensure that there are educational opportunities, festivals, and events for everyone to feel connected in our community,” he said.

ROOTED IN HISTORY

P.T. Favell organized what was then known as Northwestern State Bank in 1904, which was located in the structure built in 1883 for an earlier bank. The current building, which was built on the

same site in 1925, is now part of the Bridge Street Commercial Historic District, which is listed on the statewide and national Registers of Historic Places.

The bank opened its first branch – in Cornell – in 1935, and since then has expanded to several other communities across the Chippewa Valley. Today, Northwestern Bank has more than 90 employees at seven local branches, including two locations in Chippewa Falls, as well as River Prairie in Altoona, Boyd, Cornell, Thorp, and the town of Lafayette.

Jacobson has spent more than 40 years at the bank, the last 24 of them as president. His involvement in the financial industry extends far beyond the Chippewa Valley. Last year he began a three-year term on the board of directors of the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis and has also served on the board of the Wisconsin Bankers Association.

“As a locally-owned, community bank we see it as part of our mission to ensure our employees and customers know their community matters to the bank,” Jacobson said. “Our board believes that a thriving local community is important and supporting local events and organizations helps make our communities stronger.”

"When you support a local, community bank you support the creation of these jobs locally.

– Jerry Jacobsen

KNOW YOUR BANKERS: Northwestern Bank's leadership includes, from left, Jamie Leibrandt, Jerry Jacobson, and Tracey Smiskey.

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Supported by: Mason Companies • Northwestern Bank • Leinie Lodge • Go Chippewa Falls Best O f CHIPPEWA FALLS

Smiskey.

CELEBRATING DEVELOPMENT IN CHIPPEWA FALLS

FROM FURNITURE TO CHEESE CURDS AND FAR BEYOND, ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND EXPANSION BRINGS ECONOMIC GROWTH TO THE REGION

words by DANIELLE BAUER / CHIPPEWA COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

Chippewa Falls is not only attractive to tourists and lovers of the great outdoors , but the community also draws major attention from businesses and real estate developers seeking expansion opportunities. This is due in part because the city and county are fueled with a can-do attitude, abundant collaboration, community involvement, and adaptive, ground-breaking ideas. They understand that new growth and developments are key to bringing talented workers to the community and work with the Chippewa Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) on their organizational activities. To increase awareness of the community’s economic development program, CEDC continued the tradition of celebrating Economic Development Week: May 9-13.

Created in 2016 by the International Economic Development Council, the week is designed to rec ognize the unique role that economic development teams such as CEDC play in creating vibrant com

munities and helping them grow, adjust, adapt, and bounce back when disasters, pandemics, or recessions occur. Local governments have offi cially proclaimed Economic Development Week. The CEDC is the lead economic development agency in Chippewa County, working with existing and new businesses on expansions, as well as to assist developers and entre preneurs.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR EXPANSION

The addition of new compa nies to Chippewa Falls and Chippewa County contin ues. This brings more jobs, more economic diversity, more taxes, and more resi dents to the area. Just this past year, Ashley Furniture expanded into Chippewa County, and Rural Electric Supply Cooperative as well as Northside Elevator selected Stanley as the future location for their new facilities. These suc cessful recruitment projects are examples of how business attraction provides positive economic growth for a community. This type of growth spreads the existing tax base further, among more

new payers. These companies bring wealth into the community, raise the community’s standard of living, and have a positive economic multiplier effect.

The CEDC semi-annually hosts a Developers Up date, where more than 40 participants meet and welcome local and regional developers, brokers, and site selectors to highlight the advantages of investing in Chippewa County. At the most recent event, companies such as Eau Claire Realty, P&R Companies, and Wangard Partners Inc. shared with city officials, business owners, utility repre sentatives, and community leaders reasons why they believe investing in Chippewa County makes sense. The Developers Update furthers the open communication environment that is so necessary for the community to collaborate and grow.

“From the new Festival Foods at Chippewa Cross ing to the redevelopment of a historic building by the Wisconsin Farmers Union in downtown Chip pewa Falls, Chippewa continues to see a positive inflow of investment,” stated Maureen Carlson, business development manager at Greenfire Man agement Services and CEDC board member. “The county continues to experience positive develop ment in 2022.”

The CEDC works with existing and new businesses on expansions, as well as to assist developers and entrepreneurs.

FALLS

“Besides giving local leaders an update on Chip pewa Crossing, the forum gave Wangard Partners Inc. the opportunity to stay abreast of other de velopments that are happening in the community as we build out our project,” noted Stewart Wan gard, CEO of Wangard Partners. “Chippewa Falls certainly is safe and conveniently located by Eau Claire, and is where people want to be.”

ENTREPRENEURS ABOUND

While attracting new businesses is fun and excit ing, maintaining, protecting, and nurturing our existing businesses is also essential to our Chip pewa Valley economy. For instance, Water’s Edge Cheese Curds made its official debut in the City of Chippewa Falls this year.

Over 12 years ago, Water’s Edge Cheese Curds started in a small building in nearby Jim Falls. Beginning as a secret recipe in the kitchen of a northwoods Wisconsin supper club, it has grown to be one of the nation’s best-selling cheese curd products. Through practice and much trial and er ror, the owners of the supper club discovered the perfect cheese curd. When they decided to retire, entrepreneurs Rick and Sara Drolet and Al Grube took the secret recipe and the cheese curd prod uct to the next level.

Today, the company produces frozen, ready-to-fry beer-battered cheese curds. But these are not just any cheese curds: They make the unique “square ones,” using a cube of fresh Wisconsin cheddar and covering it with a secret beer-batter crust, made with beer from their neighbors at Leinenku gel’s. Light, crispy, and fresh, Water’s Edge Cheese Curds are rapidly becoming a national sensation in bars, pubs, and restaurants. In 2018, Water’s Edge was named the Best Cheese Curd in Wis consin, and in 2019, it was chosen as Minnesota Cheese Curd of the Year by Minnesota Monthly Magazine. As the fried treat continues to increase in popularity, the product has been introduced in other states throughout the country as a “mini grilled cheese.” With this growth, the business needed to expand.

on a new

for Mason Companies.

However, in 2020, their current facility was forced to shut down for months due to the pandemic. Water’s Edge Cheese Curds scrambled, pivoted, and adjusted its business operations to survive, and yet they continued plans to expand into a new facility that would be capable of positioning the company for growth after the pandemic. With the help of the CEDC and the Main Street BounceBack program, Water’s Edge identified a 5,000-squarefoot vacant building, remodeled it, and continued their growth.

“The majority of CEDC’s work is focused on the Chippewa Valley’s Business Expansion And Re tention, or, as we like to call it, the BEAR Pro gram,” noted Charlie Walker, president and CEO of the CEDC. “Statistics and studies have shown that 85 to 95% of all job creation comes from a community’s existing businesses, so helping them grow and expand only makes sense. This certainly is the case when it comes to Water’s Edge Cheese Curds, Mason Companies, Charter Next Genera tion, Badger Liquor, and Advanced Laser, who have all announced their Chippewa expansions. Several have even had to build through the Wis consin winter to meet their growth time lines.”

Entrepreneurs drive the economy much more than you may think: According to the Kauffman Foundation, startups create more than 3 million jobs in the United States yearly. To be success ful, entrepreneurs need and rely on a culture and environment (we call it the entrepreneurial eco system) that inspires, fosters ideas, and provides resources to assist them in launching their busi nesses. The CEDC works continuously to strength en the Chippewa Valley entrepreneurial ecosys tem through its Honeycomb HATCH Program.

Established a few years ago, this Shark Tank-like business pitch competition has assisted entrepre neurs throughout the Chippewa Valley in improv ing their pitches, introducing them to capital re sources, and mentoring them for the next stage of their development journey. By pitching to a panel of experienced judges during Honeycomb HATCH, entrepreneurs get the exposure they need.

Acting as a catalyst in talent development, CEDC continues to help implement workforce develop ment activities, services, and programs that help attract workers to the community, identify future talent pools, and help ease future labor shortages. Collaborating with the community, CEDC helps organize events and establish programs that high light the opportunities for our workforce with lo cal companies and educational institutions.

Through the organization’s many activities with Chippewa Valley manufacturers such as BEAR Visits, CEDC has a pulse on the local economy and knows how important skilled trades are. Skilled trades vary from mechanics to construc tion workers, from welders to hairstylists, and are abundant. Newcomers to the community find that no matter what their skills, Chippewa has an op portunity for everyone. Understandably, Economic Development Week is the perfect opportunity to celebrate all that Chippewa has to offer. It cer tainly is a great place to “work, raise a family, and a business!”

Danielle Bauer is a creative storyteller for the Chippewa County Economic Development Corpora tion. Learn more about the agency and its work at chippewa-wi.com.

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A NEW FAMILY BREW

TONY BUGHER TO CONTINUE LEINENKUGEL'S LEGACY AS NEW PRESIDENT

words by PARKER REED

The Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Company is the oldest business in Chippewa Falls, and the seventh-oldest brewery in the United States, opening its doors in 1867. Nestled within those 155 years of history is a young Leinenkugel descendent who at one time was getting into trouble with his cousins in the brewery, and in six months will become the face of the internationally known business.

Tony Bugher, the nephew of current Leinenkugel’s president Dick Leinenkugel, is slated to take over his uncle’s position at the beginning of 2023. After a decadelong stint, Dick feels Bugher is ready to take on the role after years of experience inside and outside of the beer industry.

“I’m very humbled and honored to be continuing the legacy and tradition of family ownership and leadership at Leinenkugel’s,” Bugher said. “It’s a massive honor and I’m very appreciative of the opportunity to be in this position. I’m also thrilled to have other family members around me who will help support me and what we aim to do. I

can always trust them and be able to lean on them and their ideas.”

Ever since his formative years of racing through the Leinenkugel’s brewery’s halls, Tony has had a passion for joining the family business, but he chose to forge his own path initially after graduating from college. He worked for a telecommunications company, TDS Telecom, for over 10 years, refining his sales, operations, and marketing skills until 2013. That year he joined the Molson Coors’ owned Leinenkugel’s team as its craft and import development manager for two years, before moving on to roles with more responsibility for the next six years.

Just before the onset of the pandemic in 2020, Dick and Tony began having discussions about Bugher taking over as president in a few years, an idea that made it clear that Tony’s long-term future was at the business his family founded. Currently, he works as part

of Leinenkugel’s brand marketing team, primarily leading the 155thanniversary appreciation tour with Dick across the country.

In addition to leading the appreciation tour, Tony oversees the new Leinie Lodge pilot brewery in Chippewa Falls, the new experimentation and testing grounds for the company’s new brews.

“Innovation is something that is in our DNA,” Bugher said.

“We’re a company that is rooted in innovation, so that means brewing new styles and coming up with new recipes. This new brewery, despite the fact that it’s a lot smaller than the big brewery across the bridge, we believe is going to deliver the next big thing that comes from Leinenkugel’s. It allows us to be more nimble, it allows us to be more flexible, we can make beer quicker here, so it’s a big deal and a big moment for us here at this brewery.”

While Tony’s rise within the Leinenkugel’s ranks has been a quick one, he knows that it takes more than just a capable president to make a company successful. He said having family values instilled from the start of the company, in particular by his grandfather Bill Leinenkugel, has been the key to the company’s success in addition to the fantastic distributors, retailers, and employees who have worked with the Chippewa Valley brand for over a century.

“He was such a pillar of our family, and such a great role model and leader,” Bugher said. “I learned from him the value of family and the importance of keeping family within this business. We’ve all held onto that really closely, and that’s a value I’ll continue to hold dear throughout my time with this company going forward.”

Tony Bugher will take over as president of Leinenkugel’s on Jan. 1, 2023.

You can find information on all of Leinenkugel’s tasty offerings at leinie.com.

"Innovation is something that is in our DNA.

– Tony Bugher

A FRESH FACE: Tony Bugher, second from right, has extensive experience inside and outside of the beer industry, beginning his career with TDS Telecom prior to joining the family business.

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Supported by: Mason Companies • Northwestern Bank • Leinie Lodge • Go Chippewa FallsBest O f CHIPPEWA FALLS

Best O f CHIPPEWA FALLS

STEPPING FORWARD

AFTER NEARLY 120 YEARS, MASON COMPANIES STILL DRAWS CUSTOMERS WITH SHOES AND MORE

words by TOM GIFFEY

Falls was born because of the logging industry, so it owes its existence to the trees and rivers of the Northwoods. But there would be no logging without loggers, and besides their saws, perhaps the most important equipment loggers had were their boots. Without a durable pair of boots, the hard work of a lumberjack wouldn’t be possible. Consequently, by the late 19th century there were at least 25 boot makers in Chippewa Falls.

Chippewa

In this footwear-rich environment was born what is now the Mason Companies, founded by Bert A. Mason and his father, August, in 1904. The family-owned company is still prospering in Chippewa Falls, and it’s in the midst of a sizable expansion. The ground was broken last year on a new 425,000-squarefoot fulfillment center in the Lake Wissota Business Park. A portion of the new building will be ready for the company to move into this summer, said President and CEO Jay Berlin.

“We really wanted to stay in our community,” Berlin said in an interview. “Chippewa Falls is our home, and has been since the beginning.”

And from the beginning, a sense of “reinvention and entrepreneurism” has been vital to the company, he said. Early in its history, Mason innovated by producing catalogs and sending hundreds of door-to-door salesman out to peddle its shoes. In the 1980s, it moved heavily into the mail-order business, and the company launched its first website in 1999. Since then, Mason has expanded beyond shoes into apparel, household goods, and beauty products, maintaining nine distinct retail brains, Berlin said.

“We do continue to grow, even during this COVID period,” he said. “It shows one of the strengths of the company: We are a diversified business.” In fact, the fiscal year that ended in 2021 set a record for

the company, and the growth has continued this year, Berlin said.

All that expansion necessitated the new facility, he said, explaining that it will ultimately encompass 925,000 square feet after additional phases are finished. And more space also means more workers: Mason employs more than 700 people, all of them based in Wisconsin and nearly all in the Chippewa Valley, where they are engaged and marketing, customer care, distribution, and more.

Mason offers something else special to the community, locals and visitors alike are drawn to downtown Chippewa Falls to the Mason Companies Shoe & Clothing Outlet Store, 301 N. Bridge St. The store –which is in the midst of upgrades that are expected to be finished by July 1 – carries apparel from the likes of North Face, Under Armor, and Columbia as well as shoes made by Mason Companies and other brands.

“We have a lot of people who travel from the Chicago area or the Twin Cities,” said Erin Copeland, who manages the store. “The reason is we are known as a different shoe store. We have the shoes that fit people who don’t have the perfect feet.”

Bus tours also stop at the retail outlet, bringing visitors who shop for deals in the front of the store as well as the backroom, which carries discontinued and seasonal merchandise.

After nearly 120 years, Mason is still family-owned, with the sixth generation of shareholders planning to attend a shareholders meeting that’s timed to coincide with the Northern Wisconsin State Fair.

Mason is also family-oriented, Berlin said, offering good benefits for employees and financial and volunteer support for the community, backing organizations such as the Boys & Girls Clubs, Agnes’ Table, Open Door Clinic, and the Family Support Center. “That’s a big part of who we are,” Berlin said.

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NOW AND THEN: Mason Companies has been a big part of Chippewa Falls since its founding in 1904.

Supported by: Mason Companies • Northwestern Bank • Leinie Lodge • Go Chippewa Falls

Best O f CHIPPEWA FALLS

CAN'T MISS CHIPPEWA FALLS EVENTS

by V1 STAFF

LEINIE LODGE FOOD TRUCKS Every Friday, Saturday until Oct. 8, noon-7pm • Leinen kugel's, 124 E. Elm St., Chippewa Falls • facebook.com/Leinenkugelsleinielodge Leinie's Lodge hosts food trucks from May through October, Fri & Sat. No event on 4/29 and 6/18.

CHIPPEWA FALLS SPRINGFEST Every Day from May. 20 to May. 21 • Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds, 225 Edward St., Chippewa Falls • $5 GA, +$12-15 for headliner concert or VIP package • springfestchippewafalls.com Springfest returns with headliner concerts, activities, food, and more. Get your tickets to Madison County on Friday and Boogie & the Yo-Yo's on Saturday. Fair food, kids activities, petting zoo, and more musical acts including Sue Orfield, The Monday's, Dave BeBeau, the Jim Phillips Project, The Cragar's.

NORTHWEST BEERFEST May. 21, 2-6pm • Chippewa Area Ice Arena - Outdoor Rink, 839 1st Ave., Chippewa Falls • $40 • 21+ • facebook.com Join us for our 14th Annual Northwest Beerfest supporting Chippewa Youth Hockey. 100's of beers, pizza, raffles and games!

PIONEERS AT THE FALLS: CHIPPEWA FALLS SAGA BALLADEER JERRY WAY May. 25, noon-3pm • The Heyde Center for the Arts, 3 South High St., Chippewa Falls • $27 per per son • All Ages • (715) 726-9000 • cvca@cvca. net • cvca.net The story of early Chippewa Falls is told in word, song, and projected visuals at the historic Heyde Center for the Arts by balladeer Jerry Way.

CHIPPEWA VALLEY CENTURY RIDE May. 29, 7am-6pm • Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds, 225 Edward St., Chippewa Falls • $45-65 adults, $10 youth • All Ages • cvcride. questions@gmail.com • cvcride.org CVCR bike ride that benefits local needs. Courses includes 35, 50, 75, or 100 mile on blacktop roads. Fully supported ride includes rest stops and brat meal.

MURDER MYSTERY DINNER AT DIXON'S

AUTUMN HARVEST WINERY

Jun. 2, 5-9pm • Dixon's Autumn Harvest Winery, 19947 County Hwy J, Chippewa Falls • $45/person (includes dinner+drink) • All Ages • (715) 7201663 • eventsatdah@gmail.com • autumnhar vestwinery.com Murder Mystery Dinner at the winery. Dress in your finest 30-40s attire. Provided by Back 40 Catering.

TEEING OFF FOR A CURE

Jun. 3, 3-8pm

•

Wissota Golf & Events, 16108 97th Ave, Chip pewa Falls • $75 single - $125 twosome • All Ages • (715) 726-2300 • office@chemceed.com • facebook.com/ChemceedStelterRelayForLife Team The ChemCeed Foundation is hosting Teeing Off for a Cure, a 9-hole golf scramble to benefit the American Cancer Society. There will be games, prizes and a dinner.

YOUTH FISHING EVENT Jun. 4, 9am-noon

• Lake Hallie Sportman's Club, 2910 109th St , Chippewa Falls • FREE • All Ages • (715) 828-5880 • jnlsback40@gmail.com • hallieopti mistclub.org/what-we-do.html Make sure kids know how much fun it can be to take a worm for a swim and maybe catch a fish. Thanks to local business donations, kids enjoy a hot dog lunch and may win a prize. Thrivent is a major sponsor.

KICK OFF TO SUMMER TEA PARTY Jun. 6, 1-3pm • Valley Art Gallery & Gifts, 304 N Bridge Street, Chippewa Falls • $7 adult + 1 child • Ages 4+ • (715) 226-1921 • kriscrowe@ aol.com • facebook.com Make and take a treasure box while you enjoy delicious refreshments and snacks.

CHIPPEWA FALLS FARMERS MARKET Every Thursday from Jun. 16 to Oct. 13, noon6pm • Allen Park, S. Bridge St., Chippewa Falls • All Ages • chippewafallsmainst.org/ farmers-market.html Locally grown fresh fruits, vegetables, baked goods, maple syrup, honey, meat, flowers, and more at the farm ers market in Chippewa Falls every Thurs day!. Grab lunch from vendors with ready-toeat foods and enjoy beautiful Riverfront Park across the street.

NORTHWOODS BLUES FESTIVAL Every Day from Jun. 17 to Jun. 18 • Riverfront Park, Bridge St. and River St., Chippewa Falls • northwoodsbluesfest.com Celebration of blues featuring local and regional acts.

LEINENKUGEL'S SUMMER KICK-OFF EVENT Jun. 18, 10am-6pm • Leinenkugel's, 124 E. Elm St., Chippewa Falls • $20 adv, $25 door Food trucks, live music by The Dweebs & Uncommon Denominator, outdoor games, vendors, and ice cold beer. Ticket includes 3 pints. Soda for under 21.

FARMER APPRECIATION DINNER Jun. 22, 4-8pm • Northern Wisconsin State Fair grounds, 225 Edward St., Chippewa Falls • $7 • nwsfa.com Grilled chicken dinner, kids activities, and live music.

COUNTRY FEST Every Day from Jun. 23 to Jun. 25 • Chippewa Valley Music Festivals, 24447 County Hwy S • GA, lawn seating, VIP, and campsite tickets available • countryfest. com An annual country musical festival featuring nationally touring acts. This year features headliners Jason Aldean, Florida Georgia Line, and Lee Brice.

NORTHERN WISCONSIN STATE FAIR Every Day from Jul. 12 to Jul. 17 • Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds, 225 Edward St., Chippewa Falls • Tickets online • (715) 723-2861 • nwsf@charterinternet.net • north ernwistatefair.com All the fun you love at the fairgrounds, from mainstage shows by big

acts like Rick Springfield, Neal McCoy, and Charlie Berens, to carnival rides, fair food, livestock exhibits, and so much more!

CLEAR WATER COMEDY PRESENTS: SEAN PATTON LIVE AT THE VIEW ON LAKE WISSOTA Jul. 13, 7:30-9:30pm • The View on Lake Wissota, 17779 County Hwy X, Chippewa Falls • $10 adv, $15 door • volumeonetickets. org Sean Patton is a comedian based in LA and NYC, by way of New Orleans. He's done stand-up at clubs and comedy festivals around the world. He's appeared on @mid night, Fallon, Conan, IFC's Maron, and has released a half hour Comedy Central special.

ROCK FEST Every Day from Jul. 14 to Jul. 16

• Music Festival Grounds, 24447 County Hwy S, Cadott • GA, reserved seating, campsites, VIP tickets available • rock-fest.com An annual festival of rock music. This year's headliners are Disturbed, Evanescence, and Shinedown.

DIXON'S AUTUMN HARVEST WINERY CUSTOMER APPRECIATION WEEKEND

W/ KYLE KOLIHA Jul. 24, 11am-6pm • Dixon's Autumn Harvest Winery, 19947 County Hwy J, Chippewa Falls • FREE • All Ages • (715) 7201663 • eventsatdah@gmail.com • facebook. com/autumnharvestwinery Live music from Kyle Koliha, beverages served by the winery, and a local food truck on site.

ONEFEST Every Day from Jul. 29 to Jul. 31 • Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds, 225 Edward St., Chippewa Falls • one-fest.com/ home The area's annual Christian music festival, featuring Crowder, Matthew West, Sidewalk Prophets, Mac Powell, Maddie Rey, Tasha Layton, Eagle Brook Music, Austin French, and Tru-Serva.

INDIANHEAD CAR SHOW & SWAP MEET Aug. 7, 7am-4pm • Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds, 225 Edward St., Chippewa Falls • $5/person, $2 parking • nwsfa.com 700+ antique, collector, custom cars, trucks, motor cycles, and more, 1985 and older. Camping, food, and refreshments.

PURE WATER DAYS PARADE & RIVER

FEST Aug. 13, 1pm • Downtown Chippewa Falls • chippewafallsmainst.org The annual downtown Chippewa falls parade at 1pm fea tures 70+ parade entries. At 2pm, Riverfest features food trucks, beer tent, live music, inflatables, crafts vendors, and more.

OKTOBERFEST Every Day from Sep. 16 to Sep. 17, 11am-11pm • Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds, 225 Edward St., Chippewa Falls • gochippewacounty.com/event/oktober fest/ Family friendly celebration of German heritage. New kids activities, Glockenspiel acts, competitions (stein holding, sauerkraut eating, and keg rolling), plenty of authentic food and drink, dancing, entertainment, ven dors, Golden Keg procession, and more.

CHIPPEWA VALLEY QUILT SHOW Every Day from Oct. 1 to Oct. 2, 9am-4pm • Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds, 225 Edward St., Chippewa Falls • $5, free parking • nwsfa. com Featuring 15 vendors: quilt shops, long arm quilters, wool designs, quilt woodworking, and more. Food vendors, gift boutique, dem onstrations, and door prizes.

Supported by: Mason Companies • Northwestern Bank • Leinie Lodge • Go Chippewa Falls Best O f CHIPPEWA FALLS

HIP IN CHIP

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ATTRACTIONS

CABIN RIDGE RIDES 4271 220th St., Cadott • (715) 723-9537 • cabinridgerides.com Offering wagon and sleigh rides through beautiful woodland scenery for groups of all sizes. Gatherings of 16 or more can enjoy bonfires, picnics, and meals in the woods. Two pavilions allow groups to sit around a bonfire to toast marshmallows and sip hot chocolate. (Hot dogs and potato chips optional.) Private cabin and lodge parties avail able, along with a wide range of catered meals.

ROSE & LILY GARDENS 1 Bridgewater Avenue, Chippewa Falls See nature’s beauty of over 500 roses, teas, floribunda, grandifloras, miniatures and climbers.

CHIPPEWA MORAINE INTERPRETIVE CENTER Tuesday through Sunday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. • 13394 County Hwy M, New Auburn • (715) 967-2800 • dnr.wi.gov Exhibits and videos explain the glacial history of the region. Live and stuffed native animals are also on display. Visitors can also hold a snake, pet a turtle, dig for fossils, or snowshoe. Part of the Chippewa Moraine Ice Age State Recreation Area - FREE (but dona tions welcomed).

LAKE WISSOTA STATE PARK 18127 Cty. Hwy. O, Chip pewa Falls • (715) 382-4574 • This 1,062 acre park combines pine and hardwood forests, lake, prairie, and marshland. Visitors to the park will enjoy the scenery, and if you’re a bird watcher, you can find up to 200 different avian species throughout the year.

CHIPPEWA AREA HISTORY CENTER 123 Allen St., Chippewa Falls • (715) 723-4399 • Tour a 50-room museum and research local history in the exten sive library. Exhibits include Rutledge history, Native Americans, Children’s, music, prohibi tion, logging, railroad, tools & home appliances, nuns, civil war, military history, and more.

CHIPPEWA COUNTY GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY 123 Allen St., Chippewa Falls • (715) 723-4399 • The Chip pewa County Genealogical Society provides education and assistance to those who are trac ing their family roots; to collect and maintain genealogical and historical materials; and to provide access to all materials and educational programs for members and the general public.

CHIPPEWA FALLS MUSEUM OF INDUSTRY AND TECHNOL OGY Appointment Only • 21 E. Grand Ave., Chip pewa Falls • (715) 720-9206 • info.cfmit@gmail. com • cfmit.org The museum was an idea that sprang from local citizens who wanted to record and preserve the history of important, unique and ground breaking innovations in industry and technology that were developed right here in the Chippewa Valley. It opened in May 1998 and now has a variety of exhibits that include the Seymour Cray Supercomputer Collection, Leinenkugel’s, Mason Companies Inc., and other area historic exhibits.

COOK-RUTLEDGE MANSION One tour at 2pm Thursday-Sunday, June-August; group tours available throughout the year: call for details • 505 W. Grand Ave., Chippewa Falls • (715) 723-7181 • info@cookrutledgemansion.com • CookRutledgeMansion.com The Cook-Rutledge Mansion, listed in the National Register of Historic Places, is one of the finest examples of High Victorian-Italianate architecture in the Midwest. Extraordinary hand-painted ceilings and walls, ornately carved woodwork, parquet floors, handcrafted silver doorknobs and hinge plates, and crystal chandeliers enhance the beauty of the interior. The grand staircase of carved golden oak provides an elegant setting for the cathedral stained glass window on the landing- Adults $5, 18 and under $1.

JAMES SHEELEY HOUSE 236 W River St, Chippewa Falls • (715) 726-0561 • The James Sheeley House is a local hot-spot for supernatural

explorers and ghost hunters. Built in the 1860s, is allegedly haunted by the spirits of its original owners. Currently operates as restaurant serv ing up-scale dining in a historical setting.

LEINENKUGEL'S BREWERY TOUR Tours Every Half Hour - Monday-Thursday & Sat; 9:30am-4pm, Friday; 9:30-6:30, Sunday; 11:30-3 • 124 E. Elm St., Chippewa Falls • (888) 534-6437 • leinielo dge@leinenkugels.com • leinie.com Tours and beer tastings cost $5 for those 21 and older and includes a souvenir glass. A portion of our sales will be donated to water conservation efforts for Little Lake Wissota, our hometown lake.

RAY'S BEACH 18124 County Highway X, Chip pewa Falls • Located on the south side of Lake Wissota off of County Highway X, this newly developed beach provides a sandy beach, picnic areas, restrooms and is handicap accessible.

SKOOLZ BAY Lake Wissota, Chippewa Falls • Skoolz Bay, also known as Moon Bay, is located on Lake Wissota. It is a popular spot for families who are looking for a dual purpose location to unload a small group to play on the beach while the rest of your crew wake boards and wake surfs. It is located just south of where the Yellow River merges into Lake Wissota.

WISCONSIN CANOE HERITAGE MUSEUM 312 N. Front Street, Spooner • (715) 635-5002, 715-635-2479 • info@wisconsincanoeheritagemuseum.org • wisconsincanoeheritagemuseum.org • Featuring displays comprised of canoes and canoe related ephemera, plus a 2500 square foot canoe shop.

IRVINE PARK ZOO Open daily year-round from dawn until dusk. Petting zoo open Memorial DayLabor Day, daily 10am-6pm. Christmas Village open Thanksgiving Day to New Years Day from 7am to 9pm • Bridgewater Ave., Chippewa Falls • (715) 723-0051 • Info@irvineparkzoo.org The mis sion of this park is to foster public support for the animals of the Irvine Park Zoo by: educating the public about their preservation, creating a positive environment for the interaction of humans and animals, and to provide funding for the animals’ living quarters.

CAMPGROUNDS

BRUNET ISLAND STATE PARK 23125 255th St., Cornell • (715) 239-6888 • dnr.wi.gov Quiet lagoons and channels, perfect for fishing, canoeing, swimming, or just watching wildlife (the park is well-known for its roaming deer population). Check out the Old Abe State Trail, a 20-mile abandoned railroad grade that connects Brunet Island with Lake Wissota State Park.

CHIPPEWA MORAINE STATE REC. AREA 13394 Cty Hwy M, New Auburn • (715) 967-2800 • dnr. wi.gov Situated along the Ice Age National Scenic Trail, the 3180-acre Chippewa Moraine State Recreation Area offers unspoiled beauty with kettle lakes and many glacial features. The Chippewa Moraine is one of nine units of the Ice Age National Scientific Reserve.

COON FORK LAKE COUNTY PARK - CAMPGROUND E 25501 County Road CF, Augusta • (715) 8394738 Located 30 miles from Eau Claire, this serene campsite has a boat landing and rental, picnic shelter, swimming beach, volleyball court, playground, hiking trails, and more. Makes for a quiet weekend getaway.

COUNTRY VILLA MOTEL AND COUNTRY CAMPING 10765 County Hwy Q, Chippewa Falls • (715) 288-6376 • countryvillamotelandcamping.com 34 sites

DUNCAN CREEK CAMPGROUND 12528 102nd Ave., Chippewa Falls • travelwisconsin.com 35 sites. Spacious campsites, electrical hook-ups, play grounds, fishing in Duncan Creek, canoe access, nestled in the large deciduous & coniferous trees.

HARSTAD COUNTY PARK - CAMPING County Road HHH, Augusta • (715) 839-4738 • co.eau-claire. wi.us This 43 acre park has 27 quiet and rustic campsites and no electricity or running water. The campsites overlook the Eau Claire river, and fishing and canoeing are popular past times at the beach. A large open shelter and ball field can be reserved.

LAKE CHIPPEWA CAMPGROUND 8380N County CC, Hayward • (715) 462-3672

LAKE WISSOTA STATE PARK - CAMPING 18127 County Highway O , Chippewa Falls • (715) 382-4574 • chippewacounty.com/maps/wissota.asp More than 1,000 acres of forest and open prairie on a 6,300-acre man-made lake. Secluded campsites, hiking, biking and horseback riding trails, picnic and playground areas and a 285-foot swimming beach. Boating, canoeing, kayaking and water skiing are popular summer activities on Lake Wissota.

LOON LAKE CAMPGROUNDS 10279 280th Ave., New Auburn • (715) 967-2148 • loonlake-campground. com 13 sites. If you are looking for a place for you and your family to enjoy the summer, look no further. This campground is tucked away on quiet Loon Lake in New Auburn, Wisconsin. The perfect lake for paddle boats, canoeing, and kayaking.

O'NEIL CREEK CAMPGROUND 14912 105th Ave, Chip pewa Falls • (715) 723-6581 • office@oneilcreek. com • oneilcreek.com Come to camp, fish, or just relax. They’ve got playgrounds, mini golf, snack bar, swimming beach, arcade, gathering areas, train rides and more activities. Facilities include showers, laundry, water & electric, and other amenities.

OTTER LAKE COUNTY PARK 35309 170th Ave, Stanley • (715) 726-7882 • reservations.co.chippewa. wi.us It has 22 well-spaced campsites, a playground, picnicking, swimming and a boat landing. The shoreline of much of Otter Lake is undeveloped and provides an attractive, wilderness-type setting. Central location for water, electricity available on all sites and pit toilets. No showers or dump station.

PINE HARBOR CAMPGROUND 7181 185th St., Chip pewa Falls • (715) 723-9865 • pineharborcamp ground.com Offering organized activities such as Christmas in July, Halloween, Bingo, Pancake Breakfasts, and more. Clean flush toilets, show ers, and laundry facilities. Two play grounds: one age 5 and under, one for age 5+. Pet friendly (on a leash). Hiking and biking trails. Free wire less internet.

ROCK LAKE LODGE & CAMPGROUND 23015 153rd St., Bloomer • (715) 568-4370 • facebook.com Go swimming in the heated, outdoor pool, play in the game room, take a walk and see elk and peacocks, go fishing on Rock Lake, bring your ATV’s/snowmobiles, and ride the trail or just relax around the campfire or at the lodge. The lodge has a full bar with homemade pizzas and sandwiches.

SANDY HILL CAMPGROUND E21100 ND Road, Augus ta • (715) 286-2495 • augustawi.com 32 sites. A very clean and peaceful spot for family camping.

HIKING & BIKING TRAILS

CHIPPEWA COUNTY RIVERVIEW RESERVE TRAIL Trails go through woods and meadows. Some pass by small ponds as well as Lake Wissota. Take Hwy 178 north to Wissota Green Blvd (east of St. Joseph’s Hospital) and then on Beach Drive. There is a small parking lot near the trailhead. Parking also available near the Chippewa River bridge on 178.

CADOTT SCHOOL FOREST Several loops go through

woods past two creeks and a covered bridge as well. From Hwy 29, take the Cty Rd X exit and drive to Cty Rd XX. Head north to 80th Street. Head east for 1 ½ miles and look for a gravel dead-end road. You might have to park at the gate and walk into the educational building area. Otherwise, there is parking at the build ing.

CHIPPEWA RIVER STATE TRAIL This former railroad corridor parallels the Chippewa River and including river bottoms, prairies, sandstone bluffs, wetlands, and more. Trailruns from Phoenix Park in Eau Claire to Caryville. Joins the Red Cedar Trail in the Dunnville Bottoms near the confluence of the Red Cedar and Chip pewa rivers.

DEER FLY TRAIL A hiking trail located in the County Forest in Northern Chippewa County. From the north, the trail entrance is located two miles west of junction of County Roads M and E.

DUNCAN CREEK PARKWAY TRAIL 5 miles - This trail winds through the city of Chippewa Falls. Trail begins at the parking lot off 225th Avenue. Ideal for biking, hiking, and inline skating. Connects to Old Abe State Trail.

EVERGREEN SKI TRAIL 2.2 miles of trail loops are open for hikers in the spring, summer, and fall. The westernmost trail follows Coon Fork Creek. $3 fee. Located 5 miles north of Augusta on Cty Rd CF (across the road from Coon Forks County Park). Park at a small dirt lot.

HICKORY RIDGE TRAIL 9 miles - This trail winds through the quiet and scenic oak and aspen forest. It consists of three challenging loops. Located in northern Chippewa County in the County Forest - the trail begins in a parking lot off of 225th Ave.

IRVINE PARK TRAIL Bridgewater Ave., Chippewa Falls • chippewafalls-wi.gov Woods trails above the zoo area double as ski trails. Loop back down and visit the zoo afterwards. Trails also go past Glen Loch Lake. Trails can also be ac cessed from small parking lot on Cty Rd S or on the parking lot above the zoo off Erma-Tinger Drive.

KEMPER'S WOODS A few trail loops go through a small woods surrounded by farmland. From Business 29, drive south on Chippewa Crossing Blvd and turn left on Stilson (50th Ave) past the dog park, over Hwy 29, and look for a small loop-shaped parking lot on the right side of the road.

LAFAYETTE TOWN HALL TRAIL A short loop goes through woods. The trail overlooks Paint Creek. From Cty Road X south of Lake Wissota, turn south on 197th Street to the Lafayette Town Hall. Park near the food stand at the ball fields and walk through the brush site area to find the somewhat-hidden trailhead.

LAKE WISSOTA STATE PARK 18127 County Hwy 0, Chippewa Falls Several trail options go through woods, meadows, lowlands, marshes, and Lake Wissota’s shoreline. Many double as ski trails. Bikes are permitted on all but 3 trails. One-mile Beaver Meadow nature trail loop for families with small children. Scenic lake trail is also a highlight. Daily and annual state park vehicle admission passes vary in price. Located on the northeast section of Lake Wissota.

OLD ABE TRAIL 711 North Bridge Street, Chippewa Falls Popular bike trail goes from Chippewa Falls to Cornell. One scenic spot is just north of Jim Falls where the trail follows the Chippewa River on one side and small fields and ponds (some full of turtles) on the other. Head north of Chippewa Falls on Hwy 178 to the Jim Falls exit. In town, there is a trailhead sign with a parking lot. Walk north through town before getting to the scenic spots.

in Augusta just off Hwy 12/27 on Stone St. 21 miles - Approximately 21 miles roundtrip with alternate loops. Mostly easy but a few steep hills. It’s a scenic route that follows along a lightly traveled road and is perfect for a family bicycle outing. Available year round and no pass is required.

LOCAL MARKETS

KLINGER FARM MARKET 12756 132nd St., Chippewa Falls • (715) 288-6348 • klingerfarmmarket@ yahoo.com • klingerfarmmarket.biz In addition to 18 greenhouses full of flowers, vegetable plants, herbs, shrubs, trees, hanging baskets, water plants, and house plants, Klinger offers a swath of freshly grown produce, home and garden ornaments, bird baths, jams, honeys, and organic gardening products. They are open year round.

SOKUP'S MARKET 624 N Bridge St., Chippewa Falls • (715) 723-4953 • facebook.com Located in Downtown Chippewa Falls. Fresh meat, cheese & produce. The best prices around for great quality. Family owned and operated for over 100 years.

WISSOTA MEAT MARKET 17183 50th Avenue, Chip pewa Falls • Locally owned full-service meat market with meat, deli and seafood. Carries locally raised beef and pork weekly.

YELLOWSTONE CHEESE 24105 County Highway MM, Cadott • yellowstonecheese.com Yellowstone Cheese offers homemade cheeses, wine, jams & jellies, mustards, maple syrup, gifts, taken-bake pizzas, and so much more. They pride themselves on using milk from the Kenealy farm to create the over 30 flavors of cheese.

BREWERIES, WINERIES, & DISTILLERIES

AUTUMN HARVEST WINERY & ORCHARD Open MayOctober • 19947 Cty Hwy J, Chippewa Falls • (715) 720-1663 • winer@autumnharvestwinery. com • autumnharvestwinery.com Produces 13 varieties of wine including many wines using fruit from their orchard, and a hard cider. En

joy complimentary wine tasting, sample local cheeses and chocolates, relax on the outdoor patio seating, or peruse the gift shop.

CHIPPEWA RIVER DISTILLERY & BREWSTER BROS. BREWING CO. 402 W River St, Chippewa Falls • (715) 861-5100 • chippewariverdistillery.com A brewery and distillery in Chippewa Falls with a gorgeous taproom/bar and regular visits from area food trucks. Customers are also able to bring food in or order food there. Check out their rotating selection of award-winning deli cious beers and high-quality spirits.

JACOB LEINENKUGEL BREWING COMPANY 124 E. Elm St., Chippewa Falls • 888-534-6437 • leini elodge@leinenkugels.com • leinie.com Brewing since 1867, Leinenkugel’s is one of America’s oldest craft breweries, boasting a portfolio of several distinctive, flavorful beers inspired by its natural Northwoods surroundings. The brand has put Chippewa Falls on the map for their adventurous array of full-flavored brews in small, high-quality batches.

MUNSON BRIDGE WINERY W6462 Bridge Rd., Withee • (715) 229-4501 • munsonbridgewinery. com Offering a large variety of fruit wines including raspberry wine, elderberry wine, boysenberry wine, plum wine, blackberry wine, crabapple wine, cranberry wine, maple syrup Wine as well as many other seasonal favorites.

O'NEIL CREEK WINERY Open May-December • 15369 82nd St., Bloomer • (715) 568-2341 • oneilcree kwinery.com O’Neil Creek Winery was built in the heart of the Chippewa Valley by Joe and Dorinda Wynimko featuring an assortment of fruit wines that are crisp and refreshing. Come and enjoy the scenery along with the relaxing atmosphere on our patio while you have a glass of wine.

RIVER BEND WINERY & DISTILLERY 10439 33rd Ave., Chippewa Falls • (715) 720-WINE • river bendvineyard.com Visitors to the Tasting Room enjoy complimentary samples and may pur chase wine by the glass or by the bottle. Gour met foods, gifts and accessories for the wine enthusiast are also available. Attendees enjoy the view from a comfortable patio overlooking the vines. Riverbend’s debut line of Craftsman spirits are hand-made in small batches in an on-site, “grain-to-glass” distillery.

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