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january 2016 | TheSevenSpot.com ISSUE
#7
Warm Up at the Chili Slam
BBBB Keeps on Giving
Beating Diabetes
Chase Schilling’s Lovin’ Life
Mid West Music Store Winona’s New Hot Spot
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SEVEN | Issue #7 | January, 2016
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Inside
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PUB INFO
6 Urbanist 7 (Almost) Famous Locals
About SEVEN explores the dynamic community, culture and arts world of the Seven Rivers Region. Contact
8 The Arts
Phone: 608-780-3853 Email: contact@thesevenspot.com Mail: PO Box 762, Onalaska, WI 54650
14 Entertainment
Web: TheSevenSpot.com
18
Facebook: TheSevenSpot
16 Sip n’ Taste
Twitter: @thesevenspot NEW! Instagram: thesevenspot
18 Limelight
Support Advertising sustains the celebration of musicians, festivals, thespians, artists, and the vibrant community that calls the Seven Rivers Region home.
21 Business
Phone: 608-780-3853 Email: michelle@thesevenspot.com
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24 Fitness 27 Listings 29 Volunteer Listings
A note
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30 Writer’s Block
This publication is printed monthly by Humble Mountain Press, LLC and distributed throughout the Seven Rivers Region. Readers are encouraged to verify event information with organizations and businesses directly. Humble Mountain Press, LLC does not necessarily endorse the claims or contents of advertising or editorial materials. Though SEVEN is free, please take just one copy. Anyone removing papers in bulk from our distribution points will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law. Copyright 2016 by Humble Mountain Press, LLC. All rights reserved. All material, including artwork, advertisements, and editorial, may not be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher.
from the publisher Wow! The seventh issue of SEVEN! I’ve seen so many inspiring people and their stories shared across these first few months’ pages. Next month will focus on a handful of locals that you nominated for the People of SEVEN issue. It was exciting to see so many new names and familiar heroes nominated. My hope is that our community will continue to share ideas with SEVEN. There is so much to learn about and grow from throughout the Seven Rivers Region. These pages are yours; reach out to share your story. We’ll keep spreading the love you send!
TheSevenSpot.com
Michelle L. Jerome
On the Cover Cover Photo: Bob Good, “Christmastime on Main” “La Crosse is an amazing city. I’m fortunate enough to live downtown and have ready access to a rich abundance of people, events, artists, scenes and architecture to photograph. I capture subjects from a unique perspective and utilize editing software to highlight just how awesome the subject in the photo is. I will never run out of material.” Bob Good Photography prints by Bob Good now available for purchase at Deaf Ear and Root Note in La Crosse, Wis.
Joseph O’Brien Writer
Briana Rupel Writer
Michael Scott Writer
Theresa Smerud Photographer
Lee Walraven Writer
Brett Werner Writer
Jess Witkins Writer
Todd Wohlert Writer & Calendar Editor
Deborah Nerud Associate Editor & Writer
A.J. Moore Writer
Andrew Londre Writer
Jason Keeney Crew Chief & Graphic Designer
Michelle L. Jerome Crew Captain
Joe Hart Writer
Bob Good Photographer
Parker Forsell Writer
Dahli Durley Photographer
Tegan Daly Writer
Leah Call Copy Editor & Writer
Heidi Griminger Blanke, Ph.D Writer
The CREW
The local talent dedicated to bringing you a fresh look at our region.
URBANIST
By: Andrew Londre
La Crosse is SOUPer!
F
or about eight months, I have had the privilege of organizing La Crosse SOUP, which has served as a vehicle for community change in ways and on a scale I never could have imagined when I first pitched the idea to a few friends at Bodega. I cannot take credit for the idea of SOUP or for the way it has blossomed in La Crosse, I am merely the face of the organization, the grunt-worker and the chief cheerleader of the group. I am not SOUP. Everyone is SOUP. So when I say “SOUP did this” or “SOUP did that,” I am really saying, “the La Crosse Community” did this or that. So, as I am the chief cheerleader of La Crosse SOUP and as it is the first month of a new year, I want to recap what SOUP achieved in 2015 and let you know how we are kick-starting 2016 to be even bigger and better than last year!
2015 Recap
What’s Next?
SOUPer People 100 participants at the first SOUP Night at the Root Note 435 participants at the last SOUP Night at the Root Note
The First Ever SOUP SUMMIT! On Saturday, January 30, 2016, we will kick off LAXSOUP2016 with the first ever SOUP Summit: a day-long celebration of La Crosse, a day of exploration, inspiration, fun and action. Together we will spend the day celebrating and connecting with local urban innovators, fun-pushers and doers. We will prepare ourselves for an even bigger year of SOUP in 2016, and we will hear from urban pioneers flying in from places such as Austin-TX, Boston-MA, Milwaukee-WI, and Phoenix-AZ to share their stories and to hear yours. Then we party.
SOUPer Projects Eight civic projects received funding ranging from $500 to $2,600+: Riverside Bike Repair Station, specialized bikes for special needs children and adults, a surprise wedding for a homeless couple, a parking lot to public green space conversion, cleaning up a disgusting alley and adding bright and new lighting, and adding technology to local trail networks to enhance user experiences. $10,000 Kickstarter for 10 student-led projects We smashed through our $10,000 goal and raised over $11,000 to fund 10 awesome projects that will be installed/initiated in 2016. Non-winning projects still happened Most of the projects that did not win when they were originally pitched still happened—in large part because of the exposure they gained through SOUP. Intangible results The intangible things we achieve are just as important as the money SOUP raises for the projects pitched each month. Those intangibles include: bringing together creative communities, offering a forum for critical and accessible discussion about important topics, generating pride in our community and having a heck of a lot of fun every month!
GO:
January 30, 2016
For tickets and info, visit Facebook: www.facebook.com/LaCrosseSOUP
Your community. Your Do-Good Movement. SOUP has been an overwhelming force for community good—because of you. You have made it what it is today, so here’s to hoping you’ll keep growing this thing in 2016. We look forward to seeing you at the SOUP Summit on January 30 and at an upcoming SOUP Night! SEVEN Magazine is the proud media sponsor of La Crosse SOUP.
Andrew Londre wears many hats-currently serving on eight local, regional and national boards, with a focus on neighborhoods and urban revitalization. Andrew started a number of new organizations and initiatives-most recently La Crosse SOUP-and has worked in many sectors: government, nonprofit, cooperatives and small businesses. In 2014, he was honored as a NextCity Vanguard.
SEVEN | Issue #7 | January, 2016
Have feedback? Share your thoughts on the Urbanist with the SEVEN Facebook page: www.Facebook.com/TheSevenSpot.
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FAMOUS LOCALS
HARRISON POLLACK
E
very morning at 4:45 a.m., Harrison Pollack looks in the bathroom mirror and sees (in reverse) a brief motivational speech tattooed across his chest: Complacency Kills. “That’s my mantra,” he says. “Every morning there is a friendly reminder as to what today’s dedication is going to be. That’s how I push myself.” He pushes his clients, too. Eschewing the matrix of machine-based fitness regimens, Pollack, a La Crosse area personal trainer, uses the body’s natural movements to squeeze the best out of himself—and others. “Anyone can make you sweat,” he says. “I want to make sure you’re
conducting your movements in a way that’s going to benefit your musculature and joints.” Packing his calendar with clients, fitness classes, personal workouts and an avocation for fine wines (in moderation, of course), Pollack recently slowed down for SEVEN long enough to explain his love of motion. “There’s always a new adventure to get the body moving,” he says. “Just recently I picked up cycling, and naturally I progressed into the mountain biking realm. If I find myself getting bored with something, I’ll try something new. Anything to keep me up and moving.” While attending Winona State
University for a bachelor’s in human kinetics (the science of human movement), Pollack wanted to be a physical therapist. Then he realized the more proactive potential for growth in personal fitness. “I enjoyed the classes at Winona,” he says, “especially the portions of the classes that were interactive, where I was in the gym, doing hands-on work, practicing maneuvers and exercises with other classmates.” Graduating in 2012, Pollack came back to his hometown to put his ideas into motion—literally—as a personal trainer, most recently at Studio 16. “The human body was made to move; but due to modern day conveniences, we have become sedentary,” he says. “Fitness is more than weight lifting; it’s the combined movements of all we do on a day-to-day basis.” Fitness has been Pollack’s passion since childhood, and it runs in the family. During summers in high school, he worked with his mother Bernice Pollack, a physical therapist and personal trainer at the La Crosse YMCA. “That would lay the foundation for what I wanted my work environment to look like,” he says. “You get that automatic energy when people come to better themselves. So you get to be part of their journey. It’s rewarding in itself.”
Article By: Joseph O’Brien Photos: Theresa Smerud
Harrison Pollack in Twelve Movements
1. Back squat (1 rep max): 385 lbs. 2. Dead lift (1 rep max): 415 lbs.
3. Bench press (1 rep max): 285 lbs. 4. Best mile time: 5:57
5. Best 5k time (unofficial): 19:34 6. Box jump (vertical): 51 inches 7. Longest plank: 11:23
8. Most push-ups done in succession: 78 9. Favorite place to run: Hixon Forest
10. Fastest climb up Vista (mountain bike - unofficial): 15:55 11. Favorite wine/food pairing: A nice Tawny Port with chocolate in any form. 12. Last non-fitness accomplishment: Navigating Peru for two weeks utilizing remnants of high school Spanish. Joseph O’Brien lives with his wife Cecilia and their nine children on their Soldiers Grove farmstead. He is staff writer and poetry editor of the San Diego Reader and was a regular contributor to the late great Kickapoo Free Press.
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SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |
(Almost)
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THE ARTS THE 10 LETTERS PROJECT CATHERINE GLYNN By: Michael Scott
Article: Deborah Nerud The 10 Letters Project is a correspondence between makers. Based on the emails between two friends, Jen Lee and Tim Manley, they chronicled the process of creative work and what it means to be in the thick of it. Lee was touring with her documentary, Indie Kindred. Manley had just released his debut book, Alice in Tumblr-land. Across cities and sometimes states, despite loaded schedules and obligations, they wrote to one another. What transpired, was an archive of inspiration and intimacy. Two makers, inviting one another into their worlds. Here in the Seven Rivers Region, writers and makers Deborah Nerud and Jess Witkins recreate the project. One new letter printed over the course of each month for 10 months. Neither of them seeing it before you do. Watch what unfolds. To learn more about the project, visit www.10lettersproject.com. December 20, 2015 Dear Jess,
SEVEN | Issue #7 | January, 2016
photo: Contributed
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“Go your own way,” says actress, writer and dancer Catherine Glynn. “Look for opportunities to find your voice artistically, but avoid financial burdens in your discovery as much as possible.” Glynn, a native Minnesotan, has traveled the globe and made her living performing, writing and teaching to return to her home state to offer this sage advice. She and her husband, actor Jeremy van Meter, now reside in Lanesboro, Minn., and it is here she will unveil her latest one-woman show, “Miss Myrna Davenport’s Poetry in Motion,” at the St. Mane Theatre this winter. It is the story of a renegade substitute English teacher who uses all artistic faculties to reach and inspire her students. The inspiration for the play came from a multitude of directions, including the one-woman play by William Luce, “The Belle of Amherst,” and several female members of her family including her mother, her aunt and her sister. This inspiration caught the attention of the Southeastern Minnesota Arts Council, which proudly supplied a generous grant to make this show possible. It is directed by Lee Gundersheimer, the managing director of the Great River Shakespeare Festival in Winona, Minn. Catherine Glynn holds two MFAs, one from the University of Texas in Austin and one from the University of Delaware’s Professional Theatre Training Program. She has traveled to the Federated States of Micronesia with the Peace Corps, spent nine years performing in Chicago and has travelled the country in a multitude of Shakespeare and Fringe festivals. While Glynn and her husband resided in Chicago, an old college roommate wanted to sell a house in Lanesboro. Lucky for us, they made the leap. Living in a rural community fits Glynn’s philosophy of art coming from anyone and anywhere. For us in the Coulee Region, a trip to Lanesboro, which is less than an hour’s drive from La Crosse, makes for a perfect winter getaway. Named one of the Best Small Art Towns in America by author John Villani, this small town (population 754) packs a powerful artistic punch and holds the title of the Bed and Breakfast Capital of Minnesota. Make plans to spend some time with performing artist Catherine Glynn in the charming town of Lanesboro, where leisure, art and talent are built into the scenery. “Miss Myrna Davenport’s Poetry in Motion” runs January 30 and February 5 at 7:30 p.m. and February 7 at 1:30 p.m. For more information about this and other events happening at the St. Mane Theatre, go to www.LanesboroArts.org. Michael Scott is a freelance writer and advertising copywriter. He is the creator and voice talent for Rose Jewelers “Rose Files” radio campaign and the host of The Old School Variety Show.
er
Lett
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When is a thought considered successful—when it is shared and repeated to the masses or when it is kept safe in a dusty tome in some forgotten library? I think our generation would suggest that a thought has won its way into the canon once it becomes a copy/paste meme for the Interwebs, shared 1.6 million times (only to be forgotten once the next catchy quip takes hold, of course). For those of us born somewhere between the baby boomers and the millennials, I’ve always equated a successful saying with t-shirts and bumper stickers. So, as a believer in bumper stickers, I’m always on the lookout for a new piece of advice/thought/idea. My friend Mike Baker (we featured him in our “Almost Famous Locals” section a few issues back) has a sticker that stood out. Upon reading it (or not reading it, as I didn’t know how to pronounce the word), I asked him what it meant. “Hygge? Oh, this—all of this!” Mike pronounced, waving his mittened paws at the bikes and riders who gathered on a chilly October day to purchase a beautiful, handmade bowl from Generous Earth and a bottomless cup of soup, with all proceeds going to charity. According to visitdenmark.com, loosely translated, the Danish word hygge (pronounced ‘hoo-gah’) means creating a warm atmosphere and enjoying the good things in life with good people; the highlight season for ultimate hygge being winter, when light is scarce, and the urge to hibernate is real. I love that you mentioned this in your last letter. I love that you want to complain about the weather and feel like you shouldn’t—or at least, you should do it in the company of others, possibly with a mug of gløgg in your mittened hands. And I love that you are the witness of puffer jackets. All very hygge. Hygge in Denmark seems to be a way of life—something that does not need a bumper sticker or a t-shirt to encourage its meaning—but how do we attain that in the U.S.? Mike Baker, who eats/drinks/bikes hygge, or my friend of the Knotty Bug, who understands the TRUE value of amazing yarn (she once crocheted two mini-Yodas for my kids) and a really good cup of tea, get it. I’m pretty sure hygge is specific for each individual (I think it’s curled up in bed with my kids and a well-worn copy of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone), but I want to imagine a world where hygge is the norm, where we guide each other through this dark season as co-beacons of spring—lighthouses that advertise a safe passage through a few months that often bring more despair than joy. In The Wasteland, T.S. Eliot stated that ‘April is the cruelest month’. For me, there is nothing as foul as February. For me, the time when I will need safe passage—my hygge lighthouse, if you will—is during those 29 days (leap year, schmeap year). I will look to you, dear Jess, to be my hygge beacon, and remind me that in our craft as writers, we can follow a few letters toward a beautiful spring. What bumper sticker will you make? What’s the phrase that keeps you going? All my very best, Deborah Deborah Nerud is a ukulele-playing mama-of-two/writer/gardener/pie baker/cyclist/runner/ performer with work published in Coulee Region Women and Coulee Parenting Connection. A firm believer in the emotional power of pen and paper, she still loves sending (and receiving) letters via USPS and will happily send you a note in the mail.
city of Madison for a quiet farmhouse somewhere on the map between Coon Valley and Westby, pushing the proverbial reset button in order to redefine her goals as an artist. “In the past year, my life has done a 180,” she acknowledges. “I love living in the city—in the middle of all of the chaos—but it also makes it really hard to retreat and write things that are close to your heart.”
An Unconventional Star
Article: Briana Rupel Photos: Bob Good
A
conventional story of Annabel Lee’s genesis as an established singer-songwriter might read like this: Young girl grows up surrounded by a wide range of musical influences, always knowing in her heart she would one day be a performer. Young woman shies away from the stage, until one day with a little encouragement from a friend (and a drink), she swoops in on an open mic session at a tavern in her native La Crosse and finally finds her happy place. Confident woman packs her bags and moves to a bigger city to pursue her dream of being a star. Only Annabel Lee is anything but conventional. And if you’ve ever heard her rich, sultry and sometimes playful voice cascading from the stage, you won’t find it hard to believe her version of how she came to be; that she was born a celestial prophet made of stars who “fell from the sky and landed on the banks of the Mighty Mississippi.” Though her bio reads partly in jest, it’s still a fair depiction. After all, her performances aren’t far from feeling other-worldly. She’ll have an entire crowd grooving on their feet, only to move the same people to tears in the next breath
with her soulful a cappella. It’s this kind of artistry that quickly beamed her up from the banks of the Mississippi to the top of the Madison music scene. In 2014 alone, she swept the Madison Area Music Association Awards, taking home trophies for Electronic Performer of the Year, Electronic Song of the Year, Breakthrough Artist of the Year, Female Vocalist of the Year and Best Pop/R&B Album. Last year she scooped the award for Electronic Song of the Year for her entrancing track, “Live or Die.”
So what’s a singer with a new set of astounding accolades to do? If you’re Annabel Lee, not what anyone would expect, of course. Coming home “I had to readjust what my ideas of success were,” she explains. “I’m the kind of person who enjoys being able to come home. I’m the kind of person who finds great power in stability. And that’s not the life of a rock star.” So Annabel traded the bustling
Taking it slow Though Annabel Lee enthusiastically describes the stage as “the most comfortable place in the whole world,” she’s forgoing the spotlight and taking the next six months to a year to get back to basics and transform her music from electronic indie dance to a sound that’s more true to her: jazz, blues and anything else in between that might catch her ear. “I really want to show my best with what I present next,” she asserts, “so I’m taking it slow. I think sometimes I rush myself, and I don’t want to do that with this.” For now, we can only imagine what Annabel Lee will present next, but one thing is certain: she will shine like a nighttime countryside sky—a dazzling infinity of stars.
LISTEN: Livestream Annabel’s radio broadcast, “Her Song,” every Wednesday morning from 10 a.m. - noon at www.wdrt.org/hersong. Music and more at www.iheartannabel.com.
Briana Rupel is a born and bred Wisconsinite. She is continually inspired by the Seven Rivers Region’s natural beauty, the talent of its local musicians and the stories of everyday people.
SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |
ANNABEL LEE
Inspiration and creativity Traditionally, Annabel has always found inspiration in the countryside. Even before she was a recording artist, she would escape to the bluffs or the river and sit for hours and write. But trying to find tranquility in a big city, where there are always throngs of people around wasn’t the ideal catalyst for her creative process. “I sit out on my porch now, and all I see are cornfields and rolling hills and trees and birds and the sky. There’s no sound except a neighbor’s plow,” she smiles. “It’s really inspiring. Being out here, it’s really lent itself to wanting to write—to wanting to create— and that’s why I really want to take this time and make a piece of art that I’m really proud of and really connected to.”
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THE ARTS
LANDON SHEELY Inside the Art of Landon Sheely
Article: Joe Hart Photos: Dahli Durley
SEVEN | Issue #7 | January, 2016
Pictured Artwork: Landon Sheely
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f you happen to have wandered into La Crosse’s Root Note to catch a show or a cup of joe, then chances are you’ve seen the artwork of Landon Sheely. For one thing, Sheely designed the coffee shop’s T-shirts. And the artist uses the space as a guerrilla gallery. “My stuff hangs in The Root Note often because I put it up there—whether they want me to or not,” he jests. Fortunately for all of us, the proprietors DO want. And why not? Sheely’s work is bright, colorful, whimsical and speaks (as all good artwork does) to deeper truths. A creative spirit Sheely, who grew up in La Crosse, says his first creative endeavor was music. “I was in a band in high school,”
he explains, “and we toured for the next few years through what should have been our years of continued education, which I guess it was, but not in the traditional sense.” One of the things he learned on the road was that performance is not his passion. “Every night you get in front of people and you recreate your piece in front of them, and they watch you do it,” he says. “I like to tuck away from people instead, and tinker with machines and ink and get a little messy, and then when an idea is ready, I can put it out and let people see it without having to watch them view it.” Luckily for Sheely, today’s independent musician has an almost insatiable need for graphic design—gig posters, T-shirts
Distinct design You can see these antecedents in his current work. His works are bold, and he’s not afraid to use typography as a key design element. Much of his work is comprised of simple shapes and handdrawn type. One piece, for instance, features an oversized mason jar filled with fireflies and containing the words “Shine Bright.” Yet his work is quite distinct from the computer-dominated graphic design of the past decade. That’s because Sheely is a printmaker, and his vivid, simple compositions reflect the uniquely tactile and old-school processes of making a print, layer by layer. Indeed, Sheely cites this process as a key inspiration in his design work. “Printmaking allows me to work through an idea,” he explains. “But then the process itself takes a little of my hand out of what I’m working on. You obviously still manipulate the work as
you desire, but there is an aesthetic that I love that you only get from the process of printmaking.” In Sheely’s case, that aesthetic tends toward playful images and bright colors. But his work is often inspired by darker themes. “I’m usually responding to injustice in some little way,” he says. “For the past few years, I feel like almost every idea has been somehow driven by immigration, or colonization. Sometimes my head is about to explode over the fact that people can’t understand that Arizona was Mexico, only a moment ago.” A good example shows a police badge emblazoned with the words, “Angry scared people should not carry guns.” Another, titled “Take Off Your Shoes,” shows a blazing fire with the line “You are on Indian land.” While not all his pieces are overtly political, it’s clear that Sheely is driven by a desire to use his artwork to motivate and move his viewers—and to answer his own desire for change. Joe Hart is a writer and musician who lives in rural Viroqua. He is one-half, with Nikki Grossman, of the YellowBellied Sapsuckers, who play an original, brand-new take on old-time country music.
SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |
and other merchandise, advertisements and album covers. These are the lifeblood of a working musician. And Sheely was the natural one to take on the job. “I started doing design and print for my band to create album art and band shirts, which turned into doing design for other bands—and it went from there,” he explains.
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THE ARTS KRIS BROWN The Artist’s Way
Article: Jess Witkins Photos: Dahli Durley Pictured Artwork: Kris Brown
SEVEN | Issue #7 | January, 2016
“I
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t feels like a storm,” says artist Kris Brown, when talking about her creative process. Her collage work is an exemplary look at pure emotion transmitted to craft. Brown’s pieces are comprised of acrylic paint, watercolor paper, glue sticks and magazine pages. “A lot of my collage paintings are submerged in the sink or tub,” she says, “which feels a little out of control, but works in my favor. I use a lot of paint and once layers are half-dry, I lay wet paper towels down to lift paint, leaving stained paper and patterns from the glue stick marks.” Brown’s work is a testimony. Each piece is layered, vibrant and intricate. You have to look closely to appreciate the detail and story behind the work. Her collections began as a form of selftherapy. An individual who is self-aware, attuned to her feelings and expressive in the most raw ways imaginable, Brown seeks to give these same gifts and tools to others. The local artist teaches personal development at Winona State, while earning her master’s degree in counseling. She hopes to offer future art therapy classes, where clients can take a more tactile approach to their healing. “Ideally the counselor is a mirror and a witness for the client,” says Brown. “Art can bring up more of the unconscious. It’s like when you meet a friend and really connect with them, you feel more alive. You connect with something bigger than the self, something healing.” From working with her current students, she says, “Over the years I’ve observed a universality to processoriented collage making. I’ve learned to surrender and trust the therapeutic, visual voices of my students and the reliable process of art-making itself.” Brown uses her own artwork as a source of personal processing, though finding the time for it is always a struggle. Like many of us, even though we value art in whatever form
it takes, we can fall prey to the socially acceptable rules of devoting our time to more practical purposes. “While I deeply value art-making, I often find myself unconsciously operating from culturally held beliefs about art being extra instead of necessary,” says Brown. “Prioritizing art-making is challenging logistically and also psychologically, because the process is so different from my everyday life. It’s a bit like turning myself inside out.” One unique and beautiful thing about Brown’s work is how it stems from her emotions. Often she won’t know what she’s making until she’s halfway through with it, letting her arms and body take over at the start of a piece. “It’s all about mindfulness. I try to really notice all the actions—I’m turning the pages of the magazine. This image is interesting to me.” Then she slowly processes what each piece is saying as she goes on. “The past two years have been emotionally intense for me, and I can’t express the depth of my emotions in any other way,” explains Brown. “The art comes like a wave, sometimes like a storm, and my emotions wash out into this collage where I can see, feel and understand them better.” The greatest lesson for Brown, while working toward her master’s in counseling, has been to stop and notice her automatic thoughts; to evaluate and challenge them. By doing so, she is able to grant her focus where it needs to be, and lucky for us, that is her artwork. Follow Kris Brown at http://krisbrown.net Jess Witkins is a writer, blogger, and sometimes funny. Her mission: making pathetic look cool since 1985. She can be found in the coulee region’s many coffee shops and wordmongering at http://jesswitkins.wordpress.com.
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SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |
Article: Jess Witkins Photos: Contributed
L
a Crosse’s Beer By Bike Brigade will host the 2nd annual Chili Slam fundraiser this month in partnership with Habitat for Humanity and Blue Heron Bicycle Works. The Chili Slam will feature 22 different homemade chilies by area businesses. The tasting takes place on Saturday, January 23, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., and is a family friendly event open to the public. Cost for admission is just a $5 donation, which also grants the attendee a voting slip on which to take notes and determine their favorite chili of the day. The People’s Choice Winner will receive a one of a kind trophy from the event. The motive behind the Chili Slam began one year ago when attendees of area Beer By Bike Brigade (BBBB) events wanted to donate money to the ride series to help fund some of the activities. Event organizers wouldn’t accept funds for BBBB use and chose to create fundraisers such as the Chili Slam to provide a way for BBBB riders to give. Organizers note, “It was always important to us that anytime we collect money, every penny goes to someone who needs it.” The group did just that last year, raising $3,000 toward the purchase of four bikes for siblings in foster care. The siblings also received helmets, lights and locks. “The kids were able to pick out a bike they could be proud of, and received free maintenance for the year as well,” say event organizers. The giving back didn’t stop there. With $700 left after purchasing bikes and equipment, the Beer By Bike Brigade donated the remaining funds to Logan Bike Works, an after school program where kids learn how to fix bikes ultimately earning a bike at the end of the program. This year, Beer By Bike Brigade has designated three families—each with children, ages 3 to 15—who are currently building homes with Habitat for Humanity to be the recipients of new bikes selected from Blue Heron Bicycle Works. “Whenever there is a person, group, organization or whomever that has something to give to Habitat’s mission, it is a great thing for us,” notes Habitat’s Executive Director Amanda Acklin. “We were so very thrilled about this partnership and opportunity to do something like this for the children of our partner families. This is something we would not be able to do for them without an event like this.”
SEVEN | Issue #7 | January, 2016
Beer By Bike Brigade’s good deeds know no bounds. Adding a raffle this year, which sold out, the group already raised $2,400 toward new bikes for this year’s families. The raffle winner will be selected at the Chili Slam and will receive a
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Go: BBBB Chili Slam
benefitting Habitat for Humanity
Date: Saturday, January 23 Time: 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Place: The Freight House, 107 Vine St., La Crosse, WI Cost: $5 donation Follow: www.facebook.com/BeerByBikeBrigade
custom bike from Blue Heron Bicycle Works along with a one-night stay at The Charmant Hotel. Beer By Bike Brigade also partnered with a local department store’s charity program, Kohl’s Cares, for added funds and volunteers, raising another $500. Like last year, any remaining funds after purchase of the new bikes will benefit Logan Bike Works after school program. “Providing these children with bikes is more than just the giving of a toy,” says Acklin. “Bikes are transportation and a fun way to exercise, promoting a healthy lifestyle. BBBB is helping to give these children a hand up within the community. It is a testament to the La Crosse community’s commitment to the creation of a loving, healthy and caring environment that I am witness to every day.” What’s the final word from event organizers? Come hungry, and be prepared to have fun.
photo: Ben Steinquist
A Series
M
the Scenes
Behind the Scenes features multi-issue chronicles from the people involved in what’s happening in the Seven Rivers Region. In our first series, Parker Forsell keeps you on the beat of April’s Mid West Music Fest as it’s in the making.
onths of planning coalesce around a feverish December of negotiations with many of the best and up-and-coming artists in the Midwest. Seven years ago the original intention to highlight Midwest talent in a semi-quiet river town was born. Since then managers, booking agents and hundreds of musicians have come to know the festival as a place where music and community meet. Two-time Grammy winner Kevin Bowe, who has produced albums for Paul Westerberg (The Replacements), Jonny Lang and Etta James, says, “Mid West Music Fest has the two best festival qualities: organized and nice. That’s all anyone needs! The lineup is varied and spectacular. Then you put it all in a magic little town on the river, I love it.” In its first year in La Crosse, the multivenue format will be staged at The Root Note, The Cavalier Theater, The Court on Main, The Warehouse and The Popcorn Tavern - April 16, 2016 - Record Store Day. In its seventh year in Winona - April 28-30, 2016 – performances will
Mid West Music Fest (MWMF) with Parker Forsell, MWMF Managing Director
take place at venues that have become mainstays of the festival: The Historic Masonic Theater, Ed’s (No Name) Bar, Broken World Records, The Eagles Club, Blooming Grounds, Acoustic Cafe and a tent stage in the heart of downtown activity. Each venue uniquely frames different genres of music, featuring national, regional and local artists. The venues are intentionally within walking distance of each other, encouraging attendees to support local businesses. MWMF participants can go from listening to Dream Pop over a plate of crepes at the Root Note, to head-bobbing to the Punk thrum of a Minneapolis “Picked to Click” act while enjoying a local beer at an art bar like Ed’s. A stroll to the historic Cavalier Theater offers an opportunity to dance to the 4-4 Blues of a band like 4onthefloor, or enjoy a crispy spring evening dance to the break beats of Minneapolis Hip-Hop collective Heiruspecs with 400 others at the large tented stage. Traditional Bluegrass to Hip Hop, Rock and Roll to Shoegaze, R&B to Folk, Punk to Soul,
Power Pop to Jazz, Roots Reggae to Funk, Americana to Indie—it can leave you breathless and giddy. The indie pop band Har-di-Har has played MWMF twice. Band member Andrew Thoreen remarks, “MWMF represents how much potential a supported and fertile music community can have. An organization that encourages emerging artists and presents an alternative form of music education makes me thoroughly look forward to the future of music in the Midwest.” Find out more about MWMF and buy tickets at the Facebook page or at midwestmusicfest.org.
Parker Forsell is the Managing Director of the four-day, 11-stage, 400+ musician Mid West Music Fest and founder of Ocooch Mountain Music. Since 1992, Forsell has been organizing events, music performances and grassroots community networks of consumers, farmers and musicians. He has been a publisher and editor (Dandelion Whine, Stinging Nettle, Biodynamic Journal), farm hand, non-profit organizer (Angelic Organics Learning Center, Land Stewardship Project), booking agent, band manager and record producer. He is a UW-La Crosse alum living in Winona, Minn.
SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |
Behind
Series 1, Part 1:
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SIP N' TASTE The Mint: Food You Can Bank On By: Nancy Nosher
FOOD Review
Unless you’re eating from your own backyard, you can’t get much more local than The Mint. Its menu features foods from area producers, so not only is the food better for you, you can thank a nearby farmer for it. Because the menu is seasonal, what is listed here may not be what you find in the middle of winter. The restaurant is small and any group of more than 30 people would be a crowd. That’s okay, as it makes for a more intimate setting. The menu isn’t extensive, but you’ll find plenty to eat by combining small plates, boards and entrees. The chef is accommodating and skilled at working around food allergies, including gluten free. I dined with other women, and we didn’t order small plates to start or desserts to finish, but that’s not to say I didn’t want to. The thought of the small plate Butternut Squash and Cranberry Cannelloni made my mouth water, and one in my group debated the Pork Belly Poptart. For a moment, I considered a small plate and the Harvest Board, filled with nuts, fruits, honey, hummus and pate. I have to confess: When I ate at The Mint during the first week it opened, I was in no hurry to return. Both the service and the food were unimpressive. I am so glad I returned. Both are now top notch. We began with a bottle of Scaia Corvina, a red blend that went with everything ordered. If wine’s not your thing, the drink list features beers and mixed drinks, so not to worry. For the main course I ordered Oaxacan Spiced Chicken with Brown Butter Gnocchi and Cumin Roasted Carrots served on a Tomatillo Cream Sauce. Though I don’t normally order chicken and carrots when dining out, this dish kept calling to me. I think it was the gnocchi that swayed me. Now I’m spoiled; chicken and carrots at any other place just won’t compare. The spices were a subtle blend on the skin of the perfectly cooked chicken, and the carrots, still with a little crunch, displayed caramelized back
WINE
by Wohlert
SEVEN | Issue #7 | January, 2016
WINE 16
Review
By: Todd Wohlert
DON’T CRY FOR ME ARGENTINA, I swear I’ll never stop drinking you
I’ve started doing comparative wine classes around the area. (It’s a really good reason for some power drinking.) Over the years, I’ve noticed people really don’t understand that where a wine is grown can distinctly change the flavor of the wine. I could blind pour you five Cabs from around the world, and you would be hard pressed to identify some of them as Cab, because they are so different than the California Cab you’re used to drinking. The example I use to demonstrate the difference is Malbec. That grape is originally from the southwest region of France, specifically Cahors. Most people are shocked to hear that (and now read that, in your case). They just assume that the grape is originally from South America, because that is where they usually find it. Like all major South America grapes, it was brought over by Europeans hundreds of years ago. Malbec took on
sides. The gnocchi were more like little sautéed squares of delightfulness, with just the slightest of crusts. Can I have a plate of those on the side, please? The tomatillo sauce was rich and smooth and complemented everything else on the plate. Uh, can I get a bowl of that on the side, too, please? Two of our group ordered Curried Leek and Spinach served in an Oven Roasted Carnival Squash with Celeriac Samosas and Jasmine Rice. “Served in” means the squash is cut in half and acts as a bowl. How clever is that? My companions said it tasted every bit as good as it looked. We didn’t have dessert, having just come off the gluttony of Thanksgiving weekend and heading into the season of parties and potlucks, so I’ll need another visit. The desserts are so unusual: apple cake with rosemary crumble and black pepper ice cream, brown butter cake with butternut squash and apples, and frozen ginger and lime soufflé. Yikes! What if the menu changes before I return to satisfy my sweet tooth? I guess I shouldn’t worry. The Mint will offer something else equally delightful. You can bank on that. Nancy Nosher has been eating all her life. Her favorite foods are wine and chocolate, but she’ll settle for pistachio-crusted Ahi tuna, blueberries with cream and her own frosted chocolate chip brownies. She doesn’t like brats, but she’s a nice person anyway.
GO:
The Mint 1810 State St. La Crosse, WI
(608) 519-5011
www.facebook.com/ TheMintLaCrosse
Tue-Thu: 11 a.m.–2 p.m., 5–9:30 p.m. Fri-Sat: 11 a.m.–2 p.m., 5–10:30 p.m. Sun: 10 a.m.–2 p.m., 5–9 p.m.
a life of its own there, rising to levels of greatness and quality that were not possible in France. So what is the difference between French and Argentine Malbec? Big luscious New World fruit versus drier, acidic, aggressive Old World fruit. Argentine Malbec features flavors and aromas of blackberry, plum, black cherry, violet flowers, leather and sometimes sweet vanilla or sweet tobacco, depending on the barrel aging. French Malbec shows flavors of tart currant, black plum and savory bitterness, plus some wines show black pepper and spice. I like Argentina Malbec as my appetizer or cocktail wine and French Malbec as my main course wine. You need food to help tame the French beast. This month our featured wine is a Malbec from Argentina. One of the preeminent wine making families in Argentina is the Catena family. In 1902, Nicola Catena, an Italian immigrant, planted his first vineyard in Mendoza. The winery has remained under family control— now in its third generation—and is one of the few family-owned wine companies in Argentina that remains in Argentine hands. Owned today by Nicolás Catena and his daughter Laura, Bodega Catena Zapata is known as the pioneer of fine wine from Argentina, and Nicolás is recognized as the vintner who revolutionized wine quality there. Catena Malbec presents a deep violet color. Deep aromas of ripe red and dark fruits are joined by delicate violet and lavender notes, with traces of vanilla and mocha. A rich, concentrated mouthfeel is highlighted by flavors of blueberries and blackberries with a touch of sweet spice and leather. The wine finishes with bright acidity, well-integrated and silky tannins and a flinty minerality that lingers on the palate. This wine is available at most major grocery stores in the Seven Rivers Region. The higher-end reserve line, Catena Alta, is available at a few discerning restaurants and is truly heaven in a glass. Todd Wohlert works for Purple Feet Wines, a member of the Winebow Group. He is not an expert in wines but he unfortunately knows more that 98% of the people in the state. He is the most requested wine advisor in the Seven Rivers Region, making weekly appearances and spreading the gospel of good wine.
Style: American Amber / Winter Lager
BEER Review
Winter Skal
Brewer: Capital Brewery – Middleton, Wis.. Price Point: $9 / six pack of 12 oz. bottles at local retailers Alcohol by Volume: 5.4%
By: A.J. Moore
Appearance: Brilliant amber gold with ruby highlights. Carbonation is
generous and effervescent, but is still a very controllable pour. The head is creamy and comprised of fine bubbles that dissipate rather quickly. A steady stream of fine bubbles maintains a very thin cap of head without lacing the glass. Aroma: The first thing you’ll pick up in the nose is a very pleasant, light and subtle bready aroma with a faint sweetness like treacle or golden syrup and a gentle hint of toasted German malts. After a few sips, you’ll also begin to pick up the enigmatic spicy and honey-like notes of the Liberty hops. Taste: In almost complete agreement with the aroma, the flavor is predominantly malt-focused with light caramel and toasted German malt characters, not unlike those of an Oktoberfest beer. Additionally, there’s a surprising amount of floral spice in the later palate that is a result of the Liberty hop’s parentage in the German Hallertau hop known for its white pepper, rose, grape and apricot flavors. The hop bitterness is exceptionally well balanced with the malt: it’s assertive enough to counter the general sweetness, but with nary a hint of abrasive character. Presence: The mouthfeel is substantial but not heavy. Despite the absence of a durable head, it has a distinctly creamy presence that gives it noticeable body without being cloying. The carbonation is persistent and really continues to drive flavor and aroma from the top to the bottom
of the glass. The hop acidity is assertive enough to leave a clean and dry aftertaste with lingering hints of both hops and lightly toasted malt. The combination of the substance, creaminess, body and floral spiciness make the overall experience simultaneously warming and refreshing. X-Factors and Overall: Liberty Hops: Although incredibly subtle, the expert application and management of hop flavor and bitterness makes the American hybrid hop a key player in the overall experience of this beer. It’s judiciously applied but plays a perfect role in the aroma, taste and presence that is sheer mastery. For lager lovers, this draught hits all of the desirable notes of an Oktoberfest or Vienna lager with a little extra something that makes it both warming and special. While it’s not the rock-and-roll, high-wattage flavor of a Double IPA, it is still a bold symphony of hops and malt. This beer will pair equally well with roast poultry or chili at home, as it will with your Wisconsin Cheddar and venison sausage while out watching for that tip-up flag to pop.
Until then, Cheers!
A.J. Moore is a renaissance man. In addition to writing, tabletop gaming, smelting, blacksmithing, woodworking and restoring antique hand tools, A.J. is a homebrewer, occasional beer judge and member of the La Crosse LAGERS homebrewer club.
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One coupon per customer, per day. Coupon must be presented before ordering. Any toppings additions will incur a cost to the customer. Offer expires 2/6/16. No cash value. Excludes applicable taxes & gratuity.
SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |
Largest Irish Whiskey selection in Wisconsin
Old Fashioned with several choices of bitters
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SEVEN | Issue #7 | January, 2016
LIMELIGHT
18
: e f i L e h t n i y a A D LIVING LIFE TO THE
FULLEST…WITH DIABETES Article: Jess Witkins Photos: Dahli Durley
C
8 a.m. - Chase heads to school. When Chase is at school or in sports practice, it’s on him to be aware of how he’s feeling and whether or not he needs to check his glucose levels. For Chase, this could mean stepping out of class if he feels extra fatigued and going to the school nurse. For the family, it means regular doctor visits every four months and working with a medical educator every two months. The upside for Chase is that advancements in care for those with diabetes have improved. He manages his levels with a pump that acts like an IV to administer insulin. The pump must rotate its placement on the body every three to four days. Chase still uses a lancet to prick his finger and test his blood sugar levels. A healthy range is somewhere between 100-150. Noon - Chase eats lunch and tests his blood sugar again. Chase wears his insulin pump at all times for health reasons. If his glucose levels drop too low, he can
experience drowsiness, blurred vision and dizziness. If levels get too high, his appetite fluctuates and he feels nauseous.
3 p.m. - Chase’s school day ends, and he checks his levels a third time. When asked what his classmates think of him having diabetes, he says, “Most people are just curious.” Well, most 11 year olds don’t have to think twice about what foods they eat, but Chase has spent years counting carbohydrates. His favorite foods are fruits, which would be a great addition to any diet, but Chase has to watch how much he eats, because fruits and carbohydrates are high in sugar. “We do a lot of no carb snacks, a lot more protein,” says his mom. “It’s definitely forced him to mature faster, having to be responsible and count carbs and monitor his levels like he does.” 5:30 p.m. - Chase heads to swim practice. The only time Chase takes his pump off is when he’s at a swim meet or practice, because his pump isn’t waterproof. “I have to be really aware of myself, and know that if I’m feeling off to stop and get out,” he explains.
SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |
hase Schilling loves football, track and triathlons. He runs 5K races, competes in both hockey and swimming, and has 49 competition medals that fill an extendable rod in his room. When he’s not practicing with his teammates, Chase produces zombie movies on his smartphone, which co-star his younger twin brothers, Carson and Will. To the average person, Chase is an active, charismatic and outgoing 11-year-old boy. And he is all those things. Chase just also happens to have diabetes. At age five, Chase and his parents learned he has Type 1 diabetes, a lifelong diagnosis only 10 percent of the population who deal with the disease have. Before his diagnosis, he had classic symptoms—extreme thirst, stomach aches, fatigue. Simple acts such as getting out of the car seemed too much for him. With the diagnosis, the Schillings had answers, but their world was about to change. Diabetes is a disease in which a person’s blood sugar, or glucose, gets too high or low because the body’s cells don’t properly respond to, or cannot create, insulin. As Chase puts it, “I just tell people it means one of my organs (the pancreas) doesn’t work properly, so I use insulin to help that.” 7 a.m. - Chase tests his blood sugar level. On a normal day, Chase tests his blood sugar level around five times. “We test first thing in the morning, after lunch, mid-afternoon, dinnertime and at night,” says Amy Schilling, Chase’s mom.
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LIMELIGHT 10 p.m. - Chase heads to bed. It’s important for Chase to test his blood sugar level before bed as nighttime can be one of the greatest risks. If Chase is sleeping when his levels drop, he can experience many upsetting side effects from minor fatigue and blurred vision to the more severe, a seizure. “Chase can still go out to eat with friends, or stay over at their houses, it just means educating those parents,” notes his mom, “so they know what food to serve and what to do for Chase if he has an emergency.” All in all, Chase is your Wisconsin cheese-curds-and-bacon-loving boy. He’s a Viking fan, but we’ll forgive him for that. Next year, Chase enters middle school and is looking forward to more variety in his classes and teachers. In the meantime, he’ll be busy playing Xbox with his brothers, making more zombie movies and finding the next race to run. When asked what message he’d like to share about his disease, Chase says, “I have diabetes and maybe some people think I can’t do some things, but I can do anything they do.”
HOW YOU CAN HELP: Chase will be speaking about his life to kick off the Fund a Cure auction at the annual “Imagine: Winter Gala” benefitting the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, Western Wisconsin Chapter.
GO: Imagine: A Winter Gala 2016 Presented by Ward Brown and Cheryl Holliday When: Saturday, January 30, 5 p.m. Where: Cargill Room, Waterfront Restaurant & Tavern La Crosse, WI Registration: www.jdrf-westernwisconsin.ejoinme.org/LaCrosseGala Information: 608-386-4136; melissa@AOPS7R.com
“I have diabetes and maybe some people think I can’t do some things, but I can do anything they do.”
SEVEN | Issue #7 | January, 2016
~Chase Schilling, age 11
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BUSINESS
Erin Sather, Aaron Rykhus, and Sam Brown
MID WEST MUSIC STORE Article: Deborah Nerud
W
inona, Minn., is the island city with a big heart for local artists, and Sam Brown, Erin Sather and Aaron Rykhus are keeping the flow of art and music pulsing through the Midwest. Brown is a musician and the creator/co-organizer of the Mid West Music Fest (MWMF) in collaboration with Jacob Grippen and Parker Forsell. He is also owner/operator of the Mid West Music Store (MWMS), a space
that provides recording opportunities for artists; offers a stage for concerts, poetry slams and film screenings; and serves as a gallery and retail space for local artisans to showcase their work. Brown recalls, “I had this idea that I wanted to build something for local artists and musicians, and I knew I could utilize the MWMF network to facilitate that process.” While the MWMS co-exists with the MWMF (the space operates as the nexus for volunteer coordination and merchandising during the Fest), the store functions year-round as a gathering space for a broad spectrum of artists. Brown credits the idea to Maximum Ames, an independently owned Ames, Iowa, record store that features work solely by Iowan artists and musicians. “Basically, we started buying music and merchandise from all the local acts that came for the MWMF, and I knew that we could showcase the CDs, records and T-shirts in a shop that functions as a gallery,” Brown recollects. Sather, a handicraft artist who works as the shop coordinator and has hosted open craft nights at the MWMS for kids and families, began as a personal assistant for Brown. Recalling the
expedited origins of the shop, Sather states, “It came together rather quickly after a long brainstorming process…I came in thinking I was doing one thing (as an assistant), but it turned into something bigger, and I’m proud of it.” The November 2015 grand opening of the MWMS, which closely followed the Winona Art Walk (a gallery tour through downtown Winona), was an immense success, and a wide array of events and art installations are planned for 2016. Rykhus, a musician and graphic artist who serves as gallery manager and curator for the store, maintains a regular booking schedule for a variety of musical acts and artists and encourages musicians and artists to be in touch. “We are looking for a wide variety of talent—anyone can show their work here,” states Rykhus. The gallery is currently taking submissions. Musicians can choose to accept donations, a cover or a guarantee. Artists can choose to do consignment or wholesale (jewelry is usually consignment), and CDs and records are wholesale. “We’ll work with the artist or the musician to help them get what they need to display or sell their art,” asserts Rykhus. From the Todd DESIGNS [Todd Hanson] logo for the store (“The Vinyl Windmill”), to the Tanglewood Custom Cabinetry CD and vinyl racks, the heart of the Midwest is hand-made, and Brown aims to keep art pumping
through the veins of the Driftless Region and beyond. “Everything here is local, and we want to keep it this way,” says Brown, who sits on boards for the MWMF, the Winona Arts Center, and is a member of the Winona Fine Arts Commission. “People do really well when they are surrounded by art.”
MORE: To learn more about upcoming shows and artists or to shop, display or play: www.facebook.com/midwestmusicstore 168 E. 3rd St., Winona, MN 651-380-7932 The Mid West Music Fest 2016 (April 28-30): www.facebook.com/ midwestmusicfest
BONUS! Renowned founder of K Records, Calvin Johnson is stopping in Winona at the Mid West Music Shop on Jan. 13. Contact the shop for more details!
SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |
Photos: Bob Good
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BUSINESS GET TO THE GREEK! Aka, That Foreign Place Article By: Todd Wohlert Photo: Bob Good
this area grows,” says Wolff. “I wanted to bring something foreign, since Greg, my boyfriend, is from Greece. So we decided to start with Greek stuff—Greek wines, Greek food. We like to travel, we like wine and I love gift giving. I wanted to bring all that to one store.” Greece has an ancient and rich history full of adventure, gods, theatre, philosophy, food Robbi Wolff and wine. Now a bit of that is within arm’s reach (well, at least La Crosse has many hidden treasures. the food and wine)! Some have been here for a long time That Foreign Place on 123 Fourth and are hidden just beneath the surface. Street South is simple and elegant. The Others are brand new, just waiting to be crisp whiteness of the newly painted discovered by the discerning explorer. store highlights the large pictures on the One new treasure is That Foreign Place in wall, as well as the brightly colored wine downtown La Crosse. bottles, foods and gifts. That Foreign Place is the brain child “All the images I took on my Greek of Robbi Wolff and Greg “The Greek” trips. We’ve got more going up, and they Saliaras. “I wanted to bring something will all be pictures that we actually took different to downtown La Crosse, as in Greece,” says Wolff. “The wine shelves
are handmade—custom built by a friend of ours.” You’ll also notice small cat statues dotted randomly throughout the store. Keep reading for more on those. “All the food is imported from Greece,” shares Wolff. “Where we started was basically things that we like, so we’ve got a little bit of pasta, some coffee, some biscuits and chocolate wafers. You can eat those just on their own or with the coffee. We will be venturing out with more foods, but we wanted to start with those.” She adds, “The Greek coffee is strong as hell with a richer bean, and it’s really good! We’re going to be having coffee classes to show people how to make espresso, and we’ll also be doing a frappe, a chilled drink. For Greek herbs, we have teas, oreganos and sage. Also, Greek honey, toast and olive oils, of course.” That Foreign Place showcases some of the finest wines in the Mediterranean with names like Agiorghitiko, Xinomavro, Assyrtiko, Moschofilero and Roditis, plus
sparkling wines. And now you can find them in La Crosse. “All of the wines have little signs that describe them and what foods they pair with,” says Wolff. “When people ask us to pick one out for them, I have my favorites, but I ask them red or white? Is it a gift or for a special dinner? Then I help guide them. We also have Ouzo, Raki, other spirits and Greek dessert wines.” So, what’s the deal with the cats? As mentioned earlier, the store is inhabited by little cat statues peering over various shelves, curious as to what the guests are up to. The store logo is a simple representation of a cat sipping out of glass of red wine. Wolff explains, “I was trying to think of symbol that was worldly, something that would be recognized around the world, in a simple way. I wanted it to be fun and cultured. I like wine and I like cats. I literally drew that in ten minutes.” If a trip to Greece is not in your budget this year, stop into That Foreign Place, load up on what you need to make a great dinner, then transport yourself to the sun-soaked beaches of Greece.
GO: That Foreign Place 123 Fourth Street South La Crosse, WI
open 7 days 7 am–10 pm grocery • produce • in-house bakery • full-service meat & seafood • made-from-scratch deli • soups and sandwiches • coffee bar • wine & beer • body care • vitamins • SEVEN | Issue #7 | January, 2016
local food & favorites
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JDRF Winter Gala 2016 Saturday
January 30
Presented By Ward Brown, MD & Cheryl Holliday 5:00 p.m. | Cargill Room Waterfront Restaurant & Tavern good. honest. local.
315 5th Avenue S La Crosse, WI 608-784-5798 www.pfc.coop
La Crosse | Wisconsin
Register today: www.jdrf-westernwisconsin.ejoinme.org/LaCrosseGala For more information: call 608-386-4136 or melissa@AOPS7R.com
4 SISTERS, NOW 2 LOCATIONS Article: Leah Call Photos: Theresa Smerud
Bar in front, catering in back The former Consumer’s Bakery building was purchased with the catering business in mind. The sisters themselves coordinated the demolition uncovering the original tin ceilings, wood floors and brick walls. “The 2,000-square-foot kitchen is conducive to catering large parties, corporate events and weddings for 400 to 600 people, or an in-house event for 50,” explains Wieland Weber. Plans for the unique wine serving system came later, after discovering a similar system in Milwaukee. The system allows customers to serve themselves a sample or a full glass. “I can put 32 wines on tap, and people can come in and try a wide range of wine,” says
Wieland Weber. Wine drinkers can choose 2-, 4- and 6-ounce pours from the machines. Bar patrons have the opportunity to sample wines that are typically too expensive to sell by the glass—some costing as much as $250 per bottle. “With the wine system, we are able to hold those wines for up to 30 days,” says Wieland Weber. No more waiting for someone to come by and fill your glass. Visitors to the 4th Street Bar check in at the front and receive a blank card. “They put their card in, select the wine they want and then it adds it up on their card,” explains Wieland Weber. Pour prices vary depending on the wine.
fabulous,” says Wieland Weber. “You can put them in your hand and eat them on the go.” If you’re looking for a unique night out, catering for your next big event, or a hearty after-bar snack, 4 Sisters 4th Street Bar and Catering has it all. “I don’t want people to think of it as an exclusive wine bar,” says Weiland Weber. “It is really suitable for anyone and everyone.” Leah Call is a freelance writer with 20+ years of writing experience. Her writing appears in local, regional and national publications.
GO: 4 Sisters 4th Street Bar and Catering Where: 133 4th Street S. La Crosse, WI 608-519-5940 Hours: Tues.-Sat., Opens 4 p.m. ‘til close Information: View menu at 4 Sisters 4th Street Bar and Catering Facebook page
More than just wine Not a wine drinker? No problem. You’ll find something to your liking at the 4 Sisters 4th Street Bar. The bar offers food, mixed drinks and a variety of beer – on tap and in bottles. The current menu includes an Artisan Cheese Plate, Charcuterie Plate and Coup de grâce. “Coup de Grace means death,” says Wieland Weber. “But we call it death by indulgence, because it is our sweet board.” The menu will expand this spring and summer. Also coming this summer is a walk-by window that will sell homemade pasties from midnight to 2:00 a.m. A pasty is a meat and veggie-filled D-shaped pastry. “They are absolutely
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xpanding their business to offer catering has long been a goal for the owners of 4 Sisters Wine Bar & Tapas, one of La Crosse’s downtown dining treasures. That goal became a reality this year with the opening of 4 Sisters 4th Street Bar and Catering. The business is a marriage of old and new with an innovative self-serve wine system in a renovated 132-yearold historic building. “We expanded because of the demand and the need,” says Co-owner Traci Wieland Weber. “And because we wanted to bring something cool and unique to La Crosse in this historic downtown building.”
Corynn Wieland, Traci Weiland Weber, Lori Helke
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FITNESS ROCK AND RIDE A New Kind of Cycling Studio
Article: Tegan Daly Photos: Bob Good
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SEVEN | Issue #7 | January, 2016
or many active people in the Coulee Region, winter can put a damper on things. Even the best of intentions can be squashed by a snowstorm. But don’t get too discouraged. For bicycling enthusiasts, there’s a new option: the area’s first dedicated cycling studio, Rock and Ride, in Onalaska. The studio is run by Leonardo Silva, a transplant from the Milwaukee area. When he and his wife moved here
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just over a year ago, he realized that there was something missing. With the nearest cycling studios as far away as Madison and the Twin Cities, Leonardo decided to open Rock and Ride. Though he’s an architect by trade, Leonardo is a lifelong athlete and certified USA triathlon coach. Opening Rock and Ride has been his “passion project” and he’s excited to bring opportunities to the La Crosse region that he had access to elsewhere. Rock and Ride is quite a bit different from the spin class experience that most people are familiar with. The most obvious difference is that you’re not riding a one-size-fits-all cycle, you actually bring your own bike to class. The back wheel is then hooked up to a device called a CompuTrainer, which simulates outdoor riding under various circumstances. The CompuTrainer’s software uses a digital display to give you individualized feedback about how fast you’re spinning and helps you follow a specific workout plan. Rock and Ride even offers storage space for your bicycle if you decide you’d rather not transport it back home. What further sets Rock and Ride apart
Rock and Ride Owner, Leonardo Silva is Leonardo’s dedication to working with people on an individual basis to come up with a workout plan that fits their skill level and goals. Classes are open to all levels of riders. According to Leonardo, most people who come to check out a class “end up getting hooked.” Tegan Daly is a fun-lovin’ poet who lives in La Crosse and participates in poetry readings throughout the region. She can often be found in gardens, kayaks and coffee shops.
GO: Rock and Ride Where: 200 Mason Street, Suite 3 Onalaska, WI Info: 608-698-3522 www.facebook.com/rideindoors www.rideindoors.com
Northshore Racks NSR Six-Bike Hitch Rack By: Radventure Dad, aka Brett Werner
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For more info, check them out at www.northshoreracks.com.
ears, Cheers and G ad Radventure D
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There’s a unique combination at the Y. It’s a place where the community comes together to connect, play, and discover new things. The Y offers comprehensive healthy living and learning experiences for adults and kids, from fitness equipment and team sports, to creativity classes exploring music and art. The best way to experience the unique combination at the Y is to see it for yourself. Present coupon below for a free visit*. Visit www.laxymca.org for more information LA CROSSE AREA FAMiLY YMCA YMCA-LA CROSSE BRANCH 1140 Main Street, La Crosse
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400 Mason Street, Onalaska
608 782 9622 www.LAxYMCA.ORg
FREE YMCA DAY PASS
*Present this pass to the Member Services Desk at time of visit. Anyone 18+ must present photo I.D. at time of use. Children under age 8 must be accompanied by an adult at all times. One coupon per visit, per household, per a month. Expires 02/28/16 CODE: COUPON
SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |
ver since I was legally able to drive at 16 years old, I’ve had a bicycle rack on every car I’ve owned. Every. Single. One. As a result, I’ve gained an appreciation for quality bike rack products that provide years of use without compromise. I still own some rack parts today that were purchased in the ‘90s! Our family of seven equates to a serious amount of bikes and gear. My rule of thumb has always been: Bicycle carrying capacity should be equal to or greater than the number of seats in the vehicle. For us, this means six bikes on the back and one on top…plus two ski boxes. We have also added fat bikes to our collection. Fat bikes won’t work on many racks, and in some cases require adapters, which makes me leery in fear of a bike falling off due to a failing adapter. There is only one company I know of that makes a six-bike hitch mount rack, Northshore Racks out of Canada. Not only does their rack work on virtually any vehicle with a 2-inch receiver hitch, it also works with virtually any type of bike (except road bikes or recumbents). After what seemed like years of drooling, I finally broke down and ordered one in anticipation of our annual road trip out West. The online ordering process was simple and quick. I received a confirmation email within seconds and a follow-up email from one of the Northshore Racks, explaining that they only ship to the U.S. on Thursdays, so my order wouldn’t ship until the following week. The following Thursday, I received an email with tracking information showing that my package had left Washington and would arrive within a week. When the rack arrived in its seemingly undersized box, I thought for sure there was another box or maybe parts were missing. Contrary to my rationalization, everything was in the box, including great instructions (yes, I read the manual BEFORE starting assembly!) and all necessary hardware. Once I rounded up a couple tools, I had the rack assembled and on my truck in about 20 minutes. After that, it was time for a test run! Northshore Racks has a couple great videos online that show the proper loading procedure and positioning of the rack based on your type of vehicle. After watching the loading video, I grabbed six bikes and loaded them up. My first time loading took me about 15 minutes, but after doing it a few dozen times, I have that time down to less than 10 minutes. The most amazing thing…it doesn’t matter which order you load the bikes, which really made me smile. In years past, I’ve had to develop a systematic approach to loading that only I could duplicate…and sometimes, after a long day of riding, would cause immense frustration when I had to load, unload and reload until all the bikes fit properly onto the rack. After putting it to the test on a serious cross country road trip, I can say without a doubt that this rack is worth every penny. If you need the capacity and simplicity of hauling six bikes of various sizes and types, this rack is for you! Currently the racks are only available online, though a recent factory expansion will increase capacity and hopefully allow Northshore to sell through local bike shops in the near future.
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FITNESS YMCA’S SUCCESSFUL DIABETES PREVENTION PROGRAM Article: Lee Walraven
SEVEN | Issue #7 | January, 2016
More than 29 million people in the U.S. have diabetes, but what is diabetes and how does it affect the body? Diabetes is classified as either Type I or Type II. With Type I diabetes the body doesn’t create insulin, which is the hormone that allows our body to use the sugars (glucose) in our blood as energy. This can lead to coma
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With the snow flying and temperatures dropping, you can’t just zip out the door in tennies and a T-shirt for exercise, but that doesn’t mean you’re stuck on a one-way treadmill. Get moving at your local fitness center to keep your blood pumping and your legs in motion with a variety of new and unique classes. For the ultimate winter workout challenge, sign on for the YMCA’s 8th Annual Indoor Ironman. Take the month of February to swim 2.4 miles, bike 112 miles and run 26.2 miles. If that sounds a little too aggressive, register for the YMCA-North’s February 13 walk/run, either outside or on the treadmill. On February 6, get your pulse going with the YMCA Spin-a-thon or the Mt. La Crosse Family Ski Day. From pre-dawn to after dark, both the La Crosse and Onalaska YMCA centers offer daily exercise classes with choices like Zumba™, Boot Camp, yoga, group fitness, Pilates, group cycling and more. Tabata (high-intensity interval training), Cardio Kickboxing and the new Matrix IC7 bike classes are especially popular. Kylie Formanek, YMCA fitness director, says, “Our group fitness classes at the Y are welcome to beginner and advanced health seekers, something that really makes our classes unique and valuable.” Studio 16 in Onalaska will keep you going with both standard and non-traditional classes. The fitness center has a variety of specialized equipment including kettlebell and TRX suspension training, as well as a number of yoga classes, including one for “desk dwellers.” If you’re looking for something out of the ordinary, try the
and even death, if not treated with medication. With Type II diabetes the body is resistant to using the sugars in our blood. In this case there is typically enough insulin in the body, but the cells within our body don’t allow the insulin to do its job. This can cause other issues in the body, which can dramatically affect the person’s health and also their
health care costs. At the La Crosse Area Family YMCA, we are committed to helping the community with this epidemic by offering the Diabetes Prevention Program to the La Crosse, Onalaska and Winona communities. Research by the National Institutes of Health shows programs such as the Y’s Diabetes Prevention Program can reduce the number of new cases of Type II diabetes by 58%, with a 71% reduction in adults over the age of 60. The program uses a Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) approved curriculum and is part of the CDC-led National Diabetes Prevention Program. The Y’s Diabetes Prevention Program is a 12-month lifestyle behavior intervention consisting of 16 one-hour weekly sessions followed by bi-weekly, then monthly maintenance sessions. The sessions are set up in a small group with a supportive environment and take place within the community. A trained lifestyle coach helps participants learn strategies for healthy eating, physical activity and other lifestyle changes. There are two main goals of the program. The first is a modest 7%
weight loss, and the second goal is an increase in physical activity to 150 minutes per week. To qualify for the program, participants must be at least 18 years old, overweight (BMI > 25) and at high risk for developing Type II diabetes. Since launching the Diabetes Prevention Program in April 2011, the Y has offered 30 classes to more than 280 participants. Successful outcomes of the program include a reduction of portion sizes and improved overall health. Participants report an average weight loss and weekly physical activity that exceeds the national average. For more information or to find out if you qualify for the YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program in the La Crosse or Winona areas, contact Martina Mellang, YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program Coordinator, at 608-519-5473 or mmellang@laxymca.org.
Lee Walraven, MS, ACSM-RCEP is the Healthy Living Director at the La Crosse Area Family YMCA.
who encourages everyone to try new classes. “You never know if you will enjoy a class until you try it!”
FITNESS CLASS PREVIEW Article: Heidi Griminger Blanke
Heidi Griminger Blanke, Ph.D., writes for a number of publications. She believes the road to wellness is highly influenced by what we eat and has increased the amount of local, organic and sustainable foods in her own diet.
GO: Premier Fitness & Wellness 901 State Street La Crosse, WI 608-793-1300 www.premierfitness.org
Unnata Aerial Yoga, a type of yoga in which the practitioner is supported by a suspended hammock in order to better understand the poses and expand one’s practice. Premier Fitness & Wellness not only has a variety of exercise options, it also can help you stay healthy with offerings from heated yoga to kickboxing. Owner Sally Johnson says the facility’s spinning classes help bike riders “keep up with their training and endurance.” If you feel like you have to give up your noonhour walk because of ice and snow, check out Premier’s thirty-minute lunch hour express classes. Johnson says these class are for people “who don’t have a lot of time during the day to get to the gym.” Choices include Tabata, spinning, strength and conditioning. All
the classes, she points out, are great for summer bikers and hikers, because they combine “both strength and cardio training to keep you ready to hit the road or the trails in the spring.” Johnson says it’s important to incorporate a variety of workouts in your routine, not only to avoid monotony, but also to keep your muscles doing something different and “to see and feel progress.” Whether you wake up in the morning hoping for six inches of white stuff or you’d rather not use your snow shovel the entire winter, the fitness classes mentioned here will keep you healthy and strong year-round. “Finding a balance with cardio-based classes and strength-based classes is important. It is also important to attend classes that are fun,” notes YMCA’s Formanek,
Studio 16 9550 US Highway 16 Frontage Road Onalaska, WI 608-779-0411 www.studio16onalaska.com YMCA-La Crosse Facility 1140 Main Street La Crosse, WI 608-782-9622 www.laxymca.org YMCA-North Facility 400 Mason Street Onalaska, WI 608-783-9622 www.laxymca.org Contact your local fitness center to join! There are several options throughout the Seven Rivers Region!
YOUR GUIDE TO SEVEN RIVERS REGION EVENTS, FARMERS MARKETS, BLOOD DRIVES, VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES AND SO MUCH MORE. Have something you would like to list in an upcoming issue?
All listings are free, visit our website at TheSevenSpot.com or email contact@thesevenspot.com.
Ongoing
Blood Drives
Aikido: “The Way of Harmony” is a Wisdom Tradition of personal refinement based on a Japanese Samurai martial art of non-resistance. Mon./Wed. 6:30–8 pm. Myrick Park Center. Winter session through Feb. 27. Try a class for free. 608-789-8690, CityofLaCrosse.org/Parks.
Tuesdays: 1:30–6:30 p.m., La Crosse Blood Donation Center, 1431 State Hwy 16
All Glazed Up/Canvas Creation: Sip & Paint Canvas Painting classes. Check calendar for days and paintings. Cost: $30, includes canvas, paint and instructed lesson. Call ahead to register and BYOB. 309 Pearl St, La Crosse, 608-782-7248, www.allglazedup.com. Basic Nutritional & Herbal Therapies: Varied programs on herbology, teas, tinctures, gardening, health and more. Herbs All Around, 1033 Caledonia St., 608-780-2255, www. herbsallaround.com. Centering Prayer: Experience the stillness of community prayer. 5:30-6:15 p.m. every Tuesday, free. Franciscan Spirituality Center, 920 Market St., La Crosse, www.FSCenter.org. Chinese Language Class: 11–11:45 a.m. Learn Chinese in a fun, relaxed setting for free! 2nd and 4th Saturdays/month at Dim Sum Tea Shop, 221 Pearl St., 608-738-1221.
Jan. 6: Noon–6 p.m., Express Suites River Port Inn, 900 Bruski Drive, Winona Jan. 7: Noon–6 p.m., Wesley United Methodist Church, 114 West Broadway Street, Winona Jan. 8: 10 a.m.–3 p.m., Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, 360 Main Street, Winona Jan. 12: 7 a.m.–noon, La Crosse Community Blood Drive at Cary Specialized Services, 3400 Losey Blvd South Jan. 13: 10:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m., La Crosse Community Blood Drive at Cary Specialized Services, 3400 Losey Blvd South Jan. 13: Noon-6 p.m., La Crescent American Legion, 509 North Chestnut St. Jan. 14: 10:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m., La Crosse Community Blood Drive at Cary Specialized Services, 3400 Losey Blvd South Jan. 16: 8 a.m.–noon, La Crosse Blood Donation Center, 1431 State Hwy 16
Outdoor Connection: Rent outdoor gear from the UW–L Recreational Eagle Center! Open to the public and offers a wide variety of equipment for adventures big and small. 1601 Badger St., La Crosse, 608–785–8680, www. uwlax.edu/recsports.
Jan. 19: 8 a.m.–12:30 p.m., Altra Federal Credit Union, 1700 Oak Forest Drive, Onalaska
Pearl Street Brewery: New events every month including live music every Friday from 6–9 p.m. and brewery tours every Saturday noon–5 p.m.! 1401 St. Andrew St., La Crosse, 608–784–4832, www.pearlstreetbrewery.com.
Jan. 27: 9 a.m.–2 p.m., Logan High School, 1500 Ranger Drive, La Crosse
Pottery Classes: Learn pottery basics or discover new skills. “Wheel Deals” available! Children & adult classes, Paint Your Own, Jewelry & Glass Fusing, and more! Generous Earth Pottery, 321 Main St., La Crosse, 608– 782–3904, www.generousearthpottery.com. Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe: Come as an individual, family, group of friends, group of co–workers, or church group. www. guadalupeshrine.org, 608-782-5440. Tea Tasting Party: Learn about teas while sampling a variety. Dumplings and egg tarts included with take-home loose tea sample. 1st Tuesday/month at 6 p.m. ($6 pre-pay, $8 at door) AND 3rd Saturday/month ($8 pre-pay, $10 at door). Dim Sum Tea Shop, 221 Pearl St., 608-738-1221. Yoga with Tammy Z: Yoga is for everybody! We offer a variety of classes for every level of experience. First class is FREE! Contact us for schedules. 432 Cass St., La Crosse, 608-3861217, tammyzyoga.com.
Jan. 25: 1–6 p.m., Winona Health, 855 Mankato Ave
Upcoming
January 8 Mighty Wheelhouse. Made up of members
of The Mighty Short Bus and The Lucas Cates Band, the Mighty Wheelhouse is a stripped down, Americana powerhouse. Three part harmonies, fiddle and guitar leads, and driving rhythms define the sound of Madison’s newest super group. The dynamic music ranges from the more cosmopolitan sounds of Motown and Austin, to the down home bluegrass of the Appalachian hills. 8 p.m., Leo & Leona’s, Newburg Corners, Hwy 33. leoandleonas. com/events.html. Johnsmith with Dan Sebranek. Irish Folk, singer/songwriter, Johnsmith has the innate ability to captivate any audience with his creative acoustic melodies and his powerfully moving lyrics. His folk music portrays his love of life, family, friends, and his desire to spread that love wherever he goes. Accompanied by his long-time friend and String Ties members, Dan Sebranek on the guitar, and Larry Dalton on bass. Tickets for Pump House members are $18 in advance, $21 day of show. Tickets available at The Pump House. 7:30 p.m., The Pump House, 119 King Street, La Crosse, thepumphouse.org/events.
All listings are subject to change. It’s always a good idea to review event directly ahead of time.
January 9 Cameron Park Indoor Farmers Market
at the Valley View Mall. Local vendors with breads, jewelry, plants, pottery and more. 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Center Court in front of Macy’s, cameronparkmarket.org. Johnsmith with Dan Sebranek. Irish Folk, singer/songwriter, Johnsmith has the innate ability to captivate any audience with his creative acoustic melodies and his powerfully moving lyrics. His folk music portrays his love of life, family, friends, and his desire to spread that love wherever he goes. Accompanied by his long-time friend and String Ties members, Dan Sebranek on the guitar, and Larry Dalton on bass. Tickets for Pump House members are $18 in advance, $21 day of show. Tickets available at The Pump House. 7:30 p.m., The Pump House, 119 King Street, La Crosse, thepumphouse.org/events. Kickapoo Valley Reserve Winter Festival. Winter Festival is a wonderful family event that highlights fun winter activities: skating, sledding, skiing, archery, snow sculpture, ice cave hikes, chain saw carving, wildlife talks, face painting, horsedrawn bobsled rides, snowshoe exhibit, Tristate Malamute Club Sled Dog Race and weight pull, mutt race, horse drawn tours, and snow cave. La Farge Lions Club hosts an annual chili and bread contest for the public. Proceeds from the auction benefit the KVR Education Program. Free and open to the public. Activities subject to change due to weather conditions. Dogs must be on a leash. Children must be accompanied by an adult. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Kickapoo Valley Reserve, S3661 State Highway 131, La Farge, kvr.state.wi.us/ Events/Annual-Events/Winterfest.
with breads, jewelry, plants, pottery and more. 10 a.m.-1p.m., Center Court in front of Macy’s, cameronparkmarket.org. Winona Farmers Market. 9 a.m.-noon, East End Rec Center, 210 Zumbro Street, Winona, winonafarmersmarket.com. Old School Variety Show. A delightful evening of music, story and a wide variety of performing arts. Tickets available at The Pump House. 7:30 p.m., The Pump House, 119 King Street, La Crosse, thepumphouse.org/events. Spotlight on Singing: A Platinum Edition Fundraising Concert. This special performance from members of Platinum Edition will help raise money for their trip to perform in Orlando, Fla. this spring. The performance will highlight the many talents of Platinum Edition members through solos, duets, and small ensemble performances, as well as performances by Tonal II and the full ensemble. $10.00. 3 p.m. & 7:30 p.m., Viterbo University-Main Theatre, 929 Jackson Street, La Crosse, viterbo.edu/fine-arts-center/buytickets-now.
January 16-17 Free Fishing Weekend. Fish anywhere in
Wisconsin without a license or trout stamp on Free Fishing Weekend. This includes all inland waters and Wisconsin’s side of the Great Lakes and Mississippi River. Other fishing rules apply, such as limits on the number and size of fish you can keep and any seasons when you must release certain fish species. So, pack up the family or call your friends and head to the water for fishing fun! dnr.wi.gov/topic/fishing/ anglereducation/FreeFishingWeekend.html.
January 13 Cleanses: Necessary or not? Bonnie
January 19 Sesame Street Live. Like television’s
January 14 Page Series - Okee Dokee Brothers.
January 20 Lyceum Series: Gabrielle Wynde
Kreckow, a clinical herbalist from Winona, will guide you and answer questions you may have on cleansing. Her class will help you to understand your body and connect to it by listening and paying attention to the signs it gives you. Do you need a cleanse, a dietary change or just some herbal maintenance? You will enjoy teas and herbal samples during this class. $10 members; $20 nonmembers; 6-7:30 p.m., People’s Food Co-op, 315 5th Avenue South, La Crosse, pfc.coop/calendar/event.
This Parents’ Choice- and Grammy Awardwinning duo has written hours of family friendly Americana music inspired by their canoe trip along the Mississippi River and their adventures hiking the Appalachian Trail. From river to mountain, bears to bugs, parents and children alike will gain a new appreciation of the outdoors after an hour with this engaging and lighthearted duo. Tickets: $14 Adults; $6 Seniors & Students. 7:30 p.m., Page Theatre, Saint Mary’s University, 700 Terrace Heights, Winona, pagetheatre.org/events.
January 16
Cameron Park Indoor Farmers Market at the Valley View Mall. Local vendors
Sesame Street, each Sesame Street Live production features timeless tunes and lessons for all ages. The universal appeal of each Broadway-quality musical production continues long after preschool. Adults will appreciate the high-tech stagecraft, cleverly written script, and music they’ll recognize and enjoy sharing with children. $51.50, $25.50, $21.50, and $16.50. 6:30 p.m., La Crosse Center, 300 Harborview Plaza, lacrossecenter. com.
Tateyuskanskan. Winona State University’s Inclusion and Diversity Office and the 2015-16 Lyceum Series will host Gabrielle Wynde Tateyuskanskan, in WSU Somsen Hall. Tateyuskanskan is a visual artist, poet and teacher, specializing in oils, watercolor, and the Dakota arts of beadwork, traditional poetry, and contemporary textiles. As a member of the Sisseton Wahpeton Dakota Nation, Tateyuskanskan promotes social change and restorative justice. This event is free and open to the public. 7 p.m., Winona State University Somsen Hall, 175 Mark St, Winona, winona. edu/lectures/lyceum.asp. Sesame Street Live. Like television’s Sesame Street, each Sesame Street Live production features timeless tunes and
SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |
LISTINGS
January 2016
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LISTINGS January 2016 lessons for all ages. The universal appeal of each Broadway-quality musical production continues long after preschool. Adults will appreciate the high-tech stagecraft, cleverly written script, and music they’ll recognize and enjoy sharing with children. $51.50, $25.50, $21.50, and $16.50. 6:30 p.m., La Crosse Center, 300 Harborview Plaza, lacrossecenter. com.
January 21 Intro to vegan cooking with Klayton
McGough. Veganism: What foods can you eat? How can they be prepared? Why are more people choosing a vegan diet? PFC’s own Klayton McGough will provide a wealth of information, answer questions, and guide you through a few recipes! Class participants will prepare two dishes to share and we will have some yummy surprises! $15 members; $25 nonmembers; 5:30-7:30 p.m., People’s Food Co-op, 315 5th Avenue South, La Crosse, pfc. coop/calendar/event. Driftless Folk School Class: Song/String Circle. The circle is open to musicians and singers who enjoy performing in a friendly and relaxed setting where the emphasis is on having fun as well as learning to play in an ensemble. Guitars, banjos, mandolins, fiddles, harmonicas are especially welcome, but you can come just to listen and learn too. Various well-known traditional folk and pop tunes will be used with simple chord/lyric song sheets provided. In addition to the familiar batch of songs, there will be a central theme for each month, looking deeper into the works of seminal artists from mid-late 20th century – this one is Hank Williams. $2.00. 6:30–8:30 p.m., The Ark, 3rd Floor, 401 East Jefferson Street, Viroqua.
January 21-23 January 27 Page Series: Trick Boxing. This The Coulee Region Improv and Sketch Festival. Enjoy watching local improvisation and sketch ensembles. The La Crosse Community Theatre accepts submissions from national ensembles to perform and take part in classes taught by world-renowned instructors and coaches at the Weber Center for the Performing Arts. Workshop classes open to the general public on Saturday, January 23. Registration and information: www. facebook.com/CouleeImprovAndSketch; www. lacrossecommunitytheatre.org
January 22-31 Winter Rec-Fest. Shake off the winter
doldrums and get active! Winter Rec-Fest celebrates its 30th year with tons of activities: Boys & Girls Basketball, Broomball, Co-Rec Snow Volleyball, Curling, Euchre/Sheepshead Tournament, Figure Skating Exhibition, Fireworks (Forest Hills Golf Course), Frosty Feet Kickball, Ice Skating, Ice Fishing Derby, Mighty Mites Hockey Jamboree, One Pitch Snow Softball, Skate, Pass & Score Contest, Snow Shoe Trails, Snowflake Medallion Hunt, Torchlight Ski & Hike, Twilight Sledding, & Winter Rec Fest Medallion Hunt. laxwinterrecfest.com.
Kombucha and herbal fizzies with Faith Anacker of Fizzeology. Kombucha is an ancient healing beverage that is enjoying a modern resurgence in popularity. Kombucha offers numerous health benefits, particularly related to digestion and stress relief. You will start a batch in class for you to take home and use to begin your own kombucha and fizzy brews! $15 members; $25 nonmembers. 6–7:30 p.m., People’s Food Co-op, 315 5th Avenue South, La Crosse, 608-787-5798, pfc. coop/calendar/event.
La Crescent Community Center (Fire Station), 336 South 1st Street, lacrescentfarmersmarket. blogspot.com.
Renew Life Formulas, a registered dietician, and a holistic nutrition and digestive care expert. She is a passionate advocate for managing health naturally with an emphasis on integrative health to achieve optimal wellness. Join us for this interactive webinar to learn how probiotics, fiber, enzymes, and herbal cleansing formulas support digestive health. There will be a drawing for a gift basket and product samples during the webinar discussion. Class tuition: FREE, but you must register! 5:30–7 p.m., People’s Food Co-op, 315 5th Avenue South, La Crosse, 608-787-5798, pfc. coop/calendar/event.
January 28 January 23 Wellness webinar with Gina Moss. Gina Moss, R.N., LD/N, is a national educator for La Crescent Farmers Market. 9 a.m.-noon, Copper Box. Fronted by Danny and Michelle Jerabek, Copper Box is a genre-bending celebration of fusion roots rock that channels the rowdy communal feel of a small-town party with their refreshing, gutsy, Americana sound. Tickets available at The Pump House. 7:30 p.m., The Pump House, 119 King Street, La Crosse, thepumphouse.org/events. Life Lessons from a Teacup. You are cordially invited to an enchanting afternoon of tea, sweets and inspiration as Carol Weisz reflects on gratitude, uniqueness, our sacred stories and the beautiful gift of sharing a cup of tea with kindred spirits. Although we will have lovely teacups to sip from at the event, please feel free to bring along your favorite teacup and share its story. $40. 2-4 p.m., Franciscan Spirituality Center, 920 Market Street, La Crosse, fscenter.org.
SEVEN | Issue #7 | January, 2016
January 26 Million Dollar Quartet. Million Dollar
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“brilliantly, cleverly funny” romantic comedy brings 1930s boxing and ballroom dance head-to-head in a match made-in-heaven. Minneapolis-based duo Brian Sostek and Megan McClellan are a two-person tour de force of rapid-fire dialogue, high-energy dances, and ridiculous puppetry in Trick Boxing, a rags-to-riches story of an immigrant apple seller tricked into becoming a boxer and the dance hall dame with a score to settle who takes him under her wing. Tickets: $27 Adults; $24 Seniors & Students. 7:30 p.m,. Page Theatre, Saint Mary’s University, 700 Terrace Heights, Winona, pagetheatre.org/events.
Quartet is the high voltage Tony Awardwinning Broadway musical inspired by the phenomenal true story of the famed recording session where Sam Phillips, the ‘Father of Rock ‘n’ Roll,’ brought together icons Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins for one unforgettable night. This thrilling musical brings you inside the recording studio for a monumental night of rock and roll that explodes off the stage, featuring 21 timeless hits including ‘Blue Suede Shoes,’ ‘Sixteen Tons,’ ‘Great Balls of Fire,’ ‘I Walk the Line,’ ‘Fever,’ ‘Hound Dog,’ and more. $27.20 - $46.00. 7:30 p.m., Viterbo University-Main Theatre, 929 Jackson Street, La Crosse, viterbo.edu/fine-arts-center/buytickets-now.
A Tribute to Benny Goodman: The Julian Bliss Septet. Recreating the exciting sound of swing from the 30’s and 40’s, Julian Bliss leads his septet through some of the great tunes of the swing era, staying true to the authentic feel but with a modern twist. Bliss offers an unbiased point of view about the work of Benny Goodman, talking the audience through the music and sharing anecdotes and stories about Goodman’s life, all delivered with humor creating an intimate and special evening to remember. $15.30-$32.00. 7:30 p.m., Viterbo University-Main Theatre, 929 Jackson Street, La Crosse, viterbo.edu/fine-arts-center/ buy-tickets-now.
January 29 Sacred Weavings of Our Lives Part 1.
Weavings can reflect our lives, having holes and threads of texture, color and sparkle. Join and experience texture, technique and the energy of creation while in community. As you weave, contemplate and connect lives, loves and sacred spirit. All materials will be provided, but you are welcome to bring threads, yarns, beads or items of nature that you treasure to add to your creation—a weaving that you will take home that tells your sacred life story. No experience is necessary, just the desire to connect hands and spirit. $185-$135 for full retreat. 7-9 p.m., Franciscan Spirituality Center, 920 Market Street, La Crosse, fscenter.org.
January 30
Winona Farmers Market. 9 a.m.-noon, East End Rec Center, 210 Zumbro Street, winonafarmersmarket.com. Crow and Weasel. This entrancing fable is an experience for the whole family. Set in a mythical time when the world was new and people and animals spoke the same language, two young and eager Animal People embark on a vision quest to the Land Where Dreaming Begins. Facing unfamiliar perils, Crow and Weasel conquer their fears and learn more than they could ever imagine about our relationship to the land, respecting others, and giving thanks. Adult $13/$11, Child $11/$9. 3 p.m., Weber Center for the Performing Arts, 428 Front Street South, La Crosse, viterbo.edu/finearts-center/buy-tickets-now. Sacred Weavings of Our Lives Part 2. Weavings can reflect our lives, having holes and threads of texture, color, and sparkle. Join and experience texture, technique, and the energy of creation while in community. As you weave, contemplate and connect lives, loves and sacred spirit. All materials will be provided, but you are welcome to bring threads, yarns, beads or items of nature that you treasure to add to your creation—a weaving that you will take home that tells your sacred life story. No experience is necessary, just the desire to connect hands and spirit. $185-$135 for full retreat. 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Franciscan Spirituality Center, 920 Market Street, La Crosse, fscenter.org.
January 31 Crow and Weasel. This entrancing fable
is an experience for the whole family. Set in a mythical time when the world was new and people and animals spoke the same language, two young and eager Animal People embark on a vision quest to the Land Where Dreaming Begins. Facing unfamiliar perils, Crow and Weasel conquer their fears and learn more than they could ever imagine about our relationship to the land, respecting others, and giving thanks. Adult $13/$11, Child $11/$9. 3 p.m., Weber Center for the Performing Arts, 428 Front Street South, La Crosse, viterbo.edu/finearts-center/buy-tickets-now. Sacred Weavings of Our Lives Part 3. Weavings can reflect our lives, having holes and threads of texture, color, and sparkle. Join and experience texture, technique, and the energy of creation while in community. As you weave, contemplate and connect lives, loves and sacred spirit. All materials will be provided, but you are welcome to bring threads, yarns, beads or items of nature that you treasure to add to your creation—a weaving that you will take home that tells your sacred life story. No experience is necessary, just the desire to connect hands and spirit. $185-$135 for full retreat. 9 a.m.-noon, Franciscan Spirituality Center, 920 Market Street, La Crosse, fscenter.org. Simply Three. With their unique transformation of string music, Simply Three is equally at home performing works by Puccini, Gershwin, Adele, Coldplay or Michael Jackson. They capture the true essence of classical crossover by combining technical virtuosity and captivating musicality. $24 adult and $22 for students or senior citizens. 2 p.m., Heider Center for the Arts, 405 East Hamlin Street, West Salem, heidercenter.org/ mainstage.php.
To add your free volunteer listing, email contact@thesevenspot.com.
American Red Cross - Scenic Bluffs Chapter:
Volunteers can help with blood drives, train for disaster response, teach First Aid/CPR classes, support our Armed Forces, assist at special events and more! 2927 Losey Blvd. S., La Crosse; volunteerwestern.wi@redcross.org; 877-618-6628, ext. 5822; www.redcross.org/wi/la-crosse.
Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe:
Big Brothers Big Sisters:
Opportunities: food packing and stocking, unloading trucks, helping during the food fair, delivery and much more. 403 Causeway Blvd, La Crosse; 608-782-6003; waferfoodpantry@centurytel.net; waferlacrosse.org.
Volunteer to become a Big Brother, Big Sister, Big Couple or Big Family to mentor youth, ages 5-14, in our community. There are also special events and other volunteer opportunities. 432 Division Street, La Crosse; (608) 782-2227; info@7riversbbbs.org; www.7riversbbbs.org.
Children’s Museum of La Crosse:
Volunteers are an important part of the Children’s Museum team. If you are upbeat, responsible and love kids, volunteer with us! Opportunities include special events, face painting, crafts and games, and much more! 608-784-2652, ext. 226; christina@funmuseum.org; www.funmuseum.org.
Crossfire Youth Center:
Volunteer needs: gardening, trail maintenance, upkeep of devotional areas, indoor cleaning, greeting visitors. www.guadalupeshrine.org/volunteer.
WAFER Food Pantry:
WisCorps:
WisCorps engages youth and young adults in direct conservation projects on public lands across the state. Volunteer opportunities include trail maintenance, tree planting, event assistance and more! 608-782-2494; staff@wiscorps.org; www.wiscorps.org.
YWCA La Crosse:
Special events, helping with our transitional housing program, CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) for Kids, and our Teen Services programs. info@ywcalax.org.
Crossfire seeks to transform the lives of local teens by providing safe and fun activities. Volunteer opportunities include assisting in weight lifting, archery, outdoor activities and our Friday night party alternative. 608-784-6565; amanda@crossfire4u.com; crossfire4u.com.
Couleecap, Inc.:
Couleecap helps people in need with housing, food, transportation and more. 201 Melby St., Westby (Serving Crawford, La Crosse, Monroe and Vernon counties); contactus@couleecap.org; www.couleecap.org.
Bachelor Degree Completion • Accounting
Great Rivers United Way:
Great Rivers United Way Volunteer Center hosts an array of volunteer opportunities. www.ugetconnected.org.
• Health Care Management • Organizational Management
Grow La Crosse:
• Management Information Systems
From garden work to working with children to event help, there’s something for many! www.growlacrosse.org/get-involved.
• Servant Leadership
Habitat for Humanity/ReStore:
Evening and online classes available.
Building homes for those in need, office work and special events. volunteer@habitatlacrosse.org; 608-785-2375, ext. 7003.
Hillview Urban Agriculture Center:
The mission of Hillview is to create a healthy community through a local, sustainable and accessible food system. Volunteer opportunities: Market Baskets, vermicomposting, various gardening tasks, fundraising, grant writing and marketing. 608-786-0338; vicki@vsm5.com; www.hillviewuac.org.
The Hunger Task Force of La Crosse:
Tasks and info: Food Recovery Program—driving for deliveries, sorting, truck loading and unloading, clerical, special event duties; 608-793-1002; lacrossehunger@centurytel.net. Kane St. Community Garden—preparing and planting, weeding, harvesting; 608-386-3319; kanestreetgarden@gmail.com; www.lacrossehtf.org.
Kinstone Academy of Applied Permaculture:
Graduate Programs
Dedicated to teaching people how to live more sustainably through the use of permaculture principles and design. Critical thinking skills and hands-on practice are core to our offerings. We have volunteer opportunities in the following areas: food forest maintenance, composting, various gardening tasks, various natural building construction projects, stone work, fundraising, grant writing, videography and marketing. 608-687-3332; inquiry@kinstonecircle.com with VOLUNTEER in the subject; www.KinstoneCircle.com.
Master of Business Administration • Flexible class schedules (one evening per week) and online options available • Connect with a network of professionals
La Crescent Animal Rescue:
La Crosse Area Family YMCA:
Master of Arts in Servant Leadership
Opportunities include special events, youth sports coaching, Miracle League Baseball Buddies, Teen Center and much more. 608-782-9622; Y-North: 400 Mason St., Onalaska; Y-La Crosse: 1140 Main St., La Crosse; www.laxymca.org.
• Classes offered in convenient Friday evening/Saturday format or two-week summer institute
Lakeview Health Center
• Learn to articulate a vision of servant leadership as a vocation
Many opportunities with flexible hours on a regular or occasional basis. Recreation and leisure programs, provide visits and/or share a talent or special interest. West Salem, WI (608)786-1400 x 40195; lrose@lacrossecounty.
Outdoor Recreation Alliance (ORA):
The Outdoor Recreation Alliance seeks to optimize world-class outdoor recreational opportunities. Volunteers are needed for various activities including trail work. www.naturesplacetoplay.com.
• Gain an understanding of organizational mission, culture, and dynamics 1-888-VITERBO business.viterbo.edu
Apply now for January start.
SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |
• Optional specializations in: Health Care Management, Project Management, International Business, Ethical Leadership
We are committed to being a no-kill shelter, which means we are always looking for both foster and permanent homes for the animals left in our care. Volunteer tasks: cat and/or dog care, cleaning, clerical and animal transportation. Must be 16 years of age. 523 S. Chestnut St., La Crescent, MN; 507-895-2066; www.lacrescentanimalrescue.blogspot.com
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WRITER’S BLOCK
By: Briana Rupel
Out of Fear, Into Love
“
SEVEN | Issue #7 | January, 2016
...the only thing we have to fear is fear itself...” - Franklin Delano Roosevelt You don’t have to be a history buff to recognize this quote given by one of our country’s greatest leaders during his First Inaugural Speech in 1933. Expressed at the rock bottom of the Great Depression, Roosevelt’s words from over 80 years ago seem unequivocally poignant today. “First of all let me assert my firm belief,” he stated then, “that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself—nameless, unreasoning, unjustified terror which paralyzes needed efforts to convert retreat into advance.” Nameless, unreasoning, unjustified terror—Fear. We may not always realize where it stems from, but it lives and breathes in our bones, occasionally pouncing out to remind us of its existence, much like a regretable tattoo. Recently, a friend of mine explored this complex emotion on his social media page, sparking a beautifully honest and thoughtful conversation between over 25 friends and strangers alike. “One of my biggest fears,” he confessed, “is that I won’t amount to what people expect me to be. That I’ll fail the ones that believe in me most. What’s your fear? I think we all have them. Anyone care to share?” Both men and women opened up for all to see. Among the top perpetrators were fear of failure, never finding real love, losing children, ending up alone and not being successful. It’s nothing unfamiliar to this writer; I still get paralyzed by fear in my everyday life all the time. I miss deadlines or miss opportunities, because I fear imperfection. Sometimes I still can’t find an adequate sledgehammer to knock down walls with those closest to me, because I still fear rejection. In a tiny comment box, I shared these intimate feelings and was quickly reassured I wasn’t alone. In one simple post, my friend nailed it: “Fear makes us human,” he wrote. “All of us, regardless of differences, are human at the end of the day.” And this is the most important truth: Our fears aren’t American. They are human. After all, fear is one of our two primary emotions. Fear has been necessary to our survival as a species ever since the beginning of our existence. The release of adrenaline and the stress hormone cortisol that fear initiates is what gave us the physical boost we needed to run away from predators while we hunted for food in the forest. Though most of what we fear today doesn’t relate to such a primal physical need, it still propels us in many instances. Of course the thousands of Syrians who fled their war-torn home via flimsy rafts on impossible waters were deathly afraid. Their primal instincts were surely telling them not to board. But there’s another one of our primary emotions that trumped fear in that case. They were willing to face imminent danger all because of love for their families. Like fear, love is universal. We are all born with the capacity to love, no matter what religion a person practices or what corner of the planet a person lives on. To love isn’t American. To love is human.
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Fear and love. Spiritual teachings tell us that these are the two primary human emotions of humans. Every other emotion falls under one of these two categories. Negative feelings of jealousy, confusion, anxiety, hatred and violence all stem from fear. Positive feelings of joy, compassion, understanding, generosity and the like, stem from love. Even scientific experiments have shown the vast difference between measurable frequencies we emit while exhibiting these emotions. When we fear, our vibrations are low, long and slow. Conversely, when we love, these vibrations are high, short and fast. Elisabeth Kübler-Ross was a Swiss-American psychiatrist most known for outlining the now widely accepted Five Stages of Grief. In “Life Lessons: Two Experts on Death and Dying Teach Us About the Mysteries of Life and Living,” a book she co-authored with pediatrician and former FDA commissioner David Kessler, Kübler-Ross explores these innate human feelings. She writes, “It’s true that there are only two primary emotions, love and fear, but it’s more accurate to say that there is only love or fear, for we cannot feel these two emotions together, at exactly the same time. They’re opposites. If we’re in fear, we are not in a place of love. When we’re in a place of love, we cannot be in a place of fear.” Therein lies the conundrum we face today. As a society, we Americans are retreating heavily into a near-constant state of fear. It’s easy to see. Every time you scroll through your social media feeds, every time you click onto the local news, every time you scan the front page, the message blasts shockingly loud: Be afraid. Be very afraid. As much as we abhor the thought of living our lives in fear, many of us are lost as to how to find a way to do the opposite. Talk to your friends, co-workers and family. We are saddened and discouraged by the heaviness of the tragic shootings and blatant racism we hear about on a daily basis, but we feel minuscule and helpless to counter it. So how do we advance as a people? The answer is that we must move into a place of love in whatever way we individually see fit. For some of us, that might mean choosing to educate ourselves out of a point of confusion and into a realm of understanding. For others it might mean choosing forgiveness instead of being swallowed up by anger. For all of us, we can choose to be more kind and compassionate day by day. Choose to notice all the love you do encounter each day. Just last week, within a onehour trip to the grocery store I witnessed a woman pick up a small wad of cash a man had dropped and rush up to give it back to him. I saw a scrawny kid with his hood up gingerly help an elderly woman with a walker step out of the city bus. As I approached the lobby of my apartment, a neighbor I had never met happily held the door open for me. It doesn’t take gestures of grandeur to make a difference. It’s these seemingly small efforts that will propel us—instead of paralyzing us—from retreat into advance.
The HW Farm Shoppe Mexican Cuisine
All D Happy Haoy ur! 2 for 1 Lime M argaritas Sun-Tue
Lunch - Dinner - Cocktails | Sun-Thu: 11am - 10pm • Fri-Sat: 11am - 11pm
Buy One, Get One Free Entree! Please present coupon before ordering. Offer expires 2/6/16. Not valid with any other offers.
115 5th Ave S, Downtown La Crosse • (608) 782-0737
Quality alpaca fiber products at reasonable prices!
Alpaca Yarn & Roving
Hand-crafted Items
Socks – Hats – Scarves - Sofa Throws
January Hours: Sunday 11am-3pm Weekdays open by appointment
Best wishes to all for a happy healthy New Year!!
HICKORY WIND FARM ALPACAS N7080 Garves Coulee alpacas_hwf@centurytel.net
Bangor WI 54614 www.hickorywindfarm.com
Local Laptop Service & Sales
(608) 406-4044 219 7th St S, La Crosse, WI
SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |
www.orangecomputerlax.com
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509 Main St La Crosse, WI 608.782.8227 Mon-Fri: 10-7 Saturday: 10-6 Sunday: 12-4
Custom tattoos
608-785-8200
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2011 206 South 4th St. La Crosse, Wi
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Enjoy an afternoon of tea, sweets and inspiration as we raise money for FSC scholarships. Fra nci s c an Spirituality Center
Tickets are $40; register at www.FSCenter.org or 608-791-5295
920 Market St. La Crosse
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