SEVEN September 2015 Woodstock

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September 2015

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Bicycling Culture Get Ready to Ride

Don Weber

A Public Servant’s Story

The Best of

La Crosse 2015

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SEVEN | Issue #3 | September, 2015

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SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |

Inside

6 Urbanist 7 (Almost) Famous Locals 8 The Arts

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PUB INFO About SEVEN explores the dynamic community, culture and arts world of the Seven Rivers Region.

15 Entertainment

Contact Phone: 608-780-3853

20 Sip n’ Taste

Email: contact@thesevenspot.com

22 Limelight

Web: TheSevenSpot.com

Mail: PO Box 762,

Onalaska, WI 54650 Facebook: TheSevenSpot

26 Fitness 30 Business 31 Family

Twitter: @thesevenspot Support Advertising sustains the celebration of musicians, festivals, thespians, artists, and the vibrant community that calls the Seven Rivers Region home.

Phone: (608) 780-3853 Email: michellejerome7@gmail.com

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33 Best of La Crosse 2015 42 Listings 45 Volunteer Listings 46 Writer’s Block

A note

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from the publisher Our community packs in a lot of fun, so we tried to squeeze as much fun as we could into this issue. The bicycling culture is increasing locally as we see more motorless wheels on the streets and numerous homegrown bicycling events popping up. September brings several area bike rides and tours, the annual Bicycling Festival, and the return of a local annual Wisconsin Off Road Series (WORS) race, the Hixon Forest Epic. To read articles celebrating bicycling, look for this icon: September also brings the annual Oktoberfest, USA, held in La Crosse. I have joked that I owe my existence to Oktoberfest, because my parents met there as teenagers while working together at a carnival stand. Years later, since my mother had summers off from working as a hearing impaired interpreter at the La Crosse School District, my parents and I hit the road to work carnival shows for the same man who hired them as teenagers. I was the kid holding up the ping pong balls at the fishbowl

game yelling, “Three balls for a dollar!” The season always ended with our hometown “carnival,” Oktoberfest— where I would bring home $350 after some work days!

(That’s the jackpot to a kid!) Today, I, like many parents, load up the kids to take in the excitement and nostalgia of the festgrounds and parades or gather with friends for live music and the Tapping of the Golden Keg to celebrate with other festers. In this issue of SEVEN, we feature another side of Oktoberfest – The Royal Family.

Although we see them at fest events, not everyone knows of their commitment to community. I’m excited to share this aspect with you!

To top it off, Explore La Crosse’s annual Best Of La Crosse County Poll—is brought to life in print for the first time in this issue of SEVEN! For more on that, see page 33!

Thanks to all of you for joining the vibe of SEVEN! You make it beautiful!

Michelle

On the Cover

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.

Copyright 2015 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.

TheSevenSpot.com

This month’s cover photo was taken by photographer, Bob Good and brought to you by Beer By Bike Brigade. This snapshot is a peek at the camaraderie and fun had at each ride as hundreds of people grab a bike to pedal from one local business to another to enjoy great drinks, food and friendship. The host of the Brigade, Mario, is very humble when he reflects on the number of people the ride garners and takes no credit. Brigade riders know that Mario is the man to thank for adding his touch that has made this monthly event magical. Some riders even dress up in themed costume together. Pirates, Santas and elves, superheroes and tutu-darned fairies have all trekked along with the Brigade in the name of “Good Times” (a Brigade slogan). This issue is packed with bicycling excitement and the Brigade was an immediate choice to help make SEVEN beautiful! Thanks to all of the people who participated in the shot and to Bob for capturing it! Since we couldn’t fit everyone’s wonderful smile in the photo, it will be featured in its entirety on the SEVEN Facebook page www.facebook.com/thesevenspot and website www.thesevenspot.com. Cheers!

Theresa Smerud Photograher

Lee Walraven Writer

Sara Walters Writer

Brett Werner Writer

Jess Witkins Writer

Todd Wohlert Writer

Susan C. Schuyler Writer

Deborah Nerud Writer

A.J. Moore Writer

Andrew Londre Writer

Yasmynn Rain Writer

Briana Rupel Writer

Jason Keeney Crew Chief & Graphic Designer

Heidi Overson Writer

Ryan Johnson Writer & Photographer

Michelle L. Jerome Crew Captain

Joe Hart Writer

Heidi Griminger Blanke, Ph.D Writer

The CREW The local talent dedicated to bringing you a fresh look at our region.

Michael Scott Writer

James Warsinske Writer

Bob Good Photographer

Beth Erickson Writer

Dahli Durley Photographer

Joerg Droll Writer

Becca Dargatz Writer & Calendar Editor

Tegan Daly Writer

Leah Call Copy Editor & Writer

Chad Berger Photographer

MISC

URBANIST

CELEBRATING PEZ (Yes, the beloved candy container!)

ASPHALT VS. LIVING SPACE

Article: Becca Dargatz The second annual PEZ on the River will be held September 25-26 at the Days Inn of La Crosse. PEZ on the River is a gathering of people who collect, sell and trade PEZ… spectators welcome!

PEZ on the River began in October 2014, after the Minnesota PEZ Convention closed.

Many people expressed interest in a Midwest PEZ event, and with over 100 attendees the first year from as far as California and Tennessee, PEZ enthusiasts happily travel to gather, have fun and socialize.

Participants attending the two-day event receive a souvenir packet and a full itinerary, including admission to the PEZ Show on Saturday, September 26. The PEZ Show is open to the public, while dealers open for business in the convention hall.

This year’s convention is encouraging a Halloween theme with a costume contest, not a human costume, but a “decorate your PEZ in a costume.” Along with the costumes are other events for participants. PEZ dealers will open their hotel rooms for people to room hop to find PEZ dispensers, displays, signage and other memorabilia. There will be a River Party Friday evening that includes PEZ trivia and games, and PEZ on the River will also host a charity auction on Friday night to benefit Home and Community Options, Inc. in Winona, Minn.

PEZ on the River is a family friendly event.

People of all ages are encouraged to attend to connect with other PEZ enthusiasts and enjoy a variety of PEZ-related items.

“There are many different dispensers that you cannot get in the U.S. that are manufactured by PEZ International. There have also been quilts of PEZ shirts and handcrafted woodworking that include PEZ dispensers,” says PEZ on the River co-host Chery GardnerGhionzol.

Becca Dargatz is a former intern for Mpls.

St.Paul Magazine. Interests include pop culture, coffee drinking, good conversation, nail polish and feminism.

GO: When: September 25-26 Where: Days Inn of La Crosse, 101 Sky Harbor Drive Cost: $5/person, $10/family More info: www.pezontheriver.com

DON’T PASS BY - PASS IT ON

SEVEN | Issue #3 | September, 2015

Article: Heidi Griminger Blanke

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If you’ve never been to an A.A. (Alcoholics Anonymous) meeting, now’s your chance. “Pass It On,” a theatrical performance from New York City, brings you into the midst of a 1949 A.A. meeting, where actors portraying Bill Wilson and Dr. Bob, creators of the 12 Step Recovery, share the story. Dean Ciokiewicz, President of the Coulee Region Riteway Club (local A.A. chapter), says, “Every single line in this two-act, two-actor production is as profound as the next.”

The show was created by The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD).

Its purpose, says Ciokiewicz, is to “educate those who may either be in recovery or active addiction, know someone in recovery or active addiction or are professionals in the AODA and mental health fields and wish to further educate themselves or employees directly involved in the treatment of these individuals.” Proceeds from the performances are earmarked for the Wisconsin Association of 12 Step Clubs, a nonprofit leadership training organization for Recovery Clubs.

NCADD names alcohol and drug addiction the number one public health issue in the United States, with one in four American children affected by addicted parents. Wisconsin, sadly, leads the nation in adult binge drinking. In La Crosse County alone, about 2,000 adults are in active recovery.

“Pass It On” was created to help reduce

the stigma of the disease, thereby opening the door for recovery. “With over forty-plus years of combined sobriety and over 80 years acting experience on and off Broadway, these two [actors] really put on a show not to be forgotten soon,” says Ciokiewicz. The play is based on the book “Pass It On,” first published in 1984.

Local A.A. clubs have existed in La Crosse since the 1950s. Contact clubs at aalacrosse.org or via hotline at 608-784-7560 or 866-491-8004.

Heidi Griminger Blanke, Ph.D. writes for a number of area magazines and has been published in several anthologies. Her resume also includes academic articles, essays in national magazines, writing workshop presentations, and careers in teaching and nonprofit management.

GO: When: September 16-20, 7 p.m.; September 20, 2 p.m.

Where: Onalaska Omni Center, 255 Riders Club Rd., Onalaska Tickets: $25 at brownpapertickets.com

By: Andrew Londre

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wo of the most fundamental concepts every urbanist should understand are highest and best use and density.

Highest and best use basically means that urban space is precious, and there are good uses like highly valued, highly activated buildings and high-quality, highly activated public spaces. There are also bad uses, such as vacant lots and, importantly for this article, surface parking spaces–which add very limited value and cost a tremendous amount of money.

Density is simply a measure of people per block. The world’s most vibrant cities are the ones that strategically encourage density.

The good and the bad It’s also important for urbanists to know good design when they see it. In La Crosse, on the good end are buildings like the Hive, the Grand River Station, the soon-to-be development on Lot C, and the Aguilera graphic: 360 Real Estate near UW-La Crosse.

On the bad end are the six/eight-unit vinyl boxes, which have propagated every corner of our city but are most prevalent in the neighborhoods around UW-La Crosse, Western and Viterbo.

Design standards Thankfully the days of these sideways motels are behind us. That’s because in 2008 La Crosse adopted a set of comprehensive design standards for new apartments which regulate everything from the types of building materials a developer can use to the number of shrubs and bike racks they need to have on site. It also regulates the number of on-site parking spaces.

Since 2008 every new bedroom constructed in La Crosse requires a new parking space. That takes up a lot of valuable urban space. But that wasn’t the original idea. According to Tim Acklin, Senior Planner for the City of La Crosse, “When we developed our multi-family design standards, we had built into it ways to reduce that required number of parking spaces if other conditions were met.”

Those other conditions included being on a bus route or having extra bike racks. But in the eleventh hour, a handful of landlords voiced concerns that people were still going to drive their cars no matter what, and so a former council member made a last-minute amendment requiring an on-site parking space for every new bedroom.

As it turns out, this last minute change has had far reaching consequences.

What’s the problem?

Most importantly, “It forces investment into asphalt parking instead of quality buildings,” says Marvin Wanders, owner of 360 Real Estate Solutions. It also limits density. After all, every inch covered with asphalt is space that cannot be built on.

That is a big loss for the city and its taxpayers, Wanders points out. “You get more bang for your buck with density than anything else,” he says. “Think about just the amount of road infrastructure that has to be put in and maintained with low density versus high density. And what generates more tax revenue [for a city], a huge parking lot or a beautiful building?”

Another local developer, Nick Roush of Roush Rentals has a slightly different take. Roush feels one guaranteed parking stall per student for student housing, “is a huge selling point.” He does agree, “This rule limits density.” Which is ironic because Acklin, Roush and Wanders all agree this rule was largely meant to limit the effects property owners around UW-La Crosse and Western were feeling as poorly planned student housing began to creep out into traditional neighborhoods. But because the City failed to concentrate student housing in one area, student housing has sprawled out all over the city–making the problem worse.

Then what’s the solution?

Acklin, Roush and Wanders all agree that parking requirements should be based on end use.

For example, senior and low-income housing—where the tenants are less likely to have a personal vehicle—should not have the same requirements as a development for young professionals, who are more likely to own a vehicle.

To be fair, La Crosse isn’t alone in having this rule on the books. Many cities do. However, an increasing number of cities are changing their rules to promote more density and less car dependency, and to reduce rising rental costs.

So will we see this rule change locally? According to the City, the answer is “maybe.”

It all depends on the future we want. Cars and asphalt, or beautiful buildings and greater livability. As an urbanist, I choose the latter. How about you?

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.

Have feedback? Share your thoughts on the Urbanist with the SEVEN Facebook page: www.Facebook.com/TheSevenSpot.

FAMOUS LOCALS

By: Beth Erickson

virtually hang out with him. “I also am a Ham radio operator and have portable equipment I carry around occasionally so friends can track me on their smartphones. I like to call it the ‘Follow Mike App,’” he says.

Go od

Bo b

And, just like shoes, all of his gear has purpose. The fat tire is his winter transport. His cargo bike and trailers are for hauling stuff. The folding bike and foldable trailer are for pulling his canoe.

“It makes it easy to go anywhere, put the canoe in the water, fold up the trailer wheels and fold up the bike, put them in the boat and paddle away,” he adds.

MICHAEL BAKER GET ON YOUR BIKE AND FOLLOW MIKE

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If so, you’ve noticed La Crosse resident Michael Baker—cycling aficionado and president of the Driftless Region Bicycle Coalition whose mission is to get more people on bikes more often. Baker’s role with the all-volunteer coalition is a natural fit for someone who logs 6,000 to 7,000 miles per year on his bike.

Passion is what drives Baker, 48, who bikes year-round and logs mostly

130: Most miles biked in one day 6K - 7K: Number of miles biked annually

Friends follow him whether he is on his Wyatt, fat tire, tandem, cargo or folding bike. Baker estimates he saves nearly $9,000 a year by bicycling versus driving. “I would rather spend the cost of an automobile on bikes, fun and other frivolous stuff,” he says.

o: ot h p

ave you seen a bicycle dangling from a fencepost around the Coulee Region, a biker wearing a cowboy hat with a dangling wine cork, or a biker pulling a canoe with a foldable bike?

BAKER BY THE NUMBERS

local mileage. When he gets to his destination, usually on his Wyatt bike, he hangs it on chain-link fences, posts and railings—basically anywhere. “I hang it so it’s easy to see and helps friends know where I am…Occasionally, I’ll have it almost upside down on the back of a street sign. I once hung it two stories up off a friend’s deck,” he says.

The wine cork also gets noticed, but it’s more about safety than décor. It’s a rearview mirror made from a recycled wine cork and fastened on the hatband with wire.

A radio technician by trade, Baker has even created a way friends can

Seeing more people biking daily is one of Baker’s dreams. While some folks lament the time and preplanning it might take, Baker says it’s negligible. “If [the drive] is under two to three miles, bikes are usually equal or faster,” he says. “Planning to ride somewhere is just as easy as planning to drive a car.

The biggest obstacle is the unknown.

Until you’ve done it, there’s no way to know.”

500: Limit to the number of pounds he will pull by bike $8698*: Annual cost to own and operate an average sedan $43,490: Annual cost saving of bicycling instead during five-year span * AAA News Room, newsroom. aaa.com, April 28, 2015

Baker suggests that those interested in changing their habits should try biking more frequently. “Keep hanging out with others who ride, we’ll help you figure it out.”

Beth Erickson, owner of Jobe Communications, LLC, is a magazine and a book editor, writer and poet. She relies too much on her car to get around, but has a Trek bike and aims to ride it more.

THANK YOU

For recognizing the great coaches, staff, volunteers and programs at the Y. CATegOries: 1st -Fitness Center -Childcare -Youth Sports Programs -Youth Program -Fitness Instructor / Personal Trainer: Elaine McDonah 2nd -Local Non-Profit Organization -Yoga / Pilates Studio 3rd -Martial Arts Studio

LA CrOsse AreA FAmiLY YmCA YmCA-LA CrOsse BrANCH 1140 Main Street, La Crosse WI 54601 YmCA-NOrTH BrANCH 400 Mason Street, Onalaska WI 54650

608 782 9622 • www.LAxYmCA.Org photo: Bob Good

SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |

(Almost)

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THE ARTS for the Heart of La Crosse comedy troupe (Heart).

About three dozen cast members have shared the stage through the years, but the format has remained similar to the show’s debut. It’s not a play but more like a local “Saturday Night Live” meets “Whose Line Is It Anyway.”

A La Crosse experience The Heart of La Crosse experience is made up of cast-written sketches and improvisation as well as song parodies and videos—some featuring local celebrities. Heart is the only comedy troupe in La Crosse that routinely breaks the fourth wall to invite the audience Heart of La Crosse takes a selfie with SEVEN photographer, Bob Good to participate at various times in a show.

The cast motto is “parody is respect.”

The city-based humor is homage to the scenic community the cast calls home, which could be described as, “The Biggest Small City and The Smallest Big City.”

Heart also has an April show that is fully Article: Todd and Lisa Olson improv, where the audience ideas create each character!

Photos: Bob Good A sneak peek for the Heart show opening September 10, “Stir Crazy After All These Comedy comes in many different forms, Improvisation may be the purest form Years,” includes sketches like the old but the one commonality is the sense of comedy. It’s initiated by the audience’s guys who hang out on the patio of Dublin of community it builds. A laugh is often ideas and the performer’s imagination.

Square and comment on passersby and shared and contagious. It’s an outward The beauty is its singularity; it exists only city issues; a barista who offers unsolicited sign that people are, perhaps for only a for the people who are able to experience advice with every cup o’ joe. There will second, in sync with each other. A shared it as it occurs. Humor is an emotional be a faux city emergency that brings news laugh is an affirmation that despite any connection and, often times, a welcomed anchor Jennifer Livingston and University outward differences there is similar ground escape. of Wisconsin-La Crosse Chancellor Joe between those enjoying the moment September of 1980 was the beginning Gow to the rescue.

COMEDY IS THE HEART OF LA CROSSE

CREATURE FEATURE

SEVEN | Issue #3 | September, 2015

Article: Jim Warsinske

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photo: Bob Good

Something scary is coming to La Crosse in October, and you get to decide just how scary! Coulee Region Unscripted (CRU) will perform Creature Feature, an improvised monster movie at the Pump House on Oct. 15–17. The audience suggests what the monster should be, then the talented cast performs an impromptu show using the suggestions.

The cast includes veterans from previous CRU shows (Ken Forkes, Deborah Nerud and Lynn Oldenburg) along with new members (Steve Krogness and Jess Witkins). From the first night of auditions, it was evident that this cast has a great connection with one another.

They’re ready for a fun night of improv as they develop their monster movie chops.

Oldenburg prefers some of the old-schooltype monsters, “I think I make a pretty good vampire, personally. I wouldn’t mind being a werewolf, but I don’t like fleas.”

There will be two acts with an intermission, so they’ll have a chance to perform a sequel or another movie about a completely different monster. That plot direction will be decided by the audience. The Pump House boasts a timeless, intimate theater, so there are only good seats in the house.

If you have creative monster ideas for the

The cast includes Brad Williams since 1996; Lisa Olson since 1999; Todd Olson and Tracy Ballzer joined in 2007; and with Doug Lietke, who joined shortly afterward.

Jonathan Lamb burst on the scene last year, and Taylor Gruszka is shiny new this year. Trevin Thomson has run tech and video since 2006.

Guest Contributors Todd and Lisa Olson

GO: Where: Pump House Regional Arts Center, 119 King Street, La Crosse.

Cash bar, drinks allowed in theater When: Three weekends in September: 10–12, 17–19, 24–26 Tickets: $21 in advance, $25 day of (if seats available). Thursdays are $16 in advance, $25 day of Info: 608-785-1434 and www.thepumphouse.org

show, look for the Coulee Region Unscripted Facebook page where you can share ideas, see behind-the-scenes photos of rehearsals and find information on upcoming performances.

Jim Warsinske usually introduces himself as, “Hi, I’m Jim from Sign Pro.” He enjoys talking about fonts and colors for hours— seriously, avoid him at cocktail parties.

And he loves performing improvisation.

GO: Ticket are $15+tax in advance; $18+tax day of show Available at the Pump House box office, 119 King Street, La Crosse By phone at 608-785-1434 or online www.thepumphouse.org Get your tickets early and get ready to scream (and laugh) ‘til it hurts.

WILLIAM NEIL A Brilliant Composer

Article: Deborah Nerud Photos: Chad Berger

Influenced by place Neil feels the piece is organic; its

roots are found in Neil’s cultural Nordic heritage, his innate appreciation of darkness and the return of light from a hard, long winter into a fertile spring.

The 13-minute piece is heavily influenced not only by 12 years lived in the Driftless Region, but also from Neil’s connection to LCSO and the conductor, Alexander Platt, whom he credits for bringing the music to life. Highlighting that connection, Platt comments, “Bill is so in touch with this Driftless Region.

The piece has a very organic quality, especially as it grows out of the lakes, fields and forests of the region.”

Citing influences, Neil references Debussy, Satie, Mozart and Bach, but notes that the Finnish Sibelius “feels like a kindred spirit” for his vibrancy, clarity and his immersion into the darkness that comes with living in a far-northern country, where light is scarce.

“Sinfonia delle Gioie,” which will be premiered as the first part of a program titled Nordic Moods, will include Jean Sibelius’ violin concerto, featuring Janet Sung, artist-in-residence at Chicago’s DePaul University, and Carl Nielsen’s Symphony No. 3 in C Major, the “Sinfonia Espansiva,” which will feature vocalizations by La Crosse residents Ann Schoenecker and Hans Laping.

Reflective of the Nordic theme, Neil chose to highlight a traditional Nordic folk instrument, the willow (sallow) flute.

“I wanted a flute made specifically for this piece and sourced a Croatian maker.

It was my goal to find a way to play and orchestrate this instrument with the [La Crosse] Symphony.”

Ready to share his work Neil hopes to challenge the audience with his arrangement, stating, “My approach is eclectic. It’s a compelling style that challenges the audience to abandon everything, to expose their deeper consciousness to the power within the composition.”

The title of the piece, which translates from Italian as “The Symphony of Joys,” takes on deeper meaning when looking at the etymological plurality of gioie, which denotes joys or jewels. “This piece is very much a reflection of the joys in my life that have emerged over time,” says Neil. “I love music, I love Italy, I love the Driftless Region, and my memories and experiences with these things are like jewels.”

Platt is excited for Neil’s piece and shares, “Our [LCSO’s] audiences are very accepting of new good things, and the intensity of our rehearsals and anticipation for the work usually match that of the audience on the day of performance.”

Neil, who feels his orchestration matches the dreamed color and complexity of his vision, is ready to share his work. He states, “Living in a piece is like living in a musical dream world. I hope to invite an audience to the edge of their seats—the place where they surrender and wonder, ‘Wow. What was that?’”

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.

GO: La Crosse Symphony Orchestra: Nordic Moods Where: Viterbo Fine Arts Center, 929 Jackson St., La Crosse When: October 24, 7:30-10 p.m.

Purchase concert tickets or season tickets: www.lacrossesymphony.org Learn more about William Neil: www.williamneil.net,

www.projectfourthstream.com

SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |

S

peaking with William Neil about composing music is much like one of his compositions.

Anecdotes, memories, family, history and emotions fluidly weave and bob, intertwining a thoughtful harmony that supports the melody of the topic at hand—a new composition to be premiered and performed with the La Crosse Symphony Orchestra (LCSO) for the 2015-2016 seasonal debut on October 24, 2015.

Neil, 61, a father, husband, composer, musician, radio host on WDRT’s ‘Symphony Sunday,’ financial advisor and co-founder of Project Fourth Stream (a production unit co-founded by Tom Gullion that aims to create a synthesis between improvised and composed music in a multi-media format) has lived a life steeped in music. Neil began his first serious compositions at age 14. “I may have started early, but I’m a late bloomer,” Neil states, referencing the accomplishment of his first focused piece and the amount of time involved in the composition.

A former composer-in-residence with the Lyric Opera of Chicago and theatrical sound designer, Neil dedicates this piece, nearly five years in the making, to his father (aged 86). “It took a long time to create,” says Neil. “I’m glad my father will be around to hear it.”

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THE ARTS THE 10 LETTERS PROJECT Article: Jess Witkins Photo: Bella Cirovic

with people.”

In today’s world, we have a wealth of ways to connect with friends near and far. We can call them up on cell phones.

We can Skype. We can text. For Lee and Manley, it was letters. “It was important to me that I have a way of archiving this.

Telling Tim about what I was feeling was as much for me, and my processing, as it was sharing with him,” explains Lee. The concept was simple. Write a letter with two components: I want to tell you about... and I want to ask you...

Now, Lee is on another tour, inviting makers to write their own letters. So that’s what we’re doing. Each month in SEVEN, Deborah Nerud and I will exchange a letter. The receiver won’t see it until the issue comes out, same as you. The other will reply in the following issue. If you feel so inclined or inspired, we hope you join in, too.

To learn more about the project, visit www.10lettersproject.com.

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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August 12, 2015 Dear Jess,

er

Lett

1

Today, somewhere between putting on eyeliner and slipping my feet into my broken-soled Danskos, I felt like I didn’t really want to leave the house to do the thing I told myself I was going to do (sit, read, write—either at Jules’ or the Root Note).

I’m ready to go. I have things I need to accomplish, and I know these tasks would find creative purchase in different environs outside my apartment. I’m working on two different articles for two different magazines, I’m gearing up for a new improv show (‘Creature Feature’) with the Coulee Region Unscripted crew, I’m about to start a new job at the end of the month, my kids are with their dad for the weekend. And yet here I am, writing to you, sitting at home, getting quietly overwhelmed by a mounting to-do pile.

I wouldn’t say I’m in a rut, nor am I a recluse. On the contrary, as a part-time extrovert, I get a lot of good energy when I’m around others—whether I know them personally or not. I flourish in a group, I love performance, and I soak up new experiences like a thirsty competitor at a cracker-eating contest.

Conversely, as a part-time introvert, I’ve discovered I can spend days without so much as a peep to anyone but my children, choosing to remain alone—whether on the trail for my morning run (I’m currently training for a half-marathon; the further I go, the fewer people I have to run with, I’ve noticed) or when I’m deep into a writing jag. Maybe I’m a saltine eater all the time, only satiated when silence is foiled by sound (forgive the sibilance—I love a good bit of alliteration).

Attaining the balance between inside/outside, venturing boldly versus staying safe at home, has always been a big challenge for me—at times proving crippling, restricting inertia or motivation to a roped-off, padded room, where there are only a few soft toys to play with. Eventually, as the teeter-totter of desire balances out, the restricted energy grows fangs and teeth, and power and movement and cravings for human contact set me free from the body-brain-bind of introversion, and I thrust myself back into the public. Maybe it’s less a teeter-totter and more of a pendulum…

SEVEN | Issue #3 | September, 2015

It was a night filled with what one participant described as “wild, succulent energy.” That was the mood in the West Salem living room where a dozen local artists and writers—makers— gathered with New York storyteller and filmographer, Jen Lee. She was talking about her latest collaboration, “The 10 Letters Project: A Year of Art and Friendship.” A longtime fan of creator stories, Lee grew weary of listening to interviews from people after they’d achieved success. The questions were always the same. How did you get to where you are now? What did you overcome? Fair questions, sure, but the answers glossed over the experience of getting there.

Lee was touring with her documentary, Indie Kindred. And fellow storyteller and artist, Tim Manley, was just releasing his first book, Alice in Tumblr-land. They had an idea. What if they each wrote one another ten times, tracking the process, experiencing all the emotional highs and lows with one trusted friend? Their letters became the foundation of “The 10 Letters Project.”

“I fear sometimes we’ve forgotten how to be a friend,” Lee says. “It becomes the thing we only have time for after the laundry is done, or we’ve gone to the gym, or we’ve cooked dinner. Yet, all my work is inspired by conversations I’ve had

What about you, Jess? As a writer who works in the public, you and I have a lot in common, and I’d like to hear about what gets you out, what keeps you in, and how you deal with the struggle of balance between the two. I’m closing this letter, wishing you well, no matter where you read this, and I’ll have you know that I’m choosing to go out the moment I finish this letter.

All My Best, Deborah Nerud

photo: Jen Lee

CHUCK CHARBENEAU By: Michael Scott

photo: Jerry Quebe

CELEBRATE ART! Article: Leah Call

have three new food vendors this year and three of our four musical acts are new this year.”

The vendors use organic and locally grown ingredients to give festers an opportunity to taste the flavors of the region. Artisanal coffee, wood-fired pizza, crepes, Mississippi River catfish and more will soothe your hunger while pottery, fiber arts, glass, jewelry, metal sculpture, paintings, pastels and drawings provide a feast for your eyes and your soul.

There are about 80 artists at the festival each year. “About 20 to 25 percent are new and 75 percent returning,” Jerry explains. “We try to keep that fresh every year as well.”

The event attracts larger crowds each year to celebrate the visual, performing and culinary arts of this unique region.

The Quebes expect over 6,000 people at the festival this year.

Leah Call is a freelance writer with 20+ years of writing experience. Her writing appears in local, regional and national publications.

GO: Driftless Area Art Festival Where: Beauford T. Anderson Park, Soldiers Grove When: September 19-20 More information: www.driftlessareaartfestival.com or check out their Facebook page Patchouli

photo: Bob Good Possibly the greatest improvisation actor of our time, Jonathon Winters, had this to say about his craft, “You’ve got to be an observer. And you’ve got to take time to listen to people, talk, to watch what they do.”

This well-honed skill is most likely why Fortune 500 companies seek the counsel of local software developer Chuck Charbeneau. He is not only a wizard in the digital world but also the spearhead player for the improv troupe at the La Crosse Community Theatre (LCT), The Webernauts.

LCT’s website defines Improv beautifully as: “…a form of theater where most or all of what is performed is created at the moment it is performed. In its purest form, the dialogue, the action, the story and the characters are created collaboratively by the players as the improvisation unfolds in present time, without the use of an already prepared, written script.”

Masters of this art form are among the elite and famous performers in movies and television.

Whether you are developing a million dollar software program or riffing with fellow improv actors on a bare stage, the skills used are nearly the same, says Charbeneau.

“The ego is shed and you don’t jump to a solution. It’s about patience and listening with no pre-planning. The magic can come from anyone, and you’ll know it when you see it.”

He confesses, “I wouldn’t be as good of a software engineer if not for my theatre and improvisation training.”

Charbeneau’s improvisation will be on full display when LCT opens it’s 2015-16 season with “The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged),” written by Adam Long, Daniel Singer and Jess Winfield. The authors developed the show through improv sessions, and the entire play is performed by only three actors. With a nod to its roots, the play allows for improvisation. It is normal for the actors to deviate from the script with spontaneous conversations about the material or the audience. As a result, each performance can vary vastly from another.

Meeting Charbneneau was proof positive that we should think twice before snickering when someone speaks of pursuing a career in the theatre arts. Clearly, the skills obtained serve in the hard-and-scramble real world as they do on the boards.

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.

SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |

The Driftless Area Art Festival began as a way to showcase the talented artists found throughout the Driftless area, a geologically unique Midwestern region left untouched by ice age glaciers. Festival co-chairs Jerry and Liz Quebe are excited to soon kick off the 11th annual festival in Soldiers Grove, Wis, on September 19-20.

All participating artists and vendors reside within the Driftless area. Behind the scenes are more than 30 volunteers involved and planning and executing a memorable event. Even repeat attendees will find new art and offerings. One unique feature this year is Artisan Edibles, an exhibit that showcases the numerous culinary arts of the region.

“It is a tent in the center of the festival site featuring people from the region who make food products for resale. That includes chocolate, wine and a variety of other things grown or made in this area,” notes Jerry Quebe.

Exhibitors will have samples and items for sale. “It doesn’t compete with our food vendors,” adds Liz Quebe. “We have added a vendor, but we actually

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THE ARTS JESSE GOMEZ Article: Briana Rupel

“

SEVEN | Issue #3 | September, 2015

Alright, I gotta give you some groovy stuff,” announces Jesse Gomez to the crowd, as the telltale opening guitar notes of Tracy Chapman’s ‘90s classic creep out of the speakers. “Give me one reason to stay here,” Gomez croons, “and I’ll turn right back around...” He saunters around the stage, clutching the mic tightly between both hands while he wails, exuding the energy of a musician performing for hundreds of screaming fans. But tonight, he’s not playing a show with The Freezers, Cheddar Groove or even Three Beers ‘til Dubuque. Tonight, it’s just Gomez and his laptop, nestled into a small corner of a north side La Crosse bar for a spontaneous small set.

And for an audience of only a dozen people on a Monday night, he’s still killing it.

“It’s therapeutic for me,” explains Gomez about performing. “The soulful side of music, the spiritual side, that’s what I really get into. Every genre of music has that; it’s just a matter of how you put it out there.”

Gomez grew up a huge Michael Jackson and James Brown fan, but his early influences also included such musicians as the Red Hot Chili Peppers and Marilyn Manson. His contemporary favorites include ZZ Ward, Adele and Bruno Mars. So when Gomez looks you straight in the eye and says, “I seriously like everything,” you don’t roll your eyes and doubt him for a second. It’s this well-rounded grasp of genres that makes him such a successful—and enjoyable—frontman for local rock band

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The Freezers, whose repertoire spans the 1950s, country, rap and everything in between.

Music lessons Gomez never imagined himself in a band, though he was always an entertainer. As a kid he would use a pop can as a microphone while making up dances with his brothers and sisters. It wasn’t until years later, when his wife saw an ad that Three Beers ‘til Dubuque was searching for a new lead singer, that he even considered it something he wanted to pursue. Needless to say, he got the spot.

The group practiced with Gomez for almost an entire year before they went out and did their first show together.

Gomez will be the first to tell you that no amount of practice can teach you the lessons you learn doing live shows.

“It’s more than just singing,” he assures.

“There’s a lot of stuff going on, and when there’s a mistake, you gotta keep going. When it’s humiliating, you just gotta learn to accept it. Because you’re onstage, and there’s nowhere else to go.”

He recalls one of those moments, when he had to keep going despite embarrassment. It was a dance move that didn’t quite go as planned. After dropping to his knees and falling back to the floor, he encountered a slight problem.

“I couldn’t get back up!” he laughs.

“So I’m just sitting there pumping my arms and singing, like ‘I need HELP!’. I was down there for a good five minutes before anyone caught wind of it.”

Luckily a few humiliating moments take a backseat to all the times Gomez has had to pinch himself to see if he’s dreaming. Since joining Three Beers, the band has opened for such big names as Bon Jovi, Bruno Mars, Puddle of Mudd and Devo. At a show in Rockford, Illinois, Gomez recalls one of the many moments he was rendered starstruck.

As Adam Lambert—of American Idol fame—was photo: Erin Gomez

photo: Joshua Photography

photo: Cheryl Depetro performing, Gomez found the perfect opportunity while backstage to snap a photo of the singer. That is, until a security guard quickly jutted his hand in front of the lens and threatened to remove him from the venue.

“I was like, ‘no, you can’t kick me out.’ I gotta sing here in a little bit!” laughs Gomez.

Lambert must have heard of the incident, and later while Three Beers was rockin’ “Mustang Sally,” he jumped up onstage for an impromptu duet with Gomez.

“It was just the most amazing performance I’ve ever had,” he gushes.

A bright future We can only expect bigger and better performances from Gomez in the future, though he’s quick to point out that he’s not looking to get “crazy famous.” Right now he still puts in fulltime hours at a company that he loves,

and he and his wife are busy raising two—not surprisingly—very musically inclined children.

Gomez makes sure to fill the gaps with anything music related. The Freezers have a full lineup of shows scheduled through the fall, and Gomez is getting reacquainted with the violin and saxophone with the intention of bringing some fresh flair to the band. Oh, and he also hosts DJ Karaoke on the side. But to Gomez, none of his musical endeavors ever feel like work.

“I just get the pleasure of being able to make money doing what I love,” he says, smiling. “That’s when you know you’ve done it.”

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.

LOCAL MUSIC REVIEW: SONIC CABARET AT THE MUSE THEATRE Article: Deborah Nerud Photos: Bob Good

Shen Teh of Bush’s song.

Each song was carefully chosen for the revue, including an original by Riedel (aka Shen Teh). An open invitation for each performer to interpret her songs along with creative costume choices resulted in Stange sporting a nun’s habit for the exuberant “Faith”; Cox in handcuffs and prison threads for a torch version of “You Keep Me Hangin’ On”; Riedel in a French maid outfit for the delightfully twisted “My Pleasure”; and Keenan as a junkie in the show’s opener, with a soaring vocal tribute to Dame Shirley Bassey’s “Goldfinger.”

If you missed it, you missed out on something truly spectacular. From Thelen’s superb rock chops, Cox’s pure tonal oomph, Reidel’s deeply emotive singing, Stange’s contagious energy and Keenan’s raw vocal power, these performers gave

their all for a performance that was an absolute treat. This show felt like a group effort, cobbled together with love and dedication. “This whole thing has been so humbling,” states Keenan. “Everyone brought their everything into putting this together, and I learned so much.”

FUTURE GO: Keenan has plans to continue the Sonic Cabaret and is currently working on a February production for Valentine’s Day. Stay up to date at www.facebook.com/ SonicCabaretLaCrosse

FRANKIE VALLI ROCKS ASHLEY FOR THE ARTS Article: Thomas D. Tucker Photos: Bob Good made him famous was a little thinner than when he first recorded these hits, he proved to still be the consummate showman who has thrilled audiences for better than a half of a century. At 81 years—he was born the year before Elvis Presley—Frankie Valli was, and remains a crowd-pleasing performer.

Thomas D. Tucker is a La Crosse area poet and writer. He loves the vibe of the local coffee house scene and is active in poetry reading nights.

SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |

Nostalgia was in the night, as Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons appeared to a packed amphitheater of 15,000 people at the Ashley for the Arts Festival on August 7, in Arcadia, Wis. A pop music legend from the early 1960s on, Frankie Valli has had a career that spans the terms of 11 presidents. With hits that multiple generations of fans refer to as “The sound track of their lives,” Valli is consider by many be one of the forefathers of the modern boy band phenomena; and he is the primary subject of director Clint Eastwood’s most recent movie “Jersey Boys.”

Frankie Valli made his entrance with a roar from the crowd and commenced a twohour long concert that covered the breadth and width of his illustrious career with early songs like “Sherry,” “Walk Like a Man” and “Ragdoll,” and later hits like “My Eyes Adored You” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You.” While the shimmering falsetto that

Thomas D. Tucker Writer

Irene Keenan, Jr.

If Irene Keenan, Jr., asks you to sing, you better bring your biggest and best to the mic. On August 8, five women, including Keenan, blew the roof off The Muse Theatre for the Sonic Cabaret, a showcase of stellar talent from local singers and musicians. “I really wanted to encourage these performers to get out of their comfort zone—to push these talented people into new arenas,” Keenan says. “I wanted to produce a show that would not only highlight some amazing talent, but that would feature different musical genres.”

The theme and title of the show was “This Woman’s Work,” borrowed from the synonymous Kate Bush song. The show starred Chandra Cox, Lisa Stange, Raina Thelen, Lara Riedel and Keenan, along with a powerhouse back-up band that included Michael von Muchow (rhythm & lead guitar), Colin Johnson (bass), Steve Dwyer (rhythm & lead guitar), Raina Thelen (keyboard) and Alex Jaeger (drums). In act two, Keenan belted a harrowingly beautiful a cappella version

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The Trempealeau Hotel

E M CO N I O J U S!

presents

October 1-4,2015 La Crosse, Wisconsin Four DAYS! Three PARADES! Two FESTGROUNDS! One GREAT TIME!

THIS YEAR’S HIGHLIGHTS PARADES

Torchlight — Thursday 7 p.m.

Edelweiss — Friday 9 a.m.

Grand Maple Leaf — Saturday 10 a.m.

EVENTS & ACTIVITIES

Lederhosen Luncheon — Thursday noon Craft Beer Night — Thursday night Opening Ceremonies — Friday morning Festmaster’s Ball — Friday night Parade Marshal Breakfast — Sunday morning Garden Stage/Food Court — Daily Carnival Rides — Daily on Northside Festgrounds

SEVEN | Issue #3 | September, 2015

ENTERTAINMENT including...

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Grammy-nominee accordion artist Alex Meixner (two shows) Rock/Pop: Johnny Holm Band, The Dweebs, Pop ROCKS, The Remainders, Soapbox Project Polka/Variety: Jim Busta Band, Kris & The Riverbend Dutchmen Enjoy the Legends of La Crosse Rock ‘n’ Roll Show on Sunday and watch the Packers!

More than 40 bands on four stages over four days!

Button Price Pre-Fest $7 | During Fest $10 Hats $20 | Children 12 & under: Free.

608.784.FEST

www.oktoberfestusa.com

Sat Sept 6, 6-11

Sept 17-19

Seasaw Mike Munson Them Coulee Boys

Sparky Biermann, Jim Busta, Karl Hartwich, The Old Fashioneds, Chris Silver Band, UWL Alumni Band, Pigtown Fling and more..

String Feast tickets/Tremptoberfest buttons: $6 advance/$10 day Available at the usual outlets or online trempealeauhotel.com Trempealeau Hotel,Trempealeau, WI 54661 ph 608 534 6898

FOOD • DRINK • SHELTER • MUSIC

photo: Lee Harwell

photo: Lee Harwell

HMOOB NEW YEAR CELEBRATES TRADITION AND NEW TRENDS Article: Jess Witkins photo: Kaying Vang

photo: Lee Harwell

the history of the game. “If you were very shy, the game was a way for you to say ‘I love you’ or tell your life story,” explains Vang.

The couple would stand facing one another, each standing behind a drawn line several feet apart. “As they toss the ball back and forth, they would sing songs called Kwv Txhiag, which are like lyrical poems or chants, often made up on the spot. Some of them are very beautiful.”

Now, the La Crosse New Year hosts tradition and a whole lot more.

“Our agency is member owned and community run,” says Vang. “Everyone presents their own ideas, and we try them based on what the community is interested in. We’ve modernized and made the space sustainable.”

New Year is the agency’s largest event and fundraiser. It is planned by the board with community support and entirely volunteer run. The cost of admission is just $5/day, and the proceeds benefit the many programs the agency provides. Year round, the HCCA offers youth and elder programming, domestic violence advocacy and interpretation services for both members and area businesses.

They also teach hunter education

with the La Crosse Lao Veterans of Wisconsin and offer Hmoob language classes.

This year’s event features volleyball and soccer tournaments with a grand prize of $3000 and $2500 for the winning team. There will also be a bass fishing competition with a grand prize of $3000 for the largest weight fish. Some of the agency’s youth have stepped up to help lead a singing competition as well. All of the events are still open for registration, and anyone is welcome to sign up.

The opening ceremony begins with a ribbon cutting and entertainment starting at 10:00 a.m. There will be a variety of vendors selling traditional food and drink as well as merchandise.

“Many of the embroidered items are made by the vendor’s family in Laos,” Vang shares. “The money directly supports the family.”

Vang notes that bartering is allowed with the vendors, but to respect the individual if they cannot lower the price.

La Crosse’s Hmoob New Year is the last outdoor event of the region, drawing guests from the surrounding Midwest and central states. And the festivities last long into the night.

There will be evening entertainment this year at the Omni Center with performers from around the Midwest on September 19, from 6:00 p.m. to midnight. Traditional singing and dancing will take place at 8:30 p.m.

“We encourage everyone to come,” says Vang. “The biggest misconception we hear is from people asking if you have to be Hmoob to attend. No, everyone is welcome! Please join us in celebrating our New Year.”

For more information, visit www.hmoobagency.org/hmongnew-year.

GO: Where: CRUSA Soccer Fields 2500 Hauser St., La Crosse When: September 18–20 Info: hmoobagency.org/hmong-new-year.

SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |

I

t’s the second largest New Year celebration in the state with an estimated 10,000 people in attendance. The Hmoob Cultural and Community Agency (HCCA) is preparing for its annual Hmoob New Year.

Traditionally held at the end of harvest season, New Year was a time when families visited one another in communal celebration. They played games like spinning tops and relaxed after the hard work was over. It was also a way for young people to meet one another through a traditional courting game called ball toss. MaiShoua Vang, board member for the HCCA, shared

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ENTERTAINMENT LIVING ROOM SESSIONS Musicians and fans tune in to living room concerts

Article: Joe Hart Photo: Melissa McCarthy It seemed like an ordinary party: Adults sipped beers and swapped stories inside, while hollering kiddos played tag in the front lawn. But as the afternoon slipped toward evening, folks moved from the kitchen to the living room, lined up their chairs and sat down for a live musical performance. Between songs, conversation bubbled up—usually a question tossed from audience to performer. No ordinary party, this one was a house concert.

The phenomenon of living room concerts isn’t new, but a variety of factors are making it an increasingly attractive choice for both fans and musicians, especially acoustic singer/songwriters.

For the fans, the allure is seeing a performance up close in an informal setting; for musicians, it’s an opportunity to earn reasonably good fees, often on a do-it-yourself booking basis, and to connect more closely with fans.

“Anyone coming to a house concert is coming there for the music,” explains David Schipper, who hosts four concerts every year. “You don’t have conversations everywhere in the background, like in a bar. Instead, often the conversations are back and forth with the artist.”

Schipper publicizes his Holman events as Bluff View House Concerts. Upcoming

performers include Kelley McRae, the Whiskey Belles and Michael Johnson.

The concerts usually sell out. His operation is a typical one: Most guests are repeats and include a fair number of friends and family; all money (usually a $10 to $15 donation is encouraged) goes to the performers; CD sales are available. He also makes a recording of each performance.

For musicians used to playing in a bar, a living room can be surprisingly challenging. At most bars, the audience is only half attentive at best. Poor sound systems and ambient chatter can serve as a fig leaf for a poor performance. Not so in a pin-drop silent living room.

“It can definitely feel like more pressure if you’re used to clutter and conversation in the background,” says Schipper.

“Everyone is paying close attention.”

Schipper says he spends about $100 on each event, which he likens to the cost of a dinner date—a low investment considering the rewards.

“I don’t do it for profit; I do it for fun,” he says. “I get to meet some cool people and hear a great concert. The performers become a friend to me. I’m often rebooking the same acts, because I want a chance to see them again.”

SEVEN | Issue #3 | September, 2015

FEMINISM ON TAP

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Article: Becca Dargatz

There’s more than just craft beer on tap at a Feminism on Tap monthly gathering.

On the first Wednesday of each month, a group convenes to provide a continuing education series with topics related to gender equality and respect. The venue and the topics change every time, with an ongoing theme of learning and networking with a great group of people.

Feminism on Tap is based on movements by the same name running in Madison and Milwaukee. It was founded locally, by three nonprofit organizations:

Essential Health Clinic (formerly Options Clinic), New Horizons Shelter & Outreach Center, and the YWCA of La Crosse.

The nonprofits kicked off Feminism on Tap with a joint fundraiser on #GivingTuesday in December 2014. A joint fundraiser will take place again this year. According to Jess Witkins, one of the founders, the goal is to show nonprofits working together for common causes and supporting one another both financially and in mission work.

“If you’re looking to learn about local

Joe Hart is a writer and a musician who frequently plays and hosts house concerts. You can learn more about his music and find out about upcoming events at his website: www. sapsuckersmusic.com, or on Facebook, by liking his band, the Yellow-Bellied Sapsuckers.

topics as well as national and global issues in a space that promotes conversation, then Feminism on Tap is for you,” says Witkins.

The list of speakers and groups involved has grown. Feminism on Tap now partners with Jackson Jantzen and The Center, as well as UW-La Crosse women’s studies professor Jodi Vandenberg-Daves, the League of Women Voters, and students sharing spoken word poems and stories.

Everyone is encouraged to bring friends and family members to meet new people, ask questions and get involved. All are welcome at Feminism on Tap. “There is a mix of female and male attendees, and we really need that,” says Witkins. “If you’re going to discuss equality, then you have to have everyone at the table.”

The group offers an informal environment and a social and respectful atmosphere. The hope is to have everyone walk away with a greater understanding of an issue, or even better, with greater understanding of another person’s life.

GO: 608-526-9051 or www.facebook.com/bluffview

So far this year, the group has discussed stalking awareness, wage equality, modern motherhood, men’s role in feminism, environmental conservation, LGBTQ Pride and more. And the year is not over yet!

GO: September 2, 5-7 p.m. at Root Note Topic: Health Literacy: self-efficacy, the media, and how we can advocate for our own bodies and health October 7, 5-7 p.m., location and topic TBD For information and updates: Visit the Feminism on Tap Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ FeminismOnTapLaCrosse

BOATS AND BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL Article: Tegan Daly Photo: Tim McG Photography & Video

Horse Shoes and Hand Grenades

In 2005, Julie and Tom Fassbender were looking for a way to promote their small business, an outfitter shop in Winona, Minn., that rented out canoes, kayaks and other outdoor recreation equipment. Since their business already embodied one of their passions, they decided to incorporate another passion into their marketing: live music. This is how Boats and Bluegrass was born. Julie jokingly describes the music festival’s origin as “an elaborate marketing scheme.” That scheme turned out to be more successful than they had hoped, and now the festival books national acts that don’t often perform in smaller cities like Winona.

Community is important at Boats and Bluegrass. That becomes immediately apparent to first-time attendees. The festival’s organizers strive to form

partnerships with a wide variety of local businesses and organizations. All are preparing for another great festival on September 24-27.

Minnesota Marine Art Museum. The Winona-based museum will also offer half-price admission over the weekend for attendees of Boats and Bluegrass.

Boats and Bluegrass takes place at the Prairie Island Park and Campground, just outside of Winona. The park’s location on the Mississippi allows the festival to stay true to its roots. Canoe trips, led by students from Winona State University’s Outdoor Recreation Center, embark from the festival at regular intervals throughout the weekend.

A new feature at the festival this summer is a craft beer tent. In an effort to promote local craft breweries, the tent will feature brews from Winona’s own Winona Brewing Company, as well as other area favorites, such as Surly Brewing from Minneapolis.

Activities for children make this a family friendly festival. Mini day camps conducted by Seekers Wild, who specializes in teaching outdoor skills, will have kids foraging for wild edibles, fishing and making bows and arrows.

Kids’ activities will be facilitated by the

The main event of Boats and Bluegrass is, of course, the music!

Some beloved regional favorites will take the stage, including The Last Revel, Horseshoes and Hand Grenades, Pert Near Sandstone and Dead Horses, as well as incredible headlining acts, including Los Lobos, the Shook Twins and Mandolin Orange. Oh, and did I

mention, tickets are almost sold out.

Only about a hundred remain, so don’t miss out on an amazing weekend of music and nature!

GO: Tickets and more information are available online at www. boatsandbluegrass.com. Camping onsite is included with the purchase of a weekend pass, so bring tents, camping gear and outdoor clothing.

This is a rain-or-shine event.

PAYING TRIBUTE TO WOODSTOCK If you’ve taken a stroll through Riverside Park on a Thursday evening this summer, you’ve probably noticed music and crowds around the band shell. Valley View Rotary and La Crosse Parks and Rec host this weekly outdoor music series, called Moon Tunes, from 6–8 p.m., featuring a different musical act every week. With summer flying by, the last Moon Tunes event of the season is approaching on September 8.

This event is the 2nd annual tribute to the famous Woodstock Music Festival of 1969. Deece Productions is putting on the show, which will feature 12 regional bands. Each one has been assigned the role of a band from the original Woodstock lineup and will perform a 15-minute set of that band’s music.

Original Woodstock bands include Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Santana, The Band and Jefferson Airplane. This crossover of classic music performed by local favorites brings together an incredible amount of talent, and you don’t even have to pay to see the show! If you weren’t one of the lucky few who made it to the legendary festival, the Woodstock Tribute will give you an education in Rock and Roll history.

This will be an amazing show, so make your way down to Riverside Park on September 3, pull up a seat, and enjoy.

Roots and blues band, The Overserved Gentlemen will perform songs from the Paul Butterfield Blues Band. The Overserved Gentlemen is fronted by lifelong musician Craig Baumann, who has played in a number of bands frequenting

La Crosse, such as Honest Monday, Fat Maw Rooney and the Smokin’ Bandits.

The Overserved Gentlemen keep busy touring almost non-stop, but have decided to stick around the La Crosse area for two nights of music. In addition to performing at the Tribute, they will play the Woodstock post party at the Popcorn Tavern on September 3. So after the Tribute, you can head over to the Popcorn to get your groove on to some original music from their new album, Pistachio Trial. Bonus: On September 4 The Overserved Gentlemen will perform at Leo and Leona’s on Hwy. 33. Make sure you catch these incredible musicians at one of their shows in the La Crosse area!

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: Where: Riverside Park band shell, La Crosse When: September 3, 6-8 p.m.

Cost: Free!

SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |

Article: Tegan Daly

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The Oktoberfest

Royal Family A Commitment to Community

2014 Royal Family

(Left to right) Grenadier Generals Katie & Nick Bjerke; Karen Desmond and Maple Leaf Parade Marshal Mike Desmond; Frau Sue Horne and 2014 Festmaster Scott Horne; 2014 Miss La Crosse/Oktoberfest Audra Fuchsel; Mr. Oktoberfest James Dillenbeck and Mrs. Oktoberfest Sue Dillenbeck; Torchlight Parade Marshal Scott Mihalovic and Polly Mihalovic; Board President Doug Kratt and Kimberly Kratt. Not pictured: Special Fester Makayla Olson

SEVEN | Issue #3 | September, 2015

T

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Article: Beth Erickson

hinking about La Crosse Oktoberfest, brings to mind lederhosen, bratwurst, a golden keg and a copious amount of beer. But while that portion of the celebration spans a short time, the Oktoberfest spirit of sharing cheer and serving the community extends throughout the year.

According to 2014 Festmaster Scott Horne, the fest’s commitment to community is modeled on that of the German Oktoberfest, which has a strong service component. “This commitment is particularly important in an era in which so much public discourse emphasizes differences and demeans those who are different,” says Horne. “It’s important that we recognize that we are all part of one community and have an obligation to strengthen the community in which we live.”

That commitment is reflected by the work of all those associated with Oktoberfest—from the Royal Family and grenadiers to the board and others. And, since the fest requires a great deal of local effort, organizers ensure Oktoberfest gives back. Last year, says Kevin Buelow, board president, Oktoberfest donated $55,000 to several dozen community groups that helped sell buttons and tickets, bartend, clean the grounds and do other necessary work to make the fest happens. Yet, Oktoberfest’s commitment to serving the community doesn’t stop there.

Oktoberfest spirit year round

The Royal Family shares the fest’s spirit throughout Oktoberfest week and beyond.

“The week after fest is actually busier,

because we visit area elementary schools and nursing homes all week,” says Audra Fuchsel, 2014 Miss La Crosse Oktoberfest, who added that the Royal Family visited around 35 schools and nursing homes the week after the 2014 fest.

“Community involvement from within Oktoberfest is, in part, due to the characteristics of those selected for the Royal Family each year… You look at the list of people who have held Royal Family positions in past years, and you will see names that were already recognized for community involvement,” says Buelow.

Although being an active and involved part of the Oktoberfest family can be physically and emotionally demanding, says Fuchsel, “I would do it over and over a million times because that is the true spirit of Oktoberfest. If anyone has doubts about the validity and importance of Oktoberfest, I wish they could see those special visits the week after fest, because it’s those moments that are unseen by the general public that make the biggest difference.”

Torchlight Parade Marshall Scott Mihalovic agrees. “We had something each day of the fest and visitations every day the week after. But this was, indeed, a special time,” he says.

The Royal Family’s time commitment and involvement in community events is steady throughout the year by attending events, parades and traveling. Mihalovic and his wife, Polly, were involved in two to three events per month on average, usually in full German regalia—an opportunity he would gladly repeat. “It was a community honor and an opportunity like no other,” he says.

For Special Fester Makayla Olson, an eighth grader at Longfellow Middle

School, the time commitment “was more intense early on in the year, but always at a level that was appropriate for her,” says her mother, Debbie Olson.

Fuchsel, who not only represented Oktoberfest but also the Miss America Organization promoting her personal platform, “Food Allergy Bullying,” did an average of 10 appearances per month.

“For me, this year was about making an impact and making sure I didn’t take one day for granted,” she says. “I made it my goal to visit elementary schools in particular because some children don’t grow up with parents or anyone outside of their teachers telling them they can make a difference. I wanted to be that person that could sit with them and tell them that they are valuable, that they can follow their dreams.”

Representing La Crosse and Oktoberfest outside of the Coulee Region was one of Buelow’s highlights. “My first foray as a fest official,” says Buelow, “was to Winter Carnival in St. Paul this past January…You would be amazed at the high regard held for Oktoberfest in communities like St. Paul, Milwaukee and Winnipeg. People in St. Paul tell me how they envy our crowds and atmosphere.”

For Horne, the highlights were many. He fondly recalls visiting St. Joseph’s Villa and receiving the Franciscan blessing from the sisters, participating in a baseball game with special needs children at Miracle Field at the Onalaska YMCA, and an appearance at a reception for an international trade delegation. “I think we all would agree that while it has been an extremely busy year, it has also been one of the most rewarding we could experience—and what a great family with whom to share these

moments,” he says.

Members of the Royal Family agree: The camaraderie makes all the difference.

“We have had a very close-knit family and have forged relationships that will last a lifetime,” says Mihalovic.

Olson adds, “Being a part of this great group has absolutely expanded our family. Just like with our individual families, we share life events from little to big.”

“The best part,” says Fuchsel, “is that we are all very community minded, which makes for some really great conversations about life and how we can make a greater impact on the world around us…Being a part of the Oktoberfest Royal Family really is life changing.”

Go F est: • Watch for the 2015 Royal Family reveal.

• Hunt for the medallion beginning Monday, Sept. 21. Clues are posted daily at 6 a.m. at oktoberfestusa.com.

• Visit Festland, an Oktoberfest history exhibit on the Southside grounds. Festmasters and past members of the Royal Family will talk to you about the history and traditions.

• Become a Fest Foodie on Thursday, Oct. 1. Food vendors open at 11 a.m. as does music on the garden stage. Sample regional favorites, a brat, or enjoy the traditional Lederhosen Lunch.

• Enjoy Craft Beer Night on Thursday, Oct. 1.

There is ample opportunity for beer connoisseurs to talk with brewers and vendors. Tickets are limited.

they’ve reached capacity.

This year’s Oktoberfest starts on September 19 and ends October 4. If you want to get there, you’d better hurry. Flights to Munich will be rare and expensive. And finding a hotel in town will be impossible. But do not fret. There are still rooms in hotels and guest houses in the surrounding countryside. Munich has a terrific public transport system reaching villages and cities as far as 50 miles outside of town. Or get in your car and drive to one of the nearby German fests. Ein Prosit!

Roll out the Barrel Article: Joerg Droll Photos: George J. Toland

on October 12, 1810. The official festivities surrounding the wedding lasted five days and included two parades, children reciting poems to the newlyweds and a horse race of 30 horses on a two-mile track in front of 40,000 spectators. The fest grounds, named Theresien Wiese (Therese’s Meadow) in honor of Prince Ludwig’s royal bride, were just outside the city wall. Prince Ludwig gave the City of Munich this meadow as a gift under one condition— the city was to hold an annual fest for all its citizens. Since 1810 the Oktoberfest has been

Sparky Biermann, Jim Busta and Karl Hartwich rock the polka

(From left to right) Chris Weiss (former Okotberfest Festmaster), Carol Michner, Casey Weiss, Brianne Jones Weiss, Mary Brickl, Maria Peterson, Derek Peterson, Beth Weiss (former Oktoberfest Frau), Mary Jo Otto (former Frau to the late Festmaster Bill Otto)

Trempealeau Hotel Owners and Hosts of Tremptoberfest Joerg Droll and Amy Werner Freshly baked Pretzels at Tremptoberfest canceled only 24 times—usually due to natural catastrophes, such as cholera epidemics, and man-made catastrophes, such as heavy inflation and the occasional world war.

Oktoberfest is Germany’s most popular Volksfest. It’s also the world’s largest celebration of Bavarian beer, Bavarian cuisine and world class rides and entertainment. Around seven million people join the festivities each year consuming about six million liters (that’s 32 ounces per liter) of beer. Only breweries within the city limits of Munich that adhere to the strict Reinheitsgebot (purity law) of 1487 are allowed to sell beer on the fest grounds. The breweries that qualify are: Spaten, Löwenbräu, Paulaner, Hacker-Pschorr, Augustiener and Hofbräu. These brewers supply the 14 major tents with their individual Oktoberfest beers.

In essence they’re Bavarian lagers with a 2% higher alcohol content. Each one of the tents has its own character and clientele. Käfers Wiesenschaenke is home for German and international stars of sports, entertainment and politics. A rowdy crowd including Italian, American and Australian tourists, throw beer (and sometimes punches) at each other in the Hofbräuhaus tent. Bavarian traditionalists prefer the Schützen Festzelt, with its air rifle shooting range, and the Bräurosel, the oldest tent of the fest.

Oktoberfest has never been a cheap thrill and beer prices rise every year. This year’s Mass (1 liter stein of beer) will set you back approximately $12. If you make reservations in one of the big tents, expect to cough up $65 of guaranteed consumption per person.

Even though tents hold up to 7,000 patrons, it makes a lot of sense to reserve space, since the servers—many of them veterans of a dozen or more fests—will not serve you if you are not seated. At night and on the weekends, tents will close their doors as a safety measure once

Joerg Droll is a freelance writer from Germany. Prior to moving to the United States, he spent 20 years at various men’s lifestyle publications working his way up from intern to managing editor at the German editions of magazines like Playboy, Men’s Health, GQ and MAXIM.

Go: Chicago German Day Festival September 11–13 Chicago, IL What to expect: Von Steuben Parade, German food and music, traditional cultural shows of arts, crafts, singing and dance. www.germanday.com Tremptoberfest September 17–19 The Historic Trempealeau Hotel, Trempealeau, WI What to expect: Continuous music on two stages, brats, homemade Schnitzel with Bavarian potato salad, freshly baked Pretzels, Oktoberfest beer from the area and the real stuff from several breweries in Munich. www.trempealeauhotel.com La Crosse’s Oktoberfest USA October 1–4 La Crosse, WI What to expect: Maple Leaf and Torch Light parades, two fest grounds, live music on three stages, domestic and craft beers. www.oktoberfestusa.com

SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |

Whether you are going to the Oktoberfest in La Crosse, the Tremptoberfest in Trempealeau or the German Fest in Chicago, you will experience festivities that all go back to one root: The Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany.

Germans may have a reputation as beer lovers, but do they love it so much they started the biggest beer festival in the world to justify drinking it? Not quite. The Oktoberfest has a tradition that goes back to the wedding of Crown Prince Ludwig, who later became King of Bavaria, to his lovely wife Princess Therese

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SIP N' TASTE

Beer Tasting Tips

Don’t let anyone tell you what beer you should or shouldn’t drink or how you should drink it (except in moderation). Whatever you like is the right thing for you. Drink what makes you happy in the way it makes you happy, but if you’re really excited about tasting and experiencing new beer, here are a few basic things to consider.

First, ice cold beer greedily holds onto its best aspects and batters your tongue and taste buds depriving you of all of the carefully crafted flavors,

aromas and mouthfeel. In most cases five degrees above refrigerator temperature is perfect to ensure that you’re getting the full experience.

The right glass will also help you experience the full taste, aroma and appearance of the beer. Select a glass with enough room to swirl a bit and let the carbonation carry the aromas to the top. Once you’ve picked your glass, rinse it thoroughly with cold water. A thin film of water inside the glass will allow you to precisely control how much

head you’re going to create for your pour.

Finally, pour carefully into the glass by suspending the neck of the bottle about an inch above the rim with the glass tipped at a little more than a 45 degree angle. Pour gently down the side, controlling the head by tipping up or down to create more or less turbulence.

- A.J. Moore

Two from the Pearl Street Tasting Room By: A.J. Moore

Appleweizen Style: Wheat Ale with Apple Juice Brewer: Pearl Street Brewery,

1401 Saint Andrew Street, La Crosse, Wis.

Price Point: $3 Alcohol by Volume: 5% Appearance: Exceptionally brilliant, this bright gold draft pours with a

SEVEN | Issue #3 | September, 2015

BEER 20

Review

light fizzy head of uniform granular bubbles. The head dissipates quickly to a thin ring at the edge of the glass that leaves sparse and spotted lacing. When swirled, it clings dutifully to the sides of the glass indicating residual sugars and substance in the drink to come.

Aroma: A fantastic combination of fresh baked white bread, pie crust, pale malt and sweet baked apple is backed by the very distant perfume of Perle hops. As the pint warms, one begins to pick up the clove and spice aromas inherent to the Weihenstephan yeast character.

Taste: The locally sourced Van Lin Orchards apple juice really shines through in the flavor with a diversity of apple flavors, sweet, tart, spicy and crisp. The perfectly balanced malt finishes with a smooth sweetness and hint of cooked grain reminiscent of well-aged German lagers.

Presence: It’s a challenge for brewers to make a Cider x Beer brew that doesn’t get thin and vinous or syrupy and soda-like, but Pearl Street has really risen to that challenge. The body is medium light, with a hint of the characteristic silkiness of wheat-based ales. The carbonation is playfully effervescent, and the finish is perfectly clean and refreshing.

X-Factors and Overall: This is an honest and straight forward

combination of the best characteristics of both a cider and a weissbier that expertly blends the subtly spicy Weizen yeast character and grain flavors with the flavors of fresh and cooked apple.

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.

El Hefe Style: Traditional Bavarian Weizen Brewer: Pearl Street Brewery,

1401 Saint Andrew Street, La Crosse, Wis.

Price Point: $3 Alcohol by Volume: 5% Appearance: From the tap, this brew is a deep straw-gold

with a bit more brilliance than one would expect from its bottled version. The fluffy and profuse head, gently breaks up into a rocky layer suspended by a steady stream of carbonation.

Aroma: The Wiehenstephan yeast used by Pearl Street is a favorite among brewers of Weizen beers for its broad dimension of potential aroma compounds. This brew reflects a perfect balance of the Weizen aroma trinity of fruit amyls, banana esters and clove phenols.

Taste: Sweet pastries and raised yeasty rolls that gradually give way to a pleasant tartness rounded out by the delicate floral and spicy flavors of traditional Perle hops.

Presence: Pleasing medium body with the characteristic silkiness of wheat-based beers and voluminous carbonation that fills the mouth.

X-Factors and Overall: This Weizen achieves a level of approachability sought after by the mega-breweries, while maintaining the essential character of a well-crafted German beer that so often gets lost. It does perfect homage to the roots of brewing traditions in La Crosse and to its German predecessors.

Note: Unfortunately Pearl Street Brewery’s Oktoberfest staple, Lederhosen Lager,

was not available at press time. But, if these two brews are any indication, Pearl Street Brewery will not disappoint.

Until then, Cheers!

WINE

by Wohlert

WINE Review

By: Todd Wohlert

In honor of Oktoberfest and to cleanse the palate a bit from all the beer, let’s take a look at German wine. Winemaking in Germany can be traced back to the Roman garrisons in 1st Century A.D. Pinot Noir production has been confirmed in the 1300s and Riesling, Germany’s most well-known wine, has been confirmed in the 1400s. Up to the 1600s, wine was the goto beverage for the German people; then, due to wars and other outside influences, beer took over as the primary beverage. Gott im himmel!

About 135 different grapes are grown in Germany with 75 percent being turned into white wines. Red wine production has grown over the last three decades, but white wine is king in Germany. Ach du lieber!

Let’s talk about some of those grapes. We’ll cover Riesling last because

everyone knows that one. I just love saying some of these grape names.

For some reason, they amuse me to no end. Say these out loud (especially if you have been festing) and you will know the joy that I do.

Spatburgunder! Dornfelder! Trollinger! Dunkelfelder! Ehrenbreitsteiner! Gewurztraminer! Roter Muskateller! Sekt! (Ok, that last one was boring.) Sekt is their sparkling wine, like Champagne or Prosecco. I’ve always been disappointed with that name. It is so short and boring. I expected something like this: über sprudelnde Tanzen Wein, den Sie tanzen nackt bekommt.

Anyway, Spatburgunder is what they call Pinot Noir. Burgunder translates to Burgundy, where the French make the finest Pinot Noir in the world.

Obviously, they take a lot of direction from France, as far as winemaking goes.

Riesling is one of the noble grapes, capable of making some truly breathtaking fine wines (and cheap sugarbombs, which I’m sure you’ve tasted from the finest gas stations.) Riesling also has different styles: Kabinett (reserve), Spätlese, (“late harvest” as they are known domestically), Auslese, Beerenauslese, Trockenbeerenauslese and Eiswein (ice wine). Plus, there is Trocken, or dry Riesling, which is a great food wine. It brings out the inherent fruit without being overwhelmed by a lot of sugar.

Our feature wine this month is Clean Slate Riesling. This wine is carefully put together by selecting grapes from vineyards throughout the Mosel region. The steep blue slate slopes of the Lower Mosel give the wine its minerality, while the Middle Mosel provides a hint of spice to complement the fresh peach flavors of the Upper Mosel. You’ll get ripe peach flavors that balance ripe acidity, hints of lime and characteristic mineral notes. This pairs beautifully with spicy cuisines, Asian, Tex-Mex, Indian and sushi. It will tame the burn and help bring out other flavors in the food and wine.

Lassen Sie sich zu betrinken!

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 99% of the people in the state. His goal is to change that to 98% by the end of the year.

Royal Thai & Indian Cuisine: A SEVEN Crew Food Review

FOOD Review

Michelle (MJ): The Vegetarian looking for flavorful options besides veggie burgers.

Deborah (DN): The Mom looking out for her kids (neither kid is fond of higher-level Scoville spiciness, and both have an aversion to foods they can’t recognize).

Todd (TW): The Meat Eater who was pleasantly surprised to find both meat and veggie dishes with flair.

Heidi (HG): The Longtime Gourmet Food Connoisseur who would love to eat spicy food but can’t.

Mixed Vegetable Pakora Reminiscent of a fritter or falafel, these deep-fried, crusty nuggets of veggie goodness are bite-sized and come with three dipping sauces: mint, tamarind, and sweet & sour. They could serve as an appetizer or a meal, especially if your kid is still in the fried chicken-finger food stage. - (DN) Good flavor on its own. Nice texture on the palate that you only get from hand-rolled foods. Interesting sauces… invigorating flavors, not usual junk that tastes like variations of ketchup or bad sweet and sour sauce. - (TW) I could have made a meal of these. Like a doughnut hole in size and texture, it’s the perfect blend of chickpea flour, rice flour, small piece of vegetable, and subtle spices. - (HG)

A spicy, buttery yellow sauce with firm but light pieces of tofu, crisp beans, chickpeas, and carrot. Excellent! - (MJ) Shahi Paneer The cheese in this dish gives it a fun texture and it really takes up the flavor of the sauce. - (TW) I’m in love with the Shahi Paneer. It’s not often the flavor of the cheese comes through in this dish, but it certainly holds its own against the creamy cashew, ginger, and tomato based sauce. - (HG) I crave paneer cheese and buy it to pan fry on its own so to experience it in this creamy, slightly sweet sauce was delectable. - (MJ) Chicken Tikka Masala Smooth creamy sauce with heat building up nicely but not crippling. Nice sized pieces of meat. - (TW) Cubed chicken breast in a classic Indian savory/sweet fragrant sauce. For the ultra-picky, the chicken could be pulled from the sauce and served alongside rice; this is especially handy if you have a finger-food child. - (DN) The cubes of chicken in the Chicken Tikka Masala were a perfect texture and its accompanying sauce had just a hint of sweetness to offset the acidity of the tomatoes. - (HG) Chicken Mango Korma Another great dish. Mango is a flavor that is common in the Middle East and Mediterranean but does not get enough love here. Give it some love! - (TW)

Vegetable Eggroll Interesting crust on the wrap. Clean tasting, doesn’t taste like “fair food”. - (TW)

Drunken Beef Noodle Great Thai dish with distinct beer, noodle, and vegetable flavors. Could eat this every day (if I had to). - (TW)

Vegetable Korma Nilgiri Cauliflower, sweet potatoes, and chickpeas are the highlight of this stew in a creamy, fragrant sauce; the spice would have to be adjusted for little ones, but served over rice and advertised as a tasty stew, this is sure to please. - (DN)

Pumpkin Curry Chicken Light and fresh with a hint of sweetness. Didn’t taste like Grandma’s pumpkin pie at all. - (TW) The Pumpkin Curry Chicken wins the prize for most unusual dish. While I’m normally not one for coconut flavor, it turned

out to be the perfect background for this mix of sweet and savory via the pumpkin and herbs. - (HG) I think I have a new favorite… - (MJ) Tandoori-Baked Naan (Plain and Garlic) Awesome!!! Fresh made. Just want to eat this all night, dipped in butter or sopping up one of the great sauces. Diet be damned - bring on beautiful carbs! - (TW) I’m pretty sure I would dip either of these into any dish or sauce within arms’ reach. You’ll need to buy extras to bring home. - (DN) The Garlic Naan wasn’t as flavorful as I would have liked, but the bread itself was warm and soft, with just a hint of chewiness in the crust. I had to limit myself on the number of pieces of plain Naan I reached for so that I had room for the main course. - (HG) I’ve had naan several times and this naan is perfect! It’s light with a crisp outer layer with a touch of salty, buttery goodness.

- (MJ) Vegetable/Chicken Naan Wrap Featured as a lunch item, this hand-held sandwich is perfect travel food. Loaded with fresh, raw carrots, cucumbers, lettuce, hummus, tomatoes, and cilantro (same for the chicken version, which features thinly-sliced paprika-coated chicken breast), this $6 ($7 for chicken) sandwich is a perfect, all-ages offering for those that are looking to branch out from sliced bread. - (DN) Consensus We recommend it! There is something for everyone!

GO: Royal Thai & Indian Cuisine 235 Sand Lake Rd., Onalaska, WI

(608) 519-3033

SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |

A handful of the SEVEN Crew dined together to provide a range of taste perspectives. Each person represented different food preferences that were applied when reflecting on the intriguing tastes at the Royal Thai & Indian Cuisine restaurant.

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LIMELIGHT

DON WEBER A Record of Service

Article: Susan C. Schuyler Photos: Theresa Smerud

SEVEN | Issue #3 | September, 2015

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onald J. Weber, Logistics Health Inc. (LHI) founder and CEO, was confused when he first got word that he had won Explore La Crosse’s 2015 Best of La Crosse County’s award for best public servant. According to his definition, and that of Webster’s New World Dictionary, a public servant is, “an elected or appointed government official or a civil service employee.”

“I’m not quite sure if I really understand it, and I’m not so sure I deserve it,” says Weber, age 67.

Perhaps the hundreds of voters were thinking only of Webster’s definition of “service” when they cast their ballot for Weber: “An act of giving assistance or advantage to another.” That definition certainly applies, given Weber’s impressive record of service to his country and to those in need.

The art of the story There is a lot to admire about Weber.

He is a decorated war hero, a successful businessman, and best of all, he is a delightful storyteller. His tales vary in length, and some lack detail by design, forcing listeners to fill pauses with their own imaginations.

For example, the war stories—Weber’s, as a Marine grunt in South Vietnam, and his father’s, as a prisoner of war in World War II Europe—are startlingly brief. Just take his word for it: “You know wars are ugly, and they scar you for life. People don’t understand who have never been there,” Weber says.

Often, his face suggests that the details are unspeakable; his steel-blue eyes narrow, the corners of his mouth tighten, and his voice flattens with intensity. He recites an eerie equation in lieu of a war story. “I came home. And there were only two Marines I served with who came back.

I think about that every day,” Weber says.

A dragon to the Corps Weber’s exemplary military record is service enough for a lifetime. As a rifleman in Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 4th Marines, Weber completed a full tour of duty in the deadly, war-ravaged demilitarized zone separating North and South Vietnam. A gunshot wound during an ambush brought him home, according to notes in a Veterans Day program.

He enlisted in 1966, soon after graduation from Cashton High School in rural Wisconsin. “And just six months later,

I’m in a different part of the world that I never could have imagined,” Weber says.

He is ashamed to admit feeling sorry for himself while growing up with four siblings on his family’s farm. Weber’s modest home lacked amenities, such as indoor plumbing and a television, which his neighbors could afford. Suddenly, in Vietnam, he found himself surrounded by children living in bamboo huts with dirt floors, begging for food. “I was much better off than I ever realized,” says Weber.

His unit is known as “The Dragon,” and on its crest, featured on the U.S. Marine Corps’ official website, a fierce, yellow dragon slithers up a dagger blade. Beneath it is the slogan, “whatever it takes.” For Weber, what it took to survive 393 days in Vietnam was to live in the moment, which he says is the first of three reference points that keep him grounded. “I saw and appreciated how important it was to get through that moment, that hour and that day,” he says.

When asked about his mentors, Weber mentions the Marine Corps first. “I wouldn’t have made it through the times I was really challenged if I hadn’t gone through the training in the Marine Corps,” he says. His commitment to those who serve echoes in

LHI’s vision on its website: A world-class leader in the field of military medical and dental readiness.

Losing it all One of Weber’s most devastating challenges inspired his second reference point, be humble. “I’ll never forget where I came from,” he says.

Weber had first-hand experience with humility. “I’ve been without a home.

I’ve lived paycheck to paycheck. I’ve had a pregnant wife and had no health insurance,” he says. His shame deepened when bankruptcy forced him to tell the 28 employees who depended on him that they lost their jobs.

The arduous climb to the success that Weber enjoys today, spawned his third reference point, give credit to others. “I would not be where I am today if it weren’t for many, many others all along the way,” he says.

Weber builds his best narratives on this theme of gratitude. He starts with the story of his second mentor, his father, Donald P. Weber, who worked his way from a wheat farm during the Depression to the Army infantry in World War II. Suspense builds as Weber describes the fateful telegram

Giving in the background The 2015 Best Of award is among many accolades that have forced Weber into the uncomfortable glare of the news media’s limelight. “Honestly, I would rather be in the back of the room,” Weber says.

His generous cash gifts are not insignificant. But for Weber, time means more than money. “When you give someone back your own personal time, there is no greater gift you can give,” says Weber, who also stresses that giving shouldn’t be an afterthought. “True giving is when you sacrifice, when you give something back that really makes a difference to you.”

A tale of many heroes Due to Weber’s quiet humility, many

of his most profound acts of generosity are the ones no one knows about, like Sawyer’s story.

Weber met the wheelchair-bound, homeless man outside LHI’s corporate headquarters after work on the evening March 10, 2015. The tale starts when Weber offers the hungry, exhausted man a meal on the crowded patio of his adjoining restaurant, the Waterfront.

Weber animates the heartwarming anecdote using his legs to illustrate the man’s struggle to move without foot pedals on his dilapidated wheelchair. Four noisy, high school boys riding skateboards and bicycles are the first of the story’s villains, as they disturb diners on the River Walk in front of the patio. Later, these boys become the story’s heroes as they help Weber bring the man to a nearby hotel for a good night’s rest. On the way, the boys learn the man’s story and his name, Sawyer.

Two hotel guests also become heroines when they offer to bunk together to make room for Sawyer at the sold-out hotel.

When Weber offers the boys each $20 for their help, they insist on giving the money to Sawyer instead. Weber’s eyes well with tears, and he clutches both hands to his chest as he imitates Sawyer gratefully accepting the gift. “Don’t lose that,” Weber told Sawyer. “I never lose a gift,” Sawyer replied.

After all the stories are told, Weber admits that there’s really not much to being generous: “It’s real simple. We’re here to make a difference. We’re here to reach out and touch others in a positive way.”

Those who heard his stories that day were deeply touched.

Susan C. Schuyler is a journalist with work published in the Chicago Tribune, Ft. Lauderdale Sun-Sentinel and Rochester Post-Bulletin. She is the former editor and a frequent contributor to Coulee Region Women, and is a senior lecturer at University of Wisconsin-La Crosse.

Donald J. Weber’s Awards and Achievements 2015 Best of La Crosse County, Best Public Servant. More than 8,000 people nominated their favorite individuals, businesses and organizations online for Explore La Crosse’s first annual survey.

2014 Certificate of Achievement. Gov. Scott Walker hailed Weber as “an American patriot,” when he presented the award.1 Legislative Citation from state Sen. Jennifer Shilling, D-La Crosse, and state Rep. Jill Billings, D-La Crosse, on behalf of them and state Rep. Steve Doyle, D-Onalaska.1 Nathan Hale Award. From the Reserve Officers Association STARS Foundation in Washington, D.C., for LHI’s service to Reserve members.1 2010 Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Freedom Award for Logistics Health, Inc. The highest honor given by the U.S. Department of Defense to an employer in recognition of the company support of its service member employees.2 2006 Person of the Year awarded to Weber by the La Crosse Tribune.1, 2 2004 Wisconsin Entrepreneur of the Year awarded to Weber by the Wisconsin Entrepreneur’s Conference. The award recognizes entrepreneurial leaders who are instrumental in the development of the Wisconsin economy.2 Military Honors Military Order of the Purple Heart, two Bronze Star Medals and the Vietnam Gallantry Cross Medal for Weber’s service in the U.S. Marine Corps in Vietnam from 1967-68.2 Other Affiliations Weber serves on the Board of Trustees for Viterbo University and La Crosse Area Family YMCA, and also serves as a Board Member for Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater La Crosse.2 Weber also sponsors many veterans’ causes, including Freedom Fest to honor service members; LZ Lambeau, a welcome home for Vietnam and Vietnam Era veterans; Give an Hour where volunteers help veterans and their families fight mental illness; and he helps to lead the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Hire Our Heroes program.1 Sources: 1La Crosse Tribune website; 2Logistics Health Inc. website.

SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |

his mother, Rita, received on December 20, 1943. His father was missing in action, presumed dead. The following April, Rita learned her husband became a prisoner of war. Weber’s pace quickens as he recounts his father’s escape and recapture. “He went through hell, pure hell,” Weber says.

With only an eighth grade education, Weber’s father was a smart man, notes Weber. “I have the utmost respect for him.

He taught me how to survive in a way he probably doesn’t understand or would know.”

After his father’s death in 1995, Weber established a $1,000 scholarship in his father’s name for veterans attending college. To date, 159 eligible candidates have benefitted.

Weber also is quick to give LHI’s rank and file credit for many of his accomplishments.

“Nothing brings greater value to any organization than their employees and their families,” Weber says.

As a way to pay it forward, Weber created Riverside Corporate Wellness (RCW) to support work-life balance for LHI workers. His employees may use three wellness hours each week to take advantage of RCW’s programs and facilities, including Primary Health Staff, offering primary health care for LHI’s staff and their families. “And they don’t pay a nickel for it,” Weber says.

23

LIMELIGHT

Sevanna Utesch

Keagan Krueger received the very first AmTryke that Western Wisconsin Wheels helped obtain. Cassidy Sanchez, board member and physical therapist, coaches him on.

Logan Kelm

WESTERN WISCONSIN WHEELS Local AMBUCS chapter brings joy of bicycling

Article: Heidi Overson

SEVEN | Issue #3 | September, 2015

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ne of life’s simple pleasures is riding a bicycle. Both casual joy riders and avid bicyclists can agree that there’s great fun to be had while pedaling around on two wheels. While most of us take for granted being able to hop on a bicycle, there are some who, due to various disabilities, haven’t been able to experience the joy of this recreation. AMBUCS, which stands for American Business Clubs, a national, non-profit organization, is helping by providing adaptive bicycles and tricycles to disabled children and adults, so they, too, can ride.

Fortunately, one does not have to seek help at the national level. There is a local AMBUCS chapter right here in the Seven Rivers Region. It’s called Western Wisconsin Wheels, and it was started in spring 2015 by two area women, Kimberly Castle and Martha Tymeson. The chapter has six board members: Kimberly Castle, Amy Juel, Linda Justin, Cassidy Sanchez, Shannon Utesch (all physical therapists), and Martha Tymeson, a La Crosse School District Adapted Physical Education teacher. These women volunteer their time and expertise, bringing joy to area children with special needs by helping them obtain an adaptive bike called an AmTryke. An AmTryke is a specially designed tricycle that is either foot and/ or hand operated. Each AmTryke is

designed and manufactured to adapt to the recipient’s special needs and abilities, so they can cruise like they’ve always wanted to.

“I strongly believe that children should have the opportunity to ride bikes not only for the physical skill, but also for their selfesteem and the feeling of independence riding provides,” says Tymeson.

Castle knows first-hand how excited a child can get over being able to ride an AmTryke. Her son, Ben, has cerebral palsy.

“When he was younger, he was unable to ride a traditional bike due to balance problems,” Castle recalls. “If we had an AmTryke at that time, he could have ridden with the family.”

Bringing Wheels to Western Wisconsin Castle holds a Ph.D. and has taught physical therapy at UW-La Crosse since 1988. She also owns Leading Edge Pediatric Physical Therapy on the south side of La Crosse. Tymeson met Castle years ago, when Castle’s son was in one of her adapted physical education classes. Tymeson has also often worked with Castle’s student clinicians in the La Crosse school district. They learned about AMBUCS through one of Castle’s students, who attended a national conference and brought back information on the organization. Castle held a presentation

on AMBUCS that Tymeson attended, and two years later, they started the Western Wisconsin Wheels chapter. Even though it’s been in existence for such a short time, it has already produced awesome results.

“In May, we had our first bike rodeo where persons with disabilities could come and try out the AmTrykes,” says Tymeson.

“When one of the children was fitted for a bike, we saw a smile on his face that was simply priceless.”

“Another child said, ‘I like bike riding!

Why didn’t you tell me I like to ride bikes?!’” Castle adds. “Other children didn’t want to get off the bikes. Their parents had tears in their eyes.”

Community support appreciated How does Western Wisconsin Wheels match a child to a bike? First, the child attends a bike rodeo, where a number of bikes with various adaptations are available for each child to try. Sometimes the child is accompanied by their physical therapist, who will ensure a proper fit and adaptation. The family can fill out paperwork, and their child’s name goes on a list. Families are asked to pay 10% of the price of the bike as a vested interest.

Then, the chapter works to raise additional funds along with the family, as they are able. When the funds are raised, the bike order is placed.

In June 2015, the chapter was the very

excited, winning recipient of $640 from La Crosse’s SOUP initiative. Western Wisconsin Wheels welcomes donations for any part of the cost of obtaining a bike, which ranges anywhere from $500 to $2,000.

“We’ve also received support from the Driftless Region Bicycle Coalition and a local service organization,” says Tymeson. “In July, we held a fundraiser in conjunction with TGIF Restaurant, and in September and November, we will partner with the Beer by Bike Brigade for a fundraiser. The support from La Crosse’s biking community has also been phenomenal and very much appreciated!”

Anyone wanting to donate, volunteer or find out more information may e-mail Kimberly Castle at kimberly_castle@ aol. com, or message the chapter through Facebook at www.facebook.com/ WesternWisconsinWheels.

Monetary donations may be mailed to: Western Wisconsin Wheels, 25460 County Hwy ET, Tomah, WI 54660. The national AMBUCS site is at ambucs.org.

Heidi Overson is a REALTOR® at Cindy Gerke & Associates and a freelance writer. She is extremely blessed through both of her vocations to be able to meet many absolutely wonderful people in the Seven Rivers Region.

SERVANT LEADERSHIP

By Guest Contributor, Tom Thibodeau

“Servant Leadership means to inspire and influence others for a greater good, every day.” – Jim Hunter Greenleaf understood that the desire to serve is the foundation of leadership.

Servant leadership begins when one chooses to serve others, including family members, co-workers, supervisors, customers, guests and the community.

When you are committed to service, you begin to lead.

This is the work of a lifetime. Each day is another opportunity to serve and lead. To choose servant leadership is to embrace a positive change in attitude and behaviors at home, work and in the community. To choose servant leadership is to choose to be committed to the growth and development of others who are entrusted to your care.

Every servant leader is a teacher. Every teacher is a servant leader. The word education comes from two Latin words e’ ducare, which means “to lead from.” To educate is to lead from darkness to light, from despair to hope, from confusion to clarity. This is hard work, good work, noble work. Servant leadership is not a fad or a gimmick; there are no shortcuts.

Servant leadership is timely and timeless as all of our organizations look for ways to grow and sustain their work and the people responsible for the work.

We are challenged by the teaching of Robert Greenleaf: “The best test of a servant leaders and the most difficult to administer is: Do those served grow as persons? Do they, while being served, become healthier, wiser, freer, more autonomous, more likely themselves to become servants?

And, what is the effect on the least privileged in society; will they benefit, or, at least, not be further deprived?”

Servant leadership may be easy to speak about in terms of pillars, tenets and theory, but getting it into our heart is more difficult and takes concentrated action and practice. Servant leadership is about paying attention to the needs of the people we intend to serve. How do you know what the needs are if you don’t ask?

When we ask groups what they hope to accomplish in servant leadership, we typically hear answers like: • Learn positive ways to deal with

common issues • Improve engagement across boundaries in our organization • Recharge my batteries • Overcome grief and loss after layoffs • Remove barriers between union leaders and management • Find a balance - my thoughts are consumed with work 24/7 • Strengthen positive attributes • Develop pride in our organization • Tap our potential • Regain a feel of family and unity despite so many organizational changes • Make our mission clear • Learn how to serve

“Everyone thinks he can change the world but no one thinks of changing himself.”

Addressing the expectations in a list like this calls for not learning what is new, but, instead, being reminded of what is true and always has been—that people yearn to be part of healthy, right relationships. We become forgetful of the fundamental goodness of the people that make up our organizations and our

communities and of how significant we all are to our families and our friends.

Whenever we act with virtue, show good character, or demonstrate moral or ethical behavior, it is an act of will.

Virtue is not innate, it is something that is developed and enacted through choice. All of leadership development is character development. As Aristotle said: “We become virtuous by practicing virtue! Growing in this way is all about discovery, enactment, role modeling and, most important, ownership.”

At Viterbo University our mission is to prepare people for lives of faithful service and ethical leadership. It is a privilege to share servant leadership with our students, organizations, institutions and community. It is good work, hard work noble work. It is our work to serve and lead. Please consider joining us.

Tom Thibodeau is the Director of the Master’s degree in servant leadership at Viterbo University, the only masters of its kind in the nation. He is a thirtytwo year veteran of the Viterbo faculty and a founding member of the Place of Grace. Thibodeau is active in the community. He and his wife, Priscilla, have three grown daughters and one granddaughter. They are also part of the ownership group at Leo and Leona’s performing arts center.

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he contemporary foundations of servant leadership can be found in the writings of Robert K. Greenleaf, who wrote the profound essay, “The Servant as Leader,” in 1970. Since that time, scholars and practitioners, such as Peter Senge, Jim Hunter, Margaret Wheatley, Ann McGeeCooper, Stephen Covey, Jim Kouzes and Barry Posner, have researched and expanded the understanding of servant leadership.

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FITNESS HIXON FOREST EPIC Statewide mountain bike race series comes to La Crosse

Article: Sara Walters Photos: Wisconsin Off Road Series

SEVEN | Issue #3 | September, 2015

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n any given day, Hixon Forest is packed with people ready to hike La Crosse’s bluffs or run its trails. But not everyone is on foot, and soon, Hixon Forest will be filled with this other breed of outdoor enthusiast— mountain bikers. On September 27 the Wisconsin Off Road Series (WORS) will make a stop in La Crosse on their 12-race circuit at a brand new event dubbed the Hixon Forest Epic.

When a local WORS racer got word that another WORS organizer was unable to host one of the series races, they approached La Crosse Parks and Recreation with the idea. La Crosse Parks and Recreation knew immediately that this was an opportunity to bring another fun event to the ever-active La Crosse community. “We are very spoiled to live in this beautiful area of the state, and this gives those competing and their families the opportunity to see it firsthand,” says Hixon Forest Epic co-coordinator, Tyler Malay.

Malay explained that in the past, the city’s involvement in mountain biking was mostly one of facilitation, teaming with area organizations to design and construct trails.

Now that role is evolving, especially with growing interest in the sport in the Coulee Region. “There is a good number of people who utilize the trails at Hixon,” shares Malay.

Supporting these members of the biking community is truly the goal of the Hixon Forest Epic. As the City of La Crosse plans new trails and improves existing ones, funding from the event will keep their momentum going. “Hosting events like the Hixon Forest Epic gives us more of an opportunity to make those improvements

and help with funding of new trail construction,” Malay says. “The intention is to run an excellent event and have the opportunity for this to be an annual attraction for the City of La Crosse.”

And an attraction it promises to be.

WORS events typically draw 600 to 700 racers with attendee totals from 1,200 to 1,500. Malay hopes that the race will drum up just as big of a crowd, if not bigger. “This being our first year hosting, I feel many will be interested to see what we have to offer,” he says. “Community reception has been very positive thus far and with the number of attendees we are expecting, it should have a very positive effect financially on local business.”

There will be plenty to see for the Hixon Forest Epic crowd. WORS events include seven different skill level races, from Junior (ages 7-14) and First Timer to Pro Men’s and Women’s, ranging in distance from five to 25 miles. Depending on skill, riders will tackle rolling meadows, road sprints, challenging downhills, steady climbs, log-overs and berms. The Vista Trail and the Upper Hixon Forest Park trail system (formerly Human Powered Trails) will be used.

If you’re not quite ready for a competition, or want to check out the sport after catching the event, La Crosse has trails for all.

Using color to indicate skill level, the city offers maps and signs that include easy (green), intermediate (blue) and technically challenging (black) trails. “Easy beginner trails are great for a family just getting started with biking. Intermediate offer some challenges such as log crossings and more diverse terrains. The highest level offers steep climbs and tight turns among

challenging terrain features,” explains Malay.

He admits that many people in La Crosse don’t even know these trails exist. The Hixon Forest Epic will draw awareness and help to develop the sport’s local presence. “The resources we have for biking in this area bode well for this sport to explode in the

Coulee Region.”

Upper Hixon Park trails are located at 711 County Road FA at the top of Bliss Road.

Races begin at 9:30 a.m.

Sara Walters is a freelance writer and mom from La Crescent, MN.

GO: WORS RACE CATEGORY

START TIME

APPROX. DISTANCE

# OF LAPS

JUNIOR

9:30 AM

5 MILES

1

FIRST TIMER

10:00 AM

5 MILES

1

CITIZEN

10:30 AM

10 MILES

2

SPORT

11:30 AM

15 MILES

3

COMP

1:30 PM

20 MILES

4

PRO/CAT WOMEN 1:30 PM

20 MILES

4

PRO/CAT MEN

25 MILES

5

1:30 PM

WORS KIDS RACE: 1:00 PM Everybody is a Winner Race for 10 & under $3 On-site registration only.

Distance approximate. Laps subject to change secondary to course conditions.

Pre-Ride: Saturday, 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

Saturday Chili Feed Party at Pearl Street Brewery: 5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m., free chili and free pint to each registrant, plus live music. Families welcome.

Night Ride: Saturday, 7:30 p.m.

Hixon Forest Frolic Trail Run (5K): Sunday, 8:30 a.m. start

NEW BIKE BRIDGE Construction is complete and a new bike bridge and trail connecting La Crosse’s North Side with Onalaska is open! The 10-foot wide, 1.1 mile paved bridge was a project more than 15 years in the making, heavily funded by federal grants, and championed by City of La Crosse Engineering Department employees. The bridge, which spans over railroad tracks and train traffic, is an access route that keeps bicyclists and pedestrians safe. To use the bridge from the east, enter near Oak Street and Enterprise Avenue (bordering the Industrial Park). From the west, enter where North Salem Road and Hamilton Street join.

Article: Susan C. Schuyler

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here’s a lot that’s new about this year’s La Crosse Area Bicycle Festival. As always, participants will enjoy the fifth annual Bike Fest’s long list of free rides and activities over Labor Day weekend, September 4-7. However this year, bicycle enthusiasts will have an expanded menu of cycle sports, social events and online resources—so Bike Fest is better than ever.

This year’s upgrades are due in large part to the marketing prowess of Brent Hanifl and Jeremiah Burish of Explore La Crosse (the La Crosse Convention & Visitors Bureau), where Bike Fest is one of three signature events.

Rides for everyone To expand Bike Fest’s offerings, Burish, Explore La Crosse’s director of sports sales, joined forces with Toad’s Cove Arena BMX, the world’s second-largest indoor bicycle motocross facility, to bring dirt-track events to the festival. Also added are a few mountainbiking events using La Crosse’s Upper Hixon Forest trails and newly created pump track.

Both additions are the start of something good for Bike Fest, according to Burish. “It’s all so new we don’t know where it’s going to take us. We really want to expand on it every year,” he says.

Off-road fun Another first for Bike Fest participants is an invitation from the Pearl Street Brewery to attend its annual Tour de Pearl End of Tour Party at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, September 5. The party wraps up the Tour de Pearl, the brewery’s 42-stop, summer-long, promotional bicycling event. To sweeten the deal, Bike Fest folks can rock out to the live music of popular Minneapolis band 4onthefloor.

Other social events include a Kick-Off Party at 4:308:00 p.m., Thursday, September 3, at Stolpa’s Stein Haus, 324 Jay St.; and a screening of the Emmy Awardwinning documentary “Mysteries of the Driftless” at 5:00 p.m., Sunday, September 6 at Earl’s Grocery and Saloon, 401 Third St. S., La Crosse.

Smooth rides online The new Bike Fest website launched this year, bringing the Seven Rivers Region a year-round biking resource, as well as complete festival guide. “We created bicyclelacrosse.com to be an all-encompassing, 365-days-a-year resource for local self-guided rides,” says Hanifl, LCVB’s director of media and membership.

Bicycle fans can visit the site any time to print PDFs of

maps or download digital Rides with GPS instructions for road rides of all challenge levels in surrounding areas, including West Salem, Viroqua and Winona, Minn.

The Bike Fest is free, thanks to the generous support of title sponsor, Mayo Clinic Health System, and other bikefriendly businesses. But Burish and Hanifl sweetened the pot this year with a $11,250 Joint Effort Marketing (JEM) Grant from the Wisconsin Department of Tourism, which they used to enhance Bike Fest’s digital presence.

They created an e-newsletter, an online Wyatt Bicycle drawing and made 1,000,000 digital impressions, all of which they hope will help double the number of Bike Fest participants to 800 this year.

With all these new bells and whistles, it’s likely the 2015 La Crosse Are Bicycle Festival will be a smooth ride for everyone.

GO: What: La Crosse Area Bicycle Festival, a free, four-day event for bicycle enthusiasts of all ages and abilities. Includes many self-guided and guided, interest road rides and many social events.

Where: With few exceptions, bicycle rides begin in Cameron Park, King Street between 4th Street and 5th Avenue in La Crosse, Wis. When: Sept. 4-7, 2015 Cost: Free to all participants. Premium Registration includes special discounts, offers and gifts.

Just a few activities: Sept. 3 – Kick-Off Party, 4:30-8 p.m., Pick up registration packet at Riverside Park, and join the after party at Stolpa’s Stein Haus, 324 Jay St., La Crosse Sept. 4 – Advanced Mountain Bike Ride, 5 p.m., Myrick Park Sept. 5 – Tour de Pearl End of Tour Party, 6 p.m, Pearl Street Brewery.

Sept. 6 – Family Pumptrack Ride, Noon-3 p.m., Human Powered Trails off of County Road FA “Mysteries of the Driftless,” 5 p.m., Earl’s Grocery and Saloon, 401 Third St. S. Check out a complete schedule of rides and activities at www.bicyclelacrosse.com

Bike Routes

1.

Grandad Bluff Loop - Out through Barre Mills, Wis., up Cty Rd FO, across the ridge and back down into La Crosse, Wis. Road ride-23 miles

2.

Apple Blossom Route Ride from La Crosse, Wis. or La Crescent, Min. up the hills on County Hwy 29 to County Road 1 to Nodine, Min. and back down the bluff to La Crescent, passing the beauty of apple orchards and majestic overlooks of the Mississippi River Valley.

Road ride-35 miles

3.

Dairy Days Classique Leaving from West Salem, Wis. on Hwy 108 traveling past local farm fields and through the famous hand-hewn Mindoro Cut. Road ride-39 miles

4.

Hixon Loop - Rotary Vista Trail provides the perfect off-road “out and back loop” to ride from Lower Hixon Forest to Upper Hixon Forest trails and back down. La Crosse, Wis. Mountain ride-10 miles

5.

Upper Hixon Forest Park Trails (formerly Human Powered Trails) - Park at the newly remodeled trailhead featuring a new pump track, parking lot, and picnic area on Cty. Rd. FA and get ready to rip some fast, flowing single track! La Crosse, Wis. Mountain ride-3+ miles

6.

Trempealeau Lunch Ride Leave from any number of La Crosse Area Great River State Trail trailheads and head up river on this old railway-turned-trail to Trempealeau, Wis. Varied cities, Wis. Gravel ride-25 miles

7.

La Crosse River Trails & R.A.B.B.I.T - Take the kids for a leisurely ride through the marsh and enjoy the abundance of wildlife around every corner. La Crosse, Wis. Gravel/Paved ride-2+ miles

SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |

2015 LA CROSSE AREA BICYCLE FESTIVAL

Top 7

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FITNESS WHERE WILL YOU BIKE ON SEPTEMBER 19?

Article: Ryan Johnson

The Driftless Area. The Coulee Region. The Seven Rivers Region. Call it what you want, but it is a bicyclist’s paradise. The diversity of our terrain is certain to satisfy any and all of your peddling desires both on and off road. For easy flat rides, there are many paved trails that follow former railroad lines. There are plenty of designated routes that follow moderately rolling county roads and scenic rural farmland. And then there are the bluffs. For the off-road enthusiasts, our area is compiling an impressive list of world-class mountain bike trails. On the road, there are countless routes that will send you up and down 500-foot bluffs along roads that challenge even modern automatic transmissions in cars. To some, these grueling climbs may sound like torture, but what goes up must come down and the gravity-assisted descents make for quite the reward.

Some bikers prefer to pedal in solitude, some in small packs of sweat and spandex, and others enjoy large organized rides. Many benefits can be had from organized rides, such as motivation to saddle up, meeting new friends or just a new clean tee shirt. Some organized rides also contribute portions of their proceeds to community causes. For those who enjoy the camaraderie of biking in organized rides, September 19 will prove to be a difficult day: Which ride shall I do?

Ride the Ridges – September 19 Going on their third year, the folks from Ride the Ridges have laid out four different courses varying from 18 to 100 miles. Each course departs from the Southeast Technical College Campus in Winona, Minn., and climbs from the river valley up onto the ridges before looping back to the start. Impressive views of the Mississippi River are the highlight of each of these loops. www.ridetheridges.info • Registration: $25-$35 Distance: 18-100 miles • Terrain: Moderate to Difficult

Kickapoo BRAVE Ride – September 19 Beginning at the Stump Dodger Campground in Gays Mills, Wis., the third annual BRAVE (Bluffs, Rivers and Valley Event) Ride has five routes laid out in a cloverleaf pattern varying from 15 to 39 miles. Coinciding with the Driftless Area Arts Festival in nearby Soldiers Grove, this is a perfect way to experience the quintessential Driftless terrain and culture.

SEVEN | Issue #3 | September, 2015

www.kickapoobraveride.com • Registration: $35-$50 Distance: 15-39 miles • Terrain: Moderate to Difficult

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Tremptoberfest Wurst Bicycle Tour – September 19 Ditch the spandex and grab your lederhosen! This year’s Tremptoberfest will kick off with an easy bike ride put on in conjunction with the crews from the Trempealeau Hotel and the Green Heron Bike Shop. Leaving the hotel grounds at 9:00 a.m., the 21-mile ride will head north to Galesville through the bottomlands of the river valley. Looping back to the start will get you there just in time for the start of some authentic German food, beer and music. www.facebook.com/heronbikes • Registration: FREE! Distance: 21 miles • Terrain: Easy

Ryan Johnson is a proud, self-proclaimed River Rat with a passion for getting people out on the water. He takes pride in producing river cartography, guiding professional kayak tours and writing for Big River Magazine. He occasionally “forces” his lucky friends to go paddling with him.

Cateye Metro 360 Headlamp By: Radventure Dad, aka Brett Werner

A

s we get closer to fall and start seeing the leaves change colors, it’s a reminder that our daylight hours are getting shorter. If you’re a cyclist, you know that means it’s time to get your lighting in order before you get stuck without it on one of those post-PSB Tasting Room rides home. Not only are front and rear lights required by law, they also make you a lot safer.

When you walk into your local bike shop searching out the perfect headlight/taillight setup, you’re likely to be asked, “Do you want something so you’re legal, or do you plan on riding at night?”

How you answer this question places you one of two categories: under $100 or as bright as you can afford. I found myself in the sub-$100 category, as I do ride a lot at night; however, I can’t afford the 3600 Lumen bright-as-the-sun unit coming in around $500.00. As such, I went with the Cateye Metro 360 rechargeable headlamp with a retail price of $60.00.

The Metro 360 is an incredible value offering features like USB recharging, six lighting modes and weather-resistant housing. On a full charge you’ll get anywhere from 2–12 hours run time, depending on which lighting mode you choose. The USB charging comes in handy if you’re a commuter, since you can charge it at your desk during the day, and it’s ready for your evening ride.

The Metro 360 comes standard with a quick-release handlebar mount that works well on just about any bike. There is also an available helmet mount which is what a lot of people use. The obvious advantage of the helmet mount is that the light beam goes wherever you point your head, so it should give you light where you want it.

I’ve done a lot of night riding over the years, both on and off road, and have been required to use The Force on many occasions due to poor lighting. I found the Metro 360 to be a solid performer in just about any condition with the Low (60 lumen) beam being my preferred all around light level. My fiancé prefers the High (360 lumens) beam all the time as it makes her feel safer to have the increased visibility. I reserve the High beam for those times when I’m in the woods and really need it. Regardless of which lighting mode you choose, the beam angle and throw distance are perfect for cycling.

As for the rear tail light, pick up something that’s small and has a flashing mode.

The new LED taillights can run for a long time on a standard AAA battery, so having a rechargeable one isn’t as crucial as with the headlight. They’re all fairly bright. Just grab one that works for you. Many times you can find a headlight/taillight combo pack and save a little money.

Brett Werner is Thee Radventure Dad. Mountain biking, downhill skiing, camping, snowshoeing, volunteer trail building, just about anything that gets him and his family outside and he’s there. With lifelong experience in recreation and equipment, his goal is to get other families geared up for outdoor fun.

Goosebumps 6 and 24 Hour Run/Walk

Article: Heidi Griminger Blanke

H

ow much do you know about a disease that strikes 1.5 million Americans, 90 percent of whom are female? A disproportionate number of those are women of color. Lupus, an autoimmune disease, does not have a cure, runs the range from mild to severe and strikes in a person’s prime, age 15-44. Because Lupus often has no visual symptoms, people will say, “You don’t look sick,” says Richard Chrz, who was diagnosed with lupus in 2009.

An avid athlete who could run 100 miles, Chrz was determined not to let his diagnosis force his life to a crawl. “I walk with a cane occasionally; running is not a thing I’ll be doing anytime soon again. It’s not on my radar,” he says.

We have heard it time and time again that the workplace of today requires a lot less physical activity. Some estimates put that number between 80-100 fewer calories burned each day, or 2.6 extra pounds per year—based on a five-day work week and 52 weeks. But there are some simple things we can incorporate into our lifestyle to help fight this tide. One change is bicycling to work.

On average less than one percent of commuters in America use a bicycle to commute. Benefits of bicycling to work include an overall increase in physical activity, a reduction in obesity and chronic disease, a reduction in medical expenditures and an increase in productivity.

With all these benefits, why don’t more of us bicycle to work? Barriers to bicycling to work are safety from cars and traffic, financial incentives, supportive trip-end facilities and cultural support in the workplace.

To see a positive approach to these barriers, we don’t have to look too far, but rather just north to Minneapolisbased Quality Bicycle Products (QBP).

This innovative company instituted bicycle-to-work incentives a few years

But helping others is.

Chrz and his wife, Renee, founded the Local Lupus Alliance in 2012 with a goal of bringing awareness and support to the disease; the Goosebumps six- and 24-Hour Run/Walk is one way they’re doing just that.

Run/Walk for a cause Goosebumps, named for Goose Island, where the event is held, is modeled after an ultra-marathon, which is any marathon longer than the traditional 26 miles.

The Run/Walk is unique in that there is no entry fee and no minimum number of miles to complete; donations are accepted and T-shirts are given out to those at the $30 and $50 contribution

ACTIVE COMMUTING Article: Lee Walraven

ago, and there are plenty of lessons we can learn from them.

Safety from cars and traffic is a major concern for most commuters. Too often we hear of the cyclist who was hit by a vehicle. One way to alleviate this concern is to have more people bicycling to work. Increasing the number of cyclists on the road will have a direct impact on increasing safety for cycling. Many of the executives at QBP participate in local advocacy groups that promote more bike paths and bike lanes. So get active both physically and in your local community by participating in community groups!

Financial incentives are strong

predictors of changing behavior. QBP offers incentives such as a credit for cycling to work each day. This credit can then be used to purchase QBP products. Another incentive is to add money to an employee’s health savings account (HSA). This helps the employee pay their health care bills and also encourages those who don’t have an HSA to open one.

Some people won’t bike to work because there are no places to securely keep their bike while at work. QBP addressed this barrier by building an indoor facility for employees to park their bike, complete with lockers and showers. A more simplistic solution is

distance without pressure and to just have fun with it.”

So, lace up your trainers, bring the gang and support a very worthwhile organization.

GO: Goosebumps Goosebumps 6 and 24 Hour Run/Walk Where: Goose Island County Park When: 24-hour, Friday, September 25, 2 p.m. for 24 hours; six-hour, Saturday, September 26, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.; cook-out at 4:30 p.m.

Registration and information: www.locallupus.org

to encourage employers to have a bike rack by their workplace or possibly to provide a simple awning to protect bikes from outdoor elements. You may also encourage your employer to look into a bike share, where as a community you share a number of bicycles that are all taken care of through the bike share program.

Finally, the culture of your workplace has to support bicycling to work. QBP approached it in many ways from demonstrating the positive impact on the environment to having QBP leadership adopt the bicycle-to-work program. Whatever you can do to get more of your co-workers to bicycle to work, the more likely others will join.

Change doesn’t happen overnight; it all starts with taking that first step. The first step for you might be to commit to biking to work once a week. Small change leads to big change!

Lee Walraven, MS, ACSM-RCEP is the Healthy Living Director at the La Crosse Area Family YMCA.

SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |

MAKING THE LOOP FOR LUPUS

levels. Participants sign on for either a six- or 24-hour run/walk period. How much ground they cover and how they choose to do it is entirely up to the individual. The six- and 24-hour events are consecutive, and an occasional participant does both.

The course is a 2.8-mile loop. Some runners use the 24-hour time period as a training ground for longer marathons, because they can rest, even sleep, if they want to. Food and drink, provided primarily by area businesses, are available around the clock. Pearl Street Brewery provides the beer.

For those attendees not covering ground, there’s plenty to do. Chrz describes the event as a family reunion attitude. “It’s a cool family picnic that lasts for 24 hours,” he says.

Unlike most races, says Chrz, “We don’t hand out awards to winners,” because it’s not a timed race. Instead, prizes galore, donated by businesses near and far, are awarded via random drawing to route participants who are there at its finish.

Chrz says profits from the event go toward education as well as compassion and care services, such as gift cards for groceries or gas, lawn mowing or wheelchair ramps. The Local Lupus Alliance is a nonprofit whose monies stay in the community. It is not affiliated with any other organization.

The fun starts Friday, September 25 with the 24-hour run and is followed by the six-hour event the next day.

Chrz invites everyone to see what Goosebumps is all about. “It’s a great time to come out with family, to challenge yourself, to try the next

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BUSINESS

A PASSION FOR VINTAGE FASHION Article: Deborah Nerud Photos: Dahli Durley

SEVEN | Issue #3 | September, 2015

Rooted in friendship—from dreams to Internet to reality—Prairie La Crosse has taken bloom as a new vintage consignment shop, offering men’s, women’s and children’s vintage attire, shoes and accessories at 535 Main St. in Downtown La Crosse. It’s fair to say that co-owners Hanna Compton and Kareena Sheely have a shared passion for vintage wear. “We both come from a long line of estate sales, antique shops and thrifting,” Sheely states, adding, “I’ve always had a quirky side with my own personal fashion.”

We promote local farmers, cooperative businesses & small producers to support a food econcomy that embodies our highest values.

609 N Main St Viroqua 608.637.7511 viroquafood.coop

30 OPEN DAILY 7am-9pm

Both women are from California.

Compton has experience as a buyer for vintage and used apparel shops, and Sheely is self-taught in pattern manufacturing and textile identification. Both women operated and owned separate Etsy businesses before relocating to La Crosse, where they united their online businesses and re-directed their shared sales vision toward a brick-and-mortar.

From the scrubbed, original hardwood flooring to the exposed brickwork and original ceiling, the entire

Jillian & Adam of Small Family Farm

shop has had a vintage facelift, bringing a clean, unified look that hearkens back to the beauty of the original space.

From the 1930s duster dress to the 1970s men’s Wrangler snap-button plaid long-sleeve, every item is carefully curated; the ambience is buoyed by local memorabilia, a vinyl and cassetteloaded sound system and re-purposed materials. Both businesswomen are happy with the shop’s size, but share visions of a larger store that will allow for workshops and design and original pattern manufacturing.

Compton notes, “As first-time business owners, we feel lucky that we’ve had the opportunity to do this.”

Citing the support of the La Crosse community and CouleeCo, which offers a nine-week course for new and potential small-business owners, Sheely adds, “DMI, the community and connected business owners have been enormously supportive. It’s intimidating to start a business, but there are a lot of free and low-cost ways to get started.”

Want to learn more about vintage fashion, small business ownership, design or consignment sales? Compton and Sheely continue to share their enthusiasm via Facebook, their website, tumblr, Etsy and the old-fashioned way: face-to-face. “Lots of folks are stopping in simply to welcome us, or are just curious,” says Compton. “We’ve had a great response so far.”

DETAILS: www.facebook.com/prairielacrosse www.prairielacrosse.com www.etsy.com/shop/prairielacrosse

FAMILY

COLLEGE CORNER

By Yasmynn Rain

3… 2… 1… COLLEGE!

Article: Sara Walters With the harvest season fast approaching, Grow La Crosse is preparing to share its bounty with the community. On Saturday, September 12, the local nonprofit will once again host Fall Festival on the Farm, a unique event that embraces the beauty of the season in the Coulee Region.

Grow La Crosse started the festival in 2013 to coincide with its mission to connect children to healthy food and nature. What better place to educate about living off the land than Deep Roots Community Farm (DRCF), a local family farm about five miles outside of La Crosse that raises vegetables and beef. On a five-acre field with stunning landscape, the setting enhances the experience for fest goers. “We see the festival as a way for our community to come together in a beautiful rural setting and celebrate the harvest and the changing of the seasons,” says Ana Skemp, Grow La Crosse program director and co-founder and owner/operator of DRCF. There’s plenty to do while taking in the scenery. The event, which runs from 2:00–7:00 p.m., features live bands and a silent auction, including such items as a year’s supply of Organic Valley milk and grass-fed beef bundles. Kids will stay busy, too, participating in a veggie walk (the healthier version of a cake walk), a fly fishing demo, a human-powered smoothie station, an insect identification walk and more.

Educating children is truly what Grow La Crosse is about. “Our programming gets children excited about growing and eating their own food and interested in nature,” explains Skemp. Outside of Fall Festival, Grow La Crosse maintains two school gardens, providing guidance and curriculum. They also host field trips and farm camps at DRCF throughout the year. “Children come out to a real working farm to spend time in the gardens, care for the animals and learn about the natural world around them,” says Skemp.

Fall Festival brings families together to eat, learn and enjoy the autumn weather.

This year’s menu, sourced from local organic farms, features pulled-pork sandwiches, vegetarian or vegan stuffed bell peppers, tomato basil salad and more. Attendees can also learn some do-it-yourself growing and cooking tips, Where: from seed saving to vermicomposting Deep Roots Community Farm, W4406 to urban food forestry. Skemp hopes County Road YY, just outside of La that these types of demonstrations will Crosse. “make healthy whole foods exciting and more accessible.”

When: It’s not just about food, though.

Saturday, September 12 Adding to the atmosphere will be live music throughout the day from Grass Tickets: Run Band and Prairie Smoke. Fest goers Available online at growlacrosse.org and can also participate in two community at JavaVino, People’s Food Co-op and art projects: one using fabric and the Deep Roots Community Farm. other block printing.

GO:

BONUS TIP!

For more fun family activities, check out the current issue of Coulee Parenting Connection!

Based on recent experience, I’ve prepared some tips for other collegebound students.

Tip #1: Keep your day job. I quit my last job at a local call center in mid-July to open up my summer.

Unfortunately, I did not anticipate that I’d have to shell out $300 for Move-in day in the dorms new tires on my car. There went my savings. Ahh, the prestigious college life of financial instability and incurable stress. So this is what I’ve been waiting for.

Tip #2: Don’t procrastinate. It seems I have a million and one things to do and so little time. I’ve been going crazy getting my laundry done and cleaning my room. Trying to decide what to take with to college feels impossible. Being 175 miles away, I won’t exactly be able to come back every weekend to get something I need. One of the most helpful suggestions my family has given me has been to pack for the upcoming season. I’m definitely packing my sweaters and jeans, but I’ll leave the winter coat and heavy sweatshirts for now… considering I won’t have a closet. Additionally, my Mom and Grandma have always told me, “ask yourself if you’re really going to use that.” That has helped me decide what’s truly essential to my first few weeks of college. (Let’s be honest, I haven’t touched that book on strategies for successful writing since the day I bought it.)

Tip #3: For the love of all that is good, check your e-mail! Professors send you helpful and necessary information to make sure everything is in order for your first day. Also Make sure to e-mail or call the admissions office with questions. I’ve saved a lot of time and frustration by doing this. No question is a dumb question; I promise!

Tip #4 is something I learned while prepping for school: Life Goes On. It doesn’t stop for anything, not even college. Doctor Who will still premiere on September 19, despite the fact I’ll have homework to do. Friends still celebrate their birthdays, even though I’m busy figuring out how to accept financial aid (which is a real pain). Breaking up happens, regardless of the fact I had to go register for classes. No matter what school obligations I have, the Earth will keep spinning. I’m learning to set aside time for myself to recollect and relax. Although, moderation is key; too much taking it easy can create even bigger problems.

The hardest part about moving to college has been mentally preparing myself to leave my friends and family. Why can’t I just pick up the campus and bring it home? I’ve been visiting my friends and family as much as possible this past month. We’ve gone hiking, swimming, partying, camping. We’ve been on road trips to Rochester, Shakopee and Minneapolis. I have these memories to take with me.

One last tip, Run home to Mom once in a while. It’ll do you some good.

Yasmynn Rain is an Onalaska High School alumnus and is excited to share her college experience with SEVEN. She digs Doctor Who, live concerts and anything to do with Marching Band…especially the trumpet section.

SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |

FALL FESTIVAL ON THE FARM

The idea of moving and being in a whole new environment on my own is honestly terrifying, but… also exciting! I feel so unprepared, but I think I’m just psyching myself out. Move-in day is marked on the calendar and my schedule is correct, so I can’t imagine I’m off to a bad start. UW-Whitewater will soon become home, a good threehour drive from La Crosse (can’t exactly run home to mom on a whim anymore). Still, as I write this, move-in day is sneaking up on me, and I’m freaking out! I have yet to buy a futon, a microwave, all of my school supplies, and in only three short days. The best part? I have $10 to my name.

31

u o y k Than

for voting us #1 Wine Bar!

Thank you for

voting us #1!

SEVEN | Issue #3 | September, 2015

125 N. 7TH ST. La Crosse, WI 54601 (608) 784-1175

32

Thank you for voting us #1 BBQ and #2 West Salem Business!

100 Harborview Plaza La Crosse, WI 54601 www.4sisterslacrosse.com

(608) 782-8213

Open 7 days a week 5:30 am – 9:00 pm Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

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(608) 612-0387

www.bigboarsmokers.com

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SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |

The Best of

SEVEN is excited to sponsor the 2015 Best Of La Crosse County Poll, presented by Explore La Crosse.

The Best of The poll gathered results from 8,309 voters, 3,715 more than last year! Part of SEVEN’s mission is to celebrate our local people, culture and businesses. We have created a print supplement to the online poll by presenting the entire list of results in this issue of SEVEN. WINNER Explore La Crosse works year round to discover and promote all of La Crosse County’s unique 2015 personalities, establishments County and traditions, but nobody knows a place better than its people: the residents and visitors who make up the early morning breakfasters, bargain-hunting antiquers and returning vacationers who support this community and all of its incredible businesses. No one is better qualified to choose the best among all that La Crosse County has to offer, than its people.

La Crosse

La Crosse 2015

County

SEVEN proudly presents... the 2015 Best Of La Crosse County Poll!

The Best of

La Crosse 2015

County FOOD & DRINK Bar: Overall

1. Bodega Brew Pub – 27.3% 2. Dublin Square Irish Pub & Eatery – 23.9% 3. Howie’s on La Crosse – 21.9%

Brewery / Brewpub 1. Pearl Street Brewery – 75.6% 2. City Brewery – 15.8% 3. Turtle Stack Brewery – 8.2%

College Bar

1. Howie’s on La Crosse – 32.5% 2. Brother’s Bar & Grill – 17.7% 3. Eagle’s Nest – 17.6%

Dance Club

1. Coconut Joe’s – 32.9% 2. Concordia Ballroom – 18.6% 3. Sawtooth Sam’s – 17.1%

Downtown Bar

1. Bodega Brew Pub – 27.4% 2. Dublin Square Irish Pub & Eatery – 25.6% 3. Del’s Bar – 18.4%

SEVEN | Issue #3 | September, 2015

Neighborhood Tavern 1. Recovery Room – 22.6% 2. Bluffside Tavern – 21.5% 3. Eagle’s Nest – 21.4%

Rural Bar

1. Red Pines Bar & Grill – 28.7% 2. Leo & Leona’s – 26.3% 3. Alpine Inn – 25.2%

Sports Bar

1. Howie’s on La Crosse – 38.1% 2. Features Sports Bar & Grill – 22.1% 3. Buffalo Wild Wings – 16.0%

Wine Bar

1. 4 Sisters Wine Bar & Tapas Restaurant – 39.1% 2. Wine Guyz – 26.0% 34 3. JavaVino – 20.9%

Beer Garden

BBQ

Vegetarian­ Friendly

Pub Trivia

Chinese

Restaurant Chain

Cocktails

Ethnic

New Restaurant

Bloody Mary

Italian

Romantic Dinner

Japanese / Sushi

Supper Club

Mediterranean / Middle Eastern

Upscale Dining

1. Dublin Square Irish Pub & Eatery – 38.8% 2. Stolpa’s Stein Haus – 34.9% 3. River Rats Bar & Grill – 18.1% 1. Howie’s on La Crosse – 27.2% 2. Nutbush City Limits – 17.9% 3. Flipside Pub & Grill – 17.8% 1. The Starlite Lounge – 46.1% 2. Waterfront Restaurant & Tavern – 16.0% 3. Digger’s Sting – 14.6%

1. Del’s Bar – 49.3% 2. Fayze’s Restaurant & Bakery – 15.0% 3. Ardie’s Restaurant / Flipside Pub & Grill – 14.1%

Bottled Beer Selection

1. Bodega Brew Pub – 60.4% 2. Golden Tap – 13.6% 3. Dublin Square Irish Pub & Eatery – 12.4%

Tap Beer Selection

1. Bodega Brew Pub – 37.8% 2. Golden Tap – 20.2% 3. Dublin Square Irish Pub & Eatery – 11.8%

1. Big Boar Barbecue – 34.7% 2. Famous Dave’s – 22.4% 3. Piggy’s Restaurant & Blue Lounge – 19.5% 1. Hunan Chinese Restaurant – 30.4% 2. China Star – 25.8% 3. China Buffet – 16.8% 1. Manny’s Mexican Cocina – 33.9% 2. Dublin Square Irish Pub & Eatery – 22.9% 3. Hmong’s Golden Eggrolls – 22.4% 1. Kate’s on State – 24.1% 2. Ciatti’s Italian Grill – 23.8% 3. Angelini’s Pizzeria & Ristorante – 22.2% 1. Bamboo House – 30.5% 2. Shogun Sushi & Hibachi – 30.1% 3. Sushi Pirate – 25.6%

1. Gracie’s Gyros & Wraps – 64.4% 2. Golden Tap – 34.0% 3. Big Mama’s Gyros (write­in) – 0.01%

Happy Hour

Mexican / Southwestern

Bartender

Pizza: Dine­In

Restaurant: Overall

Pizza: Delivery / Take­Out

1. The Starlite Lounge – 36.2% 2. Waterfront Restaurant & Tavern – 19.0% 3. Howie’s on La Crosse – 15.8% 1. Alicia Stoltz Gorski, Bodega Brew Pub – 29.0% 2. Eric “Guido” Lemon, John’s Bar – 22.3% 3. Pete Mohm, Snuffy’s – 16.2% 1. Freighthouse Restaurant – 20.9% 2. Piggy’s Restaurant & Blues Lounge – 19.9% 3. Waterfront Restaurant & Tavern – 18.7%

1. Manny’s Mexican Cocina – 38.8% 2. Fiesta Mexicana – 22.3% 3. Tequila Mexican Restaurant – 16.2%

1. Kate’s Pizza Amore – 22.2% 2. Big Al’s – 20.9% 3. Edward0’s Ristorante di Pizza – 16.3% 1. Pizza King – 22.0% 2. Papa Murphy’s – 21.6% 3. Pizza Corral – 19.2%

1. People’s Food Co­op – 46.6% 2. Hackberry’s Bistro – 19.8% 3. The Root Note – 13.1% 1. Culver’s – 39.3% 2. Texas Roadhouse – 23.3% 3. Olive Garden – 13.1%

1. Old Crow – 32.7% 2. The Breakfast Club & Pub – 17.4% 3. The Mint – 16.4% 1. Waterfront Restaurant & Tavern – 30.5% 2. Freighthouse Restaurant – 21.1% 3. Digger’s Sting – 15.9% 1. Digger’s Sting – 33.2% 2. Schmidty’s Bar & Grill – 20.4% 3. Drugan’s Castle Mound – 16.8% 1. Waterfront Restaurant & Tavern – 35.3% 2. Freighthouse Restaurant – 24.1% 3. Piggy’s Restaurant & Blue Lounge – 16.9%

Caterer

1. Pogy’s Catering – 29.4% 2. Piggy’s Restaurant & Blue Lounge – 21.3% 3. Premier Catering – 16.1%

Chef / Cook

1. Chris Roderique, Piggy’s Restaurant & Blue Lounge – 34.6% 2. John Temp, Freighthouse Restaurant – 25.0% 3. Jake Mclees, Dublin Square Irish Pub & Eatery – 17.1%

Waiter / Waitress

1. Kayla Connor, Dublin Square Irish Pub & Eatery – 20.5% 2. Mark Wuensch,

Freighthouse Restaurant – 19.3% 3. Billy Poehling, Freighthouse Restaurant – 19.1%

Bakery

1. Linda’s Bakery – 51.1% 2. Fayze’s Restaurant & Bakery – 19.6% 3. International Bake Shoppe – 10.3%

Breakfast

1. Fayze’s Restaurant & Bakery – 28.6% 2. Rosie’s Cafe – 19.6% 3. Marge’s on Rose – 16.9%

Brunch

1. Fayze’s Restaurant & Bakery – 45.0% 2. Drugan’s Castle Mound – 16.7% 3. Hackberry’s Bistro – 14.1%

Burger

Seafood

1. Freighthouse Restaurant – 26.6% 2. Waterfront Restaurant & Tavern – 22.0% 3. Manny’s Mexican Cocina – 19.3%

Soup

1. Pickerman’s Soup & Sandwiches – 34.1% 2. Panera Bread – 22.2% 3. Piggy’s Restaurant & Blues Lounge – 14.3%

Steak

1. Freighthouse Restaurant – 31.6% 2. Digger’s Sting – 23.9% 3. Texas Roadhouse – 20.4%

Tacos

1. Manny’s Mexican Cocina – 28.5% 2. Fiesta Mexicana – 23.0% 3. Iguana’s Mexican Street Cafe – 17.6%

Wings

1. Burger Fusion – 23.9% 2. Howie’s on La Crosse – 21.1% 3. Culver’s – 18.5%

1. Buffalo Wild Wings – 30.3% 2. The Sports Nut – 17.9% 3. Howie’s on La Crosse – 14.8%

Cheese Curds

1. Edwardo’s Ristorante di Pizza – 29.3% 2. Dublin Square Irish Pub & Eatery – 17.4% 3. Pettibone Boat Club – 16.1%

Fish Fry

1. Syl’s Place – 20.0% 2. Hungry Peddler – 17.7% 3. Red Pines Bar & Grill – 16.9%

Dessert

1. The Pearl Ice Cream Parlor & Coffee House – 63.3% 2. Waterfront Restaurant & Tavern – 11.8% 3. Freighthouse Restaurant – 8.1%

Ambience

Sandwich / Wrap

1. Pickerman’s Soup & Sandwiches – 27.9% 2. Lindy’s Subs & Salads – 26.1% 3. Fat Sam’s Main Street Bistro – 20.2%

1. Waterfront Restaurant & Tavern – 30.5% 2. 4 Sisters Wine Bar & Tapas Restaurant – 28.6% 3. Freighthouse Restaurant – 16.4%

Outdoor Dining

2. Huck Finn’s on the Water – 23.8% 3. Pettibone Boat Club – 18.8%

View

1. Waterfront Restaurant & Tavern – 30.2% 2. Grandad Bluff (with a picnic) – 28.5% 3. Pettibone Boat Club – 16.5%

Shoe Store

1. Rogan’s Shoes – 39.5% 2. Famous Footwear – 16.8% 3. Payless ShoeSource – 13.8%

Coffee / Tea Shop 1. JavaVino – 21.03% 2. Moka – 21.01% 3. The Root Note – 14.3%

Antique Store

1. Antique Center of La Crosse – 33.4% 2. Painted Porch – 23.9% 3. Treasures on Main – 18.6%

Candy / Ice Cream Shop 1. The Pearl Ice Cream Parlor & Coffee House – 47.2% 2. The Sweet Shop – 24.0% 3. Ranison Ice Cream & Candy – 19.6%

Consignment Store

1. Savvy Home Consignments – 25.9% 2. Once Upon a Child – 24.2% 3. Plato’s Closet – 19.7%

Grocery Store

1. Festival Foods – 47.3% 2. Woodman’s – 26.3% 3. People’s Food Co­op – 17.6%

Thrift Store

HOME & COMMUNITY

Bookstore

1. Goodwill – 38.5% 2. Savvy Home Consignments – 14.7% 3. Once Upon a Child – 12.3%

Clothing Store: Men 1. Kohl’s – 25.5% 2. Dale’s Clothing – 18.3% 3. Farm & Fleet – 14.2%

1. Barnes & Noble – 64.7% 2. Pearl Street Books – 24.8% 3. Friends of Library Bookshop – 3.4%

Hardware Store

1. Menards – 35.6% 2. Ace Hardware – 27.1% 3. Kroner’s True Value Hardware – 19.1%

Clothing Store: Women 1. Kohl’s – 25.8% 2. T.J. Maxx & Homegoods – 18.8% 3. Dale’s Clothing – 14.2%

1. Waterfront Restaurant & Tavern – 32.4%

Thank you La Crosse!

We couldn’t do it without your support!

Thank you for making us

winner of best burger two years in a row!

We couldn’t do it without your support!

1st Place:

Waiter/Waitress: Kayla Connor Beer Garden

Bar: Overall Downtown Bar Ethnic Food Cheese Curds Gourmet Burgers • Roast Beef Sandwiches Mac ‘n’ Cheese Dishes • Fusion Shakes

(608) 781-4212

Valley View Mall, La Crosse, WI

burgerfusioncompany.com

3rd Place:

3rd and Main downtown La Crosse, WI

(608) 519-2509 dublinsquarepub.com

Chef/Cook: Jake McLees Tap Beer Selection Bottled Beer Selection

SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |

2nd Place:

35

ting r Vo ! o f arl nks Tha The Pe r o f

#1 Ice Cream & Candy Shop #1 Dessert Spot ICE CREAM PARLOR

3. La Crosse City Hall Farmers Market – 13.6%

Farmers Market Stand

1. TIE! Deep Roots Community Farm & Old Oak Family Farm – 18.8% 2. Hoch Orchard & Gardens – 14.0%

Barber Shop

1. Orange Pearl Salon – 26.5% 2. Ken’s Appointment Barber Shop – 22.3% 3. Sport Clips – 20.9%

Hair Salon

1. Metropolitan Salon & Day Spa – 21.2% 2. The Ultimate Salon & Spa – 19.4% 3. Sue Kolve’s Salon & Day Spa – 19.1%

Hair Stylist

The Pearl Ice Cream Parlor • 207 Pearl Street • La Crosse

608.782.6655 • www.pearlstreetwest.com

Home Furnishings / Appliance Store

Quilt / Craft Shop

1. Wettstein’s – 37.6% 2. HOM Furniture – 16.2% 3. Midwest TV & Appliance – 12.7%

Gift Shop / Specialty Store

1. Treehouse Gift & Home – 47.1% 2. The Cheddarhead Store & TJ’s La Crosse Shoppe – 19.1% 3. Painted Porch – 15.4%

Tattoo Artist

1. Jake “Knuckles” Phillips, Twisted Skull Studios – 28.8% 2. Nick Schreck, Blue Line Tattoo & Body Piercing – 20.3% 3. Cory Newman, Black Lotus Custom Tattoos – 15.5%

1. Gund Brewery Loft Apartments – 35.0% 2. Grand River Station – 24.4% 3. Washburn on the Park – 11.0%

Jeweler

Nail Salon

1. La Bella Nails & Spa – 24.7% 2. Metropolitan Salon & Day Spa – 23.3% 3. Sue Kolve’s Salon & Day Spa – 18.8%

1. Mind Altering Tattoos – 31.2% 2. Blue Line Tattoo & Body Piercing – 26.6% 3. Claire’s – 17.2%

Apartments

Bed & Breakfast

1. Rainbow Ridge Farms Bed & Breakfast – 29.8% 2. Four Gables Bed & Breakfast – 24.6% 3. Lumber Baron Inn – 23.5%

Hotel

1. Stoney Creek Hotel & Conference Center – 43.1%

Farmers Market

1. Cameron Park Farmers Market – 59.2% 2. Onalaska Farmers Market – 18.5%

Thank you, La Crosse!

#1 REALTOR® Cindy Gerke-Edwards 1.800.78.GERKE

SEVEN | Issue #3 | September, 2015

1. Mind Altering Tattoos – 35.8% 2. Blue Line Tattoo & Body Piercing – 22.6% 3. Black Lotus Custom Tattoos – 18.0%

Aesthetician

Beyond

36

Tattoo Parlor

Piercing Establishment

1. Hobby Lobby – 35.3% 2. Olive Juice Quilts – 31.9% 3. Michael’s – 18.1%

The Trempealeau Hotel

1. Metropolitan Salon & Day Spa – 30.0% 2. Sue Kolve’s Salon & Day Spa – 23.3% 3. The Ultimate Salon & Spa – 21.6%

1. Connie Peter, The Ultimate Salon & Spa – 20.1% 2. Alison Wegner Bright, Sue Kolve’s Salon & Day Spa – 18.7% 3. Ariel Narten, Orange Pearl Salon – 17.0% 1. Maggie Jo Ascher, The Ultimate Salon & Spa – 45.7% 2. Dani Hess, Salon Inspired – 23.3% 3. Amy Lattos, Thrive Health Center – 18.3%

1. Rose Jewelers – 30.8% 2. Mark Jewelers – 22.1% 3. Howes Diamond Jewelers – 19.2%

Spa

www.realestatelacrosse.com

Thank you for supporting live music and creating a great vibe!

Voted best tavern and entertainment venue, beyond...

THANKS FOR VOTING! PROUD TO BE YOUR FAVORITE! Trempealeau, WI 54661 • 608 534 6898

FOOD • DRINK • SHELTER • MUSIC

BREAKFAST • LUNCH • DINNER • COCKTAILS MADE FROM SCRATCH BAKERY www.fayzes.com | 608.784.9548 | 135 South 4th St. • Downtown La Crosse

2. Radisson Hotel – 25.5% 3. Courtyard by Marriott – 14.0%

Motel

1. Holiday Inn Express – 45.1% 2. Prairie Inn & Suites – 15.7% 3. Days Inn – 11.7%

Law Firm

1. Bosshard Parke – 7.4% 2. Badger Lawyer – 5.6% 3. Hale, Skemp, Hanson, Skemp & Sleik – 5.3%

Realtor

1. Cindy Gerke­Edwards, Cindy Gerke & Associates – 31.9% 2. Sue Pinski, Gerrard­-Hoeschler Realtors – 17.9% 3. Brian Stephan, RE/Max – 13.9%

Real Estate Company

1. Gerrard­-Hoeschler – 28.6% 2. Cindy Gerke & Associates – 26.1% 3. La Crosse by Owner – 18.7%

Financial Establishment 1. Altra Credit Union – 49.4% 2. Community Credit Union – 11.9% 3. Coulee Bank – 10.0%

Tax Preparation Services

1. Coulee Region Bookkeeping & Tax – 61.1% 2. Becker Tax & Bookkeeping – 7.9% 3. H&R Block – 2.4%

Bookkeeping / Accounting

1. Coulee Region Bookkeeping & Tax – 72.5% 2. Becker Tax & Bookkeeping – 5.5% 3. Morrison & Associates – 1.8%

Insurance Agent

1. Kyle Visker, State Farm – 28.1% 2. Rita Sanger, American Family Insurance – 18.3% 3. Steve Fleis, Fleis Insurance Agency – 17.3%

Auto Dealer

1. Brenengen Auto – 32.7% 2. Dahl Automotive – 31.7% 3. Ballweg Midwest Toyota – 12.8%

Auto Repair

1. Dahl Automotive – 27.2% 2. Fred’s Brakes & Alignment Service – 20.5% 3. Schaller Jacobson Collision & Alignment Repair – 18.7%

Auto Parts Store

1. AutoZone – 19.5% 2. NAPA Auto Parts – 13.3% 3. Auto Value – 12.7%

Appliance Repair

1. Wettstein’s – 92.3% 2. Midwest TV & Appliance – 2.5% 3. A/C Doc’s West Salem Appliance – 1.2%

Plumber

1. Maxwell White Plumbing – 25.4% 2. Niebuhr Plumbing & Heating – 25.1% 3. Every Plumbing & Heating – 19.9%

Electrician

1. Kish & Sons Electric – 47.3% 2. Wettstein Brothers Electric – 17.6% 3. Wehrs Electric – 8.4%

General Contractor

1. Fowler & Hammer – 32.7% 2. Wieser Brothers General Contractor, Inc. – 27.4% 3. TCI – 15.3%

Movers

Garden Center

Cleaning Service

Florist

Dry Cleaner

Tailoring / Alterations

Lawncare, Gardening, & Landscaping:

Photographer

1. La Crosse Movers – 30.8% 2. Jacobson’s Moving & Storage – 24.7% 3. Jake’s Moving & Storage – 19.0% 1. 360clean – 83.2% 2. Maid Like New Cleaning & Organizing – 2.6% 3. The Maids of La Crosse – 1.9% 1. Hangers to Hems – 44.0% 2. Blue Ribbon Dry Cleaning – 22.2% 3. Sew Clean – 16.3%

1. River City Lawnscape, Inc. – 37.6% 2. Outdoor Services, Inc. (OSI) – 19.0% 3. LAWNkeepers of La Crosse – 10.8%

1. La Crosse Floral – 16.1% 2. Christen Farm Nursery – 15.6% 3. Cottage Grove Nursery & Gift – 15.1% 1. La Crosse Floral – 26.18% 2. Flowers by Guenthers – 19.29% 3. Bittersweet Flower Market – 19.24% 1. Hangers to Hems – 35.7% 2. Lee’s Alterations – 24.2% 3. The Wedding Tree – 15.8%

1. Sarah Schultz Photography – 30.5% 2. The Studio on Main – 23.6% 3. Mueller Photography – 18.6%

e it or v fa r ou y e id ov r p We’re proud to s! ie it n tu or p op on ti a e cr parks and re 1 st

Wedding Venue: Riverside Park/International Gardens Dog Park: Myrick Park Free Activity: Hiking & Biking Hixon Forest & La Crosse Marsh Trails Park for Kids: Myrick Park/Kids Coulee Beach: Pettibone Park Park: Riverside Park/ International Friendship Gardens Running/Hiking/Biking Trail: Hixon Forest Trails Scenic Trails: Grandad Bluff Live Music Venue: Riverside Park

2 nd

thank you la crosse

#1 BLOODY MARY

View: Grandad Bluff Dog Park: Houska Park Public Pool: Erickson Pool Beach: Black River Beach Park: Myrick Park/Kids Coulee Running/Hiking/Biking Trail: La Crosse Marsh Trails Scenic Area: Riverside Park

3 rd

#3 BEST DOWNTOWN BAR 229 3rd St N, La Crosse, Wisconsin

(608) 784-4990

www.cityoflacrosse.org/parks

SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |

Youth Sports Program Youth Program Park: Grandad Bluff/Hixon Forest Scenic Area: Hixon Forest

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Wedding Venue

1. Riverside Park / International Friendship Gardens – 24.9% 2. Norskedalen Nature & Heritage Center – 18.0% 3. Pettibone Resort – 13.8%

Bridal Store

Thank you for voting us #1 Auto Dealer

1. Charlotte’s Bridal & Formal Wear – 42.0% 2. The Wedding Tree – 35.9% 3. Weddings by Nancy – 7.9%

Pet Store

1. Petsmart – 28.5% 2. Petco – 24.4% 3. Pet Me Scratch Me – 20.9%

Dog Park

1. Myrick Park – 42.0% 2. Houska Park – 27.2% 3. Fun Fur Pets – 15.0%

Onalaska, West Salem, Sparta & Tomah, WI

www.brenengen.com

Dog Training

1. Pet Me Scratch Me – 35.1% 2. Coulee Region Humane Society – 29.2% 3. Fun Fur Pets – 13.1%

Dog Boarding & Pampering 1. Pet Me Scratch Me – 32.0% 2. Diggity Dog Daycare – 19.8% 3. Fun Fur Pets – 17.1%

Veterinarians

1. La Crosse Veterinary Clinic – 28.1% 2. Thompson Animal Medical Center – 20.8% 3. Hillside Animal Hospital – 18.9%

SEVEN | Issue #3 | September, 2015

Local Publication

1. La Crosse Tribune – 32.0% 2. Coulee Region Women – 24.5% 3. La Crosse Magazine – 19.3%

Medical Center

1. Gundersen Health System – 56.7% 2. Mayo Clinic Health System – 33.3% 3. La Crosse Area Neighborhood Family Clinics – 5.2%

Dentists

1. Cowgill Dental – 19.8% 2. Valley Dental – 16.8% 3. Main Street Dental – 12.1%

Orthodontist

1. Dr. Dave Kujak – 41.2% 2. Dr. Michael Mosling – 31.6% 3. HG Orthodontics – 21.5%

Doctor

1. Dr. Kelley Bahr, Family Medicine, Gundersen Health System, Onalaska – 17.0% 2. Dr. Ted Thompson, Family Medicine, La Crosse Area Neighborhood Family Clinics – 16.38% 3. Dr. Lori Devine, Women’s Health, Mayo Clinic Health System, La Crosse – 12.71%

Eye Doctor

1. 1410 WIZM: La Crosse News – 52.0% 2. 580 WKTY: Sports – 34.2% 3. 1490 WLFN: Today’s Talk – 12.4%

1. Dr. Holly Fisher, Optical Fashions – 25.3% 2. Dr. John Purdue, Gundersen Health System, Onalaska – 16.2% 3. Dr. Ann Wonderling, Family Vision Center – 14.5%

FM Radio Station

Optical Center

1. Z93 93.3 (WIZM­FM) – 23.4% 2. 95.7 the Rock (WRQT) – 15.5% 3. Classic Rock 100.1 (WKBH) – 13.2%

1. Gundersen Health System – 32.4% 2. Optical Fashions – 24.9% 3. Family Vision Center – 18.1%

Radio Personality

Pharmacy

1. Brittany Styles, Z93 – 41.5% 2. Kelly Wilde, Classic Rock 100.1 – 15.6% 3. Tracy Ballzer, Classic Hits 94.7 – 13.4%

1. Walgreens – 45.3% 2. Shopko – 13.5% 3. Gundersen Health System – 12.0%

Morning DJ

Massage Therapist

1. Brittany Styles & Adam Dvorak, Morning Buzz, Z93 – 35.4% 2. Jean Taylor & Brian Simpson, Morning Sickness, 95.7 the Rock – 21.1% 3. Keith Carr & Samantha Strong, Classic Morning Show, Classic Hits 94.7 – 20.3%

1. Audra Swenson, Metropolitan Salon & Spa – 22.7% 2. Gena Allen, Bronston Chiropractic / The Ultimate Salon & Spa – 20.4% 3. Cynthia “Sam” Licht, Sue Kolve’s Salon & Day Spa – 19.3%

Drive­Time DJ

Physical Therapist

AM Radio Station

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WXOW News 19 – 15.6% 3. Martha Koloski & Mike Thompson, WKBT­T V Channel 8 – 11.0%

1. Brittany Styles & Adam Dvorak, Z93 – 37.0% 2. Tracy Ballzer, Classic Hits 94.7 – 19.5% 3. Jean Taylor & Brian Simpson, 95.7 the Rock – 17.6%

Late Night DJ

1. JJ, Z93 – 41.9% 2. Dan­O, Classic Hits 94.7 – 26.5% 3. Travis Winchester, KQ98 – 18.0%

Local News Anchor / Duo 1. Jennifer Livingston & Bill Graul, WKBT­T V Channel 8 – 57.6% 2. Scott Hackworth & Heather Armstrong,

1. Cait Larsen, Dynamic Physiotherapy – 5.5% 2. TIE: Myra Burkhardt, Burkhardt Physical Therapy Center – 3.7% 3. Julie Olson, Mayo Clinic Health System, La Crosse – 3.7%

Occupational Therapist

1. Katie McCabe, Mayo Clinic Health System, Onalaska – 3.7% 2. Susan Sivill, Gundersen Health System, Onalaska – 3.3% 3. Laura Paquette, Paquette Therapies – 2.1%

Counseling Services

West Salem Business

Kid­Friendly Restaurant

Chiropractor

Bangor Business

Kid’s Birthday Party Venue

3. Dr. Michael Funk, Gundersen Health System, La Crosse – 19.7%

Free Activity

Family Entertainment

HEALTH, RECREATION, & OUTDOORS

1. Dr. Amy Breidenbach, Breidenbach Family & Sports Chiropractic – 22.4% 2. Dr. Michael Polito, Coulee Chiropractic Clinic & Gundersen Health System, La Crosse – 14.1% 3. Dr. Linda Lorenz, Lorenz Chiropractic, Inc. – 11.5%

Teacher (K­12)

1. Kevin Bonnar, Eagle Bluff Elementary – 15.3% 2. Sherri Wizner, West Salem Elementary – 12.0% 3. Samuel Bina, Spence Elementary – 11.8%

University Instructor / Professor

1. Thomas Thibodeau, Religious Studies & Philosophy, Viterbo University – 25.3% 2. Dave Solie, Communications, UW­La Crosse – 13.2% 3. Rick Kyte, Philosophy, Viterbo University – 5.5%

University

1. University of Wisconsin­La Crosse – 57.0% 2. Viterbo University – 24.1% 3. Western Technical College – 17.0%

Public Servant

1. Don Weber, CEO, Logistics Health, Inc. – 25.8% 2. Jennifer Shilling, Wisconsin State Senator, 32nd District, State Senate Minority Leader – 24.8% 3. Thomas Thibodeau, Religious Studies & Philosophy, Viterbo University – 18.4%

Local Non­Profit Organization 1. Coulee Region Humane Society – 31.1% 2. La Crosse Area YMCA – 18.7% 3. La Crosse Area Habitat for Humanity – 16.4%

Place to Volunteer

1. Coulee Region Humane Society – 31.6% 2. The Hunger Task Force of La Crosse / Kane Street Community Garden – 21.8% 3. WAFER Food Pantry – 14.8%

Downtown La Crosse Business 1. People’s Food Co­op – 35.7% 2. Fayze’s Restaurant & Bakery – 17.3% 3. Logistics Health, Inc. – 14.2%

Northside La Crosse Business 1. The Sweet Shop – 49.5% 2. Root Down Yoga Studio – 20.8% 3. Maid­Rite – 12.0%

Southside La Crosse Business 1. Hungry Peddler – 22.3% 2. JavaVino – 19.6% 3. Gundersen Health System – 19.5%

Holmen Business

1. Holmen Meat Locker – 40.6% 2. Pizza Corral – 25.3% 3. Features Sports Bar & Grill – 21.2%

Onalaska Business

1. Festival Foods – 40.6% 2. Treehouse Gift & Home – 22.7% 3. Savvy Home Consignments – 12.3%

1. Linda’s Bakery – 56.7% 2. Big Boar Barbecue – 17.8% 3. Features Sports Bar & Grill – 12.5% 1. Purple Cow Sweetshop & Cafe – 14.0% 2. Augie’s Bar & Grill – 7.2% 3. Village Inn – 6.5% 1. Hiking & Biking Hixon Forest and the La Crosse Marsh Trails – 22.4% 2. Boating, fishing, & enjoying our rivers – 21.4% 3. Moon Tunes & other free concerts at Riverside Park – 13.2%

Fireworks Display

1. Riverfest 4th of July Fireworks Show, Riverside Park – 49.3% 2. La Crosse Skyrockers New Year’s Fireworks Show, Grandad Bluff – 25.7% 3. Festival Foods Salute to the 4th Fireworks Show, Onalaska – 19.4%

Festival

1. Oktoberfest – 54.5% 2. Riverfest – 14.1% 3. Between the Bluffs Beer, Wine, & Cheese Festival – 11.0%

1. Chuck E. Cheese’s – 39.7% 2. Pizza Doctors – 26.7% 3. Fayze’s Restaurant & Bakery – 12.4%

1. Shenanigans – 30.5% 2. High Roller Skating Center of La Crosse – 25.1% 3. Chuck E. Cheese’s – 23.7% 1. La Crosse Loggers Baseball – 30.9% 2. Shenanigans – 27.8% 3. Children’s Museum of La Crosse – 19.2%

Fitness Center

1. YMCA – 50.0% 2. Snap Fitness – 17.0% 3. Anytime Fitness – 11.4%

Pediatrician / Family Doctor

1. Dr. Steven Manson, Pediatrics, Gundersen Health System, La Crosse – 23.2% 2. Dr. David Gerhard, Pediatrics, Gundersen Health System, La Crosse – 17.4% 3. Dr. Mark Beahm, Family Medicine, Mayo Clinic Health System, Onalaska – 17.1%

Kids’ Dentist

Yoga / Pilates Studio 1. Root Down Yoga Studio – 42.6% 2. YMCA – 20.0% 3. The Yoga Place – 12.7%

Fitness Instructor / Personal Trainer

1. Dr. Timothy Flood, Pediatric Dentistry of Onalaska – 25.9% 2. Cowgill Dental – 22.5%

1. Elaine McDonah, YMCA – 27.2%

FOR KIDS Childcare

1. La Crosse Area YMCA – 32.2% 2. Red Balloon Early Learning Center – 19.8% 3. Childfirst – 15.9%

Youth Sports Program

1. La Crosse Area YMCA – 33.6% 2. Boys & Girls Club of America – 29.7% 3. La Crosse Parks & Rec – 23.6%

Thank you for voting us #1 Tattoo Parlor and Piercing Establishment!

(608) 782-8287 327 Main Street, La Crosse, WI

MindAlteringTats.com

Youth Program 1. La Crosse Area YMCA – 33.1% 2. Boys & Girls Club of America – 29.2% 3. La Crosse Parks & Rec – 15.8%

Thank you for voting us #1!

Park for Kids 1. Myrick Park (Kids Coulee), La Crosse – 76.5% 2. Copeland Park, La Crosse – 6.9% 3. Deer Wood Park, Holmen – 6.8%

• Bar: Overall

• Tap Beer Selection

• Downtown Bar

• Bartender: Alicia Stoltz Gorski

• Bottled Beer Selection

• Place to Meet Singles

Back­to­School Shopping 1. Target – 39.4% 2. Kohl’s – 16.0% 3. Walmart – 15.4%

Kid’s Clothing Store 1. Once Upon a Child – 27.6% 2. Kohl’s – 26.3% 3. Old Navy – 23.8%

(608) 782-0677

122 4th St S, La Crosse, WI 54601

bodegabrewpublax.com

SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |

1. Gundersen Health System – 12.9% 2. Mayo Clinic Health System – 9.3% 3. Stein Counseling & Consulting Services – 7.7%

39

2. Tammy Zee, Tammy Z’s Yoga Studio – 25.2% 3. Harrison Pollack, Snap Fitness – 14.4%

Martial Arts Studio

1. Nicklaus’ Martial Arts America – 33.0% 2. Three Rivers Martial Arts Academy – 27.9% 3. YMCA – 16.7%

Dance Academy

1. Misty’s Dance Unlimited – 51.0% 2. Amanda’s Academy of Dance – 16.4% 3. La Crosse Dance Centre – 12.4%

Sports Team / Club

1. La Crosse Loggers – 54.9% 2. UW­LaCrosse Track & Field – 9.2% 3. Logan Rangers Softball – 9.0%

Sports & Recreation Store 1. Dick’s Sporting Goods – 31.2% 2. Three Rivers Outdoors – 22.4% 3. MC Sports – 17.3%

Public Pool

1. Onalaska Aquatic Center – 37.5% 2. Erickson Pool – 27.6% 3. Holmen Aquatic Center – 21.0%

Beach

1. Pettibone Park – 46.5% 2. Black River Beach – 24.0% 3. Lake Neshonoc – 14.9%

Park

1. Riverside Park / International Friendship Gardens – 36.3% 2. Myrick Park / Kids Coulee – 23.2% 3. Grandad Bluff / Hixon Forest – 21.4%

Running / Hiking / Biking Trail

1. Hixon Forest Trails – 47.1% 2. La Crosse Marsh Trails – 22.9% 3. Great River State Trail – 12.5%

Scenic Area

Bike Shop

1. Grandad Bluff – 55.6% 2. Riverside Park – 16.5% 3. Hixon Forest – 12.2%

1. Smith’s Cycling & Fitness – 40.4% 2. River Trail Cycles – 26.1% 3. Bikes Limited – 16.7%

Campground

Bowling Alley

1. Goose Island County Park – 35.1% 2. Neshonoc Lakeside Camp Resort – 25.1% 3. Whispering Pines Campground – 15.1%

1. All Star Lanes – 25.1% 2. Pla­Mor Lanes – 24.0% 3. Coulee Golf Bowl – 21.0%

Boat Harbor / Marina

Golf Course

1. La Crosse Pettibone Boat Club – 45.6% 2. North Bay Marina (American Marine/ Huck Finn’s) – 15.4% 3. La Crosse Municipal Boat Harbor – 14.0%

1. Fox Hollow Golf Course – 28.4% 2. Drugan’s Castle Mound – 21.2% 3. Forest Hills Golf Club – 18.3%

Thank you to everyone who voted me the #1 Insurance Agent in La Crosse County!

Family.

Friends.

Community.

Voted Best Financial Institution SEVEN | Issue #3 | September, 2015

in the Coulee Region five years in a row!

40

Kyle Visker Ins Fin Svcs Inc Kyle Visker, Agent 111 Second Street S La Crosse, WI 54601 Bus: 608-784-9518

We’re all in this together.

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State Farm, Bloomington, IL

Day Trip

1. Wisconsin Dells, WI – 38.7% 2. Elmaro Vineyard, Trempealeau, WI – 19.9% 3. Perrot State Park, Trempealeau, WI – 17.7%

Accommodations

1. Kalahari Resort, Wisconsin Dells, WI – 36.4% 2. Wilderness Resort, Wisconsin Dells, WI – 25.9% 3. St. James Hotel, Red Wing, MN – 12.6%

Restaurant

Performing Arts Group

1. La Crosse Community Theatre – 41.1% 2. Viterbo University Performing Arts – 27.8% 3. UW­La Crosse Performing Arts – 14.6%

Performance Venue

1. Weber Center for the Performing Arts – 31.9% 2. La Crosse Center – 23.1% 3. Viterbo University Fine Arts Center – 18.5%

Live Music Venue 1. Riverside Park – 31.3% 2. La Crosse Center – 29.6% 3. The Root Note – 14.5%

1. Sullivan’s Supper Club, Trempealeau, WI – 24.9% 2. Trempealeau Hotel, Trempealeau, WI – 20.4% 3. Driftless Cafe, Viroqua, WI – 20.2%

Local Band or Singer

Outdoor Space

Rock Band

1. Devil’s Lake State Park, Baraboo, WI – 28.9% 2. Perrot State Park, Trempealeau, WI – 27.0% 3. Elmaro Vineyard, Trempealeau, WI – 18.7%

Downtown

1. Rochester, MN – 33.0% 2. Viroqua, WI – 21.3% 3. Lanesboro, MN – 19.8%

Entertainment Venue

1. Trempealeau Hotel, Trempealeau, WI – 70.1% 2. Crystal Grand Music Theatre, Wisconsin Dells, WI – 27.8% 3. Commonweal Theatre, Lanesboro, MN – 0.2%

Family Activity

Bar / Tavern

1. Trempealeau Hotel, Trempealeau, WI – 35.0% 2. Elmaro Vineyard, Trempealeau, WI – 30.5% 3. Hideaway Pub & Grill, Chaseburg, WI – 12.3%

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Art Space

1. Pump House Regional Arts Center – 34.4% 2. All Glazed Up! – 24.5% 3. Weber Center for the Performing Arts – 19.3%

Cinema

1. The Rivoli Theatre & Pizzeria – 51.5% 2. Marcus Theatres La Crosse Cinema – 48.0%

Museum

1. Children’s Museum of La Crosse – 66.0% 2. Hixon House – 14.0% 3. Dahl Auto Museum – 9.0%

Music Store

1. Deaf Ear Record Exchange – 33.2% 2. Dave’s Guitar Shop – 24.7% 3. Leithold Music – 20.3%

1. The Remainders – 32.1% 2. Monkey Wrench – 22.8% 3. TUGG – 22.5%

La Crosse’s Favorite Band, The Remainders

Jam Band

1. Three Beers ’til Dubuque – 36.2% 2. The Remainders – 19.4% 3. TUGG – 19.2%

Jazz Band

1. Greg Balfany – 34.8% 2. West Salem Adult Jazz Band – 16.8% 3. Under Paris Skies – 12.5%

Acoustic / Bluegrass Band 1. Dan Sebranek – 21.4% 2. Horseshoes & Hand Grenades – 20.1% 3. String Ties – 18.5%

Indie / Alternative Band

THANK YOU, LA CROSSE, FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

SEP 2015

1. TUGG – 49.7% 2. Porcupine – 15.7% 3. The Adam Palm Band – 14.9%

Our season starts September 11, 2015

Hip­Hop Artist

1. Peaches – 53.2% 2. Mario Street – 18.1% 3. Room Mates – 11.4%

Comedian

OCT 2015

1. Sam Shilts – 47.1% 2. Bryan Boland – 26.3% 3. Lincoln Freimund – 18.5%

Comedy Troupe

DEC 2015

1. Heart of La Crosse – 45.7% 2. Live! from La Crosse – 37.2% 3. Moonshine Comedy – 15.5%

Budget Entertainment

FEB 2016

1. Free Concerts at Riverside Park – 28.5% 2. The Rivoli Theatre & Pizzeria – 24.7% 3. La Crosse Loggers – 19.2%

Place to Meet Singles 1. Bodega Brew Pub – 28.9% 2. Church – 17.8% 3. Brother’s Bar & Grill – 15.3%

MAR 2016

428 Front Street South

To view the 2015 Best Of La Crosse County poll online or to learn more about Explore La Crosse, visit www.ExploreLaCrosse.com.

DOWNTOWN LA CROSSE

Box Office: 608-784-9292

MAY 2016

2015-2016 Season

1. Waterparks in Wisconsin Dells, WI – 40.6% 2. Mall of America, Minneapolis, MN – 17.4% 3. Perrot State Park, Trempealeau, WI – 16.8%

1. The Remainders – 33.4% 2. TUGG – 23.9% 3. Altered Vision – 12.1%

www.lacrossecommunitytheatre.org

SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |

BEYOND LA CROSSE COUNTY

41

LISTINGS

September 2015 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 All Glazed Up: Sip & Paint Canvas Painting classes. Tuesdays, 6 p.m., and Thursdays, 6:30 p.m. Cost: $30, includes canvas, paint and instruction. Call ahead to register and BYOB. 205 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.

Between the Bluffs Plein Air Painting Event: Sept 12 – 26. Sponsored by the La Crosse Arts Initiative. www.betweenthebluffs.faso.com Chinese Language Class: Learn Chinese in a fun, relaxed setting for free! 11–11:45 a.m., 2nd and 4th Saturdays/month, Dim Sum Tea Shop, 221 Pearl St., 608-738-1221.

Dahl Auto Museum: Take a stroll down memory lane and immerse yourself in the rich history of the most widely used mode of transportation, the automobile. Thurs, Fri and Sat, 10 a.m.–4 p.m., 711 3rd Street South, La Crosse, www.dahlauto.com/welcome.

DJ Trivia Sun: Eagles Club, 2 p.m., LAX. Coulee Golf Bowl, 6 p.m., Onalaska.

Mon: Roscoe’s Vogue, 7 p.m., LAX. Tues: Holmen Legion, 6 p.m. Barrel Inn, 7:30 p.m., LAX. The Bar, 7 p.m., Winona. Dublin Square, 9 p.m., LAX. Wed: The Mirage, 7 p.m. LAX. Nutbush, 7:30 p.m., Onalaska. Brother’s Bar, 8:30p.m., LAX. Thurs: River Rats, 6:30 p.m., French Island.

Red Pines, 8 p.m., Brice Prairie.

Fri: Nutbush, 8:30 p.m., Onalaska.

Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center: Nestled amid the hardwood forests and river bluffs of Lanesboro, Minnesota, Eagle Bluff offers programs for families, visitors, students and individuals alike.

Challenge yourself atop our high ropes course, come for get-away weekend, take part in the River Roots Skills School, or explore the 11 miles of trails, 507- 467-2437, www.eagle–bluff.org.

Fayze’s Evenings Out: Tuesday, Half Price Tap Beer Night, get all your favorite tap beers at half price every Tuesday at Fayze’s,

All listings are subject to change. It’s always a good idea to review event directly ahead of time.

3:30 p.m. to close. Thursday, Date Night, Treat your sweetheart to a night downtown and enjoy half-price bottles of wine every Thursday at Fayze’s, 3:30 p.m. to close, 608-784-9548, www.Fayzes.com.

Group Runs: Starting at Grand Bluff Running. Join this amazing group of people for a 3-, 5-, or 7-mile run to stay active this winter season. Hot cocoa and snacks provided after the run! For more information go to www.grandbluffrunning.com or check out their Facebook page.

Heart of La Crosse – Stir Crazy After All These Years: More info on page 8. Sept 10-12, 17-19, 24-26. Pump House Regional Arts Center, 119 King Street, La Crosse WI. 608-785-1434; www.thepumphouse.org La Crosse SOUP: A monthly micro-granting and community building event in La Crosse, WI making La Crosse an even better, cooler, place to live! Dates and info available on Facebook. 608-769-5845; www.facebook. com/LaCrosseSOUP Kinstone Academy: One-hour guided tour. Saturdays, 1 p.m., Kinstone Academy of Applied Permaculture, 53439 Cole Bluff Lane, Fountain City, www.kinstonecircle.com.

Minnesota Marine Art Museum: Explore the MMAM’s expanded and unique collections as well as a new exhibition almost every month or enjoy a tour. 800 Riverview Dr., Winona, MN, 507-474-6626, www.mmam.org.

SEVEN | Issue #3 | September, 2015

National Eagle Center: Fishing for Eagles, every Wednesday and Thursday from 10:00 a.m–4:00 p.m., all summer! We’ve got the fishing poles, life jackets, bait and a dock out front. Kids 15 and under can fish without a license. Adults (18–61) $8.00; Seniors (62+) $6.00; Students (4 – 17) $5.00; Children (3 & Under) and NEC Members Free, www.nationaleaglecenter.org.

42

$39 for a

1 hr. ma or new pa ssage tie visit specia nt l!

402 South 6th Street La Crosse, WI 54601 Ph: 608-785-2225

1840 East Main Street Onalaska, WI 54650 Ph: 608-785-7778

www.backandbrain.com

Outdoor Connection: Rent outdoor gear from the UW-L Recreational Eagle Center!

Open to the public with a wide variety of equipment for adventures big and small.

Summer hours 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Mondays– Saturdays, 1601 Badger St., La Crosse.

608-785-8680, www.uwlax.edu/recsports.

Pearl Street Brewery: New events every month including live music every Friday from 6 p.m.– 9 p.m., brewery tours every Saturday, 12 p.m.–5 p.m., 1401 St. Andrew St., La Crosse, 608-784-4832, www.pearlstreetbrewery.com.

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.

Root Note: Sundays: Simple Roots (folk/bluegrass), 12:30 p.m.

Mondays: Trivia with Tim Dale, 8 p.m.–10 p.m.

Tuesdays: 3rd Relation Jazz Quartet, 8 p.m.–11 p.m.

Thursdays: Open Mic, 8 p.m.–11 p.m. www.facebook.com/theRootNote/events.

Segway Tours: Offered daily, 9:00 a.m.,noon, 3:00 p.m. Need a later time? Call and make arrangements. Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled tour. www. lacrossesegwaytours.com/#!tours/cfvg.

Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe: Looking for a place of spiritual refreshment and renewal? Visit the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Come as an individual, family, group of friends, group of co–workers or church group. For hours and other information, visit www. guadalupeshrine.org, or contact the Shrine’s pilgrimage coordinator for assistance with planning your visit, 608-782-5440, gmarcoatguadalupeshrine.org.

Stamp ‘n Hand: Need inspiration? Let us help stifle your inner critic. Our classes are designed with you in mind- your schedule, your interests. Come in and look at our hundreds of samples and tell us what you want to learn. 200 S. 4th St. La Crosse; 608784-1234; stampnhand@charter.net Tea Tasting Party: Learn about and sample teas. Dumplings and egg tarts included with take-home loose tea sample. 1st Tuesday/ month, 6 p.m. ($6 pre-pay, $8 at door), 3rd Saturday/month ($8 pre-pay, $10 at door).

Dim Sum Tea Shop, 221 Pearl St., 608-7381221. (Note: Closed for vacation for a portion of September 2015. Call ahead.)

Trester Trolly Tours: Saturdays. Tours of Winona, aboard the Trester Trolley. Departs 10 a.m. and 1 a.m. from the Holiday Inn Express, the Winona Plaza Hotel and the Riverport Inn. Each tour, approximately 90 minutes, will immerse you in the city’s history while you discover the many fun things to do in and around Winona. To reserve a seat, contact the Trester Trolley, 507-429-9101. www.trestertrolley.com.

Tour de Pearl: Pedal for Pints this summer! Join hundreds of La Crosse bicycle enthusiasts and ride to up to 42 different stages. Enjoy local Pearl Street Brewery beer all over La Crosse County and register to win a $1000 Wyatt bike. This year Pearl Street Brewery has partnered with the La Crosse Area Labor Day Weekend Bicycle Festival for its End of Tour Party. Register online at www.pearlstreetbrewery.com.

Trail Work Days: Get excited to dig in!

Volunteer for trail restoration and building.

Varying days, Outdoor Recreation Alliance (ORA), La Crosse, www.NaturesPlaceToPlay.com.

Winona Municipal Band Concert Lake Park: The Winona Municipal Band takes the stage on Wednesday evenings. You’ll hear the sounds of brass, woodwinds and strings. In honor of the centennial anniversary

LISTINGS September 2015 Yoga with Tammy Z: Yoga is for everybody! We offer a variety of classes for every level of experience. First class FREE! Contact us for schedules, 432 Cass St., La Crosse, 608-386-1217, tammyzyoga.com.

BLOOD DRIVES www.redcross.org Tuesdays: 1:30 p.m.. - 6:30 p.m.. through Sept 29 La Crosse Blood Donation Center 1431 State Hwy 16 Sept 1 & 2: 10:45 a.m. - 5:45 p.m La Crosse Blood Donation Center 1431 State Hwy 16 Sept 4: 7:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. La Crosse Blood Donation Center 1431 State Hwy 16 Sept 8: 1:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. La Crosse Blood Donation Center 1431 State Hwy 16 Sept 9: 10:45 a.m. - 5:45 p.m. La Crosse Blood Donation Center 1431 State Hwy 16 Sept 11: 7:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. at SAP Americas Incorporated 332 Front St S in La Crosse Sept 15 & 16: 10:45 a.m. - 5:45 p.m. La Crosse Blood Donation Center 1431 State Hwy 16 Sept 18: 7:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. La Crosse Blood Donation Center 1431 State Hwy 16 Sept 19: 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. La Crosse Blood Donation Center 1431 State Hwy 16 Sept 21 & 22: 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

University of WI La Crosse Cartwright Center 1725 State St Sept 22 & 23: 10:45 a.m. - 5:45 p.m. La Crosse Blood Donation Center 1431 State Hwy 16 Sept 23: 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. University of WI La Crosse Cartwright Center 1725 State St Sept 25: & 26, 7:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. La Crosse Blood Donation Center 1431 State Hwy 16 Sept 29: & 30 10:45 a.m. - 5:45 p.m. La Crosse Blood Donation Center 1431 State Hwy 16

Token Day!) Saturdays: 6 a.m.–noon., May 2–Oct 31, City Hall parking Lot. Galesville: Saturdays: 8 a.m.–noon, Jun–Sept, The Square.

Holmen: Wednesdays: 3 p.m.–7 p.m., May 27–Oct 28, Holmen Square.

La Crescent: Tuesdays: 4 p.m.–7 p.m., mid-May through mid–Oct, Crucifixion School parking lot.

Winona: Saturdays: 7:30 p.m. –noon, May 2–Oct, corner of 2nd and Main St. N.

Sept 11 - 13 “Great Dakota Gathering” at Unity

upcoming

Sept 2 Feminism on Tap: More info on page 16. 5 – 7:00 p.m. Root Note, La Crosse, WI. www. facebook.com/FeminismOnTapLaCrosse

Sept 3 Woodstock Tribute: More info on page 17.

Park: Celebrate the growing relationship between the people of Winona and the people of the Dakota Nations. A day of activities, starting with a flag raising ceremony, community talk circle, American Indian art show and sale, moccasin tournament, hockey tournament, and Dakota Language Bingo. www.winonadakotaunityalliance.org

Sept 11 - 13 The Complete Works of William

Shakespeare (Abridged): A non-stop

laugh riot featuring three actors performing all 37 of Shakespeare’s plays (give or take) in 97 minutes. Fast-paced, witty, and delightfully irreverent, The Complete Works has something for Shakespeare lovers, haters, and everyone in between. www. lacrossecommunitytheatre.org

Sept 12 “Sacred Places in Word and Art,” with

Jan Wellik: Explore the sacred in nature and within us through creative expression, creating a seasonal nature journal that will be added to each month. 9 a.m.-noon, Franciscan Spirituality Center, 920 Market St., La Crosse, www.FSCenter.org, 608-791-5295, $25 includes all supplies (yours to keep).

One Stroke Painting class: Bird house and flowers on canvas board--Holiday Inn Express, Onalaska, WI 9:00 a.m. to noon.

Call to register. 608-783-0323; http:// onestrokepaintingbyjohnkent.webs.com.

One Stroke Painting class: Mudd Painting at the Pickle Patch, Ettrick, WI. 2 – 5:00 p.m. Call to register. 608-783-0323; http:// onestrokepaintingbyjohnkent.webs.com.

Fall Festival: More info on page 31. www.growlacrosse.org.

Sept 16 - 20

Pass It On: More info on page 6. Onalaska Omni Center. $25 brownpapertickets.com

Sept 17 - 19 Tremptoberfest: Just in time for the start

of Munich’s Oktoberfest, Trempealeau joins

6 – 8:00 p.m. Riverside Park bandshell, La Crosse, WI

Sept 4-7 Bicycle Festival: More info on page 27.

H IX O

La Crosse, WI. www.bicyclelacrosse.com

NFOR

ESTE

P IC

Sept 5 String Feast: A celebration of all things

string. Enjoy the best pickers, strummers and fiddlers. Seesaw, Mike Munson, Them Coulee Boys. 6 – 11:00 p.m. Trempealeau Hotel.

11332 Main St., Trempealeau, WI.

Sept 6 Labor Day Luau: 5th Annual at Huck Finn’s with Reggae on the River. Free show for all ages by musical guest TUGG. 7:00 p.m. www.huckfinnslacrosse.com

La Crosse: Wednesdays: 8 a.m.–1 p.m., Jun 3–Oct 28, Bridgeview Plaza Park.

Sept 8 “The Sound of Bowls,” with Tom

Saturdays: 8 a.m.–1 p.m., May 9–Oct 31, Cameron Park (Jul 11 is Double Foodshare

Sept 11 - 12

West Salem: Wednesdays: 2 p.m. –6 p.m., Jun 3–Oct 14, parking lot of the bike shelter on the corner of Jefferson and Mill St.

Onalaska: Sundays: 8 a.m.–1 p.m., Jun 6–Oct 25, Festival Foods parking lot.

FARMER’S MARKETS

Fridays: 4 p.m.–8 p.m., May 1–Oct 30, Cameron Park.

up, ya ought to be singin’”. And he is one to live his motto. From generations of traveling, full time musicians he’s learned the sincerity and dedication needed to make an audience your own. With expert guitar work on his acoustics and resonators and a voice that takes you straight to the rail yard, Trevor Marty creates an emotional time machine. 7:00 p.m. Trempealeau Hotel. 11332 Main St., Trempealeau, WI.

“Story Fest,” at Myrick Park: A Wisconsin original for 13 years, there is fun for all ages at Story Fest! Tales of the Creepy & Scary on Friday from 6:30-9:00 p.m. Only $2.00 with a library card. National Teller Matinees, Wisconsin storytellers, and a kids’ area with tellers, activities, and entertainers on Saturday from 11:30 a.m.-10:00 p.m. www.lacrossestoryfest.com

Doug Mahlum Matinee: Long time area entertainer and multi-instrumentalis, Doug has showcased his take on Americana, folk and bluegrass for many years. Trempealeau Hotel.

11332 Main St., Trempealeau, WI.

Thursdays: 7 a.m.–4 p.m., Jun 25–Oct 29, Hmong National Assistance Association, Ward Ave.

Sept 10 Trevor Marty: Trev’s motto: If’n ya wake

Roberts: Traditional historic Tibetan singing bowls produce sounds that invoke deep states of relaxation, naturally assisting one in entering expanded states of consciousness and meditation. Freewill offering. 5:30-6:30 p.m., Franciscan Spirituality Center, 920 Market St., La Crosse, www.FSCenter.org, 608-791-5295.

SATURDAY FESTIVITIES ~ PRE-RIDE ~ PRE-RIDE

~ FEED CHILI FEED ~ CHILI

~ BREWERY STREET BREWERY PEARL STREET AT PEARL PARTY AT ~ PARTY ~ RIDE NIGHT RIDE ~ NIGHT

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(608) 789-7533

BENEFITTING HIXON FOREST TRAIL RESTORATION PROJECTS

SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |

of the Winona Municipal Band, there will be a patriotic music program. Wednesday evenings.

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LISTINGS September 2015 the celebration of all things Bavarian. The music will range from polka to Americana, from bluegrass to rock ‘n roll. Two stages and Bier Hall guarantee continuous fun.

Plus: Check out the true Bavarian pretzels, Chicken Schnitzel with Mutti’s potato salad, red cabbage and plenty of Oktoberfest Bier from Munich and fine regional brewers.

Trempealeau Hotel. 11332 Main St., Trempealeau, WI.

Sept 17 - 20 The Complete Works of William

SUNDAY

BENEFITING

SEPT. 20 2015 TH

DRUGAN’S

HOLMEN, WI

Event Format Individual - $100/person Event #1: 5K Run Event #2: 33K Bike Ride Event #3: 18 Holes of Golf (gross score) Divisions: Male / Female Ages: 18-, 19-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60+ 2-Person - $100/person

4-Person - $100/person Event #1: 5K Run (combined time) Event #2: 33K Bike Ride (combined time) Event #3: 18 Holes of Golf (scramble) Divisions: Male / Female / Co-Ed All team members compete in each event.

The best three combined running and biking times, and the total golf score with scramble format will be used.

Event #1: 5K Run (combined time) Event #2: 33K Bike Ride (combined time) Corporate 3-Person - $150 Event #3: 18 Holes of Golf Event #1: 5K Run (Holes 1-6: Scramble; Holes 7-12: Best Ball; Holes 13-18: Alternate Shot) Event #2: 33K Bike Ride Event #3: 18 Holes of Golf Divisions: Male / Female / Co-Ed Ages: 18-, 19-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60+ Each team member competes in one event.

Teams average age determines age division.

Register Online Today

Scan QR Code to Register & Learn More Registration for Tri-Quest is on a First-Come First-Serve Basis.

SEVEN | Issue #3 | September, 2015

Thank You to Our Major Sponsors

44

Shakespeare (Abridged): A non-stop laugh riot featuring three actors performing all 37 of Shakespeare’s plays (give or take) in 97 minutes. Fast-paced, witty, and delightfully irreverent, The Complete Works has something for Shakespeare lovers, haters, and everyone in between. www.lacrossecommunitytheatre.org

Sept 18 - 20 Hmoob New Year: More info on page

15. La Crosse, WI www.hmoobagency.org/ hmong-new-year/

Sept 19 The Main Event: wine, music, art & history under the pines at Old Main Historical and Community Arts Center in Galesville. Art show, historical displays, raffle for Badger Homecoming football, and Theatre tickets for Guthrie, American Players & more. 1:00-6:00 p.m. Crib Parts classic rock 3:00-6:00 p.m. $20 admission. oldmain.org Organized Bike Rides (unaffiliated): Ride the Ridges, Kickapoo BRAVE Ride, Tremptoberfest Wurst Bicycle Tour. More details on page 28.

Sept 19 - 20 Driftless Area Art Festival: More info on page 11. www.driftlessareaartfestival.com

Sept 20 Merchant’s Bank Tri-Quest: Run Bike

Golf 2015 on Sunday at 8:00 a.m. Run a 5k, bike 33k, and golf 18 holes, all in the same day! In its 21st year, this event benefits local children’s charities. This year the Tri-Quest will support the Boys & Girls Club of Greater La Crosse. Register individually or as 2- or 4-person team. Drugan’s Castle Mound Golf Course. www.tri-quest.org 608-792-6013 Merchants Bank Tri-Quest: Tri-Quest features a 5k run, 33k bike, and 18 holes of golf. You can compete in this fun event as an individual, a two person team, a four person team, or a corporate team. Awards are given for winners in multiple categories. www.tri-quest.org

Sept 24 Jack Klatt Jack: An old musical soul in

a young man’s body, shows his exceptional guitar and vocal skills to create a sound that takes you along the melancholic meanderings

608-792-6013 • info@Tri-Quest.org • Tri-Quest.org Like us at Facebook.com/TriQuestOrg

of the Mississippi, the upbeat rhythms of its train tracks and the beauty of the people one meets along the way. 7:00 p.m. Trempealeau Hotel. 11332 Main St., Trempealeau, WI.

Sept 24 - 27 “Boats and Bluegrass Festival” at Prairie Island Campground. Family friendly festival held on the Mississippi River. 900 Prairie Island Rd, Winona, MN www.boatsandbluegrass.com

Sept 25 - 26 Pez on the River: More info on page 6. $5/ person, or $10/family. Days Inn, La Crosse. www.pezontheriver.com

Sept 25 - 26 Goosebumps 24- and Six-Hour Run/ Walk: More info on page 29. www.locallupus.org

Sept 25 - 27 Warrens Cranberry Festival: 43rd

Annual! Located in the “Cranberry Capital of Wisconsin”. 850 Arts & Craft booths, 350 Flea Market and Antique dealers, a variety of contests and one of the largest marching band parades in Wisconsin. A wide range of entertainment can be found at the Festival. www.cranfest.com

Sept 26 Christopher Bell Cellist: Multi-

instrumentalist Christopher blends classical and pop worlds. Combining his Clarinet, acoustic guitar, beat boxing and cello he loops dense soundscapes right before his live audience. Bell combines hip hop beats, gentle fugues, jazz and blues and wraps it all into his own brand of “Quirky Pop”. 8:00 p.m. Trempealeau Hotel. 11332 Main St., Trempealeau, WI. Alpaca Farm Days Open House: Meet the alpacas & shop for alpaca fiber products!

Fiber Vendors with unique hand-crafted items.

Mystic Water Fiber Mill. Midwest Llama Packing. Alpacas for Sale. Hickory Wind Farm Alpacas, Bangor, WI. www.hickorywindfarm.com

Sept 26 - 27 Hixon Forest Epic, WORS MTB race. More info on page 26. www.explorelacrosse.com/ hixonforestepic.

Sept 27 Dixieland Jazz Festival on the Winona

State University Campus: Non-stop Dixieland and Ragtime music. Free festival, free parking, and Kinstone food truck will be selling food and beverages. www.winonadixieland.webs.com

LISTINGS September 2015 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.

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:

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.

Great Rivers United Way:

Great Rivers United Way Volunteer Center hosts an array of volunteer opportunities. www. ugetconnected.org.

Grow La Crosse:

From garden work to working with children to event help, there’s something for many! www. growlacrosse.org/get-involved.

Habitat for Humanity/ReStore:

Building homes for those in need, office work and special events. volunteer@habitatlacrosse.org; 608-785-2375, ext. 1604.

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.

Hixon Forest Epic

One weekend only! Pitch in to help set up, tear down, course marshal, and more! (608) 789-7533; www.explorelacrosse.com/hixonforestepic or email robbiexor@gmail.com.

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:

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.

Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe:

Volunteer needs: gardening, trail maintenance, upkeep of devotional areas, indoor cleaning, greeting visitors. www.guadalupeshrine.org/volunteer.

WAFER Food Pantry:

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.

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 of the Coulee Region:

Opportunities: special events, adaptive swimming and gardening, and women’s housing program assistance. 608-781-2783, ext.228; mhilligoss@ywcalax.org; ywcalax.org.

Degree completion in one or two years

MBA

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

La Crosse Area Family YMCA:

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.

Lakeview Health Center

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.

www.viterbo.edu/mba 608-796-3379

One night per week classroom or blended online options

SEVEN | thesevenspot.com |

La Crescent Animal Rescue:

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WRITER’S BLOCK

By: Briana Rupel

The Not-So-Dirty Thirty

I

never had any qualms about entering my thirties. Truth is, I get more anxious standing in line at an ice cream parlor having to choose between Mint Oreo and Peanut Butter Cup. Maybe it’s because I grew up surrounded by women who couldn’t care less about wrinkle cream; or maybe it’s because, on my 30th birthday, my friends threw me an epic surprise party complete with ‘90s rap karaoke and a huge banner that had my face superimposed on a picture of The Greatest Girl Group Ever, TLC. There was also endless beer and chicken wings, but I digress.

It’s never made sense to me why our culture caters to the ridiculous idea that turning 30 marks the beginning of a downward spiral that inevitably leads to nothing but a stale and boring existence. In my 20s, people would say “Your birthday’s on a weekend this year?

Nice! What do you have planned?” As I approached the big 3-0, however, the question shifted to how I was handling it as opposed to how I was going to celebrate.

Recently, as my 32nd birthday approached, the folks at Facebook chose to enlighten me one morning by sneaking into my news feed an article—nay, more of a haphazard list—entitled “24 Things Women Should Stop Wearing After Age 30.” ‘Oh,’ I smirked to myself as I shoved a spoonful of Fruity Pebbles into my mouth, ‘this should be good...’

SEVEN | Issue #3 | September, 2015

Now, I normally wouldn’t give up my precious time to a publication that named itself RantChic, one that favors Kardashian gossip over, you know, things that actually matter; but the masochist in me had to take a peek, much like the way I make it through a slasher flick.

46

I didn’t want to have a negative attitude toward this woman, but I wanted to know why she thought she had permission to make up a bunch of rules for an entire demographic.

I would have loved to meet up with her in person and discuss this over coffee, but since I don’t own a Burka, I figured I probably shouldn’t leave the house. So instead, I Facebook-stalked her like the grown-ass woman that I am.

I was curious about only one thing: her age. No such luck, but I found out she likes yard sales; we would probably get along just fine. So I’m going to guess that these lists are purely fear-based, which is forgivable. But there’s no reason to be afraid. In fact, my 30s have been some of my best years yet. It’s in this spirit that I offer up my own list, not of the things I stopped doing, but of the things I’m so glad I started doing in my third decade on this planet.

1. Treating myself as well as I treat others. We’ve all been guilty of saying some really nasty things to ourselves. I finally learned to squelch that negative voice that tells you you’re not good enough. Stop yourself and ask, “would I ever say this to a friend?” The answer will most likely be “no,” so why on earth would you say it to yourself?

2. Letting go of what I can’t control. Once I had the epiphany that, not only can you not change a person, you have no right to demand them to change in the first place. If your partner wants to lead a life that you don’t jibe with, that’s when you move on without any hard feelings.

The author, Kallie Provencher, kicks off her list by reminding readers, “by age 30, women are expected to be a little more mature, and they should dress like it too.” Then she dives right in, naming the first unbelievable offender: Graphic Tees, which she claims “are better left for those lazy days off, not public outings.”

3. Feeling comfortable in my own skin. Even though I weigh probably 15 pounds more than I did 15 years ago, I’m so much stronger than I’ve ever been, and I always remind myself of all of the parts I love about my body. So when I rock a bikini on the beach, I’m focused on how much fun I’m having tossing a Frisbee instead of what might be jiggling when I do.

Let’s think about this for a second. So, now that I’m 30, I have to do my grocery shopping in some really rockin’ business casual wear? Does this mean I can only resort to my favorite worn-down T-Shirt when I’m ironing said business casual wear? (I heard mature women iron, I don’t know.)

4. Decluttering. Once in a while I tear through the apartment and get rid of all the clothes, dishes and crap I don’t use. Why keep a dozen different coffee mugs, when I always use my two favorites anyway? It’s amazing how much easier I can breathe without so much extra stuff taking up space.

Some of the additional highlights include: hoop earrings, oversized sunglasses and short dresses. Short. Dresses. ‘Psh,’ I scoffed, ‘I can squat more than you weigh. You’d better believe I’m gonna show these gams off.’ I didn’t think I could get any angrier, but then I found more of Provencher’s work: “20 Pictures women over 30 need to stop posting online”... “30 Things Women over 30 shouldn’t own.” Seriously?

5. Following my own path and not anyone else’s idea of what it should be. Whether it’s a career switch or the color I dye my hair, I still follow the mantra I first sang along to on that first TLC album back in ’92: “Let me be me for me and not what I’m supposed to be / I’m gonna do what I want to do / ‘cause dumb rules are left for silly fools / that’s the kind of girl that I am.”

wn La Crosse 115 5th Ave S, Downto (608) 782-0737

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Alpaca Farm Days Open House Saturday, September 26, 2015 10 am –5 pm

Meet the alpacas & shop for alpaca fiber products!

Fiber Vendors with unique hand-crafted items.

Midwest Llama Packing.

Mystic Water Fiber Mill.

Alpacas for Sale!!

HICKORY WIND FARM ALPACAS

N7080 Garves Coulee Bangor WI 54614 alpacas_hwf@centurytel.net www.hickorywindfarm.com

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*APR: Annual Percentage Rate. 3.99% is the fixed rate for all bicycle loans. Loans are subject to credit approval. Membership eligibility is required. Minimum financing of $300, maximum of $10,000. Maximum LTV (Loan-to-Value) of 120%. Terms available up to 3 years.

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Talk to your provider right at home.

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Best Tattoo Artist Jake “Knuckles” Phillips

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BIG RESULTS FOR SMALL BUSINESS

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Cameron Park Farmers Market

509 Main St La Crosse, WI 608.782.8227

“Thanks for making us the Best Farmers Market in La Crosse!”

Mon-Fri: 10-7 Saturday: 10-6 Sunday: 12-4

Every Fri & Sat www.CameronParkMarket.org

$10 Gift Card from Downtown Mainstreet Inc. when you contact Debbie Lee for an insurance review today!

608-782-3441

AMERICAN Insurance Services

deb@ais-cw.com Downtown La Crosse

Your home for spiritual direction. Featuring writing and art workshops, nature journaling, drum making, yoga classes and more. All are welcome!

608-791-5295

Inspire. Create. Imagine.

More than just rubber stamps!

Call about class offerings

Featuring functional art by Janet Mattison-Prise

200 S. 4th St., La Crosse | (608) 784-1234 | www.rubberstampslacrosse.com

920 Market Street, La Crosse

www.FSCenter.org