BRAVA July 2017

women + style + substance

HEAD

INTO THE WOODS

HEAD INTO THE WOODS

NATURE: THE BALM WE NEED

NATURE: THE BALM WE NEED

+ ARTFUL ADVENTURE, FOODIE FINDS, ACTIVE PURSUITS, RETAIL THERAPY

Kids With Cancer Live Nearby

Almost every child diagnosed with cancer in your community will come to one place for treatment: UW Health’s American Family Children’s Hospital.

Right here, UW physicians care for these kids while performing cutting-edge research that is saving precious lives. Visit uwhealth.org/fightkidscancer and learn how your gift can support groundbreaking medical advances and family-centered patient care close to home.

EMMA,

EDUARDO, 1, JEFFERSON

“Follow

LQ McDonald III

LQ McDonald III

Thursday, July 27, 6:15-7:30 pm

Many of us live lives of such constant hesitation and with a determined drive to keep things as they are, no matter how unwelcome they may be. Regret becomes our companion, because we believe that the difficulties of our current situations are desirable to the difficulties of change. But we do not have to let the fear of change or failure prevent us from pursuing the dreams we want. No matter where you are in life, there is still time to adjust your destination. Discover the ways to embrace your fear, and the unknown of your future, and live a life without regret.

BOTOX/FILLERS

CHEMICAL PEELS

VANQUISH BODY SCULPTING

EXILIS BODY TIGHTENING

PCA SKINCARE

CRYO WHOLE BODY THERAPY

HYDRAFACIAL

JANE IREDALE

VITAMINS & AMINO ACID INJECTIONS

CRYOPROBE FOR UNWANTED SKIN LESIONS

IV THERAPIES

CELLUTONE

CUSTOMIZED MEDICAL WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAMS

UNLIMITED FITNESS TRAINING

HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY

PHOTOREJUVENATION

27 EMBRACE MADISON

What’s your perfect day in the city? Here’s a few of ours.

32 INTO THE WOODS

The cure for nauture deficit disorder.

39 URBAN NATURE

Get into the wild, within the city limits.

CONNECT

Engage | 11

The latest news, hot events, discussions and special BRAVA promotions you can’t live without.

THRIVE

Represent | 15

Hoist your Wisco flag high with these super cute, locally made T-shirts.

Wellbeing | 16

The joys—and pitfalls—of working remotely.

Shop Talk | 20

The Euro style of downtown’s newest hotel that’s topped with a local restaurant and a great view.

Dwell | 21

Farm fresh table décor, a housing bidding war for a good cause

GO+DO

Down a Lazy River | 47 Summer’s the time for tubing a Wisconsin waterway.

Savor | 48

Spice up your pantry at Madison’s ethnic grocery stores.

Jaunt | 51

Fair weather travel ideas for a fine Wisconsin summer.

Spotlight | 53

July’s don’t-miss arts and

entertainment events

Catalyst | 58

Friends of Wisconsin State Parks protects our natural heritage.

Happenings | 59

See who you know in photos from the BRAVA THRIVE luncheon with Veronica Rueckert and the Wisconsin Women’s Health Foundation Spring Gala.

IN EVERY ISSUE

Relate | 8

Contributors | 10

Linger | 60

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTIONS

Education guide | 18

Tastemakers | 25

Retirement Living | 42

Summer Dining Guide | 49

BRAVA Kids | 56

PUBLISHER

MICHELLE REDDINGTON michelle@bravaenterprises.com

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

KATE BAST kate@bravaenterprises.com

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & EVENTS

KRIS FOUST kris@bravaenterprises.com

MANAGING EDITOR

MARNI MCENTEE marni@bravaenterprises.com

ASSISTANT EDITOR

RACHEL WERNER rachel@bravaenterprises.com

ART DIRECTOR

STACEY ANDERSON stacey@bravaenterprises.com

GRAPHIC DESIGN

JERRIANN MULLEN jem@ntmediagroup.com

MARKETING & EVENTS MANAGER

MEGAN GLAESER megan@bravaenterprises.com

ADVERTISING COORDINATOR

JULIE SCHILLER ads@ntmediagroup.com

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

LEE ACKER lee@bravaenterprises.com

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

JENNIFER ROSEN-HEINZ jennifer@bravaenterprises.com

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

JODY WISZ jody@ntmediagroup.com

INTERNS:

EDITORIAL: MIKAYLA MROCHEK

MARKETING & EVENTS: TAYLOR BUSCHKE

GRAPHIC DESIGN: ANDREA PROCARIONE

BRAVA Magazine is a publication of Nei-Turner Media Group, Inc. Gary E. Nei, Chairman; William Turner, President; Barbara Krause, Publisher. 951 Kimball Lane, Suite 104. Verona, WI, (608) 848-6700.

SUBSCRIBE AT BRAVAMAGAZINE.COM

Subscription Information: (877) 811-2639 or brava@pubdmgroup.com.

BRAVA (ISSN 1934-4317) July 2017, Volume 18, Number 7, Periodicals postage paid at 3902 Milwaukee St., Madison WI 53714 and additional offices. Subscriptions are $14/year. Postmaster send address changes to BRAVA Magazine, P.O. Box 343, Oregon, IL 61061-0343. This issue or any part thereof may not be reproduced in any form without written permission from the publisher. All rights reserved. ©2017.

SEPTEMBER 15, 16, 17

Orchestral Brilliance

Chris Dozoryst, Viola

BACH/STOKOWSKI

MENDELSSOHN | BERLIOZ

OCTOBER 20, 21, 22

From the New World

Olga Kern, Piano

RAVEL | BARBER | DVO ŘÁ K

NOVEMBER 17, 18, 19

Troubadour: Two Faces of the Classical Guitar

Sharon Isbin, Guitar

COPLAND | BRUBECK

RODRIGO | FALLA

DECEMBER 1, 2, 3

A Madison Symphony

Christmas

Emily Pogorelc, Soprano

Eric Barry, Tenor

JANUARY 19, 20, 21

Gil Shaham Plays Tchaikovsky

Gil Shaham, Violin

PROKOFIEV | TCHAIKOVSKY

RACHMANINOFF

FEBRUARY 16, 17, 18

Richly Romantic

Alban Gerhardt, Cello

ROSSINI | WALTON | BRAHMS

APRIL 13, 14, 15

String Fever

Augustin Hadelich, Violin

BRITTEN | DVOŘÁK | SCHUMANN

MAY 4, 5, 6

Mass Appeal

Christopher O’Riley, Piano

Madison Symphony Chorus

MOZART | JAN ÁČEK

MARCH 18

One performance only

Beyond the Score ®

Elgar: Enigma Variations

This special concert may be added to your subscription order.

MY PERFECT

DAY: IN THE WOODS

WHEN I WAS CHILD, my mom had a framed poster of a quote that captivated me with its phrasing and earnestness, though I was too young to decipher its layers of meaning.

“I went to the woods because I wished to live deliberately, to front only the essential facts of life, and see if I could not learn what it had to teach, and not, when I came to die, discover that I had not lived.”

These are, of course, the famous words of Henry David Thoreau. They have, all these years, remained my favorite. Now, at midlife, they have ripe, urgent meaning for me: To preserve space for my fundamental values, what is irrelevant should fall away.

I am most able to connect those sentiments when I head to the woods. I have realized nature is my great instructor, and my balm. After a great pondering there, I return awed, and yet, more grounded, priorities and values clarified, head fresh, heart strong.

My favorite place—in fact, my “perfect Madison day”—includes a few hours at Prairie Moraine Dog Park. An hour’s walk there, supremely present in the details of woods, fields and prairie, and I am restored. There, I find my peace. Often, it’s where I also find my inspiration.

In this issue’s “Into the Woods” feature examining society’s Nature Deficit Disorder, Shilagh Mirgain introduces us to three Madison women who know what nature has to teach.

Social psychologist Pelin Kesebir, a scientist at Center for Healthy Minds (and also a Thoreau fan), sounds the alarm that we as a society no longer reference, nor visit, natural places as often as we once did. We’ve cut ourselves off, created a nature deficit, to the detriment of our wellbeing. The greater societal impact? She tells Mirgain it is “a loss of opportunities to awaken curiosity, appreciation, awe and respect for nature.”

ON THE COVER

Betsy Delzer, mindful practices specialist for the Middleton-Cross Plains school district. Read “Into the Woods,” P. 32, to learn more about her work. Photographed by Hillary Schave.

Betsy Delzer, mindfulness practices specialist with the Middleton-Cross Plains school district, has begun leading forest therapy classes, taking staff and teachers into the woods to learn to pause. It has, she says, benefits that match meditation. She’s thinks, too, about the positives of bringing more nature inside our schools, imagining walls of greenery and leafy plants throughout that could be “a chance to reconstruct our narrative on education to be about thriving.”

Delzer has always been personally drawn to nature, and sees it as a place and a way to engage. “In the islands of our minds we feel so isolated—but in reality, we are so connected. Think of the universal feelings of awe when seeing a brilliant sunset,” she says.

She has a kindred spirit in Tina Murray, who just retired as an experiential teacher at Shabazz High School and spearheaded Project Green Teen there. Murray has lead kids to places they may not ordinarily visit, like the banks of a Southern Wisconsin stream, outside their comfort zones, to fish, study bugs, work on restoration and feel the goodness of nature. The teens bloom, becoming more self-reliant and seeing greater possibilities for themselves. Wise to nature, Murray says, “There’s just that moment where you breathe better because you are in nature. You see amazing things.”

Here I again echo Thoreau—and Kesebir, Delzer and Murray certainly would chime in: Nature. Of it, we can have never enough, for it is like breath—it makes us feel as if we’ve lived.

Kate Bast Editor-in-Chief

DON’T MISS

Find more than 100 events, tips and great ideas for embracing “The Perfect Day” in Madison in the feature on P. 27, and the events calendar on P. 53.

The law firm of von Briesen & Roper, s.c. cares passionately about their profession, their clients and their community. Committed to unparalleled service, recognized expertise and to excellence, our people are invested in the success of their communities. Every year we support events that make a positive impact on the places we live, like the Super Hero Run presented by the Badger Childhood Cancer Network.

Because we believe it is important to give back, we want to take a moment to let you know about this great event in our community.

The Superhero Run is a fundraising event for the Badger Childhood Cancer Network, who provides information, emotional support and financial assistance to families of children treated for cancer and blood disorders in south-central Wisconsin. Visit www.badgersuperhero.com for more information.

OTHER CONTRIBUTORS

WRITERS | Sujhey Beisser, Amy Carlson, Elle Duncombe-Mills, Candice Wagener

EMILY LEAS | “EMBRACE MADISON,” P. 27

Emily relishes the deep dive into a story, and has been a freelance writer for close to 15 years starting in Michigan, then Montana and now Madison for the last eight years. She also loves seeing new places with her husband, roaming the dog park with her puppy, Duncan and paddle boarding!

ERIKA MONROE-KANE | “EMBRACE MADISON,” P. 27

A St. Louis native and Madison resident for 15 years, Erika is a lifelong art lover. She is director of communications at the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art, president of Firecracker Consulting and half the duo in Reverb Art Collective—the force behind the recent “Forge” exhibition. Erika relishes summer because of picnics, swimming, kayaking and lounging in the shade. And she often cajoles her two delightful children to do the same.

SHILAGH MIRGAIN | “INTO THE WOODS,” P. 32

Shilagh is a health and sport psychologist at UW Health. A sought-after speaker, writer, facilitator and therapist, Shilagh is a frequent contributor to WMTV News and BRAVA Magazine in Madison, and has been featured nationally on the TODAY show. Shilagh writes, speaks and trains on mindfulness meditation, mind-body skills to foster optimal health, happiness and wellbeing. She also is a sport psychologist to UW Badger student athletes.

HILLARY SCHAVE | “INTO THE WOODS,” P. 32

Hillary is the creative force behind the local business Azena Photography. Her vast experience in documentary and editorial style wedding photography has helped to create some truly genuine and beautiful portraits of the local women featured here in BRAVA Magazine. She is “mama” and wife to two amazing fellas and loves that it only takes 20 minutes to get almost anywhere in Madison.

SHANNA WOLF | PHOTOS THROUGHOUT

Shanna is a freelance photographer with a background in advertising and communications, specializing in portrait, documentary and interior photography. Her photography aesthetic is modern with simplicity and balance. She loves the storytelling of still photography and being a contributor to publications with meaningful messages. Her personal work is focused on travel and wandering, using her camera as her sketchbook.

CONNECT

PEDESTRIAN ZONE | Bike, walk, roll or skate down John Nolen Drive July 16 during the 2017 Ride the Drive. This year’s sole event will span 4 miles and is designed to put more focus on local parks. The event includes activity stations, street vendors and live music at Brittingham Park, Olin Park and Law Park—creating a festive atmosphere all along the way. Downtown Madison. facebook.com/ridethedrive.

BRAVA WOMEN TO WATCH WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

REMEMBER THESE AMAZING WOMEN? They were featured in our annual January story about women who live their passions and put their talents to work—making great things happen in their industries and making a difference in Madison and beyond. Here’s what they’re up to today.

Eve Galanter (2012 W2W) is spearheading an effort to increase civics education for high school students, with a dual goal of increasing youth interest in running for office. Galanter, a new Wisconsin Newspaper Association board member, says the association will sponsor and launch in 2018 an annual statewide civics bowl for high school students, with regional competitions leading up to a championship in Madison. Galanter says the competition will help prepare students for the new civics test—similar to the exam U.S. citizenship applicants must take—that all graduating seniors must pass starting in 2017.

Nia Trammell (2015 W2W), an advocate for inclusive workforces, has been promoted to senior administrative law judge, a position that brings supervisory and training influence and oversight of new judges.

Jennifer Javornik (2016 W2W), vice president of sales at Filament Games, signed a deal with Facebook/Oculus for Filament Games to develop a virtual reality experience called “Breaking Boundaries: Great Discoveries by Exceptional Female Scientists.” The immersive VR experience allows one to step into the shoes of Marie Curie, Katherine Johnson, Grace Hopper and Nagwa Meguid and complete experiments within their field of discovery. This VR experience will be for the Samsung Gear (with controller) and will be available for free download in September 2017.

Sabrina “Heymiss Progess” Madison (2015 W2W), curator of Conversation Mixtapes and mastermind behind the Black Women’s Leadership Conference, has expanded the conference to a three-day workshop focused on progress, empowerment and collaboration; the second annual and successful event was held in May.

For her commitment to advocating for others, at the Black Women’s Leadership Conference JoAnne Brown (2017 W2W), multicultural services coordinator at James Madison Memorial High School and founder of Dream Big LLC to bolster college possible mindsets for students of color, was awarded the Carola Gaines Collaborator of the Year Award, named after the Madison community activist.

Jennifer Uphoff Gray (2012 W2W), artistic director of Madison’s professional, nonprofit Forward Theater company, is preparing to launch Forward Theater’s ninth season at Overture Center, including exciting plays that ask the question, what’s next?

Amy Meinen (2013 W2W), director at healthTIDE, which was recently rebranded from Wisconsin Obesity Prevention Network, has seen the organization grow to include 1,600 partners working on healthy eating, physical activity and wellness all around Wisconsin to ensure healthy people and communities. The organization hosted its first statewide healthTIDE Wavemaker Summit in May.

Nicole Moll (2017 W2W), founder of Box of Balloons, has lead the organization to host over 850 birthday parties for kids in need, start seven new state chapters and launch a new kids’ volunteer program called Kids Helping Kids, and partnered with fellow 2017 W2W Marta Hansen of The Piano Gal Shop for a Pictures for a Purpose event that raised over $1,000 for Box of Balloons. Box of Balloons also was one of the United Way of Dane County’s volunteer nominees this year.

Sue-Z-Schwab (2015 W2W), a travel consultant and owner of Schwabie Travel, is cultivating a new location to host Madison’s first Nancy Lieberman DreamCourt basketball court, a large-scale six-hoop court and soccer field, after setbacks with the original location plans.

Pamela Wilson (2017 W2W) continues to manage her own health and wellbeing while driving Stepping Stone Foundation and gathering donations, offering financial support to UW Health Breast Center patients to help cover needs related to their cancer battles.

Know a remarkable woman who has big things on her horizon for 2018?

Nominate her by July 15, 2017, for consideration as a 2018 BRAVA Woman to Watch! Get started at BRAVAmagazine.com.

OUT + ABOUT BRAVA-SPONSORED EVENTS

JULY 13 | BRAVA NIGHT OUT WITH RUBIN’S FURNITURE

Join BRAVA and Rubin’s Furniture for “An Evening of Summer Sips and Design.” Meet Rubin’s interior design team for the latest design tips, nosh on appetizers, sip wine, learn to decorate a gorgeous tablescape and create a fun make-and-take project—all complimentary in the beautiful urban downtown showroom. 317 E. Wilson St., Madison. Event details and registration: BRAVAmagazine.com.

JULY 27 | BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS DREAM BIG GALA

Big Brothers Big Sisters Dream BIG gala is a night full of inspiring stories, live and silent auctions. All funds raised at the Dream BIG Gala support the organization’s programs and help create lifelong meaningful mentoring relationships. The 2017 guest speaker is three-time Olympic Gold medalist Jackie Joyner-Kersee, business woman and founder of JJK Community Foundation. 5:30 p.m. Madison Marriott West, Madison. Information: For information and tickets contact Bethany Ordaz, special events coordinator at bordaz@ bbbsmadison.org.bbbsmadison.org.

SAVE THE DATE

BRAVA EVENTS

Aug. 31 | BRAVA THRIVE LUNCHEON WITH MEGAN WATT: WHY YOU NEED A DREAM TEAM AND HOW TO BUILD ONE Successful people accomplish greatness because they surround themselves with a dream team of supporters and motivators who help them reach their goals. Learn about the six key dream team members you need to have, how to build and leverage your team to help you succeed. Register: 11 a.m. Lunch: 11:45 a.m. Sheraton Madison Hotel, Madison. Tickets BRAVAmagazine.com.

Sept. 27 | BRAVA THRIVE CAREER WORKSHOP: INTRAPRENEURSHIP: POWER ENTREPRENEURIAL THINKING WITH THE JILLS OF ALL TRADES

Intrapreneurship—where team members apply an entrepreneurial mindset to their roles in their organization—is a trending global topic. Entrepreneurial thinking offers a way to spark creativity, fix problems, build collaborations and get things done effectively and efficiently. Join THE JILLS OF ALL TRADES Co-founders Megan Boswell and Corinne Neil as they start you on a path to becoming an intrapreneur. Through collaborative discussions, hands-on activities and guided instruction you’ll learn how to become an effective intrapreneur and chart a course for implementing these strategies in easy and practical ways. 8 a.m.11:45 a.m. a.m. Madison Museum of Contemporary Art, Madison. Tickets: BRAVAmagazine.com.

PAID LEAVE

Sara Finger, founder and executive director of the Wisconsin Alliance for Women’s Health

Our office recently celebrated the arrival of our newest addition—a baby boy born to our staff member Chelsea. Little Everett came into this world afforded the wonderful opportunity to spend three whole months with his mama during her paid maternity leave that we proudly offer our staff. Yes— even as a small and scrappy nonprofit of six staff members—we make sure all of our employees, including part-time staff, don’t have to risk financial instability when taking time off to care for a newborn.

Recognizing that paid parental leave makes good public health and economic sense we are proud to make it part of our personnel policy. Sadly, our organization is the exception to the rule since over 88 percent of U.S. workers do not have access to paid family leave through their employers. This means millions of workers, disproportionately women, are forced to choose between taking care of themselves and their families and income they need to cover basic expenses. Embarrassingly, the U.S. is the only industrialized nation in the world that does not provide workers with any form of guaranteed paid leave from work.

The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)— the primary federal law designed to help working people meet the dual demands of job and family—still leaves out 40 percent of the nation’s workforce and guarantees only unpaid leave, which millions of workers cannot afford to take.

Fortunately, there is a bill before our state legislature which offers a paid leave insurance program for working people. If passed, the Wisconsin Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance Act would create a public insurance program that provides workers with paid family or medical leave in case they need to take time off work because of their own serious health condition, to care for a sick family member or to care for a newborn baby.

If you have an opinion about paid leave for Wisconsin women and families, be sure to contact your state legislators by calling (800) 362-9472.

Open Shopping Hours!

La Lingerie has extended their open shopping hours! Stop by Monday-Friday 12:00-6:00 pm or Saturday 10:00 am-3:00 pm to shop swimwear, pajamas, boudoir lingerie, hosiery, shapewear, and much more! Appointments are recommended for bra fittings. La Lingerie’s expert staff has over 16 years of combined fit experience. Book now and let them help you find your perfect fit from their selection of over 5,000 bras! They offer T-shirt, lace, sports, strapless, wireless and nursing bra styles in sizes 28A-48N as well as swimwear and sleepwear in sizes XS-3X.

SHOP LOCAL

HANDCRAFTED JEWELRY

UNO de 50 handcrafted jewelry from Spain creatively combines Swarovski crystals, pearls, beads, leather and silver-plated metal for distinctive statement pieces with elegance and personality.

CORNBLOOMS

716 N. Midvale Blvd. Hilldale - Madison (608) 238-9282

SHOP FOR PINK & WELCOME A CURE

Breast cancer welcome mats: 25% of the retail cost on each mat sold is donated to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

Use indoor or outdoor.

COYLE CARPET ONE FLOOR & HOME

250 W. Beltline Hwy., Madison (608) 257-0291 coylecarpet.com

PLUS SIZE FASHION

Z.Bella Boutique specializes in women’s plus-size clothing sizes 14 & up. Visit us today for the best selection of curvy fashion from brands such as Joseph Ribkoff, Lucky Brand, Fresh Produce, Karen Kane, Sympli, Spanx, Nic + Zoe & more. Located just off the beltline in downtown Middleton.

Z.BELLA BOUTIQUE

1903 Cayuga St., Suite 101 Middleton (608) 827-8700 zbellaboutique.com

MADE IN AMERICA

Rubin’s is proud to carry many furniture lines made right here in the USA! Stop by today to see the beautiful, handcrafted furniture on our showroom floor.

RUBIN’S CONTEMPORARY FURNITURE

317 E. Wilson St., Madison (608) 255-8998

670 S. Whitney Way, Madison (608) 274-5575 rubinsfurniture.com

Natural Intuition Photo

FASHION

REPRESENT

Fly your Wisco flag high with these locally made tees—colorful and playful reminders that there’s no place like home.

Left to right from top left: Badger Forward T-shirt, $32 and Lake Waubesa T-shirt, $32; Zip-Dang. Midwest Makers tee, $25; One-One Thousand. THRIVE tee, $25; BRAVA Magazine. “I Like Beer From Here Shirt,” $32; Zip-Dang. “We Will Be Heard!” Eco-jersey T-shirt, $25; Green T’s. Lake Mendota T-shirt, $32; Zip-Dang. Arrows Raglan ¾ sleeve tee, $28; Forward Apparel Co.

OUT OF OFFICE

SCROLL THROUGH BRAVA’s Facebook, Instagram and Twitter feeds and what the masses often see are the photos of me, as BRAVA assitant editor, glammed up around town at the latest conference, gala or restaurant opening. But a fine-tuned eye may notice that none of these images was taken on a Monday. Because that’s the day I work from home, without makeup, and often, a shower. No one gets to see me on Mondays—ever—other than my child. On Mondays, I allow myself to focus on my writing. And because days like that come just once a week, I sometimes fantasize that I’d be more productive if I worked at home in my yoga attire every day. But E3inspire CEO Brandie de la Rosa debunks my dream.

“I worked as an information technology and business analyst for 20 years, traveling to clients only when deployed out by headquarters,” de la Rosa says. “In between, I would handle all conference calls and software configurations from a home office.”

The arrangement, she admits, had its perks. But it also can have its perils. “It’s quite awkward when someone assumes the laptop camera can only see their top half, and initiates a video call not realizing the professional contact he or she is speaking with can see they are wearing a button-up shirt, but with sweatpants—or no pants at all.”

De la Rosa is also quick to point out the “grass is always greener” mentality to those thinking of telecommuting full time. “Even now, I primarily manage my business from home, but a handful of downsides persist like typically working longer hours and having to be extremely disciplined,” she says.

If you’re a Jedi at minimizing outside distractions, however, de la Rosa says working at home does have its plu ses. “Flexible hours, not being stuck in a cube and the freedom to work from wherever,” are a few she mentions.

“Even a pier?” I ask, hopefully.

“Yes,” she giggles. “As long as there’s Wi-Fi.” –Rachel Werner

CAREER

KEEP MOVING FORWARD

BY KIMBERLY VALENZA

Pursuing or continuing your education at any phase of your life is a fabulous decision! If you are the traditional college student who’s transitioning from high school to college, this is the time you would explore new things, develop your persona and create new paths. If you are a non-traditional student, one who has started a family or has been in the workforce for a few years, this is the time you might be looking to advance your career and open new doors. In other words, no matter what your current path, there is always an opportunity to think about moving forward in your education.

As humans, we are hardwired for curiosity and naturally seek to learn. Learning is fundamental to our existence and it also makes us more interesting. You create the opportunity to widen your periphery of knowledge, which enables you to be more social, competitive and fulfilled. I have always been inspired with this quote from Walt Disney. “We keep moving forward, opening new doors, and doing new things, because we’re curious and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths.”

Moving forward in your education:

• Increases your marketability and how you’re perceived and compete in the job market.

• Improves your chances of a promotion or an increase in salary.

• Enriches your personal development and improves your quality of life.

Today, pursuing your education is more accommodating than ever before. There are choices! You can pick from private and public institutions and from technical colleges to specialty schools. How you receive that education is varied as well. You can take classes in a face-toface setting, online, self-paced or a blend of those options. No matter what path you choose, the journey of learning can be continuous. Just keep moving forward.

Kimberly Valenza is the Director of the Madison extension for Upper Iowa University. Upper Iowa University offers both online undergraduate and graduate programs. uiu.edu/madison

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EURO STYLE EMBRACE COMFORT AT THE AC HOTEL

BY RACHEL WERNER

VISITORS STEPPING THROUGH the sliding glass entrance of the AC Hotel immediately detect the air’s floral notes and are bathed in natural light pouring in from each direction. The new 165-room structure may be European in design, including the ground floor’s illuminated crystal wall and chandeliers imported from the Czech Republic, but Wisco influence still reigns, thanks to the sweeping lakeshore views and glimpses of the State Capitol available on every floor.

The AC is meant to be a beacon of sophistication in the burgeoning Madison metropolitan area, and the hotel’s designers and staff vow to bring this goal to fruition. Its sleek lines and minimalistic décor, such as elevated beds and hardwood floors, emphasize the brand’s primary focus, says regional manager Holly Breidel. It’s about “taking away all the things you don’t need in a hotel,” Breidel says. “We’re helping remove the friction of everyday life so you only have what you need.”

The meticulous attention to detail also shines in the lavish culinary program. Butter croissants baked fresh daily from dough handcrafted in France are an indulgent teaser to the full dining menu at Eno Vino’s latest tapas and wine bar; topping the AC on the 9th and 10th floors. It’s the second locale for this locally owned restaurant.

Whether seated in the open-air dining room, at the wraparound bar or kicking back on the soft seating adorning the expansive balconies, patrons can sip the night away on Lady Forward cocktails, the hotel lounge’s signature drink, in glasses adorned by an edible screen replica of the capitol building. This location features an expanded menu that also includes such Eno Vino hallmarks as Sweet Chili Calamari Fries and Sea Bass and Scallops and is underscored by knock-out smallplate additions such as Chicken Lollipops and Garlic Roasted Prawns—favorite local eats, served up with a stellar view. marriot.com.

1 N. Webster St., Madison.

FARM FRESH TABLE WARE

SEA-BLUE RUNNERS and Delft-esque plates are the perfect summery setting for the gifts from your garden. Add some reclaimed wood dishes and gingham linens and you’ve created a cozy scene reminiscent of the spread you’d find on the Mediterranean coast. –Marni McEntee

Clockwise from top left: Savor serving boards, $24 each; The Home Market. Ceramic serving dish with metal stand, $99; tin serving tray, $45; The Montage. Iberian Journey bowl, $36, Iberian Journey cocktail plate, $34, Sitio salad plate, $38, Sitio dinner plate, $40, straw loop natural placemat, $20, L’Andana five-piece place setting, $78, all by Juliska, gingham napkin, $7; The Home Market. “Home Made Summer” by Yvette Van Boven, $35; The Home Market. Reclaimed oak lazy Susan, $90; table runner by S. Design Studio, $40; The Montage.

A TINY BIDDING WAR FOR THE GREATER GOOD

by Mikayla Mrochek

TINY HOUSES ARE ALL THE RAGE for the sustainable living set these days, but dozens of tiny house villages, like the one on Madison’s East Side, have sprung up across the nation to address a different kind of first-world trend: Homelessness.

“I didn’t know anything about the state of homelessness in Madison,” says Bruce Wallbaum, a former HVAC salesman who learned about the issue by dint of some friendships made around midnight fires with folks who had no place else to stay warm.

He’s been a contributing voice to the Occupy Madison movement since it started in October 2011 and now serves as treasurer of the nonprofit’s board. He doesn’t like calling this near full-time job “work,” nor does he consider himself a “volunteer.”

“It’s weird to use the word ‘volunteer’— what if I’m just hanging out with people I like?” Wallbaum says, sitting behind the counter of the village’s tiny retail store, where donated items and those made by residents help raise funds for the project.

Thanks to the nonprofit’s work, as of 2014 five former homeless people now live in brightly painted tiny houses in the Occupy Madison village, once a half-empty autorepair lot covered in car parts, used oil and diesel fumes.

And in August, Madison will see a different kind of housing bidding war when a donated tiny house and some other items will be auctioned to help raise funds for the group. The money will be used for additional bathrooms and proper kitchen

BY SHANNA WOLF

facilities and four more tiny homes, which will complete the village.

In addition to the donated tiny house, shown here styled with items from the group’s retail store, other items up for auction include handmade Adirondack chairs with a Wisconsin flair, little free-library boxes, an upscale chicken coop and a print of a Frank Lloyd Wright sketch. The tiny house, which includes kitchen and bathroom facilities, two lofts and a fold-down deck, was built and donated to Occupy Madison by Inpro, a Wisconsin-based architectural products company.

Online bidding starts July 15. The live auction takes place at 11 a.m. Aug. 26 at the tiny house village, where state Rep. Chris Taylor will serve as the celebrity auctioneer, Wallbaum says.

What would you do with this mini version of the American Dream? A relaxation space? An artist’s studio? Guest house? A play room? Or perhaps something loftier. However the wee home is eventually used, as the Occupy Madison motto says, make your plans “one tiny idea at a time.”

Join the online bidding starting July 15 for the tiny home and other items at hameleauctions.com and find out more about Occupy Madison at occupymadisoninc.com.

Sizzle, Swizzle & Swirl Happy Hour

Locally Owned and nationally acclaimed Ruth’s Chris Steak House in Middleton is not just known for it’s terrific steaks, but it’s happy hour too. Enjoy great service from bartender Fatima Siles, wonderful drink specials, appetizers, including a steak sandwich, spicy shrimp, tenderloin skewered salad and more for only $9.

Ruth’s Sizzle, Sizzle & Swirl menu is available 7 days a week from 4-7 p.m. including live music on Friday’s from 6 -9 p.m. Enjoy their new patio, including a fire pit, which opens in late July!!!

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE

2137 Deming Way, Middleton (608) 608-RUTH (7884) ruthschris.com

What’s cooking at Metcalfe’s

Metcalfe’s Market is a fourth-generation, family-owned and operated neighborhood market founded in 1917. Chef and culinary manager Patrick Zwank leads the Metcalfe’s team, bringing the freshest, premium quality foods, locally sourced when possible, to Madison shoppers. A Wisconsin native, Patrick attended the University of Wisconsin-Stout’s Culinary Arts and Restaurant Management program before bringing his 25-plus years of experience in Madisonarea restaurants to Metcalfe’s.

Patrick’s team of culinary innovators keep a close eye on food and restaurant trends and work to bring them to shoppers quickly and conveniently. Chef Patrick and the team bring amazing foods to diners all day long: a breakfast sandwich or pastry to start the day, ready-made salads or sandwiches (built using premium Boar’s Head meats and cheeses), a salad bar overflowing with fresh produce and an ever-changing daily buffet of house-made hot entrees and sides. There’s even brunch favorites on the weekends!

METCALFE’S MARKET

Hilldale and West Towne shopmetcalfes.com

LEE DRAPP, GENERAL MANAGER

PATRICK ZWANK

Capitol Chophouse: Salty & Savory

At the Capitol ChopHouse we strive to create local cuisine with an elegant touch, excellent service and a comfortable atmosphere and culture. Whether you choose to dine with us, or simply enjoy a happy hour, you will be amazed by the wine list, craft cocktails and the service we provide.

CAPITOL CHOPHOUSE

9 East Wilson St., Madison (608) 260-2358 chophouse411.com

One-stop shopping for the best caterers in Madison

Lisa has access to Madison’s best restaurants that offer both off-site catering and private rooms, showcasing a wide variety of food styles, price ranges, and settings from downtown to suburban. With Lisa, finding the caterer for your event could just be the easiest thing on your checklist.

FOOD FIGHT RESTAURANT GROUP

5111 Monona Dr., Monona lloup@foodfightinc.com Foodfightinc.com

NATHAN MERGEN

LISA LOUP, EVENT DIRECTOR

WILLY EAST - 1221 Williamson St., Madison WILLY WEST - 6825 University Ave., Middleton WILLY NORTH - 2817 N Sherman Ave., Madison

EMBRACE MADISON!

What’s better than summer in our fair city? Shop, eat, get active or go arty with these ready-made ways to spend the day.

Shopper's Delight

Written, styled and photographed by Shanna Wolf

A Fashionista’s Faves

Feeling great and looking great go hand in hand. Middleton’s Neena has quality pieces with a focus on comfort and style. The Neena team are experts at finding pieces right for all bodies and making it fun. Visit the store to try on their soft designer denim and check out the latest little black dress. There are always new arrivals. shopneena.com.

In Vino Veritas

Ros é all day, anyone?

Table Wine , located in the SchenkAtwood neighborhood, is the spot for thoughtfully selected wines. Choose from the best-sellers wall, experience a tasting or enjoy the collection of rosés just in time for summer. Can’t decide? Join Under the Table, the monthly wine club with tasting notes. tablewinemadison.com.

Shop owner, fashion lover, dancer, Badger alumna and child at heart, Jen Wuebben is a true Madison-area fashionista. Wuebben is the owner of Tradition Children’s Market in downtown Middleton, a welcoming children’s boutique filled with an assortment of apparel, accessories and toys. On her days off, one of her favorite places to get lost for a couple of hours is Odana Antiques She recommends shopping the huge selection of rugs, chests and harvest tables, and she’s furnished much of her store with pieces from the antique mall. Iconi Interiors is another of her favorites, with the well-curated selection of new and vintage items for homes; she especially loves the glassware collections. Most of Wuebben’s go-to jackets and dresses in her wardrobe are from Karen and Company . The store is packed with timeless styles, and the stylists are always available to help you find that special piece. tradition.market odanaantiques.com iconiinteriors.com karencomadison.com

Pet Paradise

Greeted by name and with special treats, your pet will feel extra special shopping at Bad Dog Frida on Atwood Avenue. Featuring the coolest products for dogs and cats and holistic and healthy food and treats, the shop is welcoming and the staff are informative. Have fun shopping the wall of leashes and collars and spoiling your pet with a Big Shrimpy pet bed. baddogfrida.com.

Organic Living

Count on Satara Home & Baby for natural and organic home goods and bedding with your wellbeing in mind. Don’t miss the organic cotton Coyuchi bath towels, in rich colors and subtle textures. satarahome.com.

GET OUT & ABOUT!

by emily leas

Paddle the Big Lake

Paddle enthusiasts now have a “big lake” option for rentals in Madison thanks to Tyler Leeper and the crew at the new Marshall Boats on Madison’s West Side. Familiar with the calm waters of Wingra Lake and Monona Bay at Leeper’s other two locations, Wingra Boats and Brittingham Boats? Then get ready for a workout on Lake Mendota at Marshall and the beaches along the south edge of the lake, Picnic Point or even Pheasant Branch Creek. madisonboats.com.

Neighborhood Farmers’ Markets

Break the Saturday routine and try the Far East Side Capitol View market Wednesday evenings with a full lineup of bands and food carts and a view of downtown, or the Monroe Street market on Sundays for unique vendors like Tortillas Los Angeles and Wm. Chocolate. monroestreetfarmersmarket.org. capitalviewfarmersmarket.com.

Chill with the Radicals

A Monday Escape around the Lake

we a re all mech a nics

The late-August sun bounces off bicycles scattered in the grassy knoll at the intersection of South Fair Oaks Avenue and the Capitol City Trail, their owners chatting casually, waiting to start their ride. Young and old, men and women, hybrids, 10-speeds and road bikes are all represented. This is Mondays around Monona , a casual group ride every Monday at 6 p.m. that follows the Lake Loop bike route. India Viola, co-founder of We are All Mechanics, and a founding member of the cycling advocacy group Madison Bikes, leads the group late-August through September.

Her favorite spot on the ride? The pedestrian/bike bridge at Jenifer Street over the Yahara River.

“I always take a moment to pause on the middle of the bridge, smile, look left and say, ‘beautiful,’ and look right and say, ‘beautiful’. There is something magical about that spot,” says Viola.

The ride wraps up with dinner at an East Side pub to keep the relaxing cycling vibes going. weareallmechanics.com/upcoming-events/.

With a home arena of historic Breese Stevens field and a home-game winning streak since May 2013, the Madison Radicals truly represent unsung professional sports in Mad-town. Tim Debyl, coowner and coach, describes the family-friendly Ultimate Frisbee game atmosphere as a “great combination of action and community.” Throw in Salvatore’s pizza, local craft beer and the high-flying nature of Ultimate, and you’ll see why the Radicals averaged the most fans in the American Ultimate Disc League 2016 season. radicalsultimate.com.

Skip the Pavement-Hit the Trails

Local trail running expert Jeff Durbin recommends parking in the UW Arboreturm’s Wingra Springs Lot then exploring Gallistel and Wingra Woods trails and skirting down to the shade and quiet of the Lost City Forest, named for a failed 1920s housing development. Download a trail map at arboretum.wisc. edu or join Durbin for a Sunday group run through the Arb. berkeleyrunningcompany.com. See more on the Arboretum on P. 39.

artistic flourishes

by erika monroe-kane

Artist & Craftsmen Supply is the only basement I look forward to entering. The shop carries everything from crayons to printmaking materials to any kind of painting supply—it’s like a candy store, but here you’ll leave filled with inspiration and ideas. artistcraftsman.com.

Strong of fiber

Contemplate

Perched on a hill overlooking Lake Monona you can find an intricate seat to consume a beautiful view on the Benches at B.B. Clarke Beach designed by Erika Koivunen.cityofmadison.com/parks.

Found objects

When visiting Studio Paran I get so many ideas and gorgeous gifts from its wide range of work (plus I give it bonus points for fire and molten glass!). My favorite pieces right now are the poetic “Pedestals for Art of the Found World,” which you can purchase to display the beautiful little objects you may find along the beach or on a walk. studioparan.com.

Woo Woo!

I always thought of myself more as a badass city girl and wasn’t interested in domestic arts. I’m happy to say that this is no longer true. After the Gee’s Bend quilts gained national recognition I saw them in person and was blown away by the power of the colors, the story of the quilters, and the strong parallels to the abstract art I loved. I began to appreciate the way traditionally “women’s” art forms could be fresh and relevant, absorb contemporary influences, and feel personal to me—someone with more experience seeing city windows at night than flocks of geese. These qualities are what I love about Madison fiber artist Leah Evans ’ work. Her quilts have a dreamy quality and are distinctly beautiful, but also reflect scientific explorations, flyover views, and cartographic qualities. I’m excited to see what she’ll bring to her booth at Art Fair on the Square, July 8-9. leahevanstextiles.com.

You’ll love to see the faded train car colors, the official notations and directions painted on the cars, mixed with the vivid explosions of renegade art on the train cars at Train graffiti & Graffiti of a Train on Fordem Ave. You can enjoy this as you watch trains run through downtown, or you can check them out in the train yard by Fordem Avenue. Along this spot you’ll also catch my favorite urban artwork, the train rushing from a blurred background painted on the side of a building by the tracks.

Dessert for Dinner

What tastes better than a sweet potato doughnut, vegan pop tart or peanut butter ganache cupcake? Frozen treats with flourish, Bloomsicles—the latest addition to the Bloom Bake Shop lineup. Get Cookies ’n Cream for the kiddos and a boozy Mint Julep for the adults in tow. bloombakeshop.com.

Sideline Staples

Classics hit the spot just over the city line. If headed west, snag an outdoor seat before sampling an assortment of the 22 draft beers at The Free House Pub in Middleton. And a trip across Madison’s eastern border warrants a stop at the original Salvatore’s Tomato Pies in Sun Prairie. freehousepub.com salvatorestomatopies.com

Next Stop?

Is brunch, of course! And Short Stack’s decadent pancakes adorned with maple bourbon mascarpone are a perfect complement to its infamous, veggie-packed Bloody Mary. shortstackeats.com.

foodie fun

by rachel werner

Rise

’n Shine

Cap an early morning run at the nearest Barrique’s to order a Sprocket smoothie—a dense blend of almond milk, bananas, peaches and cinnamon—the ultimate post-workout antidote. Also grab a cup of the new sparkling Rishi to go—because how could an effervescent, caffeinated tea kept on tap possibly be a bad thing? barriquesmarket.com.

Midday Snack

Sit for a spell before sidling up to the counter at Casetta , downtown’s newest sandwich shop. This Wisco-spin on an Italian-American deli is a tasty journey to Jersey with each stacked bite of a Sullivan or Hoboken hero. casettakitchen.com.

What's your secret sweet treat?

Salted caramels from Madison Chocolate Company—paired with a rich port and a good friend!-Annmarie Maitri, co-owner Bloom Bake Shop

After Hours

Late-night nibbles go down easy on small plates so, thankfully, The Bar at Estrellon slings gourmet tapas like Smoked Salmon Rillettes and Smoked Ginger Sage Sausage well past midnight. Then sip the carrotinfused cocktail Fresh Flow until last call. estrellonrestaurant.com/thebar.

BY SHILAGH MIRGAIN PHOTOGRAPHED BY HILLARY SCHAVE

Pelin Kesebir from The Center for Healthy Minds

large magnolia tree blooming pink and white petals lived in the front yard of my childhood home in Holland. For hours I would sit against its sturdy trunk planning all sorts of adventures.

To my excitement, my father hung a swing from its large branch and my tree and I played together for what felt like countless hours. When I was upset, confused or saddened, the tree was a place of refuge and provided a sense of comfort and peace. It filled me with a feeling that there was something important I came here to do. When I was 12, we moved away to a condo in Chicago and I became busy with school and academic achievement. Living in this city landscape I stopped looking at trees. I forgot that a magnolia had once been my friend.

I wasn’t alone in becoming disconnected from the natural world. Never before have humans lived so separate from nature. It’s considered so much of an epidemic that psychologists have a term for it: Nature Deficit Disorder. And it’s costing us. Adults and children alike are spending more time behind screens in urban settings and away from the natural world-and the nature deficit is a contributing factor to increased levels of emotional, behavioral and physical problems. Obesity is on the rise; there is a high prevalence of ADHD in children; mental health issues are increasing and physical health problems are rising.

ature features significantly less into popular culture today than it did in the first half of the 20th century. Pelin Kesebir from the Center for Healthy Minds in Madison, together with her sister Selin Kesebir, conducted research on the subject, finding cause for concern. “Across millions of fiction books, thousands of songs, and hundreds of thousands of movie and documentary storylines, our analyses revealed a clear and consistent trend that for every three nature-related words in the 1950s there is only slightly more than one 50 years later. This suggests we are not living as closely tied to nature as we used to.

“It is cause for concern as I can hardly overstate the positive impact of nature on our wellbeing,” Kesebir says. Study after study documents the psychological, physical, and societal health benefits of connecting with nature. Spending time in nature enhances coping with stress, improves quality of sleep, increases a sense of vitality and helps develop a more positive outlook on life. Just taking a short walk in a park compared to a city street decreases stress hormones, improves thinking and even memory, relieves mental fatigue, improves focus and helps boost mood. And there has even been research that suggests individuals who live within a half-mile of a park or wooded area experience less anxiety and depression than those who live farther away.

“A disconnect from nature thus means unrealized gains, if not outright losses in our overall wellbeing,” Kesebir emphasizes. “Furthermore, affinity and appreciation for nature strongly predicts proenvironmental attitudes and behaviors. There is another reason why we regard our findings as troublesome. Cultural products such as songs and films not only reflect the prevailing culture—they also shape it. The flagging cultural attention to nature means a muting of the message that nature is worth paying attention to. It also means a loss of opportunities to awaken curiosity, appreciation, awe and respect for nature. Those are exactly what we need at a time like this, when nature seems to need our attention and care more than ever.”

Kesebir suggests prioritizing time spent in nature. Taking vacations that incorporate being outdoors, getting to a local park on a weekend, taking a short walk during your lunch hour or even bringing plants into your office and home are all beneficial. And on those days when you don’t have time for a nature break, simply look up nature scenes on your computer. Taking this type of short virtual nature break can also have a positive impact on your wellbeing.

“A disconnect from nature thus means unrealized gains, if not outright losses in our overall wellbeing.” —Pelin Kesebir

ocally, women are striving to ensure we have more of the wild. Betsy Delzer, mindful practices specialist at the Middleton Cross Plains Area School District, understands the value of time spent in nature. Her love of the natural world spurred her to create Mindful Forest Therapy workshops for teachers and staff exploring the concept of Shinrin-Yoku, a Japanese term that literally translates to “forest bathing.” This spring, 40 participants, including two senior level administrators and district superintendent George Mavroulis, spent three hours at Pheasant Branch Conservancy diving into personal narrative and memories of the woods/nature in reflection exercises and mindfully walking through the woods. “It’s a chance to slow down and soak up the sights, sounds and smells of the environment in a way that can only be experienced when you are moving slowly and out of your normal routine,” Delzer says.

She cites the evidence-based benefits to Shinrin-Yoku such as lowered stress, calmer states of being and mind, increased wellbeing and regulation of heart rate correlated closely with the scientific findings around meditation and contemplative practices. Delzer reflects, “I thought there could be a way to merge the two; I asked, ‘Can we think outside the literal box of the walls of a school and tools we already employ to help our students, head outdoors and use our mindful awareness of our senses to engage in alternate strategies for calming and centering?’ Turns out we can!” This compelling evidence, combined with the initiative to carve more space for mindful practices while responding to the needs of staff and students, has inspired Delzer’s desire to bring more of education outdoors, off-line and into nature.

Nature was an important part of growing up for Delzer. “Getting outside feels like coming home,” she reminisces. “As a small child I had a particular fondness for tiny beautiful blossoms, leaves, and buds. Growing older I spent time in the woods, creating ‘castles’ while scaling trees and eventually studying methods of coexisting in the woods without drawing attention to my presence, a practice I learned from friends, summer camps and reading about the greats like Tom Brown Jr. Now, as an educator and parent, I turn to the greatest teachers of all: our highly curious and open-hearted children who see so much more than, for example, the root of a tree—they see the ‘claws holding hands with the earth,’ they marvel at the crinkling sounds under our feet, and find crevasses and nooks that must be fairy and gnome homes.”

A love of nature gets created from exposure to nature, especially as a child. This was part of the catalyst for Tina Murray, a recently retired experiential teacher at Shabazz High School for over 21 years in Madison. She created Project Green Teen, a semester-long program focusing on cold-water stream ecology, leadership and healthy life choices.

The program is in its 13th year and takes students for a week during second semester into Southwestern Wisconsin’s Driftless Area. Each day involves one-third hands on experience, one-third service component and one-third moving beyond personal comfort zones doing things like canoeing, fly fishing, hiking and foraging.

In terms of student learning, research has proved that one week of experiential education equals six weeks of classroom studies, students learn more in less time and in real-world settings. There are five such programs in the nation—four of them are college level. Environmental colleges are offering Project Green Teen students scholarships to attend their schools.

Throughout the weeklong experiences in nature, students develop 21st century soft skills of problem-solving, communication and teamwork. They cultivate confidence, learn to be strong, safe and secure in themselves, and experience greater selfefficacy. “There are nightly campfire reflections during the trip designed to help

students realize their daily accomplishments, present new constructs for them to integrate into who they are being and to practice appreciating the experiences,” says Murray.

At the campfire she says students share things like, “I had no idea I could do as much as I did this week” and “I now realize I am capable of doing so much more than I do back home.” Murray says the students are absolutely transformed and see new possibilities for their lives—career paths, passions, strategies to reduce stress and new ways of being that are more successful. They focus on their strengths instead of their flaws. Students’ time in nature allows them to deeply access their sense of capability as a human being and builds competence and self-confidence. They come away grounded and much more able to interact with others in a positive way. Students look up at the stars and reflect on their experiences, noting that the same beautiful stars are over their heads “back home” and it is powerful for them to realize that place and past history do not dictate personal capabilities or success. When students return home, they work harder, are stronger risk takers, are more confident and feel more is possible for their futures. Many go on to college, the Peace Corps and Serve America after graduation.

“Getting outside feels like coming home.”— Betsy Delzer

betsy delzer, mindfulness practices specialist

hrough Project Green Teen, Murray wanted to share the same inspiration and creativity she experienced in nature in childhood. She grew up in the country and was the oldest of three siblings, feeling free to go anywhere and do anything. She built things from grass, from twigs; had to figure out how to make things work and spent hours being creative in the natural world.

As an adult, Murray regularly gets out in nature. “I always feel better when I see a tree or am by a stream, all the stress falls away. There’s just that moment where you breathe better because you are in nature. You see amazing things, and it’s one of the reasons I fish alone and walk for miles on streams. You can look at a picture or you can put yourself in the picture and notice the birds, the possum, the mink, the flowing water and feel connected to life. Nature teaches you that you can be the solution to your own problems. You can create your own opportunities as everything you need in your life is close at hand,” she says.

Project Green Teen allows students to learn they are capable of creating solutions in their lives and don’t have to wait for others to direct them. When youth are allowed to be in nature and play freely they become engineers, designers, mathematicians, astronauts, they build rafts and forts and learn about systems, science and teamwork. They learn that competence is built through trial and error and confidence is built by finding workable solutions. They learn that they are stronger than what they believed themselves to be because they are able to have experiences that are meaningful in their lives.

Currently, Murray wants to encourage women to value time in nature and develop greater confidence through developing nature skills. She currently offers a very popular women’s fly fishing clinic annually through Wisconsin Women’s Fly Fishing and hosted by Southern Wisconsin Trout Unlimited. She is also developing an outdoor women’s adventure company that plans to host trips getting women into the great outdoors in various capacities. Extending on fly fishing and expanding into other areas, her shenanigansflyfishing. com will have women in nature and up to something amazing.

ature offers us something beyond what human companionship can provide. A few years ago, I traveled back to Holland and made a point of visiting my tree. As I rounded the bend and saw my magnolia waving its branches in recognition in the soft gentle breeze, I was reminded of the gift of lingering in the natural world. There is a remembering that happens; something in us is restored; something is made whole again. We connect back to the cycles and rhythms of our life, open up to the great mystery of the earth and encounter our interdependence with all living things. And from this vantage point, we remember why we are here; to tread softly through the world, to open our hearts wide and deep and to let our light shine brightly.

TINA MURRAY, experiential teacher

Betsy Delzer works with schools from Middleton and Milwaukee to the Twin Cities and has branched out as far as Seattle. Find out more about her work outside Middleton at omyeahyogamovement.com. If you want to begin your own exploration, look at this site for teachers and parents, featuring Delzer and her middle school daughter. omyeahyoga.com

To get out on the stream with Tina Murray, register for the 2018 Women’s Fly Fishing Clinics. Visit swtu.org/learn/womens-fly-fishing-clinic.

“Nature teaches you that you can be the solution to your own problems.”— Tina Murray

PHOTO COURTESY NIKKI SEGER

Urban Nature

Get into the wild, within the city limitS..

BY ELLE DUNCOMBE-MILLS

et’s face it: We could all use a bit more nature in our lives. There’s just nothing like the sweet smell of wild hydrangea blossoms, or the delicate symphony of a forest’s assorted fauna. With each breath of fresh air comes a sense of rejuvenation-a feeling of balance, tranquility and connectedness. With each crunch of leaves underfoot comes a feeling of aliveness and adventure, one which feeds our soul with youthful energy. Luckily, spending ample time in nature-and getting a much-needed break from the bustle-is easy in Madison.

Of the countless natural gems scattered throughout Wisconsin, some of the best spots happen to be in Madison’s backyard. One such oasis is the UW Arboretum, a stunning 1,260-acre nature preserve located within city limits

First proposed in 1911 by landscape architect John Nolen, the UW Arboretum was intended as a preserve for nature, wildlife and sacred Native American sites. More than a century later, the land exists as just that: “Our mission here is ecological restoration, which is really about attempting to restore the land back to what it was pre-settlement,” says Communications Coordinator Susan Day. Many Madisonians also know the arboretum as a refuge from the city.

Looking for a guide? For birding and nature tours at Madison city parks, visit cityofmadison.com.

RELAX &

REBOOT

If you’re looking for a best-in-class spa and wellness experience, you’ll find it here. Our highly-trained staff offers a full menu of massages, facials, nail and hair services, and fitness classes — from Foundation Training to Vibrant Flow Yoga, this is the place.

PLACE.

May 6–August 13

mmoca.org

Start a visit at the arboretum’s Longenecker Horticultural Gardens, featuring 2,500 different plant species all native to Wisconsin in a 35-acre meadow that’s a breathtaking mosaic of blossoms come summer. As you wander through the assorted flora, look out for swooping songbirds and squirrels playing games in the branches.

Along the northernmost edge of the gardens you’ll notice a change in the natural color palette. Replacing the rainbow hues is a wall of gleaming green foliage known as Wingra Woods. Here you’ll enter a delightfully tranquil setting where sunlight filters through the tall oak canopy and sloping terrain allows for stunning vistas of the surrounding woodland.

On the forest’s northwestern edge, you’ll find a short detour to Big Spring. Heated by warm subterranean air currents, this bubbling water source remains the same temperature year-round and attracts diverse wildlife. With just a bit of patience you’ll likely spot a variety of birds, water creatures and deer.

For more glimpses of wildlife, head south through Lost City Forest until you reach Icke Boardwalk. Here muskrats often build homes in the marsh to prepare for winter.

Here’s something you won’t want to miss: just southwest of Curtis Prairie you’ll find a tunnel providing access to the

MADISON’S

MADISON’S PLACE TO

southern section of the Arboretum. Burrowing underneath the beltline, the passageway leads to Southwest Grady Oak Savanna which offers easy walking and pleasant countryside views.

Further south you’ll encounter the wide-open terrain of Greene Prairie Paths through these assorted grasses make civilization feel miles away, and the prairie’s subdued earth tones paint a soothing pattern on the horizon.

Here’s an insider tip: Day suggests wandering north to the boardwalk at Gardiner Marsh in the morning or late evening, where you’ll find the vast waters ablaze with light from the rising or setting sun.

Another nearby nature gem on the city’s West Side is Owen Park Conservancy, which provides 3.4 miles of trails leading through vast slopes of prairie and oak savannah habitats. This spot is worth regular visits throughout the year as the landscape changes colors drastically based on which flowers, like goldenrod, coneflowers and bluestem, are blooming.

Cherokee Marsh, on Madison’s northern edge, is a great refuge with a vast and unique wetland habitat that’s fantastic for hiking, paddling and wildlife spotting in the summertime. You’ll want to visit again in the winter, though: The preserve has over 7 miles of trails perfect for skiing and snowshoeing.

Inspiring keynote speakers focus on personal enrichment topics that encourage you to live your life with intention—and THRIVE.

Megan Watt

Do you ever wonder why “successful people” accomplish greatness? It’s because they surround themselves with a team of supporters and motivators who help them reach their goals. In this session we explore the six key members of a Dream Team—cheerleader, industry insider, momentum mover, connector, outlier and rising star—and how to identify who might be already playing that role for you and how to fill in the gaps. You’ll also learn strategies to leverage your Dream Team to help you reach your goals.

ABOUT MEGAN :

Megan Watt is an innovative and highly-sought after speaker, facilitator and career coach who inspires people to take new action in their lives. She’s recognized by the Urban League as a Trailblazer, excelling and leading in her industry, and has spoken to audiences at AT&T, American Family Insurance, WARF and the University of Iowa, and has taught career and leadership development at Big Ten universities and served as the vice president of innovation and strategy for a startup. Currently Megan is chief dream maker of Madison’s Dream Catalyst Labs, where the mission is to inspire others to dream big and tenaciously go after those “Someday Goals”—today!

Stay Safe and Healthy at Home

MAKE LIFE EASIER AND MORE FULFILLING WITH COMMUNITY LIVING ALLIANCE

Retirement is something we all need to think about, whether we are just starting our work life or nearing our retirement years. It would be far better to go into retirement with well-thought-out plans that will give us the freedom we need so we can live the lives we want.

Online calculators and websites give us the “guidance” we need to plan for a healthy, productive retirement. Know yourself, talk to trusted professionals, plan ahead and, as newretirement.com says, “find a motto for your retirement plan.”

Visualize how you want to spend your days. Do you want to work part time? Go back to school? Spend time traveling or rekindling a hobby? Keep a journal or a list of ideas. Save a little from each paycheck toward your retirement goals. Starting to save early gives you the benefit of time, but it’s never too late to start saving to make your retirement picture a reality.

“FIND

The best laid plans can change when the unexpected happens. Are you caring for a retired parent or loved one? Have you experienced a recent decline in your health that requires more assistance to get up in the morning or clean your house? Home care for you or your loved one can make life easier. Community Living Alliance is honored to have provided quality in-home services for over 30 years. We are your local option for the extra help you may need.

If your retirement plan includes a second career, Community Living Alliance is looking for full- and part-time workers who are committed to making a positive difference in the lives of the people we serve. Community Living Alliance could be part of your retirement plan and make life easier and more fulfilling for you.

Kate Coerper Intake/Outreach Coordinator Community Living Alliance

E XPERIENCE

PREMIER LIFESTYLE

DOWN A LAZY RIVER

Make a splash this summer on a tubing trip down one of our wide Wisconsin waterways. You can rent equipment and a ride back up the river at outfitters on the Sugar River as well as the Wisconsin River and others. For more great summer outings, see JAUNT, P. 51.

JAUNT

SPICE IT UP

BY SUJHEY BEISSER

A GROWING immigrant population is transforming Dane County into a global culinary scene, complete with an array of ethnic grocery stores. Shopping these specialty markets is key to giving your pantry some international flair with some new ingredients soon to be kitchen staples.

Abarrotes El Primo: The place to get pork marinated in the house-made Al Pastor seasoning, giving homemade tacos an authentic spin. 105 E Main St., Sun Prairie.

Maharaja Grocery: Stocks a variety of curries made fresh daily, perfect for busy nights. (*Hint: Check out its extensive assortment of whole spices.)

1701 Thierer Rd., Madison.

Yue-Wah Oriental Foods: One-stop shop with aisles organized by types of cuisine. Find products from Indonesia, Philippines, China, India, Pakistan, Thailand, Africa and South America and traditional Asian sauces and noodles needed for stir fry. 2328 S. Park St., Madison.

Istanbul Supermarket: A small shop packed with an assortment of products from the Mediterranean, snatch olives, red pepper sauce and an assortment of pickled vegetables.

745 S. Gammon Rd., Madison

Bombay Bazaar: The corner store to swing through for Indian ingredients including ghee, spices, flours and exotic juices. 753 S. Gammon Rd., Madison.

La Hispana Grocery: Pick up the ingredients for homemade tamales—white corn meal, a variety of chilies, dried cornhusks and the ideal accompaniment, Mexican beer. 3060 Fish Hatchery Rd., Fitchburg.

Gino’s Italian Deli: Best for fresh pasta and ready-made Italian sauces for quick dinner prep. Ask at the counter for freshly baked cannoli shells and snatch a container of Ricotta or Mascarpone cheese to end your meal with a bang.

6509 Century Ave., Middleton.

African Market: Purchase authentic African cuisine products such as Harissa paste, which livens up roasted chicken. 805 S. Gammon Rd., Madison. EATS

IN THE SUMMERTIME TRAVELS FOR WHEN THE WEATHER IS FINE

Floating Through Summer

Nearly 32,000 miles of waterways wind through Wisconsin, so it’s no wonder river tubing is a popular summer activity. Outfitters like S&B Tubing, based in Albany, rent tubes for leisurely, four-hour trips down the Sugar River. All you’ve got to do is put in, and the outfitter will pick you and the equipment up at a designated spot downstream. A shuttle takes you and the rented gear back to your car.

“You go from being in a town, to being completely in nature, surrounded by eagles and trees and water—I’ve done it my whole life,” says S&B Tubing owner Jenny Bryant. She recommends shoes and sunscreen for the trip, since the water reflection doubles sunburn potential. You can even rent a tube that holds a cooler, so you can bring beverages or food along.

Floating outfitters such as Sandy Shores Tubing in Mauston, and resorts like the Wisconsin Riverside Resort in Spring Green, are among outfitters renting tubes on the Wisconsin River. What a way to make a summer splash! sandbtubing.com;sandyshoretubing.com;wiriverside.com–MikaylaMrochek

Coastin’ Along

Fun fact: There are over 1,000 miles of designated bike trails in Wisconsin. So how does a gal pick just one as the ideal trek on a midsummer’s day? I’m partial to those that are practical and scenic, thus a 15-mile bike jaunt out to Abel Contemporary Gallery in Paoli is at the top of my list.

2017 Executive Women’s Golf Association

Charity Golf Outing

Proceeds from the 2017 EWGA outing will support Access Community Health Center’s school based Celebrate Smiles program, which annually provides over 2,600 elementary school students with preventative and restorative dental care annually - at school. Through Celebrate Smiles, these students are able to become Access patients and receive ongoing care at any Access clinic.

Leaving my abode in downtown Madison, a quick cruise down State Street makes the Southwest Commuter Path easily accessible via East Campus Mall. Nominal altitude shifts through the fringes of the Monroe-Regent neighborhoods offer a smooth funnel onto the Badger State Trail in Fitchburg. And cruising past overgrown prairies and colorful wildflowers add up to 5 more blissful miles of solitude before turning onto Sayles Trail. This short, final stretch opens onto Sun Valley Parkway—a quiet, country road that within a mile brings me to the gallery’s front door.

The only thing that could make an afternoon of pursuing art and cycling even better would be a cold, local beer. Hmm…think I’ll take a slight detour down County Highway PB for a pit stop at Wisconsin Brewing Company on the way home. –RachelWerner

Mother-Daughter Time

Lest you lose heart, it is possible to bliss out with your tween or teen. It may just involve a little spa time. Avani Spa at The Abbey Resort in Lake Geneva offers a spa package especially for teens.

Wed, August 16, 2017

8:30 a.m. Registration | 10 a.m. Welcome and Shot Gun Start 2:30 p.m. 19th hole reception University Ridge Golf Course, Verona www.ewgamadison.com/home

My daughter and I got exfoliated, polished, massaged and otherwise lulled into relaxation. Start by robing and awaiting services in the fireplace lounge. Depending on her age, your daughter may not be able to enjoy all the areas and amenities (limited to adults and guests over 16) of the women’s lounge—aromatherapy inhalation room, steam room, whirlpool, sauna—but you can while she’s enjoying each of her 25-minute mini-services. With the It’s All About Me Teen Spa Day package ($179) she can expect a massage, clear skin facial, manicure and pedicure. Then, if she’s old enough, you and your daughter can join all the other berobed guests at the spa’s outdoor lounge or sunroom style pool, where you can order in lunch (and wine for mom), swim a few laps, steep in the hot tub, nap and gab—for hours, until the spa closes. And gab your teen will, after this kind of a special day. Make it a weekend and book a room at the resort, enjoy a fancy meal at 240° West and more fine company, make s’mores by the water-view fire pit, then snuggle up for the night and gab some more. theabbeyresort.com.–KateBast

JULY

EVENTS

PERFORMING ARTS

1-2 | TIMES VARY

“42ND STREET”

Enjoy the ultimate show-biz musical that is a celebration of Broadway, Times Square and the people who make the magic of musical theater. Middleton Performing Arts Center, Middleton. Middletonplayers.com

1-23 | TIMES VARY

“BACK TO THE 50’S”

Come with us as we pay tribute to the most exciting musical decade of all! Featuring the music of Jerry Lee Lewis, Buddy Holly, Elvis Presley and more! Fireside Dinner Theatre, Fort Atkinson. firesidetheatre.com.

1-29 | TIMES VARY

“CYRANO DE BERGERAC”

Embark on a glorious romance, swept through with beauty, wit and heartstopping action—all supplied with panache by iconic Cyrano. Hill Theatre, American Players Theatre, Spring Green. americanplayers.org.

1-30 | TIMES VARY

“GREASE”

Join Sandy, Danny and the rest of the Burger Palace Boys and Pink Ladies for an affectionate satire of 1950s high school life. Palace Theater, Wisconsin Dells. dellspalace.com.

1-29 | TIMES VARY

“THE MAIDS”

Claire and Solange learn that when the line between who you are and who you can never be is stretched thin, reality becomes a story you write yourself. Touchstone, American Players Theatre, Spring Green. Americanplayers.org.

2-28 | TIMES VARY

“A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM”

What better way to christen the new stage than with the iconic fairy tale, spun by APT players in the moonlight? Hill Theatre, American Players Theatre, Spring Green. americanplayers.org.

2-28 | TIMES VARY

“THE UNEXPECTED MAN”

Two strangers on a train—an author and a devoted fan—have a secret power struggle as they search for a moment of connection. American Players Theatre, Spring Green. americanplayers.org.

5-29 | TIMES VARY

“A FLEA IN HER EAR”

This bevvy of bourgeoisie are secretly dying to let down their guard (and their garters) in this funny French confection. American Players Theatre, Spring Green. americanplayers.org.

27-31 | TIMES VARY

“CHURCH BASEMENT LADIES”

Meet the pastor, three cooks and a daughter who run the kitchen and care for the congregation in this funny, heart-warming and down to earth show. Fireside Dinner Theatre, Fort Atkinson. firesidetheatre.com.

ENTERTAINMENT

6-9 | TIMES VARY

NATIONAL WOMEN’S MUSIC FESTIVAL

Delve into the myriad facets of life as a woman through workshops, concerts, live comedy, theatre presentations and a marketplace. Marriot Madison West, Middleton. wiaonline.org.

11 | 7 P.M.

FACTS AND A FLICK

Enjoy an outdoor showing of the cult classic, “Casablanca,” complete with movie trivia beforehand. The Edgewater, Madison. theedgewater.com.

14-15 | TIMES VARY

OLBRICH HOME GARDEN TOUR

Meander through the most exceptional gardens in Madison’s historic neighborhoods, chat with the proud homeowners and take helpful ideas back to your own garden. Locations vary, Madison. olbrich.org.

19-23 | TIMES VARY

DANE COUNTY FAIR

Experience a meeting of country and city with this gathering of food vendors, outdoor music and animals of all kinds. Alliant Energy Center, Madison. danecountyfair.com.

20 | 7 P.M.

CONCERTS ON THE ROOFTOP

Enjoy local bands and spectacular views on the rooftop of the Monona Terrace, while picnicking and enjoying beverages from The Lake Vista Cafe. Monona Terrace, Madison. mononaterrace.com.

20 | 7 P.M.

SUMMER THRILLER

Secure a prime spot on the Capitol green to jam out during this week’s retro-themed Concerts on the Square featuring Jeans ‘n Classics, the music of Earth, Wind & Fire and Michael Jackson. Capitol Square, Madison. wisconsinchamberorchestra.org.

29 | 11 A.M.

WESTMORLAND: FROM FARMLAND TO FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT WALKING TOUR

Identify houses ordered from a SearsRoebuck catalog, houses made entirely of steel and the house Wright designed as a prototype. Locations vary, Madison. madisonpreservation.org.

FAMILY

1 | 10 A.M.

SATURDAY SCIENCE AT DISCOVERY

Learn about changes in science in the last 240 years during the interactive activities of “More Than Fireworks: Science from 1776 to Today.” Discovery Building, Madison. discovery.wisc.edu.

1-2 | TIMES VARY

BRICKUNIVERSE LEGO EXPO

The BrickUniverse LEGO® Fan Convention comes to town, where fans can meet artists, explore exhibits and discover interactives games and activities. Monona Terrace, Madison. brickuniverse.com.

5 | 5 P.M.

FAMILY NIGHT AT MADISON

CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

Make an evening at the Madison Children’s Museum in this free, three-hour community event, open to all ages. Madison Children’s Museum, Madison. madisonchildrensmuseum.org.

15 | 9:30 A.M.

2017 DREAM BIG: FAMILY NUTRITION— FARMER’S MARKET EDITION

It’s never too early to help your little ones create healthy habits! Join Tara from Yummy Sprout to learn the ins and outs of healthy eating as a family. DreamBank, Madison, dreamfearlessly.com/dreambank/events/.

15 | 7 P.M.

ZOOVIES: “DESPICABLE ME”

Enjoy a showing of “Despicable Me” outside on the lawn at the Henry Vilas Zoo. Bring blankets and chairs, and get to see it all on the big screen. Henry Vilas Zoo, Madison. vilaszoo.org.

20-AUG. 13 | 10 A.M.

OLBRICH GARDENS BLOOMING BUTTERFLIES

Observe a wide variety of native and tropical butterflies emerging from chrysalises and stretching their wings throughout this three-week exhibit in the Bolz Conservatory. Olbrich Botanical Gardens, Madison. olbrich.org.

20 | 3 P.M. KIDS FEST

The Fitchburg Center Farmer’s Market adds an extra twist for kids with fruit parfaits, balloons, face painting and live music. Agora Pavilion, Fitchburg. fitchburgmarket.wordpress.com.

27 | 5:30 P.M.

WILD RUMPUS CIRCUS ON THE STREETS OF SUN PRAIRIE

Settle in for a wild night of stilt walking, juggling, face painting, balloon sculpting and interactive trapeze and tight wire stations. Cannery Square, Sun Prairie. cityofsunprairie.com.

SAVOR

7 | 5 P.M.

BREWGRASS FRIDAYS WITH DOOR COUNTY BREWING CO.

The Edgewater offers an old-fashioned fish fry, delicious brews from the Door County Brewing Company and live music by Bluegrass bands. The Edgewater, Madison. theedgewater.com.

8-29 | 6:00 P.M. FARM TO TABLE DINNER

Campo di Bella, a beautiful 21-acre farm and vineyard, will transport you to Italy with its homegrown and decadentlyprepared meals and wines every Saturday. Campo di Bella, Mount Horeb. campodibella.org.

13-16 | TIMES VARY LA FÊTE DE MARQUETTE

Local food and live entertainment are toasted throughout the annual four-day event.. Central Park, Madison. wil-mar.org.

15 | 10 A.M.

SANGRIA SATURDAY

Sip Sangria, listen to salsa music and celebrate summer at this free all-day event. Botham Vineyards, Barneveld. bothamvineyards.com.

15 | 12 P.M. HOMETOWN BREWDOWN FESTIVAL

Sample beer from more than 38 breweries and homebrew contests while raising funds for the Verona Ice Arena and other local nonprofit groups. Hometown Community Park, Verona. hometownbrewdown.com.

JAUNT

THROUGH JULY 4 | TIMES VARY LA CROSSE RIVERFEST

Country sensation Chase Bryant performs at this Fourth of July weekend kickoff complete with family festivities, entertainment and a multitude of food and drink options. La Crosse. riverfestlacrosse.com.

4 | 10 A.M. HISTORIC BEER BREWING

Old World Wisconsin explores immigrant beer brewing to produce 19th-century brews in this all-day event and ongoing summer series. Old World Wisconsin, Eagle., oldworldwisconsin.wisconsinhistory.org.

4-9 | TIMES VARY STOUGHTON FAIR

Join in Stoughton’s yearly celebration, jampacked with food, live music, carnival rides, competitions and fireworks. Mandt Park, Stoughton. stoughtonfair.com.

7 | 6 P.M.

“ART OF CONNECTION” MINI-RETREAT

This three-hour, mini retreat allows for a relaxing getaway after a stressful week, featuring food, wine and arts-and-crafts. Southwest Wisconsin Retreat Center, Barneveld. soulfullsanctuary.com.

THROUGH JULY 9 | TIMES VARY SUMMERFEST

On the shores of scenic Lake Michigan, July headliners of this fest include Pink, The Chainsmokers, John Pardi, Cheryl Crow and more. Maier Festival Park, Milwaukee. summerfest.com.

13-17 | TIMES VARY WOODLANDERS RUSTIC AND NATURE ARTS

Discover the magic and beauty of Shake Rag Alley during this four-day workshop. Participants learn nature-based crafts such as rustic furniture-making, mosaics, blacksmithing and woodcarving. Shake Rag Alley Center for the Arts, Mineral Point. shakeragalley.com.

14-16 | TIMES VARY

52ND ANNUAL COLBY CHEESE DAYS

Celebrate one of Wisconsin’s cheesiest traditions in this Colby cheese-inspired fair, where one can participate in cheese-themed games, tournaments, coloring contests, and more. City of Colby. abbycolbyareachamber. chambermaster.com.

. 15-16 | TIMES VARY

46TH ANNUAL ART FAIR

An abundance of festivities including food vendors, a silent art auction, rich Norwegian culture and music take place on Mount Horeb’s historic main street. Downtown Mount Horeb. trollway.com.

8-9 | TIMES VARY

59TH ANNUAL ART FAIR ON THE SQUARE

Choose a new piece for your living room while humming along to over 25 live musical acts during Art Fair On The Square. Organized by the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art, this year’s event includes work by nearly 500 artists including fine art and craft, handmade clothing, photography, jewelry and more. Participants are selected through a juried and competitive process. Most exhibitors are based in the United States but four will be coming from Ontario, Canada. And over 15 percent will be at the fair for the first time. Dive into a curated feast for the eyes! Capitol Square, Madison. mmoca.org.

27 | 4 P.M.

BODEGA AT BREESE STEVENS FIELD

This outdoor market features an array of food carts, artisans, antique dealers and craftsmen selling locally sourced goods and produce. Breese Stevens Field, Madison. breesestevensfield.com.

THRIVE

14-16 | TIMES VARY

MAXWELL STREET DAYS 41ST ANNUAL SUMMER SIDEWALK SALE

Take advantage of this bargain jackpot, with more than 100 boutiques, shops and restaurants selling discounted merchandise. State Street, Madison. visitdowntownmadison.com.

13 | 6:15 P.M.

DREAM BIG: COME SIT BY ME — THE PSYCHOLOGY OF COMMUNITY AND CONNECTION WITH ANN GARVIN

Discover ways to connect with others, learn tips from extroverts and bridge the gap between being alone and finding someone you click with. Dreambank. Madison. dreamfearlessly.com/dreambank/events/.

27 | 6:15 P.M.

DREAM BIG: WHY NOT SOONER? WITH LQ MCDONALD III

Is your life full of hesitation? Embrace your fear and the unknown of your future, and learn to live a life without regret in this interactive session lead by motivational philosopher LQ McDonald III. DreamBank. Madison. dreamfearlessly.com/dreambank/events/.

28-29 | TIMES VARY

PADDLE & PORTAGE

Take part in a two-day extravaganza with the general public invited to Olin Park Friday evening for activities along the shore before Saturday’s lake to land to lake race. Locations vary, Madison. paddleandportage.com.

29 | 10. A.M.

LOOP THE LAKE BIKE RIDE

Enjoy a bike ride at your own pace around Lake Monona, featuring complimentary treats and beverages, and support the Clean Lake Alliance’s mission to improve and protect Madison Lakes. Olbrich Park, Madison. cleanlakesalliance.org.

Kanopy Dance School kanopydance.org (608)

Madison Community Montessori School

MadisonCommunityMontessori.org (608) 827-MCMS

Walbridge School

Walbridgeschool.org (608) 833-1338

Destinations Career Academy of Wisconsin K12.COM/DCAWISCONSIN (855) 532-6989

TO LOVE AND PROTECT NATURAL PLACES

FRIENDS OF WISCONSIN STATE PARKS DO JUST THAT

BY AMY CARLSON NBC 15 WEEKEND MORNING SHOW ANCHOR

“GET

OUT AND EXPLORE!” – JAN PRIMUS, FRIENDS OF WISCONSIN STATE PARKS VICE PRESIDENT

THE FRIENDS of Wisconsin State Parks mission is to preserve, promote, protect and enhance Wisconsin state parks, forests, trails and recreational areas. The group helps 81 friends groups in the state flourish by providing matching grant money to support local programs.

Many state parks use the funding to employ a naturalist for the summer season. The staff member provides children’s activities, speaks at park gatherings and leads kayak tours.

Grant money also funds the tree and flower program. Chapters plant around park offices and high visibility areas to beautify their parks.

The friends groups are all driven by volunteers who share a love of nature and a desire to protect Wisconsin state parks. Jan Primus, vice president of the statewide friends group, grew up in Baraboo and took advantage of the variety of activities offered at Devil’s Lake State Park.

Later in life, she started camping at Mirror Lake State Park, which led to volunteering for its friends group. “I needed to know more about what’s going on across the state, so I got involved with the state organization nine years ago,” Primus says. Mirror Lake State Park remains one of her favorites, but she has relished attending board meetings in different parks across the state.

JULY NONPROFIT EVENTS

8 | 7 P.M.

JUST DESSERTS: A REFUGEE RESETTLEMENT

Join in welcoming six new refugee families to Madison, as part of Jewish Social Services’ resettlement efforts. Invite friends and eat desserts, all for a good cause. Sundance Cinema, Madison. jssmadison.org.

27 | 5:30 P.M.

DREAM BIG GALA

Big Brothers Big Sisters kicks off its 50 th annual Dream BIG Gala with a reception, dinner and dessert, silent and live auction— plus special guest three-time Olympic gold medalist Jackie Joyner-Kersee as the guest speaker. Marriott West, Madison. bbsmadison.org.

“Wisconsin is a beautiful state,” Primus says. “We’re so fortunate to have so many parks with so many activities like swimming, kayaking, fishing, camping or even cross country skiing.”

Each park is unique. Pattison, near Superior, features a 160-foot waterfall. It takes two ferries to get to Rock Island State Park in Door County.

Kohler-Andrae in Sheboygan is known for its white sand dunes. Interstate Park near St. Croix Falls is Wisconsin’s oldest state park with glacial features.

Perrot near Trempealeau offers the best views of the Mississippi River from its bluffs. Lakeshore Park is on an island just off Milwaukee’s shore. Heritage Hill in Green Bay is a living history state park featuring historical buildings and costumed guides.

Primus’s advice? “Get out and explore!” A yearly park sticker, which includes admission to all Wisconsin state parks, is $28 for state residents. Whether you go for a week or just a day, summer is a great time to discover the natural beauty and geographical wonders of our state.

For more information, visit friendswiparks. blogspot.com

29 | 8 A.M.

SIXTH ANNUAL LAKE RIPLEY RIDE

This scenic bike ride of varying course distances directly benefits the Cambridge Community Activities Program and JDRF, the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. Ripley Park, Cambridge. cambridgewi.com.

Devil’s Lake State Park

BRAVA THRIVE LUNCHEON

MAY 18 | SHERATON MADISON HOTEL

More than 150 women dined and networked while listening to Wisconsin Public Radio host Veronica Rueckert at BRAVA’s THRIVE Luncheon. Attendees learned to speak up at meetings, hold their ground in high-stakes situations and begin training their voices as a potent tool thanks to the Peabody Award-winning co-host of WPR’s “Central Time.” Learn more about future speakers at BRAVAmagazine.com.

WISCONSIN WOMEN’S HEALTH FOUNDATION SPRING GALA

MAY 21 | STATE CAPITOL BUILDING

Over 900 guests gathered in the Wisconsin State Capitol rotunda in celebration and support of women’s health during the Wisconsin Women’s Health Foundation’s 20th Anniversary Spring Gala. Generous donors and attendees helped raise $265,000 in ongoing support for the nonprofit’s six statewide programs and assistance to over 5,000 women each year.

BATHING | It’s a thing, and it’s good for you. Experts say spending time in nature, even if just a walk in your nearby urban park — or farther afield at Mellen’s Copper Falls

or other state parks — reduces stress, improves sleep quality and helps you have a more positive outlook on life. Read more about the benefits in “Into the Woods,” P. 32.

FOREST

(above)