See 5 Things You Need to Know Before You Go: Oktoberfest
Hypnotist Chris Jones at UW-La Crosse
UW-La Crosse alumnus and hypnotist Chris Jones returns to campus to help kick off the new school year.
Jones, a 2008 graduate in sociology, performs at 9:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 1, in The Bluffs, Student Union, 521 East Ave. N. Admission is free.
Jones first became interested in hypnotism when he was a sophomore on campus. He was called on stage to be hypnotized during a campus event and ended up pretending he was a baby kangaroo in another volunteer’s pouch.
Now, Jones is the most-booked hypnotist on college campuses across the country and was the 2015 “Hypnotist of the Year.” He’s known for hypnotizing germophobe Howie Mandel to shake hands on the season opener of the 2015 season of “America’s Got Talent.”
His visit is part of the UWL Campus Activities Board performances and is co-sponsored by New Student Orientation. For more information on his performance visit www.uwlax.edu/cab or call 608.785.8873.
Get the scoop on Jones’ connection to UWL at: https://lantern.uwlax.edu/
If you go—
Who: Hypnotist Chris Jones
What: Welcome back performance
When: 9:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 1
Where: The Bluffs, Student Union, 521 East Ave. N.
Admission: Free
Media contact:
Campus Activities Board
608.785.8873
Game Day Grub: 6 Places to Catch the Game
Blogging on the River, Food & Drink, Foodie Favorites, French Island, Fun things to do in La Crosse, Onalaska, Sports, West Salem
Game day and great food go hand-in-hand. Whether you’re a local looking for a new game day hangout or a visitor trying to catch your favorite team on the big screen and a quick bite to eat, we’ve got 6 perfect places to cheer on your team.
Features Sports Bar & Grill – West Salem
Features’ atmosphere provides everything from a quiet night out in the dining room, to a true sports bar experience. They are recognized as having one of the area’s largest HD screens. With the surround sound and the size, you’re not just watching the game, you’re becoming part of it.
A historic La Crosse landmark for decades, Howie’s has been a gathering place for friends and families alike. The restaurant has a menu full of gourmet burgers, signature sandwiches and wood-fired crust pizza. The bar offers tap beers, martinis, and specialty drinks. With TVs located at every angle, it’s definitely the place to watch your team “get the W.”
A local favorite, Schmidty’s is a casual restaurant with quality food & spirits at a great value. Delicious appetizers, salads, sandwiches and burgers fill the lunch menu perfect for the big afternoon game.
Located in Onalaska, Coulee Golf Bowl is a friendly local Sports Bar and Grill that offers great food and drink specials. The newly remodeled Sports Bar and Grill offers 13 large televisions for your viewing pleasure, offering every NFL game and the Big 10 Network.
Trust us when we say that Shenanigans is more than an arcade. Watch your favorite teams play on a dozen 70″ TV’s, plus two massive 130+” screens. Tackle fantastic food & drink specials while the kids (or you) take a break and hit up the games in the arcade. It’s a win for everyone!
When an establishment is known for their “Big Ten” burgers, you know they are a game day favorite! They also offer a great choice of sandwiches, wraps, handmade pizza, wings and more along with 24 taps of ever-changing beers.
Disclaimer: This list is not all encompassing. To view more of La Crosse County’s dining options, please visit the Where to Eat.
Oktoberfest and LHI partner to help Military & Veterans Celebrate
Each fall, Oktoberfest USA hosts thousands of people—loyal fans and new fest-goers alike—in beautiful La Crosse, Wisconsin, to celebrate the longest-running Oktoberfest in the Midwest. This year we are excited to announce our partnership with LHI to offer free admission to our festival for active and veteran military members and to introduce the new Festival Pass which will allow fest goers quick access to the Downtown Grounds location.
As small as a credit card the pass can be kept in a pocket, wallet, or worn on a lanyard. Also new this year is the option to purchase your pass online and present it at the gate on your smart phone or device. Both the Festival Pass and single day admission options are available at www.oktoberfestusa.com. Commemorative buttons will be available at the Oktoberfest office for those looking to continue their collection, but will not be valid for entrance to the festival grounds.
LHI and Oktoberfest USA are proud to offer free admission to military members (active and veteran) and a guest to our festival in 2018. A limited number of passes will be printed with the specialty design recognizing these members of our community for their service. You may stop in to pick up your military pass at the Oktoberfest office with a valid military ID or DD214.
“La Crosse Festivals, Inc. appreciates the ability to partner with LHI to express our mutual support and appreciation for our active military and veterans. Their service and sacrifice make celebrations like Oktoberfest possible across the nation,” says Terry Zalewski, board president. “We wish to extend a special welcome to all active duty military, veterans and their spouses to our festival events.”
Oktoberfest passes are available for sale, $10 each for the 4 day pass, at all area Kwik Trip and Festival locations in addition to the Oktoberfest USA office and online at www.oktoberfestusa.com. Please join us as we celebrate the 58th Oktoberfest USA, September 27-30, 2018.
‘Flow’ Bike Trails in Upper Hixon II (Video)
Nearly ten miles of multi-use trails crisscross the wooded bluffs on the eastern edge of La Crosse, including the newly completed, 2.3-mile Rotary Vista Trail, an excellent challenge for avid mountain bikers. Four designated parking areas provide convenient access to the trails, which can also be reached by bike or on foot via connecting trails from Myrick Park….MORE HERE!
Stay Cozy – 8 Cabin Rentals to Enjoy
Looking for a unique lodging option? Or maybe you’re searching for that nostalgic Wisconsin cabin getaway? Look no further. Here are 8 of La Crosse County’s (and the surrounding area’s) coziest cabin rentals, perfect for a warm and relaxing winter vacation.
The Paulsen Cabin at Norskedalen
This 130-year-old log cabin sleeps 6 and includes sleeping loft with one full bed, a hide-a-bed couch on main floor, extra comfortable cots, newly remodeled bathroom, authentic log interior, loft, and a fully furnished kitchen. Your cabin rental fee includes admission to Norskedalen Nature and Heritage Center, guided tours of the pioneer log homestead, full grounds and trail access, and much more!
Grapevine Log Cabins are located on a small dairy farm close to the Elroy Sparta State Bike Trail tunnels. Three private log cabins nestled in a pine setting with queen size beds, gas fireplaces, and air conditioning. There are awesome hiking and canoeing opportunities plus it is dog friendly!
Neshonoc Lakeside Campground Resort
Vacation at one of Western Wisconsin’s most highly rated and picturesque campgrounds located on beautiful Lake Neshonoc. All cabin rentals include A/C, TV, kitchenettes with all the comforts of home, full service bathrooms, bed linens, towels, picnic table, fire ring and charcoal grill.
You will love the picturesque view that Justin Trails offers as it sits among the Hidden Valleys of Southwest Wisconsin. Enjoy eco-luxury, pet-friendly, farmhouse suites and log cabins with kitchenettes, whirlpools and cozy fireplaces. Get excited about four seasons of outdoor recreation as well! Miles of trails offer hiking, cross country skiing, or snowshoeing and the hilly terrain is perfect for tubing or sledding in the winter! During the summer months you can also test your skills on the 2 different disc golf courses.
There are a variety of ways to enjoy the scenery of the beautiful Driftless Region, from canoeing the scenic Kickapoo River at Ontario, to booking a river cruise in La Crosse on the Mississippi, to wading in the shallow, local trout streams while you try your hand at fly fishing. At the end of a busy day, it’s rewarding to leave it all behind and come relax at these cozy cabins. The name reflects the atmosphere and is a sure way to have a relaxing getaway.
Hawks View Cottages are five distinct cottages crafted high up onto the steep wooded bluff, overlooking historic Fountain City, Wisconsin, with hawk’s eye views of the Mississippi River and Old Fountain City. Our two lodges are one mile North of Fountain City, WI, overlooking Seven Hawks Vineyards and the Mississippi River Valley.
Clearwater Cabins are family-operated lakefront lodging on Lake Onalaska. Each fully-furnished cabin has a full kitchen with private bath and linens included. Clearwater Cabins has kayaks and bikes available to rent. The dock and lakefront is shared by the guests of the property, and is not far from the Great River State Trail.
This cabin is a great place to relax with all the furnishings of home. Spring Hollow Cabin is located in a beautiful valley on seven acres with wildlife surrounding it. It borders state hunting grounds and is within 2 miles of the Mississippi, with plenty of activities to enjoy with family and friends! Every season has something to offer.
Looking for another type of lodging? Visit our Lodging Page for more.
Full Moon Night Hike
You’re invited! Join Refuge Ranger on Saturday, August 25 at 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. for this special opportunity to walk the prairie during the twilight and evening hours. Celebrate the full moon and explore the creatures that go bump in the night. Participants should bring a flashlight, water bottle, closed-toe shoes, and dress for weather.
People of all ages are invited to participate. Meet the Ranger by the kiosk in the parking lot. Please note that the Visitor Center will be closed. Outside restrooms are available. For questions, call Ranger Jamie at 608-779-2230
For more information, contact the La Crosse District Office at (608) 779-2399 or visit the Visitor Center, located at N5727 County Road Z, Onalaska, WI. Visitor center hours are Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. and Saturday, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (February – November.) The center is closed on Sundays and all Federal holidays. Information on the Refuge may also be found on the Refuge’s webpage: http://www.fws.gov/refuge/upper_mississippi_river/.
LCT Announces Theatre Piece Walking With Twain
La Crosse Community Theatre announces that tickets are on sale now for Walking With Twain, an active theatre piece along the Mississippi River. Performances begin September 7, 2018 and continue through Saturday, September 22, 2018. Shows are Fridays and Saturdays at 6:00 p.m. and begin at the Weber Center for the Performing Arts. There is no performance scheduled September 8, 2018.
Take a walk with one of America’s greatest wordsmiths as he reflects on the river, society, and the stately city of La Crosse, Wisconsin. Walking With Twain stars LCT actor and storyteller, Michael Scott.
“Shakespeare wrote, ‘All the world’s a stage. . .’ Walking with Twain will test the theory with a theatrical production sans the theater. Join in on this active theatre piece along the most storied river in North America,” said Michael Scott.
Tickets are $20 and may be purchased over the phone or at www.lacrossecommunitytheatre.org. For questions or tickets, please call the box office at 608-784-9292 from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Mondays through Fridays.
La Crosse Community Theatre creates productions and projects that enhance the theatrical literacy of our audience members, volunteers, students, and staff. We provide opportunities for creativity and personal growth in a fun, collaborative environment. We have been a 501 (c) (3) non-profit corporation since 1963.
FAST FACTS
WHO: La Crosse Community Theatre
WHAT: Walking With Twain
WHERE: Beginning at Weber Center for the Performing Arts, 428 Front Street South, Downtown La Crosse, and continuing along the Mississippi River
WHEN: September 7, 14-15, and 21-22 at 6:00 p.m.
TICKETS: $20
BOX OFFICE HOURS
11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday-Friday
Media Contact:
Grant Golson
Producing Artistic Director
Phone: 608-784-9292 ext 3
Email: ggolson@lacrossecommunitytheatre.org
Five Fall Favorites in La Crosse County
If you haven’t experienced the fall season in La Crosse County and the surrounding area, you need to add it to your bucket list. The changing colors of the trees that cover the bluffs make for a beautiful sight. Not to mention the area boasts a variety of apple orchards and pumpkin patches that offer pick your own options and you’ll definitely be able to find some tasty treats.
Here are just five of our fall favorites (though there are many more)…
Located in West Salem and just a short drive from La Crosse is Hidden Trails Corn Maze. Getting lost in the maze is fun, but there are also plenty of other activities to celebrate the changing season. Pick your own pumpkins, take the kids on a wagon ride, say hi to the farm animals, and more!
Once a prize beef cattle operation, Southwind Orchards has grown to be one of the premier apple orchards in the area. Located in Dakota, MN it’s just a short hop over the Mississippi River. They offer 28 varieties of fresh apples as well as apple jams & jellies, apple butter, apple sauce, cider, and everyone’s favorite, caramel apples. Visit mid-October and pick out the perfect pumpkin. There’s also a variety of squash and gourds too!
Nestled in an Onalaska Coulee, you’ll find Rainbow Ridge. Enjoy great photo opportunities, games, and crafts for kids. They also have a small farm store where they sell products from their own farm like goat milk soap and lotion, honey, and eggs.
Grandad Bluff has become not only a destination point for thousands, but also a symbol of this great Coulee Region. The 600-ft high bluff overlooks the city of La Crosse and provides a view of the Mississippi River Valley including the three states of Wisconsin, Minnesota and Iowa. This stop is sure to offer you a breathtaking view of the fall colors. Not to mention a scenic drive on your adventure up Bliss Road.
5. Lake Onalaska/Sunny the Sunfish Lookout
This lookout offers stunning views of the 7,700-acre Lake Onalaska and Great River State Trail, part of 101 miles of interconnecting state trails which runs parallel with Lake Onalaska. Come fall, the trees that border and make up some of the Lake’s little islands will turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow and add to the scenic beauty this spot already offers.
Pantizke at La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway
By: Paul Reichert
Another warm night greeted race fans at the LaCrosse Speedway, but cooler and smarter heads would prevail in the heat of battle in tonight’s racing action. Steve Carlson may have a stranglehold on the NASCAR Late Model championship race, but reigning track champion Nick Panitzke still has some fight left in him. Pantizke would take the lead from Nick Clements with three laps to go, and keep Carlson at bay to capture his third feature win of 2018.
Pole sitter Tom Carlson surged ahead of Jerimy Wagner to lead the first three laps of the NASCAR Late Model feature. Wagner would catch Carlson and take the lead from him on lap four. Nick Clements got around Carlson for second two laps later. Clements could not make up a lot of ground on Wagner as the Onalaska veteran would maintain a lead of four car lengths. Would tonight be the night Wagner’s rough patch came to an end? It would be derailed by a caution on lap 13. Justin Mullikin’s rear end was smoking and leaking fluid, causing Justin Zmyewski and Ryan Brown to spin out in turn two. On the restart, Clements would assume command of the race from Wagner. Wagner would once again catch a second wind to charge past Clements and take back the lead on lap 17. Behind him, Nick Panitzke and Steve Carlson were starting to enter the picture.
Both made quick work of Clements on lap 18. They began reeling in Wagner over the next four laps. Panitzke dove under Wagner in turn one on lap 22 to take over the top spot, while Carlson would claim second down the back straight. Both would be nose-to-tail in the closing laps, but Panitzke would not be denied victory in the end. After the race, Panitzke said “I think we fell behind due to lack of effort in recent weeks. We will continue to keep plugging away.” Wagner matched his career best feature finish with a third, while Mike Carlson and Cole Howland rounded out the top five.
Patiently working his way through the field in the Sportsmen feature, Tom Luethe would get around Dan Secor for the lead at halfway. Secor would crash on the back straight with four laps to go. Luethe had to deal with both uncle Dan Gilster and Chris Weber, but Luethe would successfully keep them behind him and capture his fourth feature win in five weeks.
Taylor Dobbs would lead the first half of the Thunderstox feature, but then Adam Moore would drive around Dobbs to take the win. After slicing and dicing his way through the field in the Mini-Van feature, Matt Moore would take the lead just before halfway to claim his second straight feature win.
Halfway through the show the annual wacky Outhouse Race novelty event took place. While Chris Christen took a header getting to the outhouse, Adam Moore was the quickest to grab the toilet paper.
Action continues next Saturday night, August 18th with the weekly racing finale. The final weekly show of 2018 before Oktoberfest includes the last double feature night of the season for the NASCAR Late Models, plus the Sportsmen, Thunderstox and Street Stocks. Bring the kids out early for the last KQ98 Kids’ Rides of the season. Gates open at 6:00, qualifying takes place at 6:15 and racing starts at 7:30.
For more information on LaCrosse Speedway or the 2018 schedule of events, please call the office at 608-786-1525 or visit lacrossespeedway.com. LaCrosse Speedway is proud to be a NASCAR Hometrack, part of the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series.
RESULTS
Tobacco Outlet Plus Grocery NASCAR Late Models
Feature: 1. Nick Panitzke, 2. Steve Carlson, 3. Jerimy Wagner, 4. Mike Carlson, 5. Cole Howland
6-for-6 Dash: 1. S. Carlson, 2. Matthew Henderson, 3. Panitzke
Heat 2: 1. Tony Bagstad, 2. Tom Carlson, 3. Brent Kirchner
Heat 2: 1.Todd Oliver, 2. Ken Christenson, 3. Jonathan Eckelberg
Qualifying: 1. Panitzke, 2. M. Carlson, 3. Henderson
Dean’s Satellite Sportsmen
Feature: 1. Tom Luethe, 2. Dan Gilster, 3. Chris Weber, 4. Tyler Sauter, 5. Sam Niles
6-for-6 Dash: 1. Niles, 2. Luethe, 3. Gilster
Heat: 1. Jesse Green, 2. Thomas Farra, 3. Dan Secor
Qualifying: 1. Weber, 2. Steve Bachman, 3. Gilster
Auto Value Thunderstox
Feature: 1. Adam Moore, 2. Charles Vian, Jr. , 3. Taylor Dobbs, 4. Kyle Lockington, 5. Jason Bolster
Dash: 1. Moore, 2. Mark Challet, 3. Mike Krueger
Heat: 1. Dobbs, 2. Vian, Jr., 3. Bolster
Qualifying: 1. Krueger, 2. Lockington, 3. Moore
Mountain Dew Mini-Vans
Feature: 1. Matt Moore, 2. Rob Stanfield, 3. Tristan Drazkowski, 4. Dan Frye, 5. John Clauson
Heat: 1. Frye, 2. Stanfield, 3. Drazkowski
Qualifying: 1. Moore, 2. Stanfield, 3. Frye
Outhouse Race: 1. Adam Moore, 2. Charles Vian, Jr., 3. Mark Challet
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