5 Things You Need to Know Before You Go: Mississippi Mayhem

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By: Anastasia Penchi

If the word “mayhem,” is involved – it has to be good.

Mississippi Mayhem (a reference to the river – not the state) is a car show featuring pre-1965 cars and pre-1975 motorcycles that will be held at the La Crosse Interstate Fairgrounds in West Salem on Sept. 8-9.
It is described as a weekend adventure where attendants celebrate all things cars and bikes, including the style and spirit of an era when those cars and bikes were king. People dress up. Bands play music from this time period. Hot rodders show off their passions and unite.

If wheel bearings get you greased up, here are some thing to keep in mind:

Step back in time

Organizers are trying to create a feeling of nostalgia here, so they restrict the vehicles in the immediate show area to ensure they contribute to the “feel” of the weekend. Cars and cycles up to 1976 are welcome, and pre-’65 criteria-met cars and pre-’75 criteria-met cycles are featured. If you have a sentimental longing or wistful affection for this era, you may already know some of the lingo likely to be spoken during this event. For instance, according to a hot rod lingo Web site, “lunched” means “wrecked,” as in my son took my car this weekend and “lunched” the transmission. The fact that he bought me lunch afterwards is not payment enough.

Bring the mini hot rodders along

Children ages 12 and under are encouraged to attend as they are likely to enjoy the retro cars and bikes, and get free admission when accompanied by a paid adult. Maybe your youngster will enter the Little Miss and Mister Contest, or cheer on participants during the La Crosse Interstate Speedway Street Drags? That said, organizers also warn that all nightlife “may not be suitable for little eyes and ears.” The website disclaimer advises, “We are not responsible for curse words picked up over the weekend or trips to the principal’s office Monday morning.” It’s a good thing school hasn’t started yet.

Adulting as offered

As discussed above, not every activity is child-appropriate. Late in the evening, attendants play Burlesque Bingo. What could this involve, you ask? The images that popped up during a Google search were very interesting. It seems like the type of experience where one would laugh a lot. Still, it’s also not necessarily something I want my eight-year-old to attend with me. Maybe I’m a prude, but Burlesque Bingo is held at midnight for a reason.

Flaming performances

Another of the event activities listed on the schedule is “Flamethrowing – Ring of Fire.” This intrigues me. The only Ring of Fire I’m familiar with is Johnny Cash’s song. And while I agree that love is a burnin’ thing, and it makes a fiery ring – I don’t remember a reference to cars in that song. The Mississippi Mayhem Facebook page shows a video of flames shooting out of the back of a car as you hear loud popping noises and the cheers of the crowd. I don’t know how people make their cars do that, but I can appreciate the thrill. Loud noises and shooting flames get people all jacked up.

Find Fanny for your questions

Organizer Fanny Freckles is the front woman of Mississippi Mayhem. She is dressed in a period frilly skirt and is scooting around the show on a chrome bicycle, dinging the bell at people. Fanny talks to the reporters, does appearances and answers inquiries. Maybe she even enters the Dance Contest? She certainly puts the intrigue out there with her distinct events and descriptions.
If you would like more information, visit the Web page at www. www.mississippimayhem.com or visit the Mississippi Mayhem Facebook page.

SEE MORE MAYHEM!


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Anastasia Penchi is graduate of UW-La Crosse and a long-time Coulee Region writer who has written for area newspapers and magazines (www.loislaneforhire.com).

Kayak Fishing in La Crosse County (VIDEO)

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The Mighty Mississippi and it’s beautiful backwaters have proven to be a high class fishery time and time again. The river has served as a host to several major fishing tournaments such as the Bassmaster Elite, several Fishing League Worldwide (FLW) events, and most recently, the KBF Trail with Kayak Bass Fishing. See what Chad Hoover with Kayak Bass Fishing had to say about fishing in La Crosse County.
“I fished in La Crosse, Wisconsin for a week and had an absolute blast. We dodged rain for the first couple of days and the fishing was awesome once the water cleared up a bit. We are back in La Crosse, Wisconsin again this week for the KBF TRAIL and I am looking forward to getting back into the backwaters of the Mississippi.” 
 

Paddle Away! Popular Paddle Rentals in La Crosse County

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La Crosse County is known for the bluffs but lest we forget about the other side of things.

With the Mighty Mississippi and it’s back waters, Lake Onalaska, Lake Neshonoc, the La Crosse River AND the Black River, we have plenty of opportunities for those who seek to explore via paddling.

Wondering where you can get equipped for such an experience? These places will hook you up…

Schafers River Rentals

Get out and enjoy beautiful Lake Onalaska and be sure to let Schafers River Rentals set you up with everything you need to have a great time. Rental for canoes, kayaks, pontoons, and fishing boats are all available. Say you want to catch your supper while out on the water? No worries, friend! Schafers is a one-stop bait shop offering fishing licenses, tackle and live bait too. So, whether you’re out for an afternoon paddle or searching for that big fish, they can help you out.

KayoeSUP

KayoeSUP (Kayak + Canoe + SUP ) is the driftless region’s premier standup Paddleboard Instruction, guide, and rental service. All equipment is provided – Paddleboard, Paddle, PFD and Leash – with each lesson or tour. They also have a variety of classes to choose from including SUP Basics, SUP Essentials, SUP Skills, and PaddleFit Core. Explore the waterways of the beautiful Driftless Region with Paddleboard rentals from KayoeSup.

Island Outdoors

Located on French Island in La Crosse, Island Outdoors can help get you on the water in no time. Rentals include: kayaks, canoes, stand up paddle boards, paddle boats, and even hydrobikes. They also have kayaks for sale along with a wide variety of fishing gear, bait, and outdoor apparel. Looking for a little week night pick me up? Check out their Paddle Nights! Every Monday night from 6pm-8:30pm is Divas Paddle night and Thursdays (same time) is Co-Ed Paddle Night.

Kayak Kiosk

Kayak Kiosk is revolutionize the way you experience water recreation by offering seamless kayak and paddleboard rentals through our cutting-edge rental kiosks. They are providing hassle-free access to the joys of kayaking and paddle boarding, ensuring that everyone can savor the thrill of outdoor adventure. Find Kayak Kiosks at Red Pines Bar and Grill in Onalaska, Lake Marinuka in Galesville, and Lake Wazee in Black River Falls.

BUT WAIT, THERE’S MORE! CLICK HERE

10 Historic Places in La Crosse County

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For all you history buffs out there…

 

La Crosse is home to more historic places than most people realize!

 
10. Joseph B. Funke Company

If you’ve previously visited La Crosse, WI and stayed at The Charmant Hotel, stopped in to grab a cup of locally brewed coffee, or maybe treated your sweetheart to dinner, you’ve unintentionally visited a historic area. It’s time to go back and take another peek –  built in 1898, this building used to be an iconic and widely popular candy factory. At it’s peak of production, the brick building employed 220 workers. Today, the building showcases it’s history with their beautiful wood floors, exposed brick, and even offers chocolate upon check-in when you spend the night.

 
9. Gideon C. Hixon House

Built in 1859 and once occupied by the prominent lumber baron, Gideon Hixon. You can now step back in time when you walk inside this beautifully built Victorian home. Containing most of the artifacts and original furnishings from the Hixon era, the house is now a museum standing on 429 North 7th Street in La Crosse, open Memorial Day through Labor Day. If you love history and architecture you need to see this historic house.

 
8.Gund Brewing Company Bottling Works

We’re all familiar with La Crosse’s rich brewing history but are you familiar with this one? Built in 1903 by Architect Louis Lehle, this factory aimed to be ahead of the curve in superior beer bottling methods, such increasing shelf life and using more progressive sanitation methods. The building has since been converted to apartments on La Crosse’s South Side.

 
7. La Crosse Commercial Historic District

Everyone who visits La Crosse ventures to the downtown area for different reasons, but history fans will want to take a peek at older areas. There are many long-time La Crosse residents who can fill you in about how different the area looks today, but you’ll want to be sure to check out the 1866 Voegele grocery and saloon, the 1870 Italianate Solberg grocery store, the 1894 Romanesque/Queen Anne Rehfuss dry goods building, and the 1940 Moderne Hoeschler exchange building. Learn more and venture on a walking tour!

 
6. Onalaska Pickle and Canning Factory

Previously the Onalaska Brewery, a series of five buildings comprise what was, at its peak, the Onalaska Pickle & Canning Company complex located at 841 2nd Ave SW in Onalaska. The J.S. Gedney Pickle Company, which was headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota purchased the former brewery buildings in 1901. After five years of operation, the Gedneys pulled out of the firm and the company was renamed Onalaska Pickle and Canning Company which operated until 1957. In 1963, the buildings were designated as one of two buildings in the city that were identified by the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers as fallout shelters, in the case of a warning or attack. Currently, the property is owned by D&M Recycling.

 
5. A.O. Jostad’s Store

Located on the corner of Main and State Streets in Holmen, Wisconsin is Jostad’s Store. The present brick building was erected in 1899. The store sold groceries, furniture, men’s clothing, and hardware. Items such as sugar, rice, oatmeal, flour, and cookies were weighed out from barrels. In 1956, the store and its contents were purchased by Jerry Dahl and Conrad Jostad, who continued its operation until 1959, when it closed. The store currently houses small businesses and apartments.

 
4. Hamlin Garland Homestead

Hamlin Garland, a Pulitzer prize winning author, was born in West Salem in 1860. The West Salem Historical Society has preserved and restored the Hamlin Garland Homestead to the time period of 1912-15. In 1973 the Interior Department designated the house a National Historic Landmark. The house was purchased by the West Salem Historical Society late in 1973, but restoration did not actually begin until 1975.

 
3. Lumber Baron Inn

The Lumber Baron Inn located in Onalaska, Wisconsin is a completely renovated and restored home originally built in 1888 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The house has its original woodwork, lights and stained glass and now serves as a Bed & Breakfast. The home was built for the first Lumber Mill owner in Onalaska. Overlooking Lake Onalaska, the home also includes the original carriage house and wrought iron fence. Owners Ken and Sandy Berg restored the home in 1995.

 
2. Palmer-Gullickson Octagon house

The Palmer-Gullickson Octagon home was originally located in Neshonoc, an area about one mile north of West Salem near the La Crosse River. The home was built in 1856 by Dr. Horace Palmer, the first resident doctor of Neshonoc. When thriving Neshonoc lost its residents to West Salem because the railroad was being built – the large Palmer home was moved to its present location. In 1921 the home was purchased by Mr. & Mrs. Oliver Gullickson who’s daughter-in-law sold the property to the West Salem Historical Society. The home is now preserved and open to the public.

 
1. Mindoro Cut

Mindoro Cut is located in the Town of Farmington in La Crosse County, Wisconsin just off of Highway C which links Mindoro with West Salem. The cut is 74 feet deep, 86 feet long, and 25 feet wide and is the 2nd deepest cut built by hand in the Western Hemisphere and the oldest functional cut which has not been improved. Work on the cut began in 1907 and concluded in 1908 and was completed primarily with hand tools. The Mindoro Cut was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2007.

Local Resources

La Crosse County Historical Society
Holmen Area Historical Society
West Salem Historical Society

Miranda Martin is a junior at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, majoring in interpersonal communications with a double minor in creative writing and women gender studies. She is from Franklin, WI, and loves the Milwaukee area. In her free time she loves to write, read, exercise, and be around people! Her favorite aspects of La Crosse are the bluffs and the friendly community atmosphere.

Things to Know Before You Go: Coulee Con

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By: Anastasia Penchi

Is gaming your passion?

Do role playing games get your brain spinning and your heartbeat thumping? Are you more interested in assisting as storm giant King Hekaton is tasked with keeping order among the giants or do you prefer to wield the medieval swords of Amtgard yourself? Do you long to dress up like Margot Robbie in the movie, “Suicide Squad,” and become the pig-tailed fictional supervillain Harley Quinn?
If so, Coulee Con is your festival.
This three-day event is La Crosse’s version of a gaming festival, and it will be held Aug. 25-27 at the La Crosse Center. It appears loosely based on Comic-Con, the annual comic book convention in San Diego that started in 1970 and is popular for its workshops, film festival and celebrity autographs.
If gaming is your thing, here are some thing to keep in mind:

In La Crosse, it’s all about the games

This festival is about gaming. Heard of Dungeons and Dragons? This is credited as the first fantasy roleplaying game where players act as the characters in an ongoing fantasy story. They always play D & D at these events. Or maybe you’re heard of Warhammer 40,000, a fantasy miniature tabletop war game where you paint and build the unfinished miniatures you’ve purchased? This hobby/game was also featured during a round-robin tournament at Coulee Con last year. And a newspaper photo of last year’s event also shows two guys battling during the live action game Amtgard using homemade swords made out of swimming pool noodles. I wonder if they found the instructions on how to make them on Pinterest?

Play dress-up at any age

Costumes and cosplay (dressing as a character from a movie, book or video game, especially of a Japanese genre) is not only allowed – it’s encouraged. Looking like a favorite agent of good or evil allows us to escape the dreariness of life. There are some rules: For safety reasons they do not allow modern military, security, law enforcement or first responder costumes, unless you are actually active duty military wearing your government-issued uniform; no hate symbols are allowed; and costumes must be family-appropriate. If you are wondering if your costume is family-appropriate, bring something else as you may be asked to change before gaining entry. “In general, more coverage is better than less,” advises the event Web site.

Will you escape?

One of the new additions to the festival is an escape room by Tactical Escape 101. This is a real-life room where you and your friends are locked in and have to use the elements within the space allotted to solve a series of puzzles, find clues and escape within a set time limit. Test your abilities under pressure in this mental and physical adventure game.

Hang with the kiddos

Organizers hope that this event is a family affair, with parents attending with their children – not just dropping them off. While Friday and Saturday are official tournament days, Sunday is more focused on gaming, families and fundraising. This is the perfect opportunity to expose those little gamers to some more intellectual, creative gaming pursuits. Besides, who doesn’t want their child to major in Information Technology Management in college? Can you say retirement in Hawaii?
If you would like to register for Coulee Con, visit the webpage at www.tabletop.events/conventions/coulee-con-2017 or visit the Coulee Con 2017 Facebook page.

Anastasia Penchi is graduate of UW-La Crosse and a long-time Coulee Region writer who has written for area newspapers and magazines (www.loislaneforhire.com).

5 Things You Need to Know Before You Go: 2017 Great River Folk Festival

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By: Anastasia Penchi

Folk music is the original music of the working people.

The term has been used to describe the music made by whites in the rural South, but it also includes the music of the Southern blacks, Native Americans, Mexican-Americans, Cajuns and others. Realistically, there is no origin – it’s more an oral tradition of songs.
Folk music was sung by workers as they toiled in the fields. It was sung when people gathered at parties and relaxed on front porches. Folk songs were sung by parents who were putting their children to bed.
Folk songs are community-focused and often encourage participation. They are about work, war, love, civil rights, poverty and even nonsensical stuff. The songs are hopeful and sorrowful and mundane just like the lives of ordinary working people.

Here are five reasons to celebrate folk music at the Great River Folk Festival Aug. 25-27…

You know more folk music than you think

Think you aren’t going to know much folk music? Think harder. Your brain will sing the most popular classics without you. Ever see a tumbleweed in the desert and suddenly you’re singing “Blowin’ in the Wind” by Bob Dylan? That’s folk music. Problems in the family? Your brain will sing “Bridge Over Troubled Water” by Simon and Garfunkel – another folk song. Ever-lovin’ light shining on you? You know “Midnight Special” by Lead Belly is coming. Granted, I can’t promise those song will be sung, but there will be music by Bill Miller, Kind Country, Chicago Farmer, Steel City Jug Slammers and many others.

The crafts sold here are rooted in folk art

Every year, the Great River Folk Festival features some of the area’s most talented and creative crafters and artisans. Participants submit pictures of their work, and fest officials select quality, original objects that are rooted in the folk arts to be shown and sold to the public. All items are handcrafted, and crafters include potters, wood workers, fiber artists, jewelers, sculptors, luthiers (people who build or repair string instruments), food specialists and basket makers. Nothing mass produced is allowed. Come see this original work, and buy yourself something nice for a change.

Hear the results of the Songwriting and Performance Contest

The festival holds an annual Songwriting and Performance Contest with a mission to promote “the spirit of songwriting for all.” As a result, 12 finalists perform two songs each at the festival on Sunday. Songwriters are evaluated by a panel of Great River Folk Festival judges, and the first place winner receives a cash prize, a day in a recording studio and performs as the opening act on the main stage later that afternoon. Songs can be folk, acoustic, singer/songwriter, old time, bluegrass or a combination thereof. Entries must be original, may not exceed five minutes and cannot be previously recorded and released through national distribution in any country.

Be food brave

Ethnic and traditional foods are offered during this festival, so it’s a great opportunity to try something new food-wise. Crepe Jean Luc sells crepes, French pastries and cookies. Don’t those sound good? Best Way offers original gyros and chicken ones on pita bread. The Jewish Women’s League will be selling an Israeli plate on Sunday with hummus, babaganoush and Israeli salad. And for those with more traditional cravings, there’s Crooked Oak Wood-fired Pizza and homemade ice cream by The Pearl, among other deliciousness.

Don’t forget the new location

The Great River Folk Festival was held on the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse campus for 40-some odd years. It recently got moved to Riverside Park in downtown La Crosse. Now you can enjoy music, food and fun as you relax near the Mississippi River. The picturesque backdrop of the river, bluffs and bridges surrounds the park and festival. It’s beautiful for both the eyes and ears.

If you would like to see more traditional food options, or learn more about the Great River Folk Festival in general, visit the website at: www.greatriverfolkfest.org.

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Anastasia Penchi is graduate of UW-La Crosse and a long-time Coulee Region writer who has written for area newspapers and magazines (www.loislaneforhire.com).

Snaps Around Town: 4th of July

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We will be featuring a new ongoing photo series from Bob Good! Check back periodically!
We also feature a new photo that is shared with us on Instagram. Your photo could be next! Just snap a photo and use #explorelacrosse

I have photographed national musicians- American Authors, KISS, Frankie Valli, Sevendust, In This Moment, Papa Roach, Five Finger Death Punch and regional bands – TUGG, The Remainders, and countless others. Since 2015-2017, I was humbled and thankful to be a Best of La Crosse County finalist in the Photographer and Artist categories. Visit bobgoodphotographystudios.com.

5 Favorites You Didn’t Know Were From La Crosse County

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Believe it or not, La Crosse County has a few claims to fame.

Here’s a list of 5 things that stemmed from the area we know and love…in some way or another…

LaCroix

You’re probably familiar with this bubbly brand. You may also know, or wouldn’t be surprised, that it is the number one sparkling water brand in cans and number one domestic sparkling water. BUT did you know that it actually originates right here in La Crosse? LaCroix was introduced in 1981 by G. Heileman Brewing Company as the “Anti-Perrier” brand and later sold to National Beverage. 36 years later, the drink is still going strong with a variety of tasty flavors such as Berry, Cran-Raspberry, Lemon, Lime, Orange, Passion Fruit and many more. Sure to quench your thirst on a hot summer day.

‘Mr. Wizard’

Though he was not born in La Crosse, Mr. Wizard’s Don Herbert spent his childhood growing up in La Crosse. He began junior high in La Crosse in 1929 and continued on to high school at Central High and eventually attended the La Crosse State Teacher’s College. The two-time Emmy nominee’s popular TV show “Watch Mr. Wizard” ran on NBC-TV from 1951 to 1965. He then went on to host Nickelodeon’s “Mr. Wizard’s World” from 1983 to 1990. Herbert was the recipient of several awards including three Thomas Edison Awards, a Peabody Award for “Best TV Show Program for Children”, as well as appearances on The Tonight Show and Late Night with David Letterman.

Comedian Shane Mauss

You may have heard of this popular comedian or perhaps you’re familiar with his podcast “Here We Are.” Mauss was born right here in La Crosse County, Onalaska to be exact. Mauss broke in to stardom at the HBO US Comedy Arts Festival in 2007 where he won Best Stand-Up. Where can you see him? Catch this funny guy on the Netflix special ‘Mating Season’. Other notables include appearances on Conan, Jimmy Kimmel, Showtime, and Comedy Central Presents.

LaCrosse Footwear

Many are familiar with the old La Crosse Footwear Building in La Crosse as it now houses the very popular Pearl Street Brewery, located on St. Andrew Street. The company started operation in 1897 as the La Crosse Rubber Mills Company, producing rubber horseshoes. The company soon switched to producing rubber fabrics, raincoats and ultimately became famous for their rubber boots and footwear. In 1930 the company became the city’s largest employer, providing jobs to 2,000 people. 1987 marked the year La Crosse Rubber Mills became LaCrosse Footwear Inc. Come 2001 the company decided to move their headquarters to Portland Oregon where they continue producing the ever popular footwear today.

Old Style

If La Crosse is known for anything, it’s for it’s rich brewing history. 1858 is the year Gottlieb Heileman and John Gund opened City Brewery in La Crosse. After a period of struggle and seemingly little to no growth, Gund sold his shares to Gottlieb, giving Heileman full ownership. Originally called Golden Leaf Lager in the 1890’s, Old Style made it’s first appearance in local stores in 1902. At that time, the company was producing around 160,000 barrels of Old Style Lager. The brand was eventually purchased by Pabst and left La Crosse but has since returned based on a contract between City Brewery and Pabst stating City Brewery is the sole producer of the Old Style Brand. Old Style Oktoberfest, a seasonal take on the classic, became available in the fall of 2016 – just in time for the annual Oktoberfest celebration in La Crosse. The brew celebrates the German roots of Old Style and is only available in the Midwest. Cheers to that!

We’re tons of fun, promise! Join us at some of our festivals!

5 Famous People From La Crosse County

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This city is not only a great location to visit, but also a hometown to many well-known names.

If you needed more reasons to visit La Crosse County take a look at who (or what) claims it as their birthplace…

#5-Gottlieb Heileman

Heilman is best known for founding The G. Heileman Brewing Company in 1858 in La Crosse, WI. Although originally from Germany, he immigrated over with his family and created the well-known company that produced local beers for people near or far to enjoy. When he passed away his wife, Johanna Heileman, took over the business. This made her one of the first female CEOs in the United States and the first female head of a brewery.

 

#4-Shane Mauss

From Onalaska, WI, Mauss is a stand-up American Comedian. He is most popular for his “Here We Are” podcast that interviews scientists and academic individuals. He has performed on the Late Night With Conan O’Brian five times, and appeared on other popular shows as well.

 

#3-Hamlin Garland

Born in West Salem in 1860, Garland has produced countless novels, poems, short stories, and essays. He won the Pultizer prize for one of his American novels in 1922, and drew most of his writing inspiration from the idea of the Midwestern farmer – all thanks to his time spent living in La Crosse County, no doubt!

 

#2-Don Zietlow

Don Zietlow is the CEO of Kwik Trip, a convenience store and gas station chain popular all over the Midwest. So, what’s the connection here? You may have already guessed it. Kwik Trip’s is headquartered right here in La Crosse, WI. The convenience store is known for it’s friendly customer service and excellent products, many of which are produced by the company itself.

 

#1-Festival Foods

Not a person, BUT, La Crosse County is home to another well known store. The Festival Foods story began in 1946 when Skogan’s IGA was founded by Paul & Jane Skogan. Skogan’s IGA began as a building attached to the couple’s Onalaska home. After Paul Skogan’s passing in 1976, his son, Dave, along with his wife, Barb, and brothers, Gary and Tom, took over operations. 1990 brought a shift in customer trends, giving the Skogan’s the idea to change the store’s format and in June of 1990 they opened the very first Festival Foods in Onalaska, WI.
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Miranda Martin is a junior at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, majoring in interpersonal communications with a double minor in creative writing and women gender studies. She is from Franklin, WI, and loves the Milwaukee area. In her free time she loves to write, read, exercise, and be around people! Her favorite aspects of La Crosse are the bluffs and the friendly community atmosphere.

5 Things You Need to Know Before You Go: Holmen, Wisconsin

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By: Anastasia Penchi

Holmen is a lot more than a suburb of La Crosse with a star that lights up on its most prominent bluff.

This village of almost 10,000 people has its own schools, churches, restaurants, grocery store and downtown Main Street. Granted, it doesn’t have everything the big cities have, but that’s part of its charm.
Holmen is known for a great summer festival featuring locally produced sweet corn other known features – equally appealing — are its great recreational opportunities that include trails for enthusiasts to bike and hike.
If small town communities are your thing, here are some thing to keep in mind about Holmen:

1) It’s all about the Korn

Holmen is known for offering its residents, neighbors and visitors freshly picked ears of corn that are grilled to perfection during its annual Kornfest celebration. Eating this corn is a sure sign that the heat and humidity of Wisconsin’s summer has arrived. Kornfest is held annually in August, but keep in mind that corn is only served on Saturday and Sunday. Other fun things happen at Kornfest, too, thanks to its community organizations. The Holmen American Legion organizes the festival in general and offers up music, a fun run and bingo, among other traditions; and the Holmen Lions put on a parade and classic car show. Also on the Kornfest menu is Pogy’s chicken, brats from the Holmen Locker and Meat Market and a St. Elizabeth’s breakfast on Sunday morning. If you leave this festival hungry you are doing it wrong.

2) Whose business is it anyway?

Take your family out to eat at Features Sports Bar & Grill or at Pizza Corral or T-Jo’s. Shop for groceries at Festival Foods. Buy supplies at Holmen Ace Hardware. Stay at Prairie Inn & Suites. Play golf at Drugan’s Castle Mound. Patronizing local businesses is hardly a hardship.

3) A historic hike

The Eagles song, “Seven Bridges Road” wasn’t written about McGilvray Bottoms, located about three miles northwest of Holmen, but that doesn’t mean you can’t pretend it was. Locally known as Seven Bridges Road, this road was closed in 1948 due to continual flooding, but it now serves as a hiking trail to some of the country’s rarest bowstring truss bridges built from 1905-1908. The road is listed on both the National and Wisconsin Registers of Historic Places, and is technically within the state-owned Van Loon Wildlife Area. A parking lot and picnic area mark the entrance. Take some bug spray and an MP3 player so you can hear the Eagles song as you walk along. And if you go close to dusk, you will see that there are stars in the northern skies, too.

4) Parks and concerts are a priority

Holmen has 12 parks, including Deer Wood Park, a 40-acre community park with hiking trails, a sledding hill, ball fields, tennis courts, play areas and more. This community was also one of the first in the area to have waterslides and a water play area when it opened the Holmen Area Aquatic Center in 1999. Halfway Creek Park in the middle of town has a band shell that features musicians every Sunday night through mid September — just bring blankets or lawn chairs for seating and listen to the music for free.

5) Make the two-wheel connection

Biking in a natural setting is easy in Holmen as Halfway Creek Trail follows Halfway Creek for 3.4 miles and then connects to the state’s Great River Bike Trail. The Great River Bike Trail is Wisconsin’s 24-mile trail that travels through prairies and the backwaters of the upper Mississippi River valley. It was built on an abandoned railroad line. That trail then connects to the La Crosse River State Trail, which then connects to the state’s Elroy-Sparta State Trail, which then connects to the “400” State Trail. Most of these trails are made of a finely crushed limestone surface so it is comfortable for biking (or even just walking). These trails total more than 100 miles, so if you are still going after this, you may want to consider the Tour de France.
Visit the city’s Web site at www.holmenwi.com or BOOK A ROOM at explorelacrosse.com. 
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Anastasia Penchi is graduate of UW-La Crosse and a long-time Coulee Region writer who has written for area newspapers and magazines (www.loislaneforhire.com).