# 17 in 2005 MAY 5 and BEYOND !

By Gary Knowles

garysgetaways@aol.com

PASS IT ON....If you enjoy this newsletter, tell your friends to sign up! It's an easy way to get more out of Wisconsin. Catch the live report Friday mornings at about 6:12 AM (on 1-7 at 5:40AM!) on WMTV 15 Madison. Thanks and remember -- The Weekend Starts Today!

CONTENTS

Manitowoc Packages & SS Badger Cruises
Volunteer for Madison Art Fair on the Square

1. FREE - WISCONSIN PORTS GUIDE
2. FREE NEW 2005 GREEN LAKE Visitor Guide
3. FREE 27 WISCONSIN COMMUNITY GUIDES
4. VISIT - NEW The Heidel House Getaway Store
5. FREE – NEW - CHEESE COUNTRY GUIDE
6. NEW FREE – MADISON GUIDE Spring & Summer 2005
7. NEW FREE – BAYFIELD GUIDE
8. NEW FREE – ASHLAND & BAYFIELD COUNTY GUIDE
9. NEW FREE – MADELINE ISLAND GUIDE
10. NEW FREE - 2005 WISCONSIN SPRING-SUMMER GUIDE
11. FREE - GREAT WIS BIRDING & NATURE TRAIL GUIDE
12. NEW-FREE – WISCONSIN RAPIDS AREA GUIDE

UNEXPECTED JOURNEY DEPT: A VISIT TO AOL HELL part two. To cure my AOL problem ( this newsletter was “blocked” by an AOL program last week because the program thought I might be “spamming” you all with it) I was told (by my advisor in Bombay or some such place) to go get another AOL CD and reinstall the AOL 9.0 program. Sounds like these guys have been taking lessons from Microsoft! But never mind. I’ve worked around it for now…so check out these events and go have a great weekend!

DON’T FORGET THIS ADVICE: I suggest you ALWAYS PHONE AHEAD BEFORE YOU GO. Reservations are a must if space is limited ...and often required. Don't assume anything! Event organizers change plans, times change, classes fill, and lots of things can conspire to get you to somewhere only to find something was canceled. Or everything. So if the event is important to the trip...--Call in advance.

Let’s hope the warm weather hangs around!

NOW Thru MAY 15

LAST TWO WEEKS!!

Fireside Dinner Theater 800/477-9505.
(Jefferson Co.)
1131 Janesville Ave., Fort Atkinson WI
Located on Bus Hwy 26 at the south edge of Fort Atkinson. (Jefferson Co.)
800.477.9505
www.firesidetheatre.com

SPEAKING OF MUSIC....

EVERY SATURDAY through Oct 22 Princeton/Princeton Flea Market: One of the largest weekly outdoor flea markets in Wisconsin. Enjoy food, shade and great friends. Saturdays, 7am-3pm. 920/295-3877. (Green Lake Co.)

THRU - Jun 5 Milwaukee/Degas Sculptures: You know his paintings, but there's another dimension to Degas - The Third. Degas Sculptures presents a rare opportunity to view in a single exhibition all 73 bronze sculptures by the great French Impressionist master, Edgar Degas (1834-1917). Milwaukee Art Museum 414/224-3200. (Milwaukee Co.)

THROUGH - Jun 5 Madison/Luminations: Sue Gilgen, a local fiber artist, will display her creations inspired by Wisconsin flora and fauna. Instead of paints and brushes, she uses fabric and thread to sew her art together in a quilt-like fashion. Olbrich Botanical Gardens Sundays, 11am-5pm. 608/246-4550. (Dane Co.)

THROUGH - Jun 5 Madison/Don Reitz: Clay, Fire, Salt and Wood: Born in 1929, Don Reitz is recognized as one of the most important and influential ceramic artists of this century. He has pursued a life-long investigation of salt and wood firing of his ceramic pieces in order to preserve the energy and freshness of his artistic marks and gestures. Finding that the texture and unpredictability of salt-firing suited his work, Reitz almost single-handedly revived this neglected technique, and through long experimentation developed a range of colors and surface effects previously unknown in salt-firing. Juggling and manipulating the variables in each firing, Reitz is a virtuoso who relishes knowing what he can control and what he cannot, and his work maintains a fine balance between technical mastery and improvisation. Elvehjem Museum of Art 608/263-2246. (Dane Co.)

THROUGH May 31 Port Edwards/Quilts by Janna Zimmerman of Green Bay: Alexander House. Opening on April 1st. 5-8pm 715/887-3442. (Wood Co.)

THROUGH- June 12, 2005- Wausau
"Richard Thompson: Seasons of Light" and "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland: Painting a Story"
Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum

Two painting exhibitions tell stories of cherished real places and of a make-believe world down a rabbit hole in the hands of artists Wisconsin artists Richard Thompson (1914-1991) and Diana Lakes. In "Seasons of Light" forty paintings by Impressionist Richard Thompson depict the glories of Wisconsin's lakes, fields, and forests. Each canvas creates a sense of place, whether it's early morning on a fishing stream, a barn peeking through sun-dappled, blossom-clad apple trees, or a flock of Canada geese making their way across a cornfield. "Seasons of Light" bears testimony to Thompson's fascination with nature's daily and seasonal cycles.

The eccentric characters from Lewis Carroll's children's classic inspired Madison artist Diana Lakes's "Painting a Story." Starting with Alice's first encounter with the tardy rabbit to her waking up from the dream that transports her to Wonderland, Lakes distorts the distinction between reality and dreams and even allows her painted scenes to overflow from the canvas onto the picture frame.

Franklin & 12th Street, Wausau, Wisconsin
Always Free Admission 715-845-7010 www.lywam.org

THROUGH- May 31 Door County/Festival of Blossoms: Thousands of acres of cherry and apple blossoms, millions of daffodils and tulips, and countless wildflowers in the meadows. Experience the lighthouse walk, shipyard tours, garden and wildflower hikes and artist's open studios and galleries. 800/527-3529. (Door Co.)

May 5: High Noon Saloon's 1st Year Anniversary Party
High Noon Saloon, 701 E. Washington Ave., Madison
Celebrate High Noon Saloon's 1 year anniversary party with a night of music by Awesome Car Funmaker, Transformer Lootbag, Colony of Watts and others. $5 cover.

May 5 - May 8 Chippewa Falls/Historic Preservation Celebration: "The Past Passed Here" is a special event featuring four days of hands-on activities highlighting the historic sights and sounds of early Chippewa Falls. Our National Historic Preservation Week Celebration will include historic re-enactors portraying characters from the Fur Trade Era and the Lumbering Era. Visitors to the historic encampment will experience camp skill competitions, 1800's style food and browse a traders row selling period merchandise. Regionally acclaimed musical entertainers Jerry Way & The Swampers and Voyager Singers who perform at Big Top Chautauqua will perform Friday and Saturday nights respectively. Walking tours and horse-drawn wagon rides in our Downtown Historic District and candlelight shopping will compliment this unique spring event. Downtown in Allen Park Friday, 6-9pm, Saturday-Sunday all day. 715/723-7858. (Chippewa Co.)

May 6 Sheboygan/Festive Fridays: Monthly series features "hot" live music, dancing, appetizers, optional guided tours of the exhibitions-plus make new acquaintances, mingle with old friends. Beer, wine, and nonalcoholic beverages at a nominal charge. Become a member at the door and receive free admission that night plus discounts on future events. Attendees must be 21 or older. John Michael Kohler Art Center Festive Fridays are 6-9pm. 920/458-6144. (Sheboygan Co.)

May 6: Gallery Night MADISON
More than 40 participating venues; see www.mmoca.org for details. Gallery Night, the showcase event for Madison's vibrant visual arts scene, is organized by the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art. Patrons can enjoy a variety of exhibitions, openings and special arts-related events at more that 40 area galleries and other art venues. See mmoca.org for locations.

May 6 Madison/Gallery Night at the WI Historical Museum: Explore fascinating stories behind 16 historic paintings. A short video on the evolution of American frame design, 1820-1920 will be shown during the evening. Wisconsin Historical Museum 5-9pm. 608/264-6555. (Dane Co.)

MAY 6 OCONOMOWOC
The Oconomowoc and Lake Country Museum
103 W. Jefferson Street, Oconomowoc will begin its 14th season on Friday May 6th. New this year will be "William Wegener: A Musical Life" a commemoration of opera tenor and native son William Wegener (1868-1965), visitors will be able to hear his singing voice. Also new will be an exhibit on "The Indispensable Handbag", Oconomowoc furniture and unusual agricultural hand tools. This will be the last time for visitors to see the Marine Railway exhibit and the vintage outboard motors because in July they will be retired to make room for a large exhibit entitled, "Fire! In a Small Town" a history of five major fires that dramatically changed the landscape in Oconomowoc. The Museum will be open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 1 to 5 P.M. Special tours are welcome anytime by appointment For additional information, contact the museum at 262-569-0740.

May 6 - May 7 La Crosse/La Crosse Symphony Orchestra 2004-05: Performing six concerts for the 2004-05 season. Viterbo University Fine Arts Center Concert Preview: 6:45pm; Concert: 7:30pm; Reception: 9:30pm. 608/783-2121. (La Crosse Co.)

May 6 - May 7 Wausau/Wausau Dance Theatre's Storybook Weekend: Don't be late for this very important date! In a fantastic celebration of the performing and visual arts, Wausau Dance Theatre will premier "Alice in Wonderland" during its third annual Storybook Weekend. In addition to the dance performances, families can attend a weekend long "Mad Hatter's Tea Party" complete with crafts, games and activities. Just down the road, the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum is exhibiting "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland: Painting a Story" with artist Diane Lakes. Grand Theatre on Artsblock Performances: Fri: 7:30pm; Sat 1:30pm & 7:30pm. Mad Hatter's Tea Party: Fri: 5pm-8pm; Sat: 11am-4pm. 715/842-0988. (Marathon Co.)

May 6 - May 8 Bay City/World's Greatest Garage Sale (formerly 85-Mile Garage Sale): If you are looking for great bargains, good food, beautiful scenery, come to the World's Greatest Garage Sale! Alma to Bay City, WI; Red Wing to Winona, MN 800/442-3011. (Pepin Co.)

May 6-8: Dairyland Classic Dog Show MADISON
Exhibition Hall, Alliant Energy Center, 1919 Alliant Energy Center Way, Madison
The show is sponsored by the Badger Kennel Club, which is an all-volunteer, non-profit organization that encourages positive dog-training techniques, handling, and maintenance of dogs. The three days feature three different competitions: Best Veteran Competition, Best Bred by Exhibitor, and Best Puppy. The general public is encouraged to attend these exciting events; admission is $5 for adults and $1 for children under 12.

May 6 - May 9 Horicon/Marsh Melodies-Horicon Marsh Bird Festival: Experience the peak of the spring bird migration. Includes guided bird hikes, bird banding demonstration, pontoon boat birding adventures, birding for kids, BIG SIT and more. Reservations required for some events. Horicon Marsh Area 920/387-7860. (Dodge Co.)

May 6-May 29: Dirty Blonde MADISON
UW Mitchell Theatre, 821 University Ave., Madison
At turns a comedy, a romance, a historical biography of Mae West and a kind of vaudeville act all rolled into one, Dirty Blonde tells the story of Jo and Charlie, two lonely West fans who meet at her grave and form a unique relationship as they swap tales of their hero (and Jo assumes the role of West in song-filled flashbacks).

May 7: Celebrate Madison! Monona Terrace® Community and Convention Center, One John Nolen Dr., Madison
The goal of Celebrate Madison! is to bring together all the ethnic communities of Madison to one event in order to learn about and experience each others’ cultures and traditions. Many ethnic communities have individual festivals but Celebrate Madison! is the only festival that encompasses all communities and cultures.

May 7 Green Bay/Sheep Shearing/Breakfast on the Farm: Enjoy a old-fashioned farm breakfast followed by demonstrations of sheep shearing. Heritage Hill State Historical Park. 10am-4:30pm. 800/721-5150. (Brown Co.)

May 7 Beloit/Progress Days: Opening day of the historic Beckman Mill. Bake sale, popcorn, demonstration of mill, and refreshments. Come see in person the results of the reconstruction work done on the 1848 cooperage building. Beckman Mill, 11600 S. County Rd. H. 11am-4pm. 800/423-5648. (Rock Co.)

May 7 DeForest/Chris McHugh Comedy for a Cure!: Comedy Show with local and nationally known talent benefiting Relay for Life DeForest Performing Arts Center 608/846-2600. (Dane Co.)

May 7 Eagle/Early Morning Bird Walk: Join experienced ornithologists and bird watchers on a guided bird walk in search of some 60 species routinely seen, then enjoy a delicious continental breakfast. Reservations required. Old World Wisconsin 6-9am 262/594-2922. (Waukesha Co.)

May 7 Kenosha/Birds & Breakfast: Annual pancake and sausage breakfast, and the opportunity to hike and view the spring bird migration. Hawthorn Hollow Nature Sanctuary & Arboretum 7:30am-11:30am 262/552-8196. (Kenosha Co.)

May 7 Kenosha/Blues & Brews at the Rhode Opera House: The Downtown Kiwanis is doing a Blues show with: Eddy "the Chief" Clearwater (National Chicago Act), Jim Liban (of Short Stuff Fame Milwaukee) and Reverend Raven & the Chain Smokin Altar Boys (Best Blues Band in the State WAMI award winner Milwaukee). A selection of micro brews and wine will be served; cash bar. Hors d' oeuvres buffet of Bar-b-que pulled pork sandwiches, bbq meatballs, black beans & rice, cajun sausage etc. Kerry Spitzer will play acoustic blues in the lobby during social times. Rhode Center for the Arts (Rhode Opera House) 6-11:45pm 262/652-2995. (Kenosha Co.)

May 7 Kenosha/Kenosha Symphony Orchestra: Reuther High School Auditorium 8pm 262/654-9080. (Kenosha Co.)

May 7 Lake Geneva/Lake Geneva Marathon: Five different road races including a marathon 26-mile walk/run, a 5k walk/run, and a 25K run. Pre-race pasta dinner & post-race picnic. Library Park 262/275-3577. (Walworth Co.)

May 7 Madison/Audubon Art Fair: Early spring and garden event featuring fine arts and fine crafts. Sponsored by the Madison Audubon Society. Olbrich Botanical Gardens 9:30am-4:30pm. 608/255-2473. (Dane Co.)

May 7 Muskego/Wine and Cheese Tasting: Fine evening of over 30 wines from various regions available for your tasting enjoyment. Cheese from Wisconsin, hors d'oeuvres, music. coffee, and to finish off the evening, some wonderful chocolate. Wines will be provided by: Chuckies House of Wine. Wine, delectable chocolates and the most beautiful hanging baskets will be available for purchase, with a percentage going to the Friends. Muskego Public Library 7-10pm. 262/971-2101. (Waukesha Co.)

May 7: 3rd Annual Prairie Run
Fitchburg Center, 2800 S. Fish Hatchery Rd., Madison
This 10K run, 5K Run and a 2 mile walk begins at 10am and the proceeds from the event will be used to launch a family education campaign, called "Early Commitment to Good Health." This is a great way to enjoy the beautiful weather, get some exercise and benefit a great cause. Call 608-273-4433 for more information or visit www.woodshollow.org.

May 7: South Central Special Olympics Track & Field Meet
Oregon High School, 456 N. Perry Pkwy, Oregon
Over 600 athletes and coaches will be competing in running and walking events along with many field events including the long jump and shot put among others. All competitors are awarded ribbons ranging from 1st to 8th place–everyone is a winner and no one that competes walks away empty handed.

May 7 Manitowoc/An American Salute: Presented by the UW-Manitowoc Lakeshore Wind Ensemble, this traditional concert pays homage to the genius of American composers. Capitol Civic Centre 7:30 pm 920/683-2184. (Manitowoc Co.)

May 7 Manitowoc/U.S.S. Lagarto Remembrance Ceremony: Join World War II veterans to remember one of the four Manitowoc-built submarines lost during the war. Wisconsin Maritime Museum 1 pm 866/724-2356. (Manitowoc Co.)

May 7 Manitowoc/UW-Manitowoc Lakeshore Wind Ensemble: The Winds of March - March 12, 2005. An American Salute. From the New World - May 7, 2005. All of the above are at the Capitol Civic Centre in downtown Manitowoc. Music Under the Stars-A Summer Serenade - July 31, 2005 Two Rivers Band Shell. 913 S 8th St. 920/683-4733. (Manitowoc Co.)

May 7 Oshkosh/Hermans Hermits: Herman's Hermits starring Peter Noone. Boomers, students and seniors all enjoy a Herman's Hermits concert. At the age of 15, Peter achieved international fame as "Herman" lead singer of the legendary Sixties pop band Herman's Hermits. His hits include "I'm Into Something Good", "Mrs. Brown, You've Got a Lovely Daughter" and "I'm Henry the VIII, I Am". The group sold over 60 million recordings with 14 singles and seven albums going gold. After following up with movies, Broadway, television and more, Peter's back on the road. Grand Opera House 920/424-2350. (Winnebago Co.)

May 7 Sheboygan Falls/Schuhplattlers Spring Dance: 71st Anniversary of the Schuhplattlers Spring Dance. Doors open at 6pm. Live music by the "Music Vendors" from 7-11 p.m. There will be visiting Schuhplattlers & D'Werdenfelser. German food, beverages, desserts and money and straw raffles. Admission is charged. Sheboygan Falls Municipal Building Doors open at 6pm. Music from 7-11pm. 920/803-0167. (Sheboygan Co.)

May 7 Racine/Kiwanis Pancake Day: All you can eat, pancake and sausage meal served by many local volunteers, politicians, celebrities and Kiwanis family members. Featuring many forms of local entertainment. Festival Hall 6am-6pm 262/835-2373. (Racine Co.)

May 7 Racine/Lakefront Artists Fair: A wonderful family event featuring over 100 artist from throughout the midwest. Racine's first outdoor art fair of the season. Festival Park 8am-4pm. 262/637-7892. (Racine Co.)

May 7 Waukesha/Waukesha Art Crawl: Ride the free trolley or walk between numerous galleries in historic downtown Waukesha. 8th year, food, music, performance arts. Well publicized seasonal theme, perfect blend of art, food, entertainment. Downtown 4-10pm. 262/719-5099. (Waukesha Co.)

May 7 West Bend/Pioneer Family Days: Get the chance to find out what life was like for early settlers in Wisconsin by attending this event. Visit and learn from a blacksmith, a flintknapper, a primitive musician, a fur trader, German immigrants, and frontier women. Old Courthouse Square 9am-4pm. 262/335-4678. (Washington Co.)

May 7 - May 8 Baraboo/Badger Steam and Gas Engine Club Spring Swap Meet & Flea Market: Auction, swap meet, flea market and food stand. Show grounds 4 miles north of Baraboo on Sand Road 8am-5pm. 608/544-2115. (Sauk Co.)

May 7 - May 8 West Allis/Cinco de Mayo Springfest: Wisconsin's Mexican heritage is celebrated with a flurry of color and sound. Mariachi bands, Mexican food, Mass and traditional dances. Wisconsin State Fair Park Noon-10pm, Sun Mass at 10:30am. 414/389-6000. (Milwaukee Co.)

May 7 - May 8 Hammond/Creative Drive 2005: Driving tour of eight Artist's Studios and Galleries in Western Wisconsin. Take a scenic drive through the rural landscapes and small towns of Pierce and St. Croix Counties. Visit with the artists, see their newest work, and tour their studios and galleries. Various studios/galleries in Pierce & St. Croix Counties 10am-5pm. 715/796-8869. (St. Croix Co.)

May 7 - May 8 Hatfield/Hatfield Flea Market: Fantastic flea markets under the towering pines in the beautiful Hatfield recreation area. Expanded parking, accessibility and vendor space. Flea markets and swap meets throughout Spring, Summer and Fall. 608/989-2275. (Jackson Co.)

May 8 Marshfield/Marshfield Art Fair: Marshfield's only juried fine arts fair. Kid's Creative Corner, Young Collector's Corner, demonstrations by artists, Rotary Club food booth. A Mother's Day tradition. Talented musicians and performers take to the stage throughout the day. 10am-4:30pm 715/387-5562. (Wood Co.)

May 8 Eagle/Old World Wisconsin: Mother's Day Buffet: A fabulous buffet awaits mothers and their families at Clausing Barn Restaurant. All moms receive half-price admission to the museum this day! 10am-2pm. 262/594-6300. (Waukesha Co.)

May 8 Janesville/Mother's Day Tours: History buffs rejoice! This tour has everything you need to step back in time. The tour of Janesville's award winning historic house museum includes all five levels from the basement to the cupola, all restored to their 1857 splendor. This 26-room Italianate villa style mansion is the only private home still in existence in Wisconsin that can boast Abraham Lincoln as an overnight guest. Also included in the tour are the Tallman Horse Barn and Wilson King Stone House. Lincoln Tallman House 608/756-4509. (Rock Co.)

May 8 Mayville/International Migratory Bird Day: Height of the spring migration of birds through the Horicon Marsh area. Easy viewing from auto, trails, boardwalk, back roads. Bring binoculars. Horicon National Wildlife Refuge 920/387-2658. (Dodge Co.)

May 8: Mother's Day Concert MADISON
Olbrich Botanical Gardens, 3330 Atwood Ave., Madison
Bring your mother to Olbrich to stroll through the spring blooms in the Wildflower Garden, Rock Garden, Meadow Garden and tulip beds. Enjoy a concert by the New Horizons Concert Band in the Evjue Commons. Theconcert will be 2pm-3pm.

May 7, 2005
FISHING SEASON OPENS State Wide

May 7 Medford/Spring Amish Quilt & Consignment Auction: Auction items will include quilts, crafts, old & new furniture, antiques, and a bake sale. Simon Schmucker Farm 8:30am 888/682-9567. (Taylor Co.)

May 7 Phillips/Craft & Treasure Sale: More than 50 booths with a wide variety of items for sale including crafts, bakery, food items, antiques, plants, and many more. Sponsored by American Legion Post. Phillips Municipal Building 800/269-4505. (Price Co.)

May 7 Townsend/Commission on Aging Craft Fair: Commission on Aging Craft Fair at Townsend Town Hall. Townsend Town Hall 9am-3pm. 800/649-6568. (Oconto Co.)

May 7, 2005
3rd Annual CRAFT & TREASURE SALE Phillips Municipal Building
9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Over 50 booths with a wide variety of items for sale including crafts, bakery, food items, antiques, plants, and many, many others. Sponsored by American Legion Post Auxiliary. There are others sale locations as well. E-mail: northwoodsartist@webtv.net
Website: www.phillipswisconsin.org. 715-339-4029

May 14, VESPER Starts at 8AM
Vesper Celebration Day sponsored by Community Progress Initiative Group in the Vesper area. The event will feature area businesses and showcase local organizations. Rummage sales will be held village-wide and in the surrounding community. Vendors will be set up in the community center; artists, crafters, children’s activities, woodcarving, maple syrup, Amish specialties, breakfast items, rummage items, book sale, brat fry, silent auction, kite flying demo. petting zoo, and much more! Look for activities through out the Vesper area. Come visit our Heritage Village, enjoy our parks and walking trails. Location: Vesper, WI from Wis. Rapids, Hwy 13/73 North to Hwy 186, turn right, Hwy 186 goes into Vesper. Community Center is on Hwy 186, watch for signs. Stop at center to pick up map of area.

Just for Kids
Saturday, May 14th, 2005 10:00AM - 11:30AM $7.00/child ($5.00/child for WHS members)
Folk Expressions Workshop: Paint a Wooden Fish Decoy
Join us for this program aimed for children ages 8-13. Participants will learn the basics of painting a wooden fish decoy, and make one to take home. Call 608-264-6567 to register, or register at the door.
Wisconsin Historical Museum, 30 N Carroll St., Madison, WI 53703.
Call 608-264-6555 for more info, or visit our website at www.wisconsinhistory.org/museum

May 13 –June 12
BAYFIELD IN BLOOM – Bayfield
Bayfield, Wisconsin’s third-annual “Bayfield in Bloom” month-long spring celebration is set for May 13 through June 12, 2005. Throughout the month, visitors will be able to enjoy numerous activities, many focusing on gardening and the abundance of nature in Bayfield. Visitors will be given a FREE round-trip ride to Madeline Island with an open house at Big Bay State Park. Other events include the annual Apple Blossom Run & Walk and Bayfield’s Bloomin’ Garage Sales. Allen Solomon, at the Chicago Tribune, listed Bayfield as “The Best Little Town in the Midwest.”

Friday, May 13: Wisconsin Public Radio Larry Meiller Show "Garden Talk" “Ask the Expert” Sessions* following Larry Meiller Show, Bayfield Arbor Day Planting 9 AM, Memorial Park

Saturday, May 14: “Bayfield in Bloom” Tea, Bayfield Inn, 10 AM – 3 PM
Spring Arts & Crafts Boutique, Bayfield Inn, 10 AM – 3 PM
Apostle Island Cruises begin for the season
Big Top Chautauqua Annual Tent Raising, 7 AM all day
Port Superior Marina “Marina Tours” 1 PM
Bayfield is located on the shores of Lake Superior and is considered the gateway to the Apostle Islands. Come to enjoy the natural beauty of Bayfield’s orchards, wildflowers, and daffodils. Stay for the comfortable lodging, exceptional restaurants, and quaint retail shops. For a complete schedule of events go to www.bayfield.org or call 800-447-4094.

HIDDEN PRAIRIE RENDEZVOUS

Dover (east of Phillips)
9 a.m - 4 p.m. Portrayal of this area before the 1840s. Woods walk, hawk & knife, black powder shoot, primitive bow shoot, fire starting, fry pan tossing, kids games; Provided: Secluded camping, portable toilets, fire wood, water, Tin Tipi area, early setup; $15.00 Camp Fee; traders welcome; E-mail: dashack@centurytel.net; cty75210@centurytel.net; grandpawii@centurytel.net
Website: http://home.centurytel.net/Ogema-port/.
715-767-5807

May 13-15, 2005
NORTHWOODS PLAYERS SPRING MUSICAL
Phillips High School Auditorium
Friday & Saturday, May 13 & 14, 7:30 p.m., Sunday, May 15, 2 p.m.; advance ticket prices: $6.00 Adults; $5.00 Students/Senior Citizens, $4.00 for children under 12; tickets are $1.00 more at the door. E-mail: nwpglor@pctcnet.net ; Website: www.northwoodsplayers.com; www.angelfire.com/musicals/nwp.
715-339-3908

Tuesday, May 17th 12:15 PM – Suggested donation- $2.00
"Swedes, Norwegians, Danes* And Americans"
History Sandwiched In -
In Swedish author Wilhelm Moberg's great immigrant saga, The Last Letter Home, as Karl Oskar faces forward toward his new land, his wife, Kristina, looks back over her shoulder at her old home in the old country. A hundred and fifty years later, as we look at our land and at the land of our ancestors, what do WE see? Who are we, immigrants of immigrants' children from the old country? Can we go home again? Is that 'old country' still there, or is it changed beyond all of our parents' and grandparents' recognition? Are there immigrant strengths and risk-taking genes we have inherited? Through poems, stories, and photos, this discussion will look at connections with the past and the present, the American Upper Midwest, and Scandinavia. Join Carolyn Wedin who has returned "home" to the northwest Wisconsin woods after thirty-five years of teaching in universities in the United Stated and abroad.
Wisconsin Historical Museum, 30 N Carroll St., Madison, WI 53703.
Call 608-264-6555 for more info, or visit our website at www.wisconsinhistory.org/museum

Author's Workshop Series:
Saturday, May 21st 10:00 AM-2:00 PM - $40 ($35 WHS Members)
Preserving War-time Correspondence -
***( registration required by May 17th -)*
This workshop focuses on the importance of preserving war-time correspondence. Morning speakers will examine the topic using examples drawn from previous collection and publishing projects of the WHS press. Afternoon speakers discuss items, such as manuscripts and artifacts, that museums and archives are interested in preserving and the relevance of these materials to recent conflicts. Featured speakers: Kathy Borkowski, Kristin Foster and Helmut Knies for the Wisconsin Historical Society and Gayle Martinson and Bill Brewster form the Wisconsin Veterans Museum. Workshop registrants will receive a box lunch, a copy of the book Voices from Vietnam, and a DVD of Wisconsin Public Television's Wisconsin World War II Stories.
Cost is $35/WHS member; $40/non-member
Registration and payment due by May 17th at (608) 264-6566 or museum@whs.wisc.edu MasterCard and VISA accepted.
Wisconsin Historical Museum, 30 N Carroll St., Madison, WI 53703.
Call 608-264-6555 for more info, or visit our website at www.wisconsinhistory.org/museum

May 22, 2005 Madison - Capitol Square
Art & Architecture Tour II
Building on the success of last year's popular fundraiser for the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art, the Art League will again offer docent-led tours of condominium homes on the Capitol Square. This year’s tour, Art & Architecture II, will feature homes at 100 Wisconsin Avenue, a project of the Mullins Group and one of Madison¹s most impressive new residential developments. Art & Architecture II will take place on Sunday, May 22, with tours offered at 11 am, 1:30 and 4 pm, and a Patron Reception at 6 pm. Tickets cost $50 for the tour alone, and $100 for the tour and reception. For more information, call the museum at 257-0158 x 231 or email slang@mmoca.org.

May 2005 - TBA
25th Annual WOOD TICK RACES
Oxbo Resort, Park Falls
It all started 24 years ago in the bar at the Oxbo Resort, now known as the Wood Tick Racing Capital of the World, when a gentlemen named Dick Kuhnert wondered what to do with the many wood ticks emerging from their sleepy winter hibernation. Plucking a tick off of his arm, Dick placed it on the bar and watched as it sped around. Thus, the idea of the Wood Tick Race was born. Although the first year only drew a handful of racers, this event has grown annually and now hundreds of contestants vie for the title of Wood Tick Racing Champion. Although the founding father of the Wood Tick Race, Dick Kuhnert, is no longer with us, his tick judging gavel has been handed down to his son, Randy Kuhnert. Randy has attended Wood Tick Judging School and studied his father's notes from past races and will be ready to officiate once again at this year's race. Come out and see this amazing race or take a shot at being the lone survivor. The entry fee is $1 per tick and the lone surviving tick sponsor takes home the entire entrance fee pot. Registration of ticks begins at 2:00 p.m. and race begins at 4:00 p.m. E-mail: oxbo@pctcnet.net ; Website: www.oxboresort.com .
715-762-4786

5th Annaul SPRING WALLEYFEST
Wild Goose Resort, Pub & Grill, Park Falls On the Pike Lake Chain (includes Pike, Round, Amik & Turner Lakes); register at Wild Goose Resort, Pub & Grill; tournament is Saturday 6 a.m. - 12 noon & 3 - 9 p.m., Sunday 6 a.m. - 12 noon; 2 men/women per boat, 50 boats only (limited); entry fee includes continental breakfast & steak lunch.
E-mail: mothergoose@centurytel.net
Website address: parkfallswi.com/wildgooseresort
715-762-3566

MAY 22 – Madison -- Art League to Offer Art & Architecture II
100 Wisconsin Avenue is Venue for May 22nd Tour
The Art League will offer docent-led tours of condominium homes on the Capitol Square. This year’s tour, Art & Architecture II, will feature homes at “100 Wisconsin Avenue,” a project of the Mullins Group and one of Madison’s most highly acclaimed new commercial/residential developments. As the only new development offering residences directly on the Square, 100 Wisconsin Avenue features exceptional views of the Capitol Building, Lake Mendota, and Lake Monona. Each of its 45 condominium homes is unique in size, layout, and materials. This is due to the fact that each owner selected and worked with his or her own builder and designer to create an architecturally distinctive home from the building’s structural bones. In this year’s Art & Architecture tour, two of the participating owners are themselves interior designers, and a third is a respected painter and sculptor.

The unique small-group format used in Art & Architecture tours allows participants time to study the interior and architectural designs of the homes, as well as any of the artworks. Art League members, museum members, and other volunteers stationed in each home are available to describe the genesis and development of the collections, and discuss individual artworks and architectural details. Art & Architecture II will take place on Sunday, May 22, with tours offered at 11 am, 1:30 pm and 4 pm, and a Patron Reception at 6 pm. The ticket price is $50 for the tour alone, and $100 for the tour and reception. Funds raised through Art & Architecture II will benefit the exhibitions and education programs of the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art. For more information about Art & Architecture II, or about joining the Art League, call the museum at 608.257.0158 x 231.

Saturday, May 28th, 2005
Crafting History: Making a Wisconsin Hat
10:00AM - 1:00PM Free with admission
This drop-in program is geared for children in grades K-3. No registration required. Participants will make a history based art project.
Wisconsin Historical Museum, 30 N Carroll St., Madison, WI 53703.
Call 608-264-6555 for more info, or visit our website at www.wisconsinhistory.org/museum

May 29, 2005 – Tentative

June 18-19, 2005
Mighty Wheels Showcase Drives in for Father’s Day Weekend at Great Wolf Lodge, Wisconsin Dells.
Fearless daredevil driver Mark Schroeder will steer the Devastator Monster Truck into the air and dive into five cars in its path at the action-packed Father’s Day event both Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m. The Devastator joins massive military vehicles, racecars, fire engines, construction and farm equipment, 10 a.m.-2:15 p.m., in the courtyard at Great Wolf Lodge. Kids can climb on and sit inside many of the vehicles and get autographs from the Devastator driver, meet and greet Great Wolf Lodge mascots, Biko the Bear and Wiley the Wolf. No admission charge. Food and beverages available for purchase.
Interstate 90/94 at Hwy 12
Web site: www.greatwolflodge.com or call (800) 559-9653.

To volunteer you may download an application at mmoca.org or email us at artfair@mmoca.org. For more information, call Terry Boehner at (608) 257-0158.

FREE & SPECIAL !

1. Wisconsin Golf Guide
   For a free copy of the newest guide to all the public golf courses in Wisconsin, call the Department of Tourism at 1-800-432-8747 or visit travelwisconsin.com.

2. FREE-WISCONSIN HARBOR TOWNS GUIDE
   A colorful 44 page guide to all of Wisconsin's Harbor Communities. Free -- call 1-800-627-4896

3. NEW FREE – GREEN LAKE VISITORS GUIDE 2005
   –antiques, walking trails, fishing, golf, shopping, Boat tours. 1-800-253-7354 or info@greenlakecc.com

4. FREE 27 WISCONSIN COMMUNITY TRAVEL GUIDES - ONE STOP ORDERING -It's easy to get area guides for 27 major Wisconsin destinations...with just one request! The Wisconsin Association of Convention & Visitor Bureaus has an easy to use order form. Go to www.escapetowisconsin.com/modules/city/visitorsguide.php

5. NEW – The Heidel House Getaway Store –
   GREEN LAKE, Wis. – Shopping for great getaways and “the person who has everything” just got easier thanks to a new On-Line Store set up by Heidel House Resort. SHOP IS OPEN OPEN 24/7
   The “shop” is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week at www.heidelhouse.com/store.

6. NEW FREE CHEESE COUNTRY GUIDE -
   – Call for free guide at 1-888-222-9111

7. MADISON GUIDE – FREE 800-373-6376

8. BAYFIELD GUIDE – free- 800-447-4094

9. ASHLAND & BAYFIELD COUNTIES GUIDE 2005 – 800-264-9484 OR 800-472-6338

10. MADELINE ISLAND GUIDE – free 888-475-3386

11. FREE – NEW 2004 SPRING SUMMER- WISCONSIN RECREATION & TRAVEL GUIDES – Phone 1-800-432-TRIP or surf on over to www.travelwisconsin.com

12. NEW FREE – WISCONSIN BIRDING GUIDE & NATURE TRAIL: Lake Superior/Northwoods Edition This is the first of five highway-based viewing guides that includes driving directions, maps, bird descriptions and contact numbers for 87 northern Wisconsin bird spotting hotspots. It’s 72 pages, 6 by 11 inches and full color. Phone 1-800-432-8747 or go to www.travelwisconsin.com.

13. FREE – NEW “WISCONSIN RAPIDS AREA GUIDE!”
    This 2005 guide to the world’s most productive cranberry growing region features extraordinary drives through the marshes on ”The Cranberry Highway ® and information about events, attractions, lodging and recreation. www.visitwisrapids.com or phone 1-800-554-4484

14. NEW - FREE –Explore British Columbia’s Landscapes
    With a host of expansive ocean vistas, mountainous destinations, hip cities and charming towns, one might wonder where to begin when visiting the Canadian west coast this spring and summer. Well, ponder no longer. With two free 2005 BC Escapes guides shelling out the goods on packages and hotel offers; paired with Tourism British Columbia’s enlightening (and complimentary) Vacation Planner, Outdoor Adventure Guide and Approved Accommodation Guide, the sky and sea offer no limits when you call 1-800 HELLO BC (435-5622) or visit www.HelloBC.com

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Gary Knowles
487 Presidential Ln.
Madison, WI 53711
608-231-3884