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Click on any title below to go to the feature story... Fishing Has No Boundaries Annual Event for the Disabled Fall-Feel Fuels Following Fall Fests Fall things to Do In Northern Wisconsin October Fishing Roundup in the Northwoods! Things to Do in Northern Wisconsin the Spring and Early Summer. Fall Color Tours and Activities at Eagle River, Wisconsin. --Prize-Winning Recipes Available from Eagle River, Wisconsin's Cranberry Bake-Off. Ticks Race in Northwoods Derby, by Susan Lampert Smith What to do in Eagle River, Wisconsin in the Winter (Ice Palace, Snowmobiling, Cross Country Skiing, Sleigh Rides, Ice Fishing, Wildlife Viewing), By Naomi K. Shapiro (Features and Stories are added and changed frequently, so keep checking back). Disabled Get Opportunity to Fish and Enjoy the Unmatched Beauty and Bounty of Wisconsin's Northwoods At Eagle River's Annual Fishing Has No Boundaries Event by Naomi K. Shapiro The most common argument about Fishing Has No Boundaries-Eagle River (FHNB-ER), an annual event giving disabled people the opportunity to enjoy fishing, is: Who gets more out of it -- the disabled participants, or the volunteers who take them out and make the experience possible? In its 13th year in Eagle River, Fishing Has No Boundaries-Eagle River will this year welcome 120 physically and mentally challenged persons of all ages to its 2005 event, held on the Eagle River Chain of 28 Lakes (The largest chain of freshwater lakes in the world). With some 16 chapters nationally (Eagle River was among the first), FHNB events have given thousands of people the singular opportunity to enjoy what the average person may take for granted: Enjoying a weekend of fishing with all the wonders and beauty of nature surrounding them. FHNB-Eagle River's Mission Statement says it all: "Fishing Has No Boundaries-Eagle River is an educational, non-profit organization. Its purpose is to open the world of fishing to all disabled individuals, introduce educational devices to aid the disabled angler, and create an atmosphere of friendship and camaraderie with a people-helping-people event." The Eagle River FHNB event was jointly founded some 12 years ago by "three men who fell in love with an event where everyone pulled together for the benefit of others," says Wil Campbell, one of the founders, and current co-chair of the Eagle River FHNB. "We started out with 35 attendees the first year, and now it's grown to our maximum service limit of 120. It takes more than 150 volunteers, sponsors and professional guides to put this event on -- not including the support of the Eagle River Chamber of Commerce, service organizations, Native Americans, and others who do everything they can to further our efforts," adds Campbell. The event requires lodging, pontoon boats, food, specialized bait and tackle rigs, guiding, EMS personnel, public services like police and fire, entertainment, music, goody bags, prizes, trophies, raffles, drawings -- everyone's a winner -- and all are taken care of through the generosity and dedication of the greater Eagle River community -- plus folks who come from all over the Midwest to help. (Originally from the Chicago area, Campbell owns a factory in Ft. Wayne, Indiana, but visits his 85-year old mother who lives in Eagle River, "every chance I get"; is a Green Bay Packer fan; and of course intends to retire to Eagle River). "There can be as many as 32 full-size pontoon boats out on the water at any given time, each captained by a volunteer professional fishing guide, with at least one attendant," Campbell continues. After each day of fishing, the catch is measured, weighed, and photos are taken. Guides and volunteers clean some of the fish so that the guests can take them home. Sometimes there's an impromptu Wisconsin fish fry. An extremely fascinating aspect of FHNB is the ingenious ways and equipment that sponsors, manufacturers, and guides have come up with, so that just about anyone, with almost any type of disability, is able to fish. (At one FHNB event, held in Hayward, where FHNB originated, a quadruple amputee was able to cast a line using his chin, tongue, head and neck). When asked why he and so many others are so dedicated to this event, Campbell says, "It's always a standing argument as to who gets more out of it -- volunteers or guests? At times there are glitches and the like; and sometimes we've had some just awful weather; but it always works out; and, although it is very tiring, just as soon as we finish the current event, everyone is already anxious for the next year to come." "I can't emphasize enough, the personal satisfaction and enjoyment that we all get from doing this event," Campbell adds. There are no egos, and we've all seen lots of volunteers unashamedly weep, with pleasure and humility at the ultimate satisfaction they feel when their guests catch a fish and their faces have big smiles on them; or when the volunteers are hugged and kissed by the grateful guests. It's the best payday in the world" says the soft-spoken Campbell. "And then, imagine the fun of having our guests participate in our great karaoke event after a day of fishing. Sometimes we can't get them off the stage," Campbell says with a laugh. Campbell says the Eagle River area, as the quintessential definition of The Northwoods, lends itself perfectly to this type of event. Surrounded by the Nicolet National Forest and the Northern Highland State Forest, boasting some 1500 lakes, along with wetlands, meadows, flowers, birds, and wildlife galore, biking, hiking, picnicking, relaxation, historical sites and museums, Native American culture and history -- wonderful accommodations, and food, great hospitality services, and, most important -- caring, decent, warm, welcoming locals. "Once you see our participants (and volunteers) awestruck as they watch an eagle or osprey soar overhead; or a deer or other small mammals moving about in the woods; or they catch their first fish... THAT is special," says Campbell. These are things many of us take for granted, and are so very special to our guests. I just love it, and welcome any and all who would like to join us in our efforts to call us at 715-479-9309; e-mail: wbc1@newnorth.net," Campbell concludes. For more information, contact the Eagle River Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center, 800-359-6315; e-mail: info@eagleriver.org. Web: www.eagleriver.org - 30 - Wisconsin Autumn Realities Exceed the Fantasies (by Naomi K. Shapiro. © All rights reserved). Autumn in Wisconsin. Breezes blow cooler. The moon and stars seem brighter. Days shorten. Harvests are bountiful. Crowds are gone. Leaves turn colors. Wisconsin’s exquisite beauty and pristine environment beckon. And the colors dazzle! It’s time to drive, hike or bike amid thousands of colorful acres of Wisconsin forests, meadows, and wetlands garnished with glittering streams, rivers and glacial lakes. It’s time to watch eagles soar; see wildlife cavort; and listen for the call of the loon. Pick a road, path, or stream in any of these areas for elegant, fiery reds, oranges, golds and browns, plus watchable wildlife, birds, world class fishing, biking, golf, shopping, and antiquing. Stop for fresh cranberries, wild rice, antiques, or gifts at area shops. Seek silence, or the quiet bustle of small towns, where the locals are as unspoiled as the surroundings. Here are some Wisconsin destinations to savor in the fall... Eagle River, Wisconsin Surrounded by the world’s longest chain of 28 freshwater lakes, Eagle River, in northeast Wisconsin remains a top northwoods destination year-round. In addition to all the wonders of nature surrounding the area, take a self-guided tour of the historic boathouses and buildings on the Eagle River Chain. Visit Eagle River’s new Northwoods Children’s Museum; Historic “House of Memories”; and The Trees for Tomorrow Natural Resources Education Center, where exhibits, tours and classes spotlight Wisconsin’s pristine environment. Eagle River’s 20th Annual Cranberry Fest, October 1-3, 1999, will feature 12,000 pounds of fresh cranberries, all kinds of foods made with cranberries, including the world’s largest cranberry cheesecake, bake-off, bog tours, cranberry items and gifts, farmer’s market, antiques, Bog Bridge Tournament, 275 art & craft exhibits, family entertainment, music; and walk, run or bike fitness events. Favorite Roads /Trails: Biking, hiking, and driving trails circle Eagle River’s lakes (See centerfold map in Eagle River’s Vacation Book, available from the Eagle River Area Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center). Take any trail or road in the nearby Nicolet National Forest or Northern Highlands State Forest. For information, maps, and help planning to enjoy Wisconsin’s magnificent fall season: Eagle River, Wisconsin Area Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center: 800-359-6315. What To Expect on Northern Lakes in October: Or, ...Heeerrrre’s LUNKER! By Naomi K. Shapiro (© All rights reserved. Summer’s over. Days shorten. Harvest’s in. Winds blow. Birds head south. Rains come. Lakes get choppy..... The Packers are playing... BUT so are the musky and walleye; and, like the Packers, the musky and walleye “play for keeps”! Here’s what some local anglers reveal about fishing their “primo” northern fishing areas in October... Eagle River, Wisconsin “I get goose bumps. I’m quivering, as I even THINK about October,” exudes George Langley, Eagle River fishing guru/guide/bait & tackle shop owner (Eagle Sports). “October is the single best month of the year for musky, both for size and numbers,” Langley notes. “Musky are not just feeding, they’re gorging themselves for winter, and when they hit, it’s big. I mean, you’re going to feel them hit. It’s a thrill that is unmatched with any other gamefish,” Langley says. Musky will hit jerk baits, crank baits, but most of all they love HUGE, live suckers, he says. “These fish are trying to build up body fat, and the season tells them instinctively to feed as hard and as fast as they can. Big suckers fit their bill of fare perfectly,” Langley says. “Any lake in the Eagle River area will produce great musky in October,” Langley adds. “Just remember to fish the shallower weed edges to the deep water and you’ll get action.” Langley also notes that almost every musky caught in the Eagle River area is released. He goes on to say that walleye fishing is wonderful, too. “Use a 1/4 ounce jig and a big minnow. Nothing fancy. Fish slowly along shallow rocks and shoreline at night, and deep over hard bottom, or gravel, structure, and drop offs during the day. Not only will you get a possible trophy, but lots of anglers end up with limit stringers including 6-pounds-and-up-sized fish!” Langley laughs and concludes: “In the warmer weather, walleye and musky can be finicky and fickle. But in October, it’s like they take a ‘stupid pill,’ and bite at almost anything tempting that is put out for them.” For more information, contact the Eagle River Area Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center, 800-359-6315; e-mail = info@eagleriver.org; website = www.eagleriver.org Northern Wisconsin Offers Glorious Range of Spring and Summer Nature and Recreation -- For ALL To Enjoy! by Naomi K. Shapiro Whatever type of travel experience you prefer, you'll adore Northern Wisconsin's forests, lakes, rivers, meadows and wetlands in the spring and early summer. That's when trillium carpet the forest floors, marsh marigolds rest in roadside waters, and columbines nod from rocky settings. That's when you can pluck wild leeks and other edibles to spark your menu.. That's when you'll see and hear loons, eagles, and Great Blue Herons, enjoy the glorious sounds of hundreds of songbirds, and maybe spot a pileated woodpecker. And, because the trees and plants fill in slowly, the wildlife, not as shy in the early season, are more viewable; and because there are fewer people around, your chances increase to see fawns, or tiny, black bear cubs following mom across a road. In Northern Wisconsin's thousands of lakes and streams, the fish will have spawned and are hungry. This is a good time to teach yourself or a kid to fish. Dozens of bait shops and fishing guides will happily provide you with information, lessons, maps, and encouragement. And, while you might need a pair of rubbers in case it's muddy, the hiking, biking, golf, wildlife watching, and picnicking opportunities will be wonderful -- before the bugs come out (except for ticks which get active as soon as it gets warm). Many Northern Wisconsin communities, areas, attractions, and resorts share the bounty of wonderful outdoor and indoor activities; local warmth; and an understanding of what you're looking for. And of course, it's the time when accommodations are more modest, with special promotions and packages. (You'll find contact information at the end of the article). The Eagle River area (in northeast Wisconsin, about 220 miles east of the Twin Cities), has mapped trails winding past some of the 28 lakes surrounding the community; an Historic Boathouses & Buildings self-guided waterway tour; and maps to excellent roads and trails through the nearby Nicolet National Forest. In the Eagle River area, you can even throw your golf clubs in a boat and cruise to several courses! On your visit to Wisconsin, you may want to stay at a resort that has an indoor swimming pool and restaurant facilities, with the wealth of outdoor activities and nature just a step out the door. Another great way to savor Wisconsin's wildlife and scenery is to take a cruise: And if it rains, visit one of Northern Wisconsin's excellent museums: Eagle River's new Northwoods Children's Museum lets kids of all ages "playä forest ranger, catch and identify pretend fish, raid the period-clothes-hamper, blow a giant bubble, and many other interactive activities. Eagle River also boasts a new Historical Museum located at the Trees for Tomorrow Natural Resource Education Center, itself offering year-round nature seminars and workshops. Finally, Carl's Wood Art Museum in Eagle River has welcomed thousands of visitors over the years to its collection of woodcarvings, memorabilia and whimsy. Nobody said you HAD to wait until fall to take a fall color tour! Since the guidebooks exist, and the markers are up, get a brochure from the local Chamber of Commerce, and follow the signs to an area's interesting sites, scenes, and natural highlights. Northern Wisconsin resounds with golfing, hiking, biking, picnicking, ATV, antiquing, fishing, and shopping opportunities; as well as lots of events, parades, celebrations, fishing tournaments, and special activities throughout the season.* Call ahead for schedules, events, information, and opening dates. Although each area has a unique "flavor,ä they share a common, almost elegant attention to nature, wildlife, scenery, and relaxing, and have a welcome mat out for visitors like you. -30- Chambers of Commerce: Eagle River Area Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center: Box 1917, Eagle River, WI 54521; 1-800-359-6315; 715-479-6400; e-mail: info@eagleriver.org; website = www.eagleriver.org Fall Visitors to Northeast Wisconsin Can Explore Eagle River Area on Road Trips around Chain of 28 Lakes; Scenic Byway Drives; and Historic Boathouses and Buildings Waterway Tours By Naomi K. Shapiro For Fall enjoyment, the Eagle River Area of northeast Wisconsin offers Road Tours weaving around her Chain of 28 Lakes close into town; a Historic Boathouses and Buildings waterway tour; and maps to beautiful trails in the nearby Nicolet National Forest. Eagle River's "Road Tripsä map indicates points of historical and general interest; parks for picnics and shore lunches; dam; marked public boat landings, canoe portages, camping/trailer sites; marinas; and the map also keys to wildlife, fun stuff to do along the way, and places to eat. Another favorite of fall leaf-lookers to the Eagle River area is a visit to the Heritage Drive Scenic Byway just 8 miles east of Eagle River. The byway offers outstanding fall foliage of mixed hardwood and pines, indicates historic points including Indian archaeological sites, and military routes from the Civil war; plus hiking, picnicking, giant hemlock trees, nature trail, and interpretive center. More adventurous fall visitors, may wish to take the mapped, self-guided waterway tours on Eagle River's Chain of 28 Inland Lakes, which encompass dozens of magnificent turn-of-the-century boathouses brimming with history and unique architecture. (Includes boathouse featured in the movie, Omen II; a boathouse that served as a chapel for Our Sisters of Mercy, Sunset Point; boathouses that still harbor antique boats and artifacts; and boathouses significant in Eagle River's tourism & industrial development). For the Waterway Tours, Eagle River offers a fold-out locator map with photos, descriptive, and historical information about the boathouses. Best ways to take in fall season in Eagle River Area: Wonderful museums, unique, special shopping and antiquing, picnics, watchable wildlife, forests and flowers, restaurants of every description, and a mind boggling litany of special events featuring the rich multi-cultural heritage and history of the area, including the, voyageur/trading, logging and mining heydays, and events like the Annual Cranberry Festival that draw people of all ages from all over the world, year-after-year. ›Fish for walleye, northern, muskies and panfish on the chain of 28 Lakes. Every type of lunker gamefish, fowl, and seasonally hunted animal. The finest you'll ever experience. Guides, equipment, advice. . .all there, all the time, especially in the glory of fall! ›Hiking, Biking, Nature: Nicolet National Forest, Sylvania Wilderness; Trees For Tomorrow Environmental Center; Canoeing on the Wisconsin and Deerskin Rivers; Fish Hatchery and Walleye rearing ponds. ›Tour Cranberry Bogs and Winery. Unique, quaint, special shopping, antiques, and food products. Cranberry Specialties; Original Cranberry Glassware; candles, cookbooks, potpourris, etc. Fine gifts and collectible items; galleries and Gifts, from wildlife art to cookbooks to wood accessories. Eagle River's range includes major bakery, small bakeries, specialty candy stores, and a local Cheesecake enterprise that serves national markets! SPECIAL EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES of EAGLE RIVER IN THE FALL Eagle River's Annual Cranberry Fest - First weekend in October each year... Held each year during the early part of October, Cranberry Fest draws over 15,000 people to this weekend celebration of one of Wisconsin's and Eagle River's premier crops. In addition to the exquisite fall colors, you can go on scheduled cranberry bog and winery tours, watch the cranberry fest bakeoff; and indulge in various food items made with cranberries, such as cranberry fritters, cranberry cheesecake, cranberry sauerkraut meatballs, cranberry mustard, and cranberry catsup; plus an extensive arts and crafts show, quilt block contest and exhibits, bridge tournament, and wonderful live entertainment. And as with all Eagle River events, Cranberry Fest is geared to families and kids. As one person put it, "our family not only had a wonderful time at the festival, but learned a lot as well... A perfect combination of fun and learning about the area and what it has to offer.ä The best fishing for trophy muskies and walleyes takes place in the fall, in the Eagle River area. There are numerous lakes, many admidst the soothing lakes and quiet woods of the Nicolet National Forest, and outstanding area fishing guides if you'd like help. With its wonderful lakes and forests and wilderness, the area is also superb for hiking, biking, birdwatching, ATVing, and horseback riding. Eagle River is an area where you can go golfing -- by boat. Also, lots of wonderful places to stop along the 28 inland chain of lakes on a fall day, to sightsee, picnic, dine, or relax. There are a couple of riding stables in the Eagle River area. Another great way to enjoy the glorious fall colors in the forest. Also campgrounds; things for kids like new Northwoods Children's Museum; Carl's Wood Art Museum; Vilas County Historical Museum; and Shopping for antiques, candy and fudge, and gifts. For additional information: For information about Cranberry Fest and Eagle River, contact Eagle River Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center; phone 1-800-359-6315 or 715-479-8575. Ask for the Free 68-page Vacation Book. e-mail: info@eagleriver.org website address: http://www.eagleriver.org Prize-Winning Recipes From Eagle River, Wisconsin's Annual Cranberry Fest Bake-Off Available The Eagle River, Wisconsin, Chamber of Commerce is offering a cookbook of prize- winning -- and just plain favorite -- cranberry recipes from the Cranberry Bake-Off held during its annual Cranberry Fest. The 54-page cookbook includes previous years' winning recipes for Cranberry Chili Casserole, Layered Cranberry Lime Salad, Magic Cranberry Candy, and Orange-Cranberry Muffins, plus the most-requested recipes at the Cranberry Fest, such as Hot Spiced Cranberry-Apple Drink and Cranberry-Sauerkraut Meatballs. (See This Recipe in the RECIPE section of this website). To order the cookbook, send $5.00 plus $1.50 for postage and handling ($6.50) to: Eagle River Chamber of Commerce, Box 1917, Eagle River, WI 54521. This Annual Cranberry Fest is usually held the first weekend in October in Eagle River, when there will again be cranberry bog and winery tours, cranberry fitness walk-run-or-bike, weaving exhibit, petting zoo, entertainment, and, of course, a wide array of cranberry-related foods. Also, fresh cranberries, creamy cranberry cheese-cake, hot spiced cranapple drink, gourmet cranberry meatballs, cranberry chili, cranberry mustard, and lots of fresh baked goods. For information about Cranberry Fest and Eagle River, contact Eagle River Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center; phone1-800-359-6315 or 715-479-8575. Ask for the Free 68-page Vacation Book. e-mail: info@eagleriver.org website address: http://www.eagleriver.org What to do in Eagle River, Wisconsin, in the Winter... In addition to tons of snowy calendar activities,* residents of, and visitors to, Eagle River, Wisconsin, chill out with a blizzard of nifty winter activities and events! (*Also see our "Events Calendar" under "Features and Events" for dates and information for Events in Eagle River, Wisconsin, like the World Championship Snowmobile Derby, Klondike Days, Nicolet Sled Dog Sprints, and much more... Eagle River Annual Ice Palace Construction & Display. Between Christmas and mid-January each year, weather permitting, and stands through winter season in downtown Eagle River's Riverview Park. 800-359-6315; 715-479-8575. The majestic Eagle River ice palace rises each year -- and it's large -- as more than 2,600 eleven-inch blocks of ice are cut from Eagle River's Silver Lake and transported to downtown Eagle River; put together, differently each time, for a magnificent edifice. Fun to watch ice cut, being built, and then stands all season long for everyone to see and enjoy. Built by the Eagle River Area Fire Department and other volunteers. Located RIGHT ON snowmobile trail that goes through Eagle River. For cool memories, take pictures in front of Eagle River's unique Ice Palace! Recreational Snowmobiling in Eagle River, Wisconsin area: All winter long, conditions permitting. 800-359-6315; 715-479-8575. For information, contact Eagle River Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center; phone 1-800-359-6315 or 715-479-8575. Ask for the Free 68-page Vacation Book. e-mail: info@eagleriver.org website address: http://www.eagleriver.org Also, http://www.snowconditions.com Eagle River is known as the "Snowmobile Capital of the World," not just because it is the world center for snowmobile racing, but for over 600 miles of trails in Vilas County for recreational snowmobiling. All trails are scenic, including rides through the Beautiful Nicolet National Forest and the Northern Highland State Forest; and around and across many of the 1,300 lakes in Vilas County. Lots of wildlife -- deer, partridge, hares, other small mammals and birds. Connected to hundreds of miles of additional trails in neighboring counties. Snowmobile rentals, sales, service, and information available at several dealers in the Eagle River area. Cross Country Skiing, Sleigh Rides, Ice fishing, Wildlife viewing... *Cross country skiers find hundreds of miles of scenic trails in the Nicolet National Forest and the Northern Highland State Forest. (A very popular favorite is the Anvil Trail just outside of Eagle River). Classes and outings are planned by the Trees for Tomorrow Center in Eagle River. *Wildlife abounds in Eagle River's north woods: whitetail deer, rabbits, partridge. Lots of other mammals and winter birds (chickadees, nuthatches, woodpeckers, grosbeaks, etc.) are spotted regularly. *There's great fishing through the ice when the conditions are right! *Sleigh rides and hayrides are offered at the Bits & Wheels Ranch in Eagle River, with real horse-drawn sleigh rides on beautiful wooded trails. Party house and bonfire pit available. *Some people enjoy a cozy, glowing fire, and other indoor activities at one of Eagle River's many resorts and lodges. *Other winter activities and attractions in the Eagle River area include the Snowmobile Hall of Fame, World's Championship Snowmobile Derby Track, and Three Lakes Winery. For information, contact Eagle River Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center; phone1-800-359-6315 or 715-479-8575. Ask for the Free 68-page Vacation Book. e-mail: info@eagleriver.org website address: http://www.eagleriver.org |