Melissa Sabel's Blog

Going Up?

2008-04-21T17:29:00.002-05:00

If someone would have told me gas prices would be nearing $4.00/gallon a few years ago, I wouldn’t have believed it. However, looking back, if I would a penny for every time I complained about the price of gas then, I’d be…well, I’d be able to afford the gas now.

Sure, there are a lot of things we can do to limit the gas rate increase. We all took high school economics courses, we all understand supply and demand. But, limiting and reducing isn’t going to solve all the problems, at least at the moment. And, until we further explore alternatives, commit to bicycling only or re-enlist the use of horses, we have to wait it out.

But, just because the gas prices have increased to all new heights doesn’t mean you need to lock yourselves and your family in the house and sit in the dark. This is a perfect opportunity to rediscover what we have available to us in Portage County. So, to pay homage to some of the great things you can do without a car, here is my top six things to do this weekend.

6. The Green Circle or the Tomorrow River State Trail. Find a spot of trail near you and check it out at your own pace. There is bound to be a part nearby, with the Green Circle winding for 30.5 miles, and the Tomorrow River reaching from Plover to Scandinavia for 18 miles.

5. Be adventurous and play disc golf at Mead Park. If you get discouraged, check out K.A.S.H. Playground instead.

4. Get back to the water. Take your boat, canoe or kayak out on the water. Or – if you don’t have one – rent one from DivePoint Scuba, Nature Treks or Heckel’s Marina.

3. Horseback riding. Explore the changing season from a different perspective, at Wild West Campground & Corral.

2. Find your inner artist. Visit the Art Village and get your hands dirty. Or, help the kids get involved in the art room at the Central Wisconsin Children’s Museum.

1. One-word - Belt’s. Besides, with all that extra activity, not using your car, it is practically guilt-free.

What is in your top six?

Now, get out there!

Spring has sprung?

2008-03-19T08:24:00.000-05:00

Isn’t winter over yet?

Honestly.

I guess I shouldn’t pretend to be surprised. I have lived in Wisconsin for most of my life, so I should be used to the winter melting into spring – although that is a bit too literal this year. The lake in my drive-way (since it is much too big to be referred to as a ‘puddle’) reminds me on a daily basis the spring thaw is finally on its way in.

Nothing is more glorious in Wisconsin than the defined seasons and the state of constant change it produces. Years ago, when I briefly lived in the sunshine state, the only thing that marked the change of the seasons was the… well… I remember a few falling leaves. Not that I didn’t enjoy the change of scenery and while there were a few perks, like NO shoveling snow, they didn’t quite outweigh the downsides, like the humidity in the summer – or the 9 months I like to consider spring, summer and fall in Wisconsin.

This week Spring becomes official. With the looming spring cleaning, why not add another thing to the to-do list. Although, make this one all about you.

Spa Days, (mornings, evenings, heck even half an hour would work!) can provide an ultimate time to relax and rejuvenate. There is nothing quite like a mini-retreat in the middle of the week.

The Wellness Spa, (715/341-3333, www.wellnesssparesort.com), a full-service spa, is one of my favorite retreats – even if it is only for an eye-brow waxing. Hey, if they can rip hair out and you still feel “relaxed and rejuvenated” – imagine how you feel after having a massage or a mud bath.

The Steaming Stone Spa, (715/345-2777, www.steamingstone.com), is another great spa in the area. Offering a wide array of massage, skin, hair and nail care, they can definitely remind you to relax. Relatively new in the area, it is in the Oakwood Business Center in the Portage County Business Park, north of Highway HH.

And, yet, as the eternal optimist I am, I look will miss all the great winter activities that this years wonderful season afforded us. Sometimes, even I make myself sick.

For more information about things to see and do in the Stevens Point Area, visit www.stevenspointarea.com.

Now, get out there!

Pizza and a movie...

2008-03-11T07:47:00.001-05:00

Who doesn’t love a big slice of pizza with a few friends?

A few weeks ago, my husband and a good friend decided to participate in the Monster Pizza Challenge at Polito’s Pizza downtown. This challenge – to eat a 28 inch, 12 pound pizza in an hour or less – was a dare they couldn’t turn down.

When we arrived at Polito’s to witness the feat, we were told that this was the biggest pizza in Wisconsin. How fitting in the dairy state to consume that much cheese in one sitting. As they waited, excited and nervous, I was certain they were trying to channel Takeru Kobayashi (the infamous hot dog eating champ).

I was so intrigued at the will to devour such a large portion of pizza that I needed to pay homage to their efforts with a short video montage in the next post.

In the end, the pizza was delicious (as it always is) and they had a good time. Perhaps they will attempt this challenge again. (Gosh, I hope not, but I could go for a slice and an order of cinnamon knots now…)

Anyone else up for the challenge?

Now, get out there!

For more information about restaurants in the Stevens Point area visit: www.stevenspointarea.com/wheretodine.html.

The Montage...

2008-03-11T07:43:00.001-05:00

On a depressing note…

2008-02-25T17:46:00.002-06:00

Live music in our area took an upsetting turn of events here of late, as Clark Place said good bye to the community. Although, I hope the lights will only be dark on their stage temporarily, all is not lost for live local music venues.

Every Friday night, you can enjoy free live jazz music at the Ramada Stevens Point (formerly the Country Springs). Most Friday and Saturday nights Rudy’s Red Eye Grill, in the Holiday Inn, offers varying live music. The Sky Club plays host to River Cities Jazz on a frequent basis. The Jensen Center in Amherst offers the Tomorrow River Concert Series, providing a stage for a wide variety of music. Even UWSP hosts live music events on continual basis.

On a seasonal basis, live music and arts are widely available in Portage County, through local arts organizations like the Central Wisconsin Symphony Orchestra, Monteverdi Master Chorale and the UWSP Performing Art Series.

While we will miss you Clark Place, there are thankfully other venues to help fill the need for live music locally.

For more information about music events, visit www.stevenspointarea.com/events.html.

Now, get out there!

Still Waiting?

2007-12-21T07:37:00.001-06:00

I have a confession to make. I am a procrastinator. If there is a reason something can wait, it most likely will. Unfortunately, this time of year is no exception.

It is my responsibility to bake all the Christmas cookies, and that is a chore that has yet to be accomplished. Wrapping is a last ditch effort on Christmas Eve, usually immediately following their purchase.

This year, I really wanted to try something new for gift-giving. I didn’t want my gift to be just another store-bought dud. Then, I got to thinking about what I could do instead.

Then it dawned on me. The Riverfront Arts Center hosts a Fine Art Gift Gallery this time of year. A great gallery, which features art from local and regional artists, it is a great stop no matter what the season. However, this time browsing the art takes on a whole new meaning. After a few minutes I picked out a unique gift for my hard to buy for Mother-in-law, and I was on my way.

The best part of the whole experience was that not only did I get a one-of-a-kind gift, I am supporting the local artists and the Art Center – since a portion of the proceeds go back to support their operation.

Don’t know where the Riverfront Arts Center is? It is just behind Chase Bank on the Riverfront – in Pffifner Pioneer Park.

Now, get out there! Happy Holidays!

Do you hear what I hear?

2007-12-11T10:08:00.001-06:00

No. Not Christmas bells, it is the sound of snowmobiles moving out of storage and not just for a tune up this time.

As of yesterday, Zone 4 snowmobile trails are open in Portage County. (Zone 4 is approximately everything south of Highway 10 and East of I-39/51).

With the lack of winter weather we have experienced the past few seasons, this is a welcome change. For a map of the Portage County snowmobile trails visit the Stevens Point Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, 340 Division Street North, Stevens Point.

Now, get out there!

Burrr….it’s cold out there!

2007-12-07T12:33:00.000-06:00

Picture this… it is a quiet (or not so quiet in my house) Saturday afternoon. The chilly, scratch that – down right frigid, weather is keeping you inside, and the kids are getting restless. All the old stand-bys just won’t work today. You need to find something to do NOW!

Pack on the parka’s, hats, and mittens and get in the car. Drive directly to the Central Wisconsin Children’s Museum. There you will always find activities the whole family will enjoy with their hands-on imaginative exhibits. The kids will have a great time playing, they won’t even realize they are learning, too. But, just because it is a children’s museum, doesn’t mean mom and dad (or aunt, uncle, grandparent, friends) miss out. Just follow their lead and get involved.

The Children’s Museum is geared for children 6 months to 12 years, has a number of exhibits, special events, and programs. For more information visit their website: www.cwchildrensmuseum.org.

Remember only you can prevent cabin fever!

Now, get out there!

Back to the working world...

2007-12-04T16:15:00.000-06:00

Having made it through the first precious weeks with a newborn, albeit sleepless for the most part, I have finally emerged back into the world. Sure, I have changed a bit. But not sleeping for any period of time will do that…

After waking up Sunday morning to find the crisp snow, with a crunchy topping of ice, I knew my first blog would have to be about the winter wonderland that is Wisconsin. Having already fallen more than once on the ice and snow this year, my mind is already drifting to thoughts of spring. That is, however, until I remember that despite the hazardous conditions it creates for traffic and additional work it creates with clean-up, it does provide a great opportunity to get outdoors.

So, to pay homage to my graceful falls on the ice, here are some other ways to enjoy the ice Wisconsin winters provide (with or without the help of a zamboni).

Ice-skating is available at several parks (weather-permitting) later in the season and even if the weather doesn’t cooperate, you can skate indoors at the K.B. Willett Arena, for a minimal fee - they even rent skates.

If you would rather enjoy the ice with a hot beverage in one hand, seated safely, there are three sheets of ice dedicated to hockey in Portage County. Catch a game to appreciate the true skill of our local hockey players. It is a great way to see a different side of our community while supporting our youth, high school and college athletes.

So – bundle up and get out there!

For more information about ice skating or hockey locally, check out the website: http://www.spacvb.com/hockeyiceskating.html

A New Adventure...

2007-10-05T13:49:00.000-05:00

Well, I am at the brink of a new exciting adventure of sorts. Any day now, I am expecting the arrival of the newest member of our family. This adventure will take me a bit off-course from this blog – although I will try my best not to become a recluse shut-in during that time!

While I am tackling the obstacles of those first weeks with a newborn, although this time with the assistance of a toddler, I will not be posting anything new. However, don’t forget to take advantage of what’s right here in our backyard. I challenge you to add a few of the great activities our area has to offer to your fall and early winter to-do list. Trust me; none of them will be as back-breaking as raking your leaves or shoveling the first snowfall of the year!

Make sure to let me know what you discover on your own backyard adventures, I would love to hear about them!

Now, get out there!

Planning your backyard adventure for Labor Day Weekend

2007-08-30T16:28:00.000-05:00

Thinking about keeping it local this weekend?

Enjoy your last weekend of official summer vacation by exploring one of the local backyard events. Check out the Official Portage County 4-H Fair, at Rosholt Fair Park. Take in all the tastes and sounds of summer, before it makes its grand exit.

If you are looking for a bit more structure, take to the streets with the Justiceworks 7 Mile Walk/Run, starting downtown on Saturday. This walk/run even incorporates live music along the route.

For a more relaxing evening, sit and indulge your senses at the riverfront with live jazz and good food at the Riverfront Jazz Festival.

I promise there will still be enough time to be a weekend warrior and tackle your to-do-list at home!

Now, get out there!

*Looking for more info on the events I mentioned? Visit: http://www.stevenspointarea.com/events.html

Expanding your local palate…

2007-07-27T12:23:00.000-05:00

As we approach the dog days of summer, it can be easy to fall into a summer slump, especially with food. But, since summer marks the harvest of so many fresh fruits and vegetables, why not get out there, support a local farmer, and enhance your daily grub!

The Farmers Market, on the square in downtown Stevens Point, has been providing local products to consumers for more than 150 years. Available daily, spring through fall, the market boasts recent harvests of ever changing seasonal varieties. Need more inspiration? Be a part of a new event, Chef on the Square, being held this Saturday at the Downtown Stevens Point Farmers Market, to see how the produce of the day inspires a local chef.

Want more than just your local fruits and veggies? The Village Park at Plover recently opened its Outdoor Market, featuring produce, along with arts and crafts vendors. The market is open Saturday’s through October.

And, just in case you didn’t know – Potatoes grown here in the golden sands aren’t your ordinary Idaho spud. Here potatoes have a livelihood all their own. No matter the variety, at the annual Almond Tater Toot, this Friday & Saturday, potatoes are the cause for the celebration.

Now, get out there!

*Looking for more info on the events I mentioned? Visit: http://www.stevenspointarea.com/events.html

I hear music...

2007-07-05T13:23:00.000-05:00

Summer is the perfect fit for evening entertainment and a picnic. Luckily for those of you interested in a low-key, low-cost adventure with your family, it is easy to find. Each Wednesday from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., at the Pfiffner Park Bandshell, you and your dinner can be serenaded through August 8. Musical themes vary from week to week, but it will always be crowd pleasing.

If you are looking to let loose on a Friday, Party In the Park, also occurring at the Pfiffner Park Bandshell should be your first stop. Unwind on the riverfront, with a little music, from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. through August 10.

Looking for a little lunch time music? Eat to the Beat will give a whole new meaning to lunch out. Hosting the BYOL (Bring-your-own-lunch) by providing free live entertainment every Thursday afternoon from 11:45 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., turns the Hub Plaza to a secluded picnic oasis in the sunshine. Eat to the Beat runs through August 16.

Need more music? Clark Place, Rudy’s Redeye Grill, Sky Club, and SentryWorld are just some of the places you can get your fill of live musical entertainment throughout the summer. To plan your next night out start here: www.stevenspointarea.com/events.html.

Now, get out there!

Paddling the day away…

2007-06-28T15:27:00.000-05:00

Being nestled between the Wisconsin River, the Little Plover River, and the many flowages in between, our area has some great boating opportunities that don’t take hours to drive to. Whether you are looking to canoe, kayak, or even fish, you can find it. Don’t have the watercraft of your dreams? Visit Divepoint Scuba, Heckel’s Lake DuBay Marina, or Nature Treks to rent one for your next excursion.

If you like to water-ski, wake-board, tube, or jet-ski, some of the best places are Lake DuBay and the Wisconsin River. However, if you rather keep your feet planted on shore you can be a spectator to water sports (and some great stunts). Every other Saturday night, on Lake DuBay South Bay Beach, the Central Wisconsin Water Ski Show Team (the Water Walkers) performs family oriented themed water ski shows at 6:30pm. The next show is scheduled for June 30th.

Whether you’re looking for a few nibbles, and not by mosquitoes, or your trophy fish, the Wisconsin River, Lake DuBay Flowage, Biron Flowage and several other local lakes and streams offer premier angling opportunities.

Now, get out there!

*Looking for more info? Visit: http://www.stevenspointarea.com or stop by the Visitor Information Center, 340 Division Street North, Stevens Point to pick up a complimentary copy of the Portage County Trails & Wellness brochure or the Portage County Fishing Guide.

Welcome Summer!

2007-06-21T14:35:00.000-05:00

Today is the first official day of summer, and in honor of the longest day of the year, I am going to start a series of blogs about some of the great things to do locally with that extra sunshine at the end of the day.

Take it in Stride or Roll on through...
Our area has miles and miles of groomed trails for biking and hiking. Leisurely follow the Green Circle Trail, a 30.5 mile trail that circles the city winding along the Wisconsin River, Little Plover River and other tributaries. Take a journey down a once abandoned railroad bed, where the 14 mile Tomorrow River State Trail brings the county’s history and natural beauty to the forefront. Or, explore the George W. Mead Wildlife Area the third largest wildlife area in the state. The Mead offers over 80 miles of trails, including the 7-mile Berhahn Rookery Bicycle Loop open from May 15 – September 1.

Desperate to get off the beaten path for your evening adventure? Visit Standing Rocks County Park, which offers 10 miles of glacial trails framed by a forest and wildlife throughout. They have excellent mountain biking paths, great for all skill levels, but leave the training wheels at home.

Not looking for a trail system to take in scenery? There are many great bike rides through the county that never leave the road. Relive the past by biking the Ice Age Trail and wind through the hills and valleys once shaped by glaciers. Or, reconnect to the area’s polish heritage biking along the Polish Heritage Trail. (Not advised for young and inexperienced riders)

If you are looking for something a little closer to home, take in the Schmeeckle Reserve, Jordan Park, Lake Emily Park or just stroll through one of the many parks in your community.

Now, get out there – Happy Trails!

*Looking for more info? Visit: http://www.stevenspointarea.com or stop by the Visitor Information Center, 340 Division Street North, Stevens Point to pick up a complimentary copy of the Portage County Trails & Wellness brochure.

A few good tees

2007-06-13T10:37:00.000-05:00

Looking for a good drive without worrying about gas mileage? Then a visit to one of the areas golf courses is in order.

Public Courses
The Wisconsin River Golf Club (715/344-9152, www.golftheriver.com), known for its picturesque course along the Wisconsin River, allows you to play up to 6584 yards. This par 72 course is a part of the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary System, which ensures proper land management with wildlife in mind. Deer, fox, and wild turkey are commonly spotted roaming the course along with the golfers.

SentryWorlds (866/479-6753, www.sentryworld.com) championship golf course was recently ranked as one of Wisconsins top 6 courses by Golf Digest. The course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., ASGCA is celebrating its 25th Anniversary this year. SentryWorld is a par 72, 6,951 yard course well known for its signature hole, the flower hole, where over 50,000 blooming flowers can be seen annually.

Private Courses
While it is a private golf course, the Stevens Point Country Club (715/345-8905, www.stevenspointcountryclub.com) needs to be mentioned. This 18-hole, 6654 yard, par 72 course opened in 1925 and was designed by E. Lawrence Packard, ASGCA. For those die hard golfers, who belong to one of many other private courses, a reciprocal agreement will get you on the greens.

If you are looking for the 19th hole, or you are hungry after hitting the links, all three courses offer a wide variety of dining choices.

Now, get out there - Fore!

A little intro...

2007-06-11T15:58:00.000-05:00

How well do you know the area where you live?

Have you really taken advantage of everything it has to offer to truly appreciate where you call home? I proudly call Portage County home, albeit only after 7 years.

Let me take this opportunity to introduce myself. I came to Portage County to attend UWSP in 2000. Admittedly, it was second to Boston University, but it did not break my stride. Hailing from both a big city (Milwaukee, pop. 500,000+) and small city (Mayville, pop. 4,902), Stevens Point seemed to be the compromise.

As a student, I did not realize how great the city was. In fact, my first experience walking in December at the Schmeeckle Reserve left me lost and cold in the snow. Yes, I realize how ridiculous it sounds; but left without a map or car, and no good bus service quite yet, traveling more than 6 blocks from campus did not happen often.

Inevitably, friends and family came to town and I had to be the area tour guide, much like I will be on this blog.

Now, I serve as a tour guide of sorts working for the Stevens Point Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, where on a daily basis I field questions about what to see, do and eat in Portage County.

I would love to hear from you. I encourage you to comment and ask questions about our area. In the rare possibility I do not know the answer I will make up something believable.

So sit back, relax and get ready to learn something new about our area, then get out there!

Sables

2007-05-11T17:05:00.000-05:00

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