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Dear , Mother Nature has continually surprised us the last few months, and we're about 6 weeks ahead of usual this season. That means that the lilacs have already started to bud, and the flowers are bursting through the warming earth to make us smile each day. The flowering trees are in full bloom, and it seems like our local Farmers' Market should be ready to open - but not yet!
However Mother Nature behaves, the monthly calendar is a constant, and we welcome Easter and other April events this month.
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Jefferson County Hospitality Awards
 | | (L-R): Sara Armstrong, Geri Macejkovic, Ann Garthwait |
The Jefferson County Tourism Council is proud to announce the winner of the Golden Pineapple Award - Teri Macejkovic from B.E. Hive Hair Salon and Spa in Jefferson. Teri received the award at the ceremony/dinner on the evening of March 22 at Carp's Landing in Lake Mills.
Mark Nordeen, the award committee chair, stated: "We couldn't have been more pleased with Teri receiving our award. All the finalists are shining examples of the great hospitality and customer service in our county, but even the other finalists agreed that Teri was a perfect fit for the award."
The four runner-up finalists were Anne Garthwait from Sentry Foods in Lake Mills; Jaimie Brock from Black Hawk Tavern & Grill in Fort Atkinson; Mary Atwell from W.D. Hoard & Sons in Fort Atkinson; and Sara Armstrong from The Fireside in Fort Atkinson.
The following businesses sponsored this year's award: Jellystone Park of Fort Atkinson; Johnson Creek Premium Outlets; The Fireside Dinner Theater of Fort Atkinson; Culvers of Johnson Creek; Fort Atkinson Area Chamber of Commerce; and the Holiday Inn Express & Suites of Fort Atkinson.
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Longaberger Comes to Johnson Creek!
The Longaberger Company, a national direct seller of handmade American-crafted baskets and a line of home furnishings, has opened one of its first showrooms in Johnson Creek.
The Longaberger at Home showroom is an innovative concept that allows Longaberger to support its independent sales force with showrooms across America. The showrooms allow guests to purchase baskets, pottery, wrought iron and handbags along with other signature home and lifestyle products at a discounted rate, while providing guests the opportunity to see and order products currently available in the Longaberger catalog through an Independent Longaberger Home Consultant.
Longaberger at Home is an exciting addition to Johnson Creek Premium Outlets. Store hours are Monday to Saturday, 10am to 9pm, and Sunday, 10am to 7pm.
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Garman Nature Preserve
 For those of you not familiar with the Garman Nature Preserve located in Waterloo, you are truly missing a treasure right in your backyard! The preserve encompasses 39 acres of wooded trails, 22 conical Indian mounds, giant yellow hyssop (a state threatened species) and sweeping views from the top of the park's drumlin. Through her dedication to land preservation and green space, the Preserve was donated to the County by Theo Garman in 2003 in honor of her late husband John. A Master Plan was developed for the Preserve in 2007. The park's trailhead and trails have been installed, and further development continues today. The Jefferson County Parks Department is planning several park improvement projects for the 2012 field season.
Indian Mounds Restoration Project
Park staff has been removing trees from both on and around the group of 22 Indian mounds that are located within the Preserve. The tree removal project follows the HoChunk and DNR management recommendations and guidelines for mound stabilization and reconstruction. Park staff has been working with UW-Milwaukee Archaeologists to identify trees to be removed throughout the winter. The project also allows sunlight to reach the ground, which will allow native grasses to grow on and around the mounds. During 2012, the Parks staff will be removing and chipping the downed trees as well as completing the second stage of the project - the reconstruction of the mounds to their original form. Over time, each of the 22 mounds was dug into by artifact collectors and left with open holes on the tops. The holes in the tops of the mounds will be refilled; re-establishing the mounds' original conical forms. The mounds will then be reseeded with native grasses to highlight them, and ground rails will be installed to mark their boundary.
Forest Management Plan - Timber Harvest
If you head out to the Preserve for a hike, you may notice paint marks on some of the trees. Due to a high rate of oak wilt and other forest health concerns, an inventory and management plan was created in conjunction with the local DNR forester. Before the trees were marked, the project was vetted, and approved by Mrs. Garman. A timber harvest will be conducted to improve the health of the remaining trees, help facilitate the removal of invasive plants, promote the growth of native species that have been diminishing on the property, attempt to stop the spread of oak wilt and promote the regeneration of the diminishing number of oaks on the property.
In total, 10 acres will have no cutting, while 29 acres will be thinned to varying degrees. The timber management plan calls for the removal of 23% of the total timber volume on the 29 acres. Some of the marked trees will not be cut. The red paint delineates the cutting boundary and the blue paint delineates the property boundary. The remainder of the trees marked with paint, are the trees that will be removed. The project will be put out to bid with a timber contractor to offset costs to the preserve..
Other Planned Projects
Other projects scheduled for 2012 include ongoing invasive plant removal and management, and the construction of a single stall unisex vault toilet just south of the parking lot. The Preserve Master Plan also calls for a small picnic shelter to be placed near the trail head.
Volunteer Opportunities
Recently, there has been an increased interest from the public to assist with preservation efforts within the Preserve. Kevin Wiesmann, Jefferson County Parks Department Operations Supervisor, has met with and spoke with a number of people who are interested in developing a coordinated volunteer network for the Preserve. The first event will be on April 14th for an Invasive Weed Pull and Trash Clean-Up Day. Anyone interested in volunteering during the event should contact Jane at (920) 674-7260 or janes@jeffersoncountywi.gov for more details. If you are interested in further information or would like to be put on a mailing list for future events and meetings, you may also contact Jane at the contact information listed above.
Jefferson County is privileged to have such a jewel in its park system. We look forward to managing the Preserve for future generations to enjoy!
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April Events in Jefferson County
April 07, 2012 - Optimist Club Easter Egg Hunt
Kids, toddlers and children through grade school, search for eggs (and prizes) by age groups. Several hundred children show up each year. The Optimist Easter Bunny makes his annual appearance. 11am-12:30pm.
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April 07, 2012 - Johnson Creek Premium Outlets Easter Egg Hunt
Area children are invited to take part in the annual Easter Egg Hunt located at the plaza adjacent to Nike Clearance Store. Visit the Easter Bunny. Hunt begins promptly at 2pm.
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April 07, 2012 - Lions Club Easter Egg Hunt
10 a.m. Hunt for eggs and prizes
Palmyra - Village Park (262) 495-8137
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April 10, 2012 - The Rose Ensemble - And Glory Shone All Around
Bramblett Chamber Series & Cultural Affairs Presents: The Rose Ensemble - And Glory Shone All Around
Tuesday, April 10, 2012, 7:30pm
Soundbites 6:30pm in the Main Lobby
Bramblett Reception follows in main lobby
Sponsored by: Fairhaven Senior Services
"The vocalists are the soul of the group, with clear young-sounding voices that seem infinitely flexible and perfectly blended."- The Pioneer Press
From the dance halls of Boston to Shaker villages and the hills of Appalachia, exploring the harmonies that gave birth to bluegrass.
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April 14, 2012 - 93.1 Jamz Day at Vetro Winery
Jamz night out with Fish and Ashley from 93.1
Start Time 4:00pm till 8:00pm
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April 14 - 15, 2012 - American Legion Auxiliary State Bowling Tournament
Bowling teams compete on April 21-22 also 
Watertown - Watertown Bowl 18, 102 W Cady Street
(920) 261-1796
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April 14, 2012 - "Celebrate Good Times..." 35th Anniversary Party
Jefferson Council for the Performing Arts is celebrating the beginning of our 35th season with a "Celebrate Good Times" anniversary party. The event takes place at City Limits in Ft. Atkinson from 6 - 11 p.m. with the Van Eskes performing from 7 - 10 p.m. Food will be available along with many different types of raffles, including a liquor raffle. There is no charge at the door, however a $10 voluntary donation is requested. Come to have a good time, enjoy of company of all your friends while dancing the night away with the Van Eskes.
Fort Atkinson - City Limits (formerly Jansen's)
(920) 674-2179 - http://www.councilfortheperformingarts.org
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April 15, 2012 - Aveda Walk for Water
Walkers begin at 11am; runners begin at 11:25am.
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April 17 - 18, 2012 - The Browns in Christian Concert
It's truly a family affair when The Browns hit the stage and deliver the powerful message of the gospel through word and song.
The musical stylings of Shelly, Michaela, Adam, Andrew, Nick and
Jessica exude excitement and offer a life-changing experience to all who hear them. They have been touring for ten years and received the prestigious honors of Top 10 Mixed Group of the Year for two years running and Top Horizon Group of the Year for three years before that. From singing over 30 shows at the Americana Theatre in Branson to Dollywood stages and on board Royal Caribbean and Carnival cruise ships this award winning family will inspire you with their close-knit family harmony and talent. The Browns love what they do, love each other, and the audiences to whom they sing. While the traveling can be hard Shelly said, "Because we know we're called, it's been worth it all. God has opened the doors and there are adventures and blessings behind each one." Tuesday and Wednesday matinee arrival 10:30am.
Tuesday evening arrival 5:00 p.m.
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April 19, 2012 - Third Thursday: a poetry event
Third Thursday is a monthly poetry reading. Each month there will be a featured poet followed by an open mic poetry reading. All poets and poetry lovers are encouraged to attend. Those reading for the open mic do not need to read their own work. The event begins at 6 pm in the FCCU Community Room.
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April 20, 2012 - Shakespeare at Lyon's Irish Pub
Members of the Watertown Players will be reading from some of Shakespeare's most memorable plays including Hamlet, Romeo & Juliet, The Merchant of Venice and A Midsummer's Night Dream. There will be English food of the period available as well.
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April 21, 2012 - Jefferson County Holiday Extravaganza Spring Fling
SPRING FLING
Event Location - J C Plaza Hotel, 725 Paradise Lane - off Union Street in Johnson Creek
Saturday - April, 21 2012* 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Lunch will be available by JC Plaza Hotel and Conference Center.
For a special rate on hotel room for Jefferson County Holiday Extravaganza Exhibitors call the JC Plaza Hotel and Conference Center to make your hotel room reservation at:(920) 699-2800. (Ask for the block of 20 rooms that are set aside at a special rate)
Proceeds from the event go to Rainbow Hospice. This event is also a Food Pantry Drive - please bring an item to support our local Food Pantry. A raffle will be held Saturday Buy Tickets at the Door. COME JOIN THE FUN at the HOLIDAY EVENT at
725 Paradise Lane
Johnson Creek - The Crossroads of Fun SEE YOU THERE! Check for signs Any questions call: Steve Wollin at (920)988-4850) - Upper Case Living Katie Bridgwater
- Wildtree Heather Stelzer
- Miche Cindi Slowey
- Silpade Designs Ellen Fetting
- Cookie Lee Jewelry Laura Gill
- Mary Kay Cosmetics Tricia Bless
- MC Mosaics Mike & Char Warras
- Simply Signs Creations Steven Wollin
- Celebrating Homes Julie Wollin
- Tastefully Simple Heather Morgan
- Scentsy Wickless Candles Mia Wollin
- LifePharm Global Connie Oestreich
- Thirty-One Gifts Lisa Lutes
- Debby's Stitchery Debby Topel
- The Pampered Chef Alicia Hynes
- Just Jewelry Annette Hartman
- Tupperware Carolyn Knight
- Lia Sophia Michele Hazeltine
- Dave's Creative Taxidermy David Polak
- Usborne Books Vidamor Heinlein
- Facilitated Healing Loree Walker
- L-Bri Jolyn Stankus
- Shaklee Penny Monte
- Avon Stephanie Fischer
- Crafts and Things Mary Ann Weidenfeller
Johnson Creek - J C Plaza Hotel 725 Paradise Lane, Johnson Creek - (920) 988-4850 |
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April 21, 2012 - Hal Holbrook's - Mark Twain Tonight!
Hal Holbrook - Mark Twain Tonight!
Saturday, April 21, 2012 - 7:30pm
Dinner 6pm at the Kachel Center
Sponsored by: Fort HealthCare, American Family Insurance, The Big Read, Arts Midwest
 A living, breathing American masterpiece, this is one of the most acclaimed and enduring performances in the history of theater. Fifty-seven years ago, a young actor took the stage and introduced the world to a man they would never forget. The actor was Hal Holbrook and the man was Mark Twain. Don't miss this magical evening of theatre that is the culmination of the 4th annual Big Read.
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April 21, 2012 - Pedal for Proceeds (FLAT)
The only citizen's road racing series of its kind in North America. Wisport sanctions road races and time trials which are all OPEN Events, meaning that a racing license is not required. Each event has its own features, and its own character, but all offer awards based on age groups and gender and Wisport points for each rider based on race performance. Spaghetti dinner 2-5pm Cravath Lakefront Center.
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April 21, 2012 - FFA Alumni Hearty Farm Breakfast with the Easter Bunny
Saturday, April 21 from 8:00 to 11:00am
Sponsored by the Fort Atkinson FFA Alumni
$8 per person, under 1 free. ALL YOU CAN EAT!
Breakfast proceeds go toward FFA student scholarships.
Pictures with the bunny and face painting for children.
Event held rain or shine. Farm opens at 8:00 for fundraiser.
Farm admission is separate.
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April 24 - 28, 2012 - She Stoops to Conquer
Mistaken identities, practical jokes, and love tangles have made this satirical, romantic comedy of errors an enduring favorite. 7:30pm.
Whitewater - Barnett Theatre, 800 W. Main St. (262) 472-2222
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April 27 - 29, 2012 - Madison Classics Spring Car & Swap Meet
Open Friday at 10am-5pm, Sat & Sun 6am-4pm.
If you need a part for your care this is the place to come.
For vendor space call 608-244-8416.
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April 28, 2012 - Diva Day - The Royal Treatment
In celebration of the first anniversary of the Duke & Dutchess of Cambridge (Prince William and Kate Middleton), the Cambridge Area Chamber of Commerce is throwing a party. Treat yourself to a day of the arts, spa vendors, shopping deals, Tini's and Tiaras and more.
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April 28, 2012 - Spring RummageOrama-Johnson Creek
Village wide rummage in Johnson Creek area.
7am-1pm
Johnson Creek - Village of Johnson Creek
(920) 699-4949
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