Annual ‘Winter Jamboree’ relocates to Izaak Walton League grounds
By Brandi Makuski
Hundreds are expected to turn out in their finest winter longjohns and snowsuits on Feb. 5 for the annual Winter Jamboree.
Hosted by the Bill Cook Chapter of the Izaak Walton League, the event returns for its 58th annual showing—but this year, the event will be held on the group’s clubhouse grounds on Hwy. 66.
Co-organizer of the event Mike Fuge said the conservation club initially planned to hold the event on a frozen McDill Pond as usual but was notified by the city that dredging activity on the pond had forced its relocation. Those dredging activities were ultimately delayed, but the group wasn’t told until after they began their marketing for the event.
The new location this year means no ice-fishing contest, Fuge said, but many other events will be offered, including sledding, hiking, snow-shoeing, a campfire, music, and numerous raffles.
Raffles prizes include cash, firearms, and hunting items. Raffle tickets are available at Airport Bar, 4 Park Ridge Dr., Backyard Grille, 6805 State Hwy. 66 in Ellis, Carbo’s Junction Bar, 3986 2nd St. (Main St.) Amherst Junction, Doug’s Sports Pub, 6225 State Hwy. 54 in Plover, Home Town Bar, 2310 Custer Rd. in Custer, Jordan Bar & Grill, 5696 State Hwy. 66, and Kim’s Barrel Inn, 1001 Second St. in Stevens Point.
A sensory trailer from the Outdoor Heritage Education Center and other hunting-related and conservation groups will also be onsite.
“We’ll have the same beverages and burgers we always do, too,” Fuge said.
Attendees should watch for signs on Hwy. 66. A free, heated shuttle will transport people from a free parking area to the clubhouse.
The public is welcome to attend and there is no admission fee.
The event will be held Saturday, Feb. 5, from noon to 4 p.m., at the clubhouse grounds, 5297 State Hwy. 66, approximately one mile past the Stevens Point Municipal Airport. Attendees should dress for the weather.