Kontos Column: It’s almost time to celebrate
By Dan Kontos
I’ve often talked about the wonderful area that we are so fortunate enough to live in here in central Wisconsin. It’s so conversant and routine for us that I think we take it for granted sometimes.
I, fortunately, or unfortunately, get to do a fair amount of traveling for my job, and am lucky enough to see many other places around Wisconsin and the rest of this wonderful nation. Last week it was the lock and dam on the Mississippi River in Alma. Next week it will be the sunny skies of Orlando. But no matter where I go, I’m always glad to return home, here in the heart of Portage County. There is just a very comfortable and familiar vibe that puts me at ease.
There’s plenty to do around here to enjoy our great surroundings, like exploring the Green Circle Trail, spending some time on the Wisconsin River, or taking a spin on one of our historic rustic roads. Looking for something a bit more exciting to experience with family, friends, and neighbors? Whether it’s the Portage County Fair, Riverfront Rendezvous, or catching some live music at the Stevens Point Brewery, I’m sure you can find something fun to do.
So how about next weekend? I’m glad you asked, because it’s time to Celebrate Plover.
Next Friday and Saturday, July 28 and 29, at the beautiful Lake Pacawa Park in the Village of Plover, is another iconic central Wisconsin event. It’s simply called Celebrate Plover.
If you’ve never been, you have to go. If you’ve been before, now is the time to go again. Set in what has been described as the most beautiful park in Portage County, Lake Pacawa Park will host a fun family event that I’m sure you will enjoy. Now expanded to a day and a half, the best of our community is showcased and shared as one of this summer’s culminating events.
On Friday, starting at 4:30 in the afternoon, take your pick of live music, a car show, the 5K Run, Walk, and Roll, hot air balloons, or the Balloon Glow at dusk.
Saturday kicks off at 9 in the morning and runs until midnight. You can take advantage of more live music, youth activities, volleyball, craft vendors, an outdoor business expo, fire department water fights, a veteran’s tribute, dance performances, and a spectacular fireworks display at dusk.
Oh, did I mention food? You can’t have an event without plenty to eat and drink. Ranging from summer staples like hamburgers, brats, cheese curds, and homemade french fries, to ice cream, pizza, cotton candy, and kettle corn. There’s even sesame chicken, crab rangoon, and more. Getting hungry yet? I am.
There is free admission, free parking, and an environment that’s free from the stressors of everyday living.
What’s best is how this is all put together. I understand that some municipalities spend a little tax money to host events with the hopes of spurring on spending in the community; I get it. But what’s better than that is when the affair is funded completely by sponsorships and donations. All of the proceeds are then put back into the event for next year, or donated directly to public use areas in the village. No tax dollars involved. How cool is that?
Yes, yes, I know, killjoy. There are indirect expenses to Plover, as well as staffing costs, yadda, yadda. Stuff a brat in it, will ya? I’m making a point here.
Finally, if you haven’t seen what the village has done with Lake Pacawa Park, you will be impressed. This 50-acre facility includes a ball diamond, soccer fields, playground equipment, swing sets, a bandshell pavilion, a beach area, and a shelter house with a large activities area that’s available for rent. There’s also a paved walking trail around the lake, several picnic areas, and a vehicle access dock so you can put your non-motorized boats on the lake.
Of course, Lake Pacawa Park is home to Wisconsin’s Korean War Memorial, dedicated to the 801 service members from the Badger State who lost their lives in that conflict. Located on an island out in the lake, it’s worth the trip to see all by itself.
What’s also really great is the all-inclusive ADA park facilities and splash pad. Thanks to the inspiration of Emily and Eric Krug, and the hard work and donations of several people and businesses across the community, this new facility provides endless fun and enjoyment for kids of all ages and all abilities throughout the area. Stop by most summer days, and you’ll see how much it gets used and appreciated.
How cool is all of this? Right in our backyard. Just another thing that makes central Wisconsin a fantastic place to live.
So, with that, let’s meet out at Celebrate Plover next weekend, then in the opinion section to talk about all of it, boldly, honestly, and with a healthy respect for each other and what we can do for our community. Until then, God bless.
