A new after-school program has been launched at three local venues, thanks to a Community Foundation project grant.  During the month of November, a program about color (in glass artwork, nature and science) is being rotated among the Bergstrom-Mahler Museum, Neenah, the Garden’s of the Fox Cities, Menasha and the Paper Discovery Center, Appleton.  This is a pilot program for Community Learning Centers.  For more information, go to http://www.paperdiscoverycenter.org/

Appleton Locks Paddle event.  September 24, 2011. Organized by Northeast Wisconsin Paddlers and Fox Wisconsin Heritage Parkway.   This video shows the beginning segment from Lutz Park in Appleton up to the end of lockage at the first Appleton Lock.

The entire trip was from Lutz Park to Sunset Park in Kimberly.  This is a distance of about 6 miles on the water.  Watch for new uploaded videos from the rest of the trip.

More resources for paddlers at http://www.wipaddle.com

The Fox River speaks to people in many different ways.  Some value the charm and mystery of historic buildings along the River, while others purely enjoy its recreational attributes.  Then, there are those that appreciate its unique urban-wilderness quality.  Where else can you go to watch pelicans and eagles while enjoying a cocktail with friends and family?  Below are some favorite spots that come to mind.  What is your favorite place on the River?

• Riverfront Restaurants – Fratellos Waterfront Restaurant, Pullmans at Trolley Square and Atlas Coffee Mill all provide wonderful views of the River, as well as outdoor patios.  Stone Cellar Brewpub is just a few feet away from the Newberry Trail so their guests can enjoy an after dinner stroll along the River.
• Historic Buildings – History buffs can take a step back in time by visiting the many buildings that tell the story of Appleton.  Some favorites include the Paper Discovery Center, Historic Atlas Mill, Locktenders’ houses, Hearthstone Historic House Museum, Fox River Mill Apartments, Courtney Woolen Mills.
• Riverfront Trails – Bicyclists, walkers and joggers appreciate the Newberry Trail that runs along the Historic Fox River Canal all the way to Telulah Park.  The North Island Trail connects Lawe Street to Olde Oneida along the north side of the island.  Future trestle trails are also being planned!
• Recreation – Paddlers , boaters and fisherman can appreciate the view from a different perspective, thanks to the newly reopened locks system.  Portages and safety features have been added to improve navigation.
• Riverfront Parks – Several public parks are located along the Fox River, including Alicia, Pierce, Lutz, Vulcan Heritage, and Telulah.

Do you have a story to tell about your favorite place on the River?  Log in and share it below!