715.542.3789 ~ sayner-starlake.org

Sayner•Star Lake WisconsinVISITOR GUIDE 2013

(715) 542-3789 • www.sayner-starlake.org A

Sayner–Star Lake!

Table of ContentsRetail Revolution ................Page BDelectable Dining ...............Page GArea Map ............................Page JPlum Lake Trails .................Page LRecreation .........................Page NFishing & Boating ................Page QBusiness Directory ..............Page T

Welcome to

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Haunting wails of loons echo across still waters. Tall pines whisper and bow gracefully with the breeze. Nearby, children are laughing and the whine of a fishing reel’s drag protesting the pull of a mighty muskie is just within

earshot. And some say they can still hear the sound of a far-off train whistle blowing in the distance -- a ghostly remembrance of logging days gone by.

It seems a bit like heaven, until suddenly, you realize that you have found yourself in Sayner/Star Lake.

Surrounding you in this little slice of paradise are two communities, Sayner and Star Lake, which comprise the Township of Plum Lake. While ninety percent of the township consists of state-owned natural wilderness, the two towns are rich with fine restaurants and supper clubs, beautiful golf courses, housekeeping cottages, tennis courts, pristine lakes filled with game and trophy fish, groomed snowmobile and cross-country ski trails, paved bike trails, marked hiking trails, unique shops, a fully-dressed library, an art gallery, and several historical museums.

Truly, finding yourself in Sayner/Star Lake will guarantee a vacation you’ll want to replicate over and over again.

FebruaryPlum Lake Ice Fishing Tournament Second Saturday in the month. Cash prizes, door prizes, raffles, food and refreshments. Proceeds benefit area lakes improvement projects. Call 715-542-3501 for details.Friends of the Library Hobo Dinner Call 715-542-2020 for details.

MarchPlum Lake Library Read Across America Call 715-542-2020 for details.Plum Lake Library Preschool Story Hour Year round. Call 715-542-2020 for schedule.Plum Lake Library Annual Trivia Contest Call 715-542-2020 for details.

aPrILPlum Lake Library National Library Week Call 715-542-2020 for event schedule.

MaySpring Stampede First Weekend in May. Sayner Community Building. Features rubber stamp art demos, classes and sales. Call 715-542-3789 for details.Community Garage Sale Memorial Day Weekend Saturday 9am to 2pm, Sayner Rec. Bldg. 20 garage sales at one location. Call Diane at 715-542-4334 for details.

JuneBlood Drive June 25, noon to 5pm. Shepherd of the Lakes Lutheran Church.Plum Lake Library Summer Reading Program Mid June through July. Call 715-542-2020 for schedule.

JuLyWELCA Pie & Ice Cream Social July 13, 11am to 3pm, Shepherd of the Lakes Lutheran Church. Brats, pulled pork, homemade pies and more. Indoor seating or outdoor seating under a canopy. Free will donations to support campaigns. Call 715-542-3701 for details.4th of July Celebration Food, games, trout pond in the park. 11am to 3pm with parade at 3pm, fireworks at dusk. Call 715-542-3789 for details.Star Lakers Club Annual Picnic Call Bob Munsen at 715-542-2109 for details.

augustSpaghetti Dinner Aug. 12, 5-8pm, Sayner Community Building, sponsored by Plum Lake Volunteer Fire Department. Call Kevin 715-892-1877 for details.Pizza Buffet Aug. 7, 6:30-9pm, Shepherd of the Lakes Lutheran Church.Chicken Dinner Aug. 10, 3:30-6:30pm, Sayner Community Building. Sponsored by the Vilas County Historical Society.

sePteMberStar Lake Mayoral Race & Fundraiser. Sept. 1. Games and karoke. Chicago style election. Beginning about 3 p.m. Call (715) 542-3646 for more information.Colorama Brunch and Indoor Craft Show Sept. 29, Sayner Recreational Building. Great food, raffles, and door prizes. Call the Chamber of Commerce at 715-542-3789.Plum Lake EMT Annual Benefit Dinner - check chamber website.

noveMberBlood Drive Nov. 5, noon to 5pm, the Lakes Lutheran Church.Harvest Dinner First week of November, Sayner Community Center. For time, date and tickets, call Carol Froelich at 715-542-3261.Plum Lake Library Bedtime Story Hour 7pm, 239 Main Street. Call 715-542-202 for details.Friends of the Library Christmas Fest Call 715-542-2020 for details.

DeceMberTree Lighting Ceremony Caroling, refreshments. Call Chamber of Commerce at 715-542-3789 for details.

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The shop owners of the Sayner-Star Lake community use three simple business principles to ensure success. And it’s paying off for their customers.

“First, we make sure to offer the best possible quality products to our customers,” begins Jessica Drallmeier, owner of Traditions, a Sayner gift and home furnishing boutique. “Then, we provide professional, value-added services, such as home décor consulting.”

“Finally, and most importantly, the shop owners in town work together to ensure that when customers come to Sayner-Star Lake, they won’t see the same products when they go from store to store. And in each store, customers will find a unique presentation that is dramatically different from the other shops in town.”

Says Carrie Schalinske, owner of Rustic River Cabin Outfitters, “Our customers are constantly telling us how wonderful it is that their shopping experience in Sayner-Star Lake is so rich and diversified. For instance, Traditions and Rustic River are both gift and home furnishing stores, but customers will find uniquely different products in each of our stores.”

Wendy Kimbrell, owner of GreenWeavers, Sayner’s women’s clothing and accessory boutique, says, “It’s all about the town. If customers have good shopping experiences down the street,

that encourages them to spend more time in town and tell their friends about us.”

“In short, if my neighbors look good, I look good.”

Working TogetherAside from meeting annually to ensure they aren’t duplicating vendors, Sayner-Star Lake shop owners help each other out with store decorating ideas, cooperate on joint promotion and advertising campaigns, scout shows for new vendors for each other, and occasionally get together for a few laughs.

“We’re friends here, and each of us is committed to helping each other to become successful,” says Kimbrell. “We also want our customers to be successful in finding what they need, whether that is to create a beautiful living room at home, find the perfect gift, or be a knock-out in a mother-of-the-bride ensemble.”

At GreenWeavers, patrons will find the latest in haute couture from Paris, New York, Montreal and Italy. In fact, Kimbrell and her staff members travel to Paris, New York, Los Angeles and elsewhere to make sure they are truly bringing the best possible fashion to Sayner.

“Our customers can’t believe they can find clothes from

“Our customers can’t believe they can find clothes from Paris in the Northwoods,” -- Wendy Kimbrell, GreenWeavers owner

Patrons can find the latest in Parisian haute couture at GreenWeavers.

From Paris couture to customized home décor, Sayner-Star Lake shops offer visitors a

unique and varied shopping experience.

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nParis in the Northwoods,” Kimbrell laughs. “And I always say that Northwoods women want to look just as good as anybody else, don’t they?”

One of GreenWeavers’ French lines is Aventures des Toiles, a Paris-based company that annually purchases original works of art and then transfers part of the art’s design from the canvas to every item of clothing it produces that year.

“Aventures des Toiles means ‘adventures on canvas,’ says Kimbrell. “And I love bringing the adventure to Sayner!”

At Oh My Designs!, where local artisans offer finely crafted, hand-made items at reasonable prices, owners Carole Froelich and Darlene Kilsdonk ensure their products are of the best quality.

“So many craftspeople are eager to sell their products in our store, but we are very careful about quality,” says Carole Froelich. “If the workmanship doesn’t meet our standards, we won’t carry the product.

“And, everything that we carry is one-of-a-kind, because our artists never make the same item twice.”

Froelich adds that Oh My Designs!’ inventory is augmented with jewelry and accessories from international vendors. The shop also offers a modest wine selection.

Eclectic and UniqueAt Traditions, customers find a wide selection of gifts and home furnishings that aren’t typically what is considered by most to be of “Northwoods” flavor.

Says Traditions owner Jessica Drallmeier, “Many of our clients find a departure from the traditional Northwoods style refreshing and interesting. So when people tell me they think my store is different from what they typically find in the Northwoods, I accept that as my biggest compliment.”

Traditions’ Drallmeier is eager to assist patrons in fully decorating their homes. She also is available for decorating consulting as well as to order furniture that will complement her patrons’ homes beautifully.

At Rustic River, customers also find a distinct style of home furnishings, as well as customized window treatments, including draperies, cornices, valances and blinds.

“We also offer customized bedding ensembles and accessories to go with them,” says Carrie Schalinske.

For even more functional home products, Sayner visitors can find a wide selection of pellet stoves at Earth Sense Energy Systems, which also supplies the pellets necessary to fuel their energy-saving products. And, while choosing the best pellet stove for their homes, patrons can also stock up at Up North Traders on fishing supplies, such as poles, hooks, fishing line, and ice fishing necessities. Up

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nNorth Traders and Earth Sense operate in the same location.

At Red Door Relics, owners Sam and Jeannie Patterson comb the countryside searching for antiques, memorabilia, and other treasures to sell at reasonable prices in their eclectic, colorful storefront.

“Nostalgia and vintage flavor is what we’re hoping to achieve with every treasure we bring to our customers,” says Jeannie.

For another whiff of nostalgia, Sayner locals and visitors frequent The Corner Store, an 85-year-old Sayner institution. Owners Doug and Mary Stearns scoop out generous portions of ice cream, sandwiches and snacks to summer visitors, as well as offer a good selection of groceries, beer, liquor, and camping supplies.

“We‘re an all-around family fun stop,” says Doug Stearns, who adds that The Corner Store also offers bike rentals and a game arcade.

Historical Flavor & FunA short seven miles away from Sayner lies Star Lake. Many visitors claim the drive down Highway N connecting the two towns is one of the most scenic in the Northwoods.

“It’s such a beautiful drive, so traveling between Sayner and Star Lake is a simple, relaxing pleasure,” says Debbie Becker, owner of The Star Lake Store.

At Becker’s Star Lake store, patrons find themselves transported back to a time when life was simpler, and one-stop shopping was the norm.

“We offer absolutely everything in our store, including gifts, groceries, bait, fishing and camping supplies, clothing, boat rentals, and deer registration services,” Becker says. “We even act as an official post office.”

“We are, absolutely, a true general store.”

This summer, the Star Lake Store is expanding and will carry a wider selection of groceries, as well as hand-scooped ice cream.

Traditions offers home furnishings, decorating services, gifts and more.

“Customers will find uniquely different products in each of our stores” -- Carrie Schalinske, owner, Rustic River Cabin Outfitters

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nJust across the road, at Star Lake’s Old Schoolhouse Gallery, visitors can continue to revel in the community’s rich history and old-time flavor. The Gallery, which is a renovated version of a schoolhouse dating back to the 1800s, is rich with hundred-year-old pictures and artifacts of times gone by in Star Lake. The gallery also offers an interesting selection of gifts and artworks from artisans across the country.

“It’s wonderful to be able to bring the history of this wonderful community into our daily lives,” says Libby Scott, president of the Friends of Star Lake, which manages the schoolhouse.

Adds Becker, “We’re thrilled that Sayner /Star Lake has so much to offer.”

Rustic River Cabin Outfitters offers home decor, gifts, and personalized window treatments.

The old Schoolhouse Gallery, Star Lake, is operated by the Friends of Star Lake, a local non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the buildings and historic integrity of Star Lake. The Gallery, a restored one-room schoolhouse, features offerings from local artisans, paintings, photos, crafts and gifts, as well as an array of homemade goodies. The Gallery is open Wed-Sat, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Frederickson Bait Shop, which sits on the shore of Mill Pond, has also been restored and is open as a self-viewing museum.

In addition, an exact replica of the old Milltown Depot, which is adjacent to the Schoolhouse Gallery, will open this summer as a railroad museum. Plans are to restore the remaining company house and open it as a homestead museum.

Come visit the cozy little hamlet on the pristine shores of Star Lake. You’ll be glad you did!

RETAIL GUIDESaynerThe Corner Store, 3109 Razorback Road, 715-542-4250Earth Sense Energy Systems, 2977 Main Street, 715-542-2788GreenWeavers, 2965 Main Street, 715-542-2884Oh My! Designs, 2968 Froelich Dr., 715-542-2743Rustic River Cabin Outfitters, 3019 Main Street, 715-542-3031Sayner Mobil Express, Downtown Sayner, 715-542-2024Up North Traders, 2977 Main Street, 715-542-2046Traditions, 2959 Main Street, 715-542-2101

Star LakeThe Old Schoolhouse Gallery, 7820 Hwy K, 715-542-3998Star Lake Store, 7697 Hwy K, 715-542-2548

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(715) 542-3789 • www.sayner-starlake.org G

Every morning before sunrise, The Junction owners Lisa Amber and Eric Powell are busy preparing for the early 7 a.m. rush. “Some mornings, it’s pretty hectic,”

says Amber. “Other days, especially just after we open, we’re playing cards with the guys.”

“The guys” are a group of regular, breakfast-loving patrons who also have an affinity for a card game called “Snarfle,” which the core, five-member group invented for their own amusement. But now, word is out, and everyone wants to play.

“It’s a relatively simple game,“ says Sam Patterson, a Sayner resident and an avid Snarfle player. “It’s really addicting, though.”

Adds his wife, Jeannie, who also operates the couple’s Red Door Relics antique store just down the street, “You don’t have be a guy to play, and anyone can join in. And, The

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From eggs and hashbrowns and Sicilian walleye dinners to 22-oz. Bloody Marys, Sayner/Star Lake restaurants quench every hunger and thirst

d e l e c t a b l eDININGJunction’s breakfast menu really helps you get your wits around the game. Especially at that hour.”

The breakfast menu at The Junction includes eggs, hash browns, breakfast meats, omelets, pancakes, French toast, breakfast sandwiches and healthy options like oatmeal, yogurt and granola.

The Junction, a new breakfast, lunch and snack destination located just south of downtown Sayner, also offers a diverse lunch menu that includes hand-carved sandwiches, Italian beef sandwiches, Chicago hot dogs, gyros, hamburgers, and healthy menu options

as an alternative to more caloric local fare. Homemade soups, chili and desserts are available and daily specials are made to order. The café is a premier rest stop for snowmobilers and bicyclers alike, and offers outdoor seating in warmer weather. Packaged meals are available for boaters, anglers and cyclists.

“Sports is No. 1 here at the Pub, and we never miss a game” -- Eric Liebenstein, Sayner Pub owner and former Bad-gers baseball star.

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Good TimesMeanwhile, at The Sayner Pub, things get going a little later in the day -- around 11 a.m., because the Pub often stays open until 2 a.m., particularly during the summer months.

“We have a great time in here,” says Eric Liebenstein, Sayner Pub owner. “We provide a place where friends can get together, have a good dinner, and then stay around to play a few games of pool or enjoy the entertainment.” Liebenstein brings in the area’s best bands for entertainment and Sayner Pub patrons aren’t shy about dancing to the beat. The Pub also features year-round Friday night karaoke and 10 flat screen televisions for sports fans.

“Sports is No. 1 here, and we never miss a game,“ says Liebenstein, who from 1983 to 1987 was a Badgers baseball star.

Sayner Pub’s dinner and lunch menu includes a generous selection of salads, sandwiches, pizza, Broasted chicken, ribs, spaghetti, and Friday Fish Fry. The Pub is also famed for its “amazing,” 22-oz. Bloody Marys. Take-out orders are also welcome, and many groups often rent the Pub’s extra dining room for special meetings, events and parties.

Another favorite Sayner watering hole is K.D.’s Wild Card, where the jukebox often rocks until the wee hours of the morning. Patrons have room at K.D.’s to stretch out in the

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bar’s game room and enjoy a good game of pool, ping-pong or darts. And in the summertime, the establishment’s outdoor deck beckons patrons to sit, sip, and be merry.

Down the street at Weber’s Farm, families can bring the kids to see and pet alpacas and other tame farm animals while their parents can relax at picnic tables, in gazebos, or in the bar. Often, children are delighted to find newly born animals to pet and cuddle before heading to Weber’s game room for some afternoon fun.

Meanwhile, at The Corner Store, huge scoops of ice cream, shakes and sundaes delight parents and children alike. The Corner Store also offers other hot snacks such as hot dogs, brats and pizza.

While the kids test their skills in The Corner Store’s Arcade Room, parents can relax around picnic tables outside. And, instead of having to run out of town for milk, bread, and other necessities, such as firewood or other camping supplies, customers can stay close to home and purchase groceries at The Corner Store.

But if cooking isn’t on the agenda, families can visit the Bar & Grill in the lower level of Froelich’s Sayner Lodge and try one of Carole Froelich’s half-pound burgers.

“The ‘Black and Blue’ and the ‘Italiano’ are perennial favorites,” Froelich says. “Our nightly specials, like the ‘Beef & Brie’ or the ‘Chicken Caesar Salad’ are also popular.”

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Oldies on the jukebox and classic cocktails are always available at the Sayner Lodge Bar & Grill, as well as a spectacular view of Plum Lake.

Savory SpecialtiesJust down Highway N lies Vinchi’s Hillside Inn, where patrons can watch a good game in the bar before drifting to the dining room, which offers a full dinner menu.

“We offer a special every night,“ says Vinchi’s owner Jim Meka. “Monday night is lasagna night, and other special dinners include baked cod, ribs, buffalo wings or shrimp. Our Friday Fisherman‘s platter includes walleye and beer-battered shrimp, and that is super popular.”

A fully dressed soup and salad bar comes with all dinner orders. Meanwhile, the restaurant’s sandwiches are gaining in popularity.

“More and more of our customers are ordering our Italian Sausage Patty sandwich -- the meat alone weighs in at 8 ounces,” Meka says. Vinchi‘s Philly Steak Sandwich and Vinchi Burger are also 8 ounces, as are the restaurant’s other sandwiches.

Further down the road in Star Lake, Hintz’s North Star Lodge’s dining room offers breathtaking views of Star Lake, a beautiful surrounding garden, and a complete dinner menu prepared by expert chef and owner Bill Hintz.

“Everything we serve is made-to-order from the freshest possible local ingredients,” says Hintz, who has been preparing the Lodge’s culinary delights for 33 years. “Nothing is pre-prepared … everything is homemade.”

That includes everything on North Star Lodge’s generous soup and salad bar, as well as the Lodge’s signature desserts, says Hintz, who adds that restaurant specialties focus around seafood and jumbo shrimp.

“Quality is all about how much you care about what you

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serve,” Hintz says.

Star Lake visitors and residents also can find a delectable, full dinner menu at Stillwaters Restaurant and Tavern, where homemade specialties include Sicilian Walleye, pasta and meatballs, steaks, prawn shrimp and all-you-can-eat fish fry on Fridays, and in the summertime -- due to the fish fry’s popularity -- on Mondays as well. Thursday is Mexican night at the establishment, when patrons are offered buy one, get one free margaritas. Fresh pizza is available every night at Stillwaters. And, to add to the local entertainment, Stillwaters offers a list of 4,000 karaoke songs on Thursday and Saturday nights.

DINING GUIDESaynerThe Corner Store, Razorback Road & Hwy N, 715-542-4250

The Junction, Highway 155 & Kurtzweil Road, 715-542-2228

Sayner Lodge Bar and Grill, 3135 Historic Lodge Road, 715-542-3261

K.D.’s Wild Card, 2486 Lollycoogan Lane, 715-542-2100

The Sayner Pub, 2962 Main Street, 715-542-3647

Vinchi’s Hillside Inn, 8065 County Hwy N East, 715-542-2240

Weber’s Farm & Bar, 2649 County Hwy C, 715-542-3781

Star LakeHintz’s North Star Lodge, Waldheim Rd & Hwy K, 715-542-3600

Stillwaters Restaurant & Tavern, 7914 Highway K, 715-542-3652

Hintz’s North Star Lodge’s dining room offers breathtaking views of Star Lake, a beautiful surrounding garden, and a complete dinner menu.

At The Corner Store, huge scoops of ice cream, shakes and sundaes delight parents and children alike. The Corner Store also offers other hot snacks such as hot dogs, brats and pizza.

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RazorbackRd.

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Bike/Ski Area

Campsite Rd.Golf Course Rd.

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The Razorback Ridges is an exciting and scenic trail complex that invites mountain bike riders, hikers and cross-country skiers to experience the beauty of au

naturel trails within the lush Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest. Razorback Ridges can be found on Razorback Road, two miles west of Sayner and just off Hwy. N. Developed and maintained by the Sayner-Star Lake Lions Club, the complex offers more than 16 miles of cross-country skiing and three miles of snowshoeing for trampers in the winter, and nearly 20 miles of trails for mountain biking and hiking in the warmer months. Half of the ski trails are groomed for classic stride only, while the other half are groomed for skating only. The bike trails are a blend of double-track and single-track loops suitable for everyone from beginner to expert. “Corkscrew,” “Hair Raiser,” and “Suicide Hill” may play with your mind, but rest assured, other, more sedate trail segments are perfect for the entire family!Major Loop RoutesRidge Trail – 1.8 miles, Doug’s Folly – 4.0 miles, Hair Raiser – 4.7 miles, Lion’s Pride – 6.4 miles, Wild Thing – about 1.0 mile and very challenging. A spur trail to the west leads to the Crystal Lake Campground where you can catch the Boulder Area Trails System (B.A.T.S.), which leads to Boulder Junction. There are three major campgrounds near Razorback Ridges.

Razorback RidgesExcellent XC Ski & Mountain Bike Trails

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Hill BypassHair Raiser

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Mary’sFrolic

Snomo’sTrail

Corkscrew

Turnagain Arm

To Crystal LakeCampground

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Beaver’s Run

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Trail users will love the amenities, including a heated chalet with inside bathrooms at the trailhead. Trail maps are also available at the chalet. The chalet may be used for birthday parties, skating parties, etc. Just a few yards away is the Bernie Van Acker Skating Rink, named in honor of the late Lions member who helped develop skating as another recreational opportunity at Razorback Ridges.The trailhead area is named the Mel and Emma Long Memorial Park in honor of the early Sayner settlers whose family donated the land for the park.The Lions Club welcomes trail and chalet use donations, which help maintain this outstanding trail system.

BICYCLE BONANZA!!!Plum Lake Bike TrailA growing network of paved bicycling trails in Vilas County is attracting more and more people eager to experience the beauty of the Northwoods and charm-ing small towns that dot the vast Northern Highland/American Legion State Forest. The trails serve a dual purpose, as many people walk them too. The bicycle trail in the Sayner area connects to a larger network of trails, known as “The Heart of the Vilas County Bike & Hike Trail.”By mid- to late morning, the 23 miles of the “Heart of the Vilas County” trail system begin to flash as sunlight hits the spokes of bicycles cruising the trails. The trail network includes the Plum Lake Bicycle Trail, a six-mile, paved trail that runs along County Hwy. N between Sayner and Crystal Lake Campground. The trail connects with both the St. Germain Bike Trail (to the south) and with the Crystal Lake Trail (to the west). Parking is available at the intersection of Froelich Drive and County Hwy. N (behind the log building).The entire area is an ideal place for families with young riders as many quiet town roads connect with forest roads in the Northern Highland/American Legion State Forest in addition to the paved hike/bike trails.The Sayner-Star Lake Chamber of Commerce and Sayner-Star Lake Lions Club maintain the Plum Lake trail.

Donations to help maintain the trail are welcomed and should include the benefactor’s name, address and telephone number.Send contributions to: Plum Lake Bicycle Trail Project, P.O. Box 191, Sayner, WI 54560-0191.

For more information regarding the Plum Lake Bicycle project, please call Marcia Kittleson at (715) 542-3311.

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Star Lake Nature TrailThe Star Lake Nature Trail, which requires a State Trail Pass, has interpretive signs along the way with part of the trail on a peninsula that juts out into Star Lake. This trail has a water pump and a bench half-way around the nature loop. Bicycles and pets are not allowed on the Star Lake Nature Trail.

Trampers TrailsLength: Trampers Trails vary from .2 to 1.0 mile.

Shannon Lake TrailWith a mix of easy/beginner and intermediate loops, about half of the trail runs through areas logged in 1976 and 2000. The rest of the gently-rolling trail meanders through a variety of northern hardwoods. The loop around Shannon Lake is especially scenic. Leashed pets are allowed when there is no snow.Length: Trail loops range from 2.3, 3.5 and 7 miles.

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE SNOW!!!!!Sayner is the birthplace of the snowmobile, and the communities of Sayner and Star Lake are more committed than ever to making the area a snowmobiler’s paradise. In fact, the Barnstormers of Sayner’s snowmobile trail system is one of the most well maintained network of trails in the Northwoods.

Consisting of almost 100 miles of trails, the Barnstormers of Sayner trail system includes Trail 51, one of the state’s oldest snowmobile trails, which runs through the heart of the Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest. The Barnstormers system connects with several other trail systems, including those of Star Lake, St. Germain, Boulder Junction, Eagle River, Land O’ Lakes, Conover and Arbor Vitae. Trails open in December -- snow permitting -- and stay open until melt down or March 31.

The Sayner Barnstormers Snowmobile Club, more than four decades old, was the first snowmobile club to create a network of trails in the Northwoods. Founded in 1969, the club consists of many dedicated members who groom the trails in winter, and in summer devote their time to meeting with state and country representatives, planning and building trails, signing

and brushing existing trails, drawing maps and fund-raising. For more information about snowmobile trail system, please contact Anita Horan at 715-542-2952 or www.barnstormersclub.com.

Star Lake Nature Trail

Trampers Trails

Shannon Lake Trail

Hiking Trails

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Every 4th of July, hundreds of loyal Sayner/Star Lake devotees line Sayner’s Main street to watch the community’s annual 4th of July parade and help their

children scramble for pounds of candy thrown from the floats straight into the crowd.“We love the Sayner/Star Lake parade because it’s a neat community event where people come together,” says Jon Erpenbach, a Star Lake resident. “You can see all your neighbors there, and then when it’s over, you can go over to the park, cook some brats, and make a day of it.”He adds, “Our kids and our grandkids are always up on the 4th, and our little munchkins love to get that parade candy!”The day’s festivities also include a pig roast in the park, and a dramatic fireworks display at 10 p.m. in the soccer field behind the Plum Lake Library.“It’s really one of the best fireworks displays in the Northwoods,” says David Witcraft, a Conover resident who travels to Sayner to watch the fireworks every year.Aside from other special seasonal events such as the community’s annual “Stampede” for rubber-stamping aficionados, an annual fishing tournament and an annual Colorama Celebration, the Sayner/Star Lake community offers a vast array of recreation attractions on a regular basis.

Gorgeous GolfingAt the Plum Lake Golf Club, beginners and would-be pros alike are offered a challenging 9-hole course in a pristine

environment.“There are moguls all over the course because in 1908, they used dynamite and horseback to pull tree trunks out,’ says Don Nelson, a starter at the club. “The holes kept settling, and because it’s such a sand base, they kept sinking, so they left them that way.”“It makes it more challenging than a flat course.”Nelson adds that the course has only 10 sand traps and that the fourth hole is a small crater sunk 15 feet below the ground. He adds that another of the club‘s main attractions is the screened-in porch at the clubhouse, where players can enjoy a beer or soft drink while enjoying the breeze and beautiful view of Plum Lake.Meanwhile, families are free to take advantage of the town’s tennis courts, soccer field, and baseball field, while the area’s lakes and recreational trails offer endless adventures for the whole family (see page Q for fishing info and page L for trail details).

Fun in Rain & SunThe Plum Lake Pubic Library offers entertainment for the kids all year long, as well as a vast selection of books for children and adults alike. And, don’t be surprised to see rows of cars outside the Library taking advantage of the free WiFi streaming from the building!

Kathy Nelson, GreenWeavers sales associate and former New York Rockette, graces the top of Green Weavers winning Fourth of July Float.

Ranging from laid-back outdoor activities to brass band parades, the Sayner/Star Lake community offers a vast array of recreation attractions.

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“We love the Sayner/Star Lake parade... our grand-kids love to get that parade candy!” -- Jon Erpenbach, Star Lake resident

IT’S A STAMPEDEThe Sayner Spring Stampede is an annual rite of spring for rubber art stamp and scrapbooking enthusiasts. The Sayner-Star Lake Lioness Club sponsors the annual convention, which is always held the opening day of fishing season.Events go from Friday afternoon to early Sunday afternoon at various locations in Sayner. More than 20 different exhibitors representing stores and manufacturers – including a few from Canada — offer make-and-take classes, demonstrations and on-site sales.There are special interest classes as well as the used and new stamps and supplies rummage sale. This is a fun event for anyone interested in any paper arts and appeals to all ages, including children.For more information call (715) 542-3789 or e-mail pockat@nnex.net.

(715) 542-3789 • www.sayner-starlake.org O

At the Vilas County Historical Museum on Sayner’s Main Street, visitors can get a good look at the first snowmobile ever built, an array of beautiful vintage clothing, and an assortment of relics from the past that will delight everyone on the family. Founded in 1959, the museum is open daily, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Memorial Day Weekend through September 30. Exhibits also include post office memorabilia, antique toys, old outboard motors, and old photographs. A small gift store on the premises features books by local authors, t-shirts, sweatshirts, and old-fashioned toys. Admission is $3 per person over age 10.Sayner also offers a playground -- fully equipped with swings, sandbox, merry-go-round and more -- for the kids.

In addition, Sayner’s Main Street is lined with an array of retail shops where visitors can find everything from Parisian fashion to yard art to new living room furniture (see Page B-E for more retail info).After shopping, golfing, and biking, visitors can relax on the shores of Plum Lake, where every Wednesday and Sunday at 7 p.m. in the summertime, the Plum Lake Ski-ters put on dazzling displays of the water-ski club’s superb talent and training.And every summertime Friday and Saturday night, the Sayner Pub is sure to be rocking to the beat of a live band.“It’s a small town, but you can really make a day out of visiting the Main Street of Sayner and Star Lake,” says

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“You can really make a day out of visiting the Main Streets of Sayner and Star Lake.” -- Cindy Kopenhagen, Northwoods vacationer

715-542-3388

OPEN MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND TO SEPT 30

Daily 10 am - 4 pmLocated on Hwy. 155 in Sayner

Admission: $3 ages 10 & up

• Snowmobiles • Fishing guides, equipment and boats Musical instruments • Animals from North America and

around the world • Birds of North America • Military exhibit – Civil War through Vietnam • Doll collection

Outboard motors • Indian artifacts • Clothing dating to the 1800s • Household items • Kitchen items

Library area • Logging tools

(715) 542-3789 • www.sayner-starlake.org P

Cindy Kopenhagen, a Lake Charles, La., resident who discovered the Sayner/Star Lake community in the summer of 2011.

Art & History Lovers Flock to Star LakeBut the fun doesn’t stop in Sayner. Neighboring Star Lake, rich with history and a group of devoted locals dedicated to preserving the Star Lake area and its Northwoods heritage, is becoming an art community.Anchoring Star Lake as a base for Northwoods artisans is The Old Schoolhouse Gallery, which is part of the Northwoods Art Tour – a collection of more than 30 Northwoods artists with varying artistic works.Libby Scott, president of Friends of Star Lake – a group dedicated to preserving and restoring historic Star Lake sites – is a fine art photographer and showcases her work at the Gallery, which also serves as a gift store and historical museum.The Gallery itself is steeped in history.In 2005, Bill Hintz, a long-time Star Lake resident and owner of Hintz’s North Star Lodge, and Doug and Libby Scott purchased and restored Star Lake’s original 90-year-old, one-room schoolhouse and converted it in to a gallery/gift shop and museum where people could come and view historic pictures of Star Lake. Since that time, Libby has managed the Old Schoolhouse Gallery.Meanwhile, Friends of Star Lake, along with Bill Hintz, replicated the town’s Old Milltown Depot, which is directly

adjacent to the Old Schoolhouse Gallery. The group is working to relocate the Frederickson House – the Star Lake home of two beloved sisters for nearly 100 years – to become part of the historic community park. Also included in the park will be a restored version of the town’s old “Bait Shop,” where the Frederickson sisters worked and spread their love of the community and its residents to patrons for years.Plans are to create two museums – one with the Fredrickson company house and the other with a replica of the Star Lake depot. The Fredrickson house will serve as a museum illustrating Star Lake’s history and will be full of artifacts dating from 1895. The depot will serve as a museum dedicated to Star Lake’s railroad days.During a dedication ceremony for the replica train depot, Friends of Star Lake unveiled a new replica Milwaukee Road “Route of the Hiawatha” sign funded by the Milwaukee Road Historical Association.During the event, Wisconsin State Senator Jon Erpenbach applauded the town for its efforts. “A lot of people don’t know there was even a railroad here years ago,” Erpenbach said. “It’s very special when a community recognizes and honors its past.”

Sayner’s Plum Lake Golf Club offers a challeng-ing 9-hole course in a pristine setting.

This painting of the Fredrickson Sisters’ former bait shop is just one of the many pieces of art hanging in Star Lake’s Old Schoolhouse Gallery.

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COME BY FOR A FREE

WINE TASTING Open Seven

Days a WeekYear-round

LOCATED IN DOWNTOWN THREE LAKES

Est. 1972

(715) 542-3789 • www.sayner-starlake.org Q

Whether you dip a minnow or dip a paddle into the water, you’ll find that a visit to one of the many lakes and streams in and around Star Lake and

Sayner in the Township of Plum Lake will be an experience of a lifetime. Encompassing 7,554 acres of water, Sayner and Star Lake are located in the headwaters of two drainage basins – the Manitowish River basin flowing to the west and the Wisconsin River basin flowing to the south. For those of you who haven’t fished here, we invite you to come spend some time with us. The Sayner/Star Lake area holds some-thing for every fisherman.We’re located in the heart of Vilas County, which has over 1,300 lakes. There are about 50 named, 95 unnamed lakes and 31 boat landings in the Township of Plum Lake. You will find excellent fishing for trophy muskies and bass, walleye, trout, northern pike, crappies, perch and bluegills. Several smaller streams are managed for trout, with Plum Creek receiving the most attention by trout anglers.The largest lake in the area is Star Lake at 1,250 acres. This is a lake you may want to try for record setting muskies. Close by is a three-lake chain of Irving, Ballard and White

Birch. This chain also has everything – crappie, bluegill, perch, walleye, northern pike, and muskie. Very few fisher-men go home empty-handed because of the abundance of fish found there.A five-lake research project in the area offers year-round fish-ing, including the thrill of fishing walleye in April when they are in the pre-spawn stage. A number of anglers anxious for the “Opener” regularly try their luck on these project lakes. The DNR personnel at the Escanaba Lake ranger station are happy to share advice on how to fish the research lakes.The Star Lake area offers many smaller lakes, including Partridge, Dorothy Dunn, Alva, Salsich, Lone Tree and Lost Canoe, to name just a few.We recommend hiring a local guide for a quality half day or full day of fishing. These experts will not only put you on fish faster and more consistently than you might on your own, they will also pass along fishing tips and techniques that could take you years to learn. If you want to try a new lake on your own, feel free to quiz the personnel at the local bait shops for advice on what the fishing are biting on, and where!

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ATTRACTIONSEagle Falls Adventure GolfHwy. 45/70 • Eagle River, WI 54521(715) 477-0808www.eaglefallsadventuregolf.comSee Page SPlum Lake Golf Club3160 Clubhouse Rd. • Sayner, WI 54560(715) 542-2598www.plumlakegolf.comSee Page OPlum Lake Public Library8789 Peterson St. • Sayner, WI 54560(715) 542-2020E-mail: ida@plumlib.nwls.lib.wi.uswww.sayner.wislib.orgSee Page SPlum Ski-tersPO Box 404 • St. Germain, WI 54558(715) 612-3027See Page OVilas Historical Museum2889 Main Street • Sayner, WI 54560(715) 542-3388See Page O

Weber’s Farm2649 Cty. C • Sayner, WI 54560(715) 542-3781

DININGFroelich’s Bar & GrillPO Box 100• Sayner, WI 54560(715) 542-3261See Page P

Sayner Pub2962 Main St. • Sayner, WI 54560(715) 542-3647www.saynerpub.comSee Page G

Stillwaters Restaurant & Tavern7914 Hwy. K • Star Lake, WI 54561(715) 542-3652

The Junction Café2879 State Hwy. 155 St. Germain, WI 54558(715) 542-2228

Vinchi’s Hillside Inn8065 Cty Hwy N East • Sayner, WI 54560(715) 542-2240

LODGINGBowman’s Pine Hollow CottageOn Plum Lake • (847) 275-4744

Cropsey Vacation RentalsP.O. Box 356 • St. Germain, WI 54558(715) 542-2172 • (800) 450-7200www.cropseyvacationrentals.comSee Inside Front CoverErrington’s Resort8028 Hwy. K • P.O. Box 1152Star Lake, WI 54561(715) 542-3646E-mail: debbie@erringtonsresort.comwww.erringtonsresort.comSee Inside Back CoverFroelich’s Sayner LodgePO Box 100 • Sayner, WI 54560(715) 542-3261See Page PHintz’s North Star Resort7933 Waldheim RoadStar Lake, WI 54561(715) 542-3600See Page S

Harv’s Vacation Rentals8066 Mohawk Trail, St. Germain, WI 54558(715) 542-3022 • (715) 891-2783 (cell)www.harvsvacationrentals.comSee Page R

Eliason Lumber & Hardware2954 Main St. • Sayner, WI 54560(715) 542-3233 • Fax: (715) 542-3534See Page FGreenWeavers2965 Main Street • Sayner, WI 54560(715) 542-2884See Page C

Lakeside AntiquesHwy. 70 East • St. Germain, WI 54558(715) 479-2038Oh My! Designs2968 Froelich DriveSayner, WI 54560(715) 542-2743See Page COld School House Gallery7688 Cty. Rd. K • Star Lake, WI 54561(715) 542-3998www.starlakeschool.comSee Page FRed Door Relics2940 Main Street • Sayner, WI 54560(715) 542-2814Rustic River Cabin Outfitters3019 Main Street • Sayner, WI 54560(715) 542-3031E-mail: rusticriver@hughes.netSee Page E

The Corner Store9350 Razorback Rd. • Sayner, WI 54560 • (715) 542-4250See Page D

Three Lakes WineryDowntown Three Lakes(800) 944-5434www.tlwinery.comSee Page P

Traditions2959 Main Street • Sayner, WI 54560(715) 542-2101See Page CUp North Traders2977 Main St. • Sayner, WI 54560(715) 542-2046See Inside Front CoverWild Eagle Corner Store1970 N US Hwy 45 • Eagle River, WI(715) 479-4688GENERAL SERVICESAll Season Services(715) 614-4130Camp HighlandsNorthwoods Boys Camp8450 Camp Highlands Rd.Sayner, WI 54560(800) 868-3398www.camphighlands.comSee Page OChances R Satellite Sales & Service2616 St. • Hwy 55 • Sayner, WI 54560(715) 542-3367E-mail: chancesr@hughes.netCamps Northwoods Supervalu474 Hwy. 70 • P.O. Box 99St. Germain, WI 54558(715) 479-9150 • Fax: (715) 479-9823Chuck McGee Painting8181 Aspen Road • Sayner, WI 54560(715) 542-3831 • (715) 617-3831 CellE-mail: chuckangee@swave.comErrington’s Guide ServiceP.O. Box 1054 • Star Lake, WI 54561Resort: (715) 542-3646Cell: (815) 298-1358See Inside Back Cover

Idle Hours Resort1692 Idle Hours Ct.St. Germain, WI 54558(715) 542-3765 • (800) 221-7699E-mail: info@idlehours.comwww.idlehours.comSee Page RPlum Gate Resort3047 Plum Lake Dr.Sayner, WI 54560(715) 542-2224E-mail: mapg@nnex.netwww.nnex.net/~pnmSee Inside Front CoverPlum Lake Rentals9272 Hwy N • Sayner, WI 54560(715) 542-3250Plum Waters ResortP.O. Box 69 • Sayner, WI 54560(715) 542-3311www.plumwatersresort.comSee Page HStar Lake Lakefront Rental(262) 245-9400E-mail: markfbrower@charter.netwww.starlakehome.netSee Page S

Plum Lake Station Resort Homes(800) 445-5370www.PlumLakeDressage.comSee Back Cover

The Woodlands ResortOn Plum Lake • Sayner, WI 54560(715) 542-2055www.woodlands-resort.comSee Back CoverWhite Birch VillageBoulder Junction, WI(715) 385-2182www.whitebirchvillage.comSee Page S

REAL ESTATEEliason Realty of the NorthEagle River(715) 479-4431 • (800) 472-5222eagleriver@eliasonrealty.comSt. Germain(715) 542-3223 • (800) 472-3140stgermain@eliasonrealty.comwww.eliasonrealty.comSee Page FJim Tait Real EstateMinocqua: (800) 677-8248Boulder Junction: (877) 385-2077www.jimtaitrealestate.comSee Page FRECREATIONAL SALES, SERVICE & RENTALSStar Lake Store7697 Cty Hwy. KStar Lake, WI 54561(715) 542-2548 • (715) 542-3464See Inside Back CoverSt. Germain Sport Marine430 Hwy. 70 • P.O. Box 399St. Germain, WI 54558(715) 479-4930 • Fax: (715) 479-9519E-mail: stgsport@frontier.comwww.stgermainsportmarine.comSee Page QRETAILCountry Ceramics9272 Hwy. N West • Sayner, WI 54560(715) 542-3250 • Fax: (715) 542-4112E-mail: ceramics@newnorth.netwww.godscountryceramics.comEarth Sense Energy Systems2977 Main Street • Sayner, WI 54560(715) 542-2788www.upnorthtraders.comSee Inside Front Cover

First National Bank ofEagle River240 Hwy. 70 • St. Germain, WI(888) 479-5201www.fnb-eagleriverSee Page F

Gel-CraftPO Box 195 • Sayner, WI 54560(317) 370-3570E-mail: gelcraft@ymail.comHeadwaters State BankLand O’Lakes4175 Cty Rd. B • P.O. Box 149Land O’Lakes, WI 54540(715) 547-3383Presque Isle8319 Main St. • P.O. Box 116Presque Isle, WI 54557(715) 686-2200www.headwatersstatebank.comSee Page FJD’s Auto Repair2885 Main Street • Sayner, WI 54560(715) 892-1273Knitt’s Hardware HankBoulder Junction: (715) 385-2300St. Germain: (715) 479-5930See Page DLong’s Taxidermy9353 Hwy N West • Sayner, WI 54560(715) 542-3728M & I Bank408 Hwy. 70 • St. Germain(715) 479-4800www.mibank.comMeyer & Associates InsurancePO Box 267St. Germain, WI 54558(715) 479-3949Milton Propane2835 Plum Lake DriveSayner, WI 54560(715) 542-3292Peak Property Management3115 Warwick Rd.Sayner, WI 54560(715) 542-3215 • (715) 614-7325See Page SSayner Mobil ExpressDowntown Sayner, WI(715) 542-2024 • See Page FSquirrel Away Storage8855 Glenbrook Ln.Sayner, WI 54560 • (715) 617-3885See Page FSt. Germain Pharmacy252 Hwy. 70 • P.O. Box 280St. Germain, WI 54558(715) 479-7608 • Fax: (715) 479-2763See Page EThelen’s Masonry2612 St. Hwy 155 • Sayner, WI 54560(715) 542-2348Todd Siebrecht Guide ServiceP.O. Box 815 • Eagle River, WI 54521(715) 477-0900See Page QUS BankPO Box 62 • St. Germain, WI 54558(715) 542-3251

CHURCHES Shepherd of The Lakes LutheranChurch (ELCA)2903 Main Street • Sayner, WI 54560(715) 614-3701

St. Mary’s Catholic Church(715) 385-2390

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