Belgium, WI

I don't ever remember walking along the beach or strolling around the quarry at Harrington Beach State Park in the middle of the winter. But this winter is different.

So far this year, we've had minimal snow and unusually warm temps. Today we made it into the 50s. Add bluer than blue skies, a breeze out of the west, and the golden sun, and you have the makings of the perfect day to play hooky from work.

So that's what I did -- at least for part of the day. I couldn't resist.

If you haven't been to Harrington you should take some time to visit. Located in Belgium, just 25 minutes or so north of Milwaukee, this state park offers year-round activities including camping, fishing, cross country skiing, and hiking.

This is the place we'd go to as kids for some summer fun, whether we biked there from home or drove down with the entire family piled into our old green Dodge on a Sunday afternoon.

No matter the season, there is awe everywhere you look. It's the perfect place to go when you want to play hooky for the day.

Yes, it's taking a little longer than we'd like for spring to arrive and stay here in southeastern Wisconsin, but despite the somewhat chillier temps, opportunities for bargain hunters abound.

One grand opportunity is happening in Belgium this Saturday, May 7 at the community-wide rummage sale, 8:00 am-4:00 pm. Plan to arrive early to get the best deals and be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes. You'll find participating homes from the east end to the west end of town and in-between.

The Community Club, which sponsors this event, will also be serving up brats and burgers along with other refreshments at the Community Park on Main Street and across from Harris Bank (on Main Street at the east end of town).

Whether you're looking for some great deals on clothes, furniture, books, appliances or tools, Belgium is the place to be on Saturday, May 7!

(Photo property of Peggy Wester)

Looking for a place where you can find just about anything at a "steal of a deal?"

Then be sure to stop in Belgium this Saturday, May 8, 8:00am-4:00pm for the annual community rummage sale.

A map of all participating households is available throughout town, and food and refreshments will be available at Community Park, located on Main Street Proceeds benefit various local community projects.

Belgium is located about 20 minutes north of Milwaukee right off of I-43 (exit 107).

So you think summer is coming to an end? Nonsense!

The weather is still sunny and warm, and now you have another camping opportunity available to you in Ozaukee County!

On Wednesday, August 26, Harrington Beach State Park, located in Belgium, Wisconsin, will be opening up a newly constructed campground. Included are 31 sites with electricity, 33 non-electric sites, and five walk-in sites. There is also a group campsite and a kayak site. Harrington has one mile of Lake Michigan shoreline.

Each site has a fire ring and picnic table, as well as a gravel driveway. There are also restrooms and a shower building on the grounds, which are located south of Puckett's Pond.

Starting September 9, reservations will be accepted. Check out www.reserveamerica.com or call
888-947-2757 to check on availability or to make a reservation. You can also call Harrington's office at
262-285-3015 for general information on the campground.

Renee passed away early this morning, Saturday, April 18, 2009. Please keep her and her family in your thoughts and prayers.

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Please consider attending a benefit being held for Renee Feider Alexander, who is battling cancer.

Renee, a Belgium native, is 49 years old and currently lives in Kewaskum with her husband, Mike, who has been staying home to care for Renee. This benefit is to help the family with the medical bills they have incurred.

This event is planned for Saturday, May 2, 2009, at Bic's Place, 129 Spring St., Belgium, 11:00 am-10:00 pm.

There will be a brat fry, bake sale, and refreshments. Many raffles, music, poker showdown tables and bing, as well.

Monetary donations are also being accepted. Checks may be made payable to Renee Alexander Benefit and dropped off at any Port Washington State Bank branch or mailed to:

Rhonda Krier
113 Lilac Lane
P.O. Box 174
Belgium, WI 53004

More detailed information will be posted as it becomes available. Thank you for your consideration.

Please keep Renee, and the Feider and Alexander families in your prayers.