whna.net
THE MAGAZINE OF THE WHNA Fall 2018
SPOOKTACULAR! page 4 BOULEVARD BASH RECAP page 8 HALF CENTURY OF HIGHLAND LANES page 14 and more!
WHNA 2018-2019 board of directors PRESIDENT Beth Lappen The Highlighter is a quarterly publication of the Washington Heights Neighborhood Association. Washington Heights includes Highway 175 to North 60th Street and from Vliet Street to North Ave. You can expect your Winter Highlighter in early December. To submit an article, please contact Jane at janeekonkel@gmail.com.
VICE PRESIDENT Sarah Drillas 839.5233 TREASURER John Augustyniak 467.3146 PAST PRESIDENT Ann Navin 477.9528 SECRETARY Brandon Taylor
870.1339
REPRESENTATIVES AREA 1 Ryan Stasiewicz 364.3295
EDITOR Jane Konkel
AREA 2 Trent Muller
LAYOUT & DESIGN Nicole Julius
559.6773
AREA 3 Patrick Simonis 262.844.6232
ADVERTISING MANAGER Lynita Wolf
CONTRIBUTORS Laura Burke Sabrina Eder Mary Jumes Barbara Haig Sharon Heffelfinger Debbie Knepke
727.0345
Beth Lappen Dominique Leupi Tom Rutenbeck Kate Schwartz Louise Scott
AREA 4 Simon McConico 306.1422
DISTRIBUTION Sarah Drillias
839.5233
COLLATORS Thanks to all who help us collate and deliver the Highlighter. The next collation will be at Dandy-Midventurous Modern on Wednesday, December 6, 2018.
ADVERTISER INDEX Landing at Hoyt Park...........................6 First Weber Realty Paul Barsch............7 First Weber Realty- Mary Jumes.........9 St. James Lutheran Church...............10 Fred’s Frozen Custard & Grill.............10 Shelter Real Estate-Tim Stemper......11 Focus Credit Union............................12 St. Sebastian Fish Fry (2018-2019)...13 The Window Store Home Improvements, Inc..............16 Law Offices of Isabell M. Mueller......16 Artifactory.........................................20 Stella’s Salon & Spa..........................20 hué restaurant..................................20
2 ❖ Contact us at highlighter@whna.net or visit us online at www.whna.net
AREA 5 Beth & Mike Lappen 727.0345
LIAISONS VLIET ST. Pat Mueller
AREA 6 Lyra O’Brien
RAINBOW ASSOCIATION John Elliot 414.248-3270
861.0387
AREA 7 Tom Rutenbeck 453.3453 AREA 8 Andy Robinson
745.9463
AREA 9 Alexa Pagley 262.444.3274 Brandon Taylor 870.1339 AT-LARGE EVEN YEARS Eric Anderson 771.7977 Dan Caruso 773.405.7071 Sabrina Eder 262.719.7477 Alec Knutson 414.412.3139 AT-LARGE ODD YEARS John Augustyniak 467.3146 Jon Parks 342.4669 Matthew Mangerson 715.490.1647
933.5589
COMMITTEES NEIGHBORHOOD SAFETY Dominique Leupi 720.473.2765 Sharon Heffelfinger 801.1307 COMMUNICATIONS John Augustyniak 467.3146 GREEN COMMITTEE Beth Lappen 727.0345 HOUSING/APPEARANCE Tom Rutenbeck 453.3453 MEMBERSHIP Trent Muller
559.6773
WHNA PHONE NUMBER: 939.4622
AREA 8 HOSTS 2018 SPOOKTACULAR
FROM THE
PRESIDENT by Beth Lappen WHNA President
Hello, neighbors!
whna.net
THE MAGAZINE OF THE WHNA Winter 2017
YOUR PHOTO HERE!
Voting Information
2 Mesa Opening Soon page 8
Meet Artist Molly Brennan page 10 For The Love of Pie page 11 Mulchfest Is Back page 14
Winterfest in Washington Park page 18 and more!
Winter2017WHNAHighlighter.indd 1
My husband, Mike, and I just celebrated 15 years in our home in the Washington Heights neighborhood this summer. We chose to buy in the neighborhood in 2003 because the homes were beautiful, and the location was convenient. We stayed because our neighbors are great, and the neighborhood is even greater. We spent the first 12 years in the neighborhood enjoying the benefits-- The Highlighter, the Boulevard Bash, the Spooktacular--without getting involved and contributing our time and talents. We are now proud to be a part of it all--contributing articles to the Highlighter, volunteering at events, being a member of some of the committees and serving on the Board. We now know more neighbors and can feel as though we have left our own little mark on the neighborhood. It was that same desire to be a positive contributor to this community that led to my acceptance of the nomination to be the Board president for the next two years. I have a lot to learn and am already benefiting from the knowledge and expertise of current and past Board members, who continue to share their time with the neighborhood. I hope to learn from you, too--why you came to the neighborhood, what you love about it or what you feel this neighborhood needs or could benefit from. E-mail me (bethlappen@wi.rr.com), call me (414-727-0345) or just find me out and about in our great community at… Valentine’s…McBob’s… O’Brien’s…Vennture…Swoon…Four Corners…Washington Park…Barcelona…the Spooktacular…Washington Park library…Cold Spoons… Wick Field… the list goes on, but I will not… I will just hope to hear from you soon!
11/27/17 1:46 PM
You could be the next Highlighter cover photographer!
The library is now a one-stop shop to update your voting information. Recently installed kiosks allow you to register to vote in the next election or update your address or name if it’s changed since you last voted. Trained library staff can help if you have questions.
on’t forget to submit your best fall D Heights' photos for consideration – on Facebook or to janeekonkel@gmail.com. HAVE A NEIGHBORHOOD EVENT YOU’D LIKE TO INCLUDE IN OUR WINTER HIGHLIGHTER? Email the Highlighter editor at janeekonkel@gmail.com to let us know! Highlighter online at www.whna.net Do you want the Highlighter emailed to you? Contact membership@whna.net.
The deadline to submit articles and ads for the fall issue of the Highlighter is Wednesday, November 15, 2018. Washington Heights Highlighter, Fall 2018 ❖ 3
! r a l u c Spookta Saturday, October 27 6:30-8:30pm in Area 8
Start planning now so your whole family can participate this year in the 29th Annual Washington Heights Neighborhood Association Spooktacular on Saturday, October 27, from 6:30PM to 8:30PM. This year’s Spooktacular will take place in Area 8.
REGISTRATION LOCATIONS AND TIMES Register ahead of time and save time and money.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 13, FROM 1:00PM TO 4:00PM St. James Lutheran Church back lot. Enter off 59th Street. WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 17, FROM 6:00PM TO 8:00PM Cold Spoons Gelato on Vliet Street. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 20, FROM 11:00AM-2:00PM Spirit of Peace Lutheran Church at 55th & Lloyd.
REGISTRATION FEES • $5.00 per child for children and grandchildren of WHNA Members • $10.00 per child for non-members. • Same day registration will be accepted at Spook Central (St. James Lutheran Church back lot) on Saturday, October 27 from 5:00pm-7:00pm. All day-of event registrations are $10.00 per child. Cash, check and credit card ($1.00 convenience fee added for credit card transactions) will be accepted at all registration events. All residents are invited to become a member of the WHNA or renew their membership at Spooktacular registration.
4 ❖ Contact us at highlighter@whna.net or visit us online at www.whna.net
SPOOK CENTRAL COSTUME CONTEST
Sponsored by Rainbow Booksellers and McBobs Saturday, October 27 • 6:00PM Gather at Spook Central for the opportunity to win fabulous prices. Be sure to be in costume if you want to be included in the judging.
DECORATE YOUR HOME A team of judges will be out in Area 8 during Spooktacular looking for the best decorated homes. Prizes will be awarded for the most haunted places.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Many helping hands are needed for Spooktacular. Consider volunteering at one of the registration events, help with candy counting, carve a pumpkin for Spook Central, or assist with security during the event. Please contact Andy Robinson to volunteer for this year’s event by sending an email to whspooktacular@gmail.com or call 414-745-9463. Additional information for signing up for volunteer positions can also be found online at www.whna.net.
SPOOKTACULAR SAFETY All registered participants must have this year’s Spooktacular wrist band visible on their wrist or trick or treat bag. A parent or guardian must accompany children at all times during the event. For everyone’s safety, bikes, skateboards, scooters and dogs will not be permitted in the event area. If driving to Spooktacular, or if you live in Area 8, please park outside the event area. Area 8 will be closed to traffic at approximately 5:00pm on Saturday, October 27 and will not reopen until approximately 9:00pm. Thank you for helping keep everyone safe.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! Visit www.whna.net for information or to download and print a registration form or sign up to volunteer.
Washington Heights Highlighter, Fall 2018 ❖ 5
Life Changing Porches by Louise Scott
Every year in late winter or early spring, you get that ONE sunny day preview of warmer weather to come. You can smell spring in the air. For some, it’s a chance to wash their car, go for a long walk with Fido or start spring cleaning. For me, it’s my porch wake-up call. A time to re-fluff cushions, dust off candles, and stow crosscountry skis/sleds/boots elsewhere. It’s finally time to plan my first “porch meeting” with friends. A hint that summer porch sitting is on its way…eventually. #WisconsinWeather So, what’s all the fuss and importance of having a porch anyway? Let’s travel back in time. The origin of the front porch commenced as an early element of American architecture. This extension of the home served a culturally important feature to link families to nature. It allowed immigrants to acclimate to their new climates or cultures while providing a space where one could sit and reflect on the day’s events or weather. In fact, porches can be traced back to prehistoric times as over-hanging rock shelters, so families could be closer to the outside fire. To this day, front decks serve as a place for trust-building and face-to-face conversations with neighbors. It can provide a sense of security by uniting fellow citizens and increasing a willingness to engage with others. Throughout Milwaukee, especially in the
Washington Heights area, there are a plethora of these gems on each street. Some are in front; some are secret paradises in back. Some are hidden like an upper balcony on a beautiful Heights duplex. Ask yourself, “Can a front porch change my life?” I’ve asked many of my “porch friends” what their portico means to them. I have received an outpouring of positive feedback! To some, it’s a private retreat for relaxation, an oasis for a mindful moment from a hectic world, a place to share conversations and drinks or even a place to finish that game of monopoly. A safe place to let pets roam free or enjoy your garden or koi pond. In my world, it serves as an extension of my house for self-awareness and social opportunities. A gathering spot for my daughter and her pals to create many varieties of slime. Lots of slime. We are so fortunate to have such diversity in Washington Heights. Perhaps we can embrace the idea to discover some rejuvenating moments smiling/greeting neighbors to build unity in our wonderful community. Perhaps, your veranda could set the stage for world peace. Hey, the possibilities are endless. So, whether you have an open porch, enclosed porch, balcony, veranda, patio, deck, portico or just a chair outside your door, ask yourself: Can a porch change my life? I hope the answer is YES!
Watch the game at Grand Hall! Also available for rental year round
ANDIN EL
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AT
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Enjoy game day at The Landing’s indoor hall-calendar on our website The Grand Hall, available year round, offers a wonderful historic building and beautiful fireplace in winter and air conditioning in summer, in a park setting.
Y T PA
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6 ❖ Contact us at highlighter@whna.net or visit us online at www.whna.net
Washington Park Wednesdays Wraps 2018 Season, Looks to 2019 by Kate Schwartz
“Art is about aesthetics, about morals, about our belief in humanity” —Ai Weiwei 2015 As hard as it is to say goodbye to Summer, the change of the season does provide a good opportunity to reflect and look forward. Perhaps the best encapsulation of the 2018 season for the Washington Park Wednesdays Summer Concert Series comes with some of the unsolicited words bestowed upon us by others. When we dropped our lineup for the series in April, there was still snow on the ground. Milwaukee Record pointed out this weather discrepancy while also pointing out the “outstanding” nature of our programming. Milwaukee artist, activist and Washington Park neighbor, Wes Tank, said of creating our promotional video, “filming/editing this recap definitely made me appreciate my neighborhood and the mashup of Milwaukee’s cultural communities in an active way.” The Shepherd Express reviewed our final concert (The Diaspora Arkestra hosted by 88.9 Radio Milwaukee and curated by Jay Anderson and Tarik Moody) as a “night that showcased exactly what this underappreciated gem of Art Deco Milwaukee architecture, and the local music scene, is capable of when people come together.” We’d go so far as to say that all the nights showcased as much (and more) because bringing people together, that mashup of Milwaukee’s cultural communities, was precisely what we set out to do. We’ve always known what was special about your park and in recent years we decided it was time to pair that knowledge with intent. Having hosted a music series for nearly a decade, the unified decision was made to build upon natural aesthetics of the space, the cultural potential and desire of the community and our own belief in our city’s people. We hand-picked our artists because of their talent, but also because they shared the vision that art can instigate something beyond itself. In moving forward into the 2019 Season, we will continue to hold and expand upon these standards. We will surely continue to look to the community from which these standards were inspired and we will, obviously, be looking to bring the best of Milwaukee music to the bandshell stage. Thank you for a truly outstanding 2018.
Photo credit Samuel Mayer
PAUL J. BARSCH
GRI, CRS, CSS
Washington Heights resident since 1971 | Full service Realtor for over 30 years
2008-2017 Real Estate Agent Five Star Award Best in Client Satisfaction My Philosophy is to help make a positive difference in my client’s experience. “From what we get, we can make a living; what we give, however, makes a life” - Arthur Ashe
PAUL J. BARSCH
Office phone 262.784.9360 | Cell 414.333.2435 www.pauljbarsch.com | Fax 262.797.7158
Washington Heights Highlighter, Fall 2018 ❖ 7
by Sabrina Eder On September 15, 2018 the Washington Heights Neighborhood Association proudly sponsored another successful Boulevard Bash. Volunteers arrived and street barricades were set up around 10am transforming Washington Boulevard from streets 53rd to Hi Mount into the annual block party event. Attendees enjoyed beautiful sunny skies and temperatures in the mid to upper 80’s. The pop-up food court was home to Kettle Range Meat Company, Cold Spoons, St. Sebastian’s Fish Fry, Valentine Coffee, and the WHNA beverage booth. We also welcomed a new Bash vendor to the neighborhood this year, Vennture Brew Co, who has opened their home location on 55th and North Avenue. Their Bashtoberfest was a huge hit! Other tasty offerings could be found throughout the vendor booths along with local Milwaukee made cards, jewelry, handbags, and art. The opening entertainment featured the Jeff Winard Polka Party, making their Bash debut starting at 12PM. Their combined musical talent helped to kick off the bash as more and more neighbors began to arrive. At 3PM, Milwaukee’s own Hot & Dirty Brass Band, hit the stage with lead, Michael Clobes, on the trombone. They played until 6PM and were the perfect band to close out the Bash with their high energy, New Orleans style brass music. On the opposite side of the grounds, West End Conservatory hosted a number of budding musicians from the neighborhood at their own private stage in front of the Mayor’s home. Nearby, young gladiators jousted on the inflatable platform provided by the National Guard, used their minds to build with
the imagination blocks provided by MKE Plays, and enjoyed face painting, aerial dancing, and so much more! Thank you to all who participated in the 50/50 raffle this year, especially to our winner Dominique Loupi, who has generously offered to donate her winnings back to WHNA. Your contribution is greatly appreciated! Our silent auction was also full of winners this year with donations from WyEast, Bikram Yoga Heights, Swoon, and all of our wonderful vendors. This year’s WHNA Boulevard Bash was a huge hit for neighbors of all ages, despite moving it back one month to mid-September. Thank you to everyone for your understanding and flexibility as we work to continuously improve our neighborhood’s events! An event this size doesn’t happen without the support and hard work of many dedicated neighbors. WHNA would like to thank all of those who made this event possible, the residents of Washington Boulevard from Hi Mount to 53rd Street for agreeing to host this event and every organizer and volunteer who donated their time and enthusiasm to ensure we had a Bash in 2018. A special thank you to Christine McRoberts and McBob’s for their annual donation of their world famous corned beef sandwiches. Not only did Chris donate her restaurants’ delicious beef, but she took the time to volunteer and prepare sandwiches for the neighbors as well! Thank you all so much for your support of the 2018 Boulevard Bash. Washington Heights is such a special place to live and the reason is because of each and every one of you. It’s the people within a neighborhood that make it great and I am so proud to live in ours. See you all at the 2019 Boulevard Bash!
8 ❖ Contact us at highlighter@whna.net or visit us online at www.whna.net
The State of Real Estate in the Washington Heights by Mary Jumes, CRS
We’re seeing a very vibrant real estate market, partly because inventory is still very low for what the demand is. Currently, there are 35 active properties (9 of which have accepted offers), 2 are pending, and 61 properties (37 single families, 58 duplexes, one four-family, two commercial) have sold since January 1st of this year. Price has increased with our low being at $75,000 and our high at $479,900, and when priced well, selling for more than list price. So sellers still need to prepare their property and price it correctly (a good agent will do a thorough market analysis and help you evaluate how to optimize your selling potential). Understand that getting the offer may be the easiest part of the process, but you’re still going to need to be ready to navigate the process through to the closing. Buyers need to be prepared to be competitive with other buyers, have a solid pre-approval or “proof-of-funds” ready before you start looking at property (most sellers won’t consider your offer without this), & seriously consider enlisting the services of an agent (they can set up a pointed search for you & reach out to their network for what’s coming soon). Remember, it’s important to consult with your real estate professional to discuss the current market and how it impacts your unique situation.
Washington Heights Highlighter, Fall 2018 ❖ 9
Easier being green… St. James Lutheran Church
A community member for 97 years A place to grow in God’s will for your life.
Worship Opportunities:
Thursdays at 6:30pm Sundays at 9:00am
Small Groups Ministry Opportunities:
Check our website for up-to-date listings
Preschool Ministry:
Call for information
Pastoral Guidance:
Help is just a phone call or an email away (pastor@saintjames-mke.org) 2028 North 60th Street, Milwaukee, WI Pastor Christian Marquardt, 414-453-5770 www.saintjames-mke.org
Now Serving Bigger Better Burgers
s ’ d re
f
Grill tard & n Cus Froze
4726 W. Vliet Street (414) 771-6270
Your green challenge for the quarter! by Beth Lappen, Green Committee
REUSE: Shower curtain liner. Even though you buy the shower curtain liner with mildew-resistant liner, mold and mildew will eventually make an appearance. I used to mindlessly buy a new one and throw the dirty one out every couple of months. Now, I take my cleaning product and a scrub brush to it once a month, and it looks practically new. Even if it is somewhat stained, though, most guests will not see it. And, if they do, you can feel proud that you are being more responsible about what you are and are not sending to the landfill. Not loving this idea? Another option is to buy a cloth shower curtain liner that you can throw in the wash to keep clean and out of the landfill. REDUCE: Water waste. Camping up North, I have developed good water conservation habits because we only have what we bring. When it runs out, we have to purchase water from a store in a plastic container. I don’t like to do that so I turn off the nozzle while brushing my teeth or soaping up my hands. Like magic, some of those good habits disappear when I am back home in the city with what seems like an unlimited water supply. Join me as I try— even as the weather turns colder—to turn off the water at the sink and in the shower when not actively using it to rinse or wash. RECYCLE: Frozen dinner trays. Maybe you have this once a day or once in a while at work. Guessing, though, that you probably toss the tray in the garbage because it is covered in goop from cheese or a sauce. I started taking mine home to rinse and recycle without making a huge mess in my lunch bag. I remove the film nearly all the way to eat, but then pull it back over and stick it back in its box before putting it back in my lunch bag. If it does make a small mess, I can easily wipe it up or rinse it out. Don’t forget to collapse and recycle the box as well, but I am hoping you do that already!
New Signs on Vliet
In our evermore electronic world, there is still a joy in seeing street signs. They help you find your way home, line a path for a new adventure, and are a reminder you are where you are supposed to be. And. much like the ones West Vliet Street Business Association have been working hard to bring up and down Vliet Street, they can bring a community together. Each of the 33 signs this project will install along Vliet from 43rd Street to 60th will feature the West Vliet Street logo bracketed in a simple manner to compliment the sign. WVSBA has worked closely with the city on this project. They were involved with placement and will be installing the signs as well. We excited for the next phase of this project fundraising! This is your chance to help improve our business corridor and take it to another level. In addition to applying for a City of Milwaukee CIP grant, we will be raising a goal of $10,000. Read more here: http://www.meetonvliet.com/street-sign-project.html
10 ❖ Contact us at highlighter@whna.net or visit us online at www.whna.net
Big Thank you to McBOB’s Pub and Grill.
It takes a village. … When raising a child, My brother always says “it takes a Village”. An entire community of different people interacting in a combined effort. I think the same goes for the Washington Heights Community Garden. A Community of people working together, that’s what I love about living in the Washington heights. A big shout out to McBob’s Pub & Grill for their generosity donating the money, to purchase a smart watering system. It was so hard to water using buckets and jugs now the Washingtion Height Community garden has a Smart Water Cart and can move 20 gallons at a time. Making watering at the Community gardens such a breeze! Thanks McBob’s Pub & Grill!
Shelter Real Estate.com With HUNDREDS of homes SOLD in Washington Heights! Call Tim 414.258.3570
Tim Stemper, Owner - Broker - Advisor T i m @ S h e l t e r R e a l E s t a t e. com
Member Owned, Locally Controlled Financial Ins�tu�on In Your Backyard
Looking for a new bank?
Why not try FOCUS Credit Union instead! All types of Loans, Checking, Debit Card, Online and Mobile App, Bill Pay and more
Nearest Branch 1530 N 68th Street, Wauwatosa, WI 262.255.0833 www.focus‐cu.com
Washington Heights Highlighter, Fall 2018 ❖ 11
Meet on Vliet
Vliet Street Business Association WHAT’S HAPPENING AT 5706 & 5708 W. VLIET? You may have noticed some changes happening on the 5700 block of Vliet Street: here’s the details. Clara Tracey, owner of Four Corners of the World is involved with several community projects including the New State Theater and St. Michael Community Music School, a music school for refugees, and was finding it difficult to juggle these projects and still maintain the shop. She wasn’t ready to close the last place in Milwaukee for Fair Trade shopping, and after considering several options, downsized to the back half of 5708 Vliet and is now sharing the space with Artifactory; a small co-op with Lynita Wolf , owner of Barcelona, and four other like minded souls who have a passion for vintage. At Artifactory, you will also find beautiful lamps, pillows and home decor crafted with vintage African textiles combined with a modern twist made by Konkada. Be sure to stop in and see the beautiful new space! Current hours are: WednesdayFriday 11-6 and Saturday 10-4. Next door at 5706, Pop! has closed to make way for SPRUCED 57, a new upscale women’s consignment boutique. Jessica Brittingham, former co-owner of U-Turn on North Avenue is bringing a fresh spin to the familiar shopping favorite. SPRUCED 57 will have the same great clothes and style along with a new look and feel in the new space. Opening this fall!!
year), the grand re-opening of Four Corners of the World and the opening of Artifactory at 5708 W. Vliet. A vintage flea market was held in conjunction with the Sidewalk Sale and was expanded from last year’s location in the Barcelona parking lot to three locations. Over 15 vendors of vintage goods were spread across 3 parking lots on Vliet between 57th & 59th Street. Even Winnie, the traveling retail store was available in the Highland Lanes lot for shoppers to discover vintage and handmade goods. Mark your calendars for the next fun event on Vliet – the Fall Festival, Saturday, October 6. The Fall Festival will have lots to offer everyone. Vliet Street will be closed between 54th and Hawley Road for a day of fun activities including local artisan and maker booths, food trucks, bands, and so much more. If you are interested in joining the Vliet Street Business Association or for more information on events, please visit our website: www.meetonvliet.com.
SIDEWALK SALE The West Vliet Street Business Association was proud to present the second annual Sidewalk Sale. Held August 11, the event was a huge success! In addition to great bargains offered by the retail businesses on Vliet, shoppers were treated to delicious food offerings from several local food trucks (a new addition for this
12 ❖ Contact us at highlighter@whna.net or visit us online at www.whna.net
DID YOU KNOW by Debbie Knepke
• Wisconsin is the only state with laws designed to protect students based on sexual orientation, but not gender identity. • Washington Park Neighbors reached its goal of raising $20,000 to fund the nine free Wednesday concerts this summer. Congratulations on leading the volunteer-driven charge for bringing food, beer, games, and live music to an average of 800 — 1,500 attendees per night. • Frederic Baur invented Pringles. When he died in 2008 his ashes were buried in a Pringles can. • For information regarding landlords and tenant resources, visit http://communityadvocates.net/housing/ • If you observe a suspected vehicle drug deal, call the nonemergency number at 414-933-4444, press 9. If you are at a safe and secure vantage point, take an picture of the vehicle, including the license plate number(s). • Patrick Curley, Mayor Tom Barrett’s longtime chief of staff, is retiring after 30 years at Milwaukee City Hall. • Evan Goyke, Representative for the 18th Assembly District, was named “Legislator of the Year” this summer by the Wisconsin American Legion. • You may see LaTonya Johnson, Wisconsin State Senator for District 6, walking her four dogs in our neighborhood. • Wisconsin is the first state to implement the “Green Alert” — a notification system for missing veterans in crisis.
• The modern typewriter – that is, the first version to be called “a typewriter” and to use the QWERTY key setup – was invented in Milwaukee. It was so large and unwieldy that one of the developers called it “a cross between a piano and a kitchen table”. • Lary Sorensen was the first Brewer pitcher to make an All-Star Game appearance. He appeared in the 1978 game and tossed three shutout innings. • Urban Ecology Center Executive Director stated in the summer UEC newsletter that the 2022 vision for Washington Park is to grow the service base of schools from 18 to 33, expand the adult and community programs, and expand the native restoration area from eight to 20 acres. • Lightning is one of the top three storm-related killers. On average, 27 people are killed each year in the U.S. by lightning. At home, avoid touching plumbing and electronics. • Milwaukee County park acreage is 6,160 acres, and 96 people are served per park acre. • After six consecutive years of festival growth, Pridefest Milwaukee set an all-time attendance record of 45,400 in 2018. Be sure to like our page at www.facebook.com/WHNA. Milwaukee. I am looking for fun and interesting tidbits about our neighborhood for this quarterly column. If you have something to share, email it to me at debbieknepke@gmail.com.
St. Sebastian Fish Fry Dine In and Carry Out
2018-2019
October 5, November 2, December 7, January 4, February 1, March 1, April 5, May 3 Carry Out Only March 8, March 15, March 22, March 29, April 12, April 19
4:30—7:30 p.m.
•
All-You-Can-Eat Fried or Baked Cod
•
Salad Bar, Milk & Coffee Included
•
Chicken Nugget Kid’s Meal
•
Succulent Shrimp Chowder & Soup of the Month
St. Sebastian School • Beer, Soda, and Homemade Desserts Cafeteria 1740 N. 55th Street • Fried with Trans-Fat Free Oil
See you at YOUR neighborhood Fish Fry! Washington Heights Highlighter, Fall 2018 ❖ 13
Highland Lanes Celebrates 50th Year of Family Ownership by Barbara Haig
Shoes are available to rent at $1 per game.
If you’ve ever been to a bowling alley, you know the sounds: The initial wooden clunk as a ball is tossed onto the lanes, low rumble as it propels down the alley, then the crash of pins knocking together followed by the inevitable cheer or groan as the bowler and compatriots take stock of the score. Perhaps some people have written off bowling, but even on a Thursday morning, Highland Lanes on Vliet Street is a busy place. Dave Scherbarth, whose family has run Highland Lanes since 1969, is talking with a Miller Brewing distributor. Mount Olive pastor Mark Wangerin and other Lutheran ministers are warming up for their weekly game. A friend, who says he’s retired but seems pretty active, is doing a little construction over the bar. “Compared to the 70s and 80s, sure, the numbers are different. But the people who are bowling today are having as good a time as ever,” Dave says. And he’s been around enough to know. Dave’s late father Neil bought the business from longtime Milwaukee bowling businessman George Wuky, who turned the Highland Tavern into the Highland Lanes in 1960. Neil, his wife Dorothy and their children Karen, Gary, Donna and Dave, all worked there in one capacity or another. Neil signed the Highland Lanes over to Gary in 1983 and continued to be involved in operations until his death in 2004. Gary passed away in 2017, and all three men are in the Milwaukee Bowling Hall of Fame. Dorothy still stops by, and Dave’s wife Denise helps out. Dave also has help from longtime friends who bartend and waitress. Pizza and cheese bread is served along with various food specials.
Mount Olive Lutheran pastor Mark Wangerin (right) enjoys a weekly game with other ministers.
From days gone by, the Scherbarth family. Back row – Gary, Neil and Dave. Front row – Dorothy in the middle, flanked by two waitresses.
The building was turned into a bowling alley in 1960.
14 ❖ Contact us at highlighter@whna.net or visit us online at www.whna.net
TECHNICAL UPDATE Although steeped in nostalgia, the Highland Lanes tries to keep on the cutting edge. According to “They Came to Bowl: How Milwaukee Became America’s Tenpin Capital,” Highland Lanes was one of two test centers for Brunswick’s new A-2 automatic pin setting machines in 1963, and the Scherbarth family continues to keep up-to-date. A few years ago, Dave installed digital scoring and provides frequent software updates. “We took out all the wooden lanes and sold the wood to the Varsity Club on 124th & Beloit, if you want to visit it. Then we installed synthetic flooring to provide a more consistent surface,” he says. Shoe rentals are available, though most people bring their own. Dave says Highland Lanes is successful – he’s open six days a week – and he plans to keep it that way for at least another 10 years. In order to give his family some spare time, so to speak, the lanes are closed from June until the first Monday after State Fair ends. The big challenge, Dave admits, is getting kids interested in the sport. “We do birthday parties, and there are some in-school bowling classes, so we hope to attract a new generation of bowlers,” he says. With bowlers in 16 leagues, drop-ins and holiday parties from Saz’s, Miller and Harley-Davidson, Highland Lanes is here to stay as a Washington Heights neighborhood institution. For more information, contact Dave atobowlhl300@yahoo.com or (414) 774-2166.
Highland Lanes owner Dave Scherbarth works 6 days a week but enjoys summer vacations in Northern Wisconsin.
An undated photo of the Highland Lanes building shows the old Milwaukee streetcar going past on Vliet Street.
Bowling before automatic scoring and renovated alleys.
The building on 58th & Vliet housed a tavern for many years before it became a bowling alley.
Bowling Lingo Sour Apple: A 5-7-10 split. Throwing Rocks: Piling up strikes by rolling a very fast ball. Turkey: Term used for three consecutive strikes. Mother-in-law: A name for the 7 pin. Hambone: A term used to denote four consecutive strikes. Cherry: To knock down the front pin or pins.
A special booth honors the memories of family members.
Washington Heights Highlighter, Fall 2018 ❖ 15
It was a SUCCESS!
by Sharon Heffelfinger & Dominique Leupi The 53rd & 54th Streets’ combined Block Party from Washington Boulevard to Vine was a success! As a way to meet our neighbors and have fun in the process, we planned our first (of hopefully many to come) block party. We pursued this as part of a pilot project by
414-736-1167
the Neighborhood Safety Committee, which is promoting block parties as a way to increase familiarity with and communication among neighbors and, hopefully, increase neighborhood safety as a result. Neither of us had ever planned a block party like this, and I would be lying if I said we weren’t worried about it. The process started with a mentoring meeting with a few of our committee members that had experience in planning block parties. We then hand-delivered save-the-date notices—and included treats!—as well as the final invitation, taking the opportunity to speak with neighbors who were home. Prior to the event, some neighbors volunteered to help plan while some offered to provide needed supplies. On the day of the party, we had 40 plus adults and at least 10 children that joined in the fun! Ultimately, we kept this first one very simple, but it was still a lot of fun. As an added bonus, we also have had a lot of interest from neighbors in planning some sort of a progressive party that would take place in the colder months that, sadly, are just around the corner. Our brains are starting to think about the exciting possibilities! We want to give a BIG SHOUT OUT to our block neighbors to the north who just completed their 40th annual block party and especially to Allen for all of your help and “words of wisdom” during the planning process. Also, our new WHNA president, Beth, and 51st Street Block Captain (between Vine and Lloyd), Mary, who have also held many great block parties and shared their ideas and experiences! Thank you all for your help and support in making our party a success. Wouldn’t you want to have some fun and meet your neighbors? Have you been wishing your block would have a block party??? Please contact your Neighborhood Safety Committee for help and advice on holding one next year. We will provide you with information and planning tools to help get you on your way to having your first block party, too! Let us know how we can help!
16 ❖ Contact us at highlighter@whna.net or visit us online at www.whna.net
Housing and Appearance 2017 Landscaping Awards by Tom Rutenbeck
Once again, it is time to celebrate the efforts of our neighbors who enhance our neighborhood with attrac-tively landscaped yards. Many different elements may be used including: trees, shrubs, annuals, perennials, food produce varieties, lawns, fences, mulching, stone/masonry, and even water features. However, they should be executed in a manner mindful of our urban setting. To that end, the committee uses the following to judge each landscape:
AREA 6 AREA 1
1. Pleasing to look at 2. Proportionate/scaled to the space available 3. Well cared for (healthy plantings, few weeds) Award winners have received printed and framed award certificates from the WHNA, and also food gift certificates from Wy’East Pizza, a local merchant on Vliet St. Special thanks go out to proprietors Ann Brock and James Du-rawa for their generous contribution toward the face value of the certificates.
AREA 7 AREA 2
AREA 8 AREA 3
AREA 9 Area 1 • Margaret Wiemer • 1602 N 51st St. Area 2 • Paul Post & Kelley McDonald • 1751 N 49th St.
AREA 4
Area 3 • Paul Zettel & Eileen Asbell • 2126 N 51st St. Area 4 • Kim White • 2151 N 51st St. Area 5 • James Raasch • 1901A N 53rd St. Area 6 • Lance Jochims • 1628 N 53rd St. Area 7 • Ty Phelps & Joanne HW • 1535 N 58th St.
AREA 5
Area 8 • Joseph & Mary Anna Novotny • 1807 N 58th St. Area 9 • Michael & Patricia Gagnon • 2129 N 57th St.
Washington Heights Highlighter, Fall 2018 ❖ 17
Dogma by Laura Burke
Mentally Stimulate Your Pet
Pets need physical as well as mental stimulation, and all dogs and cats can track using their most powerful sense – their sense of smell. Any playtime can give you more opportunities to challenge your pet’s mind, enrich their lives, and establish an even deeper bond. Here are some ideas to try.
HIDE-AND-SEEK Try hiding treats for your dog. Start off with simply making your dog choose which of your hands (closed into fists), has the treat. Next, rub the scent in various spaces, hiding the meal or the high-prized treat. Easy places first, then move up to harder places. This encourages the pet to problem solve and as a result builds confidence. Think of this as a sort of Easter egg hunt. You can hide treats and high-prized toys all over the house!
OBSTACLE COURSE Create an obstacle/agility course at home. You can build obstacle courses for your dog out of boxes, sturdy containers, and portable stairs. Use treats to lure the dog by scent into the area and activity you want them to perform. Be patient. They might not get it right away, but as with anything, practice makes perfect!
PROVIDE INTERACTIVE TOYS/TREAT BALLS Dogs love playing with balls, frisbees, chew toys, tug-of-war toys, even boxes, but toys that dispense food are even better. These toys are made of sturdy plastic and you can put kibble or broken up treats inside. If the dog wants to get the treasure, he has to roll the toy with his nose to release the food. Hiding kibble in an empty plastic water bottle can be just as exciting. This can be a challenging way to feed them, because it forces them to problem solve and earn their food.
FIND ME Teach your dog, “Stay,” for this fun exercise. It’s also a way to teach “come” with the word “come” or whatever sound you choose, a whistle for example. It works like this: you say “stay” and then go hide in another room. Keep the proximity close at first and then gradually increase the distance. When you are in your hiding place, make the come sound or say the word. Then patiently wait for the
dog to find you. Don’t say her name or the command again. Give her mind a chance to work it out. When she finds you, reward her with a treat. It’s very simple.You can also move to larger areas like back yard/park.
PLAY LIKE A DOG Most pets love to run and chase things. Tie a string to the end of a long stick, then tie a soft stuffed animal or toy onto the string. Dangle it in front of your dog to make eye contact and get his attention. To make the toy even more interesting, stuff it with a treat or rub it with the scent of a treat or food. Instead of moving it frantically, which is our natural inclination, move it slowly, stopping and starting again. This encourages the dog to focus the excitement and leave you in control.
ROTATE YOUR PET’S TOYS Dogs can get tired of playing with the same toys every single day. They easily get bored. When your dog gets bored, she will find ways to entertain herself and may indulge in destructive behavior. Some Brain Boosters: “Use it or lose it” holds as true for human and canine minds as it does for our bodies.
NAME THAT TOY How many toys does your dog know the names of? Increase his vocabulary by teaching him to retrieve each toy by name. Start with his two favorites, and teach him to fetch them by name one at a time, in a room with no other toys to choose from. If he isn’t a naturally motivated retriever, use lots of praise, or treats to reward the good fetches. Once he knows the names of two toys, put both on the floor and ask him to fetch them one at a time. Reward the correct choices and respond to incorrect choices by repeating the request, eventually guiding him toward the right toy, if he really needs help. If he can succeed with two, try three or more. This is really tough brainwork, so expect to build up his vocabulary very gradually.
EARNING THE KIBBLE Do you waste time and get aggravated searching for your misplaced purse or keys? Let your dog earn some of her kibble by helping you out. Dab these items with the tiniest drop of essential oil—so little that you don’t even notice it—and teach her to find them by scent, on request. Rewarding successful search missions with a stuffed chew toy will keep her content as you head out the door, and motivate speedy and reliable retrieves.
18 ❖ Contact us at highlighter@whna.net or visit us online at www.whna.net
THE SHELL GAME Have your dog sit, and let him see you hide one piece of kibble under a cup on the floor. Tell him “Take it,” and when he noses or knocks over the cup let him eat the kibble it was hiding. Once he’s good at this he is ready for the shell game. Rub kibble on your fingers and along the inside of three mugs lined up in a row, so the smell of it is everywhere — this is a visual tracking game and we don’t want him cheating with his talented nose! Let him see you hide a piece of kibble under one of the mugs. Tell him “Take it,” and give him the kibble when he makes the right choice, no matter how long it takes him, and no matter how many mistakes he makes. Do this many times, hiding kibble under each of the three mugs, one at a time. When he’s good at this step, slide just
the kibble-hiding mug to a different spot before telling him “Take it.” This is pretty tough, and not all dogs can do it. Finally, if your dog seems gifted, try swapping two mugs and see if he can track the kibble-hiding one. This game is EXTREMELY challenging, so don’t start out working him like a grifter or you won’t get anywhere!
PHYSICAL EXERCISE AND SOCIALIZING YOUR PET Take her for a run, walk or try a dog park, always go slow when introducing your dog to potential new friends, and monitor her. If you and your pooch enjoy physical activity as much as brainwork, there are lots of organized dog sports—agility, simple obedience, tracking and flyball, to name a few. Any questions please contact Laura: Washington Heights Pet Sitter at: Mariah969@yahoo.com
UPCOMING EVENTS OCTOBER
FEBRUARY 2019
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18 WHNA BOARD MEETING 7 – 8:30pm St. Sebastian’s Community Room
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 21 WHNA BOARD MEETING 7 – 8:30pm St. Sebastian’s Community Room
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18 – NOVEMBER 1, 2018 MKE FILM FESTIVAL – 10TH ANNIVERSARY Daily and evening film screening at Times Cinema
MARCH 2019
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 27 • 6:30-8:30PM SPOOKTACULAR, AREA 8
NOVEMBER THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 15 WHNA BOARD MEETING 7 – 8:30pm St. Sebastian’s Community Room FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 16 • 5-8PM SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 17 • 10-4PM HOLDIAY HAPPENINGS West Vliet Street Businesses
DECEMBER THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20 WHNA BOARD MEETING 7 – 8:30pm St. Sebastian’s Community Room
JANUARY 2019 WHNA VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION EVENT Date, time and location to be announced.
highlighter Contacts ADVERTISING INFORMATION �����advertising@whna.net WHNA VOICE MAIL �������������������������������������������������939.4622 HIGHLIGHTER EDITOR ���������� janeekonkel@gmail.com or 949.1577 HIGHLIGHTER DISTRIBUTION ����������������������������� 771.7977 RAINBOW ASSOCIATION �������������������������������������� 258.2991 membership@whna.net; volunteer@whna.net; adartwork@whna.net
WHNA WINE TASTING Date, time and location to be announced. THURSDAY, MARCH 21 WHNA BOARD MEETING 7 – 8:30pm St. Sebastian’s Community Room
APRIL 2019 WHNA EASTER EGG HUNT Date, time and location to be announced. THURSDAY, APRIL 18 WHNA BOARD MEETING 7 – 8:30pm St. Sebastian’s Community Room
MAY 2019 WHNA ANNUAL BUSINESS MEETING Date, time and location to be announced.
JUNE 2019 THURSDAY, JUNE 20 WHNA BOARD MEETING 7 – 8:30pm St. Sebastian’s Community Room
community Contacts
THIRD DISTRICT NON-EMERGENCY ��������������� 933.4444 CRIME PREVENTION �����������������������������������������������935.7733 GRAFFITI HOTLINE �������������������������������������������������� 286.8715 BLOCK WATCH ���������������������������������������������������������� 588.5619
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