Verve Holiday 2020

E A S T E R N

W I S C O N S I N ’ S

M A G A Z I N E

F O R

W O M E N

HOLIDAY 2020

FREE

L ight

Shining a

OF PROTECTION

WOMEN

FRIENDLY

WORKPLACES

GGIVING ift GREAT

Ideas

Experience the Timeless Charm of Sheboygan Falls

2020 List of Events

Main Street Memories & Holiday Parade – Sat., Dec. 5 Gift Certificates always a great gift!

Sheboygan Falls Chamber - Main Street • SheboyganFalls.org

2020 EXPERIENCE THE TIMELESS CHARM OF

SHEBOYGAN FALLS

events Main

Street Memories & Holiday Parade October 15 Ladies Nite Out

December 5 Main Street Memories & Holiday Parade June 24

Shop our unique retailers, dine at our delectable restaurants, lodge at our historic inns and attend our annual events.

July 8 & 22 December August 12 & 26 5 September 9

Summer Seriesfor Please see Concert our website further information.

SheboyganFalls.org • 920-467-6206

New Balance • Red Wing • SAS Vionic • Cobb Hill • Aravon Dunham • Propét • Aetrex • Bogs Spring Step • Baggallini Purses

Quality Footwear For Your Entire Family

• Conscientious Fitting for (4A-6E) feet • Dedicated to fitting your feet properly • Arch Support Products Lynco, Power Step, Spenco • Smartwool and Extra Wide Socks

105 Pine Street, Sheboygan Falls 920-467-4181

SHOE SIZES DO CHANGE!

Hours: Mon-Fri 9-5 • Sat 9-Noon

Stop in to have your feet measured.

It’s true…The best things in life are worth waiting for!

I custom ordered my new Amish Crafted Sofa exactly the way I wanted it.

It’s almost like I built it myself!  Bench built with the hands of quality craftsmen.  Long lasting kiln dried hardwood frame.  Exclusive coil spring seating unit to give your sofa extraordinary support and comfort.  The best foam cushioning materials.  Choose from over 800 fabrics All the best materials assembled by the finest craftsman. Just the way you’d do it. But why would you? With our Made in the USA Custom Order Sale, you’ll get the exact sofa (or chair!) that you want.

Made in the USA Discounts

And we guarantee it will be worth the wait!

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elling Styles on our Best S

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www.chiltonfurniture.net Hwys. 151 & 57 S • Chilton • 920-849-9023 HOURS: Mon. & Tues. 9-5; Wed., Thurs. & Fri. 9-8; Sat. 9-3; Closed on Sundays to allow our staff time to spend with Faith and Family.

in the

USa

REMEMBER…

90

We still always have over

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EASTERN WISCONSIN’S MAGAZINE FOR WOMEN

with energy and enthusiasm or vigor

3 SHINING A LIGHT OF PROTECTION Area restaurant uses new technology to keep diners safe from viruses

5 GREAT GIFT GIVING

IDEAS FOR THE ‘20 HOLIDAY SEASON Area businesses offer a wide range of gift ideas for this year

29 WOMEN FRIENDLY

WORKPLACES

9 truths to help women lead in the 21st century

solutions 22 RECIPES FROM MARGE Marge Petts shares favorite

family recipes

CONTRIBUTORS Darlene Buechel | Mark Sherry | Paula Gilsdorf COPY EDITOR Mark Sherry

Holiday 2020

on the cover

PUBLISHER Wisconsin Media Group 606 Fremont Street, Kiel, WI 53042

msherry@wisconsinmediagroup.com

health

27 EAT, MOVE, LIVE

It’s dark, cold, and snowy

outside—get out there anyway!

kschnell@wisconsinmediagroup.com

ADVERTISING/MARKETING Pam Mathes pmathes@wisconsinmediagroup.com

Candy Te Beest

life

ctebeest@wisconsinmediagroup.com

16 AROUND OUR VERVE COMMUNITIES

GRAPHIC DESIGN Klaudia Schnell

Getting to know women who lead our communities. This edition we focus on women from New Holstein.

24 FEATURED RESTAURANT Guilty! The Courthouse Pub in Manitowoc confesses to serving up great food.

your voice

31 DARLENE BUECHEL

Cheese Head and Hula Girl

Melanie Breit mbreit@wisconsinmediagroup.com

Joe Mathes jmathes@wisconsinmediagroup.com

Contact our advertising representatives at 920-894-2828.

CIRCULATION Sharon Schjoth sschjoth@wisconsinmediagroup.com

GENERAL MANAGER Joe Mathes jmathes@wisconsinmediagroup.com VERVE Magazine is published quarterly

by Wisconsin Media Group, Inc. Copyright 2020. All rights reserved.

Opinions expressed by contributors in this publication are not necessarily the opinion of the publication.

VERVE is distributed at more than 200 locations in Eastern Wisconsin.

Pick up your free copy at our local outlets.

For a complete list of distribution sites, visit our website www.iwantverve.com WISCONSIN MEDIA GROUP, INC. P. O. Box 237, Kiel, WI 53042 PHONE: 920-894-2828 FAX: 920-894-2161 E-MAIL: pmathes@wisconsinmediagroup.com WEBSITE: www.iwantverve.com

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SHINING LIGHT OF PROTEC TION

The Blind Horse Restaurant & Winery is the first restaurant in the U.S. to install Far-UVC 222 light technology to provide real-time mitigation of harmful pathogens.

Blind Horse installs UV light technology to mitigate viruses The Blind Horse Restaurant & Winery in Kohler is the first restaurant in the U.S. to install Far-UVC 222 light technology to provide real-time mitigation of harmful pathogens and viruses.

State-of-the-art sanitization solutions—developed by Melbourne, Florida-based Healthe, Inc.—was installed at key locations throughout the restaurant in mid-October. FarUVC 222 light technology provides an additional layer of critical protection for staff and guests along with the other safety initiatives already in place throughout the property.

“Of utmost importance to us is that we provide a safe environment so our guests and employees have the opportunity to feel a sense of normalcy and well-being that has been shaken by COVID-19,” said Thomas Nye, general manager and master winemaker at The Blind Horse.

“Real time mitigation of the virus has been our goal since this crisis began.

The suite of safety protocols and technology that we are installing is extensive and unprecedented in our industry. Our customers have come to expect The Blind Horse to be a leader, and we are proud to be at the forefront in utilizing this technology in

the restaurant and winery industry.”

Since the onset of the pandemic, Nye has spent countless hours researching innovative sanitization solutions. This led him to Healthe’s product portfolio, which is the most recent addition to The Blind Horse’s curated suite of sanitation solutions and cleaning programs. Healthe’s innovative sanitization solutions utilize UVA, UVC and Far-UVC 222 light to sanitize indoor environments by deactivating airborne and surface contaminants. Significantly, Healthe’s solutions can be safely operated in occupied spaces.

HOLIDAY 2020|

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HEALTH | Shining a light of protection “I’m excited to see new technology being installed at The Blind Horse that can be a potential shining light to an industry that is suffering right now. It’s impressive that The Blind Horse has invested in such groundbreaking technology in Sheboygan County to help keep our citizens safe,” said Dave Roettger, health inspector, Sheboygan County.

The Blind Horse has installed Healthe Space™, formerly known as Cleanse Downlight, throughout the dining and bar areas of the restaurant and adjacent Granary building. Space is a ceiling-mounted light that produces a combination of general illumination and Far-UVC 222 sanitizing light to clean air and surfaces.

Space replaces traditional downlight cans and can be easily retrofitted into existing standard six-inch housings. The Blind Horse installed 18 Healthe Space lights throughout the property.

“As we continue to ramp up deployment of our sanitizing solutions, we are proud to partner with the premier dining venue, The Blind Horse Restaurant & Winery,” said Healthe Executive Chairman Abe Morris. “The hospitality industry has been hit particularly hard by this pandemic. Our solutions ensure that restaurants such as The Blind Horse can continue to provide the services and experience that customers expect while navigating ongoing operational challenges, including transitioning seating indoors as colder

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weather approaches.”

Nye said, “We are excited to deploy this technology and to obtain the added peace of mind it will provide.

The installation comes at an especially critical time for restaurants in the Midwest and throughout the country as outdoor dining ceases to be a viable option and diners head indoors.”

A growing library of evidence and peer-reviewed papers demonstrate that Far-UVC 222 is as effective or more effective than conventional UVC light at inactivating pathogens including viruses and bacteria. The most recent and compelling study, published in June of this year by researchers at Columbia University, is a powerful testament to the technology’s safety and efficacy, including against coronaviruses. As one of the world’s leading UVC researchers noted, FarUVC 222 nm light “can be safely used in occupied public spaces... (and) it kills pathogens in the air before we can breathe them in.”

The Blind Horse has experienced minimal impact on overall business because of its strides in safety. In fact, throughout the pandemic, business at The Blind Horse has been unaffected and at times has seen an increase in business.

“The Blind Horse is exhausting all procedures, products, and processes to create a safer hospitality experience and to lessen the impact of our current climate,” Nye said.

“Everyone is seeking a

positive way forward to inspire our struggling industry. The cost, especially for a small business, is daunting. Our customers and staff appreciate all the time, money, and effort to create a safer environment.”

In addition to the recent installation of Healthe products, the business has added and implemented the following activations that exceed CDC guidelines: • additional real-time mitigation support on property with the installation of two BigAssFans Clean Air System (www.bigassfans. com); • Shock & Shield Protection Program by Green Up Solutions (www. greenupsolutions.org) of Milwaukee incorporates ultraviolet light treatment and an antimicrobial protection 90-day treatment plan (third application set for November); • nightly ozone treatment of all indoor spaces; • operating indoor air filters; • increased outdoor seating capacity on the property’s expansive outdoor landscape and adding

pop-up tents (available by reservation); • servers wearing copper-woven masks providing another layer of antimicrobial protection for customers and employees; • staff participation in ServSafe’s COVID-19 training.

“The Blind Horse is flourishing largely in part to their innovative, enhanced safety measures—the totality of which have helped tremendously in combating pandemic-related blows that have desperately hurt the restaurant, winery, and hospitality industries,” said Bob Moeller, owner of The Blind Horse Restaurant & Winery.

To stay up-to-date with The Blind Horse happenings, events, and news visit www.

TheBlindHorse.com or follow social media on Facebook at TheBlindHorseWinery and on Instagram at @ theblindhorse. For more information and reservations call 920-467-8599.

The Blind Horse Restaurant & Winery is located on seven landscaped acres at 6018 Superior Ave., Kohler. 

Home of Far-UVC 222 Lights for Real Time COVID Mitigation

6018 Superior Ave. • Kohler 920-467-8599 • theblindhorse.com

C is for Christmas (and not that other word we’ve all been dealing with in 2020)

T

hat big happening that starts with “C” is coming up, and for once that is not a reference to COVID-19.

The pandemic will impact holiday events and gatherings this year, but nothing is going to completely stop the celebration of all things Christmas.

That is especially true when it comes to gift giving. As a matter of fact, if there ever has been a year in

Area retailers help make gift giving fun, safe which giving and getting gifts to raise the holiday spirit is important, it is 2020.

individuals are going the extra mile to make sure commerce and gift giving is done as safely as possible.

People are getting pretty good at finding new and safe ways to deliver things to other people. It might even be said that doing so is getting “normal.” Both businesses and

Christmas should be a season of showing love, and safely giving a gift to a loved one is a great way to do that.

From jewelry to purses, chocolates HOLIDAY 2020|

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IDEAS | Great gift suggestions been in business since 1941. Three generations of the Miesfeld family operate the business now in partnership with the Sachse family.

to cheese, and everything in between, check out some of these ideas from retailers in this region on how to help Christmas outshine that other word which starts with “C” that everyone has been dealing with for most of 2020.

Moms especially enjoy Miesfeld’s Market, and for a variety of reasons: • Quality—Miesfeld’s offers the highest quality of beef, all-natural pork, and fresh poultry from the U.S.

Victorian Chocolate Shoppe Victorian Chocolate Shoppe opened in October 1996.

Victorian Chocolate Shoppe offers 27 varieties of truffles and a wide variety of other chocolates made inhouse. Packaged gift boxes of chocolates are always available, as are chocolatecovered raspberries—the shop’s biggest seller.

Strawberries are made May through October and, of course, on Valentine’s Day. “We carry a large selection of packaged candy (pre-bagged) and nostalgic candy,” owner Peggy Tauschek said.

“Every holiday we carry a large selection of seasonal candies, including foiled Santas, foiled snowmen, nutcrackers, milk and dark chocolate foiled balls, decorative gift boxes, and

4811 Venture Drive Sheboygan, WI Phone: 920-565-6328 www.miesfelds.com Drive

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Gift boxes from Miesfeld’s Market in Sheboygan would brighten anyone’s Christmas, no matter where they live. much more.

“It is a place to get a great gift for family and friends, especially the old-time candies you can’t get anywhere. There is something for everyone.”

• Ready-to-go meals—

Miesfeld’s Market Any time is a good time for a stop at Miesfeld’s Meat Market in Sheboygan to pick up that next great kitchen creation.

Their knowledgeable, dedicated staff is committed to providing customers and partners

FINALLY A GIFT EVERYONE WILL LOVE!

Buy $300 or more in Gift Cards and get a 5% discount

Any denominations. Our gift cards never expire or decrease in value. This offer expires 12/31/20.

4811 Venture Dr. (Hwy. 42) • Sheboygan (920) 565-6328 • www.miesfelds.com

HOLIDAY GIFT BOXES AVAILABLE, ORDER NOW! | HOLIDAY 2020

Miesfeld’s Market has

• Freshest selection— Meats sell quickly at Miesfeld’s Market, allowing for the freshest selection in town.

See our ad on page 6

Miesfeld’s

6

with quality products and services that exceed expectations.

• Knowledgeable staff— The staff will answer any questions moms have about the meat they are purchasing.

®

Victorian Chocolate Shoppe

Sheboygan’s old time candy shoppe featuring homemade truffles, chocolates and everyone’s favorite, chocolate dipped raspberries.

• Sheboygan old time chocolate & candy store • Over 80 varieties of homemade, hand dipped chocolates & truffles • 22 varieties sugar free chocolates

• Large collection of seasonal candies • Nostalgia candy • Boxed chocolates, party trays and favors • Beautiful gift boxes & stocking stuffers

Monday-Saturday 9:30-5

519 S. 8th Street, Sheboygan • 920-208-3511 www.victorianchocolateshoppe.com

IDEAS | Great gift suggestions Miesfeld’s chefs Clint and Ben in the “Chef’s Corner” are always coming up with new, ready-to-cook or fully cooked meals.

• Call-ahead ordering— Call in orders to 920-5656328 to save time.

• Drive-up window—Call to get an order prepared promptly and then pick it up at the drive-through window.

This holiday season be sure to get your turkeys, Christmas hams, holiday gift boxes, wine, and all your holiday favorites at Miesfeld’s. Those holiday favorites include ground round, herring, russewurst, meatballs, prime rib roasts, tenderloin, pork crown roasts, and lamb (legs, chops, and racks).

Order holiday hams early, and keep in mind they make great Christmas gifts. All hams are cured and smoked at Miesfeld’s and provide a rich, mapleflavored taste. Miesfeld’s hams are 95 percent lean.

Gift cards make a great gift for those for whom you are not sure exactly what to get. Let them choose from hundreds of tasty options.

Miesfeld’s Market is located at 4811 Venture Dr. on Sheboygan’s northwest side.

See our ad on page 6

Boelter’s Jewelers Boelter’s Jewelers has been part of Manitowoc County for more than 90 years, bringing years of

Kathy and Tom Muench of Boelter’s Jewelers can make Christmas special with a gift like the one at right. experience to its many customers.

“Our primary goal is

We are with you when you are on one knee.

2101 Washington St., Manitowoc, WI 54220 HOLIDAY 2020|

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IDEAS | Great gift suggestions to provide the area’s best selection of jewelry and repairs with the type of service that keeps people coming back,” said Kathy Muench, owner of Boelter’s Jewelers along with husband Tom. She added, “At Boelter’s, we are known for fine jewelry, Seiko watches and clocks, ID bracelets, charms, add-a-pearl, Honora Jewelry, baby gifts, and sterling silver jewelry. If you are looking to add some bling to your holiday shopping list, Boelter’s Jewelers can help you find the perfect piece.

“Our goal at Boelter’s has always been to make each customer feel like family when they come into our store. Whether you are buying new jewelry, having a watch battery changed, or repairs, you can be guaranteed to be treated with respect to help make this sometimes intimidating experience a joy. Stop in at Boelter’s to see how we can help you this holiday.”

Boelter’s Jewelers, “Manitowoc’s Busiest Jewelry Store,” is located at 2101 Washington St. See our ad on page 7

Allechant Boutique LLC Allechant Boutique is a women’s boutique that carries clothing in sizes small to 3x, purses, jewelry, and many other accessories.

Owner Jackie Pottratz said, “We get new merchandise often and we do live sales on our Facebook page also.”

This unprecedented

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holiday season calls for comforting gifts, Jackie said, adding, “We offer sweaters, leggings, joggers, soft mittens, hats, and scarves, food gifts, Sassy Seasonings, and personalized gift baskets.

New this year are INEDA charm necklaces and bracelets.”

Go Live and in-store private or public boutique bashes are available.

Allechant Boutique llc is located at 217 E. Mill St. in downtown Plymouth. It is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Mondays through Fridays, Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

See our ad on the inside back cover

of Sheboygan County in collecting, preserving, and educating people about local history.

“We share our local history to all and we use our artifacts in programs and exhibits to educate,” said Travis Gross, executive director of the SCHS. “We serve over 15,000 visitors annually including approximately 3,000 area elementary students. We assist with research projects highlighting our history and offer public programs throughout the year.”

The SCHS has over 35,000 artifacts in its collection, having a large amount on display at any one time in its main museum and four history

buildings. Gross said, “The staff is committed to progressing the organization by relating our history to state, national, and world events.”

The SCHS is preparing for Holiday Memories 2020 as they celebrate “Home for the Holidays!” Holiday Memories revolves around their collection of H.C. Prange’s and Boston Store animated characters who each year can be found in fun, new exhibit settings.

The two historic homes on the museum campus—the David Taylor House and the Weinhold Log Cabin— also are decorated for the holidays.

Holiday Memories 2020 will run from Nov. 27

Depke Shoe Store Depke Shoe Store in downtown Sheboygan Falls (105 Pine St.) is a family shoe store which has been in service since 1966.

“We fit our customers’ feet with quality footwear in all widths and sizes,” owner Melissa Geisthardt said. “We also sell arch support products, Smartwool and Extra Wide socks, and Baggallini Purses.”

Shop at Depke Shoe Store this Christmas for shoes, slippers, purses, winter boots, gift certificates, and more.

See our ad on the inside front cover

Sheboygan County Historical Society The Sheboygan County Historical Society (SCHS) has been in existence since 1923, serving all

November 27

Nov

December 30

Dec

thru

(Closed Dec 24 & 25)

(Clos

Monday & Tuesday Noon to 7 pm

Wedn.— Friday Noon to 5 pm Saturday & Sunday 10 am to 5 pm Call for Group Tour Options

Special Thanks to Lead Sponsor The Merkel Family

S

IDEAS | Great gift suggestions through Dec. 30 (closed Dec. 24 and 25). Hours will be Mondays and Tuesdays, noon to 7 p.m.; Wednesdays through Fridays, noon to 5 p.m.; and Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Because of COVID-19 restrictions, admission will be by advance ticket only for Holiday Memories 2020, including for museum members. Tickets will be timed and capacity will be limited. Tickets are now available.

Many of the regular activities of Holiday Memories will be modified for Holiday Memories 2020 because of the pandemic.

Watch the SCHS website and its Facebook page for further details.

The Sheboygan County Historical Society & Museum is located at 3110 Erie Ave. in Sheboygan.

See our ad on page 8

no gluten, dairy, soy, or refined sugars.

“We provide delicious, beautiful bakery that doesn’t compromise the joy of celebrating with family and friends because of a restricted diet,” Silberzahn said.

“You can have your cake and eat it too,” she added.

“Enjoy the sweeter side of Paleo and celebrate with your friends and family again, without compromising your health. This holiday season we offer pies, cake rolls, yule logs, and more.”

To learn more about Whisk Bakery in Sheboygan, check out https://www. whiskpaleo.com, e-mail info@whiskpaleo.com, or call (920) 783-6049. Whisk is located at 633 N. 8th St. in Sheboygan.

See our ad on page 9

Making Spirits Bright

Whisk Bakery in Sheboygan produces beautiful and delectable allergy-friendly baked goods for special events.

With many events cancelled because of COVID-19, Making Spirits Bright is one event that already had social distancing as a foundation of operation.

Owner Shawna Silberzahn’s treats contain

The drive-through holiday lights show at Evergreen

Whisk Bakery

A light tunnel which cars pass through is one of the highlights of the Making Spirits Bright light display in Sheboygan.

Park in Sheboygan will take place from Nov. 27 to Dec. 31, 5 to 9 p.m. every night (closed Christmas Eve, Dec. 24). The component that does have group gathering— Quarryview Center—will be closed.

If you are among those who are anxious to see what is new and visit multiple times, then this year’s show will deliver.

The park route is filled with hundreds of thousands of twinkling light displays that are choreographed to music aired on your vehicle’s radio at 89.1FM. What, haven’t heard of nor never visited? With many other holiday events cancelled or adjusted, this year is a

perfect opportunity to enjoy the event.

The need for Making Spirits Bright is greater than ever. While admission is free, food pantry donations are requested. Those items are delivered to the Sheboygan County Food Bank each night and their volunteers disburse to food pantries throughout the county. With the significant increase in people needing help with basic necessities, the event has historically brought in thousands of pounds of donated items each year. This year’s pantry item collection goal is 150,000 pounds.

This is the ninth year of

Experience our Keto Bakery!

Offering Paleo, Keto and Vegan Desserts

Nov. 27 - Dec. 31 • 5:00 - 9:00 PM (CLOSED DEC. 24) Quarryview Center - Closed this year due to COVID restrictions.

633 N. 8th St. • Sheboygan 920-783-6049 HOLIDAY 2020|

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IDEAS | Great gift suggestions

This is more of awaits visitors to the Making Spirits Bright display in Sheboygan this season.

Making Spirits with 34 total nights for the public to drive the 1.1-mile route. What can you expect? Begin by tuning your radio to 89.1FM. Lights are choreographed to the music played on your radio.

A sampling of some of the displays is Whoville, Magical Igloo, North Pole Post Office, Northern Lights, and Candyland. The perennial favorites are the Icicle Tunnel, Overhead Stars, and Racing Arches. In addition to the lights show, you may even catch a glimpse of the local wildlife that make the park their home.

run low at the food pantries.

Some of the most requested items this year are cereal/ oatmeal, pasta and pasta sauce, rice, canned tuna or chicken, and canned soup.

Please also watch expiration dates of donated items.

Pantry item donations are collected at the start of the route. Canned goods immediately come to mind when we hear the words “food drive” but please also consider donating personal care items which typically

Visitors to Making Spirits Bright may also choose to contribute a monetary donation at the completion of the route. These funds support the building and refurbishing of displays and other costs associated

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order form can be found on the event website (www.

MakingSpiritsBright.com) and in newspaper ads.

with the event. A portion of monies collected is also donated to local not-forprofits in exchange for service. Every visitor can receive a complimentary copy of the event booklet from the volunteers in the igloo.

While Quarryview Center will not be open this year, the personalized Memory Ornament—which has become a tradition for many people—is available for purchase for $15. An

Making Spirits Bright was started by and is still presented by members of the Sheboygan County Rotary Clubs as a means to spread holiday cheer in combination with doing good for the community.

The grand total of pantry items donated over the past eight years is over 474,000 pounds or about 237 tons.

To be a part of the behind-the-scene activities, there are many ways to volunteer. The success of the event hinges on hundreds of people who invest thousands of hours.

The large scale of Making Spirits Bright means work goes on year-round and

IDEAS | Great gift suggestions cheese curds for deep frying; frozen Wisconsin brats, bacon, and other sausages; a “specials” bin which changes daily; a large variety of Wisconsin souvenirs; and local ice cream.

there are volunteer options for people of all skill levels and availability of time commitment. For details, visit the volunteer page on the website given below.

Take some time for yourself, gather family, friends, and your pets, and drive through Making Spirits Bright. You will discover a new holiday tradition that will excite your spirits while warming your heart through the generosity of contributing pantry item donations to those who really need the help.

Go to MakingSpiritsBright. com for more details.

See our ad on page 9

Millhome Nursery & Greenhouses Your beautiful Christmas starts at Millhome Nursery & Greenhouses!

Take a relaxing drive through the gentle rolling hills of the area countryside to the garden center. At this time of year the colorful greenhouse of spring and summer gives way to a vast sea of red and white.

Millhome Nursery & Greenhouses features all the traditional poinsettia colors as well as a variety of other colors and styles. All the poinsettias are grown at our greenhouse. We also craft our own wreaths in a range of sizes and shapes, as well as planters, baskets, kissing balls, and custom work. The retail area is ready with plenty of ideas for decorating and gifts. We also have gift certificates for the undecided. A step inside the store fills your senses

Sliced and shredded cheese are available upon request.

Call ahead for cheese and sausage trays.

Poinsettias are breathtaking at Millhome Nursery & Greenhouses during the holiday season. with the sights and smells of Christmas!

Come out to the country and enjoy a relaxing stroll through the greenhouse.

Take in the fresh country air and let the beauty of the plants overwhelm you! We are located at N9469 Rhine Rd., Elkhart Lake.

See our ad on the inside back cover

Warm, fresh cheese curds are available Monday through Friday at varying times. Henning’s Cheese Store also carries a wide variety of cheese, wines, and beer; fresh-breaded

Over the years, Everett collected antique cheese and butter making equipment that is now on display in a small museum at the factory. Visitors can enjoy the museum at no cost and watch cheese being made Monday through Friday mornings.

4 Generatio ns Since 19 14

Henning’s Cheese The holiday season is a great time to remember family and friends with a gift from Henning’s Cheese.

In 1914, Otto Henning purchased a small corner factory and began making cheese. By 1963 his son Everett had taken over and a few short years later moved the factory to its present location.

In the 1980s Everett’s children Kay, Kerry, and Kert came back to help expand Henning’s Cheese into national markets. Today Everett’s grandchildren Mindy, Rebekah, Joshua, and Zachary are helping to continue the success that was started by their greatgrandfather.

Celebrate the Season

s And Mor e Gift Box es • Cheese Tr ay

Visit our Factory • Store • Museum Fresh Curds Available Monday - Friday 920-894-3032 • Store Hours: Mon - Fri 7-4 • Sat 8-12 Holiday Hours: Dec. 24 & Dec. 31 LIMITED HOURS Dec. 25 and Jan. 1 CLOSED

HOLIDAY 2020|

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IDEAS | Great gift suggestions Henning’s Cheese store and museum are open Mondays to Fridays from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon (closed on major holidays).

While the cheese store and museum are fun destinations to visit at any time of year, people also can conveniently shop online at www.henningscheese.com.

Gift box sets are available.

Small, local, family dairy farmers continue to provide Henning’s cheese with a source of quality milk. These farmers pride themselves by pasture grazing their cows when weather permits along with feeding them a carefully balanced diet of natural grains. Henning’s Cheese still stands as a testament of the family’s commitment to making great quality cheese locally—for national enjoyment. With the help of Henning’s dedicated employees, consistent quality continues to be a source of pride.

People are invited to experience some of the best tasting and highest quality cheeses available today.

See our ad on page 11

Many varieties of cheese are available at the Henning’s store.

Bob Schoenborn’s Jewelry The holiday season is right around the corner and at Bob Schoenborn’s Jewelry we are excited to present our many new and unique jewelry lines!

We are always searching for new quality lines to peak our customers’ interest. “We pride ourselves in selecting all of our diamonds and jewelry, always keeping our customers in mind!” Cindy said.

You will find a large variety of bridal engagement rings, men’s and ladies wedding bands, and anniversary bands. Is your diamond “too small”? You can trade it in and upgrade to a larger diamond at any

A full-line music store in your own backyard!!

Lessons • Pianoss • G Guitars uitars Band/Orch. Instr. Rentals Printed Music • Sound Syst. Rentals, Accessories, Gifts & so much more...

DREAMS UNLIMITED Music Store & Studio

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(920) 893-8703 215 E. Mill St. DOWNTOWN PLYMOUTH

time. Custom-made jewelry is one of Bob Schoenborn’s Jewelry’s specialties. Turn your heirloom or existing jewelry into a new creation.

In addition to all custom work, goldsmithing and design are completed in house. Just a few services that are offered are sizing, setting, prong repair, and Rhodium plating.

“Not only do we offer great quality gold and platinum, diamond and colored gemstone jewelry,” Kristin said, “we offer a huge selection of the hottest sterling silver jewelry lines, all of which hold up to the highest quality standard that our customers have always known and expect from our store. Each line offers vastly different styles and designs

and at an affordable price.

Lizzy James wrap bracelets are a big hit at the holidays.

They are multi-functional pieces with pricing starting as low as $55 and they are all handmade in the USA. UnoDe50, a line created in Spain, offers bold and creative designs that are sure to make a statement, especially with prices starting at $50. An all-time favorite of the Schoenborn team is Breuning. Breuning is designed and made in Germany. Find necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and rings in striking designs using some of the most unique materials such as Corian, slate, white sapphires, and numerous quartz varieties.”

Surprise your special someone with a new Citizen

820 Madison Ave. Howards Grove • 920-565-0174 Hours: Tues.-Fri. 10-5 • Sat. 9-4 • Sun. 12-4

bags • calendars drinkware • folders golf items • hats housewares magnets • wearables writing instruments embroidery silk screening Just to name a few…

Mary J. Kellner, Owner • kpp@wi.rr.com 322 S. Pershing St. • Howards Grove • 920-565-3806 • 920-207-6308

www.kellnerspromos.com

437755

IDEAS | Great gift suggestions solar-operated Eco-Drive watch, Howard Miller clocks or Seiko Melodies in motion clocks. In addition to Citizen Timepieces, Schoenborn’s offers Tense wooden watches and Swiss-made Bering watches as well. The showrooms are full of wall, mantel, grandfather, and Black Forest cuckoo clocks for you to shop as well.

It is our promise to our customers that we have increased our sanitation efforts within our showrooms and will continue to do so throughout the holiday season. Curb-side pickup, Facetime shopping or private appointment always will be available upon request.

Kristin said, “We have

inventoried our store with some of the most unique and beautiful pieces. It is important to us that we can provide unique, quality, and affordable gifts for everyone on your Christmas list. Zero percent interest or layaway and financing are also available.”

Bob Schoenborn’s Jewelry has created the ultimate, one-of-a-kind experience for their customers. The downtown Kiel business (307 Fremont St.) has been serving the community and the surrounding area for 115 years and looks forward to many more!  See our ad on page 13

At right is the staff—and official mascot—of Bob Schoenborn’s Jewelry in Kiel.

Holiday Specials

Storewide Savings

• 20% off Add-A-Pearl Starters and Carded Pearls • 20% off Citizen EcoDrive Watches

your family’s jeweler since 1905

• 15% off all Sterling Silver Jewelry Lines • 15% - 30% off all Gold, Diamond and Colored Gemstone Jewelry

307 Fremont St. • Kiel • 920-894-2772 • bobschoenbornsjewelry.com December Hours: M, T, Th 9am-5:30pm • W, F 9am-6pm • Sat 9am-3pm

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IDEAS | Gift ideas to wow kids

BIG GIFT IDEAS TO WOW KIDS

Shopping for kids this holiday season and want to make a splash?

Add some holiday cheer to the gift pile and wow kids with these big ideas that combine learning and fun!

The Helping Heroes Fire Station is an imaginative and learning-packed play experience that lets kids ages 18 months to 4 years old jump right into action. Kids can get ready for a rescue by checking equipment and pretending to be a firefighter. Then, when it is time for action, they can drop firefighters Fiona and Frankie through the opening and into the mini rescue vehicle. The multi-level fire station (which features areas for the firefighters to sleep, relax, and work out) transforms into a fire truck with an extension ladder. By placing Frankie and Fiona on the Talking Point location, kids can hear sound effects, music, and phrases to learn about the role of firefighters.

Both a learning game and a chance to get little ones’ muscles moving, the Count & Win Sports Center features a basketball and hoop, as well as a soccer ball and goal. Kids can practice counting as they make a basket or score a goal, following along on the animated LED scoreboard.

Little fingers get a finemotor workout, too, with buttons to press, gears

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that turn, and a trophy that slides up and down.

Babies grow fast, and this sports center—great for ages 12 months to 36 months—grows with them as it features two adjustable height levels and teaches shapes, colors, numbers, and good sportsmanship.

For a fast-paced toy, consider the Go! Go! Smart Wheels Ultimate Corkscrew Tower. This versatile playset—great for ages 1 to 5—features two track configurations. Stack the tracks one atop the other to form a corkscrew track over three feet tall for dizzy downhill fun, or set up the tracks side by side for a dual-track racing experience.

The dual-track structure features off-road adventures with diversions down a secret path, a switch track, trap doors, and hazards that will leave opponents stuck.

The playset also features fun songs and melodies!

Wow the kids with some interactive toys this Christmas.

Just as you are here for us …

We are here for you.

Our community could not be where we are today without your continued support and prayers. Thank you!

(StatePoint)

• Cleanest in the area • Huge washers to do large loads & quilts • NEW HOLSTEIN • Open 24 hours 365 days 2125 Calumet Ave (Hwy 57)

316 East Fourteenth Street | Kaukauna, WI 54130 (920)766-6020 | www.stpaulelders.org Sponsored by The Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity

let us help you with your entertaining this holiday season.

Huge Selection of Assorted Cheeses, Wines & Craft Beers

• Amazing Floral Design in Fresh & Artificial • Invitations for any Budget at www.lilybeeflowers. carlsoncraft.com • High Quality Plants • Serving Northeast Wisconsin “When it matters most, ask for Lilybee!”

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Order Online at: www.lilybeeflowersinc.com

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HOLIDAY 2020|

15

Around Our P

roud, fun loving, hard working, professional—those are just a few of the positive adjectives which describe the women in our local communities.

From owners and employees of various sized companies to key members of the chamber of commerce, women play a huge role among the community’s businesses.

In this continuing series of Verve features focusing on businesswomen in a particular community, meet some of the women who put verve into their businesses in the area.

CHERYL BRACK

American Family Insurance The Cheryl Brack Agency of American Family Insurance offers all lines of insurance—home, auto, business, farm, life, and annuities.

Brack has been in business for 12 years and currently has six employees.

She worked in the insurance industry for about six years prior to having the opportunity to take over the business when the previous American Family Insurance agent in Kiel retired. “I thought it would be a great

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Communities Women of NEW HOLSTEIN share great Anhalt is married with two daughters—Alyssa Mae and Addison Rylie, from which the name of the business comes.

Cheryl Brack fit since I grew up in the community,” Brack said. “We wanted our children to be raised in a small town.”

The agency began with an office located at 617 Fremont St in Kiel, “We opened an additional office location three years ago at 2100 Wisconsin Ave. in New Holstein. I am grateful for the opportunity to assist residents of both New Holstein and Kiel. We strive to provide outstanding customer service and American Family offers great products at a competitive price,” Brack added.

Vickey Anhalt “We offer apparel for schools, sporting events, fundraisers, office apparel, and heavy duty apparel for landscapers and construction workers,” said Vickey Anhalt, owner of Mae Rylie’s.

Asked about what lies ahead for Mae Rylie’s, Anhalt said, “We anticipate nothing but growth. We are hoping to move to a new and larger location. We are still told weekly that people don’t realize we are here.

We have at least doubled our business every year.”

She added that customers comment positively on the business.

“They love our turnaround time, our quality,

See our ad on page 17

VICKEY ANHALT

Mae Rylie’s Mae Rylie’s opened in February 2017 and does screen printing and embroidery.

$8<Ù)PC@<JÙ Screen Printing & Embroidery Promotional Items & Awards

1621 Wisconsin Ave New Holstein, WI 53061 920-827-2700 Vanhalt@maerylies.com www.maerylies.com

YOUR ONE STOP SHOP FOR • School Fan Gear • Team Uniforms • Work Wear • Embroidery • Medals, Trophies, and Awards • Promotional Products • Customized Apparel

Communities and how easy we are to work with,” she said. “We stand behind our work and strive to create long-lasting relationships with our customers.”

Mae Rylie’s is located at 1621 Wisconsin Ave. in downtown New Holstein.

Stop in, check out their website at www.maerylies. com, find them on Facebook, or call 920-8272700 for more information.

NEW HOLSTEIN

Flowers has easy access for locals and catches the eye of people just passing through. “When inside most people exclaim, ‘Wow, it’s bigger in here than it looks!’” she said.

Now available in a portion of that space is the ability to hand-select chocolates, and

people can stop in anytime to pick their favorites. The sweet treats join a wide array of plants in stock.

Lilybee Flowers can be reached at 898-5660. More information can be found on their website at www. lilybeeflowersinc.com.  See our ad on page 15

Carrie Strobl

See our ad on page 16

CARRIE

WARM WISHES & GOOD CHEER!

STROBL

Lilybee Flowers Wine, chocolate, and flowers—what more could a woman want?

All three are available at Lilybee Flowers in New Holstein.

This location has been producing some of the area’s finest floral designs for over 25 years. Owner Carrie Strobl said she is excited to continue her journey in floral design in New Holstein. With about a dozen years of experience in the floral industry, she offers trending design with great service.

“Although we do have a website for ordering flowers and gifts, there is nothing like looking through the shop for the perfect gift,” she said. “We carry a large selection of wine, beer, and liquor, perfect for that hard to buy for someone. We also carry jewelry, lotions, greeting cards, plants, specialty foods, and more.”

Carrie said Lilybee

May this season inspire your dreams.

Cheryl Brack, Agent

Susan Breitbach Fenn, Agent

Jennifer Sampson, Agent

Pamela Wargin, Agent

Cheryl Brack Agency, LLC 617 Fremont St, Kiel Bus: (920) 894-7100 cbrack@amfam.com

Susan Breitbach Fenn, Agent 3626 Erie Ave, Sheboygan Bus: (920) 457-1950 sbreitba@amfam.com

J M Sampson Agency LLC 2204 Wilson Ave Ste 2, Sheboygan Bus: (920) 452-3661 jsampson@amfam.com

P.A. Wargin Agency, Inc. 2114 Washington St, Two Rivers Bus: (920) 794-1114 pwargin@amfam.com

American Family Mutual Insurance Company, S.I. & its Operating Companies, American Family Insurance Company, 6000 American Parkway, Madison, WI 53783 008897– Rev. 10/16 ©2016 – 9001709

HOLIDAY 2020|

17

IDEAS | Pets and the holidays

PETS AND THE HOLIDAYS H E R E ’ S 5 WAY S T O S H O W Y O U C A R E D U R I N G T H I S S E A S O N

During the holidays, there are endless ways to show the humans around you how much you love them.

Finding ways to extend the joy of the season to pets who are a part of the family takes a bit more creativity.

Here are five ideas for celebrating with furry friends this holiday season: 1. Spend quality time together: Between shopping, cooking, and decorating, the hustle and bustle of the season can be distracting; however, no matter what is going on, it is important to spend quality time with your pet each day.

So, go on some extra long walks with your dog, extend your cat’s playtime sessions, and brush your pet’s coat.

These activities may help alleviate situational anxiety brought on by shifting holiday routines.

2. Pamper your pet: The holiday season can be tiring and stressful on every member of the

family, including your dog.

Gift your dog relaxation and better health with Pet Releaf CBD-infused Edibites. Whether your dog is in incredible health or is experiencing discomfort, these chews offer a needed immune system turbo boost, making them a great daily supplement. Not only that, they have calming and soothing properties, which may help ease your pet’s situational anxiety should travel or houseguests be part of your plans this season. Containing human-grade ingredients, no fillers and no chemical preservatives, these handmade chews come in flavors like Peanut Butter & Banana, Blueberry & Cranberry, and even Pizza!

3. Stuff your pet’s stocking: A whopping 72 percent of pet parents plan to give their pets a gift or stocking stuffer this holiday season, according to a recent Pet Releaf survey conducted by The Harris Poll. Not only is hanging a

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| HOLIDAY 2020

About 72 percent of pet parents plan to give their pets a gift or a stocking stuffer this holiday season.

At Healthy Living Acupuncture, we pair traditional Oriental methods with a modern medical approach. Our services include:

• Acupuncture • Cupping Treatments • Electroacupuncture • Gua Sha • Infertility Treatments • Moxibustion Treatments • Orthopedic/ Pain Management

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Sarah Atkinson

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Accepting appointments Monday-Friday 55 Stafford St. • Plymouth • 920-893-8796 www.healthylivingacu.com • www.facebook.com/healthylivingacu

IDEAS | Pets and the holidays stocking for pets a fun way to include them in a family tradition, it is also a great opportunity to give products a test run. Look for pet products offered in trial or small sizes, such as CBDinfused Edibites Hemp Oils, Liposome Hemp Oils, or Hemp Oil Capsules.

4. Decorate safely: When

selecting holiday décor, prioritize your pet’s safety above all. Steer clear of plants toxic to pets such as holly, poinsettias, and mistletoe, and avoid stringy items such as tinsel, curling ribbons or other tree and gift trimmings that when ingested can cause intestinal blockage.

Gift Certificates Available

5. Outfit your pet: Taking a festive family portrait for this year’s greeting card?

Just want your pet to be comfortable and stylish on all those winter walks in the months ahead? With several major retailers offering ugly holiday sweaters for pets in a variety of sizes and designs, it is easy to get

your pet in on the fun.

For more pet parent tips and insights, visit petreleaf. com/blog.

The holiday season is all about showing loved ones you care. This year, make sure that also includes furry friends.

— (StatePoint)

Cremation Urns

Great Food Great Service

Friend ly Staff!

Unique Sandwiches • Homemade Pizzas • Friday Fish Fry • Wraps Phenomenal Broasted Chicken and Chops • Dinner Entrees 175 Tyler St. • Valders • 920-775-3660 • Open Tues-Sun at 3pm

Made in the USA, each urn is individually crafted, heirloom quality, constructed in Sheboygan. We use all Midwest sourced hardwoods.

Urns available in small, single and companion sizes.

Visit us at: www.maplenail.com • (615) 764-9046

For All Your Holiday

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Baked Goods • Cakes • Pies • Breads Rolls • Muffins • Bread Sticks

Stone Dagger Pizza Your Neighborhood Pizzeria

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www.stonedaggerpizza.com HOLIDAY 2020|

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Patchwork AMERICAN FAMILY INSURANCE

American Family Insurance is a private mutual company that focuses on property, casualty and auto insurance, but also offers commercial insurance, life, health, and homeowners coverage, as well as investment and retirement-planning products. amfam.com

See our ad on page 17

BEMIS BATH SHOPPE

Bemis Bath Shoppe located in downtown Sheboygan Falls, is a stunning two-story boutique that boasts nine inspirational lifestyle vignettes displaying hundreds of Bemis’ signature company toilet seats.

The Bemis Bath Shoppe also offers a variety of luxurious bath & body products, bath linens & accessories, cabinet & bath hardware, candles, gifts, clothing and more! 1 Store. 2 Floors. Endless ideas resonate with customers because they immediately see the infinite possibilities to enhance the look of their home or find beautiful gifts and personal items.

Bemis Manufacturing Co. and the Bemis Bath Shoppe are proud to be located in Sheboygan Falls. The Sheboygan County area is the bedrock for the company and the Bemis family is committed to manufacturing here for years to come.

To learn more about the history of Bemis Manufacturing Co., visitors can browse the second floor at the Bath Shoppe to enjoy historic company images and informational video.

Store hours are Mon-Wed 9-5; Thurs-Fri 9-6; Sat 9-3.

See our ad on inside front cover

DEPKE SHOE STORE

Depke Shoe Store in Sheboygan Falls offers shoes for your whole family in all widths and sizes. We have a

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wide selection of quality brands for you to choose from. We measure your feet and are dedicated to fitting you properly.

Depke Shoe Store has been in our family since 1966. We are proud to serve your footwear needs. We offer shoes from 4a - 6e, men, women and children’s shoes, work boots, dress shoes, doctor’s prescriptions filled, Bogs, New Balance, Red Wing, SAS, Hush Puppies, Aravon, Ros Homerson, Spring Step, and Fly Flot, Aetrex, P.W. Minor, Drew, Minnetonka, Dunham, Old Friend, Vionic, Trotters, Methispo, Biza and RockportCobb Hill. Sock brands we carry are Smartwool, Extra Wide Socks and OS1. Arch support products we carry: Lynco, Power Step and Spenco.

Whether it’s for casual or formal events, we have the perfect shoes for you.

105 Pine St, Sheboygan Falls.

920-467-4181. Mon-Fri 9am5pm and Sat. 9am-noon.

See our ad on inside front cover

KLIPS & TIPS

It’s time for you to be pampered! Klips & Tips is a full service salon that has something for everyone in the family! We have been a family team going on 9 years, located at 435 E Mill Street in Plymouth.

Our staff members include Terri, Brenda, Gail, Kelsey, Kay, Maria and Michelle. Our receptionists, Michelle, Suzanne, Debbie, or Allie would be happy to assist you in scheduling your appointments and will help to make your visit with us memorable.

We have a wide variety of services to make you look and feel amazing such as hair, nails, waxing, tinting, candling, tanning and massage therapy!

We use salon quality product lines for each individuals needs.

Loma, which is our all natural organic hair care line. Joico, My

Patchwork is a collection of articles from our advertisers included in this edition. VERVE reserves the right to edit content for length and appropriateness. You can send your Patchwork information to pmathes@wisconsinmediagroup.com.

Amazing, Neuro, Teatree and our hair regrowth system Bosley.

In our CND nail department, we carry Vinylux for everyday wear and Shellac for long lasting gel wear.

To see a complete list of our services, go to: klipsntips.com, stop in for a menu, or call us at 920-627-4247.

Hours Mon-Thurs 9-7; Fri 9-4; Sat by appointment.

Remember to follow us on Facebook to stay updated on specials!

See our ad on page 22

THE LAUNDROMAT LLC

Open 24/7/365 days a year, The Laundromat in New Holstein has the newest and largest machines in the area.

Owner, Mike Hartmann is local to the area, and tends to any issues right away. There is a 75 lb. washer (Largest in a 20 mile+ radius) that will wash two or three quilts/blankets in one load, along with many other large washers for your convenience. The Laundromat in New Holstein is located on Hwy 57. There is a child’s play area.

Laundry pickup and delivery is also available. Follow us on Facebook at The Laundromat LLC/New Holstein. For questions or issues please feel free to call Mike anytime 920-773-2270; cell 920-901-3327.

See our ad on page 14

MIESFELD’S MEAT MARKET

Miesfeld’s Meat Market is a family-owned and operated meat market located in Sheboygan.

Our staff has more than 50 years of combined experience and is committed to providing our customers with quality products and services that meet and surpass their expectations.

Over the years we have earned an enviable reputation by offering only the finest quality of meat available in the United States. Each piece of food that

passes through our doors is guaranteed to be restaurant quality and we receive fresh shipments daily from locations throughout the United States and worldwide. If you love to cook, then come into our store to learn more about how we can help you put delicious meals on your table. 4811 Venture Dr (HWY 42), Sheboygan. 920-565-6328. miesfelds.com See our ad on page 6

PLYMOUTH ARTS CENTER

Plymouth Arts Center, located at 520 East Mill Street in historic downtown Plymouth was founded in 1993 as a non-profit community arts organization.

We are Western Sheboygan County’s premier arts destination and are well known throughout Wisconsin and beyond for our ongoing fine arts program.

Wisconsin artists are showcased in changing exhibits in Gallery 110 North, our stunning, recently renovated gallery; open to the public six days per week and admission is always free.

Bus tours, community, school, and other groups are always welcome to schedule special docent or artist led visits. You’ll also enjoy visiting our gift shop where you’ll find a variety of original paintings, 3-D artwork, books, ceramic mugs, scarves, purses, and so much more all created by our artist members.

We also present many popular events that are enjoyed every year, such as the Cheese Capital Jazz Crawl for the Arts, our signature live music extravaganza featuring 10 jazz and blues bands; Mill Street Live, a high energy song and dance summer musical revue highlighting talented college age performers; Northern Moraine Spring Art Tour, a free admission, three-day selfguided art tour with over 35 artists in 18 different venues.

Consider bringing a group of

friends and spend the weekend meeting artists working as painters, printmakers, potters, furniture makers; fiber, glass, metal and leather artists, and photographers. Then in fall, artists are invited to Plymouth for a weeklong paint out, for our Paint the Town, en Plein Air. More than 40 artists will create paintings of the areas beautiful facades, landscapes, and more.

The finale includes a celebratory reception, which is open to the public, artists’ awards, and silent auction.

Plymouth Arts Center provides opportunities for all ages for participation and enjoyment through our music and theatre program. If you are

a performer or artist, we would love to meet you. Art classes are offered year round for adults and children, including special summer art and theatre camps for kids. Additionally, other nonprofits, schools, businesses, and community members frequently choose the Plymouth Arts Center for their special events, such as recitals, concerts, weddings, private parties, and meetings. There really is something for everyone at the PAC. We invite you to visit us today. Parking is available in our parking lot or in northern end of the adjacent lot or alongside our building.

Find us on the web: plymoutharts.org or on

Facebook: facebook.com/ PlymouthArtCenter. 920-8928409

See our ad on inside back cover

VICTORIAN CHOCOLATE SHOPPE

Experience Sheboygan’s Old Time chocolate and candy store offering over 80 varieties of homemade hand-dipped truffles and chocolates, perfect for any occasion. We also carry

Nutrition for your Best Life

22 kinds of delicious sugar-free chocolates. Gift boxes filled with goodies are made to order. Take a walk down memory lane with our wide selection of nostalgic candy. You haven’t visited Sheboygan unless you stop in for our famous chocolate dipped raspberries. There’s something for everyone. 519 S. 8th St, Sheboygan. 920-208-3511. victorianchocolateshoppe.com.

See our ad on page 6

Downtown Kiel

Follow us on Facebook/Instagram @beyondnutritionkiel

!

SHOW YOUR

Snap a picture of yourself, your friends or family showing off the cover of VERVE Magazine and…

Enter your photo for our quarterly, prize drawing.

E-mail a high-quality photo & caption, titled “Show Your Verve” to pmathes@wisconsinmediagroup.com

Calumet County Meals on Wheels staff is the lucky winner of a $25 Gift Certificate Contact Pam at 920-894-2828 to let us know which VERVE advertiser you would like to receive your gift certificate from.

HOLIDAY 2020|

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Recipes, Recollections & Reminiscings from Marge

By Marge Petts I am anticipating a great holiday season this year. Beginning with Thanksgiving and ending with the new year, our entire family will be together.

When our eldest son made a major uprooting of his family in June, we didnt know what to expect, or if they would stay.

The hope was that they would feel like this was “home”. It is now six months later, and we couldn’t have wished for a better outcome to their relocation. They sold or donated most of their possessions so they could more easily make the long-distance move from Colorado to Wisconsin with three adults and two children. A U-Haul trailer carried just their basic belongings.

We as a family made it a priority to make them feel the closeness and the importance there was in having them here and near to us.

The holidays will be different this year but still a celebration of the Birth of Christ, as we are reminded of the miracle of birth with the arrival of a new granddaughter. This year we will also be reminded that the Lord gives and takes away, after the tragic loss of our daughter’s fiancé.

In preparation of the upcoming holiday season, and Winter, we have stacked logs in our garage so we can enjoy a crackling fire on cold days and at family gatherings.

Our son from Colorado was not able to pack any holiday decorations. We will choose a large ceramic tree from our collection for his family. We have given each of our other three children a tree also. I will sort through the many decorations and ornaments we have, to give them treasures to adorn their home with the sights and sounds of Christmas.

Hot Cocoa Mix This would be a great mix to give in decorative glass jars for gifts. Include instructions with the jar, tied on with a ribbon or string. A cup or two cups of this mix would make 3 or 6 cups of cocoa.

7 cups powdered milk 1-1/2 cups sugar 1-1/2 cups cocoa ¼ teaspoon salt 6 ounce container of non-dairy coffee creamer Mix all ingredients well,

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| HOLIDAY 2020

with a spoon. Store in covered container. To make hot cocoa by the cup, use 1/3 cup of mix for each cup of boiling water.

A menu will be created for our Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners. Each family will volunteer to contribute one or more items for our meals. We will pick names to exchange gifts at Christmas.

As always, Stan and I will make our annual walk around the block on Christmas Eve, to gaze at the stars, and just to feel closer to that first Christmas Eve a long time ago. This will bring us peace in these uncertain times.

We would all like to be able to stay away from the extreme commercialism as each holiday approaches.

The following words of a seven- year old, might be a good reminder of just how important it is to remove ourselves from the holiday hustle and bustle. Our son, Mark, took Asher with him to a home improvement store recently to purchase materials to complete his work bench in the basement of their home. They walked in the door and the first thing Asher said was, “This is nonsense”.

“All the Christmas trees, and Halloween isn’t here yet, and Christmas is three months away!”. I then asked him, “How does Asher know these things”? He replied, “that’s the way of Asher”.

We will celebrate this season, not based on circumstances, but on hope.

I chose the following four recipes because I thought they would make great gifts in decorative tins or glass jars.

The wreath would be a good project to make for your own home or as a gift.

See Meals with Marge weekly in the Tri-County News.

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Holiday Cranberry-Orange Slices Makes about 55 cookies 1 cup unsalted butter, softened ½ cup sugar ½ teaspoon salt 1 egg yolk 1 teaspoon vanilla 2-1/4 cups allpurpose flour ½ cup dried cranberries, finely chopped ½ cup finely chopped pecans 2 teaspoons finely shredded orange peel

In large bowl, beat butter with an electric mixer for 30 seconds. Add sugar and salt, beating until combined. Scrape sides of bowl occasionally. Beat in egg yolk and vanilla until combined. Beat in as much of the flour as you can, then stir in any remaining flour.

Stir in cranberries, pecans, orange peel.

Divide dough in half.

Shape each into a 9-inch

Makes 12 (1) cup servings 2/3 cup vegetable oil ½ cup sugar 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon 16- ounce package small pretzel twists

long roll. Wrap in plastic wrap or waxed paper. Chill for 3 hours or until firm enough to slice.

With serrated knife, cut rolls into ¼ inch slices.

Place slices 1-inch apart on ungreased cookie sheet.

Bake in 350 -degree oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until edges are firm and lightly browned. Cool on cookie sheet for 1 minute.

Transfer cookies to a wire rack and let cool.

Store in layers between waxed paper in airtight container. Store at room temperature up to 3 days or freeze 1 month.

Molasses Crinkle Cookies An Amish cookie recipe.

Makes approximately 10 Dozen 3 cups vegetable oil 4 cups brown sugar 1 cup molasses 4 eggs, beaten Mix all together well.

Add to above mixture: 8 teaspoons baking soda 1 teaspoon salt

Cinnamon-Sugar Pretzels

2 teaspoons cinnamon 1 teaspoon nutmeg 1 teaspoon ground cloves

Stir well. Mix in the following with your hands.

2 cups whole wheat flour 6 cups all-purpose flour Form into 1-inch balls and roll in white sugar.

Bake at 350 degrees for 10 minutes.

Submit your recipes to Marge

BY EMAIL AT: owl.mcp@gmail.com OR MAIL TO: Marge c/o Wisconsin Media Group, P.O. Box 237, Kiel, WI 53042

In a large roasting pan, stir together vegetable oil, sugar and cinnamon. Add the pretzels; toss well to coat with cinnamon-sugar.

Bake, uncovered, in a 300 degree oven for 30 minutes, stirring twice. Spread on waxed paper to cool. Store in an airtight container.

Microwave Directions: In a very large bowl, stir together vegetable oil,

sugar and cinnamon. Add pretzels, toss well to coat with cinnamon-sugar. Place half of the pretzel mixture in a large microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for three minutes, stirring every minute. Spread on waxed paper to cool. Repeat with the remaining pretzel mixture.

Holiday Gumdrop Wreath Makes one 8-inch Wreath Royal Frosting recipe – below Green food coloring 8- inch straw, plastic or foam wreath form 6 bags (13 ounces each) red and green gumdrops, separated

Tint Royal Frosting bright green with food coloring.

Spoon frosting into 2 or 3 resealable bags. Seal bags and set aside.

Wrap wreath form with several sheets of aluminum foil. Tape the ends to secure.

Place a sheet of wax paper on a work surface.

Place wreath form on wax paper.

Snip a corner from one of the frosting bags. Pipe some frosting over wreath.

Spread to make a thick coating on about one-third

of the wreath. Starting at the base, arrange green gumdrops close together in rows. Repeat rows to cover wreath. Make sure to work in small areas so frosting doesn’t dry out. Add a few clusters of 3 red gumdrops, to look like berries, in different areas of wreath (see picture). Allow to dry at least 48 hours before hanging.

Royal Frosting: Combine 2 cups confectioners’ sugar (powdered sugar) with 3 tablespoons powdered egg whites and 6 tablespoons water in a large bowl. Beat until thick.

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Featured

RESTAURANT Guilty...of being delicious!

NEW OWNERS OF MANITOWOC’S COURTHOUSE PUB STILL LAYING DOWN THE LAW ON GOOD FOOD

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he verdict is in—The Courthouse Pub is guilty of delivering great food and a fun atmosphere in Manitowoc.

Located at 1001 S. 8th St. and just across the street from the Manitowoc County Courthouse, The Courthouse Pub has been a staple to downtown Manitowoc for nearly 20 years.

Brock Weyer and Ryan Morris were longtime employees of The Courthouse Pub. They were such believers in what the pub had to offer its customers that when the opportunity arose to purchase this gastronomic delight they

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jumped at it. The longtime friends said they share a lifelong passion for the restaurant industry and have spent countless hours behind the bar together laughing with customers while making signature cocktails.

Morris said, “The Courthouse Pub has 35 employees who serve all our wonderful customers. We are also the area’s only microbrewery and restaurant. We serve high-quality food in an upscale fashion while remaining a comfortable pub. Our fresh cheese curds from Henning’s is a must-have along with our exceedingly popular seafood nachos, fabulous salads, and

creative entrees. We also have an award wining wine list to complement our creative menu.

“Our microbrews are always changing to fit the seasons and our from-scratch root beer which is made in the 1960s’ style is a customer favorite,” he added.

The Courthouse Pub also offers catering for events of every size, whether it be lunch for workmates, a large wedding, or a baby shower.

“One thing our customers are sure of is that when they enter the restaurant they will feel safe and

FEATURED RESTAURANT | The Courthouse Pub

welcomed by our friendly and caring staff,” Weyer said.

Asked about what he sees ahead for The Courthouse Pub—especially during the current pandemic—Weyer said, “Our main focus now is to keep our staff and customers safe. We have doubled down on safety by putting screens between all the tables and following all of the safety guidelines given by the CDC (Centers for Disease Control).

We are increasing our to-go items and selling great wines and beer at fantastically low retail prices.

“Being on the busiest corner in Manitowoc and entryway to our historic downtown, we are always improving the outside of the building and beautifying the sidewalks to brighten up everyone’s day who drives by,” he added.

“We will continue to do this while working with other local businesses to keep the downtown shining brightly.”

Everything is shining brightly inside The Courthouse Pub these days. “Our customers love how comfortable the Pub is,” Morris said. “Our staff retention is seven times greater than the industry standard and makes for a true family experience. The staff and customers have been together for over 15 years at this point and have watched each other grow.

“Customers also enjoy how often we change the menu and beverage selections,” he added, “New beers are always being brewed, we are always searching for great wine and spirits, and the chefs are seeking new flavor combinations constantly.”

Like a lawyer coming up with a creative approach to win a case, The Courthouse Pub has come up with some unique offerings for area diners. An opening argument can be made for trying appetizers such as Seafood Nachos, Salmon Canape, or Harvest Beet Dip, the latter of which features a blend of roasted beets and toasted chickpeas topped with feta and fresh cracked black pepper and served with fried pita chips.

The Courthouse Pub’s “Hand Helds” include a Cranberry Turkey Wrap, White Fish Tacos, and a Belly Up Burger—a burger topped with fried pork belly, smoked gouda, butter

lettuce, and house cranberry BBQ sauce and served on a toasted pretzel bun.

“Grand Jury” entrees include favorites such as steak, chicken, and fish ‘n chips, but also the unusual such as Pork Belly Cheesy Mac. A most favorable judgment handed down to any diner would be getting sentenced to an hour—or maybe several hours—at The Courthouse Pub. 

Manitowoc’s Only Microbrewery Restaurant!

Honored by Wine Spectator for having one of the most outstanding wine lists in the world!

Outdoor Pet Friendly Dining (season permitting) Pub Seating & Full Bar • Full Dining Room • Events Room Clean & Safe Atmosphere • Award Winning Professional Staff

1001 S. 8th Street • Manitowoc • 920-686-1166 Downtown Next to Manitowoc’s Historic Courthouse

OPEN: Tues.-Sat. 11am-9pm • Sun. Brunch 10am-2pm • Closed Mon. HAPPY HOUR: TUES.-SAT. 1-5PM

www.courthousepub.com HOLIDAY 2020|

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Holiday Happenings BRILLION

Nov. 12-14 Schroth’s Brillion Floral & Gifts, Kick off to Christmas Nov. 20-22 Schroth’s Brillion Floral & Gifts, Christmas Open House Nov. 28 Schroth’s Brillion Floral & Gifts, Small Business Saturday

CHILTON

Dec. 4-27 Annual Delightfully Calumet Light Show. Every Friday, Saturday, & Sunday in December at the Calumet County Fairgrounds.

Free Entry but food donations are appreciated for local food banks Dec. 5 Chilton Chamber of Commerce 24th Annual Holiday Parade of Lights, 5:30pm

ELKHART LAKE

Nov. 28 Elkhart Lake Chamber of Commerce Village Square Tree lighting 6pm Nov. 28 Santa’s Village Brought to you by ElkhartCares, 91 S. Lincoln St, Elkhart Lake WI 53020 1-6pm Jan. 29-31 Elkhart Lake Chamber of Commerce Schnee Days

FOND DU LAC

Nov. 26-Jan. 1 Lakeside Park Holiday Lights, dusk11pm. on picturesque Lake Winnebago

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| HOLIDAY 2020

KIEL Dec. 4 9th Annual Frolic on Fremont, noon-8pm

MANITOWOC

Nov. 27-Dec. 29 Lights in Lincoln Park, See website for days/times. manitowoc.org

PLYMOUTH

Nov. 13-15 & 21-22 Celtic Christmas Concert at Plymouth Arts Center, featuring Christmas Music From Ireland, England, Scotland, And America. Evening shows are 7:30pm. Matinee performance is 2:30pm. Call (920) 8928409 or visit our website: plymoutharts.org Nov. 27 Plymouth Christmas Parade 2020 version 7-8:30 pm. It will be a DRIVE-THRU version. Instead of the residents and visitor’s lining the street to view the floats driving down Mill Street, we will have our 2020 floats parked along both sides of the street and the spectators will be driving down Mill Street to view the floats Nov. 27 Plymouth Arts Center-Last day of the new art gallery exhibit featuring the Wisconsin Watercolor Society. plymoutharts.org Dec. 31 Plymouth Arts Center 14th Annual New Year’s Eve Sartori Big Cheese Drop at 10 pm. Free family event. enjoy hot cocoa at the bonfire 8:45-9:45pm. Wear a mask!

Bring noisemakers!

SHEBOYGAN

Nov. 28 Stefanie H. Weill Center-Movie-White Christmas 7pm Nov. 29 Stefanie H. Weill Center-Movie-The Santa Clause 2:30pm. weillcenter.com Nov. 29 - Dec. 30 Sheboygan County Historical Society & Museum. Holiday Memories revolves around our collection of H.C. Prange’s and Boston Store animated characters who each year can be found in fun new exhibit settings. The two historic homes on the Museum Campus, the David Taylor House and the Weinhold Log Cabin, are also decorated for the holidays. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, admission will be

by ADVANCED TICKET ONLY, and will be timed and capacity will be limited. Tickets will be available beginning Nov. 1.

Mon. & Tue. Noon-7 pm; Wed.Fri. Noon-5pm; Sat. & Sun. 10am-5pm. (closed Dec. 24 & 25) sheboyganmuseum.org Nov. 27-Dec. 31 Making Spirits Bright -The 1.1 mile route plans to be open 5-9pm through December 31 (closed Christmas Eve)

SHEBOYGAN FALLS

Dec. 7 Main Street Memories & “Festival of Lights” Holiday Parade, 10am5:30pm, parade 4:30pm. www.sheboyganfalls.org

 by Dr. Nic Giebler, D.C.

SNOWY, COLD, DARK - STILL GET OUTSIDE!

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es, it snowed this weekend. Yes, the days are getting shorter. Yes, it’s getting colder. But now more than ever I ask each of you get outside

more!

I have incessantly talked about the health benefits of physical exercise and time outside to the point that I sometimes receive an eye roll in return when talking about it. As I said, though, now more than ever we need to make an effort to get outside more!

Several studies indicate that physical activity is beneficial in fighting COVID-19, according to a review and examination of the connection between exercise and the body’s ability to defend against the virus that was recently published.

In the article titled “Physical Activity May be a Major Deterrent of Severe Health Consequences from COVID-19: An Annotated Summary of Physical Activity and COVID-19 Research,” eight studies were discussed that show that physical activity reduces the risk of increased complications as a result of the virus.

One of the articles discusses how an extracellular enzyme, extracellular superoxide dismutase (EcSOD), is

an antioxidant agent. Antioxidants are substances that can prevent or slow damage to cells caused by unstable molecules the body produces as a reaction to environmental and other pressures.

Research indicates that endurance exercise increases EcSOD activity.

While that specific enzyme may not specifically target the COVID virus, it does help one’s body become stronger in its defense of infections.

People who have contracted the virus who have health problems— such as high blood pressure, heart problems, respiratory problems, obesity and compromised immunological systems—have substantially higher complications, including death. This is especially true of obesity.

The healthier you are, the better your chances are of not experiencing terrible effects from the virus. Younger people are more physically active than older people and it may be a prime reason why COVID-19 does not affect the young as much as the old.

Even in the snowy, windy, colder conditions that show

HEALTH | mind & body up in October and November, it is very important to stay physically active, even if you are sheltering in place at home. Don’t begin to develop negative behavior practices that decrease your fitness level, and don’t use it as an excuse to not begin some sort of exercise routine, even if it seems insignificant. Right now is a great opportunity to begin a physical activity program that you have been intending to begin, even it it’s only 15 minutes.

If you truly don’t know where to begin, I suggest simply going outside and walking five minutes in one direction. If you’re not “feeling it,” then turn around. You’ll have been outside and exercising for 10 minutes. Congrats!

If you feel, after those first five minutes, of moving a bit longer, go for it! Add another two minutes to your walk, then turn around. Again, moving your body outside in the fresh air is making you healthier and more likely to stay healthy despite any virus you may come in contact with.

A recent study just came out of the University of Wisconsin and it looked at infection rates in high school athletes. The group of 14- to 17-year-olds with the lowest level of infections were those kids who were in sports and in school. The highest level of infection rate was among the kids not in sports, and not in school. Even if it’s only an hour of practice once or twice a week for those kids, that time in sports mattered! Exercise and outdoor time matter!

In closing, I want to remind you to control what you can control. Get outside, even if it’s only 10 minutes. Fresh air will do wonders for your body and your soul. 

❝The The best doctor gives the least medicine.❞ medicine.

- Benjamin Franklin

730 Calumet Ave • Kiel

920-894-2399

Dr. Nic Giebler DC, ART

Feel Better. Move Better. Live Better.

Home for the holidays!

At Cedar Community, enjoy life and all the wonderful things waiting for you in an independent living home. . Vibrant lifestyle full of friendship and opportunity for men and women age 55 and better . Life enrichment programming designed to enhance your wellbeing . Find balance and develop friendships in an atmosphere of warmth and hospitality Our ranch homes, nestled on 14 acres, feature two bedrooms, two full baths, walk-in closets, full basement, two-car attached garage, first-floor laundry, and all appliances. Each home also features a patio overlooking a courtyard and gazebo, with common space to enjoy nature.

Enjoy, explore, and embrace your best life!

Elkhart Lake

Call today for a tour, 920.876.4050.

Visit cedarcommunity.org.

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

LIFE | Women-friendly workplaces

WOMEN FRIENDLY WORKPLACES

9 TRUTHS WHICH WILL SERVE YOU WELL AS THE WORLD CHANGES

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here’s good news and bad news for women in leadership.

First the bad news: We live and work in a world that still tips the advantages toward men. We still face plenty of challenges. But the good news is very good news: Women have never been better positioned to lead the way in the 21st century workplace. We already have the strengths and the (so-called) “soft skills” needed to make organizations thrive, and one by one, we are creating a more diverse

and inclusive workplace.

To take advantage of this golden opportunity, Jackie Gaines says we need to get proactive about equipping ourselves with the tools and tactics that set us up to shine.

“No matter where you are today on the career ladder, the habits you are sharpening right now will determine your success in the future,” said Gaines, M.S., R.N, author of “Wearing the Yellow Suit: A Guide for Women in Leadership” (Huron|Studer Group Publishing, 2020, ISBN: 978-1-62218-110-0,

$24). “And they will make a drastic impact on your workplace as well.”

Gaines wrote “Wearing the Yellow Suit” to help women do just that. It is full of powerful, useful, and candid advice to help women on every rung of the career ladder reach their goals and succeed in their chosen fields. It focuses on topics such as developing must-have management skills, breaking out of the standard business uniform, mastering the art of “respectful truth-telling,” harnessing your natural characteristics as a woman,

and navigating motherhood and menopause.

“In the 40 years that I have been a leadership executive, I’ve learned the ‘secret sauce’ habits and skills that create exceptional leaders,” Gaines said.

“What I have seen over and over again as women take their place in leadership positions is that women bring unique attributes to all organizations. When we lead our way, everyone thrives.”

Read on to learn some essential truths Gaines has discovered over the years:

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LIFE | Women-friendly workplaces TRUTH: You don’t have to abide by the same old gender-biased dress code. Just because men’s workwear consists of muted colors and dark suits doesn’t mean you have to mimic this look. Be professional but stay true to yourself, embracing the colors that reflect the “real you.” Wear that yellow suit!

navigate corporate waters.

Every female leader should look for a mentor to offer this kind of guidance. And when you are ready, find someone to mentor.

TRUTH: Motherhood does not need to slow you down. If you take time away from your career, absorb as much current information as possible. Schedule a date with yourself at least once a month to review an article, read a book, take a class, or chat with a mentor about hot topics in your field.

This approach will keep you sharp until you are ready to return to work.

TRUTH: The many roles women play set you up perfectly to be a leader. Women are wives, mothers, teachers, caretakers, disciplinarians, housekeepers, and more, Gaines said. The same skills women have perfected over the years to balance their lives make them excellent leaders. Harness your ability to juggle many tasks at once, your strong organization skills, and your nurturing instinct to help you and your team excel.

TRUTH: “Soft skills” are in demand. Purposely develop and hone them. Women are well suited for the skills that are valued in today’s workplace: emotional intelligence, relationshipbuilding, collaboration, and teamwork. We are good listeners, creative, and empathetic. We are naturals at multitasking, connecting the dots, and being inclusive. Continue to sharpen these skills throughout your career.

TRUTH: You need to deal with your female guilt. “Women were once expected to stay home and care for their spouse and children,” Gaines said.

“While times have changed,

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TRUTH: People love leaders who keep meetings productive but short. “The average person wastes about 250 hours per year in unproductive meetings,” Gaines said. “Use a standardized agenda with a focus on the strategic priorities to stay focused and on topic.”

Women are better positioned than ever to lead the way in the 21st century workplace. female-leader guilt is real.

To help alleviate it, write down the reasons you work and remind yourself of them often. Trust yourself and the choice you’ve made for your family. And make the most of quality time with those closest to you.”

TRUTH: Real strength is in unity! Do not continually choose business partners who are “like you” simply because it is comfortable.

The secret to creating a high-quality, highperformance work team

is the ability to use the strengths of each team member and the blending of their different viewpoints, personalities, cultures, processes, procedures, and operations into a tight, cohesive team that has bonded by overcoming shared adversity.

TRUTH: You do not have to go it alone. Mentors are valuable tools for success.

Mentors see your potential, open doors, help you discern what is important to you, and teach you to

TRUTH: Optimism impacts everything.

Negativity breeds more negativity. You could be the source of negative or positive energy in the organizations you lead. It is your choice. Just remember, leaders set the tone for an organization or those who work for them.

Whether you are a recent college graduate, a C-suite executive, or anyone in between, you will find the guidance and wisdom you need to take your career to the next level and beyond.

Go ahead and wear that yellow suit! 

your voice | an essay

Cheese Head and Hula Girl  by Darlene Buechel

S

hortly before Christmas in 2019 I received a goody package from my friend Michelle in Hawaii.

I was excited to check out the Hawaiian Kona Coffee, Furikake party mix, chocolate-covered macadamia nuts, and shortbread cookies.

The enclosed Christmas card and letter turned my wintery Wisconsin Wednesday into a temporary tropical escape.

I know people get packages from all across the U.S. and beyond, but what made this delivery extra special was the fact that 2019 was the 50th year I’ve received letters from Michelle—a lady I’ve never met in person.

Michelle and I were both fifth graders in 1969. My teacher, Sister Simona, made learning fun and exciting at St. Mary School in Hilbert.

I still can picture her dark-skinned, chalk-smudged face and wide grin as she danced down the aisle in black habit and veil while Simon and Garfunkel belted tunes from old 45 rpm records. Michelle spent fifth grade at Cathedral School in Honolulu in the classroom of Sister Mary Simon.

Both nuns, we later learned, were members of the Franciscan sisters and Sister Mary Simon was originally from Wisconsin.

Sister Mary Simon sent a list of her students’ names and addresses as well as a photo of each to Sister Simona in Hilbert and Michelle and I were teamed up as pen pals. I remember thinking Michelle looked cute and exotic with her dark hair and dark skin while I looked like the pale, boring, blond that I was. Back then stamps were six cents and I tried to ignore the bitter taste as I licked the back and plopped it on the right corner of the envelope.

I neatly addressed my first letter to Michelle, printed my return address

Darlene and Michelle are pictured from their seventh grade class photos. in the corner, and proudly dropped it off at the Post Office on Main Street in Hilbert.

Since this was a class assignment at both of our schools I knew I’d get at least one letter in return, but I hoped my new pen pal would find my letters so exciting that we’d write back and forth for all of fifth grade. Little did I dream we’d be still writing over 50 years later!

I wish I’d kept copies of my early letters to Michelle and I wish even more that I would have kept my correspondence from her. After the 2019 Christmas delivery from Michelle I emailed her to compile some facts about our Cheese Head and Hula Girl writing relationship.

When we first became pen pals we talked about friends and hobbies. My Catholic School pals were Mary Lynn, Dawn, and Lynn. We played Barbies at recess along with Double Dutch jump rope. Michelle remembered playing jacks and Double Dutch with her buddies Loraine, Karen, and Carol.

I took tap dance lessons and played the clarinet (badly). I camped with my

family during summer and ice skated and built snowmen in winter time.

Michelle fished with bamboo poles and took hula lessons at the YWCA. One of my childhood highlights was tap dancing on stage at the Park for Hilbert 4th of July—and getting paid 10 whole dollars! Michelle recalled baton twirling in the King Kamehameha parade as she marched to music and tried to avoid the horse poo.

Our early letters featured family too. I’m sure I mentioned middle child woes with Dennis (19 months older than me) and Diane (13 months my junior). Michelle is the only girl in her family and is second oldest after Greg.

Her pesky younger brothers are Kevin (7 years younger) and Rodney (10 years younger).

In some of her letters Michelle listed the foods she liked. While I mostly chowed down on boring stuff like hamburgers, pizza, and spaghetti, my Hawaiian friend was exposed to Chinese, Japanese, Hawaiian, Italian, and Korean fare. Pizza was my favorite childhood food, but I also loved cherry soup (a recipe passed down from HOLIDAY 2020|

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Grandma Brantmeier—cold soup with cherries and dumplings). Michelle said she’s always liked seafood—especially sushi—and a good Chinese roast duck or dim sum (appetizer-sized dumplings that are filled with meat and steamed or baked).

I started my job as a bank teller right after high school. At the time I was interested in psychology but didn’t know how that could lead to a career. Michelle, on the other hand, went to the University of Hawaii at Manoa and graduated with a Bachelor’s in Psychology. After college Michelle got a state job with the Department of Social Services and then a federal job after that. Most of her 30-year federal career was spent at the Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard. I spent over 22 years working as deputy clerk (also a government job) so I guess we had more in common than we thought.

Both of us have also been lucky to have long marriages. Rich and I tied the knot on Oct. 23, 1982 in Chilton; Michelle and Erick got married July 26, 1986 in Honolulu. Over the years we shared the joys of being a mom.

When Danielle was born in 1985 and Ben in 1987 I sent photos, stories, and articles touting the joys (and frustrations) of parenthood. Michelle became a mom in 1991 when her son Troy was born. While my kids (and grandsons) live within five miles of our farm, Michelle’s only son runs a Korean fried chicken franchise in Burma—over 6,800 miles from Hawaii!

Luckily, Michelle and Erick like to travel so they see Troy a few times a year. Michelle recently retired from her government job and is looking into part-time work in a travel-related field to hopefully get travel discounts.

Rich and I don’t travel much due to the farm (and our distaste for air travel) but maybe one of these years Michelle will hop a plane and finally meet this Wisconsin cheese head in person. Until then, hopefully we’ll keep writing—even if it’s just a few emails throughout the year and a package at Christmas.

Over the years I’ve wondered if any of the other Hilbert/Honolulu pen

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Darlene displays goodies received from Michelle last December. pals from 1969 still keep in touch. Any hobby or activity you can do for over 50 years deserves to be celebrated!

These days I don’t grab my purple troll pen or flowered stationery to correspond with Michelle, but I’m

happy to send an email or a typed letter (with postage of 55 cents) to catch up with an old friend. Thanks for the memories Michelle—hopefully we’ll have many more to share. 

Discover

SATURDAY, NOV. 28 TREE LIGHTING 6PM

AT VILLAGE SQUARE TRAIN DEPOT

the true depth of Elkhart Lake

SCHNEE DAYS JAN 29-31, 2021

Your Beautiful Holidays START HERE!

www.depotdispatch.com • www.elkhartlakechamber.com Elkhart Lake Chamber of Commerce • 920.876.2922 • Beautiful Millhome Grown Poinsettias

in a variety of colors & sizes.

Buy from the grower & SAVE!

• Fresh Handcrafted Wreaths & Swags.

Delivery Service Available

www.millhomenursery.com

N9469 Rhine Rd. (Cty E) Elkhart Lake • 894-7877 M-F 9-5 • Sat 9-4 • Closed Sun.

Celebrate in Style • Unique Clothing S-5X • Amazing Jewelry • Fabulous Handbags • Gifts & Certificates

Alléchant Boutique llc

217 East Mill St. • Plymouth • 920-893-9888

See our story in the Holiday Gift Giving article!

We Buy Gold & Silver

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Open Most Days 10am to 5pm Extra Hours By Appointment

Specializing in:

Home Decor Handcrafted Products & Unique Gifts Customized Gift Boxes

141 E. Rhine St. • Elkhart Lake

920-781-5025

www.northgateshop.com

ONLY IN PLYMOUTH!

Happy New Year in the Cheese Capital of the World!

Call 894-2828 to advertise with us.

iwantthenews.com

Join in the Fun!

Thursday, Dec. 31 • 8:30-10pm

Only in Plymouth, WI ~ JOIN IN THE FUN! NATIONALLY ACCLAIMED

Nationally Acclaimed

14TH ANNUAL

14th Annual

New Year’s Eve Sartori Big Cheese Drop at 10pm

FREE Family Event!

Enjoy Hot Cocoa at the Bonfire 8:45-9:45pm Wear a Mask!

Bring Noisemakers!

First 250 families attending receive a complimentary Sartori Cheese Gift Bag

920.892.8409

www.plymoutharts.org

Only in Plymouth, WI ~ JOIN IN THE FUN! NATIONALLY ACCLAIMED

New Year’s Eve

2020

Sartori Big Cheese Drop at 10pm FREE FAMILY EVENT!

HONORING

Enjoy Hot Cocoa at the Bonfire 8:45-9:45pm

Lake Street Café

Wear a Mask!

Bring Noisemakers!

This restaurant is honored by Wine Spectator First 250 Families Attending for having one of the most outstanding restaurant wine lists in the world.

Receive a Complimentary Sartori Cheese Gift Bag

HAPPY NEW YEAR IN THE CHEESE CAPITAL OF THE WORLD THURSDAY, DEC. 31, 2020 8:30PM-10PM

Only in Plymouth, WI ~ JOIN IN THE FUN! NATIONALLY ACCLAIMED

3D Mammography MORE DETAIL. MORE ACCURACY. PEACE OF MIND. Make an appointment for your mammogram today!

CALL 920.849.2386 614 Memorial Dr. â&#x20AC;¢ Chilton, WI

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