At The Lake - Autumn 2025

At The Lake

Geneva Lake Area Magazine

Haunted History

Explore Lake Geneva’s spookiest sites

Photography by Scottie Peterson

DESTINATION

FALL

Finding the perfect home starts with the right partner. With deep roots in Southeastern Wisconsin, we offer local expertise and trusted guidance every step of the way.

Dear readers,

I went to graduate school at the University of Minnesota and one of the many aspects I enjoyed about Minneapolis during my time living there was the city’s embrace of its Swedish influences, from food to design to art. So I was delighted to discover a few years ago while researching my mom’s family history that I am, in fact, one-sixteenth Swedish! It is a heritage that I share with the subject of our profile this month, Ulla Brunk. Her story is truly remarkable: from a childhood spent resisting the Nazis to a career with her husband, Bertil, establishing and running Lake Geneva’s Brunk Industries, to a deeply committed family life, Ulla Brunk is an inspiration to many (page 34).

For even more inspiration this fall, tour a charming Delavan Lake cottage that was completely rebuilt for modern lake living (page 74), hear expert tips for how to extend the blooming and harvest season in your garden (page 87) and learn about Lake Geneva’s emergence as a popular destination for team-building retreats (page 131).

Oh, and have we mentioned how excited we are to introduce our 12th annual class of Lake Dogs (page 42)? The popular feature drew more than 130 entries during our official Lake Dogs submission period last spring, and the committee had the impossible task of narrowing the field down to the 23 dogs you see this year. From Deano, a high-energy French Bulldog, to Butters, a supremely laid-back rescue, we’ve got every personality, size and age represented. Our third annual People’s Choice poll drew more than 12,000 votes — check out this year’s winner on page 44. And, as always, mark your calendar for next March, when the Lake Dogs submission period will open once again! Here’s to a wonderful autumn … At The Lake

Anne Morrissy Editor anne@ntmediagroup.com

DELICIOUS HARVEST

I love the autumn veggies and fresh farm-stand produce. I’ll be trying this sheet-pan recipe from our “Gourd-geous Fall Treats” article (page 113) as soon as I can!

COFFEE COLORS

I have always been a fan of classic wooden furniture, so I’m happy to see that brown is making a comeback in home trends. How cute will this bud vase be on a side table (page 96)?

PADDLE PUP

One of the perks of my job is meeting so many of the Lake Dogs (page 42), including incredible Louis Pascal, the paddleboarding mini goldendoodle!

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42 Lake Dogs

The 12th annual class of adorable pups enjoying life in, on and around the lake.

Photos by Holly Leitner

34

Forging New Paths

Learn about the incredible life of Ulla Brunk, co-founder of Lake Geneva’s Brunk Industries.

By Kate Gardiner

54

Into the Mystic

Dive into the stories of some of Lake Geneva’s spookiest sites and haunted histories.

By Sarah Koehler

74

Home with a View Tour an elegant cottage on Delavan Lake that was completely reimagined for modern lake life. By Lauren Eve

PUBLISHER Barbara Krause bak@ntmediagroup.com

EDITOR Anne Morrissy anne@ntmediagroup.com

ART DIRECTOR Lauren Harrigan lharrigan@ntmediagroup.com

PHOTOGRAPHER & IMAGE EDITOR Holly Leitner holly@ntmediagroup.com

DIGITAL DIRECTOR Kristen Rouse krouse@ntmediagroup.com

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Cici Rindy cici@ntmediagroup.com

ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER Deann Hausner deann@ntmediagroup.com

ADVERTISING COORDINATOR Amy Jacobs ads@ntmediagroup.com

SALES SUPPORT Kaleigh Krause ktk@ntmediagroup.com

ACCOUNTING Nadine Seitz accounting@ntmediagroup.com

CIRCULATION Eric Johnsen eric@ntmediagroup.com

Photo by Holly Leitner

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The Water Safety Patrol headquarters’ location on the lake’s north shore includes a pier with space for the nonprofit’s fleet of rescue boats.

On Solid Ground

Water Safety Patrol realizes longtime goal of land ownership

BY ANNE MORRISSY

Last May, a group of Water Safety Patrol (WSP) employees, supporters and alums gathered at the organization’s headquarters in Williams Bay to celebrate a major event in the group’s evolution: the acquisition of the property upon which its headquarters is built. For the first time in the nonprofit’s 105-year history, the WSP counts among its assets ownership of their lakefront location on Geneva Lake.

The Water Safety Patrol was founded in 1920 by Simeon B. Chapin to provide

lifeguards and assistance for stranded boaters on Geneva Lake. Soon after its founding, it began offering low-cost swimming lessons to the public as well. In its earliest days, the organization operated out of an office in the Geneva Lakes Family YMCA in downtown Lake Geneva. From the 1930s to 2006, the WSP headquarters was located in a small building on the Riviera Pier (affectionately known as “The Shack” by generations of patrollers) that was leased from Gage Marine and the city of Lake Geneva.

In 2001, following a successful capital campaign, the WSP began plans for a new headquarters building. Seeking a site upon which to construct the new building, WSP Director Ted Pankau approached Dr. Rebecca Sherrick, then president of Aurora University, and forged an agreement which allowed the nonprofit to build its new headquarters on a portion of the George Williams College campus. The agreement resulted in Aurora University offering the WSP a 99-year lease on the land. (In 2006, the WSP headquarters was moved from the east side of the George Williams College campus to the west side, with the 99-year-lease agreement remaining intact.)

The university had acquired the property in 2000 and used the campus as a satellite location for their degrees in education, nursing and social work, among others. However, in 2023, the leadership of Aurora University announced it would discontinue classes in Williams Bay and put the George Williams College campus up for sale.

With the announcement of the sale of the land, this meant that the lease agreement with the WSP would be voided when the property sold. Pankau and Leigh Otzen, president of the WSP’s board of directors, began a three-year process of negotiation with Aurora to purchase the headquarters property prior to the sale of the campus.

The headquarters building was built in 2006 on land originally leased from Aurora University but today is owned by the Water Safety Patrol.

This necessitated considerable fundraising, with many longtime donors making contributions to the project. Last spring, that process resulted in the Water Safety Patrol acquiring the land it had previously been leasing.

To celebrate the purchase, the WSP held a re-dedication ceremony on May 17. The property will now be known as the Water Safety Patrol Campus. A bronze plaque on the site honors the major donors who made the purchase possible, including Melita F. Grunow & Family, the Otzen Family Foundation, the Steven and Peggy Diamond Family, the TNT Family Foundation and Abra and James Wilkin, among others. “This is a momentous occasion in the 105-year history of the Patrol,” Pankau wrote in advance of the event. “It ensures that this great organization will be able to continue to serve the community for generations to come.”

Seasons of Stewardship

Geneva Lake Conservancy bids farewell to director, begins search for successor BY KATE GARDINER

Karen Yancey, executive director of the Geneva Lake Conservancy, will retire in October after an extraordinary nine-plus year tenure

Leigh Otzen, president of the board of directors, and his wife, Patrol alum Kelly Otzen, pose in front of the plaque honoring the donors who made the land purchase possible.

at the helm of one of the lake’s most prominent land protection organizations. The nonprofit, which accomplished a significant milestone when it received its first $1 million gift in 2025, protects 3,693 acres of conservation land in southeastern Wisconsin. When Yancey joined the organization in 2016, the then-40-year-old conservancy was formal custodian of just half that — around 1,910 acres.

Charles Colman, who has been involved with the organization as a benefactor, board member and chairman for 26 years, says that, when Yancey was first hired, she brought a breath of fresh air to conservation efforts around the lake. “When she started, the organization wasn’t always going out into the world and arguing for conservation,” he says. “But she started to put structure in place and made the easements make

“One of the actions I am proudest of is convincing the board, in 2017, to use Knowles Nelson Stewardship grants to purchase land to create public nature preserves,” says Yancey. “In 2016, the Conservancy [directly] owned only 16 acres, valued at $307,500, and none of them were accessible to the public without permission. Today,

$3.2 million, including five public nature preserves.” A sixth public nature preserve will open in October, coinciding with Yancey’s retirement.

Yancey notes that, during her tenure, the organization’s mission has shifted from simply protecting land to making all of Walworth County more ecologically

The Geneva Lake Conservancy team: (l to r) Tai Thompson, community outreach manager; Mary O’Connell, summer intern; Jaden Nickelsen, land protection specialist; Carol Elkins, conservation programs manager; KIera Theys, land protection director; and Karen Yancey, executive director

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residents. The “Conservation@Home” program helps property owners protect the health of their land by including native plants, facilitating improved stormwater management and encouraging property owners to be conservation-minded when it comes to tree and lawn care. Its sister program, “Keep It Blue,” helps protect Geneva Lake and the surrounding environment by educating landowners about ways to reduce or eliminate the use of phosphorous-based fertilizers, in turn preventing algae blooms.

“One of the reasons I accepted the job at the Geneva Lake Conservancy in 2016 is that the organization wanted to be accredited by the National Land Trust Alliance, which meant that it would have to meet the high standards established by the Alliance,” Yancey explains. “I was impressed by this, as it meant that they wanted to ‘follow the rules,’ and be held to a higher standard.”

Cathleen Johnson, now a GLC board member, was one of Karen’s first employers early in their careers in Chicago. “In her 20s, Karen was one of those people you could relate to,” Johnson says. “She was so good and so thorough with everything. As I have gotten involved in the board and seen everything that the conservancy has done, I am constantly impressed with her breadth and depth of knowledge as well as her passion for the environment and for Wisconsin.”

The Conservancy’s board of directors has begun its search for a new executive director to lead the growth of the organization in the decades to come. More information about the job will be posted on its website and social media accounts.  “It will be hard to find a replacement for Karen Yancey,” adds Johnson. “Her passion for the environment and her connections in the area are unparalleled.”

Traveling Through Time

Honoring 20 years of museum operations at Black Point Estate and Gardens BY

ANNE MORRISSY

Black Point Estate and Gardens recently celebrated a milestone anniversary — 20 years ago, William O. “Bill” Petersen and his wife, Jane, donated the family’s property and house on the south shore of Geneva Lake to the state of Wisconsin for use as a museum. This summer, Black Point employees and volunteers celebrated the landmark anniversary with a series of small celebrations at the estate.

The home, which was originally built in 1888 by Petersen’s great-

grandparents, Chicago beer baron Conrad Seipp and his wife, Catharina, contained 13 bedrooms and one bathroom, and was topped by a distinctive tower rising above the treeline. Since that time, Black Point had been used as a summer home for four generations, and, by the early 2000s, it was unique on the lake in

remaining almost entirely unchanged from its original state.

The Petersens’ donation 20 years ago prompted years of negotiations with state agencies, county zoning officials and neighbors to ensure that the property could be opened to the public for tours. In 2012, the Wisconsin

Historical Society took over day-to-day management of Black Point, adding the estate to its portfolio of historical sites around the state.

Through an arrangement with the Lake Geneva Cruise Line, intended to limit vehicle traffic to the site, almost all visitors to Black Point arrive by boat, just as the family would in the 19th century. This arrangement necessitated a series of small, invitation-only celebrations for the 20th anniversary.

At one event, Dave Desimone, Black Point’s director, honored the people, past and present, who ensure that the Black Point experience can be shared, just as the Petersens hoped when they donated the property 20 years ago. “We are thankful for everyone that has supported us with their time, talent, and treasure over the last 20 years,” he says. “We are fortunate to have so much support from the Geneva Lake community. We couldn’t operate without it.”

Dave Desimone, director of Black Point Estate (front row, right), with William Snyder and the Chicago Dredge Men’s Singing Choir at Black Point Estate’s 20th anniversary celebration.

The Art of Living Well

Crisp air, golden trees, and sunsets that set the lake aglow—fall in Lake Geneva is nothing short of magical. Whether you’re sipping cider on a wraparound porch, taking scenic walks along the shore, or cozying up by a stone fireplace, this season invites you to slow down and savor life.

At Starck Real Estate – Lake Geneva, we believe that the art of living well begins with where you live. For many years we have helped our clients find their sanctuary in this lakeside haven—whether it’s a classic cottage, modern retreat, or year-round family home.

Let us show you the beauty of Lake Geneva living—not just in the fall, but in every season.

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Forging New Paths

Ulla Brunk, co-founder of Lake Geneva’s Brunk Industries, reflects on a life of strength and innovation

BY KATE GARDINER

Ulla Brunk sits on her sofa in her family’s lakeside home, perfectly turned out and resplendent in pink against the shining backdrop of Geneva Lake. It’s a truly family-oriented space, brimming with flowers and collectibles; Photos hang on almost every wall and rest on every surface. Her daughter, Lake Geneva resident and longtime Kansas City television anchor Anne Brunk Peterson, shows me around the beautiful home bursting with memories. “Mama and Papa loved to sing and dance together,” Peterson says, walking through a room filled with images of their boats, friends, family, a small bandstand and other memorabilia, “Our home was filled with love and joy.”

Brunk is a local legend: a female business leader and family woman who stood apart from the crowd almost as soon as she landed in the United States at age 18. She remains a central figure to her family and the community — and the company she’s built over the past 75 years.

A SCANDINAVIAN CHILDHOOD

Brunk’s extraordinary life started in a Swedish suburb, Spånga-Tensta, about 30 minutes outside of Stockholm. Her childhood there coincided with a harrowing era in European history; As the Nazis began to annex and invade countries across Europe in 1938, Sweden remained officially neutral while allowing the German military to move freely within the country. In response, a targeted underground resistance network sprang up in Sweden. Brunk remembers helping the Swedish resistance as a child. “As a little girl, my friends and I would ride our bicycles throughout the village, sounding the alarm that the Germans were coming,” she remembers. “We would go house-to-house to tell people to hide things and to put down the blackout curtains and hide supplies.”

Brunk started working outside the home at the early age of 13, taking a position at one of Sweden’s largest banks, Svenska Handelsbanken in Stockholm. Despite her youth, Brunk more than held her own among the powerful men who ran the bank. “Mama told me a story growing up about how she was working every day at the bank and then going to school at night, and somehow she got into a position where the bank president and all of these men were letting her have lunch with them every day for free,” says Peterson. “One day she stood up to them, and told them it wasn’t fair to all the other girls who worked with her. She insisted that the leadership buy lunch for everyone like her — and she was fearless about it.”

Eventually, Brunk won the argument with the executives. She was only a teenager at the time. “But that was the kind of young lady that Mama was,” adds Peterson. “At the same time, she was learning so much about business.” It was an education that would prove useful.

In her spare time, Brunk became a legend as a singer and dancer in the popular (and dry due to strict temperance laws) Swedish dance hall scene. The moment she made an entrance, Brunk captivated the audience, which prompted the orchestra to play the song “American Patrol,” because Brunk always wanted to go to America.

COMING TO AMERICA

Brunk’s father, Elis Peterson, was a union man working with Swedish teletype machines. When Brunk was 18, her father decided to pursue a new opportunity in the United States at the Chicago Sun-Times. Suddenly, the family found itself living in Chicago’s Andersonville neighborhood — with just a few pieces of furniture and $300 to their name.

Brunk’s mother, Valborg Peterson, had been a Swedish au pair in the United States before she got married. “Mormor [Grandmother] had worked for the Wrigley family,” explains Peterson. “She’d been a nanny for P.K. Wrigley’s two older daughters, Dorothy ‘Deedie’ Wrigley and Ada Blanche ‘Blanny’ Wrigley, in Lake Geneva and Chicago before she got married and moved back to Sweden.”

Now living in Chicago, Brunk’s mother renewed that relationship with the Wrigley family. “As soon as they got here, Mrs. Wrigley heard that Mormor was in town and insisted they have lunch together,” explains Peterson.

Chicago was good for the family in other ways as well. In the community of Swedish immigrants where they lived, Brunk soon met the love of her life, Bertil, while out dancing one night. “If there was a stage, Bertil was on it,” says Peterson. “And if there was a dance floor, Ulla was there, too.”

Brunk’s new love, Bertil Brunk, had been something of a mechanical genius in his teens, and finished in the top of his class at a competitive tool-and-die apprenticeship program at Electrolux, one of Europe’s largest manufacturers. Thanks to those talents and his connections among the Swedish community, he received a job offer in the United States and immigrated to Chicago, where he ultimately met Ulla Peterson. They were together for the next six decades.

BRUNK INDUSTRIES

When Ulla and Bertil Brunk decided to get married, they returned to Sweden briefly before moving into an apartment in Chicago. However, as soon as their kids were born — first Anne and then Lars three years later — Brunk knew that she couldn’t

raise them in the city, especially after her mother passed away suddenly, and her father became very sick due to complications from a gallbladder surgery. Brunk suddenly found herself raising her two children and her youngest sister, Margit.

Brunk’s father owned land in the Sunset Hills subdivision in Lake Geneva, which Ulla and Bertil purchased to build their first home. With Scandinavian efficiency, Brunk set up her household, while Bertil commuted between Lake Geneva and Chicago for work. But the commute proved difficult, which led Brunk to an obvious solution: The couple would establish their own tool-and-die shop in Wisconsin, and build a business together. “Bertil had so many skills, and it was possible he would get the contracts,” she says. “We just had to figure out how to do it.”

The couple incorporated the company by 1960 in the garage at their newly built home in Lake Geneva. Bertil led the tool-and-die manufacturing, pioneering industry technologies and refining precision stamping processes to consistently produce miniature, high-tolerance components for automotive, marine, electronics and business machine applications. Ulla established and managed the office, handled all finances and created a meticulous filing system that ultimately became the foundation of the company’s digital infrastructure.

Lars Brunk, Ulla Brunk and Anne Brunk Peterson

Present-day Brunk Industries in Lake Geneva

Their partnership blended innovation and discipline, forming a foundation that drove the company’s early success — and set its long-term trajectory.

By 1963, the company — then named Brunk Tool & Die Company — had enough traction to hire its first employees and opened up a 1,000-square-foot manufacturing plant on Sage Street in Lake Geneva. The Brunks used their connections among the SwedishAmerican community to expand the scale of their partnerships while producing precision-engineered components for some of the world’s most recognizable brands.

LANDING A PREMIER PARTNERSHIP

involvement which led to the formation of the Ulla and Bertil Brunk Family Foundation 10 years ago which serves many local charities.

The Brunks also endowed the Bertil and Ulla Brunk Performance Pavilion in Lake Geneva’s Flat Iron Park, site of the Concerts in the Park series, thanks in part to the lobbying efforts of her neighbor and lifelong friend Grace Eckland, former head of the Lake Geneva Beautification Committee.

Brunk Industries soon began supplying components to major regional firms such as Mercury Marine, Outboard Marine Corporation, AllenBradley and Parker. But a landmark opportunity arrived when IBM visited ahead of a major project launch. From that visit, Ulla and Bertil hosted a group of IBM executives — with Ulla the only woman at the meeting.

Brunk Industries ultimately secured the contract. “That meeting was the beginning of a beautiful friendship and collaboration,” Brunk says. The company ended up producing as many as 76 components in IBM’s most revolutionary product: the Selectric Typewriter. IBM dominated the market, selling 13 million units total by 1978. Brunk Industries made most of the critical metal components for the typewriter.

“The IBM contract was one of the most important milestones,” says Lars Brunk, who has spent his career at the company and now serves as president and CEO since 2000. “It established our reputation for years to come.”

Brunk Industries went on to expand its abilities to manufacture components of much bigger machines, expanding its product lines, earning government certifications for exceptional pro-

duction standards and even winning defense contracts from the U.S. government. In the late 1980s, through the vision and leadership of Lars Brunk, the company entered the medical technology sector with a focus on precision manufacturing life-saving devices. Today, it stands as a globally recognized leader in the field, trusted by some of the world’s most advanced medical device companies.

THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

In addition to their business success, the Brunk family has been deeply involved with the Lake Geneva community and broader SwedishAmerican causes for decades. The Brunks facilitated the addition of the Brunk Children’s Museum of Immigration at Chicago’s Swedish American Museum, designed to help kids understand the patterns of emigration that brought their families to the United States.

Karin Moen Abercrombie, the executive director of the Swedish American Museum, said the Brunks have been integral to the museum almost since its inception. “Ulla and Bertil have always loved children,” she says. “And they were always thinking about the next generation, and how that is important to both sustaining heritage culture and investing in our future.”

Children and family causes have been at the heart of their community

HONORED BY THEIR HOMELAND

This work to promote SwedishAmerican heritage and culture, coupled with their incredible business success at Brunk Industries, led to an extraordinary moment: On June 8, 2011, Ulla and Bertil Brunk were granted the Royal Order of the Polar Star by King Carl Gustaf of Sweden. This honor is intended as a reward for Swedish and foreign “civic merits, for devotion to duty, for science, literary, learned and useful works and for new and beneficial institutions.” It represents a 250-year-old tradition.

“It was a highlight of their life,” remembers Peterson of the award. “They remained friendly with the king and treasured their Swedish heritage. They worked hard together and they loved one another so deeply and unconditionally. Our parents used to say ‘When you want the same things in life, you can get through anything.’”

Since 1989, Ulla has resided in the lakefront home that she and Bertil described as a “dream come true.” Following Bertil’s death in 2015, she has continued to focus on her family, including four grandchildren. “Mama puts her heart and soul into everything she does with grace and dignity,” Peterson continues. “She helped Papa build his business and she’s been there for everyone in her life, especially our family. She’s been an extraordinary and loving mother, mentor and business woman.”

The Bertil and Ulla Brunk Performance Pavilion in Lake Geneva’s Flat Iron Park hosts the popular Concerts in the Park series.

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There’s nothing quite like a day spent at the lake with man’s best friend — the pure joy they experience splashing in the water, greeting friends on the Shore Path or jumping from a pier into the deep end is a kind of contagious happiness we consider priceless. It’s why we started our popular Lake Dogs portfolio in the first place, and now, in its 12th year, we are more convinced than ever that dogs are delightful.

This year’s class of Lake Dogs has something for everyone, from the paddleboarding Louie Pascal (page 49) to the three-legged rescue Sophie (page 50). And don’t miss the winner of our third annual People’s Choice poll (page 44). Read on for a little extra dose of happiness this autumn.

Noki

9-year-old Japanese Spitz

Family: Paula | Personality Traits: Sweet, friendly, affectionate, adorable | Favorite Lake Activities: Watching ducks in the lake Pet Peeve: Not being petted | Naughtiest Deed: Running in the street to see another dog! | Ideal Job: Caregiver

PHOTOS BY HOLLY LEITNER

Homer& Monty

4-year-old & 2-year-old Beagles

Family

Tommy & Gina Catalano

Personality Traits

Homer: Super sweet; Monty: Silly and playful

Favorite Lake Activities

Homer: Loves to soak in the sun

Monty: Loves to swim

Pet Peeve

Homer: Monty’s energy

Monty: There are never enough treats

Naughtiest Deed

Homer: Sneaks out of the yard to chase deer

Monty: Tries to chase ducks at Big Foot Beach

Ideal Job

Homer: Couch inspector

Monty: Center fielder for the Milwaukee Brewers

Butters

9-year-old White Shepherd & Husky Mix/Rescue

Family: The Clow Family | Personality Traits: Gentle, sweet, protective and nosy | Favorite Lake Activities: Walking on the lake path to sniff the lake scents and also sunbathing in the grass | Pet Peeves: Closed doors | Naughtiest Deed: Stealing laundry out of the hamper | Ideal Job: Management

Angus

2-year-old Bernedoodle

Family

John Hayden & Jill Newman

Personality Traits

Velcro dog, human-like, affectionate, counter-surfer, loyal, sock-burglar

Favorite Lake Activities

Walking the Fontana lakeshore, hanging out on the patio at Chuck’s and getting treats and love from Fontana Home

Pet Peeve

When he can’t jump in a chair or on a bar stool to join his people for the fun

Naughtiest Deed

Stealing the toilet paper and TPing the interior of the house

Ideal Job Pizza taste tester at Little Bar

People’sChoice

Snoop

2-year-old Labrador Retriever

Family: The Balsitis family | Personality Traits: Clever, loyal, hungry | Favorite Lake Activities: Duck hunting off Dad’s boat, swimming

Pet Peeves: An empty food bowl | Naughtiest Deed: Jumping in Dad’s truck bed for a field trip, unbeknownst to his humans | Ideal Job: Culinary consultant

Sailor

3-year-old Yorkshire Terrier

Family

Gina Ross

Personality Traits

Small but mighty!

Favorite Lake Activities

Suntanning on his boat

Pet Peeve

Not playing with him on demand!

Naughtiest Deed

Scattering his toys all over the house

Ideal Job

CEO: He is “large and in charge” — all 5 pounds of him!

4-year-old Golden Retriever

Family

Zach & Tiffany Flitcroft

Personality Traits

Needy

Favorite Lake Activities

Swimming and fetching floaties

Pet Peeve

Eating a late lunch

Naughtiest Deed

Shredding toilet paper

Ideal Job

Demolition contractor

Monty

Frankie & Emma

18-month-old & 13-year-old Shih Tzus

Family

Christie, Jim & Tina Conners

Personality Traits

Frankie: Best boy, energetic, funny, lovable and cuddly; Emma: Sweetest little girl, loves attention, outgoing but laid-back, observant, super smart and faithful

Favorite Lake Activities

Frankie: Still “learning the ropes,” but is already running up and down the pier just like his brother, Nicky, did; Emma: Loves laying on the pier, sunbathing, socializing and swimming with Mommy in the lake.

Naughtiest Deed

Frankie: Constantly emptying the bin containing hats, gloves and scarves; Emma: Never wants to go back home after being by the water!

Ideal Job

Frankie: First responder; Emma: Restaurant hostess

Atlas

3-year-old Samoyed

Family

Aleah Haworth & Neal Choksi

Personality Traits

Goofy, social, clever

Favorite Lake Activities

Swimming and digging in the sand

Pet Peeve Squirrels!

Naughtiest Deed

Stealing socks daily

Ideal Job Taste tester

(Cover Dog)

Deano

1-year-old French Bulldog

Family

The Wiesjahn Family

Personality Traits

Loving, sweet, energetic and loves to snuggle

Favorite Lake Activities

Playing fetch

Pet Peeve

Being told, “You’re sleeping in your bed tonight!”

Naughtiest Deed

Snoring too loudly

Ideal Job

Professional “zoomies” initiator

Ollie & Honey

7-year-old & 2-year-old Australian Shepherds

| Personality

Favorite

takes the attention

from

toddler

Honey:

|

|

dinner

|

Family: The Novak Family

Traits: Ollie: Loyal, protective, sensitive; Honey: Playful, athletic, gentle

Lake Activities: Long walks on the lake path and taking a dip in the Bay on a hot summer day

Pet Peeves: Ollie: Anything that

away

him;

When you’re done playing ball (ball is life)

Naughtiest Deed: Both circle like sharks under their

sister’s highchair during

time

Ideal Job: Ollie: Sheriff; Honey: Cowgirl

Cannella

4-year-old Yorkiepoo

Family

Evie Cora

Personality Traits Cuddly and spoiled!

Favorite Lake Activities Lakeside naps and walks

Pet Peeve

When she can’t join for a long day on the lake (it’s too dang hot for her!)

Naughtiest Deed

Cannella has a tendency to do an “excited pee” when Mom or her grandparents come home

Ideal Job

Probably an influencer/socialite — Cannella doesn’t play fetch or rollover, but she knows what FaceTiming is, and loves to be chauffeured up to her favorite place (Delavan Lake!) and, of course, loves being the center of attention

Marley

Family: The Barber family | Personality Traits: Affectionate, friendly, playful, loyal, easygoing | Favorite Lake

Probably swimming, but a close second is claiming her spot at the front of the boat, soaking in all the best parts of boating on Geneva

Pet Peeves: When we go on the boat without her | Naughtiest Deed: Barking like crazy and sprinting laps around the pool any time we play basketball or bring out a toy — she just can’t handle missing out on the fun | Ideal

8-year-old German Shepherd/Border Collie

Activities:

Lake

Job: A first mate, welcoming everyone with a tail wag, keeping the energy high and making sure every boat ride is fun!

Louie Pascal

2-year-old Mini Goldendoodle

Family The Solverson Family

Personality Traits Charmer

Favorite Lake Activities

Jumping into the lake with the kids for a swim

Pet Peeve

He hates getting his butt wiped!

Naughtiest Deed

Jumping on the kitchen counter to sneak away some delicious food that does not belong to him

Ideal Job

Bartender — fun, playful and loves a good time!

Milo & Otis

10-year-old (back) & 5-year-old (front) Boston Terriers

Family

Shari, Chris & Hannah Straube

Personality Traits

Milo: Cautious; Otis: Always happy

Favorite Lake Activities

Lake path walks in the fall when it cools down and running on the beach during the off-season

Pet Peeve

Milo: Hates when squirrels get away from him; Otis: Hates when Milo steals his treats

Naughtiest Deed

Rolling in stinky stuff!

Ideal Job

Milo: Would prefer not to work, he enjoys lounging the day away; Otis: Professional soccer player

Sophie

8-year-old Great Pyrenees/Lab Mix Rescue/Tripod

Family

Suzy Michalets & Scott Origer

Personality Traits

Sweet, gentle and affectionate

Favorite Lake Activities

Walking the Shore Path

Pet Peeve Squirrels

Naughtiest Deed

Pulling hard on the leash in hot pursuit of squirrels

Ideal Job

Chief pizza taste tester

Spike

4-year-old Miniature Schnauzer

Family

Laura & Anthony Calderisi

Personality Traits

Stubborn, smart, hungry and snuggly

Favorite Lake Activities

When the weather is cooler, Spike likes to walk on the lake path, get all the good sniffs and roll in the grass.

Pet Peeve

Seeing us getting out the brush to groom him. He hates to be brushed. Spa day is not his thing.

Naughtiest Deed

Master manipulator. He pretends to need to go out just because he knows he will get a treat.

Ideal Job

We see our bow tie-sporting smarty as the head of the science department at a university. He’d be great at developing new theories on how dogs can trick their humans into giving them more treats.

3-year-old Vizsla

Family

Peter Johnson & Craig Bloomer

Personality Traits Goofy

Favorite Lake Activities

Loves to run in the water along the shoreline

Pet Peeve

Not being able to get under a blanket when he desires

Naughtiest Deed

Climbed an extension ladder up to the roof of our shed, about 10 feet, without our knowledge until we saw him get to the top.

Ideal Job Animal chaser

Sailor Cooper

The

Family |

|

4-year-old Aussiedoodle

|

|

Family:

Piscopo-Seng

Personality Traits: Loyal, friendly, energetic and cuddly

Favorite Lake Activities: Walking the lake path, going for boat rides and watching the lake activity from the Brookwood deck

Pet Peeve: Being left out of any family activities

Naughtiest Deed: Loves all human food and will jump on any opportunity to indulge! | Ideal Job: Shepherd

Ghost tours, séances and asylum history stir the lake’s spectral past

BY SARAH KOEHLER

or centuries, autumn has been perceived as a time of spookiness, of spirits from another world, of ghosts and goblins. Fall holidays like Dia de los Muertos (“Day of the Dead”), All Saints Day and Halloween are the perfect opportunity to connect with stories of the supernatural. As the weather changes, we experience more “dark and stormy nights” — perfect fodder for ghost stories.

When you think of spooky places, Lake Geneva may not be the first place that comes to mind, but the area is rife with unexplained mysteries and tales of visits from the afterlife. With Victorian Spiritualism programs, tours of haunted sites and plenty of other eerie history to learn, Lake Geneva has lots to offer those looking for a little scary fun: there may be more than just the ‘spirits’ we pour into a glass.

SCARY STORIES AND VICTORIAN SPIRITS

One place to start is Black Point Estate and Gardens, located on the south shore of Geneva Lake. During the summer months, guests can take daytime tours of the Victorian-era, Queen Anne-style mansion, originally built in 1888 by Chicago beer tycoon Conrad Seipp. But once the weather cools, the tours at the estate change a bit.

David Desimone is Black Point Estate’s director, and he explains that interest in the “spiritual side” of life in America really surged in the mid- to late 1800s as people sought ways to connect with deceased friends and loved ones in the “Great Beyond.” During the Victorian era, many people believed that, thanks to the newly emerging science of the time, it was possible to connect with those “beyond the veil.” There was a curious fascination with

death and dying — a view very different from how society views the end of life today.

During the month of October, Black Point Estate hosts a schedule of events focusing on this Victorian fascination with spiritualism. Desimone explains that the site hosts Victorian Spiritualism nights, when guests can “sip on a delectable cordial” and hear tales of the Fox sisters, who were credited with the creation of the Spiritualism movement in America, and learn about Wisconsin’s connection to the movement, including Whitewater’s Morris Pratt Institute, the country’s first spiritualist school.

During this era, spiritualism wasn’t just an occult parlor game, Desimone points out. Rather, it was “a social and religious movement that claimed to channel the voices of HOLLY

Autumn events at Black Point Estate and Gardens (left photo and this page) draw on the home’s Victorian Queen Annestyle architecture. At the special “Victorian Spiritualism” nights, guests learn about the era’s obsession with the occult; During the “Poe at the Point” evenings, a costumed narrator reads classic horror stories in a spooky setting (inset).

the dead, link the present with the past and conjure new worldly and otherworldly futures.”

These events also allow guests to enjoy Black Point after dark, something that isn’t normally part of the summer tours. Other after-dark activities at Black Point Estate are the popular Poe at the Point events, which begin with a sunset cruise with Lake Geneva Cruise Line. After docking, guests ascend the staircase to the estate, where they enjoy a night of eerie storytelling. Historian and author Joshua Dubbert then reads excerpts from the King of Terror himself — Edgar Allan Poe — reading selections from classic stories and poems, including “The Tell-Tale

Heart,” “The Masque of the Red Death” and “The Raven.”

WALKING IN PHANTOM FOOTSTEPS

However, it’s not just Black Point Estate that draws crowds seeking spooky entertainment. There are many people in the Lake Geneva area who say that some of the city’s historic dwellings are still haunted, and that they’ve experienced these chilling incidents themselves.

Mike Huberty is the owner of American Ghost Walks. He grew up not far from Lake Geneva, and spent many summers in town as a kid, visiting local spots. After starting successful ghost

The Lake Geneva Ghost Walk hosted by American Ghost Walks includes stops in the historic downtown area, where many of the buildings date to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Tour guides share stories about the “Lady in Black,” Jennie the lake monster and other spooky tales.

TOP: HOLLY LEITNER; INSET: COURTESY OF AMERICAN GHOST TOURS

tour events in Minneapolis and Milwaukee, Huberty kept returning to Lake Geneva. With all of the old mansions and rich history here, he sensed there were bound to be a few spirits still lingering.

Huberty started researching the area’s history and interviewing local residents and employees, and what he found thrilled him — he discovered stories of haunted mansions, yes; but Huberty also found that the Lake Geneva area was home to Native American spirit legends, gangster connections, a lake monster and the (now worldfamous) Beast of Bray Road, a werewolf-like creature said to haunt a rural road in nearby Elkhorn.

is

the oldest buildings still standing in Lake Geneva. Built in 1856 by Dr. Philip Maxwell and his wife, Jerusha, today the mansion is a boutique hotel with a speakeasy-style bar in the basement, in the space where Dr. Maxwell used to perform surgeries on patients.

One of Huberty’s favorite haunted local sites is the Maxwell Mansion in Lake Geneva. Construction began on the home in 1855, and the following year, a prominent Chicago surgeon named Dr. Phillip Maxwell and his wife, Jerusha, moved in. For years, the home served as a summer residence for a number of prominent businessmen who often hosted famous dignitaries. General Ulysses S. Grant is rumored to have stayed there once.

Lake Geneva’s Maxwell Mansion

one of

Dr. Phillip Maxwell

Though Maxwell Mansion has changed hands a few times through the decades, one thing remains: ghost stories and superstitions of the people who worked — and still work — in the mansion. Huberty says that it’s not uncommon for employees to smell whiffs of cigar smoke, hear windows and doors opening and closing or feel like someone is standing behind them when they’re working. Other tales include lights flickering (and not during stormy weather) or shadows moving inside empty rooms.

TALES OF PARANORMAL PRESENCE

Another home on the American Ghost Walks tour that is known for paranormal activity is the Baker House. Built in 1885 as a home for a widow named Emily Baker, the 17,000-square-foot, 30-room Queen Anne mansion holds many secrets. Baker’s husband, Robert, was born and raised in Lake Geneva, and when he died in 1882 at the age of 43, she began building the home as a tribute to him in the area he loved so much. Baker even had her deceased husband’s initials (R.H.B.) carved into the wood above the front entryway, so that she would never enter the home without him.

Today, the mansion is used as a bed-andbreakfast and hosts tours, afternoon tea, evening events and a speakeasystyle bar in the basement (also haunted). Many employees say that the spirit of Robert Baker lingers in the home, and his presence is still often felt — and occasionally seen — in the rooms.

Rita Mae Moore, a tour guide for American Ghost Walks and an author of several books about paranormal activity, recalls one particularly spooky event from a tour of Baker House in 2019. “As I was telling the history [of the home], most of the doors and windows in Baker House opened up, all on their own,” she recalls. “A couple of staff members came running outside moments later, truly flustered by what had just occurred. When one of them saw me and my tour, he said,

The drain in the floor of the speakeasy-style bar dates to the room’s use as a surgical suite for Dr. Maxwell’s practice (this photo). Many employees over the years have reported unexplained sights, sounds and smells in Maxwell Mansion (middle photo). Similarly, employees at The Baker House (bottom photo) sense the spectral presence of the first owner’s husband, Robert H. Baker (inset).

AFTER TWO DECADES IN REAL ESTATE

and over $400 million in closed transactions*, consistently selling clients' properties faster and for more money means that Brandie delivers results, from the listing to the closing table. Indeed, as the real estate expert on HGTV's top-rated shows, "Designed to Sell" in Chicago, "Hidden Potential," as well as "Property Envy" on Bravo, Brandie's expertise in design and staging complements her real estate know-how, bringing a unique blend of talent, energy and client focus not only to TV but to her daily work helping buyers and sellers find success.

With expertise in both Wisconsin and Illinois, Brandie adeptly serves a broad range of clients but especially loves opening doors to homeowners who want to plant roots where Brandie and her family have been for generations.

• Nationally recognized real estate expert, appearing on Today Show, CNBC, and Fox Business News

• Multiple industry awards and recognitions including being a member of the prestigious Christie’s International Masters Circle**

• 100% referral-based business, but first-time clients always welcome

• Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR)

• Accredited Staging Professional (ASP)

• 24/7 dedication to client response, service, and personal attention

• Bachelor of Arts, Miami University, Oxford, Ohio

The Oakwood Sanitarium was located on the hill overlooking the modern-day Lake Geneva Utility Commission (top photo) and provided treatment for those with severe mental illness. The Lakeside Cottage (today’s Baker House) treated those with nervous disorders, depression, addiction and alcoholism (right). An ad from 1909 promoted the wellness benefits of Lake Geneva’s sanitariums (inset).

‘Oh, I knew you were here! The ghosts like when you talk about them!’”

FROM INSANE ASYLUM TO BED-AND-BREAKFAST

Like Maxwell Mansion, Baker House has also had a long history of owners and uses over the years, but one of the most interesting might be its use as a sanitarium for wealthy Chicagoans recovering from light nervous disorders and addictions.

Sonja Akright is the director of administration for the Geneva Lake Museum, and also the author of a book about sanitariums in the area. (Her book, “The Sanitariums of Lake Geneva,” is available at the Geneva Lake Museum, Black Point Estate, Amazon and Barnes & Noble). After more than 15 years of research, she found

that Lake Geneva has a rich history when it comes to the treatment of mental health.

Akright was initially intrigued by an image of Oakwood Sanitarium that she saw on a vintage postcard. She says that the building itself was stunningly beautiful, but the history behind it was muddy. She began to ask around, but it seemed that no one knew the building’s real history prior to World War II, and most of the stories she heard were just unconfirmed local legends and folklore.

Finally, after several years working with the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and the Wisconsin Historical Society — and spending hundreds of hours conducting countless interviews, combing through old medical journals and newspapers, maps and census records — Akright finally got some answers. “There was a full campus of

sanitariums founded and operated by Dr. Oscar King called the Lake Geneva Sanitariums,” she explains. “Oakwood was the insane asylum for cases that required guardianship. Lakeside was the medical sanitarium. There was a surgical facility on the grounds of Oakwood, and then Lakeside Cottage dealt mostly with light nervous disorders, postpartum depression and recovering addicts or alcoholics nearing release.”

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, there was a strong stigma surrounding mental health struggles, and many patients who were sent to these sanitariums were thought to bring shame to their families because of defects, deformities or mental illness, so they were “hidden away” in Lake Geneva so as not to embarrass wealthy relatives. Akright explains that many people felt less guilty about sending their loved ones to Lake Geneva for mental health treatment because of its reputation as a resort town.

The Lakeside Cottage that Akright refers to is still standing — today it is the Baker House. Three of the four buildings that made up Oak Leigh Educational Sanitarium also remain, though one is a private home, and the other two are used as vacation or AirBnB rentals. In the case of the Baker House, it is said that some of the patients still walk the grounds. Guests on ghost tours have said they’ve seen shadows of people in nightgowns or hospital gowns walking the lawns, in hallways or in the windows.

This doesn’t surprise Huberty, the founder of American Ghost Walks. “As the chill hits the air and the sun sets earlier, the veil between our world and the next just feels thinner,” he says. “And when that feeling is in the air, it’s the best time for a ghost story. When those stories are based in history, they connect you to a place and they make that place feel extra special. We tell the tale of the people who were here before you. Now you’re walking that same ground where they once did. Now you’re part of the story.”

PRESERVING A LEGACY AT LAKE SONG

Reed Custom Builders reimagines and expands a Greek Revival-style lake home

Modern living meets history at the shores of Geneva Lake where homeowners Bill and Bev Birck have reimagined their lakeside retreat — lovingly named Lake Song. The recently completed home renovation by Reed Custom Builders is a tribute to history, tradition and craftsmanship.

The Bircks’ goal was clear: to preserve the historic character of their Greek Revival home while expanding and modernizing the space to accommodate the rhythms of contemporary living. “We wanted the house to feel like it had always been this way,” says Bill, who led the project

through Reed Custom Builders, the residential division of his Chicago-based construction firm, Reed Construction. “It was about honoring the past while making the home function for the way we live today.”

GREEK REVIVAL GRANDEUR, REIMAGINED

One of the few examples of Greek Revival architecture remaining on the lake, the home’s original design served as the inspiration for the expansion. Architectural details including Corinthian columns, intricate stencil molding and gas lanterns were not only preserved but extended. Now, at 7,000 square feet, the home boasts five bedrooms,

four full bathrooms and two half baths — all seamlessly integrated into the original footprint.

Natural materials and curated detailing are integrated throughout the home. From wide-plank, white oak floors to alder-coffered ceilings, each finish reflects the couple’s dedication to timeless design. In addition, three fireplaces — one limestone, two from locally sourced stone — anchor warm gathering spaces throughout the home.

NATURE-INFUSED DESIGNS

The home’s lakeside presence is celebrated throughout the home, balancing light, texture and natural elements. The spacious kitchen features a marble-topped island with subtle veining reminiscent of sand and water. This is paired with classic cabinetry, antique brass fixtures and a hidden scullery. Overhead, seeded-glass pendants cast a soft glow, while natural wood tones bring warmth and depth.

The home also includes: a custom bar area with fluted wood detailing and velvet stools; a dramatic primary suite with beamed ceilings framing beautiful lake views; and an elegant, spa-like bathroom complete with honed-stone vanities and a freestanding soaking tub. Phantom screens make outdoor entertaining effortless, while oversized porches and balconies invite guests to linger.

The exterior grounds and landscaping are a true extension of the home’s spirit — filled with seasonal blooms and

layered botanical textures. “Lake Song is more than just a name,” Bev explains. “It captures what this place means to us — peaceful, lyrical, connected to nature and memory.”

LOCAL TALENT AND TIMELESS MATERIALS

The renovation of this majestic home brought together a curated team of local talent. Architect Ron McCormack of McCormack Associates Architects, designer Carly Loobeek of Studio M Interiors and millwork artisans from Aday Custom Cabinetry brought the vision to life, complemented by tile from Bella Tile & Stone and expert installation by Proulx Custom Tile.

At the helm was Reed Custom Builders, known for its ability to deliver luxury home projects that feel timeless, intentional and deeply personal. The firm approaches each project as a one-of-a-kind collaboration between homeowner, architect and designer. “Luxury homebuilding is a team sport,” says Bill, who serves as president and CEO at Reed Custom Builders. “We bring together the right craftsmen and

artisans to execute the client’s vision with precision.”

The firm prides itself on using local trades whenever possible and delivering a client experience that balances beauty with functionality. The approach is rooted in steady momentum, a solutions-oriented mindset and a transparent way of working that builds trust through clear communication.

Whether creating a new home from the ground up or transforming a historic structure through seamless additions, Reed Custom Builders is known for exceeding expectations. “We’re not just builders,” Bill adds. “We’re partners in helping people realize what ‘home’ truly means to them.”

CUSTOM JEWELRY DESIGN, REPAIR, APPRAISAL & GEMOLOGIST SINCE 2000

GEM APPRAISERS LLC.

&

Elyse Bullard Photography

A Delavan Lake cottage undergoes a stunning transformation with bold style and modern upgrades

BY LAUREN EVE

PHOTOS BY SHANNA WOLF

etta and Brian Grano, the owners of a 1930s-era Delavan Lake cottage, had long wanted to create a lakeside retreat. For Jetta, the purchase was personal. Her grandparents’ lake home had been sold in 2016 and she had many treasured memories from childhood summers there. So when a house just a few doors down from her grandparents’ former home came on the market, Jetta, a realtor with Coldwell Banker’s Dawn McKenna Group, knew they had to have it.

The Granos purchased their cottage in 2019, with the idea that they might renovate. The cottage was livable, but in need of some TLC, so it felt like the perfect fit. The 1,506-squarefoot home, which originally contained two floors, two bedrooms and one-and-a-half baths, needed more than a facelift — it needed a full reimagining.

Construction began in October 2024 and finished just in time for the Fourth of July. The Granos worked with a “dream team” — Joseph Wilburn, architect at Project 2 Architects; builder Brad Augustson of Augustson Homes; and interior designer Carly Loobeek of Studio M Interiors — with the aim of preserving the home’s “small but mighty” charm.

One of the challenges they faced early on related to the home’s footprint and how it was situated on the lot. In applying for permits, they discovered that, from the time of the home’s

construction in the 1930s, part of the foundation had actually sat on a sliver of the neighbor’s property. This forced Wilburn to remove a section of the home to meet zoning rules. But they were able to pivot and find a solution. “Old houses are like onions,” explains Jetta. “We kept making changes and rerouting.”

After the renovation, the home now boasts three bedrooms, two

bathrooms and a powder room. The project was a true team effort, blending original charm with modern upgrades. The result is a refreshed, functional space that honors the home’s history and lakeside childhood memories. “This home proves that you can reimagine any size home,” says Wilburn. “You just need vision, dedication and the right team.”

Design by Jane Soto

Design by Jane Soto

MAXIMIZING A NARROW LOT

As with many cottages on Delavan Lake, the home sat on a narrow, 30-foot-wide lot, so the project required strategic planning and ultimately a full rebuild from the inside out. The renovation began by building a new addition onto the entry side of the house, which included a new entry and added a guest bedroom on the second floor. Next, Wilburn and his team relocated the original staircase — which blocked the lake view — to the side of the front entry, allowing for an open layout on the first floor. “We removed several walls to create more space and function,” explains Wilburn. “We wanted to see the lake from just about every view of the home.”

OUTER BEAUTY

The exterior of the cottage was completely transformed with warm greige LP SmartSide siding, new Marvin Elevate windows and updated mechanical systems. The yard was redesigned for better flow and guest parking, featuring a Holland Premier Granite walkway from the parking area to the front entry, a private fire pit, and a covered grilling patio on the side of the house accented with Unilock Westport Granite. On the lake side, the old deck was rebuilt with weather-resistant TimberTech and modern glass railings to preserve the views, while the overgrown yard was cleared for a clean, intentional layout. “Every decision we made for the exterior supports the home’s timeless charm,” says Loobeek. “We wanted to make sure all guests have a premium lakeside experience.”

A TOUCH OF WHIMSY

Light-colored walls create a clean backdrop for colorful, whimsical art, while bold lighting choices — like a linen lantern and smoked glass fixtures — add texture and personality. “Jetta and I chose furnishings that brought richness and color,” Loobeek explains, noting the use of velvet, rattan, playful prints and layered patterns. A European-inspired rug and bench anchor the entryway. “I like things that are fun and bold,” says Jetta. “Working with Carly and her team made it easy to create a space full of texture, color and joy.”

A POP OF PERSONALITY

The interior design was created with the same care and attention as the home’s layout and modern updates. “The design blends timeless elegance with bold, playful touches,” says Loobeek. “We wanted the home to express [the Granos’] personality.” Midtone wood flooring was added throughout the home, adding a warmth and richness. Accents like the fireplace, painted in Benjamin Moore’s Stonecutter (a deep blue with rich green undertones), bring depth and mood to the space.

AN INTERIOR TRANSFORMATION

Inside, the home was completely transformed for easy living and entertaining. Smart storage was added throughout, including a walk-in pantry, beverage bar and hidden storage under the stairs. “Every detail was designed to maximize space and convenience,” says Wilburn. “We wanted to bring in modern comforts to this classic lake home.”

BEAUTIFUL FORM, IMPROVED FUNCTION

The kitchen was designed with a focus on functionality, with full-size appliances and a layout that allows easy movement for cooking and entertaining. A large, 5- by 8-foot quartz peninsula anchors the space, featuring bar stool seating and an inset sink with views of the lake. Reeded glass cabinets and a deeper pantry cabinet next to the fridge were added for storage. Just off the kitchen, a wet bar was treated as its own unique space, complete with a sink and ice maker — perfect for cocktails and entertaining.

A CALM AND PRIVATE GETAWAY

The second floor was redesigned to add a primary suite and a hallway connecting the original bedroom to two guest rooms and a shared bath. The primary suite has a vaulted ceiling with tongue-and-groove millwork, adding warmth and architectural design. The walls and ceiling are color-drenched in Benjamin Moore’s Interlude, a color reminiscent of soft sand. “We wanted to use a warm hue that creates a calming retreat,” explains Loobeek. “The hope was to create [the Granos’] own space to enjoy.” The suite boasts a private rooftop deck with glass railings by Viewrail for unhindered lake views. Inside the bedroom, next to the deck, there’s a small beverage station with custom cabinetry that doubles as a mini coffee bar and a writing desk, adding both charm and convenience.

REFINED AND RELAXED

In the new primary bath, smart design choices make the space feel larger and luxurious. A round window floods the room with natural light. A walk-in shower with a rain head, dual showerheads and a built-in bench elevate the experience. Dual vanities with custom-paneled mirrors and elegant sconces nod to the Art Deco era of the cottage’s original construction. The result is a refined but relaxing retreat. The redesigned walk-in closet adds everyday comfort, offering ample storage and a sense of expanded living space.

READY FOR VISITORS

By moving the staircase to the side of the house, Wilburn was able to incorporate two guest bedrooms and a guest bathroom upstairs. Loobeek created a whimsical sanctuary in the larger guest room with Cole & Sons wallpaper and a watercolor print of a tiger. In the guest bath, an accent wall is clad in forest green tile laid vertically, and shades of moss green are mirrored in the art and paint color.

home & garden lifestyle

In Fall Bloom

How to extend your garden’s beauty and bounty into autumn

BY JESS RIGGIO PHOTOS BY HOLLY LEITNER

The sunflowers have gone to seed, cooler weather is on the horizon and it might feel like gardening season has come to an end. We’re turning our gazes to the trees these days, watching for the dynamic change of the leaves from green to red, orange and yellow. But just because it’s autumn doesn’t mean your garden has to go to bed for the winter just yet. If you plan well, gardens can be part of the season’s festive harvest vibes, producing flowers and food until you’re ready to put up Christmas decorations.

TRICKS FOR EXTENDING THE GROWING SEASON

Local experts agree that, after putting in all the work to prep the soil and remove rocks, not to mention all the tilling and soil amendments, it’s nice to be able to get another round of abundance from the garden well into the autumn season. The first step you can take to ensure a vibrant, blooming garden as the temps begin to fall is to get an early start.

“The goal is to think ahead in the spring and put in those plants that’ll carry you through into the fall season,” explains Lake Geneva gardening expert Katie Oglesby, owner of Kitchen Garden Design House, a company that specializes in edible gardening and helps homeowners design their

“You can give your space a fall facelift with just a few changes and some light replanting,” Schmidt explains. “You don’t have to plant something and keep it forever, you can change your garden all the time. You just have to be willing to change.”

Oglesby adds that annuals are the key to that process. “[You can] swap out color palettes every season with annuals that give you a great feel, but don’t require a lot of work.”

landscaping to make garden-to-table living easy. “The growing season is longer than you think, and you can really maximize on the work you put into it in the spring and summer.”

Start by adding some perennials that bloom late in the season. Oglesby recommends yellow-orange Rudbeckia, coral bells with its purple leaves, pink Knock Out roses and Russian sage’s lavender purple sprigs. “Perennials will give you structure and longevity,” she explains.

Terry Schmidt, owner of 5 Oaks Farm & Greenhouse in Harvard, Ill., agrees, but points out that if you haven’t planned your garden in the spring for fall blooms, it’s not too late to maximize your garden this season.

FROM GARDEN TO TABLE

When it comes to creating a lush garden for autumn, you don’t have to limit the planning to just flowers, either. Oglesby says she and her family eat out of their vegetable garden through at least November.

She takes advantage of a growing season that’s often forgotten, one that begins after Labor Day plant sales have wrapped up at the nurseries and shopping centers. “There’s an opportunity in the fall to grow all the stuff you grow in the spring cool season,” Oglesby says.

She suggests squash and eggplant, which can be planted in May and will produce into the fall. A second round of

Colorful flowers, both annuals and perennials, bloom well into the fall season (this photo). Fall harvest gardens can provide veggies, fruits and herbs through at least November (top right). Lake Geneva gardening expert Katie Oglesby (inset) starts planning her autumn garden in February.

Small space solution: CONTAINERS

You don’t have to have access to a full vegetable garden or in-ground flower beds to create a beautiful autumn aesthetic at your home, either. Lake Geneva gardening expert Katie Oglesby points out that container gardening can provide just as much beauty and functionality without the commitment of putting plants in the ground. Wooden containers and raised beds can really add to the harvest feel of the season and hold space for seasonal plants.

Start off your containers with your favorite perennial and annual flowers, and then add plants like edible or ornamental kale, lettuces, trailing herbs, oregano and thyme. Use window boxes, raised beds and hanging rail planters, accented by unconventional planters like repurposed wheelbarrows, bathtubs or mailboxes to add pops of harvest-style plantings throughout your landscaping and create a cohesive fall feel.

“Even parsley will add a little bit of texture,” Oglesby says. “Or you could put in some of those ornamental peppers that aren’t edible, but they add a pop of color that really complements the changing trees.”

Succulents will also add unexpected pops of color and texture as fall arrives. Their spongy leaves turn vibrant colors that run from green to red, purple, yellow and orange. Sempervivum is a great cold weather-tolerant option, with a fractal-style pattern that adds visual interest and pretty colors that fade from green to red. Sedum has vibrant pink flowers that show up in late summer and fall, and common succulents like the jade plant and aloe vera will add vibrant green foliage to the fall plantings.

planting in the summer might include peas, fennel, green onions and leeks. And, for a third round of planting in August, try carrots, beets, radishes and even some green or purple beans. Also consider planting more broccoli and cauliflower, root vegetables, and herbs like oregano, rosemary, dill, cilantro and thyme. And don’t forget about salad greens and kale, which you can harvest through the fall.

“Edible flowers also look great in the fall, so think about adding calendula, nasturtium, pansies and violas,” Oglesby advises. “Calendula is edible and medicinal, and it has the red, orange, yellow and white flowers. So, that’s just one option to make your fall garden functional, edible, beautiful and seasonal at the same time.”

Schmidt adds that certain varieties of small trees can be a great addition to a yard or garden, and provide beautiful fall color. “One of the popular ones that we have is the pear tree,” he explains. “They have the beautiful flowers in the spring, they have fruit and then they change to a rich color in the fall.”

NATIVE PLANTS AND ORNAMENTAL GRASSES

Flowers and edible plants aren’t the only natural plants that remain colorful and beautiful into the autumn season. Schmidt says some of his favorite fall blooms are the native plants that grow on his property. “We try to keep things as native as we can,” he explains. “Wild chicory has these beautiful blue flowers, Queen Anne’s lace blooms with classic white flowers. Wild parsnips, sweet clover … they’re all pretty in the fall and you don’t have to do much other than plant them in the first place.” Schmidt recommends plant sales and farmers markets for seeds of native plants that will add color to your yard late into the growing season.

Schmidt also says he likes to grow highbush cranberry for the fall. “After the flowers are done blooming, you have the fruit, which is quite pretty,” he explains.

home & garden gardening

Oglesby suggests adding some coolweather ornamental grasses into the landscaping for extra texture. A diversity of different grasses will allow the texture of the garden to change throughout the season as the grasses start to go to seed at different stages in the fall. An added benefit is that all of those seeds provide food for pollinators and birds as the spring and summer plants finish blooming.

Choose cool-weather stars like sedge with its cascading foliage or Pink Muhly Grass with its bursts of fine, fuzzy pink flowers. Narrow down the choices by deciding on a color palette that celebrates the season but also complements the style of your house and other landscaping.

“For example, grasses look great against white and charcoal siding,” Oglesby explains. “Play off the architecture of your home and think about specific colors or a certain look that you like.”

LAYERING SIZES, HEIGHTS AND SHAPES

Of course, flowers are often the stars of the show when it comes to autumn blooms. Chyrsanthemums, daisies and asters are popular cool-weather plants that add color to your yard in the fall. And because they are annuals, they can be planted after Labor Day. Oglesby says she strategically plants these bright, annual flowers among the perennials and edibles in her garden to create autumn landscaping that is both functional and beautiful.

Other popular fall annuals include snapdragons, straw flowers, sweet alyssum and celosia to get more shades of red, pink and orange. “Celosia is also known as Flamingo Feather,” Oglesby says. “It’s a bright pink that’s beautiful in the summer, but it’s stunning in the fall, too.”

Both experts agree that, to achieve the most vibrant look in a fall garden,

the secret is in the mix and the layout. Creative layering of flowers, edible plants, native plants and grasses — both annuals and perennials — will create a visual symphony of autumn color and ensure maximum enjoyment of the garden, a winning strategy.

WHERE CRAFTSMANSHIP AND EXPERTISE MEET THE OUTDOORS.

As autumn settles over lake country, now is the ideal time to begin planning lasting improvements to your outdoor spaces. For decades, discerning homeowners have trusted The Reesman Company to design, build, and maintain exceptional landscapes that reflect both lifestyle and location.

Whether you’re envisioning a custom fire feature to extend your outdoor season, elegant stonework to define your gathering space, or thoughtful upgrades to support long-term sustainability, our integrated team brings precision, creativity, and care to every detail. From shoreline restoration and drainage planning to patios, lighting, and custom wood structures, we deliver cra smanship that endures.

Our schedule fills quickly—start the conversation this fall to secure your spot for the 2026 build season. Partner with the region’s most trusted name in outdoor living—and begin designing your next great outdoor experience today.

Curb Appeal, Autumn Edition

Add a pop of harvest decor to your home with stylish stoop decorations

BY JESSICA RIGGIO

Whenautumn hits, pumpkins, gourds and corn stalks start popping up at farmers markets and greenhouses as we embrace another harvest season. Because of this, it’s easy to add a touch of autumn whimsy to your home. You could go all-out — and maybe you will! — with fake spider webs and 12-foot skeletons, a mountain of hay bales or a well-positioned pumpkin patch. But, if you’re looking for a subtler look, there’s a way to create cozy fall vibes without decorating your entire house. Focus on the front stoop and you’ll really make a big impact.

Brittney Strathman, owner of Willow Design in Lake Geneva, says all you really have to do to create a harvest festival feel in your home is to add a few decorations by the entryway and the options become nearly limitless. “We just love adding the fall vibes to the entryway of a home,” Strathman says. “It really brings in those cozy fall moments as guests enter for dinner parties,

get-togethers and autumn holidays. That little added touch can go a long way in making very memorable events.”

The first step to decorating the stoop for harvest season is picking a color palette and style that is consistent with your home’s existing decor. Options range from the traditional fall colors — orange, burgundy, gold, mahogany — to this year’s trend of white chrysanthemums and other decorations in monochromatic whites, grays and beiges. These subtle colors have a little more staying power as we transition to the later autumn months and provide a good backdrop for statement pieces.

“We would then add in some decor

pieces like large lanterns with LED candles, pumpkins and our most funky gourds,” Strathman says. One of the biggest pitfalls when you’re decorating your home’s entrance? According to Strathman, it’s choosing the wrong scale for outdoor pieces. Instead of collecting a lot of small decorations, she suggests looking for larger pots, planters and baskets that match the style of your entryway and give off a fall aesthetic.

Strathman also says that, in order to maximize the space on your home’s front stoop, you might want to focus on a simple color palette instead of creating a busy mural of fall colors. And if you want to be on-trend this fall season, Strathman advises skipping the corn stalks: “Focus on creating a clean, matching aesthetic that will help carry the design throughout your home.”

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Learn &

Declutter with Purpose

Local options for donating and recycling used, unwanted goods

BY AMANDA N. WEGNER

Have you ever stared at that old armchair, a pile of outgrown clothes or a can of leftover paint and wondered, “What now?” In our efforts to live more sustainably, the question of how to responsibly part with unwanted goods and larger household items often arises.

While “reduce, reuse, recycle” is a familiar motto, navigating the world of donating and recycling bulkier goods can feel overwhelming. But the good

9 Lives Boutique in Lake Geneva is a “distinctive, upscale resale shop.”

news is that the Geneva Lake area offers fantastic solutions to ensure these items get a second life or are disposed of safely. The experts who run these organizations also have great tips on clearing and decluttering responsibly, while treading a little lighter on Planet Earth.

Whether you’re looking to donate electronics, clothing, furniture, home goods or vehicles, Sherry Leka, operating director and president of Elkhorn’s Circle of Friends, stresses the importance of responsibly disposing of unused and unwanted goods. “Many people have a throwaway mentality and tend to like to throw things away instead of taking the time to sort, donate and drop them off somewhere,” she says. “But even if it goes to the landfill, it will not just disappear … it will stay whole for years to come. We have a lot of places to recycle and donate items right here in our county, and it would be great to have more people do that.”

GIVE IT A ‘CLEAN SWEEP’:

Household hazardous waste and electronics

While you may not realize it, there’s a good chance your home has “household hazardous waste.” Jenny Quill, the communications manager for Walworth County, explains that this type of waste is “basically any item that says caution, warning, danger, toxic, flammable, acid, corrosive or reactive — things like brake fluid, antifreeze, oil, grease, certain types of paint. These are things that everyone has in their garage, shed or barn; and most people aren’t sure how to get rid of them.”

Quill says the best way to dispose of these items is through Walworth County’s Clean Sweep events, which are held twice a year in June and October. The next event will take place Oct. 3-4, with specific items accepted on Day 1 and Day 2, so check the county website for full details.

She also points out that the Clean Sweep events accept more than

just household hazardous waste. In addition, residents can responsibly dispose of large electronic waste, small electronics and appliances at these events. Some items — including TVs and small refrigerators — require a modest disposal fee. Other items, like that broken bread maker taking up space in your pantry, are free to recycle.

According to Quill, Walworth County has been holding Clean Sweep events since 1992, and these have been gaining in popularity over the past few years. She says last year’s two events collected over 55,000 pounds of household hazardous waste. “Residents have asked for this, and we’d love to see the numbers grow even more,” says Quill. “People appreciate this opportunity to be good stewards of the environment and keep this out of our landfills — they want to safely and responsibly dispose of this type of waste.”

REFINED, RESPONSIBLE

RESALE: Lightly used brand-name and luxuryquality goods

For more common donation items, the Geneva Lake area has its fair share of upscale consignment stores that accept lightly used, brand-name clothing, shoes, accessories and home decor. It was these upscale consignment shops that inspired one of the charity-focused

9 Lives Boutique in Lake Geneva accepts donations of high-quality clothing, home decor and small furniture. Proceeds benefit Elkhorn’s Lakeland Animal Shelter.

resale shops in the area: Lake Geneva’s 9 Lives Boutique. This boutique was established in 2007 to help raise money for the Lakeland Animal Shelter in Elkhorn, a no-kill pet shelter serving all of Walworth County.

Pat Cameron, co-manager of 9 Lives Boutique and longtime Lakeland Animal Shelter volunteer, says this “distinctive, upscale resale store” operates more like a consignment store. It is focused on high-quality and gently used items that could command a higher price, but are sold at one-third to one-half the cost of a typical consignment store. “Once people discover us, they keep coming back,” she says. “They are thrilled that we have such great items, offered at a fair price ... and they get to support the shelter and animal rehabilitation.”

Located in a Victorian-era house on Geneva Street in Lake Geneva, 9 Lives accepts high-quality donations of women’s clothing, shoes, accessories

and jewelry, as well as men’s clothing and accessories. It also accepts some home decor, housewares and small furniture. The store’s small size and high-end focus mean 9 Lives staff and volunteers are discerning about what they can accept. “Our emphasis is on high-end goods, and supporting the shelter,” says Cameron.

SUPPORTING THOSE

IN NEED: Clothing, furniture and general household items

Other options for clothing and furniture donations include Burlington’s Love, Inc. and Elkhorn’s Circle of Friends boutique. By donating to these organizations, you can give your used and unwanted clothing and household goods a second life and help those in need.

Circle of Friends is “focused on helping anyone in need of a little extra help,” says operating director and president Sherry Leka. The organization runs

several programs — for instance, it took over management of the local Toys for Tots program from the county two years ago, and also manages the annual Bundle Up campaign that collects and distributes winter gear.

In addition, Circle of Friends works with churches, government programs

Love, Inc. has two locations in Burlington, including a home store (this photo) and a family store for clothing, toys and baby items (below).

and schools throughout Walworth County to address the needs of individuals and families. Last year, the organization provided over 9,000 pieces to those in need.

Leka explains that Circle of Friends accepts donations of clothing and home goods. These donations support requests from partner agencies, and the excess donations are sold in the Circle of Friends thrift store on East Court Street in Elkhorn. Proceeds from these sales support the organizations’ ability to provide gift cards to those who need them. Additionally, Circle of Friends accepts medical equipment in excellent condition; these items are made available through the

The Annual Boat & Car Auction at Inspiration Ministries in Walworth accepts donations of used vehicles year-round.

organization’s medical loan closet. It also accepts vehicle donations.

Over in Burlington, Love, Inc. has a similar mission of helping those in need. Serving the community for 41 years, Love, Inc. accepts a variety of goods, including clothing, kitchen

Sorting It Out

Check the organization’s guidelines when looking to recycle, consign or donate. Most organizations are staffed by volunteers who spend a lot of time sifting through the donations. When you donate goods that are not accepted by that organization, or goods that are in such poor condition that they can’t be resold, you are creating unnecessary work for those volunteers, many of whom

are retirees. “Be respectful of that,” says Cameron.

When clearing out a space, organize the items you want to get rid of by value and destination; For instance, one pile for trash, one for recycling, one for resale and separate piles for donations, based on quality and value.

“Being more thoughtful on where you’re taking things and why you’re doing it is important,”

goods, furniture, decor, toys, sporting equipment, books and more; These items are made available in Love, Inc.’s three stores. “Ninety-three cents of every dollar of profit goes back into funding our programs,” says executive director Terri Plachy. This includes a food pantry, family

Tips for recycling and donating

says Cameron. “Some churches and organizations have drop-off locations across Walworth County oriented to those in great need, and might be grateful for something of lesser quality,” whereas resale shops generally only accept highquality donations.

Some national chains have local donation sites as well: for clothing, books and small home items, try Goodwill in Delavan; while Lake Geneva’s Best Buy accepts small electronics, cords and related accessories through its

Electronics, Appliances and E-Waste Recycling Program.

A little online research can go a long way, especially with collectibles like dolls, plates and trading cards, as well as more dated homeware and appliance items, which can be hard for organizations to resell; you may have more luck finding a niche community of buyers online.

Consider other options as well, such as Facebook Marketplace and Freecycle. Numerous online

apps, such as Mercari, Depop and Poshmark, allow you to resell your used goods, especially clothing. However, as with any online transaction, beware of scams and take care to protect yourself.

If you’re looking to donate a boat, car or other vehicle, Inspiration Ministries in Walworth accepts donations yearround for its annual Boat & Car Auction. Contact the organization first to discuss your donation and make arrangements to deliver your vehicle or schedule a pickup if available.

services, rent and utility assistance, school supplies, a winter warmth program and children’s programs.

Similar to Circle of Friends, donations also help support the families Love, Inc. serves by providing shopping vouchers. “They can get needed items, clothes, household items, furniture … and with dignity, because we allow them to shop right at our stores at no cost to them,” says Plachy.

AUCTION FOR A GREAT CAUSE:

Boats, cars, snowmobiles, Jet Skis and other vehicles

Living in a lake community means there are many people who have older boats, Jet Skis, snowmobiles, trailers, cars and trucks taking up space on their property or sitting in storage. Often, the work it would take to sell these items outpaces the value of the vehicle. That’s where the Inspiration Ministries Boat & Car Auction comes in.

Items can be donated to the Walworth nonprofit throughout the year in advance of the organization’s annual auction (this year’s auction took place on Aug. 16). While boats and cars are the most common donations, auction coordinator Brandon Trina says that Inspiration Ministries accepts vehicles in just about any condition (with the exception of boats full of garbage and vehicles with active liens against them). In the past, some of the more unusual donations have included snowmobiles, go-karts, campers, motorcycles and a powered parachute. This year’s auction even included a hovercraft!

All proceeds from the auction benefit Inspiration Ministries. Trina explains that the money raised through the auction benefits the residents of Inspiration Ministries, which provides housing, assistance and job training for adults with disabilities. “All proceeds go directly to … the housing renovations for our residents,” he explains. “A great example of this would be the brandnew flooring installed on our south wing this year.”

Q&A

Written in the Stars

Milwaukee native Kyle Thomas has an unusual job — the celebrity astrologer currently writes a column for People Magazine and has been featured by “Access Hollywood,” “Good Morning America,” Cosmopolitan Magazine, Entertainment Weekly and many others. He works with celebrities, CEOs, politicians, business executives and influencers around the world to help them harness the power of astrology. Recently, Thomas’ mother and her partner built a home in Lake Geneva, where Thomas enjoys visiting. “I absolutely adore the Lake Geneva area,” he says. “It is filled with so much Midwestern charm and magic.” We sat down with Thomas to learn a little more about his gifts.

ATL: Tell us about your background.

KT: Early in my life, I was trained as a professional actor and writer. I worked extensively with professional theaters, including First Stage and the Milwaukee Rep, before focusing on degrees in Psychology and English at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. I’ve always been fascinated by myth, human civilization and psychology.

A candid Q&A with celebrity astrologer Kyle Thomas BY

ANNE MORRISSY

ATL: How did you get interested in astrology?

KT: I have been studying astrology for 30 years. I moved to Los Angeles on a solar eclipse in September, 2015, and I spent time focusing on being a writer and producer. However, the strangest thing happened during the years that followed. Growing up, I was always the “weird astrology kid” — super spiritual and born with highly intense psychic and intuitive gifts. I became skilled at practicing astrology and Tarot. I began posting my readings on Facebook and they started going viral. On the side, to make extra money, I started doing astrology and Tarot readings for celebrities (thanks to my network in Los Angeles), and they started referring their friends. Then, astrology blogs began to reach out to hire me to write their predictions. Suddenly, in 2019, I got a phone call from Cosmopolitan Magazine. They said, “Everyone is talking about your predictions because they’re so accurate, so we want to interview you.” But it was the scariest thing in my entire life because I realized I had to jump fully into becoming a pop-culture astrologer and leave behind my entire filmmaking career. So I leapt.

ATL: What unique talents do you offer that attract these famous and powerful clients?

KT: There are many things that set me apart, but the first is that I am accurate. I also seek to empower people with my art, regardless if they are famous or powerful or not. While I enjoy working with powerful people, I don’t treat them as “famous”; I treat them as a human. We all have human needs. Everyone wants to know about love, success, health and happiness. Regardless if someone is famous or not, I put all of my focus on them and guide them to their heart’s desires. At the end of the day, I want to be a light to them. I want to shine so brightly that I can empower and give hope to those who are lost in the darkness. I want to make the world a brighter and better place.

ATL: How has your time spent in the Lake Geneva area influenced your passion for astrology?

KT: Lake Geneva is a little piece of heaven. And I get to spend time with the people I love: friends and family. Lake Geneva has such a serenity to it. And my mother, Lynn, is there. She is the greatest jewel the universe could’ve ever given me.

September 13 from 6-10 PM Yerkes Future Foundation’s 5 Birthday Celebration th

October 4 from 6-8pm Community and International Observe the Moon Night

Scan

October 17 & 18 from 7-10 PM Yerkes Arboretum Candlelight Walk

Photo by Brian Finch

Do you believe in ghosts? Lake Geneva Public Library Community Engagement recommends a few good novels with

A new take on a classic gothic problem: what do you do when your handsome, mysterious new husband lives in an incredibly spooky house? Starling places a time-honored premise in an alternative history setting and quickly takes the whole thing off the rails into fever dream territory.

food & drink

Gourd-geous Autumn Treats

While gourds make great fall decor, they are also delicious additions to any autumn meal

BY SHELBY DEERING

BY HOLLY LEITNER

There are certain sights and scents that tell us that fall has arrived. The leaves begin to turn, the nights grow chillier, the air smells of bonfires and harvested vegetables make their way to our plates.

One of the best parts? Quintessential fall gourds like butternut squash, acorn squash, zucchini and pumpkin dot farm stands and front porches.

While this fall produce is certainly visually appealing, many of these gourds can be cooked into delicious dishes, too. We talked to some local

PHOTOS

Heirloom pumpkins at Pearce’s Farm Stand

culinary experts to learn everything you need to know about cooking with gourds, including their tips and tricks for a fabulous fall feast.

THE MAGIC OF GOURDS

The most common cooking gourds include butternut squash, acorn squash, spaghetti squash and pie pumpkins, explains Julianne Butschli, owner and personal chef at Lake Geneva’s Crafty Kitchen, LLC. She says their flesh is tender and flavorful, which is part of why she loves to cook with these gourds.

Butschli, who has particularly fond memories of the spiced winter gourd and apple bake her grandmother would make, says that fall gourds are especially magical to cook with during the autumn months because they are often seasoned with comforting spices like cinnamon, ginger, allspice, brown sugar and vanilla, as well as apple pie and pumpkin pie spice blends. As they bake, the scents immediately evoke fall. “While I have gourds baking in the oven, you will most likely find me out in the yard raking leaves, knowing that, when I’m finished with my chores, those familiar scents wafting through the air are inviting me inside for comfort,” she reflects.

Laura McGough — owner, caterer and personal chef at Lake Geneva’s FLOCK — says she actually loves squash blossoms best. She will pick them up from the farmers market and rush home to stuff them with ricotta cheese, combined with lemon, basil and homemade pesto. She enjoys the flexibility of culinary gourds, since they can be sweet or savory, and notes that, when cooked, they’re creamy and soft.

But beyond their ability to evoke cozy fall feelings, gourds are also good for nutrition: they’re packed with fiber and inflammationreducing antioxidants, along with beneficial nutrients like vitamins A and C.

WHAT EXACTLY ARE GOURDS?

Before we get into the cooking tips, let’s define what “gourds” are exactly. It’s actually an umbrella term used to describe both edible and inedible varieties — squash and pumpkins are gourds, while some are used solely for decoration and others are used for cooking. Although we refer to gourds as vegetables, they’re actually considered to be fruits, since they develop from flowers and contain seeds.

Gourds have a storied history. In addition to their use in food, gourds have been used as containers and even utensils all the way back to ancient Egyptian times. They’re considered to be one of the earliest cultivated plant species; even our prehistoric ancestors ate them and used them in a variety of ways. Gourds also factored into the lives of the Pilgrims of New England — they learned about gourds native to North America from the Wampanoag Native American people, and then learned to incorporate the gourds into their meals.

However, both experts caution that it’s important to remember that not all gourds are suitable for eating. Butschli says that when cooking, you’ll need to be absolutely sure that you’re using edible gourds — decorative varieties like Angel Wing and Gooseneck gourds should be avoided.

Pie pumpkins, or sugar pumpkins, are smaller and denser than other varieties, and have a thin skin and sweet flesh, perfect for pie-making.

COOKING WITH FALL GOURDS

“Butternut squash, acorn squash, zucchini and pumpkin are all versatile and delicious ingredients that can make your soups, side dishes, cozy dinners and festive feasts shine,” Butschli says.

And while there are a variety of gourds you can cook with, McGough particularly sings the praises of pumpkin, squash and zucchini, describing them as “very flexible” — she frequently uses them in stews, bread, muffins, cocktails and desserts (like the pumpkin crème brulée that she serves in a mini pumpkin).

There are also those under-the-radar edible gourds that might be fun to experiment with. For instance, Butschli calls out Zucca gourds as a cooking possibility — they can grow to be over 100 pounds, but when picked very small, they’re similar to a zucchini. She also likes the luffa gourd, those sponge-like squashes that can be used in curry dishes, soups and stir-fry meals.

McGough adds that bitter melon is one of the lesser-known edible gourds. “They are those gnarly gourds you see at Halloween, but edible,” she says. “These are excellent for cocktails. Bitter melon can be infused with sake or made into a cocktail.”

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Butschli suggests that, when shopping for edible gourds at a local farmers market, farm stand or grocery store, you should look for examples that have smooth, shiny skin and fresh stalks. They shouldn’t

have bruises or insect-chewed holes in the skin, and they should feel firm.

“Smaller gourds are going to have thinner, more desirable skin, and they will be more tender,” Butschli elaborates. “For example, if you get a humongous zucchini, you know that most of the inside is full of large seeds and it has become stringy. While it may look impressive, it is less desirable to consume than a small zucchini.”

McGough agrees. “For the best gourds, you should look for dry and tan stems,” she adds.

PREPARATION HINTS

Whether they’re tried-and-true gourd varieties, or something more exotic (but still safe to eat!), you won’t be able to start cooking gourds until you soften the skin. You can do this by soaking them in hot water, boiling them for a couple of minutes

Artisan Hard Ciders

Popular gourds for roasting include butternut squash, acorn squash, spaghetti squash and winter squash.

or baking them in the oven at 350 degrees for around an hour.

If you’re new to cooking gourds, you can turn to your trusty microwave, Butschli explains. Just microwave your chosen squash in five-minute increments, checking the tenderness along the way by piercing it with a fork. When the fork goes through the skin easily, you’ll remove the gourd from the microwave with potholders, allow it to cool, cut it open and remove the seeds. “At that point, you can spoon the meat right off of the skin,” she adds.

The chef ’s favorite way to cook up fall gourds, however, is to bake them: She peels the edible gourds, chops them up, then mixes them with vegetables like red or Vidalia onions, broccoli and cremini mushrooms. She lightly tosses them in extra virgin olive oil, herbs, sea salt and ground black pepper. Then she spreads the mixture on a baking pan and roasts the veggies at 400 degrees for 25 minutes. “They become almost caramelized, browned and crisp on the edges, and are just delicious,” she shares.

McGough thinks that soup is an especially ideal way to start with gourds, like pumpkin or butternut. “To start, cut the squash in half and put it flesh-side down on a baking sheet with olive oil,” she instructs.

“Bake it until tender and then use that beautiful meat for soup. You can choose to make it chunky or pureed.”

Then, of course, there are those special fall moments that call for gourds. When you want to get all warm and cozy with your family, take a cue from McGough and whip up soups, breads and muffins for potluck dinners, family homecomings and football parties. And when Thanksgiving rolls around,

Butschli loves using gourds, squash and pumpkins in her turkey stuffing.

Butschli recommends starting with familiar types of edible gourds, such as acorn squash and butternut squash. “Learn how to cook with them and experiment with the flavors that are preferable to taste,” she says. “Once you’ve had some practice, then expand your horizons, using more varieties. It will add some extra flavor to your table.”

Ingredients:

• 1½ oz. Baileys Apple Pie Irish Cream liqueur

• 1½ oz. caramel-flavored vodka

• 1 oz. apple cider

• Cinnamon to sprinkle on top

• Cinnamon stick to garnish

Instructions:

1.

2.

3.

4.

Chef Laura McGough’s BUTTERNUT SQUASH SOUP WITH

PANCETTA AND MASCARPONE

Ingredients:

• 1 large (3-pound) butternut squash, halved and seeded

• 1 tbsp. maple syrup

• 1¼ tsp. kosher salt, divided, plus more to taste

• ½ cup (4 oz.) salted butter

• 2 medium-size yellow onions, chopped

• 11 garlic cloves, smashed

• 2 medium carrots, chopped

• 2 tbsp. fresh sage, chopped

• 2 tbsp. fresh rosemary, chopped

• 2 tbsp. fresh thyme, chopped

• 8 cups lower-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable for a vegetarian version), divided as needed

• ½ tsp. of hot paprika, plus more for garnish

• ½ tsp. black pepper

• ¼ tsp. ground nutmeg

• 18 oz. container mascarpone cheese

• 6 oz. of pancetta

• Fresh parsley for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Using a paring knife, score cut the sides of the squash in a crosshatch pattern. Arrange the squash halves, cut sides up, on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the cut sides of the squash with maple syrup; sprinkle with ½ teaspoon of salt. Roast in the preheated oven until tender when pierced with a paring knife, after about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Let cool for 20 minutes. Using a spoon, scrape the squash flesh into a medium bowl. Discard the peels.

2. Meanwhile, melt the butter in a medium Dutch oven over medium heat until it’s sizzling. Add onions

and garlic; cook for about 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent. Reduce the heat to low, and cook for about 25 minutes, until very tender and light golden brown, stirring occasionally. Add the carrots and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes.

3. Stir in the cooked squash and 6 cups of chicken (or vegetable) broth. Bring to a boil over high heat. Cover; reduce the heat to low; add the sage, rosemary and thyme; and simmer for about 30 minutes, until the carrots are tender.

4. Ladle the soup in three batches into a blender (or leave it in the Dutch oven and use an

immersion blender). Secure the lid on the blender; remove the center piece to allow the steam to escape. Place a kitchen towel over the opening. Process the soup until velvety smooth, about 30 seconds per batch. Return pureed soup to the Dutch oven over medium heat and stir in paprika, pepper, nutmeg and the remaining 3/4 teaspoon salt. Stir in the remaining 2 cups of chicken (or vegetable) broth, ½ cup at a time, until the desired consistency is reached. Season with salt to taste. Cook, stirring often, until heated through.

5. Top each bowl of soup with a spoonful of mascarpone, and fresh parsley.

Holly Leitner

“Hands down Jerry is the most professional, knowledgeable REALTOR® who successfully knows how to navigate the entire sales process from start to finish. Jerry used a wide variety of advertising mediums to promote our home in a number of markets beyond just our local area. We highly recommend Jerry and would definitely call on him for any future real estate sales or purchases. Thank you for everything, Jerry!”

BOILING POINT

A Genoa City restaurant keeps a Wisconsin tradition alive with its fish boil

BY SHELBY DEERING | PHOTOS BY HOLLY LEITNER

There are some local traditions that continue to withstand the decades, like Lake Geneva’s Venetian Festival and Lake Geneva Cruise Line’s Mail Boat jumping. But when it comes to local restaurants, there’s one delicious tradition that may be a little less well-known — the fish boil at Fitzgerald’s Genoa Junction Restaurant and Gift Shop.

Located just south of Lake Geneva in Genoa City, this family-owned establishment has been doing fish boils since 1979 and the experience is just as authentic as the famous fish boil restaurants of Door County, which carry on a communal meal tradition first brought to Wisconsin by Scandinavian immigrants in the late 1800s.

Also known as “Fitzgerald’s Octagon House Restaurant” — a nod to the historic, octagon-shaped abode it’s housed in today — owner Kevin Fitzgerald says that the fish boil was originally started at his family’s resort in nearby Twin Lakes. Inspired by a vacation to Door County, Kevin’s parents, Jack and Sue Fitzgerald, hosted their first fish boil for the local snowmobiling club and thought it would be a “fun way to feed the crowd.” They were right. “It was a big hit and away we went,” Fitzgerald reflects.

Over 45 years later, the Fitzgerald’s fish boil has become a local mainstay, which Fitzgerald attributes to

“giving the customer a consistent, quality meal at a fair price in a comfortable and unique setting.”

As Fitzgerald explains, a fish boil is exactly what it sounds like — the fish is cooked outside in a large pot over an open fire. Once the water is brought to boiling, the meal is kicked off by dropping in the vegetable basket, filled with red potatoes and onions. Next, the fish is added in another basket (Fitzgerald’s uses boneless, skinless cod loins). When the fish is cooked and ready, kerosene is added to the flames — that’s what makes the pot boil over. This removes all the fat and vegetable debris that’s floated to the top, and the rush of fire and steam is undoubtedly the showstopper of the evening.

With no indoor cooking facility — all the cooking is done outside, all year long — Fitzgerald’s stands apart from other local restaurants. The Fitzgerald family further distinguishes their fish boil by using boneless cod loins as opposed to the more traditional Great Lakes whitefish, which contains bones. And there are no timed seatings — guests are welcome to come anytime the restaurant is open, averaging a fish boil every half hour or so on busy nights. (And for those who don’t want fish, the restaurant also offers barbecue ribs and honey-barbecue chicken.)

“It’s always a fun time when there is a crowd around to watch the boil over,” Fitzgerald says.

dining at the lake

LAKE GENEVA

BARRIQUE BISTRO & WINE BAR

SPECIALTY $ -$$ 835 Wrigley Dr., Lake Geneva; 262-248-1948 barriquewinebar.com

THE BOAT HOUSE

BAR & GRILL

CASUAL $$

2062 S. Lake Shore Dr., Lake Geneva; 262-812-4126 theboathouselakegeneva.com

THE BOTTLE SHOP

WINE BAR $

617 W. Main St., Lake Geneva; 262-348-9463 thebottleshoplakegeneva.com

BRANDY’S OLD-FASHIONED

SUPPER CLUB $$

W3220 S. Lake Shore Dr., Lake Geneva; 262-203-5175 brandysoldfashioned.com

CHAMPS SPORTS BAR & GRILL

CASUAL $

747 W. Main St., Lake Geneva; 262-248-6008 champslakegeneva.com

CLAW’S CHICAGO STYLE

HOT DOGS

CASUAL $

90 E. Geneva Square, Lake Geneva; 262-732-5112 clawshotdogs.com

COLD STONE CREAMERY

ICE CREAM $ 859 W. Main St., Lake Geneva; 262-248-4900 coldstonecreamery.com

DRAGON CITY

ASIAN $

98 E. Geneva Square, Lake Geneva; 262-249-8867

EGG HARBOR CAFÉ

AMERICAN $ 827 Main St., Lake Geneva; 262-248-1207 eggharborcafe.com/lake-geneva

FLAT IRON TAP

CASUAL $ -$$

150 Center St., Lake Geneva; 262-812-4064 flatirontaplg.com

FOLEY BROTHER’S PUB

IRISH $ -$$ W3905 State Hwy. 50 (at Hwy. 50 and Chapin Rd.), Lake Geneva; 262-245-6966

GENEVA CHOPHOUSE

STEAKHOUSE $$$

Grand Geneva Resort, Lake Geneva; 262-249-4788 grandgeneva.com/restaurants/ geneva-chophouse

GENEVA TAP HOUSE

BEER TASTING $

252 Broad St., Lake Geneva; 262-812-8099 genevataphouse.com

GINO’S EAST

CASUAL/ITALIAN $ -$$

300 Wrigley Dr., Lake Geneva; 262-248-2525 ginoseast.com/lake-geneva

Information is subject to change. Please contact individual restaurants for hours of operation. Inclusion in this directory should not be considered an endorsement by At The Lake Visit atthelakemagazine.com to view the full directory.

Scan this QR code with your phone’s camera app to see our full list of Geneva Lake area dining options.

THE GRAND CAFÉ

AMERICAN/CASUAL $ -$$ Grand Geneva Resort, Lake Geneva; 262-249-4788 grandgeneva.com/restaurants/ grand-cafe

GRANDMA VICKIE’S CAFÉ

DINER $ 522 Broad St., Lake Geneva; 262-249-0301

GUAC STAR

MEXICAN $ 120 Broad St., Lake Geneva; 262-203-5084

HOGS & KISSES

CASUAL $ 149 Broad St., Lake Geneva; 262-248-7447 hogsandkisses.com

HOUSE OF BOGINI

CASUAL $ 152 Center St., Lake Geneva; 262-903-8003

Apple Pie Baked in a Paper Bag from The Elegant Farmer in Mukwonago

HUNT CLUB STEAKHOUSE AT GENEVA NATIONAL STEAKHOUSE $$$ 555 Hunt Club Ct., Lake Geneva; 262-245-7200 huntclubsteakhouse.com

INSPIRED COFFEE

COFFEE HOUSE $

883 W. Main St., Lake Geneva;  262-683-8604 inspiredcoffee.org

JACKSON’S HOLE

CASUAL $ 1798 Genesee St., Lake Geneva; 262-248-1995

JONI’S DINER

DINER $ 111 Wells St., Lake Geneva; 262-348-9565 jonisdiner.com

KILWINS CHOCOLATE AND ICE CREAM SHOP

ICE CREAM/CONFECTIONS $ 772 W. Main St., Lake Geneva; 262-248-4400 kilwins.com

LAKE-AIRE RESTAURANT

DINER $

804 W. Main St., Lake Geneva; 262-248-9913 lakeairelg.com

LAKE CITY SOCIAL

CASUAL $$

111 Center St., Lake Geneva; 262-248-7047 lakecitysocialwi.com

LAKE GENEVA PIE COMPANY

BAKERY/CAFE $

150 E. Geneva Square, Lake Geneva; 262-248-5100 lgpie.com

THE LAKE GENEVA STEAKHOUSE AT THE BAKER HOUSE

AMERICAN $$ -$$$ 327 Wrigley Dr., Lake Geneva; 262-248-4700 bakerhouse1885.com/restaurant

LINKS BAR & GRILL

CASUAL $ -$$ Grand Geneva Resort, Lake Geneva; 262-249-4788 grandgeneva.com/restaurants/linksbar-grill

LORELEI BITTNER’S BAKERY BAKERY $

495 Interchange N. (Hwy. 120), Lake Geneva; 262-248-2330 loreleibittnersbakery.com

LUIS’S PIZZA

CASUAL/ITALIAN $ -$$

W3410 S. Lake Shore Dr., Lake Geneva; 262-248-6810 luisspizza.com

MAGPIE’S DEN & PEN

CASUAL $$

642 W. Main St., Lake Geneva; 262-249-2302 magpieslg.com

MAMA CIMINO’S

CASUAL/ITALIAN $ -$$

131 N. Wells St., Lake Geneva; 262-348-9077 ciminoslakegeneva.com

MASHTUN BREWING BREWERY $

700 Veterans Pkwy., Unit 203, Lake Geneva; 262-999-4677 mashtunbrewing.com

MEDUSA’S KITCHEN

CASUAL/ICE CREAM $$

272 Broad St., Lake Geneva medusakitchen.com

MOOSE + MAPLE NORTHWOODS FAMILY DINING

CASUAL $ -$$

Timber Ridge Lodge at Grand Geneva, State Hwy. 50, Lake Geneva; 262-249-3400 timberridgelodge.com/eat/moose-maple

NEXT DOOR PUB & PIZZERIA

AMERICAN/CASUAL/ITALIAN $

411 Interchange N. (Hwy. 120), Lake Geneva; 262-248-9551 nextdoorpub.com

OAK & OAR

AMERICAN $$ -$$$

N2009 S. Lake Shore Dr., Lake Geneva; 262-248-5690 genevainn.com/oak-and-oar

OAKFIRE RESTAURANT & PIZZERIA

CASUAL/ITALIAN $ -$$

831 Wrigley Dr., Lake Geneva; 262-812-8007 oakfire.pizza

OLYMPIC RESTAURANT

DINER $

748 W. Main St., Lake Geneva; 262-248-6541 olympicrestaurantlakegeneva.com

POPEYE’S

CASUAL $ -$$$

811 Wrigley Dr., Lake Geneva; 262-248-4381 popeyeslkg.com

THE PORCH

COFFEE SHOP $ -$$

832 Geneva St., Unit 2, Lake Geneva; 262-729-4100

RISTORANTÉ BRISSAGO

ITALIAN $$ -$$$

Grand Geneva Resort, Lake Geneva; 262-249-4788 grandgeneva.com/restaurants/ ristorante-brissago

SABAI SABAI

ASIAN $$

306 Center St., Lake Geneva; 262-812-4114 sabaisabailakegeneva.com

SIMPLE CAFÉ

AMERICAN/BAKERY $ -$$

525 Broad St., Lake Geneva; 262-248-3556 simplelakegeneva.com

SOPRA: AN AMERICAN BISTRO AMERICAN/FRENCH $$ -$$$

724 Main St., Lake Geneva; 262-249-0800 soprabistro.com

SPEEDO’S HARBORSIDE CAFÉ

CASUAL $

100 Broad St., Lake Geneva; 262-248-3835

SUMMER MOON COFFEE

COFFEE SHOP $

80 E. Geneva Square., Lake Geneva; 262-203-5054

summermooncoffee.com

TAIL FEATHERS

CASUAL $ -$$

Hawk’s View Golf Club, W7377 Krueger Rd., Lake Geneva; 262-348-9900 hawksviewgolfclub.com/club/tailfeathers

TAQUERIA EL GALLO DE ORO

MEXICAN $ 820 Williams St., Lake Geneva; 262-729-4055 taquerialg.com

TOPSY TURVY BREWERY

BREWERY $

727 Geneva St., Lake Geneva; 262-812-8323 topsyturvybrewery.com

TUSCAN TAVERN & GRILL

AMERICAN/ITALIAN $ -$$

430 Broad St., Lake Geneva; 262-248-0888 tuscanlg.com

YOGEEZE FROZEN YOGURT

FROZEN YOGURT $

253 Center St., No. 300, Lake Geneva; 262-203-5550 yogeeze.com

ZAAB CORNER BISTRO

STEAK/SEAFOOD/BBQ $$ -$$$

501 Broad St., Lake Geneva; 262-203-5434 zaabcornerlg.com

DARIEN

COUNTRYSIDE

CASUAL $ W9695 U.S. Hwy. 14, Darien; 262-882-3224

DARIEN ICE CREAM SHOPPE

ICE CREAM $ 30 W. Beloit St., Darien; 262-882-5060

WEST WIND DINER

DINER $ 620 N. Walworth St., Darien; 262-882-5515

DELAVAN

1878 ON THE LAKE

AMERICAN $$ -$$$

Lake Lawn Resort, 2400 E. Geneva St. (State Hwy. 50), Delavan; 262-728-7950 lakelawnresort.com/dining/1878-onthe-lake

ARANDAS MEXICAN GRILL MEXICAN $

322 S. Seventh St., Delavan; 262-725-6518 arandasmexicangrill.com

ARCADIA BAR AND GRILL CASUAL $

215 E. Walworth Ave., Delavan; 262-267-8973 arcadiabarandgrill.com

BOXED & BURLAP COFFEE HOUSE $

2935 State Hwy. 67 (intersection of highways 50 and 67), Delavan and 230 E. Walworth Ave., Delavan; 262-374-5497 boxedandburlap.com

CHINA GARDEN ASIAN $ 136 E. Walworth Ave., Delavan; 262-749-3111 chinagardendelavanwi.com

CLOCK TOWER PIZZA/FRANK’S CASUAL/ITALIAN $ 5576 State Rd. 50, Delavan; 262-203-5092 clocktowerpizza.com

DELAVAN FAMILY RESTAURANT CASUAL $

505 S. Seventh St., Delavan; 262-728-1715

THE DUCK INN SUPPER CLUB $$ -$$$ N6214 State Hwy. 89 (intersection of County Rd. A and State Hwy. 89), Delavan; 608-883-6988 duckinndelavan.com

ELIZABETH’S CAFE

DINER $

322 E. Walworth Ave., Delavan; 262-728-3383

FIRE2FORK

AMERICAN $$ -$$$ 2484 S. County Rd. O, Delavan; 262-725-7388 fire2fork.com

GREENIE’S CLUBHOUSE

CASUAL $

Delbrook Golf Course, 700 S. Second St., Delavan; 262-728-1339 greeniesclubhouse.menu

INN BETWEEN

CASUAL $ 1522 Beckman Dr., Delavan; 262-728-9824

ISLE OF CAPRI CAFÉ COFFEE HOUSE $

Lake Lawn Resort, Delavan; 262-728-7950

lakelawnresort.com/dining/isle-ofcapri-cafe

JAIME’S CAFE

CASUAL $

239 E. Walworth Ave., Delavan; 262-749-3107 jaimescafe.net/good-food

JO JO’S PIZZA & PASTA

CASUAL $ -$$

308 State Hwy. 50, Delavan; 262-728-5656 jojospizzadelavan.net

JONATHAN’S ON BRICK STREET

AMERICAN $$ -$$$

116 E. Walworth Ave., Delavan; 262-725-7715 jonathansonbrickstreet.com

LA GUANAJUATO

MEXICAN RESTAURANT

MEXICAN $

233 E. Walworth Ave., Delavan; 262-728-8615

LAKE GENEVA CANNERY

BAKERY $

5576 Hwy. 50, Unit E, Delavan; 262-729-4017 lakegenevacannery.com

THE LOOKOUT BAR & EATERY

CASUAL $ Lake Lawn Resort, Delavan; 262-728-7950 lakelawnresort.com/dining/ lookout-bar-eatery

LOS AGAVES RESTAURANT

MEXICAN $

401 E. Walworth Ave., Delavan; 262-728-4039 losagavesdelavan.com

OL’ WISCO BAR & GRILL CASUAL $

328 E. Walworth Ave., Delavan; 262-725-6000 olwisco.com

OPUS AT THE BELFRY HOUSE FRENCH $$$$ 3601 State Hwy. 67, Delavan; 262-394-3939 dineopus.com

PEPPERONI PUB

CASUAL/ITALIAN $

627 S. Second St., Delavan; 262-723-2222 pepperonipub.com

RIGA-TONY’S

CASUAL/ITALIAN $

5576 State Hwy. 50, Delavan; 262-740-2540 rigatonysdelavan.com

SPICE OF INDIA

INDIAN $

212 S. Seventh St., Delavan; 262-728-6443 thespiceofindia.org

SWEET AROMA RISTORANTÉ

ITALIAN $$ -$$$ W7404 County Rd. X, Delavan; 262-728-6878 sweetaromaristorante.com

THE VILLAGE SUPPER CLUB

SUPPER CLUB $$ -$$$ 1725 S. Shore Dr., Delavan; 262-456-3400 villagesupperclubdelavan.com

WATERFRONT

CASUAL $

408 State Hwy. 50, Delavan; 262-728-4700 waterfrontdelavan.com

YO-SHI JAPANESE RESTAURANT

ASIAN $$

1823 E. Geneva St. (State Hwy. 50), Delavan; 262-740-2223 yoshidelavanwi.com

EAST TROY

2894 ON MAIN

COFFEE/CASUAL $ -$$

2894 Main St., East Troy; 262-642-9600 2894onmain.com

BARLEY’S HOPS & MALT

CASUAL $ N8720 County Rd. N., East Troy; 262-642-7811

DOS AMIGOS 2

MEXICAN $

2678 E. Main St., East Troy; 262-642-6446 dosamigos2llc.com

EAST TROY BREWERY

BREWERY/CASUAL $ -$$ 2905 Main St., East Troy; 262-642-2670 etbrew.com

GENOA PIZZA

CASUAL/ITALIAN $

2678 E. Main St., East Troy; 262-642-9775 genoapizzaeasttroy.com

GOLDEN DRAGON

ASIAN $

2763 Main St., East Troy; 262-642-5518 goldendragonchineseeasttroy.com

GUS’S DRIVE-IN

DINER $

3131 Main St., East Troy; 262-642-3679 gussdrivein.com

LD’S BBQ

BARBECUE $ -$$ 2511 Main St., East Troy; 414-610-7675 ldsbbq.com

PRINCESS CAFÉ

DINER $

2695 Main St., East Troy; 262-642-5905

ELKHORN

ALPINE BISTRO AT ALPINE VALLEY RESORT

AMERICAN/CONTEMPORARY

$$ -$$$

W2501 County Rd. D, Elkhorn; 262-642-7374 alpinevalleyresort.com

ANNIE’S BURGER TOWN

CASUAL $

645 N. Lincoln St., Elkhorn; 262-723-3250 anniesburgertown.com

BAKER MEISTER

BAKERY $

421 N. Wisconsin St., Elkhorn; 262-379-1463

ELK RESTAURANT

CASUAL $ 13 W. Walworth St., Elkhorn; 262-723-4220

ENZO’S PIZZA

CASUAL/ITALIAN $ 464 E. Geneva St., Elkhorn; 262-379-2022

HOLI CANNOLI

ITALIAN $ -$$ N7065 U.S. Hwy. 12, Elkhorn; 262-742-2500 holicannoli.com

LAKEHOUSE BREAKFAST BAR & GRILL

CASUAL $ -$$ N7073 State Hwy. 12/67, Elkhorn; 262-742-3300 lakehousebreakfastbarandgrill. godaddysites.com

LARDUCCI PIZZERIA

ITALIAN $ -$$

20 S. Washington St., Elkhorn; 262-723-6668 larducci.com

LAUDERDALE LANDING

CASUAL $ -$$ W5625 W. Shore Dr., Elkhorn; 262-495-8727

LEFTY’S CHICAGO STYLE

HOT DOGS

CASUAL $ N7033 U.S. Hwy. 12, Elkhorn; 262-215-8266 leftyshotdogs.com

LOS TRES HERMANOS

MEXICAN $$

31 N. Wisconsin St., Elkhorn; 262-379-1658 lostreshermanoswi.com

LUKE’S MARKET STREET ITALIAN SANDWICHES

CASUAL $ 117 W. Market St., Elkhorn; 262-723-4676

MOY’S RESTAURANT

ASIAN $

3 N. Wisconsin St., Elkhorn; 262-723-3993 moysrestaurant.com

PASTRIES BY CHAD

BAKERY $

29 N. Wisconsin St., Elkhorn; 262-279-1187 pastriesbychad.com

PERKUP

COFFEE HOUSE $

27 N. Wisconsin St., Elkhorn; 262-723-1287 perkupelkhorn.com

PIZZA ALLEY

CASUAL/ITALIAN $

30 S. Wisconsin St., Elkhorn; 262-723-1900

THE PUB AT EVERGREEN GOLF CLUB

CASUAL $

N6246 U.S. Hwy. 12, Elkhorn; 262-723-5722 evergreengolf.com/the-pub

SOMEPLACE ELSE

AMERICAN $

1 W. Walworth St., Elkhorn; 262-723-3111 someplaceelserestaurant.com

FONTANA

240˚ WEST

AMERICAN/CASUAL/STEAKHOUSE $$ -$$$

The Abbey Resort, 269 Fontana Blvd., Fontana; 262-275-9034

theabbeyresort.com/lake-genevarestaurants/240-west

BAR WEST

SMALL PLATES $ -$$

The Abbey Resort, 269 Fontana Blvd., Fontana; 262-275-9034 theabbeyresort.com/lake-genevarestaurants/bar-west

BIG FOOT MARKET

PIZZA/COFFEE $ -$$

W4724 S. Lake Shore Dr., Fontana; 262-394-5888 bigfootmarkets.com

CAFÉ LATTE

COFFEE HOUSE $

The Abbey Resort, 269 Fontana Blvd., Fontana; 262-275-6811

theabbeyresort.com/lake-genevarestaurants/cafe-latte

CHUCK’S LAKESHORE INN

CASUAL $

352 Lake St., Fontana; 262-275-3222 chuckslakeshoreinn.com

COFFEE MILL

COFFEE HOUSE $ 441 Mill St., Fontana; 262-275-0040 coffeemillfontana.com

LITTLE BAR

PIZZA $ -$$

138 Fontana Blvd., Fontana; 262-755-0335, littlebarfontana.com

THE WATERFRONT

AMERICAN/CASUAL $ -$$

The Abbey Resort, 269 Fontana Blvd., Fontana; 262-275-9034

theabbeyresort.com/lake-genevarestaurants/the-waterfront

GENOA CITY

CREEKSIDE JACK’S

CASUAL $

332 Fellows Rd., Genoa City 262-300-8995

food & drink dining guide

FITZGERALD’S

GENOA JUNCTION

CASUAL $

727 Main St., Hwy. B, Genoa City; 262-279-5200 fitzgeraldsfishboil.com

LAKE COMO

BEAN & VINE COFFEE BAR

COFFEE HOUSE $ -$$

The Ridge Hotel, W4240 State Hwy. 50, Lake Geneva; 262-249-3800 destinationgn.com/bean-vine

CRAFTED ITALIA

ITALIAN $$ -$$$

The Ridge Hotel, W4240 State Hwy. 50, Lake Geneva; 262-249-3832 craftedlakegeneva.com

DJ’S IN THE DRINK

CASUAL $

W3860 Lake Shore Dr., Lake Como; 262-248-8855 djsinthedrink.com

THE GETAWAY ON LAKE COMO

CASUAL $ -$$

4190 West End Rd., Lake Geneva; 262-686-3456 thegetawayrestaurant.com

MARS RESORT

STEAKHOUSE/SUPPER CLUB $ -$$

W4098 S. Shore Dr. (off State Hwy. 50 on Lake Como), Lake Geneva; 262-245-5689 mars-resort.com

NEXT DOOR PUB LAKESIDE

PIZZA $

W4118 Lake Shore Dr., Lake Geneva; 262-249-6311 nextdoorpublakeside.com

NICHE

COFFEE SHOP/WINE BAR $ -$$ 715 Hunt Club Dr., Unit C, Lake Geneva; 262-581-6800 nichelg.com

PAPA’S BLUE SPRUCE

CASUAL $

W4086 Lake Shore Dr., Lake Geneva; 262-729-4126 papasbluespruce.com

TURF. KITCHEN + TAP

BARBECUE $$ Geneva National, Lake Geneva; 262-245-7042 destinationgn.com/turf

LYONS

YE OLDE HOTEL BAR & RESTAURANT

AMERICAN $ -$$ 6070 N. Railroad St., Lyons; 262-763-2701 yeoldehotel.com

MUKWONAGO

DAVID ALAN ALAN’S

SMOKEHOUSE & SALOON

BARBECUE $ -$$

325 Bayview Rd., Mukwonago; 262-363-3227 daasmokehouse.com

ELEGANT FARMER

SPECIALTY $ 1545 Main St., Mukwonago; 262-363-6770 elegantfarmer.com

FORK IN THE ROAD

AMERICAN/CASUAL $ -$$ 215 N. Rochester St., Mukwonago; 262-363-7849

forkintheroadrestaurant.com

PELL LAKE

SPOONDOGGERS BAR AND GRILL

CASUAL $

N1320 S. Lake Shore Dr., Genoa City; 262-295-8773

UPPER CRUST PIZZERIA & PUB

CASUAL $

N1070 County Rd. H, Pell Lake; 262-279-2233 uppercrustpizzeriapub.com

SHARON

COFFEE CUP CAFE

DINER $

192 Baldwin St., Sharon; 262-736-4060

MYRT’S ICE CREAM SHOPPE

ICE CREAM $ 215 Baldwin St., Sharon; 262-736-5060

PAT’S BREW & ‘QUE

BARBECUE $ 124 North St., Sharon; 262-736-5060

TWIN LAKES

BODI’S BAKE SHOP

BAKERY $

306 E. Main St., Twin Lakes; 262-877-8090

THE CORNER KITCHEN

CASUAL $ 100 Lake St., Twin Lakes; 262-877-2456

MANNY’S SNACK SHACK

CASUAL $

404 S. Lake Ave., Twin Lakes; 262-877-4442

WALWORTH

JULIE MICHELLE CAKES

CAKE BAKERY $ 117 Kenosha St., Walworth; 312-800-3101 juliemichellecakes.com

KING DRAGON

ASIAN $

101 Kenosha St., Walworth; 262-275-3309 kingdragonwa.com

MEGGY MOO’S DAIRY RIPPLE

CASUAL/ICE CREAM $ 600 Kenosha St., Walworth; 262-394-5584

SAMMY’S ON THE SQUARE CASUAL $ 105 Madison St., Walworth; 262-275-3739 sammysonthesquare.com

SIEMER’S CRUISE–IN BAR & GRILL

CASUAL $ 107 Kenosha St., Walworth; 262-275-9191 siemerscruisein.com

TWO SISTERS THAI RESTAURANT

ASIAN $ 207 N. Main St., Walworth; 262-394-5700

WHITEWATER

841 BREW HOUSE

CASUAL $ -$$ 841 E. Milwaukee St., Whitewater; 262-473-8000 841brewhouse.com

BRASS RAIL SALOON AND EATERY

CASUAL $

130 W. Main St., Whitewater; 262-473-4038

CHINA HOUSE

ASIAN $ 1128 W. Main St., Whitewater; 262-473-9788

GUS’ PIZZA PALACE

ITALIAN $ -$$ 139 W. Main St., Whitewater; 262-473-3562 guspizzapalace.com

JESSICA’S FAMILY RESTAURANT

DINER $ 140 W. Main St., Whitewater; 262-473-9890

ROSA’S PIZZA

ITALIAN $ 180 W. Main St., Whitewater; 262-472-9857 orderrosas.com

SECOND SALEM BREWING COMPANY

CASUAL $

111 W. Whitewater St., Whitewater; 262-473-2920 secondsalem.com

TOPPER’S PIZZA

CASUAL/ITALIAN $

325 W. Center St., Whitewater; 262-473-4343 toppers.com

WILLIAMS BAY

BAY COOKS

CASUAL $

99 N. Walworth Ave., Williams Bay; 262-607-6024 baycooksrestaurant.com

CAFÉ CALAMARI

ITALIAN $$ -$$$ 10 E. Geneva St., Williams Bay; 262-245-9665 cafecalamari.com

DADDY MAXWELL’S DINER $ 150 Elkhorn Rd., Williams Bay;

DIP IN THE BAY

ICE CREAM $ 105 N. Walworth Ave., Williams Bay; 262-607-3032 dipinthebay.com

FROSTY MOOSE

ICE CREAM $ 35 W. Geneva St., Williams Bay; 262-245-2445

GREEN GROCER

CAFE $ 77 N. Walworth Ave., Williams Bay; 262-245-9077 greengrocerwb.com

HARPOON WILLIE’S PUB & EATERY

CASUAL $ 8 E. Geneva St., Williams Bay; 262-245-6906 harpoonwillies.com

LUCKE’S CANTINA

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PIER 290

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Avocado toast from The Porch in Lake Geneva

out & about Reviving Team Spirit

The Geneva Lake area emerges as a destination for team-building retreats

BY SARA KARNISH

HOLLY LEITNER,

Teams come in all shapes and sizes, from professional, civic and social groups to educational teams and even families. But no matter how you define your team, building a successful one can take work. Fortunately, there are several businesses in and around the Geneva Lake area that specialize in helping groups reach their full potential, while having some fun along the way. For this reason, the area has become a popular spot for corporate, business and school retreats, drawing groups from around

PHOTOS

Coworkers pose on the spiral stairs to one of the ziplines at Lake Geneva Ziplines & Adventures.

the Midwest who are seeking the unique team-building opportunities offered here.

BUILDING STRONG TEAMS

Most people agree that team building is important, but when it comes to specific activities, what exactly constitutes team building? Generally, it’s an activity that allows each group member to develop and strengthen distinct skill sets in a supportive, collaborative environment. Typically, the group will debrief afterward to discuss what worked, what didn’t and identify any areas for improvement.

“In the workplace, you want to have the culture of ‘speak up and talk about it’ and learn how to work on being better as a group,” explains Dana Johnson, team building and events manager at Lake Geneva Ziplines & Adventures. Practicing those critical skills in the Great Outdoors, a setting decidedly different from an office or conference room, offers benefits as well. “People go to work and get right into ‘work mode,’” Johnson continues. “But when the group gets here, it’s already a little bit different — it’s a chance to learn something away from your normal worksite.”

Sue Thune, director of activities at The Abbey Resort & Spa in Fontana, works primarily with corporate groups and, occasionally, social groups. For Thune, it all starts with talking to the group leader to identify goals and how the resort’s team-building experiences can help reach those goals. “This partnership and preparation translates to a memorable event which meets the client’s expectations.” Thune says.

Over the course of the conversation, Thune and the group leader can identify the best “fit” for the participants. “Collaborating with the main points of contact provides an understanding of the participants and areas that will formulate a fun and engaging team experience,” she explains.

TAILORING THE ITINERARY

Customization is key for curating top-notch teambuilding experiences. Thune has a standard list of programs and activities for a group to consider, but works with the group leader to find the right fit. “We can tweak based on budget, logistics, expectations, demographics,” she continues. “Once we talk, we learn — to the point where we can home in on the right event.” She adds she and her team are open to trying new things as well, whether it’s something they’ve never arranged before or a twist on one of their existing activities.

Similarly, at Lake Geneva Ziplines & Adventures, groups can choose from team-building or team-bonding experiences. Team-building activities consist of customized outdoor programs focused on skills and growth. Team-bonding activities are fun activities for a group to do outside of the traditional work environment.

Braving the climbing wall at Lake Geneva Ziplines & Adventures (this photo). Team-building activities at The Abbey Resort in Fontana include a mini golf-themed engineering challenge (below).

The balance challenge at Lake Geneva Ziplines & Adventures tests cooperation skills (this photo). Ziplining through the fall canopy gets teams to collaborate out of a typical work environment (below and opposite page, right).

“Some people talk about team building, but as we discuss it, they’ll say, ‘I want a zipline adventure,’ which is more of a team-bonding activity,” Johnson explains. “With the team-bonding experiences, the goal is to have shared fun in the outdoors. These activities are generally shorter in time and adapted to the depth the group wants to get into.”

The team-building activities usually conclude with a final capstone activity and a group debriefing, where each member shares what they’ve learned and what they’re taking away from the experience, which helps to lock in the day’s learning so that participants can take what they’ve learned and apply it in their work settings.

ADJUSTING FOR AGE LEVELS AND INTEREST

It’s not just corporate groups looking for team-building opportunities today. Schools use these experiences to develop and enhance students’ skill sets and social bonds as well. Eric Anderson is the director of Covenant Harbor, a not-for-profit, year-round Christian camp and conference center in Lake Geneva. Among the camp’s many programs is its flagship nine-week summer camp. But summer isn’t the only time you’ll find groups at Covenant Harbor — during the school year, the camp hosts over 100 different schools, with students participating in various outdoor team-building challenges.

“... when the group gets here, it’s already a little bit different — it’s a chance to learn something away from your normal worksite.”

— Dana Johnson, Lake Geneva Ziplines & Adventures

A popular team-building activity at The Abbey Resort is the “Build a Boat” challenge. Once the boats are constructed, teams head to the beach to test their seaworthiness.

Anderson says group leaders are looking for ways to get students of all ages out of the classroom and into nature. “Schools realize the value of getting students out of their regular environment,” Anderson explains. “When they’re in a different place, they interact differently, approach challenges differently. [It’s] a great place to create experiences outside of what they’re used to.”

Covenant Harbor offers classic summer-camp activities, and makes the most of their location on a lake by offering canoeing, swimming and fishing. “Many of the kids are doing these activities for the first time,”

Anderson explains. The property also includes a high-ropes program with about 25 elements and two climbing

The Lake Geneva School of Cooking offers teams a chance to work together to prepare a meal (this photo, left and above left).

out & about

towers — a 50-foot climbing tower with a zipline and an indoor climbing tower for kids. Some of the equipment can seem daunting, but stepping out of your comfort zone is part of the process. “We aren’t going to make someone do anything they don’t want to do, but we will encourage them to

CASTING A LINE

Fall fishing tips for beginners from a local guide |

Fishing in southeastern Wisconsin is a cherished, year-round activity. But for many anglers, there’s something exceptionally magical about fall fishing; the leaves turn stunning shades of red, orange and gold while the air has a pleasant crispness. Because there are fewer boaters out on the lakes in the fall, the fish tend to be more active and come closer to the surface. We asked Delavan Lake fishing guide Kyle Svachula of Hook ‘Em with Hula to share a few of his best tips for those looking to get out fishing this fall.

Purchase a fishing permit. Visit the website of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to purchase a permit. Licenses for Wisconsin residents cost $20; nonresidents pay $55. You will need to keep the permit with you (ideally in a waterproof bag) at all times while fishing. The DNR website will also give you guidelines on which species you’re allowed to fish and how many fish you’re allowed to keep during each month of the year.

Book a guide. If you’re new to fishing or have never fished a particular lake, hiring an expert is a good way to find the best areas to fish.

Stock up on supplies. You will need a fishing rod and reel (Svachula recommends a 7-foot medium spinning rod), fishing line, fishing hooks, sinkers to keep your bait submerged, bobbers to indicate when a fish is biting, bait and a fillet knife if you plan on keeping your fish. Also don’t forget water, quiet snacks (loud snacks might scare off the fish!), a first aid kit and a cooler with ice if you plan on taking fish home.

Choose a lake. All of the area’s lakes offer a wide variety of fish species. According to Svachula, Lake Como offers an abundance of largemouth bass, northern pike and panfish. Delavan Lake is great for panfish, musky, largemouth and smallmouth bass, northern pike and walleye. Geneva Lake has smallmouth and largemouth bass, panfish, northern pike, trout and walleye, among others.

Know which fish to keep and which to release. If you do plan on keeping fish, make sure to follow the guidelines set forth by the DNR. For those fish you plan to release, practice ethical catch-andrelease tactics: handle the fish as little as possible, keep your hands wet, gently remove the hook and then release the fish back into the water gills-first so it can start to regain its strength.

BY NATALIE WEXLER

events at the lake

SPIRITUALISM IN THE VICTORIAN ERA

OCT. 3, 10, 24

Get a behind-the-scenes tour of Black Point Estate, enjoy a tasty cordial, and hear stories of paranormal proclivity and the history of Victorian spiritualism; 7-8:30 p.m. Black Point Estate and Gardens, Lake Geneva. Tickets are $75 and must be reserved in advance. Call (262) 248-1888 or visit blackpointestate.wisconsinhistory.org

GENEVA LAKES ANNUAL ANTIQUE & CLASSIC BOAT SHOW

SEPT. 26-28

See over 150 wooden boats, 50 of which will be in the water. The invitation-only reception is on Friday night, with public viewing on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with a boat parade starting at 4 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Abbey Marina, Fontana. Visit genevalakesboatshow.com for more info.

FARMERS MARKETS

THROUGH THE END OF OCTOBER

Enjoy fresh produce and goods. Local farmers markets in Burlington, Lake Geneva and Whitewater run through the end of October.

See information on each market on page 140.

FARMERS MARKETS

BURLINGTON

Thursdays, 3-7 p.m., through Oct. 30. Wemhoff Square, Burlington; (262) 210-6360 or burlingtonWIfarmersmarket.com.

GENEVA OUTDOOR MARKET

Farm-fresh produce and handcrafted gifts and crafts. Sundays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. through Oct. 26. Lake Geneva House of Music; 3252 County Rd. H, Lake Geneva. (262) 215-6139 or genevaoutdoormarket.com.

LAKE GENEVA FARMERS’ MARKET

Local farmers and vendors offer local produce, flowers and goods. Thursdays, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. through Oct. 30. Horticultural Hall; (262) 745-9341 or horticulturalhall.com.

WHITEWATER CITY MARKET

Tuesdays, 4-7 p.m. through Sept. 22, 4-6 p.m. through Oct. 28. Cravath Lakefront parking lot, 341 Fremont St., Whitewater.

AUG. 22-24

MAXWELL STREET DAYS

Sales, food and crafts in downtown Lake Geneva. Visit downtownlakegeneva.org/ events/maxwellstreetdays for more info.

AUG. 27-SEPT. 1

WALWORTH COUNTY FAIR

One of the largest county fairs in Wisconsin. Live music, demolition derby, carnival midway and livestock exhibits. Walworth County Fairgrounds, Elkhorn; (262) 723-3288 or walworthcountyfair.com.

AUG. 30, SEPT. 27

LG BEER GARDEN AND ZIPLINING

Enjoy dual-racing ziplining or a zipline canopy tour and then relax in the LG Beer Garden on the patio. First drink is free with activity. Lake Geneva Ziplines & Adventures, N3232 County Rd. H, Lake Geneva.

SEPT. 5-7

DARIEN CORNFEST

A community-wide celebration of the super starch featuring fireworks, a parade and live music throughout downtown Darien. Visit dariencornfest.us.

SEPT. 6-OCT. 26

AUTUMN HARVEST FESTIVAL

AT THE ELEGANT FARMER

Saturdays and Sundays only, enjoy a corn maze and pick-your-own apples, as well as hayrides, pony rides or a trip on the East Troy Railroad, while sampling fall treats. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Elegant Farmer, 1545 W. Main St., Mukwonago; visit elegantfarmer.com

SEPT. 8

LADIES’ DAY LUNCHEON

Geneva Lakes Women’s Association’s annual luncheon featuring a silent auction and raffle, followed by a reading by author Renée Rosen. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., The Abbey Harbor Ballroom, 269 Fontana Blvd., Fontana; for tickets, visit glwa.net.

SEPT. 12

CHARLIE BERENS: WORKIN’ IT ALL OUT COMEDY TOUR

Wisconsin comedian and social media star Charlie Berens performs stand-up

comedy, 930 W. Main St., Whitewater. Visit uww.edu/youngauditorium for tickets.

SEPT. 13

CLASSIC CAR AND TRACTOR SHOW

Live music and concessions available. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Pearce’s Farm Stand, W5740 N. Walworth Rd., Walworth.

SEPT. 13

DELAVAN SCARECROW FEST

Scarecrow building, pumpkin decorating, food and live music throughout downtown Delavan. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more info, visitdelavan.com

SEPT. 13

FALL HARVEST DINNER TRAIN

Enjoy a dinner of beef bourguignon while riding a vintage train from the East Troy Railroad Museum to Mukwonago’s Elegant Farmer apple orchard and market. Tickets are $135 per person; advanced reservations required. Check in at 5 p.m., East Troy Depot, 2002 Church St., East Troy. For tickets, call (262) 642-3263 or visit easttroyrr.org.

SEPT. 13

FONTANA TRIATHLON

ON GENEVA LAKE

Event will consist of the sprint, sprint relay, Olympic and Olympic relay races. Fontana Beach, Fontana; for information, visit fontanatriathlon.com

SEPT. 13

WEDDINGS OF GENEVA LAKE IN THE GILDED AGE, PRESENTED BY THE INSTITUTE FOR VICTORIAN LIVING

Discover the bold extravagance of Victorian wedding rituals. 5-7 p.m., Black Point Estate, W4270 Southland Rd., Lake Geneva. Tickets are $70; advanced registration required. For tickets, call (262) 248-1888 or visit blackpointestate.wisconsinhistory.org

SEPT. 17

WINE AND DINE CRUISE

ON THE LAKE LAWN QUEEN

Set sail on a remarkable wine dinner cruise featuring wines from The Prisoner Wine Company. 5:45-8 p.m., Lake Lawn Resort, 2400 E. Geneva St., Delavan. Tickets are $135 per person; visit lakelawnresort.com to purchase.

Lake Geneva Ziplines & Adventures hosts a Pumpkin Drop challenge the last two weekends in October.

SEPT. 20

AN EVENING WITH AGATHA CHRISTIE

Local historian Chris Brookes brings the best-selling author of all time, Agatha Christie, back to life for an intimate evening of mystery and conversation. 6-7:30 p.m. Tickets are $35. Black Point Estate & Gardens, W4270 Southland Rd., Lake Geneva; call (262) 248-1888 for tickets.

SEPT. 20

ANNUAL FAT TIRE RIDE OF LAKE GENEVA

This 21.5-mile bike ride over paved roads around Geneva Lake and Lake Como supports local charities. The route begins at Champs Sports Bar & Grill or Lodge Geneva National, and ends with a pig roast for all participants. To register, visit fattireride.com

SEPT. 20

AUTUMN GLOW DINNER TRAIN

Enjoy a dinner of whiskey-glazed brisket while enjoying a vintage train ride from the East Troy Railroad Museum to Mukwonago’s Elegant Farmer apple orchard and market. Tickets are $135 per person; advanced reservations required. Check in at 5 p.m., East Troy Depot, 2002 Church St., East Troy. For tickets, call (262) 642-3263 or visit easttroyrr.org

SEPT. 20

WALK TO END ALZHEIMER’S

Raising awareness and funds to enhance Alzheimer’s care and support. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m., ceremony at 9:40 a.m., walk begins at 10 a.m. Library Park, Lake Geneva; (414) 775-7583 or act.alz.org

SEPT. 20-21

DISCOVER WHITEWATER 5K AND HALF MARATHON

Highlighting downtown Whitewater, the course begins at Whitewater High School and continues through the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater campus and Fairhaven’s Prairie Village, among other locations. To register, visit runwhitewater.com.

SEPT. 21

MALT HOUSE SIP ‘N SIT CONCERT SERIES

This month’s theme is Jim Croce & Cat Stevens, Time In a Bottle Tribute. Enjoy

live music performed outdoors. Tickets are $15. Malt House Theater, 109 N. Main St., Burlington; for tickets, call (262) 763-9873 or visit thehaylofters.com

SEPT. 25

FALL LUNCH TRAIN

Enjoy a lunch of roasted beef tips while riding a vintage train from the East Troy Railroad Museum to Mukwonago’s Elegant Farmer apple orchard and market. Tickets are $99 per person; advanced reservations required. Check in at 11:30 a.m., East Troy Depot, 2002 Church St., East Troy. For tickets, call (262) 642-3263 or visit easttroyrr.org.

SEPT. 25

GENEVA LAKE MUSEUM DINE, DAUB, DONATE FUNDRAISER

Dinner and bingo night to raise funds for the museum. Featuring a buffet dinner, raffles and games. 5-9 p.m., Hawk’s View Golf Club, 7377 Krueger Rd., Lake Geneva. Tickets are $100 per person. Call (262) 248-6060 or visit genevalakemuseum.org for tickets.

SEPT. 28

ELKHORN ANTIQUE FLEA MARKET

Over 500 dealers both inside and outside. Free parking, $5 admission. Opens at 7 a.m. Walworth County Fairgrounds, 411 E. Court St., Elkhorn; visit elkhornantiquefleamarket.com

SEPT. 28

SUNDAY BRUNCH TRAIN

Enjoy Sunday brunch aboard a vintage train from the East Troy Railroad Museum to Mukwonago’s Elegant Farmer apple orchard and market. Tickets are $115 per person; advanced reservations required. Check in at 10 a.m., East Troy Depot, 2002 Church St., East Troy. For tickets, call (262) 642-3263 or visit easttroyrr.org

OCT. 1

WINE AND DINE CRUISE

ON THE LAKE LAWN QUEEN

Set sail on a remarkable wine dinner cruise featuring wines from the Ceretto family. 5:45-8 p.m., Lake Lawn Resort, 2400 E. Geneva St., Delavan. Tickets are $135 per person; visit lakelawnresort.com to purchase.

OCT. 3, 10, 17, 24

TRICK OR TREAT TRAIN

Enjoy a trip aboard a vintage trolley or train from the East Troy Depot to the Town Hall Park, where kids can go “trick-or-treating,” play games and enjoy playground equipment. Departures at 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. from the East Troy Railroad depot. Online advanced reservations required; visit easttroyrr.org

OCT. 3-19

“HEATHERS, THE MUSICAL”

Enjoy this musical adaptation of the cult-classic movie of the 1980s, performed by the Lakeland Players. Walworth County Performing Arts Center, Elkhorn. For tickets, call (262) 728-5578 or visit lakeland-players.org

OCT. 4

BACHELORS OF BROADWAY

Hear contemporary three-part vocal harmony on a selection of Broadway hits. 7 p.m. Big Foot Auditorium, Walworth. For tickets, visit bigfootfinearts.org or call (262) 275-2117.

OCT. 4

BLUE JEAN BALL “ROCK THE RUBY”

Enjoy live music, interactive experiences, food stations and an open bar, all to support cancer research through the Forbeck Foundation. 6-10 p.m., Lake Geneva Country Club, W3398 S. Lake Shore Dr., Lake Geneva. Visit wgfrf.org/40th for tickets.

LIZ HOFFMAN

Hunt for vintage treasures at the Elkhorn Antique & Flea Market on Sept. 28.

OCT. 4

ELKHORN HOLIDAY CRAFT BASH

Indoor and outdoor spaces will feature a wide variety of vendors, plus food and beverage options. Walworth County Fairgrounds, 411 E. Court St., Elkhorn; $5 admission at the gate. Visit walworthcountyfair.com

OCT. 4

OKTOBERFEST TRAIN

Enjoy a dinner of sauerbraten and Oktoberfest beers aboard a vintage train from the East Troy Railroad Museum to Mukwonago’s Elegant Farmer apple orchard and market. Tickets are $135 per person; advanced reservations required. Check in at 4:30 p.m., East Troy Depot, 2002 Church St., East Troy. For tickets, call (262) 642-3263 or visit easttroyrr.org

OCT. 4, 11, 18

SORDID AND SCANDALOUS: A WALKING TOUR OF LAKE GENEVA

Explore the mysteries of Lake Geneva in this engaging guided tour through the city’s historic downtown and Maple Park neighborhood. Tours run every 15 minutes from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Tickets are $15 per person. Meet at the Riviera, 812 Wrigley Dr., Lake Geneva; for tickets, call (262) 248-1888 or visit blackpointestate.wisconsinhistory.org

OCT. 9

10TH ANNUAL SIMPLE SUPPER FOR SPECIAL OLYMPICS OF WALWORTH COUNTY

Seatings at 5 p.m., 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. Take-outs are also available with a choice of three entrees. There will be a raffle and a 50/50 drawing; all proceeds benefit Special Olympics. Tickets are $15 per person. Simple Café, 525 Broad St., Lake Geneva. For tickets, call (262) 248-3034.

OCT. 10-11, 17-18, 24-25

HALLOWEEN LEGENDS AND LORE

Troves of supernatural tales brought to the state over the generations come to life. Old World Wisconsin, Eagle. Advanced registration required; visit oldworldwisconsin.wisconsinhistory.org

OCT. 11

EPICUREAN EXPRESS TRAIN

Enjoy a five-course dinner of filet mignon aboard a vintage train ride from the East

FUN YEAR-ROUND

Troy Railroad Museum to Mukwonago’s Elegant Farmer apple orchard and market. Tickets are $185 per person; advanced reservations required. Check in at 4:30 p.m., East Troy Depot, 2002 Church St., East Troy. For tickets, call (262) 642-3263 or visit easttroyrr.org.

OCT. 11-12

LAKE GENEVA OKTOBERFEST

Family fall festival includes music, food, craft booths, restaurant and shopping specials, wagon hayrides, pony rides and more. 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Broad and Geneva Streets, Lake Geneva; downtownlakegeneva.org/ events/oktoberfest for more info.

OCT. 15

HARVEST COLORS LUNCH TRAIN

Enjoy a lunch of homemade meatloaf aboard a vintage train ride from the East Troy Railroad Museum to Mukwonago’s Elegant Farmer apple orchard and market. Tickets are $99 per person; advanced reservations required. Check in at 11:30 a.m., East Troy Depot, 2002 Church St., East Troy. For tickets, call (262) 642-3263 or visit easttroyrr.org.

OCT. 15

WINE AND DINE CRUISE

ON THE LAKE LAWN QUEEN

Set sail on a remarkable wine dinner cruise featuring wines from the Benziger Brothers. 5:45-8 p.m., Lake Lawn Resort, 2400 E. Geneva St., Delavan. Tickets are $135 per person; visit lakelawnresort.com to purchase.

OCT. 16-18

POE AT THE POINT

All aboard for a spine-chilling evening with the works of poet and author Edgar Allen Poe in the parlor of Black Point Estate. 5:30-8:30 p.m. Tickets are $68 per person. Tours leave from the Riviera Dock, 812 Wrigley Dr., Lake Geneva; for tickets, call (262) 248-1888 or visit blackpointestate.wisconsinhistory.org

OCT. 17-19, 24-26

“TERROR BY GASLIGHT”

A thrilling mystery performed by The Haylofters. 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays. The Malt House Theater, Burlington. Tickets are $20; call (262) 763-9873 or visit thehaylofters.com.

OCT. 18

ELKHORN OKTOBERFEST

Walk around the downtown square to see more than 100 crafters and vendors, plus a classic car show, beer/wine tasting and a 2M-5K Run. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., throughout Elkhorn. Visit elkhornchamber.com

OCT. 18

SWEETEST DAY TRAIN

Enjoy a dinner of filet mignon aboard a vintage train ride from the East Troy Railroad Museum to Mukwonago’s Elegant Farmer apple orchard and market. Tickets are $145 per person; advanced reservations required. Check in at 4:30 p.m., East Troy Depot, 2002 Church St., East Troy. For tickets, call (262) 642-3263 or visit easttroyrr.org

OCT. 18-19, 25-26

PUMPKIN DROP

Soar down the zipline and drop a pumpkin in the target to win. Featuring live music, fireside food, games and prizes. Lake Geneva Ziplines & Adventures, N3232 County Rd. H, Lake Geneva.

OCT. 25

ADULT HALLOWEEN TRAIN

Enjoy a dinner of cider-marinated short ribs aboard a vintage train from the East Troy Railroad Museum to Mukwonago’s Elegant Farmer apple orchard and market. Costumes encouraged! Tickets are $150 per person; advanced reservations required. Check in at 4:30 p.m., East Troy Depot, 2002 Church St., East Troy. For tickets, call (262) 642-3263  or visit easttroyrr.org

OCT. 25

AURORA HEALTH CARE

FOUNDATION’S BENEFIT EVENT

Enjoy a cocktail reception, plated dinner, live music and silent auction to support the addition of a cardiometabolic clinic in Walworth County. 6-10 p.m., Lake Geneva Country Club, W 3398 S. Lake Shore Dr., Lake Geneva. Tickets are $200; visit advocatehealth.org/benefitevent.

NOV. 14

CHRIS KROEZE

A finalist on “The Voice” and one of the top country singers in the Midwest will perform original music. 7 p.m.,

Big Foot Auditorium, Walworth. For tickets, visit bigfootfinearts.org or call (262) 275-2117.

NOV.28-30, DEC. 5-8, 12-15, 19-21

CHRISTMAS TRAIN

Enjoy a trip aboard a vintage trolley or train from the East Troy Depot to the Elegant Farmer, where kids can visit Santa and take a photo. Evening trains include cookies and hot cocoa, as well as beer and wine options for adults. Trips leave from the East Troy Railroad. Day trips and evening trips available. Online advanced reservations required; visit easttroyrr.org

NOV. 28-DEC. 31

SANTA CRUISE

Embark on a magical Christmas cruise to Santa’s North Pole hideaway. Along your lake tour, enjoy the twinkling lights and displays along the shoreline of Geneva Lake. Cruises run every evening with the exception of Dec. 24 and Dec. 25. Lake Geneva Cruise Line, Gage Marine Winter Harbor, Williams Bay; (262) 248-6206 or santacruiselakegeneva.com

While we do our best to ensure a comprehensive, accurate listing of events, we recommend that you contact each event host ahead of time. If you’d like to include an event in our upcoming calendar, please email anne@ntmediagroup.com or submit it via our website: atthelakemagazine.com/ submit-an-event. Submission deadline for the winter issue is October 17.

Scan this QR code with your phone’s camera app to view more summer events in the Geneva Lake area.

“Everything just before it changes looks to be made of gold.”

— Eudora Welty

photo by holly leitner