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Leaps of Faith
Welcome to Smart Living Lakeside!
You already know you and your family live in a special part of the country. Whether you live in the Lakes Region fulltime or only during the warmer months, our goal is to help you and yours enjoy the best this uniquely beautiful region has to offer.
My lovely wife, Lisa, and I bought our lakefront home on Cedar Point in the early ’80s. Our growing family made it our home away from home. What a great time it was as our four children learned to swim and water-ski outside our front door.
The kids are all grown now and the lake house was sold long ago, but the memories remain.
I always longed to see a magazine that could assist our family’s life on the lake. Well, years later, our city/regional magazine business has grown to the point where we can provide you with the resource we once sought – through the Smart Living Lakeside magazine you have in your hands.
From April through September, our talented team of journalists will be scouring the region for events, destinations and happenings to enrich your family’s life – and our creative graphic designers will bring it to life each issue.
Next month, you’ll meet Lindsey Lukas, our Lakeside managing editor. Lindsey is a graduate of the esteemed University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Journalism, and I think you’ll find she is enthusiastic, gifted at her profession and upbeat in nature. Together, with her trusted No. 2, Steven Bonifazi, I am sure you will find each issue of Smart Living Lakeside a valuable resource full of life-enriching information.
Though we have decades of magazine publishing experience, starting Smart Living Lakeside required a big leap of faith. Our reward has been the fabulous, muchappreciated reception we have already received – along with the honor of serving you and your family. Until next time…
Bill Hughes Editor-in-Chief
A One-Stop Destination for All Things Boating
By Peggy Werner
Whether you are a boating expert or a novice who just loves being on the water, The Boat House, with a showroom at N7536 Sterlingworth Dr., Elkhorn, is the place for all things boating.
“We are here for anybody and everybody, whether they have a new boat, a used boat or don’t even have a boat,” says Joe Bishoff, general manager.
With locations in Lake Geneva, Elkhorn, Whitewater, Johnsburg, Ill., and Cape Coral, Naples and Port Charlotte, Fla., the business carries leading boat brands – with an extensive inventory of new and used boats – and additionally offers repair services, boat pro shops, financing, repowers, top quality parts, storage, piers, lifts and rentals.
A Boat Club on Geneva Lake and on Elkhorn’s Lauderdale Lakes has exclusive benefits for the ultimate boating experience.
“Our mission is to share knowledge that fosters confidence and passion for boating, and support our customers with all of their boating needs, so they can create lifelong memories with family and friends,” Bishoff says.
For those who don’t want the hassle and added costs of boat ownership or are undecided about whether or not to buy a boat, there are boat rentals.
“We take care of all the details, so all you need to do is
show up and enjoy your time on the water,” Bishoff says.
All boats are equipped with the latest technology and amenities, including premium electronic packages with GPS, navigation, depth finder and Bluetooth radio. Towing insurance provides peace of mind. The Boat House’s leading brands include Bennington pontoon boats, Nautique, Supra, and Moomba for ski, wake and surf boats, and Hurricane and G3 fishing boats.
The best boater is a safe boater.
Bishoff highly recommends everyone complete a Boat Safety Course, which informs students about the essential skills and knowledge for safe and responsible boating, including boat handling, boating laws, safety equipment, safe boating practices, navigation, weather and water conditions, first aid and boating etiquette.
“Experienced boaters know the etiquette that goes along with boating, such as not disrupting others you share the water with. With every boat delivery, we offer educational classes, including the popular ‘Women on Waves,’ and we are always available to answer questions throughout the boating season,” Bishoff adds.
For more information, visit the showroom from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, or call (262) 742-3898 or visit boathouseh2o.com. ❚
The Boat House, with locations in Lake Geneva, Elkhorn, Whitewater and more, provides boaters of all experience levels with everything they need to enjoy their time on the water.
A Spring Awakening in Whitewater
By Steven Bonifazi, assistant editor
Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in art, explore the great outdoors or simply unplug from the rush of everyday life, Whitewater, Wis., offers an ideal setting to fully embrace the calm and beauty of the season.
Spring signals the start of the outdoor Whitewater City Market. This year-round staple moves from inside the Cravath Lakefront Park Community Center to its parking lot from May 7 through Oct. 29. Every Tuesday from 4 to 7 p.m., visitors can enjoy fresh produce, baked goods and handcrafted items while listening to live music. Food trucks and local vendors add to the lively atmosphere.
Art lovers can explore rotating exhibits at the Whitewater Arts Alliance downtown and Roberta’s Art Gallery at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. The university’s Young Auditorium
hosts big-city entertainment including improvisational comedy by The Second City on April 4.
For those who love the great outdoors, Nature Land at Whitewater Lake provides hiking trails that wind through grasslands and pine forests. The well-marked trails offer easy and moderate hikes, which means they’re accessible for all skill levels. Soak inthe natural beauty of the area while kayaking and fishing on Whitewater Lake.
Migrating birds pass through the Whitewater area every spring, allowing you to spot everything from sandhill cranes and red-winged blackbirds to songbirds as they make their way back to Wisconsin. Remember to pack a trusty pair of hiking boots.
“It’s truly a season where things are starting to awaken, so there’s a peacefulness to it,” says Lisa Smith, volunteer member of the Whitewater Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Council. “It’s similar but different from the silence of a fresh snowfall, so just be ready to relax, turn off the phone and computer, and spend time reconnecting.”
For more on Whitewater events, visit discoverwhitewater.org. ❚
“Jerry has been our agent for many years, and for good reason. He knows the market, knows how sell your house and vet the best buyers, and he also goes above and beyond to find the perfect home for you. Jerry goes beyond that, though. He truly gets to know you as a person so that the home he finds for you is exactly what you're looking for. He takes into consideration your passions, your profession, your family, your taste. He has a reputation with other listing agents of respect and admiration, which makes purchasing a home that isn't his listing a breeze. He has been, and will continue to be, our listing agent for years to come, for many reasons.”
The Ice Age Trail in Whitewater offers some of the best birdwatching as birds of all kinds pass through Wisconsin in the spring.
(Katy Daixon Photography photo)
Lack of Faith
Whenwe feel wronged, we’re tempted to seek revenge. But revenge is simply a lack of faith. God tells us not to meet evil with evil. If anyone had a right to seek revenge, it was the one perfect human being, Jesus Christ. Instead, while in agony on the cross, he prayed, “…Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing…” (Luke 23:34 NIV)
Jesus Christ chose love over revenge and commanded us to do the same.
In the Greek New Testament from which the English was translated in the early 1500s, various words are used to distinguish types of love. The English language lacks such distinctions.
“Agape” is the highest form of Godly love. It’s described by Paul in many of his letters to fellow believers. In Romans 12 he writes:
“Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves … Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.
“Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord. On the contrary: If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink … Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” (Romans 12:9-21 NIV)
Love is not weakness. Revenge is weakness born of human arrogance. To seek revenge is to lack faith in God’s ability to handle evil better than we ever could.
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. ❚
–Janine Pumilia
Asphalt or Stone Drive? For Some, It’s Both
By Chris Linden, executive editor
Withchoices like decorative asphalt and durable paver stones, it’s easy to dress up a home’s entrance in a hurry.
Perhaps the easiest place to revitalize a home driveway is with a fresh sealcoat. Of course, it restores that slate-black appearance to a driveway, but it has other benefits, too. Because it smooths the surface of asphalt, sealcoat makes the drive easier to sweep and plow, and it resists things like gas, oil and road salts.
“Best of all, properly sealed asphalt will more than double the life of your pavement,” says Megan Miller, marketing manager for Kaplan Paving.
Once cracks, ruts and damage place a driveway’s condition beyond repair, it’s time to look at replacement. Traditionally, asphalt and concrete were always top-of-mind, but with recent advancements in asphalt, this
product has risen to the top of many families’ preferences.
For one thing, asphalt tends to be one of the most affordable and costeffective options available in the long run, says Miller.
It’s durable enough for boats and RVs, and it’s a fairly flexible material. It also adapts well with fluctuations in temperature and moisture, as happens commonly in the Midwest.
Asphalt is by no means the only choice. Durable paver stones, like those produced by Unilock, create attractive surfaces on everything from driveways and walkways to retaining walls, pool decks and outdoor kitchens. A homeowner can use them across the whole drive or create a “ribbon” of bricks to frame an asphalt stretch.
What product is right for your home? Miller believes there are nine essential factors to selecting the right
surface. It starts with budget, durability and design, but it’s also important to consider drainage, timeline and personal preference.
Perhaps the most important factor, though, is whom you hire, because disreputable companies proliferate in this industry. Kaplan Paving has stood by its work since 1979.
“When you hire the right people, you ensure quality workmanship and timely completion on your job,” says Miller.
To schedule a free estimate or learn more about a new driveway, call Kaplan Paving at (847) 949-1500. ❚
At Four Lakes Athletic Club—the top Fitness & Indoor Tennis Club in Walworth County—we offer state-of-the-art facilities, top-notch amenities, and a supportive community.
Elevate your fitness and tennis skills or immerse yourself in wellness and relaxation. Experience invigorating workouts, expert instruction through our certified Personal Trainers, and rejuvenating self-care. Your well-being is our priority as we help you reach your full potential to unlock a healthier, fitter, and more fulfilling you.
So much more than a gym...it’s an experience.
Homes Evolve for Multigenerational Living
By Chris Linden, executive editor
Sharing a roof with children and grandchildren is a growing trend across America, and it’s becoming much more familiar in our neck of the woods, says Victoria Graf, design director at Macktown Construction Group.
“What I’m seeing is that, since COVID, people have really been thinking about it more,” she says.
When you have three or more generations living under the same roof, it’s important to consider present and future needs. This strategy of “multigenerational design” does account for the older generation, but it also factors in the youngest generation and everyone in between.
On a simple level, this might mean more drawers and pullouts on base cabinets, so older backs and little hands have an easier time accessing things. It might also bring in wider entryways between rooms, in a way that blends
open-concept with age-inplace accessibility and a touch of privacy.
“Not everything has to be open-concept, because that takes away from our acoustical privacy, and that’s important when you have lots of people living together,” says Graf. “You open everything up and now you can’t have a phone conversation without the whole house hearing it. But if we open up doorways a little more, we’re making hallways a little bit bigger and then it’s easier to get a wheelchair or a walker in there.”
lighting closer to a kitchen countertop or a sofa, and mood lighting that adds some warmth and ambience.
Lighting is another major consideration, because older eyes typically need more light. The trick is to layer lighting across a room. It starts with ambient lighting overhead, task
“It’s important to consider all of the ways your family will use your home,” says Graf. “If you think your family might need something, it’s worth discussing with your designer.”
For a quote, call Macktown Construction Group at (779) 423-0354. ❚
(Compass Photography photo)
The latest trend in home remodeling, multigenerational living accounts for the entire family’s ever-changing needs.
Welcome Back to the Lakes
By Steven Bonifazi, assistant editor
Asspring settles in, the Geneva Lakes area awakens with a burst of life. Across Walworth County, places like Lake Geneva, Delavan and Elkhorn have events and experiences that invite everyone to embrace the season’s charm. Whether you’re a foodie, an outdoor adventurer or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, spring has sprung, and these lakeside communities are rolling out the welcome mat.
Lake Geneva: A Feast for the Senses
Lake Geneva sets the table for spring with Lake Geneva Restaurant Week, scheduled for April 19-27. The annual event is an opportunity for locals to explore the area’s dining scene, from upscale bistros to cozy cafes, all while supporting a good cause. Diners at participating restaurants can vote for their favorite Walworth County charity, with donations from Tito’s Handmade Vodka Foundation awarded to the top four vote-getters.
April’s final weekend is packed with activities that make it one of the liveliest times of the season. The Lake Geneva Women’s Weekend, set for April 25-27 and hosted by the Geneva Lake Women’s Association, offers a curated mix of spa treatments, workshops and outdoor experiences, including yoga by the beach and guided lake hikes, weather permitting. Meanwhile, whiskey lovers can indulge at the Wee Whiskey Fest, held at Lodge Geneva National over the same weekend.
This event features tastings, whiskey-paired dinners and educational experiences led by spirits experts.
As May arrives, the fun continues with Downtown Lake Geneva’s Spring Wine Walk on May 18. Guests can sip their way through 30 to 50 local stores, enjoy curated wine tastings and appetizers, and browse downtown boutiques.
Spring also signals the return of farmers markets, a beloved tradition across Walworth County. The Lake Geneva Farmers Market, held every Thursday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. May through October, is a must-visit for those looking to sample fresh produce, artisanal goods and a variety of handcrafted products.
A cruise with Lake Geneva Cruise Lines is a sure way to experience the town’s rich scenery and history. From sunset
Food trucks line the streets at Elkhorn’s Veterans Park during the Spring Food Truck Festival on May 17.
Lake Geneva Restaurant Week brings together the region’s best eateries so people can taste something new and support local charities.
(Visit Lake Geneva photo)
cocktail cruises to family-friendly ice cream socials, each boat tour offers a unique perspective of Geneva Lake’s historic mansions and picturesque shoreline.
“Spring is a great time of year to explore the Lake Geneva region,” says Deanna Goodwin, vice president of marketing, communications and development for Visit Lake Geneva. “There’s a delightful sense of anticipation for all the favorite ‘firsts’ of the season – golf courses opening, boat cruises, farmers markets and other seasonal attractions. Even the famed Geneva Lake Shore Path offers a refreshing view as trees blossom and flowers begin to emerge. And, of course, there’s an array of unique events to remind us that spring is in the air.”
Head to visitlakegeneva.com for more details.
Delavan: Small-Town Charm, Big-Time Fun
Just a short drive from Geneva Lake, Delavan offers a slower pace of life without sacrificing excitement.
“It’s as busy as a big town, but it has the small-town charm,” says Malinda Obershaw, executive director of the Delavan-Delavan Lake Area Chamber of Commerce. “We have everything from fancy restaurants to delis, and all of them offer outdoor dining. There isn’t the hustle and bustle of other towns, but we certainly have a lot to do.”
Spring in Delavan kicks off with the Cinco de Mayo Festival from May 2-4. This long-standing tradition is filled with cultural music, dancing and delicious food. It returns this year with a second annual parade and a carnival for an even livelier celebration.
On May 17, wine lovers can enjoy Delavan’s Spring Wine Walk, where 13 downtown locations offer tastings and live music. Guests can expect a variety of wines, including regional specialties, paired with small bites that highlight the flavors of the area.
Beginning in June, The Market at Tower Park takes center stage on Thursdays, with fresh, homegrown produce, handcrafted goods and live music. The market has become a staple of the community that encourages an evening of shopping, socializing and tasting tantalizing fare.
“It’s a great sense of community for people, whether you’re local or just here to visit,” says Obershaw. “We have
a set of bleachers arranged so you can enjoy the music, but you can certainly stroll through the whole market and have dinner or a drink after work. It’s a chill, cool vibe in the heart of Delavan.”
Visit delavanwi.org for more Delavan events.
Elkhorn: Outdoor Adventures and Celebrations
Designated as Walworth County’s seat in 1846, Elkhorn is a paradise for nature lovers. The nearby Kettle Moraine State Forest and White River State Trails offer scenic hiking, biking and horseback riding through rolling landscapes that are rich in wildlife and spring blooms.
For golfers, there’s Evergreen Golf Course, Alpine Valley Resort Golf Course and Majestic Oaks at Lake Lawn Resort. All three courses provide picturesque settings, challenging layouts and well-maintained greens that make for a memorable experience.
Elkhorn’s community spirit shines at the Spring Food Truck Festival on May 17, a delicious gathering of local flavors paired with live music. Guests can expect a smorgasbord of food trucks that serve up everything from gourmet burgers to authentic Mexican street food and decadent desserts.
On May 18, treasure hunters can explore the Elkhorn Antique Flea Market at the Walworth County Fairgrounds. The popular event attracts collectors and casual shoppers alike with antiques, collectibles and handcrafted goods from more than 500 vendors.
“Spring is an amazing time of year when locals re-emerge and guests roll into town to enjoy all the outdoor fun,” says Kate Abbe, partner engagement and marketing director for the Elkhorn Chamber of Commerce. “Eating on the patio and enjoying walks around town is what this season is all about. The weekends get busy with festivals and food trucks, and summer is right around the corner.”
Spring Saturdays come alive with Elkhorn’s Saturday on the Square Farmers Market, which runs from May 24 through Aug. 30. The market has become an avenue to connect with local artisans, farmers and vendors in the welcoming atmosphere of the “Christmas Card Town.”
For more Elkhorn events, visit elkhornchamber.com. ❚
Cinco de Mayo in Delavan brings a parade, cultural dances and lively music to Phoenix Park.
Elkhorn’s Alpine Valley Resort Golf Course offers 27 holes that challenge any type of player.
(Pete Godina photo)
(Elkhorn Area Chamber of Commerce photo)
Music, Dance and Supper Club Charm
By Steven Bonifazi, assistant editor
In the rolling countryside of Beloit,
The Butterfly Club stands as a living piece of Wisconsin history where classic cocktails, meals and ambiance create a memorable night out. Every Friday and Saturday from 7 to 11 p.m., the club transforms into a lively, nostalgic escape filled with the sounds of swinging melodies, crooning ballads and timeless sing-alongs.
At the heart of it all is Mike Williamson, a seasoned entertainer whose voice and charisma make every performance feel personal.
“Mike is so used to playing here that he knows how to work the room,” says Aeneas Sala, son of Hektor and Uljana, who own the club with Hektor’s brother, Mike. “He’s not just up there performing – he’s walking around, getting to know people, asking them where they’re from and making them feel important.”
With a wireless mic in hand and his trio behind him, Williamson moves through the crowd and brings guests into the experience. His set list spans from Frank Sinatra and Neil
Diamond to Barry Manilow and classic ’80s hits. Whether it’s a romantic slow dance or a full-room sing-along to “Sweet Caroline,” he reads the audience and elevates the atmosphere.
“Sometimes we blend in, so we’re more of a background, and then when the audience gets going and into it, I like to incorporate them in,” says Williamson. “It’s not every song, but quite a few songs, I’m out there. If we do a song like ‘Margaritaville,’ they’ll sing along and go crazy.”
Williamson’s deep connection to The Butterfly Club shapes each performance. He recognizes the regulars who return weekend after weekend, and he welcomes newcomers just the same.
The Butterfly Club itself is part of the magic. Oversized windows frame picturesque countryside views, while
Mike Williamson commands the stage at The Butterfly Club in Beloit.
warm green accents on the chairs, floors and bar cast a cozy glow. The spacious dance floor invites guests to twirl to the music, just as they have for generations. Vintage supper club touches – soft candlelight, crisp white tablecloths, vintage decor, the hum of
conversation – all add to the charm.
Of course, no supper club experience is complete without iconic food and drinks. The Butterfly Club serves up classic Old Fashioneds, Manhattans and a number of signature cocktails alongside a menu featuring juicy steaks, fresh seafood and the famous Wisconsin Friday night fish fry.
The Sala family’s commitment to live entertainment and hospitality has kept guests coming back for more than 20 years, but entertainment has been a tradition at the Butterfly Club for decades. The club marked its centennial last August.
Williamson’s history with the club stretches back to the 1980s, when he first performed as part of the Ron Pedersen Trio.
Decades later, he still feels like part of the family.
“Mike, Hektor, Uljana, Sonilla, Aeneas – they treat me like I’m part of their family,” says Williamson. “They care about their guests, their employees and the history of this place. I’ve never worked anywhere that felt more like home.”
The Butterfly Club is located at 5246 E. County Road X, in Beloit. Call (608) 362-8577 for reservations. ❚
The Sala family (left to right): Mike Sala, Alexander Sala, Sonila Sala, Britton Sala, Uljana Sala, Aeneas Sala and Hektor Sala. Not pictured: Andrea Sala and Cassandra Sala.
Old Fashioneds at The Butterfly Club are typically crafted with fruit, brandy and bitters.
A Birth Plan that Puts Mom in Control
By Chris Linden, executive editor
Hospitals have long been the standard option when it’s time to deliver a baby, but it’s not the only choice. Home births are making a comeback.
For mothers in Illinois and Wisconsin, Beloit Health System’s new NorthPointe Birth Center in Roscoe, Ill., provides a hybrid: out-of-hospital births, which combine the best of hospitals and homebirths.
“We work with those moms who want a home birth but they’re hesitant about it,” says Arlene Smock, director of the Birth Center. “This is a place where they can feel safe and get the medical attention if they need it, even if that means being transferred to the hospital.”
The big difference between a hospital birth, a home birth and an outof-hospital birth isn’t just the setting. Women who seek a home birth are looking for less medical intervention.
They want to be free from beeping monitors, IV hookups, extra medications and lots of restrictions.
“I think a lot of it comes down to supporting the natural process,” says Cammy Roe, certified nurse midwife and director of midwifery services at the Birth Center. “It goes back to the idea that a mother’s body knows what to do.”
The Birth Center is designed to be as home-like as possible. The three birthing suites feel almost like spacious hotel rooms, complete with a queensized bed, a large tub, a spacious shower and a minimum of medical equipment in sight.
Unexpected things can happen, so the Birth Center team is prepared. Harlem-Roscoe Fire Department performs drills to ensure a 5-minute response. Beloit Hospital is 11 miles away.
Baby and mom generally go home in as little as 6 hours, says Roe.
“In a hospital you have so many layers of staff and so many decisions that affect their entire birth experience,” says Smock. “Here, you are in control of your birth with your midwife. It’s a group effort.”
NorthPointe Birth Center is located at 5609 E. Rockton Road in Roscoe, Ill. Learn more about this option at beloithealthsystem.org. ❚
Midwife Cammy Roe offers expert care to mothers and babies at NorthPointe Birth Center, in Roscoe, Ill.
Stay Comfortable with Smart HVAC Care
By Peggy Werner
To ensure comfort, keep utility costs down and avoid costly surprises, it’s best to have your heating and air conditioning units inspected and maintained regularly, says Bill Sprague, co-owner of Gilley’s Heating and Air Conditioning.
“It’s one of the most important things you can do as a homeowner to keep a house comfortable and get the longest life out of your heating and air conditioning systems,” he says.
Sprague recommends people plan for upcoming weather by having their furnace checked in the fall and their air conditioner reviewed in the spring.
During an inspection, the technician will do a step-by-step check of the systems to make sure everything is in good condition and working properly.
“There are some things people can do themselves, but you don’t want to go inside the units, where there are
high-voltage connections,” Sprague says. “And don’t use a pressure washer to clean the condenser. Pressure washing causes the aluminum fins to bend and obstructs air flow, which can cause the condenser to stop working.”
In addition, homeowners shouldn’t expect their air conditioner to produce frigid cold on the hottest days of the summer season.
“We get a lot of calls when it is extremely hot because customers think their A.C. isn’t working,” says Sprague. “Most units are designed to lower the indoor temperatures 20 to 25 degrees below the outdoor temperature.”
An AprilAire unit attached to a furnace can control humidity levels in the home. A comfortable level of humidity is somewhere between 30 and 50 percent, Sprague says. High humidity can lead to mold growth in the home, while air that’s too dry can cause
static electricity, dry skin and cracks in wood furniture, he adds.
Keep a house cooler in the summer by closing drapes and blinds in the direction where the sun comes, and avoid using the oven and stove during the hottest days, says Sprague.
To schedule an appointment or receive 24-hour emergency service, contact Gilley’s at (815) 962-1927 or email service@gilleysheatingandair.com. ❚
Yin Yoga & Facials
Entertainment & Events
Ongoing, Thurs. 11 a.m.-noon. In this recurring class, enjoy the feelings of rejuvenation and steadiness that arise from a yin yoga practice. After the last pose, move into Shavasana with facial masks and serums that repair and replenish skin. Healing Grounds Center, 7510 288th Ave., Salem, (262) 5860199, healinggroundscenter.com.
Live Music Weekends at Studio Winery
Ongoing, Fri.-Sat. 5-9 p.m. Soak up blues and classic rock tunes, performed by local talent. Light bites available for munching. Seating is first come, first served. No reservations. Studio Winery and Geneva Lake Distilling, 401 Sheridan Springs Road, Lake Geneva, (262) 348-9100, genevalakedistilling.com.
Lake Geneva Magic Show
Recurring event; see website for times. Enjoy magic, comedy and illusions in an entertaining performance. Tristan Crist Magic Theatre, 100 N. Edwards Blvd., Lake Geneva, (262) 2480505, lakegenevamagic.com.
‘West Side Story’
Through April 13, see website for times. Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet” is transported to
New York City as two young lovers are caught between warring street gangs. Fireside Dinner Theater, 1131 Janesville Ave., Fort Atkinson, (920) 563-9505, firesidetheatre.com.
A Polka Party for the Pantry
April 5, 5-9 p.m. Evening includes silent auction, German buffet, German bier, and plenty of gemütlichkeit – that feeling of warmth, friendliness and good cheer. Proceeds benefit The Bridge Food & Diaper Bank. Riviera Ballroom, 812 Wrigley Dr., Lake Geneva, (262) 723-4488, readysetauction.com.
Murder Mystery: ‘I Love the ’80s to Death’
April 11, 7-9 p.m. After a three-course dinner, peg your jeans, slouch your socks, flash some neon and join in the 1980s flashback fun as you solve a big mystery. The Abbey Resort & Avani Spa, 269 Fontana Blvd., Fontana, (800) 709-1323, visitlakegeneva.com.
The Second City
April 11, 7 p.m. From the place that launched the careers of Tina Fey, Stephen Colbert, Steve Carell and more comes the next generation of comedy superstars. Young Auditorium, 930 W. Main St., Whitewater, (262) 472-4444, uww.edu/youngauditorium.
The Genius of Frank Lloyd Wright
April 16, 1 p.m. Storyteller Timothy Totten weaves together love, architecture and intrigue as he reviews the life and work of “The Greatest American Architect.” Town Bank Community Room, 824 E. Geneva St., Delavan, (262) 728-3111, aramlibrary.org.
Easter Champagne Brunch
April 20, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Bring the family for a special brunch, complete with Easter egg hunt for kids and complimentary professional family photos. Res. req. 1878 on the Lake at Lake Lawn Resort, 2400 E. Geneva St., Delavan, (262) 728-7950, lakelawnresort.com. ❚
Tristan Crist Magic Theatre features a blend of magic, comedy and illusions.
