Burlington Our Town 2013 by Edward Nadolski

Burlington Wisconsin

PUBLISHED BY

Burlington Standard Press 2013/14

BURLINGTON OUR TOWN 2013/14

Welcome to

Our Town

On the cover

Refusing to let it rain on their parade, Shelby Busch (from left), Rebecca Campbell and Gwen Busch turn their umbrella upside down and use it to collect chocolate bars tossed out by participants in Burlington’s Memorial Day parade. ED NADOLSKI Our Town

Where heroes rush in when the bell sounds It started like any other call – a scratchy voice over the emergency radio airwaves dispatching firefighters for a blaze at a local food-processing plant. But in the few minutes it took local firefighters to arrive at Echo Lake Foods, they were able to surmise that this was no ordinary fire call. Another alarm went out. Then another and another. Flames burst through the roof of the factory and were whipped high into the frigid air by angry January winds – the same winds that dispersed the spray from fire hoses at radical angles. Two more alarms: more flames, more fears. Nearby residents evacuated from their homes. Still more alarms. As the flames rose, the alarms mounted and the hours ticked by, local officials – from the greenest volunteer firefighter on up to the fire chief, the city administrator and the mayor – stepped forward to embrace their sworn duties with professionalism and concern. Left in the wake of the eight-alarm battle that turned out to be the largest firefighting response in state history was an eerie scene of devastation – twisted and blackened metal support beams heavily hung with icicles. It was a stark reminder of the destructive fire – both in terms of property and economic impact – and the nasty conditions under which it was fought. However, as a bright sun rose over Burlington the following morning, a rainbow – projected by the prism of the firefighters’ spray – arced over the scene creating a sense of hope that the food processing company and the community would make a quick recovery – thanks in no small part to the selfless servants who stepped up to the challenge. Welcome to Our Town … where heroes rush in when the bell sounds.

– Ed Nadolski Editor in Chief

BURLINGTON OUR TOWN 2013/14

Inside

B-Town Sounds ..............................page 6 Our government ..........................page 7 Our schools ...................................page 8 Our Haylofters .............................page 13 Our farmers market.....................page 16 Our theater .................................page 18 Our charity ..................................page 21 Events calendar .........................page 23 Area directory.............................page 27

IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS FOR EMERGENCIES CALL 911 NON-EMERGENCY NUMBERS: CITY OF BURLINGTON: • Police – 342-1100 • Fire and rescue – 763-7842 • City Hall – 342-1161 TOWN OF BURLINGTON: • Police patrol (Racine County Sheriff) – 763-9558 • Police Chief (administrative) – 763-7539 • Fire – 763-3070, ext. 4 • Marine patrol chief – 210-0051 • Town Hall– 763-3070

The sweetest festival

Each Memorial Day weekend, Burlington becomes Chocolate City, U.S.A., as an army of volunteers host ChocolateFest. The festival features an air-conditioned Chocolate Experience tent dedicated to the creamy confection, including chocolate sculptures (above). It also features a packed entertainment lineup including live music, variety shows (like the lumberjack demonstrations, left) and a carnival with rides and games to thrill kids of all ages. But the best thing about the festival – each year it generates thousands of dollars for the community-service groups that make up the volunteer workforce. ED NADOLSKI Our Town

BURLINGTON OUR TOWN 2013/14

OTHER: • Aurora Memorial Hospital of Burlington – 7676000 • Aurora Burlington Clinic – 767-8000 • Walworth County Sheriff –741-4400

Burlington Wisconsin

OUR TOWN An annual publication of

Burlington Standard Press & Southern Lakes Newspapers 700 N. Pine St., Burlington, WI 53105 (262) 763-3511 • www.myracinecounty.com

Editor in Chief...................................................... Edward Nadolski Special Sections......................................................Tracy Ouellette Creative Director....................................................... Sue Z. Lange Advertising Director................................................. Dee Fladwood Contributor..........................................................Jennifer Eisenbart

FOR ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES:

(262) 763-2575

our culture

JENNIFER EISENBART Our Town

Mark Prokop (left) and Lee Kromer perform at a recent open mic night at the Coffee House at Chestnut and Pine in downtown Burlington.

Brewing up coffee, drinking in community Coffee House quickly becomes showcase for culture, music

By Jennifer Eisenbart STAFF WRITER

When Paul and Rhonda Sullivan first opened The Coffee House at Chestnut and Pine, they were very clear that they weren’t just trying to be “the” place in Burlington. They just, well, wanted people to have options. “This is your community. This is your place,” said Sharry Sullivan, another family member who is involved in the business. “Please come.” And they have, in droves. Now the coffee shop has a steady flow of customers there not just for the coffee, but for the homemade sandwiches, quiche and other foods, plus a rich tradition of live music and other artists. The Coffee House recently closed down East Chestnut Street between Dodge and Pine for the first-ever “Coffee House Rock” event. The music ran from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., with youth music workshops in the morning, and then local and national talent performing in the afternoon and evening.

The live music has turned out to be quite the draw, said Carly Rubach, general manager. “Burlington enjoys good quality music,” said Rubach, who also touted a partnership with the Burlington High School radio station, WBSD, in bringing in the bigger names, like the Dunwells and Enter the Haggis. “People come. People enjoy,” Rubach said. “Burlington just has a respect for any musical act that comes through town.” The big acts, though, aren’t the only acts in town. Each Thursday, the restaurant features “Open Mic Night” – a conglomeration of local artists who play everything from the harmonica and guitar to the banjo. There’s even an occasional poetry reading. The weekly crowd is diverse, but numerous regulars come to each Thursday “show,” hosted by Eric Erickson. “This is heaven to me. I love it. Every morning, I wake up, it’s Thursday, I know it’s going to be a good day,” said Erickson. “It’s just a place where people can come and play.

JENNIFER EISENBART Our Town

Ashley Stelmack fills an order as a barista at The Coffee House at Chestnut and Pine. BURLINGTON OUR TOWN 2013/14

B-Town Sounds concert series has developed faithful following After a successful inaugural season, the B-Town Sounds concert series returned in 2013 with a schedule of seven performances in Burlington’s Echo Park. And the best part for local music lovers? It’s all free. Thanks to the sponsorship of nine local businesses and organizations, the concert series returned without cost to the area residents who turn the park into a popular destination on alternating Thursday evenings. This year’s lineup includes music ranging from bluegrass to classic rock – with a healthy dose of the blues in between. Concerts are scheduled from 6:30-8:30 p.m. beginning in June and lasting to midSeptember. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets and are allowed to carry in food and beverages to enjoy during the show, according to Jennifer Miller, a member of the B-Town Sounds Committee. Food will also be available for purchase in the park. New this year, according to Miller, is an agreement with the adjacent Veterans Terrace to move the concerts indoors in the event of inclement weather. If that’s the case, concertgoers will not be allowed to carry in food and drink, but will be able to purchase it inside Veterans Terrace. This remainder of year’s lineup includes: • July 25: The Jimmys, blues and classic rock • Aug. 8: Jeannie Holiday, old school rock • Aug. 22: Natty Nation, reggae • Sept. 12: Piper Road Spring Band, bluegrass. B-Town Sounds is scheduled to not conflict with Waterford’s popular River Rhythms series, which is held on the Thursdays opposite of Burlington’s concerts. The 2013 B-Town Sounds series is sponsored by Runzheimer, Thrivent Financial for Lutherans, The Coffee House at Chestnut and Pine, Rice’s Liquor and Bruiser’s Pizza, The Riverview Studio and Get Artzy, Veterans Terrace, Canella Response Television, Burlington Flowers and Interiors, and Grater Tater. For additional information visit www.btownsounds.com.

BURLINGTON OUR TOWN 2013/14

Rockin’ the park again in 2013

The Brew City Big Band performs at the June 27 B-Town Sounds concert in Burlington’s Echo Park. The series continues on alternating Thursdays into September. JENNIFER EISENBART Our Town

our government City of Burlington www.burlington-wi.gov 300 N. Pine St., Burlington, WI 53105 Phone: 763-7996 • Fax: 763-3474 ELECTED OFFICIALS AND OTHER KEY PERSONNEL:

Mayor: Bob Miller, 3421161 Aldermen: 1st District Robert Prailes, 763-5194 Edward Johnson, 7638321 SUBMITTED PHOTO Our Town

New City of Burlington Fire Chief Perry Howard and his wife Sharon following his official swearing in as the city’s first full-time chief in June.

A whole new outlook

City has new chief, new approach to serving the community’s needs BY JENNIFER EISENBART STAFF WRITER

It’s been a year of change for the City of Burlington Fire Department – and a year of looking toward the future. On June 3, Perry Howard stepped in as the first full-time paid chief of the fire department. Howard was named to the position after an extensive nationwide search, one that drew 40 candidates from 14 different states. Howard’s appointment coincides with the expected wrap-up of a long, in-depth study of how emergency services in the city and town of Burlington can be better shared. Or, as both the town and city grow, how best can everyone work together? “We’re looking at what’s best for both communities going forward,” said former chief Dick Lodle, who retired this year and whom Howard replaced, about the study earlier this year. “Rather than be reactive, how can we be proactive?” The ability of the city to work with the town – and other departments – got a serious test in January with the huge fire at Echo Lake Foods. The company lost most of its production capacity in the fire (though they are rebuilding and rehiring) that drew

close to 100 different emergency agencies to help in some form or fashion over the course of the fire. The city used all five levels of the Mutual Aid Box Alert System – or MABAS – during the emergency, and the fire was eventually rated at eightplus alarms. In the wake of what was considered a positive response to the fire came the study. However, both the city and the town have been careful to avoid the word merger. “I hope people aren’t short-sighted on what the long-term goal is,” said Alderman Tom Vos in January. “The long-term goal is good firefighting and rescue response. I don’t want to see a time where we have nothing.” There seems to be little danger of that happening under Howard, who came in and immediately found himself enjoying the community he’s been hired to serve. “I’m excited, very excited about the opportunity,” Howard said. “There’s an outstanding group of employees, or volunteers there. “I think my job is to provide some leadership to this organization, some skill I have acquired over the years,” he said. “I want to transfer that to not only the full-time employees, but the volunteers.”

2nd District Ruth Dawidziak, 7633965 Peter Hintz, 763-7063 3rd District Thomas Vos, 763-2213 Jon Schultz, 757-8580 4th District Todd Bauman, (262) 2109257 Thomas Preusker, (262) 661-4488 City Administrator:

Kevin Lahner, 342-1161 City Clerk: Diahnn Halbach, 342-1171 City Attorney: John Bjelajac, 342-1161. Municipal Judge: Marvin Daniel, 342-1129 Police Chief: Peter Nimmer, 342-1100 DPW Director: Craig Workman, 539-3770 Streets and Parks Supervisor: Dan Jensen, 539-3770 Building, Electrical and Plumbing Inspector: Patrick Scherrer, 3421164 Librarian: Gayle Falk, 342-1133 Fire Chief: Perry Howard, 763-7842 Health Officer: Western Racine County, Cheryl Mazmanian, RN, 7634930

Town of Burlington www.tn.Burlington.wi.gov 32288 Bushnell Road, Burlington, WI 53105 Phone: 763-3070 • Fax: 763-2118 Hours: 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Monday-Friday ELECTED OFFICIALS AND OTHER PERSONNEL: Town Chairman: Ralph Rice, (262) 5392829 Town Administrator: Diane Baumeister, 763-3070 ext. 222; dbaumeister@ townofburlington.com Assessor: Associated Appraisal, (800) 7214157 Supervisors: Joan Boehm, 539-2377 Tyson Fettes, 492-6897 Richard Isaacson, 5374477 Jeffrey Lang, 308-2586 Clerk: Adelheid (Heidi) Streif, 7633070 ext. 221 astreif@

townofburlington.com Building Inspector: Jack Daams, 763-3070 ext. 1; Cell: 210-0062 Police Chief: Michael P. Sevick, 763-7539 chiefsevick@ townofburlington.com Fire Chief: Ed Umnus, 763-3070 Emergency Management: Skip Twardosz, 757-0657; twodoors4@wi.rr.com Municipal Court Judge: Rich Scholze, 763-8185 Municipal Clerk of Courts: Carrie Oldenburg, 763-8591

BURLINGTON OUR TOWN 2013/14

our schools JENNIFER EISENBART Our Town

BURLINGTON OUR TOWN 2013/14

Catholic Centralâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sarah Gould (left) and Riley Schmidt share a hug after clinching the WIAA Division 4 state title in November 2012. It was the second straight state championship for the Hilltoppers.

Titletown x 2

Local volleyball teams rack up two state titles in a row

BY JENNIFER EISENBART STAFF WRITER

hen a team is a defending state champion, expectations the following season are always high – some would say impossibly high. Rare is the team that lives up to those expectations. Rarer still is when two teams in one community not only live up to those expectations, but simultaneously come through as defending state champions. Burlington, as it turns out, has a rare talent for volleyball. The Burlington High School Demons and the Catholic Central High School Hilltoppers have been at the top of the Wisconsin girls volleyball world for two years in a row, capturing back-toback state titles in 2011 and 2012. Living up to hype At the start of the 2012 season, expectations were naturally high for the BHS volleyball team. With five seniors – three of them NCAA Division 1 recruits – plus a talented crop of freshmen, the Demons knew they had the makings of a championship squad, the kind that could produce back-to-back state titles. Across town at Catholic Central, things were a little more uncertain. The Lady ’Toppers graduated four senior starters – players who took on not just roles on the court but in leadership as well. In the end, however, both journeys dovetailed nicely last November, as Catholic Central won the Division 4 Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association state girls volleyball tournament, and then BHS won the Division 1 title. Burlington did what it did most of the season – it dominated its opponents. The Demons swept De Pere 25-18, 25-8, 25-17, withstood Menomonee Falls 25-13, 17-25, 25-16, 25-17, and then swept Divine Savior Holy Angels 2927, 25-20, 25-16. It was the second straight title in four straight trips to the state tournament for the BHS seniors, a group that includes Ciara Capezio, Kaysie Shebeneck, Morganne Longoria, Sam Webb and Abby Schmalfeldt. “The feeling’s amazing,” Shebeneck said following the tournament. “I’m just so proud of everyone.” Three of the seniors – Shebeneck, Capezio and Longoria – were named to the Wisconsin Volleyball Coaches Association All-State team Monday, and all three were named to the WVCA All-Tournament team as well.

CCHS finds confidence For Catholic Central coach Mae-Mae Oberhofer, the state title showed her how much confidence her team developed throughout the course of the year. “This senior class, I had to hope they could see they had a lot of potential,” Oberhofer said. “And they found that in the middle of the season. “That’s what makes me so proud.” The Lady ’Toppers dropped the first game to Luck in the state semifinals, but rallied to win 2025, 25-19, 25-17, 25-22, and then swept Newman Catholic of Wausau 25-15, 25-18, 25-22 in the finals. “Surreal – I don’t even know,” senior Maggie Smith, a third-team All-State pick, said of the winning moment. “Just a dream. It feels amazing.” Smith was joined on the Division 4 All-Tournament team by junior Megan Wadsworth and fellow senior Kelly Gould. Gould, who along with Smith, Sara Seib, Caitlin Rach, Brittany Martin and Ali Wiemer are all seniors, struggled for words to define the victory. “We’re just so happy to be here, and I’m just so happy I get to spend it with these guys,” said

Gould. Wiemer couldn’t find words. “I’m just so happy. That’s all I got,” Wiemer said. Seib followed with, “that’s all I’ve got, too.” And Martin, who got a self-described facial in the second game of the championship match – a ball to the face that caused a bloody nose and forced her to miss about half the game – got a chance to play on the state court after being a back-up setter the last three years behind Gould. “It’s a different feeling,” she said. “These last couple of weeks, I’ve had that nervous feeling, and the jitterbugs, I guess. “But it’s still an incredible feeling playing with these girls.”

The feeling’s amazing. I’m just so proud of everyone.” – Former Burlington High School volleyball player Kaysie Shebeneck on winning back-to-back state titles

JENNIFER EISENBART Our Town

Members of the Burlington High School girls volleyball team hold up the state championship gold ball after defeating Divine Savior Holy Angels for the WIAA Division 1 state title in November 2012. It was a repeat title for the Demons. BURLINGTON OUR TOWN 2013/14

BURLINGTON OUR TOWN 2013/14

our schools

All that

jazz JENNIFER EISENBART Our Town

Members of the Burlington B*Jazzled show choir perform “Kung Fu Fighting” during the Chocolate City Showcase at

Burlington High School. The choir hosts the event each January.

BHS show choir has a talent for the stage and as a host BY JENNIFER EISENBART STAFF WRITER

Since reinventing itself over the past several years, the Burlington High School show choir B*Jazzled has not only established itself as a talented show choir, but as a terrific host. For the third January in row this year, the choir played host to the Chocolate City Showcase, this time drawing 11 different choirs. While the winner didn’t change – Mayville High School won for the third of the three years the showcase has been held – the event continues to grow in popularity. The event was up to 11 choirs this year, including new entrants from El Paso Gridley High School, Illinois, Sussex Hamilton and Lodi. BHS choral director Penny Yanke says the event continues to grow because the people that come to it have fun. “They enjoy that everyone’s so friendly,” Yanke said. “They compete against groups they don’t normally compete against, because we’re

the only showcase in southeast Wisconsin.” And with the diversity comes a sharing of interests. While B*Jazzled performs at the showcase, it is only in exhibition. The choir members are free throughout the day to escort various choirs and serve as good hosts. Mason Hawes has been assigned to the same choir for two years – and continues to enjoy working with that group, Madison East. “My groups are fun,” he said. And the event – which starts at 9:30 a.m. and runs well into the evening – offers a display of musical talent not even a concert can match. With so many different choirs – most taking a “theme” approach to their shows – there are many genres of music on display. For example, in 2013, Mayville won with a big-band show. And Burlington wrapped up the performances with a spy-themed exhibition show that included “Kung Fu Fighting,” “Four Minutes to Save the World” and “For Your Eyes Only.”

JENNIFER EISENBART Our Town

Emily Kastor (left) and Ali Knight lead an ensemble of the Burlington B*Jazzled show choir during an exhibition performance at the Chocolate City Showcase. BURLINGTON OUR TOWN 2013/14

our schools BURLINGTON AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT www.basd.k12.wi.us District Office: 100 N. Kane St. • 763-0210 Superintendent: Peter Smet Assistant Superintendent: Connie Zinnen Business Manager: Ruth Schenning School Board Meets 2nd Monday at 7 p.m. David Thomspon, president, 534-4029 William Campbell, vice president, 763-2976 Larry Anderson, treasurer, 534-3706 Rosanne Hahn, clerk, 534-2915 Members: Jim Bousman, 763-6487; Philip Ketterhagen, 763-9323; Roger Koldeway, 7638631 Burlington High School 400 McCanna Pkwy. 763-0200 Principal: Eric Burling Assistant Principals: Mike Raether, Jill Oelslager Activities Director/ Assistant Principal: Eric Plitzuweit Karcher Middle School 225 Robert St. • 7630190

JENNIFER EISENBART Our Town

Principal: Keith Nerby Assistant Principal: Scott Schimmel Dyer Intermediate School 201 S. Kendrick Ave. 763-0220 Principal: Joyce Uglow Assistant Principal: Scott Schimmel Cooper Elementary School 249 Conkey St. • 7630180 Principal Christine Anderson Lyons Center 1622 Mill St., Lyons 763-5380 Principal: Susan Mosher Waller Elementary School 195 Gardner Ave. • 7630185 Principal: Victoria Libbey Winkler Elementary School 34150 Fulton St. • 5392726 Principal: TBA Southern Lakes Consortium Alternative High School 209 Wainwright Ave. 767-2626

PRIVATE SCHOOLS Catholic Central High School www.cchsnet.org 148 McHenry St., Burlington 763-1510 Principal: Eric Henderson St. Mary’s Catholic Grade School www.stmb.org/SMGS 225 W. State St., Burlington 763-1515 Principal: Loretta Jackson St. Charles Catholic

Catholic Central High School Principal Eric Henderson shows off the iPads used in the first year of the school’s “iPad Initiative.” All students at CCHS are issued iPads to use as part of their educational program.

Grade School www.mystcharles.org 449 Conkey St. • 7632848 Principal: Sister Margaret Pietsch St. John’s Lutheran Grade School www.stjohnsburlington. org 198 Westridge Ave. 763-2377 Wisconsin Parents Association (Home Schooling) Contact: (608) 283-3131

BURLINGTON OUR TOWN 2013/14

CCHS sold on using iPads in the classroom First year program rated a success by administrators

BY JENNIFER EISENBART STAFF WRITER

For Catholic Central High School, a brave new step into the 21st century proved to be extremely fruitful in the 2012-13 school year. After announcing last year that each and every student would be issued an iPad for school use, the private school had to hit the ground running with 173 students, 60 percent of textbooks available as e-Books – and maybe just a little bit of trepidation. But as it happened, the grand experiment went pretty much to form, and both Principal Eric Henderson and Admissions Director Kyle Scott calling the first year of the program a success. “(It went) really well. A huge success, I’d say,” explained Scott, who added that the iPads allowed the school to be more efficient. “It’s important to integrate technology with the kids today, because that’s where we’re going.” Added Henderson, “it was very exciting to watch our students adapt in the classroom, and continue to find ways for the iPad to help them academically to grow.” Enrollment for the fall is currently at 185 students, so the program will grow right along with the student body. “We knew, with this being the first year of the program, we were going to have a few

bumps in the road,” explained Henderson. “And we did.” Among the issues were some predictable high-school hijinks, but also web filter issues and bandwidth issues. But Henderson said the students got past a lot of the first-time playfulness once “the newness wore off.” “The messing around, doing stuff you weren’t supposed to be doing on it wore off,” said Henderson. “When things settled down, it was a great tool in the classroom.” One example of using the iPad as a tool came from long-time teacher Natalie Harford, who used the iPad with microscopes and dissections. “That was pretty neat,” Henderson said. But another factor was making it possible for students to do research right away – to open up an iPad and look up a source, or a photo, or text. “I think the biggest positive was the ability of kids to do research literally at their fingertips,” “They were able to research things on the web immediately.” There were other benefits, such as the camera function on the iPads making it possible for students to take pictures of a blackboard, versus taking the time to write down everything a teacher had said. “It’s important for us to make sure students have a diverse background,” Scott said. “When they get to college, they’re prepared.”

our community theater JENNIFER EISENBART Our Town

Lily (played by Julie Patten), the handmaiden to Princess Scarlet, explains to the audience the pressures of the day in “The Princess Knight.” The Haylofters presented the world premier play in the summer of 2012.

Haylofters helped shape world premier play Collaboration between writer/ director and troupe sparked creative synergy

BY JENNIFER EISENBART STAFF WRITER

Members of the Haylofters – Wisconsin’s oldest continuously running theater troupe – had the privilege in 2012 of bringing a world premier production to the stage. And in the process, the actors and actresses who make up the troupe helped develop the characters in ways that surprised and pleased the show’s writer and director T.C. DeWitt. It was a match made in theater heaven that took DeWitt’s play “The Princess Knight” to a new level. “A lot of the characters are becoming more than what I originally set out,” DeWitt admitted at the time. “I had to rethink these characters.” He seemed to enjoy the journey, though, along with a very willing cast. “I’ve had experience before doing a brandnew show,” said Kimberly Lyn Casey, who

played the part of Princess Scarlet. “It’s always fun because it is so brand new. “It was one thing to sit down for the first time and read the show,” she added. “It’s another to take the characters and bring them to life.” After making its world premiere on the stage at The Malt House Theater in Burlington T.C. DeWitt during the summer of 2012, the show was produced by East Troy High school and is now in filming for a puppet showing featuring much of the original cast. A synopsis Just what is “The Princess Knight”? Well, think of it as a combination of fairy tales mixed SEE HAYLOFTERS, PAGE 15

BURLINGTON OUR TOWN 2013/14

HAYLOFTERS FROM PAGE 13

with music and a snappy sense of humor – a story bursting at the seams: A first-born prince wanting to marry the queen’s only daughter; A princess who wants nothing to do with marriage – at least not her betrothed; Three characters in search of the meaning of life after being ruthlessly thrown into service by an evil baron, and; A baron … in anger management therapy? Of course, there is the princess’s handmaiden, Lily, who consistently breaks theater’s “fourth wall” by talking to the audience. “It’s such a great power to have,” DeWitt explained. Actually, while DeWitt was speaking about being able to break the fourth wall, the statement could also apply to his own journey. DeWitt first considered writing the musical back in 2007, the idea coming to him as a “fairy tale about a princess who is a hero.” But the story – and the musical – didn’t really gain traction until 2009, when DeWitt nearly lost his life after being shot in Los Angeles. A case of what DeWitt calls “wrong time,” he was shot walking to his car late at night. “I kind of had to relearn how to see,” said DeWitt, who also worked in visual arts at the time. “My only avenue left as an artist was to write. “That’s when I decided to start working on The Princess Knight, and really try to make it happen.” Pitching the show It took DeWitt the better part of two years to bring the show to life. When he pitched it to the Haylofters two summers ago, though, the community theater group committed instead to do “Jesus Christ Superstar” – a musical it had been trying to land for more than five years. In the end, it was a blessing in disguise for both parties. The theater nearly pulled an all-time record – missing selling out every single show by only a few seats at one matinee – and DeWitt, well, he had time to sit down and look at things again. “It gave me more time to refine,” DeWitt explained. In addition to Scarlet, the princess who longs to fulfill her dreams and live a story of her own, the show features Baron Von Briar Thorn (played by Nathaniel Hedges-Goettl), an “evil” man with a maniacal laugh who delights in blasting body parts off of his anger management therapist, played by Libby Diechsel. Both were played by first-time Hayloft participants. Hedges-Goettl had committed to participating in the Bristol Renaissance Fair, but otherwise had an empty summer. “I don’t have to be this very deep, complicated person,” said Hedges-Goettl, who nonetheless offered an insight into the many different sides of the Baron. “I can just be fun and energetic and funny,” he added. “And not worry about how I would hold my left pinky in this situation.” Actually, Hedges-Goettl’s summation of the situation also accurately puts into words what the whole cast went through last summer. As Max Easley, who played Prince Sandstone, put it, “I’m the first Prince Sandstone. “It’s a world premiere and I’m honored to be doing the part,” he said. Everyone got a chance to build the characters from the ground up. And in many cases, DeWitt said, the actors took the characters into uncharted waters. Libby Grahn played the unnamed anger management therapist as a nerdish, booky type who is constantly consulting her notebook – at least, when she has the hands to do so. DeWitt envisioned a Sigmund Freud type – played by a man. “By creating this uptight, nerdy type of doctor … she is a great juxtaposition to Candace.” “Candace” is Candace Lauren Ostler, a friend of DeWitt’s from California who came to Wisconsin specifically to take part in the show. She played Vesper, the Baron’s right-hand evil minion, with an off-the-wall craziness that defies definition.

JENNIFER EISENBART Our Town

Queen Rose Petal (played by Rachel Oldenburg) smiles at the idea of her daughter’s wedding during the Haylofters production of the world premier play “The Princess Knight.”

Two shows left on Haylofters slate The Haylofters have two shows remaining on their 2013 schedule – the traditional all-children show in August and the season finale in October. All shows are presented at the historic Malt House Theater, 109 N. Main St., Burlington. “Dear Edwina, Jr.” The setting is a garage in PawPaw, Mich., home of the Dear Edwina show. Follow Edwina as she directs the kids of the neighborhood in one production number after another, acting out each letter. Edwina and the kids take the audience as well as each other through many of life’s lessons. Show dates are Aug. 8-11 and 15-18. The Young Haylofters show is being directed by Julie Busch. Thursday through Saturday shows are 7 p.m., and Sunday shows are 2 p.m. matinees. “I Hate Hamlet” A soap opera star agrees to do the role of Hamlet in a production of New York City’s Shakespeare in the Park. When he decides to move into the apartment that John Barrymore once occupied, will the actor benefit from some unsolicited ghostly advice? Show dates are Oct. 3-5, 11-13 and 18-20. The show is being directed by Mary Hubbard Nugent. Thursday through Saturday shows are at 7:30 p.m. Sunday shows are 2 p.m. matinees. For more on the Haylofters, visit the company’s website at http://www. thehaylofters.com. BURLINGTON OUR TOWN 2013/14

Market Fr

Revamped farmers market strives to keep things local

BY JENNIFER EISENBART STAFF WRITER

ike fresh?

ike local? ike knowing exactly what you’re buying in terms of food? Then it might be time to check out the Burlington Farmers Market. While the farmers market may have had shaky roots – it spent its early years in parking lots at various grocery stores and the former Vets Building (now Veterans Terrace) – the market truly has found its home at Wehmhoff Square. The market at the park started with 15 vendors, and has grown to close to 30 now. In addition to the fresh produce, there are also fresh meats and cheeses, fresh bread and prepared food. Later in the year, apples, corn and pumpkins make their way to the market. And on top of all that, there is weekly music in the gazebo, everything from bluegrass to jazz to acoustic guitar. Market Director Carol Reed said the park has found a home for the market. “I think it’s been excellent,” said Reed. “I think it’s an amazing thing. I think it’s It’s gotten to be a community event. “I think it’s a really cool thing,” a really cool she added. “I don’t think this park has ever been used as much as it is now.” thing. I don’t Over the past few years, the market think this park has continued to develop. At the end of 2009, the market changed its policy to has ever been limit entry to vendors whose products come from within a 75-mile radius of used as much Burlington. as it is now.” “The market provides locally-grown produce and products that are sold by – Farmers Market Director the people who grow or make them,” Carol Reed according a press release on the market website. “In doing so the market provides access to fresh, tasty, seasonal products, and awareness of what is grown locally.” The farmers market has also done two “Harvest of the Market” dinners, both held at Veterans Terrace. It serves as a fundraiser for the market. And the offerings only continue to grow. Among the newer vendors at the market is Anna Moldenhauer of WisConian Delectables – a collection of handcrafted chips made from fresh tortillas. Moldenhauer’s flavors range from blue raspberry to “Apple of My Eye” – a mix of cinnamon and sugar to create a tasty sweet chip – and also the newest hit, “Now THAT’S a Pizza.” Moldenhauer started coming to the market in 2012, but is now in her first full year with 25 different flavors. “This is my first full summer,” said Moldenhauer. “I like the people. It’s Burlington. It’s friendly, it’s laid back.” Dia Kleitsch, who is at the market for Sugar Creek Farm, says she comes because it’s the place to be for producers of wholesome local foods. “I’ve been here since its inception,” said Kleitsch. “I love interacting with people and educating people about our product – grass-fed beef. “And I like meeting new people.” BURLINGTON OUR TOWN 2013/14

2013 vendors at the Burlington Farmers Market • Adoption Acres • Allen’s Triangle Restaurant • Benhart Farms • Brightonwoods Orchard • Decatur Dairy—Pineview Farm • Ela Orchard • Jake’s Kettle Corn • LarryVille Gardens • LuAnn’s Butters • LuAustin Brand • Midnight Confections • Nature’s Niche Farm • River Valley Ranch • Roberts Produce • Rushing Waters Fisheries • Simon’s Gardens • Soap of the Earth LLC • Steinhoff Honey • SueSki’s Worm Farm • Sugar Creek Farm • Wild Flour Bakery • The Coffee House at Chestnut & Pine • WisConian Delectables

resh JENNIFER EISENBART Our Town

Burlington residents and visitors (above) stroll through Wehmhoff Square Park during the weekly Farmers Market. WisConian Delectables owner Anna Moldenhauer (below) works her stand on a recent Thursday evening at the market.

JENNIFER EISENBART Our Town

Burlington Farmers Market Director Carol Reed (upper photo) buys peas and strawberries from Doug Derkson at the Walvoord Farms booth. Dia Kleitsch (above) grills vegetables and brats at the Sugar Creek Farm tent at the Burlington Farmerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Market. BURLINGTON OUR TOWN 2013/14

our theater

“

It’s kind of bittersweet that film is going away. But once you see the digital picture the bittersweet goes away.” – Plaza Theater owner Shad Branen, left

A story fit for the movies BY ED NADOLSKI EDITOR IN CHIEF

Local theater owner avoids extinction by going digital – just like the big guys 18

BURLINGTON OUR TOWN 2013/14

case – that the little guy is sometimes setting the pace. When it comes to the latest in movie technology, Owner Shad Branen leapt across the digital divide small-town, independently owned theaters are at a in the spring of 2013 with new projection equipment distinct disadvantage as they face competition from that put the four-screen local theater on the cutting the corporate-owned multiplexes that dominate the edge of movie technology. Since then all of the shows on the Plaza’s screens movie-going landscape. Digital projection, 3D and arena seating are just have been projected in clear, crisp 4K digital format. three of the impressive, but expensive, modern theater upgrades that have left most independently Avoiding extinction When Branen talks about the long history of the owned theaters on the outside looking in. In many cases, all the little guys can do is wave Plaza Theater – and the fact that it had essentially goodbye to customers lured away from the charm used the same technology of film projected on a and convenience of hometown theaters to the screen since it opened 76 years ago – he gets a little eye-popping pizzazz of the latest technological ad- bit nostalgic. But as a businessman and theater owner, Branen vance. But one peek behind the vintage 1927 façade of is also forced to have a practical side. Burlington’s Plaza Theater reveals – at least in this And when his practical side told him it’s time to

change or go the way of the dinosaurs, Branen listened. His David-vs.-Goliath story is about the very survival of independent theaters and the perpetuation of a local pastime that dates to the time when both flappers and farmers came together to watch Hollywood’s best in the heart of Burlington. From a practical standpoint the Plaza Theater – and some 2,000 other independent theaters across the nation – are facing a “convert or die” ultimatum from the motion picture industry. Branen said most of the major studios have already informed theater owners that they will stop distributing movies on film by the end of the year. That means the theaters that don’t convert will have to compete for a dwindling number of films from dwindling number of studios – until there’s no film at all. According to officials with the National Association of Theater Owners (NATO), the full conversion to digital will save studios about $1 billion a year in the cost to make and distribute movies. For the studios, the decision is a no-brainer – the digital movies are cheaper to produce and provide a higher-quality experience for theater patrons. And with roughly two-thirds of the nation’s 5,700 for-profit theaters (representing 39,888 screens, according to NATO) already converted to digital, the time is right for the studios to force the hands of the remaining theater owners. Many of the independents, however, lack the financial resources to make the leap to digital. For Branen, the decision to go digital hinged on a chance meeting with a Sony representative and a relatively attractive financing plan. “It’s kind of bittersweet that film is going away,” Branen said. “But once you see the (digital) picture the bittersweet goes away.” On the cutting edge The 4K digital technology offered by Sony and installed at the Plaza is touted as having four times better resolution than the 2K digital format currently in use at most theaters, according to a company press release. In addition, the system comes with Dolby 7.1 sound capability and the ability to employ a dual-lens projection system that will accommodate 3D movies. “The picture quality is phenomenal,” Branen said. “This (system) gives us even more potential in the future.” With a price tag topping $250,000, the Plaza’s conversion to digital was not made lightly or easily, Branen said. Like the 1980s battle between VHS and Beta videotape formats, Branen wanted to be sure he selected a digital format that would be in use for a long time. While he’d been considering various options for more than a year, it was a chance meeting at a NATO conference in 2012 that led Branen to the Sony 4K system. “It was everything we wanted,” he said. “And it was just by chance I sat next to (the Sony representative).” Financing is key The system came with a financing package – Virtual Print Fees, or VPF – that offers points that can be reinvested into the cost of the conversion. Branen said it is similar to a lease-to-own program. That package, along with Branen’s own investment and financing made the project viable. “To do this completely on our own is cost prohibitive,” he said.

ED NADOLSKI our Town

Plaza Theater Crew Chief/Projectionist Marcus Baumgardner starts a movie on the touch-screen interface of a new digital projector at the Burlington Theater. The Plaza is one of thousands of independent theaters that are essential being forced to convert to the new format to stay in business. Now, rather than receiving weekly shipments of labor-intensive 35-millimeter film reels, the Plaza receives digital hard drives that can be loaded directly into one of the four projectors or a central server. The theater will also be able to forgo shipments entirely and download the new releases by satellite to the Plaza’s server. And instead of having an employee hover over a projector to start each movie, the digital projectors can be started with a remote button in the concessions stand or even from a smart phone app, Branen said. Also gone are the days when film breaks occasionally led to delays and dissatisfied customers in the middle of movies. Eye on the future While he’s excited about the advances digital projection brings to his theater, Branen does feel a bit conflicted about abandoning the film format so suddenly and permanently. He plans to keep at least one of his film projectors around for tours and educational purposes as a tribute to the history of the theater. But that doesn’t mean Branen is stuck in the past. Since purchasing the theater several years ago he has made several changes intended to improve the movie-going experience for customers. In 2012 he installed new, wider seating with cup and tray holders. A year before that he introduced food, beer and wine service. All of the changes are designed to help the Plaza remain competitive in a market dominated by corporate theater ownership. Of all the changes, however, the conversion to digital allows the Plaza to remain relevant as a firstrun movie theater. “It was crucial to the survival of the Plaza,” Branen said. “It secures our future.”

ED NADOLSKI Our Town

Plaza Theater owner Shad Branen says he plans to hang onto at least one of the 35-millimeter film projectors that have been a staple at the Burlington theater. Besides the nostalgic value, Branen plans to use the project for tours and educational purposes. BURLINGTON OUR TOWN 2013/14

BURLINGTON OUR TOWN 2013/14

our charity

ED NADOLSKI Our Town

Funds generated by the operation of Veterans Terrace are funneled to the Burlington Community Fund, which returns them to the community through grants designed to improve ed-

ucation, enrich arts and culture, and enhance quality of life for local residents.

An engine for good Veterans Terrace now generates grants through Burlington Community Fund

BY JENNIFER EISENBART STAFF WRITER

When plans were first announced to renovate the former Burlington Veterans Building, few people knew about the charity that would arise from it. Now, with Veterans Terrace completed and open for going on four years, the funds generated to first cover the costs of renovating the building are finding other uses that benefit the community as a whole. As part of the effort to establish Veterans Terrace came creation of the Burlington Community Fund, which functions under the following mission statement: “To assist in making the Burlington area a better place to live, work, play and retire by helping

people, enhancing education, enriching arts and culture, honoring military service, contributing to wellness, and improving the community and the environment through financial management of gifts and grants from individuals and organizations. “Additionally, it is our highest calling to faithfully distribute funds generated by the operations of Veterans Terrace at Echo Park in accordance with our mission.” Thanks to a board of directors and a mission to help out the community, the BCF has distributed nearly $50,000 in grant money – most of it over the past year. The Community Fund is a non-profit organization designed to make it possible to not only help those in the community, but also provide a way for others to make a charitable investment.

Funds donated to the BCF are immediately tax-deductible, and the grants can be spread out over whatever timeframe the donor wants. The list of recipients is long and varied. In addition to making donations to various service agencies like Love Inc. and the Transitional Living Center, the fund has granted scholarships to local high school students, helped the Special Olympics, and served as the host forum for candidate forums and fundraisers. Other recent donations have gone to the Burlington High School Koral Klub for assistance in purchasing the rights to the production of “Les Miserables,” the BHS B*Jazzled show choir to cover expenses associated with the annual Chocolate City Showcase, Partners2 for it’s work in local schools to prevent teen alcohol and CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

BURLINGTON OUR TOWN 2013/14

Funding Community Needs Here is a list of organizations that received grants from the Burlington Community Fund: 2011 • Scholarships for local graduates of Burlington and Catholic Central high schools • Love, Inc • Transitional Living Center • CATHE Center 2012 • Scholarships for local graduates of Burlington and Catholic Central high schools 2013 • Burlington High School Koral Klub for production rights to “Les Miserables” • Love, Inc., for roof replacement • B*Jazzled show choir to host Chocolate City Showcase at BHS • Partners II for prevention of alcohol and drug abuse among students at local schools • Catholic Central High School toward the purchase of a new bus • Love, Inc., to assist in efforts to serve workers displaced by Echo Lake Foods fire • Burlington Community Garden • Triad West for purchase of air conditioners for distribution to the needy through Love, Inc. • BHS Scholarships

BURLINGTON OUR TOWN 2013/14

ED NADOLSKI Our Town

Burlington High School student Gunnar Knight performs a scene from “Les Miserables” during the spring of 2013. The Burlington High School Koral Klub secured a grant from the Burlington Community Fund to purchase the rights to produce the popular play. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21

drug use, and to Catholic Central High School to help purchase a new school bus. In addition to the BCF re-distributing funds generated by rental of Veterans Terrace for weddings and other functions, the group also allows the facility to be used free of charge for various private fundraisers for local citizens and service organizations. Bobbie Wagner, one of the members of the Board of Directors said that once Veterans Terrace was paid for, the idea was to direct the funds to an entity that would help the community on an ongoing basis. “We wanted to set up something so the community could be helped,” she said. A grant process is now available online at http://burlingtoncommunityfund.com/ and funds are distributed quarterly. “I think everything has fallen into place really nice,” Wagner explained. “I think the grant program is working really well.” Jerry Delay, the president of the board of directors, said that – thanks to the generosity of private donors – Veterans Terrace was paid off earlier than expected, and now the money can go elsewhere. “We need to get it out into our local area,” Delay said. “If it’s (a) legitimate (cause) and it can help the community, that’s where the money should go.” The building, he said, is a testament to that process – and also to the veterans in the area, of which Delay is one.

Celebrity Cupcake Wars

Mayor Bob Miller (from left), Miss Burlington Area ChocolateFest Claire Olsen, Miss Southern Lakes Maggie Hill and former Miss Wisconsin USA Caitlin Machol work on decorating their cupcakes during the Celebrity Cupcake Wars at the 2013

JENNIFER EISENBART Our Town

Burlington Home Expo and Chocolate Extravaganza. The annual event, hosted by the Burlington Area Chamber of Commerce, is held at Burlington High School in March.

calendar of events July – Racine County Fair, 24-28 9 a.m. to 11 p.m., on the Racine County Fairgrounds,

19805 Durand Ave., Union Grove. Rides, music, food, tractor pulls and more. Info: (262) 878-3895 or www. racinecountyfair.com.

– Kiwanis Civic Band 7 p.m. 26 at Echo Park. Free summer family concert; bring chairs, food and

– Kiwanis Civic Band 7 p.m. at 2summer Echo Park, season finale. Free family concert; bring chairs, food and favorite beverage.

show, motorcycle poker run, live music and more.

– B-Town Sounds Summer Concert 8Burlington. Series, 6:30 p.m. at Echo Park in Free summer family concert series. Bring your chairs, food and favorite beverage.

favorite beverage.

– Sidewalk Sales 26-27 sponsored by Burlington Area Chamber of

Commerce, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Wehmoff Square in Burlington. Crafts, jewelry, art, clothes, food, and much more. Book sale is July 25, 5 p.m.-noon Sat. Ice cream social is Sat. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at Pioneer Cabin. Info: (262) 763-6044 or www. burlingtonchamber.org.

– Kiwanis Civic Band 7 p.m. at St. John’s Church picnic, Paris Township.

– Festival of Summer bike ride, rain or shine. For times and routes email mlange@elknet.net.

Burlington. Free summer family concert series. Bring your chairs, food and favorite beverage.

benefit the parish.

(262) 210-6360.

August Burlington Farmers’ Market, 3-7 – St. Clare Fun Fest on church – Burlington Farmers’ Market, 1and–p.m. on the corner of Washington 17 grounds in Wind Lake, 5-9 p.m., 12 3-7 p.m. on the corner of Pine streets. Info: (262) 210-6360. and Aug. 18, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Proceeds Washington and Pine streets. Info:

– Burlington Farmers’ Market, 25 3-7 p.m. on the corner of – Markstock TLC fundraiser at Washington and Pine streets. Info: 2 ChocolateFest grounds, 5-11:30 (262) 210-6360. p.m., softball, evening walk/run, car – B-Town Sounds Summer Concert Series, 6:30 p.m. at Echo Park in Burlington. Free summer family concert series. Bring your chairs, food and favorite beverage.

is free. Kids activities, crafts, raffle baskets, oral auction, food, more. Info: stlouisparishwi.com

– Burlington Farmers’ Market, 3-7 p.m. on the corner of Washington and Pine streets. Info: (262) 210-6360. – Cruise-in at Dairy Queen, 5 p.m., and check out classic cars. It’s Children’s Miracle Hospital Treat Day.

– Faith festival - share faith and – Chocolate City Outing, 11 18 fellowship. Enjoy a pig roast and 17 am. to 8 p.m., Browns Lake corn roast, games for all ages, and Golf Course, 932 Browns Lake Drive. faith concert at 4:30 p.m. For more information, call 763-3281.

210-6360.

Golf outing fundraiser supporting the Burlington Area Chamber of Commerce. Event includes 18 rounds, cart, lunch, dinner, raffles, prizes, etc. Dinner will be held at the Veterans Terrace. Info: (262) 7636044 or www.burlingtonchamber.org.

– B-Town Sounds Summer 22 Concert Series, 6:30 p.m. at Echo Park, Burlington. Free summer

– Burlington Farmers’ Market, 19 3-7 p.m. on the corner of Washington and Pine streets. Info:

– Burlington Farmers’ Market, 26 3-7 p.m. on the corner of Washington and Pine streets. Info:

– Burlington Farmers’ Market, 22 3-7 p.m. on the corner of Washington and Pine streets. Info: (262)

family concert series. Bring your chairs, food and favorite beverage. – Wings & wheels at Burlington Airport, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. See classic planes, cars, motorcycles, fire engines and even a train. Enjoy a pancake breakfast, brat lunch, airplane rides, fly-bys, demos and much more.

– Knights of Columbus Corn and – Burlington Farmers’ Market, 11 Brat Fest, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Enjoy 29 3-7 p.m. on the corner of arts, crafts, raffles, more. Call (262) 492Washington and Pine streets. Info: (262) 3026 for more info.

– Burlington Farmers’ Market, 3-7 p.m. on the corner of Washington and Pine streets. Info: (262) 210-6360.

– St. Louis Parish festival, Hwy. 17 G, Caledonia, 6-11 p.m., and Aug. 18, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Admission

210-6360.

(262) 210-6360.

– Wolf Lake Trail Run & 29 Hike, 10 a.m.-noon, 3.8 mile around Wolf Lake. Prizes, music, refreshments, more. Register $25; day of $30. Bong State Rec Area, Kansasville. For details, call (262) 878-5600.

September October – Burlington Farmers’ Market, 3-7 – Burlington Farmers’ Market, 3-7 5andp.m. on the corner of Washington 3 p.m. on the corner of Washington Pine streets. Info: (262) 210-6360. and Pine streets. Info: (262) 210-6360. B-Town Sounds Summer Concert 5 –Series, 6:30 p.m. at Echo Park,

CONTINUED ON PAGE 25

BURLINGTON OUR TOWN 2013/14

calendar of events – Turkey dinner and bazaar, 4-7 5Baptist p.m., Honey Creek Community Church, Hwy. D. For

reservations and more information, call (262) 534-3585.

– Burlington Farmers’ Market, 10 3-7 p.m. on the corner of Washington and Pine streets. Info: (262) 210-6360.

– Burlington Farmers’ Market, 17 3-7 p.m. on the corner of Washington and Pine streets. Info: (262) 210-6360.

– Burlington Farmers’ Market, 3-7 p.m. on the corner of Washington and Pine streets. Info: (262) 210-6360.

December – Christmas Parade, 6:30 p.m., 6parade, downtown Burlington. After the visit Santa at the Chalet in the

21-22–

– visit Santa at the Chalet in the 7-8 Wehmhoff Square Park, next to the library, 2-4 p.m. Info: (262) 763-

puzzles, more. Free parking. For details and admission fee, call (262) 763-3946.

Wehmhoff Square Park, next to the library. Info: (262) 763-6044.

6044.

– Breakfast with Santa, 9:30-11:30 a.m., CATHE Center, 125 E. State St. Fundraiser for the CATHE Center; admission is $8 for adults and $5 for kids. Info: (262) 210-9697 or www. catheonline.org

– Eco-Halloween hike at Bong – visit Santa at the Chalet in the 26 State Rec Area, Kansasville, 13 Wehmhoff Square Park, next to anytime between 6:30-8:30 p.m. Meet the library, 6-8 p.m. Info: (262) 763non-scary characters along the way, Jack-o-lanterns, skits, campfires, refreshments, games, crafts, more. For details, call (262) 878-5600.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 23

6044.

– visit Santa at the Chalet 14-15 in the Wehmhoff Square Park, next to the library, 2-4 p.m. Info:

(262) 763-6044. November – Bill Marten’s Food for the Needy, – visit Santa at the Chalet in the 3492-3026 2-8 p.m. Enjoy free food. Call (262) 20 Wehmhoff Square Park, next to for more information. the library, 6-8 p.m. Info: (262) 7636044.

visit Santa at the Chalet in the Wehmhoff Square Park, next to the library, 2-4 p.m. Info: (262) 763-6044.

– Logic Puzzle Museum, hands27 on family fun, 2-3:30 p.m. See exhibits, make a brainteaser, try

Ongoing events

American Legion meets the first Thursday of each month at Veterans Terrace at Echo Park, Burlington, lower level, 7:30 p.m., snacks and refreshments follow meeting, (262) 763-8995 Aquaducks Water Ski Club shows, Thursdays, 6:30 p.m., and Jr. show 4:30 p.m., Memorial Day through Labor Day. Professional style water ski show at Fischer Park on Browns Lake; free; donations welcome. Club’s performers range in age from 4 to adult and many enter professional careers. Pyramids, jump acts, chorus lines. For information www.aquaducks.org Burlington Public Library offers adult, teen, juvenile and anime book clubs, and summer reading program, fall, winter and spring storytimes and many more programs, (262) 763-7623, www. burlingtonlibrary.org Burlington Area Garden Club meets monthly, the second Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at Cross Lutheran Church, focusing on further learning and beautification. Its fundraisers support student scholarships and various garden projects. An annual plant sale and biennial garden tour fund these efforts. Call (262) 534-4449 for information.

ED NADOLSKI Our Town

With respect and honor

Racine County Veteran Services Officer Ali Nelson offers a heartfelt salute after placing a wreath at the foot of the Veterans Memorial in Echo Park during Burlington’s 2013 Memorial Day ceremony.

Burlington Senior Center, 201 N. Main Street (across from Town Fryer) – many activities: cards, bunco, bridge, jam session, committee on aging, food, blood pressure, foot care, Harmony Club and day care for older adults who need assistance; (262) 767-9880; www. burlingtonseniorcenter.com Burlington Ukulele Band plays at various events and practices at 10 a.m. every Tuesday at Cross Lutheran Church, 126 Chapel Terrace. For information call (262) 763-2204 The CATHE Center, Community Art Technology Health and Education, 125 E. State St., for ongoing music, classes and events call (262) 767-9661; www. catheonline.org Chocolate Museum, 113 E. Chestnut St. – chocolate and Nestle related museum items, chocolate gifts and mementos available; (262) 763-6044 Logic Puzzle Museum, 533 Milwaukee Ave., – hands on logic, brain, and mechanical puzzles; (262) 763-3946, www.logicpuzzlemuseum.org Spinning Top Museum, 533 Milwaukee Ave., unique museum, 35 hands-on tops, exhibit of 2,000 tops; more; (262) 763-3946, www.topmuseum.org Marine Corps League, Fox River Detachment, meets on the first Tuesday of each month at Veterans Terrace at Echo Park, 589 Milwaukee Ave., Burlington; 7 p.m.; (262) 763-8995 New Beginnings is a home-visitation program using Parents as Teachers curriculum, for parents of pre-natal to age 5 to help meet parental challenges. Call (262) 763-4930. This is a Western Racine County Health Department Partner Program.

Burlington Genealogical Society meets the third Wednesday of each month (except December) at the Gateway Tech building, 496 McCanna Drive, at 7 p.m.; (262) 534-6590 or (262) 637-4108

VFW Post 2823 meets the second Tuesday of each month at Veterans Terrace at Echo Park, 589 Milwaukee Ave., Burlington; 7 p.m.; snacks and refreshments following the meeting; (262) 539-2482

Burlington Historical Society maintains the Historical Society Museum at 232 N. Perkins Blvd., Whitman School in Schmaling Park on Beloit Street and Pioneer Cabin in Wehmhoff Square. The museum is open Sundays from 1-4 p.m. and by appointment. Whitman School is open by appointment. Pioneer Cabin Immigrant 1850 Homestead season begins the first Saturday in May and is open Saturdays from 1-4 p.m. through the last Saturday of October. Free admission. For information or arrangements for group tours at other times, call (262) 767-2884.

Ladies Auxiliary VFW Post 2823 meetings are the second Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m., at Veterans Terrace at Echo Park, 589 Milwaukee Ave., Burlington; new members welcome (262) 534-3482

Burlington Optimist Club meets second Tuesday of every month at 6:30 p.m.; call (262) 763-5680 Burlington Order of the Eastern Star meetings are held the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month at the Masonic Temple, 325 Kane St., at 7:30 p.m. Call (262) 763-4248 for information.

Disabled American Veterans meet the first Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m., in lower level, Veterans Terrace, 589 Milwaukee Ave., Burlington; new members welcome; (262) 534-3473 Korean War Veterans Association Chapter 227 breakfast is the first Wednesday of the month at Meadows Restaurant, 10615 Northwestern Ave. (Highway K), Franksville; 9 a.m.; info (262) 534-3024 Although we make every attempt to provide accurate information regarding area events, dates and times may change or events may be cancelled. Please verify the information before making plans.

BURLINGTON OUR TOWN 2013/14

Peaceful waters

A kayaker paddles along the Fox River through Browns Lake Golf Course on a sunny day in June 2013. The river and the golf course offer ample recreational activities for residents and visitors. ED NADOLSKI Our Town

BURLINGTON OUR TOWN 2013/14

area directory BICYCLING

CANOEING

Seven Waters Bike Trail Trail head is at the east end of Congress Street, near Riverside Park, extends north through Rochester, Waterford, Wind Lake and Muskego.

COFFEE

Burlington-Kansasville Trail Access at the south end of McCanna Parkway near Gateway Technical College. Extends east along former railway to Kansasville.

Grounded Coffee Shop 116 N. Dodge St., Burlington 763-8261

Fox River Landing 31423 Bridge Drive, Waterford 662-5690

Bob’s Pedal Pusher 817 N. Pine St., Burlington 763-7794

ACCOMMODATIONS AmericInn Motel

205 S. Browns Lake Drive • 262-534-2125 24-hour front desk; indoor pool, hot tub, Jacuzzi; sauna spa; free continental breakfast

Baymont Inn & Suites

750 Fox Lane • 262-534-4100 Kathy Gellendin, general manager Located just off Highway 36 in the Village of Waterford http://www.baymontinns.com

Beachview Motel and Lounge

30427 Durand Ave. • 262-763-8802 Located east of Burlington, across from Fischer Park on Browns Lake.

Grand Geneva Resort and Spa

7036 Grand Way (Hwy. 50), Lake Geneva • 262-2488811 or 800-558-3417 (toll-free) First-class resort with golf, skiing, spa, and more www.grandgeneva.com

Hampton Inn Burlington

400 N. Dodge St., Burlington • 262-767-0900 Located on the shores of Echo Lake Park and home of the famous Liars Club. Enjoy all things chocolate including the annual ChocolateFest, Chocolate Experience Museum, Spinning Top Museum, Burlington History Museum, Malt House Theater, and more. www.hamptoninnburlington

Hillcrest Inn and Carriage House

White River State Trail Trailhead is on west side of city near Spring Valley Road. Extends west to Elkhorn. Trail fee required.

BOWLING

Towne & Country Lanes 264 S. Pine St., Burlington 763-7333 www. towneandcountrylanes.com

CAMPGROUNDS Meadowlark Acres N5146 North Road, Burlington 763-7200

Richard Bong State Recreation Area

Chocolate Expressions 256 E. Chestnut St., Burlington 763-3905 chocolate-expressions.com

ED NADOLSKI Our Town

Browns Lake Golf Course, 3110 S. Browns Lake Drive, is host to local leagues, community outings and high school competitions.

Mountain Mudd 1707 Teut Road, Burlington

26313 Burlington Road (Hwy. 142), Kansasville 878-5600

The Coffee House at Chestnut & Pine 492 N. Pine St., Burlington (262) 661-4394 www.burlingtoncoffeehouse. com

Seno Woodland Education Center 3606 Dyer Lake Road, Burlington 539-3222/743-1694 www.senocenter.org YMCA Camp MacLean 31401 Durand Ave., Burlington 763-7742 www.campmaclean.com

The Coffee House Located in the SciFi Cafe 532 N. Pine St., Burlington 767-1116

CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING Richard Bong State Recreation Area 26313 Burlington Road (Hwy. 142), Kansasville 878-5600

CONTINUED ON PAGE 29

540 Storle Ave., Burlington • 262-763-4706 or 800313-9030 (toll-free) • Elegantly restored historic estate, serene and secluded, antique furnishings, private baths, and complimentary breakfast • http://www. thehillcrestinn.com

Lake Geneva Comfort Suites

300 E. Main St., Lake Geneva – 262-248-2300 www.comfortsuites.com

Meadowlark Acres Campground

5146 North Rd., Burlington – 262-763-7200 Fishing, swimming pool, playground area

Rainbow Motel

733 Milwaukee Ave., Burlington • 262-763-2491 46 rooms with private bath, coffee makers and color cable television; Internet, outdoor pool; air conditioning www.rainbow-motel.com

Richard Bong State Recreation Camping Area

26313 Burlington Road (Hwy. 142), Kansasville 262-878-5600 • Single and group camping, hiking, swimming, fishing, riding trails, nature hikes with rangers, and more http://www.bongnaturalistassociation.org/campinginfo. htm

River View Inn Bed and Breakfast

202 W. Racine St., Waterford – 262-534-5049 or 888-5348439 (toll-free) • Home-style comfort without sacrificing style • http://www.riverviewinnwaterford.com

JENNIFER EISENBART Our Town

Xander Roeker (left) and Kambria Way play on the kids’ frog slide at the Burlington Community Pool. The pool (inset), at 394 Amanda Street, offers swimming lessons, lap swim and open swimming sessions each June through August. BURLINGTON OUR TOWN 2013/14

BURLINGTON OUR TOWN 2013/14

area directory Browns Lake Golf Course 3110 S. Browns Lake Drive Burlington 763-6065

DANCE STUDIOS

Innovations Dance Studio 157 W. Chestnut St., Burlington 767-0678

ENTERTAINMENT

Browns Lake Aquaducks Fischer County Park, Burlington www.aquaducks.org Haylofters Community Theater Malt House Theater 109 N. Main St., Burlington 763-9873 www.haylofters.com Plaza Theater 448 Milwaukee Ave., Burlington 763-6789 www.plaza4.com

FISHING/PUBLIC BOAT LAUNCHES

Echo Lake Veterans Memorial Park Hwy. 36 & Congress Street, Burlington 763-2060 Fischer Park Browns Lake 30326 Durand Ave., Burlington 763-8446

GIFTS & SHOPPING Allison Wonderland 472 N. Pine St., Burlington 763-9718

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 27

Burlington Flowers & Interiors 140 W. Chestnut St., Burlington 767-1100

River Birch Studios Ltd. 7231 McHenry St., Burlington 539-3664

Burlington Glass 35518 W. State St., Burlington 763-5646 www.burlingtonglassinc.com

Serendipity Gift Shop – Memorial Hospital 252 McHenry St., Burlington 763-0635

Delights 133 E. Chestnut St., Burlington 763-9448 Gifts, gourmet coffees, cards, chocolates and candy Gia Bella Flowers & Gifts 133 E. Chestnut St., Burlington 763-4522 www.giabellaflowers.com Ide Fine Jewelry 348 N. Pine St., Burlington 763-8685 Kohl’s Department Store 1032 Milwaukee Ave., Burlington 763-2485 Midwest Wildlife Galleries 224 E. Chestnut St., Burlington 763-1717 Paisley Artworks 216 E. Washington St., Burlington 763-3500 Pharmacy Station 300 S. Pine St., Burlington 763-8877 Reineman’s True Value 417 Milwaukee Ave., Burlington, 763-3577

GOLF COURSES

Brighton Dale Golf Course 830 248th Ave., Kansasville 878-1440 Browns Lake Golf Course 3110 S. Browns Lake Dr., Burlington 763-6065

MUSEUMS

Burlington Historical Society Museum 232 N. Perkins Blvd., Burlington 767-2884 Sundays 1-4 p.m. or by appointment Chocolate Experience Museum 113 E. Chestnut St., Burlington 763-6044 Spinning Top & Yo-Yo Museum 533 Milwaukee Ave., Burlington 763-3946

NEWSPAPERS & MEDIA

Burlington Standard Press/ Southern Lakes Newspapers 700 N. Pine St., Burlington 763-3511 WBSD-FM radio station 400 McCanna Pkwy., Burlington 763-0195

PHARMACIES

Aurora Pharmacies 210 S. Pine St. 763-7177 250 McHenry St. 767-6004 Pharmacy Station 300 S. Pine St., Burlington 763-8877 Walgreens 680 Milwaukee Ave. 767-0697 Walmart 1901 S. Milwaukee Ave., 767-1902 CONTINUED ON PAGE 31

Family outing

Mother geese watch over their goslings near a pond in a local park. The Burlington area offers numerous parks that accommodate everything from team sports to daydreamers – and, of course, those who love to watch wildlife. ED NADOLSKI Our Town

BURLINGTON OUR TOWN 2013/14

area directory RESTAURANTS & TAVERNS

Adrian’s Frozen Custard 572 Bridge St., Burlington 763-8562 Beijing Garden 464 N. Pine St., Burlington 767-1188 B J Wentkers Triangle Tavern 230 Milwaukee Ave., Burlington 767-1514 www.foodspot.com/bjwentkers Brickyard BBQ & Tavern 217 N. Pine St., Burlington (262) 757-0179 www.brickyardbbqandtavern.com Bruisers 689 Milwaukee Ave., Burlington 763-6008 Charcoal Grill & Rotisserie 580 Milwaukee Ave., Burlington 767-0000 www.charcoalgrill.com Cousins Subs 206 S. Pine St., Burlington 763-7640

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 29

Lucky Star Restaurant 864 Milwaukee Ave., Burlington 763-2155

763-8330 1901 Milwaukee Ave., Burlington 763-5144

McDonald’s 316 Dodge St., Burlington 763-4777

Taco Bell 2056 Milwaukee Ave., Burlington 763-5375

Napoli Restaurant & Pizzeria 132 N. Pine St., Burlington 763-8390

Teena’s Place 7850 McHenry St. Burlington 539-3990

Pappa Murphy’s 1709 S. Teut Rd. Burlington 767-7272

The Waterfront 31100 Weiler Road, Burlington 763-9989 Wendy’s Restaurant 2049 Milwaukee Ave., Burlington 534-7900

Pizza Hut 940 Milwaukee Ave., Burlington 763-8432

Ye Olde Hotel 6070 N. Railroad, Lyons 763-2701

Sheila Mae’s Town Fryer 116 N. Main St., Burlington 763-9940

Zumpano’s 180 E. Chestnut St., Burlington 767-0581

RECYCLING

F.C.F. Metal Salvage LLC, 680 Maryland, Burlington

Gooseberries Fresh Food Market 690 W. State Street, Burlington 763-5955 www.gooseberriesmarket.com Pick ‘n Save 1120 Milwaukee Ave., Burlington 763-3695 Sentry Foods 156 S. Pine St., Burlington 763-3100 Walmart Supercenter 1901 S. Milwaukee Ave., Burlington 767-9520

SWIMMING

Burlington Pool 394 Amanda St. 763-6840 Fischer County Park 30326 Durand Ave., Burlington 763-8446

Dairy Queen 324 S. Pine St., Burlington 763-9385

Aurora Wellness Center 300 McCanna Pkwy., Burlington 767-7000

Domino’s Pizza 686 Milwaukee Ave., Burlington 767-0210

TENNIS

Burlington High School 400 McCanna Pkwy., Burlington 763-0200

Flippy’s Fast Food 401 N. Pine St., Burlington 763-6754

Beloit Street Courts Beloit Street near Branen Baseball Field

Fred’s Parkview 596 N. Pine St., Burlington 763-8370

County Courts Hwy. W, just north of Browns Lake Golf Course Reservations: 886-8457

Grater Tater 140 W. Chestnut St., Burlington (262) 661-4649

Devor Park Amanda Street, Burlington

John’s Main Event 556 N. Pine St., Burlington 763-8863

VISITOR INFO

KFC Restaurant 1084 Milwaukee Ave., Burlington 763-9030

Los Compadres Mexican 725 Milwaukee Ave., Burlington 763-6018

Capelli’s TraXside 637 S. Kane St., Burlington 7634410 www.traxsideskating.com Aldi 2009 Lynch Way, Burlington

Culver’s Frozen Custard 1073 Milwaukee Ave., Burlington 463-5020

Kira Asian Bistro Pinecrest Shopping Center 208 S. Pine St., Burlington 767-9999

ROLLER RINKS

SUPERMARKETS

Pine Street Café 141 N. Pine St., Burlington 763-5252

Subway 1088 Milwaukee Ave., Burlington

763-8097

JENNIFER EISENBART Our Town

Kids, fish and sunshine

Participants in the annual Kids Fisheree enjoy the sunshine and warm weather during the 2013 event at Echo Lake in Burlington. The event, sponsored by the Burlington Conservation Club, draws hundreds of children each year.

Burlington Area Chamber of Commerce 112 E. Chestnut St., Burlington 763-6044 www.burlingtonchamber.org

WINERY

Aeppel Treow Winery 1072 288th Ave., Burlington (262) 878-5345

BURLINGTON OUR TOWN 2013/14