Discover Lauderdale Lakes 2024

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LAUDERDALE LAKES

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JERRY KROUPA View my properties at www.lakehomeswi.net

OFFICE AT 102 N. WISCONSIN ST., ELKHORN

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W5712 North Dr, Elkhorn - Completely remodeled in 2020 with expansive views down Middle Lake on 92’ of frontage you’ll find this 3 Bd, 2 Bath Ranch with walk-out lower level to huge lakeside patio. As you enter you’re greeted by the lake with vaulted ceilings throughout the main level and wall of sliding glass doors leading to wrap around deck. Kitchen boasting of Quartz counter tops and backsplash, Kitchen Aid SS appl, Quartz waterfall island with bar stool seating adjoining LR, and dinette. Bd and full bath with heated floors and clear glass shower complete the main level. As you enter the LL you have a beverage center with Quartz top, beverage refrig and Ice maker. Also, you’ll find 2nd & 3rd BD, full bath with glass shower and laundry closet. Two 9x12 sheds one lakeside with lakeside yard leading to the pier $1,099,700

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W5742 North Dr, Elkhorn - Why go through the hassle of building when this 2023 custom built 4 Plus Bedroom, 3.5 bath two story is ready to enjoy. Situated on 75’ of Middle lake frontage you’ll find this open concept main level with wall of windows lakeside. Inside Kitchen offers everything the discriminating chef would demand and ultimate living and dining space with gas fireplace, custom wet-bar and deck access. Master Bdrm ensuite with breathtaking lake views offering double vanity, large tile shower and ample walk-in closet. Family room walk-out with gas fireplace, full bath, work-out room or Bdrm, 4th bdrm and screened porch.

Kitchen also features large island/breakfast bar with Delkton countertops and Zline Autograph appliances. Outside fireplace and level lakefront yard by pier and storage shed. $1,659,700

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W5357 Lauderdale Dr, Elkhorn - The Iconic Lauderdale Lakes home, ‘’The Boathouse’’ on Deakin Isle is situated on 192’ of premier shoreline. Rebuilt in 2015 to its original 1915 Jazz Age glory, this 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath home is bursting with historical details and architectural styles. Ballroom features 1,200 sq ft with original hard rock maple floors, unique hanging Meiji era Japanese lanterns, with the original Opium Den prepped for a future hidden wine cellar. All 3 Lauderdale Lakes are visible from numerous vantage points throughout the four levels. Kitchen features custom marble countertops, farm sink, Wolf & Sub-Zero appliances. Master BR ensuite with luxury freestanding tub, full steam room, and private deck with fireplace. A finished swim basin provides access to the marque wet boathouse w/ underwater lighting. $4,499,700

W1260 South Shore Dr, Palmyra - Your lakefront search stops here with spacious 5 BD, 2 full, 2 half bath move in ready 2 story with walk-out lower level with 65’ frontage on Blue Spring Lake. Lakeside kitchen with breakfast bar and large dining room with access to deck offering extended lake views. LR with cozy fireplace, main floor Master BD ensuite with sitting room lakeside. main floor laundry room. Upstairs offers 4 bedrooms and a full bath. Lower level Rec Room with sliding glass door that leads you to the lake. Lakeside level lawn and shed. Spacious back yard ideal for entertaining with multi-level patio. 2.5 detached garage with lower level storage. Blue Spring Lake is a All Sports Lake featuring crystal clear water in a North woods setting minutes to Kettle Moraine hiking, biking and SERENITY! $759,700

W5369 Baywood Dr, Elkhorn - Welcome to your home that’s surrounded by lake views, a large yard for family fun as well as plenty of parking for everyone. Enjoy amazing 4th of July fireworks with the best seats in the house. Situated on 103’ of level frontage on 0.81 of an acre, you’ll find an updated, move in ready, 4BR, 3BA, two story home with upper end finishes. The large vaulted ceiling kitchen has an adjacent dining area & bonus playroom/den. The family room, also with vaulted ceilings, features a wall of windows that welcomes the lake inside. The living room with a natural fireplace and sliders leads to a spacious brick patio. This home offers the privacy of a main floor primary bedroom and the upper level has 3 generous sized bedrooms and 2 full baths.

Accommodates 19 guests. $1,999,700

W1411 N Blue Spring Lake Dr, Palmyra - Just completed in 2021 this spectacular Craftsman style 5 BD, 3 bath ranch situated on 100’ of level frontage on crystal clear Blue Spring Lake. Inside you’ll appreciate the owner’s attention to detail throughout with lake views from every room. Kitchen features granite counter tops, island/breakfast bar, Bosch appliances and dining area with access to lakeside covered deck. Ktch is open to LR with stone gas fireplace Master BD ensuite with dream bathroom, LL family room with amazing wet bar plus 4th and 5th bedrooms and fitness room. Main floor has Hickory hardwood floors and hand-stained Maple doors, panels, molding and trim. Throughout the house you’ll find hand-stained Amish Cabinets. Wet-boat house and permanent pier. Plus 1,200 sq ft 4 car garage. Municipal sewer with private well. $2,099,700 461287

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(262) 742-3898 N7536 Sterlingworth Dr Elkhorn, WI 53121

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Lauderdale Lakes

There’s nothing some people love more than a lake house. In fact, many think that everyone should be living on lakefront property.

Not only is it beautiful, but it can provide endless recreational opportunities, solid property value, and plenty of entertainment, along with some other perks.

Here are some of the top reasons why everyone should consider having a lake home, according to a blog posted by staff from the Readers Digest.

Relaxation

Entertaining

When you live lakeside, everyone wants to spend time at your house.

And most people love having a great place for family and friends to party.

DISCOVER LAUDERDALE LAKES FALL/WINTER 2024 Published by Southern Lakes Newspapers LLC

1102 Ann St. Delavan, WI 53115 (262) 728-3411

Let’s just say your supply of fresh fish won’t run short, and you don’t even have to go to the store.

Additionally, being able to fish – whether from the shoreline, pier or your boat – opens up many possibilities to spending time with some of the younger people in your life.

Children

There’s nothing kids love more than a big lake in their backyard as it offers much to explore and an extra level of fun.

They can spend all day swimming and playing, and the only difficult part may be getting them out of the water.

Property value

Resale value when you live on a lake remains a huge positive if and when you decide to move.

When purchasing a lake home, and during the years spent enjoying it, it will likely be well worth the investment for the amount of time you’ll spend on or next to the water.

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LAUDERDALE LAKES

Pets

Man’s best friend usually love the water just as much as their people do.

Your dogs will be forever grateful when you give them a lake to play in and watching them enjoy themselves will bring an added level of enjoyment to the family.

Sunrises

This is a given because the only thing that beats a stunning sunrise view from your own private beach, pier or yard…

Sunsets

… is a sunset from that same spot.

Lifelong friends

You’ll very likely make amazing friends living on a lake – whether full-time neighbors to weekend visitors of a lake cottage.

From bonding over morning coffee or an evening cocktail to time spent on the water taking in some fun recreation – lake living provides some of the best bonding time.

• SEE REASONS ON PAGE 6

For advertising opportunities, call (262) 728-3411 or email vicki@southernlakesnewspapers.com EDITOR IN CHIEF: Heather Ruenz PAGE DESIGN: Jen DeGroot CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Heidi Schulz ADVERTISING DIRECTOR: Vicki Vanderwerff COVER PHOTO BY SCOTT MORGAN

DISCOVER LAUDERDALE LAKES • FALL 2024

There’s something so peaceful about spending your free time sitting out on the dock.

In fact, living near the water has even been proven to make people healthier in many ways.

Fishing

STOCK PHOTO Discover Lauderdale Lakes

REASONS WHY EVERYONE SHOULD LIVE ON

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REASONS • CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5

Community

The communities that form around lakes are also extremely unique and one of the positives those who live on lakes enjoy.

It’s very likely that you and your neighbors will have a lot of shared interests, many that likely revolve around the body of water in your backyards.

Privacy

You’ll have more privacy at a lake home than some homes that have fences on all four sides.

Even if there are neighbors on either side of you, the opening to the water will offer some much-needed breathing room.

Wildlife

A pink haze in the sky ends a late summer day out on Lauderdale Lakes in Elkhorn.

The animals you’ll find in your yard when you live on a lake are always fascinating.

They’re sure to be better than what you’ll find in the regular suburbs or even the ones at a public beach because of the additional privacy.

The bottom line is living on a lake isn’t for everyone but for those who do, there are many positives.

DEBORAH CRUGER Discover Lauderdale Lakes

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406 S. Wisconsin Street, Elkhorn, Wisconsin 53121 (262) 723-2919 • www.wilsonfarmmeats.com

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Wines of Fall ENJOYING THE

& OTHER COOL WEATHER BEVERAGE CHOICES

BY Sandra Landen Machaj CORRESPONDENT

Staller Estate Winery

left: This flight of Staller’s summer favorites includes a variety of wines from the Rock Valley white, a dry white with a taste of pineapple to the Red Sun-Gria with its fresh fruit flavors. right: The Apple Barn’s fruit wines are displayed along with available hand painted wine glasses by Sandra Glinner.

DISCOVER LAUDERDALE LAKES • FALL 2024

While it’s hard to believe that summer has come to an end and we are moving into the fall season, a look at the trees slowly turning from green to yellow and orange, while the summer flowers are losing their blooms tells us that it’s so. As we watch the weather slowly changing, we cling to the last vestiges of the warm weather.

On the warm days we enjoy being outside and spend as much time as possible taking in what is left of the summer weather.

While we still work in the garden, sit on the deck and read a book, or walk on walking trails or in our neighborhood, there are subtle changes taking place. No longer are we out in shorts, a sleeveless top, and sandals. First, we begin to wear long sleeve shirts and pants. Our sandals are replaced with socks and walking shoes and then we begin to add a sweater or light jacket as the temperature dips further.

Just as our clothing and perhaps the amount of time we spend outdoors begins to change so do we change - including the way we eat and drink. Those casual salads are replaced with soup or a hamburger, and

the Staller Estates marvelous award winning wines and now their newest gold medal award winner their carefully distilled brandy.

If it is a nice day, it is always wonderful as the weather continues to cool, we add heavier dinners like stews and roasts, fitting to sit outdoors among the grapevines, giving one the feeling they are out in California or as autumn continues and then moves into perhaps in Europe enjoying the day in one of winter.

As our foods become heavier so too does their vineyards. But if it is one of the cooler our taste for beverages. The light, less-filling fall days there is always the option of sitting indoors, enjoying the view of the vineyards drinks that we have enjoyed through the from the sun room. summer begin to be replaced by heavier “We do see a change in the wines that bodied beverages. people choose to drink dependent on the While the weather is still pleasant many of us spend our days or at least our weekend season,” said Wendy Staller, who with her husband Joe are the owners of Staller Estate days with a drive out into the Wisconsin Winery. countryside to take in the beauty of nature, As the weather changes and becomes and we may make a stop at one of the small wineries where we can sit and enjoy a glass cooler, so does the choice of drinks. “As it cools down, visitors seem to move from the of wine and a light snack. light whites toward the darker reds, which are heavier and hardier,” shared Wendy.

These darker and bolder flavors become Before the weather turns really cold take more popular not only as the weather chills the time for that ride in the country. If your but as heavier foods are added to the daily route takes you along Highway A outside of Elkhorn and Delavan, you will encounter diet. Some of the more popular fall red wines include The Estate Reserve, a medium the beautiful Staller Estate Winery with its red wine, perfect for the fall. Cabernet colorful red buildings trimmed in white and Sauvignon is also very often requested and the grape vines with some still holding the enjoyed by visitors. grapes as they ripen.

The fall also brings a change in the It’s hard to pass by without picturing a stop to enjoy the day and to enjoy some of • SEE WINES OF FALL ON PAGE 8

SANDRA LANDEN MACHAJ Discover Lauderdale Lakes

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WINES OF FALL • CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7 foods chosen to accompany the wine. While in the summer the charcuterie boards are the most popular, by fall many are leaning into the flatbreads which are warm and a bit heartier. In the warmer weather, the flatbreads are only offered in the summer but as fall approaches they find their way onto more of the menus.

“With the fall we do change our cocktail menu also. From the light fruity cocktails of summer, we move into more fall themed cocktails especially ones that contain pumpkin or cranberry flavors, that we usually associate with the fall of the year,” said Wendy Staller. “We enjoy creating these new cocktails for each new season. Apple cider is also a favorite fall drink.”

Wendy also said a Wisconsin favorite, the Brandy Old fashioned is enjoyed year round and always remains on the menu.

She laughingly added that it’s required in Wisconsin that it be included.

In addition to the award winning wines they have produced, they also create vodka, cognac, brandy and a liqueur that tastes similar to Grand Marnier. This year has been a special year for the Stallers. While they have had many award winning wines, they entered their new brandy into an International Competition.

“This year we entered our brandy into the Finger Lakes International Competition and it was awarded the 2024 Gold medal and was also awarded best of class,” shared Wendy. “We sell the brandy bottled and we have also bottled our Wisconsin Old Fashioned, made with our brandy. It is available in our gift shop and also is on our cocktail menu.”

With so many additional products and increases in the amount of the grapevines, about 4 acres currently, Staller Estate Winery continues to expand. As Wendy Staller explains it, “What began as a hobby making small amounts of wine has continued to grow and is now a full time business.”

If you haven’t been to Staller Estate for any of their special dinners served out in the vineyard there is still time to consider joining them for the October Harvest Dinner on Oct. 13. The dinner will again be prepared by Chefs Maria and Jeff Halpin, known for their many quality meals. It will be held from 12 noon to 2 pm.

The dinner will start with an appetizer of the chef’s choice. This will be followed by fresh butternut squash soup, an autumn favorite. The salad will be an autumn salad with a maple dressing. After these offerings

SANDRA LANDEN MACHAJ Discover Lauderdale Lakes

inset: The fall of the year with the grapes still on the vine is a fine time to sit in the vineyards at Staller Estate and enjoy the beauty of time outdoors while enjoying a fall glass of wine. above: Wendy Staller proudly displays their award winning brandy which recently won a gold medal in an International competition.

move on to the main course, chicken Fricassee with a pumpkin Alfredo Pasta. If you still have room left, finish it off with a baked fall apple with a toffee sauce for dessert. Enjoy a beautiful fall afternoon and a delicious dinner paired with delicious fall wines. Order tickets online for this event before they sell out.

Staller Estate Winery is located at W8896 County Road A, Delavan is open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday. Private parties can also be scheduled. Check their website www.stallerestate.com for current hours and events or reach them by phone at 608-883-2100.

The Apple Barn

People throughout the area are familiar with the Apple Barn Orchard and Winery, which generations of the Jacobson family have owned and run since 1848. While the farm has grown and changed over that period of time, what has not changed is the quality of products that they offer.

The Apple Barn is busy throughout much of the year, with the variety of fruits that they grow and the quality products that they create. But it’s in fall during apple season that many visitors head out to the Apple Barn to pick their own apples or just to purchase the apples already picked and to savor the freshly made apple cider donuts and the homemade apple pies, and some fresh fall apple cider.

In addition, The Apple Barn is known for their special and award winning wines that are created on site by Steve Jacobson.

What’s unique about the wines created here is that they are made from fruits but not the traditional grapes that are usually thought of

when speaking of wine. The Apple Barn’s wines are made from strawberries, apples, rhubarb, blueberries, pears, and other fruits, as far as light wines enjoyed in the summer.

But it’s the wines created with the traditional fall fruits such as apples, cranberries, and dried fruits such as blueberries that become more popular in the fall.

“All of the wines are created on site and made in small batches to ensure quality,” said Judy Jacobsen, who with her husband Steve are the current owners of this family farm. “We offer free tastings in our tasting room. While there is no charge for a tasting, we do gladly accept any tips offered. The tips are not kept by the servers but are donated to the Leukemia Lymphoma Society of Wisconsin to help in their work to find a cure. In the past 2 years, we have been able to donate $19,000 to the Leukemia Lymphoma Society thanks to the generosity of our customers.”

With the holidays coming up in the late fall such as Halloween and then Thanksgiving, one of the favorite wines is the cranberry wine which seems to be a holiday favorite but is popular throughout the fall, along with other options.

“Fall also means hot cider which is often the drink of choice for many as the weather cools off,” shared Jacobson. “We offer hot cider to drink while here and also to take home.”

Visit The Apple Barn at W6384 Sugar Creek Rd, Elkhorn or at www. applebarnorchardandwinery.com They can be reached by phone at 262-738-3266. Fall hours are Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sundays 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. They are closed Mondays.

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BY Sandra Landen Machaj CORRESPONDENT

While it might be sad to see summer end and know winter is going to follow, there are always reasons to look forward to fall.

In addition to cooling temperatures and fall foliage, it is also time to take a drive to the countryside and check out area apple orchards. Apples are enjoyable and have the added benefit of being a healthy food.

With a large variety from very sweet to tart, it’s likely anyone can find one for their palate. They can be eaten fresh off the tree, or covered in caramel on a stick and baked into an apple pie.

W6384 Sugar Creek Rd. • Elkhorn 262-728-3266

Six generations ago, beginning in 1848, the Jacobson family began farming the land.

Along with the Apple Barn being a working farm, the family has grown the space to include the apple store, bakery and even its own winery.

With several thousand apple trees, one can expect a large number and varieties of apples this year. The apples begin to ripen in late summer but that’s just the beginning of the busy season. Among the most popular

wines created on site. All wines are created from non-grape fruits and berries in small batches, and wine tasting is available. And of course, apple cider can be purchased.

Fall hours at the Apple Barn are Tuesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. It’s closed Mondays. For more information and updates, visit applebarnorchardandwinery. com or follow them on Facebook.

HAFS ROAD ORCHARD

W632 Hafs Rd. • Genoa City • 262-279-3638

The history of Hafs Road Orchard goes back to the late 1930s, when 40 trees representing 25 different varieties of popular apples were planted by the family on the Hafs Road farm.

In 1982, Richard and Debbie Polansky purchased the orchard and have continued to increase both the number of trees and the number of varieties of apples grown here.

“The original trees planted were fullsized trees,” Debbie Polansky explained.

“Over the years, we have added a variety of dwarf trees, increasing the number of trees and the number of varieties that are grown.”

Today, the orchard has about 3,000 trees, most of the dwarf variety. According to Debbie, there are still a few of the original • SEE APPLES ON PAGE 10

A large apple stands tall near the orchard entrance at the Apple Barn. It’s across the street from the barn and shop that features everything from freshly baked goods and gifts to a variety of wine offerings.

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DISCOVER LAUDERDALE LAKES • FALL 2024

APPLE BARN ORCHARD AND WINERY

apple varieties at the Apple Barn are Gala, Zestar and Honeycrisp varieties.

For the 35th year, Apple Fest is being held at the Apple Barn. It began in late September and continues through October on weekends.

“On weekends during Apple Fest, music and food vendors will be present on the grounds,” said Judy Jacobson, who, with her husband Steve, are the current generation of the Jacobson family to own Apple Barn.

Apple picking is a favorite family activity and many visiting families look forward to coming to the Apple Barn to enjoy time together on the farm. It’s one of the few orchards that still allows the self-pick option in the area.

Many varieties of apples are grown at the Apple Barn but when they’re ripe and ready varies each year based on weather during the spring and summer. For precise dates, check the website which offers updates on the different apple varieties as they become available.

Apple picking is available only on weekends and pick your own pumpkins begins in early October.

Warm apple cider donuts are available as well as other baked goods made on site.

There is also a gift shop that has items.

The Apple Barn store offers handcrafted and cooking items, as well as fruit

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WHEN IT’S FALL, IT’S TIME FOR

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APPLES • CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9 full-sized trees that produce apples.

“This year we expect to have a good harvest, as many apples as last year,” Kimmy Gaul, who has worked with the family for years said prior to the season.

The orchard has a large number of Honeycrisp apples, which continue to be the favorite in the area. When the orchard first planted Honeycrisp apples in 1992, again, there were only a limited number of trees producing them. The new variety, developed by the University of Minnesota, proved to be a hit for both apples and caramel apples.

The Polanskys also make their famous Honeycrisp caramel apples. They offer them plain or rolled in pecans. Apple cider, apple cider vinegar and frozen applesauce made with a mix of apple varieties is also available.

While Hafs Road Orchard does not offer the opportunity for people to pick apples, the orchards are open for walking. Pumpkins and squash are also available.

The orchard will remain open until Christmas Week. Hours are Monday through Thursday from noon to 5 p.m., and weekends (Friday through Sunday) from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Check the website www.hafsorchard.com for updates including types of apples available.

BRIGHTONWOODS ORCHARDS AND AEPPELTREOW

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1072 288th Ave. • Burlington 262-878-3000

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Brightonwoods Orchards was established as a weekend retreat in 1950.

At that time the orchards, featuring a few apple trees, were located on a farmland getaway property. Throughout the years, the number of apple trees increased and are now on over 18 acres. Bill Stone, sonin-law of the original owner, took over the property and has worked to continue the growth of the heirloom varieties and to include some of the newer varieties.

Currently the orchard has 150 varieties of apples, while seeded and seedless grapes, quince and pears are also grown on site.

The family friendly grounds feature a two-story playhouse for children, as well as open areas with picnic tables. The orchard is open Wednesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Charles McGonegal, the owner of AEppelTreow, will replace Bill Stone in overseeing the orchards at Brightonwoods.

“Bill has been trying to retire for some time and now the time has come for me to take over managing the orchard,” McGonegal said. In addition, Jeremy Thelen has been hired as orchard manager for the coming year.

With many of Brightonwoods’ trees full-sized, the orchard does not offer self

top: Bushels of Gala apples are a sight to see at Hafs Road Orchard in Genoa City. above: This sign at Hafs Road Orchard directs customers to different apple varieties. right: Brightonwoods Apple Cider is made fresh and always a treat, especially in the fall.

COURTESY HAFS ROAD ORCHARD Discover Lauderdale Lakes

picking. All fruit is sold inside the barn, in addition to Glas Naturals – a locally produced cheese spread.

In 2001, Charles McGonegal and his wife, Milissa, opened AeppelTreow Winery and Distillery on the grounds of Brightonwoods in the large barn that was currently not used. They remodeled the barn to allow for space to distill their products and have a tasting bar.

AEppelTreow is a producer of smallbatch cider, perry and spirits. Ciders are made from apples and pears, using a fermenting process. Perry is the pear analogue to cider, and a distillery creates whisky and brandy on site.

For more information, visit either of the websites at brightonwoodsorchard.com or aeppeltreow.com.

The country store at the Apple Barn features home decor and other items. Hours at the Apple Barn are Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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COURTESY BRIGHTONWOODS ORCHARD Discover Lauderdale Lakes

Staller Estate wins pair of competition medals for brandy, liqueur

BY Jennifer Eisenbart STAFF WRITER

A little bit of travel turned into a big international win for a local winery this summer.

Staller Estate Winery and Distillery, located at W8896 County Road A, Delavan, entered the Finger Lakes International Wine and Spirits Competition in Rochester, New York, winning a Best in Class gold medal for the estate’s brandy.

The brandy “features an amber hue with notes of dried fruits, subtle vanilla, and oak. On the palate, it offers a harmonious blend of caramel, toasted almonds, and spiced honey,” according to the business.

Adding to their success, Staller Estate garnered a silver medal for its Orange Royale – an orange liqueur featuring barrel-aged brandy with ripe oranges that delivers “a balanced aroma of citrus freshness and mellow brandy notes.”

The FLIWC, one of the largest charitable wine and spirits competitions in the US, draws Masters of Wine, Master Distillers, Master Sommeliers, and industry experts for a rigorous two-day blind judging process. Proceeds support Camp Good Days and Special Times, benefiting families affected by cancer and sickle cell anemia.

Keeping it unique

Wendy (left) and Joe Staller own Staller Estate Winery and Distillery, located on Highway A on the north side of Delavan. They earned awards for two of their distillery products at this summer’s Finger Lakes International Wine and Spirits Competition in Rochester, New York. inset: Staller’s brandy won a Best in Class gold medal at the competition. The winery opened in 2008; the distillery has only been open a few years, since 2021.

SUBMITTED PHOTOS Discover Lauderdale Lakes

“That adds a lot more depth, a lot more character to the old-fashioned,” said Joe. Another item that quickly grew in popularity is the couple’s old-fashioned mix, which Staller Estate has federal approval to sell. It takes the brandy and the old-fashioned components and puts them in a barrel to age before being sold as an old-fashioned.

Since wine serves as the base from which to distill brandy, that step was the next logical one for the winery, which is in its 16th year after opening in May of 2008.

Even the artwork on the bottles is a little different – an artist’s rendering of Wendy operating the presses for the product.

Among the newer offerings is the Orange Royale, which the couple had described back in November of last year, and has now earned a silver medal.

Staller Estate is working to produce a style of wine that Joe said is inspired by Beaujolais nouveau – the idea of using this year’s grape harvest to produce a fresh wine that has only been fermented a short time (versus years).

“It’s 100%, estate-grown estate nouveau,” Joe explained, adding that while the winery uses many of its own grapes, it does bring in others.

And then there is the Apple Nouveau – a spirit made with apple cider and apple brandy, blended and aged in a bourbon barrel. The spirit uses apples from Orchard Ridge, a nearby neighbor on Highway 89.

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That is part of the commitment that Staller Estate has to its overall product, which Wendy – the company’s general manager – and Joe say starts with the crafting of unique products.

“Our focus is really on the craft product,” Joe explained.

“We have really, really great customers that embrace a craft product. You can go anywhere and get a brandy old-fashioned.

But you can’t go anywhere and get one made with all fresh ingredients.”

The old-fashioned is one of the many specialty items that Staller Estate has added to its lineup. Now using the housemade brandy, the addition of fresh cherry juice and orange, aromatic bitters and demerara syrup (essentially, a less-refined version of simple syrup, or sugar), and the couple has a hit on their hands.

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Local distillery awarded at international event

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BY Jennifer Eisenbart STAFF WRITER

ON TAP The number of craft beers available at East Troy Brewery is both varied and creative.

In addition to the traditional pale ales (a New England and East Troy version) and amber beers, pilsners and a German-style Helles lager are available.

Different kinds of beer make it onto the drink menu seasonally. For example, right now, East Troy Brewery has its Lemon

Lager, a Czech Pils Lager with real lemon puree, which the menu says transforms the beer into “a tart, light summer patio beer.”

There’s also the Fresa, a Helles Lager that’s described as “what do you get when you add 220 pound of strawberries to some of our Helles? A crisp, light lager with a not-so-subtle hint of strawberry.”

There’s also a Rye IPA, the Cream City Bricks In the Sticks and the Helles Lager of Troy – “The beer that launched 1,000 … beers.”

“We try to flavor some beers seasonally,” said Slauson.

There are also a wide variety of beers and hard seltzers available by the can and bottle, as well as non-alcoholic beer from Potosi Brewing Co., specialty cocktails and a wine list.

As the weather turns colder in the fall, Slauson said that the brewery switches to darker beers, including stouts and porters.

For those who are beer aficionados and regulars at the brewery, there is the ETB Mug Club.

• SEE BREWERY ON PAGE 14

The East Troy Brewery is inside of a former bank, complete with a vault. Owners Ted and Ann Zess said they always thought a brew pub or brewery in East Troy would be a cool option on the square.

JENNIFER EISENBART Discover Lauderdale Lakes

DISCOVER LAUDERDALE LAKES • FALL 2024

In another lifetime, 2905 Main St. in East Troy was a bank.

As Ann and Ted Zess remember, the corner of Main and Division streets was the old State Bank of East Troy – the first bank of many iterations.

But in 2017, with the final bank to occupy the building closed, the Zesses looked at the inside of the building – and had an idea.

“When we first went through it, it was bigger than we remembered it,” Ann explained.

Now, some six years and a pandemic later, East Troy Brewery resides at the address, the history of the building on full display with its new purpose.

“We always thought a brew pub or a brewery in East Troy would be a cool option on the square,” Ted said. “We grew up in East Troy, we’re life long residents. We just wanted to see the square revitalized.”

Now, the former bank, while holding

onto many of its identifying traits – including the use of the vault and tellers windows in the bar area – is an option for parties both large and small.

In addition to the numerous brews made on site, there is a full menu of appetizers, pizza, sandwiches and meals, an outdoor patio area with live music on the weekends and a special “Mug Club” for those who love their beer.

“Good beer, good food. I mean, brewery is in our name,” General Manager Zach Innis said. “And our food is excellent as well. And good atmosphere.”

DRINK. DINE. UNWIND.

Keeping the history alive, from bank to

13

DRINK. DINE. UNWIND.

BREWERY • CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13 For $125 a year, those who sign up get their own safety deposit box in the vault for storage of a personalized 16-ounce glass mug, $5 draft beers with the mug, year-round, a key to the safe-deposity box, exclusive coupons and a beer release party.

TASTY TREATS Just as the drink menu is seasonal, so, too, is the meal menu. Behind the guidance of Noah Higgins, executive chef and kitchen manager, the brewery offers both a lunch and dinner menu.

The lunch menu is only served on Saturdays and Sundays, when the brewery opens at noon. The dinner menu includes many of the same items.

Menu standards include the ET Square pizza – the Shroomie, White Truffle Pear, Cheeze-It and The Carnivore are among the regulars – Hill Valley cheese curds, served with curry tomato ketchup and ranch dressing, pretzel bites with homemade ETB beer cheese, and a large variety of

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barbecue, salads, sandwiches and burgers.

There are two special menu items each month. A children’s menu is available and the dinner menu adds chef’s specials, tacos and wings.

The idea, Ted Zess said, is to help grow the East Troy Square space and East Troy in general.

“I just think it’s a cool place for people to come and hang out. It’s become a gathering spot,” he said.

“It’s an experience. You can walk around and see the history,” Ann added.

The East Troy Brewery is open five days a week, with the bar open from 4 to 9 p.m. and food service from 4 to 8 p.m.

Wednesday and Thursday, and the bar from 4 to 10 p.m. and food service from 4 to 9 p.m. Friday.

On Saturdays, the bar is open from noon to 10 p.m., with food service from noon to 9 p.m., and both the bar and kitchen are open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday.

The brewery is available for dine-in, patio seating and carryout. For more information, go to etbrew.com or call 262-6422670.

Much of the history of the building, which was formerly a bank, has been preserved. The vault is now space used by the Mug Club – a special group that customers can sign up for with perks throughout the year.

JENNIFER EISENBART Discover Lauderdale Lakes

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The old fashioned drive-in experience, complete with carhops Annie’s Burger Town offers nostalgia, large menu

BY Jennifer Eisenbart STAFF WRITER

Annie’s Burgertown, an old-time drive-in restaurant, is open 10 out of 12 months a year and offers a wide variety of favorites.

The restaurant, located at 645 N. Lincoln St., has been around since the 1960s.

JENNIFER EISENBART Discover Lauderdale Lakes

DISCOVER LAUDERDALE LAKES • FALL 2024

When people think of some of the classics from the 1950s and 1960s, it’s not confined to music and movies.

Drive-in restaurants have along history in the area, especially in Elkhorn. Since 1968, a drive-in has called 645 N. Lincoln St, Elkhorn, home – first as a Dog and Suds. Now, for as long as most can remember, the drive-in has been Annie’s Burger Town.

Owned by Jeff and Maria Halpin for the last 29 years, Annie’s opens in the spring and closes at the start of winter. In the months in between, the couple offers a large and varied menu with everything from traditional fast-food favorites to nostalgic touches like pizza burgers and homemade root beer.

Annie’s remains unique as one of, if not the only, place in Walworth County with carhop service.

“We have always tried to do our best with food quality and service and make

“It is our most popular beverage by far,” she explained, adding that they sell it by the gallon.

And on top of the seasonal business, Annie’s now has a catering business – one born by accident as Annie’s provided food for an employee who was graduating.

“Word of mouth over the years has made it an integral part of our business many of our items from scratch,” Maria Halpin explained. “Many customers enjoy now,” said Halpin, adding that most items are made from scratch. Annie’s caters the nostalgia of coming to a drive-in and getting served in their car, or just relaxing through the holidays, so the only real downtime is in January. outside at one of our picnic tables.

But she added that while finding “We love what we do,” she added. employees can be a challenge, the After starting life as a Dog and Suds, Halpin said she thinks the second owners business is blessed with being able to hire students. changed the name to Burger Town.

“We hire a lot of students who like The third owner, Ann Harkness, added fewer hours during the school year and “Annie’s” – and the Halpins purchased more hours in the summer,” Halpin the business from Harkness in 1993. explained. She added that the couple’s Halpin said they remained committed children are also a huge help with the to the large menu, which includes the expected hamburgers, cheeseburgers and business.

“We try to keep it a fun atmosphere, fries, and hot dogs. But it also features Coney dogs and pizza burgers, a long list especially with such a young staff,” she said. “For many it is their first job. We of appetizers and salads and wraps. want it to be as enjoyable while teaching “We originally inherited a large menu, them skills they can use forward in life.” as there were not a lot of other fast-food For all that Annie’s offers, though, options until the 90s,” Halpin said. “We Halpin did make clear one thing – a added a few others items over the years, certain standard that most think of with such as Gyros, Italian beef, salads and drive-ins is gone forever. wraps.

“They never wore roller skates to my “Tastes and eating habits change knowledge,” said Halpin. “Our carhops and we try to be conscious of that,” she have made it clear that we’re not about to added. start now.”

There’s also the matter of the Annie’s is open Monday through homemade root beer, a recipe Halpin said Sunday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. they inherited from the previous owners.

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DISCOVER LAUDERDALE LAKES • FALL 2024

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Diners will enjoy a beautiful view of Lauderdale Lakes as they eat and drink on the deck of Lauderdale Lakes only lakeside restaurant, The Lauderdale Landing at W5625 Westshore Drive Elkhorn, Wis. The Landing provides spots on its pier system to accommodate its lake customers. For more information call 262-495-8727.

THE FAST-RISING WATERSPORT MAKING WAVES ON LAUDERDALE LAKES Trent, a professional foilboarder who has seen the sport grow exponentially in the past few years. “Once you’re up on the foil, it feels like you’re floating, and the connection with the water is unlike any other water sport.”

Water sports equipment retailers are seeing the shift firsthand. Many shops report a significant rise in demand for foilboards and accessories, especially e-foils. “We have seen an uptick in foilboard sales. It’s the latest craze that has come out” said Jayson Rishling, owner of the popular board shop, BS The Board Shop in Lake Geneva.

The sport’s growing popularity is also evident in the number of competitions and events being organized globally. From the Caribbean to the Mediterranean, foilboarding events are drawing large crowds, with riders competing in long-distance races, freestyle events, and even group rides. Enthusiasts are also forming communities on social media, sharing tips, videos, and organizing meetups, which further accelerates its growth.

While foilboarding may still seem futuristic to some, many believe it’s only the beginning of a new era in water sports. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a curious beginner, there’s never been a better time to experience the thrill of flying over water.

DISCOVER LAUDERDALE LAKES • FALL 2024

JACK CRUGER Discover Lauderdale Lakes

In recent years, a sleek and futuristic water sport has been gaining momentum on Lauderdale Lakes—foilboarding. Once a niche pursuit for adrenaline seekers, the sport is rapidly evolving into a mainstream phenomenon, drawing in thrill-seekers and casual hobbyists alike.

Foilboarding, often referred to as hydrofoiling or simply foiling, involves riding a board equipped with a hydrofoil that extends below the surface of the water. This unique design allows riders to glide effortlessly above the water once they reach sufficient speed, offering a near-magical sensation of flying over the waves. The appeal lies in its ability to combine speed, agility, and a smooth ride—even in less-than-ideal water conditions like our residents experience on summer weekends.

Experts in the water sports industry attribute the surge in popularity to advancements in technology and the sheer excitement the sport offers. Originally powered by kites (kite foiling), foilboards now come in various styles, including e-foils, which are electric-powered and allow riders to soar across the water without needing wind or waves. These innovations have made foilboarding more accessible to a broader audience, from seasoned surfers to beginners.

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Members of the Southern Wakes United Waterski Team form a pyramid last summer.

DAVE DRESDOW Discover Lauderdale Lakes

wanted to have fun.

“We just wanted to open it up to families and kind of be the fun team,” he added.

Among the awards that SWU brought home was the Most Original/Unique Act, which featured Whitewater High School graduate C.J. Tomomitsu combined with adaptive waterskier Madux Devitt.

Devitt, who has Ataxia-telangiectasia – a rare nervous system disorder – rode on a knee board while Tomomitsu executed a wakeboard tantrum flip over him.”

“He’s been involved with the water skiers … he’s grown up with this,” Syverson said of Devitt. “He can knee board, which he did as C.J. flipped over him.”

“A lot of us had goosebumps when we won that award,” he added.

Among the other awards were the 19-person ballet line winning, the honoring of drivers Eric Gostomski, Dan Neuens and Chris Berryhill with co-driver George Lohrmann, along with riders (spotters who watch the skiers) Mark Lutz and Shawnda Peteres.

The comedy act featured a “ski-alis” commercial, based on a Cialis commercial.

The team also gives out annual awards and the winners for the 2023 season included: • Barb Diehl Memorial Award for • SEE SOUTHERN WAKES ON PAGE 22

DISCOVER LAUDERDALE LAKES • FALL 2024

The Southern Wakes United waterski team capped off last year’s season with a fun, successful weekend on Lake Wazeecha in Wisconsin Rapids.

Bringing home several box score awards – individual or group act recognition – the team earned the top trophy at the 2023 Wisconsin State Water Ski Show Championships, held last July.

They topped the Division 3 standings, and brought home awards for Best Comedy Act, Highest Scoring Traditional Ballet Line, Most Original/Unique Act, Highest Scoring Production, High Scoring Dock and Equipment and Highest Scoring Tow Boat Team.

Southern Wakes United totaled 1,063 points, while the Plum-Skiters were second from 1,044.

It was the first state title since the Lauderdale Aqua Skiers from Lauderdale Lakes and the Minneiska Water Ski Club from Whitewater Lake merged into one team in 2019.

“I am so proud of the dedication this team showed this year, especially the last couple of weeks leading up to the competition,” Rick Syverson, president of Southern Wakes United said last summer.

“Winning that trophy has been something we have had our eyes on since merging in 2019. We thought of ourselves as the little team that could. And we did,” he said.

Syverson explained that show directors Laura Lohrmann and Zach Pressley worked throughout the previous winter to put the show together.

“The show had a lot of moving pieces, so there was a lot of preparation to make it happen that goes beyond the water skiing,” Syverson said. “They stuck with it, they made it fun, and they earned the buy-in from the team to make it the best it could be.”

Last year’s team had 56 skiing members and 28 non-skiers – which covers everything from boat drivers to people who pay dues to support the team.

“Our skiers kind of come from everywhere,” said Syverson, including some are Chicago-area residents who have summer homes in the area. Most are from Whitewater and Elkhorn, but there are others from as far away as Muskego.

“We are a smaller team,” Syverson said.

“We love competing at state, but that’s not what we wanted to be known for. We just

DISCOVER WATERSPORTS

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SOUTHERN WAKES UNITED IS COMPETITIVE BUT GOAL IS TO HAVE FUN

21

DISCOVER WATERSPORTS

SOUTHERN WAKES • CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21 Showmanship (female) – Nicole Severson • Meredythe Poltrock Memorial Award for Showmanship (male) – James Anderson • Margo Rhyan Memorial Award for Sportsmanship (female) – Megan Gostomski • Ronald Wolfe Memorial Award for Sportsmanship (male) – Mike Maas and James Finet • Frank & Alice Hoch Memorial Award for MVP (male) – Rick Syverson • Walter & Elna Koerting Memorial Award for MVP (female) – Alyssa Berryhill • Most Improved Male Skier – Jack Jacobs • Most Improved Female Skier – Grace Finet • Most Valuable Junior – Samantha Neuens and Emma Maas • SWU Award – Joellen Berryhill.

executed a three-man 360 which had never been performed by an amateur team. In 1980 the Minneiska’s four-man 360 team was asked to perform at Tommy Bartlett’s.

The word Minneiska means “white water” in the Sioux language. Over the years the ream and its skiers have won many awards including pulling 31 skiers behind a boat in 1980, breaking a record.

Several skiers have earned awards for best swivel ballet, five skiers performing a 360 behind a single boat, best trick skiing act, best male skier and best female skier.

The team has also placed for best Pick Up Boat Crew and for Dock Crew and Boat Drivers and, most recently Most Unique Act. The LAS Water Ski Show Team (Lauderdale Lakes Aqua Skiers) had its modest beginnings in the 1950s when a group of young people who loved to ski decided they wanted to perform for their The Whitewater Lake Sports Club was friends and neighbors. Using their own formed back in 1973 and included sailing, boats and fuel, they performed a single, canoeing, and skiing. The skiing portion annual show in conjunction with the continued with full strength and was named Lauderdale Regatta Day in front of the the Minneiska Water Ski Team in 1974. The Sterlingworth Motor Hotel. Their only team performed their first show on July 21, rewards were the appreciation of their 1974, for the Lions Club. audience and a complimentary dinner at the The ski team started competing in Sterlingworth after the show. tournaments in 1975. In 1975 Minneiska With the advent of ski boats came new was the only team in the state to pull a two- power and performance. LAS bought its man 360. In 1979 the team performed and own boat and began competing in the State

Show Ski Tournament in the 1980s. ​ In 1988 LAS took first place in the Wisconsin State Individual Barefoot Competition and team member Nancy Lynd O’Hara won the coveted Willa McGuire Cook Award for Best Female Performance Overall at the National Tournament.

In 1990 the team won first place in division II at the Wisconsin State Show Tournament, claiming first place in dock equipment and safety, tow boat driving, announcing and overall show. ​ In 1997 LAS hosted a “fun class” individual events competition where over 150 novice skiers enjoyed the opportunity to compete in slalom, kneeboard and wakeboard. At the Wisconsin State Tournament that year, sisters Heather and Brooke Huelskamp were awarded the “Most Unique Act” for their slalom strap doubles act and were chosen from over 325 acts presented.

Team sponsors for the 2024 season include the following: Balestrieri, the Boat House, Edge Broadband, City of Elkhorn, Feldco, Gage Marine, Kunes, Lauderdale Landing, Precision Plus, Scenic Ridge Campground, Southern Lakes Plumbing & Heating, and Surf and Turf Property Management.

For more information about the team, visit southernwakesunited.com or follow the group on Facebook.

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The Boat House crew wants people to choose best vessel for them and lake it will be used on

BY Jennifer Eisenbart STAFF WRITER

above: While wake-enhanced boats are growing more popular and concerns about them are increasing, staff at The Boat House, including General Manager Joe Bishoff (left) and Sales Manager Travis Quass say they are committed to providing the best boats for their customers and for the lakes they will be used on. left: This shows the underside of a wake-enhanced boat, which has a propeller under the vessel for, amongst other things, enhanced safety.

JENNIFER EISENBART Discover Lauderdale Lakes

meetings of various groups that are in charge of the lakes. Bishoff thought that, between in all, they had been in attendance at 6-8 meetings in the last year.

The Lauderdale Lakes Management District has also been putting out a seasonal newsletter, which The Boat House is helping share as well. The Lauderdale Lakes Improvement Association is also involved.

The Boat House has also produced an educational video that covers numerous important topics.

Among the tips for area boaters are the following: • The minimum distance for wakeboarding and wake surfing are 200 feet from the shoreline to minimize environmental impact.

• When wake surfing or wake boarding, operate the boat at a minimum depth of 20 feet.

• Stay a minimum of 100 feet away from occupied, anchored boats, personal watercraft, rafts, swimmers and swimming areas.

• Disengage fins and empty ballasts when not surfing.

The ballasts are a part of what make wake boats what they are. A ballast that’s filled weighs the boat further down in the water, and the surf systems aboard the boat

can shape the surf wake as well as directing water to the left or right, depending on preferences.

Quass also noted another important thing.

“People who are using (wake boats) in shallow water aren’t using them the way they’ve been directed to use them,” he explalined. “It’s not going to create a wake.”

Both Quass and Bishoff said that there are numerous opinions right now on regulating wake boats – to the point where many groups are waiting for direction.

In the meantime, the crew at The Boat House hopes to fill that gap with education.

“The biggest thing with the whole wake surf issue is education,” Quass said, adding that shoreline erosion can happen from wake, but it can also be caused by wind, rain and ice.

“Education leads to boating etiquette, boating right. That, in turn, leads to boating safety, which I think is a much bigger topic than anything else,” Bishoff added.

“When you’re out on the lake, more than anything else, you want people safe,” he said.

The Boat House is at N7536 Sterlingworth Dr., Elkhorn, and can be reached by calling 262-742-3898. The store is closed Sunday and Monday, but open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.

DISCOVER LAUDERDALE LAKES • FALL 2024

For The Boat House in Lauderdale Lakes, there are certain creeds that the company lives by.

Mainly, the staff wants to sell you a boat that isn’t only what you want, but is proper for the lake you’ll be taking it on.

“They can expect to get very good customer service and knowledgeable representation of which boat would work best for their families and lake,” said sales manager Travis Quass. “We’re not going to put a 30-foot boat out (on Lauderdale Lakes). It doesn’t belong out there.

“Before they even buy (a boat), we demo them on the lake,” he added. “They take it for a test drive on the water.”

The question of what boats belong on which lakes has been being raised more often lately, particularly with the rise in popularity of wake-enhanced boats – which are boats that make water recreation more fun by creating bigger waves.

Concerns about shoreline erosion and lake quality have brought attention these boats, and local organizations – whether it be municipal boards, lake improvement associations or special interest groups – have been challenged in an effort to try and determine what is best for area lakes.

That includes the Lauderdale Lakes system, which has Green, Middle and Mill lakes, plus Don Jean Bay at the bottom of the lake chain.

Quass said the only lake in the chain that really appropriate for wake boats is Green Lake – the largest in Lauderdale.

“The main usable part of the lake is a very strong, recreational water sports lake,” he explained.

In general, Quass and general manager Joe Bishoff said the Lauderdale Lakes chain is popular because it’s a clear, spring-fed lake, and offers a number of different areas for people to enjoy.

The majority of those people, they said, are committed to keeping the lake at high quality, which means keeping an eye on all issues, including what wake boats may or may not do to each of the lakes.

Bishoff, Quass or owners Jesse Gaengel and Kevin Code, they said, sit in on the

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THEY’RE SAID TO BE CAUSING SHORELINE, OTHER ISSUES ON SMALLER LAKES

BY Jennifer Eisenbart STAFF WRITER

A new trend in boating has created a need for new rules on area lakes.

Wake-enhanced boats – also known as wake surf boats – are boats that use ballast tanks, water sacks or fins to cause a boat to operate in a bow-high manner.

That, in turn, increases the wake behind a boat to increase the amount of water for tubers, water skiers or wake boarders being pulled behind a boat.

However, numerous different authorities throughout the state have begun to see the impact these boats have on lakeshores – mainly shoreline erosion and the destruction of fish habitats as well as damage to lake bottoms.

Wake-enhanced boats also create hazards for other boaters, kayakers, swimmers, paddle

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in turn make them prime areas for fish habitats. They are also harder to navigate around with smaller and irregularly shaped lakes.

• The wake sports industry recommends that these boats limit repetitive passes against a single shoreline, which is more difficult with small and medium sized lakes.

Lakes at Stake has been working in the last year to put regulations in place for such boating activities. According to an article on WisBusiness.com, the group is led by Paul Gardetto, a 29-year veteran of the U.S. Air Force who owns lakefront property in Waukesha County.

In the article, Gardetto stressed that the group doesn’t want to ban the boats, but instead limit the activity to larger lakes.

Numerous municipalities, lake authorities and organizations – both in the state and outside of it – have begun taking a stance against wake-enhanced boats.

Rick Siok, president of the Lauderdale Lakes Improvement Association, said the item was on the agenda at the June LLIA meeting, but not to take action because the LLIA cannot set policy.

“We don’t have that power on the lakes,” Siok said. “It was more an educational meet, and it kind of turned into more than an educational meet.”

Steve Kessler from the Last Wilderness Alliance came to speak at the LLIA meeting, using a PowerPoint demonstration to show what the wake-enhanced boats can do to lakes.

“He thought it would be a great topic to bring up,” Siok said. “We were trying to do some education.

“If we can get a few people to recognize what they do to the shore and get them to use them in deeper water … there was no heated information,” Siok said, adding that some in attendance didn’t necessarily “believe” the information.

“They felt (the information) was onesided from his group,” Siok explained.

Siok said the concerns are not about stopping these boats from using these lakes.

“But part of this group is to protect the beauty of these lakes,” he added.

He confirmed there are a number of these boats using the lake, but he also understands the boats are popular.

And he isn’t sure how to come to a compromise.

The maximum depth of Lauderdale Lakes is about 54 feet, and most of the lakes in the chain are narrow – a total of 825 acres for all the lakes.

However, wake-enhanced boats also represent a significant portion of new boat sales in recent years.

The Boathouse, located on Lauderdale Lakes, could not be reached for comment.

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Wake surfing is a popular sport on Lauderdale Lakes. The wake-enhanced boats, however, have the potential to damage smaller lakes if the lakes aren’t deep enough.

boarders and pleasure boaters.

Because of the use of ballast tanks, which cannot completely be drained, there is also the concern of invasive species being transferred from one lake to another.

According to Lakes at Stake Wisconsin, restrictions have been suggested for small and medium lakes for the following reasons: • Large lakes are better resourced to monitor for invasive species.

• Most Wisconsin glacial lakes are irregularly shaped, with bays, kettles and critical habitat areas needing protection.

• The solution to pollution is dilution, which means that small and medium sized lakes are exponentially impacted by resuspension of bottom silt.

• Many lakes have sunken islands, bars and reefs that come up to shallow depths, which

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Wake-enhanced boats

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Relaxing on Green Lake A couple enjoy a late summer day on their pontoon boat while anchored on Green Lake. inset: Pelicans have been spotted on Green Lake this 2024 season. According to a 30-year resident of the area, he has never seen them on the lake before.

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Oktoberfest THE SPLENDOR OF

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CORRESPONDENT

Elkhorn is well known for its Oktoberfest, which fills the entire downtown area with a variety of activities, food, and their special Hofbrau Oktoberfest Lager beer. It’s held the third Saturday of October, so this year will be on Oct. 19. The event, which is now in its 19th year, is sponsored by the Elkhorn Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism.

The adjacent Veterans Park will again be filled with craft and commercial vendors, offering visitors an opportunity to do a little shopping while enjoying the live entertainment. From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Delite Duo will perform, and from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., Doghouse Roses will take the stage.

“Explore while walking down Wisconsin Street and enjoy a variety of foods from the local restaurants and food trucks that will be on-site,” Chris Clapper, Executive Director of the Elkhorn Area Chamber of Commerce said. “Adults will enjoy exploring downtown Elkhorn and participating in the All Around Town Beer & Wine Tasting.”

The morning kicks off at 9:30 a.m. with an Oktoberfest 5K Run/Walk, which people can register for online at www. oktoberfest.5k.run. The event is a partnership between the chamber and the Elkhorn Rotary Club and those who register by Oct. 12 will get a t-shirt.

Cost for the 5K will be $35 ($20, students), Sept. 21 to Oct. 11; $40 ($25, students) Oct. 12 to race day. Awards to the top three finishers will be presented in various age groups for both male and female. Details can be found on the registration website.

The classic car show is always a draw, allowing visitors a chance to wander among classic vehicles on display.

The Hofbrau Oktoberfest Lager will be served along with bratwurst and other traditional German foods, which can be enjoyed while listening to music and participating in some German dancing.

For more information visit Elkhorn Oktoberfest on Facebook.

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from top: Elkhorn’s Oktoberfest includes live music, a vendor and craft show in the adjacent Veterans Park, an All Around Town Wine & Beer Tasting, and a variety of food vendors.

The stein holding contest is always a big hit at Elkhorn’s event.

by Sandra Landen Machaj

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LAUDERDALE LAKES

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Lauderdale Lakes has 192’ of premier shoreline!

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Lauderdale Lakes prices surge as demand soars and luxury.

On Lauderdale Lakes the iconic home, “The Boathouse” is for sale.

The 192 feet of premier shoreline on Deakin Isle presents a home rebuilt to its original 1915 Jazz Age glory with all the modern conveniences.

The home boasts historical details and architectural styles that capture views of all three Lauderdale Lakes throughout the four levels. This rare opportunity is offered by one of Lauderdale Lakes’ top agents, Jerry Kroupa. For more information contact him at 262-949-3618.

Recent property data shows that median home prices in the Lauderdale Lakes area have risen by more than 25% in just the last two years.

Lakefront homes that were once valued at $800,000 now regularly sell for upwards of $1,000,000 with some luxury properties listed for $2.5 million

- $4.5 million. The surge in prices has also been driven by a limited inventory of available waterfront properties.

Local service businesses and the tourism industry have also benefited from the influx of new residents and visitors. The increased demand for services, from boating/marine services and restaurants has boosted the area’s economy.

Most experts believe the trend of rising prices is here to stay, at least for the foreseeable future. With limited developable land around Lauderdale Lakes and a growing number of buyers seeking waterfront property, the market shows no signs of slowing down.

For potential buyers looking to invest in a piece of lakeside paradise, the message is clear: act fast, or be prepared to pay a premium for the privilege of owning a home on Lauderdale Lakes.

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The tranquil and relatively affordable market of waterfront homes on Lauderdale Lakes has seen a sharp rise in prices, with property values skyrocketing over the past few years.

The scenic beauty, paired with growing demand for lakefront properties, has turned the area into a hotspot for affluent buyers, many of whom are seeking second homes or peaceful retreats from urban life.

Real estate experts cite a combination of factors fueling the boom. As remote work becomes more common, people are leaving big cities in search of more serene environments, and lakeside properties have become increasingly desirable. Lauderdale Lakes, known for its crystal-clear waters, tranquil surroundings, and yearround recreational opportunities, has emerged as a top contender for those looking for the perfect blend of nature

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