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Lauderdale Lakes BREEZE SUMMER 2021 • Fourth Edition
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Bridge to be replaced
The Lauderdale Drive Bridge, also known as the Deakin Isle Bridge, which goes over Green Lake in the Town of La Grange, needs to be replaced. The town held an open house meeting last month that included a brief presentation and allowed the public to provide input and ask questions about the project. The project is scheduled for the fall of 2022. JACK CRUGER JR. Lauderdale Lakes Breeze
Dollar General store open for business
D
ollar General recently announced its store at W5163 County Road A in Elkhorn is now open. Store hours are 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a
week. The store aims to provide area residents with an affordable and convenient store location to purchase household essentials including food, cleaning supplies, paper products, over-the-counter medicines, hygiene products, baby items and more. Dollar General sells products from a variety of manufacturers such as Clorox, Energizer, Procter & Gamble, Hanes, Coca-Cola, Mars, Unilever, Nestle, KimberlyClark, Kellogg’s, General Mills, and PepsiCo. In addition to those along with private branded products, the Elkhorn store includes the company’s new home décor and an expanded party preparation selection. “At Dollar General, we believe the addition of each new store provides positive economic growth for the communities we proudly serve, and the addition of our new Elkhorn store highlights our commitment to deliver a pleasant shopping experience that includes great prices on quality products in a convenient location,” said Dan Nieser, Dollar General’s senior vice president of real estate and store development. “We look forward to welcoming customers to our new store and hope they will enjoy shopping at our new location,” he added.
as the store is expected to employ about six to 10 people, depending on the individual needs of the store. The company competitive wages, training and development programs and benefits including day-one telemedicine eligibility and Dollar General’s Employee Assistance Foundation, as well as health insurance coverage options, 401K savings and retirement plans, tuition reimbursement, paid parental leave and adoption assistance to eligible employees. Interested candidates can review and apply for available positions by visiting careers.dollargeneral.com. Learn more about Dollar General by visiting dollargeneral.com.
Lauderdale Lakes
The Dollar General store at W5163 County Road A in Elkhorn opened in late July, company officials announced earlier this month. Store hours are 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week. Dollar General aims to provide an affordable and convenient store where area residents can purchase food, cleaning supplies, paper products, hygiene products and more. DOLLAR GENERAL STOCK PHOTO Lauderdale Lakes Breeze
To commemorate the opening of the new store, Dollar General plans to donate 100 new books to a nearby elementary school to benefit students ranging from kindergarten to fifth grade. Through the partnership with the Kellogg Company, the donation will be part of a planned donation of more than 100,000 books across the country to celebrate new store openings.
Furthermore, DG strives to be a good neighbor and is committed to the communities it proudly calls home, evidenced by unwavering support of literacy and education initiatives through the Dollar General Literacy Foundation. The addition of the Elkhorn store opens the opportunity for schools, nonprofit organizations and libraries within a 15-mile radius of the store to apply for
Dollar General Literacy Foundation grants. Since its inception in 1993, the Dollar General Literacy Foundation has awarded more than $197 million in grants to nonprofit organizations, helping more than 14 million individuals take their first steps toward literacy or continued education. Dollar General plans to create new jobs in the Elkhorn community
BREEZE A publication of Southern Lakes Newspapers LLC
For advertising opportunities in the Breeze or any of our weekly newspapers or other specialized publications, please call PETE HANSEN at (262) 723-2250
Page 2 LAUDERDALE LAKES BREEZE Summer 2021 • Fourth Edition
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On Saturday, Sept. 11, Lane’s Way will host its second annual fundraising event in memory of Lane Schweitzer, who was killed at the age of 15 in a dirt bike crash. The car and truck show is expanding to welcome semis and antique tractors, and will honor first responders, firefighters, police and veterans, as well as a hometown hero. SUBMITTED PHOTO Lauderdale Lakes Breeze
Lane’s Way to honor hometown hero
Recipient will be recognized at car, truck and tractor show by Heather Ruenz STAFF WRITER
Lane’s Way will host its 2nd annual event later this summer and this year is expanding the car and truck show to include semi trucks and antique tractors. It will be held 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 11, at Elkhorn Area High School, 482 E. Geneva St., with the check-in for vehicles beginning at 9 a.m. The fundraising event is held in memory of Lane Schweitzer, of Elkhorn, who was killed at the age of 15 in a motorbike crash. His mom, Judy Schweitzer, said the show recognizes Lane’s patriotism by honoring a hometown hero. She said people submit the names of someone who goes out of their way to help others and do good things within their community and from that pool, event organizers choose who to honor. The chosen hero will receive gifts tailored to them, specifically, and last year’s recipient received $500 worth of items. Lane also loved his truck, his mom said, and so the show is a way for the family to tie Lane’s passions together through a community event, which raised more than $5,550 the first year. The tentative schedule for this year’s event includes the hometown hero and memorial ceremony taking place at 12:30 p.m. and the best in show award being presented at 2 p.m.
“We’re going to have people vote on the best theme that day with the winner being presented a trophy,” Schweitzer The American Legion posts from Elkhorn and East Troy said. will present the colors at the show. She said the event is focused on the things that were In line with Lane’s appreciation and respect of those important to Lane. who help others, Schweitzer said they plan to honor “Lane would want this show to be about honoring all several groups that day, including the victims and heroes people who help others and a hometown hero. And, of of 9/11 since the event will take place on the anniversary course, people sharing their love of cars, trucks, semis and of that day. There will even be a special giveaway, she tractors,” she said. said. “We’re all coming together because of one kind and Firefighters, police officers and first responders are caring young man. Please come out and enjoy the day encouraged to attend the event because there will be a with us, show off your vehicles and see those on display, special drawing just for them for a full day golf package, have some food and drinks and help us celebrate America, according to Schweitzer. which Lane was very passionate about,” Schweitzer said. There is no entry fee for the vehicle show but donations When tragedy struck are welcome. Schweitzer said those planning to attend can register in On March 27, 2019, Lane was enjoying a warm spring advance at lanesway.org – which helps with the planning – day doing what many teenagers do – riding his dirt bike. Accompanied by his sister and his friend, Lane was called but they can also register the day of the show. home to God during a tragic accident. Get on board “We still don’t understand why God decided to take According to Schweitzer, they are still accepting one of the ‘good ones.’ Lane was truly the most kindvendors for the event – those selling food, crafts or other hearted, amazing young man with a life filled with dreams items, as well as local business vendors who may be and goals. He filled the world with love and laughter and interested in attending are encouraged to take part. losing him has left a void that has been unbearable… but “Any and all items are welcome to those who want to we have decided to use our loss to help our community support this community event. There is no fee for them and country in Lane’s honor,” the website states. to be at the event and they can charge what they want for Proceeds from the Lane’s Way event will help support their items. But they do need to register so we know how veterans and a scholarship to a graduating senior at EAHS many spaces to set aside,” she said. who exemplifies the caring and respect Lane stood for, There will be silent action items and a live auction. Schweitzer said. A special request from Lane’s family is that attendees For more information, visit lanesway.org. Vendors show off their patriotism with red, white and blue – interested in signing up are asked to contact Judy however they choose to display it. Schweitzer at 262-745-1421 or lanesfullsend@gmail.com.
Honoring heroes
Man drowns while trying to save son It was the second drowning on Geneva Lake in three weeks
Authorities said an Illinois man drowned in Geneva Lake Aug. 1 while trying to save his son who was struggling to swim. According to the Geneva Lake Law Enforcement Agency, shortly after 7 p.m. Sunday, the City of Lake Geneva received several 911 calls of a possible drowning in the Town of Linn near Big Foot Beach. Geneva Lake Police, along with Town of Linn, Lake Geneva, Village of Fontana and Williams Bay Fire and Rescue responded to the scene along with Water Safety Patrol. Geneva Lake Police arrived around 7:06 p.m., according to a news release, and found passengers aboard a 17-foot Tracker boat in panic stating their father/husband was missing in the water.
A preliminary investigation revealed Antonio F. Delasancha Jr., 31, of Elgin, was operating the boat and pulling his two pre-teen daughters on a tube. When one of the daughters fell of the tube, Delasancha turned around to pick her up, according to the news release. However, once the boat stopped, Delasancha’s 11-year-old son – who was wearing a lifejacket – jumped into the water and started to swim. “The son started to drift away from the boat and began to struggle,” the news release stated. “(Antonio) jumped into the water without a personal flotation device to save his son.” While the father swam toward his son, Delasancha went under the
surface and drowned in about 45 feet of water. Initial rescue efforts lasted about 40 minutes before authorities turned to a recovery mission, according to officials who reported using sonar technology. At about 11:45 p.m. Sunday, authorities found Delasancha, but they chose not to recover him until the following morning because of safety concerns. The Walworth County Sheriff’s Office Dive Team conducted the recovery operations. Authorities are still investigating the drowning with assistance from the state Department of Natural Resources. The Aug. 1 drowning is the second on Geneva Lake within three weeks.
On July 13, Fadi A. Albazi, 22, of Morton Grove, Illinois, drowned after falling off a tube being pulled by a boat. Two remote operated vehicles aided in the recovery, which took place near George Williams College in Williams Bay. The Geneva Lake Law Enforcement Agency said multiple agencies were called in to help locate Albazi but those efforts turned from attempted rescue to recovery because authorities were not able to find Albazi. “Geneva Lake Law Enforcement Agency would like to express our since thanks to all first responders that are too numerous to name. We send our thoughts and prayers to the families of the victim,” a press release states.
According to initial reports, at about 3:30 p.m. on July 13, authorities received a phone call from the Walworth County Communications Center about a possible drowning near George Williams College. The preliminary investigation revealed Albazi was riding in an inflatable tube being pulled by a boat with five people on board. When Albazi fell off the tube, the personal flotation device he was wearing slipped off. “The victim began to struggle to remain above water, (and) occupants on the boat jumped into the water to try and rescue the victim but were unsuccessful,” the release states. Authorities found the man in about 128-feet of water.
Page 4 LAUDERDALE LAKES BREEZE Summer 2021 • Fourth Edition
Driving up business
GOLF OUTINGS BENEFIT COURSES, AID CAUSES by Daniel Schoettler CORRESPONDENT
From benefits for those in need to those supporting college sports powerhouses, golf courses throughout the area have found ways to help the communities they serve – and drive activity to their fairways. Representatives of area courses say they get a lot of different groups who team up with them, the majority for fundraisers, which offer an opportunity to have a good time and play the game they enjoy while also supporting a good cause. At Evergreen Country Club in Elkhorn, the golf course has done outings ranging from play dates for golf leagues to fundraisers for local and regional charities as well as company-sponsored outings for their employees and vendors. Causes go from fundraising for Ducks Unlimited to schools and churches as well as causes such as cancer awareness and support for people battling other medical challenges. “Outings are mutually beneficial to both the charity and the facility,” Evergreen owner Bill Rogers said. “A recent outing had $10,000 in sponsorships going into the event.” Among the long list of groups and organizations Evergreen has had a chance to work with – for fundraisers and more – is the University of WisconsinWhitewater, particularly the powerhouse athletic programs the school has. In partnering with the university, the golf course holds the Jim Miller Baseball classic, as well as hosting outings for the track and cross country teams, wheelchair athletics and women’s soccer. “UW-Whitewater does provide many valuable seasonal employees as well to staff key hospitality positions,” Rogers said of working with connections at the university. “Many of these employees work spring and fall as well and then work full-time in the summer months.” Golf courses are likely come off a much more successful summer than they had in 2020 since the pandemic forced the cancellation of numerous events. One of the returning events was Kade’s Klassic, a fundraiser that features golfing, lunch, a live auction and raffles. Money raised goes to support a person from the
area dealing with a life-threatening disease. This year’s beneficiary was Kim Gonzales, who is a year out from treatment she received for breast cancer. She said the donations would help make a dent in her outstanding medical bills. Evergreen Country Club is at N6246 Highway 12/67, Elkhorn. For more information, call 262-7235722 or visit evergreengolf.com. Another course in the local area is Lauderdale Lakes Country Club, N7498 Country Club Dr., Elkhorn. It offers a nine-hole course on 45 acres that is currently owned by the Lauderdale Lakes Management District. “We are committed to the environment, our community, and to providing an enjoyable round of golf at an affordable rate,” the website states. For more information, call 262-742-2454 or visit lauderdalelakescountryclub.com.
DAVE DRESDOW PHOTOS Lauderdale Lakes Breeze
top: This year’s Kade’s Klassic fundraiser was held in late June at Evergreen Golf Course in Elkhorn. Event features include golfing, lunch, a live auction and raffles with money raised going to help a local person dealing with a lifethreatening disease. Events such as this drive business to golf courses and give the courses a chance to assist the communities they serve, according to local golf officials. above: Guests at this year’s Kade’s Klassic peruse a long line of raffle baskets filled with items donated by businesses and individuals from throughout the area. left: Golfing fundraisers not only help out the golf courses but also a variety of good causes. Kade’s Klassic, an event held at Evergreen Country Club in Elkhorn, has grown to welcome hundreds of golfers each year and raise thousands of dollars. far left: Proceeds from the recent Kade’s Klassic will go to Kim Gonzales, of Lake Geneva, who is a year out from treatment she received for breast cancer. She said the donations would help make a dent in her outstanding medical bills.
Back TO THE fair Summer 2021 • Fourth Edition
LAUDERDALE LAKES BREEZE Page 5
County fair returns in full force for 2021
by Sandra Landen Machaj
Nick’s Animal Adventure for children to enjoy. There are also the traditional horse shows and kids’ pedal tractor pull.
CORRESPONDENT
The 172nd Annual Walworth County Fair will be held at the Walworth County Fairgrounds, Rides and food 411 E. Court St., Elkhorn, from It would not be a festive fair Wednesday, Sept. 1 through Labor without the carnival rides and Day, Sept. 6. And while most attractions, from the tall Ferris people eagerly anticipate the annual wheel and the carousel to perhaps a tradition, this year the fair will be new and more thrilling ride. extra special because of the lack of For many, eating their way events in 2020. through the fair is their way “Because of the COVID of enjoying the day. From the pandemic, the 2020 fair was limited traditional hamburgers, hot dogs, to the kid’s animal sale,” said pork sandwiches, and bratwurst Larry Gaffey, Walworth County to the popcorn, cotton candy, ice Fairgrounds General Manager. cream and soft drinks, there seems A major change will also take to be no end to food choices. place at the fair this year, selling Camping on the grounds is another beer and wine. way to enjoy the fair. Many visitors “The Walworth County come for the entire fair and rent one Agricultural Society who are the of the campsites where they stay in owners of the fairgrounds, polled their tent, motor home or travel trailer. their members and voted to allow It’s perfect for getting a head start on the serving of beer and wine at the activities in the mornings. fair for the first time in its 171 year For many area families, spending history,” Gaffey explained. “Visitors the last week of summer attending the to the fair will be able to purchase fair during the day and camping out at their drinks and walk around the night has become a tradition. fairgrounds with them in hand. The The campsites have water and exception will be that alcoholic an electric hookup, a nearby picnic drinks will not be allowed in the shelter, and facilities. While it is too exhibit areas or in the barns.” late to reserve a campsite for this This year the theme of the year, it’s not too early to plan for next Walworth County Fair is “Jam Well-scrubbed livestock and young competitors eager to show their ability to raise season. Packed Fun in 2021.” Visitors to the the best of the breed are a staple at the county fair. Entry to the fair is $10 for largest county fair in Wisconsin will PHOTOS COURTESY OF WALWORTH COUNTY FAIR Lauderdale Lakes Breeze adults, ($8 for seniors Wednesday, be able to explore almost 100 acres Thursday and Friday) and $5 for cattle raising – with each student in East Troy. To enter a team of one there, they will learn about the of Fair activities. children. Children 4 and younger hoping his or her project will be the adult (18 or older) and one youth butterfly, its unique life cycle and are admitted free. As always, there Grand Champion. its foods of choice. The butterfly (9 to 17 years old) will enter two Music headliners According to Harris, the barn holds about 250 butterflies. It’s is no charge for parking. Mason jars of homemade pickles Music has always filled the air Contact the Walworth County participants not only learn how to that they have prepared. There is no stocked with the caterpillars in the at the fair and this year will be complete a project but when they spring so allows them to go through Fair for more information at 411 entry fee.” no different. Event planners have Court St., Elkhorn by visiting deal with judges face to face, they their life cycle. The contest will be judged by done their best to bring a variety walworthcountyfair.com or calling learn to share the exhibits they have certified pickle judges. Organizers Two new activities this year of musical acts to perform. On 262-723-3228. created and the things they learned will be the Ninja event and Nature anticipate there could be 600 or Saturday Sept. 4, country singer in the process. They also receive more entries. Justin Moore will appear on the advice from the judges that can help For many, the animal Grandstand Main Stage at 7:30 them with their future projects and competitions are synonymous pm. Moore has had a series of No. learn to build their communication with county fairs and 4-H and FFA 1 singles on the Billboard country and interview skills. activities. The crowning of the chart. Tickets for the event can be Grand Champion is the highlight for purchased online for $20 general A $5,000 pickle prize those who have raised their animals admission (standing) or $25 to $45 through the months. for reserved seating. An entry ticket “This year there is a new competition which will give the This family friendly festival to the fair is also required. winner $5,000. The prize is not offers many activities to keep On Sunday evening, for King a scholarship and has no strings children busy. These include the and Country, a Christian pop duo attached to it. It can be used for award-winning Barnyard Adventure consisting of brothers Joel and anything the winner chooses,” Educational Area with a touchless Luke Smallbone will appear on Gaffey said. “The event is the tour with learning stations. the Grandstand Main Stage at 7:30 Perfect Pickle Pucker Bowl A stop in the butterfly barn is p.m. Tickets for this event can be purchased online for $20 for general sponsored by Frank’s Piggly Wiggly also a favorite of children. While admission (Standing) or $30 to $45 for reserved seating. Since the 171st fair was so limited last year, people are ready to return to a full slate of activities where families and friends can Various stands throughout the fairgrounds provide a variety of enjoy all the fair has to offer. traditional and not-so-traditional foods.
Fair showcase
The fair is a favorite time for young people who are showcasing projects they have worked on, either through group activities or on their own. “In 2019, the last year that we had a full fair, 84% of 4-H club members in the area participated. For 2021, that percentage would suggest about 515 youth will be showcasing their 4-H project work in the Junior Show competitions,” said Deborah Harris, 4-H Youth Development Educator, and Associate Professor, Department of Extension University of Wisconsin. “Many of the youth will show in multiple exhibit classes.” 4-H members are not the only participants in the competitions, however. Members of the FFA and independent groups also compete with their projects. The contests range from food preparation such as canning, gardening, baking, and flowers, to cake decorating, team building skills, and the traditional animal and
Carnival rides such as this giant Ferris wheel are favorites of visitors of all ages.
These young competitors accept their awards for the swine competitions.
Page 6 LAUDERDALE LAKES BREEZE Summer 2021 • Fourth Edition
The ins and outs of Lauderdale Lakes Size • Green Lake is 311 acres • Middle Lake is 259 acres • Mill Lake is 271 acres
Lauderdale Lakes consists of Green Lake, Middle Lake and Mill Lake and is located in La Grange Township a few miles north of the City of Elkhorn, west of highways 12 and 67. For more information contact the Lauderdale Lakes Marina at (262) 495-8200 or www.lauderdalelakesmarina.com.
Fish species Lauderdale Lakes offers a wide array of fish with the predominant species being: • Largemouth bass • Smallmouth bass • Northern pike • Walleye • Panfish
Maximum depth • Green Lake: 55 feet • Middle Lake: 42 feet • Mill Lake: 44 feet
Access Lauderdale Lakes is accessible via a paved ramp on Sterlingworth Road off of Highways 12/67. Additionally, unimproved landings are located off of Bubbling Springs Road and Westshore Drive.
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Summer 2021 • Fourth Edition
• LAUDERDALE LAKES EVENTS Saturday, Aug. 28 – Lauderdale Lakes Yacht Club annual meeting and golf outing with dinner at Lauderdale Lakes Country Club Friday, Sept. 3 at 9:30 a.m. – Wooden boat parade will depart from Sterlingworth Saturday, Sept. 25 – Lauderdale Lakes Yacht Club Fall Final Fling at Heartwood in Elkhorn Saturday, Oct. 16, from 9 to 11 a.m. – Lauderdale Lakes Improvement Association’s Directors Meeting, (location to
be determined) Sailing Club races The remaining Lauderdale Lakes Sailing Club race schedule for 2021 includes the following: – Aug. 29, Cartland Trophy; – Sept. 5, Ladies Appreciation Trophy; – Sept. 12, Harry S. Truman (all three lakes) and awards picnic; – Sept. 18, Galvanized Cup.
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Grocers struggle with shortages
Erratic food supply, finding workers remain a challenge by Tracy Ouellette
“Please be patient,” he said. “We are trying our best and are very short staffed. Many people are in new positions and it takes a The supply chain is still broken because while to get up to speed.” of the COVID-19 pandemic and many businesses are struggling to stock the shelves, Lueptow said the stores are following Centers for Disease Control guidelines and including area grocery stores. not requiring facemasks for vaccinated Anyone who has been shopping for food people, but they have implemented some lately can see that stores often don’t have pandemic changes that will be staying. what they are looking for and prices have “We have always followed all the CDC gone up. guidelines. However, one of the changes we Frank Lueptow, who owns Frank’s Piggly put in place last year was not allowing people Wiggly stores in Elkhorn and East Troy with his wife, Stephanie, says the situation is going to bring in their own bags,” he said, adding that his stores changed that policy later per to continue for some time. “The problem we are seeing is that there is CDC guidelines. “What will stay around is the constant no notice of shortages and no warnings. One cleaning of surfaces and more frequent hand day we have chicken breast, the next day we order and the supplier is out.”” Lueptow said, washing,” he added. The stores also use Instacart for grocery adding that he predicted the shortages will deliver, which Lueptow said has been very “be with us for a long, long time.” popular in the last year. The shortages are not limited to the store shelves, he said, because the worker shortage “It’s working out very well,” he said. “People are taking advantage of it, but usage means the stores are not fully staffed and finding new employees has been a challenge. has diminished lately.” With independent grocery stores becoming “We could use 20 full-time people right few and far between, Lueptow said it’s the now,” Lueptow said. “Many of our staff are working overtime and many do not like it, but much-appreciated support from the local communities that are keeping the Frank’s are doing it because there is no one else.” Piggly Wiggly stores going strong. While most customers somewhat understand the current conditions, Lueptow See GROCERS • Page 8 said it’s a bit worse than people realize. STAFF WRITER
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Page 8 LAUDERDALE LAKES BREEZE Summer 2021 • Fourth Edition
Details emerge in gas station ambush by Jason Arndt
escorted from Froedtert Hospital to the Racine State investigators have said County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Station by hundreds an Elkhorn man was shot and of law enforcement officers killed while pumping gas in from throughout southeastern his vehicle July 13 at the Pilot Wisconsin,” the release said. Travel Center on Interstate Schmaling said the 94 and Highway K in Racine investigator is recovering from County in what appears multiple gunshot wounds, to have been an attempted which fractured bones in his carjacking. pelvis. Anthony T. Griger, 22, of “The Sheriff’s Office Elkhorn, according to Racine wishes their friend and County Sheriff Christopher colleague a speedy recovery, Schmaling, was standing near and we appreciate the support his vehicle while fueling it from our community.” when a 32-year-old Hartland Schmaling commended man approached Griger at the actions of the undercover around 7:30 a.m. and shot officer, who has 21 years Griger in what Schmaling experience in the department. called an “extremely “There was no doubt in my disturbing” incident. mind that the quick and heroic “We offer our prayers and actions of our investigator condolences to his family, saved lives,” Schmaling said. friends…,” Schmaling said in Delagrave said people a July 14 news release. “The family is requesting their right throughout the county continue to keep the investigator in their to privacy to be respected thoughts. during this difficult time.” “We are reminded that the The Hartland man, John men and women of the Racine R. McCarthy, reportedly County Sheriff’s Office risk then tried to steal Griger’s their lives each time they put vehicle along with another Last month, Bird e-scooters made their way to the City of Whitewater thanks to a one-year pilot program. Riders pay to use the that uniform on. Our Racine customer’s at Pilot Travel scooter per minute and there is no cost to the city. Those interested in using Bird will need to download the app as it utilizes a County employees are like a Center. McCarthy eventually map that helps users locate the closest available scooter. family and when one hurts, shot himself in the head after TOM GANSER Lauderdale Lakes Breeze a shootout with an undercover we all hurt. Our thoughts are with the investigator as he sheriff’s deputy at a different recovers,” Delagrave said. gas station. The Wisconsin Department The Racine County Sheriff’s Office, according of Justice, which is to the DOJ, is leading the investigating the shooting investigation of the carjacking involving the sheriff’s deputy, later revealed further details of homicide at Pilot Travel what transpired on the morning Center. The DOJ–Division of of July 13. Criminal Investigation, is After shooting Griger, serving as the head agency according to the DOJ, are also encouraged to wear a helmet Clapper said the scooters offer examining the shootout McCarthy attempted to leave on every ride and required to obey all good options for Whitewater residents between the investigator and in Griger’s vehicle but could standard rules of the road. as well as visitors. McCarthy. not operate the vehicle. To use the scooters, a renter will “Having an additional option for “(McCarthy) then attempted “All involved law download the Bird app to their phone transportation will be very helpful enforcement are fully to carjack another patron’s and create an account they will use for for many residents,” said Clapper. cooperating with the DCI vehicle, but the patron drove each ride. Using the map in the Bird “This will also be a nice option for during this investigation,” the away,” DOJ officials said. app, riders will find the closest scooter. those who are visiting the city and The City of Whitewater is “(McCarthy) then fired several DOJ said. It can be reserved up to 30 minutes in want a new way of getting around and partnering with shared electric rounds into the patron’s vehicle The state agency, which had advance. enjoying what our city has to offer.” scooter company, Bird Rides to bring not yet released the deputy’s as it fled. The patron was not To start the ride, the renter will scan e-scooters to the city on a one-year name, said he has been placed injured.” the Bird’s QR code with the app, hit Special programs pilot program contract. The scooters on medical leave. McCarthy, who left the the throttle on the right to go and pull Bird offers the following programs were available earlier this week DOJ officials are receiving Pilot Travel Center in his the brakes to slow. that are available for all who qualify: through a mobile phone application. assistance from the Wisconsin own vehicle, fled eastbound After the ride, renters will use the • Community pricing offers a 50% Riders pay to use the scooter per State Patrol, the Wisconsin on Highway K at a high kickstand to keep the Bird upright and discount to low-income riders, Pell minute and there is no cost to the city. park it away from public pathways in State Crime Laboratory, the rate speed to the Mobil Gas grant recipients, select local nonprofit “We are happy to welcome Bird DOJ Office of Crime Victim Station, 10616 Northwestern an approved parking spot found in the and community organizations, to the City of Whitewater. We look Services and the Caledonia Ave. in Franksville. There, app. The rider will submit a picture veterans and senior citizens. To forward to having the scooters and Mt. Pleasant police he encountered another man of the scooter to ensure the ride is sign up for the community pricing available for all residents and visitors departments. filling his vehicle with fuel. complete and the scooter is parked. program, download the Bird app, to get around town and think it will That man happened to be Riders will be able to use the create an account, and email proof of be a nice addition to the community,” an undercover sheriff’s deputy ‘Senseless’ act community mode, allowing anyone eligibility to access@bird.co. said Whitewater City Manager who was wearing plainclothes Delagrave called the with a Bird account to report or • Free rides for healthcare workers Cameron Clapper. violence at Pilot Travel Center and fueling up his unmarked provide feedback on vehicle-related and emergency personnel – Bird offers The company plans on offering a senseless act against an squad car. issues such as poorly parked or free rides to healthcare workers and scooters to help reduce carbon innocent victim. “The suspect quickly damaged vehicles in their area. Riders emergency personnel. To sign up, emissions, as well as traffic congestion will be asked to provide the Bird ID He expressed condolences approached the investigator simply email a copy of your medical on roads. The scooters also offer to Griger’s family, friends and with a gun drawn and began number and the specific issue they are identification card along with your residents without automobiles another experiencing. A Bird team member loved ones. to shoot at him at a close name and phone number together@ transportation option. “Sadly, there was a loss of distance,” Schmaling said will be assigned to correct the issue. bird.co. Eligible riders will receive The electric scooters can be used life during today’s incident at a July 13 press briefing, Community Mode can be accessed by two free 30-minute rides per day for on roads and in bike lanes with a and my deepest condolences adding that McCarthy and tapping the yield sign on the bottom as long as it takes to help communities maximum speed of 15 mph. Scooters goes out to the family, friends the investigator, exchanged left of the Bird map. recover from the global health crisis. must be parked out of the way of and loved ones of the victim,” gunfire. Bird advises riders to check the app For more information about the pedestrians and never blocking Delagrave said in a July 13 “It should be noted, this for the most up-to-date vehicle charge Bird scooters, visit www.bird.co, call driveways. statement. is 7:30 in the morning at this information, service area locations and 1-866-205-2442, or send an email to Riders are required to be 18 years “This was a senseless act Mobil station. It was bustling pricing. hello@bird.co. or older to access the scooters. They of violence that tragically took with activity, people were the life of an innocent person. getting their gas and people were getting their morning cup I cannot imagine what his family is going through, but we of coffee,” Schmaling said. GROCERS • from page 7 stand with them through this The DOJ indicated difficult time,” he added. McCarthy shot himself in “With independents started their first “mom Sandy Halversen, one of the head before emergency you are supporting your and pop” grocery store his Griger’s relatives, launched responders transported him and local businesses and not in Elkhorn in 1981. the undercover sheriff’s deputy a GoFundMe page to offset sending your money five Since then, the store expenses related to funeral to an area hospital where states away,” he said. has grown and changed costs. McCarthy was pronounced “You know these people, a little but the family Griger, who had the dead. most have worked here values it started with are nickname Nino, left behind for years and their jobs still at the core of the many friends and family Officer labeled a hero depend on the support company. members who loved him, she The undercover sheriff’s of the community. Frank’s Piggly wrote. deputy – heralded as a hero Our payroll is over $3 Wiggly in Elkhorn is at “There are no words to for his actions by Schmaling million per year and we 58 W. Market St. and is express the anguish and shock and Racine County Executive employ 150 people and open from 6 a.m. to 10 that all of Nino’s family and more in summer.” p.m. daily. The East Troy Jonathan Delagrave – was friends are experiencing right released from Froedtert store is at 3238 W. Main Frank’s Piggly Wiggly grocery stores in Elkhorn and East Troy are known for now,” Halversen wrote. “We Hospital in Wauwatosa A bit of history St. and is open from 6 their customer service and helpful staff. Service and presentation are key pray that he is at peace and in Tuesday, according to a news a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. For elements that help independent stores compete in a market dominated by large, According to the the loving arms of those who release. website, Frank and more information, visit corporate grocery entities, according to the Wisconsin Grocers Association. have gone before him.” “The investigator was Stephanie Lueptow frankspigglywiggly.com. FILE PHOTO Lauderdale Lakes Breeze STAFF WRITER
Bird scooters land in Whitewater
One-year pilot program means no cost to city; users will pay to ride
Summer 2021 • Fourth Edition
LAUDERDALE LAKES BREEZE Page 9
Making waves on Lauderdale Lakes Program helps people with disabilities hit the water
by Heather Ruenz STAFF WRITER
Several years ago, Julie Davis of Lauderdale Lakes and a volunteer with Adaptive Adventures, offered her lake house to start an adaptive waterski program in the area. Adaptive Adventures aims to “provide progressive outdoor sports opportunities to improve quality of life for children, adults and veterans with disabilities and their families,” according to its website. It features programs, clinics and camps throughout the country in cycling, climbing, dragon boat racing and a variety of watersports. Not long after the program started being offered locally, Davis and Greg Zbrzezny, the Chicago program director for Adaptive Adventures who had teamed up with Davis when it began, spent time brainstorming about how they could expand it. As a result, a group now gathers on Lauderdale Lakes several times each summer, initially at Lutherdale Conference Center and currently, at Lauderdale Landing. The program relies heavily on volunteers. “Our volunteers are a big part of what we do,” Zbrzezny said in a previous interview. Zbrzezny said in addition to Lauderdale Lakes area residents, the program also boasts volunteers who travel up to two hours from Illinois to be part of the program. Each program features participants from various groups, hospitals and organizations. “We work with individuals with physical disabilities and primarily disabled veterans,” Zbrzezny said. In addition to veterans – usually from Chicago and Milwaukee – other groups that have taken part in Adaptive Adventures on Lauderdale Lakes include Shriner’s Children’s Hospital, Synergy Adaptive Athletics and Lincolnway Special Recreation Association. The adaptive waterski program is one of the only ones not funded through grants so it’s difficult to sustain, according to Zbrzezny. To further support Adaptive Adventures, individual donations as well as corporate sponsorships are encouraged and accepted and there is an ongoing need for volunteers – details can be found on the website. For more information visit adaptiveadventures.org or send an email to greg@adaptiveadventures. org.
Adaptive Adventures, a program that provides outdoor sports opportunities to children, adults and veterans with disabilities, can be found making waves on Lauderdale Lakes several times each summer. clockwise from top: From the left: (in the water) Jerry Patt, Scott Alm, Chris Fleming, (on jetski) Jill Reifsnider and Jim Derrick get ready for Fleming to try wake boarding; Participant Vincent Westfallen holds on tight while getting pulled around the lake; Dana Jaros takes a ride across the lake in an adaptive water skiing chair; Greg Zbrzezny makes sure Westfallen’s personal flotation device is securely attached while Monica Voss looks on; Dave Knapp helps Fleming get settled on a wake board before he heads into the water. PHOTOS COURTESY BILL SHULTE Lauderdale Lakes Breeze
Page 10 LAUDERDALE LAKES BREEZE Summer 2021 • Fourth Edition
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Page 12 LAUDERDALE LAKES BREEZE Summer 2021 • Fourth Edition
The Southern Wakes United Water Ski Show Team performs on Elkhorn Lake in Babe Mann Park at a show earlier this summer. The team has shows at a few locations in the area each summer including Lauderdale Landing on Lauderdale Lakes and Scenic Ridge Campground on Whitewater Lake. For more information, visit southernwakesunited. com or follow the team’s Facebook page.
DAVE DRESDOW Lauderdale Lakes Breeze
Balancing act
Michigan family saves two from area lake MOTHER, DAUGHTER RECOGNIZED FOR THEIR HEROIC ACTIONS by Jason Arndt
LaPointe, a kayaker herself, believed both victims, Debra Taylor, 40, of Kenosha, and A Michigan mother and her young daughter who were in Twin Krause fell overboard after their kayaks capsized. Lakes for the Country Thunder Grosz said the Burlingames Musical Festival left with more discovered Krause was than just memories of the annual unresponsive. event. According to Jennifer, who The Burlingames – Jennifer and her daughter, Maria, 11 – also drove the pontoon boat, Maria helped save lives while on board a immediately responded and pontoon boat on Lake Mary. They jumped into Lake Mary to help rescue Taylor and Krause. were recognized by members of the Twin Lakes Police Department “When we headed back that way, we noticed that she was July 17. floating in the water, completely Adam Grosz, Twin Lakes unresponsive, submerged,” Police Chief, along with the Jennifer said. “(Krause) was close family of Tina Krause, 51, one to going under, so we got there in of the victims, thanked the time. Maria was the first to jump Burlingames for their heroic in and I was navigating the boat actions. “We are here today to recognize over to her and lifted her head out some true heroes who did a very of the water.” brave and heroic thing in our Maria, who didn’t hesitate, said community,” Grosz said of the she acknowledged some anxiety July 15 incident. “If it wasn’t as she came to rescue Krause. for the actions of Jennifer and “It was a little bit scary because Maria, this probably would have I saw that her lips were blue and been a much different outcome. It there was foam coming out of her would have been a tragedy in our mouth and I didn’t know what was community.” going to happen,” said Maria, who The Twin Lakes Police kept Krause’s head above water. Department as well as Twin Lakes Jennifer jumped into Lake Fire and Rescue, in addition to Mary to help her daughter bring issuing commemorative plaques, Krause onto the pontoon boat and presented the Burlingames with then began CPR immediately. challenge coins and patches from “I started CPR right away, the two departments for their (Krause) was unresponsive,” said “selfless and courageous act on Jennifer, who plans to encourage July 15, 2021.” her children to become CPR Officials commended them certified. “Luckily, it is something for rendering aid in a sudden that everybody can learn.” and unexpected situation, which The Burlingames brought both resulted in a preservation of life. victims to shore at Lance Park, where Twin Lakes authorities Simple afternoon continued lifesaving efforts. “I can tell you that when they Jennifer, a family physician from Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, arrived, it did not look like a good situation,” Grosz said. her daughter, Maria, along with First responders transported sons Colin, 9, John, 4, and the family nanny Terry LaPointe spent Krause to Aurora Medical Center in Burlington, where medical part of the day simply exploring officials treated her before she was Lake Mary. released, according to Grosz. “Out on the horizon, they “She did want to be here (at happened to see a couple of the July 17 recognition), but people in the water, they had been on the kayaks and they were unfortunately, she is not feeling obviously in distress,” Grosz said. very well. She is still recovering, but is expected to make a full “As quickly as they could, they made their way over to were these recovery,” Grosz said. “(Krause) two individuals were in the lake.” wanted to express thanks to you STAFF WRITER
two. We really wanted to do this today and recognize that we have two true heroes here.” First responders released Taylor after evaluation at the scene. Maria said the situation was stressful but was worth it because she helped save a life. “It was kind of nerve-wracking, but I am so happy that (Krause) is better now,” Maria said.
Frequent visitors The police department decided to recognize the Burlingames that Saturday, instead of during the week, because the Country Thunder Music Festival was coming to a close the next day. Jennifer said she and her family members, who have regional ties, have visited Twin Lakes for the music festival multiple times. “We have been in Twin Lakes – this is our fifth year now – but we have family in Fort Atkinson and Spring Grove (Illinois),” said Jennifer, whose husband, Bret, is a Fort Atkinson native and had spent the afternoon running instead of spending time on the pontoon boat.
Jennifer Burlingame and her daughter, Maria, are recognized at a ceremony July 17 at the Twin Lakes Police Department for saving two women on Lake Mary. JASON ARNDT Lauderdale Lakes Breeze
Twin Lakes Police Chief Adam Grosz expresses gratitude to Jennifer and Maria Burlingame for their lifesaving efforts on Lake Mary. JASON ARNDT Lauderdale Lakes Breeze
One last ride on the open road Summer 2021 • Fourth Edition
LAUDERDALE LAKES BREEZE Page 13
Rainbow Hospice social workers help patient get a special wish
by Kenyon Kemnitz
group of riders arrived so he could see everyone driving in together.
CONTRIBUTOR
Whenever Steve Cunningham had the chance to hop on his motorcycle, there wasn’t a better feeling in the world for him. Hearing the roar of the engine as he would speed down the open road gave him a rush of adrenaline along with access to almost any destination and a sense of freedom with nothing in the way. “I loved the open scenery. There are just certain things you can see on a bike that you can’t see by car,” Cunningham said. Cunningham was a longtime Harley rider and even made a trip down to South Florida by himself. He used to take trips riding all over with his wife, Sandra. She passed away in August of 2020 after a long illness. Steve kept her ashes with him in his room and talked with her daily. He hoped to have his ashes mixed with hers and placed in one urn when that time comes so they can be reunited. Unfortunately, for almost two years, Cunningham hasn’t been able to experience that same feeling of being out on the open road. Steve not only lost his wife, but his health started to decline and his energy waned. As a Rainbow Hospice Care patient and resident at Fort Atkinson Health Care Center, Cunningham still had the itch to ride. But he had to sell his motorcycle when he moved into the nursing home. Getting back on a bike again with his illness seemed nearly impossible. When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, a ride seemed more unlikely. “I didn’t think I’d ever get on or close to a bike anymore,” Cunningham said. Rainbow social worker Leslie Anderson found out in her conversations with Steve that they shared a special bond. They both loved to ride motorcycles. “Steve thought he would never get out again,” Anderson said. “(He) talked about a staff member at Fort Atkinson Health Care Center who pulls up outside his window when the weather gets warm and revs his bike for him… and got joy out of just hearing that bike. He often spoke about wanting to get strong enough to get back out and ride.” Wheels started turning As facilities eased COVID-19 restrictions, Anderson started thinking about how she could get Steve out for a ride again in a motorcycle’s sidecar. “I know how much it means to me to get out on the road, so I knew it would be important to Steve,” Anderson said. “It’s an indescribable experience to be out on a Harley with the wind in your hair. I knew that would be one thing that would make him happy. He didn’t think I could
top: Hospice patient Steve Cunningham gets ready to ride in Jamie Branton’s Slingshot on June 27. Cunningham longed to hit the open road one final time and the people at Rainbow Hospice Care – and some helpers – made it happen. at left: Cunningham decided Harley-Davidson attire was appropriate for his ride. He was surprised while on the ride with a shirt that had been signed by those who helped make the special day a reality. below: Cunningham and his co-riders capture the memory of his final motorcycle ride on June 27. The ride was made possible with the help of friends, family, caregivers and the Twisted Shifters and Sisters Motorcycle Association. SUBMITTED PHOTOS Lauderdale Lakes Breeze
pull it off but said it would be great if I could.” Anderson only rides solo, so she doesn’t have a sidecar, but she knew that another Rainbow social worker, Sarah Phalin, also has a passion for motorcycles. Phalin grew up riding on the back of motorcycles and in a sidecar with her dad and still rides today. Phalin had never met Cunningham before, and he wasn’t one of her patients. But when she heard about his love for motorcycles, she was eager to help make his wish come true. “Here at Rainbow, we know that every patient is our patient and helping them on their journey is our number one job,” Anderson said. “We don’t say, ‘that’s not my job to do,’ we just help the patients. We are truly a team and that is the experience our patients receive.
Many voices and many hands make everything richer.” Finding ‘good people’ Phalin enlisted the help of several friends, including Jamie Branton, who volunteered to give Cunningham a ride in his Slingshot, which is essentially a three-wheeled combination of a car and motorcycle. She also got in touch with Bill Kincaid, a member of the 72 Twisted Shifters and Sisters Motorcycle Association, which was founded in Wisconsin in 2013. Their motto is ‘good people, doing good things.’ They help out in their communities and donate their time to support many benefits and events. Anderson and Phalin then coordinated with the staff at Fort Atkinson Health Care Center to plan the specifics of Steve’s ride. When they gave Cunningham the
news that the wheels were in motion for him to go for a ride, he thought they were joking. “It was a shock for me at first,” Cunningham said. “I mean a big shock. Because normally, I just lie in bed. Occasionally I go up and down the hall in my wheelchair.” His excitement continued to grow as the day of the ride got closer. “Steve was like a kid when we talked about it,” Anderson said. “I went to see him the Friday before the ride, and he teased me that we were all more excited than he was. But he was trying to be a tough guy, hiding his excitement.” Everything was set for a Sunday afternoon, June 27. Great weather made it a perfect day for Cunningham’s ride. Phalin and a group of about 35 riders met at Lucy’s Hideaway in Milton and rode into Fort Atkinson together. During that time, Anderson helped Steve pick out clothes to wear and they decided on something that was “Harley” appropriate. Fort Atkinson Health Care Center staff brought Steve outside just as the
‘His eyes lit up’ “Everyone turned off their bikes and were so happy to be there for him, even though they didn’t know him,” Phalin said. Up until that moment, Cunningham wasn’t quite ready to believe it, but when he saw all the motorcycles roll in, that’s when everything started to sink in for him that his wish was about to come true. “Just as the bikes rolled in, his eyes lit up,” Anderson said. Phalin came over to talk to Cunningham to see if he was ready to go. “He said, ‘You didn’t have to do all this for me,’” Phalin said. “He looked great in his Harley gear and we were all excited to ride with him.” After being helped into his seat, Phalin, Anderson and staff made sure Steve was comfortable before the group took off down the road. The Slingshot has the look of a Batmobile, but it was Cunningham who had the chance to feel like a superhero on this day. “He was able to feel the wind in his hair and hear the bikes in front and behind him,” Phalin said. They stopped at Island Bar in Fort. Phalin talked to the owner the week before and they had blocked off a spot to pull in with the Slingshot. Cunningham couldn’t get out of the vehicle, but they ordered him a Coke and he chatted with many of the bikers. He also shared fond memories of fishing upstream from that spot. The final surprise came when the other riders presented Cunningham with a Harley t-shirt signed by everyone who helped make the ride possible. Finally, it was time to head back to Fort Atkinson Health Care Center so Steve could get some rest. “Steve was excited and very happy,” Phalin said. “You could tell the ride took a lot out of him.” Going the extra mile It took a team effort leading up to that day to carry out Cunningham’s memorable ride. Kincaid worked with Phalin every step of the way in the planning process. Phalin’s parents, Ken and Laura Peche, and her lifelong friends, Mike and Jamie Busse, and Rachel Post also were an integral part of the ride’s realization. Post and Phalin’s daughter, Callie, also tagged along to snap pictures and capture video throughout the ride. Phalin and Anderson’s collaboration – and their desire to bring some joy into Cunningham’s life – were instrumental in making his dream a reality. “It says a lot about who we are at Rainbow,” Phalin said. “We work together as a team to care for our patients at one of the most important times of their lives. We can rely on each other’s knowledge and resources to not only care for people but help carry out their wishes.” Even though it was a short ride for Cunningham, it turned out to be a memorable day for him along with everyone else who was there. “He was exhausted but when he settled into the wheelchair, one of the riders asked if he thought it was worth it, and Cunningham gave a big smile and said he would go again,” Anderson said. “Seeing the smile on his face when we pulled in and him wiping away tears brought me to tears and made all of the organizing worthwhile,” Phalin said. Two weeks later, Cunningham’s final wish would come true. He reunited with his beloved wife. Steve Cunningham passed away at Fort Atkinson Health Care Center on July 11 at the age of 61. Kenyon Kemnitz is the marketing and communications manager with Rainbow Hospice Care.
Page 14 LAUDERDALE LAKES BREEZE Summer 2021 • Fourth Edition
Home construction up 42% in first half of year WBA: Housing starts show no sign of slowing down
SLN STAFF
New home construction in the Southern Lakes Area for the first half of 2021 is up 42% over the same period in 2020, according to numbers provided by the Wisconsin Builders Association. While it’s no surprise those are numbers are ahead of last year – when the pandemic brought the economy to a trickle in the second quarter – the increase comes despite soaring construction costs due to lingering shortages of lumber and labor. In the three-county area (Kenosha, Racine, Walworth counties), officials issued 517 single-family home building permits in the period from January through June – a 42% increase from 364 permits for the same period in 2020, according to data from the state Department of Safety and Professional Services. Walworth County led the way with 222 permits (up 54% from 144), followed by Kenosha County with 158 permits (up 51% from 105), and Racine County with 137 permits (up 19% from 115). The complete data, submitted by all municipalities across the state, show 7,008 permits were pulled in the first half of 2021 compared to 5,074 in the first half of 2020, an increase of 1,934 or 38%. In the second quarter alone there were 4,382 permits granted, signifying the number of new home starts. “The lack and competition of existing housing combined with low interest rates continue to play
HOMES RECENTLY SOLD IN LAUDERDALE LAKES W5725 Ridge Rd $555,000 W5670 Cool Hill Dr $585,000 W5737 Ridge Rd $639,900 N7423 Country Club Dr $615,000 W5489 Rocky Rd $650,000
Building permits for single-family home construction in Kenosha, Racine and Walworth counties for the first half of 2021 is up 42% over the same period in last year. FILE PHOTO Lauderdale Lakes Breeze
a huge role in the demand for new housing,” Wisconsin Builders Association Executive Director Brad Boycks said in a news release. “Even despite the high costs of building materials, we are excited to see the building industry continue to thrive as it’s one that supports so many other industries across the state.”
Future looks favorable In the first half of 2021, 97 plats and 2,413 lots were approved. These numbers are on track to surpass 2020 totals, as there were 201 plats and 5,340 lots approved last year, according to the WBA. “The number of new starts and approvals of plats and lots are very encouraging,” said WBA
President Abe Degnan. “We have and continue to hope construction prices come down soon as it will continue to drive the positive upward growth of building.” The Wisconsin Builders Association is a professional trade association that advocates for the interests of its 4,000 home building industry members.
STATEWIDE SALES WERE FLAT FOR FIRST TIME IN 2021
Predictions that escalating prices and tight inventories would begin to slow a robust real estate market in Wisconsin were realized last month, according to the latest market analysis from the Wisconsin Realtors Association. For the first time in 2021 the number of existing homes sold was essentially flat when compared to the same month in 2020. “We were expecting June sales to be at or even down compared to last year because inventories remain so tight, so these sales figures aren’t surprising under the circumstances,” WRA Board Chairman Mary Duff said in the organization’s monthly release. “Homes continue to move very quickly, and buyers have been aggressive in their bidding. It’s common to see multiple offers when a home hits the market with the successful buyer coming in with few if any contingencies and even waiving inspection requirements. We expect these conditions to continue through the summer and into the fall.” One of the biggest factors created by the current circumstances, according to the WRA, is declining affordability. The affordability index used by the association was down 9.5% last month compared to June of 2020.
GOING RATE
Housing market slows in June SLN STAFF
THE
“We had a good start to the year, with sales for the first six months only 2.5% lower than the peak sales for the first two quarters of the year, which took place in 2017,” WRA President and CEO Michael Theo said. “Realtors are doing a great job of matching buyers, but the lack of inventory continues to drive prices upward. “We’re in this pattern of very strong demand and very weak supply, and that’s a formula for ongoing affordability issues,” he said. “Prices are up more than 12% year to date compared to last year, which has caused our housing to be less affordable. Fortunately, low mortgage rates have helped, with the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage below 3% for the second straight month.” A look at the numbers Here’s a look at some of the other highlights in the WRAs June analysis: • Through the first half of 2021, existing home sales rose 8.4% relative to that same period last year, and median prices were up 11.9% over that same period to $235,000 on continued tight inventory. • Regionally, the strongest annual growth in sales over the first six months of the year was seen in the North region, which was up 13.5%; the Southeast region, up 12.5%; and the Central region, up 10.5%. The
BY THE NUMBERS Waterfront Home for Sale in Lauderdale Lakes
South Central region grew 7.0%, but sales in the Northeast region were up just 2.3%, and the West region only increased 1.1%. • June home sales kept pace with sales in June 2020, whereas median prices rose 15.2% to $257,000 over the 12-month period. • While total listings in June were 19.3% below listings from a year earlier, the number of new listings was up 9.6% compared to June 2020. • There were just three months of available housing supply in June, which indicates a strong seller’s advantage in the market. This is down 31.8% from the 4.4 months of supply available in June 2020 and well below the six months of supply that signals a balanced home market. • Average days on the market dropped to just 69 days in June, down from 96 days in June of last year. This is the lowest statewide figure on record since the WRA began tracking days on the market in 2005. Local home sales Locally, the number of homes sold in June was up over June 2020. Racine County led the way with 1,441 sales (up 18%), followed by Walworth County (917, up 15%), Kenosha County (1,337, up 12%),
Waukesha County (2,666, up 0.4%) and Jefferson County (609, up 7%). The median price for Southeast Wisconsin continued to increase at double digits with a 10% hike to $247,500 for the eight-county area. Future uncertain Dave Clark, a Marquette University economist and WRA consultant, said Wisconsin’s economy continues to improve, but price inflation could eventually impact interest rates and further affect housing affordability, creating uncertainty about the future of the market. “Inflation as measured by the percent change in the Consumer Price Index jumped 0.9% in the last month, which increased in inflation rates for the past 12 months to 5.4%,” Clark said. “If increased in inflation expectations lead to higher mortgage rates, that could cause housing demand to cool. “Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell indicates that the spike in prices is likely temporary and that consumer prices will stabilize as supply chains improve. Still, he recently noted that the Fed will closely monitor in inflation and will be prepared to raise short-term interest rates if it becomes clear that in inflation remains above the target rate of 2%.”
N7762 West Shore Dr $693,000 N7501 Country Club Dr $762,500 W5569 Oriole Dr $815,000 W5556 West Shore Dr $930,000 N7503 Country Club Dr $920,000 N7470 Arrowhead Ln $800,000 N7981 Surfwood Dr $1,100,000 N7432 Country Club Dr $1,185,000 N8119 Rose Ter $1,423,900 W5233 Steward Dr $1,350,000 W5166 Plantation Rd $1,450,000 W5496 Lost Nation Rd $1,549,900 W5160 Plantation Rd $1,760,000 W5438 Solid Comfort Rd $2,800,000 N7791 Asta Dr $2,025,000 W5380 Gladhurst Ln $3,205,000 W5332 Island Way $2,995,000 W5374 West Shore Dr $1,275,000 W5180 Sterlingworth Ct $639,900 W5734 North Dr $660,000
N7404 Country Club Dr................$649,900 W5135 Bay Shore Dr...................$775,000 W5615 Oak Park Rd....................$865,000 N7688 West Shore Dr..............$2,300,000 W5451 Lost Nation Rd..............$2,549,900
N7446 Arrowhead Ln $1,360,000 W5195 Stewart Dr $1,850,000 W5316 Lost Nation Rd $1,500,000 W5328 Plantation Rd $2,950,000
Karen Ostermeier Summer 2021 • Fourth Edition
LAUDERDALE LAKES BREEZE Page 15
Lauderdale Lakes Resident & Specialist | Multi-Million Dollar Producer Since 2003
See you on the Lake! Lost Nation Rd
Arrowhead Ln
Sold for $1,500,000
Sold for $1,360,000
Bay Shore Dr
Offered at $775,000
Briarwood Rd MLS#1744490
County Rd A
Offered at $1,700,000
Sold for $558,000
The Lauderdale Landing MLS#1750249
Offered at $3,200,000
SUCCESSFULLY SERVING OUR LAUDERDALE LAKES COMMUNITY FOR OVER 18 YEARS
MLS#1726898
630.373.6005 kareno@keeferealestate.com
EscapeToWI.com 400421
Page 16 LAUDERDALE LAKES BREEZE Summer 2021 • Fourth Edition
Jerry Kroupa BROKER ASSOCIATE
Keefe Real Estate, Inc.
(262) 949-3618 • jerryk@keeferealestate.com VIEW ADDITIONAL PHOTOS AT lakehomeswi.com
Selling Lauderdale Lakes Since 1989 ING
MLS#1756213 Custom built in 2019 W E w/attention to detail N inside and out you’ll find this 4BD, 3.5BA ranch w/walkout situated on 70’ of Mill Lake frontage w/ Southern exposure. The minute you walk in the foyer you are greeted by the lake in every rm. Living area features vaulted ceiling w/FP and wall of windows w/access to spacious deck, kitchen w/island, SS appliances, quartz countertops, walk-in pantry & dinette area w/sliding glass doors to screened porch with vaulted ceiling and wood burning stove, Master BD with en suite w/vaulted ceiling and sliding glass door to deck. Wood flooring throughout main level. LL walkout features Family Rm w/FP, back bar w/sink and sliding glass doors to patio. Second master en suite and the 3rd & 4th BD w/shared BA RM. Laundry on both levels, 3 car garage. $2,549,900
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MLS#1695264 One of the last lakefront lots left! This lakefront lot features 65’ of frontage on a small bay minutes off of Mill Lake. Level lakefront yard leads to your pier. Lot is wooded with slope ideal for walkout lower level. Driveway entrance can be placed off Shagebark Road which is on the top of the lot. Build the home of your lakefront dreams! $299,000
MLS#1736817 Located on the corner of Hwy 12 & Cty H business opportunity many consider as the Gateway to the Southern Kettle Moraine State S Recreation Area. This highly visible corner with high traffic count is home to this unique property which has potential for multiple uses zoned B-2. Property is a combined 1.05 acres featuring 1,200 sq.ft of retail space with 1 Bdrm, 1 bath living space or VRBO rental income. Also you’ll find a 24’ x 40’ Morton pole barn with cement floor. Large deck area and cement patio for additional capacity. Approximately 30 parking spaces. The John Muir and Nordic Trails heads are 1.5 miles north on County H. Don’t miss out, this location has made customers happy for 38 years. $309,000
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MLS#1738979 Rare opportunity on Lauderdale Lakes, 95’ of level frontage featuring 3 bedrooms, 1 bath ranch with open floor plan. This well cared for home D L O S features two sliding glass doors in great room bringing the water views inside, eat in kitchen with dinette area and breakfast bar, 11 x 25 dry boat house with cement patio steps from the waters edge and two piers allowing and outstanding 4 boat moorings, 2.5 detached garage ideal for toy storage and fenced in yard. Sterlingworth Bay is slow no wake zone, providing a relaxing atmosphere, and ideal for sending the kids out to play. Short walk to Lauderdale Golf Course and clubhouse, easy access off of Hwy 12/67 and minutes to Kettle Moraine Trails. $639,900
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MLS#1757466 Offering one of the W E finest association N lakefront park w/sand beach on Lauderdale Lakes w/boat slip you’ll find this 4 BD, 2 BA home located in Gladhurst Estates. Situated on 1.9 acres on a corner lot this move in ready home features kitchen w/wood floors, breakfast bar & lrg dinette area open to Living Rm w/ wood burning fireplace, wood beamed ceilings & access to deck. Main level also includes two lrg BDRs w/new carpet, shared updated bath, lrg 3 seasons rm & laundry rm. Upstairs offers 2 BDRs w/ vaulted wood ceilings both offering private balconies & shared updated bath. Outside includes deck off 3 season rm, sports court, 2 car attached and 24 x 32 detached garage ideal for toy storage. Short distance to lakefront park and minutes to Kettle Moraine trails makes this ideal vacation home. $559,900
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MLS#1741816 Spectacular lake home on 77’ of frontage on Green Lake in Lauderdale with fabulous views of the lake. $1,600,000
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021 NE 2 U J SOLD
MLS#1736487 Spectacular 4 bedroom, 3 bath 1.5 story home on 109’ prime swim frontage with expansive lake views and sunrises. Inside features include living room/kitchen great room with vaulted log/beamed ceiling, knotty pine wall and hardwood floors, fireplace and access to large lakeside deck w/retractable awning. Updated kitchen with breakfast bar, SS appliances and Cambria tops. Large lakeside dining room or sun room off great room with sliding glass door to deck. Huge master Bedroom with vaulted ceilings, private bath and sliding glass door to lakeside patio. All bedrooms have lake views. Boulder seawall with walkway along the 109’ of frontage with multiple piers and fire pit. $897,500
MLS#1727716 Within walking distance to all of what Williams Bay has to offer, you’ll find this private wood just under an acre (0.90) lot at the end of a dead end street. Possible walk out lower level could be incorporated into the design of your dream home. $59,900 21
MLS#1701402 One of the best locations on the lake! Great swimming and sunsets right across the street from the golf course SOLD - best of both worlds! Four BR, 2.5 BA two story with a walkout lower level. Features an updated galley kitchen with dinette, living room with a wonderful lake view, large deck and screened porch. Master bedroom has a full bath, plus three more bedrooms and full bath on the second floor. Main floor laundry for easy access. Dry boat house with deck above offering extended lake views. Two car garage with storage closet off of lower level. New Roof Installed. $762,500
H 20 MARC
MLS#1737993 Lakefront townhouse carefree living can be yours in this 3BR/2.5BA 1.5 story unit at Sterlingworth Condo’s on The Lake. This unit has been updated and is move-in ready for Summer fun. Inside you’ll find soaring ceilings in the living room with a wall of windows that bring the lake inside plus gas fireplace and sliding glass door to deck, kitchen with breakfast bar, granite tops and tile floor, formal dining room off entry. Main floor water view master BR with access to deck and bath featuring double vanity and glass shower. Powder room off living room. Upstairs offering 2nd BR with balcony lakeside, full bath and left 3rd BR. Condo offers huge sand beach, indoor pool, club house, tennis courts and work out room. Short walk to Golf Course and minutes from Kettle Moraine. $475,000
021 NE 2 U J SOLD
MLS#1750872 Move in ready located on 67’ of level frontage you’ll find this 2 plus bedroom, 1 bath ranch with Southern exposure. Outstanding features start with updated kitchen with breakfast bar, vaulted ceiling in Living and dinette area with access to 2 sleeping lofts, large sun room with slider to 12 x 28 deck with side deck ideal for entertaining, main floor mud/laundry room entrance. Lakeside offers 2 updated piers, fire pit and 10 x 12 shed. Full basement 18x28 with outside access. Short walk to Lauderdale Golf Course and access to some of the best water skiing Lauderdale has to offer. This is the one you’ve been waiting for! $700,000
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