December 2022 Spirit

Ice castles

dvertiser’s index

@ Properties 26

Abbey Springs 22

Addie Water Systems 6

Always Remember That 24

AMB Roofing & Sheet Metal 18

Apple Barn Orchard and Winery 32

Beall Jewelers 14

Best Bargains 14

Burtness Chevrolet Buick GMC 28

Caravelle Lighting

Carpets Plus Outlet, Inc. 10

Chances 20

Chris’ USA 20

East Troy Brewery 20

East Troy Railroad Museum 10

Elkhorn Gun Barrel 2

Evergreen Acres Christmas Tree Farm, LLC 10

First Citizens State Bank 15

Gino’s East Pizzeria 18, 20

Green Grocer & Deli 20

Komfort Heating & Cooling 22

Kullberg Jewelers

18

Local Folks Restaurant & Pub 20

Luisa’s Restaurant 20, 26

Lyle’s TV & Appliances, Inc. 12

Mars Resort 20

PATS Services Inc. 28

Pine Street Cafe 20

Provisor

Sandy’s Upscale Consignment 24

Staller Estate 22

The Baker House 20

The Bottle Shop 10

The Thielmann Group 8

Verlo Mattress 16

Veteran’s Truck Line, Inc. .............................26

Waterfront Pub and Eatery 20

UP

Editor’s note: With uncertainty caused by the coronavirus pandemic and its potential to disrupt events throughout the area, readers are advised to call ahead to verify dates and times.

3 Topsy Turvy Brewery Trivia Night, 727 Geneva Street, Lake Geneva; 6 to 8 p.m. Recurs every Thursday night.

4-5 Tom Petty Tribute at Belfry Music Theater. The Breakers are the country’s premier Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers tribute band. Established to let the fans of the late great Tom Petty continue to enjoy the live experience of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. The members of The Breakers all come from a background of recording and touring with original bands and perform the music of The Heartbreakers with the same passion and dedication. See website for tickets and show times: www.belfrymusictheatre.com

5-6 Holiday open house at Cornerstone Shop and Gallery: Discover the heart of the holidays at Cornerstone’s biggest event of the year. The annual Holiday Open House showcases the latest in holiday décor, fashion, and gift ideas, and features special guests, drawings and giveaways, gifts with purchase offers, refreshments, and holiday cheer. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Cornerstone Shop and Gallery, 214 Broad Street, Lake Geneva; 262-248-6988

10-13 “Big Fish” fall musical at Badger High School: Big Fish is a musical with music and lyrics by Andrew Lippa and book by John August. It is based on Daniel Wallace’s 1998 novel, Big Fish: A Novel of Mythic Proportions, and the 2003 film Big Fish written by John August and directed by Tim Burton. Big Fish revolves around the relationship between Edward Bloom, a travelling salesman, and his adult son Will, who looks for what is behind his father’s tall stories. Badger Community Education, 220 East South Street, Auditorium, Lake Geneva, 262-3482006. Time: 7 p.m.

12 An intimate evening with Country Music Legend Kathy Mattea

This two-time Grammy Award winner has numerous top 10 hits on country radio. Fans might remember her hit “Eighteen Wheels and a Dozen Roses”. Mattea’s music has spoken to millions of people during her 20-plus years as a singer, songwriter, and recording artist. Advance tickets $55 at www.bigfootfinearts. ticketleap.com or (262) 275-2117

18 Murder Mystery Dinner and Show: The Brown-Ullstrup Players present their dinner theater performance at Lake Lawn

Resort. Participants interact alongside the cast of characters to figure out who committed the crime. This show is paired along with a meal, making it a great night out. Lake Lawn Resort, 2400 E. Geneva St., Delavan. Show time: 6 to 10 p.m. Price: $70 www. lakelawnresort.com.

20

Streets

of

Lake Geneva

Holiday Window Display Competition: Storefronts throughout downtown Lake Geneva will create dazzling displays of holiday fun. Window displays will be up until Dec. 30. This year’s theme is The 12 Days of Christmas.

26 Breakfast with Santa at Lake Lawn Resort: Enjoy breakfast with the jolly old elf himself! Santa will be stopping by Lake Lawn for a breakfast buffet featuring all the brunch bites and delights fit for the holiday season. 2400 E. Geneva St., Delavan, 9 to 11:30 a.m. www.lakelawnresort.com

Ongoing events

East Troy Electric Railroad – 202 Church St., East Troy. Take a 14-mile train ride on the only remaining electric interurban tracks in Wisconsin. Historic museum and carefully maintained rail cars from 90 to 100 years ago. Stops at the Elegant Farmer. 15 miles north of Lake Geneva on Highway 120. Several trains depart each day on weekends from the East Troy Depot.

Tristan Crist Magic Theater – 609 W. Main St., Lake Geneva. One of a kind performer that wows audiences with with, jawdropping illusions and gut-wrenching escapes! For show dates and times call 262-248-0505 or visit www.lakegenevamagic.com.

Dancing Horses Show – at The Dancing Horses Theatre, 5065 Highway 50, Delavan. This dazzling spectacle features an array of horse breeds that perform alongside their trainers in this cavalcade of equestrian artistry. Visually stunning, and performed in a state-of-the-art, 300-seat theatre. For show dates, ticket prices and additional information call (262) 728-8200, or visit thedancinghorses.com

The calendar of events is compiled from a variety of sources including area chambers of commerce and the Walworth County Visitors Bureau, and contains events available as of press time.

Events, dates and times may change or events may be canceled. We suggest you visit verify event times, dates and locations prior to making travel plans.

The Spirit of Geneva Lakes is a complimentary publication, distributed from I-94 through west Kenosha County, to and including the Geneva Lakes area in Walworth County, Richmond Illinois, plus Burlington and Waterford in Racine County. Send all correspondence to:

soil. Today’s diamond buyer has a choice of a traditional natural diamond or one that is lab created. Both are real diamonds; the difference is the way they were created.

“Purchasing the lab-grown diamond does not mean it is an inferior stone but it may be 50% to 70% less expensive than the natural stone,” Rouse said. “The difference is that when you purchase the lab-created stone, you are buying technology, which changes over time. The lab-created stone can be expected to go down in value rather than up as the natural diamonds tend to do.”

People will know they are purchasing a lab-created diamond as most reputable creators of them will add a hologram encryption in the stone, identifying its origin.

“Diamond stud earrings are also a favorite gift item. They can be purchased in a variety of sizes with the most popular sold here being the 1 carat total weight. Thus, each earring is a half carat, a respectable size although larger ones are available,” said Lori Hintz of the Jewelry Center.

Diamond stud earrings make a great gift for anyone. The smaller sizes, especially the 1/10th of a carat, are perfect for younger girls perhaps commemorating a special birthday or event. The smaller sizes are not cost prohibitive if they need to be replaced because loss of an earring.

“Styles of jewelry change over the years following fashion trends,” Beall

top: A variety of chains and earrings, many of them in sterling silver is a great way to purchase attractive jewelry at a reasonable price. above: Stacking a variety of bracelets is a great way to display them. The top bracelet is one of the new style bracelets without a clasp. Once attached to the arm it remains on until you return to jeweler and have it removed. top right: Not all diamond rings are engagement rings. Some are known as right-hand rings as they are meant to be worn on the right hand. at right: Citizen watches are very popular. These watches do not require a battery but continue to recharge from light. Men and women styles are available.

said. “What is worn by celebrities on the red carpet often becomes the wish for the general public.”

For many years it was the white gold that was desired by most shoppers. Today that is still popular but there is a return to yellow and even some rose gold. Fashion gold chains often with a pendant are popular. And the chains are not limited to women but many men enjoy one of the heavy gold chains around their necks.

For the women, layering gold or silver chains is in style. They may be a monochromatic look, all yellow gold or all white gold or silver or they may be combined using different colors and styles.

Bracelets too are worn with several on the arm of different colors and styles.

The Jewelry Center in Burlington offers a new trend in bracelets which can be purchased in silver or gold. Trending on social media, these fine jewelry bracelets are attached to the arm by welding them in place. There are no clasps and once in place they remain on permanently, until removed by a jeweler. No fighting with the clasp each morning to get the bracelet on.

Colored stones, especially rubies and sapphires, are the most popular of the fine jewelry stones, often set in pendants and earrings for gifts at Christmas. These are the second hardest of the gem stones so can be enjoyed and worn well in daily life.

The pendants and earrings make perfect gifts because they do not need to be sized as a ring does. They can be purchased and ready to gift without a concern about fit.

On a less expensive level, birthstones set in rings, necklaces, pendants, bracelets and earrings are another popular gift. They can be set in gold or silver, with gold being more expensive and silver more pleasing

to the budget while still being an attractive gift.

All three jewelers carry estate jewelry for those who enjoy the beauty and craftsmanship of these older unique pieces. They will buy select pieces from customers to add to their collections if the styles seem to be what their customers enjoy.

Surprisingly, in this day of cell phones with a built in clock, watches are still a favorite for both men and women.

They are seen more as a fashion statement that enhances their look rather than as a needed timepiece, all three jewelers said. They all carry the Citizen’s Eco drive as the top brand. These watches do not need a battery but are recharged by their solar panel. They just need light. Leave it on the dresser and it will continue to absorb the light it needs to keep perfect time.

When James Beall opened his jewelry store in 1980 the sale and repair of clocks was one of the important services he offered his customers, aside from jewelry. Most homes had at least one large decorative clock.

SANDRA LANDEN MACHAJ Spirit of Geneva Lakes

“Today clocks in the home, especially the large grandfather-type clocks, are not as prominent but we still carry clocks and service them. The second floor of our store is devoted to clocks,” Beall said. “We carry the Howard Miller line of clocks and service most brands. We will bring clocks in for service and those that are too large to be moved can be serviced in the home.”

So perhaps it is not just diamonds that are a girl’s best friend but jewelry in general that will bring a pleased smile to the woman in your life’s face as she opens the gift that you have carefully chosen for her.

To find the best in jewelry for your Christmas gifts large or small, there are several fine jewelry stores in the Southern Lakes area.

Here are some of our favorites in Burlington, Delavan, and Elkhorn.

Beall Jewelers

305 E. Walworth Ave. • Delavan 262-728-8577

James Beall opened Beall Jewelers on Walworth Street in downtown Delavan in 1980. Since that time, his business has grown with the inclusion of his sons David who has also become a bench jeweler and Christopher who is the expert on clock repair.

Beall’s offers custom designed jewelry, fine quality wedding and fashion pieces, a variety of fashionable jewelry, estate jewelry, and clocks. They repair jewelry and clocks on site,

Kullberg Jewelers

15 S. Wisconsin St. • Elkhorn 262-723-2246

In 1945, Walter Kullberg, a watchmaker, found a jewelry business for sale in downtown Elkhorn and purchased it making his dream of opening his own jewelry store a reality. Since that time, it has remained a family business as his son and daughter in law continued to run the business after he retired. Three years ago, his son retired leaving his daughter-in-law, Cheryl, to continue the business.

Looking for a memorable gift for the holiday season, the variety of jewelry on display at Kullberg’s will provide the unique gift you are seeking. They are known for elegant not gaudy jewelry.

If it is that all important engagement or wedding ring that is being chosen, they will work with you to be certain that what is purchased is the ring of your dreams. In addition to creating new jewelry, they work with customers to repurpose old jewelry to a style that suits them now. They are not just selling jewelry but helping customers choose the right pieces for that person.

They redesign jewelry, repair items, and sell watches. Work is done on site.

The

Jewelry Center

348 N. Pine St. • Burlington 262-763-8685

Five years ago, the family-owned Jewelry Center, with locations in Brookfield and Greenfield, opened a third location in Burlington. This third store continues to offer the high quality jewelry and up to date design that was found in their other two stores.

From custom designed engagement and wedding rings to the high quality fashionable jewelry of the day, they offer unique items that will make the purchaser and the recipient of the jewelry pleased. If you prefer a colored stone rather than the traditional white diamond in an engagement ring, they will help you find the perfect stone in your price range.

They carry a variety of rings from simple classic styles to the more ornate styles enjoyed by some. They will help you design your rings or other pieces of jewelry. The goldsmith works on pieces in the store, never shipping items out for work.

They offer up-to-date styles that they bring in frequently from the jewelry shows; styles that they are certain will please their customers.

Watches are available on site and they offer several brands in various styles to suit both men and women. Watches continue to be a fashion accessory.

SPIRIT of GENEVA LAKES

top: This box contains a variety of settings and diamonds with magnets on the back. The diamonds can be placed in the setting to give the customer an idea of what a particular stone will look like in the setting. Jewelers from the Jewelry Center, Lori Hintz and Thomas Rouse, are ready to help a customer customize her ring. above: Bruce, the bench jeweler, puts the finishing touches on one of his unique creations.

SANDRA LANDEN MACHAJ Spirit of Geneva Lakes

COURTESY OF KILLBERG JEWELERS Spirit of Geneva Lakes

Keeping your tree

Experts offer tips for Christmas tree care

The key to maintaining your live Christmas tree throughout the holiday season is to give it the proper care from the time it is purchased until the tree is removed from your home.

Maintaining a high moisture level in the tree is the single most important factor in reducing needle loss and keeping the tree fresh. This is accomplished primarily through the use of water-holding stands and maintaining the water level in the stand above the base of the tree.

Every year there are many articles written concerning the handling and care of Christmas trees. Unfortunately, they often contain erroneous information.

The following research-based guidelines will help you to maintain the freshness and aroma of your live Christmas tree this holiday season.

• Use a tree stand with an adequate

water-holding capacity. A tree stand should have a water basin that provides 1 quart of water per inch of stem diameter. For most Christmas trees, the stand should hold at least 1 gallon of water. A cut tree will absorb a surprising amount of water, particularly during the first week, so replenish the water daily.

• The tree stand should fit your tree. Some stands have circular rings at the top, so the ring must be large enough for the trunk to go through the hole. Avoid whittling down the sides of the trunk to fit a stand. The outer layers of wood are the most efficient in taking up water and should not be removed.

• If the tree is to be stored more than a couple days before display, it is advisable to place its trunk in water and store it in a cool, shaded and protected area such as an unheated garage.

• If the tree has been cut within the

past 12 hours, it will not be necessary to recut the trunk prior to display indoors. If it has been longer than 12 hours since harvest, the trunk should be recut to improve water uptake.

• Cutting off a disk of wood about ¼-inch thick from the base of the trunk is all that is necessary before putting the tree in the stand. Make the cut perpendicular to the stem axis. Don’t cut the trunk at an angle, or into a v-shape, which makes it far more difficult to hold the tree in the stand and also may reduce the amount of water available to the tree.

• Keep displayed trees away from sources of heat (fireplaces, heaters, heat vents, direct sunlight). Lowering the room temperature will slow the drying process, resulting in less water consumption each day.

• The temperature of the water used to fill the stand is not important and does not

Picking out a Christmas tree is a group outing for many families that is steeped in tradition and family fun.

FILE PHOTO Spirit of Geneva Lakes

Tree shoppers can selected and cut their own Christmas tree at Country Side Trees in Walworth. The tree farm offers white pines, scotch pines, blue spruce, Frasier fir and Norway pines.

affect water uptake.

• Check the stand daily to make sure that the level of water does not go below the base of the tree. With many stands, there can still be water in the stand even though the base of the tree is no longer submerged in water.

• Drilling a hole in the base of the trunk does not improve water uptake.

• The use of IV-type devices to supply water directly to holes drilled into the sides of the tree trunk is not as effective as displaying the tree in a more traditional, water-holding tree stands.

• Applying anti-transpirants to the tree does not significantly reduce the rate of moisture loss. These products are marketed as a way to block evaporation from the foliage surface, but in reality they have little effect on a cut tree displayed indoors.

• Adding water-holding gels to the stand is not beneficial and they can reduce the amount of water in the stand that is available to the tree.

• Do not use additives in the water, including floral preservatives, commercial tree preservatives, molasses, sugar, bleach, soft drinks, aspirin, honey, and other concoctions. Clean water is all that is needed to maintain freshness.

• Displaying trees in water with proper care is much more effective in reducing fire hazards than spraying trees with flame retardants. Some flame retardants can damage needles and actually increase the rate of moisture loss from trees.

Symbol of the season

Area tree farms are here to assistwithaholidaytradition

Other than the birth of Christ, perhaps the most iconic and enduring symbol of the Christmas season is the decorated tree.

For many people, picking out the perfect tree is a daylong event that is rooted in tradition and family fun.

The Christmas tree as we know it began to appear in Germany in the 1500s. The early German trees were decorated with paper roses, apples, candies, nuts and accented with strips of red paper. Then candles were added to light the tree.

Today’s trees take on many shapes, sizes, colors and themes with different arrays of lights and ornaments that are limited only by the imagination.

For many people, only freshly cut pines, spruces, balsams and firs – the trees that bring a distinctive pine scent to your home – will do.

Whatever your customs and traditions, Christmas trees are a fragrant reminder of the season.

Here are four of Spirit magazine’s preferred area tree farms:

Country Side Trees

W7015 N. Walworth Road, Walworth 262-275-5105. www.countrysidetreeswi.com

Cut your own trees or purchase freshly cut trees, freshly made wreaths and garlands available. Open until Dec. 24. Weekday hours Monday through Friday 10 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 9 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Choose from white pines, blue spruce, Frasier fir and Norway pines.

Evergreen Acres

N9171 Nelson Rd., East Troy 262-495-4502 www.evergreenacresllc.com

Family owned and operated by Ann and Bob Fecht since 1975, Evergreen offers 33 acres of pine, spruce, and fir trees where you can choose and cut your own or pre-cut trees. Shaking and baling your tree is available as well.

Visit the heated barn where you will find a great selection of trees, handmade wreaths, garlands, swags, arches, crosses, and candy canes from fresh cut greens are available. Enjoy complimentary cocoa and cider.

Open through Christmas Eve from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily. Cash and checks are accepted. Bring your own saw or use theirs. No chain saws allowed.

T.P. Pines

On Holy Hill Road just west of St. John’s Church Twin Lakes, 262-206-4502

Bob Livingston of T.P. Trees welcomes all to choose one of their freshly cut trees from an array of Frasier firs, balsam or white pine trees. He advises that Frasier firs are the “Cadillac of Christmas Trees” due to fragrance and needle retention. Balsam is also very fragrant and has a flat needle. White Pine is a basic lumber tree, which also works well as a Christmas tree if you have lightweight ornaments.

Wreaths and boughs are also available.

T.P. Pines will help load trees into vehicles. Prices vary depending on type of tree and size. It is open from 3 to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends.

Valley View Tree Farm

W798 Valley View Rd., Burlington 262-210-7235 or 262-534-7234

Offers choose and cut your own trees or pre-cut lot featuring pine, spruce and fir trees. Free bailing and shaking is provided.

Wreaths, garlands, swags and centerpieces are also available. Cut-your-own fields are open 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; Pre-cut lot and gift shop are open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Credit cards are accepted.

FILE PHOTO Spirit of Geneva Lakes

A well-cared-for tree should normally remain fresh at least three to four weeks before drying to an unacceptable level.

of the Department of Horticulture

at Penn State University. It is provided here courtesy of the Wisconsin Christmas Tree Producers Association.

Natural Christmas trees bring a fresh holiday scent indoors. Proper care can keep a tree shining brightly – and safely –throughout the holiday season, according to tree industry experts.

Hometown holiday shopping

by Sandra Landen Machaj CORRESPONDENT

Where to begin?

It seems from October until the first of the year, it is one season after another for all to celebrate. As people recover from the splendor of Thanksgiving, they realize that Christmas is just around the corner.

Christmas is perhaps the busiest season of the year, as everyone hurries to get everything perfect for the holiday. Decorating the house – inside and out –baking those favorite Christmas cookies, but not so far in advance that they all get eaten before Christmas arrives, writing Christmas cards to send to friends and family, especially those who are far away and unable to share the holiday season with us.

So begins the time of replacing the fall décor with the beauty of Christmas, thus turning homes into a wintery, Christmas Wonderland. For those in the Midwest, decorating the outside of the home is often the first job on the list, before the reality of

a Midwest winter sets in, with snow, sleet and below zero temperatures.

Before attaching outdoor displays, check for burned out lights and frayed wires and replace those before attaching them to a home. A safe holiday display is most important. This might be the year to revise indoor and outdoor displays.

Decorations abound

Check local stores for current new items to add to holiday decorations. Or consider checking some antique stores, such as Always Remember That Antique Mall, in Paddock Lake, where they have a large display of antique Christmas items and also some new items such as hand painted shovels and sleds by a local artist, or a combination of an old sled and a new painting. One can never know what they’ll find in an antique mall, not just decorations but gifts for the collector in a family.

“With 100 vendors offering a variety of merchandise from collectibles to seasonal designs, there is sure to be something to

appeal,” said Judy Kutzler, who along with her husband, Jim, own Always Remember That Antique Mall.

Finding a special item among the many available – especially among the many collectibles – brings a smile to one’s face knowing that someone on the list will be pleased when they open their gift.

Christmas shopping is both the most loved and most hated job of the season –hated because it takes so much time and energy, loved because finding the perfect unique gift for loved ones is one of the highlights of the season.

Shopping for real

So, how to shop? For the past couple of years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, more people avoided actively shopping and went online to order.

While this may save time, it doesn’t necessarily get one into the spirit of the holidays nor does it help the businesses in your community if you are ordering from the big box stores.

HOME MORTGAGES

FIRST IN HOME MORTGAGES

WHITEWATER WEST

1058 W. Main Street Whitewater, WI 53190 (262) 473-3666

WHITEWATER WEST

1058 W. Main St. P.O. Box 177 Whitewater, WI 53190 262/473-3666

EAST TROY OFFICE

2546 E. Main Street East Troy, WI 53120 (262) 642-2530

PALMYRA OFFICE

111 E. Main St. Palmyra, WI 53156 (262) 495-2101

of GENEVA LAKES

above: The advantage of an artificial tree is the ability to choose one that will fit in the space you have available. For this corner a tall slim tree is what is needed. top right: Consider these painted shovels and sled either as a gift or a decoration for your house. at right: Hand painted wine glasses with whimsical pictures are perfect for Christmas or perhaps one with the person’s favorite character.

SANDRA LANDEN MACHAJ Spirit of Geneva Lakes

Going to local businesses, where the stores are decorated in holiday themes and with many playing holiday music, helps to put the shopper in the Christmas frame of mind. Shopping at local stores, including the smaller local boutique stores found in the Geneva Lakes area, is a great way to find those truly special items to please those on a gift list.

Shopping in local smaller stores also helps keeps friends and neighbors employed.

For Wendy Staller, who with her husband, Joe, is owner of Staller Estate Winery on Hwy A in Delavan, the winery offers a variety of activities during the holiday season. Schedule a winery event with friends enjoying a glass of wine and some charcuterie while sharing holiday greetings.

While there, peruse the gift shop and consider some of the special wine items for someone on a gift list. Special hand-painted wine glasses, wine holders, and a variety of locally made cheeses are available for sale.

For the wine lover on your list, consider a bottle of Staller’s wine or, even better, a membership in their wine club or cheese and wine club. The wine for the wine club recipient is picked up at the vineyard every two months.

If looking for a different type of liquor for a gift or to serve at holiday events, Aeppel Treow Winery, in Burlington, is the place to shop. They produce hard ciders made from apples or pears, in addition to champagne-style wines, brandies and afterdinner aperitifs.

Their wines can be ordered online and shipped via Vino Shipper. Order early as close to the holidays, delivery may be slow.

Christmas in the Country

While people may think about shopping at The Apple Barn in Elkhorn during the apple season, it is a good place to add to a

shopping list for the holidays.

Each winter, they hold a “Christmas In the Country” event where local artisans display a variety of handmade home decorations and crafts. Everything from Christmas ornaments, handmade mittens and gloves and holiday décor can be found there. Items there are unique and likely affordable.

The regular Country Store items –homemade jams and jellies and local honey along with the country home décor usually found there are also available for gift shopping. They make wonderful stocking stuffers.

Stop and visit the award-winning fruit wines created on site to add to someone’s Christmas stocking or gift, or even purchase some for holiday entertaining.

The event is held every weekend, Friday through Sunday from the middle of

November through Dec. 11.

Wondering where to find special and unique Christmas cards? Try the Elkhorn Chamber of Commerce. Purchase the beautiful winter scenes which each year represent Elkhorn – snowy Christmas scenes of the community looking like a winter wonderland.

The community was named the Christmas Card town after an executive of Ford commissioned artist Cecile Johnson to paint six watercolors of the Christmas Community for their magazine and tagged them the Christmas card town. Each year, a new set of cards is available, a reproduction of that year’s paintings.

For those who are difficult to shop for, try gift cards to their favorite restaurants. Who doesn’t love a pizza from Gino’s East in Lake Geneva or Luisa’s in Wheatland? Or enjoy a meal at Mars Resort while enjoying the beautiful view of Como Lake. Pick the person’s favorite restaurant or check the latest issue of Spirit of Geneva Lakes for restaurant suggestions sure to please.

It’s not Christmas without a tree

For those who enjoy an artificial Christmas tree, bringing it down from the attic or up from the basement is all that is needed to get it in place. For those who have a pre-lit tree, the hardest and least enjoyable job – putting on the lights – is already finished. All is left is the fun, adding the ornaments and other decorative items to the tree and placing the angel or star on top making it a special tree.

For the true purist, there is nothing like a real live tree for Christmas. When entering a home, the aroma of the fresh pine permeates the entire home. There are several Christmas tree farms in the area where families have a choice of choosing a freshly cut tree or the ability to cut their own.

Evergreen Acres Christmas Tree Farm in East Troy is one that offer customers a choice of cutting their own tree or choosing from one of the freshly cut Frasier Firs up to 11 feet tall for their home. They start selling trees on Nov. 25 and continue until they are sold out.

Picking out or cutting a tree is a great holiday tradition for the whole family. Choosing the perfect tree may be an easy job or it may be difficult as each person has their own idea of what is the perfect tree for the family.

While out for the tree, pick up wreaths, garlands, and other decorative greens needed for decorating at home.

Once home, spend the day decorating the tree as a family, making it everyone’s tree. Enjoy pulling out the favorite ornaments and deciding where they go on the tree. Also bring in some new ornaments to give the tree a new look.

Many stores in the area have ornaments representing the area. Lake Geneva ornaments can be found at the Geneva Lake Museum and local stores.

Once the tree is finished, it is time to bring out the hot chocolate and some of those Christmas cookies.

Christmas is a family time and be certain that to enjoy that time together. It is a time to welcome new members into the family who have joined due to marriage or the birth of new babies. It is also a time to remember the Christmas’ of the past.

SPIRIT of GENEVA LAKES

Shop locally downtown Lake Geneva. SANDRA LANDEN MACHAJ Spirit of Geneva Lakes

THE GREEN GROCER AND DELI • 24 W. Geneva St., Williams Bay. 262-245-9077. www.greengrocergenevalake.com Organic grocery store with a deli. Serving sandwiches made with Boars Head meat and cheese, homemade soups, salads and pizzas, wine, beer and cocktails. Dine in, Carryout or delivery. Open 7 days a week. L, D, $-$$  (

EAST TROY BREWERY • 2905 Main St. on the Historic Square, East Troy. 262-6422670. Go to www.etbrew.com for an updated menu. Historic 1892 bank turned brewery/ restaurant. Craft beer and a great menu with seasonal specials. Find us on Facebook. Wed.-Thurs. 4-9pm; Fri.-Sat. 12-10pm; Sun. 12-6pm. L, D, $$, GF, FF 

WATERFRONT PUB & GRILL • 408 State Rd. 50, Delavan. 262-728-4700. www.waterfrontdelavan.com Like us on Facebook and join us on Untappd. Serving fresh salads, wraps, signature sandwiches, juicy burgers, Friday Fish Fry & Saturday Prime Rib. Full wrap around bar with 20 beers on draft and gaming corner. Dine-in, take out and drive-thru available. L, D, $-$$, FF, 

LUISA’S • Just off Hwy. 50, 12 mi. east of Lake Geneva. 262-537-4795. Superb Italian & American cuisine. Dine in, carry out, delivery, catering avail., call ahead & will have it hot ready to go. D, $$ 

CHRIS’ USA • 724 Milwaukee Ave., Burlington. 262-763-9968. Popular Friday Fish Fry. Beer Battered or Baked Cod with your choice of potato pancakes or french fries and coleslaw. Perch Dinner Available. $$, FF

LOCAL FOLKS RESTAURANT & PUB • 39601 60th St. (Slades Corners), Burlington. 262-539-3200. Open 6am every morning! B, L, D, $, FF,  

MARS RESORT • W 4098 S. Shore Dr., Lake Geneva. A classic Wisconsin supper club “nestled on the shores of Lake Como.” Open 7 days a week at 11am. Out of this world ribs and spectacular sunsets! Reserve one of our Igloos on our “Fire and Ice” Deck for a truly unique experience. We created special platters that are sure to please all of our guests. Enjoy our Piano Bar for fun Friday and Saturday nights. Call 262245-5689 today and visit www.mars-resort. com to view our menu. L, D, FF, $$

PINE STREET CAFE • 141 N. Pine St., Burlington, WI 53105. 262-763-9800. Homestyle food made from scratch daily using only the finest, freshest ingredients. Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner. Fish Fries Every Friday. Sunday 6am - 3pm. MondaySaturday 6am - 8pm. B, L, D, FF, 

THE BAKER HOUSE • 327 Wrigley Dr., Lake Geneva. 262-248-4700. Lake side dining in an elegant 1885 Queen Anne Victorian. Full Bar. Sunday Brunch. L, D, $$$, GF,  (

CHANCES • 205 W. Main St., Rochester. 262-534-2772 . An establishment of Fine Food & Spirits. Closed on Monday. Weekday Specials $13.00. We serve dinner Tuesday - Saturday, 4:30 - 9pm. Lunch Wednesday - Saturday, 11am - 2pm. Friday Fish Fry & Saturday Prime Rib. Visit us on our website: www.chancesfood.com. L, D, $$$, 

GINO’S EAST OF CHICAGO

• 300 Wrigley Dr., Lake Geneva. 262-248-2525 www.ginoseastlakegeneva.com. Chicago’s original deep dish pizza, Italian sandwiches, salads and entrees. L, D, $-$$

top:

Winter wonderland

Ice Castles returns for another year of frozen fun

Ice Castles, the frozen winter wonderland that has attracted thousands to the Lake Geneva area in winters past, is set for another run in 2023.

The frozen attraction is slated to open in January and will again be located at Geneva National Resort, 1091 Hidden Cottage Cir., Lake Geneva. This is the fourth year for the attraction in Wisconsin.

Opening is dependent on weather conditions with long stretches of freezing temperatures needed to accommodate construction of the attraction.

The photo-worthy Ice Castles will last into late February or early March, weather permitting. Dates and hours will be available online at icecastles.com.

The award-winning winter attraction is built on site using hundreds of thousands of icicles hand-placed by professional ice artists, according to the company that sponsors the attraction in four cities across North America. The frozen structure includes breathtaking LED-lit sculptures, frozen thrones, ice-carved tunnels, slides, fountains and more.

Ice Castles also plans to offer sleigh

rides as part of the Wisconsin attraction.

Ice Castles will again observe some COVID-19 protocols to promote health and safety, according to the company. Employees will wear masks and masks are recommended for guests when interacting in common areas. The attraction is also designed to make use of social distancing.

Tickets for ages 12 and older are $25

on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday; and $29 on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Tickets for children (4-11) are $17 on week days and $22 on weekends.

Tickets may be available on-site if Ice Castles is not sold out. On-site prices are subject to higher rates. For guaranteed entry and the lowest price, buy tickets online in advance at icecastles.com

Specialized lighting cast a colorful glow on the ice Castles during night viewing. below: Towering ice structures create an attractive view for visitors of all ages.

COURTESY OF ICE CASTLES Spirit of Geneva Lakes

Ride the Christmas Train

Tickets for the 2022 run of Christmas Trains from East Troy to Santa’s Workshop at the Elegant Farmer in Mukwonago are now available, but they are selling fast, East Troy Railroad President Ryan Jonas said.

“If families want to come, they should make their plans and make their reservations soon,” Jonas said.

The best way to make reservations is online at the railroad’s website at easttroyrr.org/ christmas-train.

Christmas Trains at the East Troy Railroad Museum begin running again on Saturdays and Sundays starting Nov. 25 and run through Sunday, Dec. 18.

The fun, family friendly rides take passengers from the East Troy Depot at 2002 Church St. in East Troy to Santa’s Workshop at the Elegant Farmer and back. The rides are slightly less than two hours per round-trip and include a visit with Santa, where families and children can have their photos taken.

Advertiser: Lyles

below: Happy Christmas Train riders visit with Anna the Elf. The East Troy Railroad’s annual Christmas Trains return this holiday season. top: Santa waves to the passengers on one of the Christmas Trains last year at the Elegant Farmer.

“Santa’s Workshop will be better than ever and all children will receive a small gift that is fitting for the occasion,” Jonas said. “Our historic railroad cars are heated and rest rooms and free parking are available at the East Troy depot.”

Current scheduled ad #:427631 New ad #: 417337 (pick up)

Tickets can be purchased online anytime. Cost is $23 for adults, $20 for children (age 3 to 14) are $20.00, and $8.50 for infants and toddlers. Everyone needs a ticket to board and reservations are required.

Trains will depart at 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., noon, 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays, Nov. 26 and 27, Dec. 3, 4, 10, 11, 17 and 18. Note that the Friday and Saturday evening trains have already sold out. There is no 3 p.m. train on Dec. 3.

About the railroad

The East Troy Railroad Museum operates regular 14-mile round trip excursions from its historic East Troy Depot and Museum to Indianhead Park in Mukwonago, with a stop at the popular Elegant Farmer store and deli.

The non-profit railroad is operated and managed by more than 130 volunteers dedicated to engaging visitors in the heritage of electric interurban railways and trolley systems through restoration, preservation and operation of historic equipment.

For more information, visit www. easttroyrr.org or call 262-642-3263.

Sailing North Pole TO THE

Santa Cruise offers holiday delight on Geneva Lake

Lake Geneva Cruise Line ignites the holiday season once again with its fifth annual Santa Cruise to the North Pole.

Running through Dec. 30, the Lake Geneva Santa Cruise keeps kids and adults in the holiday spirit from beginning to end with greetings from jolly elves, historic boats decked out with twinkling lights and filled with holiday music and cheer, and live narration of the story of your journey to the North Pole as you see lighted displays along the shore.

During the 40-minute Santa Cruise, family and friends are kept cozy in enclosed and heated boats as the excitement builds to see Santa’s hideaway where he and his helpers test all the toys he is building. Children will be amazed when the cruise comes to a halt and Santa emerges to wave and read off all of the children’s names on the nice list.

The Santa Cruise departs from Lake Geneva Cruise Line’s winter harbor located in Williams Bay at Gage Marine and Pier 290 restaurant, 1 Liechty Drive, after ticket holders have had a chance to enjoy a stroll through Santa Cause’s Christmas Tree Festival. The Festival features trees creatively trimmed by local non-profits and opportunities to purchase raffle tickets and win presents.

Tours run the day after Thanksgiving through Dec. 30 (no tours Dec. 24 and 25). Regular date tickets are $24 for adults, $22 for seniors ages 65 and older and $12 for children ages 4 to 17. Prime date tickets are $30 for adults, $28 for seniors and $18 for children. Children age 3 and younger are free.

Purchase tickets early at santacruiselakegeneva.com.

top: To the delight of all the children on board, Santa reads the list of all the children on the good list who can expect to have some packages under the tree on Christmas morning. middle: The Santa Cruise ship is light up and ready for another holiday excursion. at right: The Gage Pier in Williams Bay ready for the holidays with snow and a number of multicolored Christmas lights. Board the Santa Cruise for a delightful ride to Santa’s North Pole Hideaway.

PHOTOS Spirit of Geneva Lakes

SUBMITTED

Skiing options abound in area

Hills offer a variety of runs for all abilities

With an early arrival of snow and winterlike temperatures this year, area ski hills were able to get a jump on the season.

Skiing and snowboarding remain popular among athletes and outdoor enthusiasts who refuse to be relegated to the couch during the winter months.

The Geneva Lakes Area features several ski hills, which as of deadline for this edition had not yet announced opening dates. Remember to call ahead or check the respective websites to ensure the hill is open.

Here’s a closer look at the area ski hills:

Wilmot Mountain Ski Resort

11931 Fox River Rd, Wilmot (262) 862-2301 • www.wilmotmountain.com

The 25 unique runs at Wilmot Mountain offer varied terrain for all skiers and snowboarders; from novices stepping onto the snow for the very first time to experts looking to further push themselves and their sport.

Snowmaking, according to Wilmot General Manager Peter Disch, is a combination of science and an ideal atmosphere.

Officials monitor weather conditions closely and develop a snowmaking plan, he said.

Wilmot Mountain reports daily conditions on its website.

For tubing, Disch said, officials need more snow, considering the hill offers 22 carved lanes of snow tubing.

While Wilmot Mountain guests have

above: With three chairlifts and two carpet lifts, the Mountain Top at Grand Geneva provides plenty of ways to get back to the top. at left: The Geneva Lakes Area features three full-service ski hills, including The Mountain Top at Grand Geneva Resort.

differing preferences, tubing is one activity nearly anyone can enjoy.

Tubing, he said, is also beneficial to large groups.

“Anyone can tube because gravity does the work,” he said. “And it’s a fun thing to do with family and friends. We see many school groups, clubs and organizations that come out and utilize our group rates of 20plus.”

The Mountain Top at Grand Geneva Resort and Spa

7036 Grand Geneva Way, Lake Geneva 262-249-4726 • www.grandgeneva.com

The Mountaintop has has 20 ski slopes covering more than 30 acres of downhill ski runs and terrain with elevations peaking at 1,086 feet.

The ski and snowboarding offerings are suitable for all levels, according to staff at The Mountain Top.

Some additional amenities and services offered by The Mountain Top include:

• The Learn to Ride program designed to

SPIRIT of GENEVA LAKES

help newcomers of any type.

• Skiing and snowboarding all winter long with The Mountain Top’s snowmaking capabilities.

• Three chairlifts and two carpet lifts.

• Lessons offered by professional ski instructions for kids and adults

• Equipment rentals

• Trolley transportation from guest rooms at Grand Geneva and Timber Ridge Lodge

After a day in the snow, skiers and snowboarders can relax and enjoy a warm fire, hot beverage and food at the Leinenkugel Mountain Top Lodge.

Alpine Valley Resort

W2501 Highway D • Elkhorn (262) 642-7374 • www.alpinevalleyresort.com

Alpine features 20 slopes that range from beginner to expert mogul runs with 388 feet of vertical skiing. The hill also includes the Mohawk Terrain Park, which offers snowboarders and freestyle skiers a variety of rails, boxes and snow features.

COURTESY OF GRAND GENEVA Spirit of Geneva Lakes

Reception?

Advertising works in the

Spirit of Geneva Lakes!

Promoting your business in the right publication is essential to growth and overall success. Knowing that your message is reaching your intended audience is what makes The Spirit of Geneva Lakes uniquely effective. We can create an image that is both creative and compelling!

For advertising opportunities contact: Pete Hansen

Email: phansen@standardpress.com Office: 262-473-3363 Cell: 414-801-2360

Tamera Hamilton

Email: tamera@southernlakesnewspapers.com Office: 262-728-3411 Cell: 262-215-2782

Holiday The of traditions

Christmas’ beauty is found in its many rituals

by Sandra Landen Machaj CORRESPONDENT

Traditions. Today as we celebrate the holidays, we are reminded of many traditions that have been a part of our holidays, perhaps all of our lives. So many traditions are an integral part of our family holiday celebrations.

Many of these holiday traditions were brought to America by our ancestors as they migrated to the United States. Reluctant to leave all their traditions in Europe, they continued to share these traditions with their own and other families in the area.

Celebrating a holiday season is said to go back to pre-Christian days when the winter solstice and the god of agriculture, Saturn, were celebrated in a way similar to ways

now celebrated at Christmas.

This holiday according to History.com occurred in winter around Dec. 25 and included eating special foods, having singers perform in the streets and hanging wreaths on their home – traditions that continue to be part of our holiday celebrations. Our Christian traditions may have evolved from some of these early festivals .

The story of Santa Claus seemed to prevail across all of Europe, a kindly man who gave gifts to children although his name was different depending on the country. The tradition was believed to have begun with St. Nicholas, a monk from the 4th century known for giving away all his wealth to others.

In the Netherlands, children receive gifts on St. Nicholas Day Dec. 6. On the evening of Dec. 5, they place their shoes by the fireplace or near the door so that St. Nicholas will leave gifts for them if they have been

good. In the early days these were small gifts such as an apple or if they were really good a piece of chocolate or a small toy.

They story of St. Nicholas spread throughout Europe and various other European countries also adopted the celebration of St. Nicholas Day such as France, Poland, and the Eastern European Countries. A tradition they brought with them when they immigrated to the United States. While St. Nicholas brought good children their gifts, Krampus, according to folklore, was an alpine creature who lived in the countries around the Alps mountains and punished children who were not good. Over the years, this has evolved with parents reminding their children to be good to stay on St. Nicholas or Santa Claus’s good list.

While many of the families brought the tradition of leaving out shoes or in some cases stocking for St. Nicholas on December 6th with them to their new home, over the years

Visiting with Santa Claus is a childhood tradition as children let him know what they want to find under the tree.

COURTESY OF WISCONSIN HISTORICAL SOCIETY Spirit of Geneva Lakes

the giving of gifts moved to Christmas Eve when Santa Claus left presents under the Christmas tree.

Birth of the Christmas tree

The tradition of the Christmas tree in our homes is attributed to Germany in the 16th Century when Christians added the decorated tree to their Christmas celebrations. The early trees were decorated with lighted candles, and homemade ornaments causing many to catch fire. Evergreen branches were used to decorate the home in honor of Christmas, a tradition that we continue today.

Christmas trees were always live trees that were cut down and brought into the home to be decorated with a variety of homemade ornaments, cranberries and popcorn strings added by family members.

With the creation of electric strings of lights for trees in 1880, the first developed by Edward H. Johnson, a friend and business associate of Thomas Edison, candles were no longer needed to illuminate America’s trees. However, it would be many years before the public accepted these electric lights.

It was not until the 1890s that the beautiful hand blown glass ornaments from Germany made their way to the United States, first imported by Woolworths. These beautiful glass globes, which changed the way Americans decorated their trees, added beauty and sparkle to their tree.

Around this same time the Kristkindlmarkts opened in Germany. In communities, especially along the Rhine River, small stands opened selling Christmas decorations and items for holiday gifts for family and friends.

The Kristkindlmarkts became “the holiday shopping centers” of the early days where tradesmen offered their wares. Stands offered food items to enjoy while shopping such as bratwurst, and potato pancakes which can be enjoyed while shopping. Of course, there were also warm cider and mulled wine to help keep the shoppers warm and music to keep the holiday spirit

Today these Kristkindlmarkts are still found in Germany and also scattered throughout the United States, keeping the spirit of Kristkindlmarkts alive. Many families make a yearly visit to the market to purchase a new ornament and enjoy the camaraderie of the season,

A German tradition is the purchase and hanging of the pickle ornament in a spot that is difficult to see on the tree. The custom is that whoever finds the pickle, will receive an extra gift from Santa. This tradition is now found in homes not necessarily of German origin.

Let there be light

In 1895 President Grover Cleveland illuminated the family’s Christmas tree with the use of hundreds multicolored lights. It was not until 1923 that Calvin Coolidge illuminated the National Christmas Tree with 3,000 lights on the Ellipse south of the White House.

While many residents did not have access to Woolworth stores, especially those living in the country, nor perhaps the money to purchase them, homemade decorations continued to be used. For some early families here in the United States perhaps only one or two of the glass ornaments would be treasured by the family and handed down to the next generation. Today the combination of beautiful glass ornaments and homemade ornaments continue to decorate family trees.

Christmas tree traditions vary. Norwegian families often put up their Christmas tree on Dec. 23, known as Lille Jullaten or Little Christmas Eve. On this day Norwegian families decorate the tree together and bake or purchase gingerbread houses to be set up throughout the home.

For Norwegian families it is Christmas Eve (Julaften) when families get together and eat a traditional Norwegian Christmas meal. After the meal the family would hold hands and dance around the Christmas tree before arriving at the children’s favorite time, the opening of presents that are delivered by a short bearded creature named Julenissen.

Among the traditional foods that will be found at the table are Pinnekjett, dried or salted lamb ribs steamed, Ribbe, simple pork ribs and lutefisk, dried cod, soaked in lye and then boiled. They also enjoy A Kevitt a distilled Scandinavian drink with 40% alcohol.

Shout for Kringle

In Wisconsin, the Kringle is a special treat enjoyed not only by those of Scandinavian descent but by everyone. The Kringle is a sweet pastry, oval shaped and made by piling layers up to 81, of the buttery dough, shaped into an oval, and filled with a tasty filling

from almond paste to fruit jellies or cheese and nuts and capped with a sweet white icing.

This treat became popular in the southern Wisconsin area due to the large Danish population, many of whom went to work as bakers in the Racine bakeries to provide the intensive work needed to create Kringle.

As they became popular with other residents of the state, the Kringle was named Wisconsin’s Official State Pastry in 2013.

In the Scandinavian countries, Norway, Denmark, Sweden and parts of Finland, Dec 13 mark the end of the darkest day and the celebration of St. Lucia Day.

The celebration of St. Lucia is a religious festival with a procession of young girls in white gowns with candles on their head signifying the bringing in of light after the darkest day of the year. It is a custom that is still observed in many churches and Scandinavian homes.

Swedish traditions are somewhat similar to the Norwegians but there are some distinguishing differences. Another tradition that has survived the year is the Advent wreath. The Advent wreath has four candles. Each week one is lighted and allowed to burn for a while then blown out. These candles are symbolic of the four weeks of advent and the coming of the birth of Jesus.

Many Churches today continue to have the lighting of the Advent wreath and many individual homes also light them at home as they prepare for Christmas

As you enjoy your Christmas activities, which for many of us are a combination of the traditions of our ancestors with the traditions we have learned from friends and neighbors over the years, be grateful for all of these traditions which make our holidays fun.

Each year the official White house Christmas tree is found in the Blue Room. This beautiful tree is always professionally decorated.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Spirit of Geneva Lakes

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