SPIRIT February 2020

Weddings INSIDE

Vol. 32 No. 2

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FEBRUARY 2020

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n February events calendar......................................... 5 Lake Geneva’s Winter Wonderland.......................... 6 Delavan’s Sky Circus on Ice..................................10 Handmade clothing Cashmere Cape............................ 12 New bakery fulfills a lifelong dream............................. 15 Winter Weddings...................................... 18 Weddings at the winery.................................... 19 Weddings on the waterfront............................... 27 Cocktails and sunsets at Mars Resort.............................. 35 The family feeling at Burtness dealerships................... 43 Dining Directory...................................... 44 Advertiser Index............................................ 46

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FEBRUARY 2020

Finding thrills in the chill Whether its voting for the best snow sculpture at Winterfest, taking in the awe-inspiring kites at Delavan’s Sky Circus or hiking through Kishwauketoe Nature Preserve in Williams Bay, February offers a plethora of events and activities to make the most of winter’s beauty. So don’t hunker down inside when you can get outside and celebrate all the area has to offer this month.

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IT’S COMIN’ UP FEBRUARY EVENTS

1

Winterfest Chili Cook-Off 11

a.m. to 3 p.m., Hawk’s View Golf Club, 7377 Krueger Road, Lake Geneva. Info: www.hawksviewgolfclub.com.

1

Lake Geneva Symphony Orchestra Gala Dance, Dance,

Evolution, 5:30 to 10:30 p.m., Grand Geneva Resort and Spa, 7036 Grand Geneva Way, Lake Geneva. Ticket and info: www.lakegenevaorchestra.org.

1 Winter Carnival 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., Grand Geneva Resort and Spa, 7036 Grand Geneva Way, Lake Geneva. Skiing, snowboarding, kids activities, winter fun and more. Info: www.grandgeneva.com.

1

Day in the Bay Night Hike

6 to 8 p.m., Kishwauketoe Nature Conservancy, 251 Elkhorn Road, Williams Bay.

1

Rock the Barns Titans of Tribute

– Motley Crue, Ozzy Osbourne and Poison, 6 to 10 p.m., Walworth County Fairgrounds, 411 E. Court St., Elkhorn.

Info: www.walworthcountyfair.com.

2 132nd Army Band of the Wisconsin National Guard performance, 2 to 4 p.m., Delavan-Darien High School, 150 Cummings St. Info: www.ddschools. org.

7 Daddy Daughter Dance 6 to 9 p.m., The Abbey Resort, 269 Fontana Blvd., Fontana. Dinner, photos, refreshments, dessert and dancing.

Cost: $30 for Delavan residents, $40 for non-residents. Register at www. delavanparkrec.com.

8-9

Scrapbook Retreat 10 a.m.

to 4 p.m., Delavan Lake Resort, 1505 S. Shore Drive, Delavan. Info: 800-430-8164.

9 Snowblast Downhill Bicycle Race 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Alpine Valley

Resort, W2501 Highway D, East Troy.

Downhill mountain bike racing. Info: www. alpinevlleyresort.com.

14-16

Delavan’s Sky Circus on Ice 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., at Lake Lawn

Resort and downtown Delavan. Snow sculptures, ice carvings and classes, kite making, candy drop, kids activities and more. Info: www.lakelawnresort.com/ events/sky-circus-ice.

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Fabric Frenzy 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.,

Lutherdale, N7891 Highway 12, Elkhorn.

Bargains on fabric, notions and patterns for all sewing/quilting needs. Info: www. lutherdale.org.

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Lakes Area Bridal Fair, 11:30

a.m. to 3 p.m., Evergreen Country Club,

The

Spirit IS A PUBLICATION OF

N6246 Highway 12/67, Elkhorn. Info: www.evergreengolf.com.

21, 22, 23, 29, 29, March 1 “Barefoot in the Park” by the

Lakeland Players. Info: www.lakelandplayers.org.

21

Military Appreciation Day

9 a.m. to 10 p.m., Grand Geneva Resort and Spa, 7036 Grand Geneva Way, Lake Geneva. Skiing, snowboarding and special events all day. Free lift ticket and rentals for active military; half-price lift tickets for military family members; $10 lift tickets and $10 rentals for vets. Info: www. grandgeneva.com.

GENERAL MANAGER

Sue Z. Lange

22

Barnyard Bargain Bonanza Indoor Flea Market 8 a.m. to 3

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Ed Nadolski

p.m., Walworth County Fairgrounds, 411 E. Court St., Elkhorn. Info: 262-723-3228.

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

22-23 LBA Home

Vicki Vanderwerff

Improvement Expo 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Evergreen County Club, N6246 Highway 12, Elkhorn. Info: www. evergreengolf.com.

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Heidi Schulz

22 Family Fun Day

2 to 4:30 p.m., Young Auditorium, 930 W. Main St., Whitewater. Free event, tickets required for Kohl’s Wild Theatre performance (2 p.m.). Tickets and info: www. youngauditorium.com.

SALES

Pete Hansen Tamera Hamilton SPECIAL SECTIONS

Ongoing events

Karen Dubinsky

Ice Castles – at Geneva National

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER

Resort will be open when weather allows.

For information on tickets and tour times, visit icecastles.com. Geneva National Resort is at 1221 Geneva National Ave. S, Lake Geneva. For more information about the resort, visit www.gnresort.com.

Dancing Horses Show – Enjoy the hour and a half-long show at 1 p.m.

Sunday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday; and 7 p.m. Saturday, at The Dancing Horses Museum, 5065 Highway 50, Delavan. For show dates and info visit www.thedancinghorses.com

Tom Flatow

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:

The

Tristan Crist Magic Theater –

609 W. Main St., Lake Geneva. One of a kind performer that wows audiences with jaw-dropping illusions and gutwrenching escapes! For show dates and times call 262-248-0505 or visit www. lakegenevamagic.com

The calendar of events is compiled from a variety of sources including area chamber’s 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.

SPIRIT of GENEVA LAKES

Spirit

SOUTHERN LAKES NEWSPAPERS 1102 Ann Street Delavan, WI 53115

N

SpiritofGenevaLakes.com

262.728.3411

5

This year’s Winterfest aims for Winter Wonderland status

T

here are plenty of winter events, winter adventures and winter carnivals in Wisconsin, but what makes a winter festival an honest to goodness winter wonderland?

The answer comes from the organizers of this year’s Winterfest in Lake Geneva, where the national snow sculpting champions will be crowned, bonfires and s’mores on the beach will be back by popular demand along with human dog sled races, and fire

6

FEBRUARY 2020

dance performances and winter-inspired movies at the Geneva Theater will keep crowds entertained.

The 2020 event takes place Jan. 29 through Feb. 2 at Riviera Plaza, spilling over across the street to Flat Iron Park downtown, with the snow sculpting champs to be announced Feb. 1.

This marks the 35th year for the United States National Snow Sculpting Championship, with Lake Geneva hosting the last 25 years, so there’s no denying this community loves winter and the white stuff in a big, you might even say larger-than-life, way. The City of Lake Geneva is offering free shuttle service to the event.

For a full schedule, log on to WinterfestLG.com.

VISIT Lake Geneva CEO Stephanie Klett took a frosty, as in frosty-fun, tone in setting up the allure of this long-running winter tradition.

“These five days will be packed, just the way we like it, with the snow sculpting starting right away on Wednesday,” Klett said.

“These are 15 teams of the most talented snow sculptors who’ve won their state championships and it’s amazing to see these artists hard at work competing for the national title, with the entire competition free and open to the public.”

Snow sculpting

Official carving start time is 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 29, for the Snow Sculpting Championship.

This year’s teams hail from as far away as Alaska and Maine and come from close to home too with teams representing Wisconsin and neighboring states. The judging panel is made up of the participants themselves, all 45 snow sculptors, and they

ABOVE: Part of the fun of attending Winterfest is watching the sculptors transform a block of snow into a detailed work of art.

These children watch as the sculptor works on his design. Winterfest returns to Lake Geneva Jan. 29 through Feb. 1.

OPPOSITE: A snow sculptor puts the finishing touches on his winter creation.

COURTESY OF VISIT LAKE GENEVA Spirit of Geneva Lakes

SPIRIT of GENEVA LAKES

7

choose their top five, with the only caveat that they not vote for themselves.

The winning teams will be crowned at 3 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 1. Visitors can participate in the People’s Choice award by voting for their favorites on Saturday at voting locations in the Riviera Ballroom and the Lake Geneva Visitor Center.

On an interesting side note, the snow sculpting competition is not dependent on snow falling, with the ski hill at Grand Geneva Resort making the snow and a crew of “snow stompers” taking turns stomping down the snow inside the cylindrical forms that measure 8 feet in diameter and 9 feet tall.

sculptures that you really have to see to believe,” Klett added.

Other attractions

According to the organizers of Ice Castles, found online at www.IceCastles.com, this year’s Lake Geneva attraction at Geneva National Resort is about one acre in size, more than double last winter’s location.

Crews of ice artists are expecting to spend a total of 4,000 hours shaping and assembling the frozen icicles. It’s a daily process of growing the icicles and harvesting by hand, placing the new icicles into formations and then drenching them with water.

If weather cooperates, the attraction is expected to open late January and could be open until early March, giving visitors ample Fest-goers needn’t worry about feeling a chill, not with a opportunity to take in the LED-lit sculptures, frozen thrones, iceDowntown Cocoa Crawl on Friday, Jan. 31, and an indoor carved tunnels, slides and fountains that make up the ice castle. marketplace in the Riviera Ballroom Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 1 The concept for Ice Castles was created when founder and Utah and 2. resident Brent Christensen attempted to build an ice cave for his Nearby restaurants will be serving hearty comfort food too, daughter in the front yard of his home in Alpine, Utah. The project including Champs Sports Bar & Grill which is hosting a bourbon turned into a winter hit drawing crowds of locals to visit and tour whiskey dinner pairing and will have a heated outdoor beer garden. his creation. Ice Castles has since turned into an internationally For more warmth, try the warming igloos at Grand Geneva Resort renowned tourist attraction with six locations across North & Spa, Pier 290 or The Ridge Hotel, where you can curl up with a America and growing. hot toddy and enjoy some tasty nibbles too.

The Ridge will also have an outdoor bar made entirely of ice.

Families are invited to Gallery 223 downtown to enjoy indoor arts Strap on skis or a snowboard, your choice, and schuss down the slopes at The Mountain Top at Grand Geneva. There’s also activities hosted by the Geneva Lakes Arts Foundation. sledding, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing there plus an Klett and her team are expecting to welcome some 60,000 ice skating rink. Or take to the trees and zipline at Lake Geneva visitors over the five-day run of Winterfest.

Canopy Tours.

“Talk about a party with tens of thousands of your closest The complete Winterfest schedule along with a rundown friends and family,” Klett said.

She’s encouraging visitors to post their photos using the hashtag of all the wintry goings-on around the area can be found at WinterfestLG.com. #mylakegeneva.

For more information, visit www.VisitLakeGeneva.com.

“There is nothing more Insta-worthy than those massive snow

Warming up

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Winterfest schedule of events

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 29

11 a.m. – U.S. National Snow Sculpting Championship begins at The Riviera and Flat Iron Park in downtown Lake Geneva 7:30 p.m. – Winter Film Fest Free Movie Night: Fargo (R), at the Geneva Theater, 244 Broad St., geneva4.com

THURSDAY, JAN. 30 All day – U.S. National Snow Sculpting Championship continues All day – Downtown Ice Sculpture Walk throughout downtown Lake Geneva 6 p.m. – Winter Warm Up: Dueling Bourbon Whiskey Dinner Pairing, Champs Sports Bar & Grill, 747 Main St., Lake Geneva 6 to 9 p.m. – Fireside S’mores & Sounds, Riviera Beach 7:30 p.m. Winter Film Fest Free Movie Night: The Shining (R), Geneva Theater, geneva4. com

FRIDAY, JAN 31 All day – U.S. National Snow Sculpting Championship Times vary – Winter Film Fest Feature Movie: Frozen 2, Geneva Theater, geneva4.com All day – Downtown Ice Sculpture Walk, throughout downtown Lake Geneva 4 to 6:30 p.m. – Downtown Cocoa Crawl, at participating downtown businesses, streetsoflakegeneva.com 6 to 9 p.m. – Fireside S’mores & Sounds, Riviera Beach 7 to 9 p.m. – Fire Dance Performances, Riviera Beach

5 p.m. – Human Dog Sled Races, check-in 5 to 7 p.m., first race at 7:30 p.m., Riviera Beach

SATURDAY, FEB. 1 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. – People’s Choice Snow Sculpture Voting, ballots at Riviera, 812 Wrigley Drive, and Lake Geneva Visitor Center, 201 Wrigley Drive 11 a.m. – U.S. National Snow Sculpting Championship sculpting concludes 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. – Winterfest Marketplace, Riviera Ballroom All day – Downtown Ice Sculpture Walk, throughout downtown Lake Geneva Times vary – Winter Film Fest Feature Movie: Frozen 2, the Geneva Theater, geneva4.com, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. – Grand Geneva Resort Winter Carnival and Fireworks, Grand Geneva Resort & Spa, 7036 Grand Geneva Way, Lake Geneva, grandgeneva.com.

Fireworks at 8:30 p.m.

11 a.m. to 3 p.m. – Chili Cook-Off, Hawks View Golf Club, 7377 Krueger Road, hawksviewgolfclub.com 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. – Snow Sisters Character Meet & Greet, Riviera Ballroom 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. – Winterfest Family Art Activities, Gallery 223, 223 Broad St., Lake Geneva, genevalakeartsfoundation.org Noon – Winter Beer Garden Craft Distillery Tasting, Champs Sports Bar & Grill 3 p.m. – U.S. National Snow Sculpting Championship Awards Ceremony, Riviera Ballroom | 812 Wrigley Drive 5 p.m. – Laser Light Show Finale, Riviera 6 to 9 p.m. – Fireside S’mores & Sounds,

SPIRIT of GENEVA LAKES

Riviera Beach 6 to 7:30 p.m. – Fire Dance Performances, Riviera Beach 10 p.m. – Winter Film Fest: 80s Ski Bum Movie, Party & Costume Contest, Geneva Theater, geneva4.com

SUNDAY, FEB. 2 All day – Snow Sculpture Viewing, Riviera and Flat Iron Park All day – Downtown Ice Sculpture Walk, throughout downtown Lake Geneva 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. – Winterfest Marketplace, Riviera Ballroom 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. – Snow Sister Character Meet & Greet, Riviera Ballroom 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. – Winterfest Family Art Activities, Gallery 223, genevalakeartsfoundation.org Noon – Winter Film Fest Free Movie: Ground Hog Day (PG), Geneva Theater, geneva4. com, donations accepted for Fellow Mortals Wildlife Hospital

ONGOING Times vary – The Ice Box Out Back: Ice Skating, Igloos, Ice Bar & More, hours vary by activity, The Ridge Hotel, W4240 Highway 50, Lake Geneva, ridgelakegeneva.com Times vary – Ice Castles, vary by day, Geneva National Resort & Club, 1221 Geneva National Ave. South, Lake Geneva, genevanationalresort.com

For more information visit

WinterfestLG.com

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Fly the colorful skies DELAVAN’S SKY CIRCUS ON ICE SET FOR FEB. 14-16 The Delavan area welcomes some of the greatest kite performers in the world for its seventh annual Sky Circus on Ice Feb. 14 through 16.

Throughout the festival the skies above Delavan Lake will be filled with colorful and awe-inspiring kites.

In addition to the kite performances, expert ice and snow carvers will display their works of art in downtown Delavan and along the shores of Lake Lawn Resort.

There will be concessions and warming stations throughout Lake Lawn Resort.

Visitors may also purchase or make their own kites to fly.

There will be parking available at Lake Lawn Resort, at the Lake Lawn Airport, and in downtown Delavan.

In addition, there will be a complimentary trolley running Saturday and Sunday between Lake Lawn Resort and downtown Delavan from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The trolley will also make stops at Comfort Suites and the Super 8 Motel.

Lake Lawn will offer special overnight packages for those interested in staying at the resort during the Sky Circus event. For additional information visit lakelawnresort. com or call 262-728-7950.

Windowed hallways along the lakefront inside the resort provide ample views of the performances, according to organizers.

Both days are jam-packed with events.

There is no admission charge and activities are open to the public.

Here’s a full schedule of events: Seventh Annual Sky Circus on Ice Friday Feb. 14 - Sunday Feb. 16: • Snow Sculptures and Ice Carvings at Lake Lawn Resort and Downtown Delavan with final judging to take place on Sunday at 5 p.m.

• Blizzard Run Snow Slide along Lakefront at Lake Lawn Resort 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• Indoor Kite Performances at Lake Lawn Resort – Multiple daily performances

by Connor Doran from NBC’s “America’s Got Talent” in our Great Room. Shows last approximately 45 minutes, and begin at: Friday 8 p.m.; Saturday 1 p.m., 2 p.m., 4 p.m.; Sunday 12:30 p.m., 1:30 p.m.

Resort – Team warm-ups begin at 10 a.m., Flying lessons begin at 11 a.m. and run throughout the day • Opening ceremonies begin at 11:30 a.m.

• Grand Kite Launch Sponsored by Gift of Wings Saturday and Sunday at 12 p.m.

• Outdoor team performances from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

• Kids Mad Dash Sponsored by Lake Geneva Country Meats – First 100 kids to sign up and participate will receive free kites. Lakeside at approximately 2:30 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 15 and Sunday, Feb. 16: • Snow Carving class led by professional carvers at Lake Lawn Resort from 1:30 p.m. – 3 p.m.; • Kite-Making Workshop for All Ages in Lake Lawn Room at Lake Lawn Resort from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for fee of $4 per person; • Aerial Candy Drop Sponsored by Andes Candies Saturday and Sunday afternoon during performances; • Outdoor Kite Activities at Lake Lawn

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Cape of possibilities INSPIRATIONAL DISCOVERY LEADS WOMAN TO OPEN THE CASHMERE CAPE

by Dennis West CORRESPONDENT

Deb Mentzer wanted something to wear that was soft and warm, but didn’t want the hassle of putting on and taking off a sweater. She saw a picture of a poncho that was easy to drape over the shoulders, cut it down the front, added buttons and, voila, she had a cape.

“It’s easy on, easy off and works great in air conditioned offices,” she said.

A lifelong knitter, she decided the best way to achieve the soft and warm part was to use cashmere wool. In fact, she used half cashmere and 50 percent pure merino.

“Friends kept commenting on how soft it was,” said Mentzer. People kept urging her to make them for sale.

“I had a website up for two years, but selling online was fraught with difficulties, so I began to look for a small shop to offer artisans a place to sell their goods,” she said. She found such a shop on Elkhorn Road in downtown Williams Bay. The first thing that strikes visitors is how small the shop is. But that will change after the first of the year when Mentzer expands into the front portion of the former house that is home to Dip in the Bay on Walworth Avenue.

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The shop features a wide variety of handmade items, such as shawls, capes, a truly unique newborn blanket that features Sheri Lewis’s “Lambchop,” knit gloves, scarves, caps and much, much more, “We like to say we have you covered from head to toe,” she said. “That includes hats to socks knit from natural fibers.”

“We sell custom capes,” Mentzer explains. “Customers can choose their yarn, color combinations and the length. It takes four to six weeks (40 to 45 hours) to make.”

Although the shop is mostly devoted to products for women, they haven’t completely forgotten men.

“If you’re looking for a gift for that special male in your life, we have really extraordinary men’s hiking socks, stocking caps and items with Green Bay Packers and Chicago Bears themes,” Mentzer said.

“We even have hand-knitted Christmas tree ornaments that are non-gender specific.”

As a natural fiber yarn shop, The Cashmere Cape is the United States’ only retail outlet for Knoll Yarns, an Irish import appreciated by knitters the world over.

“Pretty much everything in the shop is handmade of locally produced natural materials and fibers, including locally produced alpaca yarns,” she said. “We have FEBRUARY 2020

merchandise by artisans throughout the area; not the kind of things you find at a craft show, but unique, high-quality.”

Mentzer’s previous career was not a natural introduction to a natural fiber shop.

She managed a bakery in Minocqua for 10 years before returning to her native Rockford, Ill., to take care of her father.

After he died, she retired, but became bored and began to look for something to do. “I missed people,” she said. She naturally turned to her love of fibers and knitting.

“We also offer the following services: blocking and finishing handknit items, seaming, edging and buttons, too; custom knit orders and sourcing of fine yarns, plus pattern assistance.”

The Cashmere Cape is open during the winter Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sundays from 11 to 4. It is located at 105 North Elkhorn Rd. (Highway 67, north, on the parking lot just north of Red Dogs).

AT TOP: Deb Mentzer, owner of the Cashmere Cape in Williams Bay, models one of the garments for which the business is named.

STAFF PHOTO Spirit of Geneva Lakes

364900

MILL LAKE | $985,000 Situated on 81 ft of level frontage with Southern exposure you’ll find this 4 BR, 3.5 BA, 2 story on just under a half acre with mature trees. Features eat in kitchen with granite island/bar and stainless-steel appliances that opens to Family Room with fireplace, wood flooring and skylight. Lakeside living room. Main floor rec room with cork flooring and wet bar with 2 refrigerators. Lakeside Master Bedroom with full bath, balcony and large walk in closet. Huge lakefront yard leads to 81’ of Mill Lake sand frontage. Dry boathouse with boat rail system and work area. Multiple piers and attached 4+car garage with workshop and plenty of storage completes this ultimate lake house package.

MLS#1669173

GREEN LAKE | $289,900 Located on a quiet wooded street within steps to premier lakefront park on Green Lake you’ll find this 4BD, 2 Bath Ranch with walkout lower level. Featuring updated eat-in kitchen with fireplace and slider to large outside deck, living room with vaulted beamed ceilings and access to main level deck, walk down the backside of the house to lakefront level park with swim pier and sand gravel frontage. Two bedrooms on main level with full bath and additional sleeping area. Lower level with two bedrooms and full bath with laundry. Kitchen floor has radiant heat. Ample parking and a short distance to boat launch, Lauderdale Landing and Kettle Moraine State Park.

MLS#1630727

LAUDERDALE LAKES ESTATES | $424,900 Situated on 150’ frontage on the big pond located in Lauderdale Lakes Estates, you’ll find this custom built 3+ BR, 3.5BA two story home with walk out lower level. Vaulted ceilings in LR w/ Fireplace and wall of windows, eat in kitchen w/ breakfast bar, dinette, wood floors and walk in pantry, formal dining room w/butler pantry, den w/ glass doors off open foyer w/ powder room. Spacious Main floor Master BR w/ water views, full en suite with double vanity, tiled shower, whirlpool tub and walk in closet. 2nd and 3rd Bedrooms located in upper level w/ loft overlooking LR and full bath with double vanity. Huge Family room walk out lower level features fireplace, wet bar, full bath, bonus room 19 x 20 un-finished w/ water view and 13 x 29 storage room. Large Deck off main level w/ pergola. MLS#1671671

LAUDERDALE LAKES | $549,000 Lakefront home on Lauderdale Lakes w/ 60’ frontage features high-end finishes throughout. This 3BR/3BA turn-key ranch includes open main floor w/wood floors, kitchen w/granite tops and custom cabinets, island w/breakfast bar and dinette area, living room w/sliding door to screened porch w/water views and access to large deck, Master BR with full BA, 2nd BR w/slider to deck, main floor bath w/ whirlpool tub and river rock tile. LL family room walks out to cement patio through sliding door, and features wood burning fireplace, slate floors, wet bar, and full bath. Two car attached garage w/ one half finished as game room. Easy access off Hwy 12/67 and within walking distance to Lauderdale Golf Course, minutes to Kettle Moraine State Trails.

Shore station w/canopy and 2 jet lifts included MLS#1672359

GREEN LAKE | $169,900 Remarkable lakefront deal on Green lake. Within steps of a sand beach and deep water boat slip that allows shore stations. Updated and move in ready 2 BR, 1 BA Ranch features kitchen with granite tops, LR with slider to 3 season room lakeside, updated bath and large storage room. Condo park offers beach, playground, private boat launch, sand volleyball courts and large green space for additional parking and trailer storage. No pets allowed.

MLS#1670435

EVERGREEN GOLF COURSE | $419,000 Overlooking Evergreen Golf Course on a quiet street you’ll find this amazing updated 4 BR, 3 Bath home that would make the perfect year round or vacation home. Inside you find a dream kitchen with hardwood floors, granite tops, SS appliances, large breakfast bar, deck access and adjacent to formal dining room, Living room with vaulted ceilings, wood floors, skylights and fireplace, Master BR with vaulted ceilings, incredible bath with walk-in glass shower, soaking tub and marble vanities, 2nd BR with vaulted ceiling and main floor laundry. LL Family room walkout to cement covered patio, FR featuring fireplace, wet bar with two beverage fridges and custom cabinetry. LL also has 4th BR, 3rd bath w/ ample storage. Professionally landscaped and 3 car attached garage with tons of parking.

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FOR THE LOVE OF

NEW CAFÉ FULFILLS LONGTIME DREAM

by Jason Arndt STAFF WRITER

Danielle Baumann aspired to own a bakery for years and decided to pursue her dream in late 2019 when she bought the former Sugar Bean Café in downtown Burlington.

Baumann, of Big Bend, then changed the name to Café B Bakery and Coffee and unveiled a new menu consisting of assorted baked goods.

“I have baked at home and enjoyed doing it,” she said.

“For years I have had a dream of opening a bakery. When I saw this opportunity, I jumped on it and everything in the cases are baked on site from scratch.”

The opportunity, she said, came around fall 2019 when then-owner Tim Bocek put his store’s equipment up for sale on Facebook.

Baumann was an operations manager at a Brookfield bank at the time and bought the items along with the business itself.

Café B had its soft opening Nov. 16 and may host a grand opening early in 2020.

Homemade inventory

Baumann bakes muffins, scones, cookies, turnovers, cheesecakes, cakes and cupcakes on premises.

In addition, Café B has freshly baked bread for sale, which includes cinnamon swirl, white bread and wheat bread as well as English muffin bread.

“Eventually we will branch out to more things in the future,” she said, noting Café B offers Colectivo coffee. “Everything is made here and it is homemade as opposed to items being from somewhere else.”

Customers have given Baumann favorable feedback on her inventory, which, she said, has been consistent with her experience at home.

The married mother of three young children was often told to open her own bakery because friends and family have enjoyed her handiwork.

“I have had a number of people over the years tell me to open a bakery,” she said.

The satisfaction, she said, spread to customers

at Café B since she opened.

“It is really satisfying when someone comes in and they try something and they say it is really good,” she said.

Some home decor items made by Baumann’s friend are also available for sale.

Special orders

Café B also offers special orders, according to Baumann, who said some area organizations kept her busy during Christmas.

“We did do some orders for Christmas, so that was really nice,” she said.

Special orders include any items available for sale in Café B’s bakery cases.

Baumann said an area business bought a smorgasbord of baked goods for an open house.

“I got a whole bunch of orders for cookie trays,” she said. “I actually had a hair salon with an open house and they ordered a dessert bar of brownies, mini cheesecakes, mini cupcakes and cookies.”

Beaming Burlington

Baumann admits she did not know much about Burlington when she bought the business, but has grown to love the downtown area, where she has seen positive growth.

“I like this downtown area. I think it is really cute,” she said. “It definitely has a lot going for it and (I) hope some more businesses come in and fill these empty spots.”

Baumann serves as the lone employee of Café B with assistance from her mother on Saturday mornings.

However, she hopes to hire more staff, once her business becomes more established.

Café B, 256 E. Chestnut St., operates 7 a.m. until 1 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays, 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Saturdays and 9 a.m. until noon Sundays during the winter.

Baumann plans to expand hours in the spring and summer.

For more information, visit Café B’s Facebook page, or call 262-716-0015.

ABOVE: Danielle Baumann, owner of Café B in Burlington, provides an array of baked goods at her new establishment. Baumann bought the property at 256 E. Chestnut Street, which was previously Sugar Bean Café, last fall.

JASON ARNDT Spirit of Geneva Lakes

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Pictureg n i d d e W ct e f r e P OUR Yz

This barn is one of many picturesque settings offered at Staller Estate Winery that serve as backdrops for beautiful wedding party photographs.

Staller Estate Winery is just one of the photo-worthy venues in the Geneva Lakes Area for brides and grooms to be.

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Weddings at the Winery Staller Estate offers nuptials amid the grapes

by Sandra Landen Machaj CORRESPONDENT

If you are looking for a special place to hold a bridal shower, bachelorette party or a small wedding overlooking rows of grape vines in the Wisconsin countryside, the quaint and rustic vistas of Staller Estate Winery may be the location of your dreams.

Staller Estate is a small winery owned by Joe and Wendy Staller along Highway A in Delavan. The winery was started by the Staller family more than 10 years ago and has grown to become a place to taste their award winning wines or to hold a special event.

“Our interest in wines actually began with a beer brewing project that Joe was working on for a class at the University of Wisconsin-

Whitewater,” Wendy Staller said. “He was so successful that he was able to transform the recipe into one large enough to be used at Randy’s Restaurant in Whitewater where he was serving an internship.”

While Joe was working on this project, Wendy became interested in experimenting with wine making and continued to learn more about the craft of winemaking at the University of California-Davis. Wendy entered winemaking competitions and came away a winner.

“We described my winemaking as a hobby out of control,” she said.

Although neither Joe nor Wendy had ever lived on a farm, the dream of living on an old dairy farm where they would produce wines

AT TOP: The perfect setting for a summer afternoon event. Enjoy a shower, bachelorette party or just a gathering of friends for a relaxing afternoon while enjoying the fresh open air at Staller Estate Winery.

COURTESY OF STALLER ESTATE WINERY Spirit of Geneva Lakes

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made from grapes grown on site, suddenly became a reality with their purchase of the farm on Highway A. And thus Staller Estate Winery was born.

The transformation

Transforming their dairy farm into a vineyard, a winery and a place to hold tastings and other events was not easily accomplished.

“We began with an old pole barn on the property and transformed it into a place to create wines and a venue where visitors could come to learn about local wines and enjoy them, ” Wendy said.

It was not an easy task as the original building needed a lot of work. The building had dirt floors and open trusses not suitable for their intended use. But their hard work and creative designs turned it into a warm and welcoming space where they could create their wines and welcome visitors for tastings, tours of the winery, and friendly gatherings.

They also had to plant their vineyards after choosing the grape varieties that would work well with the varieties of wine they planned to produce.

According to Joe Staller, European wines are so good because the grapes are grown in the region where those varieties of grapes flourish.

“Grapes to produce Bordeaux wines are grown in the Bordeaux region while Champagne grapes are grown in the Champagne region,” Joe said.

So it is not surprising that the grapes grown for the Staller wines are ones that thrive in the Wisconsin area with hardy vines that can survive the cold winters.

“Each year we try to increase our vineyards but it takes three to five years for the grapes to be mature enough to make good wine,” Wendy said. “Therefore we often have to purchase some grapes from other local growers.”

For their reserve wines, Wendy will often go to the vineyards from which they will purchase additional grapes and oversee the production there.

“By beginning the process right where they are grown and immediately after they are picked, we are assured of the freshest and most flavorful grapes for the wines produced,” Wendy said.

The perfect venue

Today that old pole barn is a beautiful place that includes a wine making room and a large gift shop where visitors may purchase any of the 17 wines created by the Stallers. They also sell a variety of interesting wine-related gifts such as wine holders and beautifully hand-painted wine glasses.

While you may think of stopping at the winery to taste the

AT TOP: A group gathers in the vineyard to celebrate the upcoming marriage of one of their friends.

The vineyard makes a beautiful background for a bachelorette party.

COURTESY OF STALLER ESTATE WINERY Spirit of Geneva Lakes

SPIRIT of GENEVA LAKES

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Remarkable Lakefront Setting

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wines produced there, it is also the place to consider for any event associated with a wedding – whether it be a bridal shower, a bachelorette party or an actual wedding. Whichever event you choose to celebrate, the location makes it special.

The large sunroom and attached gazebo provide the perfect place to hold a bachelorette party, a family reunion, or even a small wedding. These can also be held outside among the grape vines for a real outdoor vineyard experience.

For the bachelorette party Staller offers a variety of packages for the partygoers to enjoy. Starting with the simplest package each person receives a wine flight, which is composed of four different wine samples accompanied by imported Belgian chocolate truffles.

The European Lunch package includes the wine flight with the Belgian chocolates, a guided tour of the winery usually by Joe or Wendy which includes the vineyards and the actual processing of the wine and a picnic platter of Wisconsin cheeses, sausages, olives and dried fruits accompanied by freshly baked bread. It is a true European-style lunch.

The complete Wine Experience includes everything on the European package plus an additional full glass of wine for each guest. A custom package is also available.

Saturday is the most popular day for these events. Enjoy an afternoon of honoring the bride to be, visiting with friends, and sampling the Staller Estate wines either in the beautiful indoor space of the sunroom or the gazebo with a relaxing view of the vineyards.

Bachelorette parties can be arranged for groups ranging from five to 100 guests with cost varying according to package chosen.

Showered in joy

If you are looking for a unique place to hold a bridal or baby shower, there are several choices available at the winery. Once

again you may choose from the Sunroom or the Barrel Room located on the lower level.

The Barrel Room is a new venue that offers more privacy than the Sunroom. Holding up to 90 guests, the Barrel Room can be enjoyed for bachelorette parties, showers or a small wedding.

Coming to the winery for a shower makes preparation easy.

Wendy will work with clients to make planning the bridal shower simple and hassle free. There are a variety of choices for food and wine to make the shower complete.

Everyone wants their wedding to be unique and holding the wedding at the winery will provide a lovely and different experience with the beautiful open air space, the pristine red and white buildings, the green grass and the vineyards. Chairs will be placed near the vineyards for a gorgeous view of the ceremony.

There are a variety of choices for your reception.

Choose an outdoor wine and appetizer reception or one served in the gazebo. For a more formal meal, the bridal party may choose their own caterer or Wendy can refer you to the Black Sheep Restaurant where Chef Tyler Salisbery will arrange the perfect meal for you and your guests.

Salisbery strives to provide foods with unique local flavors.

When possible he finds locally sourced choices from around the area. Salisbery can prepare a buffet style meal or a more formal plated meal. With a variety of choices there is sure to be a menu that will add to the perfection of your wedding.

“We can easily handle weddings with up to 120 guests,” Wendy said.

Regular events

Throughout the year, there are a number of activities held at the winery that many are interested in attending. Visitors often stop by when driving through the area or make a special trip out when

AT TOP: Visitors enjoy tasting some of the Staller Estates wines made on site from grapes grown in their vineyards. Because they still have a young vineyard, they purchase additional grapes from local vineyards to produce some of their wines. They offer 17 different wines.

COURTESY OF STALLER ESTATE WINERY Spirit of Geneva Lakes

SPIRIT of GENEVA LAKES

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Whether you’re planning an intimate family gathering to celebrate an anniversary or a wedding for 400 guests, you’ll find the Veterans Terrace is the perfect venue.

Just a scenic, 13-minute ride from Lake Geneva is Southeastern Wisconsin’s premier venue for indoor/outdoor weddings, corporate events, fundraisers, conferences and more. Veterans Terrace is located in historic downtown Burlington and is situated on the banks of the White River and Echo Lake dam. As a bonus, we’re blessed with a front row seat to the most stunning lakeside sunsets every evening. We’d love to host your wedding and look forward to sharing our passion for weddings, corporate events and our wonderful small town with you! Check out our 3-D tour at www.veteransterrace.com.

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visiting the Lake Geneva area.

“Many are return visitors who have visited before and add us to their list of things to do when in the area,” Wendy said.

“One of our newer activities are our wine pairing classes,” she said.

Wendy works with a variety of foods and wines to teach visitors how to choose the one that best compliments the flavor of the foods and the wines.

This class grew out of visitors asking which wine to pair with which variety of cheese.

Other events include painting classes and wine glass-painting

classes taught by a local artist. Participants can bring out their creativity as the artist leads them along the way to their own artwork. And, of course, you’ll sip some wine while you create.

For more information on events at Staller Estate Winery contact them at 608-883-2100 or visit them online at www.stallerestate. com Hours from September through May are Wednesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. From June through August the winery is open daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The building is climate controlled.

Staller Estate Winery is at W8896 Highway A, Delavan.

AT TOP: An aerial view of the Staller Estate Winery.

On a beautiful day visitors are able to sip wine and enjoy a platter of Wisconsin cheese, sausages and dried fruits with fresh baked bread while overlooking the vineyard.

AT LEFT: A special spot for a wedding ceremony is outdoors near the vineyards at Staller Estate Winery. Chairs with decorative red sashes are arranged to create an elegant ceremony venue.

SPIRIT of GENEVA LAKES

COURTESY OF STALLER ESTATE WINERY Spirit of Geneva Lakes

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Weddings Waterfront ON THE

LAKE LAWN OFFERS A VARIETY OF VISTAS AND VENUES

by Sandra Landen Machaj CORRESPONDENT

High on the list of things to do once the decision to marry has been made is planning the wedding. With dreams of a beautiful wedding venue, perfect weather, and delicious food, the bridal couple begins the quest for the perfect site.

If a wedding in the Lake Geneva/Delavan area is in your dreams, a visit to Lake Lawn Resort could be the first and perhaps the last place to visit. While Lake Lawn can’t guarantee perfect weather they can guarantee the wedding venue of your dreams.

Located on the shore of Delavan Lake, Lake Lawn has hosted wedding ceremonies and receptions dating back to the early days of the resort, which opened in 1883. Just 10 minutes west of Lake Geneva on Highway 50, Lake Lawn is a favorite location for both AT TOP: Outdoor tent weddings are enjoyed by many couples during the warm weather season. These elegantly appropriated tables with floral arrangements allow the guests to be comfortable under the tent yet still enjoy the view of the lake.

ABOVE: A bride and groom sneak away for a romantic moment beside a firepit at Lake Lawn Resort.

COURTESY OF LAKE LAWN RESORT Spirit of Geneva Lake

SPIRIT of GENEVA LAKES

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local weddings and destination weddings.

A reasonable distance from Milwaukee, Chicago, Rockford and Madison, Lake Lawn’s location makes it possible for family and friends to attend while still allowing the excitement of a destination wedding.

The resort with two miles of shoreline on Delavan Lake, and large open lawns, is the perfect location for spring, summer, and fall weddings outdoors by the lake. In inclement weather the beautiful Great Room with its vaulted cathedral ceiling and rustic beams is an impressive site for a wedding ceremony.

“It is one of the original buildings here at Lake Lawn,” shared Robert Anderson, director of banquets and catering for Lake Lawn.

bridal couple is often confused and not sure where to start. Starting with where the wedding ceremony itself is to be held is one of the early decisions for the couple.

For many years the ceremonies were traditionally held in the family’s church.

“Today more marriage vows are exchanged at the wedding venue,” said Jaci Jasionowski, a catering sales manager

who specializes in working with wedding couples.

Couples are free to bring their own clergy or Lake Lawn can provide a nondenominational celebrant for the event “When you first book your event, the wedding specialist that works with you will be the one with you throughout the entire process and will be the one to answer all

Where to start?

“A good place to start is by attending our seventh annual Bridal Show which will be held at Lake Lawn on March 1, Anderson said. “The event will showcase over 50 vendors who will help prospective brides learn more about everything needed for their perfect day. The event is from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and is free to the public.”

One of the advantages of choosing Lake Lawn is that there is everything on site. But that does not mean that each wedding is a cookie-cutter event like all the others held at the resort.

“We offer a variety of choices so that each couple’s wedding is unique,” said Anderson.

With so many decisions to make, the

ABOVE: The new Lake Lawn Queen is a double-decked pontoon boat that can be used for the rehearsal dinner, a cocktail buffet, or a Sunday brunch for guests who have stayed the night.

AT TOP: Traditional formal dining with a parquet dance floor is among the options at Lake Lawn. Chairs can be covered with accent pieces to match the wedding colors.

The Geneva Club will accommodate up to 130 seated guests.

COURTESY OF LAKE LAWN RESORT Spirit of Geneva Lakes

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your questions, while she works with you to make sure all your dreams come true,” added Nicole Ross another catering sales manager who oversees weddings.

Options abound

Lake Lawn Resort has a variety of choices for both the wedding ceremonies and the reception. In the summer it is not surprising that outdoor weddings and receptions along the lakeshore are the top choice.

There are two lakefront ceremony sites that offer impressive backdrops of Delavan Lake. The largest of the sites is Promise

Point, which has undergone renovations and upgrades. A brick-paved walkway that is lined with blooming flowers provides the aisle for the bride and her attendants to make their way to the lakefront where an elegant trellis is in place at the site for the ceremony.

To add to the ambience, the trellis may be decorated to suit the style of the wedding and may incorporate the colors of the wedding party. There is ample space to arrange up to 300 chairs for guests to comfortably view the ceremony.

Enchanted Shores is the other ceremony site located on the shore that will provide a beautiful spot for exchanging vows. This

ABOVE: If an indoor ceremony is preferred, or in the event of inclement weather, the Great Room, with its architectural highlights, makes a beautiful site for the wedding ceremony.

AT TOP: The Delavan Lake backdrop provides a picturesque spot for photos of the bride and groom.

COURTESY OF LAKE LAWN RESORT Spirit of Geneva Lakes

SPIRIT of GENEVA LAKES

space is a bit smaller, allowing about 200 chairs for visitors to attend the ceremony.

“We usually schedule the ceremonies around 5 or 5:30 p.m. depending on the time of year. We try to take advantage of the setting sun’s glow across the water adding to the beauty of the scene,” said Anderson.

Times may vary depending on the number of wedding ceremonies scheduled on any particular day.

Awesome on the inside

With outdoor weddings there is always the worry that the weather will not cooperate. “It is not a worry as we always have a backup plan. The Great Room or the Wisconsin Room will provide a beautiful indoor venue for the ceremony if needed,” said Anderson.

Adding to the ambience of the lake is the addition this year of the Lake Lawn Queen, a double-decked pontoon boat. It provides a scenic cruise of Delavan Lake.

“Couples may choose to use the Lake Lawn Queen as the site for their rehearsal dinner. The enclosed lower level will hold 76 guests for dinner comfortably,” said Anderson. “In nice weather the upstairs may be used for a cocktail buffet. It is also possible to hold a small wedding on the upper level if weather cooperates with a reception on the lower level.”

Lake Lawn offers a variety of reception options both indoors or out. With many different rooms and outdoor spaces each reception provides a unique look.

The Lakeview Terrace provides a space for a cocktail reception for up to 225 guests.

This can be a standalone party or can be held along with an indoor reception to follow, giving the benefit of both an outdoor and an indoor reception.

The Courtyard Garden and Pergola with

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Plan your special wedding reception at the Rotary River Center in beautiful Riverside Park, Beloit, Wisconsin

The Rotary River Center is a beautiful 3,000 sq. ft. structure that overlooks the scenic Rock River. It is the perfect setting for events of all kinds and is provided at an incredibly low rate! The center is equipped to seat 120, but has a maximum capacity of 266. You are welcome to bring in additional chairs and tables to accommodate your needs. There is a serving kitchen with a coffee maker, large refrigeration unit and sinks, two restrooms, central air conditioning, storage closets and furniture including: 120 chairs, 3 round tables, 9 oval tables and 8 banquet tables. The building is also equipped with a public address system, floor lectern, and a screen for overheads, slide shows or films.

• Excellent facilities indoors and outdoors • Located on the beautiful Rock River and Riverwalk • Turtle Island Playland nearby • Excellent photo opportunities • Reasonable Rates For more information and reservations: City of Beloit Parks & Leisure Services 2351 Beloit 1003Springbrook Pleasant St.,Ct., Beloit

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its custom-built brick courtyard area and a red ember-burning gas fire pit provides just the right ambience for a cocktail party.

With its location near the Geneva Ballroom, it can be combined with that space for a more formal reception. With its intimate atmosphere it may also be used for small wedding ceremonies.

Another special space to hold a wedding is in a Lakefront Tent. The site is near the resort’s main buildings and will hold up to 400 guests. The tent can be up to 46 feet by 120 feet with sides to protect against inclement weather if needed. Formal seating is available and there is plenty of space for a dance floor.

Ballrooms at the ready

In addition to all the outdoor spaces, there are also some beautiful indoor options for the reception. The Geneva Club room

will accommodate 130 guests while the large Geneva Ballroom has plenty of room for as many as 350 guests. The bridal couple has a choice of customizing the space whether rustic, classical, vintage, or whimsical to fit in with the spirit of the wedding.

A variety of food and drink packages from formal dinners or less formal buffets are available and the wedding specialist will work with the couple to be certain that the refreshments meet their needs.

One of the advantages of holding the wedding at a resort is that all your needs can be met in one location. It makes it easy to turn the wedding into a weekend celebration. There are a variety of onsite daytime activities including golf, fishing and water activities to keep the groom and his groomsmen busy while the bride and her attendants visit the Calladora Spa.

ABOVE: Elegant table settings with charger plates are but one of the many choices to ensure the wedding has the look the couple envisions.

AT TOP: This beautiful outdoor site located on the shore of Delavan Lake, is a favorite choice for wedding ceremonies during the nice weather.

No need to head out for make-up, hair styling, manicures or pedicures. All are available on site at Lake Lawn at the Calladora Spa. “We are very proud of the service we can offer our bridal parties,” said Christine Showalter, spa manager. “And we are very proud to have been voted the Best Spa in Walworth County for the third year running.”

The spa can arrange a morning or afternoon of luxury at the spa for hair, nails, and makeup applications for the bridal party by appointment. A special brunch of mimosas and breakfast sandwiches can be arranged by contacting the spa in advance.

Make it a weekend

If you are planning on stretching the wedding celebration into a weekend event, consider a Sunday morning brunch or gift opening party on the pontoon boat.

At the farthest point on the property sits the Lake House, a complete home available for the weekend. It may be rented as a place for the bride and her attendants to stay and prepare for the wedding. Other families rent it as a space where family members may gather at the bonfire to sit and relax while sipping on one’s drink of choice.

This sophisticated lakeside resort is the perfect spot for this most important day.

With its beautiful location and its helpful staff the perfect wedding is assured.

Lake Lawn’s specialists will make sure no question will be left unanswered and will work with the bride and groom to create a memorable experience.

Contact Lake Lawn Resort to begin planning the perfect wedding. It is never too early to book the date as dates fill up quickly.

Lake Lawn Resort is located at 2400 E. Geneva St., (Highway 50) Delavan.

Contact by phone at 262-728-7950 or visit their website www.lakelawnresort.com.

COURTESY OF LAKE LAWN RESORT Spirit of Geneva Lakes

SPIRIT of GENEVA LAKES

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The supper club on the lake Mars Resort serves up signature cocktails & sunsets

by Sandra Landen Machaj CORRESPONDENT

Along the south shore of Lake Como, Mars Resort is a favorite place for both visitors and local residents to get together and enjoy a friendly drink, a beautiful view of the lake and a wonderful lunch or dinner.

The site began as a single cabin with an outhouse that was used as a single-family dwelling built in 1920. In 1923 the property was sold to Fred and Olga Schmidt and converted to a seasonal restaurant, bar, and cabins. They named it The Old Glory Camp.

It underwent another name change before it was purchased by Robert and Christine Marszalek. Using a shortened version of their name they gave it a new name, Mars Resort, around 1949. This name has survived a variety of owners.

Mars Resort was purchased in 2016 by the Silvestri Family and Scott Pohl. Pohl and Arney Silvestri had been lifetime friends.

“During the summer my parents – who were school teachers in the winter – spent the summer renting wave runners and boats along the shore of Lake Como AT LEFT :This sculpture was carved from a dead tree on the property.

The sculptor carved the design using a saw then painted and sealed it.

AT TOP: Mars Resort, located on the shore of Lake Como, has been a favorite place to enjoy a good meal and the view of the lake since 1923. Originally open only during the summer it is now a year-round restaurant.

COURTESY OF MARS RESORT Spirit of Geneva Lakes

SPIRIT of GENEVA LAKES

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from Interlaken (now the Ridge) to Mars Resort,” Pohl said. “Arney and I met along these shores and have retained a 35-year friendship.

“When we purchased the business it was rather rundown. We knew we needed to remodel to make it more attractive to customers but we were determined not to lose any of the charm of an on-thelake supper club,” said Pohl. “One of the first things was to replace the bar with a rectangular bar that took advantage of the panoramic view of the lake. The bar is fully stocked and the bartenders are ready to serve your favorite cocktail.”

Signature cocktails

The Signature Old Fashioned, a longtime favorite of many supper clubs, is a specialty drink at Mars. The drink is created using aromatic bitters, a sugar cube, muddled black cherry and orange then topped with your favorite finish. Choose from Christian Brothers Brandy, High West Rendezvous Rye Whiskey or Maker’s Mark Bourbon.

For the Manhattan lovers, the other popular supper club drink, the Mars Signature Manhattan begins with Cinzano Sweet Vermouth, Bittercube Cherry, Almond Bark Bitters topped with a Black Cherry and finished with your choice of Spirit. Knob FROM TOP: The 45-foot Mars pontoon boat can be rented for special events or charters. A sunset cruise is a great way to enjoy the lake.

The dining room is warm and cozy with a beautiful view of the lake. The owners hope to expand the dining room in the near future but maintain the charm of the supper club.

A plate of Mars Resort specialty ribs. Moist, meaty and tasty, the ribs are a favorite of Mars visitors. They are served two ways with a tangy barbecue sauce or Cisco style without sauce.

SANDRA LANDEN MACHAJ Spirit of Geneva Lakes

SPIRIT of GENEVA LAKES

37

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Creek Bourbon, Canadian Club Whiskey or Glenlivet Single Malt Whiskey.

As one sits and enjoys the beauty of the lake, an appetizer from the large list of choices will make the time perfect. The leading appetizer on the menu is the Famous Mars Ribs first introduced in the early 1980s by then owners Helen and Ray Cisco and Joe Payne. While they also attempted to change the name of the restaurant to Last Resort, the public would not have it and continued to call it Mars Resort. They were very successful in introducing their ribs and today they are still Mars Resort favorites whether served as an appetizer or as the main entrée of one’s dinner.

“The ribs are cooked in the oven then placed on the grill for finishing,” said Pohl.

“They are offered traditional style in our tangy barbecue sauce. Or for a unique taste try them Cisco style, without sauce but covered with a tasty flavorful seasoning.”

It will be a difficult choice but it is not possible to make a mistake, as both are delicious. They are very meaty and tender.

Hand cut steaks

While the ribs are special there are a variety of foods that also qualify as Mars favorites. “Our steaks are hand cut in-house making them fresh and juicy and the proper size, added Pohl.

The menu includes a wide range of choices including soups and salads to a variety of sandwiches for lunch or a late night snack. The dinner entrees include not

only a variety of steaks but also pork chops and a half chicken either fried or charred on the grill. The catch of the day varies so be sure to ask the server about the day’s choice.

Some items on the menu are starred as Mars customer favorites. “These items tend to sell out first, especially during the busy summer season,” Pohl said.

Is there a restaurant in Wisconsin that does not offer a fish fry on Friday? Mars Resort offers that and more. That is, they offer a fish fry on both Wednesday and Friday. There are several choices, which include both a fried cod and a baked cod.

The cod comes in two sizes. They also offer a fried wild-caught walleye. But that isn’t all that is on the fish fry menu.

On alternate weeks, fried lake perch or fried bluegill are available. These are two of Mars customer favorites.

Decks are stacked

Mars Resort has decks on three sides and in summer there is always a wait for a seat outdoors. While most think of eating outdoors as limited to the summertime when one lives in the cold and snowy Midwest, here at Mars Resort one of the decks is open even in cold weather.

Last year some old cabins on the property were removed and replaced with the Fire and Ice deck on the west side of the building.

For the winter large plastic igloos were purchased which will hold four to six people comfortably. They are heated, according to Pohl, about 20 degrees warmer than the

outdoor temperature, so he recommends dressing for the weather to be comfortable.

There is a special Igloo platter menu for service inside the igloos. The platters serve four to five people with choices from the famous barbecue ribs, skewers of chicken, steak, shrimp or scallops, a charcuterie platter or a sashimi tuna platter along with several other choices.

The igloos can be reserved and are available Thursday through Sunday for a 90-minute period. A $100 minimum for food and beverages is required.

When the lake freezes, it is not unusual to see private planes land on the lake. “Pilots will fly in and come for lunch at Mars,” Pohl said. “They frequently speak of the $100 hamburger when they add in the cost of their fuel to get from Chicago or Milwaukee to Lake Como.

On Saturday and Sunday mornings, a special bartender opens the bar for the Breakfast Club. He is Bud Larson who owned Mars Resort from July 1976 to April 1978. Come in early and start your morning with a Bloody Mary and relive old times with Bud.

Sunsets are spectacular

The views of the lake from the dining room are remarkable. With windows on three sides of the building, there is a view of the water to be enjoyed no matter where you are seated and whatever the season. The most beautiful time to be at Mars is at sunset on Lake Como.

AT TOP: A new winter feature is the addition of five igloos on the west deck where customers can enjoy appetizer platters along with their favorite beverage. The igloos are available from Thursday to Sunday by reservation. They will hold up to six people comfortably.

COURTESY OF MARS RESORT Spirit of Geneva Lakes

SPIRIT of GENEVA LAKES

39

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Summertime is a busy time at Mars Resort. For the past two years, a 45-foot pontoon boat that was built in Florida gives rides to diners waiting to eat.

“In the summer it is not uncommon for customers to wait two hours to be seated,” Pohl said. “Taking a ride on Mars’ pontoon boat is a way to let them relax while they wait. We also offer private events on the boat and special charters.”

From May to September the sound of live music is enjoyed by visitors on weekends.

“In the summer there are so many visitors that the parking lot fills up quickly and cars are parked along the street up to Highway 50,” said Pohl. “We plan to rectify that this summer with the addition of a new parking lot which has recently been approved.”

Pohl attributes the success of Mars to the location with its 180-degree view of the lake – and his warm and welcoming staff. They do not have a large turnover of employees, so frequent visitors know the staff well and the staff greets everyone with a warm welcome.

The food is always consistent as the chef has been there for a long time and new employees are paired with a longer-term employee to ensure that things are made in the same way. While some come for the ambience of the lake and the music, others come for the fine food and a signature Old Fashioned.

Others come for all of these things or simply the chance to enjoy a pleasant afternoon or evening with friends or family.

Visit Mars Resort at W4098 S. Shore Drive, Lake Geneva or call them at 262-245-5689. A new website is under construction. Mars Resort is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. until close which in summer may be up to 2 a.m. Children are welcome and there is a special children’s menu.

FROM TOP: Shortly after the current owners purchased Mars Resort in 2016, they rebuilt the bar. The new bar is rectangular and provides a good view of the lake. There is ample seating for visitors to enjoy a signature Old Fashioned or Manhattan while waiting for their table.

According to owner Scott Pohl, Mars Resort has the only piano bar in Lake Geneva. On Friday evenings a pianist fills the resort with beautiful music to the delight of diners. A favorite place to enjoy the view of the lake in nicer weather is on one of the decks at Mars Resort. This one on the east side of the building gives a beautiful view of the lake.

SANDRA LANDEN MACHAJ Spirit of Geneva Lakes

SPIRIT of GENEVA LAKES

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That

Each year Burtness Auto Dealers participates in the Toys for Tots program. Their employees and customers in Whitewater managed to fill two pickup trucks with toys for the needy.

COURTESY OF BURTNESS Spirit of Geneva Lakes

Family Feeling Burtness auto dealerships aim to treat customers like relatives

by Sandra Landen Machaj CORRESPONDENT

Burtness Chevrolet has been a fixture in southern Wisconsin since it was first established by Elmer Burtness in 1921 as a small Chevrolet dealer attached to a Standard Oil gas station in Orfordville.

Today Burtness is a major name in auto dealerships in the area and encompasses a variety of automobile brands, giving local customers a full shopping experience.

With the original Chevrolet dealership still located in Orfordville, there are also two additional dealerships in Whitewater, Burtness Chevrolet, Buick and GMC, and Burtness Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram. Today the dealerships are owned and managed by Matt and Brian Bowditch who maintain the same quality of service that has been offered to their customers throughout the years. Matt manages the Whitewater locations while Brian oversees the Orfordville location.

“My father, John Bowditch, purchased Burtness Chevrolet, the original franchise in Orfordville from Elmer’s son, Glen, in 1976 and began to build the business as we know it today,” said Matt Bowditch. “Because the Burtness name was so well known and appreciated by customers, my father chose to keep the SPIRIT of GENEVA LAKES

43

Burtness name on the business.”

“My dad’s goal was to provide the best service for his customers. To do that he began with the staff who worked with the prospective customer to help them find the right vehicle for their needs. His staff was composed of the best employees he could find,” said Bowditch. “He always considered his employees part of his family. We have continued to follow this policy. We spend almost as much and sometimes more time with our fellow employees than we do with our families.”

Service completes the picture

He also provided high quality repairs by knowledgeable technicians to keep the vehicles running well. He expected to far exceed his customers’ expectations and with his staff and his customerfocused quality, his reliable team allowed him to do just that.

“Our Service Department today is the best. We SPRECHER’S RESTAURANT & PUB • 111 Center St., Lake Geneva. 262-248-7047. www.sprecherspub.com Online ordering now available. Happy hour specials Sun.-Fri. Craft beers and gourmet sodas. America’s favorite family brew pub. L, D, FF $-$$  (

YE OLDE HOTEL HISTORIC BAR & RESTAURANT • Minutes from Lake Geneva in downtown Lyons, WI 262-763-2701. Great Food with Great Friends at a Great Value. Open Wed.Sun at 4pm. Like us on Facebook for daily specials.

D

MARS RESORT • W 4098 S. Shore Dr., Lake Geneva. 262-245-5689. A classic Wisconsin Supper Club on the shores of Lake Como. Newly updated Piano Bar, live music on the Weekends.

Open daily: 11am. Out of this world ribs and spectacular sunsets! L, D, FF, $$ 

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, $-$$  FOLEY’S IRISH WOODS RESTAURANT • 2.5 miles west of Lake Geneva on Hwy. 50 262-245-6966. Dinner Specials Wed. Corn beef & cabbage. Thurs. lamb shanks braised in stout.

D, FF $$  LUISA’S • Just off Hwy. 50, 12 mi. east of Lake Geneva. 262-537-4795. Superb Italian & American cuisine. Dine in, carry out, delivery, catering avail., call ahead & will have it hot ready to go. D, $$  RIGA-TONY’S DELICATEZZI ITALIANO • 5576 C State Rd. 50, Delavan (in the Dairy Queen Plaza). 262-740-2540. www. rigatonysdelavan.com. Call for our hours.

L, D $

JONATHAN’S ON BRICK STREET • 116 E. Walworth St., Delavan, WI. 262-725-7715. www.Jonathansonbricksreet.com. Stop in for a warm inviting atmosphere and great food.

Try one of our crafts, spirits and wines. Fish and seafood are always fresh. Delicious mouth watering steaks. Famous Fish Fry on Fridays. Prime Rib on Saturdays. Live Entertainment on select Fridays and Saturdays. Friday night reservations for parties of 6 or more. Hours: Bar opens at 4pm daily. Dining Mon.-Thurs. 4:30-9pm; Fri. & Sat. 4:30-10pm; Sun. 4-8pm. D, $$$, FF,  ( THE VILLAGE SUPPER CLUB • 1725 S. Shore Dr., Delavan, WI. 262-728-6360. thevillagesupperclubdelavan.com CLOSED - Mon. Dinner: Tues., Wed. & Thurs. 3pm-9pm Lunch: Fri. & Sat. 11:30am-3:30pm Dinner: Fri. & Sat, 4p.-10pm Dinner: Sunday 11:30am-9pm Ask for nightly specials, we have a relish bar as well.

We are on Facebook. L, D, FF $$$ (

DiningDirectory Information is subject to change. Please contact individual restaurant for more information.

Ke y

44

B: Breakfast L: Lunch D: Dinner NC: No credit cards accepted $: Mostly under $10 $$: Mostly under $20 GF: Gluten free $$$: Mostly under $30 FF: Fish Fry (: Reservations requested

 : Alcohol served : Kids menu SR: Senior menu 365527

FEBRUARY 2020

have factory certified ASE Master Certified technicians. Training protocols are always followed when servicing a vehicle,” Bowditch said.

With both of his sons joining the family business after college, it was not surprising that John decided it was time to expand. It was in 2007 that he opened the Whitewater Chevrolet dealership.

“My dad passed away in 2015 and Brian and I decided to carry on their family’s legacy and continue to run and expand the business while keeping the interest of the customer at the forefront,” Matt Bowditch said. “We expanded in 2017 with the purchase of the Zingg Automotive Group that brought Buick, GMC, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram vehicles into our franchise.”

Choices abound

Purchasing a new automobile is often an exciting and yet scary event as so many choices have to be made. Years ago, according to Matt, there weren’t the number of options available there are today. Black wall tires or white walls, a six-cylinder or eight-cylinder engine, radio or no radio, or air conditioning for a really luxurious car were the main choices.

“Tech has changed all of that,” Bowditch said. “Who would have thought Apple play, sensors to change lanes, back up screens, GPS and all those other technology items would make the choices a customer must

make more difficult and costlier. In the next few years there will be even more tech changes to the vehicle available.”

Over the years, the style of automobiles and their sizes have changed. The sedan was the most popular style for families for many years with ample room for the parents and kids to travel. Then they went through station wagons, mini-vans and now, as many brands are discontinuing the sedan, it is the SUV that is the leading vehicle available.

“One of the reasons SUV’s are popular is because sitting up higher gives better visibility,” Bowditch said. “Many people find they can get in and out of the vehicle more easily than from lower vehicles. Also all-wheel drive makes traveling through the winter safer.”

As everyone becomes more “green minded” the introduction of the electric powered cars has begun to take hold.

According to Bowditch, they do not sell a lot of the electric powered automobiles in the area.

“Electric charging stations have not made their way into the area,” he said. “Being a more open area the need for an electric charge to complete your journey could leave one stranded if there is not a place to recharge. A few places have them.”

Friendly faces

Customers of Burtness are greeted in a friendly manner as the sales staff welcomes

them to the showroom. Many of the prospective customers are greeted by name for it is often not their first visit. The sales staff is also often greeted by name.

“Our employees are usually long term and build a relationship with their clients, often selling them several vehicles over the years,” Bowditch said. “One of our salesmen, Tom Wegner, has been selling Chevrolets for 42 years. There are not many people who walk into the dealership that he doesn’t know.”

The pickup truck has always been a popular vehicle in the Wisconsin area.

Originally the pickups had small cabs with a single seat. Today the pickup is one of the most popular vehicles.

“They are a lifestyle vehicle,” Bowditch said. “Many people have them to tow their trailer with their boats. The trucks have changed their cabs and now are offered in two door extended cabs with room for the whole family, so many advance from a sports styled car to the pickup.”

The more fuel-efficient four- and sixcylinder engines have taken over as the engine of choice. Today a half-ton pickup truck will come with the fuel-efficient fourcylinder engine.

According to Bowditch, more will change in the next five years as technology continues to advance. When asked about self-driving cars, Bowditch said that while they will make progress in the larger cities, he feels it will be a while before they are

AT TOP: Brian Bowditch, owner and manager of Burtness Chevrolet Buick and GMC, displays the popular Chevrolet Equinox in the showroom. SUV’s and pickup trucks remain the top sellers at this dealership.

OPPOSITE TOP: Brothers Matt and Brian Bowditch pose in front of the Burtness dealership sign.

Matt manages the Whitewater dealerships while Brian oversees the Chevrolet dealership in Orfordville.

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available to work in rural areas.

“They use the yellow center lines to guide them and if you have driven much on country roads you will notice that many of those roads are not striped.”

Community involvement

The commitment to the community at Burtness goes beyond selling cars. They offer an apprenticeship program with the high school. They have also provided a college scholarship for a student who is interested in a future in the automotive industry. They also provide the first tool set for apprentices. Toys for Tots is a regular beneficiary of the dealership’s efforts. This year, the staff and customers were able to provide enough toys to fill the back of two pickup trucks with another pickup truck filled by the Orfordville dealership. “(It’s) always a little competition between brothers,” Brian Bowditch said.

In the fall the workers and their families

are invited to a family farm in Johnstown where they enjoy a Fall Pumpkin Fest with hayrides and pumpkin picking for the children.

“When products are similar it is the dealer that makes the difference,” Bowditch said. “Establishing long-term relationships are important. The average customer will purchase five to six vehicles over 20 years and seven over a period of 35 years. We want our customers to be so satisfied with both the products and service that they will return to us for these purchases.

“We are a team and a family.”

Burtness Chevrolet, Buick and GMC is at 1389 W. Main Street in Whitewater. Reach them by phone at 262-473-6060 or visit online at www.burtnesschevrolet.com. Visit the website for hours for sales, service and parts and to meet the staff. Burtness Chrysler Dodge Jeep and Ram is at 1421 W. Main in Whitewater. The phone number is 262-4733072.

AT TOP: The popular Ram pickup truck is artfully displayed in front of the Burtness dealership. Pickup trucks are very popular in the Wisconsin region. Over the years the cabs have expanded to accommodate more people.

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FEBRUARY 2020

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