January 2023 Spirit

Whether

dvertiser’s index

@ Properties 26

Abbey Springs 10

Addie Water Systems 26

Allied Senior Services 28

Always Remember That 28

AMB Roofing & Sheet Metal 20

Best Bargains

18

Burtness Chevrolet Buick GMC 22

Carpets Plus Outlet, Inc. 28

Chris’ USA 14

Daddy Maxwell’s 14

East Troy Brewery 14

Elkhorn Gun Barrel 2

Fred’s Parkview 14

First Citizens State Bank 27

Geneva Crossing

Senior Neighborhood 18

Gino's East Pizzeria 14, 24

Komfort Heating & Cooling 24

Larry's Towing & Recovery 18

Local Folks Restaurant & Pub 14

Luisa's Restaurant 8, 14

Lyle's TV & Appliances, Inc. 31

Mars Resort 14, 18

Parkside Village

Senior Apartments 20

PATS Services Inc. 22

Pine Street Cafe 14

Rosewood 8

Sandy's Upscale Consignment 28

Staller Estate Winery 8

Sugar Creek Mutual Insurance 12

The Thielmann Group 16

Verlo Mattress 32

Veteran's Truck Line, Inc. 20

IT’S COMIN’ UP JANUARY EVENTS

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.

1 Artsy Holiday Market: The annual Artsy Holiday Market is open now and runs through Jan. 8 at the Geneva Lakes Arts Foundation Gallery, 223 Broad St., Lake Geneva. Recurs each week on Sunday, Monday and Friday Saturday. Find the perfect gift for those special people on your list from nearly 100 unique works of art by local and regional artists. The very popular popular Artsy Holiday Market features a treasure-trove of holidayinspired, hand made artwork and gift ideas.

9 Monday Movies with Black Point Estate: Enjoy a critically acclaimed film at the public library every second Monday from November to April. Each film session will include an introduction by Dave Desimone of the Wisconsin Historical Society. Desimone will lead a group discussion following each film. Here is the schedule: M, Jan. 9; Howard’s End, Feb. 13; The Great Dictator; March 13; The Battle of Algiers, April 10. Movies all begin at 2 p.m. at the Lake Geneva Public Library, 918 W. Main Street.

10 Acrylic Painting Class presented by Badger Community Education. You will receive all the supplies you need. No experience is necessary. Step-by-step instructions will be given by the instructor. 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Badger High School commons. $22 registration fee plus $5 materials fee.

17

Telescope Observing with

GLAS: Join Geneva Lake Astrophysics and STEAM and the Lake Geneva Public Library for an evening of telescope observing. View objects like Jupiter, Mars,

and the Great Orion Nebula and learn about space. Observing will be held outdoors; dress for the weather. After looking at some space objects, warm up by the fireplace with hot cocoa. Lake Geneva Public Library, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

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, jaw-dropping illusions and gutwrenching 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-theart, 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.

The wonderful world of

R sewood

by Sandra Landen Machaj CORRESPONDENT

For Mark and Gretch Hladish, musicians and owner of Rosewood in Delavan, music has always been an important part of their lives. So opening Rosewood in 2015 where they had total control over the music program was a dream come true.

Rosewood at 2484 County Road O, Delavan, is a unique place, a place to enjoy a fine meal, excellent musical programs, and a place to meander the beautiful grounds. Rosewood is by managed by Mark and Gretch Hladish on the grounds of the old Millie’s Restaurant.

The former Millie’s Restaurant and Shopping Village which had been in the area for about 48 years was a favorite spot for visitors to come for breakfast,

to enjoy the grounds, and shop at the number of small shops located on the property. For many it was a destination for a day’s activity.

Owned by Bill and Marie Slater, the restaurant was also a favorite place for groups to come as day trips for lunch and a music program. In 2012, Millie’s closed temporarily and then never reopened as the deal with the expected new owner fell through.

Revived by music

For Mark and Gretch Hladish, the closing of Millie’s was a disappointment, as they had appeared there from 2006 to its closing in 2012 presenting great musical programs.

“Music has been our lives,” shared Gretch Hladish. “Mark began playing

the piano at the age of 4 and took on the violin at 6. He was the youngest to play with the Milwaukee Symphony, at the age of 7. He has continued to perform, write, and arrange music throughout the years and today is able to play 21 different instruments.”

Gretch Hladish also has spent her life performing music. She was the youngest of six children and knew early in life that music was for her. She enjoyed performing at a young age and would sing and play the guitar. By 14 years of age, she was writing her own music and was involved in the church youth choir. She has performed professionally at many local area venues and events.

But as has often been said, the closing of one door may mean the opening of another and perhaps an even better

The grounds around Rosewood are beautiful no matter what time of year, whether in the spring when trees are sprouting to life, the summer when everything is in bloom, the fall when the leaves turn to autumn colors and in winter when soft covering of snow turn the grounds into a winter wonderland.

SPIRIT of GENEVA LAKES

SANDRA LANDEN MACHAJ Spirit of Geneva Lakes

opportunity. For Mark and Gretch this seems to have been true.

“When the Millie’s property was going up for auction, we were approached and told to get our business plan together to reopen an event space here. And so we did,’ said Gretch Hladish. There was a lot of work to be done to turn the building into a high-end event space but the task was taken on.

“The building was remodeled using many of the authentic pieces that were on the property. Gorgeous vaulted wooden ceilings with curved beams were placed in the dining room. Beautiful chandeliers were hung throughout the space,” Gretch Hladish said. “This was a community grass roots project using local craftsman. When it was time to purchase new furniture, everything was shopped local.”

The purpose was to create a music venue, where visitors would come to enjoy fine quality music in a beautiful surrounding. They successfully planned a variety of events to attract different groups of visitors.

Plans for the future

While the building was being revamped, Mark and Gretch were hard at work creating new and exciting music shows to appeal to a variety of audiences and offer audiences the best in musical theater in the area. In addition they continued to record CD’s with 20 currently available for purchase at the shows or on line.

They offer a luncheon show, which is

very popular with groups looking for a day activity. Groups arrive from a variety of locations; recently one group came from South Dakota. Usually the groups arrive by bus and will be taken into the bar room where cocktails or soft drinks may be purchased. Then at 12:30 p.m. they will go into the dining room and enjoy an elegant lunch prepared by the Executive Chef John Schnupp.

Farm-to-table

The food served at Rosewood is all farm-to-table using the freshest local ingredients available under the direction of Schnupp, a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America. The meal may be plated and served at the table or for some events it is a buffet style served at stations. Menus may vary depending on the

availability of fresh ingredients.

“For the buffet station, there is a pasta station where chef creates a fresh pasta dish to order, a carving station for a meat choice, and two vegetable choices and two starch choices for the meal,” shared Gretch Hladish.

After the lunch, everyone moves to the listening room where they enjoy a musical presentation created by Mark and Gretch or an invited musician. The room is large and can hold 90 to 100 guests. The Listening Room is a state of the art music venue equipped with the latest in lighting and sound technology to offer the best performance sound.

“We have the latest in sound and light technology in the room,” added Gretch Hladisch. “Since we are wireless, we can move around the room making the show

more personal to the guests.

While the Hladishs do provide some of the musical performances, other musical talents can also be enjoyed here as solo and group acts from Milwaukee, Madison, and Chicago often can be found performing here. The schedule of performers changes frequently so it is always good to check the website www.rosewoodwi.com/tickets to see the current shows available.

All types of events

A variety of programs are available including ones for corporate events, group dinners, birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, Cabaret shows, class reunions, and fundraisers, and Celebrations of Life events. Proms for local high schools such as Big Foot High School and Williams Bay High School have been held here.

“Whatever event you would like to hold, we will work with you to be sure it is perfect,” said Gretch Hladish. “Game Show events are very popular because of the state-of-the-art technology that we use.”

Likewise, their Christmas shows have become a popular seasonal event; about 20 shows were presented this past holiday season.

“When we started, we thought we might do a few weddings. To our surprise the wedding business grew quickly, perhaps due to the beauty of the area and the fact that we have the largest dance floor in the county at 1,000 square feet,” said Gretch Hladish. “Weddings can be held outdoors in the gazebo or indoors.”

“We also make it easy to plan a wedding here as everything is available, from music and food to flowers and the small details such as chair covers, colored uplighting, and music on site. Event Planner, Dori Beck, who has had extensive experience planning weddings and other events will lead the way through the many challenges of creating a successful event whether it is a wedding, corporate event, or family event such as an anniversary, or family reunion.”

Take time to meander

While at Rosewood be sure to visit their gift shop with an eclectic collection of unique Wisconsin items, accessories, and treats. On some occasions, one can even find freshly baked bread contributed to the shop by Chef Schnupp.

Take the time to meander the beautiful grounds enjoying the gazebo, trees, and in summer, flowers on the landscaped grounds. Gretch Hladish recommends that the quilters in your group stop in the Stitchery and view the extensive quilting supplies available. The Stitchery is the oldest quilt shop in the State of Wisconsin, according to Hladish and a favorite of quilters.

Located on the same property, actually

in the same building as Rosewood is the Fire 2 Fork restaurant, although they are two separate businesses. Fire 2 Fork, according to Gretch Hladisch, is open Thursday to Saturday from 5 pm to 9 pm. They are very popular and often difficult to obtain a reservation, so consider calling as soon as possible.

Their food is also all locally sourced and includes a variety of choices based on what is available. They offer pizza cooked in a wood fired oven along with a variety of large and small plates, salads, and burgers freshly prepared.

On Fridays they offer a fish fry and bake. Chef Schnupp prepares food. The restaurant is owned by Chef Schnupp and his two sons, also chefs here and at Rosewood and the Hladishs.

Summer fun

“In the summer, from Memorial Day to the end of September visit us at Rosewood on Monday nights and enjoy Sunset on the Patio, a relaxing outdoor musical show. This has been a very successful show with it being sold out most Mondays especially if the weather is nice. In addition to music there is simple grilled fare that can be

SPIRIT of GENEVA LAKES

above: The main banquet room is an elegant space with vaulted ceilings finished with wood and beautiful beams. The spacious facility provides adequate room for over 100 guests if needed. at left: An elegant plated dinner served on a beautifully set table in the dining room.

purchased and the mixologist is available for those who would like to enjoy a drink while they enjoy the music,” said Mark Hladish.

“Admission is only $10. If you haven’t yet attended one of our Sunsets on the Patio shows, be sure to visit us this summer. You will enjoy the evening outdoors listening to beautiful music.”

Mark Hladish shared that he and Gretch share the joy of creating different types of social and musical events. They are enjoying providing a quiet exclusive place for these events that is being so well received.

“We are living out a creative life, one song at a time and loving every moment of it,” added Mark Hladish. “We are an event-driven business and are open when we have a creative event on the schedule. However, there usually is someone around for those who prefer to purchase tickets to our programs in person rather than online.”

So, when you are ready to create your next event, or just wish to attend a musical show, visit Rosewood and see all they have to offer. Rosewood is located at 2484 County Road O South, Delavan, call 262-725-7286 for more information.

SUBMITTED PHOTOS Spirit of Geneva Lakes

Lake Lawn Resort is ‘Stella’ again

RESORT EARNS PAIR OF NATIONWIDE AWARDS

by Jennifer Eisenbart STAFF WRITER

Once again, Lake Lawn Resort continues to pull in nationwide honors.

Northstar Meetings Group announced its annual Stella Awards Nov. 22, with Lake Lawn receiving a silver medal for Best Onsite Support and a bronze medal for Best Hotel/Resort Event Space in the Midwest Region.

The Stella Awards are the meeting industry’s highest honor, recognizing hotels, convention centers, conference centers, airlines, cruise lines, DMOs/CVBs and DMCs that consistently deliver quality service and innovation to meeting and event professionals.

“We are excited to be among the winners of this year’s prestigious Stella Awards,” said Dave Sekeres, general manager at Lake Lawn Resort. “This wouldn’t be possible without our talented and dedicated team members striving to provide excellent service and experiences for our guests.”

Winners of the 2022 Stella Awards were recognized by achieving overall excellence, superb food and beverage, professionalism of staff, technological innovations, and other critical aspects of the meetings and event experience. This

year, more than 6,000 votes were cast from around the world for the 561 destinations, hotels and service providers nominated in 16 categories in six regions in the United States and worldwide.

Best On-Site Support

Eileen Cole, executive director of sales and marketing at the resort, said the silver medal in this category honored the “dedicated and hard-working” staff at the resort.

“(They) continue to go above and beyond to provide exceptional service even during the post-COVID-19 pandemic related staff shortages across the hospitality industry,” she said.

In spite of labor shortages, the resort still hosted 100 weddings – including seven weddings and five additional functions all in one particular weekend. The resort also served 660 guests per day at its Lookout Bar and Eatery and 300 per day at the Isle of Capri Café.

She added that head chef John Billings continues to lead a culinary staff that is consistently praised by both new and returning guests. The resort is regularly voted as Best of Walworth County and was recently named one of the best private club and resort culinary experiences by Club +

Resort Business.

The resort has several long-term employees, including Sekeres, who had been with Lake Lawn for 25 years. Sekeres is a recipient of the 2022 Innkeeper of the Year award from the Wisconsin Hotel and Lodging Association.

Event Space

Cole said that Lake Lawn is known for its meeting and wedding spaces, all helped by the backdrop of Delavan Lake

“It’s no wonder why meeting and event planners and soon-to-be married couple migrate to Lake Lawn each year,” she said.

A recently completed multimillion-dollar renovation inspired by a “Lakefront Living” theme included extensive upgrades to the entire 32,000 square-foot meeting and event space. From the Lake Lawn Room with vaulted ceilings and lake views, to the Geneva Ballroom and the Geneva Club room, Cole said that Lake Lawn Resort is arguably the region’s best lakeside event site.

The resort also boasts the Lake Lawn Queen, a two-level, 76-foot cruise boat. The resort is set on 250 acres of lakeside property, and has watersports, golf, spa treatments and dining options all on site.

The Lake Lawn Queen cruise ship is one of the amenities that helped the Delavan resort earn a Stella Award for excellence.

SPIRIT of GENEVA LAKES

Winterfest returns Feb. 1-5

Lake Geneva is poised to host its 28th annual Winterfest Feb. 1-5 featuring the U.S. National Snow Sculpting Championship.

As the only national snow sculpting championship in the United States, Winterfest will welcome some of the most talented and award-winning sculpting teams from across the country to again highlight the annual festival.

Visitors are invited to witness these teams at work during an epic 72-hour round-the-clock competition where their artistry is put to the test in creating remarkable, larger-than-life snow sculptures, according to Visit Lake Geneva.

In addition to the snow sculpting, visitors can enjoy other wintery fun during Winterfest, including a downtown ice sculpture tour, s’mores and bonfires on the beach.

Go to visitlakegeneva.com and search for Winterfest for additional information.

The annual event is hosted by Visit Lake Geneva and the City of Lake Geneva.

Sculptors competing in a previous U.S. National Snow Sculpting Championship as part of Lake Geneva’s Winterfest work late into the night to complete their frozen masterpieces. PENNY GRUETZMACHER Spirit of Geneva Lakes

What’s old is new again

Area antique dealer sees increased interest in gifting memories

by Tracy Ouellette STAFF WRITER

hen shopping for Christmas gifts, many people want to give a gift that creates memories. Area antique dealer Cheri Riehle said she’s been seeing a lot of interest in giving antiques with personal meaning.

Riehle opened an antique store in East Troy in March and has been enjoying getting to know her customers and helping them find the perfect present.

“What I’ve found, listening to people about why they are buying things, especially in this economy, is that they want

to buy something used and personalized,” she said. “What I like about this is that when you give someone a gift card or clothes, there’s no story behind it. With antiques, there’s always a story. It promotes conservations in the family about the history and reason behind the gift. It gets people sharing, which is something I think is lacking so much in today’s society.”

Riehle has been an antique dealer for 30 years and an appraiser for 10. She is a member of the Certified Appraisers Guild of America. She is a buyer and seller of antiques, with the shop in East Troy and three area mall stands.

“It works for me since we’re only open

here in East Troy on Thursday, Friday and Saturday,” Riehle said.

She and her husband, Steve, run the business together.

“He’s a retired engineer and he works down the hall helping with repairs and making my visions come true,” Riehle said.

Repurposing

Riehle said she and her husband enjoy repurposing things and giving old items new life.

“This is an important movement,” she said, adding that reusing items is better for the economy and the environment.

With the shop in East Troy, Riehle said,

Treasures A-Z in East Troy offers antiques for Christmas such as this nativity scene. The shop, which opened in March, has antiques, jewelry and more for holiday shopping needs.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Spirit of Geneva Lakes

Sugar Creek Mutual Insurance Company Elkhorn 262-723-3244

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Member of the National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies

she has the room now to display her wares so customers can get a good look at what’s available.

“The feedback I’m getting from my customers is that they love how I decorate and display in the shop,” she said. “I have the luxury of displaying things so people can get a feel for how it will look in their home.”

Riehle said preserving history through antiques is a passion and something she believes connects people with their past.

“We need to know where things come from,” she said. “We need to teach the kids where things come from. If they don’t know about the older things we’re going to lose history.”

Riehle said she chose East Troy for her shop because she loves the community.

“East Troy has this wonderful smalltown atmosphere,” she said. “A lot of

people from the area come in and we have such a unique town here that it attracts visitors and they come in to see what we have and what we’re about. They come back and tell their friends and it just expands from there.”

Appraisals

Buying antiques is a big part of Riehle’s business along with her appraisal business.

I sometimes call myself the antique therapist,” she said. “One of the hardest things for some people is letting go of things. I think this is something I might do better than most, because I have a level of compassion for that. I was an occupational therapist. Downsizing can be hard and I understand that. I also can help people understand what will see and what won’t because I have both sides of the business.”

Treasures A-Z is at 3066 Main St., Suite 102, in East Troy. The shop is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

For more information, call 262893-8222, visit treasuresaz.com and find the store on Facebook.

above: Steve and Cheri Riehle own and operate Treasures A-Z in East Troy. at left: Antique sleds on display at Treasures A-Z in East Troy make decorating for the holidays easy.

SPIRIT of GENEVA LAKES

SUBMITTED PHOTOS Spirit of Geneva Lakes

Ice Castles returns for another run 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

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, $$

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, $-$$

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 our 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 262-245-5689 today and visit www.mars-resort. com to view our menu. L, D, FF, $$

LOCAL FOLKS RESTAURANT & PUB • 39601 60th St. (Slades Corners), Burlington. 262539-3200. Open 6am every morning! B, 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. Monday - Saturday 6am - 8pm. B, L, D, FF, 

EAST TROY BREWERY • 2905 Main St. on the Historic Square, East Troy. 262-642-2670. 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 

DADDY MAXWELL’S • 150 Elkhorn Rd., Williams Bay. 262-245-5757. Comfort foods for breakfast and lunch. Friday fish fry is out of this world! Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday 7:00am - 2:00pm, Friday 7:00am - 7:30pm, Sunday 7:00am - 1:00pm. Closed Tuesdays. www.daddymaxwells.com. B, L, D, FF, SR, GF, $, 

FRED’S PARKVIEW • 596 N. Pine St. Burlington, WI. 262-763-8370. “World’s Best Burgers.” Bone-in Wing Night On Tuesdays. www. freds-burgers.com. L, 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

– and welcome to resolution season

by Sandra Landen Machaj CORRESPONDENT

As the clock turns to midnight on New Year’s Eve, many share wishes and dreams for the upcoming year with friends and family, perhaps while sipping on a glass of bubbly champagne or other favorite drink.

The turning of the clock to the new year brings together thoughts of the past year and plans and dreams for making the coming year much better than this past year has been.

New Year’s Eve celebrations occur at the end of the holiday period, which stretches from Thanksgiving through Christmas and finally to New Year’s Eve. During this time, many have overeaten, under exercised

and spent way too much money on social outings and Christmas presents for loved ones.

So, how do people insure that 2023 will be a better, higher and happier quality of life time? The weather can’t be controlled and neither can COVID-19 and other illnesses. But people can control the way they handle their lives.

By choosing New Year’s resolutions that will help to improve a way of life, and following through with them, people can be certain that our lives are the best they can be.

Now is the time to look through life and select a New Year’s resolution that can be embraced and put into place. Remember

that many make New Year’s resolution only to discard them a few weeks later, so pick one or two resolutions that can be embraced and continue.

If work is put in on these resolutions, many will see an improvement in life as the year progresses. Two of the resolutions that will make a big difference include improving your health and improving your financial status.

Managing finances

It is not surprising that one of the most common New Year’s resolutions is to better manage finances. According to Scott Herrmann, a financial adviser with Thrivent Financial, January is a popular time for

The entire team from Thrivent Financial gathers outside the Burlington office. This team works with investors to guide them on better money management.

Geneva Lakes

Different areas are set up to work on specific skills. This area is for strength training. Anytime Fitness is open to members 24 hours a day.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Spirit of Geneva Lakes

people to consult an advisor about their finances.

Dealing with the aftermath of holiday shopping bills and upcoming income taxes, many focus on money and the ability to pay off credit card debt that has occurred. Where and when to start pulling together the financial profile is important, Herrmann explained.

“The time to start is right now,” he explained. “It is never good to put off looking at your financial position but it is time to develop ways to make that position healthier. Start with a holistic picture of your finances and then look at the next steps needed. That is not always easy or clear.”

He suggests clients begin by looking at their income and being aware of exactly how much income is coming in and how much of that is discretionary income, that is what is left to be spent after the mortgage, utility bills, auto expenses, and other fixed expenses are met.

Take a look at overall finances both coming in and going out. Often there are items that are on credit card bills that have been signed up for and are recurring charges. These may be items that are no longer used, such as participation in a gym, massage treatments, subscriptions, or wine or food clubs that are no longer needed or used. Decide if these are really important and, if not, cancel them.

Are there items that are purchased regularly that don’t need to be? Are these items such as expensive coffee once or twice a day really that important? For some people, these coffees can add up to $80 a week according to Herrmann. Over time that is a lot of money that can be used in a more effective way.

“Even $50 a week saved from the age 20 to 65 would result in over a half million dollars in retirement,” added Herrmann. “Would you prefer coffee over the impact of what changes in your financial worth will look like over time?”

After looking at that, pull together a list of assets like savings accounts, stocks and bonds if you have them, property, etc. – and make an appointment with an advisor.

“We see clients in a variety of ways today. Of course, the in-person method at any of our offices in Burlington, Delavan,

Kenosha, Beloit, and Madison are the traditional way of meeting with clients. However, we will also meet over zoom calls and regular phone calls if desired,” added Herrmann.

When meeting, share goals and needs with the advisor. Are you looking to set up college funds for your children or grandchildren? Are you looking to set up a realistic investment strategy? Are you planning for retirement income? Whatever your goals the advisor will work with you and share ways to reach them.

“The best time to put your finances together is today so let’s start on that journey now. Many of us tend to procrastinate but the best time to look at and take control of your finances is today,” Herrmann said. “Even if you are not as successful as you plan to be, even a little success puts you in a better place. Don’t

SPIRIT of GENEVA LAKES

feel bad if you fail to be 100% successful. Be honest and kind about what you can accomplish at this stage of your life.”

If in need of an investment advisor, contact Scott Herrmann at Shoreline Group, 189 E. Chestnut, Burlington, at 262-7570199. He or one of their other advisors will set up a time to meet.

Creating Fitness

One of the most popular New Year’s resolutions is to take off extra weight and work out. Especially at the end of the holiday season, some have gotten out of a workout routine or been prevented from attending a gym.

A New Year’s resolution can be discouraging if success isn’t happening immediately – and lead to a failed resolution and more weight being added.

“While it is true that some people do

top: Exercising with others helps keep one motivated to continue their program. bottom: Using a variety of equipment will work on various muscle groups for overall strength.

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Geneva

Lakes

not follow through with their New Year’s resolutions, their failures do not have to be yours,” said Kris Ganske, owner of Anytime Fitness in Mukwonago. “Finding the right gym with the right program to help you meet your goal is the first step in being successful.”

Before looking into a place to exercise, think about what you really wish to accomplish.

Are you looking to lose weight, gain strength, or to develop a healthier way of eating and living? The first step should be to meet with a health care provider to be certain that it is safe for you to start on an exercise program, that you do not have any underlying health issues that need to be addressed first.

Then a visit with a nutritionist and work out the changes that need to be made in eating habits. Do you just want to lose weight or are you interested in an overall healthier way of life?

Finding a gym that works with a customer, taking into account the amount of time and number of days a week able to be worked into a program, will allow people to be more successful than a program that is one size fits all and.

“When you look into finding the gym or health club that will work for you; look for one that will take the time to learn about you. Notice how vested they are in working on a plan that will work for you. Look for a place that is interested in working with you not just giving you a cookie cutter plan,” said Ganske.

Visit the gym or health club and get comfortable there, and let staff be a guide through the various types of equipment. Be sure they have a variety of cardio, strength training and cross training equipment and that it is in good condition.

“Focus on the first month,” said Ganske. If you get through the first month it becomes addicting – a good addiction, as it becomes part of your life and makes improvements in your life.”

For some people their work schedules may change making it difficult to attend the gym during their open hours, so look for a health club or gym that is open on

the days and hours that you are able to attend.

Places like Anytime Fitness are open with staffed hours as well as allowing members access 24 hours a day. Members are given a key fob that unlocks the door

to allow them convenient access, with cameras recording 24-7 to ensure safety.

Anytime Fitness is located at 937 Greenridge Dr. , Mukwonago. Call them at 262-378-7969 or visit them in person or on line at www.anytimefitness.com.

the slopes

Area ski hills offer a variety of runs for all abilities

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

For the men, women and children who hit the slopes each winter, the thrill of racing down snow-covered hills is a feeling unlike any other.

The Southern Lakes Area features several ski hills including The Mountain Top at Grand Geneva Resort and Spa, Wilmot Mountain Ski Resort and Alpine Valley Resort.

The area also features several opportunities for cross county ski enthusiasts.

Here’s a closer look at the area’s skiing options:

The Mountain Top at Grand Geneva 7036 Grand Geneva Way • Lake Geneva

The Mountain Top has 21 ski runs covering more than 30 acres of downhill ski runs with a 211-foot vertical.

in the

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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:

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

• Three chairlifts and two carpet lifts.

• Six-acre Terrain Park with dedicated lift.

• 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.

There are a variety of stay and ski packages offered at Grand Geneva.

For hours and lift ticket prices, visit www.grandgeneva.com.

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.

“While any natural snow is certainly always a plus, making our own snow at Wilmot Mountain really is a science,” he said. “Temperatures must be consistently 28 degrees or colder with low humidity’s in order for us to make quality snow.”

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

Wilmot Mountain reports daily conditions on its website.

“We typically focus our efforts on ski and snowboard terrain once temperatures allow us to make snow early season,” said Disch, whose staff then moves its efforts to Wilmot Mountain’s tubing hill.

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

“It takes a lot of snow to open tubing given that we have up to 22 carved lanes of snow tubing. Depth of snow is really important as we carve those lanes,” Disch said. “There’s also thorough testing of lanes to ensure guest safety. And, obviously, we test the lanes daily.”

While Wilmot Mountain guests have 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.”

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.

Big Foot State Park

1550 S. Lake Shore Drive • Lake Geneva

The park entrance is at 1550 S. Lake Shore Drive, one mile south of the city

Children of all ages can enjoy learning to ski at Wilmot Mountain. The special children’s area gives them a safe place to learn to ski. at left: Tubing is a fun activity for all young or old. The tubing hill at Wilmot Mountain has divided lanes to protect the tubers from crossing into each other’s space, making it very safe.

of Lake Geneva. Vehicle admission sticker is required. Cross country skiing and snowshoeing allowed. Bring own equipment.

Geneva National

1221 Geneva National Ave. South Lake Geneva • (262) 245-7000

Enjoy cross country skiing over the Gary Player Course. Complimentary ski rental available to Geneva National Resort guests. Trail is open depending on weather and snow accumulation.

White River County Park

6503 Sheridan Springs Road

Lake Geneva • (262) 741-3114

With nearly 200 acres and two miles of frontage along the White River, this park features walking trails, cross country skiing and more.

SPIRIT of GENEVA LAKES

SUBMITTED PHOTOS Spirit of Geneva Lakes

Finding her antique niche

New storefront fulfills owner’s plans

by Jason Arndt STAFF WRITER

For five years, Luberry’s owner Lauryn Mattilla sold her antiques, vintage items and more at area markets in Kenosha, Waterford, Lake Geneva and Antioch, Illinois.

Mattilla, however, always had interest in opening a storefront in Burlington, where she lives with her husband and three children.

When local card and collector store Campaign Plus relocated from Pine Street to 208 Chestnut Street, Mattilla found an opening and seized the opportunity.

“I just decided to jump at the chance and do my own things because this space opened up,” Mattilla said in her new storefront at 532 N. Pine Street. “It was

great timing, so I just felt it was right to bring my brand to Burlington.”

Luberry’s is a curated home decor store consisting of vintage items, antiques, primitives, and handmade decor.

Additionally, she plans to offer classes on seasonal decor and furniture as well as interior design services as she specializes in painting/restoring furniture and home staging, the Burlington Area Chamber and Commerce wrote on its Facebook page.

Early inspiration

Growing up in Oconomowoc area, Mattilla recalled spending time with her grandmother, who demonstrated a passion for home decor.

Her grandmother’s passion soon became a multi-generation family activity, spreading to her mother, before passing it on to Mattilla.

“I have such a passion, I guess for decorating and seasonal items. My mom

as well and we both got it from her mom,” Mattilla said. “I remember growing up, she would let me make stuff for her sales. It is kind of in the family.”

In 2017, Mattilla decided to follow her own passion, opening up booth spaces in Kenosha, Waterford, Antioch, and other area artisan markets.

She opted to call her new business, Luberry’s since Luberry was her childhood nickname.

While she has been to many markets, residents in Waterford likely know Luberry’s products the best, she said.

“Those were great. Those were really fun because it was a great way to market your business,” she said.

Mattilla, who eventually moved to Racine with her family, relocated to Burlington about four years ago.

For the next four years, she found the downtown area charming, and often had an interest in becoming a bigger part of

Lauryn Mattilla, owner of Luberry’s, recently opened a new storefront in downtown Burlington at 532 N. Pine Street. She specializes in home decor, vintage and antique items, and even offers home staging services.

Spirit of Geneva Lakes

the community.

“We haven’t been here super long, but we love it. Opening up a store down here is my dream,” she said. “I know there is so much traffic down here and really busy, it is just so cute.”

Refine and revive

Mattilla typically receives her inventory through barn sales, flea markets and a network of other antique collectors in both northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin.

While she offers multiple home decor items, and other products, antiques have always piqued her interest.

“I really like the antique pieces, I like the charm that they have, so I usually gravitate towards that,” she said.

Additionally, she spends time working on handcrafted products, including finding new purposes for items.

For example, she used an old headboard, and transformed the piece as part of a chair.

During her explorations, Mattilla often finds quality beneath older items, like pieces of wooden furniture.

“The wood is really, really worth it and it just brings that back to life,” she said.

Luberry’s, 532 N. Pine St., is accessible online at luberrysproductions.com and on Facebook.

For more information, visit the website or email luberrys523@gmail.com.

Luberry’s also has a store found at http:// www.etsy.com/shop/Luberrysproductions.

Looking for places to go during the holidays? Look no further

By Jennifer Eisenbart STAFF WRITER

Just finding a way to keep children busy throughout the holiday season can be a challenge for parents – especially those in rural areas where there aren’t always numerous options.

Here are some of the businesses offering activities for children and caregivers over the holidays:

TraXside Skating

As many children of the 1980s will tell you, there’s nothing like spending an afternoon at a roller rink, skating in circles to popular music.

“I just think that it is kind of good old social fun,” said Tammy Boldt, events manager at TraXside roller rink. “It’s where you to come to hang out with people and meet with friends.”

TraXside bears a special trait in that children do not get the WiFi password for the business’s internet, which makes them focus on family and friends the entire time they are there.

“It’s family fun,” Boldt said. “It’s something the whole family can do together. You’re having fun, and you don’t realize you’re burning calories while you do it.”

Located at 637 South Kane Street in Burlington, TraXside is the former Skate Barn. While hours are limited to during most months, TraXside is offering special winter break hours from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 22 and 23 and Dec. 26 through Dec. 30. All ages are welcome.

There will be a special winter break kickoff party from 3 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 21. Admission for all sessions is $7

with a $3 skate rental fee.

TraXside also has its regular open skate hours during the holiday break: from 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesdays, from 5 to 9 p.m. Fridays and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays. Fees for admission and skate rentals remain the same.

The rink is also available for private rental by calling 262-763-4410.

Climb at the Loop

While some adults remember rollerskating from their childhood, others remember climbing – everything from a jungle gym to a tree to the occasional rock wall.

The climbing wall at The Loop Commons, 488 Milwaukee Ave., Burlington, offers an indoor bouldering gym for people of all ages and athletic abilities.

As the group’s website says, climbing can be for anyone. There are specific routes set on the wall – called “problems” in the bouldering world – that need to be solved in order to climb the wall.

On a first visit to the facility, visitors get a tour and are taught what they need to know to get up the wall and back down again. A day pass for the wall is $15 with a $3 shoe rental.

WHITEWATER WEST 1058 W.

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

The Loop Commons offers a climbing wall for people interested in the increasingly popular activity. SUBMITTEED

Kravings is on a rapid growth path

SPECIALTY ICE CREAM DRINKS DEVELOP LOYAL FOLLOWERS

by Jason Arndt STAFF WRITER

With multiple milk shake offerings, ice cream dishes, coffee and specialty items available, as well as more on the way, Kravings looks to literally satisfy anybody’s craving.

Jordan Karweik, owner and chief executive officer of Kravings Premium Beverages, noted Krazy Shakes serves as his company’s main specialty while offering other options for customers.

“We have our Krazy Shakes, then just regular ice cream dishes, cones, and then we have coffee as well. So we can do coffee, lattes, cappuccinos, things like that,” he said. “For us, our main thing is our Krazy Shakes.”

At Kravings, which has locations in downtown Waterford and Burlington as well as another in Mt. Pleasant, Karweik said his company has a simple mission.

“What is the Kraving that you have? What do you like? That is what we are looking to satisfy, and for us, we are going to be offering brats and hot dogs and then we are going to be doing hot ham on Sundays, so that is going to be rolling out in the next couple of weeks.”

Kravings, according to its website, sells Cedar Crest Ice Cream in multiple flavors, allows customers to tailor a custom shake creation, and specialty items such as craft sides and hot sauces.

Krazy niche

Karweik, who previously owned an insurance agency, began exploring Krazy Shakes after watching a YouTube clip of somebody visiting New York.

In the YouTube clip, the person experienced a crazy shake, which piqued his interest.

“I saw that and thought it was pretty cool,” said Karweik.

Upon discovery of the clip, he sought something similar in southeast Wisconsin, but couldn’t find any establishments.

“Unfortunately, I could not find anything like that around here,” he said. “It just kind of jumpstarted the idea to have something like that in the area.”

Kravings offers seven different Krazy Shakes, however, two specific flavors have been the most popular among customers.

According to Karweik, Royal Reeses and Mint-o-Brown continues to draw interest, with Royal Reeses featuring peanut butter cup ice cream, Reeses Pieces, Reeses Chopped Cups and whipped cream.

“Then there is the Mint-O-Brownie. That

one is probably my favorite. It has mint ice cream with Oreo on the rim, whipped cream, and then there is a brownie along with more Oreo with chocolate syrup on top,” said Karweik.

Initial launch, aggressive expansion

Born and raised in Waterford, Karweik decided to launch the establishment with business partner Mike Ottelien in his hometown at 202 E. Main St., Waterford.

Although the business opened on Jan. 29, when the area saw below freezing temperatures, Karweik recalled seeing an influx of customers waiting to experience Kravings for the first time.

“It was 25 degrees that day and we had lines all the way down the block,” he said. “It was crazy that day.”

Since then, Kravings has quickly expanded to Mt. Pleasant, 5509 Durand Avenue, Unit D, and Burlington, 344 N. Pine Street with plans to add a fourth location in the Village of Caledonia in the beginning of 2023.

Kravings in both Mt. Pleasant and Burlington is for multiple reasons, according to Karweik, who said the quick expansion is part of his company’s long-term plan.

“While I grew up in Waterford and lived in Waterford nearly my entire life, my business partner and I both actually live out in Mt. Pleasant,” he said. “We wanted to try one out near a denser population and see what that would be like. We were able to do that there.

It has shown a lot of success out there because of the population and lack of ice cream shops.”

As for Burlington, many local customers voiced support from bringing Kravings closer to home, according to Karweik.

While the Caledonia location is under construction, with plans to open around January 2023, Karweik has bigger plans for Kravings Premium Beverages.

“After that, our plans are to go towards Kenosha and northern Illinois. If you are looking 10 years down the road, we are looking at having them all across the country. That is kind of what the goal is.”

Meeting challenges

In the economic climate, notably workforce shortages, Karweik and Ottelien have worked diligently to recruit and retain employees.

Kravings Premium Beverages, according to Karweik, currently has about 50 employees.

Karweik said he offers competitive wages, and promotes a healthy environment for employees, which has played a key role in continued growth.

In Mt. Pleasant, where Kravings has a manager vacancy, Karweik said he has seen an influx of applicants interested in the position.

“I put that ad out there two days ago and we have already had eight people apply,” Karweik said on Oct. 27.

SPIRIT of GENEVA LAKES

Jordan Karweik stands in his Burlington ice cream shop, Kravings. The shop, which started in Waterford now has locations in Burlington and Mt. Pleasant. His is looking to open a fourth shop in Caledonia early next year.

JASON ARNDT Spirit of Geneva Lakes

Historic Wagon Wheel reopens in Delavan

Owner wants to return it to a supper club

By Jennifer Eisenbart STAFF WRITER

For more than 10 years, the Wagon Wheel – located at 2891 County Road O, Delavan – had sat vacant.

New owner Kevin Hibl set out to change that earlier this year.

“I was involved because of the history of the place,” said Hibl, who opened the bar portion of the business again in June. “I just felt it was important to revitalize this property.”

Now known as the H&H Wagon Wheel, the establishment is open 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. weekdays and until 1 a.m. on Friday and Saturday.

The Wagon Wheel has quite the local history. Local files show that it started as a one-room schoolhouse built in 1837, The Delavan Territorial School. It maintained that function until about 1923 – and now forms the main part of the restaurant and bar.

Owned by the Applegate family, someone made a suggestion at the end of Prohibition to turn it into a tavern. The bar remains hand-built with imported logs, and over the years, the site has served as a tavern and a supper club, but had closed in 2010.

Hibl said he originally intended to move his real estate office to the property and maintain the supper club. Right now, he’s dedicated to getting the supper club up and running.

“It’s actually in nice proximity to a lot of community,” “Since I’ve started, they’ve all said they want this to revitalize and open. I’ve had a lot of positive feedback.”

He said he wanted to return the site to a supper Club venue. That includes traditional Friday fish fry, soup of the day and specials – and of course, Brandy Old Fashioneds. Ribs and prime rib will also eventually be on the menu.

Hibl is working on the property with his son, Patrick, and the two are working to expand the space and the menu.

“We had a perch fry, our first one, Friday night (Nov. 4),” Hibl said. “The shrimp basket has gone over really well.”

Other items include a full appetizer menu

– including chicken tenders, mozzarella sticks and cheese curds – as well as sandwiches. More, Hibl said, will be coming as the kitchen ramps up.

While the bar was open in June, it wasn’t until the last month that the restaurant got clearance from state inspectors to open.

Hibl made several renovations, including all-new windows, updated electrical, furnace and air conditioning and new flooring.

“I tried to leave the 100-year-old rooms the same,” he said, adding he did the same with the original 1837 building. He also did extensive refurbishing of equipment, and a second bar in the second dining room – and made the restaurant fully ADA accessible.

So far, the response has been positive. The first 120 days was just the lounge being open, but since the kitchen was opened three weeks ago, the buzz has continued to build.

“I’ve had numerous people come in and say there were here in the past, with family members,” Hibl said. “They’re very excited for the reopening and looking forward to the updated menu.”

above: Kevin Hibl is the new owner of the Wagon Wheel, now known at the H&H Wagon Wheel. The former bar and supper club had sat vacant until this summer, when Hibl reopened the lounge portion of the building.

at left: H&H Wagon Wheel is located at 2891 County Road O, Delavan.

JENNIFER

EISENBART Spirit of Geneva Lakes