Spirit July 2023

IN THE

GAGE MARINE CELEBRATES

150TH ANNIVERSARY

GRILL OUT HAVE A DRINK WATCH A SKI SHOW

JULY EVENTS

1 Fireworks at dusk at Delavan Community Park, 1220 South Shore Drive.

2 Fireworks at dusk, at Playmore Park, Graydon Avenue, East Troy

3 Fireworks at dusk, Grand Geneva Resort and Spa, 7036 Grand Geneva Way

4 Fireworks at dusk, as Fontana Beach, South Lake Shore Drive.

9 Cars that Time Forgot Car Show, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Lake Lawn Resort, 2400 E. Geneva St., Delavan. Pre-event activities July 8. For more information, visit carstimeforgot.com.

11, 18 and 25 Beginner

Pickleball Clinics. Presented by Lake Geneva Tennis, 630 Veterans Parkway, Lake Geneva, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Cost is $15 for embers $20 for guests. Sign up at 262-812-0033 and john@ lakegenevatennis.com.

11 Blood drive, 1 to 6 p.m. at American Legion Frank Kresen Post 24, 735 Henry St., Lake Geneva. For more information, call 815-965-8751.

12 to 16 Elkhorn Ribfest. Annual celebration of barbecue the Walworth County Fairgrounds, 411 E. Court St. Free admission and parking. For hours and more information, visit www. wisconsinribfest.com.

26 to 30 Racine County Fair, 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday on the fairgrounds, 19805 Durand Ave, Union Grove. For more information, visit racinecountyfair.com.

19 Steak Cookout, 4 to 7 p.m. at the Walworth County Fairgrounds, 411 E. Court St., Elkhorn. Cost: TBA. Presented by Walworth County Agricultural. For more information, call 262-723-3228.

29 Music by the Lake presents BritBeat at 7:30 p.m. at George Williams College of Aurora University, 350

Constance Blvd., Williams Bay. Cost: $30 to $80. For tickets and more information, visit musicbythelake.com.

Ongoing events

Geneva Outdoor Market Lake Geneva House of Music presents the Geneva Outdoor Market on Sundays, May 7 through Oct. 29, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Located at the Lake Geneva House of Music festival grounds, N 3241 Highway H, the market celebrates local farmers, producers, food and beverage vendors, and artisans.

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. The depot is 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. At 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-the-art, 300seat theatre. For show dates, ticket prices and additional information call (262) 7288200, 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.

GENERAL MANAGER

Sue Z. Lange EDITOR IN CHIEF

Tracy Ouellette

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

Vicki Vanderwerff

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Heather Ruenz

PAGE DESIGN

Jennifer DeGroot

SALES

Pete Hansen

Tamera Hamilton

DISTRIBUTION DIRECTOR

Lindy Sweet

The Spirit of Geneva Lakes is

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.

Gage Marine continues tradition on Geneva Lake

by Sandra Landen Machaj CORRESPONDENT

Geneva Lake’s clear water has been an attraction that has brought visitors to the area as far back as the early 1870s.

There are few of those visitors that have not tried out the Lake Geneva Cruise Lines boats – cruises that take people around the lake and share the history of the lake and the homes built on it.

This year, Gage Marine and Lake Geneva Cruise Lines celebrate 150 years of boating on Geneva Lake. Their story goes back to 1873, when the lake became the favorite summer vacation spot for Chicagoans seeking to escape the hot and sooty air of the city – especially after the Chicago Fire of 1871.

on the 150 years water

With travel to the area aboard the Chicago and Northwestern Railroad taking less than a day, many wealthy Chicagoans began to build summer homes along Geneva Lake’s shores. Transportation to the actual property was more difficult, as there were no roads around the lake.

As a result, small private excursions yachts were hired for transport – first for the building materials and workers, and later for residents, their household staffs and all their supplies to the summer home sites.

It is not surprising that as the community grew, there were not enough boats to provide these services. In 1873, Ed Quigley launched the original Lady of the Lake as the first commercial excursion business on Geneva Lake to transport passengers and supplies as needed.

The Lucius Newberry, an elegant and opulent steamer, was launched in 1875. The Newberry was able to carry 700 passengers, the largest boat launched on Geneva Lake.

“John A. Wilson purchased both large steamers in 1879 and formed the Anchor Line, the predecessor to the Lake Geneva

Cruise Line,” shared Bill Gage, the third generation of the Gage family to run the company. “Today, the Lake Geneva Cruise Line consists of eight boats which provide a variety of tours on the lake.

The oldest of the boats is the Polaris, built in 1898. The newest is the Duchess, acquired in 2006. Each of the boats in the line have a varied history, as some are still the original boats while others had to be replaced as they succumbed to wear, disrepair, fires, or other catastrophes. The original Polaris and the Steam Yacht Louise are still part of the fleet.

The Steam Yacht Louise was a favorite of my Dad, Bill Gage, Sr.,” Bill Gage said. “The boat had been converted from steam power to gas. But in 1975 to 1978 it underwent a complete restoration.”

Bill Gage Sr. made a trip to Europe to purchase a 1926 Plenty and Sons steam engine, which was placed on the Louise. Now it is the lake’s only steam yacht.

In the mail

By 1916, George Goodman won the government contract to deliver mail to

Gage Marine is one of the most well-known place to service, store and purchase boats along Geneva Lake.

Advertising works in the

Spirit of Geneva Lakes!

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

For advertising opportunities contact:

Pete Hansen

Email: phansen@standardpress.com

Office: 262-723-2250

Cell: 414-801-2360

Tamera Hamilton

Email: tamera@southernlakesnewspapers.com

Office: 262-728-3411

Cell: 262-215-2782

lakeshore residents by boat. Today, the mail is still delivered by boat to residents who choose the service. The Walworth is known as the U.S. mailboat and visitors to Geneva Lake can go on a cruise as it delivers the mail.

Mail is delivered by “mail jumpers,” who leap from the boat as it passes a pier, place the mail in the mailbox and then sprint back to the boat to leap aboard before it moves away. The boat does not stop so speed and accuracy of the jumper is necessary. Occasionally they miss the boat and end up in the water, probably refreshing on a very hot and sunny day.

Also in 1916, the company purchased the property in Williams Bay where it built a service and winter storage facility for its boats. It soon became the facility that local boat owners came to for service on their watercraft.

The Williams Bay property underwent a complete three-year overhaul under the direction of Bill Gage Jr., in 2012. The Pier 290 restaurant was added, and an upgrading of their Gage Marine boat

above: Stephanie Leader, one of the Gage mail jumpers receives help from Taffy, known as a wunderdog, in delivering the paper. right: Members of the Gage family who have served as head of Gage Marine pose on the Louise.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Spirit of Geneva Lakes

facilities was done.

Russell Gage purchased the fleet in 1958 and was known for giving new life to the fleet by painting the boats vibrant colors. More importantly, he also began rebuilding the large vessels.

By the 1960s, Gage Marine was also involved in selling boats. At that time, many recreational boats changed from wooden boats to fiberglass. Bill Gage, Sr., was known for producing the GageHacker, a unique wooden boat designed to cut through the choppy waters of Geneva Lake, while still giving a smooth ride. They were produced in the 1960s, so there were a limited number and they are now collectibles.

New on the water

The new Lady of the Lake was introduced to the fleet in 1963. Since then, it has been the flagship of the fleet. She represents the steamboat era, when spacious decks and the turn of the century look dominated. Although she represents a steamship, she actually is powered by twin diesel engines. She is used for both tours of Geneva Lake and for special charters. There are a variety of cruises available. The one-hour or two-hour cruise around

the lake is a relaxing and interesting way to learn more about the history of Geneva Lake and the surrounding communities. While relaxing on the boat as it travels the lake, visitors see the mansions on the shore and learn about the families who built them, with names that may be familiar.

A visit to the summer home of Chicago Beer Baron Conrad Seipp is the only home on the lake where visitors can actually visit the inside. Visitors arrive just as the Seipp Family did, by boat, and climb over 100 steps up to the house. This home, which was donated to the State of Wisconsin by the Seipp family, should not be missed.

Other tours include the ice cream social tour – a favorite of children – the cocktail cruise, the luncheon cruise, the Sunday Brunch Cruise, the Supper Club Cruise and the Jazz Dinner Cruise. Boats are also available for private cruises, weddings, wedding transfers and rehearsal dinners. Food on the boats is provided by Lake Life Catering, another addition to Gage Marine in 2020.

In December, the Santa Cruise – founded in 2018 – will bring smiles of delight to the children on the ship as they see the lighted displays and hear Santa announce if they are on the “nice” list. In conjunction

with this cruise, there is the Charities of Christmas Tree Festival that has raised more than $500,000 for local charities.

At the Williams Bay Property, Bill Gage Jr. – who currently manages the company – opened a unique waterfront restaurant, the only one on the shore of Geneva Lake. Pier 290 offers a variety of foods and both indoor and deck seating. There are lake views throughout the restaurant.

Serving the community

Gage Marine and its subsidiaries have always been involved in good service to the community and in providing for those in need.

“We are donating $150,000 dollars, $10,000 to each of 15 local charities, in honor of our 150-year anniversary,” said Gage. “The charities have applied for the grants and 15 were chosen to receive them.”

The organizations are listed on the Gage Marine 150 years page, and those selected were presented the awards May 18 at the Riviera in Lake Geneva. According to Gage, there will be many other special events throughout the season to celebrate the 150 years of service to the community.

“We continue to add new services that

left: Enjoy sitting around the firepit and enjoying a glass of wine on a cool evening at Pier 290. right: Inside the Pier 290 restaurant, this elegant indoor space has beautiful views of the lake and is enjoyed in cooler weather or on very hot days when diners prefer the air conditioned indoors.

SANDRA LANDEN MACHAJ Spirit of Geneva Lakes

share the history of the area with both visitors and residents of the area,” added Gage. “Our goal is to continue to provide activities that allow people to enjoy their free time and to learn more about the history of the community.”

That is seen by the large number of artifacts that can be viewed at the Liechty Drive location as visitors enter the Pier 290 Restaurant. These nautical historical objects offer a look at the history of the area.

Gage Marine continues to be a family business. Not only have three generations of Gages – Russell, Bill Sr. and Bill Jr. – led

the company since 1958, but many other family members have spent time working there also. Among the employees are also many families that have been employed here for two or three generations.

“We started as a small group but have continued to grow as a large family. In the summer, we have as many as 500 employees to provide all the services that visitors enjoy,” Gage said.

“Throughout the years in spite of our growth we continue to focus on exceptional service,” he added.

As Gage Marine and its subsidiary, the

Lake Geneva Boat Lines, celebrate their first 150 years of service, they will offer a variety of throwback pricing days for customer appreciation in the late summer and fall. Visit cruiselakegeneva.com for more information.

Lake Geneva Cruise Line is in both Lake Geneva and Williams Bay. The summer harbor office is at 812 Wrigley Dr., Lake Geneva. The winter harbor docks, Gage Marina and Pier 290 Restaurant are at 1 Liechty Drive, Williams Bay.

Contact Gage Marine by phone at 262248-6206.

above left: This sign thanking the community for their 150 years on Geneva Lake is displayed at the Per 290 Restaurant. above right: The Duchess is a smaller version of the Lady of the Lake and is used mostly for charters, weddings, anniversaries, business meetings and cocktail, lunch, or dinner cruises. top: The Louise, the only steam powered yacht running on the lake has been a member of the fleet since 1930. Known for her polished brass and gleaming mahogany, she takes visitors back to days of elegance on the water.

SANDRA LANDEN MACHAJ Spirit of Geneva Lakes

PASTA - SANDWICHES

BURGERS & SO MUCH MORE!

DINE-IN,

www.luisaspizza.co

Saturday, June 17 | 7:30 p.m.

Linda Eder

Eder’s diverse repertoire spans Broadway, standards, pop, country, and jazz.

Sunday, June 25 | 4 p.m.

Justin Roberts & the Not Ready for Naptime Players

Roberts is one of the founders of the modern family music scene.

Saturday, July 8 | 7:30 p.m.

Martina McBride

McBride has sold over 20 million albums, including 14 gold records, 20 Top 10 singles, and six #1 hits.

Sunday, July 16 | 4 p.m.

Lake Geneva Symphony Orchestra

Travel with the LGSO and visit places across the country through music!

Saturday, July 22 | 7:30 p.m.

The Guess Who

The legendary band behind hits “American Woman,” “No Time,” “These Eyes,” and many more.

Saturday, July 29 | 7:30 p.m.

BritBeat

Take a trip back in time with a fantastic voyage through the days of Beatlemania.

Purchase tickets online at musicbythelake.com or by calling 262-245-8501

musicbythelake.com | musicbythelake

Music by the Lake is presented by George Williams College of Aurora University on its Geneva Lake campus, just seven miles from downtown Lake Geneva in Williams Bay, Wisconsin.

Putting quality on the barbecue

SPECIALTY STORES OFFER GRILLERS A TREAT

by Jennifer Eisenbart STAFF WRITER

The grilling season has arrived with picnics, get-togethers and backyard barbecues.

While meat can be found in any grocery store, there are also a variety of specialty meat stores in southeast Wisconsin – among them, two award-winning producers.

Both Lake Geneva Country Meats, 5907 Highway 50, Lake Geneva, and Wilson Farm Meats, 406 S. Wisconsin St., Elkhorn, recently brought home a number of grand champion awards from the Wisconsin Association of Meat Processors annual convention.

The two stores are similar in they offer a large variety of brats, sausage and burgers to put on the grill and plenty of different flavors to enjoy.

LAKE GENEVACOUNTRY MEATS

Nicholas Vorpagel, vice-president of Lake Geneva Country Meats, said that the advantages of a specialty shop are obvious.

“People like going to specialty shops for their grilling meats for the quality of the product,” he explained. “We’re not selling tires, laundry detergent and cat litter in addition to meats.

“We’re focused on getting you the best meats possible,” he added.

Awards like the ones that LGCM pulled in from Wisconsin Association of Meat Processors, Vorpagel, just help increase the store’s profile.

“People like to know they’re buying quality products, and having so many awards from a prestigious competition lets our customers know that they’re getting great quality,” he said. “Additionally, our biggest advertisement is often people serving our products to their friends and family.

“When someone new tries our products, they love them and want to know first of all, what is that, and second of all, where they can get it,” he added. “Inevitably, that leads them here.”

Vorpagel said that having a local store can help ensure quality – both in terms of the raw product used and having it freshly made – as well as keeping it local.

“We’re making every product here and keeping an eye on the quality to make sure it’s something that we want to serve our customers,” he said.

As for what’s popular this year, Vorpagel said beef is seeing a resurgence.

“We’re seeing a lot of people enjoying burgers this year in comparison to other years,” he explained. “We’re also seeing many people venturing out of their comfort zones a little bit to try steaks that are slightly off the beaten path – tri-tip steaks, picanha steaks and skirt steaks have grown in popularity this year.”

above: Beef is proving popular this season so far, said Lake Geneva County Meats Vice-President Nicholas Vorpagel. top: As local specialty shops will tell you, a great cookout starts with the quality of what you put on the grill. Both Lake Geneva Country Meats in Lake Geneva and Wilson Farm Meats in Elkhorn offer a wide variety of items for any grilling experience.

SUBMITTED PHOTOS Spirit of Geneva Lakes

He added that those steaks aren’t as well known as ribeyes and filets, but are more affordable and as fun to cook. The store also offers a wide variety of fresh brats and sausages.

For more information, contact LGCM at 262-248-3339, or go to lakegenevacountrymeats.com.

WILSON FARM MEATS

Wilson Farm Meats General Manager Justin Corman agreed with Vorpagel that specialty stores are important for local quality products.

“Grocery stores are continuing a trend of prepackaged meat done offsite,” he explained. “Small meat markets like ours still do everything ourselves, from harvest to sausage making to cured and smoked specialty products like bacon, jerky and snack sticks.”

Wilson Farm Meats has a large variety of seasoned and flavored meats, all of which seem to be popular right now.

For example, Corman said that the bacon cheddar burger – a grand champion at this year’s Wisconsin Association of Meat Processors awards – remains the top seller at the store. Other popular choices are the pizza burger, and the blue cheese burger with a custom seasoning blend and a high-temperature melt cheese that doesn’t evaporate during cooking.

Flavored brats are also popular, as Wilson offers a Philly Cheesesteak brat with all the elements of the favorite sandwich. Also popular are the MushroomSwiss brat and, as Corman explained, the Cherry brat is “really picking up steam.”

What’s becoming more popular, Corman said, are the seasoned meats. Preseasoned chicken and pork – marinated by the store and packaged with the marinade – offer an easy-to-go option.

“So the marinade holds in, helps soak it up,” Corman said.

The store also has pre-seasoned, customblended baby back ribs and spare ribs.

In addition to the store, the upgraded Wilson’s Deli is now open, complete with a bar. The deli serves lunch Thursday through Saturday and dinner Friday and Saturday.

The deli uses the meats made by the store to offer up a variety of sandwiches, brats and burgers, as well as beverages and now alcoholic drinks.

A new addition this summer will be the Sunday brunch, which Corman said he hoped would be open by the Fourth of July.

Wilson Farm Meats can be reached at 262-723-2919, or found online at wilsonfarmmeats.com.

SORG’S

Sorg’s Quality Meats and Sausages in Darien offers a full retail counter of fresh meats that are freezer-wrapped for convenience. The family-owned meat processing plant also features a specialty grocery store.

Sorg’s has more than 50 varieties of award-winning brats, as well as sausages and hot dogs that are all homemade using the original family recipe with no MSG.

Sorg’s also offers a wide variety of specialty items from the Al Capone Roast for family gatherings or special occasions, as well as more than 20 varieties of Wisconsin cheese, heat n’eat entrees, homemade meat and fruit pies, a variety of fish, vegetables, pickled products, sauces and seasonings, jams and jellies, homemade meat, and fruit pies as well as a variety of meat snack sticks, jerky, and landjaeger.

Sorg’s is at N4290 Highway 14 in Darien, For more information, call 262724-5554 and visit sorgsmeats.com.

from the top: Fresh cuts of beef, pork and chicken are among the popular items at Wilson Farm Meats; Lake Geneva Country Meats is well known for its brat and sausage selection; and Wilson Farm Meats proclaims its motto on a large sign outside of its store.

SUBMITTED PHOTOS Spirit of Geneva Lakes

Lyle’s TV touts multiple grilling options

Big Green Egg among inventory highlights

by Jason Arndt STAFF WRITER

Lyle’s TV & Appliance, of Elkhorn, has been in business for decades and offers multiple household options for consumers looking to fill their home and even on the outdoor patio.

While the Elkhorn-based business has several items in stock, such as refrigerators, televisions, dishwashers, ovens and stoves, and other items, Lyle’s also touts a diverse range of outdoor grilling options.

Lyle’s President Thomas Schinke said the company has gas grills, pellet grills manufactured by Traeger and other key distributors, as well as wood fire pizza ovens.

“We have got a little bit of everything for everybody,” he said. “We sell everything from low end to high end. We are price competitive.

Schinke added his business offers grilling options designed to last decades. Within the last decade, meanwhile, Lyle’s introduced the highly touted Big Green Egg to its customers.

The Big Green Egg, which launched nearly 50 years ago in Atlanta, is sold exclusively at independent retailers such as Lyle’s.

Mike Essman, Big Green Egg account manager for Wisconsin and Iowa, said the company’s relationship with brick and mortar stores is highly important.

“We started as a small business in 1974 in Atlanta and we continue to maintain that relationship with independent dealers throughout the world,” he said. “We support the independent retailer. That is very important to this company with the brick and mortar stores, the stores like Lyle’s.”

HIGHLY POPULAR

The Big Green Egg initially became popular in the Southern and Western regions of the United States.

Since then, people from around the world have become attracted to the Big Green Egg for its versatility, Essman said.

“It is the versatility of it, it is not just a grill, it is an experience is what it is. It is a smoker, it is a grill, it is an oven.”

The Big Green Egg, which has a ceramic shell and can withstand frigid Wisconsin temperatures, offers precise and accurate temperature control features for

consumers looking to prepare any type of food outdoors.

“I can run the temperature from 180 to 1,200 degrees any time of the year,” Essman said.

Additionally, Essman said the Big Green Egg comes with a lifetime warranty, primarily for the ceramic shell.

While the Big Green Egg offers versatility, the product comes in several sizes, but Essman noted consumers should consider how many people they plan on serving food.

“We have seven different sizes available and it all depends on how many people you are cooking for,” he said. “You want to make sure you have the room.”

Although the Big Green Egg is extremely heavy, the mini eggs can serve as an ideal size for people looking to use the product for tailgating, since the mini egg comes with handles.

Unlike the typical gas grill, the Big Green Egg comes with simplicity.

Essman said the Big Green Egg needs minimal, to low maintenance, and can be easily cleaned.

The price of a Big Green Egg is $695 and up, Essman said.

Schinke said Lyle’s sells 75 to 100 Big Green Eggs on annual basis.

“I started with one Big Green Egg about six years ago, now I have three of them at home,” Schinke said. “I also have a Traeger.”

For more information on Lyle’s TV & Appliance, 17 S. Washington St., Elkhorn, visit its website at lylestv.com.

MORE ON THE GREEN EGG

According to the Big Green Egg website accessible at biggreenegg.com, the appliance offers high-temp grilling of steaks, burgers, grilled fish, can roast poultry, lamb, beef and vegetable. The insulating ceramics allows consumers to prepare food for low and slow smoking of meats.

Essman noted the the appliance comes with several accessories designed to improve cooking experiences and has multiple racks to place food.

“We have been standing behind our products for over 40 years,” the website states. “When you invest in a Big Green Egg, you will take home the highest quality outdoor cooker ever made.”

Account Manager Mike Essman, of the Big Green Egg, showcases one of seven Big Green Egg sizes available for sale at Lyle’s TV & Appliance in Elkhorn.

JASON ARNDT Spirit of Geneva Lakes

LIKE A DUCK TO WATER

Waterskiing provides plenty of joy for area team

by Sandra Landen Machaj CORRESPONDENT

ast year was a special year for the Aquanuts.

The award-winning waterski team that calls Lance Park in Twin Lakes home not only won the Wisconsin State Championship, but followed it up with a national title as well.

“After 50 years, it was a great time for the team to come together and the right time to skate out to victory,” said Mark Gurda, the announcer for the Aquanuts for the last 10 years. Six of the team members also went on to participate as members of Team USA internationally.

The members of the team who continued on to International Competition were Lake Geneva’s Kailey Koehler – a seven-time member of the USA Team – and her father,

Bob, one of the team’s boat drivers. The Koehlers were joined by team members Ethan Shuda (Twin Lakes), Craig Planton (Waterford), and siblings Cody and Kaila Coffey (Silver Lake).

Those team members did not get to celebrate the nationals’ win with their teammates. By the time the win was announced, they were already en route to the fifth International Waterski and Wakeboard Federation event on Lake Silver in Winter Haven, Florida.

The state title was the second consecutive win for the Aquanuts after not winning at the state level for 35 years. The team often placed well in competition and received awards for various individual and line activities, however.

Individual state titles last year were also earned by Karley Koehler and Ethan Shuda as most valuable female and male at the

state competition, respectively, while the team received the “Best in Jump” award.

“The team won handily in competition at the national competition,” added Gurda. “Making the perfect ending to a wonderful year for the team.”

The Aquanuts have come a long way since the team’s inception in the early 1970s, when it began as a small volunteer group with no home and no major sponsors. A small $5 fee was charged to join, according to the team’s history on their website.

In order to be successful, a waterski team requires a strong support team, many boats with powerful motors and equally important competent drivers. The team also requires coaches, artistic directors, a sound system and announcers, costumes, gas for the boats and repairs when needed, and most important, a place to perform.

The Aquanuts four-high pyramid is always an impressive sight during the water ski show.

15 N Lincoln St, Elkhorn - Dreaming of opening a business? This is your chance! Large commercial building in the heart of Elkhorn. Walking distance to the Square, restaurants, coffee shops & retail. Great visibility & ample parking. Easy access to I-43 & Hwy 12/67. The building has 7 offices, 2.5 BA, kitchen & electronic rear entry for staff. Generous storage space & fire-proof closet and external insulated storage area. New membrane roof installed 1.5 years ago. 3 phase, 400 Amp $449,900

62 Valley St., Williams Bay - Located in Williams Bay you will find this 3BR, 1 BA home featuring kitchen with island, living room with slider to deck, Master BR with slider to deck, main floor laundry. Walking distance to the lake, beach, park & restaurants. Move in ready. Spend your summers in Williams Bay...imagine a summer filled with lake fun. There is plenty of room to add a garage. Don’t miss out on this opportunity $239,900

The Aquanuts were fortunate to find a permanent home in their second year, when a swampy area at Lance Park was awarded for the team’s use.

Over the years the area has been upgraded and now includes a five-row, terraced area for visitors to enjoy the show, refreshments, as well as indoor rest rooms. Big-name sponsors such like Dr. Pepper and many local marine vendors soon joined the Aquanuts, helping the team grow into the award-winning team that they are today. Local vendors have donated motors, boats and even skis to the team.

The Aquanuts put on a variety of unique and inventive shows, introducing show themes that included the introduction of clowns, as well as dance and ski routines. The ballet line was chosen best in competition in the state in 1979, and that same year they placed third in the National competition, and introduced music to their routines. The four-tier pyramid was introduced into their competition routines in the 1980s. – conflicts with the information on the Aquanuts website)).

As the team begins this year’s show season, there are always concerns. Each

year, it becomes a different team as members move away, go off to college, or in some cases, turn professional. According to Gurda, this year’s team is smaller. They often base a show on musicals and this year is no different, as it is loosely based on “Peter Pan.”

Team members come from a large area. Even though the team is based in Twin Lakes, not all members live there. Some come from Lake Geneva or other Wisconsin communities or from northern Illinois. Some of these water skiers may have family summer homes in the area,

SUBMITTED PHOTO Spirit of Geneva Lakes

OF JIM’S PHOTOS Spirit of Geneva Lakes

above: The ballet line of the 2022 National Champion Aquanuts performs in precision. top: The Aquanuts pose for a group photo on the sandy beach when not performing.

while others make the trip in regularly for team meetings, practices and performances.

Since team members begin to work on their routines long before they hit the water, they are coming to practice workouts often when there is still snow on the ground. The early practices are somewhat like a ballet rehearsal, perfecting a routine and learning to perform together in a ballet line or a pyramid on land before they are ready to take to the water.

Even when they are ready to hit the water, it is not necessarily fun. This spring was a good example of how the season in the Midwest can vary, as temperatures varied from unseasonably warm to unseasonably cold. Water in May is often not warm, nor are skiers looking at the water as respite from the hot sun.

Even with sponsors, the team requires additional fundraisers, as the team does not charge to attend summer performances. Tips are always appreciated and the weekly donations go to help with the team’s expenses. An addition, a yearly ad book is published that highlights the team and is sold to raise money, both through ad sponsorships and sales.

The Aquanuts began their performance schedule this year on May 27 and will continue to present shows open to the public at Lance Park, 55 Lance Dr., Twin Lakes, every Wednesday and Saturday evenings at 6 p.m. No entry fee is charged to watch the

show and free parking is available.

Working with Graceful Wakes, the Aquanuts assist in a day that provides an adaptive water ski event for both adults and children over the age of 6 years with disabilities. This year, it will be held at Lance Park on July 11. The day is under the direction of Graceful Wakes, and members of the Aquanuts will assist those participating to ensure a fun experience.

Visit Aquanutwatershows.com for information about registering. For more information, go to the website or call 866-754-7469.

Other teams

The Aquanuts are not the only competitive, award-winning waterskiing team in the Southern Lakes area.

The Aquaducks, who make their home in Burlington on Browns Lake are also well known for their exquisite formations and competitive nature. Many of their members have gone on to college waterski team programs and to professional water skiing shows.

The team began on Browns Lake in 1976 as a volunteer, family oriented group that began by waterskiing for fun. It has grown over the years to include participation in local, state and national competitions with both individual and team success.

Over the years, the Aquaducks have found success, winning the Wisconsin

State Division 2 Championship in 2019. By 2021, they had moved up to Division 1 in state competition, finishing seventh in the state and 14th in the nation.

The club has grown and now numbers about 100. Participants range in age from 8 years to 70, according to the group’s website. While not everyone on the team is a skier, some drive the boats, design the performance as directors or design the costumes.

The Aquaducks’ junior ski program encourages those 8 years of age and over to join, even if they don’t know how to water ski. They will teach them how to ski and advance to the basics of show skiing. Skills are not limited to just skiing, as team building and communication are also taught.

The junior team performs on Thursdays at 5 p.m. for an hour before the main show starts at 6:30 p.m. Shows are held at Fischer Park on Hwy 11, 30326 Durand Ave., Burlington. Visitors are welcome and there is no charge for the show.

The show season runs through Labor Day weekend. Visit the group’s website www.aquaducks.org or their Facebook page for more information about the team.

The Southern Wakes United Water Ski Team operates in Walworth County, performing on lakes in Elkhorn and Whitewater.

Visit SouthernWakesUnited.com for more information and show schedule.

The clowns have long been a part of the Aquanuts performances bringing smiles to the crowd as they twist and turn upon the water. COURTESY OF JIM’S PHOTOS Spirit of Geneva Lakes

Local wineries offer a wide variety

by Sandra Landen Machaj CORRESPONDENT

Tastes change during the summer. People forsake the heavy foods of winter and enjoy the lighter fresh fruits and vegetables that the area is known to produce.

Likewise, tastes in beverages also tend to lighten from the fullbodied, heavier wines of winter to lighter, less-filling beverages. On a beautiful summer day, nothing beats a drive into the Wisconsin countryside to enjoy the beauty of nature and to discover special places to be enjoyed – among them, special small wineries.

Traveling along Highway A, in the Delavan area, the beautiful Staller Estate Winery pops up and it is difficult not to stop. Sitting indoors or outside among the grapevines, it is the perfect spot to enjoy the fruits of the Stallers’ labor and the beauty of the area at the same time.

The manicured vineyard is small but welcoming as visitors enjoy the outdoors, as well as the wines, charcuterie boards and other fine choices. That includes flatbread Fridays in the beauty of the countryside.

The Stallers purchased the farm – which had been an old dairy farm – and

ENJOYING THE Wines of Summer

Wendy and Joe Staller of Staller’s Estate Winery are on hand to share information about their unique wines especially their favorite summer wines.

SANDRA LANDEN MACHAJ Spirit of Geneva Lakes

converted it to a vineyard. For Wendy and Joe Staller, their interest in winemaking began while at the University of WisconsinWhitewater, where they studied biological and chemical sciences and began to dabble in amateur winemaking. This led to Wendy going out to University of California-Davis to complete the wine program and become truly knowledgeable about winemaking.

“We started the winery over 10 years ago and have continued to grow, adding additional grapevines and creating a variety of wines from our grapes,” shared Wendy, owner of the Staller Estate Winery with her husband, Joe.

“It was a hobby that got out of control,” she adds with a laugh. “Now it is a full-time business.”

The winery is the perfect location for bachelorette parties, private tasting events, birthdays, anniversaries, business meetings, smaller reunions, moderately sized weddings and any other event people can imagine. The event, depending on the size, can be held outside in the vineyard, in the sun room, the gazebo or down in the Barrel Cellar Room.

A tasting, or a tour of the winery can be arranged to make an event as special and personal as visitors would like.

Staller creates a variety of wines from the estate’s grapes and have added some self-distilled vodka and fruit brandy to the product line. The estate also serves a variety of cocktails, including a special Dragonfruit Mojito with its unique purple color.

“Of course, it is required that a brandy old-fashioned be on the menu in Wisconsin,” Wendy added with a smile. “We also serve the loaded Bloody Mary and other special cocktails.”

Wendy also explained that there is a chance in the types of wine that people request in the summer.

“Summertime means a return to the lighter wines,” she said.

A summer wine flight includes the Rock Valley White – a dry white wine with aromas of tropical pineapple – and a Horizon Cuvee, a semi-dry white wine with distinct grapefruit citrus aromas that is followed by a lingering palate of fresh fruit.

It may surprise some who think of white wines as the lighter wines to discover that some red wines are also favorites in the summer. One such is the Sun-Gria, a blend of three red wines.

“We recommend serving it over frozen fruit to enjoy a real summery, fruit-laden drink,” said Wendy.

With the added fruit, one may think they are in Spain enjoying the country’s Sangria, as it is served there. Imagine spending an afternoon at the vineyard, enjoying a tasty summer wine with a charcuterie tray of meats and cheeses of your choice with friends or family members, sharing a special day.

Throughout the summer, there are a variety of events held at the winery. Coming up in August is the annual Fire

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

SANDRA LANDEN MACHAJ Spirit of Geneva Lakes

and Wine Shrimp Boil, and there will be addition dinners in October and November. A Christmas-themed dinner will also take place in December.

Enjoy yoga in the vineyard? Another fun activity to consider. Check the website, Facebook, or give them a call for dates, menus, times, and costs as all these are preticketed.

Staller Estate Winery is located at W8896 County Road A, Delavan. Contact them at 608-883-2100 or visit online at www.stallerestate.com. They can also be found on Facebook. They are open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.

The Apple Barn

The Apple Barn Orchard and Winery has been in business since 1848 and is still owned by the same family, the Jacobsons, all these years later.

While many people think of the Apple Barn as the place to pick and purchase fresh apples in the fall, it is more than just an apple orchard. It is a full farm that grows a variety of crops, along with a winery that produces a variety of wines made from the fruits grown on the farm under the direction of winemaker Steve Jacobson.

While in fall the grounds are full of customers purchasing apples, pumpkins and various bakery items – including fresh baked pies and homemade donuts – in summer the Barn is alive with visitors arriving for strawberries. The Barn is open for picking beginning in June until they are finished producing, usually in mid-July.

The Apple Barn is also known for its award-winning unique wines, not made with grapes but with fruits mostly grown on the farm. While many people think of wines made with fruits other than grapes are very sweet, this is not always the case.

“While some fruit wines are very sweet and used as dessert wines, others are light and fruity, perfect for a summer day,” shared Jacobson.

At this time of year, customers are looking for that light fruity wine to enjoy on a warm summer day while sitting in their own backyards or spending some time at the Apple Barn’s Tasting room.

“Strawberry wines are a favorite at this time of year along with the rhubarb wines,” said Jacobson. The combination of mixing strawberry and rhubarb creates a wine that is especially enjoyed during the warm summer months. Light, refreshing, and created from strawberries and rhubarb grown on site, it is sure to become a favorite.

If purchasing some of the strawberry wine, also look at the hand-painted wine

at left: The favorite summer wines found at the Apple Barn includes the strawberry wines, the rhubarb wines, and the combined strawberry/rhubarb blend. top: John and Diane Howe from Burlington stop at Apple Barn to taste some of their summer wines.

SANDRA LANDEN MACHAJ Spirit of Geneva Lakes

DiningDirectory

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, $$ 

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, $$

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 Fry Every Friday. Sunday 6am - 3pm. Monday - Saturday 6am - 8pm. $$, B, L, D, FF,  CHRIS’ USA • 724 Milwaukee Ave., Burlington. 262-763-9968. Popular Friday Fish Fry. Beer Battered or Baked Cod with your choice of potato pancakes or french fries and coleslaw. Perch Dinner Available. $$, FF

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

Call for Carry Out & Delivery Options

EAST TROY BREWERY • 2905 Main St.

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

JULY 2023

glasses by Sandra Glinner. The ones decorated with strawberries are perfect for summer entertaining –especially if hosts are serving the strawberry wines and some freshly picked strawberries.

Each wine created in the winery is done in small batches, ensuring that the richness, quality and taste remain consistent. All are created under Jacobson’s watchful eye. The types of wines brewed change as the fruits ripen and become ready to be processed.

Stop in the tasting room for a sample of the light summer wines. There is not a charge for a tasting but they are always grateful for any tips. Tips do not go to the servers but are donated to the Leukemia-Lymphoma Society of Wisconsin to aid in its work of trying to find a cure. In the last two years, The Apple Barn has donated $19,000 to the society thanks to the donations received.

The Farmer’s Daughter, with its own brand of jams, jellies, apple butters and pie fillings continues to increase in popularity. It also carries a large number of Wisconsinmade products.

The Apple Barn is located at W6384 Sugar Creek Road, Elkhorn, and is open Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. During strawberry season, the facility is open seven days a week.

Reach The Apple Barn by phone at 262-728-3266 or visit them online at www.applebarnorchardandwinery. com. Also, check out the business’s Facebook page.

AEppelTreow

Located adjacent to Bong State Park, AEppelTreow Winery and Distillery is located on the grounds of Brightonwoods Orchard in Burlington.

AEppelTreow is unique from the spelling of its name to the special products it creates.

Charles McGonegal, who owns AEppelTreow with his wife, Milissa, said AEppelTreow is the Old English spelling for Apple Tree or Apple True.

“We are cidermakers, using the pre-prohibition meaning of cider. We produce fermented or hard ciders,” said McGonegal. “We also produce perry, the pear analogue to cider.”

The ciders are made from apples or from pears. The couple uses some modern apples and some heirloom varieties grown on site here in the orchards. Apples are picked when just ripe to ensure a full-bodied taste. In addition to creating a variety of ciders, AEppelTreow is also a distillery, creating whiskies and brandies.

While many consider cider to be a fall drink associated with when the apples ripen, the cider that is available at that time is actually from the apples that ripened the year before.

“Cider is a year-round drink and is most popular in the summer. It is a refreshing drink. Surprising to many people, hard ciders are at their peak of sales on the Fourth of July,” said McGonegal.

AEppelTreow creates a variety of ciders under the AEppelTreow Songbird Cider labels. They also distill pear and apple brandies and Brown Dog whiskey. Products can be ordered online through the website and are shipped through VinoShipper.

AEppelTreow Winery and Distillery is at 1072 288th Ave., Burlington. Reach the business by phone at 262878-5345 or visit online at www.aeppeltreow.com. The winery is open Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m.

top: While enjoying a summer wine, pair it with a charcuterie board for a light lunch or cocktail hour treat. at right: What better place to spend a sunny day then out in the Staller vineyard while enjoying a refreshing summer wine.

SANDRA LANDEN MACHAJ Spirit of Geneva Lakes