Summer Highlighter by Nicole Julius

www.whna.net

WEDNESDAYS AT THE SHELL JULY 2–AUGUST 27 page 5 boulevard bash news saturday, August 23 page 6 MILWAUKEE AREA TIME EXCHANGE page 10 POWER COUPLE ON NORTH AVE. page 14 MEET YOUR NEIGHBORS page 18 and more!

THE NEWSLETTER OF THE WHNA Summer 2014

WHNA 2013-2014 board of directors PRESIDENT Larry Kilmer The Highlighter is a quarterly publication of the Washington Heights Neighborhood Association. Washington Heights includes the area from Highway 41 to North 60th Street and from West Vliet Street to West North Ave. You can expect your Fall Highlighter in late September. To submit an article, please contact Jane at janeekonkel@gmail.com.

EDITOR Jane Konkel

LAYOUT & DESIGN Nicole Julius

ADVERTISING MANAGER Corbett Reinbold

CONTRIBUTORS Jean Anderson Laura Burke Marie Charles Barb Haig Gary Haertlein Joan Janus Dan Kentowski

Debbie Knepke Milwaukee County Parks Matt O’Neill Jon Rupprecht Dan Schley

NEWSLETTER DISTRIBUTION Stephanie Moffett & Mark Drzewiecki

COLLATORS Thanks to all who help us collate and deliver the Highlighter. The next collation date is September 17, 2014 at Art & Soul Gallery.

ADVERTISER INDEX Four Corners of the World ��3 Sinclair Firestone ��4 Wednesdays at the Shell ��5 Boulevard Bash ��6 Kerry M Heuer House Cleaning ��9 Puhl’s True Value ��9 Auntie Cathi’s Childcare ��10 Wonder Bar ��10 Art & Soul Gallery ��13 T.R. Martin Builders ��15 St. James Lutheran Church �� 17 Now We Praise �� 17 Gross Property Services �� 18 Stella’s �� 19 Milwaukee Executive Realty • Kendall Karst �� 21 Joyce Heating & Air Conditioning �� 21 Mount Olive Lutheran Church �� 21 Shelter Real Estate ��22 Washington Heights Pet Sitter ��23 Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin ��24

899.1082

VICE-PRESIDENT Nora Trinidad-Scholle 369-2630 TREASURER John Augustyniak 467.3146 SECRETARY Stephanie Moffett 305-2824 REPRESENTATIVES AREA 1 Jane Konkel 949.1577 AREA 2 Gary Haertlein

257.9634

AREA 3 David Johnson

671.9101

AREA 4 Sarah Drillias

430.0332

AREA 5 Larry Kilmer

899.1082

AREA 6 Rachael B. Winkley AREA 7 Nick Bambulas

699.0539

807.6425

AREA 8 Corbett Reinbold 213.9730 AREA 9 John Augustyniak 467.3146 Mark Drzewiecki 476.1858 AT-LARGE EVEN YEARS Sofi Thorne Anita Duschak 732.2177 Stephanie Moffett 805.2824 Dan Stotmeister 444.6328 Nora Trinidad Scholle 369.2630 AT-LARGE ODD YEARS Mary McGrath 258.2991 Ron Quimby 202.9063 Tom Rutenbeck 453.3453

LIAISONS VLIET ST. Heidi Steeno 920.639.1476 NORTH AVE. Larry Kilmer

899.1082

RAINBOW ASSOCIATION Terri Coughlin 258.4351 OTHER REP YOUTH Wendy Baker

453.4760

SENIOR Vacant COMMITTEES BLOCK WATCH Gary Haertlein 257.9634 HOUSING/ APPEARANCE Tom Rutenbeck 453.3453 MEMBERSHIP Mary McGrath

258.2991

WEBSITE John Augustyniak 467.3146 GREEN COMMITTEE Joan Janus 476.3606

FROM THE

PRESIDENT Larry Kilmer, WHNA President

www.whna.net

THE NEWSLETTER OF THE WHNA Fall 2013

YOUR PHOTO HERE!

Spooktacular news page 6 Bag It page 9

cooper’s hawks page 10

housing and appearance awards page 14 new businesses on vliet page 18 washington park news page 21 and more!

Fall2013WHNAHighlighter.indd 1

9/9/13 9:38 PM

You could be the next Highlighter cover photographer! on’t forget to submit your best D summer Heights photos for consideration – on Facebook or to janeekonkel@gmail.com. HAVE A NEIGHBORHOOD EVENT YOU’D LIKE TO INCLUDE IN OUR FALL HIGHLIGHTER? Email the Highlighter editor at janeekonkel@gmail.com to let us know! Highlighter online at www.whna.net Do you want the Highlighter emailed to you? Contact membership@whna.net.

Hello, Heights neighbors. I am sad to say hello for the final time. As of June I will no longer be the WHNA President. The past two years have been incredibly exciting and extremely fulfilling. I have had the opportunity to engage with great city staff, community based organizational staff, and other volunteers from the area. I have met great people with passion and commitment found nowhere else in the city. I have truly enjoyed my role in the WHNA. On with the important stuff. First, I want to thank Cindy Marsicek for another great WHNA Easter Egg Hunt and Kevin Driscoll for organizing and running this year’s Neighborhood Clean-up. Also, thank you to all the shop owners and artists for organizing and running a very successful spring Artwalk. Additionally, we had a very nice turnout for our annual meeting. Thank you to all the guests and presenters for informing us on the important issues in our neighborhood and congratulations to Ed Szopinski on receiving the WHNA-Mary Gibeaut Volunteer Service Award for 2014. Although most WHNA spring events have become annual occurrences, we had a few unique opportunities this year. First, I hope everyone had a chance to see John McGivern’s Around the Corner episode in Washington Heights. Many people have commented on the quality of the show and the great light the episode placed on the Heights. It was great working with the MPTV staff over the past 6 months. Also, we had a fantastic turnout for the Historic Milwaukee event, Spaces and Traces, on a beautiful Saturday in May. I was so happy to interact with people from around the region that had never been to the Heights. I want to thank all the attendees, volunteers, HMI staff, and homeowners who opened their homes to the region. These two events have placed a great spotlight on our neighborhood. As always we have a busy summer ahead. Please note the neighborhood rummage sale on June 7th and the Boulevard Bash on Saturday August 23rd. Also, don’t forget to attend the Concerts at the Shell music series this summer on Wednesday nights and the Green Market at the Washington Park Senior Center on Sunday mornings. I want to thank you for the great opportunity to serve as the WHNA President.

Offers expire 8/30/2014

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JULY

9 16 23 30

Alex Wilson Band - Tasty originals matched with blues guitar grooves will drive you to the dance floor. Free Community Cookout with the Brewcity Bruisers Rollergirls! While supplies last!

Free Art Projects with Artists Working in Education Make and take art projects from 6:00-8:00 pm. Geared towards ages 4-14.

Christophers Project - A smooth, melodic infusion of jazz delivered by soulful musicians. Opener: Sophia’s Heart - Choir & Dance Team (Danny Gokey’s Foundation)

KT’s Universal Love Band - Be uplifted by the eclectic blend of Afro-reggae sounds and inspiring roots rhythms. Opener: Express Yourself Milwaukee - Celebrating the Creative Arts

AhVantSoul with Jon Pierre Gee and Kat Webb - A mix of classic soul, jazz-funk, R&B, and Latin music. Opener: West End Conservatory - Local Music Students

Streetlife with Warren Wiegratz - A unique blend of R&B and contemporary styles with superb vocals.

Opener: The Zen Dragonfly Nia Class - Nia is a total mind and body workout for EvErY BODY! Free Art Projects with Artists Working in Education Make and take art projects from 6:00-8:00 pm. Geared towards ages 4-14.

AUGUST

6 13

20 27

Crazy Rocket Fuel - Energetic, up tempo, retro rockabilly all-female band. Opener: running rebels - Spoken Word Poetry

Charles Walker Band - Deep grooving, high energy blues, soul, and funk fusion.

Opener: TrUE Skool - Local Hip Hop Dance Group Free Art Projects with Artists Working in Education Make and take art projects from 6:00-8:00 pm. Geared towards ages 4-14.

Groove Therapy - Dynamic classic rock and blues – a sound that can rock or soothe the soul. Opener: Express Yourself Milwaukee - Celebrating the Creative Arts

De La Buena - Milwaukee’s favorite Latin jazz orchestra.

Closer: Brewcity Fire Brigade - Fire Performance Extraordinare * Schedule subject to change. Shows go on, weather permitting. No rain dates. Visit countyparks.com for details.

Washington Heights Highlighter, Summer 2014 ❖ 5

6 ❖ Contact us at highlighter@whna.net or visit us online at www.whna.net

WHAT IS THERE TO DO AT THE 2014 BOULEVARD BASH, YOU ASK? Saturday August 23rd • 2 to 8pm by Jean Anderson

If you’ve been to the Boulevard Bash in the last few years, you already know it’s one of Washington Heights’ greatest summer parties. If you have not attended recently, you may ask, “What is there to do at the Bash?” Shop among a wide variety of local artists and crafters for handmade jewelry, paintings, candles and more. Participate in demonstrations by artists and vendors. Learn how to make your own greeting card. Try your hand at tailgate games. Place your bids at the silent auction for items donated by our artists, crafters, vendors, and area businesses. Watch for the autographed copy of John. McGivern’s video Around the Corner featuring Washington Heights! Enjoy a fish fry, corned beef sandwich, Thai and Asian-inspired food, hot dogs, and refreshing gelato – just a few of the food offerings from neighborhood restaurants. Have a seat at one of the many tables at our stage area while you eat, and enjoy music from two local bands and even a fashion show! At the opposite end of the event, enjoy performances by music students from the West End Conservatory. Purchase 50/50 raffle tickets throughout the event for your chance to win – half of the proceeds to you, half to benefit the Washington Heights Neighborhood Association. Last year’s raffle brought in a total of $858--that’s $429 for you and $429 for WHNA!

Bring the kids--there’s plenty for them to do too! Visit the always popular bounce house. Meet our friends from the Urban Ecology Center. And no summer party is complete without face painting! Create your own chalk art right on the street and win great prizes! Meet representatives from the Milwaukee Police Department and get up close to one of their amazing horses! Visit the Washington Heights information tables where you can renew your membership, learn about the Green Committee, and meet the folks from the Vliet Street Business Association. This is an event for the entire neighborhood and surrounding areas, spotlighting local talent and businesses, and of course, celebrating our great neighborhood! Watch for more details on Facebook this summer at “2014 WHNA Boulevard Bash.” If you would like to participate in the event as a volunteer, contact Jean Anderson at JeanA5822@yahoo.com. You will be put in touch with the volunteer coordinator. There are a variety of ways you can help for the day, or for just a few hours so you can still enjoy the Bash! Booth space is available for artists, crafters and local businesses. Or you may want to donate an item to the silent auction. You can also sponsor a table at the music stage. Contact JeanA5822@yahoo.com for more information. The Boulevard Bash will be held on Washington Boulevard from Hi-Mount to 53rd Street on Saturday, August 23th from 2 to 8 PM. You don’t want to miss it!!

Washington Heights Highlighter, Summer 2014 ❖ 7

Spirit of Peace is a Reconciling in Christ congregation, meaning all are welcome regardless of race, sexual orientation, gender identity or transition.

Spirit of Peace: New Name for an Old Neighbor by Barb Haig

After five years of joint mission, Divine Word and Pentecost Lutheran Church on the corner of 55th & Lloyd have consolidated to become one congregation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America. As part of the process, a fresh name was chosen to communicate the parish’s mission. The new congregation is now called Spirit of Peace Lutheran Church, and its commitment to the area remains the same. “Ministries such as the food pantry, special needs support groups and educational events will continue, as will community events including open mic nights, rummage sale, Halloween party and themed dinners,” says new pastor Tim Tahtinen. Tahtinen notes that the church also will remain active in the area through it its work with the Washington Heights Rainbow Association, Urban Ecology Center and HiMount School. “We have a group of teens who are looking for ways to serve our neighborhood so if you notice a neighbor who may need a little help, let us know,” he said. “This is a ‘Reconciling in Christ’ congregation, which means all Pastor Tim Tahtinen leads the congregation in prayer are welcome regardless of sexual and song.

orientation, gender identity or transition,” Tahtinen adds. Full inclusion of all abilities is a foundation of the congregation. Tahtinen is a recent graduate of the Lutheran School of Theology in Chicago and was a youth minister before becoming pastor. His interests include sailing, ecology, home brewing and reading.

A monthly open mic event provides a stage for budding musicians, poets and actors.

8 ❖ Contact us at highlighter@whna.net or visit us online at www.whna.net

Church Outreach and Programs Help Special Needs Community by Barb Haig

As a teenager with Asperger’s syndrome (high functioning Autism) Aaron Krause hoped to find an Eagle Scout project connected to others with special needs. Aaron’s mom, Sandy Krause, had heard many in the special needs community talk about not being welcome in church because of their child’s behaviors. Together, they’ve developed an approach that’s being implements at Spirit of Peace Lutheran Church and is serving to help other churches on Milwaukee’s west side. “When Aaron heard about the problems, he knew what his project needed to be. He created a video about inclusion – true, complete, absolute inclusion – in his church,” says Sandy. “He wanted others seeking to know that everyone, no matter their sexual orientation, gender identity, socioeconomic status or differing abilities is welcome at Spirit of Peace.” Aaron’s video, “All are Welcome,” is available on YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=oLkMVY-YLKs

ADULTS WITH AUTISM As more adults with autism in our community seek social connectedness, they are finding help on the fourth Wednesday of each month at Spirit of Peace. A 6:30 p.m. meeting allows older teens and adults on the autism spectrum to gather for social time. For more information, contact Sandy Krause at skrause20@wi.rr .com.

KERRY M Heuer

House Cleaning

SPECIAL NEEDS SUPPORT GROUP Sandy found that the video revealed another unmet need in the special needs community: No support groups on the west side of Milwaukee. “There are some support groups in the suburbs and one on the near-north side for Spanish-speaking families. But it was clear that more help was needed in the Washington Heights and Wauwatosa area,” Sandy says. The group is open to anyone with special needs children and meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at Spirit of Peace. Children and teens can come with their parents and play in the playroom next to the parents meeting area or visit another room with couches and chair also next to the meeting room. Sandy says social opportunities are important for special needs kids, so this offers a direct reward to the children. A glass wall between these rooms creates an ideal way to supervise yet provide a separate setting for the kids and teens.

414-688-7526 heuerkm@gmail.com

BEHIND EVERY PROJECT IS A TRUE VALUE

Puhl’s True Value Hardware, Inc.

1525 N. 68th St. Wauwatosa, WI 53213 Phone: (414) 476-0833

Aaron Krause’s Boy Scout project at Spirit of Peace involves helping churches learn to work with people who have special needs.

Friendly, Knowledgeable Staff Pipe Cutting and Threading Window & Screen Repair Lock Re-Keying

Custom Paint Mixing Key and Glass Cutting Small Engine Repair Many Other Seervices

M–F 8:00AM – 8:00PM SAT 8:00AM – 5:00PM SUN 10:00AM – 3:00PM

Celebrating 42 Years in Business Washington Heights Highlighter, Summer 2014 ❖ 9

The Milwaukee Area Time Exchange In The Heights

Nurture, Nature, Knowledge Hi! My a childcare Myname nameisisCathi CathiMcArthur McArthurand andI operate I operate a childcare in the the lower lower unit unit of of our our duplex. duplex. In Inorder orderto toprovide providequality quality one-on-one attention attention II only only care care for for up up to tofour fourchildren childrenatat time.Since SinceI do I do many pre-kindergarten activities, one time. many pre-kindergarten activities, the the ages I accept are eighteen and older. ages I accept are one year andmonths up. I have several years’ experience in the Day Care field and have also been a Nanny for families in the Milwaukee area. I’ve completed training in Childcare I, II, Family Day Care, and CPR for infants and toddlers. I love helping children use their imagination, build their confidence, explore nature and instill a love of learning and reading books. I’m also the proud Auntie of three nieces and three nephews! Please call to set up an appointment to visit my unique Childcare Center. We’re conveniently located eight blocks from Wauwatosa on Lloyd Street near the Highway 41 freeway entrance. Auntie Cathi’s Cathi’s Childcare Childcare Auntie 2046 N. 52nd St. • (414) 2046 N. 52nd St258-9885 Milwaukee, WI Milwaukee, WI 53208 auntiecathischildcare.com (414) 258-9885

by Joan Janus

The WHNA Green Committee hosted The Milwaukee Area Time Exchange on May 13th at the Washington Park Urban Ecology Center. It was an opportunity, for those who attended, to learn about the Time Exchange and to get involved. We learned that members earn time credits providing services for other members and they in turn spend those time credits on anyone else’s service in the database. The Time Exchange was founded in Milwaukee in 2009. It now has over 800 members who offer a wide variety of services. Just to give you an idea, here’s a short list; bike repair, home repair, computer repair, childcare, eldercare, pet care, gardening, language lessons, physical fitness, job/interview skills, graphic arts, tutoring, gift wrapping, bread baking cleaning, transportation and much more. It doesn’t cost anything to join and it would be great to have more neighbors right here in the Heights to exchange with. For more information contact Debbie Davis at 414-305-9505, mketimeexchange@gmail.com, www.mketimeexchange.org.

THE WONDER BAR It’s Historic SINCE 1896 Open at 2pm with daily drink specials Best heated patio in Milwaukee s! t u n a e p e We h av 5520 W. Vliet Street • Milwaukee, WI • 414.257.9112 10 ❖ Visit us online at www.whna.net

Milwaukee Public Library

Read this summer at the Washington Park Library by Dan Kentowski Washington Park Branch Manager Summer is about enjoying the outdoors and some time off from the rigors of a school schedule. It’s a great time to encourage kids to read just for fun. In fact, reading just 15 minutes a day over the summer can help a child retain and even improve reading skills. The best way to encourage this is by helping children find books they like. Your neighborhood library is a great place to start.

SIGN-UP YOUR SUPER READERS Bring your child to Washington Park Library, or any Milwaukee Public Library to sign-up for the free Super Reader Summer Reading program which runs until August 28th. Children track time spent reading on their own or being read to and report reading progress at the library to earn special rewards including free or reduced admission to a Brewers game, the Milwaukee Public Museum, MIlwaukee County pools, the Petit Center, First Stage Children’s Theater and many more. Children receive a yard sign just for signing up. Watch for signs adorning many Washington Heights lawns this summer. There’s also a special program just for teens - Put Your Face in a Book. Teens log books read online and can be eligible to win one of 13 kindles awarded in a drawing.

SUPERHERO ACADEMY Bring your little Super Readers into the library on Tuesday, June 17th from 6:30-7:30 pm for a little Super Hero fun, snacks, costumes and activities. Free summer programs take place every Tuesday at 1:00 and 2:15 pm at Washington Park. PIck up a Calendar of Events for the complete schedule.

ATTEND A PLAY & LEARN Every Saturday at 10:30 am, Washington Park library hosts a free Play & Learn program for families with young children featuring imaginative play and a story. Each week has a different theme from Kindermusik to camping. See you at the library this summer. You can also find information at www.mpl.org/SummerReading or on MPL’s Facebook page and Twitter handle @MilwaukeePubLib.

Generously Supported By:

RICKIE WEEKS #23 INFIELDER

Be a Super Reader This Summer!

The 2014 Milwaukee Public Library Super Reader program is underway! Children up to age 12 can read to earn coupons for a free Cousins mini-sub, Pizza Hut personal pizza, and free or reduced admissions to fun places around town. Teens can read books as part of the “Put Your Face in a Book” reading program and earn food coupons, an MPL stylus pen and a free book. Stop in any Milwaukee Public Library for a copy of the reading folder and suggestions from a librarian for great books to read this summer. You can join anytime, and everyone is welcome to the Washington Park Library Kick-off event on Tuesday, June 17, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Go to www.mpl.org/SummerReading for more information.

Washington Heights Highlighter, Summer 2014 ❖ 11

UPCOMING EVENTS JUNE TUESDAY, JUNE 3, 10, 17, 24 NOW WE PRAISE

(runs through Aug. 26th) 6 – 9pm Washington Park Bandshell

SATURDAY, JUNE 14 SWIMMING LESSON SIGN UP

10am– noon Washington Park Pool

SUNDAY, JUNE 15, 22, 29 VLIET STREET COMMUNITY GREEN MARKET 10am– 2pm Washington Park Senior Center (runs through Oct. 26th)

THURSDAY, JUNE 19 WASHINGTON HEIGHTS NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION (WHNA) BOARD MEETING 6 – 8pm St. Sebastian’s Community Room

SATURDAY, JUNE 21 SUMMER SOLSTICE & WASHINGTON PARK POOL OPENS TUESDAY, JUNE 24 SWIMMING LESSONS BEGIN

(through Aug. 19th) 10:30 – 11:15am Washington Park Pool

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 25 RAINBOW ASSOCIATION MEETING

7pm • Contact Terry Coughlin for more information • terri.coughlin@sbcglobal.net

JULY TUESDAY, JULY 1, 8,15, 22, 29 NOW WE PRAISE

6 – 9pm Washington Park Bandshell

WEDNESDAY, JULY 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 WEDNESDAYS AT THE SHELL IN WASHINGTON PARK (runs through Aug. 27th) 6 – 9pm Washington Park Bandshell

SUNDAY, JULY 6, 13, 20, 27 VLIET STREET COMMUNITY GREEN MARKET

10am– 2pm Washington Park Senior Center

THURSDAY, JULY 17 WASHINGTON HEIGHTS NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION (WHNA) BOARD MEETING 7 – 8pm St. Sebastian’s Community Room

AUGUST SUNDAY, AUGUST 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 VLIET STREET COMMUNITY GREEN MARKET

10am– 2pm Washington Park Senior Center

TUESDAY, AUGUST 5, 12,19, 26 NOW WE PRAISE

6 – 9pm Washington Park Bandshell

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 6, 13, 20, 27 WEDNESDAYS AT THE SHELL IN WASHINGTON PARK 6 – 9pm Washington Park Bandshell

THURSDAY, AUGUST 21 WASHINGTON HEIGHTS NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION (WHNA) BOARD MEETING 7 – 8pm St. Sebastian’s Community Room

SATURDAY, AUGUST 23, RUN BACK TO SCHOOL, 5K RUN & 1.5 MILE WALK 9am Wick Playfield

SATURDAY, AUGUST 23, BOULEVARD BASH 2 – 8pm Washington Blvd., from Hi-Mount to 53rd

SEPTEMBER SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 14, 21, 28 VLIET STREET COMMUNITY GREEN MARKET 10am– 2pm Washington Park Senior Center

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 WASHINGTON HEIGHTS NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION (WHNA) BOARD MEETING 7 – 8pm St. Sebastian’s Community Room

community Contacts

highlighter Contacts

The deadline to submit articles and ads for the fall issue of the Highlighter is Wednesday, August 20.

ADVERTISING INFORMATION ��advertising@whna.net WHNA VOICE MAIL �� 297.9617 HIGHLIGHTER EDITOR �� janeekonkel@gmail.com or 949.1577 HIGHLIGHTER DISTRIBUTION �� 771.7977 RAINBOW ASSOCIATION �� 258.2991 membership@whna.net; volunteer@whna.net; adartwork@whna.net

THIRD DISTRICT NON-EMERGENCY �� 933.4444 CRIME PREVENTION ��935.7733 GRAFFITI HOTLINE �� 286.8715 BLOCK WATCH �� 588.5619

12 ❖ Contact us at highlighter@whna.net or visit us online at www.whna.net

Summer at the UEC by Marie Charles Young Scientists Club member

Spending some time at the Urban Ecology Center (UEC) during summertime is always tons of fun! There are a multitude of cool activities people can participate in, including the following: Canoeing – Washington Park has many beautiful features, one of which is a lagoon that we spend lots of time canoeing and fishing in. The lagoon also has a few islands that we like to canoe out to and explore. Hiking – The scenery here in Washington Park is beautiful, and we often take hikes through the park to do things such as bird watching, or we might stop and take a break to play some games like hide-and-seek, tag, etc. Gardening – The UEC has its own little gardens and planting centers where everybody can help us grow multiple different fruits, vegetables, and herbs. On some days we cook, often using the food we have grown ourselves! Along with these activities, we also go on fieldtrips on the weekends to places such as festivals, nature reserves, or other parks that have branches of the UEC in them. In conclusion, a summer spent at the UEC is definitely something you’ll enjoy.

Attention Area 1! Save the Date for Spooktacular Saturday, October 25 from 6:30-8:30pm

This year’s nighttime trick or treating event will take place in Area 1 (Vliet Street to Washington Boulevard, the east and west sides of 51st Street to 47th Street). Begin planning now for a night of spooktaular good times! Complete participation details for Area 1 residents will be included in the fall edition of the Highlighter, along with event registration information and more.

Planning for this year’s event will begin in August and many volunteers are needed for one of the neighborhood’s largest annual events. Please contact Heidi Steeno, Spooktacular chair, if you would like to volunteer or contribute to this year’s event (send an email to hssteeno@sbcglobal.net or mobile phone 920.639.1476).

Washington Heights Highlighter, Summer 2014 ❖ 13

Sharehouse Goods and Fathead Jerky: North Avenue’s New Power Couple by Matt O’Neill

Good things come in twos. Twinkies, socks, weekend days, animals on the Ark, Laverne and Shirley, Chia Pets (buy one get one free!), good Rocky movies, ends of the Chunnel. Etc., etc. Now, add Fathead Jerky and Sharehouse Goods to the list. This dynamic duo has revivified the old Hartter’s Bakery, and is providing a broader spark to the entire North Avenue business corridor. Readers may recall the tireless efforts by the Uptown Crossing Business Improvement District to entice buyers for the vacant Brittany and Mark dishing out the Goods

Hartter’s buildings. The BID’s persistence finally paid off when Heights resident John Mueller and his business partner, Sherman Park resident Jarod Cronk , bought the buildings in 2013. Mueller and Cronk used the BID loan funds to help bring the old bakery out of mothballs (and cobwebs; big cobwebs). After months of hard work, the duo succeeded. The new businesses are located at 5507-5513 W. North Avenue. The left building houses Jarod’s business, Sharehouse Goods; the right houses Fathead Jerky. Each is a unique addition to the Washington Heights landscape; together they are beyond unique. Where else in the world can you go to get a good latte, a Star Wars lunchbox, Buffalo Bob’s alligator jerky, a bottle of Fire House Hot Sauce, and rent a commercial kitchen? Nowhere else. Let’s take a look at each business. Sharehouse Goods is an online resale business and a coffeehouse. Let me explain. A few years back, Jarod and his wife, Bethany, sold some old books online. Turns out, they were good at it. The part-time operation burgeoned, and Jarod soon left his job to run the business full-time. When the Hartter’s buildings became available, he saw a great opportunity to use the space to store product and operate the pick-pack-ship part of the business. Today, Sharehouse not only sells items Jarod finds at rummage sales, but it partners with local residents and businesses to provide them with an avenue to sell

The Sharehouse Crew - Aaron, Taylor, Mark, Brittany, and Jarod

14 ❖ Contact us at highlighter@whna.net or visit us online at www.whna.net

globally. Jarod explains: “We connect people who have things to sell but are without the markets or means to sell them. We love sharing profit, and keeping the money in our community!” But what to do with that spacious storefront? Jarod and John put their finger to the wind of the neighborhood and concluded that a coffee shop would be a perfect complement to the North Avenue vibe. So they went to work and created an astonishingly nice space – roomy, nice tables, a work counter, and tables and walls filled with captivating resale goods, including everything from toys to games to books to George Foreman grills. And, the coffee is really good.

Fathead Jerky is a jerky shop and commercial kitchen. Let me explain. McBob’s is the best. We all love the corned beef, and they have Sriracha on every table. The tacos are killer (though not in the Lego Movie sense). But the McBob’s kitchen was not up to the task of serving Milwaukee’s healthy appetite for awesomeness. So owner Chris McRoberts, a member of the BID Board (and the gracious host for its monthly meetings) grabbed the opportunity to rent the Hartter’s space to create a satellite kitchen for McBob’s. The new operation is so smooth that McRoberts now offers up the commercial kitchen space for part-time rentals. The Dangerous Ghost Pepper Jerky & Fathead’s very own Texas Fire jerky

But what to do with that spacious storefront? Chris and her nephew, Taylor McRoberts, brainstormed. They had seen a jerky store in another city, and were intrigued. In meat-loving Milwaukee, we did not have one. It was a crying need. And so Fathead Jerky was born – named in honor of Taylor’s oversized noggin. Fathead sells a dozen brands of jerky, including its own Fathead label, available in Original, Teriyaki, Pepper, Texas Heat, Texas Heat Habanero, and Chipotle Lime. Four brands are made right here in Wisconsin, including the enticing Leroy’s Meats Mango Habenero Jerky and Wayne’s Ghost Pepper Jerky (which should come with its own “I Survived” t-shirt). In addition to delectable dried meats, Fathead offers a wide variety of hot sauces, spices, mustards and cheeses. In short, Fathead has everything you will need to create the perfect picnic basket for the Washington Park Bandshell Concerts this summer. Couple that basket with a George Foreman grill and an iced coffee from Fathead neighbor Sharehouse, and it could just be the perfect Washington Heights summer evening. Like any good young couple, Sharehouse Goods and Fathead Jerky hold hands, and they just shared a grand opening on May 10, 2014. Much coffee was sipped, and much jerky chewed. The businesses are doing well on their honeymoon, and the positive word of mouth will continue to spread. If you like duets, make sure you stop by soon. And then stop by a second time.

Call us today to discuss your project!

Home Remodeling Interior and Exterior

Building Maintenance New Construction Contact us today to discuss your project!

414.933.0393 trmartinbuilders@me.com

Home Remodeling (Interior & Exterior) Building Maintenance • New Construction

414.588.5619 trmartinbuilders@me.com

Washington Heights Highlighter, Summer 2014 ❖ 15

Target Harden Your Home by Gary Haertlein

Residential burglars know many of us are lax when it comes to home security. While there is no guarantee that you will not be the victim of a crime regardless of the precautions taken, simple measures can discourage a burglar so they will look elsewhere. To deter, delay, deny, or detect a burglar: • Always lock your doors and windows even when leaving for “just a minute.” Sash windows can be “pinned” to prevent someone from forcing open (see Pinning, p. 17). Sliding doors and windows should either be drilled and pinned or secured with a patio door lock. Basement windows can be nailed/ screwed shut, barred, or glass blocked. • Never leave a house key under a doormat, in a flower pot, or on the ledge of a door.

WHEN AWAY FOR ANY LENGTH OF TIME:

• Exterior doors should have a one-inch deadbolt lock that can only be opened with a key. Replace soft, rotted door frames with new, solid wood. • Make sure the entire perimeter of your home is well-lit, especially front and back door areas. Lights should be out of reach from ground level. • Trim all shrubbery and trees which obstruct a clear view of the entrances and windows of your home. • If your residence has a jimmied door or a broken window, don’t go in. Confronting a burglar can be dangerous. Instead, call 9-1-1. Let a police officer ensure your safety. • Do not leave the porch light on during the day. • NEVER open the door to strangers. Always ask for identification before opening the door.

• Use timers so that lights, radio, and TV go on and off at various times throughout the house to indicate that someone may be home.

• Draw and/or close all curtains, blinds, and shutters at night and when away.

• Have someone you trust collect, daily mail, newspapers, and other deliveries.

• Do not leave notes on your door indicating you are out or when you will return.

• Give neighbor your trip plans and an emergency phone number. • Ask a neighbor to use your garbage cans, mow your lawn, shovel your walk or park in your driveway. • Don’t advertise on social media websites when you will be traveling.

• Make sure all side and back gates are closed and well locked.

• Do not keep your cash and jewelry in predictable places like nightstands or drawers. • Move valuables (laptops, electronics, purse, and keys) away from outside view and off of countertops, hooks, chairs next to entry ways.

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• Keep garage doors closed and locked, even when close by. “Pin” the overhead door track so it cannot be forced open. • Invest in an alarm system; if you have an alarm system, be sure to use it. Inexpensive battery door and detector alarms are a deterrent. • Mark electronics, tools, mowers, snow blowers, etc. with your driver’s license number. An engraving tool can be borrowed from the police department. Keep a record of all serial numbers, receipts, inventory list, take pictures so police can return recovered items and claim can be filed with insurance. Be active on your block, and get to know your neighbors; they are your best crime deterrent. They may spot a burglar before you ever know someone is attempting to enter your home. Watch your neighbors’ houses as you would your own. Be watchful of area businesses as well. You are the eyes and ears for the police. Be cognizant of suspicious activity on streets, sidewalks, and alleys. Trust your instincts. Don’t worry about bothering the police – that is why they are there. Don’t worry if your suspicions prove unfounded. Provide as much information as possible to help officers identify the suspect or connect to patterns of other reported activity (see Reporting Suspicious Activity, below.) Copies of PCSD-25 “Target Harden your Home,” PCSD-22 “What is Suspicious,” and PCSD-90 “OPERATION I.D., Property Inventory” can be obtained from Dist. 3 Community Liaison Officer. Also visit: http://www.wicrimeprevention.com/?page_id=789. The “Handouts/ Pamphlets” section on this site, provide additional details.

PINNING Pinning can be easily done in double hung windows by drilling an angled hole through the top frame of the lower window into the frame of the upper window. Eye bolts or nails can then be inserted into the holes. A second hole can be drilled in the upper window frame so that with “pin” inserted the window can be partially opened, but not enough for someone to climb in.

REPORTING SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY District 3 Non-emergency number is 933.4444, when menu options start enter “9” so that the call goes to communicator and gets recorded. Information needed by police: What happened? When? Where? Is anyone injured? Vehicle description and license number? Direction of flight? Description of persons?

Washington Heights Highlighter, Summer 2014 ❖ 17

Meet Your Neighbors: ONE HUNDRED TWENTY by Jon Rupprecht

If you take a look at Samantha Whitefeather’s blog – and I highly recommend it (see link below right) – you’ll see this number at the very beginning. It’s the number of fingers and toes in her household! A tenth child was born to Samantha Whitefeather and Brendan O’Naughton on April 15th. They named her Aislinn Papaakine. If that name puzzles you, that’s because it’s Ojibirish. If that explanation makes you even more puzzled, take another look at her parents’ names. Aislinn’s mom is Ojibwe Indian and her dad is Irish. Together that makes Ojibirish! Their tenth child’s first name is Irish, pronounced ash-LEEN, and it means dream or vision. Aislinn’s middle name, Papaakine (pronounced pa-PAH-kee-neh), is an Ojibwe name for cricket. You’ll see her referred to as “Our Little Cricket” on Samantha’s blog. When Brendan and Samantha met, he had 3 children from his first marriage, and Samantha had 2. They became acquainted when

each had a daughter attending kindergarten at the Elm Creative Arts School near 10th and Walnut. Brendan and Samantha got married in 2007. While Samantha grew up in Milwaukee, her dad grew up on the Red Lake Indian Reservation, just north of Bemidji, Minnesota. He moved to Milwaukee as a teen. Brendan grew up right here in the Heights, and in fact his parents once owned the home where they now live. Brendan’s story is, well, unusual! As a sophomore at Rufus King High School he took his SAT test and apparently did quite well. He received offers from various colleges, including the 400-student Simons Rock College in Great Barrington, Massachusetts, which caught his fancy. So he left Rufus King after that sophomore year, at age 16, and enrolled at Simons Rock. One might expect a full academic future after such a stellar start, but Brendan never finished college. Instead, he went into business with his mother and formed a company eventually called “Action Pact”. Their business supplies consultants for nursing homes, to enable them to re-structure themselves into a “household model”, with smaller, self-contained units where the same staff always serves the same residents in a setting that is somewhat like a family, more personal than institutional. While Action Pact now has consultants in play all across America, Brendan’s mother and others in the company do most of the traveling, leaving Brendan more time to be with his family. Samantha earned a degree in political science from UWM, but motherhood kept her from utilizing it to any serious extent. On her blog she writes, “One of the most amazing aspects of blending a family is being able to look back and see just how far you have all grown together. Our unique family of 12 has been a lovely work in progress for the past ten years. Sometimes it is

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The State of Real Estate in Washington Heights by Mary Jumes, CRS

Back row: Ruari (holding Saoirse), Sidhe (holding Aislínn), Maija (holding Oisín); Front row: Oscar, Finn, Nuala, Micah

I am once again honored with the request to provide a report of our area “market”, as your neighbor & realtor. From a year ago, I can report that inventory is down and sales are solid. Our foreclosures & short sales seem to be on a downturn which is favorable sign for our neighborhood. Upon submission of this article, as posted in the MLS (Multiple Listing Service), there are currently 47 active properties on the market; 24 single families (seven with an AO), 22 duplexes (ten with accepted offers), and only 1 commercial property. 28 properties have gone to closing since the start of the year, and in total (active, pending, and sold) only 11 are short sales or foreclosure sales. While we continue to have a wide range of property options with prices for a city foreclosure as low as $15,200 to a fabulous historic home for just over $300 thousand, the Washington Heights still offers great opportunities in real estate. Of course, it’s still important to consult with your real estate professional to discuss the current market and how it impacts your property.

a piece of cake. Other times I need to eat a piece of cake just to make it through. Either way, it is always sweet! We are so proud of all that we have been able to accomplish together in such a seemingly short period of time. . . . Each and every day is the adventure of a life time, as we tackle the ups and downs of trying to raise these amazingly special individuals. We are so lucky to be a part of this extraordinary and dynamic family. For now, all I can say is this: I am in love. I am falling in love all over again. With Aislinn, with Brendan, with every single one of our kids, with our entire family. It’s really quite simple, it’s love.” I won’t try to top that with any more words here. But since a picture is worth a thousand words, I’ve included a few photos from Samantha’s blog, mentioned earlier. It is a collection of truly beautiful photography, much of it connected with Aislinn’s recent birth, but the flowers decorating the photos are a true work of art, as are the photos themselves. There are more comments from Samantha – learn about the twins! – plus you get to see the various individuals who make up this wonderful Washington Heights family. So for the rest of the story, it’ll be well worth a few seconds to type in the following blog address and see for yourself! http://ojibirish. blogspot.com/2014/04/our-little-cricket. html?m=1 .

Washington Heights Highlighter, Summer 2014 ❖ 19

SPACES & TRACES in review photos by Dan Schley

The tour included a talk about the architectural and social history of Washington height by author and historian, John Gurda.

This Craftsman-style bungalow was built in 1916 for $5,000

Rudy & Antonia Schier raised six children in this brick-clad Craftsman-style bungalow, built in 1923.

This house, with its unique green roof, was part of the tour.

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DID YOU KNOW by Debbie Knepke

• Opening Day of the Washington Park Bandshell brought 40,000 people to the park. • According to Washington Park Branch Manager Willie Karidis, crime in Washington Park has decreased 53% since the Urban Ecology Center came onto the scene. • Known as “America’s Dairyland,” Wisconsin produces more than 2.5 billion pounds of cheese each year. • If you drink eight glasses of water a day from bottled water, you spend $2,190 a year. Drink eight glasses of Milwaukee tap water every day for a year for 73 cents. • The American Civil Liberties Union of Wisconsin in February filed a lawsuit in federal court seeking to overturn the state’s ban on same-sex marriage, arguing it violates the U.S. Constitution’s guarantee of equal treatment under the law and denies basic rights to LGBT couples.

Joyce Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc.

414-774-2446

• Washington Heights was the featured neighborhood in John McGivern’s Around the Corner. Visit http://www.mptv.org/video/watch/?id=6808

Jeffery Joyce Licensed · Bonded · Insured 5020 West Vliet St · Milwaukee, WI 53208

• The Milwaukee area ranked third in volunteerism among 51 of the nation’s largest metropolitan areas, according to a study using the U.S. Census Bureau information. An average, 33.6% of local residents volunteer at least once a year. Visit www.VolunteeringinAmerica.com

INSTALLATION · 24 HOUR SERVICE

• WHNA Past President Ed Szopinski is the 2014 recipient of the WHNA Mary Gibeaut Volunteer Service Award. • Cheese curds are the finished product of cheddar, before it is made into blocks. The curds are mild in flavor and squeaky to the teeth when fresh. • The Washington Park Zoological Gardens was founded after the city purchased the land in 1891. To see some great video clips from 1941, visit http://www.martin-drive.org/washington_park_zoo.html • Be sure to like our page at www.facebook.com/WHNA. Milwaukee • Milwaukee Area Time Exchange is a network of neighbors building safe and vibrant communities through the exchange of our greatest natural resources: our knowledge, skills and talents. One hour of service equals one time credit, exchangeable for other members’ services. Members might provide a music lesson, take care of someone’s pet, do a home repair, volunteer at a community center, or help someone get to a doctor’s appointment. Visit www.mketimeexchange.org • I am looking for fun and interesting tidbits about our neighborhood for this quarterly column. If you have something to share, email it to me at debbiek83@aol.com.

sins forgiven weekly Sunday Worship at 8:30 & 11:00 AM Saturday Worship at 6:00 PM Sunday Broadcast on WJYI AM-1340 at 9:00 AM

Mount Olive lutheran church

5327 W Washington Blvd

414.774.2200

Milwaukee, WI 53208

www.mtolivemke.org

Washington Heights Highlighter, Summer 2014 ❖ 21

Blooming & Grooming in the Heights

Shelter Real Estate.com With HUNDREDS of homes SOLD in Washington Heights! Call Tim 414.258.3570

Tim Stemper, Owner - Broker - Advisor T i m @ S h e l t e r R e a l E s t a t e. com

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Dog Ma

Pets improve our lives in the Washington Heights by Laura Burke Good manners don’t just occur in our pets. Owner needs to take responsibility for helping their dog learn good behavior and house manners. That means spending time training the dog, and rewarding him for appropriate behaviors. Remember that dogs are continually looking to their owners for cues. You should reward positive behaviors, and to discourage negative ones. Provide your dog with lots of opportunities to display good behavior and praise him or her whenever they do the right thing. The positive reinforcement leads to repetition of the desired behaviors. One of my dog sitting clients, complained his dogs were destroying the house, chewing rugs, pulling down the blinds, and generally getting into things daily. After a few questions, I found out he had been working a lot of hours and weekends. I discussed the value of interesting treat stuffed toys. I’m not an advocate of bones or rawhides while a dog is not attended because, of the choking hazard. There are a lot of toys on the market that small treats can be inserted into, and when played with, treats fall out. Kongs (a brand of treat stuffed toys) can be frozen with yogurt and a small amount of peanut butter mixed in, to make a long lasting treat. Also, I talked with him about how much exercise his pets were getting. It turns out they were not getting any, just potty time three times a day. This was a big problem! Pets need exercise! Pets are a big part of our lives, and we need to make sure we work them into

our daily routine. My suggestion was to take them on his daily runs. He took my advice and slowly worked them up to 3 miles. The results were amazing; they were tired and Me & occupied with Tuck the treat toys to play with, and no longer destructive. Provide exercise every day, a tired dog is a well-behaved dog. Throw a ball with your dog, go for long walks, give your dog a good exercise session before you leave for work in the morning. And there is also day care or hiring a pet sitter. My clients comment on how tired Jackson their pets are after a day with me. I make sure they come home tired. Also enroll in a good training class that focuses on praise and other means of positive reinforcement. Bark at you again soon!

Paterno

Hank Washington Heights Highlighter, Summer 2014 ❖ 23

My foster parent is there for me 24/7.

Be a kid hero. Be a treatment foster parent. On any given day in Wisconsin, 6,000 children are living in foster care while their families take time to heal. When children must leave their homes, either temporarily or permanently, they need to be part of a secure and loving family. Become a treatment foster parent for children with emotional, behavioral, physical or medical challenges.w For more information, call (414) KID-HERO or visit kidhero.chw.org. We will not refuse an application or deny approval based on race, religion or sexual orientation.

kidhero.chw.org