whna.net
THE MAGAZINE OF THE WHNA Summer 2018
NEW BUSINESSES ON VLIET pages 6 & 14 WASHINGTON PARK WEDNESDAYS page 8 LOTS TO DO AT THE LIBRARY page 16 and more!
WHNA 2018-2019 board of directors PRESIDENT Ann Navin The Highlighter is a quarterly publication of the Washington Heights Neighborhood Association. Washington Heights includes Highway 175 to North 60th Street and from Vliet Street to North Ave. You can expect your Fall Highlighter in early October. To submit an article, please contact Jane at janeekonkel@gmail.com.
Jane Konkel
LAYOUT & DESIGN ADVERTISING MANAGER Lynita Wolf Laura Burke Kate Flood Barb Haig Mary Jumes Debbie Knepke
TREASURER John Augustyniak 467.3146
AREA 8 Andy Robinson
SECRETARY Josh Roberts 262.385.1775
AREA 9 Vacant
REPRESENTATIVES
AT-LARGE EVEN YEARS Eric Anderson 771.7977 Dan Caruso 773.405.7071 Josh Roberts 262.385.1775
AREA 1 Vacant
AREA 4 Sarah Drilias
CONTRIBUTORS Beth Lappen Ann Navin Josh Roberts Jon Rupprecht Leah Sealey
559-6773
839.5233
AREA 5 Beth & Mike Lappen 727.0345
DISTRIBUTION Mary McGrath
477.9528
AREA 7 Tom Rutenbeck 453.3453
AREA 3 Patrick Simonis 262.844.6232
Nicole Julius
AREA 6 Ann Navin
VICE PRESIDENT Sarah Drillas 839.5233
AREA 2 Trent Muller
EDITOR
477.9528
414.217.1571
COLLATORS Thanks to all who help us collate and deliver the Highlighter. The next collation will be at Pop! on Wednesday, October 3, 2018.
ADVERTISER INDEX Shelter Real Estate.............................4 Fred's Frozen Custard & Grill...............4 Washington Park Wednesdays........ 8-9 First Weber Realty • Mary Jumes......11 Focus Credit Union............................12 Himalayan Yoga & Meditation............13 St. James Lutheran Church...............14 Law Offices of Isabell M. Mueller......15 Landing at Hoyt Park.........................15 First Weber Realty • Paul Barsch......18 Barcelona.........................................20 Stella's.............................................20 hué restaurant..................................20
2 ❖ Contact us at highlighter@whna.net or visit us online at www.whna.net
745.9463
OTHER REP YOUTH OPEN SENIOR OPEN COMMITTEES
AT-LARGE ODD YEARS John Augustyniak 467.3146 Matthew Mangerson 258.2991 LIAISONS VLIET ST. Pat Mueller
RAINBOW ASSOCIATION John Elliot 414.248-3270
933.5589
NEIGHBORHOOD SAFETY Beth Lappen 727.0345 COMMUNICATIONS John Augustyniak 467.3146 GREEN COMMITTEE Beth Lappen 727.0345 HOUSING/APPEARANCE Tom Rutenbeck 453.3453 MEMBERSHIP Mary McGrath
258.2991
WHNA PHONE NUMBER: 939.4622
AREA 8 HOSTS 2018 SPOOKTACULAR
FROM THE
PRESIDENT by Ann Navin WHNA President
whna.net
Happy Summer! Hopefully it is here to stay, and that everyone is gearing up to get out and enjoy the best time to be in Milwaukee. We’re excited about the free music each week! The WHNA is proud to be a sponsor again this year for the Washington Park Wednesdays concert series. It’s a great way to spend a Wednesday evening with neighbors, food trucks, theme nights and of course live music. Check it out from June 27 – August 29 at the Washington Park band shell (facebook.com/ wpwmke). Don’t forget about other neighborhood summer fun too – take a walk, arrange or attend a block/alley party, do some shopping and dine along Vliet Street and North Avenue, watch a movie at the Times, volunteer for the Boulevard Bash, or enjoy a beverage at your favorite neighborhood establishment (there are several to choose from!). The summer also starts the new fiscal year for the WHNA, and the end of my term as board president. I’ve enjoyed working with the board and meeting neighbors old and new over the past two years. I encourage you to meet your area representative (or become one for Area 6) or volunteer on a committee: Green, Housing and Appearance, Membership, or Neighborhood Safety. We always welcome extra helping hands collating and delivering the Highlighter each quarter as well. Contact a committee chair or anyone on the board to find out more (contact info is inside the front cover of this Highlighter). We are a volunteer organization and couldn’t do what we do without the support, time, and talents of our membership. Two words hardly do it justice, but truly, deeply and heartfelt – thank you!
THE MAGAZINE OF THE WHNA Fall 2017
Voting Information
YOUR PHOTO HERE!
SPOOKTACULAR page 4
The bash was a smash! page 8 Step up to the barre page 12
Washington Park Wednesdays Wrap-UP page 14 Calendar of events page 19 and more!
Washington Heights Highlighter, Fall 2017
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1
The library is now a one-stop shop to update your voting information. Recently installed kiosks allow you to register to vote in the next election or update your address or name if it’s changed since you last voted. Trained library staff can help if you have questions.
You could be the next Highlighter cover photographer! on’t forget to submit your best fall D Heights' photos for consideration – on Facebook or to janeekonkel@gmail.com. HAVE A NEIGHBORHOOD EVENT YOU’D LIKE TO INCLUDE IN OUR FALLT 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.
The deadline to submit articles and ads for the fall issue of the Highlighter is Wednesday, September 12, 2018. Washington Heights Highlighter, Summer 2018 ❖ 3
RECYCLING IN THE CITY
recycling bins meant for plastic grocery bags. • Follow this link to find out where you can drop off your plastic recyclables:: https://www. plasticfilmrecycling. org/recycling-bagsand-wraps/plastic-filmeducation-individuals/ learn-whats-recyclable/ • The heavier grocery bags (Sendiks or Metcalfs) may be accepted at your local food pantries. Give them a call. • The single use T-shirt bag that is not accepted in Milwaukee’s recyclables can be reused, or cut into strips to make “plarn” which can be crocheted into many repurposed items. Ask a member of WHNA for more information.
by Pat Kennedy & Beth Lappen WHNA Green Committee
WHAT CANNOT GO INTO OUR CITY RECYCLING BINS? Learn the Dirty Dozen (City of Milwaukee top items that can’t be recycled.) • No Plastic Bags Nor Wraps, No Tanglers (cords,etc) • No Plastics #3 #6 #7 • No window glass, glass bulbs nor mirrors. • No Bubble Wrap Nor Air Cushions – Reuse them or cut them down, squeeze the air out, and set them aside for your next trip to the grocery store — you can drop them into
Shelter Real Estate.com With HUNDREDS of homes SOLD in Washington Heights! Call Tim 414.258.3570
WHAT TO DO WITH ALL THAT PACKAGING? • Cardboard, including shiny or glossy, can be recycled. • Staples and tape are not problems—they’ll come out in the screens during the sorting process. If you can tear off wads of tape, please do, but removing staples is unnecessary. • Paper mailers can go in city cart after removing the plastic padding inside. Or contact the shipping company to identify the type of mailer they used. Some are recyclable some are not.
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
Sizzlin' since '67
HOW CAN WE LOWER OUR IMPACT ON LANDFILLS? • Use Recyclable Mailers • The United States Postal Service has many recyclable packing options. Check the shipping options out on line. • When ordering through Amazon click on “FrustrationFree-Packaging”. • This is packaging that is made of 100% recyclable materials, easy to open, and designed to ship products in their original packaging, which eliminates the need for an additional shipping box. • Check out the UPS carbon neutral program. Using a “Carbon Neutral Shipping” option, any UPS customer can direct the company to offset the carbon footprint of a shipment by paying a fee. Fees range from 5 cents for ground packages to 75 cents for international packages.
AND REMEMBER TO:
s ’ d re
f
Grill tard & n Cus Froze
• Take advantage of the City of Milwaukee Recycling Center • Take advantage of recycling bins in stores. (Make this a weekly habit) • Take advantage of WHNA’s Clean and Green Days. • Support the Statewide effort to ban plastic bags • Sow seeds of change
4726 W. Vliet Street (414) 771-6270
Educate yourself on the environmental impact of plastics.
4 ❖ Contact us at highlighter@whna.net or visit us online at www.whna.net
Washington Heights Highlighter, Summer 2018 ❖ 5
THAT’S DANDY!
Photo by Dahli Durley
by Jon Rupprecht
6  �   Contact us at highlighter@whna.net or visit us online at www.whna.net
What’s dandy? A new business about to open in the Heights. “Dandyâ€? is its name, and so is its story. Meet Jess Anderson and Ryan Day. You may have already met Jess, when she was manager at Valentine. Soon she will be Jessica Day. She and Ryan will be married at their new business on August 18th; they’ll be partners in business and in life. Their new business will fill the space occupied for many years by Joyce Heating on the northeast corner of 50th Place and Vliet. Jess and Ryan had been seeking a site for their new business – in operation without its own location since July 2017 – and one day last August when Ryan was driving by, he called Mrs. Joyce, who happened to be inside getting things in order to put the property on the market the following week. One thing led to another, and they nailed down the basics of their off market purchase agreement pretty much right there on the spot. So what kind of business will the “Dandyâ€? business be? Jess and Ryan’s backgrounds help to answer that question. Ryan had been an advertising copywriter, but he also has an interest in vintage furniture, equipment and collectibles. Jess shares that latter interest and also has been doing interior decorating and design. They will continue these pursuits from their new offices in the front part of this building. The rest of this front area will be utilized for display of the vintage furniture and furnishings they’ll be offering for sale. A large area in the back of the building will provide creative “studio shareâ€? rental quarters for those involved in art, photography, film and production endeavors. Ryan and Jess will also be able to use part of this rear space for restorative and refinishing work that may be required for their vintage pieces. New garage doors have been installed in the back portion, and plumbing and electric work is nearing completion. Construction/remodeling work that doesn’t require a permit is being carried on by Jess and Ryan themselves; this includes re-purposing all the wood from the original building to construct new walls. They hope to be open in June, though only in their front portion at first; the remainder will be open before their wedding date. Jess and Ryan see a double advantage for those renting their studio quarters: street-level space and lower rental costs than in locations like the Third Ward. They are excited about this new joint venture – and oh yes, that other joint venture that starts with their wedding. đ&#x;˜Š Sounds “Dandyâ€? to me; we wish them well!
Washington Heights Highlighter, Summer 2018 ❖ 7
JUNE 27 ROLL WITH IT - with THE BREWCITY BRUISERS / ABBY JEANNE / FREESPACE
JULY 11 OLD SCHOOL MILWAUKEE - DJ BIZZON DANCE PARTY / THE REP performs from “IN THE HEIGHTS” JULY 18 NURTURE THE NATURE with the UEC - NICKEL & ROSE / SISTA STRINGS
JULY 25 V!VA WASHINGTON PARK! SPONSORED BY SUMMERFEST RUMBAMBERE CUBAN BAND, CHICAGO/DANNY BALDERAS & SALSABROSA AUGUST 1 RIDE ON SPONSORED BY UPTOWN CROSSING NO NO YEAH OKAY / NEGATIVE|POSITIVE
AUGUST 8 FARM TO PARK - COLLECTIONS OF COLONIES OF BEES / REYNA / THE MILBILLIES AUGUST 15 LIVE! ART - B~FREE celebrating THE MUSIC OF PRINCE / LUXI AUGUST 22 CARNIVAL at the BANDSHELL SPONSORED BY WHNA EXTRA CRISPY BRASS BAND / NEW SOUTH RAMPART STREET PARADERS DEAD MAN’S CARNIVAL AUGUST 29 NEW SCHOOL MILWAUKEE - THE DIASPORA ARKESTRA presented by JAMES JULIUS ANDERSON AND TARIK MOODY www.washingtonparkneighbors.com FOOD VENDORS ART PROJECTS
@wpwmke on Facebook
ROLLER SKATE RENTAL FARM STANDS KIDS’ GAMES LOCAL VENDORS FREE MEALS FOR HUNGRY KIDS CARNIVAL ACTS BIKE TUNE UPS HAPPY HOUR & BEER GARDEN
8 ❖ Contact us at highlighter@whna.net or visit us online at www.whna.net
Washington Heights Highlighter, Summer 2018 ❖ 9
Washington Park Wednesdays Summer 2018 by Kate Flood
The cat is officially out of the bag. Gone are the days where we could spend our Summer Wednesdays basking in the majestic rolling lawn of the Washington Park Bandshell with only our closest friends and neighbors. In its 80th year, the iconic park is on the verge of a renaissance and whether we like it or not, we have to share it with the rest of our fine city (a city, one could argue, on the verge of its own renaissance in many ways). But this is precisely what Washington Park Neighbors and their Washington Park Wednesdays’ planning committee has set out to do. They’re building an elevated platform in order to adhere to their mission of unifying the park’s surrounding neighborhoods while highlighting for the rest of Milwaukee how vibrant the Westside is. One way they are accomplishing this task is by providing a truly diverse and multi-faceted weekly experience during the Summer months in order to redefine what a free music in the park series can be, for us Westsiders and for the Festival City as a whole. The 2018 Season brings back the popular theme nights, carefully curated so audience members, as well as sponsors, can hand pick shows they’d like to attend and promote or simply swing through for all nine weeks and have a completely different experience each time. This year’s sponsorships include the wonderful folks at Washington Heights Neighborhood Association, Uptown Crossing, 88.9 Radio Milwaukee, The Brew City Bruisers, The Urban Ecology Center, Quorum Architects, Milwaukee County Parks, Outpost and Town Bank to name a few. The one and only Summerfest has stepped in this year and Gruber Law Offices has joined the party as well. Milwaukee Center for Independence and Hunger Task Force are providing free meals to hungry children at all nine shows. Kids will also have their popular game area back and can run the track on their bikes and scooters until the sun comes down all to the dreamiest and rockingest of Summertime soundtracks. Abby Jeane returns to headline the season opener on June 27 with the community music collective Freespace opening. Freespace is in part the brainchild of Milwaukee artist Webster X and is designed to give burgeoning musicians a chance to perform alongside more well-established acts. They have monthly concerts currently at the Riverwest Jazz Gallery and it’s very exciting that June’s showcase
will be at the Washington Park Bandshell. The season opener will also double as the season’s Ladies’ Night - celebrating the imperative contributions of women to Milwaukee’s music scene. The 2018 season wraps on August 29 with a premiere project of Jay Anderson and Tarik Moody’s Diaspora Arkestra which is certain to blow many minds. And speaking of minds being blown, in the weeks between the season opener and closer there is the crème de la crème of what’s happening in regional music right now. Fresh off their second tour of Europe, Nickel&Rose will partner with the ever-illustrious Sista Strings. The two duos will be hosted by the Urban Ecology Center who just announced a $12 million enhancement to the Washington Park UEC site. Before their international Spring tour, Nickel&Rose brought the music of Arlo Guthrie to Turner Hall with an onslaught of who’s who joining them on stage. B~Free aligns with this ethos when she brings her vision and entourage to celebrate the music of Prince. Having wrapped their midwest tour with Sylvan Esso and released their highly-anticipated album Hawaii, Collections of Colonies of Bees will share the stage with REYNA, who are headlining Pridefest this year. The New South Rampart Street Paraders, many of whom live in the neighborhood, will take you straight to NOLA for the night while Dead Man’s Carnival returns to amaze and delight the crowd. If you’ve been meaning to check out one of the many Salsa nights and classes that are popping up all over town, Chicago Cuban Fest headliners Rumbambere are coming in to bring the crowd to their feet and Danny Balderas of Salsabrosa will show them how to move those feet for an entire night. If wheels are more your thing, radio darlings No No Yeah OK headline bike night along with School of Rock alumni and festival crowd favorites, Negative/Positive. A critical mass style group ride will enter the park at the evening’s start, so be sure to join. This is just a dusting of what’s to come at Washington Park Wednesdays. Be a part of this historic moment for this historic space by contributing to our crowdfunding initiative and/or exploring sponsorship levels. For more information on ways to realize this vision and more, visit the website - washingtonparkneighbors.com - or follow on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Milwaukee’s best kept secret can’t remain a secret forever..
10 ❖ Contact us at highlighter@whna.net or visit us online at www.whna.net
The State of Real Estate in the Washington Heights by Mary Jumes, CRS
Due to low inventory & high buyer demand, the real estate market has final started to really move. However, there are some who fail to realize that price & condition are still the drivers in the market. With that said, you might find this “household tip” list useful in preparing your home for the market (useful as a checklist even if you don’t want to sell). Now before you go “hog-wild”, you really should call your real estate professional to at least give you some “soft” numbers on your property to let you know you’re on solid financial ground. Also, I typically recommend having an opportunity to walk through a place with my clients before they needlessly spend on improvements that might not be warranted.
The Exterior
• LAWN: Make sure the yard is neatly mowed, raked, & edged. • TREES/SHRUBS: Prune & shape them to compliment your house. • FLOWERS: Consider adding seasonal flowers. • SIDEWALKS/DRIVEWAYS: Sweep & wash to remove debris, dirt, & stains. Repair & patch any cracks. • PAINTING: Check your home for any needed maintenance just as a buyer would. Repaint or touch up as necessary. Don’t let the outside turn buyers off before the inside turns them on. • DOORS/WINDOWS: Check to see that all doors & windows are in good working order. Clean & paint doors if necessary, wash all windows, & replace any broken or cracked window panes. Screens should be free of any tears or holes. Inspect all locks to ensure that they are functioning properly. • ROOFS/GUTTERS/DOWN SPOUTS: Check for loose or missing shingles. Clean out gutters & downspouts. Touch up peeling areas on gutters.
The Interior
• ATMOSPHERE: When placing yourself in the buyers’ shoes, you will want to consider the overall atmosphere of your • home. Create the atmosphere of your home as a shelter, a place that is safe & warm, & in good condition. ➤➤ SMELL: Be aware of any odors from cooking, cigarettes, pets, etc. that may have an adverse effect on potential buyers. ➤➤ COLOR: Be cautious when selecting colors when painting or replacing carpet. The key is to promote your home to the largest segment of the buying market as possible. ➤➤ LIGHTING: Take advantage of the natural lighting by cleaning windows, opening shades, & drapes. Increase the wattage in bulbs & make sure fixtures are clean & in good working order.
• WALLS: Check for peeling paint, loose wallpaper. Consider replacing unusual or bold colors with neutral tones. • FLOORS: Clean carpeting & rugs. Clean & polish tile, linoleum, & wooden floors. Consider refinishing wood floors if necessary. • CLOSETS: Organize them to demonstrate the most efficient use of space. Empty them of any non-essential items & pack them for the move. • FURNITURE: Arrange furniture to give a spacious feeling. Consider removing furniture from rooms that are too crowded. Avoid clutter. Pack up knickknacks -- both to protect them & give the room a more spacious feel -- but leave a few to give the home a personal touch. • WOODWORK: Clean & polish if necessary. • BATHROOMS: Cleanliness is the key! Consider replacing worn shower curtains, clean & repair caulking. Clear off countertops. Clean & organize cabinets. Consider bringing out your best soaps & towels. Add a plant for color & freshness. • FIREPLACE: Sweep & clean the fireplace in cool weather, you are welcome to have a fire going during showings -- it creates a great atmosphere. • DINING ROOM: Consider adding fresh or silk flowers, or setting the table with an attractive arrangement. • KITCHEN: Avoid clutter. Clean & organize storage space & counter tops. All surfaces should be clean & fresh. • BASEMENT/ATTIC: Be sure stairs are cleared, well-lighted & that the handrail is secure. Remove & dispose of any items that will not be moved with you. Pack other items neatly in boxes. • GARAGE: Sweep & wash floor. Organize tools, garden equipment, bicycles, etc. • ITEMS NOT INCLUDED IN THE SALE: Remove (&replace if applicable) any items that will not be included in the sale of the property (i.e. that special antique light fixture).
Remember, it’s important to consult with your real estate professional to discuss the current market and how it impacts your unique situation and property.
Washington Heights Highlighter, Summer 2018 ❖ 11
We would like to introduce ourselves! We are the WHNA Safety Committee and we are all volunteers and your neighbors! We are Rebekah, Allen, Tom, Mary, Dominique, Rob, Ed, Sharon and Beth. We meet once a month at members’ houses and discuss ideas for implementing programs that help promote neighborhood safety. Our current project is to help promote and facilitate block parties and block watch programs. As we all know, knowing your neighbors and talking on a regular basis helps build a relationship with them that helps promote a stronger community. It creates a “small town feel” where you want to live, work and set down roots!
Block watch programs share vital preventative ideas that can help decrease the likelihood of becoming a crime victim. We are also in the process of creating a direct e-mail list to share important information about safety issues and tips. Provide your e-mail with us, and you can be added to the list. Your information will be
kept private, and you will be able to opt out at any time. We ALL hope you would consider joining us either in person or via e-mail! Please email n.safety@whna.net, and someone will get back to you and give you more info about our meetings and activities.
GREEN CHALLENGE REUSE Toothpaste tubes! After squeezing that last bit of toothpaste out, cut the seam at the bottom of the tube. Wash the tube and cap with hot, soapy water. Use as a funnel, an icing bag for decorating cakes or cupcakes or a guard for scissors in your drawer!
REDUCE Have you heard? The US disposes of 500 million plastic straws per day. Many restaurants and coffee shops are doing their part by
not providing them or providing them only upon request. Do you really need that straw in your to-go soda? Why not just drink from the cup?
RECYCLE It is getting warmer so many of us may be keeping the storebought soup stock on the shelves. However, when you do use them, please be sure to recycle them. Yes, even the waxed paper cartons are recyclable here in Milwaukee. That means that your empty creamer and tea concentrate cartons can go in the blue bins as well!
Member Owned, Locally Controlled Financial Ins�tu�on In Your Backyard
Looking for a new bank?
Why not try FOCUS Credit Union instead! All types of Loans, Checking, Debit Card, Online and Mobile App, Bill Pay and more
Nearest Branch 1530 N 68th Street, Wauwatosa, WI 262.255.0833 www.focus‐cu.com
12 ❖ Contact us at highlighter@whna.net or visit us online at www.whna.net
DID YOU KNOW by Debbie Knepke
• The Brew City Bruisers grill free hot dogs and face paint Opening Night of Washington Park Wednesdays June 27th. • The Milwaukee Police Department is currently involved in an extensive operation to abate street-level (car-to-car) drug sales in District 3. If you believe a crime is in progress, call the nonemergency number at 414.933.4444 with license plates and descriptions of people and cars if possible. • Melissa Muller, Graphic Artist at Quorum Architects, created the nine spectacular designs for this summer’s concert series. Visit the Washington Park Wednesdays Facebook page and Washington Park Neighbors website. • The Oreo was invented in 1912. • Landlord resources are available at http://city.milwaukee. gov/Landlord training, or call 414.286.2328. • The Brewers Community Foundation is collaborating with Koos for Kids to build a playground for the Milwaukee Center for Independence, an agency serving children with disabilities. • The Milwaukee French Immersion School at 52nd & North Avenue celebrates 40 years June 1st. • Caroline’s Jazz Club at 401 S. 2nd Street is owned by Heights resident Caroline Rubinsky.
• Ben Sheets holds the Brewers record of 18 strikeouts in a game (2004 against the Atlanta Braves). • Closing Night at Washington Park Wednesdays August 29th will feature musicians led by James Julius Anderson and Tarik Moody playing soul, funk, jazz, hip hop and more. • U.S. consumes over two billion avocadoes a year. • Venturre Brew Company at 5519 W. North Avenue plans to make small batch coffee and beer. • Michael J. Murphy was first elected in a special election in 1989. Now serving in his seventh term for the 10th District, Alderman Murphy is the longest-serving member of the current Common Council. The MKE Plays initiative, conceived by Alderman Murphy, aims to renovate 14 of the city’s most deteriorated playgrounds. To date, he has raised more than 1.6 million in private funds to support this transformation. • You can win Summerfest tickets at V!VA Washington Park Wednesday, July 25th. • Be sure to like our page at www.facebook.com/WHNA. Milwaukee.
I am looking for fun and interesting tidbits about our neighborhood for this quarterly column. If you have something to • Vernacular Beer will serve the libations at the Washington share, email it to me at debbieknepke@gmail.com. Park concert series every Wednesday from June 27th to August 29th from 5-9 pm. • At the May 10th Annual Meeting, the Mary Gibeaut Volunteer Service Award was given to Mary McGrath who served as the WHNA Membership Chair, Highlighter collator coordinator, and liaison to the Washington Heights Rainbow Association. Congratulations Mary and THANK YOU for your years of service.
Washington Heights Highlighter, Summer 2018 ❖ 13
Women Entrepreneurs Bring Heart, Heat and Health to the Heights By Leah Sealey
Yoshi Barnes and Kaitlin Rathkamp are two area business owneroperators who bring their health and wellness expertise and enthusiasm to their work. Yoshi is a personal fitness trainer and owner of SPORTMYFITNESS. She also works with clients at Excel Personal Training located at 6014 W Vliet. Kaitlin is a certified Bikram yoga instructor and owner of Bikram Yoga Heights located at 5326 W Vliet. Yoshi has been a certified Personal Trainer at Excel since 2015. She sees clients both individually and in small groups usually for hour-long sessions two or three times a week. (You may have seen Yoshi on WTMJ News at 4 where she is a periodic “Ask the Expert” guest.) While some of her clients are athletes in training, several are not-so-young folks who want to enhance and maintain strength and endurance. Kaitlin, a Bikram certified instructor since 2010, recently launched Bikram Yoga Heights and is already seeing a variety of clients. Men and women, 20-somethings to 70-somethings, beginners and experts. Each 90-minute session is a series of 26 postures and 2 deep breathing exercises all in a heated and humid room. Her studio will accommodate 15 at a time but currently each session has had around 8 participants.
I brought these two women together to get their views on the importance of having health-related businesses in our neighborhood, what they offer to people who are looking to invest in their self-care and what they are learning from their clients. Both women agree that it is the community-based vibe of Washington Heights that makes it a perfect place to offer health and wellness services. If you live in the Heights, you don’t need to get in your car to get to the gym or studio. They appreciate that their client base is, or has the potential to be, as diverse as our neighborhood. Kaitlin describes Bikram yoga as “a systematic way of moving oxygenated blood through all systems of the body. It also serves as an opportunity to meditate and let go of worries during the practice. The Bikram postures offer a wide range of health benefits like massaging internal organs and restoring all systems to healthy working order.” Students have told her that there is a supportive feel in the room. No one is expected to perform the full expression of the postures but is given gentle guidance and encouragement. Those who have practiced other styles of yoga have commented to her that the heat allows them to maximize their ability to stretch. One client said she feels “lighter” in this environment.
St. James Lutheran Church
A community member for 97 years A place to grow in God’s will for your life.
Worship Opportunities:
Thursdays at 6:30pm Sundays at 9:00am
Small Groups Ministry Opportunities:
Check our website for up-to-date listings
Preschool Ministry:
Call for information
Pastoral Guidance:
Help is just a phone call or an email away (pastor@saintjames-mke.org) 2028 North 60th Street, Milwaukee, WI Pastor Christian Marquardt, 414-453-5770 www.saintjames-mke.org
14 ❖ Contact us at highlighter@whna.net or visit us online at www.whna.net
Kaitlin strikes a pose on Vliet St.
The class packages at Bikram Yoga Heights are reasonably priced. The Two Weeks Unlimited Yoga intro package priced at $39 ($29 if you sign up on line) is a great way to give hot yoga a fair try--since your first visit may consist of simply deep breathing and staying in the room. Yoshi adds, “People who wouldn’t normally exercise on their own find that if they have someone to monitor and encourage them they can make strides in their health journey. Excel excels because in addition to the one-on-one time, clients also have 24-hour use of the cardio equipment.” Once they begin regular sessions, “clients are relieved to turn over the responsibility of what and how many exercises to do to someone who knows exactly what needs to be done to achieve their goals.” Clients have told Yoshi that they appreciate the variety of exercises and that no two sessions are exactly alike. She concludes, “They also say I’m more a mentor than drill sergeant. They like that their goals are my goals.” For more information and/or to sign up for the Two Week Unlimited Yoga at Bikram Yoga Heights visit Kaitlin’s website: www.bikramyogamke.com. You may also call Kaitlin at 262-3524727 or email bikramyogaheights@gmail.com. For more information or to schedule a $25 fitness assessment and consultation call Yoshi at 414-791-4526 or email yoshi_barnes@outlook. com. You may also learn about her upcoming Fitness Extravaganza by visiting her SPORTMYFITNESS Facebook page: https:// www.facebook.com/yoshi. barnes?ref=br_rs Excel also has on staff several male certified personal trainers. Visit www.excelpersonaltraining. com or call Excel owner James Turk at 414-861-6201.
The Landing at Hoyt Park
is located at 1800 N. Swan Blvd. in Wauwatosa at the intersection of Swan Boulevard and Menomonee River Parkway
Bring your own picnic or enjoy light refreshments.
Featuring local craft and imported beers and selection of wines
Open May-October, Wednesday-Friday 3-9pm, Saturday, Sunday & Holidays noon-9pm indoor seating available
Find us on Facebook
Let Yoshi train you!
Washington Heights Highlighter, Summer 2018 ❖ 15
Summer Reading Programs Make Everyone Super Readers by Barb Haig
With so many activities going on at Washington Park Library this summer, there’s no excuse for anyone to say, “I’m bored!” There’s something for everyone from toddlers to teens to twilight years. And of course, thousands of books with countless adventures awaiting within their pages. JeTaun Colbert is the branch manager at the library, located on the intersection of Lisbon, Sherman and Lloyd, with an entrance on 44th Street. It’s her first summer at this branch after spending several years working for the Kenosha public library, but she grew up in Milwaukee. “I’ve loved to read since I was a little kid. I’d go to the Mill Road Library and spend hours there,” she says.
NEW SUMMER READING FOR KIDS
TEENS DRAWN TO COMPUTERS
Colbert is especially excited about the new look for the kids’ summer reading program, the Super Reader Squad, featuring the colorful characters Alpha, Blink, Dewey, Fan and Turner. “We’ve introduced new characters, and the kids will love it,” she says. To sign up to be a Super Reader, parents can go to www.mpl.org/summerreading or complete a form at any Milwaukee Public Library, then get a yard sign or window cling to show their pride. Kids track the minutes they read, or parents can read to children and record the time on the form or online. When a level is completed, participants come to the library to collect prizes (certificates for pizza, books – even Brewers tickets – and check out some new books. Colbert is frequently asked at what age parents can be comfortable sending their kids to the library on their own. “We always prefer that parent stay to be sure the child feels secure, but if the child is age 9 or older and behaving well, it’s fine to leave them for an hour,” she says.
Students age 12-18 have their own Summer Challenge, which involves getting points for completing activities, such as designing an emoji or logo, volunteering in the community or writing a book review. There’s also a Beats & Rhymes Competition that encourages individuals or teams to submit an original song. Prizes include Cousins Subs, pizza, State Fair tickets and a chance to win a Nintendo Switch. According to Colbert, the Washington Park Library has magazines and books – especially graphic novels – aimed at youth, and they’re welcome to use the computers and free Wi-Fi. “Some of the newer libraries have dedicated teen spaces. We don’t have that yet, but if teens are interested in starting programs, they should get in touch with Kim Johnson, our youth librarian,” she says. “From an academic perspective, going to the library can help stop that summer slide. If they’re still reading books, getting on the computer and play educational games, it keeps them growing during the summer.”
16 ❖ Contact us at highlighter@whna.net or visit us online at www.whna.net
ADULT READING CHALLENGE And it doesn’t stop with kids! The “Book by Book” program encourages adults to register at the library or online and keep track of how many minutes they read each day. They’ll receive a coupon for one free book if they read or listen to five books, and they can win a free membership for Milwaukee Film or other prizes. Participants in all three programs can sign up any time, and the challenges last through August 25. That means there’s plenty of time to pick up a novel at the library, or download a book if you’re going on vacation. For more information on all summer reading programs, go to www. mpl.org/summerreading,
Look to the Library for Summer Activities
Some people come for the computers. Some want a fun place for kids to play and learn. And some just want a cool spot to read on a hot afternoon. No matter the reason, the Washington Park Library is a busy place in the summer, with programs for everyone:
ADULTS
KIDS AGES 0-5 (WITH PARENT)
Drop-In Tutoring Through July 31 Mondays, 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Fridays 2-4:00 p.m. Saturdays 11 a.m. 1:30 p.m.
Tuesdays, 2 p.m. June 19 – The Princess of Magic: This magicienne is not your ordinary princess! Marvel and laugh during this interactive magic show
Need help with anything from basic computer schools to getting ready for a work-related exam? Just stop by.
June 26 – Miss Kim’s Amazing Animals: Miss Kim encourages you to interact with live animals from small mammals to reptiles.
Computer Classes June 19 – August 24 Tuesdays 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Fridays 2-4:00 p.m. Bring Your Own Device Tuesday, June 5, July 3, August 6 - 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Learn how to access e-books, e-audiobooks, e-magazines and online classes, download songs, stream music, or get text notifications from MPL. Just bring your phone, tablet, laptop, or other device to get help from library staff. Please bring your Milwaukee Public Library card and all passwords.
TEENS AGES 12-17 Board Games @ The Library Tuesday, July 31, 2018 - 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Throwback to the days of board games! Have fun and hang out without the tech. Try new games or revisit some classics.
KIDS AGES 6-12 Slime Science Tuesday, Aug 7, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Measure, mix, and experiment! Bring out your inner mad scientist and concoct your very own slime using common household ingredients.
FREE VIDEOS, BOOKS & MUSIC ONLINE Did you know that you can legally play music and videos, or read magazines and books – if you have a valid Milwaukee Public Library card? Go here for information: mpl.org/digital/downloads.
July 3 – Sounds Like Science: Presented by Mad Science Make some noise and some waves in this fun and funky show about the science of sound July 10 – Korean Drumming: Students will use their hands and special sticks to learn about traditional Korean drumming. July 17 – Mind, Body & Soul Urban Line Dancers: So you think you can dance? Sure you can! Mind, Body & Soul Dancers provide step-by-step instructions to urban line dances like the Wobble, the Cha Cha Slide and the Cupid Shuffle. Bring the family, get fi t, and have fun! July 24 – Amani’s World: Have fun while learning through music and storytelling with Amani’s World Children’s Education Program.
Thursdays, 10:30-11 a.m. Ongoing – Preschool Story Time – Preschoolers are invited for fun stories, songs, and fingerplays all designed to help them develop important literacy skills needed prior to learning how to read. Child care centers are welcome. Saturday, 10:30-11:30 a.m. June 23 – Fun With Bubbles – At this bubbly story time we will read fun bubble books, make our own bubbles, and enjoy a bubble-inspired snack. Check the library website, as many programs extend into the fall and winter. If you have questions, contact the library at 414.286.3000.
WASHINGTON PARK LIBRARY HOURS Mon 10 AM - 8 PM Tue 12 PM - 8 PM Wed 12 PM - 8 PM Thu 10 AM - 6 PM Fri 10 AM - 6 PM Sat 10 AM - 5 PM Sun CLOSED Closed July 4 Closed Sept. 1 – 3
Washington Heights Highlighter, Summer 2018 ❖ 17
Scoop The Poop and Other Tips by Laura Burke
Having a pooch in your home comes with its own set of rules. Be a conscientious dog-owning neighbor and consider the following: Leash up. You should always have your dog on a leash anytime he is outside the home. It’s the law! You don’t want to get a ticket and you want to keep your pet and other pets safe. No trespassing please! How rude to allow your pet to pee on someone’s beautiful flowers, plants or lawn! Don’t allow your dog to trample through them. We know dogs like to mark their territory, but it’s best to keep dogs to the sidewalk and try to encourage them to eliminate on the strip of grass between the sidewalk and street. As a preventative measure, walk them around your yard first so they get it out of their system before the walk. Your dog might be friendly, but other people dogs might not be. Not everyone may be as much of a dog lover as you are. If a passerby is interested in your dog, you’ll know it. Some people are afraid of dogs or simply may not be in the mood to be sniffed, licked, or jumped on.
I hear people say, “I can train my dog myself, I have had dogs before!” You think you will take the time daily for training, but most don’t. Then the dog pays the ultimate price.I can’t emphasize training enough. Please go to classes, do the work. Your happy, socialized, well behaved dog, will thank you and so will your Washington Heights’ neighbors.
EXERCISE,EXERCISE,EXERCISE Dogs that are taken for regular walks, runs or hikes won’t need to release pent-up energy by chewing, digging or barking. Licking, jumping, and endless barking are unwelcomed for those around you, so ensuring your dog has regular exercise reduces and often eliminates these negative behaviors.
THE DEVIL DOG
2008-2017 Real Estate Agent Five Star Award
Accept that your little angel can become the devil as soon as you leave home! Fluffy can’t possibly whimper and bark at the door all day. WRONG! You don’t know — because you’re not home — but your neighbors do. You have the luxury of walking away from a dog that barks from 9 to 5—while your neighbors slowly go insane. If you get a noise complaint, address it calmly and don’t blame the beagle down the hall or another tenant’s loud television. Promise your neighbor that you’ll investigate solutions (such as barkactivated spray collar or a midday dog walker) that will keep your noisy pup in check. Also you think it’s so nice to leave the windows open for your pup all day. Again, WRONG! Close your windows and put on a fan & radio.
Best in Client Satisfaction
THE SCOOP ON THE POOP
TRAIN, TRAIN, TRAIN. Training is good for you and your dog benefits too.
PAUL J. BARSCH
GRI, CRS, CSS
Washington Heights resident since 1971 | Full service Realtor for over 30 years
My Philosophy is to help make a positive difference in my client’s experience. “From what we get, we can make a living; what we give, however, makes a life” - Arthur Ashe
PAUL J. BARSCH
Office phone 262.784.9360 | Cell 414.333.2435 www.pauljbarsch.com | Fax 262.797.7158
Pick up after your dog and bring multiple doggy bagswith you. If a trash can is labeled no dog poop, please respect that, better yet take your dog’s waste home to your own trash can.
SO WHAT’S THE BIG DEAL, IT’S ONLY POOP? In 1991, it was labeled a non-point source pollutant by the Environmental Protection Agency. Dog waste can also harm your health. It can carry bacteria, worms and other parasites that can be transmitted directly to humans and make us sick. Ringworm, roundworm, salmonella and giardia are examples of such bacteria. Don’t let doggie doody get your community down. Be considerate of your community and pick up the poop. Contact Laura at Washington Heights Pet Sitter: laurb1219@ gmail.com. Bark at you later!
18 ❖ Contact us at highlighter@whna.net or visit us online at www.whna.net
Annual Meeting Notes by Josh Roberts, WHNA Secretary
This year’s Annual Meeting took place on May 17th at St. Sebastian’s Church. Attendees heard from Alderman Michael Murphy, State Representative Evan Goyke, and State Senator LaTonya Johnson. Each of the elected representatives shared with the group news from their offices from a neighborhood, city, and state level. Several of the committees shared information about their groups, and attendees also heard from the Washington Park Neighbors, the organizers of Washington Park Wednesdays. The Board also provided a financial update for the current fiscal year. Attendees also voted for Representatives from Areas Two, Four, Six, and Eight, and four Even-Year At-Large Representatives. We are pleased to announce that Trent Muller was re-elected to represent
Area Two, and Andrew Robinson was re-elected to represent Area Eight. Simon McConico was elected to represent Area Six. Two incumbents were re-elected as At-Large Representatives, Eric Anderson and Dan Caruso, and joining them will be two newly elected At-Large Representatives, Sabrina Eder and Alec Knutson. The Board is still looking for representatives for Areas One and Six. If you are interested in serving on the WHNA Board, or volunteering to help out with any of the events (volunteers are ALWAYS welcome), please contact any current Board Member for more information. The Board of Directors thanks all of you in Washington Heights for everything you do to support your neighborhood!
UPCOMING EVENTS JUNE
AUGUST
SUNDAY, JUNE 17 FATHER’S DAY
WEDNESDAYS, AUGUST 8, 15, 12, 29 WASHINGTON PARK WEDNESDAYS 5 – 9pm Washington Park Bandshell
SATURDAY, JUNE 23 SUMMER HIGHLIGHTER DELIVERY BEGINS THURSDAY, JUNE 19 WHNA BOARD MEETING 6 – 8pm St. Sebastian’s Community Room
SATURDAY, AUGUST 11 VLIET STREET SIDEWALK SALE THURSDAY, AUGUST 16 WHNA BOARD MEETING 6 – 8pm St. Sebastian’s Community Room
WEDNESDAYS, JUNE WASHINGTON PARK WEDNESDAYS 5– 9:00 Washington Park Bandshell
SEPTEMBER
JULY
WHNA BOARD MEETING 6 – 8pm St. Sebastian’s Community Room
WEDNESDAY, JULY 4TH FREE FAMILY FUN IN WASHINGTON PARK 2018 THEME: 4th of July – A Celebration of Freedom 11:00am Flag raising – in front of the pool 1:00pm Games – in back of the pool 3:00pm Decorated Doll Buggy and Coaster Wagon contest – in back of the pool 9:15pm Fireworks For the latest updates, go to: www.city.milwaukee.gov/july4th
OCTOBER
WEDNESDAYS, JULY 11, 18, 25 WASHINGTON PARK WEDNESDAYS 5 – 9pm Washington Park Bandshell
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 27 • 6:30-8:30PM SPOOKTACULAR, AREA 8
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 6 WEST VLIET FALL FESTIVAL THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18 – NOVEMBER 1, 2018 MKE FILM FESTIVAL – 10TH ANNIVERSARY Daily and evening film screening at Times Cinema
THURSDAY, JULY 19 WHNA BOARD MEETING 6 – 8pm St. Sebastian’s Community Room
highlighter Contacts ADVERTISING INFORMATION �����advertising@whna.net WHNA VOICE MAIL �������������������������������������������������939.4622 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
community Contacts
THIRD DISTRICT NON-EMERGENCY ��������������� 933.4444 CRIME PREVENTION �����������������������������������������������935.7733 GRAFFITI HOTLINE �������������������������������������������������� 286.8715 BLOCK WATCH ���������������������������������������������������������� 588.5619
1
1 Aug.
aa e e l l F F e e g g a a t t n tt V Viin e e k k r r M Maa een betw t e i l h On V h & 59t 57t
10-3pm
A pop-up vintage market during the Sidewalk Sale on West Vliet Street, featuring 10+ vendors of vintage goodness. Plus the ReKindled retro Winnebago mobile boutique! Located in the east parking lot of Barcelona, Highland Lanes Parking lot and inside Pop! @ 5706 W. Vliet Street.
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