washington heights highlighter winter 2012

The NewsleTTer of The whNA Winter 2012

www.whna.net

NeIGhBorhooD AUThor, ANDreA sKYBerG page 5

NeIGhBors oPeN A New BUsINess page 10

fAllING IN loVe IN wAshIINGToN heIGhTs page 14

wAshINGToN PArK UPDATes page 20

and more!

INsIDe:

whNA 2011-2012 board of directors

The Highlighter is a quarterly publication of the Washington Heights Neighborhood Association. Washington Heights includes the area from Highway 41 to N. 60th Street and from W. Vliet Street to W. North Ave.

You can expect your Spring Highlighter in mid-March. To submit an article, please con-tact Matt, [email protected] or Jane, [email protected].

Editors Jane Konkel & Matt O’Neill

layout & dEsign Nicole Julius

WritErs Laura Burke Lori BarianBarb Haig Jane KonkelLarry Kilmer Debbie KnepkeMary McGrath Jon RupprechtRebecca Schenkelberg Heidi Steeno Rachael B. Winkley

PhotograPhErsEric Anderson Jane KonkelJames Steeno

advErtising ManagEr Vacant

nEWslEttEr distributionJean Anderson

CollatorsThanks to all who help us collate the Highlighter. If you would like to help out, please contact Jean Anderson, 414.771.7977 or [email protected] and you will be notified of the next collation date.

arEa rEPs: Please be sure to join us for collating and to take yours Highlighters for distribution.

Highlighter online at www.whna.netDo you want the Highlighter emailed to you? Contact [email protected].

PresidentLarry Kilmer 899.1082

Vice-PresidentHeidi Steeno 475.6274

Past PresidentDan Cody 324.6056

treasurerJohn Augustyniak 467.3146

secretaryStephanie Moffett 805.2824

rePresentatiVesarea 1Jane Konkel 949.1577

area 2Scott Silet 774.0048Gary Haertlein 257.7634

area 3Mike Graf 445.1190

area 4Jim Grote 430.0332

area 5Larry Kilmer 899.1082

area 6Dan Cody 324.6056

area 7Nick Bambulas & Sofi Thorne 745.4410

area 8Corbett Reinbold 213.9730

area 9John Augustyniak 467.3146Mark Drzewiecki 476.1858

at-Large – eVen yearsAnita Duschak 732.2177Stephanie Moffett 805.2824Dan Stotmeister Nora Trinidad-Scholle

at-Large – odd yearsKevin Ronnie 732.9932Vivienne Tait 442.5444Jon Rupprecht 476.1947

LiaisonsVLiet st.Heidi Steeno 920.639.1476

north aVe.Vacant

rainbow associationMary McGrath 258.2991

other rePyouthWendy Baker 453.4760

seniorVacant

committeesbLock watchGary Haertlein 257.7634

housing/aPPearanceLarry Kilmer 899.1082

membershiPMary McGrath 258.2991

website (communication)Geri Miller 774.0701

green committeeJoan Janus 476.3606

froM The PresIDeNTLarry Kilmer, WHNA President

season’s greetings and happy holidays to all of our heights’ neighbors.

This is my favorite time of year. If the Brewers have performed to expectations, fans are cheering more than ever, if not, our emotions have migrated to our favorite local gridiron or hardwood teams. Around the neighborhood it’s easy to find neighbors putting final touches on yard work, teetering on the top step of their fully extended ladder installing that last storm window, dog walkers getting out for one last long journey, and children helping their parents drag out favorite holiday decorations. On very special years, we’ve come to the end of our highly energized political season. It’s finally time to focus our energy and emotions on activities with our families, friends, and neighbors.

In keeping with neighborhood tradition, the Heights had another great Spooktacular turnout. More than 900 children and over 70 homes participated in the event. The streets of Area 6 were filled with families and neighbors interacting and enjoying the holiday. Thank you to the dozens of volunteers that assisted with Spooktacular 2012.

Other seasonal activities this winter include Westside Holiday Happenings along Vliet Street and North Avenue, and the Wine Tasting event in March. Please continue to frequent the great businesses along both streets when choosing gifts for family, friends, and co-workers. There are a variety of dining options that make our neighborhood unique. Take your out-of-town relatives to lunch or dinner right here in our neighborhood. And make plans to attend Winterfest in Washington Park in January.

I will leave you with one last thought, with all of the excitement around the holidays don’t forget to reach out to the Block Watch and Safety Committee and the District 3 office to stay abreast of events and techniques to help keep yourself and your family safe during the holidays.

Please feel free to contact me if you are interested in becoming involved or have any questions, 414.899.1082 or [email protected]. ❆

ABout the front coverThe cover snowman was created and lived his brief but joyous life in the front yard of Ty Cashen’s home on North 60th Street. Ty built the snowman from scratch last winter, with the help of his daughter Ellie. Ty snapped the photo with a Nikon D80, while the snow was still falling. Rumors are that the snowman will be returning this winter for a visit.

YOUR PHOTO HERE!

The NewsleTTer of The whNA spring 2011

www.whna.net

youcouldbethenextHighlightercover

photographer!Don’t forget to submit your best

spring Heights photos for consideration – on Facebook or to

[email protected].

Washington Heights Highlighter, Winter 2012 ❖ 3

Visit 908 S. 5th Street to see Andrea’s art through January 4th.

Andrea skyberg and squircleBy Jon Rupprecht

A few years ago we introduced Andrea Skyberg, a budding Washington Heights author and illustrator of children’s books. She had just published Snickeyfritz, a delightful combination of rich, full-page illustrations, subtle instruction in common yet misunderstood English expressions, and a compelling story line. Snickeyfritz received the Mom’s Choice award, and over 2,500 copies have been sold, including a good number to Heights’ residents.

Andrea has just published her second book, Squircle. It follows a little girl, Evie – named after Andrea’s six-year-old daughter – who tries to catch a squirrel and ends up wandering through the forest on a magical adventure which helps her see how we’re all, even the squirrel, connected in the circle – the “Squircle,” if you will – of life. Evie learns “how to live in the moment, listen to her inner voice, and go with the flow of life.”

While the striking illustrations in Snickeyfritz were photographs of large papier mache dolls that Andrea herself designed and constructed, she has taken a different tack with Squircle. Andrea has been working as an artist in residence with students in four elementary and middle schools in Milwaukee, plus the Waukesha Community Art Project – more middle school students – to create banners for the book. These banners were then reduced to smaller-sized, embroidered designs; Andrea taught the students how to hand stitch. These smaller pieces finally became components of large 5 x 8 foot murals, which were then photographed to serve as page spreads in the book. Thus the schools could retain the original murals.

While Andrea very much enjoyed writing and producing Snickeyfritz, she found Squircle to be an even more exciting project, with the involvement of these schools and students. And she is already working on her third book, to be called Shimmerling, about a creature who is part bird, part tree, and learns to simply accept what is. Andrea is currently looking for schools to work with her on this new book, so they – or you – can email her at the address below if interested. The release date for Shimmerling is set for March of 2014.

Andrea is contracted with Arts@Large, a local consortium of artists. They sponsored her release of Squircle on October 19th. All the original artwork created for Squircle is currently part of an exhibition, “Threads That Connect: Fiber Art and Community” in the Arts@Large building, 908 S. 5th Street, runs through January 4th.

Squircle will be Available at Rainbow Booksellers for Children, 5704 West Vliet Street, rainbowbooksellers.com. December 12th. But Andrea herself will be happy to take orders for copies any time before that; just visit her website, www.andreaskyberg.com, or email her at [email protected] . ❆


a spectacular spooktacular!by Heidi J. Steeno

This year’s annual Spooktacular nighttime trick-or-treating event took place in Area 6 (South side of Washington Boulevard to the North side of Vliet Street, Hawley Road to 51st Street) with more than 70 homes handing out over 80,000 pieces of candy! The day began early with the annual Costume Bazaar sponsored by Washington Heights Rainbow Association. Youth of all ages visited Small World Daycare to borrow a costume and have their faces painted during the afternoon’s Costume Bazaar. The crisp, clear night brought out nearly 1,000 young trick-or-treaters, along with their family members for a fun-filled night that started at Spook Central with the Annual Costume Contest sponsored by Rainbow Booksellers. From 6:30 to 8:30, the streets of Area 6 were filled with spooks and ghouls of all ages collecting candy. Many homes and yards throughout Area 6 were fully decorated in a variety of styles and themes. Thank you to Area 6 for hosting a fun and festive night for the entire neighborhood!

costume contest Winners

agEs 3 and undErAthena Swartz, Iris Straub, Amari Colbert

agEs 8-12Emmitt Loew, Indigo Lubotzky, Elizabeth Mantey

agEs 4-7Lucian Straube, Sawyer Feist, Abbi Binnow

agEs 13-17Donny Hayden, Gabby Isham, Michael Siberling

Winners were presented with a gift certificate to Rainbow Booksellers.

6 ❖ Contact us at [email protected] or visit us online at www.whna.net

tHaNk You!

adult/Group costume Winner Best Decorated Home award Winners in area 6

Winners were presented with a gift certificate to McBob’s Pub & Grill.

Best Decorated Home outside area 6

The Mueller Family: Ted, Carol, Joel, Paul, Steven/Kevin, Beth, Henry Wisniewski “Big Mama”

Winners were presented with a gift certificate to McBob’s Pub & Grill.

5231 W. Washington Boulevard – The Poggenburg Family as The Munsters!

1619-21 N. 52nd Street – The Great Pumpkin Patch

5036 W. Washington Blvd – Big Black Cat

1531-33 N. 54th Street – Shrek’s Ogre Swamp and hand carved “cat” pumpkins

Spooktacular is made possible by generous donations from many individuals and businesses. Thank you for contributing to another fabulous Spooktacular!

Washington Heights Rainbow Association – Costume Bazaar Sponsor ◆ Viking Communications – Walkie Talkie Provider ◆ Rainbow Booksellers – Costume Contest Prize Sponsor ◆ McBob’s Pub & Grill – Decorated Homes Prize Sponsor ◆ Divine Word Lutheran Church – Event Registration Space ◆ Cold Spoons Gelato – Event Registration Space ◆ Mt. Olive Church and School – Spook Host ◆ The Residents of Area 6

ALL the volunteers who contributed their time, talent and energy leading up to and on the night of Spooktacular


MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR SpOOKtACULAR 2013!Spooktacular will be held in Area 2 • Saturday, October 26th, 2013

Interested in helping with Spootacular next year? Contact Heidi Steeno ([email protected], 920.639.1476).


McBob’s Pub & Grill

4919 W. North Ave. • 414-871-5050

$10.00 - Sunday Dinners

• Whole Chicken• Open-Faced Prime Rib Sandwich

(Both are served with American Fries orMashed Potatoes & Gravy)

McBob’s has gift certificates, clothing,hats & specialty teas for holiday gifts!

Check out our Facebook page & Mcbobs.com for specials & events!

You and your family will be safer. When you work with your neighbors, you’ll learn to look out for

homebound seniors or latchkey children, you’ll learn who’s looking out for you.

You’ll help reduce crime.Decreases in burglary and related offenses are reported by law

enforcement professionals in communities with active Watch programs.

Assistance.You’ll have a way to get help addressing neighborhood concerns.

You can learn new skills and get experience using them. You’ll learn crime prevention skills, including the ability to be

the eyes and ears for law enforcement.

Your whole family can get involved. There’s a role for everyone in Block Watch. Young children can

pick up litter and take part in safety programs designed just for them. Youth can teach younger children how to stay safe. Retirees can operate telephone trees, write newsletters, and keep an eye out for daytime problems.

You Can Do It!Feel like you don’t have the

time? You don’t have to take on a leadership role. Offer to make a few phone calls. Write a story for the newsletter. Show up at community events. Touch base with your neighbors and show that you support the effort. As you go about your daily routines, observe your surroundings. It only takes a moment to notice something suspicious and record and report what you saw. Every effort helps.

Newcomer to the neighborhood? Neighborhood Watch is a wonderful way to get to know your neighbors and find people who share your interests. Knowing your neighbors also makes it easier to recognize strangers who may not have legitimate business on your street. To learn more go to www.whna.net ❆

why Get Involved with Block watch?by Laura Burke

To join the Washington Heights blockwatch e-group, please email

[email protected]. You will then be sent an invitation to join our group. If you would like to post a message,

please email the address above.Check out our block watch page at http://groups.yaho.com/group/WashingtonHeights/


Want a hard body? Linda can help you get one. Need great clothing that fit your body? Rob can help you with that! Nearly-weds Rob Kessler and Linda Schenkelberg had a vision they decided to make come true. The young entrepreneurs, with quickly escalating businesses, have recently invested in Washington Heights property, which will showcase their separate businesses: N.E.W.D. Clothing Company and Transformation Room Fitness.

energetic entrepreneursby Rebecca Schenkelberg

The couple, due to be married in February 2013, are ecstatic to be able to share their passions with Milwaukee. As Washington Heights neighborhood residents, the couple says developing their businesses within their own local community makes things even more exciting.

The building, located at 5425 W. Vliet Street, is busily under construction after undergoing a three-year vacancy. The new owners, and a team of great friends are determined to have construction complete by December 1st for their flourishing businesses.

So what are these enticing businesses?

n.E.W.d. (nothing ElsE Will do)An upscale casual line of clothing and custom screen printer,

NEWD has something for everyone. Currently offering three exciting brands of men’s and women’s clothing including: upscale casuals “NEWD Brand,” graphic tees “Urban Clothing Club,” and a fitness line “NEWD MultiSport.”

The established business has grown so much that it is time to move from its six-year location, in the couple’s basement, into a larger area for print and sales. Founded in the fall of 2006, NEWD has always stood for quality, and is key to their success and growth. “When your name is Nothing Else Will Do, your products better


live up. We have our core values built right into our name, so it makes decision making pretty easy,” clarifies Kessler.

Aside from designing his own clothing, Kessler offers custom screen-printing for individuals and businesses. Kessler explains, “Bringing a fashion sense to the custom tee shirt business has really set us apart from the competition. We do more than just print shirts, we will meet with you to find out your goals, and help design a shirt that meets your needs.”

Kessler’s thriving business has been selling clothing in several Milwaukee stores. Companies, both large and small, have placed their profound trust, respect, and loyalty in NEWD for their custom screen-printing needs. For more information, visit www.NothingElseWillDo.com

transforMation rooM fitnEssThe Transformation Room offers specialty fitness classes that

focus on Total Body Toning including: TRX® Suspension Training, ABnoxious AB classes, and X-Treme stations. Schenkelberg, a certified trainer, explains she wants to, “Teach high intensity fitness classes that are fun, different, and makes a noticeable difference to the body.”

The training, for both men and women, is held in small personalized group classes; however, Schenkelberg also offers one-on-one personal training and couples/buddy training. Schenkelberg’s effective classes will make a difference. She explains, “Consistently attending the high intensity classes will make the difference on how your clothes look and fit on your body and how you feel about yourself.”

Her goal is to make her clients uncomfortable; she pushes her clients to work outside of their comfort zone for maximum effectiveness. One of her mottos illuminates, “Who said a room had to be confined to four walls when the Transformation Room is a state of mind? Transform yourself, how you feel, how you look, how you live.” For more information, visit www.TransformationRoomFit.com

Kessler and Schenkelberg are two focused individuals who strive for excellence and look forward to meeting their fellow residents of Washington Heights. The foundation of respect and enthusiasm they share for each other can be seen through the development of their businesses. They believe “No business is built alone, having a strong home life is necessary to make all great things happen.”

The business owners look forward to greeting curious neighbors and invite you to the establishment. You may soon find that the hardest, most attractive body that you possess came from your neighborhood Transformation Room. You may also find that the softest, most-comfortable and flattering clothes in your closet came from your neighbor at NEWD. ❆

N.E.W.D. Clothing Company Transformation Room Fitness

5425 W. Vliet StreetMilwaukee, Wisconsin 53208

Transform you body at 5425 W. Vliet St.


highlighter ContactsADvertIsIng InformAtIon [email protected]

or 206.349.5393WHnA voICe mAIl .................................................. 297.9617HIgHlIgHter eDItors ..........................................................

[email protected] or [email protected] or 949.1577

HIgHlIgHter DIstrIbutIon ............................. 771.7977rAInboW AssoCIAtIon ...................................... 258.2991

[email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]

community ContactstHIrD DIstrICt non-emergenCY ............... 933.4444CrIme PreventIon ...............................................935.7733grAffItI HotlIne .................................................. 286.8715AlD. WIllIe HInes ...................................................286.2221AlD. mICHAel murPHY .........................................286.2221bloCk WAtCH .......................................................... 588.5619

UPCoMING eVeNTsDeCeMBer March

january

APrIl

february

DeC. 12 .............Art At WAsHIngton PArk lIbrArY bY A.W.e.

5:30pm-7:00pm • See page 11 for more details

DeC. 12 ........................................................teACHer’s teA3:00pm-7:00pm • All teachers welcom for a relaxed

holiday experience at ARTibles in MARN. Visit artsinmilwaukee.org for more info.

DeC. 15 ....................................... kIDs’ sHoPPIng event10:00am-4:00pm • Holiday shopping for the youngest

shoppers presented by the merchants on Vliet, North and Martin Drive, plus make & take projects for gift giving

DeC. 19.............Art At WAsHIngton PArk lIbrArY bY A.W.e.

5:30pm-7:00pm • See page 11 for more details

DeC. 19............................guYs’ nIgHt out sHoPPIng5:30pm-7:00pm • See page 11 for more details

DeC. 20-22 .........................................ArtIbles HolIDAY sHoPPIng bAzAAr

Thursday and Friday 11:00am-7:00pmSaturday 10:00am-5:00pm

mAr. 2 ..............................reAD ACross AmerICA DAYJoin your neighbors and read. This nationwide

observance coincides with the birthday of Dr Seuss.

mAr. 2 ......... WAsHIngton HeIgHts WIne tAstIng6:00-9:00pm at Samara Garden and Home,

RSVP at [email protected]

mAr. 8 ..................................................................... sAlon v Opening at Milwaukee Artists Resource Network (MARN) Visit artsinmilwaukee.org for more info.

mAr. 8 .........................................urbAn InterseCtIon Friday, March 8, 5-9pm, Show runs through April 12 at

the James Steeno Gallery, 5700 W. Vliet Street. A group art show celebrating our urban landscape, featuring

works in a variety of mediums from Milwaukee artists. Visit jamessteeno.com for more info.

mAr. 23 ...............................................eAster egg Hunt Opening at Milwaukee Artists Resource Network (MARN) Visit artsinmilwaukee.org for more info.

HAve A neIgHborHooD event You’D lIke to InCluDe In our sPrIng

HIgHlIgHter CAlenDAr?Email the Highlighter at [email protected]

to let us know!

jAn. 11 ......................................................................sAlon IIIOpening at Milwaukee Artists Resource Network (MARN) Visit artsinmilwaukee.org for more info.

jAn. XX.....................................bloCkWAtCH meetIngX:00pm • Email XXX for details

jAn. 26 ............WInterfest At WAsHIngton PArk1:00pm-4:00pm

APr. 5 ...................................................................... sAlon vIOpening at Milwaukee Artists Resource Network (MARN) Visit artsinmilwaukee.org for more info.

APr 26-27 .......................sPrIng WestsIDe ArtWAlkFriday 5:00-9:00pm • Saturday 10:00am-4:00pm

Visit facebook.com/westside.artwalk.wi for more info.

feb. 8 ...................................................................... sAlon Iv Opening at Milwaukee Artists Resource Network (MARN) Visit artsinmilwaukee.org for more info.

feb. XX .....................................bloCkWAtCH meetIngX:00pm • Email XXX for details


We are always trying to make investments that will benefit a worthy endeavor and provide us with profits in return.

In October, 104 neighbors chose to invest in our neighborhood with new or renewal memberships in the Washington Heights Neighborhood Association (WHNA).

Their investment allows the association to bring together people of diverse ages, backgrounds, and concerns, through sponsorship of social events, publication of the quarterly Highlighter, and continue communication networks such as block watch programs. Their membership supports administrative expenses of welcome packets, event signs and banners, and block watch packets.

Their membership investment included their expressed willingness to help with WHNA efforts such as: neighborhood clean-up, writing and distributing the Highlighter, helping with yearly events, and volunteering to help with youth events.

In return they will join the current 670 WHNA members who receive profits on their investment with reduced-price access to

sMArT INVesTMeNT ADVICe – JoIN whNABy Mary McGrath

annual events such as the Wine Tasting, the Easter Egg Hunt, and Spooktacular. They will meet and become familiar with people next door, the neighbors on their block, and the people they pass daily as they walk their dog or send their kids out to play.

A smart investment can easily be made by filling out a membership form on whna.net, and choosing a level of investment. The completed form can be mailed to the address found on the form. Membership Committee volunteers are also available at any WHNA event to receive your membership form.

Remember that added “return” on your investment is received when you indicate a willingness to help with activities listed on the membership form. ❆

JOINWHNA

414-774-2446

Joyce Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc.

INSTALLATION · 24 HOUR SERVICE

Je�ery JoyceLicensed · Bonded · Insured

5020 West Vliet St · Milwaukee, WI 53208


hearts in the heightsby Barb Haig

Winter and the holidays combine to make the perfect time to find romance in the neighborhood. We reached out on Facebook and found three couples who met in Washington Heights.

JoannE WEndElbErgEr kaysEr & dan kaysEr, 58th strEEtWhen did you first meet?

We first met in the fall of 1998 at a St. Sebastian choir practice.

What are your first memories of Washington Heights? Joanne was born and raised in the Heights, on 52nd and Vliet.

Dan’s family lived in Wauwatosa, and he was drawn to the area because his sister lived here and attended Sebs. It was important to us after we married to stay in the Heights area not only because we knew we wanted to send our children to Sebs but also because we both really liked the neighborhood. We knew many people who lived in the area from church and wanted that closeness.

How did your relationship begin? We began as friends, hanging out with a group of single people

our age from choir. We would often go out after choir rehearsals and do things together on the weekends. After a few months, we began to date. We were married at Sebs in 2001.

How would you describe your relationship now? Our relationship now focuses a lot on our family. We have an

adult son, a ten-year-old and a nine-year-old. The younger ones are involved in sports and many school activities. We are often taking them to practices, scouts, or other activities. Our relationship focus has changed from being a couple to being parents right now.

What are your favorite romantic activities in the Heights? Romantic – with two kids and their activities, we don’t have as

many romantic moments as we should! We like the fact that there are more options than before though and have eaten at both Cafe Perrin and Meritage on Vliet Street. We enjoyed Wednesdays at the Shell at the Washington Park Band Shell this summer and often take walks together through the neighborhood (usually behind biking kids) – but that’s our romance for now!.

hugh & JEnny gEorgE o’nEil, 52nd strEEtWhen did you first meet?

We first met at a St. Sebastian Youth Organization dance. Hugh was playing basketball on the playground, and Jenny was at the dance. Fr. Bryan Massengale called Hugh over and introduced us. Hugh said later he couldn’t say “no” to a priest so he came over. Hugh is kind of a shy guy.

What are your first memories of Washington Heights?Jenny has lived in the Heights on 51st Street for almost all of her

life, and Hugh moved to Milwaukee – HiMount Boulevard, right through the alley from Jenny – his freshman year of high school.

Joanne & Dan Kayser

Hugh and Jenny O’Neil

Erin & David Russell


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Art Gallery & Yoga StudioFusion of Art Gallery & Yoga Studio, Fine Art, Jewelry, Pottery, Art Glass, Works from Local Artists & More

Gallery Hours Tuesday - Friday, 12 pm - 5 pm Wednesday, 12 pm - 8 pm Saturday, 9:30 am - 5 pm Sunday, 12 pm - 3 pm

5706-08 W Vliet St, Milwaukee, WI 53208 P: 414-774-4185 W: www.artsoul-gallery.com

Jenny remembers riding her bike in the neighborhood, walking to her friends’ houses and going to the corner store that is now the Fair Trade Store (penny candy and if you were lucky the person behind the counter wouldn’t ACTUALLY count out 50 gummy fish, and you’d get a ton extra!) Hugh’s first memories of the area include playing basketball up at Sebs – a lot.

How did your relationship begin?Friends first and slowly.

How would you describe your relationship now?Best friends with lots of laughter.

What are your favorite romantic activities in the Heights?We would take lots of walks in high school and still take them

today – although now with one kid on a scooter, one kid on a bike and another trying to get Hugh to carry her. We also like to go to Meritage for a quiet meal out.

Anything else or stories you’d like to add?Don’t settle. Life is too short not to have love with lots of laughter

and adventure.

Erin o’boylE russEll & david russEllWhen did you first meet?

We don’t recall an exact date, but it happened sometime in grade school. Erin lived on Washington Boulevard and went to St. Sebastian for grade school. David lived on 58th Street. and went there starting in middle school. We were always in the same place at the same time, but really didn’t get to know each other until Erin’s senior year of high school at Divine Savior Holy Angels abd David’s sophomore year of college at UW-Madison.

What are your first memories of Washington Heights?Our first memories are of spending time with friends as

kids in the Heights, whether at St. Sebastian or just around the neighborhood. For our families, St. Sebastian, was the centerpiece of our Washington Heights experience.

How did your relationship begin?We started spending time together during Erin’s senior year of

high school. Much of our time together was during long walks around the neighborhood. Then we took a little hiatus while Erin started college at Wisconsin and David went to Scotland to study abroad. Three years later we started officially dating with David living out in New York and Erin finishing her senior year at Wisconsin.

How would you describe your relationship now?We are happily married and loving all the adventures that New

York and the world are throwing our way.

What are your favorite romantic activities in the Heights?

For us it was always just walking around together, especially down Washington Boulevard.

Any suggestions or advice for others?Wow. I guess if you fail once try again…

Anything else or stories you’d like to add?After living a thousand miles apart we realized that the right

person was right in front of us the whole time. ❆


5520 W. Vliet Street • Milwaukee, WI • 414.257.9112

THE WONDER BAR

Open at 2pm withdaily drink specials

Best heated patioin Milwaukee

We have peanuts!We have peanuts!

It’s HistoricSINCE 1896

ARTiblesholiday gift bazaar at thE Marn gallEry

The Third Annual Holiday Shopping Bazaar ARTibles — a six week long shopping center in the MARN gallery, 5407 West Vliet Street — runs from Friday, November 23 to Monday, December 24th. All work in ARTibles is handmade by local artists. Hours will be Thursdays & Fridays 11am to 7pm and Saturdays 10am to 5pm with special events and workshops happening throughout the weeks. Visit ArtInMilwaukee.org for special ARTibles events. ❆


DID YoU KNow?by Debbie Knepke

• The Yoga Society at 5000 West Vliet Street offers programs in hatha yoga, meditation, and wellness. Visit www.himalayanyogamilwaukee.org

• Samara Garden and Home at 5211 West North Avenue is hosting a piano concert series in January. For more information, call 414.444.8100.

• You can save energy by changing the settings on your computer to shut off monitors, hard drives, and even the computer after a certain amount of time, and by turning off power strips at work when going home for the evening.

• Worms are the best way to compost vegetable scraps in winter.• There will be Icelandic ponies, a sled dog demonstration,

sledding, and Community Pie will be served at Winterfest in Washington Park Saturday, January 26th from 11am to 5pm. Save the Date!!

• If you need a street or alley light fixed on your block, call Thomas Hughes at the City of Milwaukee Infrastructure Section at 414.286.3457.

• You can drop off old tires to recycle at the Self Help Center at 3879 West Lincoln Ave.

• The Urban Ecology Center at Washington Park, 1859 North 40th Street, loves Winter! Members can check out cross country skis, snowshoes, sleds, and ice skates at no charge. To become a member, visit urbanecologycenter.org or call 414.344.5460.

• Milwaukee Design Collection at 5205 West North Avenue is celebrating its second anniversary in November. Be sure to visit.

• Donate your burnt out strings of holiday lights to Hawley Environmental School as part of their fundraising efforts. You may drop them off before the end of the year at 5610 W. Wisconsin Avenue between 7am and 6pm.

• You can feed snakes, turtles and salamanders every Saturday at 1pm at the new Animal Roo at the Washington Park Urban Ecology Center. ❆

sins forgivenweekly

5327 W Washington Blvd Milwaukee, WI 53208

414.774.2200 www.mtolivemke.org

Sunday Worship at 8:30 & 11:00 AM Saturday Worship at 6:00 PM

Sunday Broadcast on WJYI AM-1340 at 9:00 AM

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Maple Tree Children’s Garden, a new nature-oriented, home-based preschool, is opening in the Washington Heights.

Founder Lori Barian has been working in the fields of Waldorf education and LifeWays childcare since 1994. Her five years as Forest Kindergarten teacher for LifeWays in Milwaukee inspired her to open and run the Maple Tree Children’s Garden out of her home.

She and her husband, Robert Karp, have begun to transform their yard and home, 2116-18 N. Hi Mount Blvd., into an early childhood paradise. So far, the outdoor space, which is surrounded by an attractive cedar picket fence, includes a tree swing, stumps to climb on, a sand pit, and raspberry and blackberry bushes. Indoors, there are many of the usual toys, including a play kitchen and workbench, building blocks and puzzles. What you won’t find are any plastic toys or furniture because the intention is to immerse children in the natural world and to nurture the child’s developing senses with wholesome and “real” sense experiences.

The curriculum for children two through six years old explores and celebrates the seasons, emphasizing outdoor activities, including gardening, nature exploration and crafts, and seasonally inspired snack and meal preparation, projects, and festivities.

Through books such as Richard Louv’s Last Child in the Woods and organizations such as Let the Children Play and The Nature Nurture Project, there is increasing recognition of the value and importance of nature experiences and outdoor play during early childhood. These lead to physically healthy children who care about their environment, develop strength, coordination and self-confidence, and do well academically when they’re in school.

The preschool program runs Monday through Friday 8am to 5pm. Lori is also planning to host other programs for families, such as a Simplicity Parenting group, parent-child and parent-infant playgroups, and a nature club.

For more information, contact Lori Barian, 414.616.1832 or 414.698.6694 or [email protected]. You can visit Maple Tree Children’s Garden on Facebook. ❆

Maple Tree Children’s Garden by Lori Barian

Lori and kids learn while playing.


Lower level of Bay View’s unique Delaware House2499 S. Delaware Ave. (minutes away via the Hoan Bridge)

www.lacquer-nails.com

Lynna Chirafisi, Owner

25% OFFyour first visit!

y full service manicures and pedicuresy Gel polish and Gel Enhancements y 11 year’s experiencey clean, private, quiet environmenty gift certificates available

For an appointment with Lynna, call414.517.8942 or [email protected]

WHNA_LacquerAd:Layout 1 10/29/12 3:12 PM Page 1

St. James Lutheran Church

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2028 North 60th Street, Milwaukee, WI Pastor Peter Kassulke, 414-453-5770 www.saintjames-mke.org

reCIPe CorNerSnowman PizzaA fun and easy treat for dinner on a wintry night!You can use premade, frozen or a dough mix. Really, whatever you like. For the eyes, mouth, and buttons.Directions:

Make dough of choice (following instructions for preheating oven).Roll dough out into three circles varying in size.Prepare your cookie sheet with either a piece of parchment paper or cooking spray and sprinkle a bit of cornmeal on top (you can skip the cornmeal if you don’t have it on hand).Place the largest circle of dough at the bottom of your pan and top with your choice of toppings.Place the medium size circle on your pan and top with top-pings of your choice. Make sure to overlap your bottom piece just a bit. Place your smallest size circle on pan at the top. Again, overlap the medium circle just a bit.Apply the toppings after all of your layers are in place. Sprinkle one more layer of cheese over your entire pizza. For eyes, buttons and mouth, try olives or pepperoni. Cut a piece of pepperoni in half for a smile. For the nose, use a small carrot or even a piece of red pepper. There are no rules, use whatever you think tastes great! Bake according to your dough instructions and enjoy!


what’s happening at washington park By Jane Konkel

Young scientists in the new Native Wisconsin Animal Room at the Urban Ecology Center

nEW Playground and Play trailThe Tree for All Playground and the Play Pod Trail introduce the

latest in play technology which promotes bonding of families as we play together, getting fit, healthy, and active. Installation of this equipment make Washington Park a national demonstration site.

Tree for All — located near Lisbon Avenue and Lloyd Street — is designed to inspire children’s imaginations. The realistic centerpiece is a “tree” made of glass-fiber reinforced concrete. It features slides, ropes, and climbing, spinning, and moveable components, and it’s wheelchair-accessible. Beneath the play area is a multi-colored rubber surface.

The Play Pod Trail —located at 40th and Vliet, near the pool parking lot — is the first of its kind in Wisconsin. The trail is composed of six “play pods,” or activity components, interwoven with a meandering trail amid mature trees. Each nature-themed play pod has signs to help visitors understand the natural world around them. Themes include trees, leaves, mushrooms, bees, butterflies, and pond life. Each play pod is set upon a poured-in-place resilient rubber surface that mimics the green grass surrounding the play trail. Both children and adults are immersed in nature as they walk along the trail to discover the next play pod.


Meet the Door County Sled Dogs at Winterfest in January

Young Scientists ClubFrom hiking to gardening, helping with land stewardship and

research, canoeing and fishing, every day is a new adventure with the Young Scientists Club! They meet 4–6pm Tuesdays through Fridays and 1–4pm on Saturdays.

The Young Scientists will meet several times in January with Community Pie — You guessed it! — to make pie that will be served at Winterfest (see below). For more information about the Young Scientists Club, contact Erick Anderson, Community Program Coordinator, 414.344.5460, [email protected].

WintErfEstPlease plan to attend Winterfest at the Urban Ecology Center

in Washington Park on Saturday, January 26th. Now in its fifth year, Winterfest offers free family activities including a sled dog demonstration by the Door County Sled Dogs, sledding, ice-skating, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, sharing Community Pie and a few other surprises. ❆

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“Seek and ye shall find” is one of Jessie Spraggins’ favorite quotes from scripture. It’s also clear that this favorite quote has guided her in the process of developing and opening the Job Development Resale Center, LLC (JDRC) which she opened at 5624 W. Vliet Street. There is much to be found within this small shop with a big mission.

It was Jessie’s search for a new job that led her to the idea of opening a job resource center. In the spring of 2011, the human resource management position she had held with Goodwill Industries for 15 years was eliminated. As she contemplated the next steps in her career, she found she had a desire to create a job for herself through creating job opportunities for others in her community.

Jessie is a long-time Washington Heights resident. She asked herself, “How can I make the people and the community better?” She decided that offering her human resource management experience through a job development center was the answer. JDRC is strongly committed to assisting job seekers and employers in the Washington Heights, Washington Park and Martin Drive Neighborhoods while also serves all of Milwaukee.

Jessie developed the business concept for JDRC during the summer of 2011 and opened the resale shop in February of this year. The mission of the shop is three-fold: to help her clients develop

Job dEvEloPMEnt rEsalE CEntEr, llC (JdrC)

5624 W. Vliet St. 414.771.4900 [email protected]/JobDevelopmentResaleCenter

Tues-Fri: 9:30am to 5:00pm, Sat: 1-4pm

a mission to helpBy Rachael B. Winkley

customer service and business skills through on-the-job training in the store; to sell affordable professional clothing for job seekers; and to be the main funding source for the job development and coaching services offered. The mission of the JDRC is to be a multi-faceted community resource where job seekers come to develop their skills, gain experience and find opportunities and employers come to find qualified candidates.

“By the community, for the community” is another core concept at JDRC. Jessie said getting the business started and running has been a community effort. People have been generous in donating clothing and household goods to help the resale shop carry out its mission. Due to this generosity, they have been able to expand their merchandise to include casual wear, formal wear, and small household items. Items that don’t fit within JDRC’s mission are donated to La Casa or other organizations serving those in need around Milwaukee.

Future plans at JDRC include: offering job skills workshops for larger groups at Washington Park Library or other facility with space for groups; continuing to develop the resale store; and putting on fashion shows, too.

Job seekers and employers in the neighborhood are encouraged to contact JDRC regarding their job skills development and coaching or job posting and employee placement services at (414) 771-4900 or [email protected]. Savvy bargain seekers are welcome to visit the resale shop Tuesdays through Fridays from 9:30am-5:30pm and Saturdays from 1:00 to 4pm. Jessie and her staff will be happy to assist you with whichever you seek. ❆

Jessie Spraggins at the Job Development Resale Center


have You Tried The Pie? By Jane Konkel

Community Pie is a grassroots movement and creative effort to bring together neighbors and youth, natures’ bounty, and pie making as community building. Community Pie is part of the Washington Park Partners and is sustained by a dedicated group of neighbors and friends who see an opportunity to build community through their simple love for pie.

The goal of Community Pie is to involve Washington Park neighborhood youth in harvesting fruit from both public and private sources throughout the area where it might otherwise go to waste. Kids learn to use math skills to make a floury mess while making crusts, preparing fillings, and baking the pies.

The pie makers, their families, and friends are invited back to celebrate their efforts and indulge in pie. Please join Community Pie at the Urban Ecology on Saturday, January 26th during Winterfest to try a piece of community pie! ❆

Young Scientists team up to make a decorative crust

Thanks Outpost Natural Foods Coop for your generous donation of apples. You helped Community Pie serve 200 pieces of pie at the Autumn Festival held in Washington Park last Fall.

Want to help with the pie? Here’s how!donations:

• Mixing bowls and measuring spoons• Commercial sheet trays• Reusable plates and utensils• Tin pie dishes and pie knives• Pie spices• Funds for free baking ingredients or supplies• OR: rolling pins, hot pads, trivets, pie carriers, pastry

blender, kitchen towels, rolling sheets, apple corer, plastic pie servers

voluntEEr oPPortunitiEs• Harves and donate fruit• Collect and organize recipes• Bring your family and neighbors to pie-making activities• Serve pies at community evens• Help with communications and website design• Provide transport for field trips to local orchards


Mount Mary College believes in the transformative power of education in our community and our world.

Schedule Your Campus Visit to learn more about graduate programs offered in day, evening, weekend and accelerated formats.

Call 414-256-1252 or visit www.mtmary.edu/graduate.htm.

Master’s Degree ProgramsArt Therapy • Counseling • Dietetics • EducationEnglish • MBA • Occupational TherapyProfessional Doctorate ProgramArt Therapy

Graduate programs are open to men and women.2900 N. Menomonee River Parkway | Milwaukee | (414) 256-1252 | www.mtmary.edu

washington heights highlighter winter 2012

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