Breeze Geneva Lakes
Serving the Geneva Lake and Lake Como area
PUBLISHED BY SOUTHERN LAKES NEWSPAPERS
JUNE 2022 • VOL. 9 NO. 1
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GENEVA LAKES BREEZE
June 2022
Boat sales still surging Used boats selling at premium prices
By Tracy Ouellette EDITOR
The boating industry is still seeing high demand entering into the third summer of the COVID-19 pandemic. Brian Jahns, who’s been selling boats for nearly 30 years at Gage Marine, said it’s been challenging to keep up with demand. “We have a lot of boats on order,” he said. “They’re slowly trickling in, but not as fast as we would like them to. We represent a lot of brands and we have some of each, but it’s not like it used to be with 20 or 30 boats in stock at a time.” Jahns said between the high demand and broken supply chain, it’s just not easy to get new boats. “It’s the same thing everywhere with everything else,” he explained. “They can’t get the computer systems, the vinyl for the seats, the foam for the seats, labor at the factories not working – it’s not just us. It’s everywhere.” With new boats not as available, the sale of used boats has skyrocketed, Jahns said. “We’re light on used boats as well, we have a small percentage on consignment right now, which we sell for the owners for a fee, and that’s picking up a bit, especially with people freaking out a little bit about gas prices. That’s keeping us limping along.” Jahns said while some people are nervous about the rise in gas prices, he didn’t think it was going to slow things down at all for the boat dealers. “Yes, gas has gone up, but you’re not looking at thousands and thousands of extra dollars to operate a boat this summer. It’s a few extra dollars each time and you’re maybe out boating 15 times,” he explained. With this being the third boating season during the pandemic, Jahns said many in the industry had thought things would have returned to normal by now.
top: The Gage Marine boat showroom is on Highway 50 in Delavan. While inventory is down, the boat dealer still has new and used boats for sale. above: Used boast are in high demand again in 2022 as anglers and boating enthusiasts look to get out on the water. People looking to sell a used boat that’s in good condition will often get multiple offers, at an increased price. STOCK PHOTO The Breeze
That hasn’t happened. “The first summer, COVID-19 made it so you really couldn’t do anything else, but you could get the family out on the boat,” Jahns said. “That’s what started this demand. People bought up all the boats. “Then the supply chain broke, but we haven’t seen demand decline in more than 2-1/2 years,” he said. “Everyone thought after the first summer of COVID it would taper off, but it didn’t. Then everyone thought last summer it would slow down, but it didn’t. Now we’re in the third season full on and the demand is still unbelievably high.” With all that, Jahns said anyone looking
to buy a boat for this year should be prepared for the state of the industry. “If you’re serious about a boat, get moving on that sooner than later,” he advised. “On a new boat, the lead time can be a year or two. It doesn’t cost much to put down a small deposit and boat manufacturers are putting a priority on sold boats at the moment. Boats are not just showing up for us like they used to, there is definitely a waiting period.” For those interested in buying a used boat, Jahns said be prepared to pay a premium and don’t be surprised to be bidding against multiple buyers. “A clean, used boat is worth more right
How to buy a boat According to Discover Boating, the first step in the boat-buying process is also the most important – determining exactly what type of craft will best fit the needs and wants of both the owner and those they plan to bring along for the ride. Those needs and wants are typically determined by what type of activities boaters want to pursue on the water. Think about the reasons everyone wants to be on the water and then narrow the choices accordingly. The Discover Boating website has a Boat Finder Tool to help with this. Prospective buyers may also be interested in learning more upfront about the overall costs of boat ownership. Local boat dealers can also help with this process. Here are some tips to aid in buying a boat: • Choose the right boat type for the needs. • Decide on a new or used boat. • Ensure the boat is a certified boat. • Determine how much to spend. • Research information about boat financing and how to get a boat loan. • Go shopping – figure out where and when to buy. • Learn more about boat values and pricing, including how to negotiate the purchase. • Conduct a sea trial and a marine survey. • Close the deal – find out more about boat registration, insurance and taxes. Visit www.discoverboating.com for more information.
now because you just can’t get them,” he said. “People selling them are getting about 35% more for them and they have three or four people bidding on them. They’re gone in a day or two.” Gage Marine can be found in Williams Bay at 1 Liecthy Drice and in Delavan at 5167 Highway 50. For more information, call 262-245-5501 and visit www.gageboats.com.
Angling Cause June 2022
GENEVA LAKES BREEZE
Page 3
FOR A
Nonprofit group gets vets, first responders out on the water The beginnings
By Jason Arndt STAFF WRITER
am Veith, of Salem Lakes, always found fishing on the open water as a source of comfort from the typical stresses of everyday life. Veith, origionally from the Chicago area, spent parts of childhood angling near a lake at Voyaguers National Park in northern Minnesota. “I was actually a city kid. My dad was a Chicago fireman, he didn’t really fish much, but on my mom’s side of the family, we did a fishing trip to northern Minnesota,” he said. “So, I really got my love for the outdoors, the water and fishing from my mom’s side of the family.” “I feel like I was more like a country boy at heart. I just loved being out on the water.” Veith has since honed his craft, igniting his passion for fishing through partnerships with multiple people, and wanted to pay it forward by helping others achieve the same joy as he has. Through Fishing for Good, a nonprofit group, Veith and a handful of tour guides offer free fishing trips to veterans, first responders and active military personnel on Geneva Lake and Delavan Lake. Veith, a commercial insurance broker by day, opted to help these people after he experienced a volunteer fishing expedition several years ago. “I volunteered like five years ago to help out on a veteran fishing day. I saw how much it meant to the veterans,” he said. “They had so much fun on the water and getting out of the hospital. It was such a nice day for them just to be on the lake and enjoying the sunshine.” Fishing, he said, serves as an ideal hobby for anyone, including veterans, first responders, and activity military because of its mental health benefits. “I just feel like fishing is the perfect hobby, or sport, to participate in when it comes to PTSD,” Veith said.
Veith, an angler for decades, originally expressed interest in becoming a fishing guide for people looking to learn how to fish. However, he wanted to pursue a different avenue, instead of simply competing with other tour guides. “When I decided to be a guide, I was fishing a lot, I was getting good enough to get people good experience on the water,” he said. “But I thought to myself, I don’t want to be just another guide that is competing for trips…maybe I can actually do something good for people through fishing.” Veith, using his volunteer experience years earlier sought out company sponsorships to help finance fishing trips for veterans, active military and first responders. In 2020, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Fishing for Good started as a limited liability company. “I was able to raise just over $4,000 and I did about 16 trips. I was busier than I ever thought I could be,” he said. “I was getting so much positive feedback that last year, in 2021, I decided to make it a charity and help raise more money, giving out tax deductible receipts, and then add more fishing guides to do more of these trips.” Once the Fishing for Good Foundation became a formal nonprofit group, Veith said, the organization doubled the amount of fishing trips last year. Additionally, Fishing for Good has created a membership board and encourages others to join. “I have board members, but I am trying to get some board members to put more time into this, to help me even more,” he said. “The key is partnering with some likeminded folks that really are passionate about fishing and giving back.” The Fishing for Good Foundation, he said, typically offers fishing trips from May
his fishing services at the time. “The veterans services officers came out fishing on a trip last year with me and they couldn’t believe how amazing it was to experience Lake Geneva and all of the fish we were catching.” Veith, who operates the nonprofit on a part-time basis, has four to five other fishing guides helping with trips out on Geneva Lake. He said he still personally runs between
• CONTINUED ON PAGE 11
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through September with a hiatus during the winter ice fishing season. “The number one thing is we want to make sure the veterans have an unbelievable experience catching fish and having a really good time doing it, so we focus on May through September,” Veith said. Last year, Veith worked with Racine County Veterans Services, taking officials on Geneva Lake for a fishing trip. Racine County Veterans Services, on its Facebook page, praised Veith for offering
Geneva Lakes
FRITZ BUTTON 262-248-3435
P.O. BOX 88 124 Cass St. (on Button Lane) Lake Geneva, WI 53147
SUBMITTED PHOTO The Breeze
Above: Fishing for Good Foundation’s Sam Veith primarily organizes free fishing trips for veterans, active military and first responders on Geneva and Delavan lakes. On the cover: A view of Geneva Lake taken on a warm, summer day last year. (Heidi Schulz photo)
g n i h s fi Fly
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GENEVA LAKES BREEZE
June 2022
THE ART OF
LOCAL GUIDE SHARES HIS PASSION WITH CLIENTS By Sandra Landen Machaj CORRESPONDENT
For George Kaider, local fly fishing guide and owner of In the Flow Fly Fishing, there is nothing he enjoys more than spending a day on the rivers and streams of Wisconsin, sharing his love of fly fishing. He has been doing so for over 30 years, and he has perfected his skills in both fly fishing and in tying his own flies to use while fishing. “I first learned to fish as a young boy,” Kaider said. ”My grandmother who enjoyed fishing, retired to Florida. There was a small pond on the property and when we came to visit, she would take me out to fish.” While he enjoyed this fishing with his grandmother, it was not long before he became more interested in learning more about fishing, and not just standing casting and holding a pole waiting for the fish to bite. It was fly fishing that caught his attention. Now over 30 years later, Kaider is an expert fly fisherman and guide, who enjoys not only fishing himself, but sharing his knowledge and talents with others. Teaching others has been a life long journey for him. “Early in life, I knew I wanted to work with kids and I have done so as a teacher, counselor, assistant principal, and sports coach (football and wrestling),” he said. “But over the years I have learned that teaching adults can also be rewarding. Teaching and guiding fly fishing has been a highlight of my life.” Kaider continues to work at Mundelein High School in Illinois as a counselor, traveling from his home in Lake Geneva each day. On weekends and during the summer, he turns his attention to teaching mostly adults how to fly fish and guides them on a day journeys down the rivers and streams of southeastern Wisconsin as he directs them to the best spots to find the fish. Here they then put into action what he has taught them earlier in the day.
A business spawns
While Kaider has been arranging fly fishing trips for years, last year he decided to officially launch In the Flow Fly Fishing Guide Service. In the Flow Fly Fishing Guide Service offers full-day fishing experiences under the direction of Kaider, who is knowledgeable about the special places to find the fish. “Each experience is different depending on the client,” said Kaider. “When a client calls to set up an event, we have a long conversation, much like an interview on both of our sides. I need to know what are their goals for the day and what experience they have. With more information I can set
right: George Kaider displays a large northern pike caught in a river. All fishing tours with In the Flow are catch and release. The fish is returned to the water after a photo is taken. below: Proper technique is key to successful fly fishing. Kaider, a fishing guide, offers hours of training prior to taking clients to the water. COURTESY OF GEORGE KAIDER The Breeze
June 2022
GENEVA LAKES BREEZE
Page 5
above: This is one of many hand tied-flies made by George Kaider and used on the fishing trips. right: Kaider says the goal of his service is to help clients become one with nature. COURTESY OF GEORGE KAIDER The Breeze
up a program to meet their needs. I want them to have a great experience whether they are a beginner or an expert. During the interview, the prospective client also learns more about me and my method of teaching and what they can expect from the day.” After he speaks to the client he begins to put together the day. For the beginner, the day will begin with a 60 to 90 minute session on casting. This will be held on dry land as the fundamentals of casting are explained. These will include proper stance and grip. The physics of managing the fly line to direct it to the area where the fish are located and to keep it from tangling will also be addressed. Once the fundamentals are learned, they will move into a wading session. Here Kaider will teach them how to safely wade into the river, how to target the fish, and how to retrieve the fly that is used for bait once the fish is caught. “We do a catch and release method of fishing on all our trips, to protect the environment. This way the population of fish remains for others to enjoy,” added Kaider.
Taking to water
Once the basics are learned, they will move from wading into the raft and begin their float down the river. Kaider will sit in the middle section and man the oars for the entire float, steering and directing the raft. He can take two fishermen on the raft during each trip. One is placed in the front and the other in the back. “More fishermen than that, and it is not possible to observe them and correct any problems,” added Kaider. He also noted that more lines being cast makes for tangled lines especially when they are just beginning to learn how to cast correctly. They will spend the next five hours on the float as Kaider points out the places where there are fish. The type of fish that they will pursue will depend on what the fisherman wants to accomplish. Usually, they will be able to catch a trout. Bass are a bit more difficult to capture and require a bit more finesse. So, if they just want to catch a lot of fish, they will be directed to spots where the trout gather. Lunch is prepared by Kaider, often freshly grilled bratwurst along with trimmings and sides. Lots of Gatorade is on board to keep everyone hydrated. Being out in the fresh air makes everyone hungry
and ready to eat. For the more advanced participants, the day is planned a bit differently. If they already know how to cast, they forego the onshore casting basics and the two hours wading in the river. Instead, they head directly to the raft to prepare for their nine-hour trip. They will spend eight hours fishing and have a one-hour rest during which lunch will be prepared and served. “Sitting in the raft for the extensive amount of time that we are in it can become very tiring. So, at times I will stop the raft and send them into the river to stretch their legs and do a little fishing while wading. Good exercise and good for circulation,” added Kaider.
Gearing up
Dressing correctly for the day is important. Participants are advised to bring their own waders and footwear. If they don’t have waders, they should wear quick drying clothing and shoes that can withstand being in the water. Wearing the waders throughout the day, even during boat time is suggested because of the time when they enter the water to stretch. They are especially recommended in the boat in the spring and fall when the weather is cooler. A hat and sunscreen are also good ideas to bring on board. Other than that, no other supplies are needed. In the Flow Fishing
supplies all the fly rods and flies. “All of the flies I use are hand tied by me,” Kaider said. “Learning to tie flies that have the appearance of food attractive to the fish takes time. The flies are each tied in such a way that they do resemble the types of food each individual species searches to obtain.” Creating the flies is not just a method of putting together a variety of colored threads or strings but creating one that actually can move in the water as the real bait would. Bass and pike need 6- to 8-inch streamers that mimic the patterns of the live bait they crave. Or they search for the frog patterns that float on top of the water. Each of the hand-tied flies takes more than an hour to create. If well made they will last the season. Safety on these trips is important and Kaider is a Class 5 whitewater kayaker and is certified in swift water rescue.
One with nature
“Going out into the rivers and streams and enjoying the time takes you into the zone. Here you are in a state of mind where time seems to stand still,” Kaider said. “While continuously casting, it becomes a repetitive pattern where one concentrates on the movement and is able to forget about problems, work, and responsibilities. You quickly become one with nature.”
Spending the day on the boat, friendships are also often established. “Even I can’t just talk about fishing for nine hours so there is often an exchange of information about their lives. Many friendships start on a fishing trip and continue long after,” added Kaider with a smile. Like any sport, proper instruction is needed to be the best you can be and to especially learn the basics correctly. “You wouldn’t head out on a golf course with a set of clubs and expect to be successful without some instruction about what clubs to use in which situations,” added Kaider. “Same is true of fly fishing. You need to learn the basics and learn where the fish you hope to catch gather before starting out on your own. I am here to help you do so.” Contact In the Flow Fly Fishing Guide to set up a day’s fishing experience that will teach you not only how to fish but to truly get “In the Flow” with nature. In The Flow Fly Fishing offers a variety of guided trips including driftless trout wading trips, smallmouth bass or pike wading or float trips or salmon wading trips. The choice is up to you. Visit In the Flow Fly Fishing guide service at intheflowflyfishing.com or call 262-325-1159 for more information or to set up a guided trip. Phone calls are accepted from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.
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GENEVA LAKES BREEZE
June 2022
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GENEVA LAKES BREEZE
Page 7
From day cruising to fishing, sailing and watersports, boating offers something for everyone, and it’s more accessible than you may think.
The water is calling
STOCK PHOTO The Breeze
4 easy ways to enjoy fun and freedom on a boat this summer Ready to make the most of your summer? Grab your friends and family and get out on the water. Boating gives you the freedom to explore the outdoors and offers added wellness benefits. Studies show being on the water improves emotional health, relaxation and creativity. “The water is open to everyone and provides the perfect summer escape,” said Ellen Bradley, Discover Boating senior vice president. “If you’re looking to get away and spend time with your loved ones, it doesn’t get much better than being on a boat where you get to choose your own adventure, experience the unique joys of disconnecting from stress on land and have fun.” From day cruising to fishing, sailing and watersports, boating offers something for everyone, and it’s more accessible
than you may think. In fact, boaters come from all walks of life, backgrounds and areas of the country, with an estimated 100 million Americans going boating each year, according to the National Marine Manufacturers Association. Discover Boating is the leading resource for all things boating whether you already own a boat, you’re just getting started or simply want to test the waters. These insider tips provide easy ways to get on the water and make the memories of a lifetime this summer.
Rent or share a boat Rental options are available on most waterways and provide hourly, daily or weekly access to a variety of boat types. Rental outfitters should provide tutorials on
operating a boat, share safety instructions and offer suggestions on destinations. Another option is peer-to-peer boat rentals, where most services allow you to search by zip code, find a boat near you and then connect with the boat’s owner, gather the details and hit the water.
Join a boat club Find a boat club near you to access a variety of boats. You’ll pay a monthly fee and be able to book your time on the water online. Most boat clubs take care of docking, cleaning, maintenance and boat training courses.
Take a class Take the helm and become a confident boater. Sign up for a boating lesson to hone
your powerboating, sailing or watersports skills by mastering the basics while having fun along the way. On-water training courses, watersports camps, youth boating programs and more are offered across the U.S.
Find your dream boat Chart your own course to boat ownership by visiting DiscoverBoating. com, where you’ll find a boat finder and loan calculator tool to help determine your budget and identify the different types of boats that fit your lifestyle and interests. Visit Discover Boating’s Go Boating Today tool to start planning your summer adventures. Use the social media hashtag #SeeYouOutHere to share your boating moments. (BPT)
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Page 8
GENEVA LAKES BREEZE
June 2022
A brighter course for
Foundation continues to move ahead with upgrades at historic observatory
Yerkes
By Sandra Landen Machaj CORRESPONDENT
1897, the Yerkes Observatory housing the largest lens-type telescope in the world, made its appearance on the shore of Geneva Lake in the Village of Williams Bay. Since that time the Observatory has become the symbol of the village with its likeness appearing on the village seal and the Williams Bay Police Department patch. It is the most recognized building in Williams Bay. The observatory was built for use by the University of Chicago, with money donated by Chicago millionaire Charles Tyson Yerkes. It was the dream of first University of Chicago President William Rainey Harper and associate professor of astrophysics George Hale to create a prestigious astronomy program at the University of Chicago. At the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition, a 40-inch refracting telescope had been introduced. Harper and Hale began to envision a research facility, complete with the latest in the technology of the time, which would become Yerkes Observatory. Hale hired architect Henry Ives Cobb to build the structure. The unique structure was built by Cobb to house the largest lens-type telescope. This building became the center of the new emerging field of modern astrophysics. A tower 112 feet high and 90 feet in diameter was required to hold the 64-foot telescope tube. The telescope contained two lenses, which together weigh close to 500 pounds. The lenses were cast in Paris by the optical glass manufacturer Mantois in the 1880s and ground and polished by the American optical firm of Alvan Clark and Sons of Cambridge, Massachusetts.
In
The right location
The new telescope, located about 100 miles away from the main University of Chicago campus – which would be known for its astrophysics work by many of the most important scientists of the time – was given the name Yerkes in honor of the principal donor. Many wondered why it was not built on the campus of the University of Chicago, but that was never considered to be an option. There was too much coal dust and other pollution in the air in Chicago to allow a good view of the night sky. The school also wanted somewhere that was not more than 100 miles from the campus to allow for travel back and forth between the campuses. According to Dennis Kois, executive director of the Yerkes Observatory, the shores of Geneva Lake, met the criteria for the perfect spot for the telescope, with clear air and dark skies, away from the pollution of the city. It also had a close connection with the Chicago donors, many of whom were also residents of the area with summer homes on Geneva Lake. The Yerkes campus quickly became the birthplace of the new growing field of astrophysics and attracted both students and known scientists from around the world. Edwin Hubble spent two years at Yerkes working on his dissertation. Carl Sagan also spent time there. The most famous visitor to Yerkes was Albert Einstein, but he only spent two hours visiting. Nancy Grace Roman, an astronomer, made important contributions to the classification of stars. She worked on her graduate degree at the University of Chicago campus in Williams Bay. She would become the first female executive at NASA, serving as NASA’s first Chief of Astronomy and played a role in planning the Hubble Space Telescope. “A new space telescope going up in 2025 is being named for her,” said Kois.
A change for the future
In spite of all the work accomplished here, rumors began to circulate that the University of Chicago was going to close the campus. In October 2018 the rumors became reality when the University of Chicago decided to close the Yerkes facility. Concern about the fate of this special building, with its Olmstead designed grounds – important both historically and architecturally to the area – would be lost. Local residents did not give up as they fought to develop a plan to preserve the property and the building. Working with volunteers and teaming up with local businesses, the Yerkes Future Foundation was formed. The mission of the Yerkes Future Foundation is stated to be “to preserve and protect the Yerkes Observatory, celebrate its history and continue to foster its goals of research, education and astronomical observation by providing the opportunity to all interested.” The Yerkes Future Foundation was successful in working with the University of Chicago and on May 1, 2020, the University of Chicago deeded the Observatory along with 50 acres of land to the Yerkes Future Foundation. “While they donated the Observatory, the 50 acres of land, the main telescope and included the two modernized telescopes, they did not provide any funds to repair or restore the building,” said Kois. The Yerkes Future Foundation has been and continues to be involved in fundraising, necessary to repair and sustain the building. It is an ongoing project that continues to be a priority. Clearing out the space, both indoors and out, was another job that required volunteers to help. Everything had to be carefully looked at to determine if it was important. “The building contained a large number of books and papers left by previous residents here,” said Kois. “We have spent weeks going through books and papers with the help of Judy Baisch, our librarian, to determine what should be kept. We even uncovered the original front page of Hubble’s dissertation.” One of the large tasks is to restore the brick walls, some of which have deteriorated over the years. Funds were raised to accomplish this. Bricks were removed in some areas to allow the walls to dry out. “The walls dry at the rate of 1 inch per month. The walls themselves are 28 inches thick so they were heated through the winter to encourage drying,” Kois said.
Making progress
Much work has been accomplished in 2021 according to the Yerkes website. Here are a few of the projects that have been completed: • A new roof with 83 solar panels which will generate
above: The telescope that makes its home in the Yerkes Observatory was the largest operating telescope in the world from 1897 to 1908. The dome where it resides is 112 feet high and 90 feet in diameter. The telescope itself is 64 feet long. It has two 40-inch diameter lenses weighing close to 500 pounds. top: The Yerkes Observatory in Williams Bay as it looked in 2020 when it was deeded to the Yerkes Future Foundation by the University of Chicago. COURTESY OF YERKES OBSERVATORY The Breeze
power for the observatory and provide charging stations in the parking lot for automobiles. • A new parking lot where rainwater runoff passes through water-filtering retention ponds filled with native plants. Dark skies compliant lighting has been added to the parking lot. • Bluebird habitat houses have been placed across the 50 acres of land. • A Frederick Law Olmsted room was created in celebration of his 200th birthday. The Yerkes Observatory has become a partner in the Olmsted 200 campaign, a nationwide celebration honoring the bicentennial celebration of the birth of Olmsted. Since the grounds were originally designed by Olmsted’s architectural firm there are plans to try to recapture the design using the original plans. They have already removed many dead and diseased trees and have • CONTINUED ON PAGE 11
A man of imagination June 2022
GENEVA LAKES BREEZE
Page 9
Gary Gygax remembered as museum completes tribute exhibit
By Sandra Landen Machaj
sites where imaginative gaming began.
CORRESPONDENT
Museum display in works
E
rnest Gary Gygax, known as Gary Gygax, was born in Chicago and spent the first years of his life there. He would visit his grandparents in Lake Geneva in the summer. By the time he was 8, his family moved to Lake Geneva, where Gygax would live for most of his life. Gygax would become known as the creator of Games of Imagination, particularly well known for creating Dungeons and Dragons with fellow gamer Dave Arneson. D&D, as it became known, was the pioneering role-playing game that continues to be enjoyed today by clubs throughout the country. Gygax’s passion for games of strategy began at a young age. He became interested in chess, card games and other board games around the age of 5. He enjoyed science fiction stories and fantasy told to him by his father – some of which became elements in his fantasy games. In Lake Geneva he became friends with Don Kaye. They began playing war games using maps and miniature figures. The games had rules, which became more complicated as new versions were introduced. Dice were used to make moves. Gygax married childhood friend Mary Jo Powell in 1958 when he was 19. They moved to Chicago for a time as he worked for an insurance company as a shipping clerk. They had five children, but he continued to play war games in his free time. In 1962, Gygax obtained a new job as an insurance underwriter. With the birth of their third child, the family moved back to Lake Geneva, which would remain his home for the rest of his life.
A love of games Gygax’s interest in war games as a hobby eventually became more of a fulltime commitment and he began to write magazine articles about the games. He created some games of his own and found dice of many sides in a school supply catalog. He incorporated 4-sided, 6-sided, 8-sided, 12-sided and even 20-sided dice into the war games to achieve random number combinations. Before creating Dungeons and Dragons, Gygax invited friends to join him in playing the games he invented. On weekends they would gather to play the war games and to try out the new games he created. Eventually, the number of players he attracted was too many for his basement so he moved the playing field to Horticultural Hall in downtown Lake Geneva in 1968. He named the event the Geneva Convention or Gen Con for short. Gygax paid $50 to rent the space and charged $1 per person to attend. He was able to recoup his $50. “I was a teenager living in Minnesota and read about the upcoming Gen Con and thought it would be exciting,” said Mike Carr, a gaming enthusiast. “So I convinced my parents that a trip to Lake Geneva would be a good vacation weekend for the family. The family could sightsee and I could attend this gaming event.” His parents agreed and the family
Shown in front of Geneva Lake Museum are (from left) Ed Schwinn, museum president; Gail Gygax, widow of Gary Gygax; Paul Stromberg, Mike Carr and Jim Gee. The group displays the dragon stained glass window that will be part of the Legacy of Imagination exhibit, which will highlight the history revolving around the Dungeons and Dragons game. COURTESY OF GENEVA LAKE MUSEUM The Breeze
made the trip allowing Carr to attend the first Gen Con. It would not be his last trip to attend such an event. “I have attended every Gen Con since that very first one – the only person to do so,” he explained. “I have a lifetime pass.”
Popularity grows Gen Con became so popular it soon was too large for Horticultural Hall and Gygax had to pursue larger quarters. By Gen Con 10, they had moved to the Playboy Club on the east side of Lake Geneva, now known as Grand Geneva Resort. However, they outgrew that venue as well so Gen Con moved to Parkside College near Kenosha. After that it made its home in downtown Milwaukee before being relocated to Indianapolis, making use of Lucas Stadium. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the event was capped at 75,000 visitors. It was at the second Gen Con that Gygax met Dave Arneson who would become co-creator of Dungeons and Dragons, the game that soon became popular throughout the country and remains a favorite of game players today. Even in these days of online games, many gather regularly to enjoy Dungeons and Dragons with friends. Playing the war games became more interesting when played on the sand table in Gygax’s basement. The sand could be molded into mountains and streams, the castle or fort constructed and the miniature defensive and offensive forces moved as determined by the throw of the dice and the rules of the game. Today, Paul Stromberg – another longterm game player and president of the Gary Gygax Memorial Fund – also has a sand table that he brings to various gameplaying events. Along with the table he brings fresh buckets of sand to set up the scenes.
D&D is born In 1971, Gygax was a developer of the game Chainmail. This miniatures war game was based on medieval warfare, which was different from the war games previously being played with traditional soldiers. He began to work with Arneson on a game that would become known as Dungeons and Dragons. Gygax also founded The Dragon, a magazine based on the new Dungeons and Dragon Game. With friend Don Kaye as a partner, Gygax formed Tactical Studies Rules, investing $1,000 each to print 1,000 copies of Dungeons & Dragons. Costs were more than anticipated and a third partner, Brian Blume was brought into the mix. “Gary invited me to come to work for Tactical Studies Rules. I was their seventh employee,” Carr said. In January 1974, the game was printed and sold for $10 for the game rules, or $12.50 with a set of the rules and the dice needed to play it. By the end of the year the game had sold out. It continued to be the company’s best seller. TSR was purchased by Wizards of the Coast in 1997 and today still publishes Dungeons & Dragons. It is now a subsidiary of Hasbro. The game of Dungeons and Dragons does not have a traditional beginning and ending. It is a game of fantasy and imagination as each player manipulates his characters through the scenario that is set by the Dungeon Master. He sets the stage – including time and place – and produces a challenge. In 1983, Gygax’s marriage to Mary Jo ended in divorce. In 1987 he married Gail Carpenter with whom he had another child. They remained married until his death in 2008. Gygax’s legacy still attracts a large number of gamers who come to play at various gaming conventions or to visit the
In 2020, the Geneva Lake Museum began developing a new exhibit celebrating the City of Lake Geneva as the birthplace of imagination gaming, Gygax and the creation of the Dungeons and Dragons game, and now as the place to visit for gamers from all over the world. “The exhibit will be over 500 square feet in size and will be a permanent exhibit,” said Carr, who along with Paul Stormberg is working with the museum to create the exhibit. “It will be called The Legacy of Imagination, Gary Gygax, Dungeons and Dragons, the creation of a culture.” While the exhibit was started two years ago, the pandemic interfered with the ability to complete it in a timely manner. The museum was closed for part of the time, temporarily halting work on the exhibit. Recently, Ed Schwinn, president of Geneva Lake Museum, sent out information about the new exhibit explaining that the space will have special display cases, wall graphics, themed stained glass and gaming artifacts. He also requested help in meeting the $20,000 funding goal to complete the exhibit. Contributions can be sent to Geneva Lake Museum, 255 Mill St., Lake Geneva, 53147 to aid in this project.
Dungeon Hobby Shop The Dungeon Hobby Shop and Museum is located in the original home of TSR, 723 Williams St., Lake Geneva. It has a large collection of early versions of Dungeons and Dragons and other material produced by TSR. They offer programs and games by Ernie Gygax, eldest son of Gary, Dave O’Brien and Jeff Leason. Free games are offered on Sunday (Kids Day) from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Gary Gygax Memorial Founded in 2010 by Gail Gygax, Gary’s widow, the goal of the memorial fund is to have a fitting memorial for Gary in Lake Geneva recognizing his work as the creator of the game of imagination. “We have a design for the memorial, said Paul Stormberg, president of the Gygax Memorial Fund. “The sculpture would be of Gary sitting at a game table with the map of the first floor of his dungeon displayed on the table. The table would have benches on the sides to allow visitors to play with Gary at the head of the table. “We are working with the City of Lake Geneva for a suitable place for the memorial to be placed. We would like to see it in Elm Park,” Stormberg added. To learn more about this proposed memorial, visit gygaxmemorialfund.org A current memorial to Gary Gygax can be found in the bricks surrounding the Driehaus Fountain in front of the Riviera. With a picture of the 20-sided die with Dragon atop, it recognizes Gygax as the creator of Dungeons and Dragons and was provided by his family, friends and fans.
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GENEVA LAKES BREEZE
June 2022
MARINE TRADING POST BUYING, SELLING & SERVICING BOATS AND MARINE EQUIPMENT
CLASSIFIEDS BOATS 18’ LAKE MICHIGAN FISHING BOAT 1982 70 hp Evinrude motor & a 2nd Evinrude 7.5 motor/ accessories & trailer. Garage kept. $5,000. 262-878-3463
1973 25FT CHRISCRAFT CABIN CRUISER V8, bunk trailer. $1,850 OBO. 847-497-3692
EVINRUDE 8 HP 1996 Long shaft. Orig. price $1,045. Must sell $300. Call 608-897-4177.
1978 AZTEC RANGER 17’ BASS BOAT Evinrude outboard XP100 with motor guide trolling motor $3,500. OBO. Call 708-516-1211.
SMOKER 16’ On trailer. 30HP Evinrude. Never been in water. 2 tanks, foot control tiller. $4500. Text (262) 989-4112
LAKES AREA CLASSIFIEDS BOATS FOR SALE
Fishing Boats
Ski Boats/Fishing Boats
14 foot aluminum fishing boat, trolling motor, oars, battery. $395. (262) 742-3665.
1990 Mastercraft Prostar 190, low
Lift and Lift Parts
hours, excellent ski boat, trailer, lift kept $7500 best (262) 949-6997 1995 Mastercraft Sammy Duvall series, Corvette engine, flat wakes great slalom boat $13,500 best. (262) 742-3665
Jet ski lift, Needs some repair $25.00. (262) 949-6997 Jet ski trailer, Needs work. $50.00. (262) 949-6997 Shore station lift parts, cheap. Lauderdale Lakes. (262) 742-3665
1998 Supra Legacy, Super low hours,
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confidence. $75. Text (262) 949-6997
2000 Supra Legacy, very clean, Slalom ski, 67”, great shape, $125.00. (630) 886-6667 garage/lift kept, bow rider, 275 hours, Skis, doubles, nice condition. $75.00. Text (262) 949-6997 $9995 best. (630) 886-6667
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ANGLING
June 2022
GENEVA LAKES BREEZE
Page 11
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10 to 15 fishing trips annually and explained having help allows him to focus on obtaining sponsorships at other lakes. For example, Fishing for Good recently started a chapter in Waukesha County, with people guiding others on Pewaukee, Oconomowoc and Okauchee lakes. “This year, we are going to be expanding to some other lakes north and south,” said Veith. “We are really excited and I am hoping to get another chapter in northern Illinois on the Chain O’Lakes.” However, that growth is primarily contingent upon fuel prices, Veith explained, fishing expenses add up if gasoline continues to remain near $4 a gallon. “We are going to gauge how that is going to work this year with the high gas prices,” he said. Open-ended Veith said he decided to name the nonprofit group Fishing for Good Foundation for a specific reason. The simple name, he said, allows the organization to create opportunities for people other than veterans, first responders and active military. “I named it Fishing for Good on purpose, I want it to be very general, so that fishing can attract more than just taking out veterans, first responders and activity military personnel,” he said. “There is nothing telling us that we can’t find companies that would want to sponsor trips for inner-city kids, or troubled youth, or cancer patients, or kids with cancer.” Southeast Wisconsin, as well as the state itself, consists of hundreds of lakes for fishing. “If I can do one little chapter on Geneva Lake and be able to give back, there is no reason why others couldn’t give back on their local lakes,” Veith said.
top right: Anglers collect fish from a net during a Fishing for Good trip. right: Fishing for Good Foundation’s trips come away with many successful catches for veterans, active military and first responders. above: Veith showcases a catch he made while on a fishing trip. SUBMITTED PHOTOS The Breeze
States, Veith admitted finding work was not an easy task. However, as he continued seeking work, Veith spent a couple of months as a first mate on a charter boat exploring Lake Erie in Ohio. “I got free lodging, so that was kind of nice, but I was just really making cash tips and learning about walleye fishing,” he said. “I actually got a fishing license.” In 2009, Veith secured a job in downtown Chicago, but still found a way to pursue fishing through more trips to Geneva Lake. About nine years ago, he moved from
Fishing is an escape In 2003 and 2004, when Veith started college, he often fished on Geneva Lake during the weekends. When he graduated in 2007, shortly before the recession struck the United
YERKES
the Chicago area to Wisconsin, which allowed him additional time to fish area waterways. “Every time life has gotten a little difficult, I just find comfort in going out into nature, so I want to promote that same thing to people who are having mental difficulties, whether it is PTSD, depression or anxiety,” he said. “Once you get a bite, it is just so fulfilling.” Some challenges The Fishing for Good Foundation, he said, is diligently working to include more
people who could benefit from fishing trips such as those with physical disabilities. Veith said typical fishing boats are not handicapped accessible, however, pontoon boats serve as an ideal watercraft for people with disabilities. “It is kind of a case-by-case basis on whether we can accommodate someone, but in the future, I would like to expand to some guides with a pontoon boats,” said Veith. Veith said he and board members have frequently discussed this matter. The Fishing for Good Foundation is accessible online at fishingforgood.org and on Facebook. People interested can sign up using a form on its website, according to Veith, who said a fishing guide will then contact them to schedule a trip.
• CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8
begun planting new ones. New deer-resistant daffodil bulbs have been planted and a welcome garden is set to bloom in the spring along Geneva Street. One thing that is not being replanted is buckthorn. Originally the Olmstead group planted a lot of it on the grounds. It is not native to this area and is more of a nuisance as it is invasive. Other projects are being worked on including restoration and cleaning of the Travertine marble on the walls in the entryways, rotunda, and main corridors. What is the future for the Yerkes Observatory? According to Kois they will continue to work on the property and plan to have more activities on the grounds. They recently renovated one of the houses on the property. “We hope to bring in deep thinkers, artists, and writers to engage in science here. With two active robotic telescopes on the grounds, we hope to continue to be a presence in the community,” Kois said. Last year they hosted their first wedding on the property in spite of all the renovations being done. The group looks to provide additional space for weddings. They are now taking reservations for weddings for 2022 and 2023.
Restoring spaces for a welcome center and a lecture and meeting room will continue to make this a community space where education will remain important. The terrazzo floors need to be restored and the skylights, which have been covered for more than 40 years, will be uncovered to see the light of day again. The plan is to have some programs to allow visitors to look at the night skies, although they may be held out on the lawn with smaller scopes due to construction. The observatory opened for tours at the end of May, which will continue through summer. In the meantime, Kois, as executive director will continue to run the venue and will work on fundraising to continue to improve Yerkes and what it has to offer the community. The plan includes making it once again a center where education and astronomy are joined with speakers, concerts, exhibits, tours, and performances. Those interested in donating to the Yerkes Future Foundation financially or as a volunteer, contact the Yerkes Future Foundation at info@yerkesobservatory. org or by mail at the Yerkes Future Foundation, P.O. Box 346, Williams Bay, Wi 53191.
The outside of the building is covered with scaffolding as repairs continue. COURTESY OF YERKES OBSERVATORY The Breeze
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GENEVA LAKES BREEZE
June 2022
SUMMER SOUNDS BETTER HERE.
Saturday, July 16 | 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, July 17 | 4 p.m.
Sunday, July 24 | 4 p.m.
KRISTIN CHENOWETH IN CONCERT: FOR THE GIRLS
JOFFREY ACADEMY OF DANCE, OFFICIAL SCHOOL OF THE JOFFREY BALLET: RITA FINDS HOME
THE IRISH TENORS WITH THE CHICAGO PHILHARMONIC
Emmy and Tony Award winning actress, singer, and best-selling author known the world over for originating the role of Glinda in “Wicked” and appearances on “The West Wing,” “Glee,” and “Hairspray Live!”
This original work focuses on a young girl named Rita who is displaced from her tropical home by a hurricane and struggles to redefine her sense of self as her family relocates to the big city.
The famed trio, always thrilling audiences worldwide with their enchanting Irish repertoire, teams up with some of the highest-level classical musicians performing in the Chicago area.
Saturday, July 30 | 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, August 6 | 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, August 14 | 4 p.m.
GET HAPPY! MICHAEL FEINSTEIN CELEBRATES THE JUDY GARLAND CENTENNIAL
AN EVENING WITH AIR SUPPLY
LAKE GENEVA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
The Ambassador of the Great American Songbook pays tribute to the unparalleled talent and charisma of the legendary Judy Garland in this, her 100th birthday year.
Now in their 47th year, the much-loved AustralianEnglish soft rock duo continues to tour worldwide, performing chart-topping hits “All Out of Love,” “Even the Nights Are Better,” and countless others.
Since its founding in 2001, this celebrated orchestra is dedicated to the performance and appreciation of classical music throughout Lake Geneva and surrounding communities.
Tickets available at musicbythelake.com or by calling 262-245-8501. Ferro Pavilion | Williams Bay, WI | musicbythelake.com |
musicbythelake 417873
Remarkable Lakefront Setting
Award Winning Culinary Staff Located on the shores of scenic Geneva Lake in Fontana, Abbey Springs offers the most unique and versatile setting for your indoor or outdoor wedding. Rely on the expertise from our professional wedding coordinator and outstanding culinary staff to manage everything, down to the last detail.
Abbey Springs 262.275.6113 abbeysprings.org 417568