Issuu

Vol . 34 No. 5

COMPLIMENTARY COPY • Since 19 89

MAY 2022

EMBRACE THE

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SUSHI AND TACOS? JAMBOREE TIME LEGACY OF GARY GYGAX

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Advertiser’s index

@ Properties...........................................................21 Abbey Springs....................................................26

May events calendar................................................4

Addie Water Systems.................................. 18

Flavor fusion in East Troy...........................................5

AMB Roofing & Sheet Metal.................. 14

Dining Guide....................................................6

Assisi Homes of Kenosha....................... 30

Allied Senior Services.....................................6 Always Remember That...........................28 Apple Barn Orchard and Winery......32 Aronson Fence Co Inc.................................26 Baker House............................................................6 Best Bargains.......................................................10

Jamboree returns to Burlington........................................ 11

Burtness Chevrolet Buick GMC.........24

Help for the spring planting season....................................13

Champs Sports Bar & Grill..........................6

The basics of container gardening..............................21

East Troy Brewery..............................................6

A man of imagination..........................................23

Gino’s East Pizzeria.........................................24

New owners, same service at J. Roberts..............................29

Caravelle Lighting.............................................12 Carpets Plus Outlet, Inc................................6 Chances.......................................................................6 Chris’ USA...................................................................6 Elkhorn Motor Condos............................... 30 First Citizens State Bank............................ 15 Green Grocer & Deli.........................................6 Heyer True Value.............................................20 John Thielmann & Sons, Inc..................22 Komfort Heating & Cooling.....................12 Local Folks Restaurant & Pub.................6 Luisa’s Restaurant........................................ 6, 8 Lyle’s TV & Appliances, Inc........................2

ON THE COVER

Mars Resort..............................................................6

May flowers

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As the temperatures climb and the sun rises higher in the sky, homeowners throughout the area can be found in their gardens nuturing beautiful blooms such as these. The colorful petunias were photographed at BlueBird Greenhouse Nursery in East Troy. COURTESY OF BLUEBIRD GREENHOUSE NURSERY Spirit of Geneva Lakes

Parkside Village Senior Apartments.....................................10 PATS Services Inc...............................................8 Pine Street Cafe....................................................6 Sandy’s Upscale Consignment..........28 Sugar Creek Mutual Insurance............31 Verlo Mattress.....................................................16 Veteran’s Truck Line, Inc...............................8 Waterfront Pub and Eatery........................6 Wall 2 Wall Painting.......................................20 Westenn Mgmt LLP...................................... 18 Westside Landscaping..............................20 Wilson Farm Meats...........................................8

SPIRIT of GENEVA LAKES

IT’S COMIN’ UP MAY EVENTS

Editor’s note: With uncertainty caused by the coronavirus pandemic and its potential to disrupt events throughout the area, readers are advised to call ahead to verify dates and times.

Lake Geneva Symphony Orchestra Chamber Music – Join the symphony for its last chamber music concert of the 2021-2022 season. The concert will feature the LGSO Woodwind Quintet, Prevailing Winds: Eileen Weyrauch, flute; Sue Newman, oboe; Tim Graf, clarinet; Liz Ehlert, horn; and Derek Kane, bassoon, among other performances. The concert is free will be held at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 700 N. Bloomfield Rd., Lake Geneva, beginning at 3 p.m.

7 Kentucky Derby Party at Maxwell

Mansion – Who’s ready to get all dazzled up to experience an exciting Kentucky Derby party at Maxwell? Wear your biggest hats and bowties and get ready for a wonderful afternoon watching the races. Signature Derby cocktails will be served and prizes will be award to the best dressed. 1:30 p.m. to midnight at the Maxwell Mansion, 304 S. Wells St., Lake Geneva. 262-248-9711

Mothers Day brunch at Lake Lawn Resort – Celebrate that special lady at Lake Lawn Resort for a Mother’s Day brunch buffet. Each leading lady will receive a fresh cut flower, unlimited champagne, and entry into the Calladora Spa giveaway where she could win a complimentary 50-minute Image Skincare facial. Adults $60, Children 4-12 years $22. Prices are inclusive of 20% service charge and sales tax.

IS A PUBLICATION OF

13-15

Lake Geneva Jaycees Pub and Grub Crawl – Enjoy some of Lake Geneva’s finest restaurants and pubs to help raise money for Walworth County Veterans. The Jaycees will be selling wristbands for $25 each April 27-30 Spring Fashion providing various discounts at participating Week in Downtown Lake Geneva – A businesses. Each location will post a special complimentary ticket entitles participants to menu for the event. Tickets may be purchased shop at more than 25 local boutiques and online at pubcrawl.lakegenevajaycees.org. receive specials at each location. Prize drawings and demonstrations are included in the fun. VIP 13-15 Lake Geneva Women’s tickets at $25 and $40 levels entitle participants Weekend – Get your friends together and join to additional activities and benefits. For a three-day, fun-filled weekend in Lake Geneva. additional information, visit streetsoflakegeneva. The weekend will offer a blend of relaxation, com. learning, wellness, pampering, shopping, wining and dining. Plan the perfect weekend by April 23-May 1 Lake Geneva selecting from several offerings of workshops, Restaurant Week – Make plans to enjoy wellness events, and social events including a a culinary adventure around the Lake Geneva cocktail and music cruise on Geneva Lake. The region Dozens of the area’s restaurants will event begins with a rip-roaring 1920’s-themed feature exclusive breakfast, lunch and dinner kick-off party at the historic Riviera Ballroom. menus created just for Restaurant Week. For tickets and additional information, visit With each meal at a participating restaurant, lakegenevawomensweekend.com. diners will receive a ballot to vote for a charity to receive a monetary donation from the Restaurant Week Charity Check sponsor. See visitlakegeneva.com for full details about restaurant week, including participating restaurants and featured menus.

Spirit The

Streets of Lake Geneva Wine Walk – Event features a day full of fun in Downtown Lake Geneva. Tickets include 4-oz. stemless wine glass; wine samples at each location; snacks along the way and a goodie bag. Must be 21 to participate in the event. Valid ID will be required at check-in. Tickets are $42 in advance. Designated driver tickets are available at $15 each. Visit www.streetsoflakegeneva.com/ winewalk for tickets and additional information.

Ongoing events East Troy Electric Railroad – 202 Church St., East Troy. Take a 14-mile train ride on the only remaining electric interurban tracks in Wisconsin. Historic museum and carefully maintained rail cars from 90 to 100 years ago. Stops at the Elegant Farmer. 15 miles north of Lake Geneva on Highway 120. Several trains depart each day on weekends from the East Troy Depot. Live Music Weekends – at Studio Winery and Geneva Distilling. 401 Sheridan Springs Rd., Lake Geneva. Live music every Friday and Saturday from 5 to 9 p.m., usually blues or classic rock on the best sound system in Southeastern Wisconsin. Enjoy the music while sipping on a glass of wine, or a craft cocktail. Light bites also available. List of performers is posted on the website: studiowinery.com. Tristan Crist Magic Theater – 609 W. Main St., Lake Geneva. One of a kind performer that wows audiences with with, jaw-dropping illusions and gut-wrenching escapes! For show dates and times call 262-248-0505 or visit www. lakegenevamagic.com. MAY 2022

GENERAL MANAGER

Sue Z. Lange EDITOR IN CHIEF

Ed Nadolski ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

Vicki Vanderwerff CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Heather Ruenz SALES

Pete Hansen Tamera Hamilton DISTRIBUTION DIRECTOR

Lindy Sweet

The Spirit of Geneva Lakes is a complimentary publication, distributed from I-94 through west Kenosha County, to and including the Geneva Lakes area in Walworth County, Richmond Illinois, plus Burlington and Waterford in Racine County. Send all correspondence to:

The

Spirit

SOUTHERN LAKES NEWSPAPERS 1102 Ann Street Delavan, WI 53115

SpiritofGenevaLakes.com

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The staff gathers in front of Chinuk Sushi Grill, East Troy, before the evening’s work begins. SANDRA LANDEN MACHAJ Spirit of Geneva Lakes

Flavor fusion

Chinuk Sushi Grill and el Pedro Taco offer unique taste combinations

by Sandra Landen Machaj CORRESPONDENT

In February, on Valentine’s Day, a new and exciting restaurant opened just off the square in downtown East Troy. The Chinuk Sushi Grill and el Pedro Taco, 2919 Main Street, offers a fresh take at dining in the area. “We are an Asian fusion restaurant,” said Michael Salvatore, manager of restaurant. “We offer a variety of unique food combinations that appeal to many palates.” While many may not think of Asian Fusion and sushi as typical Wisconsin fare, it has been very well-received by customers, according to Salvatore. For some, this type of food has been a special treat that they were only able to enjoy when out of town where this specialty type of restaurant was available. To others, Asian Fusion food is an entirely new experience that often becomes a regular part of their dining experience. Asian fusion is a method of cooking that combines ingredients from different culinary traditions that may originate in different regions of the same country or from different countries and cultures.

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Dining Directory THE GREEN GROCER AND DELI • 24 W. Geneva St., Williams Bay. 262-245-9077. www.greengrocergenevalake.com Organic grocery store with a deli. Serving sandwiches made with Boars Head meat and cheese, homemade soups, salads and pizzas, wine, beer and cocktails. Dine in, Carryout or delivery. Open 7 days a week. L, D, $-$$  ( EAST TROY BREWERY • 2905 Main St. on the Historic Square, East Troy. 262-6422670. Go to www.etbrew.com for an updated menu. Historic 1892 bank turned brewery/ restaurant. Craft beer and a great menu with seasonal specials. Find us on Facebook. Wed.-Thurs. 4-9pm; Fri.-Sat. 12-10pm; Sun. 12-6pm. L, D, $$, GF, FF  WATERFRONT PUB & GRILL • 408 State Rd. 50, Delavan. 262-728-4700. www.waterfrontdelavan.com Like us on Facebook and join us on Untappd. Serving fresh salads, wraps, signature sandwiches, juicy burgers, Friday Fish Fry & Saturday Prime Rib. Full wrap around bar with 20 beers on draft and gaming corner. Dine-in, take out and drive-thru available. L, D, $-$$, FF, 

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

Call for Carry Out & Delivery Options

LUISA’S • Just off Hwy. 50, 12 mi. east of Lake Geneva. 262-537-4795. Superb Italian & American cuisine. Dine in, carry out, delivery, catering avail., call ahead & will have it hot ready to go. D, $$ 

CHAMPS SPORTS BAR AND GRILL • 747 W. Main St., Lake Geneva. 262-248-6008. Featuring new items on our menu: hand rolled taquitos, prime rib burgers, baja fish tacos, and country pot roast sandwich. L, D, FF, $

CHRIS’ USA • 724 Milwaukee Ave., Burlington. 262-763-9968. Popular Friday Fish Fry. Beer Battered or Baked Cod with your choice of potato pancakes or french fries and coleslaw. Perch Dinner Available. $$, FF

PINE STREET CAFE • 141 N. Pine St., Burlington, WI 53105. 262-763-9800. Homestyle food made from scratch daily using only the finest, freshest ingredients. Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner. Fish Fries Every Friday. Sunday 6am - 3pm. Monday Saturday 6am - 8pm. B, L, D, FF, 

LOCAL FOLKS RESTAURANT & PUB • 39601 60th St. (Slades Corners), Burlington. 262-539-3200. Open 6am every morning! B, L, D, $, FF,  MARS RESORT • W 4098 S. Shore Dr., Lake Geneva. A classic Wisconsin supper club “nestled on the shores of Lake Como.” Open 7 days a week at 11am. Out of this world ribs and spectacular sunsets! Reserve one of our Igloos on our “Fire and Ice” Deck for a truly unique experience. We created special platters that are sure to please all of our guests. Enjoy our Piano Bar for fun Friday and Saturday nights. Call 262245-5689 today and visit www.mars-resort. com to view our menu. L, D, FF, $$

THE BAKER HOUSE • 327 Wrigley Dr., Lake Geneva. 262-248-4700. Lake side dining in an elegant 1885 Queen Anne Victorian. Full Bar. Sunday Brunch. L, D, $$$, GF,  ( CHANCES • 205 W. Main St., Rochester. 262-534-2772. An establishment of Fine

Food & Spirits. Closed on Monday. Weekday Specials $13.00. We serve dinner Tuesday - Saturday, 4:30 - 9pm. Lunch Wednesday - Saturday, 11am - 2pm. Friday Fish Fry & Saturday Prime Rib. Visit us on our website: www.chancesfood.com. L, D, $$$,  

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MAY 2022

They are then presented in a new way. This method of cooking became popular in the 1960s and 1970s and continues to evolve in today’s fine restaurants. “Everything we serve is made by hand. Our head sushi chef, Jino, who is from Korea, is known for his unique creations,” Salvatore said. “Because each piece of sushi has to be hand created, customers need to be patient. We have three additional sushi chefs who work with our head chef. Each chef puts their own special touch on their sushi rolls.”

A modern look The building itself is unique and gives off a relaxing vibe. A modern exterior with large windows is accented with natural wood and white trim. The bar is casual with beautiful wood plank tables and bar, all finished in a natural wood tone. The wood itself was repurposed from a 120-year-old barn that was being torn down in the area. The bar is full service offering traditional mixed cocktails made to order. They also carry Sake, a Japanese libation. “There are four grades of sake, and we

offer all four,” said Salvatore. “Each grade has a special way to be served. The lower grades are served warm, but the top grade is always served cold.” While the bar is light and casual – a place to enjoy a beverage and an appetizer while one gathers with friends – a step into the formal dining room produces a very different vibe. The formal dining room has white tablecloths and is perfect for that special date night dinner. It offers a more serene vibe, as one enjoys the specially made foods created by chef Jino. A special sushi table where the chef creates the sushi rolls one piece at a time is in the dining room. There is seating around the chef’s table for customers who prefer to eat there while watching him create their food. Eating in an Asian fusion restaurant requires time and patience as everything is made to order. The sushi rolls are hand rolled by the chef, with each chef adding a special touch. Asian fusion requires savoring each unique ingredient in the food to appreciate how they work well together for the special

taste. “Quality ingredients are important when creating dishes. We use top quality fresh seafood in all our dishes. The fish is always fresh as we purchase it daily,” Salvatore said. “Each day we purchase fresh salmon, tuna, and yellow tail in addition to other fresh fish that may be available. We only purchase fish that is sustainable.” Salvatore also notes that on some evenings – especially if you have a later reservation – they may run out of some specific varieties of the fish if it is particularly popular. But there are always other great choices from our menu.

Sushi primer For those new to the sushi menu, understanding what each special dish consists of is important. Listed on the menu is a description of some of the foods available. Maki is a seaweed rice roll with a piece of fresh fish inside along with other items such as cucumber, special sauces, or avocado. The Maki is more what most people think of as sushi. Here there is always a Maki of the day, which varies due to chef’s preference. It

top: Chinuk Sushi Grill and el Pedro Taco, 2919 Main St., East Troy, opened in February. Located just off the square, the restaurant features an Asian Fusion style of cooking. above: The bar at Chinuk Sushi Grill is full service offering a variety of quality liquors. SANDRA LANDEN MACHAJ Spirit of Geneva Lakes

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can be ordered individually as one roll or as a combination of two rolls as a dinner entrée. Nigiri is pieces of fish with rice, while the sashimi is the fish served alone. A combination of Maki, Nigiri, and sashimi dishes are often shared by a group. The Chinuk menu carries a full selection of starters both from the kitchen and from the fresh sushi bar. The restaurant offers the traditional Miso soup,

made with soybean paste, tofu and green onions. There are several salads available from octopus salad or seaweed salad, for those looking for a new taste experience, to a traditional house salad of fresh greens and vegetables. Entrees too can be the more traditional cooked Cornish hen, broiled salmon, pork cutlet or even rib eye steak with the Asian fusion twist. For the seafood

lover, a grilled shrimp, scallops and lobster entrée is served with a creamy garlic sauce and udon noodles.

Saturday. Reservations can be made online at chinuksushi.com or by calling the restaurant after 5 p.m. at 262-749-1452. In nice summer weather, El Pedro Taco being outdoors in the evening, The el Pedro Taco portion with family or friends is always of the menu presents starters a comfortable way to end the such as Panko breaded shrimp, day. This summer there will be guacamole or a variety of tacos, a new addition – a rooftop bar. including al pastor (Mexican The bar will offer full service and pork), Korean BBQ Pork, will also offer Korean Barbecue pescado (fish) or other varieties cooked on the roof on a hibachi again keeping the Asian Fusion grill. style of cooking by incorporating Imagine, being up on the items such as the tempura or rooftop enjoying a beautiful Korean BBQ pork into the summer evening with a view of traditionally Mexican taco. the square in the distance, and According to Salvatore, while sipping your favorite beverage some may have questioned while the aroma of Korean BBQ the choice of an Asian fusion wafts through the air. With the restaurant for this area, it has fragrant aroma in the air, there been very successful. Almost will not be many patrons who 93% of the customers are local don’t succumb to ordering residents who are embracing Korean BBQ to enjoy. the new experience in food. “The plan is to have the Reservations, especially on rooftop open by June,” said weekends, are full. Salvatore. “Along with our relaxing “We are very pleased with décor and fine food, our staff the success we have had since is our greatest asset. They are a opening. Most nights our young group who work hard and reservations are completely work well together as a team,” filled before we even open,” said Salvatore said. “They are always Salvatore, who has managed anxious to please the customer several restaurants in the Lake and are willing to explain food Geneva area. “Sometimes we items that may be new to their can fit additional guests at the customers. We are very proud of bar but we recommend making our hard working staff.” a reservation to be certain of Because of the time required getting in.” to create the special foods offered Chinuk Sushi and el Pedro top: A couple enjoys some sushi and a cocktail at the bar at Chinuk Sushi here, reservations are required on Taco is at 2929 Main Street, East Grill. The restaurant offers a good place to relax and enjoy the freshly Thursday, Friday and Saturday Troy, just off the square. Call at made cocktails and the individually created sushi rolls. above: An array of and highly recommended on 262-749-1452 after 5 p.m. for freshly made maki rolls, the special of the day on a recent visit. other days. The restaurant is open reservations. Or visit the website SANDRA LANDEN MACHAJ Spirit of Geneva Lakes from 5 to 9 p.m. Tuesday through chinuksushi.com. SPIRIT of GENEVA LAKES

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CHAD HENSIAK Spirit of Geneva Lakes

Jamboree returns for 2022

Burlington gears up to host Memorial Day weekend festival

expanded for 2022 and includes multiple performers on Friday, Saturday and Sunday: Friday: 4:30-6 p.m. – The Hankerins’ (country, honky tonk and Western swing). 7-10:30 p.m. – 33 RPM (rock); Barracuda (Heart tribute band) Saturday: 2-6 p.m. – Jessie Marie and the Rippers (memorable rock). 7-10:30 p.m. – Lunch Money Bullies (rock, reggae, funk, country). Sunday: 1-4 p.m. – Britins (Beatles tribute band); 7-10 p.m. – N.E.W. Piano Guys (dueling pianos) Monday: 1-4:30 p.m. – DooWop Daddies (hits from the ’50s and ’60s) The Jamboree rose from the ashes of the former ChocolateFest last year and resurrected the name of a long-ago July 4 celebration in Burlington. ChocolateFest disbanded in 2020 after the event was canceled as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. SPIRIT of GENEVA LAKES

CHAD HENSIAK Spirit of Geneva Lakes

After a modest start in 2021 amid the COVD-19 pandemic, the Burlington Jamboree is set to return for three days of family fun over the Memorial Day weekend in 2022. This year, in addition to the traditional carnival, the Jamboree will feature a full lineup of musical entertainment on the main stage in the Lions Club Beer Tent. The Jamboree runs May 27-30 at the festival grounds along Maryland Avenue in downtown Burlington. Admission is free. Other events taking place throughout the weekend include: pig, goat and duck races; the Circus Shane variety show; bumper boats; Knockerball; touch-a-truck; and a 4-H petting zoo. The highlight of the weekend for kids and families is the carnival featuring rides, games and food provided by North American Midway Entertainment, the largest touring carnival in the country. The music lineup has been

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Bloomin’ BRILLIANT

by Sandra Landen Machaj CORRESPONDENT

Nurseries offer tips to help you embrace the growing season

In spring homeowners look at their property with new eyes. As the lawn turns to green, early spring flowers begin to peek out of the ground, and leaves emerge on the trees, homeowners begin to visit, nurseries and greenhouses in search of the newest plants shrubs and flowers to add to the beauty of their property. Once there, they are confronted with many choices and often become overwhelmed with the varieties of shrubs, trees, and flowers available. Visiting a nursery where knowledgeable employees can give them advice as to what varieties will work well on their property is the first step to a beautiful yard.

Arbor Vista Nursery

Arbor Vista Nursery in Delavan has been known since the 1980s as the place to go whether one is looking for a complete landscape redesign or to replace trees and shrubs that have become diseased or just have become too overgrown. Owned by Rita Yadon and her son Mark, the Arbor Vista Nursery grows much of its own stock on 39 acres. “We are a wholesale nursery with a retail sales department,” Michelle Kniep, owner of BlueBird Greenhouse, displays one of the large hanging plants available at her greenhouse. SANDRA LANDEN MACHAJ Spirit of Geneva Lakes

SPIRIT of GENEVA LAKES

Rita Yadon said. “We provide landscape designs for up to a 30-mile radius of Delavan. We are very friendly and knowledgeable and work with our clients so that the design pleases them.” Trees, according to Yadon, give the property its look. Maple trees are the most popular but it is important not to plant just one type of tree. Diversification protects the homeowner from losing all of their trees as happened when Dutch Elm Disease wiped out the many Elm trees in the area. Among the many varieties of trees that can be added to your landscape are Hackberry, Kentucky Coffee, Gingko, and Honey Locust, all of which are grown on site at Arbor Vista. “Trees can be planted year-round except for in the month of August,” added Yadon. Spring is the time to start working on your landscape. Start by cleaning out all your beds, being certain to clear out all the weeds before you begin to plant. When shopping for plants be sure to see what the full size of the plant will be, so you don’t overplant and end up with everything crowded. Then take it slow, don’t rush to add too much at one time. “The first year everything sleeps as the plants make strong roots,” Yadon said. “The second year, they begin to creep, building more fullness on top. By the third year, it leaps with a lot of growth on the top. Never add fertilizer until the second year.” Throughout the greenhouse a variety of hanging baskets and trays of flowers can be viewed. COURTESY OF BLUEBIRD GREENHOUSE NURSERY Spirit of Geneva Lakes

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Whether dealing with a tree or shrub watering is important. While most people tend to under-water their plants, overwatering is also a problem. If the leaves start to turn yellow it is a sign that the plant has been overwatered. When under-watered the leaves will just drop. “Years ago, evergreens were the main shrubs around the house. Today’s homeowners use more flowering shrubs and use evergreens as an accent piece,” Yadon said. “Don’t be in a hurry to plant too much too fast. Live in the house for a year and see where you look out at your yard. You want flowers and shrubs that add to the view not only from the outside but also when inside looking out. Look at your neighbors’ plants and choose other types so that your yard is unique and not just a copy of the neighbors.” Perennials add color and beauty and lead the eye to roam the yard. The focal point of the yard should move by the blooming season. One side of the yard may be an all-white flower garden while the other may burst with color. Choose colors that you enjoy. In winter it is the evergreens that will add color and beauty to the yard when everything else has finished blooming and may be covered with snow. Courtney Randolph, who is the landscape designer at Arbor Vista, will work with a customer to determine what they want in their design. Then she will add in other plants that she thinks will work well with their Making your choices from the many flowers available in the greenhouse, whether for hanging baskets or to plant in other containers, can be difficult with so many varieties and colors available. COURTESY OF BLUEBIRD GREENHOUSE NURSERY Spirit of Geneva Lakes

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design needs. All plants that are recommended by Arbor Vista are all zone 4 plants meant to do well in the Midwest. Once the design is completed, Randolph will get feedback from the homeowner to be sure that they are happy with the choices. Then begins the implementing of the design. Everything does not have to be completed at one time, especially when it comes to the trees. Do as much as your budget allows, then live with it for a season. Arbor Vista Nursery is at 4348 Dam Road, Delavan. Reach them by phone at 262-728-6050 or visit them online at www.arborvistanurseryinc.com. Hours are Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

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Throughout her life, Michele Kniep has enjoyed working with flowers, but it was not until five years ago that her dream of owning her own greenhouse and nursery became a reality. “We first built a small greenhouse and worked with it for two seasons before going full speed into the large greenhouse that is now the home of BlueBird Greenhouse Nursery,” Kniep said. “The work begins in February when we first receive the small plugs which we will grow into beautiful blooming plants that will be enjoyed throughout the summer and fall.” According to Kniep, before purchasing the flowers for your yard, spend time thinking about where they will be planted. The choice of the flowers will depend on whether the area receives a lot of sunshine, or if it is an area that spends most of the day in the shade. Also look at the way water drains from the area. In the Midwest, people become so excited to plant their flowers and bring color to their landscape, that they often forget that the area can still have frost in May. It is important to wait until all threat of frost has passed. A rule of thumb, according to Kniep is, it may be all right to plant a week after Mother’s Day if the weather is mild. To be certain when planting in ground, wait until Memorial Day. Petunias are a favorite of many gardeners whether they plant them in the ground of in planters. They come in many varieties and colors. The orange gene has been reintroduced to the petunia adding a new look and new varieties of color. Some of the new strains even change color during the season, giving a fresh look to your basket or border throughout the blooming season.

COURTESY OF ARBOR VISTA NURSERY Spirit of Geneva Lakes

top: Outside the greenhouse at BlueBird, a variety of shrubs are on display. The offerings enable choices based on soil and lighting conditions.

above: The hydrangea is a beautiful shrub that comes in a variety of colors.

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“Today’s petunias may bloom all summer and they are easier to care for. You don’t need to clear out the old blooms or deadhead them to keep them blooming. They tend to clear out their dead blooms themselves,” added Kniep. “They can grow upright or can be cascading.” Hanging pots are among the most popular types of planters. Planting a hanging planter or any other basket, requires knowledge of how the plant grows. Some plants mound while others tend to spread out. Calibrachoa, also known as super bells, which tend to look like small petunias, are one of the mounders. A combination of mounders and spreaders are necessary to produce a full robust basket. Many times, containers are overcrowded or the choice of plants do not grow well together. Speak to the nursery personnel for advice in putting the right plants together and using the right number in the pot. “You don’t want to overcrowd the pots. If you are planting calibrachoa, with petunias you want to use two petunias to three of the calibrachoa,” said Kniep. The mistake homeowners often make

is not correctly watering and fertilizing their plants. They may overwater causing the water to flush the nutrients in the soil. Or may under-water leaving the plants dehydrated. “There are products to fertilize that attach to the garden hose. These add fertilizer to the plant when you water. Worm castings manufactured by a company in Union Grove can be sprinkled in the pot, about ½ cup at a time, and then when watered, the water picks up the nutrients from the castings and spread them through the soil. This can be done once a month,” said Kniep. She also recommends that after your Fourth of July party, give your hanging baskets a haircut. This will send energy to the roots and give them more energy for growth for the rest of the season. Pollinator gardens are becoming popular among homeowners as they enjoy watching the birds, butterflies and bees and are cognizant of the importance of the pollinators. Kniep recommends planting Cuphea, also known as Hummingbird Lunch, Calibrachoa (million bells), and especially

Lantana to attract the pollinators. She often gets a request from apartment or condo residents who live on higher floors to create a pollinator hanging basket, so they can enjoy the birds, butterflies and honey bees even though they are not at the ground level. Kniep recommends purchasing your plants at a nursery because they receive extra work and attention from early on. The nursery uses natural methods to keep bugs out of their plants and don’t use pesticides. “We are knowledgeable about our plants and will help you choose what is best for your location and the number of plants needed,” Kniep said. “We will help you make choices that work with your containers. We also have some outside beds planted so you can see what the plants will look like after it is in the ground and growing in place.” BlueBird Greenhouse is at N7499 WI120, East Troy. Contact them by phone at 262-206-2868 or visit their website bluebird-greenhouse.business.site or on Facebook. Hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week.

Shrubs are an important part of any landscape. At Arbor Vista customers may peruse the vast number displayed and get some professional advice from the staff. COURTESY OF ARBOR VISTA NURSERY Spirit of Geneva Lakes

SPIRIT of GENEVA LAKES

How to make your garden more successful Homeowners enjoy gardening for many different reasons. In addition to adding beauty to a property, gardens can offset grocery costs by yielding tasty produce. They also offer important habitats and food sources for both insects and animals. While growing a vegetable or flower garden can turn into a rewarding hobby, or even a passion, gardening also can be overwhelming — particularly when the results are less than stellar. Novice gardeners have scores of resources at their disposal, including the advice of gardeners who have made mistakes and learned from them. The following guidance can make home gardens that much more successful.

especially if you can’t get to harvesting or cooking them in a timely fashion.

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Sit in your yard and observe

Assess the soil Plants need nutrient-rich soil to encourage extensive root systems and produce strong, hardy plants, according to the gardening resource GrowVeg. Nourish soil with organic matter, such as manure, compost, shredded leaves, and natural mulch. Add this organic matter in the off-season to give it enough time to be incorporated into the ground before spring. You can have your soil tested for pH and other characteristics that make it friendly or averse to plants at a local garden center.

Arm yourself with knowledge Do you know how deeply to plant seeds and how far apart to space plants? Are you aware of the sunlight needs of certain flowers or plants? If not, read the packaging and do your research so your plants have the best chance of not only sprouting, but also surviving. Many people prefer to start seedlings indoors in late winter and then transfer those plants outdoors when they are stronger and more

Start small You may have visions of an expansive garden growing rows of crops or acres of flowers. But it is smart to start small and build on what you find successful, which includes plants that thrive in your lawn and garden. This also is beneficial if you are unsure of vegetable yields. Several blooming plants producing bushels of crops can be overwhelming,

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Watch the way the sunlight dances over areas of your landscape. Take note of which areas get the most sun and shade. This will help you plan what to plant and where to plant it. Vegetable gardens tend to need ample sunlight to bear pick-worthy produce. You can give plants a leg up by growing them in optimal conditions.

Choose hardy varieties Certain plants have been bred to thrive in your climate, including heat-tolerant plants for climates with sweltering summer sun. Consult with a local gardening center to figure out which plant zone you are in and which plants will do best within that zone.

Use rainwater Rainwater contains fewer contaminants and additives than tap water, which can benefit garden plants. Collect rainwater in rain barrels and use irrigation systems to deliver it to the garden. Home gardens can yield many gifts, from flowers to fruit. Beginners can utilize some time-tested strategies to increase their chances of planting a successful garden.

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The basics of container Gardening is a rewarding hobby that has been linked to health benefits like reduced stress and improved mental well-being. Gardening also can lead to an inviting home landscape full of attractive blooms and/or delicious foods. Backyard gardens have long been planted after clearing a plot of land, tilling and amending the soil, and planting rows of favorite crops. However, gardening can be less labor-intensive and even more successful when people consider the many benefits of container gardening.

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small container rather than a vast groundbased garden, which will require a good deal of manual labor. Pots and boxes also can be grouped together to create eye-popping displays, usually at lower costs than the sheer volume of plants that would be needed to fill out an expansive landscape.

Cons to container gardening

Plan for plants that play well

Grouping plants together can create visually stunning combinations. However, it is important to choose plants that require the same amount of light and moisture. Look at plant tags when visiting the garden center and select complementary plants, or ask a store employee. Mixing different plant shapes, colors and leaf textures, as well as plants of various heights, can help containers look filled out.

Container garden plants will not have direct access to the ground, so they need gardeners to create the ideal growing conditions. Developing the right care Feed plants accordingly formula can be challenging. PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE Plants need nutrition to thrive in What is container gardening? The home and garden resource The As its name implies, container Spruce says that drainage is an important containers. Quality potting mixes will gardening is growing plants inside of contain fertilizers, but nutrition will wane factor in container gardening, and most containers. These containers can be over time. Every couple of weeks, container containers do not offer enough drainage flowerpots, rectangular deck boxes or plants will need either fresh potting mix holes. If waterHAS cannot JOINED escape the soil, even large raised garden beds. or granular fertilizer added to feed them. the roots of the plants can rot and die. PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE It’s not enough to add stones or gravel to Oregon State University Extension Services Pros to container gardening the bottom of containers. Drill additional suggests using a slow-release fertilizer or One of the advantages of container worm castings several times throughout the holes in the bottom (1⁄2-inch in diameter gardening is that plants can be moved for small or medium-sized pots; one inch season. in and out of sunlight to HAS ensure JOINED the right Container gardening is a great way in diameter for larger pots). growing conditions. This isn’t as easily Also, be sure to check on soil moisture to add plants to smaller patios, reduce achieved when gardens are stationary. the workload involved in maintaining so that watering can be adjusted. During Also, beginner gardeners may be more hot stretches, plants may need to be expansive gardens, and customize able to control soil conditions inside of a watered more frequently. conditions for optimal growth.

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A man of imagination

Gary Gygax remembered as museum completes tribute exhibit by Sandra Landen Machaj

the country. Gygax became interested in games of strategy at a young age. He became Ernest Gary Gygax, known as Gary interested in chess, card games and other Gygax, was born in Chicago and spent the board games around the age of 5. He first years of his life there. He would visit enjoyed science fiction stories and fantasy his grandparents in Lake Geneva in the told to him by his father – some of which summer. By the time he was 8, his family became elements in his fantasy games. moved to Lake Geneva, where Gygax In Lake Geneva he became friends would live for most of his life. with Don Kaye. They began playing war Gygax would become known as games using maps and miniature figures. the creator of Games of Imagination, The games had rules, which became particularly well known for creating more complicated as new versions were Dungeons and Dragons with fellow gamer introduced. Dice were used to make moves. Dave Arneson. D&D, as it became known, Gygax married childhood friend Mary Jo was the pioneering role-playing game that continues to be enjoyed by clubs throughout Powell in 1958 when he was only 19. They CORRESPONDENT

moved to Chicago for a time as he worked for an insurance company as a shipping clerk. They had five children, but Gary 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 Gygax’s home for his lifetime.

A love of games

Gygax’s interest in the war games as a hobby became more of a full-time commitment. He began to write magazine articles about the games. He created

Photographed in front of the Geneva Lake Museum, are Ed Schwinn (from left), President of the Museum, Gail Gygax, widow of Gary, Paul Stromberg, Mike Carr, and Jim Gee as they display the dragon stained glass window that will be part of the Birthplace of Imagination Exhibit. COURTESY OF GENEVA LAKE MUSEUM Spirit of Geneva Lakes

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above: Gary Gygax pictured at the 2007 Gen Con in Indianapolis. right: Not all games are

played on the sand table. Many use a map and place their game pieces on it. SANDRA LANDEN MACHAJ Spirit of Geneva Lakes

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 made the trip allowing Carr to attend the first Gen Con. It would not be his last trip to attend Gen Con. “I have attended every Gen Con since that very first one – the only person to do so,” he added. “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 the Grand Geneva Hotel. But that too became too small, and 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 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 SPIRIT of GENEVA LAKES

table that he brings to various game playing 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 Dave 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 in. “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 for $12.50 for 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. 25

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SANDRA LANDEN MACHAJ Spirit of Geneva Lakes

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 sites where imaginative gaming began.

Museum display in works

In 2020, the Lake Geneva Museum began developing a new exhibit celebrating the City of Lake Geneva as the birthplace of imagination gaming, Gary 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

left: Miniature pieces are used to represent individual soldiers or a regiment of them. Some players paint their pieces by hand. above: In a side gallery of Horticultural Hall at Gen Con III in 1970, players Phil Grant and Mike Carr engage in two board games simultaneously. The games are Avalon Hill’s “D-Day” and “Battle of the Bulge” both 1944 Campaigns during World War II.

exhibit. “It will be called The Legacy of Imagination, Gary Gygax, Dungeons and Dragons, the creation of a culture.” While the exhibit was begun 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, thus preventing work to continue. Recently, Ed Schwinn, president of the 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 their $20,000 funding goal to complete the exhibit. Contributions can be sent to Geneva Lake Museum, 255 Mill Street, 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 -7. SPIRIT of GENEVA LAKES

Gary Gygax Memorial

Founded in 2010, by Gail Gygax, Gary’s widow, the Memorial fund is working to have a fitting memorial for Gary present 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.” To learn more about this proposed memorial visit the website gygaxmemorialfund.org A memorial to Gary Gygax can presently be found in the bricks surrounding the Driehaus Fountain in front of the Riviera in Lake Geneva. 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. 27

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MAY 2022

J. Roberts changes owners, not style NEW OWNERS ARE COMMITTED TO QUALITY CLOTHING

by Jennifer Eisenbart STAFF WRITER

For more than a century, J. Roberts has stood as the symbol of quality and customer service in downtown Elkhorn. After all, the menswear store is famous for this quote: “Customer service is an attitude, not a department.” Although long-time owners Jim and Marilyn Schoberg recently retired after 38 years, Jim said he was more than satisfied the business was handed off to Kyle Deschner. Deschner, who has purchased the business, officially took over April 1. His girlfriend, Signe Bennett, is now on staff doing in-house alterations for the store. Jim Schoberg and Deschner are friends – mentor and mentee – and also fellow musicians. In fact, music is how the two became friends. “Our friendship blossomed because of the music, getting to jam together,” Kyle explained, adding that the two would go to each other’s gigs. But last spring, as Jim and Marilyn began contemplating the next step in their life, they reached out to Kyle on another matter. At that point, Deschner had been the food and beverage manager at Lake Lawn Resort for the past few years. “I just needed help,” Jim Schoberg explained, saying he offered Deschner options of part-time, full-time, manager and even owner. Deschner wasn’t sure whether or not the business would be for him, but decided to give part-time a try. “I fell in love and decided to purchase,” Deschner explained. “It’s been great.” Deschner said the decision was made easier because of the mentorship provided by the Schobergs – and the couple’s dedication to the business over the years. “The working dynamic … they really work so well together,” said Deschner, who added that he’s dedicated to keeping the best elements of the store and its place in the community. “I’m not going to be the one to let the ball drop,” Deschner said, adding that the store would remain basically the same, including the same lines, the same Big and Tall offerings, and the same dedication to providing the best quality for a fair price. The store is likely to undergo some remodeling at some point, but that will be aesthetics – not something that changes what the Schobergs remained dedicated to for 38 years. “The business has been very good to us,” Jim Schoberg explained. “It’s been just great being such a part of the community. A lot of our customers, we’re on the third generation of the same family.”

J. Roberts, a menswear store in Elkhorn, recently changed ownership. Shown here (from left) are former owners Marilyn and Jim Schoberg, and Kyle Deschner, who purchased the business earlier this year. Next to Deschner is his girlfriend, Signe Bennett, who helps with alterations at the store. DAVE DRESDOW Spirit of Geneva Lakes

One of those families includes Deschner, whose father brought him to J. Roberts for his first suit in fifth grade after his grandfather had shopped there as well. He remembers the trip well – and he also knows the value of the business he’s stepping into and his relationship with the Schobergs. “We’ve really grown a great relationship,” Deschner explained, adding that he can feel the distance from when he started the process

a year ago and where he was a few weeks ago, ready to take over. “We made a really seamless working relationship,” he added. “It was really a perfect marriage, work-wise.” Jim agreed. “Marilyn and my goal was to make this as seamless as possible,” he said. J. Roberts is at 17 S. Wisconsin St., Elkhorn.

Love and healing

Natural wellness studio opens in Elkhorn by Jennifer Eisenbart

Inside, however, the building has been renovated into a place where people can gather, listen to music, perform yoga, For Brandee Walton and John Stuart, opening their new whole health studio Eleven meditate – and basically, try to find their own health in a variety of different ways. 11 on Valentine’s Day this year was the Stuart said the idea is to focus on holistic perfect option. “Brandee and I are both in service to love,” wellness – mental, physical, spiritual and emotional well-being. He is a registered yoga Stuart said. “Our whole practice is geared to instructor, Walton is certified in breath work self love. We figured the perfect day to open and meditation. our doors would be Valentine’s Day, a day As Stuart explained, the various options that is dedicated to love.” Eleven 11 is located at 11 W. Walworth St., available at Eleven 11 allows everyone to meet holistic health on their own terms, Elkhorn – the former Elkhorn Independent working with traditional medicine as well building. In fact, the old newspaper sign is still on the front of the studio. • CONTINUED ON PAGE 30 STAFF WRITER

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providing holistic options. Walton did add that spirituality holds no tie to any specific religion. “We welcome all faiths,” she explained. “There is no dogmatic practice that we associate with. Anybody that walks through that door, we honor their sovereignty.” Just some of the offerings at the studio include: Hours of Operation: • The 360five Sound Experience, available in two-hour and four-hour sessions. It is a group Monday thru Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. class/experience, with participants reclining in meditation while Stuart provides multiple Tel: (262) 551-9821 Fax: (262) 551-9843 different sounds and music. TTY Relay Center Stuart said it is a “multi-sensory experience,” with the different instruments and sounds 1860 - 27th Ave. • Kenosha, WI allowing for binaural beats – where the body hears two different beats and settles at the middle frequency for healing – as well as solfeggio frequencies, which is a six-tone scale set that is present in sacred music. “Typically, when people come into it, they are working through some traumatic experience, wanting some clarity or just wanting to relax,” he explained. • A wide variety of yoga is available, including Yoga Nidra and Yoga 360five – both variations on the traditional yoga experience. • Different dance offerings are also part of the studio, including ecstatic dance – where people are encouraged to dance freeform, “allowing your inner child to have its moment, your soul to be free,” Walton said – as well as a sober dance night called “Eden.” In addition to the classes, there is a propagation wall – where plant clippings can be brought in to grow and exchanged – as well as organic coffee and water available in the front room. HIGH SECURITY For more information on the studio or classes offered, go to www.eleven11-thestudio.com. CLIMATE CONTROLLED

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