 Despite the pandemic, there are plenty of New Year's traditions that will remain the same: the ball will drop tonight in Times Square in New York (though without the crowds of people) and Dick Clark's Rockin' New Year's Eve will light up television screens around the country. Locally, there are still things to do if you want to ring in this new year, but be warned that there will be no Ozaukee Taxi, tonight, so plan ahead. Sir James Pub in Port is hosting a Harry Potter-themed Magical Farewell to the Crappiest Year Yet from 1 p.m. to 3 a.m. Wear your Hogwarts finest, if you're so inclined, and earn your house 10 points and yourself a butterbeer jello shot while enjoying Harry Potter inspired cocktails and snacks! The Bridge in Grafton is having a New Years Eve Party featuring DJ INFOTEK! No cover charge. Champagne toast at midnight. FREE SAFE RIDE from 9pm-2am. The Cork & Barrel in Newburg is having a New Year's Eve Bash $2 Rail Old Fashioned's served from 12-6PM, The Verdict starting at 9PM, FREE Party favors & snack food bar starting 10:30PM, FREE champagne toast at midnight and a 40x20 Outdoor heated & tented Tiki bar area open beginning at noon. The Lime Cantina in Cedarburg is having a New Years Eve Dinner Event beginning at 4pm with live music from 6-10 p.m. by Marr’Lo and Nicolette! Dinner Specials such as Cola Mole, Carne Asada and Shrimp Skewers, as well as specialty New Year's Eve Drinks. Call to reserve your table inside or outside on our heated tented patio where the music will be playing at 262-618-3386. Carryout available! The new Union House in Cedarburg has All-You-Can-Drink Rail Mixers for $20, a free Bubbly Toast at Midnight and a new expanded menu, including a delicious Charcuterie Box or some of our tasty Snack Boards, beginning at 4 pm. Many area restaurants have dinner specials tonight that don't require reservations if you're looking for a special meal out - call ahead to find out details. Unfortunately, the Port Washington Polar Bear Club has cancelled the official dip in the Lake on New Year's Day, but spending time along the lakeshore at Lion's Den, Harrington Beach or the parks around Port Washington is still a great way to start the new year. Happy New Year, Oz!
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 Still looking for a place to get your Christmas Tree? Here are the top picks for in or near Oz where you can cut your own or choose a pre-cut fresh tree!
Uselding's Christmas Trees Located on Western Rd. just outside of downtown Cedarburg, choose a pre-cut tree, wreaths and other trimming. Cedarburg Creek Farm Located at 649 Hwy 60 in Cedarburg, the Cedarburg Creek Farm has pre-cut trees, wreaths, decorated pots, petting zoo, hayrides and more. Sandhill Tree Farm Located at 2323 E River Rd. in Grafton, Sandhill Tree Farm will be open for cut your own trees December 5th & 6th from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Enjoy a bonfire, hot chocolate, candy canes, a holiday gift shop, fresh florals from Shady Lady and photo opportunities. Gene Fransee & Son Nursery & Landscaping/ Home of Kletzien Garden Center Located at 3670 Hwy. W in Port Washington has trees, wreaths, poinsettias, vintage Christmas collectibles and more. First Congregational Church Located on the corner of Jackson St. and Grand Ave., along the Sauk Creek, the First Congregational Church is now in their 35th year of selling pre-cut trees as a fundraiser for the church. Buechler Farms, LLC Located at 587 S. Royal Ave in Belgium, Buechler's offers trees, wreaths, planters and a special Christmas Shop with ongoing activities for the kids. Willoway Farm & Friends New this year, Willoway Farm and friends are selling pre-cut balsams at N5412 Cigrand Dr. in Waubeka, as well as some other local goodies. Enjoy a campfire and hot chocolate, too. Anderson’s Greenview Tree Farm Located at W4266 County Rd. D in Random Lake, Anderson's has pre-cut trees as well as wreaths and a Christmas Gift Shop in the barn, or take a walk or hay ride out to the fields to cut your own. Trees For Less Located at 11550 Wausaukee Rd. in Mequon has cut your own and pre-cut trees. Stumpf's Tree Farm Located at 340 Horns Corners Road in Cedarburg, Stumpf's is already sold out for this season, but a consideration for 2021.  By Mary Boyle
I've written at least 4 of these Holiday Happenings features over the course of my work on Ozaukee Living Local. Each year, I simply edit the event dates and, perhaps, minor details from the previous year, but this year is different: this year, we have a pandemic overlapping our traditional holiday in Oz. Some events that are part of our family traditions, such as Christmas on the Corner in Port Washington or the Christmas Parade in Grafton, will not be happening. Change is always difficult, but changes to our holiday traditions are some of the most difficult changes to process. This is going to be hard, people, but it's why I jumped back on this site, after an almost one year hiatus: to tell you that it's going to be okay. In The Grinch Who Stole Christmas, the Grinch makes a stunning realization after he attempts to stop Christmas from coming to Whoville by taking away all of the decorations, presents and food for the feast: the Whos come out and begin to sing anyway, because Christmas isn't about those things. The holiday spirit in Oz comes from us and, now more than ever, we're going to need it. Shopping locally has never been more important (see our Holidays in Oz Shopping Guide). Give, if you have a little extra to share, not just on Giving Tuesday to our local nonprofits but to the Food Pantry, if you can. Perhaps even more importantly, bring some good cheer wherever you go, because kindness is free and contagious, and that's the sort of thing we want to spread. Not all events are cancelled this holiday season, and many can be enjoyed from the comfort of your own home. Be sure to contact us if you see an event that's missing! Cedarburg's Tree Lighting, Friday, November 27th at 4:30 on the CCC Facebook Page or on Youtube. Kapco's Kid2Kids Christmas Wonderland, November 27-December 31 in Grafton. Christkindlmarket at Inventors Brewpub, Saturday, November 28th from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Fredonia Tree Lighting, Saturday November 28th at 6:30 p.m. at Freedom Park. Cinema Under The Stars Holiday Edition: Home Alone, Sunday, November 29th at 2 p.m. in the LaRosa Landscape Co. parking lot. *Advanced ticket purchase required. An Enchanted Christmas at the Cedarburg Art Museum during Festive Fridays through December 18th in downtown Cedarburg Rivoli Theater's Holiday Film Series, Dec. 4-23 in downtown Cedarburg. Illuminate Ozaukee - A Holiday Light Show, Fridays & Saturdays, Dec. 4-26, 6-9 p.m. at Herman A Zuenert Park in Cedarburg. Free Admission and Make & Take Craft at the Wisconsin Museum of Quilts & Fiber Arts in Cedarburg, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. December 5. Belgium Boy Scouts Wreath Sale from 1-3 p.m. at Community Park. Barbara Joosse reads "Everybody's Tree" for the holidays, online at 2 p.m. December 5th. Port Washington's Tree Lighting at 6 p.m. on the corner of Jackson and Franklin Streets. European Christmas Parade in Belgium, December 6 at 4:30 p.m. Meet Santa in a Snow Globe, December 5, 12 & 19 4:30-6:30 at Upper Lake Park. *Preregistration required. Winter Wreath Class, December 10th at 6 p.m. at Shully's in Thiensville Holiday Bough Trimming at Riveredge, Friday, December 11 from 4-6 p.m. Santa's Dash Away 5K, December 12 in downtown Cedarburg Holiday Theatre Opportunities Another Night Before Christmas with Memories Dinner Theater in Port, Dec. 4, 5, 6, 11, 12 and 13. A Christmas Carol or Jacob Marley's Christmas Carol with The Milwaukee Rep. Register to watch a free 2016 recording of A Christmas Carol online December 1-24 or purchase tickets to watch the brand new Jacob Marley's Christmas Carol December 10-24. Holiday Pajama Jamboree with the Festival City Symphony, either virtually or in person at the Sharon Lynn Wilson Center in Brookfield, December 2, 7-8 p.m. Skylight Sings: A Holiday Special, streaming from December 11-January 10. Milwaukee Ballet's The Nutcracker: Short & Sweet, streaming from December 12th. Christmastown Comes to First Stage streaming Dec.13- Jan 2. Eight Tiny Reindeer: A Holiday Whodunit online on Saturday, Dec. 19th at 7:30 p.m.   *Edited from 2017 By Mary Boyle The conventional method of holiday shopping is so ingrained in us, it's easy to overlook the many treasures we have right in our own community. Supporting local businesses and organizations is the gift that keeps on giving; the money you spend at these places not only stays in our community, but oftentimes helps to support important organizations that make Ozaukee and the greater Ozaukee area so wonderful. Read on, and find the perfect gifts for everyone on your list! For the Kids (and Kids at Heart) Hands down, my favorite place to buy toys in Ozaukee County is the Cedarburg Toy Co. Owners, Zach and Natasha Loos, will not only assist you in finding the right gift, they'll wrap it for you. They are also experts at covert operations, if you happen to actually have your children with you and need to shop. Wink, nudge, or pass them a note, and they'll have all the presents wrapped and ready for later pick up, or whatever other crazy antics you can think of. CTC truly has gifts for all ages, from blocks and rattles to puzzles and books, and things you didn't even know existed! Don't miss this magical little store in the heart of downtown Cedarburg.  For the Foodies Oz is home to some really great restaurants, and a special dinner out could be a lovely gift. Try the Hundred Mile House, Fork & Tap, or Twisted Willow in Port; Cedarburg has Brandywine, The Stilt House, The Anvil Pub or The Farmstead. Messina's in Saukville is a good bet, or try Atlas BBQ in Grafton.  For the Nature Lovers Oz is home to two amazing nature preserves: Riveredge in Newburg in the north and Mequon Nature Preserve in the south. Memberships to both offer access to trails and programming, but also help support environmental restoration and education in Oz. Besides memberships, Riveredge has a Visitor's Center full of great gifts for the Outdoorsy person in your life, including the syrup they make onsite each spring.  For the Art Lovers The art community is strong in Oz, and there are a variety of places where original artwork of all kinds can be purchased. In Cedarburg, try the Cedarburg Art Museum, Cedarburg Cultural Center, or the Wisconsin Museum of Quilts & Fiber Arts gift shops, but memberships to these organizations also make great gifts. In downtown Cedarburg, you can find local art in many of the gift shops, including Bohemia, the Pink Llama Gallery, and within the Shops of Cedar Creek Settlement. In Grafton, look no further than the NSAA Arts Mill, where a wide variety of treasures await.  For the Coffee Lovers If there is one thing the Land of Oz has aplenty, it's good coffee shops. Gift Certificates are great, of course, but most also offer t-shirts, mugs, and other fun items to show your coffee shop pride. In Port, there's Java Dock Cafe and Smith Bros. Coffee House; in Grafton, we have AM Coffee, NSeven, and Colectivo (also in Mequon); in Cedarburg, there's the Cedarburg Coffee Roastery and Java House. You can find a Fiddleheads in Cedarburg, Grafton, Thiensville, and Mequon. There is no lack of caffeine in Oz, people.  For the Pet Lovers (and pets!!) Oz is home to a bounty of wonderful, independent and local places to shop for the pet or pet lover in your life! In Port Washington, check out One Wag on the corner of Franklin and Jackson St. downtown, which specializes in natural food and nutritional support for your pets. In Saukville, there's Dawgs In Motion, which has day camp, training classes, a pool, a shop, grooming and more, or Pet Supply Port, which has been in Oz for over 25 years. In Mequon, try the Feed Bag, which also offers a pool and grooming, as well as a selection for pets beyond dogs and cats. In Cedarburg, try Landmark Supply, which has been serving the critters of Oz for over 150 years!  For the Beer & Wine Lovers Oz is home to a number of breweries, and there are a few winery options, as well. In Cedarburg, of course, there is the award-winning Cedar Creek Winery and Chiselled Grape Winery, but Cedarburg has two breweries, as well: Rebellion Brewing and The Fermentorium. In Port Washington, try Inventors Brewpub or Vines to Cellar. In Grafton, Sahale Ale Works is a recent arrival, while Foxtown Brewing in Mequon is also fairly new.  For those who love to wander through Gift Shops and be inspired... Sometimes, you just want to wander around and see what might jump out at you, or have someone in the know who has the time to help you find the perfect gift. If that's you, you could just start at one end of downtown Cedarburg and finish at the other, but Cedarburg isn't your only game! In Port Washington, try Pear & Simple, Eclectic Avenue, Lakeside Music & Naturals (which has all types of goodies for the musicians in your life, too), The Shoppes of Port Washington, Locally Inspired, or Guenther House Collective. The important thing to remember about gift giving, especially this time of year, is not to buy stuff just to buy stuff. Slow down, really be present with people, and when you do want to give something, consider giving a gift that gives back to our community. Happy Holidays, everyone.  Alice Rivera and Natalie Ford in GRETEL! Photo by Paul Ruffolo. By Mary Boyle Now in its fourth season, the First Stage Foundry Stage Series helps develop new work through play readings in front of audiences at the Milwaukee Youth Arts Center. Last season, the reading of GRETEL!, a folk rock musical based on the German folk tale Hansel and Gretel, the Russian folk tale Baba Yaga, and the lesser-known Russian Cinderella tale Vasilisa the Brave was so well-received by audiences that Jeff Frank, the Artistic Director of First Stage, decided to include the production in this season's lineup as the youth theater's second Foundry Production, following last season's inaugural Foundry Production, Locomotion. Gretel (triple cast: Alice Rivera, Gracie Halverson, Maya Thomure) and her mother (Natalie Ford) live happily in their cottage while Gretel's father (Max Mainwood) travels for work. Sadly, Gretel's mother falls ill, leaving Gretel with her comb, shawl, and her blessing: a doll who represents the brother that Gretel always wished for (Thatcher Jacobs/William Swoboda). Then, Gretel's father marries a horrid woman who, along with her daughter, Malfusa (both Max Mainwood), proceeds to make Gretel's life miserable by making her do all of the work. Finally, they give Gretel an impossible task: to go deep into the woods and find the witch, Baba Yaga (Natalie Ford), to get what they need to save themselves. Everyone knows that Baba Yaga eats children for breakfast! How will Gretel possibly succeed? With book by Jason Tremblay and Suzan Zeder, music by Jenn Hartmann Luck, lyrics by Jenn Hartmann Luck, Jason Tremblay and Suzan Zeder and Cello Arrangements by Nora Karakousoglou,GRETEL!, being so heavily based on such familiar folk tales of childhood, manages to achieve instant classic status with the help of beautiful costumes by Lyndsey Kuhlmann and creative set design by Sarah Hunt-Frank, as well as an incredibly talented cast of both adult and young performers who all contribute to creating the music right on the stage. Max Mainwood, a former First Stage student, delivers an impressive performance, veering seamlessly from a variety of first-person characters to found object puppetry, as well as playing guitar and cello. Natalie Ford, who was recently seen in Elf, The Musical at First Stage, is wonderful as Gretel's mother and Baba Yaga, and demonstrated her strong vocal and musical capabilities, playing guitar along with singing, and serving as Musical Director for the production. While the Gretels rotate through the productions, the remaining six young performers are split into two groups: the Night Cast, with Ailie Snyder, Thatcher Jacobs, and Benjamin Nowacek; and, the Day Cast, with Yulitza Adorno-Jonas, William Swoboda, and Mara Holzen. Being a Foundry Production, GRETEL! is staged at the Milwaukee Youth Arts Center in the same space where Young Company and First Steps productions take place, but it is a production worthy of the Todd Wehr stage, where the First Stage main stage shows are performed. Milwaukee audiences are lucky to be able to see a new work so well done in such an intimate venue and at an incredible price; don't miss your chance to see this beautiful little show. GRETEL! runs through March 22nd at the Milwaukee Youth Arts Center, located at 325 W. Walnut Street in downtown Milwaukee. Tickets are $16 and are available online at www.firststage.org or through the First Stage Box Office at (414) 267-2961. Performance runtime is approximately 90 minutes, including intermission. Suggested for families with young people ages 8 – 15+. About First Stage First Stage is one of the nation’s leading theaters for young people and families. First Stage touches hearts, engages minds and transforms lives by creating extraordinary theater experiences through professional theater productions that inspire, enlighten and entertain. Its Theater Academy, the nation’s largest high-impact theater training program for young people, fosters life skills through stage skills and serves nearly 2,000 students each year. As Wisconsin’s leader in arts-integrated education in schools, First Stage’s dynamic Theater in Education programs promote literacy, character building and experiential learning throughout the curriculum, serving over 20,000 students each year. First Stage was selected to participate in the Partners in Education program of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts (2012), and was the recipient of the Milwaukee Business Journal’s Eureka Award, recognizing creativity and innovation in business, education and the arts for its Next Steps program for students on the autism spectrum (2013, 2015). First Stage is a member of TYA/USA, the American Alliance for Theatre and Education, the Wisconsin Alliance for Arts Education, Milwaukee Arts Partners and is a cornerstone member of the United Performing Arts Fund (UPAF). www.firststage.org.  The end of Winter in Wisconsin means one thing: Fish Fry! With Lent going on, your local Catholic Churches become a great place to get your fix, whether you are Catholic, or not, and many of them even offer carry out! Not only that, but Oz has plenty of great restaurants serving up Wisconsin's favorite Friday (and sometimes Wednesday, during Lent) dinner. Here are some of the best options in Oz to get your Friday Fish Fry!
Fork & Tap Port's newest restaurant on the Lake, located behind Sherper's at 203 E. Main St., is offering their gluten free Potato Chip Crusted or Beer Battered Cod Fish Fry on Wednesdays as well as Fridays through Lent. The Bog Reservations are recommended for this restaurant on the golf course located at 3121 County Road I in Saukville. Call (262) 988-1113. Riverview Inn in Saukville is best known for their pizza, but they also offer a great Friday Fish Fry Special that changes each week. Located at 3172 N Riverside Drive along the Milwaukee River, this little log-cabin themed restaurant can get pretty crowded, but carry-out is available. No No's A traditional supper club on the corner of Highway 33 and County Road Y in Newburg, No No's serves a Friday night Fish Fry, as well as All-You-Can-Eat Smelt every Tuesday and Wednesday from 4-9 p.m. Call (262) 675-6960 for reservations or more information. Newport Shores is the only restaurant on the shore of Lake Michigan in Oz, and is well known for their Friday, and Daily, Fish Fry, as well as many other seafood specials. Located at 407 E. Jackson St. in Port Washington. Twisted Willow Port Washington's Farm-to-Table restaurant, located at 308 N. Franklin St. offers a gluten-free Friday Fish Fry served with cole slaw, tartar sauce, fries or potato pancakes, and clam chowder for $15. Juice's Ghost Town Restaurant, located at 990 Ulao Rd. in Grafton, offers a very traditional Friday Fish Fry with a choice of Perch, Haddock, or Walleye and either breaded, beer-battered, pan fried, or broiled. Children's portions are also available. Atlas BBQ in downtown Grafton is having a Fish Fry Bingo through Lent - just order the fried or bake cod and spin for a Bingo ball. If your number matches one of the 5 pulled earlier that day, your Fish Fry is on the house! Lake Church Pub & Grill Located at 690 County Road D in Belgium, this humble little restaurant and Inn has quite a reputation for a good Friday Fish Fry. Perch, Walleye, Cod, Shrimp, and Poor Man's Lobster are all served between 4:30 and 9:30 p.m. The Landmark in Friestadt is such a local gem it doesn't even have a website or social media, but they have a worthy Friday Fish Fry and they are the stuff of Ozaukee legends. Located at 10634 W. Friestadt Rd. The Range Line Inn in Mequon was once a stagecoach stop in the early 1800's, but its been serving a good Friday Fish Fry at 2635 W. Mequon Road for a long time. Open 4:30-10 p.m. The Cheel, located in the heart of downtown Thiensville, offers a Gluten-Free Fish Fry every Friday and often has some incredible live music lined up, to boot. C. Weisler's is as historic as historic downtown Cedarburg can be, and they serve up a special Fish Fry, including a 3 piece Haddock Plate, a Tilapia Plate, a Lake Perch Plate, and more, from 4:30-9 p.m. every Friday at W61 N493 Washington Ave. in downtown Cedarburg. The Farmstead in Cedarburg is normally the place to go for steaks, but they do serve a classic Friday Cod Fish Fry, as well, for just $10.95. Located at W61 N493 Washington Ave. and housed in a beautiful old farmhouse, The Farmstead is a local favorite. St. John XXIII Catholic Parish All-You-Can-Eat-Fish Fry Friday, March 13 and 27 from 5-8 p.m. at 1800 N. Wisconsin St. in Port Washington. Dinners Include your choice of Fish (Deep Fried Shrimp, Perch, Cod, or Poor Man's Lobster for $13 or the Seafood Platter for $15); your choice of Baked Potato, French Fries or Potato Pancake; Coleslaw, Boston Clam Chowder, Coffee, Milk, and Dessert (Cake or Ice Cream). Beer and Soda are available for sale, as well. Only $6 for a children's cod or grilled cheese dinner. St. Joseph's Fish Fry Friday, March 6, 13, 20 and 29, and April 3rd from 4:30-7:45 at 1619 Washington St. in Grafton. Dine in or carry out. Choice of 3 pc. beer battered cod, 1/2 lb. baked Icelandic cod, 4 pc. fried lake perch, 6 pc. Jumbo Fried Shrimp, 2 pc fried walleye for $13; or, try the St. Joe's Platter, featuring 1 fried perch, 2 fried cod, and 3 fried shrimp, plus all of the sides, for $15. Traditional potato pancakes available a la carte. Kids meals available for $6, with your choice of fish, shrimp, hot dog, or mac & cheese. All meals include potatoes, coleslaw, rye bread and butter, coffee* & milk*. Desserts included while they last. (*not included with carry out) Divine Savior All-You-Can-Eat Fish Fry Friday, March 6th and 20th and Friday April 3rd and 17th at 305 Fredonia Avenue. Adults $13, Seniors $12, Children under 10 $7, and Carry-Out or Curbside is $13, which includes 4 pcs. fish, potato, coleslaw and rye bread. No Kid-size fish fry is available for curbside or carryout. Grilled Cheese is available for children with potato and sides for $7. Call ahead for Curbside orders at (262) 692-2141. Know of a great Fish Fry in Oz that we missed? Contact mary@OzaukeeLivingLocal.com and tell us all about it!  Some people like to stay home on New Year's, but for those who are looking for a fun evening out, the land of Oz does not disappoint. This is Wisconsin, of course, so if you're doing the tavern scene, the Ozaukee Taxi will run for free from 9 p.m. to 4 a.m. anywhere in Oz -- just call 284-TAXI (8294). Here are the details, by community, as well as a few New Year's Day events: Cedarburg Celebrate New Year's at the 5 Corners Roadhouse with the popular band Milwaukee's Addiction. Prizes, food and champagne at midnight! Brandywine will ring in the New Year with a special Five Course Dinner, along with an optional wine pairing. Want to get a jump on getting healthy for the new year? Try spending your New Year's Eve at Dirty Feet Yoga, where your class will be followed by champagne and light appetizers! Thiensville Spend New Year's at the cheel with the Pierre Lee Band, featuring Stephen Hull. Drink and dinner specials all evening. Belgium Kyote's Bar & Grill has options for the early birds and the midnight champagne toasters. Enjoy live music and dinner from 5-8, and more live music through the countdown! Saukville The Oscar Grady Library has a very special NOON Year's Eve Dance Party for kids in Kindergarten or younger. The event takes place on Monday, December 30th, but features all the fun of a New Year's Eve party, complete with countdown, for the littles! New Year's Day is a Free Community Day at the Feith Family Ozaukee YMCA! Come check out the Y for free; if you join, they'll waive the join fee. Port Washington Twisted Willow has a special New Year's menu served from 3-10 p.m. Make your reservations at (262) 268-7600. Inventors Brewpub will be hosting their 3rd annual New Year's Eve Family Pajama Party, and it's not only free and fun, but really for the whole family! Show up with your kids dressed in their PJ's and bring some pillows/blankets in case they crash in the middle of the party. They'll have early celebrations at 10 p.m. and 11 p.m., as well as free bubbly for the adults and sprite for the kids. From 6 p.m. until midnight. Newport Shores will have live music by the Shad Lads to ring in the New Year! Make your dinner reservations by calling (262) 284-6838. Ring in the New Year in full foodie style at the Roaring into the 2020's Dinner at Hundred Mile House on New Year's Eve, with your choice of a three or five course dinner, along with dancing and a champagne toast at midnight! Put on your flapper best and head out to the "Welcome Back to the 20's" New Year's Eve Party at Sir James Pub! Enjoy a throwback cocktail menu, themed snacks, some themed music playing in between our normal favorites, and a champagne toast at midnight. Ring in the New Year with Midlife Oasis at the Iron Hog Saloon. There will be wine at midnight plus wristband deals, and a 2 for 1 steak dinner special from 5-9 p.m.! On New Year's Day at 2 p.m., Port Washington's Polar Bear Club will do their annual Polar Bear Dip; however, they will break with tradition, due to the high water level, and jump in at South Beach. Participants and viewers are encouraged to park at Coal Dock Park or along Chestnut St. and walk over to the event, as there is limited parking at South Beach. Happy New Year, everyone!  A new year is like the dawning of a new day, but with infinitely more possibilities. Dawn on Lake Michigan at Harrington Beach State Park by Eric Curtin.  Cindy Freier Taylor and Kim Freier Schmit, founders of The Béne Network. Photo by Brevin Luehring By Mary Boyle The New Year is often a time of resolutions, and those resolutions often involve our health. Health, in all it's forms, is the structure that we need to build our lives on; if it is unstable or weak, all of our other structures become unstable, as well. Prioritizing our health is one of the best resolutions we can make and, if you're ready to take that step, there are some great resources in Oz run by wonderful ladies who are here to support you on your journey. The Béne Network Sisters Cindy Freier Taylor and Kim Freier Schmit are graduates of Port Washington High School and the fifth generation of their family here in Port. As a financial adviser, Taylor found herself listening to more than just her client's financial concerns. "When people talk about money, a lot comes up," she said. She wanted to be able to help more. Over the years, Taylor referred clients to people in the community who had helped her find better overall health, and she realized she was on to something. Just launched in October, Taylor, along with her sister, spent the past several years vetting and growing a network of professionals to help people with their health, wealth and happiness, from financial advisers to chiropractors and counselors, and put them all in one place, where people who need them can easily find them. Béne means "be well," which is what these two sisters want for others.  Gail Lerman, owner of Skin Alive and Director of the Mequon Thiensville School of Esthetics. Skin Alive For over 25 years, Gail Lerman of Mequon has been passionate about helping people with one of their most precious assets: their skin. Staying on top of cutting edge treatments and offering high quality products to her clients, Lerman has not only personally helped people look their best, but she has trained generations of estheticians through the Mequon Thiensville School of Esthetics, which she operates out of Skin Alive. The school is a win for both students and clients, as students are able to gain real-world experience working on actual clients and clients are able to have treatments done at a greatly reduced cost. From microdermabrasion to chemical exfoliation and facials to laser skin rejuvenation, Lerman particularly enjoys treating severe acne and similar skin issues. Helping them to feel good about themselves is the best part of her job.  Pamela Schwister of Saukville, co-owner of the new Fyndig Salon in Cedarburg. Fyndig Salon A Swedish word that means creative or inventive, Fyndig Salon in Cedarburg is the culmination of nearly 20 years of experience being a stylist and a dream to run a place of her own. Pamela Schwister of Saukville, along with co-owner and stylist Jessica Keith of Slinger, share a dedication to community and supporting other small, local businesses, which is why you will find local art for sale inside the salon, as well as Java House coffee to drink. Moreover, Schwister wanted to recreate what we think a salon is supposed to be. Besides employing brilliant stylists, Fyndig has their own branded products created out of years of testing what works but, far from being austere and over-priced, the salon feels comfortable and the products, because they cut the middle man, are affordable. A salon for everyone, where there's a warm and inviting community and where the stylists don't make you beautiful, they just help show you what you what was already there. If you're thinking of a new look in this new year, these are the people to see.  Kimberly Manthey is the owner of Dirty Feet Yoga in Cedarburg. Dirty Feet Yoga
Kimberly Manthey of Cedarburg has been teaching yoga for over 20 years to all ages and abilities. A year ago, she opened her own studio in Cedarburg where, along with several other yogis, she offers a variety of classes for absolute beginners all the way to yoga regulars. "There are many reasons to practice yoga, from physical well-being to mental clarity," Manthey said. "The practice of yoga is about mind, body, and presence. Our yoga practice allows us to center and focus which allows us to sharpen our minds. While the stretching and movement are great for helping us become more limber and toned, it is the entire practice that helps our whole being." What I love about each of these women is their commitment to community and their desire to help others. While this may not be your year to start a yoga class or reinvent your look, perhaps this is your year to follow your dream. If they can't help you with that, perhaps they can at least inspire you to listen to the little voice in your soul and know that you can do it, too. Happy New Year, everyone.  The dam at Kletzsch Park in Glendale has been a popular urban fishing spot for years.  By Mary Boyle Lisa Liljegren of Mequon loves to go fishing, but she didn't grow up doing it. In fact, the hobby is quite new to her, and it wasn't something she was introduced to by her husband, son, or even a group of friends. Not only that, she doesn't go fishing on charter boats on Lake Michigan or on inland lakes or rivers up north. Nope. Her favorite spots are in and around the City of Milwaukee and her most common companion is a man she happened to meet while observing a relatively unknown but dedicated group of people who fish in the city. Her experience was more than just learning a new hobby; it inspired her to write a book called Cast: The True Story of a Mom who Learned to Embrace the Unknown through Urban Fishing. Practically a memoir, Liljegren's journey into the secret world of urban fishing began while waiting for her son during his football league practices in Milwaukee. Having once worked for the Milwaukee County Parks system, Liljegren had already developed a love affair with the City's urban natural areas, but after she stumbled across a large group of people fishing at the Kletsch Park dam, watching them became her regular activity. Finally, she decided she wanted in. Not wanting to appear completely inept, she contacted a park maintenance man who runs a fishing tournament at the Washington Park Lagoon to take her out and show her the ropes. Her husband, having meant to take their son fishing someday, had some sparse gear in the garage, so she grabbed what was there and got started. After a few embarrassing trips on her own, Liljegren met Angel on one of her expeditions, who has become a mentor and regular fishing partner. The 6th St. Viaduct near Harley is one of their favorite spots, and they've attracted the curiosity of the workers there, who often check in with them to see what's biting. Liljegren says she has never felt in danger while on her urban fishing expeditions, "...but I did feel out of my element," which helped her to grow, not just as a fishermen, but as person. "It's amazing what you begin to talk about while waiting for the fish to bite. People would be surprised at what they'll learn about themselves and others." Part of what Liljegren learned was that, despite the variety of backgrounds and economic status represented at the fishing spots, once people begin to connect, they have a lot in common. "We all have the same problems." Pre-orders of Liljegren's book, which is scheduled to be launched this April, are being sold now, and there are special fundraising options through Indiegogo which will help get the book published, including:
If you have a local book lover in your life, this could be a very unique gift! To preorder your copy or learn more about the story of Cast, go to: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/cast-by-lisa-liljegren  By Mary Boyle Ever since Michael Pink, the Artistic Director of the Milwaukee Ballet, arrived on the scene in 2002, I have been watching his version of The Nutcracker, which has been my family's well-loved holiday tradition, as it is for so many families in the area. Perhaps you've never been? Perhaps you feel that the ballet isn't "your thing?" I beg you to reconsider. When the lights go down, and the Milwaukee Ballet orchestra begins the opening notes of Tchaikovsky's famous music, you will be enchanted. Based on E.T.A. Hoffman's 1816 Novella, The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, the ballet (possibly the world's best known) was written in 1892 by the famous Russian composer, Tchaikovsky, and two choreographers, Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov, who used the version of the story by Alexandre Dumas, the well known French novelist, as their inspiration. Interestingly, the ballet was not an instant success, and took many years to be performed outside of Russia. By the 1950's, it became popular in the US, and now it is performed by nearly every ballet company, usually during the holiday season, around the world. There are countless versions of The Nutcracker, but Michael Pink's version of the ballet adds a much older sister to the Tannenbaum family, Marie (which is the name of Hoffman's original character, but she is only 7 years old in the story), as well as an assistant, Karl, to the magical Godfather, Herr Drosselmeyer, so that there may be an age-appropriate romance in the story. After the Christmas party at the Tannenbaum's, where Clara was gifted a nutcracker from her Godfather, Clara returns to the Christmas tree to find him, followed by her sister, Marie and her brother, Fritz. To their surprise, mice come out of the wood stove, the Christmas tree grows and they shrink into the world of their toys, who have come to life, including the Nutcracker, who leads the toy soldiers and is wounded in battle against the Rat King. Drosselmeyer appears and revives the Nutcracker, who turns out to be Karl, and takes them all on a magical adventure. Celebrating their 50th Season this year, the Milwaukee Ballet has rotating casts of their Professional Dancers, as well as utilizing Milwaukee Ballet School and Academy dancers to accommodate the schedule and massive cast for The Nutcracker, which means every performance is a bit different, but you can look up who's dancing which role if you're so inclined (For instance: I prefer to see Barry Molina as Fritz). While full of Victorian splendor and gorgeous costumes and scenery, Michael Pink's Nutcracker is hardly austere; in fact, keep your eye out for the three clowns, whose changing antics are one of the highlights of the performance. This Nutcracker is an introduction to the ballet that the whole family will enjoy. The Nutcracker runs through December 26th at the Marcus Center for Performing Arts Uihlein Hall, located at 929 N. Water St. in downtown Milwaukee. Tickets can be purchased at the Milwaukee Ballet Box Office, located at 128 N. Jackson St., or by calling (414) 902-2103. Tickets may also be purchased through the Milwaukee Ballet's website at https://www.milwaukeeballet.org/ This year, the Milwaukee Ballet will offer a variety of free pre-show activities for families in the atrium of the Marcus Performing Arts Center, including: Saturday, Dec 14 – 1:00pm (2:00pm Performance) Face Painting Children 4 & up can show their holiday spirit by getting signs of the season painted on their cheeks. Saturday, Dec 14 – 6:00pm (7:00pm Performance) Behind-the-Scenes Night: Stage Make-Up How does a ballerina age 50 years in 30 minutes? Get an up-close view as our dancer applies aging make-up to transform into Grandma Tannenbaum. Sunday, Dec 15 – 11:00am (12:00pm Performance) Kohl’s Color Wheels Art Project Milwaukee Art Museum’s traveling art studio makes a stop at our performance! Create a holiday-themed piece of art with their team of experts. Sunday, Dec 15 – 5:00pm (6:00pm Performance) Milwaukee Children’s Choir Enjoy holiday carols from the angelic voices of this celebrated youth ensemble. Friday, Dec 20 – 6:00pm (7:00pm Performance) Behind-the-Scenes Night: Stage Make-Up How does a ballerina age 50 years in 30 minutes? Get an up-close view as our dancer applies aging make-up to transform into Grandma Tannenbaum. Saturday, Dec 21 – 2:00pm (1:00pm Performance) Mini-Ballet Class with our School & Academy Miss Tiffany teaches children 4 & up a beginning ballet class and choreography from the show. Saturday, Dec 21 – 6:00pm (7:00pm Performance) Mini-Ballet Makeover Children 4 & up are invited to enjoy the ballerina treatment topped off with the perfect bun. Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019 – 11:00am (12:00pm Performance) Craft Corner: Ballerina Snowflakes Enjoy this creative spin on a classic craft! Create paper snowflakes that look like ballerinas. Monday, Dec 23 – 11:00am (12:00pm Performance) Behind the Music Music Educator Meaghan Heinrich explores Tchaikovsky’s signature score with musical activities for all ages. Monday, Dec 23 – 5:00pm (6:00pm Performance) ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas Our own Michael Pink reads the classic holiday poem aloud. Thursday, Dec 26 – 5:00pm (6:00pm Performance) Behind-the-Scenes Night: Stage Make-Up How does a ballerina age 50 years in 30 minutes? Get an up-close view as our dancer applies aging make-up to transform into Grandma Tannenbaum. The 2019-20 Milwaukee Ballet's 50th Season is truly exciting and includes the return of Michael Pink's World Premiere production of Peter Pan! |
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