Waukesha is a community of caring and giving. One would be hard-pressed to find a community equal to ours where the outpouring of generosity and volunteerism is omnipresent. Often, the same individuals and companies give...and give...and give.

My work on and with several area boards allows me to interact with many concerned, involved citizens. Many of these people serve on more than 1 board at a time. While some might be motivated by networking, most donate their time, ideas, and energies as a means of giving-back. Most never look for thanks or recognition.

In that vein - Is there someone/anyone who has volunteered more time on local boards than Terry Sutter? A transplant from Shorewood (Whitefish Bay?) sometime in the distant past, Terry has either met, dined with, helped bank, served with, volunteered at, or just generally been a part of so many groups and functions that I use him as my personal "White Pages" when contact is needed with someone.

Unquestionably his original involvement started with the intent of expanding his contacts for his chosen banking profession. Years passed and...something happened! He went from being a superficial "glad-hander" who viewed every new contact as another depositor/borrower to a diligent, knowledgeable Board member who just happened to be in banking. I honestly believe this transformation was almost a "Scrooge/Tiny Tim moment" as Terry sensed the satisfaction which comes from meaningful volunteerism.  

And, unbeknownst to many, while Terry was giving back to others in need, his own family had pressing needs - his wife struggled for many years with Alzheimer's. Terry was her principal care-giver at home. Alzheimer's is incredibly mean-spirited: it takes away wonderful minds while leaving the physical shell as a grim reminder of it's "visit". There is no break - no magic pill - no cure. Just an inexorable march to an emotionally-draining finish. And the "journey" for family and friends can be solitary, gut-wrenching and exhaustive. During this time, Terry's devotion and service to his wife was unwavering...yet he found a balance in his life with his Community service.

So you ask - Why single Terry Sutter out when there are countless others also deserving of recognition? 

Because he is the real deal and can serve as a model for others. Sure, he is still in banking, and yes, he might, at a volunteer function, still trip into some networking opportunity (and for these rare occasions, his partner Sandy handles details that Terry would probably miss...). Regardless - his experience and input are invaluable. And as years pass, I have come to respect and admire his dedication to Waukesha - his adopted homeland. His input is felt and respected at many levels.

In short - Don't be fooled by his almost curmudgeonly demeanour: it masks a quiet presence. A presence which is emblematic of the moral fabric of our Community.     

Gas at $4.15/gallon. Utility bills skyrocketing while they lobby for increases. Grocery bills which climb, noticeably, on a weekly basis. Flooding which impacted tens of thousands in SE Wisconsin and which will strain State budgets in the coming year(s). GM announces eventual closure of Janesville plant. "Upside-down" in one's mortgage is a phrase many now understand. Iraq. Midwest Airlines struggles in the fight of its' life to stay aloft. Lake Delton disappears in a couple hours. A continuing weather cycle which started early December and continues to plague us with storms of greater than normal intensity seemingly every 4-7 days. 401K plans never were designed for today's economic climate  And now...Mosquitos!!

Where are the lessons to be learned from this? We don't and can't control many of the above. In fact, we can go to our backyards and scream in unison and futility over the myriad of challenges we now face - and no one will listen. Lives are being changed - most not for the better. Charities are feeling the pinch of re-directed funds and many programs for those in need will go underfunded. Where is any silver lining in this?

Unfortunately many of us will not come through the next few years unscathed. Retirements will be deferred. Many will put themselves at personal and financial risk by going without expensive health care coverage. Homes in default will be taken back by lenders. People - real people, will be impacted negatively. And following is the best I can come up with...

Today's younger generation, many of them, have not experienced having to accept "no" in their lives. As guilty as anyone, I have worked diligently to ensure my kids had comforts I never dreamed of as a child growing up. I, like many of my peers, felt proud to be able to get our children "the latest, greatest whatever", and we often went to extremes (remember the hunt for Cabbage Patch Babies, Tickle Me Elmo, Beanie Babies, X-Box, and many more?) to "prove our love" for them. Don't like your ACT score? No problem - Let me get you the Cd and the on line study guide and you can take it again and again until your score gets you into the "preferred" college.

This generation is feeling the pain right now. Many are just starting out and have precarious mortgage situations where they cannot pay more for incidentals. Many are trying to save for their first home, but savings are being compromised by fuel and utility expenses as well as increasing rents. Is it possible they will, like generations before them, get through? Of course! But will they learn from the challenges being flung their way? I can only hope so.

I am 55, and my first mortgage in the early '80's was at a fixed rate of 13%. And that was an FHA loan with insurance - a virtual steal back than if you could get it. As a result, I became very rate conscious and much more "home-savvy". Rates dropped and things worked out...and I was smarter for the experience.

Bad news is upon us daily like a plague. However, there are still many wonderful things in my life - Family, friends, and job. Despite the apparently never-ending saga of bad news on the outside, I choose to believe that "Today's Pain" will be "Tomorrow's Gain" - albeit for the next generation. 

Let's hope I'm right and something good does indeed come out of this mess. 

Recently State Rep. Scott Newcomer wrote a guest opinion in another publication which was titled:  "Wisconsin’s school systems should teach money management."  Scott used April, which is recognized as Financial Literacy Awareness Month, as the springboard highlighting the need to raise financial understanding through the school systems.

Well written, his column acknowledges the need for (and lack of)  parental advice in these matters. It goes on to state "less than half of college students polled said their parents made a conscientious effort to teach them.I find it inconceivable that such a vital topic is left out of the school system and placed solely in the hands of the public. As parents, many of us often times find ourselves puzzled by the task of assisting in our children’s math or science homework. Despite this truth, the majority of college students cite parents as their primary source of information on money management, yet less than a quarter of them feel prepared for the financial challenges awaiting them. This illustrates the fact that additional education from schools is needed in order to improve the quality of the information flowing in the public sphere."   "...I feel that each individual school district, if it is not already doing so, should strive to implement financial education requirements."

Please stop there!   Yes!  -  Yes!  -   NO!

YES - Rep. Newcomer is correct that there is a need for better understanding of financial matters for our youth. Issues grow more complex daily and the financial challenges and machinations facing this generation are significant. Simply - there is much to learn and little done about it.

YES - Rep. Newcomer is correct in calling attention to the frustrating stats which reflect that only a minority of college students feel prepared for the oncoming financial challenges. The grim realities are that parents do not have a "warm and fuzzy" when working with their own children in these areas. The best teaching tools would be a family's own finances, but many parents truly do not want their offspring delving too deep into their checkbook, investments, credit card obligations, etc.. No further explanation is needed for most parents...

 NO! - Rep. Newcomer is absolutely incorrect in his thoughts that each school district should strive  to implement financial requirements! While I totally agree on the need for basic training in finances, I challenge Rep. Newcomer on where the responsibility lies. Every news publication in this State has weekly articles, stories, letters to the editor, and more which bring into laser-like focus the core issue - The State Education System is broke! The current funding formula demands cuts and improvisations to school budgets across the State!  Waukesha has been particularly hard-hit for many years, and there are no "Bright Tomorrows" on the horizon here.

The breakdown between Scott and myself occurs because... These Districts cannot currently fund the State mandates for education! The very last thing on the agenda for most districts these days is adding curriculum at additional costs. Heck - I favor many areas where I believe education in the early years will pay dividends for our youth for years to come: Renewed second language emphasis; expanded tech-ed offerings (the building trades are worried about the coming years); basic home computer maintenance; career planning; current world politics; and the list goes on...

The chasm in thought processes between us is succinctly demonstrative of the issues we as constituents and voters face with many of our State representatives. Unfunded State mandates to school districts are a major contributing factor to many school budget dilemmas. Now we have, in a very deft pen-stroke, a local State Rep doing more of the same. His identification of the need is good: His avoidance of taking a leadership position at the State level to get it fixed is sad. And finally, his "challenge" to the Districts to implement these courses is a classic "Red Herring"  technique of misdirection...

Truly, we deserve (and desperately need) better from our local elected officials in Madison. Maybe early "Financial Literacy" classes would have helped them...

Today I read about Waukesha Mayor Larry Nelson delivering his version of a "State of the Union" address to the Common Council. Basically a recap of his first two years serving as Mayor, his presentation covered many of the positive developments which occurred during this time frame.

This occasion pushes the question: Should "Mayor Larry" be judged by his own assessment, or should public and media comments singlehandedly frame our opinions? 

The Mayor has unquestionably been tremendous fodder for the local media. From his footwear choices, to travels which invariably conflict with some meetings, to unabashedly wearing his Democratic loyalties on his (short) shirt sleeves, Mayor Larry has certainly taken his share of criticisms from many corners. Ok...Maybe it wasn't politically expedient being photographed at an Obama rally with your new Administrator in tow - during normal working hours. Why - he even had the audacity to try to protect the budgets of several Waukesha municipal services from cuts in this era of "taxation hell!" 

On the flip side - Go to most established community charity fund-raisers; The Mayor will usually be there lending support. Walk through Downtown during an Arts Crawl - Larry will be talking to anyone who will listen. Need to add "gravitas" in getting a new local event off the ground? Ask Mayor Nelson for his help and he will step to the plate whether speaking or just attending. When Waukesha needed decisive action on the critical "water" issue, Mayor Larry was in Madison lending his support, and then took a couple days of intense politically-driven media poundings for taking a stand... When the ugly realities of education funding rears its' (to some) ugly head, the Mayor will flat-out come forward and reiterate the value of a quality educational product within one's Community.

QUICK!  How many cities were named as "One of the 2008 100 Best Communities for Young People in the United States" by America's Promise Alliance? For the second consecutive year? The answer: Only Waukesha in SE Wisconsin! And Waukesha Mayor Nelson was there proudly beating the drums to garner attention for the Community.

HERE'S ONE!  Name the last higher-ranking public official who will return phone calls and emails, and then go on, albeit interminably at times, about the great things occurring in Waukesha - The (trick) answer? Both Mayor Nelson and his predecessor Mayor Carol Lombardi. Interestingly, he will even ask your opinion on local issues...

It's obvious Larry Nelson enjoys being Mayor. He also truly believes the role of mayor extends far beyond presiding over Common Council meetings. His unflagging support for all things "Waukesha" is demonstrated on a daily basis. Is the Mayor outspoken on many issues? YES!! Does he bring that same frank and earnest approach to the public table on behalf of Waukesha? YES!! Will he continue ruffling feathers? YES!! And will he maintain that unmistakable air of individuality during his tenure? YES!!

Mayor Larry Nelson will walk the path he believes in. With over 50,000 people in this Community, I am sure he will find someone who disagrees with almost every single thing he says or does. His persona will continue to draw attention to any gaffes - large or small. But his heart belongs to the City...and one must respect that.

I held reservations about "Larry as Mayor"... I still harbor suspicions about his "Crocs" footwear (or whatever those things are...). Waukesha is a fiercely proud, individualistic, political, diverse Community. Why would you want your mayor to be any different?

"It's not over till the fat lady sings..."

This winter past is a reminder that we do indeed live in Wisconsin. Several of the most recent winters often arrived late; brought out snowblowers only 2-4 times; and left early. Having had between 9' and 10' of snow, many of us are crying "Uncle".

Regardless of how I personally feel, there are many who have benefited from the white plague above. Start with the dedicated plow drivers who kept their equipment running and streets clear against long odds. Their well-earned OT preceded the wonderful tax season. And when they collect OT, the State is there ready to collect taxes on the extra income. And as long as we are in a tax-paying mood - peruse your gas pumps for how much more petrol was used plowing and how much we pay in gas taxes. The State thanks you, the plow drivers thank you, salt companies really thank you.

Auto body shops? Full for weeks to come. Car part vendors are having a banner year and...more wages with more State taxes. Small appliance repair shops fixed snowblowers and never gave much thought to lawn mowers. Windshield fluid companies had to invest in more blue dye because we all know spraying snowy and icy windshields is faster than a defroster. The company that makes the reflectors tarred onto our highways will be filling replacement orders for the ones who fell victim to constant plowing.

Other (unintended) profiteers? - Chiropractors with long lines of "shovel-backs" waiting to get in; replacement mailbox manufacturers; landscapers waiting to fix lawn-scarring from the municipal plows; TV weather-people who get more air-time than national or local news reporting; roofers contending with ice dams, and many more.

Me? I am screaming "Uncle"!! ...Enough!!  Give me the dull grey-green of an emergent lawn. Let me switch garage places between snowblower and lawn mower.Allow us the pleasure of driving without a constant coating of road spray. Who do we call to explain we are sorry and won't do whatever it is we did wrong to get this much snow?

I just checked again and...no... the "Fat Lady" isn't singing - she's at her real estate agent's office and looking at cheap Florida housing.  

     

POLITICAL:

Are the Democratic and Republican presidential candidates collecting money, re-grouping, and catching a spirited 2'nd wind for the home stretch? (Or has everyone, including the press, lost complete interest because they all are starting to sound the same?)

When will someone explain why being "Tough on Crime?" is so vitally important in the Gableman vs Butler Supreme Court election? (And no..."just because" doesn't work for me)

Why has Waukesha Mayor Larry Nelson (a declared Democrat) suddenly become a lightning rod for Republican criticism? (Is it possible the GOP finally added up presidential primary results in Waukesha and realized Democrat votes far outnumbered the Republican faithful?)

COMMUNITY:

Waukesha School Superintendent David Schmidt is retiring. There will be a "send-off" luncheon at the Country Springs Hotel on April 10'th. Co-sponsored by the Waukesha Education Foundation and the Waukesha Chamber of Commerce, there are more groups offering plaudits than time available for speakers. A nice tribute to a man who will be missed. Call the Chamber for details @ 262-542-4249.

Retired Waukesha North Marching Band Director Jim Doepke remains active during retirement. He has announced his desire to play the National Anthem on the trumpet at all Major League Ballparks. Commissioner Bud Selig has endorsed this and we wish Jim the very best!

Kudos to the various Departments of Public Works who kept the streets clear this winter. Let's try to remember the costs connected with this year when their budgets are blown by the end of the third quarter.

We in Waukesha will all feel the loss of Senior Journal Sentinel Editor Bruce Gill who passed away at the young age of 56. He was instrumental in bringing the Waukesha Bureau the resources to showcase the goings-on in our Community. He will be remembered as a class act.

FAMILY:   

Upcoming trip to Mexico with four families holds promise of relaxation, sun, warmth, friendship, and many memories for the upcoming year. (Why do "Dirty Monkeys" and "Miami Vice" beverages only taste good in warm climates?)

Spring Fever has gripped our family. How long before the ice is gone from Okauchee Lake??

 

Are we really to be defined by an overly-simplified classification of "Republican or Democrat?"

Is it fair that we should be pigeon-holed into a broad political party's platform even if we don't agree with its' entirety?

With politics front and center in Wisconsin, particularly in Waukesha, should we judge new acquaintances this simplistically?

The political pundits in the media spew on the daily happenings and offer not-so-brilliant comments, always in retrospect, about what occurred while forecasting (about as well as TV meteorologists...) the next day of campaigns.

Local and national political columnists earn their paychecks writing narrowly-defined articles which almost completely avoid facts with the sole intent of keeping themselves employed. They treat us as "ignorants" with no memory nor ability to delineate fact from fiction! These columnists are intolerant, by design, of anything evenly remotely distracting from their job of delivering the message their employers hired them to deliver. Remember - unlike these blogs, this is their job that pays their mortgages and/or rent. Their "mission" - Be controversial to attract readers which ultimately attracts advertisers... Facts? They are secondary... 

I will keep an open mind this election season (and it is going to be a loooong season...). I don't need to tune to talk-radio because they are no longer new and fresh, and 5 minutes of any of their shows is enough to know where they stand and who they support. Once the Democrats make their selection, the columnists will strengthen their footholds on boredom and their own party-speak. Phone-canvassing and mailings will be plentiful. Election year TV ads will resemble Super Bowl ads - I'm awaiting dancing geckos swaying to "Thriller" while background banners tout John McCain. Or the "Republican" Dalmatian jumping onto the "Republican"  Campaign tour bus while Clydesdales amble up to polling booths discussing their choices.

Regardless of what happens during the many election months ahead, I will concentrate on avoiding political no-chance-of-winning arguments with friends, acquaintances, co-workers, and even family members. My heart will be warmed by the millions of dollars pumped into the economy in advertising; pulp plants in Northern Wisconsin will adjust their production to meet increased demands for handouts, flyers, and mailers; petroleum companies will raise prices (and profits) as a result of candidates criss-crossing the country via gas-guzzling planes, trains, and automobiles;and ultimately almost half of this Country's voters (maybe more??) will be disappointed and disheartened this coming November.  

Heck - why do we need rebates to stimulate the economy? Just have Presidential elections every two years instead of four.

Folks - Keep your sanity. Read the papers the weekend before the election and just vote for whoever the papers say is going to win. Remember: When they win - you win!     

This is the time of year to reflect, and a time to prioritize the important things in one's life. It's also the perfect opportunity to appreciate and respect how many positive things happen around us in the Waukesha area. Things may not be perfect here, but the positives far outweigh the negatives. Stay focused on these positives in 2008 - It's a better place to expend your energies. 

On behalf of myself and my family, we wish a Merry Christmas and Happy Holiday Season to all!

This is bordering on the absurd...

I am already tired of the snow and the weather prognosticators this winter!

Truly I enjoy winter and the typical "fun" snowfalls - Who doesn't? You get a couple inches, shovel it, and the drab grey landscape is replaced with a brilliant white blanket on the lawns, roofs and trees. You can drive on it with some confidence until the plows clear it out. And you don't have a weather-forecaster induced nervous breakdown awaiting "certain death and destruction!"

However...Is there another profession where you can be so very, very wrong so very, very often? Imagine - you absolutely "blow" that big sales presentation...You either lose the sale or you miss something in your bid making it the biggest "loser" in your company's history. No problem - the next day you come in all cheery and, instead of getting on your knees and begging to keep your job, you smile and cheerfully explain-away your gaffe! In the real world, this just doesn't happen. In the world of weather, this is the norm.

Fast-forward to the entertainment-driven world of meteorologists (with style and fashion consultants in tow), where being wrong in your forecast is just another thing to smile and talk about the next day. Six-figure salaries, consultants who couldn't make it "on the air", millions of dollars in officious-sounding equipment (Storm-Tracking, Doppler-sensing, fall colour, morning rain projecting radars), and more time in a 1/2 hour telecast than the news...we truly are a shallow society.

How many seniors suffer angst worrying they will be without power until Spring? How many house-bound people are concerned they will run out of food before they get dug out in February? How many parents spend hours on the phones working out alternate plans of baby-sitting because "the big one" is around the corner? How many businesses suffer financially because people aren't shopping (they're cowering in their homes peeking skyward every 3-5 minutes), yet the business owner is staffed for a typical day? Or the employees take a "hit" because they have been told to stay home in anticipation of pending doom from the sky?  

And yet we will be glued to the 10:00 news waiting to hear "what happened" while eagerly awaiting our favorite weatherperson/meteorologists' next dose of drivel. We will be watching them stand outside in storms to tell us "There's snow coming down as we speak..."  I guess they feel we won't believe them if they just tell us..

What's left? Not much...The National Weather Service discontinued their usually reliable phone forecasts...The Farmer's Almanac is correct every 23'rd day...Gout warnings don't work for snow...

It's absurd.

Mothers - Tell your kids to forget medicine and the law. Instruct them to practice forensics and get their degree in meteorology!

   

    

A small Christmas tree appeared outside my office this afternoon. 18" tall, it was fairly non-descript. Two or three strands of lights, and I felt the pressures of the afternoon lift ever so slightly. What a nice feeling!

It's the Holiday Season!

My mind drifted from the ever-present emails and blinking voice-mail light. A warm spirit was intruding into my workspace, and I welcomed this much-needed change. I realized that Cindy and Trisha and others were sending their own signals via that tree. When I finally emerged, most had left for the day. The tree lights were uplugged. As I exited, my eyes took notice that other areas in the offices were in the process of holiday transformation as well. The need or desire to decorate had obviously taken hold.

My usual drive home includes an "all-call" home to alert them to my imminent arrival. That time is also spent in review of the day while planning the AM of the next day. The goal? - Purge the workday memories and come home "fresh". Too often, "fresh" is a matter of degrees.

Today's drive was different. I was deeply appreciative others were restoring a balance to the workday madness of late. Tomorrow loomed brighter. The day's reflections were solely centered on my memories of Christmases past. I think I surprised my wife by getting a few chores done willingly. There was enough energy left to write this blog!

That little ol' 18" tree really had an impact!

Now I can't wait for the personalized Christmas stockings with the surprise daily treats in them...

 

When you think steak - Do you immediately think Mo's, Coerper's 5 O'Clock, Butch's, Eddie Martini's, Flemings, or Mr. B's ?  

Recently, Mr Rob Brunero, a business friend from England, visited our company. When questioned as to his thoughts for dining out, he immediately said "I'd like a good steak ye' know?" We had already provided the local color tour including the Lakefront, Marquette University, Downtown Milwaukee, and the Brookfield - Waukesha area. My wife Colleen piped in with going to Palmer's Steak House for dinner. We agreed.

Located in downtown Hartland, Palmer's inhabits, since 2006, what many remember as the old Cobblestone Inn. The drive out was nice as Rob was able to sample the open lake country spaces. Upon arrival, we were pleasantly greeted and seated on-time with our reservations. Mr. Brunero asked the waitress for her "steak" advice and her no-hesitation response was "The bone-in ribeye!"

Leaving a full review to the "Experts", I will summarize our dinner - "Absolutely Fantastic!". Our guest was, as he said, "Suitably pleased ye' know", and my wife and I knew we had won twice. We too had a great dining experience, and we had satisfied our international guest's "need for beef".

The Owners, Jerry Arenas and his lovely wife Marie, have a long history of serving-up great meals, particularly steaks, at prior locations including Steakhouse 100 and The Porterhouse. All of their efforts are now centered on Palmer's and the results show. Both Jerry (he came out of the kitchen and off of the grill...) and Marie stopped and chatted during our stay. Rob really enjoyed their sincerity and personal interaction. We all felt very "special" at that moment.

Many, many, many years ago, when Jerry was a cook at the Rafters, he and I worked together briefly. I remembered him as one of the nicest people and he remains that to this day. Marie is warm, engaging, and takes a personal interest and care in your dining experience. Their pride of ownership shines through! With the ongoing evolution from family-run to corporately-owned restaurants occurring (not that a chain restaurant can't serve a great dinner...) it is refreshing to support and enjoy the entire dining experience at a family-owned and run location.  

Running a great restaurant continues to be a daunting task. Follow the news and we have all witnessed the demise of many landmark dining establishments. The Milwaukee area is fortunate to have a selection of great "steak" restaurants that continue to cater to the "beefeating carnivores" walking in our midst. With Jerry and Marie Arenas's Palmer's Steak House offering of their Signature Steak - the Bone-in Ribeye, Waukesha's choices just got better!

Our guest from England, Mr. Brunero, summed it up perfectly: "Phenomenal!!"

 

 

   

This blog recently provided a look at the early morning life at the Wisconsin Athletic Club – Waukesha. The rich diversity of personalities present in the wee hours of the mornings often makes this club feel like a friendly, convivial frat house.

But, ominously, there are others…

Conspicuously absent from my tale was a specific section in the front of the club; a glassed-in, partitioned area bearing striking similarity to exhibits at the Milwaukee County Zoo. An area so “removed” from the haunts of normal humanity that they must bring out their own “tools of pleasure” from a secret storage room. An enclave so weirdly private that the area has been soundproofed (almost) against prying ears. It’s an assembly of jacked-up, caffeinated, screeching, sweating, bouncing, twisting, turning, dedicated individuals challenging those “outside the walls” to join them in some weird, trancelike mayhem.

Meet the WAC Precision Dance Team!

The Team is led/threatened by Deb. Obviously possessing a militaristic background, Deb emits primitive sounds of “encouragement” (threats?) that are so guttural and primordial that her minions are compelled to follow lest they suffer her wrath. Her bright smile masks a very sick sadistic approach to modern “dance”. And speaking of Dance Team minions, it would be prudent to start with the "minionisty” of the bunch – Steve. Blessed with a natural, structurally-built frame perfect for rugby, Steve keeps this oxygen-deprived room giggling with light humor during their "performances". He also acts as the enforcer for this “clan” against the occasional outside heckler who dares to question “What the heck is going on in there?!” In addition, it’s crucial to mention the Aaron/Todd team. Steadfast in their devotion to the trendiest of music including Wham! and Culture Club, Aaron/Todd are almost interchangeable. In fact, the culture within this fortress-like area allows for the Aaron/Todd Team to have their own tribe (think Jim Jones) of idolizers including Jackie, Arlene, Kari, Lynn, and Kim.

Usually ignored/avoided by the balance of the early morning group at the Club because we tend to ignore that which we don’t understand, these “dance-steppers” flaunt their superior sense of rhythm and style. In addition, this merry band of Kool-Aid drinkers has a mean sense of humor…For (their own) amusement, a Team member will sometimes sneak in early and wax/polish the wood floor in an irregular pattern! Wow! Or…We’ve witnessed John Stemper (a tribal elder) distract Deb with his own cries of anguish which throws the entire class’s cadence off. Heady stuff!! And then there’s Bill…”One-hop” Bill…”Poor Choice” Bill… Bill who tries to bridge the social gap between “The Team” and the rest of the club…This is “Bill who was goaded into complete acts of selfless sacrifice by his Team compadres for their own humor”. Yep, there’s Bill who, by his own admission, would dance-step to Neil Diamond for hours on end
…Sad – so very, very sad…

In conclusion, the WAC Club obviously has a “diversity” to broaden its appeal. From the warm, engaging, stimulating humor and banter of the “regulars” to the sick, jaded, glassy-eyed stares of Deb’s Dancers, there is something for (almost) everyone. Feel free to stop in early – very early, some weekday morning and find out for yourself.

So how does a place, an event, an organization, a person, A Dummy get into these blogs?

This (Jay’s Blog) incredibly valuable space on WaukeshaNow.com must maximize its’ appeal to reach the broadest audience in an attention-grabbing manner. Careful consideration is given; options reviewed; and topics tested to guard against offending (most) people. …Or… send something/anything in and I will probably act on it. Having said that, I received the following email from a very talented local entertainer/ entrepreneur – Mr. Dale Brown:

”A few weeks ago I received a letter from my second grade teacher who now lives in KY. (I went to grade school in Whitewater) She saw me on the Today Show and somehow, after many calls to friends in WI she managed to track me down. She wrote to tell me that she will be 90 in November and wanted to know if I’d consider doing a show for her birthday in a historic refurbished theatre where she lives in Marion, KY.

I wrote back and said if the theatre could cover expenses, I’d be happy to do a special show for her birthday. I got a call from her and she was so excited I thought she was going to have a heart attack while we were on the phone. So I talked with the president of the board of directors of Fohs Hall and the board met to discuss my offer. I got a call today to tell me that they’ve found an underwriter for my expenses and that they want to hire me for Nov. 10th. The show will be open to the public but we’ll give special recognition to my second grade teacher who will be there with her family to celebrate her 90th birthday. What a fun story!

If we only had a local newspaper that saw any value in human interest stories.”

Dale - while this isn’t quite “the Front Page”, it is the “opening Page” of the Waukesha area of the Journal/Sentinel’s online info vehicle. …”Hmmmm, I wonder if they read their own pages…”

For everyone else: Dale is talented, witty, a local business owner (and employer), really good looking(oops – sorry Dale…) and a Nationally-recognized ventriloquism talent. In addition, Dale is a tremendous asset to, and Board Member on the Waukesha Education Foundation.

Aren’t you wondering what Dale did to this poor teacher over 50 years ago that she would remember him now?

A Fr. Leonard Barbian ”bobblehead” doll?

St. William’s Parish in Waukesha is a warm, caring Catholic congregation. For several years now, Fr. Leonard Barbian has served as Pastor and a steadying, guiding influence to over 2,500 Waukesha families.

Our family moved to this Parish in 2000. The youth program had an energy and commitment which brought our family in. Early on, it was refreshing to experience the “banter” between Fr. Leonard and his then-young protégé – Father Mark Payne.

Let’s take a step back…Fr. Leonard was raised in West Allis and brings a candor and light sense of humor which is enjoyed by all ages. His good nature often belies the experience he has gained through a lifetime of service to our local Archdiocese. He relates to all, and has that very rare ability in conversation to make you feel that you are, at that time, the most important person in his life.

Back in 2000, Fr. Mark was a young, earnest, almost naïve (in a good way!) priest commissioned to St. William’s to work with and learn from Father Leonard. Leonard’s years…OK…decades of experience would serve him well as he tutored Fr. Mark in his development. This partnership at the helm of the Parish was serendipitous!

Mutually bound and dedicated to the good of the Parish, both nurtured a wonderful youth ministry program while engendering a loyal, devout following. During this time, Fr. Leonard’s education of Mark could best be described as “mentoring with a grimace and a sigh”. His feigned exasperation at Mark’s verbal miscues would be followed by a warmly humorous “parent to child” type of guiding comment which every parent in the audience could relate to. And…inevitably Mark would take these good-natured ribs and try (and I do mean “try”) to “tweak” Leonard at the next Mass. Again, as parents we could relate to what Mark was attempting – all the while our experience told us the young child rarely, if ever, gets the better of a verbal exchange with their senior. Particularly if that “senior” was someone as sage as Fr. Leonard…

This went on for several years and the Parish was much better for it. In retrospect, the “youth ministry” was occurring at (2) levels: the kids were getting their underpinnings in the Catholic faith while Mark was gaining invaluable experience under the watchful eye of Leonard. A subtle transition also occurred during this time – Mark’s enthusiasm and exuberance were actually keeping Leonard younger and sharper: He could not let his guard down for even an instant for fear that Mark would actually gain traction in his attempts to “win” even a modest victory in their verbal repartee. Interestingly, the genuine sincerity behind their interplay served as a lesson to us all about the values of respect and interest towards each other.


Well…time inexorably carries on; Leonard’s mentoring resulted in Mark eventually ministering to his own Parish, St. Veronica’s in Milwaukee, and Fr. Leonard’s homilies and Masses at St. William’s are still punctuated by his trademark “OkeeDokee…” The Christian spirit and Faith Community continues to be well-served by both of these exemplary, caring, inspirational individuals.

Recently, we parishioners were offered the opportunity to buy a rare, much-coveted, limited production Fr. Leonard “bobblehead” doll. As I look at (and admire!) ours while writing this article, a small part of me can’t help but wonder if Fr. Mark is waiting for one of these to hit Ebay so he can get one for himself. And then, at last, he could get the last word in on Leonard…

Much is written about the burgeoning night-life in Waukesha. Little is written about the early morning risers who also inhabit the same ground.

Specifically, I’m talking about the morning crew at the Wisconsin Athletic Club – Waukesha (WAC). This is a real cross-section sampling of the best (and “not so best”) people you will find prowling Waukesha streets at say…4:30 – 5:00AM !

Start with your stop at the front desk. This has been a real breeding ground for unusual characters: Assuredly you might be slightly “off” if you enjoy getting to work at 3:00AM and being chipper and polite at 4:30AM to customers. Indelible, not-so-pretty images remain of “Rabbit”, Chris, and now Tommy. Unfortunately, their sense of humor towards the “early risers” in designating locker locations includes an all-too-close proximity to one another…

Over the years, the cast has changed often in the early mornings. My workout “partner”, Jim, and I have been going there for over 17 years. The “Gentleman’s Gentleman” – Mr. Dick Price, has been there for most if not all of that time (He was probably already retired when they built the club…) . Dick perpetuates his long-suffering, “working too hard” role while eliciting sympathy form the considerably younger females. Mike, a rookie with “only" a dozen or so years in, joins Jim and myself in pursuit of bad humor and derogatory comments towards other, more “healthy-looking” individuals. Along with John, we were all founding members of the “Fat Boys Club”. Assuredly not one of us has ever appeared in, much less ever been asked to be in a WAC Club promotional ad…

The personalities truly gain diversity when you include Dale, Ron, Ken, Don, Patty, and Kay. Affectionately known as the “Kaffee-Klatschers”, these individuals provide a backdrop for much of the back-biting, sarcastic, judgmental, and light-hearted humor which permeates the “workout” area. Dale often wears earplugs (unwired to any devices that we can see) while smiling and pretending to enjoy the others. Ron and Don always raise the bar of “bad jokes” when least expected. Nurse Patty, who works-out harder than anyone, tries to maintain a sensible air while we “not quite as fit as Patty” types sit on the sidelines and throw jabs at her. Kay, a friend of Patty and recent addition to the club, has her moments of absolutely brilliant sophomoric humor sandwiched between long stretches of “not so brilliant” looks of bewilderment towards the comments surrounding her. And Ken…

Ken is in a league of his own. While structurally sound, Ken maintains a workout pace readily interrupted by even the most casual of glances or comments. Ken has examined every piece of workout equipment to find the best “leaning” spot. He finds no conversation is too trivial; no tee shirt marking too obscure; and no joke too oft-repeated. Ken remains the poster child for "workoutus interruptus” for others.

For sure, there are others rich in personality (while small of brain) who contribute to the wacky spirit of the WAC Early Risers. The only criteria for joining is a complete disregard for common sense while getting-up at a ridiculous hour to enjoy the camaraderie and good cheer of other like-minded individuals. Oh…And the workouts are probably healthy for us…

As Chair of the Waukesha Education Foundation Board of Directors, I process a fair amount of correspondence, work with donors and grant recipients, and look for ways to reach-out to our Community. This week, during the planning for this year’s 3’rd Annual ”Celebration of Excellence”, a letter and plastic sandwich bag of money were handed to me. The letter follows:

Dear Mr. Walt,
My name is Emma Langer. This year I had a yard sale. Caroline (my friend) and I painted rocks, pots, made picture frames, coasters, bracelets, cookies, lemonade, and more! Most of these things were handmade.
I made $46.71 in three days.
Last year I donated my money to Children’s Hospital. This year I want to donate my money to the Waukesha Education Foundation because I wanted the money to go to all the schools. I go to Rose Glen Elementary School… and would like to share with other schools.
Thank you so much for donating to schools throughout Waukesha!
From,
Emma Langer (age 9 – “soon to be 4th grader”)

My reply:

Dear Emma,
Thank you for your fund-raising efforts for your fellow Waukesha students! The money you and your friend Caroline raised will be used wisely to make our schools a “little more special” for someone else.
In addition, both of you should know that your spending important days-off from school this Summer painting rocks, making picture frames, selling lemonade, and other activities have reached out to a “special place” in my heart. Both I and the Waukesha Community are very lucky to have kind, caring, thoughtful, and considerate kids such as yourself and Caroline helping those around you.
Thank you for being so special and reminding many of us that “giving” can come in many forms.
Your friend,
Jay Walt – WEF Board Chair

…We can all learn from Emma and Caroline…

HELP WANTED – VOLUNTEER BOARD POSITIONS

Where are our next Waukesha Community board members going to come from? What will motivate them to run for various Board positions? And…Are they the “right” people for the positions open?

Volunteerism and Board participation can be a rewarding experience. My wife and I have met many tremendous people in our endeavors, and we have experienced the personal fulfillment which can accompany giving-back to the Community. In fact, we are also now (proudly) seeing our children mirror these efforts with their own participation in a host of activities.

Board membership, be it a School Board, City Common Council, County Board, Non-profit Board, or one of the legions of opportunities out there, takes time, dedication, and demands sacrifices. These 3 requirements immediately rule-out most who feel their lives are already overloaded. The remaining “potentials” must now sense they have something to offer, something to give back… something to make a difference. Translating one’s personal thoughts into actions often requires a kismet-like intervention. “Hey – your professional work experience would really help us out on our local Plan Commission…” or “You really should, given your knowledge and expertise, consider serving on such-and-such Board…” or the most common “I spoke with so-and-so and they are looking for someone to get involved and I think you would be great at that…”

At that point, most pass, but many “take the plunge” and get involved. If the opportunity is a good match-up between their personal skill set and expectations, people will stay involved and eventually realize the satisfaction from their efforts. If the person and Board position are a bad fit, for whatever reason, resentment and negativity can follow. These situations do occur and should not necessarily reflect poorly on either the person or the position – It just might not have been the “right” fit. Also, the person should not be dissuaded from considering future, different opportunities.

Sidebar: The “wrong” fit can and does happen when the “wrong” person jumps in. Negative, disrespectful, non-compromising, closed-minded individuals who only get involved because of a single-issue often poison the effectiveness of an entire group. Unfortunately, these few can taint the experiences of many. Remember, anyone can be a critic - not everyone can be a leader…

This is where the “Right Person” aspect enters. Regardless of what anyone tells or promises you, volunteerism is spelled “T-I-M-E”. Nowadays local Boards don’t need people who attend monthly meetings, offer comments, and leave saying “See you next month”. Boards desperately need “Doers” willing to offer time, energy, and fresh perspectives. Assuredly, if you volunteer in a personally meaningful area, you will magically find the time to make significant contributions. …And you will volunteer again!

Why? …Why write this column? …Why reach-out? Because too many of the same people are being repetitively asked for their time and monetary donations; Because too many Waukesha-area volunteers are (OK - only mildly) showing their age and starting to look to look forward for other life-opportunities; Because the area’s many needs for new, fresh volunteers is ongoing; And finally, because the lifeblood and spirit of our Communities is a direct reflection of the people behind the scenes making it all happen.

”Help Wanted – Apply now! Full benefits!

WOW!!

That sums up the Town of Brookfield July 4’th Celebration.

Unquestionably the largest, most enthusiastic assemblage- ever descended on Marx Park to commemorate/celebrate our Country’s cornerstone date! And what a celebration it was…

A parade where bright smiles and festively-decorated bikes, strollers, wagons, and kids of all ages marched (almost) in unison to Marx Park…
Town Chairman Keith Henderson leading the Pledge of Allegiance…
Thousands respectfully joined singing the “Star Spangled Banner”…
Games for all from new-born crawling contests to egg tosses for adults…
Incredible, reasonably-priced food cooked hot on the spot!...
Pies, cakes, and “sweets to eat” – Many donated from Town area businesses…
Dixieland Jazz from The Bourbon Street Stompers…
The Town Fire, Police, and Highway Departments contributing and interacting with all…
Huge trees being shredded and pulverized in the blink of an eye by the Town tree-chipper (now forever to be known as “Jaws”)…
Pie-eating contestants, male and female alike, contending for the most-coveted Town Golden Pig trophies while square dancers danced…
Finally, a “Fire Department Hose-Down” put the perfect finishing touch to a day of fun and memories…

My thanks to the dozens of volunteers; to the Town Parks, Rec, and Celebration Department and Committee; to the Police, Fire, and Highway Departments; to the Town Board; and to the local donors/businesses who contribute year after year…

Lastly, the entire Town of Brookfield should congratulate itself for their show of Community support and enthusiasm. Families of all ages gathered together capturing the spirit of the day is a wonderful thing to witness.

It was a great day, and remember – Less than 12 months ‘til next year!

$3.46 a gallon for gas ??!!

A median Waukesha home price of $195,250 ??!!

A total average cost of a new car in 2006 is $27,800.00 ??!!

These numbers are stark signposts for our children and what they will face in the coming years as they live the American Dream…

“Save your money; buy/build a starter home; sell it in few years; and move up to a better one”. That used to work, but with costs spiraling upward on many other staple expenses, including rent, how will they save enough for a downpayment? Simple – get a mortgage which would have been unthinkably high only 15 years ago. Now, with monthly payments “out of sight”, get both partners to work full time and hope neither experiences a career setback.

OK, you’re in a house, but you have to get to and from your job. Do you opt for one of those 0% 5 year new car financing specials where at some point in the loan life you owe more than the car is worth? Or is it a more affordable used car where the sticker price still demands another monthly payment? Either way, you will need gas and insurance. And if gas prices maintain at their current level much longer, many tight budgets will have to charge their purchases at the pump and make monthly payments. For gasoline!

Fast forward a few years and imagine between inflation and payments you now have an equity stake in your home. Time for the home you really wanted all along, so it’s now time to build! Great – buy a lot at Pewaukee’s Broken Hill subdivision off of Capitol Drive and Hwy 164 where the lot prices begin at $180,000. Now add a home for another $250,000 to $350,000 and you too can enjoy the fruits of your labor with an investment (and loans) totaling $475,000 or, most likely, more.

Why write about something so apparently “Doomsday”? How depressing would this be if one were to include health-care and higher education costs in the equation? And are jobs really keeping pace with consumer prices? The answer is surprising…

The next generation truly doesn’t care! This is their “time in the spotlight” and they are going to go for the gusto! Why…they believe in the American Dream! The “Dream” that what got them there will keep them there. Realistically, this upcoming generation does not give a thought about 20, 30, or 40 years from now. They live for today! ...And maybe that is…OK…

But it makes you wonder – did the generation ahead of me voice the same concerns and skepticism about my peers?...Remember, they were the generation who worried about saving us from Elvis’s gyrating torso on the Ed Sullivan TV Show. Obviously we didn’t take them too seriously…

Oh heck, ignore the price of cars and vacant land – enjoy yourself! You can always learn from your mistakes the “next time around”…

Just back from a trip to San Francisco and Napa wine country. The Frisco charm and sightseeing provided a great backdrop to our catch-up time with friends from Kansas City. The easy relaxation of the Napa area (and winery tours) allowed ample time for the wives’ shopping forays.

How and why does Midwest Airlines enter this picture?

Midwest (our personal carrier of choice) was exemplary to the success of this vacation. We arrived on time to begin our vacation, and returned home on-time as expected (and hoped for). Luggage retrieval was prompt and convenient in both San Francisco and Milwaukee. But the real “back-story” was our pilot on Sunday’s Flight YX 921…

Boarding the plane in S.F., my wife lamented the passing of the 2-across wide leather seating now only available on “Signature Service” flights. A voice behind us announced, “Don’t give it a thought – you have the best flight crew in the business on-board today!” We turned to see our pilot grinning with the knowledge that he had been heard. We smiled and went to our seats…

The passing of the 3-hour flight was complemented by the tremendous storehouse of interesting knowledge imparted by the very same pilot as we flew eastward. We learned about rivers, dry basins, farming circles, irrigation, North Platte-NE, the Pony Express, even the Oregon Trail. His apologies were sincere when clouds obscured a fair portion of the route and he could not impart even more tidbits. On our layover in Kansas City, he even explained the Morton Salt desalination colored water retention areas visible on final approach to San Fran.

Easily half of the passengers stopped by the cockpit when deplaning to thank this tremendous goodwill ambassador for his efforts in making the time pass. And while we all admired his encyclopedic knowledge, I took a moment to reflect on what separated his comments from prior, typical …”On your left is the Grand Canyon…” flights. It struck me…

This pilot was an educator – not just another “teacher in the air”! This gentleman’s delivery was based on giving us information in a manner we could digest, enjoy, and remember later. He knew his targeted audience and he delivered magnificently! His delivery and content were spaced to avoid over-doing it. The facts he (pardon the pun…) “plucked from thin air” had depth, relevance, and color. One could sense he was getting as much from bringing geography and history to life as we were in enjoying the same.

Writers’ Note: My apologies to all the Catholic nuns at Pius HS who tried, mostly in vain, to force the same material down my throat years ago…

And this, ladies and gentlemen, is what can set a local company apart from a multi-national firm. Midwest is fighting, right now, to retain its corporate identity as much as it’s fighting for its life against Trans-Air. This pilot was “proof-positive” of what created and enabled Midwest’s growth through the years – top-flight service! Truly, this was a standout flying experience.

Lastly – The pilot was correct: We did have the “best flight crew in the business.”

And the warm chocolate chip cookies never hurt…