Wake Up! Waukesha

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.     

Please tell me someone with tons of money is just playing mind games with me. Please!?

 If you have not witnessed the birth of the new Menard's Store across from Target and Home Depot on Kossow and Hwy J, I suggest you hurry lest your neighbors "scoop" you on this one.

It is big... It is "G-normous"... In fact - it towers over the surrounding landscape! Rumors abound that this could be a 2-story spectacle of "Save big money at Menards..." I wouldn't be surprised. It dominates (good for the retailer hoping to attract attention - but is it really good for the local Community?).

First - The positives: Local jobs, increased tax base, competition (until Home Depot leaves), proximity for shoppers, better store than it's replacing, and... I really don't now after that. Sightseers? Gawkers? Tilt-up wall construction aficionados? Waukesha "stole" a development from one of the Brookfields? Albanese's will get more Bocce Ball contenders...

Second - The questions: Has anyone tried to navigate this area as it currently stands? Kossow and Hwy 18 is one of the most problematic intersections in Wisconsin. Now add another 25,000 cars a week! Was there any way to retain the store with it's positives while mediating the insatiable lust for the biggest retail store possible on this sight? Given the looming/towering shadow of this behemoth, did the Menard's developers show up at planning meetings with "Lawyers and everything?"

Two sides are available for discussion. The first is to take the position that the area is already a retail mess and one more store won't hurt or make a difference. The other side states "The area is already a retail mess and this will make a bad situation that much worse."

Myself? I am basically stunned by the sheer magnitude of this building for the size of the lot. It doesn't just sprawl - it is an incredibly tall structure for a retail building. (Don't be surprised to see red aviation warning lights on it's roof - It is on final for the East/West Waukesha runway). It almost defies belief and acceptance that this could actually occur in today's political climate of review and demands on developers.

The Opus Corp is developing Shoppes at Fox River. They are a first-rate developer. Let's hope the people entrusted with the Waukesha review process work cooperatively to provide a quality retail development without creating a concrete albatross for the next 30 years of our viewing pleasure. The bar for big-box development has been set incredibly low, and it needs to be raised. 

"Landmark" Status for the Menard's monstrosity???

Hardly!

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. 

No....Mother Teresa (were she still with us) would not qualify to be the new Waukesha School Superintendent. Nor would Gandhi, the Dalai Lama, and Albert Schweitzer would only make the first round of cuts.

Why would these otherwise kind, great humanitarians not qualify for the Superintendent's position? Because their efforts to promote kindness, compassion, wisdom, and vision were met with acceptance and appreciation. Given the current funding challenges facing the new District regime, any of the aforementioned traits will be discounted by some in the local Waukesha Community as being "not what's needed" right now.

The Waukesha School District continues to face budget cuts every year for a variety of reasons, but primarily because of an extremely flawed State funding formula. These cuts will erode the quality of this District (and many others in the State) unless an intervention occurs - and soon! I would love to believe Mother Teresa has a miracle awaiting us?(she doesn't) Could Gandhi promote Waukesha Community "accord" and togetherness instead of heavily polarized opinions? (no chance at all) Would the Dalai Lama expound philosophically with a subliminal message of hope for future students? (submarinable...submersible...subhumanal...never mind...) Would a Schweitzer "cure" for the State school funding debacle qualify him for a second Nobel Peace Prize? (sorry - someone would say he fixed the State formula just to make himself look good...)  

If the above notables would fall short in many areas needed for this position, what kind of expectations should we hold for the next Waukesha Superintendent?  Let's start with realism and a healthy dose of hope. Add to that a desire for an intelligent, compassionate, dedicated, and concerned approach. Finish with an incredibly thick skin because this Community has demonstrated a curious need to criticize at a level often approaching public humiliation, while never offering a hint of constructive criticism.

The next Superintendent of Schools truly has his or her her work cut out for them.

Maybe Al Gore (After all - he invented the Internet!) would be interested???  

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??

Kelly, my oldest, graduated last Spring and has a stimulating, professional job which challenges her while giving her occasional glimpses into career satisfaction. With rents set extremely high for a single occupant, we jointly agreed that she embark on a mission of saving for a down payment on a home.

We started by balancing her "net" against expenses including monthly mortgage, tax escrow, insurance, utility, car, food, entertainment (not much left for that..) and misc. expenses. I then offered the tax advantages she would receive from interest and taxes paid after she survived her first year. Ultimately, we ran these scenarios and put together a range of what she could afford now for housing.

I am shell-shocked! "Affordable" housing?? We ran on-line searches and basically became numb with the realization that housing is truly not affordable for many single wage-earners. A $150,000 home with 10% down would produce a monthly payment of approximately $1,050.00 for principal, interest, and taxes. That's with a fixed 30 year mortgage at 5.875%. Now add the aforementioned expenses and...

We are glad Kelly's home and saving. And while the current mortgage crisis plays out, we are discussing the opportunity this could present for her later this year if timing works out: Reduced home prices/ historically low interest rates/ and the ability to "make an offer" free of the dreaded "Contingent upon sale of my home" clause that has doomed many a recent deal. 

But, particularly with a starter home in the $150,000 range - minimum (and many Communities significantly higher than this), even a very good deal will leave her cash-strapped. Realistically, she might very well have to leave the immediate Waukesha area to find affordable, safe housing in this price sector.

With all of the other challenges facing the Waukesha area, I suggest adding "affordable housing" to the "NOW" list before we wake-up one day in the near future and join many Wisconsin Communities in asking - "Where did all the bright young people go?"    

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!     

My son Jordan spent much of Christmas Break time-off from college on the blustery surfaces of Okauchee Lake, He and his friends were... Ice-Fishin'!

No fancy shelters, firepits, or heaters for these intrepid outdoorsmen. These lads went out with their gear loaded in a couple of old 5 gallon paint buckets. Jigs, shiners, tip-ups, and hand-warmers. They carried Jordie's Grandpa Darrell's "Lucky" ice auger and a snow shovel. Spots were scouted and friendly hello's extended to others in the general area. Ice was cleared and after careful deliberation, holes dug.

 And they waited...and talked, and they jigged their lines...and they waited...and "Strike!!" Their tip-up had a line set and they dove for their first-ever ice-fishin' catch - a beautiful Northern Pike. They screamed and jumped and laughed. They could not believe some fish picked their 12" spot on all of Okauchee to hit on a minnow. Other fishermen in the area waved congrats to the couple of college kids who "got lucky". And everything settled back down. 

"Strike!" Another hit - another fish! More laughing and backslapping. Only this time the other fishermen didn't appear quite as happy for my son and friend. The kids didn't even notice - cellphones were out and the boys were calling anyone who would answer with news of their incredible success!

After 2-3 more catches that first day, they packed it in and 7 hours after leaving, they headed home for warmth and storytelling. Digital photos were produced and emailed, and suddenly Jordan had several friends including Jeff, Drew, Ryan and more volunteering to keep him company on his next trip.

There were several more "next" trips to Okauchee with quite a few different buddies. Grandpa's "Lucky Auger" never let them down. Every trip a success. Sometimes only Northern; other times perch and bass for good measure. The fish stories were fun to play over and over again, and yes - they looked cold...really cold. The truth is they enjoyed the best memories ever - each other's company. The upside down buckets provided these kids with the best fishin' memories - memories shared with good buddies.

I know Grandpa Darrell is proud that his Lucky Auger got a second wind with Jordie and his friends. Darrell also noted to all that "he was the first to take Jordan ice-fishing" several years ago. Jordan came home and told his mother how he had called Darrell from the ice to let him know how well they were doing. My own joy at seeing these kids enjoy something non-electronic and get "back to basics" was heartfelt.

They are back at school now. The fish were all "catch & release". The auger dried-off and put away. The tip-ups and jigs now stored in those 5 gallon buckets. And, under strictest orders from my son, I can only tell you the holes have frozen back over on  "that southern part of the Lake". 

Like the ice on Okauchee, my son and his buddies will return.

2007 was a transition year for many. My youngest, Caitlin, completed her Waukesha School District studies and is now a freshman at UW-LaCrosse. Our oldest, Kelly, completed her college studies and is now gainfully employed within the local Brookfield workforce. The net effect - our "empty nest" has traded a high-schooler for a college grad, and the difference is marked. Our "baby" is away in a dorm making her own schedules and balancing her studies with socialization opportunities. Here - we now have a dinner companion who actually wants to share her daily workforce adventures and discoveries! It's refreshing....And 2008 promises more family enlightenment on many different levels.

Professionally, our company worked it's way through an increase in sales volume while adding to and training our workforce. Hiring newcomers is relatively easy. Finding the time to assess, properly train, and then utilize their talents is difficult when your workload pushes them to their positions before they are truly ready. Early balanced 2008 demands should allow time for us to implement a training program we know works for the betterment of both employee and employer.

On the 2007 "volunteer front", I joined many in sadly saying our final goodbyes to Mr. Bob Duckett, a Waukesha Education Foundation board stalwart. His energy, enthusiasm, drive, and bright spirit were inspirational. Bob in his 80's was a remarkable role model who outworked and out-hustled people half his age. His legacy for 2008 and beyond will be felt by the future grant recipients of the newly-formed Bob Duckett Familty Fund. This fund was created with numerous memorial donations (at Bob's request) to the WEF in his name. What a great, lasting tribute to a great person. ... And a wonderful example to others in 2008.  

The Waukesha Civic Theatre continued to get better and better in 2007. The Community has generously responded to their capital fund-raising program, and 2008 will bring these funds into play. As a result, facility improvements and key personnel decisions will protect and enhance this jewel of creativity and entertainment in Downtown Waukesha for years to come.   

The Town of Brookfield continued, in 2007, to push for improvements while running its' daily operations much like a well-established business. Passage of the 2008 budget showed an almost Zen-like focus on efficiencies. This budget is best described - "Our life is frittered away by detail. Simplify, simplify.” — Henry David Thoreau. The Town will hold the line on taxes (again in 2008) while maintaining a high-level of municipal services. And let's not forget the Town July 4th Celebration - The best place for a family to be when celebrating our Country's birthday.

 There is a whole lot positive coming in 2008. Savor the moments - explore the opportunities - enjoy the journey!

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...

Thanksgiving is a wonderful holiday wrapped with warm memories of years past. This year, add Packers football, family, a 4-day holiday (for many), and "Black Friday" shopping.

There is one more "experience" for the family, friends, and participants involved in the WSMA State Marching Band Championships held recently in Whitewater. Waukesha District programming on channel 13 will be showing the performances of the Waukesha South, West, and North Marching Bands numerous times beginning this Holiday weekend.

Enjoy these incredible performances and marvel at the quality of the performances. They truly reflect the adage - Practice...practice...practice!

While enjoying this show, please take a moment to recognize that the filming and editing to get this show to the airwaves was also done by high school students! Numerous students from the West telecommunication classes were involved and this is a showcase of their work. The "Education Connection" series is a remarkable collaboration between the Waukesha School District and the Waukesha Education Foundation. With software provided by grants from the WEF, these students bring the face of education that much closer to the Community at large.

 Search out the WSMA Band finals on channel 13 and add one more memory to your list of Holiday experiences!

The Waukesha Education Foundation held it's third "Celebration of Excellence" on November 4th. The theme: "Today's Students  -  Tomorrow's Stars!". This Event brings the Community together in an incredible outpouring of support for the students in our community. Business people, students, parents, elected officials, teachers, administrators,and more came to Waukesha North and were treated to an educational, colorful, and entertaining evening,

The student-driven Hall of Excellence gave us "oldsters" a peek into the happenings within the Waukesha School District classrooms. Beaming and eager to talk, these students brought their programs alive for the visitors and charmed us all in the process. They also gained a little insight in the "How to's" of preparing a trade show program and display. Definitely a "win-win" for all.

Waukesha North graciously hosted the event and their Northstar State Marching Band Champions blew the roof of the fieldhouse after dinner! Student's interacted and served dinner, tended water glasses,and brought the face of education that much closer to each table. Honorees included the WEF "Partners in Education" Heidi Laabs, and Jill and Gary Beres from Culver's - Waukesha. Former Waukesha School Board President Mr. Bill Domina presented Superintendent Mr. David Schmidt with a recognition for David's vision and support for the WEF - A standing ovation followed.

Auctions, raffles, and more completed the evening and sent attendees home commenting on "the students..."   There was little doubt that we were truly in the company of ..."Tomorrow's Stars!"    

The Waukesha Education Foundation (WEF) is staging its' 3rd "Celebration of Excellence" (COE) on November 4'th, 2007. Over 300 students volunteers, over 500 attendees, more than 30 student displays in the "Hall of Excellence",  and over 200 businesses contributing/donating goods, money, and services will come together in an incredible demonstration of support for education within the Waukesha School Community.

The WEF's primary focus is to raise money to increase educational opportunities within our schools. Monies raised go to grants, endowments, and scholarships. The "Celebration" is the WEF Signature Event, and it has raised almost $80,000 in it's first 2 years.

As Board Chair of the WEF as well as Co-Chairing this event with my wife, Colleen, and Betsy Crossewaite, I am once again reminded of the potential for business community support for Waukesha education. Assuredly, there are a host of much appreciated personal contributors including parents, teachers, administrators, seniors, and the public at large. But this years' business response has been particularly gratifying!

Our Signature Sponsors include Waukesha State Bank; ProHealth Care; Lee John's Catering; and the Waukesha Freeman. Platinum Sponsors include Wauwatosa Savings Bank, Marine Bank, Automatic Entrances of Wisconsin, Stanley Proto Tools, and more.

 Not to be overlooked are the dozens - no, hundreds of businesses who bring the finest in products and services to this event for auction and raffle.Third year returning contributors include:  Wine Maniacs with a magnum of Dogajolo hand-selected in Tuscany by Debbie Bertrand; Penzeys Spices provide spices with a flair; Harry Nick & Friends gives unique hair styling; Eddie Martini's for the finest in dining; the Bucks, Brewers, Wave, and Admirals; Mr. Bob Lang with golf at Erin Hills; Country Springs Hotel with an overnight stay and waterpark fun; Mark Rossetti and Bravo! Cucina Italiana for the highest quality Italian dining; Todd at Flanners Home Entertainment; Sunset Bowl, Salto and their birthday bashes; and many more unnamed, respected supporters. They are joined by a legion of others - AND...THIS JUST IN!!...

Little Caesers Pizza on Summitt just donated 75 (!) pizzas to the Event for our student volunteers!! "Healthy food for a healthy education..."

And speaking of education..."THANK YOU TO THE WAUKESHA DISTRICT TEACHERS, ADMINISTRATORS, AND OTHER DISTRICT PERSONNEL! YOUR CONTRIBUTIONS AND UNWAVERING SUPPORT HAVE HELPED BRING THE ESSENCE OF THE WAUKESHA EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCE TO THE FOREFRONT."

The "Celebration of Excellence" is a model of cooperation between stakeholders in our Community - Parents, Students, the District, Volunteers, residents, and businesses.

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!!"