Shepherd Express - February 2025 by Shepherd Express

26, 2025 THE SHEPHERD EXPRESS SEX AND ROMANCE SURVEY RETURNS AFTER 18 YEARS! SEE WHAT THE SURVEY IS ALL ABOUT ON PAGE 24.

06 America's Black Holocaust Museum

10 COP29: Fiddling While The World Burns

Issue of the Month

14 Oby Nwabuzor Pushes for Social Equity in Public Health and Real Estate — Hero of the Month

16 Lo Neng Kiatoukaysy Talks About Milwaukee’s Hmong Culture — MKE SPEAKS: Conversations with Milwaukeeans

FOOD & DRINK

20 Aphrodesiacs for Valentine' Day — Beverages

22 Pomegranite: Don't take it for Granted — Flash in the Pan SPECIAL SECTION

24 The Shepherd Express Sex & Romance Survey

26 Best of Milwaukee Winners

54 Romantic Dining in Milwaukee

58 Will Playing 'Tug' Make my Dog more Aggressive?— Pets CULTURE

60 Frankenstein Sings at Skylight Musical Theatre

62 This Month in Milwaukee LIFESTYLE

66 Ask Ally

68 Can Romance Last Forever? — Out of my Mind

HEAR ME OUT

70 Sleeping with the Enemy? — Dear Ruthie

72 ‘Moby Dick; or, The Whale’ is Present Music’s Valentine’s Day Gift to Milwaukee — My LGBTQ POV

74 From the City that Always Sweeps SPONSORED BY

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America’s Black Holocaust Museum

Works ‘On the Side of Love’

BY TOM JENZ

He could feel the lynch knot tightening around his neck. He could see his two Black companions dangling from trees, lynched and dead. He found himself surrounded by thousands of whites yelling for blood. He prayed, “Lord, forgive me my sins!” Suddenly, a woman yelled, “Take this boy back. He had nothing to do with raping or killing.” The time was 1930, a steaming August night on the courthouse lawn in Marion, Indiana. A murder had taken place, Black on white. James Cameron was only 16, his life suddenly still ahead of him.

Cameron spent the next five years in prison. For the rest of his life, he maintained his faith in the moral framework of “liberty and justice for all” entrenched in America’s founding documents. He wrote about his experience in his memoir, A Time of Terror, an affecting story of anger and courage, forgiveness and redemption.

Generations later, James Cameron, a father of five, came to Milwaukee where in 1988 he founded America’s Black Holocaust Museum (ABHM), which explored neglected stories of the Black experience from pre-captivity to the present day. Two years after Cameron’s death in 2006, the museum closed. In 2022, it was revived in Bronzeville.

ABHM tells the story of African Americans from the time before they were enslaved in 1619 through the present, using dramatic photographs, contemplative artwork, and 3,700 pages of content, covering 500 years of history in a 4,000-foot space.

The permanent exhibition follows the harmful legacies of slavery and Jim Crow in America and promotes racial repair, reconciliation and healing. Over the last 12 years, the museum website has been visited by hundreds of thousands of people from over 200 countries.

Scholar Fran Kaplan, Marquette professor Rob Smith, activist Reggie Jackson and the current executive director, Brad Pruitt, took the new museum from an idea to a reality. Pruitt describes the museum as “one of Milwaukee’s living rooms where the community can gather, learn and exchange information.”

Not long ago, I met Pruitt at the museum, and we conversed.

TELL ME ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND, UPBRINGING, YOUR PARENTS, COMMUNITY, AND YOUR SCHOOLING.

That is an eclectic narrative. Born and partially raised in Milwaukee in many neighborhoods, but my family moved around, Minneapolis, Dallas, Chicago, so I went to many different schools, varied spaces and places. These were diverse environments, and I learned the context of American lives, ethnic backgrounds, racial issues, and socio-economic class. I learned about preconceptions versus reality. It was challenging for me to be accepted by other kids. But that experience resulted in one of my greatest assets, the ability to acclimate to environments and connect with people.

Black Holocaust Museum Milwaukee photo by Tom Jenz.

MOST AMERICANS GROW UP IN ONE AREA AND HAVE SIMILAR REFERENCE POINTS. WAY DIFFERENT FOR YOU. WHAT HIGH SCHOOL DID YOU ATTEND?

In Milwaukee, Rufus King and Pius, but I graduated from Oak Park High School in Chicago.

YOUR CAREER HAS BEEN IN THE ARTS, MAINLY FILMMAKING. WHEN DID YOU GET INTERESTED IN FILM?

The arts were my first love. As a child, I used to draw and take pictures. But my first paying job was at the Chicago Board of Trade as a runner on the floor and then an assistant trader. I got a look at how the economic infrastructure works and also at how people behave.

HOW DID YOU TRANSITION FROM THE HECTIC INVESTMENT WORLD INTO THE ART WORLD?

I went to Atlanta where some of my friends were working on films, videos, arts and music. But my family was in Milwaukee. Eventually, I came back here to help develop the arts and culture scene. I was part of a group of young artists who tried to create an artist consortium because we needed a support structure we could not afford individually. We could not get that going, but I continued on with projects like America’s Black Holocaust Museum. Meanwhile, I worked in photojournalism, writing and shooting for the local papers. That got me into doing short and long documentaries, and then feature films. Many of these films were about social issues, gun violence, education, race or culture.

AMERICA’S BLACK HOLOCAUST MUSEUM WAS CREATED IN 1988 BY DR. JAMES CAMERON TO EXPLORE NEGLECTED STORIES OF THE BLACK EXPERIENCE FROM PRE-CAPTIVITY TO THE PRESENT DAY. THE ORIGINAL MUSEUM CLOSED IN 2008. WHEN DID IT RELAUNCH AND HOW WERE YOU INVOLVED?

After Dr. Cameron died in 2006, Social Justice advocate Dr. Fran Kaplan contacted me about making a feature film about Dr. Cameron’s life. He had been a lynching survivor at the age of 16. We wrote a script and won some awards. However, we found there wasn’t much of a market for our film. Several years later in 2010, after the Black Holocaust Museum had closed, we started to find ways to reimagine the museum in a new location. Fran launched the website in 2012 with a group of virtual exhibits. We had a lot of U.S. visitors and from around the world. Currently, we have a quarter million viewers from about 200 countries. But it took twelve years before the physical museum could be built. We opened in 2022. It is operated by the Dr. James Cameron Legacy Foundation.

AS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE AMERICA’S BLACK HOLOCAUST MUSEUM, WHAT ARE YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES?

After the original museum closed, we gathered the archives into one space, and we started to create a new organization with a new board of directors. I did that work from 2012 until 2019. Meanwhile, Fran Kaplan created our digital site, and Reggie Jackson did public relations and speaking. My job now is managing our team, working with our development people, and running the organization—marketing, finance, fund raising, events and engagement with the community. A humbling responsibility.

THE MUSEUM IS CREATING A VENUE FOR THE DIFFICULT CONVERSATIONS THAT MILWAUKEE AND AMERICA SHOULD HAVE REGARDING THE HARMFUL LEGACIES OF SLAVERY AND JIM CROW IN AMERICA. HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THOSE CONVERSATIONS?

Our primary focus is the museum space, the in-person education. But we are doing more programming in our social media space, the website. And also, in the community where our griots [storytellers] give talks and lectures. When you look at conflict around the world throughout human history, the paradigm is that one people decides that another people are inferior or don’t have rights to a geographical space. That includes race, religion, economics, education and property. It is fascinating to me how many people are interested in the story of world history as presented at our museum, namely what has happened to the descendants of former slaves in America. We welcome groups and organizations to have dialogues and exchanges. In the current world, there are many differences in political, cultural, religious and racial spaces. There is a lot of “us and them” and much less “we.” One purpose of the museum is how do “we” begin to heal.

I travel America’s back roads and small towns, talking to rural residents. I’ve walked the inner city streets and conversed with Black residents. The two cultures are very different in everything from vocabulary to music to family interaction to cultural preferences. Why can’t we accept these differences? We are all Americans, after all.

Yeah, what we need to do is get to a place where we don’t have to behave the same, but we certainly can respect one another. I’ve had a diverse education growing up, and I think that is an extraordinary blessing. If your only reference to another culture is through the news, then we need to create better access to one another. In the museum, we work on that concept every day.

YOU ONCE SAID, “DR. CAMERON’S VISION OF A THOROUGH INVESTIGATION OF OUR COLLECTIVE AMERICAN HISTORY AS A BUILDING BLOCK FOR RECONCILIATION AND ULTIMATELY HEALING—I THINK THAT IS A VISION WORTH INVESTING IN.” ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT THE RECONCILIATION AND HEALING BETWEEN BLACKS AND WHITES?

That is a part of what I meant. Reconciliation. Dr. Cameron was trying to show that aspects of American history damaged everyone. No one escaped that history without harm. Slavery consisted of one group of people being taken from a homeland and distributed all over the world as slaves to colonial societies. Slavery did not just take place in the United States. Only about six percent of slaves ended up here.

DR. JAMES CAMERON

Dr. James Cameron photo courtesy ABHM.

Four hundred and some years later, think about the damage that has been done by all this displacement. Many of the Africans who descend from slave owners still carry their owners’ last names. But if all races piece their genetic histories together, many will go back through slavery.

I’VE READ THAT THE MUSEUM HOLDS COMMUNITY PROGRAMMING IN LIBRARIES, SCHOOLS AND UNIVERSITIES, FAITH-BASED AND OTHER COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS. CAN YOU ELABORATE?

All of those institutions are in our space, whether partnering or doing their own programming. The Milwaukee Public Library system was one of our first primary partners. Still is. We put on a number of educational programs in those little library community rooms. I am fortunate to live in Milwaukee, the parks, the lake, the green space, the connected library system. But still, Milwaukee is one of the most hyper-segregated cities in the country. The museum is committed to helping resolve segregation through new tools of understanding.

YOU ONCE SAID THERE IS A LOT OF UNDEVELOPED POTENTIAL FOR THE MUSEUM ONLINE AND IN ITS PHYSICAL SPACE. HOW WILL YOU GO ABOUT EXPLORING THAT POTENTIAL?

We are a traditional museum catering to folks who frequent museums. We also try to create new opportunities for access whether on our website or partnering with other organizations like our partnerships with Milwaukee colleges and school systems. But we want to create more opportunities in other physical spaces and in the virtual world.

Currently, we get a lot of school groups, educators, social workers and the faith-based community. We have created a space that people feel comfortable visiting, no matter what their ethnic backgrounds.

THE EXHIBITION

After our conversation ended, Pruitt guided me through the museum. Early on in the tour, Pruitt pointed to a sizable display that divided three time periods in a kind of vast pie chart. SLAVERY 1619 to 1863, JIM CROW 1863 to 1965, CIVIL RIGHTS 1965 to today. That imposing visual about knocked the wind out of me. To comprehend the reality that one human group had to spend 250 years as slaves only because of the color of their skin, is appalling, one tribe treating another tribe worse than draft animals.

All because the so-called civilized white race had gained the economic power. Ironically, most of these white leaders were Christian.

Pruitt must have read my thought. He said, “The vast majority of time the Black people spent on this continent was as property, 1619 to 1863. How could one group of humans decide that this was appropriate behavior toward another group?”

I studied the drawings of the holding facilities where African slaves were housed before being shipped off to all parts of the world. Crammed into tiny, tight compartments and stacked on top of each other, these captives were barely able to move. On slave ships, Africans were packed in their own urine and feces, resulting in rampant disease. Many lost their lives in the holding facility and in the middle passage across the seas.

But there was one beam of light. Between 1800 and 1865, 100,000 enslaved people escaped through the underground railroad, most to Canada because U.S. Marshals were required to arrest runaway slaves, even in the north where many states banned slavery.

In 1868, the 14th Amendment to the United States Constitution guaranteed equal civil and legal rights to all citizens, including formerly enslaved people, but the Jim Crow era made a mockery of that amendment.

I thought about the ABHM founder, James Cameron, who tried to help Americans develop the power of empathy and acceptance, regardless of skin color or ethnic background. I also thought of what white scholar Fran Kaplan once told me, “I am very happy that I get to work on the side of love. Dr. Cameron provided me with that gift.”

For more information, visit abhmuseum.org.

Tom Jenz writes the Central City Stories column for shepherdexpress.com.

COP29: Fiddling while the world burns

BY E.G. NADEAU

For the 29th time, UN member countries held a Conference of the Parties (in UN shorthand, a “COP”) to draft policies to address problems associated with global warming, and for the 28th time, little progress was made. COP21, held in Paris in 2015, was the exception, because of the historic agreement achieved at that event to hold “the increase in the global average temperature to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels” by 2050.

However, scientific projections show that member countries’ dithering, insincere commitments to reducing fossil fuel production and consumption, and cockamamie pseudosolutions, such as championing fossil gas as a bridge to clean energy and unscalable carbon capture and storage technologies, have made it virtually impossible to achieve that goal by 2050.

PETROSTATES AND FOSSIL FUEL COMPANIES AGAIN BLOCK SIGNIFICANT PROGRESS

As with COP28, held in the United Arab Emirates, an authoritarian petrostate, COP29 was hosted by Azerbaijan, another authoritarian petrostate. In welcoming attendees to this year’s conference, Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev proclaimed oil and gas as a “gift of God,” a message that flew in the face of what the conference was supposed to be about. Not only that, BBC reported that the chief executive of Azerbaijan’s COP29 team, Elnur Soltanov, was recorded touting Azerbaijan’s attractiveness as a fossil fuel investment, thus turning a conference intended to reduce fossil fuel emissions into a bazaar for increasing them.

Equally troubling, the fossil fuel industry itself appears to be calling many of the shots behind the scenes of these recent annual COP charades. The Guardian reported that “Fossil fuel-linked lobbyists outnumber delegations of almost every country at climate talks in Baku.”

QUESTIONABLE PERFORMANCE ON TOP AGENDA ITEMS

Two of the most important topics at this year’s conference were climate credits and climate finance.

Climate credits are a means for countries and corporations to indirectly reduce their greenhouse gas footprints by paying for initiatives carried out by other entities that reduce emissions, for example carbon sequestration through forest preservation and clean energy development projects. Research has shown that most climate credit projects reduce emissions by far lower amounts than claimed, thus the need for greater accountability for these projects. The conference did reach an agreement on tighter rules for such projects. But the devil is always in the details, and time will tell whether the revised climate credit criteria and monitoring will be effective.

Climate finance, essentially payments by developed countries to developing countries to assist them to carry out clean energy projects and mitigate damages from global warming, was by far the most contentious issue addressed at the conference. And it was not addressed to the satisfaction of most developing countries. A lastminute “compromise,” which was really a “take it or leave it” proposition by the developed countries, was passed at the end of the conference offering far less money than the trillions of dollars needed. As reported by International IDEA, “Some delegations defined the outcome as ‘a joke’ and ‘an insult’, the least developed countries (LDCs) and the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS) being the most disappointed.”

THE THREE ELEPHANTS

Trump, who has consistently promised to pull out of the Paris Agreement in 2025 as he did during his first administration, was not at the conference, but his shadow loomed over it.

His frequent climate change denials and the projected absence of U.S. funding for climate action over the next four years put a damper over the conference.

China, the world’s largest greenhouse gas emitter, but also defined as a developing country, was not formally included in the commitment to provide climate financial assistance to other developing countries. But informally, China positioned itself to replace the U.S. as the climate action champion of the developing world.

Saudi Arabia played the role of behind-the-scenes spoiler at the conference, undercutting the agreement reached at COP28 to “transition away from fossil fuel.” Largely as a result of its lobbying efforts, the theme of fossil fuel reduction appeared nowhere in the COP29 final documents.

THE NEED FOR AN EFFECTIVE WORLDWIDE STRATEGY TO TAKE ON GLOBAL WARMING

The BBC summarized an open letter presented by climate experts to conference participants, stating that, as currently structured, the climate talks “simply cannot deliver the change at exponential speed and scale, which is essential to ensure a safe climate landing for humanity.” The BBC article further reported that “the authors [of the letter] are concerned that the current COP process is not able to make change happen quickly or able to force countries to act.”

COP30, to be held in Brazil in November 2025, has an ambitious agenda. Key focus areas will be:

• Road Transport: Expanding the Global Zero Emissions Vehicles (ZEV) Transition Roadmap to increase ZEV adoption in emerging markets.

• Power Generation: Tripling renewable power capacity and doubling energy efficiency improvements.

• Steel and Cement: Defining low and near-zero emissions standards to facilitate adoption within national policies by 2025.

• Buildings: Launching a Global Framework for Action for Near-Zero Emission and Resilient Buildings (NZERB).

Here’s hoping that UN General Assembly members and the rest of us can begin to achieve the “exponential speed and scale” in Brazil, which appears to have a genuine commitment to rapidly reducing greenhouse gas emissions, a goal that was so clearly lacking in Azerbaijan.

E.G. Nadeau, Ph.D. is co-director of the Cooperative Society Project, dedicated to the idea that humanity may be on the verge of a new era of cooperation, democracy, equitable distribution of resources and a sustainable relationship with nature.

Oby Nwabuzor Pushes for Social Equity in Public Health and Real Estate

BY BEN SLOWEY

Acrucial point of sustainable urban development is recognizing the interconnectedness of the built environment, which is something that community leader Oby Nwabuzor understands very well. Through her critical examination of the relationships between public health, real estate and social equity in Milwaukee, Nwabuzor has helped push communities toward viable solutions in addressing racial, economic and environmental disparities.

“How do you make sure that people in the community have what they need to be healthier?” Nwabuzor asks. This critical question forms the basis of her every venture.

She is the founder of Envision Growth, a real estate firm that champions community-oriented development and investment in order to build a healthier, more equitable Milwaukee. Her consulting firm, Envision Self, connects personal brands with their communities in order to improve business outcomes.

“The Milwaukee that I knew growing up started to not look like the Milwaukee that I was growing with,” Nwabuzor recalls. “It didn’t look the same, and I didn't quite understand why.”

COMMUNITY SPIRIT

A first-generation Nigerian American, Oby Nwabuzor developed her community-oriented spirit from a young age. She was heavily involved in Amnesty International’s student group at Rufus King High School, and she canvassed for elections extensively during undergrad at UW-Milwaukee, getting folks registered and out to vote.

In college, Nwabuzor began by studying kinesiology but found she did not connect with the clinical aspect of health so much. She decided to pivot by looking at health from a different lens through the social drivers of health.

This led her into roles at various nonprofits, including United Way and American Heart Association (AHA), while she earned her Master of Business Administration degree from Cardinal Stritch University.

SOLVING QUESTIONS

“I wanted to be in a role that could have more of an external impact,” Nwabuzor explains. “I just want to keep being a vessel.”

At AHA, Nwabuzor worked to solve questions of life expectancy gaps, accessibility, sustainability and built environments in Milwaukee. She helped enact policy changes like $1.1 million in expanded SNAP access across the county, $600,000 in healthy retail funding to address food deserts and food swamps, and investments into more bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure.

Her next logical step was to get involved with real estate. Upon receiving a continuing education grant from TEMPO Milwaukee and a certificate from Cornell University, Nwabuzor launched Envision Growth in 2019, applying her knowledge of advocacy, business, policy efforts, and both clinical and non-clinical aspects of health into her practice.

“When we start talking about where people live, work and play, real estate is so pivotal in that,” she points out.

“If we’re seeing development, why aren’t we seeing life expectancy improving?”

Photo by Paul Hanon.

AFFORDABLE HOMES

Envision Growth has been selected by Milwaukee’s Community Development Alliance and LISC Milwaukee to be one of three developers for the Early Childhood Educator Homes project, which will construct affordable homes for Black and Brown families near partnered organizations, such as in the Amani and Harambee neighborhoods.

“It’s a full circle moment,” Nwabuzor mentions. “I remember playing ball on 24th and Burleigh at the PAL center (now COA Youth & Family Centers).”

Currently pursuing her Doctor of Public Health degree at the Medical College of Wisconsin, Nwabuzor is involved with Haywood Group’s Sears Market project, which will repurpose a long-vacant building at the intersection of Fondy Farmers Market and North Avenue into a mixeduse development featuring residential units, office space and hospitality. “I’m happy to be a part of that and align it with my educational pursuits, and also to learn from a seasoned developer like Kalan Haywood,” she states. “The project will highlight the impact of social connectedness.”

Nwabuzor’s expertise has been brought to the state level with her appointment to Wisconsin’s Public Health Council in 2022, and she is currently going into her third term there. She is also the director of social drivers of health strategy for advocate health and a board member of both Malaika Early Learning Center and Milwaukee’s Neighborhood Improvement Development project.

GROWING BUSINESS

In 2024, Nwabuzor embarked on a Black-owned business foodie tour of Milwaukee, sharing some of her favorite places to eat in Milwaukee Magazine. “These are businesses that are growing and always looking to try and do better,” she affirms. “That’s what drew me to doing it. I could’ve kept adding and making the list longer!”

Nwabuzor’s vision for Milwaukee in years to come emphasizes more equity in development that not only prioritizes investments in historically-underserved districts, but also ensures that the people living and working in those districts are not displaced. This entails more walkable neighborhoods, affordable housing, greenspace, recreational facilities and safe streets.

“We’re seeing a lot of development happening, and I’m hoping that the zoning with the Growing MKE initiative moves Milwaukee in a positive direction sooner than later,” she contends. “We need to make sure the community is heard, but also that community members know to show up and be at the table when there’s opportunities to share their voices.”

Ben Slowey is a Milwaukee writer and regular contributor to shepherdexpress.com.

Lo Neng Kiatoukaysy Talks About Milwaukee’s Hmong Culture Lo Neng Kiatoukaysy Talks About Milwaukee’s Hmong Culture

BY TOM JENZ

In the mid-1970s, the Hmong came to the United States as political refugees from Laos. Due to their involvement with America during the southeast Asia wars, more than 130,000 settled in the United States. By 2020, the U.S. Hmong population had risen to over 368,000. Almost 80 percent live in three states, the most in California, followed by Minnesota and Wisconsin. In Wisconsin, the majority of Hmong community members are employed in manufacturing, educational services, health care and social assistance. The Milwaukee metro area has nearly 13,000 Hmong residents.

Lo Neng Kiatoukaysy has served for 28 years as executive director of the Hmong American Friendship Association. He is 53, the father of seven children ages 7 to 33. I met him at his office in a well-worn building on 38th and Vliet, the heart of Milwaukee’s inner city. A small man, thin and fit, Kiatoukaysy laughs often during almost any topic of conversation. After hearing his harrowing life story, I wondered how humor survived the journey. He led me to a conference room, and we talked.

You have an interesting, even dramatic background. You were born in Laos during the Vietnam War. I understand that at the age six, you fled Laos with your family among thousands of Hmong people who feared retribution for aiding American troops during the war. Tell me your story as you remember it.

I was born in 1971. Our family was living in Laos. My dad spoke five languages and worked as an interpreter for the American military. By 1975, the Viet Cong were killing Hmong who had a relationship with the Lao government or American troops. My dad had to get my mom and five children out of the country. We crossed the Mekong River in a long boat into Thailand along with many other Hmong refugees. I remember the mist and fog. We children were scared and had to be quiet. Parents gave their kids opium to stop them from crying. Some died from overdose. We ended up living in a primitive refugee camp in Thailand. After that, we were moved to a resettlement camp in Thailand. It was a tough time. We were almost starving. We lived there from 1976 to 1979, picking cotton for the local farmers. When they closed off the camp, we registered to come to America.

How did you finally end up in the United States? My dad used to be involved in the Vietnam war, working for the CIA. He was worried he would be caught, and he registered to come to America. For six months, we lived in a kind of prison in Bangkok, Thailand, waiting to depart. Me, my mom, my brothers and sisters, ended up in Little Rock, Arkansas. We were sponsored by a church. My dad came a year later in 1980.

When did you eventually arrive in Milwaukee?

My mom missed her family. She had two cousins living in Minneapolis. We got a U-Haul and moved up there. We lived in the Twin Cities from 1981 to 1996. At first, I had to learn to read and write. I was recruited by the Catholic church and enrolled in the Crosier Seminary two hours north of Minneapolis. I was the only Asian kid. It was a culture shock, but I did learn English and Latin. Graduated in 1989 with a degree in Philosophy and English.

But you made it onto college, right?

Yes. I went to St Thomas College in the Twin Cities and studied to be a priest. After two years, I switched to business and graduated in 1993 with a degree in philosophy, theology and English. I then became a community organizer for the Minnesota Acorn Organization. My uncle lived in Milwaukee, and he had founded the Hmong American Friendship Association, a nonprofit. In 1996, I came to Milwaukee to become the director. The first years were hard. I had to raise money, met with every bank in Milwaukee. Finally, Michael Crowley, Jr. of Bank Mutual, lent our association $150,000, and I am still here today, 28 years later.

You once said, “As a kid, I did not like the community at all. I thought that being Hmong was being primitive, so I was always looking for ways to escape being Hmong.” Can you elaborate?

I did not want to be Hmong because I was the first generation who came to America. I wanted to be Americanized, but I couldn’t get away from my culture and my bad accent. I couldn’t be popular because I was Hmong. Much later, I learned the value of my culture.

What exactly is the nonprofit, Hmong American Friendship Association? You’ve been the executive director for a long time. What are your responsibilities?

Fund raising. Grant writing. Personnel issues. Working with my staff. Making sure all the programs we sponsor are fulfilled. My biggest responsibility is people, talking with funders and potential funders, making friends with them, keeping them updated on what we are doing. I always ask funders, “How can I help you increase your services to the Hmong community?” For example, I work with Froedtert Healthcare. We give in-service training to the Froedtert staff regarding eastern versus western medicine. Mainly, it’s how we can benefit from each other.

There are some first-rate nonprofits in Milwaukee. For instance, does the large nonprofit Greater Milwaukee Foundation help you? They are wonderful. They really help us. Another funding source has been the Forest County Potawatomi. A third one is Bader Philanthropies. Bader is sensitive to different cultures and most welcoming to us.

How would you describe the Hmong culture, family tradition, and personal style?

Hmong culture values family and tradition, respect and working together. A perfect utopian society. I am so happy to be Hmong, to have a root.

I did not ask you about religion. What is the traditional Hmong religion?

Our primary religion is animism, that spirits inhabit all living and nonliving things. Traditionally, Hmong religion is centered around ancestor worship and communication with the spirit world.

In contemporary America, there are a lot of nuclear families because citizens move around so much, seeking good jobs and independence. They sometimes have to move away from extended family— grandparents, cousins, uncles and aunts.

I know, and Hmong culture is changing, too. Once upon a time, the youngest son in each family was obligated to care for the mother and dad, who would move into the son’s family home. That is the tradition. If the youngest son moves to another city for a good job, the parents move on, too. Personally, when I get old, I don’t want my son to have the burden of caring for me. I will go to a nursing home instead.

What are some of the Hmong-owned businesses in Milwaukee?

There are two Hmong shopping malls and Hmong Town. We also have a senior center funded originally by Bader Philanthropies. Daycare for the elderly. There are a number of Hmong-owned stores. We also have a successful insurance agent. The younger Hmong ask themselves, ‘How can I become a businessman or woman and live the American dream?’

Hmong are noted to be productive farmers. Are there many farmers in the Milwaukee area?

Yes, there are. In fact, my dad used to be a vendor at the farmer’s market in the Twin Cities. As a boy, I had to work in the fields with dad and mom, get up at 5 a.m., pick vegetables until dark, go home, get up early and sell the vegetables at the market. Very hard work, and we didn’t make much money.

I notice that there are a lot of Hmong farmer vendors at the Milwaukee Fondy Farmers Market in the inner city.

Yes, a lot of Hmong vendors. Unfortunately, they often undercut each other on pricing their goods. Hmong farmers need to stick together.

Let’s talk about Hmong youth. What are the major issues for Hmong children and teenagers? Have they become Americanized?

Many have. Back in my youth in the late 1990s, there were Hmong gangster drug dealers. Currently, we see some of the Hmong youth having health issues.

Opioid users, withdrawal symptoms. Our mission here at the Hmong American Friendship Association is to help people become self-sufficient. We teach our people oral tradition, poetry, Hmong dancing, our culture. In music, we teach the gaeng, a traditional musical instrument. We also have a computer lab. A lot of our kids want to learn about the Hmong culture. I’ve been here 28 years, and I’ve seen kids grow up and get their college degrees. One girl became a doctor.

The Hmong American Peace Academy (HAPA) was founded in 2004. It started as a public charter school of the Milwaukee Public School system and as the first Hmong Charter School in Wisconsin. I believe there are now 1800 students. Are the students mostly Hmong? And how is the school doing currently? I work pretty closely with Chris Her-Xiong, founder and chief executive officer of the academy. We help some kids who are traumatized. I think the school enrollment is about 80% Hmong. Most Hmong kids are well behaved. Many go onto college.

The Milwaukee Hmong residents live in the inner city with African Americans as neighbors. Do the Hmong residents socialize with Black folks?

At our food pantries, we provide free food to African Americans and Hispanics, 40,000 residents each year. The food pantry is located in the back of this building and is open Tuesday and Friday each week. I consider us a neighborhood association who serves all ethnic groups.

You’ve said, “The Hmong New Year is our community’s pinnacle cultural celebration.” Why is the Hmong New Year important?

We started our annual celebration 20 years ago in Milwaukee. The goal is unity and to share our culture with Milwaukee residents. All volunteers. This year’s celebration took place on December 15-16. We had 45 sponsors and about 25,000 people attending at the State Fair Expo Center. There were 45 counters, ten run by Hmong people.

For more information about the Hmong, visit hmongfriendship.org.

Tom Jenz writes the weekly Central City Stories column for shepherdexpress.com

Aphrodisiacs for Valentine’ Day

BY GAETANO MARANGELLI

The maenads were the female followers of the Greek god of wine, Dionysus. (In Roman religion, the god was called Bacchus, his female followers, bacchantes.) They roved the mountains and forests worshiping their god ritualistically. They danced ecstatically. They had orgies. They were wasted.

The first thing to know about wine—before you know the names of its great appellations and the years of their best vintages, before you know the way its growers cultivate and crush their wine grapes, and before you know the way its makers ferment, vinify, and age their grape juice—the very first thing to know about wine is its mythical power to metamorphose you. The American educator and author Edith Hamilton wrote about how “the influence” of Dionysus could make his worshippers do what they didn’t think they could do. Or would do. “All this happy freedom and confidence passed away, of course, as they either grew sober or got drunk,” writes Hamilton, “but while it lasted, it was like being possessed by a power greater than themselves.”

Since the Greek age which conjured myths of maenads roving mountains and forests, we’ve told ourselves a story about how wine can animate and fortify the energy of our sexuality — its libido, its potency, its pleasure. The story says wine has the power to change our hearts. It says wine has the power to seduce us.

Can wine pharmacologically make us want more sex? Can it improve our prowess sexually?

No, it cannot.

Do we have a body of mythology which says it can?

Yes, we do.

In the past fifteen years, we’ve asked science to prove the story we tell ourselves about wine. But it hasn’t yet. Not neurologically. What we know is that the alcohol in wine, beer, and spirits is called ethanol, which stimulates a part of the brain called the hypothalamus, which is as small as an almond. What we know is the hypothalamus governs our body temperature and physiological cycles, our appetites and emotions, our hormones and our libidos.

But the spell of mythology is powerful, isn’t it? And you’d kind of like to drink an aphrodisiac with your Valentine, wouldn’t you?

I’ve asked three fellow worshippers in the cult of Dionysus if they think any wine or fermented beverage can serve as an aphrodisiac. And, if so, which beverages are they?

Les Huisman, Wine Distributor, Vino Veritas

“Do I believe wine is a ‘magic’ love potion that makes one desire something that they wouldn’t otherwise desire? No, I don’t. Nor do I believe wine makes you do anything you wouldn’t already do. Wine does act as a social lubricant and decreases inhibitions. Over the years, I’ve noticed that when I have become intoxicated while drinking wine, it is a warmer feeling than with other spirits. This can lead to an increase in desire and may stir up amorous notions that may have not been felt while sober. In this sense, I feel wine can have the effect of an aphrodisiac in the right conditions.

“If there was one wine that can be called an aphrodisiac, I would say Champagne. The celebratory nature of drinking bubbles opens the mind and heart to enjoying the day or night. Carbonation delivers alcohol into the bloodstream faster. One gets that lovely light-headed feeling a little quicker while sipping Champagne, but without the kick of high alcohol content. Those fine Champagne bubbles and the right company increase the odds of a romantic evening.”

Bill Gardner, Domestic Wine Brand Manager, Left Bank Wine and

Spirits

"I’m not a doctor, and I fear there are only cliches here.

“That said, grower Champagne wraps the debaucherous pursuit in a veneer of class. H. Billiot is an excellent Champagne house in the Montagne de Reims with a heady, borderline Rococo style. If it doesn't help close the deal, at least you're drinking badass Champagne. And if appearing classy isn't a priority, Tequila is sublime. Pan to gently billowing bedroom curtains."

Jill Mott, Wine Director, The Carlyle, New York City

“Any wine never exists in a vacuum, so stating a wine in and of itself could act as an aphrodisiac, I honestly don't think so. Wine, even if it's consumed alone, tastes a certain way due to our mood or our paying more or less attention to it. That said, perhaps it could lend a hand to an already aphrodisiac-riddled situation? Or propel an affair in that direction?”

“I won't comment on which, unless we talk about oyster brine in Stouts.”

Gaetano Marangelli is a sommelier and playwright. He was managing director of a wine import and distribution company in New York and beverage director for restaurants and retailers in New York and Chicago before moving to Wauwatosa.

Pomegranate: Don’t take it for Granted

BY ARI LEVAUX

In winter when tomatoes are anemic and the lettuce has jetlag, pomegranates can add a zest to your food that’s fresh as a daisy.

The bright red orbs dangle like Christmas tree ornaments from their bushy trees. Native to Central Asia, some historians believe them to be the originally sinful fruit of the Biblical Tree of Knowledge. In modern times pomegranate trees have adapted to the warm edges of temperate climates around the world, as they are tolerant to high heat and low precipitation, are easy to grow, and can produce huge crops. This adaptability, coupled with growing demand for the fruit, have caused a surge in pomegranate trees being planted. Pom orchards are replacing apple orchards in parts of India that are now too hot for apple growing.

The ruby colored seeds, called arils, can turn the average cook into a culinary magician, as garnishing with pomegranate seeds entails roughly the same wrist motion of casting a spell. And the acidic impact of the arils adds flavor to every bite. Grab a handful and fling them upon salad, soup, steak, breakfast, and everything in between. The effect is similar to taking a sip of lusty red wine whilst chewing your food.

A ripe pomegranate will feel heavy for its size, analogous to a ripe watermelon. It should not be round and shiny but have sunken sides that accentuate the ridges that give it a hexagonal shape, and leathery skin. In other words, it should look a tad old. Extracting the arils can be messy if your technique is off. But if you score the peel around the equator, pull the fruit in half, and tap gently, the seeds rush out like Black Friday shoppers storming the gates of Walmart.

This technique comes from Turkey, where a food writer named Robyn Eckhardt once sat down with a group of women, some pieces of plastic pipe, and 100 kilos of fresh pomegranates. They spent the day liberating pomegranate seeds, with which they would make pomegranate molasses. In an email she explained the process:

Start by making a shallow cut all the way around, from pole to pole, following the ridges, trying not slice any arils. Then pull it in half. “Gently squeeze one pomegranate half, cut side down, over a wide deep bowl to loosen the seeds,” Eckhardt wrote. “Place it cut side down in your nondominant hand. Spread your fingers to create a ‘sieve’ through which the seeds can fall. With the handle of a wooden spoon or spatula, tap the pomegranate all over; dislodged seeds will fall into the bowl (the bits of bitter white membrane will remain in your hand). Continue tapping, turning the pomegranate in your hand, until most of the seeds are dislodged. If any white membrane has fallen into the bowl, pick it out.”

The fruit’s fridge-life can be extended for months by wrapping them in paper towels and storing in a paper bag at the bottom of the fridge where there isn’t much activity, explained my other pomegranate advisor, chef Ray Risho, an expert in Old World cuisine. You want to leave the wrapped pomegranates unbothered, with as few vibrations as possible. “Like bottles of fine wine,” he explained, “the less the pomegranates are disturbed, the better they will keep.”

Pomegranate Hummus

This recipe is a dish that you might find anywhere in the Middle East, including both sides of the nauseating conflict. So, I’m sharing it as a seasonal reminder of our shared humanity, in hopes that someday, somehow, we can learn to forget the grievances of the past and break bread together in a peaceful future.

My pomegranate hummus doesn’t taste sweet or look at all reddish; if not for the garnish you wouldn’t even guess it has pomegranate.

This recipe comes together fast. The only speed bump is opening up the pomegranate and dumping out the seeds. But now that you are an expert on pom seed extraction, it shouldn’t slow you down too much.

These proportions make for a soupy, pourable hummus—not that thick hippy shit you could lay bricks with. I like it saucy so you can pour it on things like meat or salad. But if that isn’t your style, omit the water from the bean can, so it will be thicker. All of the proportions are negotiable. Blend it up, taste, adjust, blend again.

Ingredients

1 16-oz can of garbanzo beans

1 tablespoon tahini paste

1 large clove garlic, chopped

1/4 cup olive oil

2 tablespoons arils

Procedure

Empty the can of garbanzo beans, including the water, into the blender. Add the tahini, garlic, lemon juice and olive oil, a tablespoon of the pomegranate seeds, and liquify. Taste and adjust seasonings, adding not only salt but more pomegranate seeds or lemon if it needs more tartness, or extra oil, garlic or tahini, depending on your tastes. Blend again and garnish with a pour of olive oil and a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds.

Ari LeVaux has written about food for The Atlantic Online, Outside Online and Alternet.

Photo by Avri Levaux.

THE SHEPHERD EXPRESS Sex & Romance Survey

BY SHEPHERD EXPRESS STAFF

Too often, the media’s coverage of sex only focuses on the extremes, the salacious pop stars, the serial assaulters. But where are real people with real sex lives? You know, the average Joes and Janes who are getting it—or are going through a dry spell—and never make the headlines.

That’s where the Shepherd Express Sex & Romance Survey comes in—or should we say comes back in.

We ran our survey for several years in the early ‘00s and thought it was time to revisit our readers responses.

Gender

Male__

Female__

Other__

Age

Sexual Orientation

Straight__

Same Sex__

Bisexual__

Asexual__

Other__

Politically, you are:

Conservative__

Democratic Socialist__

Independent__

Liberal__

Libertarian__

MAGA__

Other__

You are:

Single and miserable__

Single and happy__

Involved in a relationship and madly in love__

Involved in a relationship and content__

Involved in a relationship and miserable__

What’s the best way to meet a new partner?

Friends first, then let the relationship develop__

Get fixed up by friends__

Online dating__

Singles parties__

Social, religious or other organization__

Bars and clubs__

You must be 18 or older to participate and we’ll keep your identity (and your addresses) completely anonymous. Check out the ballot, take your time and fill out the survey at xxx. Fill out the ballot alone and be honest.

The results will be posted online and in our March magazine. Submit your answers by February 28. All responses will remain anonymous.

What are you looking for in a relationship (Check all that apply)

Common interests__

Educational level__

Ethnic/Religious heritage__

Emotional stability__

Financial stability__

Sexual attraction__

Similar political leanings__

Other

You lost your virginity when you were ____ years old

Did you use protection when you lost your virginity?

Yes__

No__

Have you cheated on a partner?

Yes__ No__

Did you get away with it? Yes__ No__

Have you been cheated on? Yes__ No__

If so, did it end the relationship?

Yes__ No__

Have you faked an orgasm at least once?

Yes__ No__

Have you been caught masturbating?

Yes__ No__

Have you masturbated at work?

Yes__

No__

Have you had sex with a colleague from work?

Yes__

No__

Do you fantasize about another person while making love to your partner?

Yes__ No__

The percentage of your sexual activity that involves the use of alcohol or recreational drugs:

0__

25%__

50%__

75%__

100%__

Which of the following activities have you engaged in?

(Check all that apply)

Hetero sex__

Same sex__

Oral sex__

Anal sex__

Anonymous sex__

Three-way sex__

Group sex__

Bondage__

Domination play__

Spanking__

Phone sex__

Cross-dressing__

Posed for lewd pictures__

Used sex toys__

Had sex with your boss__

Had sex with a sex worker__

Used sex chat rooms__

Have you ever been forced/ coerced to have sex?

Yes__ No__

Have you ever dated or had sex with siblings?

Yes, but not at the same time__

Yes, at the same time__

No, never__

Have you ever told someone that you loved them and not meant it?

Yes, and it works every time__

Yes, but it made me feel terrible__

No, I’d never lie about love__

Have you ever been the cause of someone else’s breakup?

Yes, and I’m glad I did it because I was in love__

No, and it was a mistake__

No, but tried to do it__

No, because what comes around goes around__

Have you ever had sex with an ex?

Yes, and it was great__

Yes, and I regretted it__

No, but I’d like to__

No, when it’s over it’s over__

How do you think the Internet affects your romantic and sex life?

(Check all that apply)

No effect__

It opened me to new things in my sex life__

It’s a safe outlet for fantasies I can’t live out in real life__

It helped my partner try new things__

It’s how I met my partner__

It hurt my relationship__

It encourages bad behavior__

Scan to Fill out the Survey Electronically,

or look for it online at: https://shepherdexpress.com/ lifestyle/sex-and-romance-survey

Thank you for your Participation!

Have you ever have a Sexually Transmitted Disease?

Yes__

No__

When is the best time to talk about Sexually Transmitted Diseases?

On the first date__

Before sex__

Before unprotected sex only__

I never talk about it__

Has an ex-partner in a relationship that ended badly placed graphic images of you on the Internet?

Yes__ No___

What sexual activity would you like to try but haven’t?

best of milwaukee winners WINNER LISTINGS

Arts and Entertainment

ART & CRAFT

FAIR/MAKERS MARKET

MILWAUKEE

NIGHT MARKET

mkenightmarket.com

The Milwaukee Night Market showcases a variety of local Milwaukee vendors, performers and artisans in the heart of downtown Milwaukee every summer. The festival highlights the city’s small businesses and celebrates Milwaukee's diverse community through live performances and featured artwork. (Sophia Hamdan)

ART GALLERY (NON-MUSEUM)

SAINT KATE

THE ARTS HOTEL

139 E. KILBOURN AVE. (414) 276-8686

saintkatearts.com

The Bar at Saint Kate-The Arts Hotel serves an eclectic menu of coffee, craft beer, cocktails and wine, along with lunch and dinner. Multiple gallery and exhibition spaces throughout the hotel feature work by established and emerging artists. (Sheila Julson)

ART MUSEUM

MILWAUKEE

ART MUSEUM

700 N. ART MUSEUM DRIVE (414) 224-3200 mam.org

Santiago Calatrava’s soaring spires have made MAM a landmark—and you can’t beat that heated underground parking in winter. The museum has a strong permanent collection, augmented each year by a schedule of exhibits that span centuries and continents. (David Luhrssen)

CHORAL GROUP (LARGE)

MILWAUKEE

SYMPHONY CHORUS mso.org/about/chorus

During the 2024-25 season, the MSO’s 150-member chorus will sing works by Poulenc, Brahms, Wagner, Verdi and Mozart, as well as Bach’s Christmas Oratorio and the Hometown Holiday Pops performance. (David Luhrssen)

CHORAL GROUP (SMALL) BEL CANTO CHORUS belcanto.org

In its 93rd year the Bel Canto Chorus continues to bring diverse choral music to the greater Milwaukee Area. It connects singers and community with seasonal and uplifting concerts where the music becomes a shared experience. It strives to provide lifelong learning experiences for all: singers, audiences, and communities.

(Ken Kapp)

CLASSICAL MUSIC ENSEMBLE (LARGE GROUP)

MILWAUKEE

SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA mso.org

The Milwaukee Symphony orchestra under the direction of Ken-David Masur continues to broaden its audiences and repertory adding new classical compositions to its programming and creatively including music from sources not usually heard in concert halls. They’ve offered more than 135 concerts in the new Bradley Symphony Center and throughout the state. Their special programs reach across the community to thousands of students of all grades.

(Ken Kapp)

CLASSICAL MUSIC ENSEMBLE (SMALL GROUP) PRESENT MUSIC presentmusic.org

For more than 40 years, Present Music has been at the living edge of classical music, programming seasons that are challenging yet fun, commissioning new work and giving a Milwaukee stage to renowned international artists. (David Luhrssen) COMEDIAN

CHARLIE BERENS

charlieberens.com

The live stand-up comedy experience creates instant, if temporary, community with laughter. But the same shtick can also provide reminders of the communities from which we have come, may want to be reminded of and desire reconnection with. Or so believes Milwaukee’s Charlie Berens of the Midwestcentric brand of humor that has made him a funny cultural force representing America’s heartland.

(Jamie Lee Rake)

COMMUNITY FESTIVAL (NON-LAKEFRONT)

BASTILLE DAYS easttown.com

Bastille Days hosts a variety of all things French in the heart of Downtown. The festival has everything for Francophiles and the just curious: cuisine, a 5k run to kick off festivities, an Eiffel Tower replica and much more. At Bastille Days, there’s an endless supply of arts and crafts and some of the best crepes on this side of the Atlantic. (Elizabeth Lintonen)

DANCE COMPANY

MILWAUKEE BALLET

milwaukeeballet.org

My first taste of Artistic Director Michael Pink’s story ballets was the 2009 production of Cinderella. I loved it, especially his signature style which demands both excellent classical ballet technique and up-to-date acting skill. That style, dancer Alana Griffith explains, means that “you never do the same thing twice. It’s always evolving. It will be a different show every night.” (John Schneider)

ETHNIC FESTIVAL

IRISH FEST

Henry Maier Festival Park info@irishfest.com

Family friendly events, lively music and dancing, culture and ancestry research, plus any number of ways to present corned beef, Guinness beer or Irish whiskey—it’s no wonder Irish Fest is a favorite among Milwaukeeans. Be sure to stick around for the “scattering” celebration at the end of the final day, for a festive send off by the Irish Fest staff crew. (Susan Harpt Grimes)

ILLUSIONIST / MAGICIAN

DAVID SEEBACH

Seebach, who grew up in Milwaukee’s Sherman Park neighborhood, has been making scarves magically appear, shuffling slight-of-hand card decks, sawing assistants in half and turning showgirls into full-sized tigers for more than five decades. In addition to Summerfest, he has performed at corporate meetings, with symphony orchestras, and in venues across the United States, as well as several European ports of call. (Michael Muckian)

LAKEFRONT FESTIVAL SUMMERFEST

summerfest.com

Milwaukee’s premier music festival and outdoor venue puts the “summer” in the festival setting. The internationally known—and renowned—music fest literally features every type of music and entertainment. (Harry Cherkinian)

LOCAL RADIO PERSONALITY

KAT FROEHLICH

A constant presence at Radio Milwaukee, DJ Kat Froehlich has been with 88Nine since the station’s rebranding. Holding down the 3-6 p.m. slot on Saturdays, Froelich is among the many voices at the majority women-run organization. (Blaine Schultz)

LOCAL TV PERSONALITY

MARK BADEN

WISN-TV Chief Meteorologist Mark Baden has been providing weather forecasts at the ABC affiliate for the past 27 years. And in that time he has amassed numerous local and regional awards including Emmys. (Harry Cherkinian)

MILWAUKEE AUTHOR

JOHN GURDA

John Gurda has written the book on Milwaukee—actually many books that detail the city’s unique history. His "The Making of Milwaukee", became an Emmy awardwinning PBS series that premiered in 2006. In 2015, Gurda wrote, co-produced and hosted a documentary as a companion piece to the book Milwaukee: A City Built on Water. Gurda is the author of more than 10 books on local history and is an eight-time winner of Wisconsin Historical Society’s Award of Merit. (David Luhrssen)

MOVIE THEATER

ORIENTAL THEATRE

2230 N. Farwell Ave. (414) 276-5140

Mkefilm.org

The Oriental has long enjoyed special status among film buffs as the place to see indie films, foreign films and classics. The expensive renovations of the past years have restored the beautifully detailed orientalist interior. (David Luhrssen)

MUSEUM (NON-ART)

MILWAUKEE

PUBLIC MUSEUM

800 W. Wells St. mpm.edu

The Milwaukee Public Museum is a much beloved institution in our city. Generations of school children have grown up with field trips through the Streets of Old Milwaukee and European Village. Parents and grand-parents have thrilled to tour their own families past in the amazing life-like dioramas of Native Americans, dinosaurs, ancient Egyptians, and so much more. And only those in the know can press the button to make the rattlesnake rattle.

(Susan Harpt Grimes)

MUSIC EDUCATION WISCONSIN CONSERVATORY OF MUSIC

1584 N. Prospect Ave. (414) 276-5760

wcmusic.org

For the past century, the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music has offered highquality instruction in a growing variety of fields as well as opportunities for students to perform. The Conservatory is also home to the Prometheus Trio, performing classical and contemporary chamber music. (David Luhrssen)

OUTDOOR MUSIC SERIES

JAZZ IN THE PARK

Cathedral Square Park, 520 E. Wells St. easttown.com

As one of the largest and longest running free weekly music events, Jazz in the Park gets audiences out into the fresh summer air and on their feet dancing to some of best local and regional musicians. (Sheila Julson)

RADIO STATION

88NINE

RADIO MILWAUKEE

radiomilwaukee.org

Since 2007 88.9 FM has been a special place on Milwaukeean’s radio band. This communitysupported station has brought us new and varied music, human interest stories about people and places in our city, and even a monthly broadcast of the MPS School Board meeting. 88Nine is about us and for Milwaukee. (Susan Harpt Grimes)

SMALL PERFORMING

ARTS GROUP

MILWAUKEE

JAZZ INSTITUTE

milwaukeejazzinstitute.org

Milwaukee Jazz Institute is dedicated to performance and education by honoring Milwaukee’s deep jazz roots while contributing to its vibrant future. Performances offer a chance to connect with Milwaukee’s musical history and enjoy the creativity that keeps jazz thriving in our city. (Morton Shlabotnik)

STAGE ACTOR

JOHN MCGIVERN

Who is a Milwaukee native with a big personality, seemingly boundless energy, and has graced many a stage with his humor and acting talent? It can only be our own John McGivern. If you’ve only seen him on TV, do yourself a favor and catch his next stage production. You’ll be sure to enjoy every moment. (Susan Harpt Grimes)

THEATER COMPANY

MILWAUKEE

REPERTORY THEATER

milwaukeerep.com

Milwaukee’s premier theater company hits the top spot with readers given its innovative and diverse programming. And theatergoers have even more literally to look forward to in the coming season: a newly renovated main stage.

(Harry Cherkinian)

Bought and Sold

PET RETAIL STORE

BARK N SCRATCH OUTPOST

5835 W. Bluemound Road, Milwaukee (414) 444-4110

Milwaukeepetfood.com

A multi-year Best of Milwaukee Winner, Bark N’ Scratch Outpost is proud to provide affordable, healthy pet diets and supplies at their store. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable and are happy to answer questions about raw pet food, healthy dry kibbles, supplements for dogs and more!

LOCAL ACTIVIST

VAUN MAYES

For 11 years, through his CommunityTaskForceMKE organization, Vaun Mayes has been a fixture in the Sherman Park neighborhood of largely Black residents who often face criminal activity. Wherever there is need for help, Mayes often shows up. Mayes pled guilty to a single count of using a cellphone to encourage people to participate in the Sherman Park 2016 riot. He will be sentenced in late January. (Tom Jenz)

LOCAL CHARACTER

MILVERINE

The stuff of legend or just a guy who prefers to walk? Milwaukee has a rich history of local characters including John Hamann (aka Milverine), whose resemblance to a certain Marvel Comics character has made him a recognizable face in his hometown for little more than walking—weather permitting, shirtless—from Downtown to Bay View. (Blaine Schultz)

LOCAL

ENTREPRENEUR JMATT OF HASHTAGMKE

Hashtag MKE is Milwaukee’s premier networking community for content creators and social media influencers. Founded in 2017, the company’s networking events have grown rapidly and now occur every second Thursday of the month. (Julia Marshall)

LOCAL PODCAST MILWAUKEE UNCUT

Milwaukee Uncut, hosted by Richie Burke and produced by Story Mark Studios in the heart of Walker's Point, delivers stories from Milwaukee legends and uncovers restaurants, bars, hot spots and events around the city. (Blaine Schultz)

MILWAUKEE ALDERPERSON

MARINA DIMITRIJEVIC

Marina Dimitrijevic has a long record of public service. In 2004 she became the youngest woman ever elected to the county board and became the board’s chairwoman in 2012. The longtime Bay View resident has represented her district on the common council since 2020. She is a champion for building a stronger community through environmentalism, inclusion and economic development. (David Luhrssen)

MILWAUKEE COUNTY SUPERVISOR

SHELDON WASSERMAN

Sheldon Wasserman served his constituents as a state representative and now as a county supervisor. He is obviously doing a great job since the Shepherd readers continue to vote him the best. Wasserman chairs the Committee on Parks and Culture addressing issues involving our excellent park system to the General Mitchell International Airport. (Louis Fortis)

MILWAUKEE INFLUENCER

@MKEEEEEATS

Whether you’re looking for Milwaukee’s best hidden gem bakeries, desserts and cocktails, or tacos, @MKEeeeEats has you covered. (Julia Marshall)

MILWAUKEEAN OF THE YEAR

JACKSON CHOURIO

It’s already been a breakout year for Jackson Chourio and his Brewer teammates Joey Ortiz and Sal Frelick, who could go down in history as one of the best rookie trios in franchise history. Their emergence as strong regulars bodes well for the future of the organization, as this group projects to play together in Milwaukee for the next half decade or more. (Kyle Lobner)

MOST BELOVED POLITICIAN

TAMMY BALDWIN

Tammy Baldwin will start her third term in the U.S. Senate and continues to maintain her popularity and support for good reason. She is in politics for the right reasons, working hard to help Wisconsinites navigate Federal policies and procedures to enable them to improve their lives. She survived a variety of very negative and dishonest attacks in this last campaign because she continues to travel the state, listens to her constituents and people have gotten to know her well enough to know that these attacks were just lies. (Louis Fortis)

MOST TRUSTED PUBLIC OFFICIAL

TAMMY BALDWIN

NON-PROFIT/HUMAN SERVICES

ORGANIZATION

STREET ANGELS

Street Angels helps the homeless through mobile outreach services, offering resources, hope and the goal of stability. Through their mobile unit, Street Angels provides volunteers who travel the streets and address urgent needs like nourishment, critical supplies, emotional support and basic materials. Showers of Hope outreach provides a hot shower via their three-stall, ADA compatible shower trailer.

(Tom Jenz)

ORGANIZATION SUPPORTING VETERANS

SVA HOSPITAL (CLEMENT J. ZABLOCKI VETERANS ADMINISTRATION MEDICAL CENTER)

5000 W. National Ave.

Often referred to as the VA hospital, the organization provides a critical lifeline to veterans of all backgrounds in ages, from primary care to specialty healthcare services. Opened in 1966, the VA hospital currently serves over 64,000 veterans a year. (Harry Cherkinian)

PHILANTHROPIST

HERB KOHL CHARITIES

The late Sen. Herb Kohl was generous toward Milwaukee, keeping the Bucks in his hometown among many other endeavors. Herb Kohl Charities is a foundation supporting education, health, children, youth and social services, arts and culture and community development.

(Morton Shlabotnik)

PLACE

TO PICK UP THE SHEPHERD EXPRESS COLECTIVO

Multiple locations colectivo.com

For three decades, Colectivo Coffee’s cafes have served up coffee and coffee drinks and scratch-made food and bakery, as people gather socially or for business, or work on that next great novel, or read the latest issue of the Shepherd Express. (Sheila Julson)

SOCIALLY RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS (NON-LAW FIRM) PENZEYS SPICES

Multiple locations penzeys.com

In July, before the RNC came to town someone rather rudely spray-painted “Trump” in crude letters on the window at Penzys Spices’ downtown location. Perhaps in response, a neatly rendered sign that read “Welcome Future Fake Electors” was placed in a window. It was punctuated with a smiley face. (Blaine Schultz) STATE LEGISLATOR CHRIS LARSON

Despite the fact that the Democrats are in the minority in the State Senate, Larson has managed to be very productive both in helping his constituents access state programs and assistance and in fighting for social justice with fair tenant legislation and needed prison reforms. Legislators like Larson continue to make our state a great place to live, work and play. (Louis Fortis)

home improvement

WINDOW & SIDING ALLRITE HOME & REMODELING

6580 N. 40th St., Milwaukee (414) 353-6910 allriteremodeling.com

Family-owned and operated since 1969, Allrite Home & Remodeling is the area’s premier exterior home improvement and insulation experts. From roofing, siding, windows, doors, insulation and more—expect exceptional service and extensive product warranties. If you want it done right, call Allrite!

locally owned food - retail

ARTISANAL CHEESE WEST ALLIS CHEESE & SAUSAGE SHOPPE

Multiple locations westallischeese.com

West Allis Cheese & Sausage Shop offers hundreds of varieties of local, regional and specialty cheeses and meats, along with artisan and craft foods and beverages. Their West Allis location also features a café with made-to-order sandwiches. (Sheila Julson) BACON

BUNZEL'S MEAT MARKET

9015 W. Burleigh St. bunzels.com

Four generations of the dedicated Bunzel family have made this butcher shop a much beloved institution on Milwaukee’s West Side. While they’ve grown and expanded, the quality has always been there. From their incredible meat case stocked with a wide selection of tantalizing meats, sausages and of their to-die-for double smoked bacon, all the way to their ready-to-eat (or cook) items from the deli, you know that you’ll only get the best at Bunzel’s. (Susan Harpt Grimes) BAKERY

GREBE'S BAKERY

5132 W. Lincoln Ave. grebesbakery.com

The multi-generational bakery has been Milwaukeeans go-to place for freshly baked breads and donuts since 1937. While all the donuts are delicious, it’s Grebe’s crullers that steal the show—fluffy and light on the inside and glazed to crisp perfection on the outside. Grebe’s hot ham and rolls are legendary too—six fresh rolls free with every pound of ham are a Sunday tradition for many. (Susan Harpt Grimes)

BEER SELECTION

DISCOUNT

LIQUOR

Multiple Locations

discountliquorinc.com

As if their enormous selection of items from all over the world isn’t mind-boggling enough (2,000 beers, 4,000 liquors, and 8,000 wines), the hidden gems and allocated treasures throughout Discount Liquor is sure to impress. Add an experienced knowledgeable staff and great prices, you’ll see why they’ve been tops for 65 years.

BRATWURST

USINGER'S

1030 N. Dr. Martin Luther King Drive (414) 276-9100

usinger.com

In a city of wurst, where we are blessed by sausage makers from large companies to small independents, Usinger’s is outstanding. They’ve been the taste of Old Milwaukee since 1880. Find their brats for your grill, and other fine varieties, at their shop Downtown or in stores throughout southeast Wisconsin. (Barry Houlehen)

BUTCHER SHOP

BUNZEL'S MEAT MARKET

9015 W. Burleigh St. bunzels.com

CHEESE CURDS

WEST ALLIS CHEESE & SAUSAGE SHOPPE

Multiple locations westallischeese.com

(Sheila Julson)

CHEESE SELECTION

WEST ALLIS CHEESE & SAUSAGE SHOPPE

Multiple locations

westallischeese.com

(Sheila Julson)

CHOCOLATIER INDULGENCE CHOCOLATES

Multiple locations indulgencechocolatiers.com

It was while backpacking through Ireland, England, Belgium, Germany, Spain, Portugal and Italy on her honeymoon that Julie Waterman fell in love with Europe’s quaint chocolate boutiques. The focus on high-quality ingredients and the artful presentation of tiny chocolate masterpieces were an inspiration to her to found Indulgence, a nice departure from the chocolate-as-sugar-fix found in the grocery checkout line.

(Sarah Biondich)

CRAFT BEER

LAKEFRONT BREWERY

1872 N. Commerce St., lakefrontbrewery.com

Lakefront Brewery simply does it all—and infinitely more. The food. The beer. The tours. And through it all, the beer just keeps flowing and flowing… (Harry Cherkinian)

CUPCAKES

SIMMA'S BAKERY

817 N. 68th St, Wauwatosa (414) 257-0998

simmasbakery.com

Since 1982, Simma’s has been known for its award-winning cheesecakes and specialty cakes. Their decorative cupcakes and pastries are a delight for both the eyes and the taste buds.

(Sheila Julson)

DISTILLED SPIRITS

GREAT LAKES

DISTILLERY

616 W. Virginia St. (414) 431-8683

greatlakesdistillery.com

Fact: Great Lakes Distillery is Wisconsin’s first since Prohibition. Fun: its tours and the big wind-up...it’s Tasting Room.

GLD has been making distilled spirits in small batches, just the way it’s customers like it.

(Harry Cherkinian)

FARMERS MARKET

WEST ALLIS

FARMERS MARKET

6501 W. National Ave.

Thatswhywestallis.com/farmers-market

There is something truly wonderful about the taste of freshly grown Wisconsin fruits and vegetables. At West Allis Farmers Market, fresh produce is available in abundance. There may also be locally raised meat, honey, food trucks, plants, and live music.

Visit one of the longest-running markets in the state from early May through November.

(Susan Harpt Grimes)

FROZEN PIZZA

PALERMO'S PIZZA

Pallermovillainc.com

You see it in frozen food aisles across the country, Palermo’s frozen pizza brands include Urban Pie, Connie’s, Screamin’ Sicilian and Surfer Boy. Palermo’s was founded in 1964 and has been serving up frozen supreme pizzas since 2013. (Julia Marshall)

GOURMET POPCORN KNIGHTS GOURMET POPCORN AND CANDIES

4435 W. Forest Home Ave. (414) 541-0012

knightsgourmetpopcorn.mke rescuedroasters.com

Popcorn made fresh and in many flavors from cheddar cheese to English toffee. You can purchase Knight’s brand can in two or five pound bags. Stop by their location for a cup of ethically sourced coffee at Rescued Roasters.

(Morton Shlabotnik)

GROCERY - ALL PURPOSE

SENDIK'S FOOD MARKET

Multiple Locations

sendiks.com

Known for high standards for meat, bakery and produce, locally-owned and operated Sendik’s has been the place to go for the finer foods in life. From the earliest days of the old Sendik’s produce pushcart to the modern-day locations all around the metropolitan area, local cooks have created many excellent meals made with ingredients from Sendik’s. (Susan Harpt Grimes)

GROCERY - ETHNIC EL REY

Multiple Locations elreyfoods.com

For 47 years, the family-owned Milwaukee business has stocked all things Hispanic—but they don’t limit their selections to just one continent. El Rey has grown into a successful chain in a competitive market and produces some of its own products, including those superb lemon taco chips. The in-store restaurants are an added bonus.

(David Luhrssen)

GROCERY - GOURMET GLORIOSO’S

ITALIAN MARKET

1011 E Brady St. (414) 272-0540 shop.gloriosos.com

East Side staple Glorioso's Italian Market didn’t miss a beat during an ownership change this past year. Their gelato remains a favorite among locals and out-oftown guests, along with their made-to-order deli sandwiches, pizzas, cheeses, meats and Italian specialties.

(Sheila Julson)

GROCERY - ORGANIC OUTPOST NATURAL FOODS

Multiple Locations outpost.coop

With four locations in the Milwaukee area, Outpost has established itself as a trusted venue for healthy, organic and often locally produced foods and products. Dating from the ‘70s, Outpost has proven to be one of the area’s most durable co-ops with friendly staff, deli counters and eat-in cafes. (David Luhrssen) HARD CIDER

ISLAND ORCHARD CIDER

12040 Garrett Bay Road, Ellison Bay

islandorchardcider.com

Nearly 20 years ago, Island Orchard Cider owners planted an orchard of 200 dwarf apple trees on Washington Island. Today their orchard has grown to over 3000 apple trees and 250 pear trees which are ferried over to their facility in Ellison Bay every fall and turned into the fabulous cider varieties so many of us have come to know and love.

(Susan Harpt Grimes)

HOME COOKING MEAL KITS

BUNZEL'S MEAT MARKET

9015 W. Burleigh St. bunzels.com

HOT HAM & ROLLS GREBE'S BAKERY

5132 W. Lincoln Ave. grebesbakery.com

DISCOUNT LIQUOR

Multiple Locations

discountliquorinc.com

MEAT SELECTION

BUNZEL'S MEAT MARKET

9015 W. Burleigh St. bunzels.com

SAUSAGE

USINGER'S

1030 N. Dr. Martin Luther King Drive (414) 276-9100 usinger.com

(Barry Houlehen)

SAUSAGE SHOP USINGER'S

1030 N. Dr. Martin Luther King Drive (414) 276-9100

usinger.com

(Barry Houlehen)

SODA

SPRECHER BREWING CO.

701 W. Glendale Ave. sprecherbrewery.com

Full of flavor and indulgently rich, Sprecher’s sodas are a delightful treat over the nationally macroproduced brands. Sprecher uses real honey and high-quality ingredients to make their root beer creamier, their orange soda more citrusy, and their ginger ale more gingery. They’re also pretty sweet, so Sprecher makes lo-cal versions of several of the most popular flavors for those who prefer less sugar.

(Susan Harpt Grimes) TAKE-OUT DELI

GLORIOSO’S ITALIAN MARKET

1011 E Brady St. (414) 272-0540

shop.gloriosos.com

East Side staple Glorioso's Italian Market didn’t miss a beat during an ownership change this past year. Their gelato remains a favorite among locals and outof-town guests, along with their made-to-order deli sandwiches, pizzas, cheeses, meats and Italian specialties. (Sheila Julson)

TEA

RISHI

TEA & BOTANICALS

185 S. 33 St. (414) 747-4001

Rishi-tea.com

Since its beginnings in a Bayview warehouse, Rishi Tea has established relationships with farmers around the globe to offer ethically sourced unique teas and botanicals. Their tea is available retail and on menus at many area restaurants.

(Sheila Julson)

WINE SELECTION

DISCOUNT LIQUOR

Multiple Locations discountliquorinc.com

locally owned

restaurant

AFRICAN RESTAURANT

IMMY'S AFRICAN CUISINE

2847 N. Oakland Ave. (414) 212-8738

immysafricancuisine.com

Uganda native Immy Kaggwa shares the flavors of her homeland through Immy’s African Cuisine. Her authentic East African dishes such as chicken curry with spinach and rice, smoked jerk chicken, and chickpeas with green peas and cauliflower, have impressed those seeking flavorful comfort food. (Sheila Julson)

BAGEL

ALLIE BOY’S BAGELRY AND LUNCHEONETTE

Multiple Locations allieboysmke.com

Used to be hard to find a good bagel in this town, but Allie Boy’s have raised the level to Manhattan standards. Whether you’re lunching at their tables or grabbing to go, the menu offers other bakery, soups and sandwiches as well as a variety of bagels. (David Luhrssen)

BAR FOOD

THE VANGUARD

2659 S. Kinnicknnic Ave. vanguardbar.com

Just the Bourbon section alone will keep you reading for a good long while trying to figure out what to choose in Vanguard’s extensive and impressive collection. And while doing so, there’s the creative menu to accompany your choice of beverage. Make that beverages.

(Harry Cherkinian)

BARBECUE

DOUBLE

B'S BBQ RESTAURANT

7412 W. Greenfield Ave.

They call themselves “Wisconsin’s best kept secret.” But not anymore. Fans agree that their barbecue is the best. This is a family run operation that knows their way around a brisket and a whole lot more. (Harry Cherkinian)

BREAKFAST

BLUE'S EGG

317 N. 76th St. (414) 299-3180

bluesegg.com

For nearly 15 years, Blue’s Egg has continued to draw crowds for their ever-popular breakfast and brunch dishes. Well known for their perfectly prepared poached eggs, creative variations on eggs benedict, petite monkey bread, and tasty stuffed hashbrowns. Blue’s reputation for excellence is truly well deserved.

(Susan Harpt Grimes)

BRUNCH

BLUE'S EGG

317 N. 76th St. (414) 299-3180

bluesegg.com

BUFFET

INDIA GARDEN

2930 N. 117th St., Wauwatosa (414) 235-9220

indiagardenwauwatosa.net

It might be a little hard to spot from the main, tucked away on a side street, but India Garden is worth seeking out for its lavish interior and even more lavish buffet selections which serve as an entry to their excellent menu. (David Luhrssen)

BURGERS

KOPP'S FROZEN CUSTARD

Multiple locations kopps.com

Since 1950, Kopp’s has served their signature frozen custard in a variety of creative flavors not found elsewhere, along with “jumbo” burgers, sandwiches and sides. Most food items are under $10, making Kopp’s an affordable treat. (Sheila Julson)

BURRITO

CAFE CORAZON

Multiple locations

corazonmilwaukee.com

Since 2009 Café Corazon has made it difficult not to focus on the burrito choices: the classic Corazon burrito filled with familiar ingredients like rice, beans, cheese, the Wet Burrito topped with enchilada sauce, the salmon burrito or vegan option. The menu even offers a Best Burrito. Outdoor dining at Corazon, with a traditional margarita and pleasant conversation—how good does that sound in the depths of winter? (Blaine Schultz)

CARIBBEAN RESTAURANT

CUBANITAS

Multiple locations getbianchini.com

Cubanitas is a great way to ride the soft tropical breezes of the Caribbean inside while battling the typical Wisconsin winter weather outside. (Harry Cherkinian)

CENTRAL/SOUTH AMERICAN RESTAURANT

CHEF PAZ RESTAURANT

9039 W. National Ave., West Allis (414) 327-1600

chefpaz.com

If our Wisconsin weather has you feeling down, go have a meal at Chef Paz and you’ll feel transported to warmer climes. Bright and fresh, the excellent empanadas, perfectly prepared seafood, tender beef and delicious chicken & rice dishes will warm you through and through. (Susan Harpt Grimes)

CHEAP EATS

KOPP'S FROZEN CUSTARD

Multiple locations kopps.com

CHEF

DAN JACOBS

Dan Jacobs has become a local culinary icon, driven in part by his successful performance on “Top Chef: Wisconsin.” Jacobs, along with business partner/ chef Dan Van Rite, operates their restaurants, Dan Dan and EsterEv, while advocating for climate change solutions and raising awareness about Kennedy’s Disease. (Sheila Julson)

CHICKEN SANDWICH CRAFTY COW

Multiple Locations

craftycowwi.com

I can vouch that the chicken sandwiches are top notch, and you can make it hot with different levels of sauces. Their wings are whole bone-in wings, so you get the drumstick and the flat connected together, again with your choices of sauce. (Sandy Reitman)

CHICKEN WINGS

POINTS EAST PUB

1501 N. Jackson St. (414) 277-0122

thepointseastpub.com

The restaurant calls them their famous wings and the voters clearly agree. Deep-fried and mixed with a special sauce, these wings are served with celery and a choice of ranch or blue cheese dressing. (Harry Cherkinian)

CHINESE RESTAURANT

SZE CHUAN

RESTAURANT

11102 W. National Ave., West

Allis (414) 885-0856

szechuanwi.com

It’s a favorite local spot for kung pao chicken, sweet & sour chicken, spicy pork dumpling, crab Rangoon and a wealth of East Asian dishes. Dine in or order out. (Morton Shlabotnik)

COFFEE SHOP

COLECTIVO COFFEE

Multiple locations

colectivo.com

DONUTS

GREBE'S BAKERY

5132 W. Lincoln Ave. (414) 543-7000

grebesbakery.com

The multi-generational bakery has been Milwaukeeans go-to place for freshly baked breads and donuts since 1937. While the donuts are delicious in general, it’s Grebe’s crullers that steal the show—fluffy and light on the inside and glazed to crisp perfection on the outside. (Susan Harpt Grimes)

FAMILY FRIENDLY RESTAURANT SAFEHOUSE

779 N. Front St. (414) 271-2007

Safe-house.com

Since 1966, SafeHouse has delighted locals and out-of-town visitors with its spy/espionage themed dining and drink experiences. Their kid’s menu offers junior spies choices such as Goldfingers (chicken tenders) and the Snap-O-Razzo Spy Dog. (Sheila Julson)

FARM-TO-TABLE RESTAURANT ODD DUCK

939 S. Second St. (414) 763-5881

oddduckrestaurant.com

Through partnerships with local farmers and vendors, Odd Duck sources seasonal ingredients for creative dishes that consistently please both foodies and casual eaters. (Sheila Julson)

FINE DINING HARBOR HOUSE

550 N. Harbor Drive (414) 395-4900

bartolottas.com/harbor-house

With an incredible view of the lake, the Milwaukee Art Museum and the city, Harbor House is an excellent place to enjoy a delicious meal while taking in sights that are uniquely Milwaukee. Impeccable service will make you feel like royalty, from the valet upon arrival to the waitstaff seeing to your every need as you dine on elegantly prepared fresh seafood dishes. (Susan Harpt Grimes)

FISH FRY

LAKEFRONT BREWERY

Lakefront Brewery

1872 N. Commerce St. (414) 372-8800

lakefrontbrewery.com

Lakefront Brewery simply does it all—and infinitely more. The food. The beer. The tours. And through it all, the beer just keeps flowing and flowing… (Harry Cherkinian)

FOOD TRUCK

FLOUR GIRL & FLAME

8121 W. National Ave., West Allis (414) 662-7921

flourgirlandflame.com

Flour Girl & Flame’s wood-fired sourdough pizzas have quickly gained a following throughout town. Their eye-catching food truck, which carries their sleek pizza oven, is a draw at area events. (Sheila Julson)

FRENCH RESTAURANT

LE REVE PATISSERIE & CAFE

7610 Harwood Ave., Wauwatosa (414) 778-3333

lerevecafe.com

French food at its finest and a menu guaranteed to have you speaking French in no time. The menu is extensive and easy to follow. And if your motto in life is, “eat dessert first,” then look no further. (Harry Cherkinian)

FRIED CHEESE CURDS

LAKEFRONT BREWERY

Lakefront Brewery 1872 N. Commerce St. (414) 372-8800

lakefrontbrewery.com

Lakefront Brewery simply does it all—and infinitely more. The food. The beer. The tours. And through it all, the beer just keeps flowing and flowing… (Harry Cherkinian)

FRIED CHICKEN MAXIE'S

6732 W. Fairview Ave. (414) 292-3969 maxiesmke.com

A triple winner in this year’s Best of Milwaukee, it’s easy to see why. Maxie’s has been serving its southern style home cooking since 2007. Be it the Low Country style, Cajun or Creole, Maxie’s style is traditional slow cooked barbecue. And then there’s all those fresh oysters! (Harry Cherkinian)

FROZEN YOGURT SHOP

YO MAMA!

1349 N. Wauwatosa Ave. yomamagoodness.com

Yo Mama has really held its own in a city renowned for rich frozen custard and has been serving up delicious frozen yogurt for over a decade. While their yummy froyo flavors change on a rotating schedule, it's the toppings that make Yo Mama extra special. Select toppings from a wide array of candies, cookies, fruits, and nuts. (Susan Harpt Grimes)

GELATO SHOP

GLORIOSO’S

1011 E Brady St. (414) 272-0540

shop.gloriosos.com

GERMAN RESTAURANT MADERS

1041 N. Dr. Martin Luther King Drive (414) 271-3377

madersrestaurant.com

For a taste of Old Milwaukee, there’s no better place to go than Mader’s. Dishes that stir memories of going to Grandma’s house for Sunday dinner are available in spades at this classic German restaurant. Feast on schnitzel, sauerbraten, spätzle, and potato pancakes, then wash it down with a boot of beer. Prost! (Susan Harpt Grimes)

GLUTEN-FREE/FRIENDLY RESTAURANT

LAKEFRONT BREWERY

Lakefront Brewery

1872 N. Commerce St. (414) 372-8800

lakefrontbrewery.com

Lakefront Brewery simply does it all—and infinitely more. The food. The beer. The tours. And through it all, the beer just keeps flowing and flowing… (Harry Cherkinian)

GREEK RESTAURANT

OAKLAND GYROS

Multiple Locations

oaklandgyros.com

Yes, they serve gyros, but also tasty Greek dishes in all food groups—even a vegetarian can find a spinach pie. The East Side location was so popular (daytime and bar time) that the owners opened a second Oakland Gyros, name unchanged, on the South Side. (David Luhrssen)

HOT DOG

THE VANGUARD

2659 S. Kinnicknnic Ave. vanguardbar.com

HOTEL RESTAURANT

MASON STREET GRILL

425 E. Mason St. (414) 298-3131

masonstreetgrill.com

Located in the Pfister Hotel on the main floor, Mason Street Grill is the classic place for steaks and other chophouse fare. Cooked on wood-fire grills, there’s plenty of other choices including fish, chicken and vegetarian options. (Harry Cherkinian)

ICE CREAM/FROZEN CUSTARD STAND

KOPP'S FROZEN CUSTARD

Multiple locations kopps.com

INDIAN/PAKISTANI RESTAURANT

CAFE INDIA BAR & GRILL

2201 S. Kinnickinnic Ave. (414) 837-6121

cafeindiamilwaukee.com

Located in the heart of Bayview’s business district, Café India offers a large menu with all the Indian favorites, including extensive vegan, vegetarian and gluten free options. They also serve a full menu out of a smaller venue in Walker’s Point at 601 S. First St. (David Luhrssen)

IRISH RESTAURANT

COUNTY CLARE

1234 N. Astor St. (414) 272-5273

countyclare-inn.com

“Where else can you buy the entire kitchen staff a round of pints?” Yes, they have corned beef and cabbage and plenty of potato dishes, but County Clare also offers a creative menu of Irish-American fare served in their charming dining room or breakfast if you choose to stay overnight. (Barry Houlehen)

ITALIAN RESTAURANT

TENUTA’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT

2995 S. Clement Ave. (414) 431-1014

tenutasitalian.com

Tenuta’s has some of the city’s best pizza in a city of great pizza (take that, Chicago!). It’s also a destination for lovers of Italian cuisine with superb pasta dishes and antipasto. (David Luhrssen)

JAPANESE RESTAURANT HUNGRY SUMO

2663 S. Kinnickinnic Ave. (414) 595-9656

hungrysumosushibar.com

With incredibly fresh sushi and sashimi, inventive maki rolls, and piping hot don-buri and ramen bowls Hungry Sumo is a great for authentic Japanese food. It’s a fairly intimate space, and Hungry Sumo doesn’t take reservations, so you may have to wait for a bit at peak times. Just know it’s going to be a meal that's well worth the wait. (Susan Harpt Grimes) JEWISH/KOSHER-STYLE RESTAURANT

BENJI'S DELI

Multiple Locations

benjisdeliandrestaurant.com

“Chicken soup is likepenicillin,” an old girlfriend’s grandmother once told me, and it’s on the menu at Benji’s—along with Reubens, brisket melt, fried matzo, a lox plate and … a wide array of burgers, sandwiches, omelets and breakfast dishes. (David Luhrssen)

KITCHEN OPEN AFTER 10 P.M.

OAKLAND GYROS

Multiple Locations

oaklandgyros.com

KOREAN RESTAURANT

CHAR'D

222 E. Erie St. (414) 885-2611

chardmke.com

This is the place for authentic Korean barbecue, start to finish. Dumplings, Bulgogi, it’s all here—and more. And for dessert?

The Croiffle. Think croissant meets waffle with sugar powder and a scoop of ice cream. (Harry Cherkinian)

LOUISIANA/SOUTHERN RESTAURANT

MAXIE'S

6732 W. Fairview Ave. (414) 292-3969

maxiesmke.com

MAC & CHEESE

EGG & FLOUR PASTA BAR

2273 S. Howell Ave. (414) 885-0204

greateffingpasta.com

What could possibly be better than eating homemade mac and cheese? Eating it at Egg & Pasta Flour Bar. Chef and owner Adam Pawlak has turned these two simple ingredients into, in his words, “a memorable experience.” Our readers agree! (Harry Cherkinian)

MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT

OAKLAND GYROS

Multiple Locations oaklandgyros.com

MEXICAN RESTAURANT

BOTANAS

816 S. Fifth St. (414) 672-3755

botanasoriginal.com

For excellent, traditional Mexican food, there is one place that tops the list of many Milwaukeeans, Botanas. The friendly service and delicious, perfectly prepared food have been bringing the crowds in for 20 years. Exceptionally fresh ingredients and outstanding margaritas may be the secret to their success. (Susan Harpt Grimes)

MIDDLE EASTERN RESTAURANT

CASABLANCA

Multiple locations casablancaonbrady.com

Casablanca serves some of the very best in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dishes. And there’s literally something for every type of appetite. Casablanca does it. And the hookah lounge completes its Middle Eastern vibe. (Harry Cherkinian)

NEW RESTAURANT (OPENED IN 2024) ROOM SERVICE

2159 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., Unit A2 (414) 414-9789

Roomservicebayview.com

Milwaukee’s foodie scene has buzzed about Room Service since it opened this past April. The restaurant is as well known for its hip ambiance as it is for its imaginative Thai- and Japanese-influenced cuisine. (Sheila Julson)

OUTDOOR DINING BARNACLE BUD’S

1955 S. Hilbert St. (414) 481-9974

barnaclebuds.com

During the summer, you can blink your eyes and think you’re at a seaside bar in Key West, what with all the water, the boats at anchor alongside the patio where drinks and good bar food are always on tap. (David Luhrssen)

PIZZERIA - DEEP DISH

TENUTA'S ITALIAN RESTAURANT

2995 S. Clement Ave. (414) 431-1014

tenutasitalian.com

PIZZERIA - THIN CRUST

ZAFFIRO’S

1724 N. Farwell Ave. (414) 289-8776

zaffirospizza.com

As long-time city residents know, cracker thin pizza crust is affectionately called Milwaukee-style. And, of course, you can find this delectable thin crust pizza at Zaffiro’s. Milwaukeeans have loved this family-owned restaurant and have been clamoring for Zaffiro’s signature pizzas since 1954. (Susan Harpt Grimes)

PIZZERIA - WOOD-FIRED OVEN FLOUR GIRL & FLAME

8121 W. National Ave., West Allis (414) 662-7921

flourgirlandflame.com

PLACE TO EAT ALONE

TODD I BELIEVE I CAN FRY

2159 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., Ste. A1 (414) 488-8565

toddibelieveicanfry.com

Carryout/counter service restaurant Todd I Believe I Can Fry (for those puzzled by the name, there’s a full explanation on the website) has quickly become known for flavorful Asian inspired fried chicken, sandwiches, bowls and sides. There’s a bar-style counter with stools, and a patio for outdoor dining during warmer months. (Sheila Julson) RAMEN

HUNGRY SUMO

2663 S. Kinnickinnic Ave. (414) 595-9656

hungrysumosushibar.com

RESTAURANT OPEN ON CHRISTMAS DAY THE PACKING HOUSE

900 E. Layton Ave. (414) 483-5054

packinghousemke.com

The Packing House can be a contender in many categories, it’s a supper club with steaks, it’s famous for its fish fry, it provides a venue for live jazz and yes, Virginia, it’s open on Christmas Day. (Morton Shlabotnik)

RESTAURANT SERVICE

HARBOR HOUSE

550 N. Harbor Drive (414) 395-4900

bartolottas.com/harbor-house

RESTAURANT WITH A VIEW

HARBOR HOUSE

550 N. Harbor Drive (414) 395-4900

bartolottas.com/harbor-house

DOUBLE B'S BBQ

RESTAURANT

7412 W. Greenfield Ave.

ROMANTIC RESTAURANT

LAKE PARK BISTRO

3133 E. Newberry Blvd. (414) 962-6300

bartolottas.com

Perched on a bluff with gorgeous views of Lake Michigan, it’s easy to understand how this Bartolotta restaurant creates the perfect atmosphere for romance along with outstanding French inspired food. (Harry Cherkinian)

SANDWICH COUSINS

Multiple locations cousinssubs.com

For 52 years, Cousins has been making their special brand of sub sandwiches, especially that delicious freshly baked bread. And then there’s all those choices, choices and more choices. Try them all. One at a time, of course. (Harry Cherkinian)

SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

ST. PAUL FISH COMPANY

Multiple locations stpaulfish.com

St. Paul Fish Company is a cornerstone of the Milwaukee Public Market. An incredible selection of fresh fish and seafood from clams to shark; sole to perch; lobster to Bayview herring. Dine at the bar, dining room or find a cozy spot outside int the Third Ward, when Mother Nature permits. (Blaine Schultz)

SOUL FOOD CRAWDADDY'S

9427 W. Greenfield Ave., West Allis Crawdaddysccb.com

This is soul food, Cajun and Creole style. And it’s as imaginative as it is delicious from Frogs on a Mound to Fried Alligator Bites. Southern comfort indeed! (Harry Cherkinian)

SOUPS THE SOUP MARKET

Multiple locations

Since its beginnings in 2004 as a wholesale producer of soups, The Soup Market has since grown to three locations, along with a presence at area farmers markets, restaurants and retail spots. Their comforting soups, made from scratch-made stock, includes chicken noodle, chicken dumpling, chili, and a rotating variety that includes a vegetarian option.

(Sheila Julson)

SPANISH RESTAURANT

LA MERENDA

125 E. National Ave. (414) 389-0125

lamernda125.com

La Merenda is a fond favorite of many Milwaukeeans, even some 17 years after opening. Portions that generally equal a bite or two for about four people allow diners to try several dishes to share, and then perhaps order another round because the food was so good you need a few more bites.

(Susan Harpt Grimes)

STEAKHOUSE

FIVE O'CLOCK STEAKHOUSE

2416 W. State St. (414) 342-3553

fiveoclocksteakhouse.com

If it’s classic steak and all the fixings you’re craving, then pay a visit to the Five O’Clock Steakhouse.

From Baked French Onion Soup and Shrimp Cocktail to every type of steak imaginable, this steakhouse has it all.

(Harry Cherkinian)

SUB SANDWICH

COUSINS SUBS

Multiple locations cousinssubs.com

SUPPER CLUB

FIVE O'CLOCK STEAKHOUSE

2416 W. State St. (414) 342-3553

fiveoclocksteakhouse.com

If it’s classic steak and all the fixings you’re craving, then pay a visit to the Five O’Clock Steakhouse.

From Baked French Onion

Soup and Shrimp Cocktail to every type of steak imaginable, this steakhouse has it all.

(Harry Cherkinian)

SUSHI SCREAMING TUNA

106 W. Seeboth St. (414) 763-1637

screamingtuna.com

Whether you’re a sushi lover or just seeking something new for lunch or dinner, Screaming Tuna delivers a memorable dining experience with delicious food and an attentive staff. (Emily Prochaska)

TACO

BELAIR CANTINA

Multiple Locations belaircantina.com

Featuring ingredients like tender birria, crispy pork, Korean beef, or even bacon wrapped jalapeno, BelAir Cantina has been the go-to place for tasty tacos in Milwaukee for many years. Still one of the best deals for Taco Tuesdays with several options at $3 each, and you get rice and beans with every 3 tacos ordered!

(Susan Harpt Grimes)

TAPAS (SMALL PLATES)

LA MERENDA

125 E. National Ave. (414) 389-0125 lamernda125.com

(Susan Harpt Grimes)

THAI RESTAURANT THAI-NAMITE

Multiple locations www.thai-namite.com

This is as close to classic Thai food you can get short of visiting the country. It’s all here from curries and stir-fried rice and noodles to sushi and sashimi.

(Harry Cherkinian)

VEGAN-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT BEANS & BARLEY

1901 E. North Ave. (414) 278-7878

beansandbarley.com

Beans & Barley might not have been Milwaukee’s first restaurant to explicitly offer vegetarian dining (salads with iceberg lettuce don’t count!) but it has endured since the ‘70s for its attention to healthy choice, both in the dining room and the grocery store.

(David Luhrssen)

VEGETARIAN-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT

BEANS & BARLEY

1901 E. North Ave. (414) 278-7878

beansandbarley.com

(David Luhrssen)

VIETNAMESE RESTAURANT HUE ASIAN KITCHEN

2699 S. Kinnickinnic Ave. (414) 294-0483

huerestaurants.com

Hue’s outdoor patio—weatherpermitting—is one of the city’s gems. Indoors, a wall-size mural depicts a street scene that sets diners in a bustling Vietnamese neighborhood. While phò is an obvious choice, Hue’s Vietnamese fish fry is a delightful twist on a classic. Their food truck is ubiquitous at summer events around town as well. (Blaine Schultz) WINE LIST

SANFORD

1647 N. Jackson St.

sanfordrestaurant.com

In the 12 years since Chef and Owner Justin Aprahamian has been running Sanford, the wine selections have grown to become just as important and as well chosen as the Incredible food. And that’s a double bonus for its customers. (Harry Cherkinian)

Medical

SPEECH THERAPIST

CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY WISCONSIN SPEECH, LANGUAGE, & HEARING CLINIC (262) 246-2134

Experience exceptional care at CUW’s Speech, Language, & Hearing Clinic. Offering donation-based adult and pediatric services, we integrate a compassionate client approach with cutting-edge training for CUW students in Speech-Language Pathology. For more information, please email slhclinic@CUW.edu or call 262-243-2134.

music

ACOUSTIC MUSICIAN

PAUL REBEK

Finger style guitarist/singer/songwriter Paul Rebek has been a busy guy lately, becoming a favorite at area beer gardens and clubs. Look for him to return this summer to your favorite outdoor gathering space. (Sheila Julson)

BLUEGRASS BAND

THE WHISKEYBELLES

With music based in traditional country the WhiskeyBelles are familiar faces at local outdoor events. The trio has played Caribbean cruises, holiday-themed concerts and everything in between. Infectious and upbeat, the WhiskeyBelles presence is a welcome one, no matter what genre they get slotted.

(Benjamin Dover)

BLUES BAND

MILWAUKEE BLUES

ROCK COLLECTIVE

With a variety of songs including “Hold On” by Alabama Shakes, “Give Me One Reason” by Tracy Chapman and Voodoo Woman” by Susan Tedeschi in their set, and with vocalist Alissa Weber out front, Milwaukee Blues Rock Collective takes this year’s prize. (Blaine Schultz)

CLUB DJ

DJ BREEZY

For 16+ years, the Milwaukee based DJ has played in local clubs including Latin venue Bodega. And he’s branched out to the big time as well: Cardi B, Lil Wayne, Rae Sremmurd and IshDARR to name a few. (Harry Cherkinian) COUNTRY

THE WHISKEYBELLES

COVER/TRIBUTE BAND CHERRY PIE

After 25+ years in the music industry, Cherry Pie goes beyond its 1980s hair band roots, playing music from other eras. And clearly the readers agree. (Harry Cherkinian)

ELECTRONIC ARTIST

JOHNNY FRANCHINO

Last year’s winner Johnny Franchino recently released “Body Language,” the age old story of finding a girl in a club and taking her home, set to an enticing beat. (Blaine Schultz)

FOLK BAND

DEAD HORSES

The duo of songwriter Sarah Vos and upright bassist Daniel Wolf take traditional folk and throw in some classic and contemporary influences, creating their own unique style of indie folk. They are just as good live as on record. So, give a listen, either way. (Harry Cherkinian)

INDIE BAND

LACK OF REASON

Milwaukee trio Lack of Reason unabashedly namechecks The Replacements, Dead Boys and Johnny Cash as influences worn on their flannel sleeves. Recently recording at Electric Gingerland Studios, the group should have new material out in 2025. (Benjamin Dover)

JAZZ COMBO

MILWAUKEE JAZZ INSTITUTE

As the name suggests, the Milwaukee Jazz Institute is educational as well as performative, honoring the city’s jazz roots while contributing to its future. (David Luhrssen)

METAL BAND

CHERRY PIE

After 25+ years in the music industry, Cherry Pie goes beyond its 1980s hair band roots, playing music from other eras. And clearly the readers agree. (Harry Cherkinian)

MUSIC PRODUCER/ENGINEER

JEFF HAMILTON

He’s run sound at Summerfest, toured the world with Beatallica, worked as a stage tech for Zach Bryan, Violent Femmes and Neil Young and played every club and dive bar in Milwaukee—multi-instrumentalist, producer and engineer Jeff Hamilton still hangs his shingle with the ladybugs Downtown. Talented and versatile, he’s also one of the music scene’s genuinely good guys. (Benjamin Dover)

POLKA BAND

THE SQUEEZETTES

The Squeezettes must be doing something right by Shepherd Express readers to have earned their sixth consecutive win as Best Polka Band. Much of their appeal lies in their saucy way of remaking '80s new wave favorites and Amy Winehouse. The Squeezettes also put a lively, reverent twist on songs identified with old-time German, Polish and SlovenianAmerican music. (Jamie Lee Rake)

RAP/HIP-HOP ARTIST

JOHNNY FRANCHINO

Last year’s winner Johnny Franchino recently released “Body Language,” the age old story of finding a girl in a club and taking her home, set to an enticing beat. (Blaine Schultz)

ROCK BAND

CHERRY PIE

After 25+ years in the music industry, Cherry Pie goes beyond its 1980s hair band roots, playing music from other eras. And clearly the readers agree. (Harry Cherkinian)

VOCALIST-FEMALE

ALISSA WEBER

She’s made a name for herself as a powerful vocalist with the J. Ryan Trio, singing jazz, blues and contemporary songs. (David Luhrssen)

VOCALIST—MALE

JOHNNY FRANCHINO

Last year’s winner Johnny Franchino recently released “Body Language,” the age old story of finding a girl in a club and taking her home, set to an enticing beat. (Blaine Schultz)

out and about

ALL-AGES VENUE

CACTUS CLUB

2496 S. Wentworth Ave. (414) 897-0663 cactusclubmilwaukee.com

All-ages shows, an all-inclusive mission statement, outdoor socializing and a nearly ever-present food truck. Bay View’s Cactus Club has hosted bands like Low, The Reigning Sound and The White Stripes (who played their first out of town show here) and countless local acts—the club also hosts all sorts of non-music events. When is a music club more than a music club? When it’s Cactus Club.

(Blaine Schultz)

ARCADE/GAMING UP-DOWN ARCADE BAR

615 E. Brady St. (414) 585-0880

updownarcadebar.com/milwaukee/ Where Brady turns into Water Street, Up-Down Milwaukee offers over 60 retro video games, pinball machines and skee-ball, as well as an extensive craft beer selection and house-made pizza. The spot blends a vibrant, neon arcade bar into a perfect fusion of ‘80s and ‘90s nostalgia for friends and family to enjoy.

(Benjamin Dover)

ART STUDIO/CLASSES (NON-BAR) TOOTH & NAIL STUDIO

2018 S. First St., Suite 308 (414) 520-5322

toothandnailmke.com

Tooth + Nail Studio Milwaukee champions emerging regional artisans, offering a wide variety of ceramic workshops while creating an inclusive environment for the creative community. (Sophia Hamdan)

ATTRACTION FOR OUT-OFTOWN GUESTS TIE

MILWAUKEE ART MUSEUM & MITCHELL PARK DOMES

700 N. Art Museum Drive, (414) 224-3200 mam.org

524 S. Layton Blvd., (414) 257-5600

Our readers chose two of our city’s most striking structures, the soaring postmodern spires of the Milwaukee Art Museum and that glass-domed monument to modernism, the Domes. (David Luhrssen)

AXE THROWING BAR

AXE MKE

1924 E. Kenilworth Place (414) 939-8592 axemke.com

Whether you’re on a date, out with a group of friends, or going out for a work event, AXE MKE is the perfect place to spend a few hours throwing axes, having some beers, and enjoying a lively environment. (Julia Marshall)

BAR FOR QUIET CONVERSATION AT RANDOM

2501 S. Delaware Ave. (414) 481-8030 atrandommke.com

Its retro-sophisticated vibe underscores the fun of a visit to this evening only-lounge (5 p.m. if you’re checking the time). Since 1964, At Random has been providing drinks made with its secret ingredients.

(Harry Cherkinian)

BAR ON A BUDGET

THE BRASS TAP

7808 W. Layton Ave., Greenfield (414) 301-4054

The Brass Tap franchise has more than 150 craft beers, wine and cocktails. With lots of pub food options for less than $15, along with happy hour specials, it’s easy to have a good time without emptying the wallet.

(Sheila Julson)

BAR TO BE SEEN IN THE BAR AT SAINT KATE – THE ARTS HOTEL

139 E. Kilbourn Ave. (414) 276-8686

saintkatearts.com

The Bar at Saint Kate-The Arts Hotel, located off the lobby, serves an eclectic menu of coffee, craft beer, cocktails and wine in a classy yet comfortable atmosphere. Guests can enjoy lunch and dinner along with live music.

(Sheila Julson)

BAR TO WATCH SOCCER NOMAD

1401 E. Brady St. (414) 224-8111

nomadworldpub.com

Soccer has exploded in popularity in the U.S. during the past 20 years and Nomad was one of the local places that was ahead of the curve. It’s always been fun to gather there to watch a match, dressed in your favorite team’s jersey or not. (David Luhrssen)

BAR WITH A PATIO BLACKBIRD BAR

3007 S. Kinnickinnic Ave. (414) 486-1344

blackbirdbayview.com

This is the patio for hanging out and relaxing while leisurely enjoying an extensive list of beer, wine and spirits. And there’s happy hour every day. Who could ask for anything more? (Harry Cherkinian)

BEER GARDEN

SOUTH SHORE

TERRACE KITCHEN & BEER GARDEN

2900 S. Shore Drive (414) 617-1147

southshoreterrace.com

It’s an incomparable site for a lazy summer day with a view of the lake and the Milwaukee skyline that can’t be beat. (Morton Shlabotnik)

BLOODY MARY

SOBELMAN'S

Multiple locations www.sobelmanspubandgrill. com

Sobelman’s Bloody Marys are a drink and “meal” with those over-the-top toppings: Colby jack cheese, a pickled Polish sausage, a pickled mushroom, a pickled Brussels sprout, an asparagus, a celery stalk, a green onion, and on another toothpick a shrimp, a lemon wedge, and a grape tomato.

(Harry Cherkinian)

BREWERS SHUTTLE STENY'S TAVERN & GRILL

800 S. Second St. (414) 672-7139 stenystavern.com

Known for their Bloody Marys, wings, and Brewers shuttle, Steny’s is Milwaukee’s favorite sports bar. They offer American bar eats, craft beer, a game room and TVs for sports viewing. (Julia Marshall)

BREWERY TOUR

LAKEFRONT BREWERY

1872 N. Commerce St., lakefrontbrewery.com

Lakefront Brewery simply does it all—and infinitely more. The food. The beer. The tours. And through it all, the beer just keeps flowing and flowing… (Harry Cherkinian)

CAR SHOW

WEST ALLIS CLASSIC CAR SHOW

Downtown West Allis, along Greenfield Avenue between 70th and 76th Streets westallisdowntown.com/classic-car-show

Held each fall, this annual car show has grown to feature more than 400 classic and custommade autos. The family friendly event also offers music, food and vendors. (Sheila Julson) COCKTAIL LOUNGE AT RANDOM

2501 S. Delaware Ave. (414) 481-8030 atrandommke.com

COMEDY CLUB COMEDYSPORTZ MILWAUKEE

420 S. First St. cszmke.com

We all can use a laugh these days, and in Milwaukee everyone knows the best place for comedy is at ComedySportz. Reasonably priced tickets, a full bar of tasty drink options and an improv show that can invoke the very best of belly laughs. Introverts take note there is a fair amount of audience participation, so if that makes you nervous, choose a seat towards the back. (Susan Harpt Grimes)

CRAFT BEER SELECTION AT A BAR

SUGAR MAPLE

441 E Lincoln Ave. 414-509-6035

mysugarmaple.com

With more than 60 beers on the menu, Sugar Maple has become a go-to place for beer connoisseurs. Their knowledgeable bartenders can recommend choices for every taste. (Sheila Julson)

DANCE CLUB

MAD PLANET

533 E. Center St. (414) 263-4555

mad-planet.net

Outside it may be non-descript but step inside Mad Planet and you are transported—both by the décor and the music.

The 300-capacity venue has hosted live acts from Arcade Fire and Black Lips to De La Buena, from Ty Segall to Kikagaku Moyo, but Mad Planet has established itself as the dance club of note since 1990. With events like The Get Down and Retro Dance Party to ongoing artist VS. artist series like Madonna VS. Lady Gaga and The Cure VS. The Smiths--Mad Planet keeps it on the good foot. (Blaine Schultz)

ESCAPE ROOM

ESCAPE MKE

3333 N. Mayfair Road

Sadly, Escape MKE is closed permanently. Happily for them, they have a fan base who still consider Escape MKE to be the best escape room in the city. Their cryptic clues and tough puzzles were a blast for folks who really liked a challenge. (Susan Harpt Grimes)

HAPPY HOUR

MASON STREET GRILL

425 E. Mason St. masonstreetgrill.com (414) 298-3131

Located in the Pfister Hotel on the main floor, Mason Street Grill is the classic place for steaks and other chophouse fare. Cooked on woodfire grills, there’s plenty of other choices including fish, chicken and vegetarian options. (Harry Cherkinian)

HOOKAH LOUNGE

CASABLANCA

Multiple locations

casablancaonbrady.com

Casablanca serves some of the very best in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dishes. And there’s literally something for every type of appetite, Casablanca does it. And the hookah lounge completes its Middle Eastern vibe. (Harry Cherkinian)

HOTEL LOUNGE

THE BAR AT SAINT KATE – THE ARTS HOTEL FINALISTS

Blu at the Pfister Solomon's The Iron Horse Hotel The Outsider The Trade

IMPORT BEER SELECTION AT A BAR

VON TRIER

2235 N. Farwell Ave. (414) 272-1775 vontriers.com

From the moment you step inside Von Trier you know you’re someplace special. With 20 plus German, Belgian, and other draft beer, ale, and cider to choose from, plus a respectable list of imported bottles available, Von Trier has a selection that’s hard to beat. (Susan Harpt Grimes)

IRISH PUB

COUNTY CLARE

1234 N. Astor St. (414) 272-5273 countyclare-inn.com

Yes, they have corned beef and cabbage and plenty of potato dishes, but County Clare also offers a creative menu of Irish American fare served in their charming dining room. Where else can you buy the entire kitchen staff a round of pints? (Barry Houlehen)

JAZZ CLUB

CAROLINE’S JAZZ CLUB

401 S. Second St. (414) 221-9444

For those seeking the cool, retro nostalgic atmosphere of live jazz, Caroline’s is where you want to go. Local performers combine with an intimate atmosphere to make it all upbeat and personal. (Harry Cherkinian)

KARAOKE BAR

LANDMARK LANES

2220 N. Farwell Ave. landmarklanes.com

Landmark Lanes has always been synonymous in Milwaukee with bowling and its arcade. But here’s the place to get your inner rock star on—in the Moon Room. So, grab a mic and join in. Built-in fan base guaranteed. (Harry Cherkinian)

LIVE MUSIC VENUE TURNER HALL

1040 N. Vel R. Phillips Ave. (414) 242-8200 pabsttheatergroup.com

Located within Turner Hall, a National Historic Landmark, Turner Hall Ballroom hosts touring acts ranging from jazz saxophonist Kamasi Washington to Yo La Tengo, from legacy artists like Wayne Kramer’s MC50 to locals like Trapper Schoepp. (Benjamin Dover)

MARGARITA BOTANAS

816 S. Fifth St. botanasoriginal.com

(Susan Harpt Grimes)

MARTINI BLU

The Pfister Hotel, 424 E. Wisconsin Ave. thepfisterhotel.com

Shaken? Stirred? This is the readers favorite martini go-to, high up on the 23rd floor of the Pfister Hotel. Blu has all the necessary ingredients whether you like it wet or dry. And then there’s those amazing views of Milwaukee and Lake Michigan. Sit back. And sip the night away.

(Harry Cherkinian)

MICROBREWERY/TAPROOM

LAKEFRONT BREWERY

1872 N. Commerce St., lakefrontbrewery.com

Lakefront Brewery simply does it all—and infinitely more. The food. The beer. The tours. And through it all, the beer just keeps flowing and flowing… (Harry Cherkinian)

MILWAUKEE TOUR

LAKEFRONT BREWERY

1872 N. Commerce St., lakefrontbrewery.com

Lakefront Brewery simply does it all—and infinitely more. The food. The beer. The tours. And through it all, the beer just keeps flowing and flowing… (Harry Cherkinian)

MOCKTAIL SELECTION BOONE & CROCKETT

818 S Water St. 414-212-8115 boonemilwaukee.com

Boone & Crockett’s creative mocktail selections such as the Cardinal Punch or the High N Dry features premium ingredients akin to their cocktails, but without the hangover. Boone & Crockett’s Old Fashioned on tap offers a choice of Old Forester Bourbon or Korbel Brandy, along with the key ingredients that any Wisconsinite would expect in this Badger State classic. (Sheila Julson)

NATURE CENTER

MITCHELL PARK DOMES

524 S. Layton Blvd. (414) 257-5600 county.milwaukee.gov/EN/ Parks/Explore/The-Domes

For nearly a decade, the Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory, known as the Domes, faced uncertainty about its survival. Despite being a beloved community asset, long-term deferred maintenance, inertia and proposed demolition threatened the trio of glass domes that house an irreplaceable collection of tropical and arid plants. Now, a new plan and partnership agreement between Milwaukee County and Friends of the Domes offers a path forward to preserve the “modernist marvel” and to care for the facility and Mitchell Park, where it is located.

(Virginia Small)

NEW BAR (OPENED IN 2024) WIGGLE ROOM

2988 S. Kinnickinnic Ave. instagram.com/wiggleroommke

A neighborhood tavern for record hounds, The Wiggle Room has a roster of DJs spinning vinyl. Lots of vinyl. House thumpers, disco bangers, lo-fi crunk, psychedelic excursions, hip hop joints, punk, funk and soul grooves, German motorik, global beats--and the occasional live act.

(Blaine Schultz)

OLD FASHIONED BOONE & CROCKETT

818 S Water St. 414-212-8115

boonemilwaukee.com

PET-FRIENDLY ESTABLISHMENT

OPE! BREWING CO.

6751 W. National Ave., West Allis (414) 509-6700

opebrewingco.com

Ope! Brewing Co.’s taproom and beers are a playful homage to Wisconsin culture, and you betcha that well-behaved, socialized dogs are also welcome.

(Sheila Julson)

PLACE FOR FAMILY FUN SAFEHOUSE

779 N. Front St. (414) 271-2007

Safe-house.com

Since 1966, SafeHouse has delighted locals and outof-town visitors with its spy/ espionage themed dining and drink experiences. Their kid’s menu offers junior spies choices such as Goldfingers (chicken tenders) and the Snap-O-Razzo Spy Dog. (Sheila Julson)

ROCK CLUB

CACTUS CLUB

2496 S. Wentworth Ave. (414) 897-0663

cactusclubmilwaukee.com

All-ages shows, an all-inclusive mission statement, outdoor socializing and a nearly everpresent food truck. Bay View’s Cactus Club has hosted bands like Low, The Reigning Sound and The White Stripes (who played their first out of town show here) and countless local acts—the club also hosts all sorts of non-music events. When is a music club more than a music club? When it’s Cactus Club.

(Blaine Schultz)

ROMANTIC BAR AT RANDOM

2501 S. Delaware Ave. (414) 481-8030

atrandommke.com

(Harry Cherkinian)

SPORTS BAR

STENY'S TAVERN & GRILL

800 S. Second St. (414) 672-7139

stenystavern.com

TRAVEL GATEWAY (BEST WAY TO GET OUT OF TOWN)

MILWAUKEE MITCHELL

INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

5300 S. Howell Ave. (414) 747-5300 mitchellairport.com

Mitchell is among the most pleasant airports in the U.S.— not too big, not too small and with plenty of direct flights and connections to elsewhere. Along with the usual food, beverage and shopping option, Mitchell is unique for housing a book shop. (David Luhrssen)

TRIVIA NIGHT

LAKEFRONT BREWERY

1872 N. Commerce St., lakefrontbrewery.com

Lakefront Brewery simply does it all—and infinitely more. The food. The beer. The tours. And through it all, the beer just keeps flowing and flowing… (Harry Cherkinian)

WHISKEY SELECTION AT A BAR THE VANGUARD

2659 S. Kinnicknnic Ave. (414) 539-3593 vanguardbar.com

WINERY

COOPER’S

HAWK WINERY & RESTAURANTS

Multiple locations chwinery.com

Since launching in Illinois nearly 20 years ago, Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants has expanded their wine-centered lifestyle brand to more than 60 locations throughout a dozen states. Their popular Wine Club features a wine of the month to enjoy in the dining room or to take home. (Sheila Julson)

SERVICES RENDERED

DOG WALKER

OFF LEASH MKE

414-215-9095

offleashmke.com

Milwaukee’s trusted dog walking and adventure provider since 2016. Off Leash MKE offers premium services like neighborhood dog walks, offleash adventures, solo hikes, group playdates, and cat sitting tailored for busy urban professionals. We prioritize safety, enrichment, and fun to keep pets happy and thriving.

LAW FIRM - DIVORCE NELSON KRUEGER & MILLENBACH

2675 N. Mayfair Road, Suite 610, Wauwatosa (414) 258-1644, ext. 103 (after hours) nkmfamilylaw.com

At Nelson, Krueger & Millenbach, LLC, we focus exclusively on divorce and family law matters. We take the time to understand our clients’ goals. Our lawyers are committed to solving client problems so they can move on with their lives. If a resolution cannot be reached, we zealously advocate for our clients in court.

LAW FIRM - FAMILY LAW NELSON- KRUEGER & MILLENBACH

2675 N. Mayfair Road, Suite 610, Wauwatosa (414) 258-1644, ext. 103 (after hours) nkmfamilylaw.com

LAW FIRM - NEW (UNDER 5 YEARS)

CLAIRE LONGDIN LAW FIRM

1031 N. Astor St., Milwaukee (414) 414-4529

longdinlawoffices.com

Longdin Law Offices, LLC is an immigration, criminal and family law firm. We assist with residency petitions, visas, removal defense, citizenship and asylum. We care about our clients and their cases. Hablamos español.

LAW FIRM - PERSONAL INJURY

GROTH LAW FIRM

13105 W. Bluemound Rd., Brookfield (414) 999-0000

Grothlawfirm.com

Groth Law Firm, S.C., helps plaintiffs in all areas of litigation and personal injury law. We will do everything we can to make sure your case is expertly handled and you receive the compensation you deserve. Attorney Jon P. Groth has successfully tried cases throughout Wisconsin in both State and Federal Courts and has joined the elite few attorneys who have argued before the Wisconsin State Supreme Court.

PET BEHAVIORIST / TRAINER

BAY VIEW BARK

1820 S. First St., Milwaukee (262)227-6830

bayviewbark.com

Smart for you, fun for your dog! Enriching daycare with Warm Up Play Packs, daily Training Sessions & lots of monitored Group Play. Boarding includes daycare, private room, personalized feeding, lots of love, play and potty breaks. We’re onsite with the dogs 24 hours a day! Come try puppy, level 1 and level 2 training classes too!

BODY, MIND & SPIRIT

ACUPUNCTURIST

MKE MINDBODY WELLNESS

FINALISTS

A Right Path Wellness

Amanda Gawrysz

Milwaukee Community Acupuncture

ALTERNATIVE MEDICAL CLINIC MKE MINDBODY WELLNESS

FINALISTS

A Right Path Wellness

Rejuvenate MKE

VIVA Wellness

BOUTIQUE FITNESS

POLE FACTORY MKE

FINALISTS

Healium HIIT

Peak Physique Personal Training

SPIRE Fitness

CROSSFIT-STYLE GYM

BURN BOOT CAMP BROOKFIELD

FINALISTS

A2FIT

Badger CrossFit

Drop Out Fight Club

GYM

WISCONSIN

ATHLETIC CLUB

FINALISTS

Bay View Fitness

Healium HIIT

SPIRE Fitness

Toned Body Fitness

MASSAGE THERAPIST

MKE MINDBODY WELLNESS

FINALISTS

Lotus Om Wellness

Marylisa Ayala

Susan Arenkill

PERSONAL TRAINER

ELENA ALTORORODRIGUEZ

FINALISTS

Audrey Allen

Raj Shah

Reggie Bonds

PILATES STUDIO

FLYING SQUIRREL

FINALISTS

Afterglow

Body Language Pilates

East Side Pilates

Embody Yoga

Solidcore

REIKI STUDIO

ANGELIC ROOTS

FINALISTS

A Right Path Wellness

Kiralily Healing

MKE Mindbody Wellness

Susan Arenkill

SPA

BLOOM SKIN SPA

FINALISTS

Beau-T Works

Elevate + Co.

JP Beauty Services

Milwaukee Laser & Body

Aesthetics

YOGA STUDIO

COLLECTIVE FLOW

FINALISTS

Healium Hot Yoga

The Heart Revival Center

Yoga by Analisia

Bought and Sold

ANTIQUE STORE ANTIQUES ON PIERCE

FINALISTS

BC Modern

Clocktower Antiques

Creekside Antiques

Dandy

APPLIANCE STORE

GRAND APPLIANCE & TV

FINALISTS

Appliance Gallery - Milwaukee Ritzman Applicance

AUTO DEALERSHIP - DOMESTIC

KUNES BUICK

GMC GREENFIELD

FINALISTS

Badger Truck & Ford

Boucher Buick GMC Waukesha

Lake Ford

AUTO DEALERSHIP - IMPORT

SOMMERS SUBARU

FINALISTS

Acura of Brookfield

Lexus of Brookfield

Reina international autos

AUTO DEALERSHIP - PREOWNED SCHLOSSMANN'S SUBARU CITY

FINALISTS

Acura of Brookfield

Boucher Buick GMC Waukesha

Rosen Honda Greenfield

BIKE SHOP

WHEEL & SPROCKET

FINALISTS

Allis Bike & Fitness

South Shore Cyclery

The Bikesmiths

Truly Spoken Cycles

BOOKSTORE

BOSWELL BOOK COMPANY

FINALISTS

Downtown Books

Half Price Books

Lion's Tooth

BOUTIQUE CLOTHING

BOHO LUXE BOUTIQUE

FINALISTS

Fifth-Main

Omen

SHOP

CAKE/SPECIALTY

SIMMA'S BAKERY

FINALISTS

Aggie's Bakery

Batter & Mac

Greige Patisserie

CARPET/FINE RUGS

STU'S FLOORING

FINALISTS

Carpets Galore, Grafton

Hunts Flooring

Shabahang in Waukesha

CBD RETAIL SHOP

KNUCKLEHEADS WELLNESS

FINALISTS

Canni Hemp

Kelly's Greens

Kind Oasis

TerraSol Dispensary

CLOTHING - CHILDREN'S BLACKBEAR

CHILDREN'S BOUTIQUE

FINALISTS

Creatively Yours

Lyss + Littles

CLOTHING - MEN'S

HARLEY’S FINALISTS

NL Suits

Omen

Rich Earth Resale

CLOTHING - WOMEN'S

BOHO LUXE BOUTIQUE

FINALISTS

Fifth-Main

Omen

Rich Earth Resale

COMIC BOOK STORE

COLLECTOR'S EDGE

FINALISTS

Lions Tooth

Lost World of Wonders

EYEWEAR

BE SPECTACLED FINALISTS

414 Eyes

Eyes On The Lake

Metro Eye

Milwaukee Eye Care FASHION ACCESSORIES

BOHO LUXE BOUTIQUE

FINALISTS

Bandit

Fifth-Main Omen

FINE JEWELRY STORE

A TRIO JEWELRY FINALISTS

Cival Collective

Emily Klopstein Fine Jewelry

Tobin Jewelers

FLOORING (NON-CARPET)

STU'S FLOORING

FINALISTS

21st Century Tile

Carpets Galore, Grafton

Contemporary Carpet in Hales Corners

Floor Coverings International

Platinum Plus Flooring

FLORIST

414LORAL

FINALISTS

Belle Fiori

Flowers for Dreams

M&F Floral + Decor

FURNITURE - NEW

BILTRITE FURNITURE & MATTRESS

FINALISTS

Colder's

Steinhafels

Stone House Collective

FURNITURE - RESTORED

BC MODERN

FINALISTS

BC Modern

Rustic Rehabs

Spectre Vintage

GARDEN CENTER

STEIN'S GARDEN & HOME

FINALISTS

Bayside Garden Center

Minor's Garden Center

Plant Land

GIFT SHOP

POPPY & THYME

FINALISTS

Altered State of Mind

Angelic Roots

Swoon Trinkets and Doodads

HARDWARE STORE

ELLIOT ACE HARDWARE

FINALISTS

Ace Hardware-Lisbon Ave

Bliffert Hardware

Downer True Value Hardware

HEAD SHOP

KNUCKLEHEADS

CBD & VAPE

FINALISTS

Blue on Greenfield

Smokin' Glass Greenfield

TerraSol Dispensary

LIGHTING SHOWROOM

BBC LIGHTING

FINALISTS

Brass Light Gallery

LUCE Lighting and Design

MATTRESS STORE

BILTRITE FURNITURE & MATTRESS

FINALISTS

HassleLess Mattress

Verlo Mattress

MOTORCYCLE DEALERSHIP

HOUSE OF HARLEY-DAVIDSON

FINALISTS

Suburban Motors Harley-Davidson

Wisconsin Harley-Davidson

MUSICAL INSTRUMENT STORE

CREAM CITY MUSIC

FINALISTS

Brass Bell

Music Go Round

Wade's Guitar Shop

NEW RETAIL STORE (OPENED IN (2023)

BOHO LUXE BOUTIQUE

FINALISTS

Ebb & Flow

Game Together MKE

Rich Earth Resale

NOVELTY / VARIETY STORE

AMERICAN SCIENCE AND SURPLUS

FINALISTS

Altered State of Mind

Art Smart's Dart Mart

Fischberger's

Winkie's

RECORD STORE

RUSHMOR RECORDS FINALISTS

Irving Place Records

Lilliput

Volta Records

SHOE STORE

STAN'S FIT FOR YOUR FEET

FINALISTS

Rogan's Shoes

Shoo

TIRE STORE

MR. P'S TIRE

FINALISTS

Discount Tire

Manyo motors

Ray Tann

Riverside Automotive VAPE SHOP

KNUCKLEHEADS WELLNESS

FINALISTS

Blue Dream

Blue on Greenfield

TerraSol Dispensary

VINTAGE/THRIFT STORE BC MODERN

FINALISTS

Dupree's Vintage

Fifth-Main

Game Together MKE

Rich Earth Resale

Half Price Books

Lion's Tooth

BOUTIQUE CLOTHING BOHO LUXE BOUTIQUE FINALISTS

Fifth-Main

Omen SHOP

CAKE/SPECIALTY

SIMMA'S BAKERY FINALISTS

Aggie's Bakery

Batter & Mac Greige Patisserie

CARPET/FINE RUGS

STU'S FLOORING

FINALISTS

Carpets Galore, Grafton Hunts Flooring

Shabahang in Waukesha

CBD RETAIL SHOP

KNUCKLEHEADS WELLNESS

FINALISTS

Canni Hemp

Kelly's Greens

Kind Oasis

TerraSol Dispensary

CLOTHING - CHILDREN'S BLACKBEAR

CHILDREN'S BOUTIQUE FINALISTS

Creatively Yours

Lyss + Littles

CLOTHING - MEN'S HARLEY’S FINALISTS

NL Suits

Omen

Rich Earth Resale

CLOTHING - WOMEN'S BOHO LUXE BOUTIQUE FINALISTS

Fifth-Main

Omen

Rich Earth Resale

COMIC BOOK STORE

COLLECTOR'S EDGE FINALISTS

Lions Tooth

Lost World of Wonders

EYEWEAR

BE SPECTACLED

FINALISTS

414 Eyes Eyes On The Lake

Metro Eye

Milwaukee Eye Care

FASHION ACCESSORIES

BOHO LUXE BOUTIQUE

FINALISTS

Bandit

Fifth-Main

Omen

FINE JEWELRY STORE

A TRIO JEWELRY

FINALISTS

Cival Collective

Emily Klopstein Fine Jewelry

Tobin Jewelers

FLOORING (NON-CARPET)

STU'S FLOORING

FINALISTS

21st Century Tile

Carpets Galore, Grafton

Contemporary Carpet in Hales Corners

Floor Coverings International

Platinum Plus Flooring

FLORIST

414LORAL

FINALISTS

Belle Fiori

Flowers for Dreams

M&F Floral + Decor

FURNITURE - NEW

BILTRITE FURNITURE & MATTRESS

FINALISTS

Colder's Steinhafels

Stone House Collective

FURNITURE - RESTORED

BC MODERN

FINALISTS

BC Modern Rustic Rehabs

Spectre Vintage

GARDEN CENTER

STEIN'S GARDEN & HOME

FINALISTS

Bayside Garden Center

Minor's Garden Center

Plant Land

GIFT SHOP

POPPY & THYME

FINALISTS

Altered State of Mind

Angelic Roots

Swoon Trinkets and Doodads

HARDWARE STORE

ELLIOT ACE HARDWARE

FINALISTS

Ace Hardware-Lisbon Ave

Bliffert Hardware

Downer True Value Hardware

HEAD SHOP

KNUCKLEHEADS

CBD & VAPE

FINALISTS

Blue on Greenfield

Smokin' Glass Greenfield

TerraSol Dispensary

LIGHTING SHOWROOM

BBC LIGHTING

FINALISTS

Brass Light Gallery

LUCE Lighting and Design

MATTRESS STORE

BILTRITE FURNITURE & MATTRESS

FINALISTS

HassleLess Mattress

Verlo Mattress

MOTORCYCLE DEALERSHIP

HOUSE OF HARLEY-DAVIDSON

FINALISTS

Suburban Motors Harley-Davidson

Wisconsin Harley-Davidson

MUSICAL INSTRUMENT STORE

CREAM CITY MUSIC

FINALISTS

Brass Bell Music Go Round

Wade's Guitar Shop

NEW RETAIL STORE (OPENED IN (2023)

BOHO LUXE BOUTIQUE

FINALISTS

Ebb & Flow

Game Together MKE

Rich Earth Resale

NOVELTY / VARIETY STORE

AMERICAN SCIENCE AND SURPLUS

FINALISTS

Altered State of Mind

Art Smart's Dart Mart

Fischberger's Winkie's

PET RETAIL STORE

BARK N SCRATCH OUTPOST

FINALISTS

Mac's Pet Depot Barkery

Pet Supplies Plus

Skilos

RECORD STORE

RUSHMOR RECORDS

FINALISTS

Irving Place Records

Lilliput

Volta Records

SHOE STORE

STAN'S FIT FOR YOUR FEET

FINALISTS

Rogan's Shoes

Shoo

TIRE STORE

MR. P'S TIRE

FINALISTS

Discount Tire

Manyo motors

Ray Tann

Riverside Automotive

VAPE SHOP

KNUCKLEHEADS WELLNESS

FINALISTS

Blue Dream

Blue on Greenfield

TerraSol Dispensary

VINTAGE/THRIFT STORE

BC MODERN

FINALISTS

Dupree's Vintage

Fifth-Main

Game Together MKE

Rich Earth Resale

home improvement

ARCHITECT RINKA

FINALISTS

Jason Korb

KCB Buildings

Racinowski Design Studio

BASEMENT/REC ROOM REMODELER

LABONTE CONSTRUCTION

FINALISTS

JJB Home Improvements

Refined Renovations

BATHROOM REMODELER

LABONTE CONSTRUCTION

FINALISTS

JJB Home Improvement

KL Construction

Refined Renovations

CLOSET DESIGN

LABONTE CONSTRUCTION

FINALISTS

All About Organization

JJB Home Improvements

ELECTRICIAN

ROMAN ELECTRIC

FINALISTS

Best Electric

Current Electric

Spark Shark

Triple T Electric

GARAGE DOOR INSTALLATION/ REPAIR

GEIS BUILDING PRODUCTS & A1 GARAGE DOOR FINALISTS

Briggs Overhead Door

Keith & Sons Overhead Door

GUTTER INSTALLATION/REPAIR

WEATHERPRO EXTERIORS

FINALISTS

Allrite Home & Remodeling

East Side Roofing

Swift Roofing

HOME BUILDER

BIELINSKI HOMES

FINALISTS

Blue Harmony Homes

LaBonte Construction

Stepping Stone Homes

HOME REMODELING

LABONTE CONSTRUCTION

FINALISTS

Home Path Windows and Doors

JJB Home Improvements

KL Construction

Refined Renovations

HVAC

THIRD COAST

HEATING

AND COOLING

FINALISTS

Belle Heating

Donovan & Jorgensen

Roman Home Services

INTERIOR DESIGN

STONE HOUSE COLLECTIVE

FINALISTS

Anea Design Co.

JJB Home Improvements

LaBonte Construction

KITCHEN REMODELER

LABONTE CONSTRUCTION

FINALISTS

JJB Home Improvements

KL Construction

Refined Renovations

LANDSCAPER/LAWN MAINTENANCE

CREAM CITY

LANDSCAPING

FINALISTS

M C Green Services

Secret Garden

Taylor's Landscape Construction

PAINTER

PREMIER PAINTING

FINALISTS

Bill Weber

EZ Flooring & Painting

Weston Painting

PLUMBER

ROMAN HOME SERVICES

FINALISTS

Borth Wilson

Budiac Plumbing

Dr. Plumber

Milestone Plumbing

Rozga Plumbing

ROOFER

AMERICAN ROOFING FINALISTS

Allrite Home & Remodeling

Formula Home Improvements, Inc

Weather Tight

DRAG EVENT

DRAG BRUNCH

HAMBURGER MARY'S

FINALISTS

Bastille Days THIS IS IT! Drag Show

Drag Queen Bingo at Lakefront Brewery

Great Lakes Distillery Mullet Bingo

DRAG PERSONALITY

RUTHIE FINALISTS

Adam Furie

Ester Flonaze

Ramona the Drag Queen

LGBTQ ADVOCATE

COURAGE MKE FINALISTS

Ester Flonaze

Flour Girl & Flame

Michael Hupy

Ramona the Drag Queen

LGBTQ EVENT PRIDE FEST

FINALISTS

Courage MKE Gala

Lakefront Brewery Drag Queen Bingo

POP Pride

Pride Parade

LGBTQ-INCLUSIVE BUSINESS

FLOUR GIRL & FLAME

FINALISTS

JP Beauty Services

Lakefront Brewery

POP

Thrive Holistic Medicine

LGBTQ-OWNED BUSINESS

FLOUR GIRL & FLAME

FINALISTS

JP Beauty Services

POP

Zilli Hospitality Group

Medical

ALCOHOL & DRUG REHAB CENTER

ROGERS

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH

FINALISTS

A Right Path Wellness Recovery

Meta House

United Community Center

CANCER CENTER

FROEDTERT

CANCER CENTER

FINALISTS

Polly & Van Dyke Cancer Center

Ascension ProHealth Care

Reiman Cancer Center Rawson

Avenue

CARDIOLOGIST

DR ANTHONY DEFRANCO

FINALISTS

Brad R. Stair, MD, FACC

Dr. Thomas Mahn

James Roth

CHIROPRACTOR

CHIROPRACTIC COMPANY

FINALISTS

Ascent Chiropractic

ChiroWay Chiropractic

North Point Chiropractic

COSMETIC DENTIST

DR. STEPHANIE MURPHY

FINALISTS

Major Dental Clinics

Peter Wagner, DDS

COSMETIC SURGEON

DR MAIDA PARKINS

FINALISTS

Anand D Patel - Visage Facial

Plastic Surgery

Daniel Butz

Quintessa Plastic Surgery DENTIST

RIVERWALK DENTISTRY

FINALISTS

Joyce Family Dentistry

Major Dental Clinics

Stephanie Murphy DDS

DERMATOLOGY

DR JONATHAN BONCHAK

FINALISTS

Dr. Edit Olasz

Dr. Heather Wells

Dr. James Russell

EYE DOCTOR

METRO EYE

FINALISTS

414 Eyes

Dr. Vaugn Schneider

Milwaukee Eye Care

HOME MEDICAL CARE

HORIZON HOME CARE AND HOSPICE

FINALISTS

Comfort Keepers

Hearts To Home

Ralyn Homecare HOSPITAL

FROEDTERT HOSPITAL

FINALISTS

Ascension Columbia St Mary's Hospital Aurora-Grafton

St Luke's

LASIK SURGEON

MILWAUKEE EYE CARE

FINALISTS

Dr. Louis Probst

Dr. Ronald Allen

OB-GYN

MORELAND OB-GYN ASSOCIATES

FINALISTS

Jennifer Moralez

Jonathan Berkhoff

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST

FROEDTERT REHAB

DEPARTMENT

FINALISTS

Little Light Pediatric Therapies Medical Support Services

ORTHODONTIST

BUBON ORTHODONTICS

FINALISTS

Bell Orthodontic Solutions

Grafton Orthodontics

Orthodontic Experts

PEDIATRICIAN

DR. TIMOTHY RICHER

FINALISTS

Dr. Dahlman-Aurora

Dr. Jean Hoopfer

Dr. Kathrynn Fee

Dr. Laura Franck

Dr. Michael Flancher

Dr. Robert Brueggemann

PERIODONTIST

BURKE PERIODONTICS

PHYSICAL THERAPIST

ERIK HEINLEIN

FINALISTS

Freedom Physical Therapy Services

Cream City Physical therapy

Brittany Bergman @ Evolve Physical Therapy

PSYCHIATRIST / PSYCHOLOGIST

JACOB BEHRENS

FINALISTS

Kailagh O' Keefe Lewis

Dr. Carlyle Chan

SOUND THERAPY

ANGELIC ROOTS

FINALISTS

Parisa Yoga Shala

Ananda Healing Arts

Adagio Sound Healing

SPORTS MEDICINE

CHILDREN'S WISCONSIN

FINALISTS

MCW Sports Medicine Center

Aurora Sports Medicine - Grafton (Arik Tavs)

Breathe in Motion

TELEMEDICINE PROVIDER

CHILDREN'S WISCONSIN

FINALISTS

Thrive Holistic Medicine

A Right Path Wellness Recovery

CLARA Healing Institute

WOMEN'S MEDICAL SERVICES

PLANNED PARENTHOOD

FINALISTS

Thrive Holistic Medicine

Rejuvenate MKE

Jennifer Moralez

Real Estate

REAL ESTATE AGENCY MILWAUKEE

FLAT FEE HOMES

FINALISTS

Coldwell Banker

Level Up Real Estate Team (Keller Williams)

Mahler Sotheby's International

Realty

Root River Realty

Sheree Wegenke

Shorewest Realtors

REAL ESTATE AGENT/BROKER

COURTNEY STEFANIAK

FINALISTS

Kim Yencheske

Sheree Wegenke

Wendy Kaprelian

RENTAL PROPERTY

MANAGEMENT GROUP

REAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

FINALISTS

Harmoniq Residential

Home Path Property Management

Welcome Home Milwaukee SERVICES

RENDERED

ACCOUNTANT/TAX ADVISER

NELSON TAX ACCOUNTING

FINALISTS

Jaznelly’s Tax Service

KKCPA

Simply Balanced Accounting AESTHETICIAN

BLOOM SKIN SPA

FINALISTS

Elevate + Co.

EpidermiSpa

Solskin Wellness

ANIMAL WELFARE ORGANIZATION

MADACC MILWAUKEE AREA DOMESTIC ANIMAL CONTROL COMMISSION

FINALISTS

Almost Home Cat Rescue MKE

Happy Endings No Kill Cat

BARTENDING SERVICES OVER THE MOON BARTENDING

FINALISTS

Noble Catering & Events

Pour Inc.

The Crafted Tavern

BED AND BREAKFAST COUNTY CLARE

FINALISTS

Brumder Mansion

The Muse Gallery Guesthouse

BODY PIERCING STUDIO

AVANT-GARDE

BODY PIERCING

FINALISTS

Atomic Tattoos

Body Ritual

Kapow Ink

BOUTIQUE HOTEL

SAINT KATE – THE ARTS HOTEL

FINALISTS

Kinn Guesthouse

The Plaza Hotel

CARPET CLEANING GOLDSTAR

CLEANING SERVICES

FINALISTS

J&S Carpet Cleaning

Meyer Carpet Cleaning

TidyUp & Go, LLC

CATERER

BUNZEL'S

FINALISTS

Charcuter-Me

Flour Girl & Flame

Tall Guy and a Grill

Zilli Hospitality Group

COLLEGE / UNIVERSITY

UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSINMILWAUKEE

FINALISTS

Alverno College

Carroll University

Marquette University

Mount Mary University

CREDIT UNION

EDUCATORS CREDIT UNION

FINALISTS

Landmark Credit Union

Summit Credit Union

UW Credit Union

DOGGY DAY CARE/BOARDING

THE HOUNDS & TAP

FINALISTS

Bay View Bark

Central Bark Wauwatosa

Dog City Hotel & Spa

Off Leash MKE

The Doggy Office

ESTATE SALE COMPANY

CREAM CITY

ESTATE SALE

FINALISTS

Chanos Warehouse

Denali real estate

FINANCIAL INSTITUTION FOR GETTING A BUSINESS LOAN

EDUCATORS

CREDIT UNION

FINALISTS

BMO HARRIS BANK

Johnson Bank

Mariner Finance

Summit Credit Union

FINANCIAL INSTITUTION FOR GETTING A HOME MORTGAGE

EDUCATORS

CREDIT UNION

FINALISTS

Summit Credit Union

Wisconsin Mortgage Corporation

WaterStone Bank

FINANCIAL INSTITUTION FOR OPENING A CHECKING ACCOUNT

EDUCATORS CREDIT UNION

FINALISTS

Landmark Credit Union

Summit Credit Union

UW Credit Union

WaterStone Bank

FINANCIAL INSTITUTION

PROVIDING BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE

EDUCATORS CREDIT UNION

FINALISTS

Associated Bank

Summit Credit Union

UW Credit Union

Waterstone Bank

Wisconsin Mortgage Corporation

HAIR REMOVAL

BLOOM SKIN SPA

FINALISTS

Beauty Marked

Milan Laser Hair Removal

Quintessa Aesthetic Center

HAIR SALON - MEN'S

STAG BARBERSHOP

FINALISTS

Dapper & Co Barbershop

Groom for Men

Tailored Salon

HAIR SALON - WOMEN'S

JELLY SOSA'S HAIR

BAKERY

FINALISTS

Fever Salon

Julia's Hair Lounge

VitaBella Salon

HOME CLEANING SERVICE

GC CLEANING SERVICE

FINALISTS

Fresh Cleaning

Magnificent Mamas

TidyUp & Go, LLC

HOTEL ROOMS

THE PFISTER HOTEL

FINALISTS

Iron Horse

Saint Kate- The Arts Hotel

The Trade Hotel

IMMIGRATION SERVICES

SOBERALSKI

IMMIGRATION LAW

FINALISTS

Claire Longdin Law Firm

Immigration Medical Exams (Henry Rosler M.D.)

Sesini Law Group, S.C.

INSURANCE AGENCY

SHOREWEST

FINALISTS

Reilly Insurance Services

Sovereign Select

The Starr Group

INSURANCE AGENT / BROKER

BRIANNA THOMPSON

FINALISTS

Gramoll & Associates

Kurt Conrath

Melinda Gibas

JUNK REMOVAL

CAMO CREW

JUNK REMOVAL

FINALISTS

College Hunks Hauling Junk

Junk Shuttle

Two Men and a Junk Truck

LASHES

LASH DOLLS MILWAUKEE

FINALISTS

AmyEyesthetics LLC

JP Beauty Services

Kira Sonnen - Winx

Nail Studio Aesthetics

Solskin Wellness

Tokyo Rose's Lash and Beauty

LAW FIRM - BANKRUPTCY

DEBT ADVISORS

LAW OFFICES

FINALISTS

Miller & Miller Law

Richard A. Check

Watton Law Group

LAW FIRM - BUSINESS

HUSCH BLACKWELL LLP

FINALISTS

Affeldt Law Office

Fox, O'Neill & Shannon

Gimbel Reilly Guerin & Brown

Melnick & Melnick

LAW FIRM - CRIMINAL DEFENSE

KIM & LAVOY

FINALISTS

Fox, O'Neill & Shannon, S.C.

Gimbel Reilly Guerin & Brown, LLP

Mishlove and Stuckert, LLC

LAW FIRM - ESTATE PLANNING

VON BRIESEN & ROPER S.C.

FINALISTS

Fox, O'Neill & Shannon, S.C.

Law Offices of Carlson & Lunde

Niebler Pyzyk

LAW FIRM - FULL SERVICE

LEGAL AID SOCIETY OF MILWAUKEE

FINALISTS

Fox, O'Neill & Shannon

Gimbel Reilly Guerin & Brown

von Briesen & Roper, S.C.

LAW FIRM - SOCIALLY RESPONSIBLE

LEGAL AID SOCIETY OF MILWAUKEE

FINALISTS

Fox, O'Neill & Shannon

Gruber Law Office

Hupy and Abraham Melnick & Melnick

MOVING COMPANY

TWO MEN AND A TRUCK

FINALISTS

Badger Brother Moving

Bluemound Express

JL Moving Power Moves Relocation

NAIL SALON

L.U.X.E NAILS

MILWAUKEE

FINALISTS

Carrie's Cuteicles

Nail Bar Milwaukee

WELL Spa + Salon at The Pfister Hotel

Wildwood Nail Spa

PEST CONTROL

BATZNER

FINALISTS

Advanced Wildlife and Pest Control

Pest 2 Rest Pest Control

Premier Pest Solutions

PET GROOMING

COMMUNITY BARK - BAY VIEW

FINALISTS

Embark Pet Spa

Fancy Pants Pet Salon

Honeysuckle Hounds

Madra Pet Styling

Shed Shop Grooming

PET SERVICES

OFF LEASH MKE

FINALISTS

Almost Home Cat Rescue MKE

Camp Bow Wow

Fancy Pants Pet Salon

Tails N Trails

PHOTOGRAPHER

SARAH G PHOTOGRAPHY

FINALISTS

Dee Von Drasek Photography

Eric J. Ellis

Jamie Robarge Photography

PICTURE FRAMING GALLERY

SOUTH SHORE FRAMING

FINALISTS

Bresler Eitel Framing Gallery

Creative Enterprises

Manders Picture Framing Services

Sadler Gallery

SENIOR LIVING FACILITY

SAINT JOHN'S ON THE LAKE

FINALISTS

Clement Manor

Milwaukee Catholic Home

Three Pillars

TATTOO PARLOR

WALKER'S POINT

TATTOO COMPANY

FINALISTS

Kapow Ink Tattoo and Piercing

Low Rain

Str8 Klownin Ink

TRAVEL AGENCY

FOX WORLD TRAVEL

FINALISTS

Arens Travel Design

Elm Grove Travel

Hurlbut Travel

Island Getaways

Passports and Cappuccinos

VETERINARIAN

MILWAUKEE

VETERINARY CLINIC

FINALISTS

Bayshore Veterinary Clinic

Community Veterinary Clinic

Silver Spring Animal Wellness

Center

VIDEOGRAPHER

DENA ARONSON

FINALISTS

C*Lee Creations

Cinemabryce

Isaiah Joseph

WEALTH MANAGEMENT / FINANCIAL PLANNING

EDUCATORS CREDIT UNION

FINALISTS

Andrew Due - Educators

Investment Services

Annex Wealth Management

DBHW Wealth Management

Ellenbecker Investment Group

Summit Credit Union

WEDDING VENUE

THE PFISTER HOTEL

FINALISTS

Greenhouse No. 7

Story Hill Firehouse

The Cooperage

Sports and recreation

BOWLING ALLEY

LANDMARK LANES

FINALISTS

Bayview Bowl

Falcon Bowl

The New Fashioned

DANCE STUDIO

DANCEWORKS

FINALISTS

Academy of Performing Arts

Dynamite Dance Studio

Pole Factory MKE

ENDURANCE EVENT

RIVERWEST 24

FINALISTS

Leukemia & Lymphona Society

Scenic Shore Bike Tour

Milwaukee Lakefront Marathon

Sweet Home Milwaukee 5k

FAVORITE BREWERS PLAYER

CHRISTIAN YELICH

FINALISTS

Brice Turang

Jackson Chourio

Sal Frelick

Willy Adames

FAVORITE BUCKS PLAYER

GIANNIS

ANTETOKUMNPO

FINALISTS

Bobby Portis

Damian Lillard

Khris Middleton

FAVORITE PACKERS PLAYER

JORDAN LOVE

FINALISTS

Jaire Alexander

Josh Jacobs

Malik Willis

GOLF COURSE

WANAKI

FINALISTS

Kettle Hills

Naga Waukee

Oak Hills

The Bog Valley Green

Warnimont Golf Course

MINI GOLF COURSE

MOORLAND ROAD GOLF CENTER

FINALISTS

Big Putts

Holey Mackerel

Missing Links

Mulligan's Mini Golf

Nine Below

PADDLESPORTSRENT OR BUY

MILWAUKEE

KAYAK COMPANY

FINALISTS

Lakeshore Paddle Sport Rentals

Paddle Pewaukee

Paddle Tavern

REC SPORTS LEAGUE

BREWCITY BRUISERS

FINALISTS

Milwaukee Rugby Football Club

NorthSouth Club Shuffleboard League

Rock League Baseball

ROCK CLIMBING VENUE

ADVENTURE ROCK

FINALISTS

Turner Hall Climbing Gym

Romantic Dining in Milwaukee

BY SANDY REITMAN

It can sometimes be hard to find time in your schedule for just the two of you, but Milwaukee has no shortage of date night spots. From dive bars to fine dining, there are plenty of places to grab a bite with your significant other, but where do people go to find the romance around Milwaukee? Sala, Movida and Lake Park Bistro rank among our readers’ top spots for romantic dinners. They were finalists in our Shepherd Express Best of Milwaukee for 2024. And rightfully so!

Featuring Europe’s Mediterranean cuisines from Italy, Spain and France, each restaurant offers authentic, homestyle cooking that’s worth a night out on the town. This winter, set aside some time to get gussied up and taste the romance these Milwaukee restaurants serve. (And remember to make returning plans for each during patio season! Nothing says romance like dining al fresco on a gorgeous Milwaukee night, but we have a lot of time before then.)

3133 E. Newberry Blvd. (414) 962-6300 bartolottas.com/lake-park-bistro

The Bartolotta restaurants know how to do romantic dining, and Lake Park Bistro might be their most romantic. French food oozes with love for all things culinary chic—it can make eating snails and organ meat feel sexy. Lake Park Bistro sits atop the cliffs of Lake Shore Park, overlooking beautiful Lake Michigan. For decades, this place has gotten Milwaukee dressed up over white tablecloths to enjoy the very best of French cooking. Whether you’re enjoying your meal facing the lake, in the dining room, or up at the bar, you’re in for a dinner you won’t forget.

Offering one of the city’s most extensive (and expensive) wine lists, there’s a glass or a bottle to pair with every dish on the menu. While the menu has changed over the years, they continue offering French classics on Haute Bistro and A La Carte menus.

Whichever direction you take, you’re sure to taste the many flavors of France along the way.

If you ask anyone who goes to Lake Park Bistro, you’ll likely hear the same menu highlights: Soupe à l’Oignon, Oeuf Mollet avec Cèpes Champignons, Pâté de Campagne, Moules Marinières, Steak Frites du Lake Park Bistro, and Confit de Canard. It’s hard to choose a favorite when, ideally, you’d like a little taste of it all. Each dish is rich in flavor and beautifully plated for you and your lover to enjoy. And, of course, you must save room for dessert as their Crème Brûlée à la Vanille en Gousse is something from a storybook. Lake Park Bistro really is like taking a little bite out of France without leaving the area code.

Photo by GettyImages/Ertan Atalay.

Photo by Timothy Czerniakowski.

Spanish culture is romantic by nature, especially its cuisine. Located in Walker’s Point, Hotel Madrid’s dim lighting and trendy fair make you feel like you’ve been transported to a lively restaurant in the heart of Spain’s capital. Whether you’re sitting in the bar area, dining room, outdoor patio or the new addition, you can feel the energetic vibes of Movida throughout the space. Rather than your typical quiet dinner date, this experience gets everyone buzzing.

Tapas-style dining is a great way to enjoy a night out with your special someone, tasting different dishes and enjoying as many flavors as possible. Savor Spanish classics like Jamón Croquetas, Pan con Tomate and Patatas Bravas while sipping on homemade sangria and selected wines. Explore Spanish meats and cheeses before sharing Tostas and Paella. Sharing small plates keeps the conversation moving, the passion flowing, and the taste buds working. Finishing with Movida’s Churros con Chocolate is the perfect ending to a romantic night out with your partner.

Photo

Photo by Timothy Czerniakowski.

Located across from the UW-Milwaukee campus, Sala offers modern Sicilian dining in a cozy corner of Milwaukee’s East Side. Upon entering, you’re greeted with a welcoming wooden bar before being seated by the hostess. You and your date are nestled in an intimate corner where you can watch the excitement of the Italian restaurant.

Before glancing at the considerable dinner menu, an extensive wine list and premium cocktails are in order. Sicilian food is more of the “red sauce Italian” cuisine than other parts of the country, meaning you can’t go wrong with classic pasta with Sugo, Alfredo or Bolognese sauces. The Chicken Marsala and Beef Tenderloin are fan favorites if you want more protein than pasta. But it’s recommended to order a primi and secondi like two people would on a dinner date in Sicily. Portions are large, so sharing is ideal. And who better to share with than your all-time favorite dinner date? Most entrees come with salad, so getting dessert at the end is the perfect way to round out a complete Sicilian meal. The tiramisu is heavenly, but you can never go wrong with the cheesecake or cannoli.

You’re guaranteed to leave Sala filled to the brim with food and delight. It’s perfectly intimate without being too quiet and is authentically family-owned, with recipes passed down for generations for all of Milwaukee to enjoy.

Photo by Timothy Czerniakowski.

Photo

Will Playing Tug Make my Dog Aggressive?

There's been debate for years about playing tug with our doggos; it's common for folks to ask if the game will make their dog aggressive!

Though a lot of dogs growl and get animated during the game, the answer is a resounding no. In fact, playing tug can really help a lot of dogs! Like any form of play with our dogs, it can be a great relationship-and confidence-building activity ... especially if we keep some guidelines in mind.

1. Build structure into the game. The longer a game of tug, the more likely it is to get out of hand (no pun intended). Regularly interrupting and asking for a small behavior (Sit, Hand Target, Shake, etc.) can prevent your dog from getting too revved up and help them make good behavior choices!

2. Incorporate a drop it behavior into the game. Structure is easier when your dog can let the toy go—and it's another behavior that can work your dog’s brain during the game. If you’re wondering, it's ok to let your dog win, too! This can tell you that your dog wants more of the game when they push the toy back into your hands!

3. Teeth on hands immediately ends the game. A long tug toy can be helpful in avoiding this, but, if your dog gets overstimulated and they grab your hand, drop the toy immediately and, if needed, walk away for a bit; help them learn the fun ends when teeth touch skin. When you resume the game, help your dog stay more chill!

Try out these recommendations and see what a great game tug can be for you and your dog!

Jennifer Prill, CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA Owner, Lead Trainer & Behavior Consultant

414-207-8060

sidekick-dogtraining.com Monday-Saturday 10AM-8PM

Header photo by GettyImages/Iuliia Zavalishina. Pawprint background by GettyImages/Viktoriia.

Frankenstein Sings at Skylight Musical Theatre

BY DAVID LUHRSSEN

Skylight Music Theatre’s Frankenstein: The Musical will look nothing like director James Whale’s classic 1931 movie. “This is not about a big lumbering guy with bolts sticking out of his neck,” says Skylight’s artistic director, Michael Unger. Those who have always said that the book— Mary Shelley’s 1818 novel—was better than the movie should be pleased. “The production maintains Shelley’s sensibility,” Unger continues. “It speaks to the promise and perils of technology. Think about the potential of AI—it will do some wonderful things, and it will do some terrible damage.”

In Shelley’s Frankenstein, an idealistic scientist gains the power to create human life, but at peril to himself and society as well as the person he creates.

With book and lyrics by Jeffrey Jackson and music by Mark Baron, Frankenstein the Musical debuted off-Broadway in 2007 and has seldom been seen since. Skylight’s production will not only be its Milwaukee premiere but will also unveil a new script with new songs. There is no “monster” in the musical, just the Creature, a corpse reanimated by Dr. Victor Frankenstein.

“We will not disfigure the actor,” Unger says, in contrast to monstrous makeup worn by Boris Karloff in the Frankenstein film. “There will be some makeup, but the performance will depend on acting and body language” in a story Unger describes as a tragic father-son conflict between the Creature and his creator. “He’s not a monster but a damaged boy. He’s trying to find love” but receives only rejection from his “father” and society. “It’s about what happens when things get out of control—a good metaphor for many things in today’s society, told through a dark, intimate telling of a familiar story.”

CABOT THEATRE - SHOW VENUE

Show Artwork courtesy of Skylight Music Theatre. Cabot Theatre photo by Kaleigh Rae.

Unger calls the score “epic and intimate” compares the musical vibe of Frankenstein to such late-last century blockbusters as Miss Saigon or Les Mis, with a sonic few nods to the story’s 19th century setting. Although projections will be screened as backdrops as the production follows Shelley’s narrative from place to place, the technology will be kept deliberately low. “Theater fails when it tries to be film on stage,” he explains. “Frankenstein will celebrate what makes theater magical—what’s theatrical about theater.”

The musical’s authors will be in town for the production and the cast mixes national and local talent. Frankenstein: The Musical is the latest world premiere or debut revamping at Skylight under Unger’s leadership. “Milwaukee is putting its stamp on work that will go on and be seen in theaters throughout the country,” he says.

Frankenstein: The Musical will be performed February 21-March 9 at the Broadway Theater Center. For tickets and more information, visit skylightmusictheatre.org.

David Luhrssen is the author of Mamoulian: Life on Stage and Screen and other books on cultural history. He is also Managing Editor of the Shepherd Express.

This Month in Milwaukee 14 Things to Do in February

BY SOPHIA HAMDAN, TOM JENZ, DAVID LUHRSSEN AND BLAINE SCHULTZ

FEBRUARY 1

Arturo O'Farrill and The Afro Latin Jazz Ensemble

Sharon Lynne Wilson Center for the Arts

Afro-Latin jazz pianist, composer, and educator Arturo O'Farrill’s professional career began with the Carla Bley Band; it includes solo work and collaborations with artists including Dizzy Gillespie, Lester Bowie, Wynton Marsalis, and Harry Belafonte. O’Farrill’s “Afro-Latin Jazz Suite” from the album CUBA: The Conversation Continues won a Grammy as did his composition “Three Revolutions” from the album Familia-Tribute to Chico and Bebo.

FEBRUARY 5

Cactus Book Club:

The Mighty Red by Louise Erdrich t Cactus Club

The Mighty Red by Louise Erdrich is a “novel of tender humor, disturbance, and hallucinatory mourning. It is about on-the-job pains and immeasurable satisfactions, a turbulent landscape, and eating the native weeds growing in your backyard.” Cactus Book Club (CBC) meets on the first Wednesday of the month. Each month a different community organization, collective, mutual aid group, or business chooses the book and recommended bookseller then leads the discussion. Kinship Community Food Center leads the conversation on this one.

FEBRUARY 6-8

Goose

Miller High Life Theatre

Goose, a group in the lineage of Phish and The Grateful Dead, has been described as an “indie groove” band. “Frankly there are a lot of cheesy and not great jam bands that have existed over time,” guitarist Rick Mitarotonda said. “Obviously, we’ve strayed away from that for obvious reasons or tried to, at least. But, I mean, we are a jam band. We jam, and we improvise a lot.”

FEBRUARY 8

“Modern Medieval Voices - The Living Word: Music of Hildegard” Early Music Now/Cavalry

Presbyterian Church

The medieval German mystic Hildegard of Bingen led a remarkable career for a woman of her epoch as abbess, philosopher, medical practitioner and, most enduringly, composer. She wrote music and words, and some of her work will be performed by Modern Medieval Voices, a trio of women founded by Jacqueline Horner-Kwiatek, formerly of the pace-setting Anonymous 4.

FEBRUARY 9

A Doll’s House

Milwaukee Chamber Theatre

Henrik Ibsen was unafraid to stir controversy. The Norwegian playwright’s A Doll’s House (1879) concerned a housewife in a society where opportunities for women were severely limited. It was received with a “storm of outrage” by the era’s critics for questioning social norms and has survived to become one of the most performed works in the theatrical canon.

FEBRUARY 12-MARCH 9

The Children t Next Act Theatre

In British playwright Lucy Kirkwood’s The Children, the routine of retired couple Robin and Hazel is upset by the unexpected arrival of Rose, a former colleague. All three are scientists who once worked together at a nuclear power plant; a recent accident gives them pause to consider the results of their past. And then Rose offers “a looming disruptive proposal involving all of their futures,” says Marie Kohler, director of The Children’s upcoming Milwaukee run.

FEBRUARY 13

Kevn Kinney w/ Bobby Bare Jr. Shank Hall

Proving Thomas Wolfe wrong again, Kevn Kinney returns for a solo show. From his Starship days in Milwaukee with The Prosecutors to a swing at the big time with Drivin N Cryin, Kinney’s body of work balances the grit of punk with the intimacy of plainspoken folk tunes. At age eight Bobby Bare Jr. was nominated for a Grammy and over four decades later he was a member of Guided by Voices. In between he’s carved out a career performing solo, with Bare Jr. and Young Criminals Starvation League.

FEBRUARY 14-16

Acis & Galatea

Florentine Opera (Marcus Performing Arts Center)

The tirelessly prolific George Handel wrote some 40 operas throughout his border-crossing, musically eclectic career. With a libretto by John Gay (The Beggars Opera), Acis and Galatea’s English-language, myth-based tale began as a one-act entertainment and evolved within the composer’s lifetime—and afterward (Mozart wrote an arrangement).

FEBRUARY 14-23

Rusalka

Milwaukee Opera Theatre/Danceworks Performance MKE (Danceworks Studio Theatre)

Two years ago, MOT and Danceworks debuted its imaginative version of Antonín Dvořák’s Rusalka, an opera about a water nymph who comes to bad ends at the hands of humankind. It was, as MOT’s Artistic Director Jill Anna Ponasik quipped, the smallest production of Rusalka in the smallest space ever attempted. The opera is beloved in the composer’s Czech homeland but seldom performed in the U.S.

FEBRUARY 14-MAY 25

“Choices of Consequence: Denmark and the Holocaust” Jewish Museum Milwaukee

“In Denmark, where most of the population saw themselves as integrally linked to others through shared humanity, the Nazi perpetrated Holocaust largely failed as roughly 95% of Danish Jewry was saved by heroic grassroots decisions and actions,” says curator Molly Dubin. “In a time of distressing division, this exhibit holds up an extraordinary example and lesser-known story of allyship mobilized by ordinary people.”

FEBRUARY 22

Milwaukee Comic Con

Wisconsin State Fair Park

Milwaukee Comic Con returns Saturday, Feb. 22 from 10 a.m.—5 p.m. at the Wisconsin State Fair Park! Geek out over your favorite voice actors and artists, participate in the annual Cosplay Contest and shop from over 350 pop culture artists and vendors.

FEBRUARY 23

“The Sound of GospelAn Anthology Depicting the Rich History of Gospel Music” Pabst Theater

Celebrating Black History Month, “The Sound of Gospel” celebrates and honors Black History Month. Produced by playwright, producer, and director William Pierce of 2nd Chance Outreach; directed by Academy Award-nominated vocalist, actress, and playwright Jevetta Steele; with musical direction by the Grammy Award-winning Billy Steele –both of the renowned family The Steeles, “The Sound of Gospel” takes the audience on an expansive historical journey featuring work and freedom songs, ring shouts, Negro spirituals, choirs and quartets, up to today’s contemporary and urban gospel. Celebrating Black History Month, “The Sound of Gospel” celebrates and honors Black History Month. Produced by playwright, producer, and director William Pierce of 2nd Chance Outreach; directed by Academy Award-nominated vocalist, actress, and playwright Jevetta Steele; with musical direction by the Grammy Award-winning Billy Steele – both of the renowned family The Steeles, “The Sound of Gospel” takes the audience on an expansive historical journey featuring work and freedom songs, ring shouts, Negro spirituals, choirs and quartets, up to today’s contemporary and urban gospel.

THROUGH FEBRUARY 28

“Call & Response: Asmaa Walton and the Black Art Library” Lynden Sculpture Garden

Detroit native, Asmaa Walton came to Milwaukee to display a portion of her Black Art Library that includes over 900 books. “The Black Art Library is a collection of books and other art history ephemera on Black visual art,” she said. “It acts as an educational resource to share within the Black community and beyond. The library’s mission is to expand the knowledge of Black art from the past and the present through art books.”

FEBRUARY 27-MARCH 9

Terminus

Theatre Gigante (Kenilworth 508 Studio)

Co-artistic directors Mark Anderson and Isabelle Kralj describe Terminus as “A rip roaring crazy whirlwind of a ride told in verse—a dark tale written by one of Ireland’s contemporary darling playwrights,” Mark O’Rowe.

I never thought I’d be writing you, but here goes: I took a postponed vacation (due to Covid restrictions,) with my best friend. We had a fun time, saw incredible sites and met fantastic people. The last two days of the trip, my friend got Covid and had to isolate. Understandably, she became restless and crabby. On the last night, we got into a huge fight.

At home, we went our separate ways, but we still had not resolved our disagreement. Both our feelings were hurt.

Her therapist recommended that she not re-hash our experience. But I still had things to say. After a couple of weeks, we talked. I knew I had to apologize for losing my temper, but I expected a longer discussion about ways she hurt me. She sounded so fragile and distressed; I didn’t think it was the time to be totally honest with her. We ended the call amicably.

Now she’s doing great, and I’m left with resentment toward her, because I have a lot more to say, but never got the chance. I know our friendship has been upended. Should I try to talk with her, now that she’s feeling better?

You’re asking an important question and one that I still wrestle with. I think it comes down to this: how honest can we be in close friendships? I used to think that “talking it out” between friends would solve even the biggest problems, but over the years, I wonder if that’s true.

It’s very complicated, because we’re always evolving and trying to work on the conscious and unconscious wounds of our childhood. What’s important to us now, may not be in the future. We always need to be able to separate “our stuff” from “our friends’ stuff.”

Talking can solve some problems, but other times, it can make it worse. We have to make sure, that we’re not hanging on to resentment, because we want to win the argument. This happens often. If that’s the reason, let it go. That’s only your ego talking.

Dear Ally, Dear Walking On Eggshells, Ally Walking On Eggshells

If you choose the complete honesty route, plan for unforeseen consequences.

It’s a tricky business to speak your truth without hurting your friend’s feelings. You must ask yourself if it’s worth the risk?

My partner and I went on a trip with another couple. She was my college roommate and remained a close friend. Throughout the trip, she acted selfish, and it negatively affected our experience. I was completely honest with her, and it ended up in disaster. She sobbed, was hurt and now our relationship has changed dramatically. In retrospect, I judged her. I regret that. Would it have been smarter to notice that things weren’t going as planned, acknowledge that with her and let her know some things that could improve the trip? Yes, I think so. That way, I could have saved the relationship and feel satisfied knowing that we would not be good traveling partners in the future.

All close relationships are different. There is no one answer that will work for everyone.

Brene’ Brown makes the distinction between guilt and shame. Guilt is about your behavior, but shame is about your being.

Guilt is “I did something bad.” Shame is “I am bad.” Many of us, feel shame when we hear that we’ve hurt a good friend. “The only thing that shame can’t survive is empathy.”

Figure out if not sharing your feelings is a betrayal to yourself. If it is, express it gently with no anger or judgement. This could also be in a letter, not a text or email. Let your friend know how important the relationship is to you. If you decide not to share your feelings, let it go, and try to rebuild your friendship.

Time is a masterful healer. My advice to you is to wait for the anger and resentment to settle. Maybe after enough time has passed, your feedback will be more readily accepted.

I have full confidence that you’ll do what’s right for you. Good friends are a lot of work, but definitely worth it.

Here for you,

Send your questions to AskAlly@shepex.com.

WCan Romance Last Forever?

BY PHILIP CHARD

ith Valentine’s Day pending, Christina has an unusual take on what it means to have a successful romance.

“Everybody says that to be a good relationship it needs to pass the test of time,” she explained. “But I don’t buy it.”

A 40-something divorcee with a successful career, Christina has been in and out of several romantic liaisons, but despite their demise, she does not regard them as failures. What’s more, she rejects the idea that people like her are “afraid to commit.” “Just about everything in life is temporary, so why do we insist that, to be considered successful, a romantic relationship has to be permanent?” she challenged.

After her divorce, which amicably ended a decade-long marriage, Christina decided to stop approaching romantic commitments as long term, let alone “forever.” “I make it clear to the guy from the start that if he wants marriage or some other sort of soul mate thing, I’m not his kind of woman,” she continued.

“So, what is your definition of a successful romance?” I asked.

“One that works for both people until it no longer works for one or both of them,” she replied.

UPS AND DOWNS

As anyone who’s been in a long-term romance realizes, every pairing has its ups and downs. And more than a few couples have told me that the security afforded by marriage or an otherwise committed bond helped them stick with it through the low points until better times emerged. When I shared this viewpoint with Christina, she replied, “So the argument is that if I’d hung in there longer, maybe things would have rebounded, and that by moving on I deprived myself of what might have turned out to be a good thing.”

Her counter argument, of course, is that plenty of people in troubled liaisons hang in there for a long time only to discover that the relationship does not rebound, or sometimes even deteriorates further.

A lousy marriage or partnering can’t be defined as better simply because it persists for a long period of time. “I live more for the moment, or at least the near term, and you never know when life will show you the exit, so I’m not interested in putting my happiness on hold,” she argued.

Christina has enjoyed several romances that she describes as “wonderful,” and she doesn’t feel their eventual expiration detracted from that assessment. As she put it, “Do you consider a fun vacation a failure because it ends?”

“Your analogy is a bit off, but I get the point,” I told her.

“Probably, but this need to put the handcuffs on a romance shows how people don’t want to face the fact that we all keep changing and, sooner or later, everything in this life ends,” she insisted.

IN THE MOMENT?

Christina’s brand of fierce independence and her determination to live in the moment clearly represent a minority view. What’s more, couples who want to have children can make a compelling argument for why committing to a permanent bond is important, but absent that, the rationale for “till death do us part” is clearly weaker. As is the strength of marital commitments in general, which the divorce rate demonstrates.

Christina concluded by stating, “Permanence is a cultural expectation that doesn’t match up with reality. The fact is that many, if not most romances end, whether officially or just in people’s hearts.”

Another reminder that, regardless of our expectations, commitments and institutions, the heart has a will of its own.

Philip Chard is a psychotherapist and author with a focus on lasting behavior change, emotional healing and adaptation to health challenges. For more, visit philipchard.com.

SLEEPING WITH THE ENEMY?

Thank you, Milwaukee for naming me the city’s favorite drag personality at the Best of Milwaukee Awards! I couldn’t be more humbled or thrilled. It was truly an honor to be nominated alongside my gal-pal Ramona the Drag Queen—as well as Milverine, who won the other category I was nominated in, Favorite Local Character.

It was a great night of fun, friends, food, cocktails and more. If you missed the bash, be sure to pick up Shepherd Express all year to keep up with the city’s movers and shakers, hotties and hotspots, services and servants. For now, however, let’s check out an email from a reader who may be sleeping with an political enemy.

DEAR RUTHIE,

I’m dating a guy who I suspect is a Trumper. I can’t date a Trumper! What do I do? I find it extremely uncomfortable to ask him about his political preferences during this day and age. Is it ok to ask someone that?

I like him quite a bit but being a MAGA nut is a dealbreaker for me, so I guess maybe I’m just afraid to ask. Should I ignore this and just keep dating him?

FEELING FRUSTRATED, True Blue

DEAR BLUE,

Ask him! His political affiliation means a lot to you (and he means a lot to you), so clear the air and get on with things, honey.

While many couples with varying political views live in harmony, this topic has become a dealbreaker for some. Regardless of which side of the political coin you fall, having a partner with similar views is important to many these days.

Simply talk about it together. If you really like this man, you may find that it’s not the dealbreaker you thought it was.

XXOO

Ruthie

Have a question for Ruthie? Want to share an event with her? Contact Ruthie at dearruthie@shepex.com. Follow her on social media, too! Facebook: Dear Ruthie | Instagram: RuthieKeester | Twitter: @DearRuthie

Ruthie's Social Calendar

FEBRUARY 4

WISCONSIN LGBT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE OUT-AFTER-WORK SOCIAL AT PILOT PROJECT BREWING (1128 N. NINTH ST.): Are wedding bells in your future? Check out this “Love is Love” themed event where chamber members specializing in weddings and events demonstrate how they can make your big day extra special. Grab a drink, visit the vendors, and mix and mingle your way through the 5 p.m. social.

FEBRUARY 6

DRAG BINGO FOR OLYVER & CO. AT POP (124 W. NATIONAL AVE.): One of the city’s favorite dog rescues hosts a 7 p.m. night of fun at this Walker’s Point hot spot. I yank the balls, dish out prizes and more with special games of Juke Box Bingo and Gives Good Head Bingo.

FEBRUARY 16

WINTER LUXE BRUNCH AT AMILINDA (315 E. MILWAUKEE AVE.): The team at Her Lounge MKE hosts another special event for women looking for a safe yet indulgent space to be themselves. Enjoy a fun-filled brunch at noon or a “drink-and-chill” option that runs 2-5 p.m. Relish a fantastic experience with likeminded ladies when you nab your ticket at www.eventbrite.com.

FEBRUARY 22

PRIDE NIGHT FOR FRANKENSTEIN: THE MUSICAL AT SKYLIGHT MUSIC THEATRE (158 N. BROADWAY): Mary Shelley’s novel gets an update with this enchanting production that’s sure to have the city talking. Your Pride Night ticket gets you access to the pre-show party (hosted by yours truly)! We’ll sip a few cocktails before taking in this incredible show. Get your ticket at www.skylightmusictheatre.org.

FEBRUARY 25

OPENING NIGHT ROMEO AND JULIET AT WILSON THEATER AT VOGEL HALL (929 N. WATER ST.): The Marcus Performing Arts Center hosts this production for Milwaukee Repertory Theater while renovations are wrapping up at The Rep. Here, the Bard’s work is set among the Appalachian Hills and paired with great music for a memorable take on the classic tale. See www.milwaukeerep.com for tickets before the run closes March 30.

OPENING NIGHT THE BOOK OF MORMON AT MARCUS PERFORMING ARTS CENTER (929 N. WATER ST.): Considered one of the funniest musicals of our time, this hilarious, toe-tapping show rolls into Cream City for a glorious run loaded with LOL moments. See the show that’s had people talking for years when you order tickets via www.marcuscenter.org. Better hurry, though! The run ends March 2.

‘MOB DICK; or, The Whale’ is Present Music’s

Valentine’s Day Gift to Milwaukee

BY PAUL MASTERSON

Present Music’s 43rd concert series presents a rare Milwaukee screening. Moby Dick; or, The Whale, a silent film by trans visual artist Wu Tsang and Moved by Motion art collective, will be shown at the Oriental Theatre on Valentine’s Day, Friday, Feb. 14 at 8 p.m. This unique project includes an original musical score for 15 instruments performed Present Music’s core musicians under the direction of conductor Georgia Mills, conductor.

As part of our high school English curriculum most of us read, or at least pretended to have read, Hermann Melville’s 1851 novel Moby Dick. Back then, the assignment’s main purpose was to expose us to that great classic of American literature. No doubt the discussion at the time confined Melville’s message to the protagonist Captain Ahab’s obsessive pursuit of Moby Dick, a white sperm whale responsible for Ahab’s loss of his crew and his leg during a previous whale hunt. In that basic reading, it was a man against nature novel focusing on Ahab’s resolve and his disastrous end.

Interestingly, the novel’s subtext has not gone entirely unnoticed. Some years ago, one Texas school district banned Moby Dick because, according to a statement given at the time, “it conflicted with community values.” One can easily surmise what those values might have been given the fact that Hermann Melville was very likely gay himself.

DEEPER RETELLING

Wu Tsang’s more recent and mystically deeper retelling comes in the form of a silent feature length movie, replete with intertitles, soundscape and original music composed by Caroline Shaw and Andrew Yee with Asma Maroof. Released in 2022,

Tsang’s film dissects Melville’s novel in ways most of us were never allowed to, namely, as an exploration of queerness, maleness, 19th century imperialism, class, capitalism and ecology. Its queer overtones and gender fluid casting makes this work particularly timely. With occasional narration by poet Fred Molton, Tsang’s contemporary take elevates the novel’s characters, Ishmael (whose self-introduction “Call me Ishmael” opens the telling of the tale) and Queequeg, a seaman and one of the ship’s harpooners. Their intimate “foreign but familiar” relationship becomes a focal point and one of the film’s many metaphors.

Like the collaboration of the many arts organizations, actors, musicians, designers and producers that created Moby Dick; or, The Whale, the Milwaukee presentation was made possible by a confluence of artists, sponsors and diverse partnerships. Asked why Present Music decided to embark on such an undertaking, Artistic Director Eric Segnitz explained the organization’s long history of performing music with silent films like the original Nosferatu, The City without Jews and a more recent work, Philip Glass’ Beauty and the Beast

VISUAL ARTIST - WU TSANG

“We had worked with Caroline Shaw after she won the Pulitzer for Music in 2013. We noticed she had done the collaboration with Wu Tsang and the collective of artists. So, I looked into the score and realized it was something we could do,” Segnitz said. The result was a connection made with Tsang through her film production company and agent. Present Music then spent nine months working on the project as part of its current six concert series.

CONTEMPORARY MUSIC, CONTEMPORARY LIFE

Speaking to the queer nature of Tsang’s film, Segnitz continued, saying “We want our program to be inclusive of all the great works being produced. It is within the mission, and we have always been like that. Our job is to stay relevant. We seek out works to show how contemporary music fits into contemporary life.” He also mentioned David Bloom, Present Music’s former co-artistic director for five years and now artistic director of New York City’s Queer Urban Orchestra, who continues to consult Present Music and was instrumental in bringing Moby Dick to Milwaukee.

The film’s screening at the Oriental Theatre is a fortuitous occasion unto itself. “The film has been done around the world mostly in museum settings. The requirements are stringent regarding the screening and the Oriental had that critical mass. As a cultural partner, Milwaukee Film has been great in working with us,” Segnitz said.

Dubbed a Lavender Valentine’s Day event by Present Music Development Strategist Dan Petry, the screening also offers a nostalgic moment for Milwaukee’s LGBTQ community. Reminiscent of the opening gala of the Milwaukee LGBT Film/Video Festival traditionally held at the Oriental Theatre for much of the festival’s near 35-year history, Petry hopes to recreate the festival’s vibe, mentioning a post-screening reception and the opportunities for audience members to engage with the musicians after the performance. With details to be announced, some of the evening’s features will harken back to our community’s halcyon days. In fact, it

was through the efforts of festival director Carl Bogner that an upand-coming Wu Tsang first came to Milwaukee in 2013 to present one of her most significant films Wildness, a documentary about the Silver Platter, a Los Angeles Latino LGBTQ bar famous for its performance art parties.

Event updates and special rates for artist and student tickets, an “LGBTQPM” discount as well as a ticket and Plaza Hotel package, are available through https://www. presentmusic.org/events/event-fiver9frm

Paul Masterson is an LGBTQ activist and writer and has served on the boards of the Milwaukee Gay Arts Center, Milwaukee Pride, GAMMA and other organizations.

From the City That Always Sweeps

BY ART KUMBALEK

I’m Art Kumbalek and man oh manischewitz what a world, ain’a? So listen, No time to whip out a big honking monthly essay for you’s. I’m due soon at the Uptowner tavern/charm school for a meet-up with my gang so’s to make plans for our annual Presidents’ Day costume contest. But first, I’ll swing by my favorite open-24/7 G-Webb where a guy like me can get a jump-start on girding his loins in preparation for the day’s daily shit-storm to follow. Come along if you want, but you leave the tip. Let’s get going.

Bea: Hey there Artie. What’s your pleasure?

Art: How ’bout a nice hunk of the blackest, thickest and cheapest cup of whatever you’re calling plain-old American coffee today.

Bea: Can do, Artie. So what do you hear, what do you know. Any Valentine’s plans coming up?

Art: Heck no, Bea. I’ve been trained to stay away from what-they-call the relationships. Used to be, come the Valentine’s, I’d always give the gal the box of some kind of candy and a nice daffodil. But I guess maybe ’cause I always spent so much time in the dog-house, in return I’d get a new flea collar and a bath. Yeah yeah, I’m always reminded of the words of the great Greek philosopher Socrates from the olden days, when one day he had one of his famous dialogues with his students about the relationship between men and women. To hit the bull’s-eye with a point he wanted them to absorb, he asked of them a riddle, which was this: “What is the difference between a tornado, and an ex-wife?” Know the difference, Bea?

Bea: Lordy, I do not, Artie.

Art: None. They both get the house. Ba-ding! And that just goes to show you, Bea, that even thousands of years ago divorce was no cakewalk on the beach. But the difference is that in the day and age of the modern times, divorce is no more uncommon than the common cold. For crying out loud when I was a kid, the word “divorce” was so scary that whenever you heard it, the first thing you had to do was put on clean underwear.

Bea: Indeed.

Art: But to kids today, parents getting the divorce is no big deal. It’s just another routine ritual of growing up, like First Communion, eighth-grade graduation, the first time you got to call your pop from the police station. How ’bout you carve me out another cup of that coffee there would you, Bea?

Bea: My pleasure, Artie.

Art: Trust, Bea. Trust. That’s what makes a relationship work.

Bea: So I hear.

Art: Trust in your spouse as you would your doctor, Bea. But that’s easier said than done, like this couple I knew. The guy hadn’t been feeling A-OK, so the wife hauls him to the doctor’s. Doc examines the guy every which way and tells him he’s got a very serious condition that he needs to speak to his wife about in private.

Bea: Oh dear.

Art: Doctor says to the wife, “Your husband’s condition is so serious that he could die any day. However, there is a way you can save him. For six months, you must cook three extremely well-balanced meals a day for him, vigilantly keep the house spotless from dust, and energetically and creatively cohabit the connubial nighttime boudoir—spiked heels and fishnet stockings a plus. And madam, if you perform these three tasks, your husband will recover to lead a rich and full life.”

So the wife thanks the doctor and meets hubby in the waiting room. Natch’, he wants to know what the doctor said. She takes a deep breath, stares into his eyes and says, “The doctor said you’re going to die.”

Bea: Isn’t that something.

Art: To understand each other’s needs is a big deal to boot, Bea. Like the philosopher Henny Youngman said: “My wife and I have the secret to making a marriage last. Two times a week we go to a nice restaurant, a little wine, good food. She goes Tuesdays; I go Fridays.” Well, I got to run. Hope you have a very nice Valentine’s Day folie à deux. And let me remind you what the famous Greek Anonymous said about that: “The ideal relationship can only be achieved when one partner is blind, and the other is deaf,” Thanks for the coffee and for letting me bend your ear there, Bea—utiful. See you next time.

Bea: My pleasure, Artie. Always nice getting talked at by you. Take care.

(It’s off to the Uptowner. If I see you there, then you buy me one ’cause I’m Art Kumbalek and I told you so.)