our town 2025
Elkhorn continues to be a place to live, work and enjoy in harmony
The City of Elkhorn, located in the heart of Walworth County, is the place you’ll find FUN!
By CHRIS CLAPPER
Director
Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Center
The community’s event calendar continues to grow, and the excitement is mounting! 2025 kicks off with the Annual Spring Food Truck Festival on May 17. The festival features a block and a half of food trucks, live music, kid’s activities, a vendor craft fair, and specials at businesses located downtown.
Saturdays on the Square makes its way back to downtown Elkhorn for a 14-week season. This weekend market features a fresh market with seasonal items, crafters, wellness workouts, and local food stands gathering on the square, Saturdays starting May 24 and running until Aug. 30.
Antique enthusiasts from all over the Midwest will find treasures abound at the largest Antique Flea Market with more than 500 vendors filling the fairgrounds four times throughout the summer. Visit the Elkhorn Antique Flea Market May 18, June 29, Aug 10, and Sept 28.
Elkhorn Ribfest will celebrate its ninth year of good food, good music, and good times for five full days, which will run July 9-13. Admission and parking are free, and this year more than 100K visitors are expected to attend and taste the best BBQ in the nation. For more information visit wisconsinribfest.com.
Last year marked the addition of Neon Nights to the Walworth County Fairgrounds. This two-day country festival hosted Aug. 1 and 2 features a classic country line-up you don’t want to miss.
Natives and guests from all over will celebrate local agriculture, classic fair fare, and grandstand entertainment at the 176th Walworth County Fair, which will be held Aug. 27 through Sept. 1 with a theme of “As The Fair Turns.”
Elkhorn Oktoberfest continues to be a local favorite and will be celebrating its 20th year on Oct. 18. Visit the Oktoberfest Tent for a variety of German brews. Stroll through Veterans Park and shop over 100 crafters and vendors.
• CONTINUED ON PAGE 5
Among the many events the Elkhorn Area Chamber of Commerce makes happen each year is Oktoberfest. In addition to the numerous adult beverages, Veterans Park is full of vendors and there is a car show as well.
PHOTOS Our Town
GENERAL MANAGER: David Habrat
Elkhorn, Wisconsin
EDITOR IN CHIEF: Heather Ruenz
EDITOR: Jennifer Eisenbart
CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Heidi Schulz
ADVERTISING DIRECTOR: Vicki Vanderwerff
PAGE DESIGN: Jen DeGroot
FOR ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES: call (262) 763-2575 on the cover: A trick rider displays the American flag during a show at the Walworth County Fair.
DAVE DRESDOW Our Town
OUR SCHOOLS
ELKHORN AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
Administrative Service Center (1887 Building)
3 N. Jackson St. (262) 723-3160
District Superintendent Jason Tadlock (262) 723- 3160 ext. 1401
Directors of Instruction
Amy Gee, grades K-5 (262) 723-3160, ext. 1408
Sarah Bosch, grades 6-12 (262) 723-3160, ext. 1421
Director of Special Education Emily Lynd (262) 723-3160 ext. 1424
Business Manager William Trewyn (262) 723-3160 ext. 1406
BOARD OF EDUCATION
Julia Ingersoll, president julia.ingersoll@elkhorn.k12.wi.us
Kevin Gahart, treasurer kevin.gahart@elkhorn.k12.wi.us
The Elkhorn Area School District Board of Education meets the second and fourth Mondays of the month at 6 p.m. in the Susan Tully Leibsle Board Room at the 1887 Building. For more information about the district, visit elkhorn.k12.wi.us. ANTIQUE
May 18, June 29, Aug 10 & Sept 28
May 17, 2025
Ed Scaro, vice president ed.scaro@elkhorn.k12.wi.us
Adam Andre, Clerk Adam.andre@elkhorn.k12.wi.us
Kathy Kostock Kathy.kostock@elkhorn.k12.wi.us
Heather Recklies, deputy clerk Heather.recklies@elkhorn.k12.wi.us
Kyle Gorden Kyle.gorden@elkhorn.k12.wi.us
* Scaro and Gahart have terms expiring in April. Gahart has chosen not to run again, while Scaro will be challenged by Devin Gatton and Bridget Leahy Vaughn.
SCHOOLS
Elkhorn Area High School 482 E. Geneva St. (262) 723-4920
Ellen Blair-Stobber, ext. 1602
Elkhorn Area Middle School
Principal Ryan McBurney, ext. 1501
Associate principal
Jessica Rima, ext. 1507
Assistant principal Shannon Izquierdo
Jackson Elementary 3 N. Jackson St.
Principal Tammy Fisher (262) 723-1200
Tibbets Elementary W5218 County A Principal Bryan Frost (262) 742-2585
West Side Elementary 222 Sunset Drive
Principal Ben Kitslaar (262) 723-3297 ext. 1301
Options Virtual Charter School (262) 723-1696
Director Trisha Spende
Director of School-to-Work opportunities Chris Trottier trotch@elkhorn.k12.wi.us
PAROCHIAL
First Evangelical Lutheran School 415 S. Devendorf St. (262) 723-1091
Principal Michael Falk mrfalk@firstatthecross.com firstatthecross.com
SPECIAL EDUCATION
Lakeland School of Walworth County W3905 County NN (262) 741-4118
Director Matthew Huettl mhuettl@lakelandschool-walco. org
Principal Holly Smith tmchsmith@lakelandschoolwalco.org
May 24 - Aug 30, 2025
July 9 - 13, 2025
August 1-2, 2025
Aug 27 - Sept 1, 2025
October 18, 2025
Dec 5-7, 2025
SECONDARY EDUCATION
Gateway Technical College 400 County Road H (262) 741-8538
Terry Simmons, dean
We believe...
Our school district puts student needs above all else and focuses on improving student achievement to ensure all students are college and career-ready.
By JASON TADLOCK Elkhorn Area School District Administrator
This is exemplified by our phenomenal outcomes as we lead the state in industrybased certifications earned, college credits earned while in high school and work-based experiences. This would not be possible without the excellent educational programs and opportunities we provide from the elementary level on up.
When you join our school district, we will partner with you to develop the knowledge, skills, and dispositions your student needs to be successful in any path they choose. We look forward to working with your family!
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us at tadlja@ elkhorn.k12.wi.us or 262-723-3160.
• ELKHORN CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3
Walk the streets to find a variety of food, listen to live music, a classic car show, kids’ activities, and entertainment by community groups and local music talent. Grab your walking map which details downtown business specials and and explore Elkhorn.
The Christmas Card Town and its Christmas parade will mark the 44th year with families and friends lining the streets to see the floats, music, novelty acts, and, of course, Santa and Mrs. Claus on the first Saturday in December. You can also visit the Clauses the night before the parade at the Town Tree Lighting in the Square, Dec. 5, and at Let It Glow at the Uncle Hunk’s Junk building following the tree lighting. Let It Glow will celebrate Santa Dec. 5-7. Enjoy shopping at the North Pole Pop ‘N Shop and fun Christmas brews at the Tinsel Tavern, all located at the Uncle Hunk’s Junk building and park.
In the best effort to support one another, the Elkhorn Chamber will host the annual Community Christmas Meal on Christmas Day, Dec. 25, from 11 a.m. to noon, offering delivery and pick-up meals at the Elkhorn Area High School.
Elkhorn is fun and lively. We are also very serious about a strong business sector offering unique shops and quality restaurants for those who live here and for those who visit. Elkhorn
The Elkhorn Area High School boys soccer team – which finished as the WIAA Division 2 runnerup in November 2024 – was honored as the state tournament’s sportsmanship winner, and the team presented with the trophy and banner Jan. 31 at the high school. above: Members of the team celebrate. at left: Cody Kienbaum (left) and Lane Spear hold the new banner.
DAVE DRESDOW Our Town
not only supports services you’d expect in the county seat but also a thriving business and industrial park with company names many will be sure to recognize.
Visitors to the area quickly discover why our residents would not choose to live anywhere else. Elkhorn has outstanding livability coupled with a vibrant business community, excellent public and faith-based learning environments, and a post-secondary educational system for students of all ages. Residents have access to quality health care, a variety of housing options, and numerous places to worship together.
For our outdoor enthusiasts, Elkhorn has hiking and biking trails, area lakes for fishing and boating, two golf courses, and a nearby ski hill. Stop by Sunset Park and visit the local pool, band shell, and numerous playgrounds ready for exploring.
Our growing “small-town” community truly is a place to live, work, and enjoy in harmony.
For more information about the community and its events, please call the Elkhorn Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Center at 262-723-5788, visit us online at www.elkhorn chamber.com, on Facebook or drop by our office at 203 E. Walworth St.
We’ll be happy to help.
The Elkhorn Area High School boys soccer team brought an undefeated record into the WIAA Division 2 State Championship game and almost escaped unscathed. Cheerleader Takiyah Bolton gets ready to cheer on the team.
JENNIFER EISENBART Our Town
with other agents of respect and admiration, which makes purchasing a home that isn’t his listing a breeze. He has been, and will continue to be, our agent for years to come, for many reasons.”
“Jerry has been our agent for many years, and for a good reason. He knows the market, knows how sell your house and vet the best buyers, and he also goes above and beyond to find the perfect home for you. Jerry goes beyond that. He truly gets to know you as a person and he finds the home that you’re exactly looking for. He takes into consideration your passions, your profession, your family, your taste. He has a reputation with other agents of respect and admiration, which makes purchasing a home that isn’t his listing a breeze. He has been, and will continue to be, our agent for to come, for many reasons.”
I have been an area resident for 48 years, therefore I’m very familiar with each surrounding lake and small town community’s facts and activities. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF MY EXPERIENCE AND AREA EXPERTISE TO HELP YOU MAKE THE RIGHT REAL ESTATE DECISION.
I have been an area resident for 48 years, therefore I’m very familiar with each surrounding lake and small town community’s facts and activities. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF MY EXPERIENCE AND AREA EXPERTISE TO HELP YOU MAKE THE RIGHT REAL ESTATE DECISION.
TEXT, OR EMAIL ME AT:
102 N. Wisconsin Street, Elkhorn jerrykroupa@atproperties.com 262.949.3618
www.lakehomeswi.com
102 N. Wisconsin Street, Elkhorn jerrykroupa@atproperties.com 262.949.3618 www.lakehomeswi.com CALL, TEXT, OR EMAIL ME AT:
Adams adds to apprenticeship role in trades
Adams Power, a family owned and operated company in Elkhorn with more than 35 years of experience, is helping build the next generation of workers.
BY Jennifer Eisenbart EDITOR
Last summer, the company held a signing event for 13 local apprentices with Associated Builders and Contractors. Those 13 signed commitment contracts that day.
In attendance at the ceremony were the participants, their families, Adams team members, and local dignitaries.
“We are incredibly proud of these apprentices and their decision to take this step,” said Jesse Adams, president of Adams.
“This commitment not only represents a bright future for these individuals, but also strengthens the skilled workforce in our community. At Adams, we are dedicated to fostering local talent and supporting the next generation of tradespeople,” he added.
Gary Jensen, the recruiting and training manager at Adams Power, said that there is an “unprecedented number of licensed tradesmen and tradeswomen leaving the workforce every year.”
“If this trend continues without proper action, it could lead to a severe issue with managing projects from residential to commercial and industrial,” he added.
Jensen went on to say that recruitment to the trades professions has been slim in recent years.
The bright spot, though, is increased interest from the next generation.
“We have found that the interest is there at our high schools as well as young adults not far removed from high school,” Jensen explained.
“It’s amazing to see so many young men and women interested in the trades, and we (Adams) want to ensure this positive trend continues by staying involved in our community as well as participating in Youth Apprenticeship programs with our schools,” he said.
In July 2024, Adams inked 10 of those in person.
According to Jensen, this is the largest group Adams has had sign at one time.
“It displays our growth as an organization, as well as our commitment to our employees that we are willing to invest in them and their career,” he said.
Jensen said that typically, Adams only enrolls a few each year into an
apprenticeship, but this year there are many more.
“It’s an amazing opportunity, and as an organization, we are extremely grateful to have so many motivated young adults interested in this trade, and ready to commit the next four to five years to become licensed journeyman electricians,” Jensen said.
He explained that working with Associated Builders and Contractors allows the students to participate in a strong training program, and that Adams uses ABC for its plumbing apprentices as well.
Jensen was also quick to point out there are numerous organizations offering apprenticeships now.
“Our goal going into this project was not just simply offer apprenticeships, but to ensure we were offering the best possible opportunities for them,” he said. “It’s important that they not only receive the best on-the-job training, but also the education piece that runs parallel to their growth.
“At the end, they’ll have the practical knowledge combined with the institutional knowledge needed to be successful electricians,” Jensen added.
Adams Power recently held a signing evening for numerous new apprentices in the journeyman electric trade. Ten of them are shown attending in person to sign last July.
PHOTO
COURTESY ADAMS POWER Our Town
ELKHORN HOLIDAY CRAFT BASH ELKHORN ANTIQUE FLEA MARKET
Reader Precision Solutions breaks ground on new facility
Reader Precision Solutions in Elkhorn, the parent company to Precision Plus and Iseli Precision, officially broke ground on a new Wisconsin facility in 2024.
BY Jennifer Eisenbart EDITOR
The facility will handle the relocation and consolidation of both the Wisconsin headquarters and manufacturing operations. The new building will be roughly 110,000 square feet and remains in Elkhorn.
The new facility, located at 555 Koopman Ln., Elkhorn, will still be in the city’s industrial business park and house the latest in the company’s precision machining technology and equipment.
The groundbreaking took place Monday, June 3, and kicked off a comprehensive renovation process. The refurbishment of the existing warehouse facility will fully meet the manufacturing needs of the business and its operations.
Cost for the renovations is estimated at about $6 million, and hopes to transform the space into a “cutting edge manufacturing and innovation hub, where
the company’s award-winning culture of passionate manufacturing professionals can thrive and continue to push the boundaries of precision machining,” a news release stated.
“Today marks the beginning of the next chapter in our evolution,” said says Michael J. Reader, Owner and CEO of Reader Precision. Reader had mentioned the upcoming groundbreaking and move last month as the Precision Plus facility hosted a National Youth Apprenticeship Week event that welcomed Jennifer Sereno, the Assistant Deputy Secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development.
“This 110,000-square-foot building will provide ample space for our growth and help us solidify our position as an industry leader,” Reader said. “Together, we will implement a unified strategy under the Reader Precision Solutions name, streamlining our operations and enhancing our efficiency.”
Reader credited the dedication and talent of his team members and the Elkhorn community.
“We look forward to the day we can open our doors to showcase Southeast Wisconsin’s latest center for precision machining excellence,” he said.
The decision to relocate is a product of continued organic growth, coupled with the acquisition of Iseli’s operations in May of 2023. Reinvestment in this facility is consistent with the company’s longterm growth strategy and commitment to the community of Elkhorn.
The move will also aid in the streamlining of all operations to leverage synergies for its internal and external partners, including employees, clients, and educational and community partners. The acquisition and subsequent relocation embody the company’s dedication to building and continuing a strong legacy of Swiss machining excellence, innovation, and next generation workforce development in Southeast Wisconsin.
The final stages of the building were coming together in late January, with numerous pieces of new equipment being delivered.
Reader Precision Solutions held a groundbreaking ceremony for its planned new facility in Elkhorn in June 2024. Shown here from left are: Raymond Reader, Michael P. Reader, Philip Reader, Ryan Reader, Patricia Reader, and Michael J. Reader.
Elkhorn teacher earns Harbor Freight $50,000 prize
Walking into the gymnasium at Elkhorn Area High School in October of last year, teacher Austin Thorson was at a loss for words.
BY Jennifer Eisenbart EDITOR
Tears streaming down his face, with various media outlets recording his reaction, Thorson was treated to a pep rally in honor of earning a prestigious prize.
Named a finalist for the Harbor Freight Tools for School Prize for Teaching Excellence, Thorson found out at the pep rally that he was one of 20 winners of a $50,000 prize.
With Harbor Freight Tools for Schools – a philanthropic arm of The Smidt Foundation, started by Harbor Freight owner Eric Smidt – awarding $1.5 million to high school teachers across the country, Wisconsin fared well. Three finalists were named from the state, with Anthony
Christian of Arrowhead High School also earning a $50,000.
A tool box with a plaque stating Thorson’s name was also donated, and Thorson received an oversized check at the assembly.
There were five grand prize winners of $100,000 also named. A full list of winners can be found at hftforschools.org/prize-forteaching-excellence/2024-prize/#winners.
For Thorson, he had high hopes heading into the final round. He had been named a finalist before, but had yet to earn one of the prizes.
When he finally stepped to the microphone to talk to the assembled student body Oct. 8, he said simply, “I have nothing prepared for this.”
Thorson’s brother and parents, as well as his wife Haleigh – a teacher in the district at Jackson Elementary – were all in
attendance at the event.
“I was very surprised. My wife is apparently better at keeping a secret,” said Thorson, who added that his wife probably knew for a month.
He said at first, when he walked into the gymnasium, he was confused, because it was Homecoming week. However, the pep assembly for that is normally at the end of the week.
“Then I saw the Harbor Freight people and went, ‘Here we go,’” Thorson said. “At first, I was pretty shocked.
“I felt really accomplished,” he said. “I felt we finally reached the level where our program is being acknowledged for the great things we’re doing.
“I’m super proud of what we’re doing here,” he added.
Ashley Bennett, Harbor Freight Senior District Manager, and Mike Levin, Harbor
“Austin is a great example of the hard-working and caring staff at EASD. He goes above and beyond to make his program the best it can be, and he regularly brings added value and resources to the district. ”
– Jason
Tadlock,
EASD
Superintendent Freight Regional Manager, were also in attendance.
“This is our favorite day of the year,” they said.
Elkhorn’s technical education program has grown more robust over the years, with Thorson running the automotive department. Courses range from car
ownership basics to three different levels of auto classes. In the final level, students lead a service center, where they work on staff and student vehicles.
Having gone through the process four times now, Thorson said this year was special – in large part because of the students he is working with at EAHS.
“Their motivation to me has pushed me to put together a really great application this year,” he explained.
Thorson has shared a story many times about his middle school shop teacher in Appleton, who “took all my energy and found an outlet for it.”
That inspiration led Thorson to teaching trades, where he is constantly inspired by his students at Elkhorn.
Elkhorn Area School District Superintendent Jason Tadlock praised Thorson.
“Austin is a great example of the hard-working and caring staff at EASD,” Tadlock said. “He goes above and beyond to make his program the best it can be, and he regularly brings added value and resources to the district.”
“We are all about creating opportunities and possibilities for our students, and Austin
does that daily,” he added. “I cannot think of an automotive teacher more deserving of such an honor! We’re grateful and proud to have him as a member of our team.”
Thorson said he will go through the department’s equipment and update what is needed. He would also love to get a new lift or scan tool for the shop.
One of the things Thorson also would like to do is set up a mobile shop trailer where students can go to local elementary schools and Elkhorn Area Middle School, and speak as well as demonstrate trade education.
He also wants to expand the small engine classes.
“We’re really seeing a huge need,” Thorson said, adding that, right now, small engine work is included as part of a class, but not all of it.
“We’re just out of space,” he explained, saying that the funds would help grow the class for younger students.
He’s hopeful to reach out further into the community as well.
“I’m hoping to accomplish some of that with the funds that we won,” he said, adding that he’d like to do an extended Community Night. “I’m super stoked.”
opposite: Elkhorn Area High School automotive teacher Austin Thorson (front) is celebrated by the EAHS cheerleading team Oct. 8 of 2024 after winning a $50,000 prize from Harbor Freight Tools for Schools. above: Thorson shows off the $50,000 check, as well as the toolbox with his name now at the school.
JENNIFER EISENBART Our Town
Elkhorn Area High School, Career and College Academy, and Options Virtual School students took part last spring in The Great Give Back, formerly the Day of Action. Sponsored by the Nicholas D. Sergi Foundation, students spent the day volunteering around the community, performing various service projects. above: students and staff gather in the high school gymnasium before heading out.
Town
OUR CITY GOVERNMENT
CITY HALL
9 S. Broad St., Elkhorn (262) 723-2219 www.cityofelkhorn.org
Hours: 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday
ELECTED OFFICIALS
MAYOR
Tim Shiroda (262) 741-5117 tshiroda@cityofelkhorn.org
ALDERMEN
District 1
Peter Harvey (262) 743-2293 pharvey@cityofelkhorn.org
District 2
Gary Payson Jr. (262) 215-1989 gpayson@cityofelkhorn.org
District 3
Ronald Dunwiddie (262) 215-3107 rdunwiddie@cityofelkhorn.org
District 4
Scott McClory (262) 903-9811 smcclory@cityofelkhorn.org
District 5
Ken Meinel (262) 723-4425 kmeinel@cityofelkhorn.org
The City of Elkhorn Common Council meets the first and third Mondays of each month at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers of City Hall, 9 S. Broad St. The Plan Commission meets the first and third Thursday of the month as needed.
The Financial & Judicial Committee generally meets the second and fourth Mondays at 4:30 p.m.
The Municipal Services & Utilities Committee generally meets the second and fourth Mondays at 5:30 p.m. Other committees meet on an as needed basis. The meetings are open to the public.
For more information, visit cityofelkhorn.org.
District 6
Kurt Harkness (920) 723-1441
Municipal Judge
Lori Domino (262) 723-2340
CITY STAFF
CITY ADMINISTRATOR
Adam Swann (262) 723-2219 aswann@cityofelkhorn.org
CITY CLERK
Rebeca Perez (262) 723-2219 cityclerk@cityofelkhorn.org
CITY FINANCE DIRECTOR
Corrie Daly (262) 723-2219 cdaly@cityofelkhorn.org
POLICE CHIEF
Joel Christensen 100 W. Walworth St. (262) 723-2210 info@elkhornpd.org
CITY ENGINEER
Mike Timmers (262) 767-2747 mtimmers@kapurinc.com
CITY TREASURER
Christopher Sprigler (262) 723-2219 cspringler@cityofelkhorn.org
CITY ASSESSOR
Accurate Appraisal LLC
Addie Ebert (800) 770-3927 info@accurateassessor.com
FIRE CHIEF
Trent Eichmann (262) 723-2277 teichmann@cityofelkhorn.org
AMBULANCE CLERK
Annie Ransome (262) 723-5080 elkhornems@cityofelkhorn.org
RECREATION DIRECTOR
Karl Sorvick (262) 741-5114 (Rec. center) elkhornparkdir@cityofelkhorn.org
LIBRARY DIRECTOR
Chad Robinson (262) 723-2678 crobinson@elkhorn.lib.wi.us
PUBLIC WORKS
Matthew Lindstrom Operations Manager (262) 723-2223 mlindstrom@cityofelkhorn.org
UTILITIES
Dawn Gall
Utility Field Office Coordinator (262) 723-3138 dgall@cityofelkhorn.org
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Building inspector
Jared Stawicki (262) 741-5115 binspector@cityofelkhorn.org
Zoning administrator
Allison Schwark zoning@cityofelkhorn.org (262) 741-5124
DAVE DRESDOW Our
Elkhorn’s Techs of Tomorrow
High school auto students claim second place at elite competition at Milwaukee auto show
BY Kellen Olshefski CORRESPONDENT
Two Elkhorn Area High School students represented both the school district and the automotive program well, claiming second place in the 2024 Technicians of Tomorrow competition at the Milwaukee Auto Show last year.
District Administrator Jason Tadlock said in a press release that the school had four students apply for the elite automotive competition for the first time this year.
Put on by ADAMM, the Automobile Dealers Association of Metro Milwaukee, Technicians of Tomorrow pits the top high school automotive technology students against one another in a written and handson skills competition, with the best of the
best high school students competing for prizes such as tools and technical college scholarships.
Elkhorn Area High School Automotive and Technical Education Teacher Austin Thorson said ADAMM invites schools from southeastern Wisconsin to register students for a written qualifying exam each year, with more than 100 students from the region completing a rigorous exam based on ASE (The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence) standards.
Of the four Elkhorn students who completed that qualifying exam, two advanced to the in-person competition in Milwaukee: Alyssa Aday and Sylas Ohlen.
Aday and Ohlen belonged to one of only eight schools selected from the 14
that applied, with Aday also being the only young woman to compete in the event.
Ultimately, the pair’s efforts were rewarded handsomely in Milwaukee, with Aday and Ohlen claiming second place in the competition and bringing home a trophy, scholarships worth $2,000 each, and tools and equipment for both themselves and the school worth a combined total of more than $6,000.
“Alyssa and Sylas went above and beyond,” Tadlock said. “They received multiple compliments from judges and other dealer sponsors of their professionalism and commitment to the program.”
Finding this level of success was
SUBMITTED PHOTO Our Town • CONTINUED ON PAGE 17
(from left) Kunes Auto Group’s Mike LoCascio, EAHS student Alyssa Aday, Kunes Auto Group’s Justin Hoffman, EAHS student Sylas Ohlen, and EAHS Automotive and Technical Education Teacher Austin Thorson gather to celebrate the team’s second-place finish at the 2024 Technicians of Tomorrow competition. Throughout their preparation for the event, Aday and Ohlen were mentored by Kunes Auto Group staff.
• TECHS OF TOMORROW
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15
certainly no easy feat however, according to Thorson, who noted that the competition itself consisted of a 90-minute round centered on a 2024 Subaru Outback in which students had to diagnose and repair a faulty vehicle. Aday and Ohlen also had to complete eight ASE-based work stations focusing on electrical, engine construction, differential and drivetrain, job interview, brakes, tire balancing, engine measurement, and air conditioning.
But, as with many things in life, preparation is key, something which Thorson said the pair were incredibly dedicated to in the months leading up to the event.
Continuing to work in the classroom during the day, Thorson said Ohlen and Aday would stay after school on Thursdays to work with him in the shop to prepare for the competition, spend a lot of their own free time studying and completing ASE practice tests, and meet with Kunes mentors every Tuesday to train under their techs, where they would focus a lot on electrical, air conditioning, and drivetrain work.
In addition, Thorson said the students even went as far as attending another competition at UTI Technical College in Lisle, Illinois, where Ohlen and Aday took second place again, narrowly missing first by a single point.
“This shows that Alyssa and Sylas are incredibly dedicated and professional students who rise to any challenge put in front of them,” Thorson said.
“They both have great talent and do very well playing on each other’s strengths and working as a team.”
Thorson also said he thinks their success speaks highly of the rigors of Elkhorn’s automotive program and the impressive drive of its students.
“We focus on a student-lead system, where students are held to high standards, and we work to prepare them for a future in an automotive career, providing them with a vast range of opportunities to find the niche and explore their passion,” he said.
Of course, a big part of the success for the students and the school is also thanks to personal sponsors Kunes and Wilde Subaru or the judges for the competition Griffin Waukesha Ford, all of whom Thorson said none of this would have been possible without, with Wilde Subaru providing the vehicle for practice and use during the competition.
As for Kunes, Thorson said John O’Brien and Justin Hoffman provided incredible training and support, with Hoffman meeting with the competitors weekly after work to provide additional training and O’Brien helping the school get set up with the competition.
“We are so tremendously grateful to the
EAHS Automotive and Technical Education Teacher Austin Thorson, EAHS student Sylas Ohlen and EAHS student Alyssa Aday take a moment to show off their winnings, which included not only a trophy but scholarships and more than $6,000 worth of tools for the students and the school. Perhaps more importantly, the competition has since opened up the opportunity for continued cooperation between the school’s automotive program and the sponsoring dealerships, as well as opportunities for both of the competing students.
SUBMITTED PHOTO Our Town
role they played in our success,” he said.
And as for those judges at Griffin Waukesha Ford, Thorson said they were so impressed by Ohlen and Aday that they’ve been in touch since, working to donate additional resources to Elkhorn’s program. Likewise, both Kunes and Griffin have offered to donate vehicles, offered both competitors jobs in the
dealerships, and have made offers to set up future student apprenticeships and visits to continue the program’s relationship with them long into the future.
“The support we have seen from these dealerships is unmatched and will be the key to continuing to offer high caliber automotive courses in Elkhorn,” Thorson said.
Dealer knowledgeable about boats, area lakes
The Boat House crew wants people to choose best vessel for
For The Boat House in Lauderdale Lakes, there are certain creeds that the company lives by.
BY Jennifer Eisenbart EDITOR
Mainly, the staff wants to sell you a boat that isn’t only what you want, but is proper for the lake you’ll be taking it on.
“They can expect to get very good customer service and knowledgeable representation of which boat would work best for their families and lake,” said sales manager Travis Quass. “We’re not going to put a 30-foot boat out (on Lauderdale Lakes). It doesn’t belong out there.
“Before they even buy (a boat), we demo them on the lake,” he added. “They take it for a test drive on the water.”
The question of what boats belong on which lakes has been being raised more often lately, particularly with the rise in popularity of wake-enhanced boats – which are boats that make any kind of water recreation with waves more fun.
Concerns about shoreline erosion and lake quality have brought attention to these boats, and local organizations – whether it be municipal boards, lake improvement associations, or special interest groups –have been challenged in an effort to try and determine what is best for area lakes.
That includes the Lauderdale Lakes system, which has Green, Middle, and Mill lakes, plus Don Jean Bay at the bottom of the lake chain.
Quass said the only lake in the chain that really appropriate for wake boats is Green Lake – the largest in the Lauderdale chain.
“The main usable part of the lake is a very strong, recreational water sports lake,” he explained.
In general, Quass and general manager Joe Bishoff said the Lauderdale Lakes chain is popular because it’s a clear, spring-fed lake and offers a number of different areas for people to enjoy.
The majority of those people, they said, are committed to keeping the lake at high quality, which means keeping an eye on all issues, including what wake boats may or may not do to each of the lakes.
Bishoff, Quass, or owners Jesse Gaengel and Kevin Code, they said, sit in on the meetings of various groups that are in charge of the lakes. Bishoff thought that, between in all, they had been in attendance at 6-8 meetings in the last year.
The Lauderdale Lakes Management District has also been putting out a seasonal newsletter, which The Boat House is helping share as well. The Lauderdale Lakes Improvement Association is also involved.
The Boat House has also produced an educational video that covers numerous
them and where they will use it
important topics.
Among the tips for area boaters are the following:
• The minimum distance for wakeboarding and wake surfing are 200 feet from the shoreline to minimize environmental impact.
• When wake surfing or wake boarding, operate the boat at a minimum depth of 20 feet.
• Stay a minimum of 100 feet away from occupied, anchored boats, personal watercraft, rafts, swimmers, and swimming areas.
• Disengage fins and empty ballasts when not surfing.
The ballasts are a part of what make wake boats what they are. A ballast that’s filled weighs the boat further down in the water, and the surf systems aboard the boat can
above: While wake-enhanced boats are growing more popular and concerns about them are increasing, The Boat House General Manager Joe Bishoff (left) and Sales Manager Travis Quass say they are committed to providing not only the best boats to their customers but the best boats for the lakes they will be used on. at left: This shows the underside of a wake-enhanced boat, which has a propeller under the vessel for, amongst other things, enhanced safety.
JENNIFER EISENBART Our Town
shape the surf wake as well as directing water to the left or right, depending on preferences.
Quass also noted another important thing.
“People who are using (wake boats) in shallow water aren’t using them the way they’ve been directed to use them,” he explalined. “It’s not going to create a wake.”
Both Quass and Bishoff said that there are numerous opinions right now on regulating wake boats – to the point where many groups are waiting for direction.
In the meantime, the crew at The Boat House hopes to fill that gap with education.
“The biggest thing with the whole wake surf issue is education,” Quass said, adding that shoreline erosion can happen from wake, but it can also be caused by wind, rain, and ice.
The Boat House is at N7536 Sterlingworth Dr., Elkhorn, and can be reached by calling 262-742-3898.
The store is closed Sunday and Monday, but open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.
The annual Walworth County Fair takes place over the Labor Day weekend in Elkhorn, with 2024 marking the 175th fair. Thousands of entries from animal to vegetable dot the schedule, as do musical acts and competitions. There are also sales, a plethora of food options, and a carnival for both kids and adults alike. above: Two separate areas are set up for carnival rides, with youngsters enjoying a kiddie’s rollercoaster. top: Labor Day’s demolition derby proves to be a sold-out affair, as cars took to the grandstand to destroy one another. above right: Lakeland Animal Shelter is always on the grounds the entire fair, showing off animals available for adoption, including these two litter mates. at right: Children get a chance to participate in a number of different eating contests, including pickles and cupcakes (shown here).
DAVE DRESDOW Our Town
TOM GANSER Our Town
JENNIFER EISENBART Our Town
While visitors to the fair get to go home and sleep in their beds, fair exhibitors often catch naps wherever and whenever possible.
from
Raising money for various organizations, Kunes hosted a par of dunk tanks at the 175th Walworth County Fair. Among the battles was one between Elkhorn Area High School Athletic Director John Handel and Delavan-Darien High School Activities Director Kyle Polzin. from top: A youngster pushes the button to dunk Handel; Elkhorn Area High School Community Engagement Coordinator Jon Anzalone takes aim at the target; Polzin drip dries after taking a dip.
DAVE DRESDOW Our Town
top: For the first time, camel rides were available on the fairgrounds last year; The Prehistoric Dinosaur Adventure show made its way to the fair last year. Here, the show is advertised as the dino makes his way around the grounds.
JENNIFER EISENBART Our Town
TOM GANSER Our Town
Making their mark around the county County fair honors outstanding seniors
The 175th Walworth County Fair kicked off at the Peggy’s Park Stage with the presentation of State of Wisconsin citations honoring the service of four outstanding senior citizens for decades to their communities.
BY Tom Ganser CORRESPONDENT
The senior citizens honored included Andy Pearce from Walworth, Larry Malsch from Delavan, Rick Bottlemy from Delavan, and Ruth Pfeiffer from Elkhorn.
The opening ceremony also included a singing of the national anthem led by students from Elkhorn Area High School, a tribute to Peggy Fraser – the longtime fairgrounds staff member who passed away earlier in 2024 – and awards for outstanding vendors, exhibitors, and friends of the fair.
In his opening remarks to the presentation of citations to the senior citizens, State Sen. Steve Nass said it was an honor to recognize the volunteer efforts of others.
Best Burgers In Town!
“The citations that we give out are allowed under our rules. We can’t just give willy-nilly give citations to whomever we want,” he said. “They have to have earned it, and these people have certainly earned it.”
Nass presented the citation for Andy Pearce, who was unable to attend the ceremony, to his son, Dan Pearce. Nass stated, “Andy ensures that Walworth County is a better place to live, to work, and to go to school.”
A member of the Big Foot Lions Club for 36 years, Andy has been responsible for organizing and managing the annual Lobster Boil that is the main fund-raising event for the club where “100% of the money goes back into the community and state.”
According to John Tucker, President of the Big Foot Lions Club, the Lobster Boil on the last Saturday in July, is an event known across the nation.
“We have people from Florida, St. Louis, and California who plan their vacation to this area and time it to coincide with the Lobster Boil,” Tucker said. “The atmosphere that his event produces is nothing short of magical.”
Andy recalled later, “I got involved right away when I joined the community and just never looked back.”
Regarding his membership in the Big Foot Lions Club, he said, “One of the most rewarding things that we do is being able to
screen the children in the grade schools, and when we do that there will be probably 80 kids out of 600 kids that we refer to get eyeglasses, otherwise they might not know they need eyeglasses.”
Nass also presented the state citation to Malsch in recognition of “his many years of countless hours as a volunteer, and in other positions of service and value to the community.”
Nass said that Malsch began his service to others by serving our country in the United States Navy as a Navy corpsman –who provides emergency, preventative, and routine medical care to Navy personnel – and continuing as an officer in the Delavan Police Departing rising to the rank of Police Chief.
Malsch has served on the Delavan city and town boards and on both the city and town’s fire and police department boards, “ensuring the safety of his community.”
Nass noted, as an active member of American Legion Post 95 serving in roles as Commander and Adjutant, Malsch “demonstrated his belief in serving those who served our county.”
Malsch attributed his drive to serve the community in part to his grandfather, who served on a volunteer fire department for more than 50 years.
“We’re sitting there eating supper and the whistle goes off and he goes,” Malsch said. “We’ll be doing a birthday party or something like that, and the whistle goes off and he goes. I just learned that you do things like that.”
He also pointed to Harry Larsen, Delavan Chief of Police, for instilling in him the importance of serving the community: “He was my guide and my inspiration and my model.”
Rounding out his contributions to the legal system, Malsch has served as a jail bailiff in the Walworth County Circuit Court for 16 years whose role is the maintenance of order in the courtroom.
Wisconsin State Representative Nik Rettinger presented Bottlemy with his Outstanding Senior Citizen award.
Rettinger cited that as an active member and director of the Walworth County Farm Bureau, Bottlemy “has served an extensive amount of volunteer hours, giving freely of his time to the Elkhorn Ribfest and at the Walworth County Fair ice cream stand and Dairy Breakfast.”
Bottlemy is a devoted supporter of the Walworth County Historical Society, and a long-time Big Foot High School FFA alum for more than 50 years and the Walworth County FFA.
Rettinger said that Bottlemy “serves his brothers and sisters in agriculture throughout his career at implements and other farm related jobs for many farmers throughout Walworth County.”
Wisconsin State Representative Ellen Schutt presented the 2024 Outstanding Senior Citizen Award to Pfeiffer, noting having known her “from exhibiting in the
above: State Sen. Steve Nass (center) leads the honoring of the Walworth County Outstanding Seniors at the Walworth County Fair last summer. Nass was one of a handful of state legislators on hand to recognize the seniors who have made strong contributions to the community. top: Nass hands an award to Larry Malsch, one of the honorees.
TOM GANSER Our Town
open class horticulture building. She is a wonderful volunteer, always helping in the flower department. Ruth is the person who always answers the call, selflessly offering her time and efforts to assist her community in any way she can.”
“Ruth has proudly served as a volunteer with the Walworth County Senior Nutrition Program for over 17 years,” Schutt said, “demonstrating unwavering commitment to the well-being of others.”
In addition, as an active member of the
Senior Travel Club, Pfeiffer has “further enriched the live of her peers” and she has “generously volunteered with the Walworth County Farm Bureau, contributing her time and energy to community events such as Elkhorn Ribfest, the Walworth County Dairy Breakfast, and the Ice Cream Stand.”
In a simple but powerful summary of Pfeiffer’s contributions to her community, Schutt said, “Ruth is a dedicated servant, and genuinely cares about family, friends, and community.”
OUR COUNTY GOVERNMENT
COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
The Walworth County Board of Supervisors meets the second Tuesday of the month at 3:30 p.m. in the County Board Room of the Walworth County Government Center, 100 W. Walworth St., Elkhorn. Meeting dates and times may vary therefore, it’s advised to contact the County Clerk’s Office at (262) 741-4241 to confirm meetings. For more information about county government, visit co.walworth.wi.us
WALWORTH COUNTY GOVERNMENT CENTER
100 W. Walworth St. Elkhorn
County Administrator
Mark Luberda (262) 741-4357 mluberda@ co.walworth.wi.us
County Clerk Susi Pike (262) 741-4241
Deputy County Clerk Susi Pike
County Treasurer
Valerie Etzel (262) 741-4251 treasurer@co.walworth.wi.us
Child Support Services Supervisor
Robyn Schuchardt (262) 741-7100
Property Listing
Susan Finster (262) 741-4255
Register of Deeds (262) 741-4233
Finance Department Director
Jessica Conley (262) 741-4242 walcofn@co.walworth.wi.us
Human Resources
Kate Bishop Director (262) 741-7950 walcohr@co.walworth.wi.us
County Surveyor
Rob Merry (262) 574-6721, ext. 289 rmerry@sewrpc.org
UW-Extension (262) 741-4951
walworth.extension.wisc.edu
JUDICIAL BUILDING
1800 County Trunk NN Elkhorn
Clerk of Circuit Court (262) 741-7012
District Attorney Zeke Wiedenfeld (262) 741-7198 walworthda@da.wi.gov
Walworth County Circuit Court Judges Branch I Hon. Estee Scholtz Branch II
Hon. Daniel S. Johnson Branch III
Hon. Kristine E. Drettwan Branch IV
Hon. David M. Reddy
Family Court Commissioner Hon. Kelly Iselin
Circuit Court Commissioner Hon. Peter Navis
Clerk of Circuit Court
Michele Jacobs (262) 741-7012
Treatment Court Coordinator
Sheri Skomski (262) 741-3247
LAW ENFORCEMENT CENTER
1770 County NN P.O. Box 1004
Elkhorn
Sheriff Dave Gerber
Undersheriff Tom Hausner (262) 741-4400
MEDICAL EXAMINER
1770 County Rd. NN (262) 741-4729
Medical Examiner Gina Carver
Chief Deputy M.E.
HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES
1910 County Rd. NN Elkhorn (262) 741-3200
walcohhs@co.walworth.wi.us
Director Carlo Nevicosi
Deputy Director Trista Piccola
Public Health Officer Erica Bergstrom
AGING & DISABILITY RESOURCE CENTER
1910 County Rd. NN Elkhorn (262) 741-3400 walcoadrc@co.walworth.wi.us
CHILDREN & FAMILY SERVICES DIVISION (262) 741-3200 walcohhs@co.walworth.wi.us
DIVISION OF PUBLIC HEALTH (262) 741-3200 walcoph@co.walworth.wi.us
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
Director Jackie Giller (262) 741-7800
LAKELAND HEALTH CARE CENTER
1922 County Rd. NN Elkhorn (262) 741-3600
Nursing Home Administrator Denise Johnson
LAKELAND SCHOOL
W3905 County Rd. NN (262) 741-4118 Director, Special Education Matthew Huettl mhuettl@co.walworth.wi.us
LAND USE & RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
100 W. Walworth St. #222 Elkhorn (262) 741-4972 Director, Deputy Corporation Counsel Michael Cotter mcotter@co.walworth.wi.us Deputy Director, County Conservationist Mandy Bonneville mbonneville@co.walworth. wi.us
Administrative Assistant Sheril Oldenburg soldenburg@co.walworth.wi.us
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
W4097 County Rd. NN Elkhorn (262) 741-3114
Director Richard Hough rhough@co.walworth.wi.us
County Engineer
Joe Kroll (262) 741-3441
jkroll@co.walworth.wi.us
Finance Manager
Penny Bishop (262) 741-3105 pbishop@co.walworth.wi.us
Facilities & Parks Foreman
Brent Brooks (262) 741-3103 bbrooks@co.walworth.wi.us
Deputy County Highway Commissioner
Barry Pierce (262) 741-3799 bpierce@co.walworth.wi.us
Superintendents
Highway (county) Dale Poggensee (262) 741-3152 dpoggensee@col.walworth.wi.us Highway (state) David Woodhouse (262) 741-3112 dwoodhouse@co.walworth. wi.us
Highway (support) Mike Lois (262) 741-3131 mlois@co.walworth.wi.us
Senior project managers
Steve Nichols (262) 741-3442 snichols@co.walworth.wi.us
Deputy Director – Asset Management
Vijay Narayanan (262) 741-3768 DPWGeneral@co. walworth.wi.us
VETERAN’S SERVICES
1910 County Rd. NN Elkhorn (262) 741-4222
Veterans Service Specialists John Scholtz Gavin Reshkus veterans@co.walworth.wi.us
VOLUNTEER SERVICES
Karin Texidor Coordinator (262) 741-4223 ktexidor@co.walworth.wi.us
The Kids from Wisconsin performance troupe has been making a yearly stop in Elkhorn for many years, now serving as a fundraiser for the Elkhorn Fine Arts Booster Club. This last summer, two performers – AJ Murphy of Burlington and Morgan Strimple of Waterford – had this as their hometown show. clockwise from top left: Murphy leads the “Divas” in the boy bands vs. the Divas in the song “New Attitude”; Strimple solos with the song “Hit Me With Your Best Shot,” as a member of the band adds to the performance; Strimple sings with the ensemble in the closing the show with a Michael Jackson medley; Murphy joins the ensemble in the opening number; Murphy (right) sings with Emily Zeller, performing Gloria Estefan’s song, “Reach.”
JENNIFER EISENBART Our Town
for
Their
is added to enhance the flavor of the
top: A hungry crowd gathers at
each
The event has continued to grow each year and now runs five days, drawing competitors from a wide area along with people of all ages for live music, an artisan village, and of course, plenty of food and drink options.
COURTESY OF DONNA RICE Our Town
ALL THINGS BARBEQUE Ribfest returns
When Wisconsin Ribfest was first started in Elkhorn back in 2015, Walworth County Fairgrounds
BY Jennifer Eisenbart EDITOR
Executive Director Larry Gaffey was hoping for 2,500 people his first year.
“We had 25,000,” said Gaffey, whose brainchild is set for Ribfest version number nine.
The numbers have continued to grow each year, and Ribfest traditionally draws more than 100,000 people. Judging by social media responses so far, Gaffey added, “we expect this to be the biggest attended Ribfest ever.”
Admission to the event is free, as is parking, with a wide variety of vendors on hand to sell top-notch barbecued ribs and a large variety of sides.
Soda, water, and alcohol will be on sale in the main tent, and there will also be entertainment in the form of music, a carnival, and the artisan vendor alley.
The 2025 version of Ribfest is scheduled for July 9 through 13.
Stay tuned for more information about bands and rib providers.
The Walworth County Fairgrounds are located at 411 E. Court St., Elkhorn.
Keeping up with the times
Crafters and commercial vendors are always a part of the artisan village at Ribfest, as well as other food providers.
But Ribfest focuses on what it does best – food and music.
“Ribfest is pretty good on its own,” Gaffey said. “We focus first thing on the food, and second, on the music.
“If those two things come together, it’s going to be fun times,” he added.
After a tornado warning during Ribfest in 2023 – and numerous other warnings last summer – patrons should be aware of emergency procedures for the grounds.
above: Slabs of ribs are placed on the grill
a final browning at the Desperados stand at a previous Ribfest.
special sauce
ribs.
Ribfest in Elkhorn
July.
In case of a storm or tornado warning, people can be evacuated to one of three area schools: Elkhorn Area High School, Elkhorn Area Middle School, and Jackson Elementary.
If there is lightning close by, the grounds can be evacuated as well.
How it works – and pro tips
There will be numerous different vendors – barbecue and non-food alike – coming, as well as 13 professional barbecue champions cooking their ribs.
Numerous past winners do return to the event. Included among those are the 2024 best sauce winner – Aussom Aussie, who also happens to be the 2019 Grand Champion.
The 2024 Grand Champion was Git-RSmoked, which also won best ribs and was second place in sauce.
Other past winners who are regulars include MM&E BBQ, Mr. Green’s, and Just North of Memphis BBQ.
There are two judged divisions – the pro division, which sells to the public, and the backyard division, which does not. The backyard division will be contest between 25 area amateur BBQ entries.
Then there’s the professional
competitors, who are being judged by the public for People’s Choice, as well as by a hand-picked panel schooled by the Kansas City Barbecue Society, a citizens panel, and a kids panel.
Judging takes place Sunday, with prizes to the winners and a grand champion crowned.
One of the new competitors in 2024 was Carolina Rib King, whose owner is nicknamed “King Solomon.” The company is known for winning competitions across the country.
“It brings Carolina-style ribs to Wisconsin Ribfest for the first time,” Gaffey said.
If people are just coming for the food, Gaffey said Saturday is the busiest day of the festival, and he recommended coming on one of the other four days.
“Every day is great,” Gaffey added. He added that if people are coming for the atmosphere and the music, “then Saturday’s the best day.”
A few other pro tips from Gaffey:
• If people want a guaranteed place to sit, bring a lawn chair. Seating is limited and large crowds are always expected.
• Beer and alcoholic beverages like White Claw are sold card only.
• No carry-ins or pets are allowed, unless it is a service animal.
Entertainment value
In addition to the food, there will be bands playing throughout the event. Headliners were not available this early in the year.
For a full list of musical acts at the festival, go to wisconsinribfest.com.
Ribfest Bike Show
The annual Ribrun also takes place during the festival. It is a free-to-enter, open bike show where you ride and park in the festival grounds until full. Arrive any time between 3-6 p.m. for judging.
Awards will be given in the following categories: Best Bagger, Best Bobber, Best Chopper, Best Cruiser, Best Freestyle, and Best Vintage. All winners are chosen by those attending the festival.
Category winners receive $200 and a trophy, while the grand champion will receive $350 and a trophy.
For more information and details on entertainment, go to wisconsinribfest.com.
top left: The music group 7th Heaven performed at Ribfest in 2024. at left: A grill at RibFest shows plenty of meat ready for the approximately 100,000 visitors expected. above: The carnival and midway is a popular part of Ribfest each year.
OUR SERVICE CLUBS & OTHER ORGANIZATIONS
At the hub of any great city are the service clubs and organizations that host fun events and worthy fundraisers, or offer support to those in need, positively impacting the people of the greater community. Here are some of those located in the area:
AMERICAN LEGION POST 45
Meetings are held the second Monday of every month at the Walworth County Veterans Museum. Commander Mark Gajewski, (719) 238-6653.
BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS
1545 Hobbs Dr., Delavan. Info: (262) 728-8865 or visit bbb4kids.org.
CYCLING WITHOUT AGE
Cycling Without Age aims to bring joy and vitality to non-driving, older adults and those with differing abilities via a trishaw - a three-wheel, pedal-assist cargo bike.
The Dementia Friendly Community Initiative of Walworth County (see below) is bringing the program to the area. Two bikes have already been purchased, but there are ongoing fundraising efforts for additional bikes and maintenance, as well as training sessions for volunteers to pilot the bikes.
For more information about or to help with the Cycling Without Age program, visit dfcwalworth.org, send an email to dfcwalworth@gmail.com or call 262-3207325.
OUR CHURCHES
BAPTIST
Emmanuel Baptist Church 920 Highway H, Elkhorn (262) 723-4387 www.ebcelkhorn.com
CATHOLIC
St. Patrick Parish 107 W. Walworth St., Elkhorn (262) 723-5565 www.stpatrickselkhorn.org
CHURCH OF CHRIST
Church of Christ
100 W. Court St., Elkhorn (262) 723-5079
CONGREGATIONAL
First Congregational United Church of Christ 76 S. Wisconsin St., Elkhorn (262) 723-3246 www.elkhornucc.org
DEMENTIA FRIENDLY COMMUNITY INITIATIVE
The Dementia Friendly Community Initiative of Walworth County is a non-profit group of volunteers that aims to insure all county businesses, faith communities, organizations, and service providers are equipped to serve individuals affected by Alzheimer’s/dementia.
The group meets at 8:30 a.m., the second Thursday of the even months (Feb., April, June, etc.) at Health & Human Services, 1910 County Rd NN, Elkhorn in the Kettle Moraine Trail Room on the first floor.
For more information call 262-3207325, follow the group on Facebook, email dfcwalworth@gmail.com or visit dfcwalworth.org.
ELKHORN AREA WOMEN’S CLUB
A fellowship-oriented club since 1926 with a main goal of raising money for local charities and college scholarships. Info: Elkhorn Area Women’s Club on Facebook or call Donna Felland at (262) 312-0838.
ELKHORN ARTS FOUNDATION
Mission to support, develop and promote all arts as an essential and integral part of the revitalization and growth for Elkhorn and surrounding communities. Info: elkhornartsfoundation.com.
ELKHORN FOOD PANTRY
14 W. Geneva St., Open Monday, Wednesday and Friday 9 to 11 a.m. Info: (262) 723-6359.
EPISCOPAL
St. John in the Wilderness Church 13 S. Church St., Elkhorn (262) 723-4229
Email: info@stjohnepiscopal.org
EVANGELICAL FREE
Briggs Road Evangelical Free Church 4654 Briggs Rd., Elkhorn (262) 728-8925
Email: dottie.briggsrdefc@gmail. com
Southern Lakes Evangelical Free Church
N6686 Highway 12, Elkhorn (262) 742-2366 www.slefc.org
ELKHORN FUND
The Elkhorn Fund is a group of volunteers working together for Elkhorn’s present and future by raising money and investing it in an endowment fund. Each year, they award grants to nonprofits in the community. Info: (608) 758-0883 or cfsw. org.
ELKHORN KIWANIS
The Elkhorn Kiwanis Club meets the second and fourth Monday of each month at noon at Associated Bank, 10 N. Lincoln St., Elkhorn. Information: P.O. Box 553, Elkhorn, WI. Call (262) 728-3711 or visit elkhornkiwanis.org.
ELKHORN LIONS
The Elkhorn Lions Club meets the third Wednesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at different locations in Elkhorn (see the calendar online for meeting locations.) Info: e-clubhouse.org, click on “Other e-Clubhouses” on the left, and then select Elkhorn Lions Club, Wisconsin from the list, email toelkhornlions@gmail.com, or like and follow Elkhorn Lions Club, Elkhorn, WI on Facebook.
ELKHORN PENGUINS SWIM TEAM
A youth recreational swim team. Info: visit elkhornpenguins.com, email elkhornpenguins@gmail.com or like and follow Elkhorn Penguins on Facebook.
• CONTINUED ON PAGE 36
LUTHERAN
First Evangelical Lutheran Church 415 Devendorf St., Elkhorn (262) 723-4191 www.firstatthecross.com
St. John’s Lutheran Church 104 S. Broad St., Elkhorn (262) 723-2901 www.stjohnselkhorn.com
Sugar Creek Lutheran Church N5690 Cobblestone Rd. Elkhorn (262) 728-2222 www.sugarcreeklutheran.com
NON-DENOMINATIONAL
Millard Community Covenant Church N6713 County O, Elkhorn (262) 742-3457 www.millardchurch.com
UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST
Unitarian Universalist Church of the Lakes 319 N. Broad St., Elkhorn (262) 723-7440 www.uuchurchofthelakes.org
UNITED METHODIST
Bethel United Methodist Church W5110 Highway A, Elkhorn (262) 742-3507 Email: bethelumc@elknet.net
First United Methodist Church 111 N. Broad St., Elkhorn (262) 723-2629 www.elkhornfumc.com
WORD OF FAITH
Christian Life Church 4521 County F, Delavan (262) 728-1463 www.clcdelavan.org
ELKHORN ROTARY
P.O. Box 915, Elkhorn. The Rotary Club of Elkhorn meets Wednesdays at noon in the Community Room in the Matheson Memorial Library, 101 N. Wisconsin St. Info: (414) 333-1261, Elkhorn Rotary Club on Facebook or elkhornrotary.org.
ELHKORN SNO DRIFTERS INC.
A non-profit club that promotes the sport of snowmobiling for the general public and installs and maintains a section of the Walworth County snowmobile trail. Info: (262) 215-0926 or email elkhornsnodrifters@gmail.com.
ELKHORN VFW MEMORIAL POST 6375
16 S. Broad St. Meetings are the second and fourth Monday of the month at 7:30 p.m. Info: (262) 723-4979.
FRIENDS OF THE WHITE RIVER STATE TRAIL
White River State Trail bicycle club; note that there is a trailhead in Elkhorn. Info: follow Friends of The White River State Trail on Facebook.
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY IN WALWORTH COUNTY
P.O. Box 174, Lake Geneva, WI 53147. Info: (262) 949-0542 (please leave a message), visit habitatwalworth.org, or like and follow Habitat for Humanity in Walworth County on Facebook.
HOPE NOW, INC.
107 W. Walworth St., Elkhorn. A nonprofit organization that raises charitable funds to help local families in need. Info: call (262) 723-4711 or like and follow HOPE NOW, Inc. on Facebook.
KETTLE MORAINE LAND TRUST
Contact Rory Klick, managing director at rory@kmlandtrust.org or Liza Fischel, administrative coordinator at liza@ knlandtrust.org, by calling (262) 379-4283, or by visiting kmlandtrust.org.
KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS
St. Patrick’s, 107 W. Walworth St., Elkhorn. Info: (262) 723-4998, stpatrickselkhorn.org.
LAKELAND ANIMAL SHELTER
3615 Highway 67, Delavan, P.O. Box 1000, Elkhorn. Open Monday-Friday from noon-6 p.m. and Saturday from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Info: (262) 723-1000, lakelandanimalshelter.org.
LAKELAND AUDUBON SOCIETY
Meets September through March (excluding December) at 7 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday of each month at the Lions Fieldhouse, Highway 67 and Stark St., Williams Bay. Info: (262) 248-4535 or lakelandaudubon.com.
LAKELAND PLAYERS
15 W. Walworth St., P.O. Box 234. Providing enjoyable entertainment, a creative home and volunteer opportunities. Info: follow Lakeland Players on Facebook, call (262) 728-5578 or visit lakeland-players.org
NEW BEGINNINGS APFV
20 N. Church St., Elkhorn. Support and advocacy for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and sexual abuse. Key goals include awareness, education, support groups, and prevention. Info: 24-hour helpline at (262) 723-4653, email newbeginningswalworth@gmail.com, or visit newbeginningswalworth.com.
OPEN ARMS FREE CLINIC
205 E. Commerce Ct. (Dental Clinic, 209 E. Commerce Ct.), Elkhorn. One hundred percent supported by grants and donations, Open Arms is the only free medical and supportive care clinic in Walworth County serving low-income and uninsured residents with primary medical, dental, vision, behavioral health, lab, and pharmaceutical assistance. Hours vary with volunteer providers availability but are generally 9 a.m. to 4 or 5 p.m., Monday through Thursday. Info: (262) 379-1401, openarmsfreeclinic.org.
PREGNANCY HELPLINE WALWORTH COUNTY
28 S. Wisconsin St., Elkhorn. Open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Wednesdays from 3 to 5:30 p.m. 24-hour helpline at (800) 712-4357. Info: (262) 723-2020, phlwalworthco.org.
S.M.I.L.E.S.
N2666 Highway K, Darien. Helping to improve the lives of those living with disabilities through a partnership with horses. Info: (262) 882-3470, smilestherapeuticriding.org.
SOUTHERN WAKES UNITED WATER SKI SHOW TEAM
P.O. Box 434, Whitewater. The team is a merger of the Lauderdale Aqua Skiers and Whitewater Lake Sports Club (Minneiska.) A non-profit water skiing organization that performs on lakes in the area in addition to tournaments. Info: southernwakesunited. com.
TREE HOUSE CHILD AND FAMILY CENTER
W4063 Highway NN, Elkhorn. The nonprofit organization advocates for children and their families who are the victims of abuse and neglect through community outreach. The alliance’s Tree House provides a safe place for abused children and their families to turn to for help. Info: (262) 755-8733 or visit treehouseforkids.net.
UNITED WAY OF WALWORTH COUNTY
203 E. Walworth St., Elkhorn. Info: (262) 374-4474, uw-wc.org.
UW-EXTENSION
The University of Wisconsin-Extension teaches, learns, leads and serves while connecting people with the university and engaging them in transforming lives. A variety of programs and resources are available from horticulture to health, families and finance to nutrition education. Info: (262) 741-4961, walworth.extension. wisc.edu.
VIP SERVICES, INC.
811 E. Geneva St., Elkhorn. Info: (262) 723-4043, vipservices-inc.org.
WALWORTH COUNTY CIVIL AIR PATROL
401 E. Fair Ave., Elkhorn. Info: (414) 5882053, gocivilairpatrol.com.
WALWORTH COUNTY BOYS & GIRLS CLUB
Providing a safe supervised, educational and fun environment for children and teens. Info: (262) 745-2153 or bgcwalco.org.
WALWORTH COUNTY FARM BUREAU
President: Terry Papcke. 119 S. Broad St. Info: (262) 723-2613, www.wfbf.com.
WALWORTH COUNTY FOOD PANTRY & DIAPER BANK
205 E. Commerce Ct., Elkhorn. Hours are Fridays, 1 to 4 p.m. and Saturdays, 9 to 11 a.m. Info: (262) 723-4488 or walworthcountyfoodpantry.org.
WALWORTH COUNTY GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY
President, Karen Weston. P.O. Box 159, Delavan 53115. Meets the first Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at the community center at Matheson Memorial Library. The society’s library in the Mary Bray Room at Matheson Memorial Library, 101 N. Wisconsin St., Elkhorn, is open and staffed from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesdays (until 7 p.m. on the third Tuesday) of each month. Info: walworthcgs.com or (262) 723-9150
WALWORTH COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY
9 E. Rockwell St., P.O. Box 273, Elkhorn. Facilities include the Civil War era Webster House Museum, Doris M. Reinke Resource Center and Heritage Hall, which features the Walworth County Veterans museum. Open Wednesdays and Thursdays from 1 to 4 p.m. and by appointment. For information call (262) 723-7848, visit walcohistory.org, email walcohistory@tds. net, or follow the Society on Facebook.
The Lakeland Players celebrated their 50th anniversary in May of 2024 with a gala fundraiser at Hawks View Golf Course. Guests were served a plated meal, music was offered by pianist John Ivan, and a selfie booth was available as well as silent auction tables.
The purpose of the gala was to begin raising money to update the heating system and add air conditioning at the historic Sprague Theater where the group performs.
JENNIFER EISENBART Our Town
Balestrieri honored as a ‘best’ place to work
A local industrial service business has earned recognition for its workplace environment.
felt to work at Balestrieri,” she added.
May said some examples about those opinions included stress levels, work-life balance, their thoughts on company leaders, and if employees were passionate about their work.
BY Jennifer Eisenbart EDITOR
Balestrieri, which was established in 1992 and is based in Elkhorn, was recently honored by the Milwaukee Business Journal was one of its “Best Places to Work,” in the micro business category (10 to 24 employees.)
While companies nominated themselves for the award, Balestrieri found itself in competition with 19 other companies. Tatum May, the administrative coordinator for Balestrieri, said the nomination process was quite extensive.
“I had to enter various information about our company from benefits and culture to work-life balance,” May explained.
“From there, we were sent surveys for each employee to complete anonymously. They were asked their opinions about how it
“We were also asked a few written questions about what we specifically liked and didn’t like,” May added.
“Luckily there wasn’t much that the employees didn’t like about the company,” she said.
May said that a major theme in the employee responses on the survey was how valued they feel working at Balestrieri.
“’Family’ was the number one word to describe our work environment,” she said.
May said the nomination served as a great opportunity for executive management to obtain valuable feedback from their employees, so that they can continue to implement activities and attitudes that reflect what is important to their employees.
“They will also use this as an opportunity to continue to grow their relationships with each and every employee,” she explained.
“As an employee, it is very reassuring to be a part of a company that has won this
award,” May said.
Balestrieri’s work is designed to make sure clients reduce their exposure to environmental liability and hazards. In simple terms, that means the top concern is that all work is completed safely for everyone involved.
May said the company specializes in turnkey building renovation, demolition, and adaptive reuse services.
She said the company’s professionally provided services include pre-construction inspections, asbestos and lead abatement, mold remediation, media and/or chemical cleaning, selective interior demolition, earthwork, demolition, excavation, universal/ hazardous waste removal, aerial imagery, duct cleaning, dust particulate containment, mechanical re-insulation, and training.
“The work we do is significant because it is or mission to reduce our clients’ exposure to environmental liability and hazardous materials,” May said.
“Each day our company and our team is expanding its skillset and reaching more clients throughout the Midwest,” she added.
For more about Balestrieri, call 262-7432800 or visit balestrierigroup.com.
Donation tax receipts available! Donation tax receipts available!
Proudly supported by United Way of Walworth County
Circle of Friends
Proudly supported by United Way of Walworth County
Circle of Friends Mission Thrift Shop
Circle of Friends Mission Thrift Shop
A 501c3 Nonprofit Organization
A 501c3 Nonprofit Organization
Elkhorn Store
FURNITURE PICKUPS AVAILABLE!
630 E Court St, Elkhorn, WI 53121 262-723-8177
MON-THUR 10am-5pm FRI 10am-4pm SAT 9am-1pm
Text pictures to 262-325-2851 with your furniture donations.
Mukwonago Store
Elkhorn Store
831 Greenridge Center, Mukwonago, WI 53149 262-378-3181
630 E. Court St., Elkhorn, WI 53121 ~ 262-723-8177
MON-SAT 9am-5pm
MON-THURS 10am-5pm • FRI 10am-4pm • SAT 9am-4pm
FURNITURE PICKUPS AVAILABLE!
Learn more at www.circleoffriends.love
Text pictures to 262-325-2851 with your furniture donations
Learn more at www circleoffriends love
We are so much more than just your local thrift store!
We are so much more than just your local thrift store!
Our mission is to help individuals, families, & the community through affordable necessities and d
Our mission is to help individuals, families, & the community through affordable necessities and donations.
Wearing his business on his sleeve
Overwear Apparel serves several area school districts, communities
For Ken Reynolds, his business Overwear Apparel, Elkhorn, started his junior year of college.
BY Jennifer Eisenbart EDITOR
“I started screen printing in college, actually through a class,” Reynolds explained of an art class. “One of the projects had to be printed.
“Everyone was doing menus and posters. I wanted to do something different.”
Reynolds made up a t-shirt with UWWhitewater on it – and ended up selling about 400 of them.
“People then started asking if I could do printing (for them),” he said. “Next thing, it was full-bore. That’s two years of college I paid my way through.”
Reynolds named his business “Overwear Apparel,” with the motto, “T-shirts too good to be under.”
Now, more than 40 years later, Reynolds and Overwear Apparel are a fixture – in Elkhorn, Walworth County, and beyond –offering printing of all kinds on everything from t-shirts, sweatshirts, and hats to banners, posters, and decals.
“It’s great. That’s why I stayed,” Reynolds said. “Elkhorn’s a big family. It’s an extension of our family, just a bigger family.
“I want to see Elkhorn succeed,” he added. Reynolds grew up around the Elkhorn area, spending time in a cottage on Lauderdale Lakes as a child. His family bought a home in Elkhorn in 1974, and the family has considered the area home ever since.
Overwear settled into Elkhorn in 1994, in the first of several buildings as Reynolds’ business has gone through its ups and downs.
It’s currently residing at 812 N. Wisconsin St. – two doors north of Napa Auto Parts, as Reynolds says he tells people.
“Everyone knows where Napa is,” he said. Currently, it’s himself and three other employees – his son, Brent, administrative assistant Lisa Anzalone, and Addie Heritage working on printing.
“It’s easier to manage four people than it is 13,” Reynolds said. “We don’t need to print every t-shirt in the world. There’s no need to.”
The store has a strong online presence that has shipped merchandise all over the country (and the world), but the bread and butter of the business is local events and schools.
“We’re pretty happy with our
Ken Reynolds (left) started Overwear Apparel in 1984, a business born out of a college art project. It’s been going strong for 40 years, and now his son, Brent (right) also works there.
The store keeps all sorts of Elkhorn sportswear in stock but works with many districts and businesses throughout the area for a variety of printing needs.
JENNIFER EISENBART Our Town
marketplace and what we do,” Reynolds said. “We do a lot for the community, and companies, too.
“People think we just print for Elkhorn High School, but we don’t,” he explained. However, with a laugh, he added, “It’s pretty safe to say that everyone in Elkhorn is wearing a shirt we printed. I really feel that way.”
Walking into the store, a huge stock of EAHS apparel is available – t-shirts, hats, stocking caps, vests, and sweatshirts, plus jackets, backpacks, and decals.
But the store also does printing of posters for various high schools across the area – including Big Foot, Delavan, Whitewater, and Catholic Central – and will do merchandise to order.
“We’ve been around forever,” Reynolds said. “We’re pretty well known around the county – and beyond.”
The custom sportswear allows people to bring in their designs and ideas.
“People come to us and want a certain thing on a certain garment,” Reynolds said. “Company logos and company garments and sports logos. It’s not just blank apparel.”
Special events are a popular selling point as well.
This past summer, Reynolds made t-shirts to sell for Payton Jacobson, when the EAHS graduate qualified for the U.S. Olympic team. Profits from the sales went to help Jacobson’s family travel to Paris for the Olympics.
Reynolds also provided the t-shirts for the Run4Randi event, and helped organize the event as well. The run is in honor of Randi Wulf, a former EAHS cross country coach who died in 2023 following a motorcycle crash.
Wulf was Reynolds’ brother-in-law, and also a huge part of the Elkhorn community – much like Reynolds.
As a business owner, Reynolds said he is committed to providing quality products at a fair price. Overwear represents more than 500 companies, including more than 100 styles and kinds of t-shirts.
“I’ve never done the cheap thing,” Reynolds said. “I’ve always done quality.
“You can’t do things fast, you can’t do things cheap, and make a profit,” he added. “We do quality printing.”
For more information on Overwear Apparel, go to www.overwearapparel.com or call 262-743-1623.
Hours for the store are 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Handing off the coffee pot to someone else
Perkup coffee shop owner steps back while family member officially steps in
When Laurie Kyle opened Perkup in downtown Elkhorn in March 2012, she wanted to create a space for coffee, community, and conversation.
BY Jennifer Eisenbart EDITOR
“I wanted it to feel like an attachment to our dairy farm,” explained Kyle, whose Scandinavian roots made her want a place where people could talk, share and be comfortable. “Our open space out at the farm, you can get grounded, no pun intended.”
Now, 13 years later, she and her husband, Dave, will still own Kylecrest Holsteins and Jerseys – the family farm – but family have taken over Perkup.
Devin Peter, her future daughter-in-law, is now running the day-to-day operations of the coffee shop.
Peter has been managing the shop for the better part of three years, but Kyle decided to formally hand over the reins after realizing in the summer of last year how much of a lead she had taken at the shop.
“I came in one Monday. I was literally standing at the counter,” Kyle said. “My heart and head are attached. I said, ‘It doesn’t feel like my place anymore.’”
While Kyle still handles the bookkeeping for the coffee shop, Peter has been running everything including the menu, promotions, and ordering.
Taking a look at the transition, Kyle is open to admitting she’s been stepping back from the leadership role for a few years.
“Devin has been the face of the shop for a while,” Kyle said. “I just kind of meandered. I think that’s the hard part for an owner. You say words that you’re going to relinquish control, and that’s hard. I feel like sometimes, my presence when Devin is the face of the shop, my ego can get in the way.
“You feel like a little lost sheep,” she added.
Her husband, Dave, she said, has been supportive and guiding in helping her make the transition.
“We’re both used to doing stuff where you just roll up your sleeves and get stuff done,” she said. “We both know our purpose.”
Kyle said she has been blessed, as she and Dave have the farm together, but with Perkup she was able to create a warm, comfortable community gathering space in Elkhorn.
“It’s been coined the name, ‘Elkhorn’s living room,’” she
said. “It’s like, ‘Wow, that’s what I was going for.
“Dave and I, we’re not about the money,” she added. “We’re about the community. It’s really about growing your soul.”
Kyle made the official announcement about stepping away on Facebook Jan. 5, roughly a week and a half after her brother, John, died of glioblastoma. The two had a strong, close relationship amidst the various changes in life, and Kyle said he was readily a part of Perkup.
His passing – and the grief she has experienced, discovering the love she and others had for her brother – helped her realize that the store needed to take a back seat to family.
“Life changes so quickly and if we don’t pay attention, it can skip a few chapters and end up being confusing and stressful,” Kyle wrote in the post, calling Perkup one of her greatest joys.
“Recently it became apparent that there is a different plan for my life and the future of Perkup.”
On a wall in the shop is a sign for Sawyer’s Baker Boy crackers, what would now be
Keebler saltines. The sign has been in the family since the early 1930s, moving from home to home.
When Kyle opened Perkup, her brother knew the perfect place for the sign. It’s one of many pieces of nostalgia in the store, along with a large variety of 1950s Fisher Price toys, dairy farm memorabilia, and purposeful artwork.
“I never sit in all the different positions and see what I’ve created,” Kyle said. “I’ve been blessed.”
The intentionality of the Perkup space is something she hopes will continue.
“I like to experience all aspects of life,” she said. “(Perkup) for sure fills my cup up. It’s definitely taken me to realize what my purpose is in life.
“I love it that people can find comfort here. That’s what you hope you can create.”
Perkup, 27 N. Wisconsin St., Elkhorn, is open Monday from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Tuesday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. The shop is closed Sundays.
Laurie Kyle’s future daughter-in-law, Devin Peter, has taken over day-today operations officially at Perkup.
JENNIFER EISENBART Our Town
After 13 years of running Perkup in downtown Delavan, Laurie Kyle has transitioned away from being in the coffee shop on a daily basis.
SUBMITTED PHOTO Our Town
The Lake Area’s Premier Wedding Facility
Nora’s Café survives year of construction
Family restaurant thankful for support from loyal customers
For a family run business like Nora’s Café, located at the corner of highways 12 and ES, the secret of success is often in a loyal customer base.
BY Jennifer Eisenbart EDITOR
That loyalty has been critical to the restaurant over the last year, as the construction on both highways made it difficult for traffic to even reach Nora’s.
“The road construction has impacted us tremendously but the loyalty from our customers has kept us going,” said Steve Ahmedi, who owns and operates the restaurant with his family.
Like many small diners and family restaurants, Nora’s offers only breakfast and lunch hours, from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday.
The breakfast items menu feature almost all of the standard staples, while the lunch menu includes open-faced sandwiches, burgers and what Nora’s calls “Crispers” – hot sandwiches on hoagie rolls with sautéed peppers, onions, tomatoes, and mushrooms.
He serves as a cook along with wife Ceflije and son Ismail; Ismail’s wife Endrita is a hostess and Steve’s daughter Nora is the manager.
Between all of them, they keep Nora’s Café in the business and on people’s minds.
“I truly believe that it’s our homecooked meals, our portions, friendly atmosphere and our customers are our family,” Steve explained about why Nora’s remains a destination.
In addition to the breakfast staples of
waffles, pancakes, French toast, and threeegg omelets, Nora’s also offers breakfast sandwiches, egg meals, and kids’ breakfast specials – and of course, the Midwestern specialty of biscuits and gravy.
For those looking to try out the daily specials, there is the fan favorite Bavarian cream-stuffed French toasted (topped with a fruit of your choice) plus items like the Gypsy omelet, the meat lover’s skillet, and eggs benedict.
The open-faced sandwiches available for lunch feature house-made mashed potatoes and scratch gravy, with the options of beef, turkey, breaded pork tenderloin, or hamburger.
The Crispers come in roast beef, turkey, corned beef, and chicken, while other sandwiches range from a ribeye steak on a hoagie roll and Philly cheesesteak to grilled cheese and chicken or tuna salad.
Burgers can be topped with everything from cheese to bacon to mushrooms and a fried egg, while salad offerings include Julienne and Catalina options.
Homemade soups of the day are also on the menu, as are simpler kids menu items such as hot dogs, grilled cheese, a chicken tender basket, and a hamburger or cheeseburger.
In short, it’s a place to take the family and easily find something to satisfy everyone.
Having the family at Nora’s for the last five years, Steve said he has also enjoyed putting his 30 years of restaurant experience to work.
“Seeing the cars go by makes the town feel alive,” Steve explained. “Our customers have been very supportive throughout the whole construction process. We cannot thank them enough.
“We hope to be in this community for as long as we can,” he added. “We appreciate every moment we have with everyone!”
The menu at Nora’s Café offers a wide variety of breakfast food items such as omelets as well as lunch options that include seasonal favorites like corned beef and cabbage and a complete turkey dinner. SUBMITTED PHOTO Our Town
From the left: The Ahmedi family – Nora, Steve, Ceflije, Ismail, and Endrita – has kept Nora’s Café on Highway 12 north of Elkhorn running in spite of a lengthy road construction project. They’re thankful for loyal customers who have continued to support them when even getting to the restaurant was a challenge.
Troop 243 Soaring High
Six scouts from Elkhorn troop have earned Eagle Scout rank since 2020
BY Kellen Olshefski CORRESPONDENT
Elkhorn’s Boy Scouts Troop 234 has certainly been on a roll in recent years, with six scouts completing their Eagle Scout projects since 2020 and earning the highest rank in scouting.
An impressive feat in its own right, with Michael Malone noting in his 2012 book “Four Percent” that just 4% of scouts had reached the rank over the organization’s 100-year history at that point, Troop 243 Scoutmaster Marc James said it was even more impressive to see his scouts persevere through 2020 and continue to have a positive effect on the community.
With a diminishing group post COVID-19 – something which he said wasn’t uncommon because it was difficult to meet and stay in contact – James said they still had a core group of scouts who were dedicated to some awesome achievements for both themselves and the community.
James said that to reach the level of Eagle Scout, it really requires a scout to be heavily involved in the troop.
According to James, while some might think the boy scouts is a group that frequently goes camping, it’s a small percentage of how the group actually spends its time.
As scouts grow within the troop, James said they’re not only earning ranks and merit badges, but they’re also taking on leadership roles within the troop to help lead the smaller groups as a patrol leader, or eventually take on a much larger role within the troop as a senior patrol leader that sort of oversees all the patrols –which James said he thinks is a fantastic opportunity for scouts to learn managerial and communication skills.
In addition to that, James noted there’s a heavy portion of volunteer work and giving back to the community.
“That’s something our troop, Troop 243, is heavily involved in,” he said.
For instance, James noted the troop has a stretch of Adopt a Highway near the hospital and county buildings, aids the Elkhorn Lions Club at events like Oktoberfest and antique shows, and makes other efforts within the community.
And, of course, the scouts have their annual hot cocoa, coffee, and cookie booth at the annual Christmas Card Town Parade – a free thank you to the community for their support throughout the year.
“There’s sort of the what I kind of call ‘book work,’ the rank advances
and the merit badges that they need to go through, but they also really need to be plugged into not only the troop but the community through this managerial and communication aspect and then the volunteer aspect,” he said of attaining the Eagle Scout rank.
Of course, all of this is capped off by the scout’s Eagle Scout project, something which James said is no simple task that can be put together quickly.
According to James, the scouts need to first plan the project and then it needs a series of approvals to ensure it meets some very specific criteria. From there, he said the scout needs to do the appropriate fundraising for the project and recruit other scouts, friends, and family members to aid in executing their project.
“They can’t just do it on their own, and they can’t just simply pay for it,” he said. “And again, knowing we want to give back to the community, we heavily encourage the scouts to do something for the city, or for their school, or for their church, or something along those lines.”
Recent projects
James said the recent Eagle Scout projects from Troop 243 really reflect
that giving back to the community aspect, with the projects being fixtures in the surrounding area that many might have likely seen or used in recent years.
Going back to 2020, Matthew Harvey (alongside his brother Ben Harvey) focused his project on installing boardwalks along the hiking trails in Kishwauketoe Nature Conservancy to elevate sections of the trails up off the marsh. Ben Harvey’s project, completed that year as well, was to install a GaGa Ball Pit at Elkhorn’s West Side Elementary School to give students a fun new game to play during recess.
In 2021, Michael Begley worked with the City of Elkhorn to construct a temporary structure to house sleds during the winter at Sunset Park. Begley’s idea was that the sled shed would be like a Little Free Library for sleds, with the city moving the shed out for the winter and community children being able to borrow sleds for the sledding hill if they don’t have their own.
With the troop’s unique relationship with Yerkes Observatory in Williams Bay, aiding the observatory in restoring the grounds over the years, Dylan Brandt created 12 specifically designed Eastern
A number of Eagle Scout projects were honored in 2024 Elkhorn with Troop 243, as scouts were busy over the last several years improving the general area. above: Michael Begley. opposite, from left: Miguel Gomez and Gavin LaFlash.
DAVE DRESDOW Our Town
Bluebird nesting boxes that he placed around the Yerkes Observatory grounds in 2022 as his Eagle Scout project.
In 2023, Miguel Gomez worked with Jackson Elementary School to construct a raised garden bed near the playground area. Gomez’s project allowed the teachers to work with the students to grow vegetables, some for classes and some for fun, and also helped to keep out some of the common garden pests like rabbits that were getting into the old garden.
Most recently, in 2024, Gavin LaFlash worked alongside the team at Yerkes Observatory on its trails. While the grounds already had a horseshoe-shaped trail that went around the property, the foundation really wanted a connecting trail at the front of the property. LaFlash’s plan included digging it out, laying down landscaping matting to prevent weeds, putting down mulch, and lining the new path with some native trees. LaFlash ultimately created a 400foot long, 8-foot wide trail that meanders through the front of the property, making it a true loop.
James said the projects really show these scouts’ ability to look at a unique
problem that’s in parallel with something they are active with and passionate about – and then find a solution.
“That’s what I really liked about it,” he said. “They were all kind of unique and fit each individual scout’s personality, likes, and interests while kind of doing this creative solution to maybe an uncommon problem.”
Scouting and beyond
As a sales leader in his professional life, James said the lessons scouts learn from the Eagle Scout project are important, such as the planning process and learning what it takes to communicate and become a leader.
“I also really love to follow up with the scouts afterwards to see what went right, to see what went wrong,” he said. “What did you learn from this process, what would you have done differently: those sorts of things I feel like are wildly powerful to the scouts.”
And speaking of leadership, James said he had to speak highly of LaFlash, who found himself as the oldest scout in the troop and the only one working on Eagle Scout as his similar-in-age cohorts
graduated and went off to college in 20222023.
While there was a huge age and rank gap within the troop, James said he gives LaFlash a lot of credit as a youth leader for sticking with the program, sticking with his leadership position, and seeing the troop through a kind of difficult time.
“I’m really proud of him for doing all of that and getting his Eagle rank,” James said. “And, he’s a real example to other scouts because he not only saw it through, he not only got his Eagle, he not only works at Tomahawk Ranch during the summers as a counselor, but he’ll also be joining the military here in the fall.
“So, what a really cool story, in my opinion, from start to finish, through the pandemic – an inspiring story quite frankly.”
James said LaFlash has left the troop in a good state, with about six Elkhorn high schoolers in the troop now who have really stepped up to fill his shoes and are well on their own Eagle Scout paths.
Of course, James said Troop 243 is always open to new scouts. To learn more about Troop 243 or learn how to join the scouts, visit troop243elkhorn.org.
SUBMITTED PHOTOS Our Town
Former Stillwater now officially Madrez Café
It’s a little something new every day at Madrez Café, Elkhorn – formerly Stillwater Coffee.
BY Jennifer Eisenbart EDITOR
For instance, on Saturdays for the breakfast rush, owner Manny Saucedo has made breakfast bagels outside on the grill. Using fresh everything bagels, he added eggs, locally made chorizo, chunky avocado, and cream cheese.
Or it could also be the new New Mexico Hatch Chili, with Wilson Farm Meats’ brats and ground chuck, simmered in broth with hatch chili and kidney and pinto beans.
“There’s a guy here … he orders cases of it,” Saucedo said, who added that the run for the chili is now over for the fall.
The former Stillwater became Madrez, complete with new signage, the menu evolving and the kitchen being built out in late 2024.
Saucedo – who owns the restaurant with his wife, Katy – was ready for the switch.
“Extremely excited,” Saucedo said. “The reaction we’ve gotten from people, being here for three months, with an extremely limited menu … I cannot put it into words.
“And I feel they’re ready,” he added, referring to the customers. “The response has been incredible.”
The Saucedos purchased the former Stillwater Coffee Company in the spring of
Saucedo (shown here) and his wife Katy have officially
the
Stillwater Coffee as Madrez Café, 1560 N. Country Club Pkwy.,
The café features the homemade food of Saucedo’s family, which has restaurants in both Mexico and Arizona. inset: The new Madrez Café sign illustrates the Saucedo family’s restaurant history.
JENNIFER EISENBART Our Town
2024. The couple was hoping for the name change to Madrez to happen this fall, and it has.
Saucedo brings a wealth of restaurant experience to the new venture. He and Katy met at his first restaurant – in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico – and he and his family own a second restaurant in Flagstaff, Arizona.
However, with Katy’s career as a pharmacist with Aurora, the couple relocated to Wisconsin. Manny began looking at the possibility of a third restaurant – which led to Madrez.
The new kitchen should be finished this week, with Manny and his brother-in-law, David Duncan, working as partners there.
The meaning of Madrez is “mother,” and Manny is bringing the flavors of his childhood to the table.
“The whole family’s involved,” he said. “Most of the dishes are based off what my mom made when we were young.”
For example, waffles are made with a fermented yeast base – which is like sourdough – so not sweet to start.
Manny said that allows the kitchen to offer a homemade fruit waffle – topped with seasonal fruit and Greek yogurt – or a tangy waffle with fried eggs, avocado, spinach, and basil (plus a smoky chipotle sauce).
The kitchen is also making use of
numerous local dairies, farms and meat producers. Breakfast is served all day, and will offer local chorizo from Wilson Farm Meats.
And Manny is making homemade flour tortillas from scratch for everything from burritos to tacos.
There will also be the breakfast bagel sandwiches, as well as “tortas” – a soft, hoagie-style bread sandwich.
Manny said that the restaurant has used the weekends to show off what is coming, and the reception has been strong.
“It’s our unique flavors,” he explained. “All this is a family based restaurant. The most important thing to me is family.”
The interior of the space has also been reworked, to allow for more tables, artwork by Manny’s brother Francisco is on display, and new furniture adds a homey, comfortable touch.
The deck is available for outside seating as weather permits, and the inside will be adjusted in colder weather to allow people to cozy up to the fireplace.
Hours for Madrez Café are Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
To reach the restaurant, call 262-723-2301 during business hours.
Manny
re-launched
former
Elkhorn.
These pictures show the homemade waffles offered at the café. Made with a fermented yeast base similar to sourdough, they can be had with seasonal fresh fruit (top) or savory elements (above) such as eggs, avocado, spinach, basil and a smoky chipotle sauce. SUBMITTED PHOTOS Our Town
goals and tasks they never knew were possible. My coworkers are great and my day-to-day
“I enjoy what I do because of the people I work with every day. I appreciate the atmosphere here at Balestrieri, both in the office and out in the field. Building positive relationships with clients and vendors is very fulfilling. I also enjoy gaining knowledge and experience from these interactions. It is an amazing and interesting industry to work in.”
- Jessica Balestrieri, Project Manager/Estimator and Elkhorn Area High School Graduate Balestrieri Supports EAHS’s Youth Apprenticeship and State Certified Co-op Programs
Explore Your Chosen Career While Still a Student in High School
“Working in this industry is very rewarding by itself, but when you work for a wonderful company like Balestrieri, it really helps an individual push themselves into accomplishing goals and tasks they never knew were possible. My coworkers are great and my day-to-day tasks are very stimulating. Some of the projects we have are very large, which creates a dynamic challenge that everyone here embraces and works together to figure out to give our clients the best results.”
– Justin Zoellner, Project Manager/Estimator and Elkhorn Area High School Graduate
262.743.2800
family-owned business committed to the Elkhorn community. Our projects bring our team to a variety of industry sectors including commercial properties, historical landmarks, religious institutions, and schools. Ready to ditch your desk job? Learn more about Balestrieri’s employment opportunities at BalestrieriGroup.com
