Over time I've learned that all good things come to an end.
I was informed last week that VISIT Milwaukee has decided to stop all blogging and direct that energy toward a video blog. The goal of the vblog is to demonstrate the things that Milwaukee can offer meeting attendees while representing the free spirit and unconventional attitude of Milwaukee’s culture.
As this is the case, this will be my final post for Play in the City.
A lot went on behind the scenes and I’m extremely thankful for the personal relationships I’ve established with outsiders, locals, fellow bloggers and city businesses via email and comments within this short year.
It has been an exciting experience and I’m forever grateful for the opportunity to write for VISIT Milwaukee and I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished with the site. In only a little over one year after taking the helm, readership has increased by over half, escalating hits from an average of about 200 to nearly 500 clicks per day!
I really love Milwaukee, I feel it’s still an underrated and unacknowledged city and I’m not quite ready to stop telling people about it. While I’m disappointed that I won’t be able to see where the next few years will take PITC, I’ve decided to try to keep the momentum going by starting a new blog, Between the Bars.
So, to all of my loyal readers and friends, thank you. It has been a great journey – albeit far too short. Please remember to stop by my new blog and say hello.
Thanks again, Milwaukee!
A loyal Play in the City reader and blogger friend nominated me for the Blogger's Choice Awards.
To be honest, I don't really know what that means. BUT! I think it's pretty sweet anyway.
I'm not expecting to get 944 votes like the most popular nominee; in fact, I'd be quite okay with five. So, if you feel inclined, just click on the following icons to cast your ballot for Play in the City.
I'd be grateful.
Several months ago I was contacted via email by several people that were part of the Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory, a.k.a. Friends of the Domes, and those who were working to build a new and improved website for the Milwaukee gem, its members and potential visitors.
Apparently, they read my post about my trip to the Domes back in November and were impressed with the way I photographed the exotic plants and vibrant flowers found in each Dome (YAY!). Thus, they asked if I would allow them to use several of my images for their future website. Naturally, I was thrilled and without hesitation, I hooked them up!
The site is now finished and as it turns out, all of my photos were used! Just head over here to check out the new website and have a look at my photos!
About 99 to 95 percent of the pictures found in the Show Dome, Arid Dome, Tropical Dome and Outdoor galleries online were from my camera! I must say, it's pretty cool to see my work on display somewhere other than Play in the City. I hope they keep them up for a long time!
Milwaukee comes to life every summer, offering a wealth of things to do. In fact, there’s so much going on this weekend that I'm finding it difficult to pick and choose.
With Milwaukee's summer festival season still moving in full force, this weekend brings Bastille Days, Gathering on the Green, Greek Fest and South Shore Frolics – all great events. Additionally, after a long and anticipated wait the Harley-Davidson Museum finally opens to the public while the Brewers head into the All-Star break with a three-game series against Cincinnati. Plus, there are a number of farmers markets that I’d like to check out this weekend as well.
What’s a blogger to do? I’ll let you know what I decide.
Have a fun weekend!
One of the highlights of summer for me is Fourth of July weekend.
Yep, it’s great to have an extended weekend, but what makes the holiday extra special are the blazing fireworks that light up the pitch-black sky on July 3.
Each year Milwaukeeans are dazzled by a spectacular Independence Day celebration that’s performed one day early by Bartolotta Fireworks Company and hosted by US Bank.
Milwaukee’s US Bank fireworks show was an honored tradition for my family and I until my parents moved north to West Bend. But this year, after a four-year hiatus, I decided to relive one of my favorite pastimes.
I took the day off of work to head to Lake Michigan’s lakefront and I met up with my friend Lizzie at her place near Brady Street to gather up some last odds and ends. We figured that since we were the only two who could get out of work, we’d secure a spot early in Veterans Park and hold down the fort until the rest of our friends could get there.
See, you’d be crazy to assume that you can show up at 6 p.m. and score a place to watch the show. Already by 4 p.m. Veterans Park was brimming with thousands of families and friends, locals and visitors who were grilling out, picnicking or just relaxing as they anticipated the night’s spectacular.
From McKinley Marina to the Milwaukee Art Museum, the entire lakefront looked like one enormous camp ground as hundreds of tents and campers scattered the once bare terrain. Many of these people camped out over night and declared their seats by roping off a large plot with police tape – that got a little ridiculous if you ask me.
Lizzie and I made a quick run to Pick ‘n Save to get a couple of snacks to munch on – fruits, veggies, chips – and some beer, and then picked up two #6 sandwiches at Jimmy John’s on Brady Street. We filled a couple of coolers and found several blankets, and then we made the short hike to Lake Michigan to stake out our spot.
Believe it or not, there’s a lot of preparation that goes into a day of waiting in the park – seasoned spectators know what I mean! You need to pack food, a cooler and something to sit on, and then navigate the city to find parking and later devise a plan for departure and a fast route home. Of course, all of that seems pretty painless when considering the meticulous planning involved in US Bank’s firework extravaganza.
Eric introduced me to SciFi's blog DVICE, which features a post about Milwaukee's lakefront fireworks and explains how it all works. To get this 50-minute show and each shooter synchronized, it takes a heck of a lot of time, patience and skill, I’m sure. According to the site, originator Jeff Bartolotta uses a software package mainly created for pyrotechnics and to choreograph the explosive spectacle. By means of this computer program, each and every sky explosion is laid out on a time line and graphically simulated in 3D. Bartolotta doesn’t use computerized ignition though; instead, fuses are hand-lit by an impressively efficient seasonal team of about two dozen pro-pyrotechnics and volunteers equipped with flares. You can read more about the technical stuff by heading over here.
By the time we finally arrived, open spaces were scarce. After weaving around occupied spots and stepping over blankets and coolers and dodging Frisbees and feral dogs, we eventually found a spacious patch of lawn that was in a prime location – close to Lake Michigan and adjacent to the War Memorial. As it turned out, we ended up with a primo view of the fireworks display!
Once we were situated, Lizzie and I killed time by snacking and talking and, of course, people watching. All afternoon folks came in droves, laying down more and more blankets on the grassy plane so that by the time dinner came, we couldn’t see a single blade of grass.
Eventually Eric joined us, followed by Lizzie’s brother and his friends, and then Terry and our other girlfriends who came at the very last minute.
With a BOOM, the show suddenly began and unfolded into three segments. As described here, “it was more of a fiery and explosive ballet in three acts than a mere fireworks display.” More than 10,000 fireworks were shot off over Milwaukee from three separate locations – one on top of the US Bank building, another on a barge floating in front of us in the bay, and the other was literally right next to us in a fenced in area in Veterans Park.
Now, if three different locations weren’t already confusing, the Bartolotta Fireworks Company knew just how to continue teasing the half million people – especially the newcomers – who were admiring their beautifully orchestrated pyrotechnics. During the display, there were several drawn out pauses in between sets of thousands of shells going off. Many of these premeditated intermissions were just long enough to prompt people to start packing up. Actually, there were many instances when I thought the show was over, but when I looked at my clock, only 20 minutes had passed. Yet, as soon as the next round was launched, people were back to sitting awe-struck as they gazed into the darkness.
In a thunderous fusillade, a confection of various colors and shapes illuminated the entire park so that it looked strangely like daytime one second and night the next. The deafening booms of each whizzing rocket resounded off the nearby buildings and made my ears ring. As I sat gaping at the rousing spectacle of shimmering art, I wondered what it would be like to stand right next to the team of pyrotechnics as they blow up heaps of fiery explosives. Then, I announced that one day I will be one of those volunteers amid the conflagration, donning a hardhat and other flame retardant gear to help make the July 3 fireworks possible. How cool would that be?
As always, the grand finale was the most astonishing moment of the night, but this time we got to see three final acts, which was even more remarkable. If you missed the US Bank fireworks, or if you just want to see them again, here’s some video footage that I took of two of the three finales. Just click on either link to see them. Finale #1. Finale #2. (So, the videos aren't working tonight. I'll try to fix them by tomorrow because you have to see this!)
This year’s July 3 fireworks were incredible! In fact, it was the largest and most impressive display I’ve ever witnessed. Even though it’s one day early, the US Bank fireworks display makes the Fourth of July for me – it’s always an unforgettable way to celebrate friends, family, a long weekend, and our independence.
If you’ve been to a Brewers home game lately, you probably have noticed all of the Miller Park staff wearing the “I Hart New York” T-shirts.
That’s because right fielder Corey Hart is in the running for the final National League spot in the 2008 All-Star Game at Yankee Stadium, and the team’s campaign is underway.
The good news is that reports on Wednesday night said that Hart was holding on to the lead in the Monster 2008 All-Star Final Vote.
Although, Hart is currently the frontman and online and text voting runs through 4 p.m. CT today, Hart still needs every vote he can get. According to the league, "David Wright of the Mets and Pat Burrell of the Phillies are mounting significant challenges.”
So what can we do to ensure his victory?
There are two ways for fans to vote for Hart – online by clicking here or via text messaging. To text in your vote, just send “N2” to 36197. (This might explain it better.) Of course, standard text messaging rates apply if you choose to use that form of balloting.
There’s no limit to the number of times you’re allowed to cast a vote either, so vote often!
In my opinion, Hart is the most well-rounded Brewer, but the most underrated as well. Brewers fans rallied to put Braun in the starting lineup for the All-Star Game, and now we need to rise up again to get Hart to New York. He deserves it!
Needless to say, I’ve been text messaging so much that my thumbs are sore. On my lunch breaks I’ve also been voting countless times. Undoubtedly, other Brewers fans are doing the same! Plus, at the game last night I had a change to vote again. The Brewers set up a polling station in the Associated Bank Kids Area at Miller Park for all four of their home games this week.
According to other news sources, Hart, Wright, Burrell, Aaron Rowand of the Giants and Carlos Lee of the Astros are the five National League players vying for the final spot on the All-Star team.
The winner will be announced on MLB.com shortly after balloting concludes this evening. Until then, keep voting for Hart!
FYI: I obviously didn't take the photo, but I don't know where it originally came from.
I love the smells of summer. From freshly cut grass and warm rain to sunscreen and mosquito repellent, there’s nothing like a familiar scent to make you realize that summer is indeed here.
Perhaps this is why over 100,000 people make it a point to visit Cedarburg for its extremely popular Strawberry Festival each year – they long for the refreshing summertime fragrance and flavor of home-grown strawberries. After all, strawberries mean summertime here in Wisconsin.
This charming, free festival has been running for 23 consecutive years, providing not only succulent strawberries, but also a multiplicity of arts and crafts, music, food, and family entertainment that’s found in the heart of Cedarburg’s historic downtown district.
Cedarburg has always been one of my favorite getaways. The city’s downtown is beautifully preserved and the 100 or more buildings offer a wonderful array of specialty stores, restaurants, spas, museums and historic inns, not to mention, a packed calendar of festivals and events. It’s no wonder why this destination beckons me back at least a few times each year.
Last autumn, Eric and I went to Cedarburg’s Wine and Harvest Festival and as you can tell we had a blast! That’s why we both were enthusiastic about spending the day at the Strawberry Festival despite still being a little jet-lagged from our flight home the day before.
After zigzagging through the residential streets surrounding the festival area, we finally found parking on one of the side streets only a few blocks away from the barricaded main stretch. As we walked along the sidewalk, we noticed an ominous blanket of clouds rolling in our direction and over all of the tents and stands and stages making up the festival grounds.
“No, Mother Nature. You will NOT spoil another event!” I shouted as I pointed toward the sky.
When we reached the edge of the festival we collided with a sea of festival-goers who were sifting through their belongings for umbrellas or wheeling their strollers to a sheltered space under a storefront awning.
Despite the potential rainstorm, Eric and I figured that since we already drove 20 minutes to get there, we might as well make the best of the dry weather while we can and not let a little rain mar our time. Thus, we moved into the flow of visitors and decided to survey the festival’s offerings.
Visibly placed at every entrance were stands selling juicy strawberries by the quart – you could smell the sweet aroma wafting all around. As we continued along Washington Avenue, we drooled over berry-filled delicacies including strawberry pie, shortcake, layered cake and cheesecake, even chocolate-covered strawberries and strawberry ice cream, slushies and lemonade.
Adults could indulge in a variety of strawberry beers and wines. Folks had the option of purchasing Cedar Creek Winery’s Strawberry Blush Wine by the glass or by the bottle, and then tucking it under their arm as they hopped from store to store.
Clearly, Cedarburg’s Strawberry Festival lived up to its name – strawberries were aplenty!
Beyond the abundance of mouth-watering strawberry goodies, there were a plethora of other food varieties to sink our teeth into. Several stands were serving typical festival fare such as charcoal grilled hamburgers, hot dogs and brats, pizza by the slice, and finger-licking popcorn.
Eric and I paused on our stroll to score a piece of chocolate covered strawberry cheesecake from an amazing bakery, followed by two reasonably priced burgers that we garnished with ketchup, mustard, onions and pickles to our liking. But, just as we were about to press on, we felt the pelts of warm rain falling down upon us. Before long, a steady downpour cleared the streets as many of us immediately sought shelter in stores and under canopies.
Due to the rain, many of the day’s amusing strawberry-themed competitions – the strawberry shortcake eating contest, strawberry bubblegum blowing contest and the strawberry bob contest – were delayed. Still, that didn’t stop most of the kids from continuing their activities at the Festival Kids Korner.
As the little children ran amuck throughout Cedar Creek Park their parents supervised them from underneath their umbrellas. The beautiful setting on the banks of Cedar Creek was chock-a-block with family oriented activities like jugglers, magicians, clowns, painting murals, pony rides, a petting zoo, inflatable bouncers and face painting, which were irresistible to the kids.
The rain only lasted a few minutes, which gave Eric and me just enough time to savor each bite of the rich strawberry cheesecake we shared beneath the US Bank canopy. As we took our last creamy bite, we were ready to hit the streets again to finish inspecting the event.
Amid the food stands was my favorite attraction: Arts on the Avenue. This is a delightful mélange of three established non-profit groups located in Historic Cedarburg – Cedarburg Cultural Center, Cedar Creek Settlement, Ozaukee Art Center – that showcase one-of-a-kind juried arts and crafts by more than 250 talented Midwest artisans. Eric and I took the time to take in the small-town ambiance as we perused each stand and found one tempting, must-have item after another. Several artists were even selling strawberry crafts and decorations!
Everything from paintings, sculptures and ceramics to jewelry, woodwork and photography that I found, could have been the perfect holiday or birthday gift for a family member or friend. Regrettably, I didn’t buy anything because I was penny-pinching after traveling lavishly in Los Angeles earlier in the week. But, I’ll be sure to keep those trinkets in the back of my mind for another time.
Providing a quaint backdrop for the arrangement of craft tents and food stands was the unique collection of 19th century stone buildings and its enticing display of specialty shops and restaurants. Moseying down Washington Avenue is always like taking a journey back 150 years. Many of the limestone and brick buildings look exactly as they did when they were first built in the 19th century. But, these buildings aren’t just a momentous marvel; they’re a giant piece of the community since they house many of the city’s businesses and shops, and are the pride of newcomers and founding families alike, explains the website.
We only had to take shelter from the rain just one more time. Still, the rainfall wasn’t enough to deter us from enjoying an enchanting June afternoon in Cedarburg. Just like years past, Cedarburg’s Strawberry Festival provided an enjoyable afternoon of tasting yummy treats and tromping through the charming city as it welcomes summer and all of its seasonal delights.
Before we left, we bought a quart of ripe and enormous strawberries from the nearby Schmit’s Berry Farm stand. On our walk back to the car we fed each other bites of the luscious fruits, catching the juice that ran down our chins with our finger tips.
I can still smell those strawberries.
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Cedarburg’s Annual Strawberry Festival
Downtown Historic District
Along Washington Avenue
Cedarburg, WI 53012
Saturday, June 28 through Sunday, June 29, 2008
I didn’t go to Summerfest.
Truth be told, this is the first year I haven’t attended and for some reason I feel badly about it.
I mean, not going to Summerfest is sacrilegious in the minds of some locals, and since I consider myself to be a "Milwaukee blogger", well, I probably should have made more of an effort to get to one of the largest music festivals in the Midwest. Now I have nothing interesting to write about (I kid, I kid).
Anyway, Scott kindly gave me two free Summerfest tickets, so I intended on going Wednesday night and then again on Sunday afternoon. Well, Wednesday night summoned torrential rain and, really, it wasn’t worth getting soaked, so I chalked that night up to a rainout and planned to make it up on Sunday. Then, Sunday rolled around and it was so gorgeous outside that I was forced to spend the entire afternoon poolside. I swam and got some sun...Man, it was terrible.
Naturally, I feel really, really awful about missing the "Big Gig" this year.
Did you have a chance to go? If so, feel free to share your adventures with all of us wayward readers in the comments section. I’d love to hear what you faithful Summerfest-goers did.
As for me, there’s always next year.
Here we are in the midst of Milwaukee’s summer concert season.
Yep, Summerfest is in full force now, but as it begins to wind down, don’t fret, this is the summer concert season, remember? So, there are plenty of shows coming to Milwaukee that will surely keep your inner groupie/rocker (which ever you prefer) content for at least the next month or so.
Stone Temple Pilots
Friday, July 4 at the Marcus Amphitheater during Summerfest
Touring all summer after a six-year hiatus, Stone Temple Pilots are back, bringing an unpredictable night of classic ‘90s grunge that’s sure to be interesting, at the very least.
I’ve heard many mixed reviews from flannel wearing fans regarding STP’s summer excursion, mostly due to the volatility of the band’s unique front man Scott Wieland. Weiland moved on after five years with Velvet Revolver to return to the band that launched him into the limelight and churned out hits like “Vaseline” and “Trippin’ on a Hole in a Paper Heart,” which always evoke the unpleasant memories of my early teenage years...
Anyway.
STP are always cool and clad, but often amid some kind of moody meltdown or manic incoherence that’s a grisly testament to what comes from years of hard-core drug abuse. Regardless, STP are sure to provide past and faithful fans with thrills, not just pure nostalgia.
$20 to $45 Reserved Seating
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The Roots
Friday, July 4 at the Miller Lite Oasis during Summerfest
Many fans would consider the Roots to be hip-hop’s best live band. But, I’d like to point out that while the Roots are deeply anchored in the fundamentals of hip-hop, soul and R&B, they are musicians above all else, and musicians in the hip-hop world – especially those with a heavy emphasis on rock ‘n’ roll – are a rarity.
All too often hip-hop artists are pigeonholed into being a few MCs with a DJ spinning beats. Not the Roots. They play all of their own instruments, including a tuba, flute, bongo, trombone, trumpet and sax. Such talents allow the Roots to create dense, powerful and dark sounds that swirl with polyphonic vocals and political intensity. These guys have obviously rejected all categorizing.
In fact, after seeing the Roots live several times, I’d even say that they dapple in the jam band genre, providing endless solos that seamlessly blend songs into one another. Of course, this is all found within the turntables-and-a-microphone world of hip-hop, again proving that you can’t classify the Roots.
Free with Summerfest admission
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The Redwalls
Saturday, July 5 at U.S. Cellular Connection Stage during Summerfest
The Redwalls were just an unknown group from Illinois when I first saw them opening for Keane a few years ago. But once they took the stage, their guitar-driven, energetic rock ‘n’ roll became something familiar to me.
The Redwalls consist of four suit-wearing, smiling 20 somethings that all sing and share microphones and harmonies filled with quality ooos and ahhhs, come-ons and oh-yeahs. These guys seem to have ingested the Euro-pop of the past, and shat out the love child of The Beatles, Rolling Stones, and The Kinks.
But as their Myspace page states, “We never set out to reinvent the wheel.” All music is thievery in a sense, so even though their sound hearkens back to the early days of the British Invasion, they still prove capable of making a mark on the current rock scene by making familiar sounds their own.
Free with Summerfest admission
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M. Ward
Saturday, July 19 at the Pabst Theater
Matt Ward’s live performance is described by one reviewer in two parts: One, his guitar seems to function as an extension of his physical body; two, M. Ward is capable of effectively transforming his entire audience into a personal and emotional instrument – they laugh, cry, and breathe as he would if he were living the songs instead of playing them.
This description imparts a much more accurate understanding of his uncanny command of the stage, which is likely made possible by his possession of such a deceptively inconspicuous live presence.
While M. Ward is possibly the most soulful white man on the planet, he is known to prioritize the attention of his viewers: music first, everything else second. M. Ward’s unassuming presence and stripped down set allows the audience to be completely captivated by the music. That’s mainly due to M. Ward’s comprehensive blend of folk and blues that spins a series of earnest, poetic tales of heartbreak, love and old friends, which are delivered with muffled tones and grit similar to that of Jeff Buckley and Tom Waits.
Evidently, witnessing M. Ward isn’t just listening to a man playing his list of songs, it’s surrendering your soul and exposing the core of your emotions to embody M. Ward, his life, passion and soul.
$15 General Admission
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The Go! Team
Thursday, July 31 at Turner Hall Ballroom
I saw The Go! Team at Lollapalooza two years ago, and even though the sound was a little shoddy, the British group was an incredibly exciting live phenomenon.
I mean, in both sound and look, The Go! Team is the epitome of multi-culturalism. Diversity in gender and race is paired with a blend of various sounds ranging from 60s soul and 80s hip-hop to Brit-pop and 70s TV show themes, and all of these elements are meticulously fused by enticing moves.
As said, their exciting performance is made possible by melding a lively group to a sound that’s upbeat and jovial. The six-member group leaps about the stage in beautifully synchronized pandemonium, sending a wave of energy through the crowd. Naturally, this causes roughly 90% of the crowd to dance with total disregard, flailing arms and legs and grooving in a manner not seen since the days of Soul Train.
You see, their youthful energy translates well on stage, and there’s nothing immature about their musical prowess either – even if it often sounds like high-pitched hubbub from a series of high school cheerleading chants.
$18.50 General Admission
There are many more shows coming to Milwaukee this month, especially during the final days of Summerfest. For a complete list of the Summerfest lineup, head over here.
For other concert information, take a look at the Rave, the Pabst, Riverside and Turner Hall, or any of the venues listed to the left under “Rock Out.” Or if you’re inclined, leave your recommendations in the comments section.
All-Star balloting ends tonight and our beloved left fielder Ryan Braun needs your vote now!
Don't care? Well, you should!
With Braun’s strong momentum, he’s come closer to closing the gap on a starting position in the 2008 All-Star Game, but it's down to the wire now.
According to the most recent results that were released on Monday, Braunie was fourth among National League outfielders with 1,751,058 votes and trailed Kosuke Fukudome of the Cubs by just 32,925.
Don’t you want to see the reigning National League Rookie of the Year starting in the 2008 All-Star Game at Yankee Stadium? Fans can vote up to 25 times online through 10:59 p.m. CT TODAY. The top three outfielders will be named to the starting lineup for the July 15 Midsummer Classic.
To help get out the vote, the Brewers are offering fans the opportunity to win a private suite and 12 tickets for a Brewers game, which includes a special visit to the suite by hotties Ryan Braun and J.J. Hardy. You better believe that I’ve already cast my vote, yep, a bazillion times so far. Okay, so I’m a little obsessed...
But, to be eligible for the suite prize, fans must go to brewers.com and vote 25 times or more through the conclusion of the online voting process, which is today, folks! So vote! (But not more than me because I want to win. K?)
According to the official site of the Crew, several Brewers continue to rank among the leaders at their respective positions: First baseman Prince Fielder (fourth), second baseman Rickie Weeks (fifth), third baseman Bill Hall (fourth), catcher Jason Kendall (third) and outfielders Mike Cameron (14th) and Corey Hart (13th).
Now, it’s also important to note that if you mark your ballot for Hardy, Prince, Hart or any other All-Star favorite, you are entered into another sweepstakes – a chance to score tickets to the Brewers vs. the Reds at Miller Park in September. But, just like the other All-Star election ploy, you have to vote a key number of 25 times before tonight.
For more info, head over here. Remember, all entrants must be 21 or older to be eligible for the sweepstakes. Again, in case you just skimmed my post, everything I mentioned ends tonight just before 11 o'clock!
So do your favorite Brewer proud and be sure to head over to brewers.com and vote (often) TODAY!
FYI: I obviously didn't take the photo, but I don't know where it originally came from.
I’m back.
Actually, I got back from Los Angeles on Friday night and have since been poorly readjusting to the time change.
On a whole, the trip was good. The convention went well and work was cake and the last few days were superbly relaxed.
In between work, Eric and I had the nights to bum around the city with my coworkers. We explored downtown L.A., which to be honest, I wasn’t very fond of. Naturally, the city is centered on businesses, so most restaurants and bars closed by 11 p.m., so there was minimal nightlife in proximity to our hotel. I was also surprised by the distance between each bar or restaurant. Unlike Milwaukee where you simply walk across the street or next door to the next bar or eatery, in downtown L.A. you had to walk a couple of miles to and from each. No joke.
Downtown L.A. was quite dirty and smoggy too, especially in our hotel’s vicinity. That was a bit of a turnoff, but there were some aspects that were very interesting – in particular, the city’s diversity and history. We explored notable neighborhoods such as the fashion, jewelry and financial district. We also hiked several miles to the gaudy yet extraordinary Chinatown and ate some delicious dimsong (or something like that) followed by potent sake in Koreatown.
Additionally, my coworkers, Eric and I had the chance to eat at some fine restaurants like the Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. and Wolfgang Puck Cafe along the Universal CityWalk. Unfortunately, on some nights when I worked late, we were forced to either order Pizza Hut to our hotel room or dine on appetizers at the hotel bar, which left much to be desired.
On our actual vacation, Eric and I explored Hollywood, which was awfully disappointing. While it was cool to see Grauman's Chinese Theatre, the Walk of Fame and the Kodak Theatre, that part of Hollywood proved to just be a tourist trap where everyone was out to get a buck from unsuspecting sightseers. That didn't completely mar our visit, though.
We also went to Universal Studios Hollywood and went on the Studio Tours and saw where the fire gobbled up historic sets like King Kong and Back to the Future. We rode the new Simpsons simulated rollercoaster, the Revenge of the Mummy ride and Jurassic Park, which I didn’t know was a water ride until I was splashed in the face by spitting dinosaurs. Speaking of which, the majority of the attractions at Universal Studios were 3D and somehow involved getting sprayed in the face with water. For example, during the Terminator 2 3D show, for some reason when Arnold Schwarzenegger fired a round into an office building, we were showered with water. Was that supposed to be shrapnel or should I have brought my rubber ducky?
While Universal Studios was entertaining and a lot of fun, one of the best experiences was seeing Dodger Stadium where we watched the White Sox cream the Dodgers from the nosebleed section. I want to see as many stadiums in the United States as possible, so I seized the opportunity to see such an old-school stadium. Now I can add Dodger Stadium to my very tiny list.
On our last day we took the Metro to Long Beach. I wish we would have found this spot sooner – it was incredible! There was a marina, a pier and a beach, as well as, boats that sailed at sunset and others that could be rented to sleep in for the night; plus a ton of shops to peruse and restaurants and bars equipped with spacious patios to dine on. I really liked this place. Although I probably wouldn’t go back to downtown L.A., I would, without a doubt, go back to Long Beach.
Even though the trip wasn’t perfect, when all’s said and done, it was exciting to explore an unfamiliar city and to learn the culture of another place. Next year, I’m thinking Caribbean cruise. Until then, it's back to the grind.
(I have more photos, but my computer is being a jerk, so I'll post more from work later)
Forget to pack food for Jazz in the Park this week.
Just before Jazz in the Park starts, Jimmy John's is hosting their Freaky Fast Sandwich Auction right there in Cathedral Square.
Head over to to the Kilbourn Avenue side of the park around 5:30 p.m. when fast-talking charity auctioneer Jim Miller will be auctioning off unique packages consisting of Jimmy John’s gourmet sandwiches paired with other themed prizes.
All of the money raised at the Jimmy John's Freaky Fast Sandwich Auction will be donated to the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist's Open Door Cafe meal program, which provides food to the homeless Sunday through Friday, serving up to 250 people per day. So, not only will you get a "Turkey Tom" or "County Club" for dinner, hundreds of needy people will also have a good meal.
Make sure you get downtown quickly because Cathedral Square is bound to fill up with jazz-goers, plus this auction is so "freaky fast" that it'll be over by 6 p.m.
Do you know what I just realized? I bet you can tell by the title...
Just one year ago this month, I took the helm of Play in the City!
It's hard to believe that I've already been blogging for an entire year and that I've surpassed my 200th post by now.
Boy, I guess time does fly when you're having fun!
How I’ve yearned for longer days, the scents of cut grass and sunscreen, a body quenching dip in the pool, and a gooey s'more constructed over a campfire.
Summers in Milwaukee are especially treasured. Surviving nine months of harsh winter weather really makes locals appreciate the summer thaw much more, yes, even the humidity!
Thus, it’s no surprise that Milwaukee knows how to celebrate summertime. In fact, a multitude of festivals and seasonal events abound Milwaukee, making these three months some of my favorite times spent here.
This summer I have a plethora of activities on the agenda that include:
Plus, there are many events to partake in like Cedarburg’s 23rd Annual Strawberry Festival, Harley’s 105th Anniversary Celebration, numerous ethnic festivals and, of course, the long awaited Summerfest and Wisconsin State Fair.
Additionally, I have a handful of weddings to attend and mini trips to take. I’ll be heading to the Dells to race down water slides, Missouri to send time in the Ozarks with Eric’s family, and again, to Chicago for another year of Lollapalooza.
Do you have any big plans for the summer? If so, please feel free to share them in the comments section.
Whatever you have planned, whether it’s swimming, camping, fishing or traveling, make sure you cherish the summer because before you know it, the leaves will be falling and we’ll be back to wearing sweaters and scarves. Ick!
I’m just about done packing. FINALLY!
Tomorrow I’m hopping on a plane at Mitchell International Airport and flying West to California for a business convention, and then for a few vacation days filled with much needed R&R. I have a feeling that this is going to be a really great trip!
Sure, I’ll be working Sunday through Tuesday, but the rest of the time will be spent relaxing and having fun around Los Angeles with Eric – like I said, he’s flying down with me for the week. After the convention, Eric and I will be able to hit the beach and have fun at Universal Studios Hollywood and along the CityWalk. We also have plans to check out Hollywood and the Walk of Fame and the Chinese Theater, you know, all of the touristy things that make for great photo ops.
I'll be back home in Milwaukee by next weekend, but I'll try to check in every once in a while from my hotel or maybe while I'm on the beach... Well, probably not from the beach 'cause that's strictly dedicated to swimming and sunbathing! Regardless, I hope you stop back while I'm gone.
In the meantime be sure to check out three of my favorite summertime events – Polish Fest, Lakefront Festival of Arts and the Summer Soulstice on the East Side – happening this weekend. I’m a little bummed that I’ll miss the chance to see Local H rock out right in my backyard, but I’ll get over it. Yep, just did. I’m going on vacation, baby!
Have a great week, everyone! I’ll share some photos from my trip when I return.
Living in Milwaukee for several years, I’ve learned that there are many diverse neighborhoods within the city that have their own distinct personalities and help make up Milwaukee’s overall character.
Naturally, for a newcomer it could be a struggle to find the right niche. That’s why when Swig originally opened on Water Street, Milwaukee’s biggest bar district, its martini lounge meets small plate dining concept didn’t exactly appeal to the beer bingeing, college-age bar hoppers who patronize that area. Knowing the restaurant/lounge wasn’t as well served on Water Street as it could be elsewhere, Swig closed its Water Street location last summer after 30 months of undesirably slow business.
Swig wasn’t forever gone, though. When Sauce closed after eight years of food service, the opportunity to move into its Third Ward location finally arrived. At last, Swig reopened this spring at 217 N. Broadway, which instantly became a perfect fit, combining elegant cuisine and creative cocktails with swanky lounge grandiosity.
After noticing that Swig had moved, I was determined to check out the new space. Conveniently, I could still partake in Downtown Dining Week, which provided a great opportunity to try another new restaurant. So, that Wednesday night, I eagerly met Rose at Swig’s Third Ward location for dinner and drinks.
Finding parking in the Third Ward is always tricky, but eventually a spot opened on Broadway and I marched over to the restaurant. Inside I was greeted by two very chirpy hostesses. They took my name and indicated that there would be a 30-minute wait, so they gave me one of those vibrating gadgets to hold onto. I was a little vexed by the wait, mostly just because I was starving. I guess I figured that because it was Wednesday night, we wouldn’t have to make reservations because it wouldn’t be especially busy. But, apparently Downtown Dining Week was successful in attracting droves of patrons interested in checking out the place for the first time. Go figure.
With the buzzer in hand, I slid into one of the tall, plush cushioned benches adjacent to the bar and thought about ordering a cocktail. Instead, I decided to wait for Rose and just scanned the scene.
The entire place was packed with late 20 to 30-something professionals. Everyone there that night had a subdued trendy air to them that was both chic and stylish, but never supercilious or standoffish. Come to think of it, the clientele was very much like Swig itself. The Third Ward space exudes comfort and warmth that’s tempered and cooled by a perfect dose of class and allure. Basically, Swig is modest and refined all at the same time.
Once Rose arrived we took over the only two vacant seats at the bar, which offered an easy place to chat. We were immediately handed a drink menu that proudly proclaims Grey Goose as the spirit of choice while offering a variety of additional libations. Off the extensive wine list, Rose ordered a glass of Merlot, which she got for free when she joined their email list. Meanwhile, I glanced over the respectable selection of microbrews and domestics, but settled on one of their house infused cocktails.
These drinks were amazing! At the center of the bar were various shiny glass jars filled with delicious vodka and fresh fruits like peach, pineapple, kiwi and cherry. The fruits are left in several gallons of vodka until the liquor soaks up the flavor. The bartender said that people generally add tonic or Sprite to the concoction, but I decided to have mine on the rocks like a big girl.
The bartenders were genuinely courteous and attentive, which is something I value. Empty glasses were quickly filled and replaced with a fresh tumblers filled to the brim, a mixer that was slightly heavy on the tonic was graciously exchanged with an apology, and when ordering a martini, the server never walked away until the drink was sampled and it was certain that it was mixed to the patron’s liking. That kind of over-the-top pampering made me an instant fan of the place.
After waiting for exactly a half hour, our, er, thingy began to simultaneously buzz and vibrate. Immediately, we were lead to a table in the elevated seating area that was in front of an enormous garage door window, which overlooked Broadway Avenue and the couples dining outside.
Just like the bar staff, our waiter provide stellar service. He was in tune with the menu and took the time to explain the food preparation and also suggested how to have the food cooked when I asked. However, the couple behind us might disagree with my review of our server seeing as he tripped up the stairs while carrying their coffees and spilled them all over the tray and onto a woman’s jacket. Despite the minor calamity, he really went above and beyond to make our dining experience memorable and virtually flawless.
Under a flickering orange ting from the tea light at our table, we studied the menu. The lunch menu caters to hungry downtown workers by offering sandwiches – burgers, clubs, panini and pitas – and soups and salads that run at less than $9 per dish. After 5 p.m., the menu transforms into a bountiful array of adventurous dinner selections that boast the old Swig’s small-plate dining concept and a new entrée section with seasonal seafood offerings, pastas and meat dishes, again, all moderately priced.
I opted for the Downtown Dining special while Rose chose off the standard carte du jour. She was eying some of Swig’s “signature” entrées such as the Chilean sea bass and the spinach gnocchi with fennel and sun-dried tomatoes, but she ultimately decided on the rustic pasta – fresh fettuccine, homemade pesto, artichoke hearts, snap peas, roasted red pepper and aged Parmesan. Doesn’t that sound good? Unfortunately, I forgot to photograph her dish. Bad blogger!
My starter, the pan seared Ahi tuna, came out quickly. It was panko crusted tuna cooked medium rare and garnished with fried leeks and served Japanese-style with shoyu, wasabi and gari. Ever bite made me crave the next more and more! To ward off my gluttonous impulse, I offered Rose a few nibbles since there was definitely enough to go around.
Next, we were served our entrees. I ordered the pan-seared tenderloin, which smelled scrumptious as the plate was slid from the tray and under my nose. The beef was tender, but slightly over cooked, which was entirely my fault because I ordered it medium well when it should have been prepared medium. Apparently, I’m still learning how to eat fancy food. The portion wasn’t huge, which I actually preferred – the tenderloin was an ideal four ounce cut – and was well-paired and garnished with wild mushroom risotto and savory roasted tomato coulis. Such inventive flavor combinations make me long to try everything on the menu. I’m already keyed up for my next experience!
Lastly, it was time for dessert. After a savory dinner, there’s nothing better than experiencing something sweet. I was supposed to choose one of the two options: New York style cheese cake or chocolate cake. Instead I got both. Very small, bite-size samples of each, that is. I’m assuming that the kitchen was running low on full pieces, so to ration the desserts, they cut each into smaller portions. Whatever. It’s not like I needed more food!
The cheese cake was rich yet light and velvety, and the raspberry preserves added a sweetness that was fresh and delightful. The small cube of chocolate cake was decent, but not my favorite. It was overly rich and very dense – more like a brownie – and had whipped mascarpone on top. But when these two mini morsels merged, a whole new world of sweet and divine tastes mingled in my mouth.
While dabbing my lips, I though to myself, WOW! Swig is without a doubt one of the best recent experiences I've had dining in Milwaukee. It's definitely one of the city's finest upscale casual restaurants to boot.
With superb service, excellent food and an updated atmosphere, I’d say Swig has finally found its niche in Milwaukee!
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Swig
217 N. Broadway
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Open daily at 11 a.m., serving food until 10 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays and until 11 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. The bar stays open later