Just Desserts
This time of year, many of us give ourselves license to overindulge a bit, particularly when it comes to sweets. But here in the MilMag office, the overindulgence started early, as our staff taste-tested a variety of cakes, pies, strudels and tarts for Ann Christenson’s feature, “How Sweet It Is.”
And when the photo shoots were finished, well, we couldn’t let those luscious-looking treats go to waste, so we feasted on them, too. Take it from me: As good as these desserts look in the photos, they taste even better. Turn to page 36 and start figuring out how you want to spend your holiday calorie allowance.
It’s time to pick your Milwaukee favorites for the year!
You may not want any more ideas for ways to indulge after reading that feature, but if you do, then consider an outing to Bryant’s for a Tom and Jerry (page 23). This boozy, frothy cocktail screams holiday spirit like nothing else. And the retro-cool setting at Bryant’s only adds to the cozy feeling.
For some of us, gift shopping is the headachy downside of the season. But Brianna Schubert’s guide, “Shop ’Til Ya Drop” (page 48,) is a big help. You’ll find dozens of fabulous stores listed here, plus specific gift suggestions for everyone on your list. I’m so inspired by all the great retailers we have in Milwaukee that I’m swearing off e-commerce this year and vowing to help support the local economy by patronizing our small businesses.
Everyone has their own beliefs and traditions, and particularly at this time of year, I think it is important to be cognizant of that. Let’s make this a season of goodwill to all.
Wishing you peace and a happy new year,
Carole Nicksin, Editor-in-Chief and Publisher
carole@milwaukeemag.com | @CaroleNicksin
In This Issue:
Features:
- How Sweet It Is: Let’s be real: Dessert is the best part of dinner. We explore these delectable denouements, talk with the people who make them and tell you where to find them. Plus, check out the mouthwatering photos.
- Shop ‘Til Ya Drop in MKE: Consider this comprehensive guide your own personal shopping assistant, including everything from styling tips and a guide to the mecca of home goods (Shorewood!) to profiles of two premier “legacy” boutiques.
- The Distance Your Donations Go:Support is critical for local nonprofits. But how do they use those dollars? Here are three examples of the ways your money is put to work.
- The Big Story: Before he rides into the radio sunset, Dave Luczak reflects on 40 years of hosting the morning show on WKLH in this MilMag Interview.
Your 414:
- Festive: Ho, ho, hundreds of Santas are biking through town.
- People Places Things: Meet a Wisconsin band blending indie rock and Indigenous singing, a book influencer celebrating Black authors, and more.
- Close Up: A new community orchestra rallies around a
cherished conductor. - Looking Back: Bruce Pepich reflects on 50 years leading the Racine Art Museum.
The Dish:
- Cheers: A whole month of Tom & Jerrys – the warm, creamy holiday cocktail
- Tidbits: Three great new books for the foodie, and how a commercial kitchen in Bay View is serving two supportive functions
- Review: Evaluating The Commodore, a kind of career achievement for The Bartolotta Restaurants
Insider:
- We Were Wondering: Why aren’t studded tires allowed in Wisconsin?
- Innovation: A local RN invented a cord organizer for IV lines.
- Transportation: “Microtransit” offers the flexibility of a car and the affordability of a bus.
Explore:
- Jingle: Horse-drawn sleigh rides are exactly the reason we’re wishing for snow.
- Getaway: A handful of cool hotels around the state, all with storied histories.
