On Time

It’s hard to believe that another year has come and gone, but I think I feel the same way every January. The passage of time can certainly play tricks on us. Some things seem more recent than they are while others seem further in the past. In keeping with that, isn’t it mind boggling to think that it has been 50 years since the debut of “Happy Days,” the sitcom ostensibly set in Milwaukee?

The editorial team thought that this anniversary presented an interesting lens through which to look back at our city’s history. Since the premise of the show was nostalgic, it offers the opportunity for us to look at two eras – the ’50s, when the show was set; and the ’70s, when the show aired. It’s a super fun read, as one would expect from our super fun managing editor, Archer Parquette, who wrote the piece. You’ll find it on page 30. 

January is a time for new beginnings, so it’s fitting that we feature our Weddings section in this issue (page 41). It’s a great resource for finding the vendors and venue that will make your special day sing. And even if you aren’t a bride-to-be, I think you’ll find these stories enjoyable. I particularly like “What the Bride Wore,” which gives you insight into how some local brides found the dress of their dreams. 

Before we plant our feet firmly in 2024, please bear with me while I take just one more look back. Last month, Milwaukee Magazine held the fifth annual Betty Awards luncheon at Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel. We were honored to have three of Betty and Harry Quadracci’s four children in attendance: Kathryn, Joel and Elizabeth. The sold-out crowd was riveted by the stories of our six outstanding awardees. It’s truly an inspiring event, and I hope you’ll consider joining us next December.

Until next month, stay warm! 

– Carole Nicksin, Editor-in-Chief and Publisher
carole@milwaukeemag.com, @CaroleNicksin

In the Magazine:

Features

• These Days Are Yours and Mine: Five decades ago, Americans longing for simpler times went gaga over a pack of ’50s Milwaukee teens. We explore the fanciful Cream City of “Happy Days” – and the reality. 
• The Big Story: In Wisconsin, cities are supposed to be constitutionally protected from state lawmakers meddling in their affairs. The reality is a bit different.

Weddings 2024 – Our annual guide for couples ready to tie the knot

• Trends: How to make your wedding feel fresh, from live Clue to sustainable flowers
• Travel: Considerations for a destination wedding – and three ideas for locales
• Dessert: Maximalists are having their moment with this over-the-top cake style.
• The Bridal Guide: Your handbook for vendors, venues and expert tips to plan your big day
• What the Bride Wore: Take notes on these gowns from seven local weddings – from garden-party chic to classic lace elegance.  

Your 414

• Need for Speed: World-class skaters blade at the Pettit Center.
• People Places Things: Dueling Johnny Cash shows, honoring MLK, a Goblin King Ball and more
• Music Scene: Who’s the most popular area singer by the metrics?
• Winter Reading: Five new Wisconsin releases

The Dish

• Sip: Discourse’s nonalcoholic cocktails are the greatest thing to happen to Dry January, period.
• Tidbits: Alphonso’s unexpectedly delicious dill pickle pizza. Also: Are high-end steaks back in vogue? And the king of supper clubs is back with a new book.
• Classic Revisited: Sebastian’s in Caledonia is like a trip back to the 1990s, in the best way.
• Review: Avli in Brewers Hill promises “inspired” Greek cuisine. But does it deliver?

Insider

• Real Estate: A capital-M milestone home sale in Tosa
• Business: Ads have infiltrated your takeout!
• Issues: We check in on the fight against homelessness since the pandemic abated.