Blog entries for jkashou

Happy Birthday Rustico Pizzeria!

jkashou — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 19:44:14 GMT

There are advantages to getting older; you become wiser, more comfortable in your own skin, more confident in your abilities and develop loyal friends. Zartletti’s Rustico Pizzeria has done just that.

Since my first visit last summer when it had just opened, it seems as though Rustico has really hit its stride; from the quality of the service to the flavor of its food.

I was there on Thursday night and despite the world’s largest music festival raging blocks away, the bar was packed, the windows, wide open to the Third Ward and the Riverwalk, bustling.

The cold Peroni beer, light and crispy calamari and sweet tang of the pizza sauce was such a perfect combination on a warm summer night.

Join Rustico to celebrate its first anniversary on Saturday, July 11 from 2-5 pm and enjoy free food, $20 all-you-can drink Peroni or Sangria and live music on the Riverwalk.

If you can’t make it on the 11th, check out their Web site for daily specials, they’re amazing! I especially like Tuesday: half price bottles of wine and Thursday: free pizza with a pitcher of beer from 4-6 pm and 9-close.

OMC President Jeff Sherman's son is an uncanny replica

jkashou — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 20:25:42 GMT

I just took a stroll through the opening day of the West Town Farmer's Market - a great Wednesday escape for downtown workers - and I ran into man-about-town Jake Sherman. The ubiqitous one and a half year old was eating kettle corn like a crazy man. His sly flirtacious smile makes any girl blush. I often see Jake cruising around in his stroller with mom Stephanie or a babysitter. He likes to stay hip to downtown happenings.

Jake has gotten a little bigger since the above picture, but has the same cool-dude mannerisms as his father, the friendliest Milwaukeean, Jeff Sherman. As I looked at the two of them together, I couldn't help but think that they are like twins.

Look for Jake at Jazz in the Park or at sporting events, he's a huge Brewer's fan. I swear, once you see him with Jeff, you will agree that this apple did not fall far from the tree.

Laacke and Joys Paddlefest - a sucess!

jkashou — Mon, 18 May 2009 17:02:20 GMT

Yesterday I participated in Laacke and Joys annual Paddlefest at the downtown store on the Milwaukee river. This two-day on-water test event showcases the many great products, services and knowledgeable staff and Laacke and Joys offers. Seminars, demos and great discounts were also available for boats and accessories. Best of all, it was totally free and open to the public!

I tested out a double kayak and paddled up and down a small stretch of the lovely, but murky Milwaukee river perfecting my paddling technique. The water was filled with brightly colored boats and amateurs and pros alike maneuvering around each other, showing off their dexterity. It was great exercise and a fun way to try something new and enjoy what this city has to offer.

Be sure not to miss it next year. It always takes place in mid to late May and id totally free and open to the public. Laacke and Joys does offer kayak and canoe rentals throughout the summer at very reasonable rates. Check out their web site for the most up-to-date information, availability and rates.

Irish brunch at Brocach

jkashou — Mon, 04 May 2009 20:06:46 GMT

With the sun shining and feeling groggy from staying out too late, I knew the only way to revive was brunch on a patio. Although Brocach was my second choice for Sunday brunch, I know from now on it will be my first.

I stopped by Trocadero and the expansive, European-looking patio was overflowing with sunglass-clad Eastsiders; probably also seeking a cure from the weekend. After learning it was a 45-minute wait although there were plenty of tables open, we decided the service nor the food was really worth the wait. It was just that patio that we were after, so we continued walking up the road.

We stopped in at Brocach and the place looked empty, then we realized that their rooftop patio was probably full; and indeed it was. Greeted by a friendly waitress and some delicious warm Irish soda bread, we knew that our quest for sun and nourishment would not go unfulfilled.

While my two companions had the Ploughman's (two eggs any way, roasted potatoes, your choice of meat, roasted tomato and toast), I opted for the less traditional shirred eggs. This delicious creation consisted of two eggs encrusted in Parmesan cheese and baked on top of a mixture of potatoes, mushroom, asparagus and peppers. If I hadn't filled up on soda bread, I would have been licking the bottom of the dish - it was that good.

They serve other traditional favorites such as steak and eggs, biscuits and gravy, Irish oatmeal and corn-beef hash. The large menu also offers smoked salmon and vegetable frittatas, and the more decadent Challah french toast, served a la mode with bananas foster.

I have also been pleasantly surprised at the quality of their food for both dinner and lunch. Not to play up old stereotypes, but it turns out the Irish don't just know how to drink, they serve up a great meal too.

Monday nights starting in June, Brocach will also be featuring movies on the rooftop patio at 9:00 p.m.

Sneak peek at MIAD senior exhibition

jkashou — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 20:56:22 GMT

Last night I had the opportunity to visit MIAD's senior exhibition before it opens to the public because my cousin is graduating. I was blown away by the professional quality, artistry and ingenuity of some of the projects. The diversity of talents and ideas was really astounding. Numerous times I scratched my head and blurted out "Why didn't I think of that?" or "Wow, I wish I could do that!"

The 135 graduating students stood proudly next to their work with bags under their eyes, but still eager to discuss their projects. It is evident that they spent countless hours and many sleepless nights to materialize their vision.

Many of the works at the MIAD 2009 Senior Exhibition are for sale and range from typography, oil paintings, children's storybooks and photography to sustainable living modules, personal computers for the handicapped and a hands-free chainsaw.

One of the most interesting projects I saw was the piano pictured above with an intricately hand-carved cityscape and contrasting field of sunflowers representing the artist's Nebraska roots. Most surprising, the piano is fully functional and the artist sat down to play a tune for use just to prove it.

MIAD will be open Friday night 5-9 pm and Saturday 10 am - 5 pm for Gallery Night and Day. The exhibition continues through May 9 and the gallery's hours are 10 am - 5 pm Tues. - Sat.

Stop by and check out the most diverse collection of art in one building. I promise you will be impressed and inspired. I definitely was.

Cozy Cafe Luna is the perfect after dinner spot

jkashou — Sun, 01 Mar 2009 00:44:06 GMT

Situated adjacent to the Milwaukee river on Seeboth St., Cafe Luna and Lounge is a unique addition to Milwaukee's nightlife.

Tall sliding doors open up to an ample patio and the scenic river walk, perfect for a stroll in the summer.

The contemporary, tall clean lines and dark wood are set aglow by warm orange lighting. Actually, the tranquil luminescence is favorable to any complexion. One more excellent addition to the ambiance- it's smoke-free.

They offer decadent desserts and a creative drink menu complete with the swankiest of cocktails such as the Asian Blossom or Jaguar Juice. If that's not your style, they also have a large selection of wine, champagne, cognac and cordials. In addition, there is a full list of espresso drinks and teas.

There is live music every Friday and Saturday night ranging from contemporary R&B to smooth jazz to global beats. I stopped in on Saturday and enjoyed the group Streetlife with Warren Wiegratz

Cafe Luna is a perfect spot for both summer and winter to enjoy a nightcap, live music and beautiful people watching.

Hinterland unveils new tapas lounge menu

jkashou — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 19:33:25 GMT

Tapas - it's all the rage. Really, it's a brilliant concept for both your waistline and your wallet. Those Spaniards had it right all along.

The trend has recently caught on in Milwaukee thanks to trailblazer Peter Sandroni and his restaurant La Merenda. Ginger also recently opened in the former space of Barrosa. I've heard they have a few new-restaurant kinks to work out though.

Hinterland, already known for its top-notch cuisine, introduced a tapas lounge menu about two weeks ago. Located at the corner of Eerie and Water Street, both the restaurant and bar cater to a trendy Third Ward crowd. With not an entree in sight on the dinner menu under $29, the new tapas menu allows a much larger group of Milwaukeeans to partake in the foodie fun.

The small plates are artfully prepared using fresh ingredients resulting in savory flavor combinations. Even better, the plates are priced just right ($3 - $12) so that you can try a bit of everything.

My companion and I ordered the sesame-crusted crab cakes ($9), the fish taco ($3), braised pork taco with jicama and chorizo ($4) and the flatbread with caramelized onion, mushroom, goat cheese and watercress ($12). Every bite of everything that we had was phenomenal.

The crab cakes were thick, meaty and very light and the flatbread was sweet, rich and crispy. The tacos were both excellent, prepared with crunchy red cabbage and a cilantro-lime aioli.

When the bill came, I was perfectly satiated. I noticed that my Rehorst dirty martini was the most expensive item we ordered. It's okay, it's good to support the local guys; and the olives were hand-stuffed with blue cheese. That's well worth the $14.75.

The Rosebud Cinema Drafthouse: A True 'Tosa Jem

jkashou — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 17:45:44 GMT

With the Oscars creating much movie buzz, don't be left out of the conversations by missing the many quality films nominated.

I recently visited the Rosebud Cinema at 68th and North Ave to see "Grand Torino" starring the incomparable Clint Eastwood. The movie was fantastic, but definitely augmented by the total viewing experience. I was actually surprised that neither "Grand Torino" nor Clint Eastwood was not nominated for an Oscar.

The theatre seats about 180 in over-sized, lavish love seats making you feel right at home. Actually, the furniture is more comfortable than what I have at home and the screen is about ten times bigger than mine.

The Rosebud also offers a full menu of pizzas, burgers, appetizers, domestic and imported beer, wine and booze. Oh yes, candy and popcorn too. Friendly staff deliver right to your seat so you don't miss a minute of the movie.

Next week, the Rosebud will be featuring "Slumdog Millionaire" and it certaintly deserves all the hype it has been receiving. It is the best movie I have seen in a long time and I suggest you check it out in style at the Rosebud.

The Rosebud's sister theatre, The Times Cinema, is right down the street at 59th and Vliet and is also shows popular films and holds a variety of events. Check onmilwaukee.com for movie times for both theatres.

Join the Rosebud's Facebook page and be sure to introduce yourself to owner Larry Widen, who you will often find selling tickets at the theatre. His enthusiasm for great movies and a stellar customer experience give the Rosebud true staying power.

Sadistic Parking Checkers

jkashou — Sun, 25 Jan 2009 16:41:53 GMT

Those little blue and white jeeps with flashing lights on top that say "Caution this vehicle makes frequent stops" should really say "Watch out, i'm coming to ruin your day."

I have lived in the city of Milwaukee for four years now and paid my fair share of parking tickets — reluctantly, but promptly. I will take responsibilty for my negligence becuase every so often I do get a break and escape an unnoticed expired meter. I get it — people have a job to do and the city needs to make money.

However, on a bitter cold, windy Friday afternoon I was a victim of pure malice. I had plugged the meter in front of my office building until 3:30 pm and at 3:30 pm on the dot I approached my car to get in. To my surprise, there was a woman waiting to put a ticket on my car at that exact second we locked eyes and I hit the unlock button. Also at that exact second, this area changes from an expired meter to a tow-away zone, causing the fine to skyrocket.

I ran to my car and grabbed the ticket. Sure enough, it was issued at exactly 3:30. I was outraged. The fine was almost triple the cost of an expired meter ticket.

I feverishly followed this evil blue and white jeep, but took an alternate route home fearing that my I'd succomb to the temptaion to rear-end her and ruin her afteroon like she had ruined mine.

Does the city really need money that bad? I would rather give a donation to clean up the streets then have someone sweep in and spitefully slap me with an unexpected fine.

With the state's unwmployement rate at its highest in years and people desperately waiting on hold uanable to get through to talk to someone for help, I think there is a better place for city employees.

Maybe I am totally wrong to think that this in unfair, but the fact that she sat there and waited for me, for the fine to escalate to give me a ticket made me feel so victimized. Be warned, those parking checkers have no mercy.

New Year, New You!

jkashou — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 20:20:35 GMT

New Year, New You! How many times have you seen this cliche headline (or some version of it) on the cover of a magazine? Cosmo, Mademoiselle, Self, Glamour, Men's Health, GQ - I guarantee that all of them have used this tag line to lure in desperate people seeking the promise of a life change in the new year. People believe that this elusive idea of happiness will materialize if we make a renewed effort to get rid of those last fifteen pounds of belly fat.

But why do people always make resolutions at the beginning of a new year? Why don't people make a resolution to start exercising, quit smoking and eat healthy on the third Thursday in June? Are we as a population so fixated on time, schedules and numbers that January 1st is the only logical, albeit superstitious way to start anew?

Not surprisingly, the most common new year's resolution is to lose weight. According to the National Weight Control Registry, 90-95 percent of dieters re-gain the weight they lost, or more. Those are incredibly terrible odds, so why do people continue to make resolutions each January 1st that they can't keep?

I hate the month of January not just for the cold, but also because the gym is over crowded with people you never see again come March. For this reason and many others, I have resolved not to make a new year's resolution and I am sticking to it! Perhaps in May I will feel the need to shape up for swimsuit season, but that's just the procrastinator in me talking. Sadly, I too am an American bound to my schedule and routine.

A new take on cleaning up the Garage....

jkashou — Sun, 21 Dec 2008 22:06:36 GMT

The Garage, connected to Brady Street's popular hangout the Hi Hat, has undergone a major face-lift in the past few months. Before, it seemed like an afterthought to the Hi Hat, void of any distinguishing ambiance. Although, the wide open space was a nice place to catch your breath to when the Hi Hat got too crowded.

I recently stopped by the Garage for an event and was blown away by the cozy, rustic transformation. There are trees (sans leaves) speckled throughout the bar with branches that arch downward and transport you to the great outdoors (the stylish Hi Hat version, that is).

Along the wall opposite the bar there are new dark wood tables and benches so patrons can sample delectable eats from the new menu. The back wall is still a large screen, which I assume will continue to attract sports fans.

Hi Hat has not just cleaned up the Garage, but given it a whole new feel that is sure to make you feel warm and cozy throughout this cold winter.

Love and tragedy

jkashou — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 05:08:47 GMT

This weekend I attended two amazing performances: Eurydice at the Rep and Madama Butterfly presented by the Florentine Opera. Both of these stories portrayed two very different, but tragic love stories. In addition to the performers themselves, the scenery and the music was top-notch, making me feel very lucky to live in a city that values and enthusiastically supports the performing arts.

Sarah Ruhl's modern interpretation of the Greek tragedy Eurydice was directed by Jonathan Moscone and tells the love story of Orpheus and Eurydice. The play takes place in the underworld, where Eurydice falls to shortly after her marriage to Orpheus. The abstract and reoccurring portrayal of death was interesting and sometime confusing. The acting, peppered with subtle humor and passion, made the play an emotional joyride. I left the theatre still thinking about the play and lengths the characters went to for love.

The classic Puccini opera Madama Butterfly portrays the love story of Japanese geisha Cio-Cio-San and American Naval Lt. B.F. Pinkerton. The stunning set transported the audience to tranquil Nagasaki during turn of the twentieth century. Even if you are not a fan of opera, the music, provided by the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, was stellar. The main characters' deep and powerful voices resonated throughout Uihlein Hall. The final act was surprising and tragic, as Cio-Cio-San takes her own life after Lt. Pinkteron abandons her and takes their child.

No matter what your favorite art form is, sharing a powerful experience on stage with one of Milwaukee's many performing arts groups can be unforgettable.

Google: Saving you from your drunk youself

jkashou — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 22:38:42 GMT

Headache, dry mouth, the spins - these are all terrible after-effects of drinking, but nothing is worse than having no recollection of what you might have said or done while under the influence.

One of the lesser known perils of drinking is honesty. Drunk dialing, drunk texting and now, drunk e-mailing can be potentially hazardous. Admit it, you've been guilty of trying to contact an ex, a crush or a co-worker with an embarrassing confession or an unabashed honest comment after one too many cocktails. Thankfully, Google's got your back if you have a Gmail account.

TIME magazine featured a story about Gmail's service for evening and weekend hours to protect users from drunk e-mailing. Apparently, between the hours of 10 PM and 4 AM the optional feature "Mail Googgles" requires you to solve five arithmetic problems in 60 seconds before it sends your e-mail message. Google's rationale is that if you are able to do some simple math, you should be accountable for whatever e-mail you might be sending. (You are able to change the times the filter activates if you prefer to party on weeknights.) Even if you are really good at math, at least you think twice before hitting send.

This is just one more way Google is making our lives better. Why can't anyone figure out how to do that with text messaging though? Check out the full story at the link below.

Ode to Fall

jkashou — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 20:04:39 GMT

Quicker than the blink of an eye, the season changed from an exotic Indian summer to a cool, crisp autumn. This gray day that sits on my shoulders and robs my motivation making it nearly impossible to focus on work. I am battling with myself to sit up straight in the desk chair that has enveloped me like the chrysalis of a caterpillar. Although, I don’t feel like I will emerge from my office today looking like a beautiful butterfly.

I don't mean to sound negative because fall is my favorite season; however, the rapid transition sometimes catches me off guard. Many people concur that a main reason for living in the Midwest is to enjoy the beauty of the four seasons. We withstand the frigid winter as a trade off for the natural splendor of fall. So in honor of its hasty arrival, I have compiled a list my top ten reasons why I love fall (in no particular order of importance):

10. Cozy sweaters, tights and tall leather boots (you know fashion has a spot on every list I make)
9. The smell: crisp air and bonfires
8. Halloween - the most ridiculously enjoyable holiday
7. Traipsing through piles of fallen, dehydrated leaves as they crackle under your feet
6. The vivid splashes of orange, red and yellow hues smattered on the foliage
5. Anything pumpkin flavored - soup, muffins, bread
4. Apple cider
3. The pumpkin/apple farm (Maybe one of the only times you will see the word farm on my top ten list)
2. Football (for the social aspect and camaraderie of course)
1. The warm breezes from the lake

Get out and take advantage of what the season has to offer!

Yummy lunch at Yaffa

jkashou — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 22:12:43 GMT

I urge everyone to get out of the office for an hour to grab some lunch and take a stroll on Milwaukee's beautful Rverwalk while the weather is still nice. The rejuvenating effects are innumerable. I'll just save you some time and tell you the best place to eat - Yaffa.

Luckily, we chose a perfectly sunny 75 degree-day to snag a table on the patio. We started our meal with the falafel, which owner John Chitko jokingly claims is a traditional Polish recipe passed down from generations. Seasoned perfectly on the inside with a crispy outside, they were well complemented by the soothing and traditional tahini sauce. You'd never guess that Chef Chitko was fair-skinned with blue eyes; he cooks like an Arab with a fresh, experimental twist.

The lunch menu is moderately priced, with salads $7 and sandwiches ranging from $7 - $9. I ordered the Fattoush salad with mixed field greens, cherry tomatoes, scallions, cucumbers, sun-dried tomatoes and figs. The creamy feta dressing on the side was phenomenal. I even soaked up the extra with some warm, seasoned pita bread. It was a hard choice because the beet and goat cheese or watermelon and feta salad salad sounded equally exotic and delicious.

My dining companions opted for the popular Strauss lamb schwarma and the chicken schwarma. They were served with crinkle-cut french fries dusted with paprika and parmesan or a cous cous salad. Definitely a good choice for a hearty appetite.

The lunch menu offers other popular appetizers from thier dinner menu including calamari, mussels, bacon-wrapped stuffed dates, mediterranian flatbread and hummus.

Although not a normal noontime tradition, I'd be remiss if I didn't mention Yaffa's amazing cocktail concoctions. They have an extensive and creative martini and mojito list ($5 and $4, respectively, during Happy Hour, 4:00 -6:30 pm on Tuesday - Sunday). The warm colors and modern ambience envelop the bar and dining room, making this the perfect cozy place for a date or just cocktails into the fall and winter.

Activities Abound August 22-23 at the Lakefront

jkashou — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 20:14:51 GMT

Looking for something to do this weekend? Head east and keep going until you can almost taste the cold water of Lake Michigan. Two of Milwaukee's cultural gems are hosting big events this weekend with something for everyone (particularily foodies, winos and shoppers like me).

Sneak out of work early on Friday to start the wine sampling at the 4:00 pm opening bell for the first annual Milwaukee Wine Festival held on the grounds of the Milwaukee Art Museum. There will be over 150 different wines to sample plus food, cooking demonstrations from top local chefs and live music until 10:00 pm. The festivities continue on Saturday from 2:00 - 9:00 pm. I will be working all weekend selling a delicious local product called Kangaroo pita chips. If you stop by and tell me that you read my blogs (and love them), I will give you a free bag! Find ticket prices and a complete schedule of entertainment and exhibitors at the website listed below.

Right next door at Pier Wisconsin, groove, samba and Salsa to the sounds of local Latin band, De la Buena from 6:00 - 8:00 pm as part of the opening reception for the Discovery World Artisan and Entrepreneur Market. If 150 wines sounds a little daunting, or if you have to drive home, check out the Vino 100 wine tasting of South American wines for $10 over at DW. Numerous local artists will be selling a plethora of intruiging art, gifts and crafts from 10:00 am - 5:00 pm on Saturday too.

If you need another reason to soak up the shores of Milwaukee's beautiful Lakefront, check out Mexican Fiesta at the adjacent Summerfest grounds this weekend. Plenty of autentic fare, tunes and traditions will having you hailing "Ole." Also, Saturday morning there will be a 5K fun run and walk to benefit the Make a Wish Foundation.

Poco Loco: Crazy good Mexican food

jkashou — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 14:56:26 GMT

If you find yourself stuck outside of the city, searching for a decent meal among a sea of terrible chain restaurants and corner pubs, check out Poco Loco.

Poco Loco opened in September 2005 and took over the former space of the Vilage Coffee Shop, nesteled right off Brown Deer Road, just west of Hwy 57. It is truly one of very few good restaurants outside of the city offering upscale cuisine in a fun, relaxed atmosphere.

The casual restaurant's concept is fresh, easy Mexican food from the grill. If you can't find a table on the newly expanded outdoor patio, snag one of only twenty seats around a breakfast counter encircling the grill.

The menu is fairly small, offering tacos, burros (burritos) and a few entrees and appetizers. I recommend the guacamole, calamari ceviche and the chipotle shrimp skewers to start. The steak and Strauss lamb tacos are also popular favorites.

On my last visit I ordered the red snapper, which was on special and requested it atop the house salad served with black bean and corn relish, toasted pine nuts and a light, creamy cilantro dressing ($18). Everything tasted so fresh and the portion was so big that I took half the entree home for lunch the next day.

My dining companion ordered the blue crab quesadilla ($12), which was also a special. Two crispy flour tortillas engulfed the crab meat with loads of gooey, melted cheese and a smattering of jalapeno peppers. Delish!

Chef Lupe Ferrer is constantly concocting new salsas, specials and seasonings for fresh fish, beef, pork and even lamb. His speciality is the chicken mole ($11) slathered in the traditional mole sauce that includes chocolate, peanuts, chipotle peppers and about ten other secret ingredients .

I'd be remiss if I didn't mention the tart and tangy margaritas made with fresh squeezed lime juice ($6). I didn't have one on my last visit, but since i first tried one, I refuse to drink margaritas any other way.

Whether you find yourself in that particular neck of the woods or just crave authentic Mexican food, Poco Loco is definitely worth the trip.

Rustico Pizzeria, Zarletti's new venture

jkashou — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 23:26:11 GMT

The only thing better than a picturesque summer night on Milwaukee's riverfront is enjoying a delicious, authentic, Italian pizza while sitting on the riverwalk.

Since it was a warm Friday night, a few friends and I visited the new restaurant Rustico, that replaced Riverwalk Bistro on Water Street in the Third Ward. The interior had been renovated beautifully to have a rustic, Italian feel (consistent with the namesake). Not to overlook the spacious and unique interior, but the riverwalk is prime real estate for those three warm months we get in Milwaukee so we snatched up the last remaining outdoor table.

We ordered the quattro-stagioni pizza with artichoke, mushroom, olive and red peppers (substituted for anchovies) and the house salad. The salad consisted only of mixed greens coated in a balsamic vinaigrette, but the balsamic had such an amazing, distinct flavor, additional ingredients would have littered the plate. The pizza was thin crust and non-greasy, which is always a plus. It was very good, but not the best I have ever had. Maybe I was just disenchanted because our server was not very friendly or attentive. It's alright, I understand that everyone has a bad night.

The menu is small, so if you are not in the mood for their signature menu item, I'd suggest go elsewhere. They offer a few paninis and pasta dishes, but its obvious that pizza is what they've opted to perfect.

Aside from the potate pizza (sliced potato, rosemary and proscuitto), they didn't offer anything exceptionally different. Fried calamari, meatballs and Muffolatas are standard fare at any Italian restaurant.

They offer a happy hour Monday through Friday with complimentary antipasto and $1 off wines and tap beer. I recommend checking it out if only for the ambiance.

MKE folds to the pressures of the digital era

jkashou — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 21:09:28 GMT

The newspaper? Who reads the newspaper anymore? I do, but sometimes I get to certain sections a day late. Much to my surprise on this sleepy Friday afternoon, I flip open the chalky, matte pages of the cumbersome print edition of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel (Thursday's edition) to learn that MKE, a free weekly lifestyle publication produced by Journal Sentinel Inc., will be publishing their last issue on July 10.

Closing up shop just four years after its inception, the free publication was unable to garner sufficient advertising. Advertisers are focusing their dollars on the preferred method of on-line news gathering. Could it be true? Is onmilwaukee.com putting others out of business by riding the wave of the future and catering to a younger generation of tech-savvy hipsters?

Journal Sentinel distributed 50,000 copies of MKE weekly at various locations throughout Milwaukee county in an effort to attract young readers. What a timley follow up to my recent blog, The A.D.D. Generation, predicting that the digital revolution is changing more than just they way we live and do business. The attitude shift of a wide demographic of consumers is rumbling loud and clear. We don't have time to read the paper; we stare at a computer screen all day and that glowing abyss is the only place you are going to reach us.

Maybe the better explanation is that onmilwaukee.com just has better news and features than MKE does. Keep up the good work!

The A.D.D. Generation

jkashou — Sun, 01 Jun 2008 16:48:42 GMT

Straddling the gray line of GenX and GenY, I am torn as to where my loyalties lay. I relish in the advancements from the tech-savvy Generation X, but cannot identify with the stereotypical reputation as being apathetic, cynical or a slacker, like members of GenY. Allow me to make my case on behalf of the generation on the cusp, who embodies the best and the worst of both generations, but most characteristically, possesses a tinge of attention deficit disorder.

We are a generation of instant gratification. With zeal, I document all of my experiences on my digital camera, simply erasing whatever image I want to forget and manipulating it with a swift click of a mouse. I am able to access information immediately via wireless networks invisibly intertwined throughout the city. With the deluge of such advancements as GPS, spell check and wikipedia, we no longer need to think for ourselves.

In my mind, a typical "Cusper's" life if broken down into three to four-year modules. This could constitute a professional job, a term in graduate school, humanitarian work such as the PeaceCorps or Teach for America; or even a European tour to find oneself. By contrast, the generations before us diligently followed a rigid path from education to vocation to retirement. We are independent, empowered by the world at our fingertips and optimistic about the future thanks to a secure upbringing and slight detachment from the realities of the world.

In terms of the current uncertain economic climate, dwindling social security and the mass exodus of the baby boomers from the work force in the next few years, a legitimate anxiety has emerged in regards to the lack of qualified workers to sustain our economy. "Cuspers" lack loyalty in the workplace and see no harm in bouncing from each chapter in their life, living in the now. Each module satisfies a desire or even a whim, but the general ambition is to find the next best thing, quickly, or one moves on.

Not to knock my own generation, but it is as if we all A.D.D. and don't feel enough responsibility for the task at hand to stick with it. However, there are plenty of "Cuspers" with ambition, optimism and altruistic values set on improving the world and not just making a buck. Has 21st century society and the cultural values of the digital revolution created our generation of hyped-up techies and dreamers who think we can save the world?

One thing is certain, this is a whole new generation that is unclassifiable. We are not the work force of our parent's generation, but we are working alongside them, expected to fill their shoes any day now. I have no doubt that although A.D.D., my generation is destined for big things, and quickly!