Local Loyalty - Collecting my marbles...

I feel like I'm missing a few too many marbles, 

pausing life until I can find at least a couple. 

This week looks encouraging.

If you find any stray marbles,

 I'll be needing them back, thanks!

Local Loyalty - Thankfulness

I know I am being quite unconventional,

 but please indulge me. 

November, a month typically known for thankfulness,

are we really?

I AM thankful. Let me start off this way, then I have story that really left a huge impression on me, to the point I feel very compelled to share.

I am very thankful that this feature has been well received.

I am very thankful for the businesses that have shared of their time with me, a complete stranger, just to tell me about themselves and their businesses.

(I wouldn't have answered the door for me, as I don't like talking to strangers!)

The time they shared with me, to me, is not something I take lightly.

They owe me nothing, nada, zip.

When you visit the locally owned, "little guys", do you express your gratitude for the huge step they've taken in just going up against the big guys?

Do you express your gratitude for an awesome experience, wherever you go?

How much of a difference can you make by simple actions, like a smile, a thank you, or just being patient?

Ok, I actually have 2 stories, one may sound silly, 

but it was a "Wow" moment for me.

A couple weeks ago, hubby and I had lunch at Los Mariachi's. We are creatures of habit, and usually order the same thing. It's good, why mess with that? :)

The platter I typically get, is really good, but my tostada gets a little soggy from it's counter parts on the plate.  This visit, the simplest thing made the biggest of impressions. The cook put a single tortilla chip under the edge of the tostada that is beside it's soggy partner. That tostada didn't get soggy! 

It was so simple, and yet, that one little chip made all the difference. I asked the waitress to let whoever did it know that by doing that one little thing, actually made my day, it was simple genius. I don't know that she let him/her know, so when I saw a comment card, I made sure to put it in writing as well. 

The kitchen crew rarely, if ever, gets thanked. I'm sure they hear the complaints, but really... the wait staff usually get all the praise. I really hope that person gets the word that it DID make somebody happy. They deserve to know!

Fast forward to this week. Hubby and I went to lunch Friday. 

We went to Denny's, and it was crazy busy and packed. 

We were told it would be "a few minutes", which, we could tell actually meant a few minutes shy of forever. Nevertheless, we stayed. We watched the flurry of activity, and could tell they were very short handed. 

Some of the waitresses looked very worn and unhappy. 

I watched one, that looked especially harsh, and hoped that isn't who we would get. 20 minutes later, guess who we had? 

Yup, the one I hoped we didn't get. Boy, was I wrong!

She was super friendly, warm, and amazing!

We didn't say anything about the chaotic feel of the day, or the wait. We weren't crabby for having to wait, we were just glad to be seated. 

She was super gracious, attentive, and didn't charge for the hot chocolate I added, "because you've been so nice", referring to us both. 

I can see why she looked harsh, I can't imagine how many impatient, unkind people she'd taken care of before we ever got there. The line of those waiting didn't slow down at all. 

Just by not being impatient, not stating the obvious about the wait (can only imagine how many times she heard that already), she showed her appreciation TO US! Holy smokes, that blew me away! She got tipped very well. It was the only outward way we could show her our appreciation as well.

To go a step further, I emailed our local Denny's and shared with them as well, asking for her to get some kind of recognition, and shared our experience. 

How often do we bring our unhappiness to a business's attention?

Oh ya, that would be frequently.

How often do we share to the 'higher ups' how wow'd we were by one of their people? Not enough, and I'm guilty of that myself. I am going to change, especially this month, and actually, the rest of the year.

The "holidays season" , that we pretty much consider the rest of the year, can be a very harried time for those in all fields. Let's slow down and recognize that we're all human, and we all need to be appreciated. 

Please look for opportunities to brighten someone's day, especially if they've really done something worth noting.

Go forth, and be thankful!

 

Localy Loyalty - input please!

Good morning!
Today, I am asking for your input. 

The places I have found, I feel, cover all kinds of businesses.

So many more businesses are still yet to be discovered.

If there any kind of place you'd like me to find, that I haven't yet?

If it's on my list of places yet to contact, I will bump it to the top.

Are you having trouble finding a certain kind of business?

Maybe it's an area you'd like to find a good business in. 

In the future, I plan on expanding to Union Grove and other Racine counties. I still have many right here, with Calendonia in the works.

How can I help?

Thanks!

Local Loyalty - Grapes 2 Glass Wine Boutique

Good morning!
Today, I want to introduce you to

Grapes 2 Glass Wine Boutique 

You can also follow them -

Grapes 2 Glass on Facebook 

 

Their hours are -

Tues. - Thur. 11am - 9pm

Fri. & Sat. 11am - 11pm

Beginning in November, open also Sundays 11am-3pm

Closed on Mondays. 

I had a wonderful time visiting with Michele, the owner. 

Grapes 2 Glass opened in April of 2010. 

Located in the 'strip mall' in front of the Renaissance Theater, it's very easy to get to, easy to find. 

Personally, I just love the name!

When you walk in, it's warm and inviting. 

There are couches, tables and chairs and even a fireplace. Talk about a warm and cozy spot to visit with friends and hang out.

I had no idea what to expect, and was grateful for the time Michele took with me, telling me about her place.

You probably figured out that is is an extensive wine boutique. They specialize in estate grown grapes, which means, Michele can call up the wineries and get info on each of the wines, the way they created them, what specific grapes they used, what made them create them in the 1st place, whatever. She has a direct connection with the very people that make the wines, and knows where the grapes come from. 

I just thought that was really awesome. 

They also carry 150 different craft beers, 

and can create wine baskets and gifts. 

Sylia, the amazing cook, also makes jewelry, that is for sale.

This is a weakness of mine and I found a set I had to have!

Here is something you may not know (well, I didn't at least)...

Grapes 2 Glass hosts painting classes, and has a room that can be rented for parties, showers, whatever. 

Every Saturday, from 3-5pm, they offer free wine tastings.

If you caught it above, they have a cook, and amazing one at that, so yes, they have a bistro. I can vouch for the crab cakes. I had them Thursday and still think of how awesome they were. 

Check out their MENU - yum!

They have tapas, which are small plates. Great for sharing with friends to try a variety. With soups of the day, and some daily specials, 

this is a place you've got to try. 

Tuesday's special is Mexican. 

All day, tacos and tostadas are 3/$5, I can't wait to try those!

They also offer Mexican drink specials all day.
There are dinner specials after 4pm. 

Thursday is Pasta day/night,

 with special prices on a couple different pasta dishes, 

also with special dinner prices after 4. 

Friday is Fish Fry, all day. 

Featuring steamed cod with a white wine sauce,

Salmon, beer battered cod and also a seafood stuffed fish. 

While I might be allergic to fish, I can have the crab cakes any time, 

any day, so very, very good! 

Live music is featured on the weekends.

 They even carry local things like Sherwood's famous fudge, which is made right here in Racine! Local businesses helping local businesses, 

it doesn't get more awesome than that!

 The 3 words Michele chose - 

1. Unique

2. Variety

3. Eclectic 

(I just love that word)

Please stop in and check them out. 

Please remember to mention that you saw it here!

 

Local Loyalty - Sound Decisions

Good morning!

Today, I bring you -

SOUND DECISIONS 

1440 S Green Bay Rd

 (262) 633-8300

 

Hours - 

Mon - Fri 8:30-6

Sat 8:30-4

Sun closed

I had a wonderful time visiting with Chris, the owner. 

His dad actually started the business in Kenosha, back in 1972.

They later moved to Lathrop Ave, then to Greenbay road, 

where Best Buy originally was, next to the old Menards, before moving to their current location, with that awesome, bright pink mailbox!

Boy, has this town changed!

What started with home audio, 

how entails car audio, alarms, 

remote starters for your car/vehicle, 

and also includes dash cams and window tinting. 

 

Last winter was brutally cold. 

This year is predicted to be possibly even worse. 

Personally, I can't face another frozen winter, having to sit in my car, freezing my hiney off, waiting for my car's pitiful, frozen engine to warm enough to drive home. 

With that in mind, I had Sound Decisions put a remote start

in my car. Now, when I'm close to ready to leave, I can start it up,

from the warmth of the house, and go out, and get into a cozy, warm car, when it's well below zero out. I'm in no way looking forward to the arctic winter, but feel much better knowing I will not have to freeze in the process. 

 

One thing that makes Sound Decisions unique, is that they are very old fashioned in how they do business. People are people, not numbers. 

They take the time with you, one on one, you work with the very people that work on your car. It's personal, it's the way things used to be, and the way things should still be. 

They employ some of the best trained people within 100 miles. 

They have one of the top 100 installers in the US. 

The people that work there, are long term employees, who take great pride in what they do, and are awesome at their jobs. 

 

Please check out their site, through the link above.
You can also follow them -

SOUND DECISIONS on Facebook

Whether you're like me, needing help in the cold,

want to rock your car out with an amazing sound system,

or want some privacy with a nice tint, go to Chris and his crew,

they'll take great care of you!

Please be sure to let him know you saw it here!

Local Loyalty - Pepi's Pub and Grill

Good morning and welcome back!

Today, I want to introduce you to

PEPI'S PUB AND GRILL 

618 6th Street, Racine.

Just east of the roundabout on the north side of the road.

Also check them out

Pepi's on Facebook 

Open Monday thru Saturday 11am-"bar close", 

with the kitchen open Mon - Sat. 11am-midnight. 

Summemr hours include Sunday's noon-9, 

opening earlier during football season. 

I had a nice visit and interview with Joe, who, with his sister, own and operate Pepi's. They were on Main Street in late '05/early '06. They've been in their current location on 6th street for 4 years. It's comfortable and homey. With lots of bar games, pinball, arcade games, foosball, air hockey, pool tables and more!

When I asked how he would describe his place, he said it's like a "high class dive bar with fast, casual dining"

Pepi's also sponsors many leagues.

His goal is to expand to have an outdoor area. 

They have 24 American draft taps, rotating seasonally. 

Every 1st Friday of the month, they feature a brewery, where a rep comes out and you can learn more about them. 

More things he wants you to know - 

They have the best bloody Mary's in town. 

They have the largest cider selection, and have gluten free options. There are 2 dedicated gluten free cider lines, and their beer lines are cleaned and sanitized every 2 weeks.

The food is good, the atmosphere is welcoming and Joe is a wonderful host. 

In a 1st for me, he came up with 4, not just 3 words!

1. Clean

2. Entertaining

3. Uniquely familiar (think Cheers)

4. Welcoming. 

If you're in the area, stop in and check them out, don't forget to let them know you saw it here!!

 

 

 

Local Loyalty - Malicki's Piggly Wiggly Part 2

Welcome back to part 2 of 

Malicki's Piggly Wiggly on Washington!

Ralph Malicki opened his Piggly Wiggly on Washington Ave. 

on May 22nd 2011. 

He has many, many years experience in the grocery industry, 
and really knows his stuff. 
His goal is to give us a better experience, 
provide  our needs, and for his employees to make a difference. 

He also helps showcase some local businesses within his store. 

Look for Sherwood fudge, Cheesecakes by Diana, Taste of Joy, and many other local places, as well as places throughout the state, he carries their goodies. Many can be found in the area near produce, in the 1st aisle, as well as throughout the store. If you see a brand you don't recognize, pick it up and see where it's from. You might be surprised!

Personally, I much prefer Ralph's Piggly Wiggly to any other store in town. The workers are noticeably friendlier and more helpful. 

They welcome you, and say hi, even if just passing in an aisle. It feels like home. If you're looking for something that they don't carry, 

get ahold of Ralph (just ask for him, he's usually there), and he'll do everything he can to get whatever you're looking for. 

You can follow this
 Pig on Facebook.

If you haven't yet stopped in to check them out, please do so. 

Ralph's 3 words - 

1. Friendly 

2. Interactive

3. Engaged, 

both with the customers as well as the community.

If you meet Ralph, please let him know you saw it here!

Local Loyalty - Malicki's Piggly WIggly on Washington Ave. Part 1 of 2

Welcome back!

Today, I have so much to share, 

I hope to be able to relay it adequately through words 

and do it justice.

I want to introduce you not only to a stand out, 

awesome store, but to the guy behind it and all he does. 

Ralph Malicki owns and operates 

Malicki's Piggly Wiggly 

5201 Washington Ave.

Open 6am-10pm daily 

Most of us grew up with this familiar, cute pig. 

I want to introduce you to a guy who does so much, 

but prefers to not take the spotlight. 

Ralph wants to help bring positive change to Racine.

When we sat down and spoke, I asked him what we can do. I'm only one person, he's only one person, what can we do?

He asked me an off-the-wall question - 

"How do you eat an elephant?"

I'm sure my expression was amusing, 

as these thoughts came to mind - 

"hmm, lots of tenderizer?"

"would it taste like chicken?"

then trying to come up with the right answer, 

all I could offer was 

"one bite at a time", which thankfully was correct. 

Yes, there is so much to do.

Yes, there is so much negative to turn around.

Yes, there is much need. 

If we don't start, if we do nothing but wring our hands,

nothing changes.    

If we do nothing but add to the negative voices, 

we're only hurting, not helping. 

Help your neighbors. 

Help those you hear of that have needs. 

Smile at someone when you pass them walking in or out of somewhere. Hold a door door for somebody. Such simple things can make the difference in somebody's day. 

"Do good"

"Start somewhere"

Ralph is very active in the community, with his time, his resources, and even his workers, who also are encouraged to be active in the community.    

Ralph was just honored for his commitment to the community, 

read about it from Racine County Eye - 

RALPH BEING HONORED  

This is somebody I look up to and want to grow up to be like. 

May we all learn from, and try to be more like Ralph and others trying to bring positive change to our town. Look at all Beth David accomplishes. She, too, is just one person, but people are happy to help with anything she sets out to do.

If you live in a house that needs work, you work on it.

We live in a community that needs work. We all need to work on it.

Being negative and standing back pointing and criticizing will get us nowhere.  We need to be positive, or be quiet. 

Soap box getting put away, for today... :)

More on Malicki's Piggly Wiggly next week! 

Local Loyalty - S.E. Wisconsin Hearing Center, Inc.

Welcome back!

Today, I am happy to introduce you to 

  S.E. Wisconsin Hearing Center Inc.

6015 Durand Ave. Suite 100

Located directly behind Wells Fargo Bank

  "We'll bring music to your ears"

262-884-4327

Open 9:30-5 Monday thru Friday

Weekends and evenings by appointment

With school starting and life going back to 'normal' for many of us, whether we have kids in school or not, we start to think of appointments to make, things to do, etc. Setting up doctor appointments and other necessities, etc. 

I, personally, have noticed issues with my hearing. 

I didn't want to admit it, guess it was pride? 

Stupid pride and maybe fear, is more like it. 

I needed help.  

Where do you go, who do you trust? That one, alone, made the decision to get answers easy. I can personally vouch for David Braun. He used to be my neighbor. I knew he would be straight with me and if it was bad, he would tell me in a way that wouldn't freak me out, or anyone else.
This is just the kinda guy David is. 

I went in for a hearing test (always free). I do have some hearing loss. I notice it primarily with certain tones of voices (Sorry, Drew, you're one of the ones I have a hard time hearing :(  ) I also noticed it with certain shows, and male voices of lower tones. The test is very thorough, with double checks for accuracy. 

I was able to 'road test' a pair of aides, and WOW, I had no idea what I had been missing! I even challenged my hubby to turn down the TV to the lowest he could comfortably hear. With the aides, I was able to go a handful of clicks lower!

WOW is all I can say. Early next year (due to our rotating insurance), I will very happily be hearing much better! I can't wait!!

Now, that's my story. Let me tell you about David's place. 

He has been there for  year now. 

There is so much info, I don't know where to begin! 

PLEASE check out the website!!

If you notice people are mumbling, or you ask them to repeat themselves often, have to keep turning up the TV or radio, struggle with background noise in restaurants, you could use some help! Hearing loss doesn't get better. You need help to stop the decline. Pride doesn't work in our favor. Today's aides are smaller, and hardly noticeable, and quite comfortable.  Don't be afraid to find out and get help. It's painless and will only improve your quality of life. 

My kids tease me about being deaf, as I don't always hear things they say.

(ok, part of that is selective but definitely not all!)

David is a musician and understands sound in a way most of us don't. This makes him unique, and very suited for this profession!

His goal is to help people hear better and become the #1 hearing provider of our area. He is independent and beholding to no certain company. He is a a straight shooter, honest and only wants what's best for anyone who comes to him. 

If you're having issues with hearing, please give David a call and see what help is available, hearing test are free, you've got nothing to lose!

The 3 words he chose to describe his business - 

1. Customization

2. Personal

3 Independent

He spends all the time with you that you need. 

Don't you wish our regular doctors would do that?? 

For your own sake, if you are noticing any difficulty hearing, please have it checked out. It's time to stop missing things. I'm glad I went in!

Don't forget to tell him you saw it here!

 

Local Loyalty - Returning soon!

Yes, boys and girls, Local Loyalty will be returning soon.

It has been a very busy, hectic and FAST summer, I can't believe we're already in September! Wow, where has the time gone?

I trust you all had a wonderful summer!

These have been my ponderings 

while thinking about the future of this feature. 

Why I am doing this?

Hmmm, great question, as going out and interviewing people I haven't met yet is way out of my comfort zone. 

I guess I have to give a little nod to one of Racine's most influential ladies, Beth David. She has been a huge, positive force in trying to make our city better. There is such a focus on the negatives, yet, it feels like so little help trying to turn it into positives. 

If you're not going to try to make it better, then stop complaining. Complaining is negative, we have enough of that. We need to step up and help create positive!

 

We sometimes feel over run in big box stores and forget about the small, locally owned businesses and great shops we have right here in our very own town. They often get over looked, or even go unnoticed. 

These are owned by people of our community. They need our help to stay in business. If we want to help in a positive way, we need to show our support to the 'little guys', right in our own area. 

Please click the side bar and review past posts and try to stop in and visit our locally owned businesses. They need us!

Don't freak out, I AM going to be going against one of my foundation guidelines, of not featuring chains, etc, but there is one that makes a huge difference in our community and helps small busiesses get a leg up. I will proudly, and very excitedly be featuring one specific place, whose owner is by far, a huge, awesome help to the little guys amoungst us. 

Stay tuned!

Local Loyalty - Summer Hiatus

Life is getting crazy - weddings, showers, jam packed summer stuff, 

you name it. I don't want this feature to suffer due to my lack of

time to give it the attention is deserves. 

This is not the end, not by a long shot. 

Local Loyalty shall return with many new places to check out. 

Stay tuned folks, and have an awesome summer!!

(personally, I'm not on hiatus, just this feature, fear not :)  )

Local Loyalty - Felle, Lundgren & Associates

 Welcome back!

Today, I feature a 'neighbor' of mine. 

They are just down the road, in the former Bestway Floors building. 

Felle, Lundgren & Associates, SC 

 is located at 7001 Washington Ave. 

at the corner of Prairie Dr. and Washington Ave.,

 just east of Case High School.

Their hours are based on time of year. 

Tax Season - January 2 - April 30

8-5 Monday - Friday

8-noon - Saturday, 

Closed Sunday

May 1- October 1st

 8-5 Monday thru Thursday

(they deserve the 3 day weekend after tax season for sure!)

October 1- December 31

8-5 Monday - Thursday

8-noon Friday

closed Saturday and Sunday

I have to admit, I've never been inside any accounting firm before. 

My expectations of the atmosphere were 

(HAPPILY!) shattered, the second I walked in. 

I pictured suits and super a 'just business' setting. 

Instead, I was greeted like I just came home. I felt immediately at ease, and welcomed. Part of what makes them unique is the fact that they are very professional while not being stiff and stuffy. 

This was actually quite a nice, fun interview! 

Thanks Tammy Lundgren!!

Felle, Lundgren & Associates, is a full service, accounting firm that began in 2001, and moved to their current location in 2011.

Most of the associates are CPA's. They can do just about everything - 

payrolls, tax returns, pay bills for clients, help with financial planning, tax planning and more. 

They are currently expanding the building with future plans of growing even more. How awesome to see a business growing!  Their staff are long term folks, as the work environment is very much like a family. 

They are also very community minded and sponsor a variety of community events, including one coming up very soon, held in Kenosha.

Check out this fun opportunity!

Felle-Lundgren & Associates Outta Sight Kite Flight

June 7th and 8th, 10am - 5pm, 

4051 5th Ave, Kenosha

There will be a Grand Launch of 500+ kites at noon. 

This is a family event, free to all, with free parking!

The Chicago Fire Precision Kite Team will be performing 3 times a day. 

There will be a giant 140 foot Octopus kite, can you imagine what a site that will be!

Free kites will be given away to kids just for stopping in at 

Felle, Lundgren & Associates. 

Whether you're a kid or a kid at heart, this sounds like so much fun!

Take the family, and enjoy this free event of amazing kite flying.

Fear not, I didn't forget about the 3 words she chose :)
1. Professional (but not stuffy!)

2. Friendly (for sure!!)

3. Detail oriented. 

If you have a need they can meet, please check them out, 

(don't forget to tell them you saw it here!)

and hopefully we'll see you at the Outta Sight Kite Flight!!

Local Loyalty - JW & Sons

Welcome back!
Today, I want to introduce you to 

JW & Sons Custom Builders

JW & Sons has been in business since the early 70's.

If you are thinking of building a new home, or garage, 

or just want to put an addition or deck on your house, 

please give JW & Sons a call. 

They're local, always have been, always will be. 

Started by dad, Jerry, and now owned by son Jeremy since 2006, 

the longevity of the business says a lot about them. 

 The owner is very hands on, and you would be dealing directly

with the top guy, who I can, and will happily vouch for.

I can attest to how quickly Jeremy corresponds, returns emails or calls. 

He's always connected, always available.

Check out their website for pictures of work they've done. 

Ways to reach them - 

jwscb.com

email - jeremy@jwscb.com

phone - 262-497-6634

As always, the 'trick question' 's 3 words he chose - 

1. Honest

2. Caring

3. Respected

If you are in need, I hope you'll give Jeremy a call, 

and as always, please tell him you saw it here!!

Local Loyalty - Havahart

Welcome back!
This week, brings up to

 

HAVAHART PETS 

Located at 6500 Washington Ave. 

between Stein's and Jose's Blue Sombrero.

HOURS - 

Mon - Fri 10am-8pm

Sat 10am-5pm

Sun noon-5pm

I remember going to Havahart with my mom, shopping for fish for her aquariums while we were growing up. I've seen Havahart expand, and grow and become a really amazing place, with amazing people. 

I love that the staff size is small, and that you see the same people every time you visit. They know their stuff, and can help you with anything you may need. 

They offer on site grooming, to make your pets as adorable as possible :)

Havahart had a hand in me becoming Lizardmom, as my very 1st iguana was purchased there, at the tender age of about 2-3 months old. They have reptiles, fish, furry critters, almost anything you can be looking for, and all the supplies and things your pet could need. The personal feel of a smaller place is what makes them stand out above all the other places. 

Havahart opened in 1979, when 2 brothers, with a shared love of animals, decided to do something with that love, and look what they have today!

Besides their website (clickable link on their name above), they can also be found on Facebook and Twitter. 

The 3 words chosen to describe Havahart - 

1. Knowledgable

2. Friendly

3. Community

Stop in and check them out, you'll be glad you did!
Don't forget to let them know you saw it here!!

Local Loyalty - thoughts

While "Thoughts" would be a cool sounding place, these are my thoughts, ponderings, and more. 

This adventure has taken me places I didn't know existed. I have met some of the most interesting people, and have gotten to spend time getting to know new friends,  learn about their lives and their businesses. I don't take any of that for granted.  It means alot to me to have them share of their precious time with me. I'm not a reporter, I'm not a journalist, I'm just an every day person, trying to help local businesses get a little boost (tho a big boost would be awesome!)

I haven't been declined many interviews. 

One, was a definite language barrier and my still struggling effort to try explaining who I am and what I'm doing.

Sadly, 3 others declined due to them retiring, or selling their businesses. 

That made me sad. I feel bad for any business that can't stay going strong.

* Common Scents on Main Street -
hoping to sell but uncertain. 

Doug is a good guy, always helpful. He hopes to try working out of a duplex, if he can work it out. I hope so, that way he can still stay in business, just relocate.

* Fired Up, also on Main Street,
retiring, hoping to sell. If these places can't sell and be bought by people hoping to continue the businesses they began, poof, gone. We can only hope whoever buys them, will be successful in whatever they venture to do.

* Megabytes Cafe - also on Main Street.
He declined, though he didn't say why. I read a little while ago, that he went out of business. Such a shame. I don't think he was open very long. Everything I heard about his place was all positive. I wish I had gotten the chance to get to know it better. 

* Burlington RV in Sturtevant.
Not sure why they declined, but I do feel the need to give them a shout out. We're not the camping kind of family that some are. Our neighbors are what I call 'fancy' campers. They have one of those big pull behind fancy 'campers'.
They go camping quite frequently when the weather is decent out. I know one of their popular camping destinations is Wisconsin Dells. 
When they had a problem with a seal, they went to the dealer that they bought it from to find out what it would take to fix it. The quote was out of this world (multiple thousands - and this is from where they bought it from!)
They went to Burlington RV and were quoted much less and the actual fix, came in even cheaper. They are very helpful and not out to gouge. My neighbor couldn't be happier.

I still have quite an extensive list of places to try getting in touch with. I just felt I needed to share this with you.
If you know someone in business in Racine, or any of the Racine counties, or know of a place you would like to see featured, please don't hesitate to let me know! I'm always open to ideas. 
As always, thanks for reading!

Local Loyalty - Synchronicity

 

Welcome back!
This week, I give you

Synchronicity

6800 Washington Avenue
262-886-2321

Info 

Now you know, I've mentioned that I'm not always that observant. This place proved just how bad I can be! Less than a mile from my house, is this pilates studio. How long has it been there and I've been completely unaware? Try 10 years! WOW!

Now, how I found it is another wow thing - 

in my pursuit to find local places, I was going through the white business section, (just before the residentials). If I hadn't spotted a name that piqued my interest, I would still be oblivious to the fact they are nearly my neighbors!

While I can't pretend to know much about pilates, 

I can tell you what I learned.

From my own stand point, I am quite intrigued. 

I threw my back out having 'miss froggy', and was also involved in a really bad car accident (vs. beer truck) a long time ago, so I have neck and back issues.   

Pilates is designed to help improve concentration, control, stabilization, alignment and centering, endurance and stamina, balance, and breathing (coming from a chronic asthmatic - cool!)

Every movement has purpose. 

Synchronicity has Reformer machines that help much more than just floor mat pilates. With weights and springs, and varying tensions, all adjustable for whatever level you're at, you can put so many movements into place to help with anything, whether something specific, like strengthening your knees,or back, or just to improve your posture. 

The studio is smaller, so as to give better personalized service, and smaller size classes. 

No matter what your abilities or limitations are, there is something beneficial for everyone. 

I know I will be looking into this further in the near future. I could see the benefits that I personally could gain by getting into this. 

Please check out their website (click on their name above). 

Here are the 3 words chosen - 

1. Reshape

2. Rehab

3. Restore

 Please let them know you saw it here. 

Help spread the word, and again, thanks for reading!

Local Loyalty - Black-Eyed Press

Welcome back!

This week brings us to a very unique

and awesome place - 

Black-Eyed Press

This one is going to be hard to put in to words,

all that Black-Eyed Press is all about. 

Located at
1515 16th Street, 

is an amazing, complex, intriguing, 

artistic, incredible, expansive place. 

When I asked Samira what her place was all about, 

she said it was a community print making studio. 

After visiting, it is that, but so much more.  

At it's core, it's a print and book making studio. 

Besides doing that,  Samira is also very talented in various types of art, and origami, to name only a few. Her talents seem endless.

Once a month, usually the 1st Saturday of the month, she hosts a 

Book Arts Guild from 10-2. You learn how to make a new, hand bound book, marble paper, how to print, do collages, and more. 

Local artists can also rent space, and use equipment they otherwise wouldn't have access to. 

There is also a program for teens, 14-19, that works on writing and printing their work, both in word and in art.

Open studio nights will begin this summer.
Her goal is to build a community, providing resources and space. 

Within the building she is in, are over 30 other artists and studios. 

I know my words can't do this place justice, it's awe inspiring. 

To for more information contact Samira, 

Phone: 262.994.8780
Email: sam@blackeyedpress.com

She was an amazing host, sharing her passion with me of what she is doing. I thought we'd connect for maybe 20 minutes, and ended up visiting for 2 hours! 

Please check it out, 

I think you too, will be amazed. 

Of course, I can't conclude the feature without those 3 chosen words :)
1. Encouraging

2. Engaging

3. Creative. 

Yes, yes and yes! 

Let your creative side come out, whether in writing, drawing, painting, book making, paper creations, she's here to help!

Don't forget to let her know you saw it here!
Thank for reading!