Archive for tag Pat tasker
December 21, 2011 at 12:24 AM · Posted under Area Attractions & Events, Pat Tasker
For the past 39 years, the downtown M&I Bank has had a great Christmas display which attracts both young and old. Each year, there is a new theme, but the main characters stay the same. The characters are the centerpiece of the display, and they are life-size stuffed animals, made by the world famous Steiff Company in Germany. The brand trademark is the button in the ear of each animal.
The display originally started when the marketing director for the bank went to New York City. He visited FAO Schwartz and bought a few animals for a holiday display at the bank, and it grew from there. Today there are almost 50 animals that get new clothes and new looks each year.
This year's "It's Toy Time," brings a life-size workshop to the bank lobby, with animals carving nutcrackers, stuffing teddy bears and making all kinds of toys.
In February each year, the bank president chooses the theme and the staff get to work designing the set, the costumes and carrying out the plan. The weekend of Thanksgiving, 50 or so employees work the entire weekend setting up the display.
This display has become a tradition for many. Grandparents and grandkids, teachers and students come to look, then years later come back with the next generation! Many families take their holiday photo here, or stop before a performance of the Nutcracker or Christmas Carol
When I heard that M&I Bank was bought by BMO Harris, I couldn't help but wonder what would happen to this display. So happy to hear that BMO Harris embraced the tradition and even sweetened the attraction by donating $5 for each visitor who strolls the lobby to view the animal fun. The Hunger Task Force will certainly welcome that donation this year! Will you have a chance to visit the bank and enjoy this holiday treat? I will be taking my grandkids on Christmas Eve! They have great holiday hours! December 1st through January 5th recurring daily. Hours: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. weekdays and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekends, Christmas, and New Year's Day. The display will be closed after 1 p.m. on Saturday, December 17th and Saturday, December 24th; and at 5 p.m. on Thursday, January 5th.
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December 01, 2011 at 11:00 AM · Posted under Pat Tasker
I remember when I was little, our parents would bundle us up and go "for a ride" and look at Christmas lights. Certain neighborhoods would go all out and have some fantastic displays.
In Germantown's Windsong subdivision, and annual event coming up this Sunday evening is the Luminary Night. A good majority of neighbors participate with thousands of beautiful luminaries lining the streets, drives and sidewalks. Many also have elaborate lighting displays. The subdivision organizes it, and the neighbors all help help, including the scouts who along with Santa will collect food and cash donations for the local food pantries. This year those who come by will have a chance to vote on their favorites!
Windsong Subdivision is located 1/4 mile east of Pilgrim Road on Donges Bay Road; or 1/4 mile west of Fond du Lac Avenue on Donges Bay Road, in Germantown.
If you are in the mood to check out some other holiday favorites, check out this list and convenient map. It includes some favorites like the Miller Valley, Candy Cane Lane and Cathedral Square.
Elves aren't the only ones working this time of year! I am available for your real estate needs this holiday season.
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November 23, 2011 at 05:29 PM · Posted under Pat Tasker
There are some new shopping trends developing this year when it comes to the holiday season. Sadly, major retailers are opening earlier and earlier for Black Friday sales, and now are pushing those opening times into Thanksgiving Day. Is nothing sacred anymore? It even has an official name “Christmas Creep.” But, it will only work, if people show up. It's probably too much to think that a revolt would happen, no shoppers come, and it is ruled out as a bad idea, and never repeated....we can only
hope!
A nicer trend is the Shop Local Saturday, developed last year by American Express to help the local merchants compete against the big box stores. It is like David verses Goliath in the holiday shopping world. So between Black Friday and Cyber Monday, get out to some local merchants and enjoy some shopping in quaint and friendly local shops. Some immediately come to my mind, and I thought I’d share them with you.
Whitefish Bay Holiday Stroll is the Friday after Thanksgiving. So when you are tired of the pushing and shoving at the mall, take a stroll around the shops on East Silver Spring Drive in Whitefish Bay. The parade starts at 6pm, including a Husky club pulling sleds, Girl Scouts, school kids, Dancing Grannies, and of course Santa Claus! The highlight of the street, at least in my opinion is Winkies. The store that seems to have everything. From candy by the pounds, gifts, cards, games and toys, it is a great place to stock up for St Nicks. Other highlights include:
-Parade - 6pm
-Free Pony & Train rides
-Food & Entertainment
-Strolling musicians
-Tree lighting ceremony
-Santa
Another great place to stroll and shop locally is Cedarburg, just north of Milwaukee. Miracle on Washington Ave. offers opportunity for a small town Christmas set among unique shops that line blocks of the downtown area. It is such a scene from “Americana,” it’s the place that John McCain and Sarah Palin made their first appearance together as running mates, and the place that Toby Keith filmed his latest music video “Made in America.” Idyllic, picturesque Main Street, garland swagged over busy streets, while shoppers make their way from store to store, all lit with twinkling white lights. Stop at Cedar Creek Winery to pick up some of the special Christmas wines, pick up specialty gifts, cards and invitations at the paper store, and end with a Mexican Hot Chocolate or festive steamer at the coffee shop. Wishing for some down time to relax? Saturday, Nov 26th, is your chance to see Miracle on 34th St on the big screen at the Rivoli Theatre, 12:30 and only $2 or $1 with a food donation.
In my hometown of Germantown, I’d suggest Sinter Klausen, a great holiday shop stuffed with glass ornaments, nativity sets in the style of a German Christkindlmarkt!
Another great small town shopping experience is “Downtown” Greendale. I have heard so much about it, I will be checking it out this year. Shopping, restaurants and the home of Reiman Publications-home of hundreds of recipe books. Let me know what your favorite Shop Local Saturday destination is! Elves aren’t the only ones working this season. I will be too, just not on Thanksgiving ! If you need any help with your real estate needs, feel free to call me! Just not on a holiday.
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September 30, 2011 at 09:07 AM · Posted under Pat Tasker
The Brewers clinched the National League Central Division this year, and will be starting on the road to the World Series this Saturday at Miller Park.
Milwaukees hometown Major League Baseball team has a long history, with only a few appearances in the month of Ocotber. This year, in what appears to be Prince Fielders last year in Milwaukee, the Brewers have some great players in the line up besides the Prince of Power. Ryan Braun is in contention for the League MVP, and Rickie Weeks just back from a few months off for an injury, is strong as ever. Some great pitching from Zack Greinke and Yovanni Guillardo will hopefully get the Brewers all the way to the finals.
Milwaukee has had a Major League baseball team going back decades. The Braves were originally located in Milwaukee before moving to Atlanta in the 1960's. In 1969, Bud Selig bought the Seattle Pilots who were bankrupt, and brought the team to Milwaukee. 1982 brought the first League Pennant, winning the American League East Division and earning their only World Series appearance to date. Down four games to three,they lost to the St Louis Cardinals.
In 2008, the Brewers achieved their first postseason berth in the 26 years since their World Series appearance as the wildcard team in the National League. They were eliminated in the NLDS by the eventual World Series champion Philadelphia Phillies.
In 1997, the team moved from the American League to the National League.
Named for the citys long history of beer brewing, the Milwaukee Brewers have had some very exciting players and seasons over the years, but perhaps none as exciting as this year. Past players include Robin Yount, Paul Molitor, Cecil Cooper, and even Cecil Fielder father of Prince.
Miller Park is the home of the Brewers and features North America's only fan-shaped convertible roof, which can open and close in less than 10 minutes. Miller Park hosted the MLB All Star Game in 2001, where President George W Bush threw out the first ball. One of the most famous events held in Miller Park is the Klements Sausage Race held in the middle of the 6th inning.
Miller Park and Milwaukee Brewers, another reason living in Milwaukee is fun!
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September 21, 2011 at 07:00 PM · Posted under Area Attractions & Events, Pat Tasker
Whether its Laverne & Shirley working at the brewery, the Hamms bear at the land of sky blue waters, or the argument of "tastes great - less filling," beer definitely has a deep rooted history in Milwaukee! This weekend, Oktoberfests in Milwaukee won't be too hard to find or celebrate!
There are several different Oktoberfest in Milwaukee opportunities from historical to fun. And if you are wondering why its called Oktoberfest, but falls in September, you will have to check in on Monday's blog for the explanation!
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| photo credit DiscoveryWorld.org |
An educational look at beer can be found in the Legacies of Milwaukee Northside Brewing History Tour, which includes:
- Visit several historically significant brewery sites, tide houses, cooperages, etc. in Schiltz Park, Brewers Hill, Riverwest neighborhoods, and beyond.
- Special tour and lunch at Stonefly Brewery in Riverwest.
- Featuring an inside tour of Sprecher Brewing Co. in Glendale and Big Bay Brewing Co. in Shorewood.
If you are more athletic, try the Oktoberfest downtown at Pere Marquette Park and compete in the beer run. Balancing a brat in one hand and beer (or root beer) in the other, runners will cover a 1.5 block area and see who will win the Brat Trot! This family and pet friendly event offers food, beer and fun!
And for the true Germans looking for their fill of Spanferkl, rollbraten, kraut and beer in very large (mass) glass steins, Bavarian Inn (Glendale) hosts an annual Oktoberfest that can't be beat! The outdoor park with covered beer hall hosts hundreds of diners, drinkers and dancers. The roasting barn will see pigs, chickens and brats roasting on fiery hot coals. Desserts feature Black Forest Torte and Bienenstich a delicious honey and almond covered cake. Saturday the popular Alte Kamaraden Band from Freistadt will be performing. Bring your tablecloths, steins and pitchers and plant your family for the evening and enjoy! We've gone to this since our son was five days old, so to say it is a family tradition for us might be an understatement! Look for me, and say hi if you go!
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September 21, 2011 at 10:38 AM · Posted under Pat Tasker
Each month, our company, Shorewest Realtors sponsors a "Casual Day". In order to participate and wear business casual, agents and employees make a donation to the cause of the month. Shorewest matches, up to $1,000.
Casual Day recipients are chosen by an office, and often reflect a current need: a customer who had bad luck like a devasting fire, a child with an incurable disease and mounting medical bills or a popular charity.
In June, my office got to pick a worthy cause and we chose The Honor Flight, and raised almost $2,000 for the cause. Once or twice a year the Stars & Stripes Honor Flight flies 1 or 2 757's to Washington DC, loaded with members of "the Greatest Generation" and guardians. They arrive and tour the WWII Memorial, Iwo Jima, and ARlington National Cemetery. On the return flight these veterans participate in MAIL CALL. Students, family and community members write letters of appreciation and thanks for their service, which went unsaid for decades.
This Friday, the recipient is the Susan G Komen Race for the Cure which is one of the largest fund raisers for Breast Cancer research and cure. Along with making donations, may agents and employees are racing for the cure.
I am proud to work for a generous company that gives back to our community! The Board of Directors for the Honor Flight was happy to accept our donation supporting its worthy cause!
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September 19, 2011 at 07:00 PM · Posted under Area Attractions & Events, Pat Tasker
Pink is the color this week as Milwaukee preps for its 13th annual Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure on Sunday September 25th.
This national fund raiser event expects more than 16,000 people to walk and run for a cure for breast cancer. You couldn't find a more beautiful spot to hold an event like this. The azure blues of our Lakefront will be accented with all shades of pink this week in honor of the event.
The Calatrava addition to the Milwaukee Art Museum will be lit in pink. Lincoln Memorial Drive will sport giant pink ribbons on lamp posts compliments of Komen sponsor Kohls Department Stores. All this leads to the big event on Sunday morning. If you haven't registered yet, there are a few chances for in person registration this week. September 23rd & 24th at the Petit National Ice Center and at the lakefront on race morning.
On race day, be sure to plan time to visit exhibits on the grounds of the art museum. Lots of free giveaways, healthy snacks and info on breast cancer.
One of my favorite parts of this race would be the high school cheerleaders along the 5k route cheering support for the participants. Another is the opportunities to remember loved ones who are fighting the disease and those who have sadly lost the battle. This memorial last year brought tears to my eyes. But nothing beats the finish line. Watching the healthy cross hand in hand with a survivor. Watching doctors and nurses cheer patients on to the finish. All survivors crossing the finish receive pink roses!
Will I see you Sunday? You should recognize me, I'll be wearing pink!
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September 01, 2011 at 01:13 AM · Posted under Pat Tasker
Living in Milwaukee has many special benefits, one of them is our Lakefront and all it has to offer. From Grant Park in Cudahy to Doctors Park in Fox Point, and a ton of places in between, our Lakefront is a treasure. So for the last hurrah of summer, why not visit the Lakefront and enjoy one of those places!
Bradford Beach has some new features the past year or two. On a recent visit with a friend, we enjoyed comfy chaise lounges with thick cushions and an umbrella. There are small cabanas, paddle boards and kayaks also for rent. During full season there is wait staff available! In the same location are quite a few beach volleyball nets for the active set. The old beach house has a grill and fountain, and there is a tiki bar right on the beach for some serious heat relief.
McKinley Marina is just packed with beautiful boats this time of year. The Milwaukee Sailing Center has some events for those interested in trying to sail. Bartolottas has a custard and hamburger stand right at the bottom of St Marys hill, and their new Harbor House is a great restaurant for that special occasion.
No one can miss the Calatrava, an addition to the Milwaukee Art Museum 10 years ago, this Santiago Calatrava design is unique to say the least. The Brise Soleil, is the wing like structure that opens and closes several times a day. Go hang out on a Saturday and you will see one wedding party after another show up for their photo shoots! The art museum is frequent host to large special exhibits, many which make only 1 or 2 other stops in the US.
Pier Wisconsin offers a Great Lakes Aquarium, and a great walking path. On the south side of Pier Wisconsin, you might find the Dennis Sullivan sailing ship docked. For a fee, you can go for a sail.
Now you are as far south as Henry Maier Festival Park, home of Summerfest, the world's largest music festival, and ethnic festival most summer weekends. Germanfest is a family favorite!
Take some time and check out our beautiful Lakefront this weekend. There truly is something for everyone. Park and walk around, or bring your bikes. If you would love to live near the Lakefront, there are many options from condos with lake views, to mansions on Lake Drive. I'd be glad to help you find your new home along the lakefront! Call me or text 414-588-4907, or email
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August 24, 2011 at 11:10 AM · Posted under Pat Tasker
If you listen to the news or read the paper, you have been seeing some encouraging news of late.
GOOD NEWS: End of July numbers indicate that home sales in Wisconsin are up 34.4% over last year! If you think back, you will remember that the first half of 2010 included a hefty $8,000 tax credit for first time buyers who closed by June 30th, IF they had an accepted offer by April 30th. Last year May and June numbers for accepted offers were dismal to say the least, making the numbers this year not that hard to show improvement.
BAD NEWS: While the number of home sales are now on an upward swing, prices are not. In fact, the median home price dropped 5.9% this year to $139,000 (state wide).
What is happening? It's like a clearance sale. In order to clear large amounts of inventory, prices come down. With more foreclosures now approved by banks to hit the market, it appears that inventory will stay high through year end, keeping prices down. Only when inventory is at lower amounts, would prices stabilize and eventually head back up. So we have some time to wait on that, but homes are successfully selling. And, if you are moving UP to a higher price range, that will make for a sweet deal on the buy side. You can get a bigger home for the same price as 5 years ago.
Many of our mid priced homes are moving well with first time buyers entering the market. Rates are historically low, and 20 years from now, those buyers will be bragging about the deal they got with a 4% interest rate!
Are you ready to jump into the game? Buying a first home or making a move up can be done easier than you think. Call me today to discuss a strategy for YOU to take advantage of this historic market! I can be reached by calling or texting 414-588-4907 or emailing Rates are LOW, there is a lot to choose from, THE TIME TO BUY IS NOW!!
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August 15, 2011 at 08:02 AM · Posted under Pat Tasker
Congratulations to Whitefish Bay, Franklin and Germantown for making Money Magazines "100 Best Places To Live In America!" Just announced, these three communities made the top 100, based on towns 50,000 and under and data including crime, schools, health care, job markets, cultural and outdoor activities.
Money Magazine has several lists of "best places to live" including best for "rich and single," job growth, and best deals on home prices.
If you are looking for a community to settle in, I can be of great help. Born and raised in Milwaukee, I know the metro area inside and out and can match a community to your lifestyle and needs! Call me today or text me at 414-588-4907.
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August 05, 2011 at 12:41 PM · Posted under Area Attractions & Events, Pat Tasker
If you love the cream puffs at the Wisconsin State Fair but don't have a chance to visit for a day, there is a drive-through option!
Call the Dairy Bakery phone line (414-266-7111) the day prior, order your puffs, and then next morning between 6 a.m. and 8 a.m, drive through, pay and pick up! It's as easy as McDonalds. Such a sweet treat to pick up on your way to work.
For the past several years, Cream Puffs have been available in this drive-through method. Once a carry box was designed, it made the sweet treat easier to transport, and the drive-through makes them available to anyone with a car. (Note, this year, there is a new pick up location, Gate 6 near the Petit Center or Gate 8 on 76th Street. Aso note, you must be northbound to make a right turn into fair park) Same price, same great taste. I've ordered mine, maybe I will see you at the drive-through!
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August 01, 2011 at 09:19 AM · Posted under Pat Tasker
Believe it or not, there are more cash buyers out there than you would think. First lets define a "Cash Buyer". A Cash Buyer would be a buyer for a property that has enough money to write a check for the total due at closing. Many times, that means investors, but more than ever we are seeing Cash Buyers across the entire market and all price ranges.
Last month, 20% of closings in our Metro MLS were "Cash Buyers," meaning NO FINANCING was involved. The interesting thing about the monthly stats was that the Cash Closings had sale prices of 91% of the asking price, while the financed sales were sold at 95% of the asking price. So you can see that money talks.
Why would there be such a big discount for Cash sales? It makes for a much easier and faster closing in most cases. You don't have to wait for the mortgage company to collect buyer documents and approve the loan. There typically is no appraisal done, saving more time, and possibly a dispute on value. With less red tape and much less time, a Cash Buyer can close within 7-10 days of an accepted offer!
If you are looking for tips in obtaining the best price on a new home, or selling your home, call me to find out the trends in YOUR neighborhood. With over 23 years of experience, I know how to read the market and bring you to a successful closing!
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July 14, 2011 at 12:55 PM · Posted under Area Attractions & Events, Germantown, Pat Tasker
If you are looking for a great community to settle in with your family, Family Circle Magazine thinks Germantown, Wisconsin is a great choice! In its August 2011 issue, Family Circle placed Germantown in the 8th spot on their list of Ten Best Towns For Families!
Based on quality schools, affordable homes, access to health care, low crime, fiscal stability and green space, Germantown was chosen from a list of 2,500 cities with populations of 15,000 to 150,000.
This honor is another feather in Germantown's cap, having been named to 2007 Money Magazines "Best Places to Live," County Line Elementary School named a "Presidential Blue Ribbon School," and Tree Tops in Germantown, named best subdivision, by Milwaukee Magazine.
As a Germantown resident, I am know the neighborhoods and services. A deep and rich German heritage is found throughout the village. If you are looking for a great place for YOUR family, I'd be happy to help you find your dream home in award winning Germantown!
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June 17, 2011 at 03:39 AM · Posted under Area Attractions & Events, Pat Tasker
The Kids From Wisconsin have performed around the state for years, entertaining and bringing smiles to those in the audience. On Friday, July 8th, at North Middle School in Menomonee Falls, you can check them out and see local MFHS grad Mackenzie Curran, who is touring with the show choir for her second year. Mackenzie was interviewed by Channel 12 during rehearsals this week.
The Kids from Wisconsin are a 40+ years old tradition, and their producer was a "kid" himself decades ago. You may have seen the Kids at the Wisconsin State Fair, where they perform two shows a day.
A group of 33 Wisconsin kids that auditioned and earned a spot in the troupe, spends 17 days at the State Fair dorms, practicing 12 hours a day in preparation for their summer tour. Their appearances number over 65 in 40 different venues around the state.
If you are looking for some great entertainment, check out their Menomonee Falls show July 8th at 7 p.m. North Middle School auditorium is located at N88 W16750 Garfield Drive, Menomonee Falls. Contact Eileen at 262-253-6560 for ticket information.
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June 13, 2011 at 03:31 AM · Posted under Pat Tasker
Since 1998, The Wisconsin Breast Cancer Showhouse has treated visitors to not only a tour of a grand home, but the latest styles in decorating, while raising money to support breast cancer research. Over the past 13 years, $4.1 million has been raised and used by researchers at the Medical College of Wisconsin, right in our back yard.
Every year a new home is found and planning starts. Designers submit designs and bids for a room they favor. A board of review makes the selections and works with the current homeowner.
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This years home at 3026 North Marietta Avenue is a center entrance colonial of natural cream colored stone. Corinithian columns, ornamental leaded glass, tiger oak flooring,and a carrera marble fireplace are just a few of the special features. Iron work by world renowned Cyril Colnik and Orlandini plaster work are found through the home. The coffered plaster ceiling in the dining room is a work of art with a plaster rosette in the center of each square. One of my favorite rooms was the butlers pantry with a double sink of German silver, and great display of treats, as if the home is ready for a party.
The 6,500+ square foot home was built by Christian Kurth of the Kurth Brewing Co, in 1917 for $42,000.
The Show House is open through June 19th, so you still have a chance to enjoy the home tour, get decorating ideas, imagine the life of beer barons from years gone by AND shop in the boutique. Show home hours vary by day, and advance tickets are available at many outlets, including all Shorewest offices.
If you tour this home, and fall in love, call me to discuss your moving plans. This home unlike others before is actually on the market for sale. Call me for details to make this home YOUR new address!
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