East End Views

Regarding Tri-Corp Property on Beloit Rd.

Mary Ann Sparks — Sun, 10 May 2009 02:31:14 GMT

Today's blog is a guest blog from Mortified in West Allis. The city wants to keep properties in the East End of West Allis in good shape and all up to code. After talking to "mortified" about this situation, one wonders if it were a private citizen who owned that property would the city be cracking down on it, or, because its a business is there a double standard? Not only that but the folks who live there surely deserve the same standards that the rest of us citizens work for and enjoy. Thanks "mortified" for bringing this to my attention.

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The May 8^th edition of the Journal-Sentinel brought back an east end controversy from the not too distant past. The Headline reads, “ West Allis Rooming House placed into receivership”. It’s deja vu all over again.

East-enders remember the situation regarding the Tri-Corp property located at 6640 West Beloit Road. We remember the concern when it was revealed, no thanks to any number of city officials, that the new owner of the property was Tri-Corp Corporation. For the uninitiated Tri-Corp are the owners of the infamous, Richardson House a/k/a/ West Samaria. Given the historical, verifiable, slipshod management of Tri-Corp’s other properties , West Allis officials were faced with an understandable and justifiable backlash from the neighboring areas, Meetings were held. Channel 14 covered them. Citizens griped loudly and questioned. Elected officials were momentarily shamed into acknowledging that someone had “dropped the ball”. Tri-Corp made promises of rigorous management, supervision and municipal good citizenship. Sanctimony reigned. Citizens were placated. City officials were modestly chastised. The development authorities swore to be more diligent in decisions. I remember. I was at those meetings.

Now this! Who is to blame? New Samaria’s Management? Absolutely! Gullible officials/citizens who actually believed Tri-Corps empty commitments? Positively! But this current situation is now beyond blame. One thing is for sure, the vulnerable clients will pay dearly. They are the pawns in this whole mess. Tri-Corp, which in exchange for the monthly SSI payments of the clients, breached its fiduciary duty to those persons. Delinquent utility bills, back taxes, inoperative elevator, unsanitary conditions, foreclosure suit, the residents deserve better. So does the city which approved the zoning, and occupancy. So do the citizens in the adjacent area, who made the decision to accommodate their new neighbors.

We once believed Tri-Corp. No more! Let’s make sure the new receiver lives up to their pledge of stability, re-evaluation and staffing of the property.

______________________________________________

Dave and Busters - Coming soon

Mary Ann Sparks — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 21:05:00 GMT

I don't know how many of you have been to or heard of Dave and Busters. It's an indoor amusement park featuring video games that you actually participate in. There is a restaurant and a bar that serves both non-alcoholic beverages. There's a lot of pool tables too and party rooms. I was visiting some friends in Michigan and they took me for an evening of just plain fun.

Now, a good friend here in the Milwaukee area, yes, I know this should be about West Allis, but anyone in the area can go check out Dave and Busters out when it opens up. From what I understand the location is on Hwy 100 just below where the freeway goes across Hwy 100. Ewald Motors closed and that's the area that Dave and Busters is taking over. I've no idea when the grand opening will be but I've no doubt there will be some kind of publicity on TV or in the local papers.

I'm not a video game player, but I do enjoy board games and D & D. However, I had so much fun at the Dave and Busters in Michigan that I can't imagine not enjoying the one here. There are simulators for driving tanks, race cars and jet skis that actually move. There are shooting galleries that are very realistic and a host of other activities including some sports. The food in the restaurant was pretty tasty too and, like I said earlier there is a bar that serves both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. In MIchigan after a certain time no minors are allowed too. I've no idea if that will be the case here in Wisconsin or not.

When it opens, check it out, loads of fun.

Kids in Commercials

Mary Ann Sparks — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 02:21:12 GMT

Usually I try to avoid watching commercials on TV but there are times that I get caught up in them. It amazes me how little kids are often presented. Kids are either very obnoxious or sweet, sometimes saccharine sweet. The only commercial that I've seen a few times that presents the kid as normal is the one showing the little boy talking to his bloodhound and telling the dog that he's not going to lie anymore for the dog's mishap.

There's a commercial showing now by a fish stick sponsor in which the little girl is sassy, demanding and obnoxious. It seems to me that a child watching it will get ideas in their head that its ok to talk to mom that way cause you get what you want that way. Not a good thought for a small child to have. Granted it's JUST a commercial, but small children do watch them. There is no way any of my kids would even think they could talk that way to me and get away with it. If they get away with it when young, imagine what they will try as teenagers?

Another child in a commercial that drove me crazy was the one with the child touting grape juice. That child was no more than 5 or 6, yet used words that NO kid that age would even know what they meant. What's up with that?

Besides the little boy and his bloodhound commercial, I saw one the other day that presented two little girls, one Japanese and the other one American both eating Oreos in two trains that were next to each other. It was so natural and it was obvious that the two girls truly connected with no words spoken by either of them. Well done! Another one that is cute is about a daddy who is going out of town and his daughter slips her stuffed monkey into his suitcase. Daddy finds it and takes some pictures of the monkey in cute poses, then sets the monkey on his suitcase in their driveway letting mom and child know he was home. A bit saccharine but totally not obnoxious.

Kids are kids and often work well in a commercial. The advertising folks just need to remember that the kid is giving a message that often is different than what the commercial is plugging. Our children do watch these commercials and they do identify with them.

Anyone have opinions on this?

Observations from the East End

Mary Ann Sparks — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 21:56:48 GMT

Now that the winter snow has melted, we are able to see what the snow has been covering the past several months. In the East End at the Six Points area the front area of the Paradise Building still sticks out in all its naked ugliness. Why haven't we seen some progress in doing something with this very visible building. When my house needed painting, I heard from the building inspector who told me that visitors to West Allis will be looking at how the houses in the area are kept up. I was given so long to "git 'er done". So I did. My question for the city is, why aren't the people that own that building given the same warnings and deadlines? That part of the city is extremely visible, much more than my little and inconsequential house. That building has looked like that for a couple of years now. I say to the city fathers and the alderman put some pressure on the owners to DO something.

The next problem in the same area are the condos called Six Points in the area of 64th and Greenfield. For starters, just the idea of fancy expensive condos in that area isn't logical to me. If I were in the position to spend over $200,000 for a condo, I sure wouldn't be looking on 64th and Greenfield. Sorry, I live in the area, its a blue collar neighborhood of mostly good people but not a neighborhood for $200,000 condos. Now, I'm very curious to know what's going to happen to those condos since the building is in Foreclosure. Seems that SOMEONE was messing with the payments, shifting from one account to another and got caught through the downturn in the economy. Are these condos going to sit empty and end up looking like the front end of the Paradise building?

Thirdly, I've a good thing to tell y'all. Remember the Chalet restaurant? Its going to be re-opening. New owners, new menu, new customers. Keep your eyes open kids. Watch for the Chalet's lights to be back on and give the new owners a try.

Oh, I did get into Shawna's on 60th St. I didn't try the food so I can't comment on that. To me, it was just another bar. Sorry to the folks who own Shawna's that I can't say more.

Construction on remaking 60th St. north of Burnham won't start til 2011. Contrary to rumors, NO houses will be torn down. I know this cause I spoke with the City Engineer.

So much for news from the East End.

Valentine's Day on a Budget

Mary Ann Sparks — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 22:35:00 GMT

For me Valentine’s Day has always been a special day. It’s not always turned out the way I wanted and hoped for either. I do try hard to make sure that those I love KNOW they are loved and appreciated all year long but to have just one special day to appreciate someone special and to show them your love is indeed a very good idea.

Yes, I also know that the card companies, flower sellers, jewelers and assorted other retailers hawk their goods and services on Valentine’s Day. It’s become very commercial but, we don’t have to buy into all the hoopla if we don’t want to do. In these tough times we just can’t afford that $40 dozen of roses or those diamond studs she has been fondly admiring or that GPS that he has dropped hints he would like to have. So, what do we do and how do we let those special people in our lives know they are appreciated and loved?

Instead of the dozen red roses, how about just one red rose given to her with a handwritten love letter or note? It’s personal and will show her that you have taken the time do something very special just for her. Better than a card, trust me.

A fancy restaurant is always good, but, that unemployment check or the part time job check only goes so far. Most men can manage to create just one special dish for dinner. Take over the kitchen, give her a glass of wine or a cup of tea or coffee and tell her you’re doing the cooking tonight. Go to the dollar store and get some candles. Get out the good china. Ask grandma to babysit for the evening. Make the evening even more special by cleaning up after your cooking and do the dishes. You will score mega points.

Rent a romance movie, make some popcorn and just “be” with each other. Turn off the cell phone, the computer and put out the “Do Not Disturb” sign on the front door. Again, if you have children and grandma can’t babysit, rent two movies, one for the kids to watch before bedtime and once they are in bed, dim the lights, make some more popcorn and actually sit next to each other and hold hands. Spoon a little bit. (Yes I know that term dates me.)

If you can remember and it’s affordable, go back to the place where you met or had that first dinner date. Just doing that will spark all kinds of loving thoughts and happy memories for both of you hopefully. Again, just one red rose or his/her favorite flower given at the table, or, a couple pieces of good chocolate always works.

Valentine’s Day is a day of love and romance. Don’t discount the romance of the day, you might be pleasantly surprised.. A little romance never hurt any of us.

Signs of the Times

Mary Ann Sparks — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 03:12:50 GMT

Several of us bloggers and commentators have been speaking about how bad West Allis has become, or, has it always been that way? I'm the type of person who tries very hard to examine both sides to every story. So, in order to accomplish that, I've been trying to follow the crime related news stories and the good accomplishments that do surface either in print, tv or online. What I've discovered is that NO area of the city or county is immune to crime. Recently it seems that most of the crimes seem to be related to the hard times, poverty and joblessness that has become so pervasive all over the country. I'm seeing more crimes of theft. Groups of people swarming into a store, taking whatever they can and running out with their "loot" for example. I believe that we're going to be seeing more drive-offs at gas stations, especially with the price of gas rising again. The Dollar Stores are getting robbed oftener as are pharmacies. I've no doubt that there's more shoplifting happening too. Times are hard for many folks but that's not an excuse to steal.

It makes me wonder what causes a person to think that if I have something and you want it, it's ok for you to take it from me. Violently too, if I don't co-operate. This type of action is definitely NOT ok. It reminds me of the old bridal shower game of Take-a-way. I'm getting more emails telling me how to stay safe and how to defend myself against attacks. Are the current times really this bad or is it my imagination? I'm definitely not picking on West Allis either since crimes of theft know no boundaries. It was brought home for me this weekend when a good friend of mine reported to me that his van had been stolen. Now this van isn't anything spectacular. It was found yesterday with the driver's side window smashed, the steering column trashed and many items stolen. I often wish that I could be the proverbial fly on the wall or the germ inside the brain of thieves. Doesn't anyone have a conscience anymore? Whatever happened to old-fashioned guilt? Where did respect disappear to?

On this note, I hope everyone got their notice about the Neighborhood Partnership - Police meetings. They are divided according to the various named neighborhoods and will be taking place two times this year for each area. If you didn't get one or you have questions, call 302-8062 or give the RSVP of how many will be attending.

Greenfield Avenue - A Hub of Dining, Shopping and Entertainment

Mary Ann Sparks — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 22:01:41 GMT

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I’ve been reading in some recent blogs and the comments that have been made about West Allis being a ghetto, crime-ridden and populated with low lives, especially the East End of the city. If the East End of the city is so awful why have some fine pubs and restaurants and a new martini piano bar coming to our downtown area? We have the very popular Bunker’s just east of the Post Office, Steak House 100 a couple blocks east of Bunker’s and in between them we have Tomasino Italia on the site of the old Big Boy. Now, there’s word out that Greenfield Avenue will have a martini/piano bar on 72^nd and Greenfield. East of these is Crawdaddy’s on 65^th and Greenfield and Hong Thai right across the street which has some great Thai food. I’ve been to several of these places both for lunch and in the evening for dinner and I’ve always felt safe.

The city is revamping much of the East End of the city with new lighting, new apartments and, hopefully, some new businesses which will bring an influx of new residents to the city. In the Towne Center there’ll be a new Burlington Coat Factory coming. The Dollar Store is moving to the old Jo-Ann Fabric store and the city wants to cut a road through to Summit Place so that the workers there have a walking access to the stores in the Towne Center. Perhaps there’ll be a new restaurant or coffee shop that will take up residence in the area too. Does this sound like crime? Low lives? Riff Raff?

I’ve no doubt that there will be different ethnicities coming here to live and work. In my neighborhood alone, we have Cubans, African-Americans, Native Americans, Caucasians, Asians and Muslims living and working together. All of these people patronize the local businesses; eat at the restaurants including the fast food places. In hard times like we are having now, everyone is struggling no matter what the income level might be. Our differences must be respected. This does not mean that a lower income person is riff raff or a low life. So, do not make that assumption, just because a crime happens on the East End.

Has it occurred to the commenters that the possibility is there that these crimes were committed by people that live OUTSIDE of West Allis? OUTSIDE of the East End? I like to believe that in my 60 odd years of life I have gained some wisdom. One thing that I’ve learned is that most people and cities react a lot better to praise than to constant cutting or “dissing” on them. The old adage that you can get more flies with honey than with vinegar sure does ring true. It’s called accentuating the positive to quote some words to an old song.

So, to culminate this blog, if these great places to shop, to eat and be entertained are not afraid of bringing their businesses to ‘Stallis, let’s stop all the negative talk and look for the positive in our city. It’s there, really it is.

Wonderful WeEnergies Strikes Again

Mary Ann Sparks — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 22:04:18 GMT

I've been wanting to get this out now for a few days. But, first I had to calm myself so that I could write reasonably. In last Friday's Journal Sentinal there was a rather small article in the business section about WeEnergies dividends being raised. I'm quite sure this news didn't make any of the news programs on local television either or there would have been an outcry.

In the wake of lower sales of electricity to big business by about 6% WeEnergies Corp.made an announcement that their earnings would be below what had been projected. The article goes on to say that this was a "decline comparable to the recession of the early 1980's". Mr Gale Klappa, chairman and CEO of WeEnergies reiterated that statement. "Under an updated forecast, the utility is projecting electricity sales to large businesses and factories to decline by 6% in 2009 from this year". Another WeEnergies spokesman, Brian Manthey also commented that these slowdowns were "seen across the board from a variety of industries". The article goes on telling about how they dropped their dividends by 50% back in 2000 so that they could "advance their plant-building program". So much for their self sacrifice and self pity party.

Now here comes the kicker. The above announcement was made at the same time that WeEnergies said they would be " "RAISING their quarterly stock dividend by 25% in the first quarter, with plans to boost it further in the next several years". Now I'll be the first to admit that at times I'm mathmatically challenged. However, the question that has been eating in my brain is how can this company that has NO competition in the area raise its stock dividends by 25% when their earnings are DOWN by 6%? This is the same as though I went grocery shopping and bought lobster when all my budget allows is the much cheaper catfish or pollack. Where will the extra money come from?

That extra money, dear readers, is coming from YOU. How many of you have received notices from WeEnergies about rate increases? How many of you that are part of the budget plan have received notices that your monthly rate is going up? This is where that 25% extra dividend is coming from dear readers. Despite the fact that we are in a depression and so many of us are laid off, outsourced, working part time and out of work completely, our rates are getting raised so that the fat cat stockholders can get their 25% dividends.

Mr. Charlie Higley, chief executive director of CUB said, "Ultimately, ratepayers are paying higher energy prices so that shareholders can receive profits, and in these tough economic times that puts more burden on households to afford their energy bills". I, personally, don't know what can be done to get our rates lowered or stay at the same monthly rate. Try calling the customer service people that work there and see what they can do to reduce your monthly budget rate or try lowering your thermostat and put more clothes on. Try shaming WeEnergies publically to be more concerned for the multitude of their customers who are merely trying to survive this recession than the wallets and portfolios of their shareholders.

Interesting Idea for Recycling

Mary Ann Sparks — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 22:09:38 GMT

On Good Morning America, Sam, the Weatherman, does a feature called "Just One Thing". This feature gives ideas on making our earth greener. The feature this week had to do with recycling. I really thought it was a great idea and that maybe West Allis's city fathers could take a look at it. Right now, its predominately on the east coast, but who's to say they couldn't come to the Midwest. This new to me idea is called RecycleBank.com. Their website is www.recyclebank.com Check it out.

As the recycle system here in West Allis works now, newspapers go into paper bags and the other recyclables must go into the blue bags. Using the RecycleBank system, all the recyclables go into a city supplied container. These containers have a Radio Frequency ID chip in each one that is connected to a card. All recyclables go into the container. When its picked up, the truck scans the chip, the contents are weighed and accredited to the owners card. Their website did NOT give the initial cost for the special containers or the cost for the special equipment on the pick up trucks.

Now, here's where it gets good. The whole premise of this is to encourage more recycling. So, everyone who participates gets 2.5 Recycle Points for each pound of goods. Your Recycle Points check arrives at your home approximately once a month I believe. These points can be redeemed for merchandise at various stores, like Sears, CVS Pharmacy, Petco, Target and Footlocker among others. I've also heard Starbucks is one participating merchant too.

This company also recycles Ewaste, like MP3 players, cell phones, I-pods and laptops.

Are there any thoughts on a system like this for West Allis? Would it encourage you to recycle more?

Teaching Our Kids

Mary Ann Sparks — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 23:07:27 GMT

The other evening I saw an incident on TV where a small girl almost fell down a cliff. It was an accident, but could have been prevented IF her parents had taken note of how the railing was set up. There was only a top and lower rung on the wooden log railing, no middle rung. The little girl leaned back and wasn’t tall enough to lean against the top rung. Thanks to an alert cousin, she wasn’t hurt, just scared.

In similar situations, don’t parents hold on to their children anymore when walking in parking lots? Don’t parents nag their kids anymore about looking before they cross the street or teach them about stop and go signals and the walk sign? Don’t parents teach their kids respect for themselves and others anymore?

Granted when my kids were growing up, they certainly weren’t innocent. I’ll be the first one to admit that. But, I did teach them self responsibility and to pay attention to their surroundings. I also taught them respect for themselves and others. It fascinates me how the lessons I taught to them they have taught their children. Even the words are the same.

Now, back to the little girl. In today’s world, the Parks system will now probably be spending a lot of money either putting in a third rung on that log railing or installing some mesh. At this point I would put money on it, that little girl will be paying closer attention to her surroundings and to any fence or railing she decides to lean against. So, a lesson learned. However, her parents, instead of just telling her and the two other little girls to go by the fence and pose for a picture, could have gauged her size and the space in between and given her a warning NOT to lean against the railing or NOT to get close to the edge of the cliff. Again, a lesson learned.

Am I being too critical or unfeeling in situations like this? I surely do not want a child or anyone harmed, but, we as parents cannot be with our children 24/7, so we have to make sure that they have these safety lessons instilled in their brains before they go out on their own. Be it by nagging or repetitiveness, our children have to learn some self-responsibility. This is why we are parents.

Staying Warm at Home this Winter

Mary Ann Sparks — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 21:37:11 GMT

I recently heard that heating costs will be going up this coming winter. That includes all who heat their homes with oil too. In the New York Post today there's an article about how people are cutting back on needed prescriptions just so that they can eat, stay warm and make their rent or mortgage payments. This is crazy. I found out quite by accident that IF the need is there, many drug companies will provide your medications for FREE. I know this to be a fact because I did it. Also Montel Williams speaks about a website that will help you get your needed medications.

On to the heating situation. There is energy assistance available. If you have a computer go to WE Energies site. The info is there, or call the Social Development Commission site on N. Richards Street. The main problem that I heard though is the wait. There are apparently so many people in need that people begin to wait hours ahead of the doors opening. I don't know if this is because of the beginning rush (applications for heating assistance began on Oct. 15) or, if this is how it'll be until the money runs out.

There are other things that we can do to keep our heating costs within reason beginning with clean filters and, if possible, a cleaning for the furnace. Then there's always plastic for the windows. Menard's had one brand on sale for .49 a package after rebate in this past Sunday's sale paper. The next step is turning down the thermostat. If there are no aged or infants in the house and people are healthy there's no real reason to keep the heat at 75 deg. There are programmable thermostats that can be set for lower heat at nighttime or when no one is home. If insulation is needed and a person falls into a category of need, La Casa Esperanza is there. This is a wonderful program that does insulation, new windows and all other kinds of energy saving home needs for those that can't afford to pay for it.

Times are tough and I do believe that it'll be a while before they get better for many of us so we need to do whatever we can to conserve money to pay our mortgages, rent, food and medicines. Stay warm everyone.

East End Observations

Mary Ann Sparks — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 00:59:59 GMT

I've had several distractions in the past several weeks. I won't weary your minds with all the events but, for the most part, things have come back to normal whatever that word means.

In my travels around the East End I've made a few observations. The first one is that all the work that was supposed to be started on 60th Street beginning on Lincoln Ave. hasn't begun outside of some infracture work. Instead of the roadwork starting, the residents on either side of 60th St. got a patch job. I can't imagine how this patch job will hold up through the winter. Upon asking my alderman and the state representative who actually came to my house on a campaign mission, I was told by both of them that the money to pay for the work wasn't available. My questions are: Was it there when the city of West Allis had the big meeting at city hall with the engineers? Was it never there? If it was there what happened to it? Was it diverted to some other project that was deemed more important? Perhaps the city should let the citizens of the East End know what's going on.

Speaking of road work, it's about time that the work being done on National Ave by the Farmer's Market is finally finished. I understand that new infrastructure work was necessary what with all the new building happening in that area. I do have questions on why a bike lane for 1 block. That doesn't seem to make any sense to me unless its been mandated by the state. It's a very nice new road.

Another observation: the little corner drive-in on 60th and Burnham is under new management. I haven't tried their food yet, but, probably will give it a go. The bad part is if you're not coming from the north its a bit inconvenient and dangerous to turn into their parking lot. Getting out is ok as the exit is on Burnham. One just has to be aware of cars turning onto Burnham from 60th St.

Lastly, I had a job interview inside the Summit Place on 67th and Washington. Turning onto Washington from 70th St. I was amazed and astounded at all the businesses down that road. Once inside the Summit Place building I felt like I had just entered a small mall. There was an escalator, a restaurant (Rupena's), an eye Dr., a florist and a host of other businesses on three floors. The front reception area is like an atrium, a great place to people watch and a very open concept. Quite a building to have one's business located. By the way, I didn't get the job.

Now here's something cool for any West Allis resident. I happened to be at the Walgreen's on 84th St. since the new one on 60th isn't open yet. While on my way out I spotted a soft cover book all about the history and founding of West Allis. Well, of course, being a history buff, I had to buy one. They are $19.95 each with lots of pictures and great information on the beginnings of the city, the founding fathers and how the area evolved. It's well worth the $20 price.

This coming weekend is another Waupaca weekend. Hip Hip Hooray!

The End of Summer?

Mary Ann Sparks — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 20:01:07 GMT

I’ll be the first to admit that I’m not a fan of winter and fall. So, while the fall colors are beautiful they signify that winter is coming soon. I love spring, the rains, the muddy earth and especially the first green shoots poking their heads out of the ground. When my daffodils and lilacs bloom I know for sure that spring is in full form.

Now, with Labor Day on our doorstep, everyone is saying that summer is over, done and dusted and kaput until next year. I say, BALONEY! Summer, for me, isn’t over until I see the leaves falling and I can smell winter in the air. Yes, one can really smell the seasons. Spring smells of rain, the earth and of summer’s promise. Summer smells of new mown grass, cookout fires and the sun’s warmth. Fall smells like golden leaves, a hint of winter’s chill and the last of the harvest. Winter smells of the north winds, soups and stews and Christmas goodies.

So, Labor Day isn’t the end of summer until I can smell those fall leaves and I see the containers of frozen jams and veggies in my freezer and when I start going through the recipes for soups and stews on a chilly day. Summer goes on through September and we do get Indian summer days well into October. Don’t put the shorts, sandals and tank tops away just yet, summer is still alive and well.

High Prices, Less Money

Mary Ann Sparks — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 21:35:33 GMT

Has anyone besides me noticed that their grocery bill has skyrocketed? Where are the days that I could get $50 worth of food and have five bags of food to show for it? Today, that same $50 just might get two or maybe three bags of food. Food shopping is just the tip of the iceberg too. I won't even get into the price of gas, electricity and any other kind of energy that we just might be using. How do we manage? What do we give up? Where do we cut back? Here are a few suggestions that are working for me. I'm on a rather fixed income too.

Try bundling your phone, internet and satellite/cable services. You often can get some good deals even if they are only for a few months. Your circumstances possibly will change before the price does. If they don't, you certainly will be saving some money. The deals are out there, check them out and how they can fit into your budget.

Stop using the charge cards and ATM cards. This is the hardest to do. Somehow "putting it on plastic" just doesn't feel as if we are really spending money. We are so used to just pulling out the old credit card or cards for all our purchases that it doesn't feel normal to open our wallets and pay cash. If we stop or cut back on our ATM usage we could be very surprised at how much we have left in our checking accounts.

Don't buy bottled water or coffee at the coffeeshops. Milwaukee county has some of the safest water around so get yourself a water bottle and fill it from home. Just this one thing could save you over $200 a year, believe it or not. Also those stops for coffee get costlier and costlier. If you just have to have that specialty latte, cut back to just once or twice a week instead of daily. Get a thermos and make your coffee at home and carry it in your car. If you're a tea drinker make your own iced tea or hot tea. Both can be carried along on your errands or taken to work.

Pack a lunch and reuse your paper bag or get a lunch container. Going out to lunch on a daily basis can cost anywhere from$25 to $70 a week depending on where you go. Over a months time this does add up. Cutting back to once a week also will help immensely. This goes along with restaurant eating for dinner too. Gathering around the table is good for family life even if it is microwaved food. A slow cooker works great too for those that have a busy life and don't have time to create a meal after work.

Grocery shop with coupons and try some of the store's brands. Coupons can be printed online or cut out of various fliers that come in the Sunday paper. They do save money in the long run. Also shop the sales and stock up if and when you're able to do so. Know your prices too.

If your rent is very high and it's affecting your other financial obligations, start looking for a different place to live. Just this morning, I saw on tv a woman who was earning $50k a month and her rent of $1495 a month was consuming her. She was told by a financial expert to find a cheaper place to live. It won't be easy, but ask around to your friends. Lots of rentals never get advertised and get rented via word of mouth.

So, there you have it. These are some things that are working for me and have worked for others. Even if you are only able to do just one of these, think of the monetary savings that will be the result. Be brave and move forward.

Tired of all the Hoopla

Mary Ann Sparks — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 20:44:20 GMT

Before I say what I've got to say, I want to firmly state that I'm an avid Packer fan. I've never had the opportunity to attend a game in person but I don't miss a game on TV. I've been to many Packer parties, enjoyed the snacks, the Jello shots and I've whooped, hollered and boo'd with the best. I've got my favorite players, I wear my Packer beads along with my Antonio Freeman shirt. So, here's my gripe.

Brett, you retired. Stay that way. You had all your fans eating out of your hand on your retirement day. We wept with you and wished you the best. You gave all of us so many wonderful and thrilling moments on the field and off the field. We ached with you and your family on the tragic moments. So, Brett, what's up with all the whining now? Of course you got the "itch" to play again. Pro football was part of your life for over 17 years. Its a normal feeling for a guy who's used to being in the spotlight for so long. However, is all this Favre Hoopla worth it? Did your comments about the "itch" get out of hand? I know how the media can jump on every little comment or word out of a celebrity's or well-known sports figure's mouth. Is that what happened and now you feel that you have to run with it?

Give it up Brett, enjoy your family, catch the game on TV. Come back to Green Bay and catch the game in person. You were smart to get out without serious injuries and you still have your health. There are a gazillion other opportunities for you do to stay in the sports field. Besides, I'm tired of hearing all the conjecture and media blitz on every local sports part of the news. Now its starting to filter into the regular news. Brett, you're a great guy, but there's ever so much more important issues to be discussed and brought to the daily news viewer's attention. Hearing about Brett working out with a high school team and Brett having phone calls with Packer officials and Brett flip flopping on playing and not playing is getting old fast.

So, Brett, make up your mind. As a huge Packer fan and a Favre fan, stay retired. Let us have our wonderful memories of your exciting plays, your great passes and you as a person. You might THINK you can still play at the same ability but, face it, you're 38 and your body knows it no matter how good a condition you're in. Let me still think of you as the great player you were instead of a WHINER

An Open Letter to Modified Harley Riders and Screaming Crotchrocket riders

Mary Ann Sparks — Sat, 05 Jul 2008 22:46:24 GMT

Dear modified Harley rider and screaming crotchrocket rider,

What right do you motorcycle riders have to disturb the quiet that is required for most normal people to sleep at night?

What right do you motorcycle riders have to scream and roar past homes on a residential street?

I don't know if West Allis has any noise ordinances on record or if they care about it. I know that the state has all kinds of ordinances for ATV's, "boomers" and skateboarders. However it would seem that Harleys and motorcycles are "sacred cows" in this state. I also know that Harleys do NOT come off the line ready to ROAR. They are quiet. It seems that there is a group of riders that frequent the after market stores and have their bikes modified to make the signature "potato-potato" sound ever so much louder and more obnoxious. Now, I've heard all the arguments that the bike HAS to be loud so that autodrivers are aware that the biker is there. Nonsense! If the biker is a bit more responsible in placement of his bike on the road, there shouldn't be a problem. I drive and I have no trouble hearing a normal sounding bike that's being driven near me.

Now, since both Milwaukee and Kenosha have enacted stricter noise laws, including motorcycles maybe its time that West Allis get some guts and do the same, or, IF there are any on record, start enforcing them. Stop the overly loud Harleys and the screaming crotch rockets that rev their engines while riding down residential streets, at stop signs, in front of bars and the screaming crotch rockets that just have to pass cars on the right screaming as loud as they are able to speed past.

Or, better yet, how bout I take your license plate number, and turn it in on a nuisance charge? What I'd really get great pleasure doing is find out where you live and come to your home at 2AM or later, bring along a bullhorn, find me some really really obnoxious music and blast your home with the noise. But, don't worry, I won't do that. I am a considerate person and I don't want to disturb your neighbors.

So, here is my proposal to all crotch rocket riders and loud Harley riders. The next time you even think about screaming, reving or riding as loud as possible, look around you. Are there homes on either side of the road? Are their lights off? Is it past 10 PM? If that's what you observe, BE QUIET!!! Have some consideration for the people that live in the neighborhood. Perhaps there's a baby that just went to sleep or someone who has to get up at 5AM for a job or, imagine this concept. Maybe someone lives in that house who really doesn't think your loud Harley or your screaming crotchrocket is the pleasant and happy sound that you apparently think it is. Stop being totally inconsiderate of the people around you.

Oh, you better start saving up for the hearing aids you'll be needing in a few years.

60th and National Ave

Mary Ann Sparks — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 22:01:32 GMT

The other day while I was a passenger in a car with a friend we had to stop at the light on the corner of 60th and National Ave. I've always been pleased that the city put a small park/green space on that corner after they tore down the VFW Post and widened the corner. In other years, this mini-park has always been kept in nice condition. However, this spring it truly looks shabby. I spoke to Alderman Mike about it too. He admitted that his wife had commented that it looked neglected and shabby too. I'm not privy to information from the city IF they are planning on cleaning this up and putting in some flowers or not, but, since this area is almost the "Gateway to West Allis" I feel it should be kept up better than it is at this point.

There's way too much traffic in this area for this neglect not to be noticed by visitors, potential home buyers, renters and other citizens of the area. In fact when my house had areas that needed paint, I got a notice from the city that I had a time limit to take care of this situation. I was told at that time when I questioned the letter that "the the East End of West Allis has a lot of visitors driving through that might be interested in buying property" so the powers that be in the city "wanted all properties to look their best". My question is, doesn't this cover green spaces and mini-parks too? Perhaps since the city fathers are so concerned about potential property owners and renters that "might" drive through to check out all the new apartments in the Six Points area that these little green spaces should be given some priority. Or, is the East End being neglected or put last on the list because, well, you know, it's just the East End.

Hypermiling? What is it?

Mary Ann Sparks — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 21:28:54 GMT

I had never heard of this until Son #3 clued me in to the finer points of hypermiling. This child of mine prides himself on being thrifty and always trying to "beat" the system. His latest is practicing hypermiling in his 14 year old Grand Prix. He's worked his 20 mpg in the city car up to just over 28 mpg. He travels from the north end of Milwaukee down to Cudahy for his job so doing hypermiling fits in to his frugality.

Actually its a matter of changing the way we drive. There are a few online sites that give information. One is http://www.InsightCentral.net and the other is http://www.GreenHybrid.com The hybrid site is obviously geared toward hybrids but anyone who's interested in getting more miles to the gallon can work on changing their driving in small ways that will expand the capability of their gas mileage.The government also has a mileage site http://www.fueleconomy.gov

For example there's a man, Wayne Gerdes, who's from Illinois, who averaged 90 mpg driving a manual transmission Honda Insight. This is the same guy who got 1200 mpg out of a Toyota Prius on a single tank of gas. His feat was featured on an Earth Day HBO production called "Too Hot Not to Handle". He used to drive a Corolla and his comments on hypermiling with that vehicle were, "I hit 52 mpg in my Corolla and I said, 'Wow, this is pretty special. I bet there's more.' "

Here's a good definition of hypermiling:

Hypermiling is all about making adjustments to maximize your gas mileage, and many techniques work whether you're driving a hybrid or a Hummer.

So, how can we, the average driver, become a hypermiler and get more miles to the gallon no matter what kind of vehicle we drivve? Here is an exerpt from a Washington Post article ( http://washingtonpost.com Sunday Aug. 6, 2006) with comments by Pat Goss who is a commentator on Mororweek which is a PBS program. He gives some great information on how we, the average driver, can accomplish hypermiling. Now mind you, some of these super hypermilers use techniques that are NOT necessarily safe. Mr Goss does point these out. With the high price of gas these days, it does pay to practice some of these driving changes and increase our mileage. Maybe, we can then afford a coffee from Starbucks or a nice meal at one of our favorite restaurants.

Drive the Speed Limit for starters.

Expert's take : Goss says that as you go above 38 mph in most cars, you lose mileage. For every 5 mph above 55, he says you can lose as much as 10 percent of your fuel economy. So slowing down can save you gas.

DRIVING WITHOUT BRAKES (or in hypermiling lingo, "d.w.b.") is all about coasting. Congestion is constant in Washington, and accelerating from zero to 20, then back to zero, is inefficient. Instead, if the car in front of you is speeding up, maintain a steady speed and let it get ahead of you, when traffic starts to slow back down you'll catch up.

Expert's take: Do it when possible -- but be careful. "You're probably going to have some highly ticked off people if you do it on the Beltway," Goss warns.

TURN OFF YOUR CAR AND COAST , aka the "forced-auto stop." In hybrids, the internal combustion engine shuts off at stops to conserve fuel; the electric batteries keep the car running. To save even more fuel when decelerating, some hypermilers -- including Gerdes -- shift to neutral and turn off the engine while coasting to a stop.

Expert's take: "Highly dangerous. You don't have your car under control," says Goss. (In other words, not all hypermiling techniques are good ones.)

OPTIMIZE YOUR ROUTE : Avoid big hills or stop-and-go traffic. Test different routes to see which is the smoothest ride. Sometimes, a longer route with better driving conditions uses less gas.

Expert's take: "Basic driving techniques. I teach this the first day," Goss says.

WATCH YOUR TIRE PRESSURE . It takes a lot of extra energy to move even slightly flat tires. Some hypermilers recommend over-inflating tires.

Expert's take: Goss says this works but is very risky. "When you over-inflate a tire, you can compromise its traction and . . . make the tire wear out more rapidly," he says, adding that it could be "very negligent to recommend that someone do that."

STAY ON TOP OF OIL CHANGES , and use thinner oil.

Expert's take: "It can have a significant effect on fuel economy, especially as the oil ages," Goss says. "The viscosity of engine oil is always increasing. . . . The thicker the oil is the harder it is to push through the engine."

Economic Stimulus

Mary Ann Sparks — Fri, 16 May 2008 21:17:11 GMT

Has your personal economy been stimulated yet? That sounds kind of racy doesn't it? I'd be very curious to find out the percentage of how us "stimulated folks" will be using our sudden windfall. Will we buy that big ticket item at the local electonics store or take advantage of all the ads I've been seeing on tv by the car dealerships that want you to apply that money to a new car. Or will we go to the big box home store that wants us to spend our windfall to do remodeling in the home? It'd be so easy to just sign the papers and wait for the delivery wouldn't it?

I haven't received mine yet. Since I owed Uncle Sam this year they don't have a direct deposit listed since I've had to pay the last two years. So, I've got some time (the end of July) before my windfall arrives. That gives me plenty of time to decide how to parcel it out. No, there won't be a new car or that 52" tv in my future. Mine will be going toward my property taxes, some small bills, some stocking of the larder perhaps and however else I can make it stretch to get the most use from it.

I've also hearf from family and friends that whatever amount we get will be considered income on our taxes for next year. Is this true? Another question I had was how much will I be getting since I'm basically retired? I've no doubt that there are singles, other semi-retirees and families that also have tons of questions on the economic stimulus regarding the amount, how its figured out, when they will be getting it amongst the most common questions. Here's what you do. Go to www.irs.gov I checked the site out and all the info you would want is there in easy to read English.

For example:

Is my stimulus payment taxable?

A. No. You will not owe tax on your payment when you file your 2008 federal income tax return. But you should keep a copy of the IRS letter you receive later this year listing the amount of your payment.

Q. If my stimulus payment is not going to affect my 2008 tax refund or increase the tax I owe next year, why is it I need to retain the letter that lists how much I received?

A. In the event you do not qualify for the full amount on your 2007 return but you do on your 2008 return, you will need to have the letter as a record of the amount you previously received. [New 4/11/08]

Q. Will the payment I receive in 2008 reduce my 2008 refund or increase the amount I owe for 2008?

A. No, the stimulus payment will not reduce your refund or increase the amount you owe when you file your 2008 return.

Q. I don’t qualify for a stimulus payment based on my 2007 return. But my tax situation will be different in 2008. Will I qualify for any special benefit?

A. Possibly. The 2008 tax instructions will include a worksheet to help those who did not qualify for a payment or those who received a reduced amount determine if they can obtain a benefit when they file their 2008 tax returns next year.

The above is just an example of the information on their site. I sure hope this helps my readers as much as it's helped me. Enjoy your stimulus package no matter how you decide to use the money.

Help for High Price of Groceries

Mary Ann Sparks — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 21:20:33 GMT

Each time I go grocery shopping I'm so glad that my four kids are all grown and on their own. My three boys were all chow hounds and my daughter wasn't much better. If I had to feed all of them now with grocery prices skyrocketing I truly don't think that I'd have been able to keep them fed. I see smaller quantities for the same prices, staples like eggs and bread get more expensive and dairy products aren't getting any cheaper either.

Help is on the way or Superman to the rescue. Its in a program called SHARE. There are no inome requirements so folks that are better off financially are welcome too. The only requirement is that you help at your SHARE site or do at least an hour of community work a week. There are no membership dues or any other eligibility requirements. Everyone is welcome.

Unless you're familiar with SHARE you're probably asking, "so what is this SHARE exactly?" Its a non-profit food buying club that offers good nutritious products at reduced cost through a volunteer-run, community-based distribution system. (courtesy of the SHARE newsletter.) If you become a part of SHARE you can save anywhere from 30% to 50% on a full order of SHARE which will cost $18.00 a month. You can get multiples of any item and there are "select items" which often are in large quantities that can be divided. Trust me there are some great buys in the "select items".

I just picked up my SHARE this past Saturday. Here's what I got for $18.00: 2.4 lbs of chicken drumsticks, 1 lb. of porkchops, 3-5oz portions of broccoli and cheese stuffed chicken breast, a 14 oz pkg of smokes sausage, 8 oz of deli-sliced roasted chicken breast for sandwiches, Jennie-O turkey breakfast sausage, 15 oz can of baked beans, 10 pkg. of Quaker Instant Oatmeal in one of two flavors, an assortment of 5 fresh fruits and vegetables ( Minneola tangerines, 2 tomatoes, carrots, potatoes and a head of lettuce this month ) Some of the items in the Select section were: french toast sticks, 2-2.25 lb containers of meatballs in marinara sauce for $12.00, 6- 8oz ribeye steaks (individually wrapped) for $14.00, 2 lbs of chicken nuggets for $5.80. These select items are just a few of the ones offered.

SHARE for May is offering chicken thighs, shrimp alfredo, sweet Italian sausage, flame broiled beef steaks, chicken tenderloins, sliced Virginia ham, spagetti sauce, pasta, a 5 item produce assortment and a bonus item which always is a surprise. This past Saturday we all got a frozen package of spinach for ordering a full share. Some of the Select items featured for May are: 10 lb box of pork breakfast sausage, 44 - 4.25 oz juice boxes in either apple, orange or strawberry-kiwi, 8-2.6 lb cheese pizzas and a 6 lb box of brats with cheese by Oscar Meyer. Again, these are just some of the Select items.

If you don't want a whole SHARE, you can pick and choose amongst the items as long as your order is at least $15.00. Becoming part of SHARE is a good deal no matter how you look at it. It's a cost saver for the grocery bill which can free up some money to pay for gas for the car or to stash for an upcoming summer event. Now, if you're interested the sites to get the food are all over the Milwaukee area. SHARE is also in various places all over Wisconsin, Illinois and upper Michigan. The warehouse is in Butler and they often have sales on overstocks. The warehouse also serves breakfast on Saturday mornings and a potluck lunch on weekdays both at a nominal cost. To find out where a SHARE site is in your area call 1-800-548-2124 or go to www.sharewi.org