Owner and chief, Heidi Gilbertson, uses fresh ground whole grains that produce an amazing texture, crustiness and taste by using a wood fired brick oven. Up until early 2012, she’s operated out of a very small facility — and because she needs more space, she’s moving to the former Clover Farm Store, now home to The Red Cup.

Heidi is in desperate need of a new wood fired brick oven (total cost is $18,000). To help finance her expansion, Heidi has joined “Kickstarter” to help get out the word. Please go to http:/www.kickstarter.com/projects/1502447120/it-takes-a-village-to-raise-an-oven-we-knead-you  to learn more about Heidi, her bread making and of course how it all fits in with our wonderful island!

Washington Island hosts members of the Milwaukee Symphony the first 2 weeks in August every year for our Music Festival. Above and Beyond has had the privilege of housing one of the violinist, Tim Klabunde and his wife, MaryAnne, for the past several seasons. We have gotten to know them quite well and love going to concerts especially seeing and hearing Tim play. When Tim is not practicing or rehearsing he loves to go fishing with some of the “island guys.” He actually left his violin stand behind by mistake a couple of years ago. When we called him about it he said not to worry, he would get it next year! Tim is a member of the Prometheus Trio in Milwaukee.

[Image: Courtesy of washingtonisland-wi.com]

Image courtesy of Flickr's Spiderladyj

Washington Island has its own version of Starbucks.  The “Red Cup” is a cozy and unique coffee house serving up “killer coffee”, smoothies etc. as well as great pastries, bagels and sandwiches. It is an eclectic delight where islanders and visitors alike come to either sit on the charming porch or sink into a vintage couch indoors to relax and chat with each other, strangers and friends alike.  There are artsy things for sale from one of a kind pieces of jewelry to hand-made shawls and pottery.  This is not your average souvenir venue nor will you find your average souvenirs here! What you will find is a warm and inviting haven to have a great cup of joe and put up your feet.  By the way, right next door is a terrific book store well worth a look-see.

Many special events and festivals are scheduled throughout late spring and summer. For more information see the Chamber of Commerce.