As a native Milwaukeean, I am thrilled to hear that Southwest Airlines will now fly to Milwaukee (MKE)!  As our state mottos suggests, this is an exciting step “Forward,” and Milwaukee is a great city by a Great Lake (literally—Lake Michigan).

 My knowledge of Wisconsin has fermented over the years like a finely brewed beer.  And, while I’m on the topic of beer, Milwaukee is home to several large breweries.  If visiting Milwaukee, a tour of one of these plants is a must.  It’s an educational and taste-sational experience.  If you’re a fan of the occasional malt beverage, you can say “Danke” to the German settlers whose influence on the area was so great, even our baseball team is named the “Brewers.”

 But, back to the task at hand.  As an official insider, I have an obligation to help visitors blend in with the local culture:

1. Rule number one: pronunciation.  The name of our state is pronounced Wis•kaaahn•sin.  You may want to practice this new vocabulary prior to your flight.  If you feel comfortable with Wiskaaahnsin, you can progress to more advanced terminology such as Wisconsinite or ‘Sconnie, as residents are known. In addition, if you’re looking for your luggage, it’s your not your baaa-g; it’s your bay-g.   If you’re craving a cold white beverage that comes from cows, it’s melk.  And, if you’re thirsty, you’d better ask for the bubbler instead of the water fountain.
2. Rule number two: language usage.  When referring to two or more people, Wisconsinites use the gender-neutral term “you guys.”  Example:  “I’m really glad you guys came to visit.  Did you guys have a good flight?”  If you really want to seem like an insider, try adding the word “hey” to your sentences.  “Hey” should not be confused with the “eh” term used by our northern neighbors, the Canadians.  When in Wisconsin, we say “hey.”  Example:  “These honey roasted peanuts are really good, hey?”  To really impress the natives, try combining “you guys” and “hey” in one sentence.  The easiest way to do this: “Hey, you guys.”
3. Rule number three:  Learn our local delicacies.  If we offer you a cheese curd and you look confused, we’ll know you’re not from around here.  A cheese curd is an amorphous, bite-sized piece of cheese that ought to squeak as you chew it.  Wisconsinites also enjoy brats and kraut.
4. Rule number four:  the wardrobe.  It is not—I repeat, not—unusual to see residents shoveling snow in shorts.  Yes, even in freezing temperatures!  In addition, we do not typically wear “Cheeseheads” on a daily basis.  They are reserved for fanatics at our beloved sporting events.  Although, if you feel uncomfortable applying the linguistic rules mentioned above, simply wearing a Cheesehead may lead some to believe you are a native.

These four rules provide some insight into the wonderful world of Wisconsin.  Of course, there is much more that could be said, but these key concepts will point you in the right direction.  Since MKE is my hometown, and Southwest Airlines makes me feel at home, it is only right they be brought together!  On behalf of Wisconsinites everywhere, “We LUV Southwest Airlines!”

To read the thoughts of another 'Sconnie, click here.