The official start of summer is almost upon us. Here are a few of the things #WeWant to make it the best one ever.
Listen with it: UE Boom
Bluetooth speakers are one of the most popular tech accessories. Whether you need music for a party, relaxing by the pool or just want to play some music, this 360 degree, waterproof speaker is just what you need to get the party started or simply relax. It can even be used for phone calls, making it easy to answer the phone when jamming out. The Boom (which I got through Verizon Wireless) is a staple on my patio, and it should be on yours, too. – Carolynn Buser
Use it: Grillbot
For the grill guru in your life that you thought already had everything, there's the Grillbot automatic grill cleaning robot. This self-propelled spinning wire brush is like a Roomba for your outdoor cooking grates. It's got a rechargeable battery, brushes that you can pop out and toss into the dishwasher, and it starts with the push of a button. An alarm lets you know when it's done its work, and it's smart enough to control its own speed and direction. Whether or not some find this task to be so onerous as to require automation is another question entirely. But for those who can't be bothered to do the dirty work themselves, this might be $99 well spent. – Bobby Tanzilo
Watch it: "Billions"
I’m generally all NBA, all the time at this time of the year, but my wife and I dove into the Showtime drama "Billions" recently. And we’re hooked. You’ll have some time off this upcoming weekend, so make the investment and start watching "Billions." It’s really entertaining, well-produced and not too over the top. A solid mix of finance, drama, politics and media, it cooks nicely and leverages experienced acting from Damian Lewis, Maggie Siff, Paul Giamatti and others. I’ll warn you, though, it takes a few episodes to find a character that you’ll like. But even though you may not want to grab a beer or coffee with any of these people, you’ll like the results they achieve together on the screen. – Jeff Sherman
Float it: Derby Duck
What says summer better than floating on a lake or pool in a giant duck wearing sunglasses? Lots of things, you say? Never mind that, you party pooper: This huge inflatable floatie supports a few kids or smaller adults, and comes with cup holders to boot. Constructed of durable, heavy-duty vinyl, you’re on your own to pump it up, but once you do, it’s stable and comfortable. And, for a duck of this size, it’s a relative bargain at $43. Float on, cool mallard. – Andy Tarnoff
Get it: Backyard gazebo
This weekend marks the start of hang-outside season, and with that in mind, I decided I want to get a gazebo to put in my backyard, which is paved entirely with cement. I bought the house in the winter when there was a foot of snow on the ground, and was shocked in spring to find out there is not a blade of grass in my backyard. I think this would make the yard more usable and definitely nicer to look at. Plus, the price is right; I saw some others that were a grand or more. – Molly Snyder
Sip it: Britta 34-ounce water bottle
You have to hydrate in our brief but hot Milwaukee summers, and everyone knows that bottled water is wasteful. Instead, pick up this big, hard-sided water bottle that filters water through the attached straw. Each filter handles 40 gallons of tap water, and of course, it’s BPA-free. I keep mine by my side at all times. – Andy Tarnoff
Drink it: Sierra Nevada Otra Vez
Sure, there are many new local beers to check out, and I advise you to do so. But also put Sierra Nevada’s Otra Vez on your Memorial Day Weekend beer list. Otra Vez is a Gose-style beer brewed by Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. in Chico, Calif. It’s different and tangy with its prickly pear cactus juice and hint of grapefruit. Pick up six-pack to bring to your Monday party. – Jeff Sherman
Wear it: Summer polo and denim shorts from DSTLD
Here at OnMilwaukee, we’re a big fan of DSTLD’s jeans: high-quality denim at surprisingly low prices. Turns out, we also like their other clothes, too. Particularly, I’m a fan of their pique polo; with its slightly pointy shoulders and tapered cut, it’s a flattering look. I actually got compliments the first time I wore it. Pair that shirt with their tailored, denim shorts, and dudes can finally wear something other than cargo shorts and not feel dumb doing so. DSTLD offers an easy way to class up your summer wardrobe, and they offer both free shipping and free returns from their website. – Andy Tarnoff