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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
August 5, 2018

created: August 5, 2018


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Arts@Large seeking tenants for Walker’s Point building | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Arts@Large
August 7, 2018
Conceptual design of the new building after construction created by The Kubala Washatko Architects, Inc., Catalyst Construction and 360 Degrees. (Image courtesy of Arts @ Large)
In May of 2016, we embarked on our greatest adventure yet – the purchase and renovation of a historic 1890’s Patrick Cudahy building at the southernmost end of 5th Street – Creative Corridor in Walker’s Point. This new home will provide a permanent gathering space for artists, teachers, students, and the broader community, and build upon our reputation as a vibrant community and education center.
The newly renovated Arts @ Large Community Center will feature a student art gallery, art studios, a cafe and caterer’s kitchen, a training center and conference rooms, public space for weddings, parties, and events, and office space for Milwaukee-area nonprofits and small businesses.
Arts @ Large is seeking 3 local organizations (Nonprofit or for profit) to join us as tenants in our new building. We are looking for dynamic organizations, emerging or established, that are mission driven, and highly collaborative. This collaborative working environment will give access to a diverse group of professionals and thought leaders in the creative sector.
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source: news-milwaukeenns

created: August 7, 2018

license: Creative Commons - Attribution - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
August 7, 2018

author: Adam Carr


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Black women look to ‘change our political landscape’ through voting | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Sophie Bolich
August 7, 2018
Erica Davis shares her table’s list of actions, which included volunteer work, donations and participating in marches. (Photo by Sophie Bolich)
Simone Lewis-Turner is a student trying to make the most of summer, but instead of partying with friends last weekend, she was putting in the work so that she can celebrate on election day in November.
At 16 years old, Turner won’t be able to cast a ballot this election cycle, but she is doing everything in her power to ensure that her friends, neighbors and allies will.
“I’m just working on living in the moment,” she said. “I have a billion, no, a trillion, different things going on but I want to keep learning about things that are important to me.”
Turner was one of many young women at the recent Power to the Polls Wisconsin event, Creating an Agenda for Black Women. More than 50 people of all ages came to listen, learn and brainstorm a political agenda for Milwaukee based on the wants and needs of black women. Nextgen Wisconsin sponsored the event.
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“Centering the voices of the most marginalized is the way to see the most change,” said Nantasha Williams, a Women’s March adviser from New York City. “We can leverage our collective power to change our political landscape.”
Sabrina Madison, founder of the Progress Center for Black Women, asked audience members to share strengths, weaknesses, goals, obstacles and actionable steps to build the ideal political future.
“This event is about taking a predominantly white-specialized space and centering black women,” said Chandra Cooper, state director of operations for Women’s March Wisconsin. “We’re asking women of color what’s important to them for the election and beyond.”
Director of Operations for Women’s March Wisconsin, Chandra Cooper, said her main concerns in Milwaukee are human trafficking, equality, police brutality and employment. (Photo by Sophie Bolich)
The session yielded a colorful, handwritten plan of action that incorporates the unique perspective of each audience member.
Racial profiling, police brutality, fair housing and education were common responses for Milwaukee’s most pressing problems. Audience members also agreed on the importance of volunteering, attending community meetings, running for office and, above all, voting.
“We need to realize the power we have in voting,” said Violet Kilmurray, Women’s March Wisconsin co-chair. “And after we vote, we need to hold our elected leaders accountable.”
Research shows the votes of youth and women of color could drastically change the outcome of elections, Kilmurray noted, but they tend not to vote.
The same organizers held an event earlier in the day with the goal of mobilizing more people in Milwaukee to vote. The event included voter registration training, text and phone banking, and community canvassing.
BLOC Executive Director Angela Lang said she hopes that the early push for voting encourages community members to plan ahead for election day.
“There will always be barriers for people of color in voting,” she said, referring to Wisconsin’s strict voter ID law. “Some of those barriers can also be structural, like single mothers who have to find childcare or people who work multiple jobs and have every intention of voting but something comes up.”
She added, “We want to empower them and make sure they know their voices matter.”
BLOC is launched a massive community canvass Monday. Lang said the group is hoping to knock on more than 100,000 doors leading up to Nov. 6.
“People feel overwhelmed, and we want to include communities that are often left behind because they don’t have a high percent of people who usually vote,” Lang said. “I want people to see the beauty in this room, to get beyond stereotypes and see that we are united.”
Unity was the theme of the evening, as attendees shared a meal and bonded over shared ideologies.
“We are here to speak for our women,” said Pastor Mary Muriithi. “Without women, no nation can grow.”

author: Sophie Bolich


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
August 6, 2018

created: August 6, 2018


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SHARP Literacy presents A Novel Event featuring keynote speaker Malcolm Brogdon | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
SHARP Literacy
August 7, 2018
Milwaukee Bucks starting point guard Malcolm Brogdon will be the featured speaker at SHARP Literacy’s 17th annual “A Novel Event” on Monday, September 17 from 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. at The Pavilion at Discovery World. Brad Bertler, global coordinating services partner of Ernst & Young LLC, and Marie O’Brien, president and CEO of Enterforce, Inc., are serving as event co-chairs.
Selected by the Milwaukee Bucks with the 36th overall pick of the 2016 NBA Draft, Brogdon was named NBA Rookie of the Year during the 2016/2017 season, becoming the first second-round pick to win the award since 1966. Prior to joining the Milwaukee Bucks, Brogdon spent four celebrated years playing basketball for the University of Virginia Cavaliers. During his college career, he was named First Team All-Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) three times, and in his senior year, he became the first player in ACC history to win ACC Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year. Off the court, Brogdon announced last spring he would be the first NBA ambassador for Philadelphia Eagles defensive end Chris Long’s Waterboys Initiative, an organization of NFL players providing East African communities with clean water.
Born to highly educated parents, Brodgon graduated from the University of Virginia with a bachelor’s degree in history and master’s degree in leadership and public policy. Knowing the importance of a good education, he also understands that not all children are provided the same learning opportunities he had. Brogdon supports the mission of SHARP and believes, too, that all children deserve the chance to improve their literary skills, no matter their zip code, background or economic situation. The theme of Brogdon’s keynote address at A Novel Event will be “I Can and I Will,” emphasizing the importance of learning to read at a very young age, and how all children can achieve academic success if they have the will to do it.
At the dinner, Joel Quadracci, chairman, president & CEO of Quad Grapics, and his wife Caran, will be honored for their ongoing support of SHARP Literacy’s educational program with the Literacy Champion Award. Ken Lipske from Quad Graphics will accept the award on behalf of Joel and Caran. Josh Gimbal, and the Gene and Ruth Posner Foundation, will receive SHARP Literacy’s EDGE Award (energizing through dedication, giving and engagement), which will be presented by Lynda Kohler, president/CEO of SHARP Literacy.
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The message of this year’s A Novel Event is the importance of literacy at a young age, according to Lynda Kohler, president and CEO of SHARP Literacy. “When children learn to read at an early age, it spurs their curiosity and lays the foundation for future learning and academic success. We understand, however, that not all children are provided with the same opportunities and support in life.” Kohler went on to say, “At SHARP Literacy, we believe that every child – no matter their circumstances – should have the tools to improve their literacy skills. Throughout the year we’re addressing that critical need by delivering a comprehensive, hands-on educational program that helps thousands of elementary students become more confident and capable readers, writers and researchers.”
Funds raised at A Novel Event will support the delivery of SHARP’s foundational literacy program to over 8,000 K4 through fifth grade school students and educators in 39 of Milwaukee and Waukesha Counties’ most at-risk schools.
Individual tickets for the event are $150 and may be purchased online at www.sharpliteracy.org or by
calling 414.410.3204. Various levels of corporate and individual sponsorships are also available. SHARP Literacy, Inc. wishes to thank this year’s largest event sponsors to date: Brewers Community Foundation, Richard and Joan Abdoo, BMO Harris Bank, Enterforce, Inc., Ernst & Young, MillerCoors, West Bend Mutual and media sponsor Milwaukee Business Journal.
SHARP Literacy, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) Milwaukee nonprofit educational program whose mission is to enhance future life success by energizing urban children, motivating them to identify themselves as confident, capable scholars and lifelong learners by inspiring engagement in reading, writing and research through hands-on interaction and visual arts. The primary goal of SHARP Literacy is to provide elementary school students with an imaginative learning experience that builds confidence, self-esteem, and a greater awareness of the world. This year SHARP Literacy, Inc. will impart foundational literacy skills to over 8,000 elementary school students and educators in 39 of Milwaukee and Waukesha Counties’ most at-risk schools.  For more information, visit www.sharpliteracy.org.

author: SHARP Literacy


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A Novel Event logo 08 14 15.jpg | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Name *
August 6, 2018

author: Name *


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Milwaukee NNS reporter arrested after taking photos of police squad cars in district lot | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Sharon McGowan
August 8, 2018
Edgar Mendez took this photo as police ran his ID on West Lincoln Avenue.
Putting the final touches on an article about Milwaukee Police Department response times, reporter Edgar Mendez stopped at the District 2 police station Sunday to take photos of squad cars in the parking lot.
According to Mendez, an award-winning reporter employed by Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service since its launch in 2011, he was walking through the lot with his camera when a nonuniformed officer with a badge around his neck walked past him. Mendez told him he was a reporter taking photos for a story, and the officer “waved in a manner that suggested ‘carry on.’” While he was taking the photos, Mendez saw a uniformed officer in the distance and waved to him. He was in the lot for about five minutes.
Edgar Mendez
As he drove away, he noticed a police van following him, and he was pulled over at about 12:10 p.m. The officer asked what he was doing in the lot, and he said he was a reporter taking photos for a story. The officer asked whether he had seen the “no trespassing sign,” and he replied that he would not have taken photos in the lot if he had seen the sign. He informed the officer that he’d taken photos earlier that day at District 5 and had no problems. The officer took his driver’s license and went back to his squad car.
“I had a bad feeling about the situation but nonetheless never expected what happened next,” Mendez said.
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At that point, another squad car pulled up, and the two officers told Mendez that he was going to get a ticket for trespassing, and that he had to go to the station with them. They asked him to place his hands behind his back, and he was handcuffed and placed in the back of the van, but was never searched.
“They knew I was no threat,” Mendez said.
He was taken to District 2 and handcuffed to a bench near the garage. After about a half hour he was brought into the station.
The “no trespassing” sign is circled in red in this screenshot from Google Street View.
A third officer questioned Mendez again about what he was doing in the police lot. Mendez told him that he didn’t see the “no trespassing” sign and if the officer he encountered in the lot had informed him that he wasn’t supposed to be there, he would have left immediately.
“After that I thought I was being let out but I was led into another area of District 2 and asked to step into what appeared to be an interrogation room,” Mendez said. There he was questioned by two nonuniformed officers, who Mendez believed were detectives, for about 30 minutes. Mendez said that he asked if he needed a lawyer and one of the officers responded that they were making sure that his story “checked out.” Mendez told them that a Google search would demonstrate that he is a reporter for Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service, and “he still chose to question me,” Mendez said.
According to Mendez, the officer told him that if he wanted a lawyer, he could end up being taken to the county jail. The officer then asked to look at the photos. Mendez said he initially refused, but after the officer threatened to confiscate the camera, he agreed to show him the photos, all of which were of squad cars. The officer asked him to erase three of them, purportedly because they showed personal vehicles of policemen, although, “I didn’t see them in the photos,” Mendez said.
Mendez, a longtime South Side resident who was raised in District 2 and still lives there, was given a municipal citation for $181 with a September court date. He was accompanied out of the station and told to “have a good day” at about 2:25 p.m. Sunday.

created: August 8, 2018

author: Sharon McGowan


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Warrant Withdrawal Wednesday and employment resource event in the community | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ald. Khalif J. Rainey
August 8, 2018
On August 22, the Milwaukee Municipal Court will be holding another Warrant Withdrawal Wednesday session in the community, to lift outstanding warrants as well as provide an employment and resource event.
Pre-registration for this special event is required, and will occur TOMORROW — Thursday, August 9th, beginning at 8:30 a.m. and ending at the close of business. Individuals can register by calling 414-286-6600, as there is no onsite registration. This event will take place on Wednesday, August 22, 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Journey House, 2110 W. Scott St. Only cases registered will be heard, and registration is limited to 250 people. All registered participants will receive further detail on when to arrive at the event for check in. Those NOT ELIGIBLE FOR WARRANT WITHDRAWAL include people who have attended previous Warrant Withdrawal events OR have a Building and Zoning Code Case OR for those who only have a juvenile case. Please visit milwaukee.gov/citycourt for more information.
There is no registration fee to attend the employment and resource event. It is recommended that all participants bring employment materials to assist in the recruitment and application process.
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“The event is taking place during our first Hip Hop Week MKE (August 20 – August 26), which is appropriate as the week is focused on events aimed at individual and community growth and betterment physically, financially and spiritually,” said Alderman Khalif J. Rainey. “I encourage the community to pre-register and come to this event to learn more about employment opportunities and community resources available.”
If you are an employer interested in becoming a part of this event please contact Frederick D. Nelson III at 414-874-1655 or Frederick.Nelson@dwd.wisconsin.gov.

author: Ald. Khalif J. Rainey


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Why it’s important to immunize your children | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Mel Hendrickson, Penfield Children’s Center
August 8, 2018
Immunizations are one of the best ways to help keep your child healthy. (Photo by Allison Dikanovic)
Caring for a child is one of the most important jobs you’ll ever have and making sure you’re doing it well can be overwhelming. One of the ways to ensure your children are healthy and protected is to immunize them.
Children under 2 years old are especially vulnerable to vaccine-preventable diseases and should receive most of their vaccines prior to their second birthday. The appropriate use of immunizations is essential to help keep children safe.
Although most immunizations are still given by shot and shots can be painful, the effects of not giving immunizations can be far worse than the temporary discomfort of the injection. Young babies can become very ill from vaccine-preventable diseases. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s immunization schedule is designed to protect young children when they are most vulnerable to serious infections and before they are likely to be exposed to potentially serious diseases.
Many parents worry about the side effects of giving their child immunizations, but evidence shows that the most common side effects are almost always mild and can include redness and swelling at the injection site. Serious side effects, such as an allergic reaction, can occur but are very rare and your child’s doctor is trained to treat such a reaction.
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Some of the diseases that are preventable with immunizations include:
How does an immunization work?
Your immune system helps your body fight germs by producing substances to combat them. Once it does, the immune system “remembers” the germ and can fight it again. Immunizations contain germs that have been killed or weakened. According to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, when given to a healthy person, the immunization triggers the immune system to respond and thus build immunity. If you have questions or concerns about immunizations, it is best to speak with your child’s doctor.
It is also important to know that children with special needs should and can be immunized. If your child has special needs or any health concerns, be sure to talk to his doctor. Certain allergies, health conditions and/or medications may interfere with the way your child’s immunizations work or may increase the risk for side effects. A specialized immunization plan may be created to make sure her individual needs are met.


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
August 8, 2018


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Black Hogwarts teaches youth magic of community organizing | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Abby Ng
August 9, 2018
Black Hogwarts students and staff gather for a photo during a bus tour of Milwaukee. (Photo by Adam Carr)
DJay Hayes, 16, is like a real-world Harry Potter, but without the lightning scar and the wand. Hayes is not a wizard, but a student at Black Hogwarts, where he has been learning a different kind of magic — the magic of community organizing. Like Harry Potter, Hayes said he is hoping to be the love that triumphs over evil.
“I learn something new each day I come here,” Hayes said. “They make me feel like no matter what, I can do it.”
Sponsored by Leaders Igniting Transformation (LIT) for the first time this summer, Black Hogwarts is an intense and immersive six-week workshop that teaches students ages 12 through 20 about oppression, politics, civic engagement and community organizing. The program is held at the LIT office building, 2821 N. 4th St., three times a week for five hours a day. Its goal is to help Milwaukee youth reach their full leadership potential, said Elisha Branch, LIT program coordinator.
“We want them to become leaders no matter what that looks like,” Branch said. “We want them to know that they are woke, they know what’s going on, they know their stuff and they’re going to be leaders wherever they are.”
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About 16 students participate in the program, and they are all African-American and Latino with different interests and experiences. This diversity, Branch said, encourages students to see from others’ perspectives. Students practice articulating their opinions clearly and respectfully to their peers. Most of the participants started out shy, but now they are much more vocal, according to Branch.
Students brainstorm ideas during a group activity. (Photo by Abby Ng)
Branch added that it makes her proud when she sees students able to tell other people about what they’re learning.
Aprice Bates, 12, said he is doing just that. Bates said he has had conversations with his friends at church about U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the importance of respecting women.
To accommodate a wide variety of interests, including immigration, social identity and LGBTQ issues, Black Hogwarts partners with organizations such as Ubuntu Research and Evaluation, and Diverse and Resilient to host community-led lessons and field trips.
“They’ve done a really good job in bringing in such a medley of workshops so that young people will leave this summer as stronger leaders for the next school year,” said Nikotris Perkins, a workshop leader from Ubuntu Research and Evaluation.
“I’ve heard so many people speak on different topics in ways I never thought of before,” Hayes added.
Bates said he has learned how to be a better citizen and can imagine himself creating change and running a campaign one day because of what he has learned at Black Hogwarts.
“If I keep going, then I could be the person or be in a group of people who actually stop (oppression),” Bates said. “That’s what motivates me.”
Black Hogwarts also aims to create mentorships. Branch said younger students, such as Bates, can look up to and become friends with older students, and all students can rely on the LIT staff to be role models.
It is important to teach people of color to stand up for what they believe in at a young age, Branch said.
“I wish I had a program like this when I was 14 years old that taught me how to navigate a world that was not built for (black and brown people),” she stated.
While Black Hogwarts is only held in the summer, Branch said she hopes the program will ignite students’ interest in civic engagement and leadership. Black Hogwarts serves as an introduction to LIT, and students can take weekend leadership trainings during the academic year.
As the first Black Hogwarts comes to a close on Aug. 10, Branch said she already knows LIT will continue to host the program next summer.
“If they’re getting it when they’re this young, then imagine what they’ll be like when they’re grown,” she said. “Teaching them while they’re young opens up so many more doors for them.”

created: August 9, 2018

author: Abby Ng


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On The Block: Art and friendship | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
August 9, 2018
Lonnie Brown, a 15-year-old Silver City resident (pictured on the left), and soon-to-be-19 Deavon Haynes of Lindsay Heights met earlier this summer at Express Yourself Milwaukee.
As youth arts interns they are earning stipends, building skills and making new friends.
This fall, Brown, a rising sophomore, will enter Milwaukee High School of the Arts’ theater program. Haynes will transfer from Vincent to Bay View High School, where he will be a senior.
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author: Andrea Waxman


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53206 Drug-Free Communities Coalition Applauds Milwaukee Common Council for Improving the Health and Safety of the Amani Neighborhood | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Lisa Kaiser
August 10, 2018
Members of the 53206 Drug-Free Communities Project coalition welcome the Milwaukee Common Council’s vote against renewing the liquor license of S&S Liquor, which has contributed to longstanding safety issues in the Amani neighborhood.
“It was a team effort. All the partners played a role and were important in this victory,” said John Eshun, coordinator for the 53206 Drug-Free Communities coalition
The council voted 14-0 to confirm the Licenses Committee’s unanimous vote on July 17 against renewing the store’s liquor license. The committee voted after hearing from residents who both supported and opposed S&S Liquor’s license renewal, as well as members of the Milwaukee Police Department and community partners.
Public testimony highlighted Amani residents’ complaints about the operations of the store, located at 27 Street and Auer Avenue.  Milwaukee police officers testified that on May 24, an MPD raid turned up marijuana as well as tobacco products with out-of-state registration being sold illegally. On July 8 and July 10, MPD officers successfully carried out two controlled buys for marijuana at the store. In addition, a homicide took place outside the store a few months prior to these investigations. Residents said they felt unsafe walking past the store and that it created traffic problems in an already congested neighborhood. Community partners such as the Dominican Center, Amani United, and COA Youth & Family Centers-Goldin Center played a big role in testifying and showing leadership on this issue.
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Members of the 53206 Drug-Free Communities coalition hope that the Common Council’s actions regarding S&S Liquor send a message to other business owners to look out for the safety and well-being of neighborhood residents.
The 53206 Drug-Free Communities project, coordinated at Community Advocates Public Policy Institute, aims to reduce youth alcohol and marijuana use, and eventually reduce drug and alcohol abuse, in the 53206 Zip code. Contact John Eshun, 53206 Drug-Free Communities Coordinator, at 414-270-4659 or jeshun@communityadvocates.net.

author: Lisa Kaiser


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Sixth annual Bronzeville Week celebrates Vel R. Phillips with street dedication | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ryeshia Farmer
August 10, 2018
Michael Phillips speaks about his mother, Vel R. Phillips, at a ceremony dedicating a section of Fourth Street in her honor. (Photo by Ryeshia Farmer)
Vel R. Phillips once said to Ald. Milele Coggs, “When I get my street, I want it to run from Capitol all the way down to St. Paul!”
Phillips’ wish was granted when Fourth Street was renamed Vel R. Phillips Avenue at a ceremony on Tuesday. The dedication was part of the sixth annual Bronzeville Week, scheduled between Aug. 4 and 11.
“We decided to do this during Bronzeville Week, because Bronzeville is an iconic place in the city of Milwaukee for African-American arts, culture and commerce,” Coggs said.
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Phillips was the first black woman to graduate from the University of Wisconsin Law School and to serve on Milwaukee’s Common Council. She was Milwaukee County’s first female judge and the first black person to be elected to a statewide executive office.
Phillips was instrumental in the 1967-68 Milwaukee fair housing marches, introducing four open housing bills as an alderwoman and marching alongside NAACP Youth Council members, who demonstrated for 200 days.
According to Coggs, Phillips believed that Milwaukee had done Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. a disservice in not allowing the street named for him to extend to St. Paul Avenue. Dr. Martin Luther King Drive parallels parts of Interstate 43 and lies between Keefe Avenue and Pleasant Street.
Mayor Tom Barrett, Phillips’ son, Michael Phillips, and the first Vel R. Phillips Trailblazer award recipient, Jasmine Johnson, spoke at the ceremony.
The Vel R. Phillips Trailblazer award was established to commend people who embody Phillips’ spirit and work ethic in social justice. The Milwaukee Common Council voted unanimously to establish the award on April 17, the day Phillips died.
Johnson, entrepreneur and former chair of the NAACP Milwaukee Young Adult Committee, said, “I challenge every one of you to ask yourselves daily… ‘Are you doing what you’re supposed to do, and are you doing your part?’” Johnson noted that Phillips asked her this question at their every encounter.
Following the presentations, attendees were entertained by a live band and given an opportunity to take trolley rides on the renamed Vel R. Phillips Avenue.
According to Coggs, Phillips wanted Fourth Street to be named after her because of its significance in her life. Phillips attended Historic Garfield School, which is now the Historic Garfield Apartment building, 2215 N. Vel R. Phillips Ave. Also, she belonged to and was married at St. Mark AME (African Methodist Episcopal) Church, now at 1616 W. Atkinson Ave., when it was located on Fourth Street.
The Griot Apartments and America’s Black Holocaust Museum (ABHM), 2233 and 2234 N. Vel R. Phillips Avenue, were recently constructed on the street. Coggs said it was “only fitting” that Phillips be honored during the week celebrating developments in Bronzeville.
Vel R. Phillips Avenue replaces Fourth Street, where the reopening America’s Black Holocaust Museum and new Griot Apartments are located. (Photo by Ryeshia Farmer)
Bronzeville Week is co-sponsored by the City of Milwaukee, Bader Foundation, Historic King Drive BID, Milwaukee Bucks and VISIT Milwaukee, among others.
The annual Arts and Cultural Festival and HaRUNbee 5k Walk/Run were held last weekend, along with the Live on King Drive family-friendly, musical event.
The Bronzeville Business Breakfast highlighted longtime businesses in the area, according to Lilo Allen, whose pop-up shop, Papyrus and Charms, is on the corner of Vel R. Phillips Avenue and North Avenue.
A variety of Bronzeville Week events allowed people to make art while enjoying food and beverages. Festivities also included an art walk and a black food truck festival.
The week also featured a panel discussion about Milwaukee’s national influence, which was hosted by ABHM.
Throughout the week, the MLK Heritage Health Center, 2555 N. King Drive, offered health screenings for HIV, hepatitis C, high blood pressure and glucose, in addition to providing immunizations.
Bronzeville encompasses the area between Garfield Avenue and Center Street, and between Dr. Martin Luther King Drive and Seventh Street in Coggs’ Sixth Aldermanic District. It was inspired by Milwaukee’s original Bronzeville, which was located on Walnut Street and was an economic capital for black business owners.
Editor’s note: This story has been updated to correct where Vel Phillips went to law school. We apologize for the error.

author: Ryeshia Farmer


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43198013524_620afed527_k | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
August 9, 2018

author: Dwayne Burtin


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43198021154_1cfdad272c_k | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
August 9, 2018


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Eagle Project in Milwaukee | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
David Turicek
August 13, 2018
David Turicek of Boy Scout Troop 21 and ReciproCITY, a local arts-based urban redevelopment collective, are performing an Eagle Project at Peace Park & Garden, a site located on the corner of 5 Street and West Locust Street in Milwaukee. The project is scheduled to be performed at the site on August 25th and 26th in hopes to not only refurbish the garden, but also to contribute to the restoration of the city of Milwaukee itself.
After about 4 years since its last refurbishment, Peace Park & Garden will once again be renovated.
Fidel Verdin and Dr. Mike Carriere of ReciproCITY, along with a plethora of volunteers, are working with Turicek to make this project possible.
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The project will feature the addition of newly-built raised garden beds; construction of a complex compost bin structure, a unique pyramid-shaped garden bed, and wooden-pallet benches; as well as the installation of a thematic stone peace sign into the ground.
A special thanks to The Home Depot, Inc. of Wauwatosa, Superior Equipment & Supply of Milwaukee, as well as Frame & Axle Service of Brookfield for their generous support to the project.
Troop 21 is a Boy Scout Troop stationed in Brookfield, Wisconsin. The troop meets at Trinity United Church of Christ and is home to over 30 scouts between the ages of 12 and 17 who hope to join the 88 Eagle Scouts that the troop has already produced.
If weather becomes an issue, the project will take place on September 1 and 2. If you would like more information about volunteering for this project, please call David Turicek at 262-391-2729, or email www.reciprocitymke.com

author: David Turicek


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Heinous triple shooting last night near 10th and Burleigh | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ald. Milele A. Coggs
August 13, 2018
As I spent this morning getting my child ready for the first day of school, I thought about the triple shooting near N. 10th and W. Burleigh Streets. My heart goes out to the family of the five-year-old who are left to pray for his recovery from multiple gunshot wounds and the loss of his father. The shooting last night was heinous and I ask anyone with information to please immediately contact Milwaukee Police at 414-935-7360.
Despite the rash of shootings that have occurred recently, I still believe that Milwaukee has the ability to be a great city, but the devaluation of Black life that exists within it has to change. Our babies deserve to live and any trigger-happy person who doesn’t understand that should not be operating freely within our community.
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author: Ald. Milele A. Coggs


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La Catrina de Villa selected as winner in Clarke Square Small Business Competition | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Clarke Square Neighborhood Initiative
August 13, 2018
Three Clarke Square entrepreneurs were selected as finalists to compete to win a grand prize of $2500 to support business development goals. La Catrina de Villa, led by entrepreneur Guillermo Ramos Serrato, was the grand prize winner.
Ramos, co-proprietor of La Catrina de Villa with his wife, Abby, eliminates the middleman in the wholesale spice industry to provide lower than market cost of spices to local eateries. In addition to the cash prize sponsored by the Zilber Family Foundation, La Catrina de Villa will receive support from WWBIC in form of business classes and technical assistance.
The finalists – Botánica Milagro de la Cruz, Yenepa Herbals, and La Catrina de Villa – first submitted written applications explaining how the resources would support the goals for their business. The second, and final, round was the Quick Pitch – a scaled back Shark Tank type presentation, in front of a panel of three judges. The entrepreneurs came well prepared on a warm Tuesday afternoon at the end of July with PowerPoints, product samples, and friends.
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Elizabeth Cruz, of Botánica Milagro de la Cruz, is the owner of a botánica on Cesar E. Chavez Drive. She plans on using the funds to further develop her website to make online sales and to increase her social media presence. She was selected as the second place winner, of $1000, from the Clarke Square Neighborhood Initiative, as well as business classes and technical support from WWBIC.
Angela Kingsawan, of Yenepa Herbals, creates natural healing products out of native plants grown in her backyard garden. She brought stress-relief lollipops to share with the attendees, as well as samples of other products, and bunches of herbs that she uses to create different products. She was selected as the third place winner and will receive $500 from Town Bank. Also, Angela’s business will be one of the next occupants to operate the Pop-Up MKE storefront at 1008 S. Cesar Chavez (from mid-August through mid-September).
Joaquín Altoro of Town Bank, Elmer Moore of Milwaukee Denim Co., and Tyna Rule, Clarke Square resident and entrepreneur, as well as CSNI Board President, served as the judges of the event. The three judges asked discerning questions and provided valuable insight to the finalists. Their wisdom will encourage all the entrepreneurs in moving forward with their business ventures.
The Quick Pitch event was held at CannedBeatz Art Space on S. 25 & W. National Ave., owned by the creative Tommie Myles. Refreshments were provided by Gloria’s Cake Shop and Café and Cielito Salvadoreño.
: Wisconsin Women’s Business Initiative Corp. (WWBIC) is a leading, innovative economic development corporation “Putting Dreams to Work.” WWBIC’s primary focus is on women, people of color and low income individuals, providing direct lending and access to fair and responsible capital, quality business education, one-on-one technical business assistance and education to increase financial capability. In 2018, WWBIC celebrates 31 Years of Impact and has directly lent over $62 million in micro and small business loans with a current loan portfolio of $18 million and 600 active borrowers. Visit: www.wwbic.com for more information.
The mission of the Clarke Square Neighborhood Initiative is to improve the neighborhood and benefit community residents. CSNI is responsible for leading and coordinating the continued implementation of the Clarke Square Quality of Life Plan. Read more at www.clarkesquare.org

author: Clarke Square Neighborhood Initiative


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Men’s Job Seminar: September 18th, 2018 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Michelle Gutknecht
August 13, 2018
Success Starts Here!
Men’s Job Seminar 2018
Tuesday, September 18th from 9:00am-1:30pm
ManpowerGroup’s Global Headquarters
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100 Manpower Place, Milwaukee, WI
A job seminar for local men looking to find a job or explore a new career.
You will:
Optional Employer Expo & Resource Fair from 1:30pm-3:30pm
Complimentary breakfast and lunch provided in addition to giveaway items.
Pre-registration required by Tuesday, September 11th.
Contact your agency’s coordinator to sign up, or call United Way at 414-263-8100, or register online at UnitedWayGMWC.org/Mens-Conference

author: Michelle Gutknecht


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Milwaukee County Behavioral Health Division hosting Nursing Job Fair | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Cameron Anglin
August 13, 2018
Explore a career in mental health nursing with an organization that is on the forefront of transforming the way we prevent, treat and care for individuals with behavioral health needs.
On August 22, 2018, join the Milwaukee County Behavioral Health Division for the mental health nursing job fair. Please bring a photo I.D and your resume. Registration not required.
The job fair will be held from 2 p.m. – 5 p.m. at the Behavioral Health Division, Plank Conference Room (9455 W. Watertown Plank Road). Meet with BHD’s nurses and leadership team to learn about BHD and current opportunities.
To learn more details about the position please visit http://Milwaukee.gov/Nursing.
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author: Cameron Anglin


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BHD_Job_Fair_FB_Image_1000x518.jpg | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
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August 13, 2018


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Now is the time for a shared, inclusive vision for Greater Downtown Milwaukee | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
MKE United Steering Committee
August 13, 2018
(Photo by Adam Carr)
Milwaukee is experiencing once-in-a-generation development. New buildings, new jobs and new opportunities are moving our City forward in ways that are unprecedented and exciting. Talented people are moving to Milwaukee, drawn by the City’s development, excited by its evolving skyline. They’ll tell you, as will people born and raised here, that it’s a great time to be in Milwaukee.
We also recognize there is a need to ensure that those in the neighborhoods adjacent to Downtown benefit from this renaissance. We must figure out how our neighborhoods can work together and share resources, successes and best practices across geographic boundaries to create a “Greater Downtown” that moves all of Milwaukee forward. That’s precisely what we’re doing through MKE United.
The MKE United Greater Downtown Action Agenda (MKE United) is a comprehensive planning process through which we are creating a shared and inclusive vision for Downtown Milwaukee and its adjacent neighborhoods, supported by a strategic Action Agenda to make that vision a reality.
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We believe now is the time to establish an authentic Greater Downtown identity, build connections, grow and strengthen businesses and jobs, increase density and create enthusiasm and pride for the Greater Downtown, and we need your help.
We started by creating the Downtown story. We analyzed data, numbers and studies to consider the current state of Greater Downtown and develop a vision. Armed with this information, we set out to bring it to life through a comprehensive and inclusive civic engagement effort, which included the input of thousands of Greater Downtown residents and stakeholders.
Our conversations, happy hours, meetings and workshops were inspiring and impactful, but we didn’t stop there. We are now moving from inspiration to action.
We’ve identified six key “transformative directions” based on community feedback that are at the heart of our vision for Greater Downtown. Our transformative directions create an aspirational vision for our Greater Downtown: how people move throughout the Greater Downtown; where people work, live, shop, eat and play in the Greater Downtown; and our shared capacity to engage and act through civic engagement. For each transformative direction, we’ve considered where we stand today, where we want to be in the future, the barriers and issues that may stand in our way and how we might overcome them through the MKE United effort.
So how do we make sure the MKE United vision doesn’t remain just that – a dream, a desire – but instead, becomes the reality for Greater Downtown? We’re doing everything we can to make that happen. Since February, more than 70 diverse leaders from a variety of entities, constituencies and demographics have come together to build out actionable steps for each transformative direction.
Some early actions underway include:
While we’re proud of our progress and we want it to continue, we know we can do even more. We need your help to do it. We encourage you to visit www.MKEUnited.com to join the conversation and learn how you can get involved. While there, check out our calendar of upcoming events, engage with us on social media, or express interest in joining one of our working groups. We look forward to moving Milwaukee forward together.
Mayor Tom Barrett, Linda Gorens-Levey, Ellen Gilligan, Dr. Eve Hall, Donsia Strong Hill, Julia Taylor and Greg Wesley are members of the MKE United’s Executive Committee. To learn more about MKE United, visit www.MKEUnited.com.

author: MKE United Steering Committee


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
August 13, 2018

author: Adam Carr


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Peruvian food truck, environmental nonprofit among finalists in small business competition | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Jenny Whidden
August 13, 2018
Former Rev-Up winner Lisa McKay (center) works with young people during her annual culinary camp. The camp runs for one week each summer. (Photo by Jenny Whidden)
A year after winning the Rev-Up MKE small business competition, Lisa McKay can’t believe how much her company, Lisa Kaye Catering, has grown.
“It has been such a blessing because a lot of the people that we met due to the Rev-Up competition have been utilizing our services,” McKay said. “(My business) has grown so much. We have been meeting so many different people from all walks of life.”
McKay said her business stays busy on the weekends, with birthdays, retirement parties and more, but the trouble spots have always been weekdays. Since the competition, McKay said she has been introduced to more organizations that hold events during the week, and business has increased by 40 to 50 percent.
Seven finalists were announced Wednesday in the third year of the Near West Side Partners’ Rev-Up MKE small business competition.
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The finalists will undergo one-on-one mentoring at Marquette University’s 707 Innovation Hub before presenting their business plans at a “Live Pitch Event.” Finalists will go before a panel of judges and a crowd of community members on Sept. 25 at the Rave/Eagle’s Club.
Kelsey Otero, associate director of social innovation at Marquette University, said the judges will choose a winner and runner-up. The crowd selects an audience choice winner each year.
Lindsey St. Arnold Bell, associate director of NWSP, said inviting community members to vote allows them to communicate their vision for the Near West Side.
Two kids participate in Lisa McKay’s annual culinary camp at the Near West Side Farmers Market. (Photo by Jenny Whidden)
“There’s a lot of value in recognizing the entrepreneurial spirit of our area, and I think our residents and our businesses really like it too,” Bell said.
“By having this business competition, we’re saying to (residents), ‘You can help shape your community. You can help make your community look the way you want it to look. And hopefully that means you open your business,’” Bell added.
NWSP stays in contact with finalists and winners alike, Bell said. The organization invited past participants to promote their business at the Near West Side Farmers Market. Lisa McKay was the first to sign up, and she hosted her annual kids culinary camp at the market.
“We are definitely connected with winners. We find platforms for them to showcase their goods. The farmers market is a great example,” Bell said.
Otero said first-place winners are expected to move into the Near West Side.
“We work with the winners and anyone else to find the best location for their business,” Otero wrote in an email.
Previous winners include Pete’s Pops, which is opening a storefront on Vliet Street. Lisa Kaye Catering is relocating to Potawatomi’s Wgema Campus on 32nd and State streets.
Amy Narr and Mario Diaz Herrera, finalists in this year’s competition, hope to follow in the winners’ footsteps.
Narr and Herrera, who are married, run Triciclo Peru MKE, a food truck that sells Peruvian empanadas. The couple met in Herrera’s home country of Peru, and they opened their business shortly after moving to Milwaukee in 2017.
While Triciclo Peru focuses on selling empanadas at farmers markets and on the side of the road, Narr said the couple hopes to open a storefront where they can offer more Peruvian dishes.
“(Peruvian cuisine) is exploding in other places, but it’s really not come to Milwaukee quite yet,” Narr said. “Cooking in Peru and food in Peru really just translates to love. That’s the kind of the philosophy that we have, and we would like to translate that to Milwaukeeans.”
Another of this year’s finalists is Razed and Found, an environmental nonprofit and subdivision of WasteCap Resources Solutions Inc., which was a previous Rev-Up finalist.
Razed and Found is located on the Near West Side. The nonprofit operates a warehouse that sells reclaimed building materials and offers deconstruction services.
Founder Travis Blomberg said while Razed and Found is not a traditional business startup, he was encouraged to apply for Rev-Up by the prospect of additional space for operations, financial assistance, community awareness and professional development.
“For this competition, we’re really trying to figure out how to get more community engagement around reclaimed building materials, arts and crafts and the like. That’s why we thought it would be good to put our hat in the ring,” Blomberg said.
For his presentation at the pitch event, Blomberg said Razed and Found will focus on do-it-yourself events that promote more artistic and community-engaged ways to transform material.
“Win or lose, we’re going to continue to help make the Near West Side a destination for businesses,” Blomberg said.
McKay’s main piece of advice to the finalists is to be prepared for their business to thrive.
“Winning Rev-Up Milwaukee is going to bring so much business to them,” McKay said.
Even for participants who don’t win, applying and preparing for the final pitch will help them as business people, she added.
“All the paperwork that we had to hand in — our business plan, our financials — I didn’t have all that ready. I probably wouldn’t have had any of it ready now if I hadn’t been in the competition,” McKay said. “Even if you don’t win, you are going through that process.”

author: Jenny Whidden


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
August 12, 2018


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Women’s Job Seminar | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Michelle Gutknecht
August 13, 2018
Ready, Set, Work!
Waukesha County
Women’s Job Seminar
Friday, September 28, 2018 from 8:00am – 3:00pm
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WCTC – Richard T. Anderson Education Center
800 Main Street, Pewaukee, WI
A FREE one-day job seminar for women looking to develop new skills, find a job, or explore a new career.
Attendee Benefits:
Create a resume that gets you noticed
Develop strong interviewing skills
Learn how to build your network through social media
Work one-on-one with professional mentors
Discover wellness tips
Leave with the confidence you need to succeed
Complimentary breakfast and lunch will be served.
Register to attend: UnitedWayGMWC.org/Calendar/Ready-Set-Work-Waukesha-Womens-Job-Seminar or call United Way 414.837.3180


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2018 Hip Hop Week MKE Premiere Opening | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ald. Khalif J. Rainey
August 14, 2018
(Photo by Adam Carr)
Alderman Khalif J. Rainey is proud to announce the opening of Hip Hop Week MKE, the first official city-wide event of its kind approved by the Common Council, starting Monday, August 20.
Alderman Rainey, who sponsored the successful legislation creating Hip Hop Week MKE, said the weeklong event will offer unique and positive experiences. “I’ve always known the true innate transformational power of Hip Hop (which celebrated its 45th birthday last week) and I wanted to bring that to Milwaukee in a meaningful way with Hip Hop Week MKE – taking place for the first time ever at venues across the city,” he said.
“I encourage everyone to come out and be a part of Hip Hop Week MKE, attend performances, come to seminars to learn and ask questions and to see what the array of events has to offer,” Alderman Rainey said.
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Hip Hop Week MKE gets underway on August 20 with a news conference at 1 p.m. at the Miller High Life Theater, 500 W. Kilbourn Ave. The Hip Hop Networking event will take place from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Miller High Life Theater, and opening day of Hip Hop Week MKE will be capped off by the Masters of Ceremonies free Hip Hop concert featuring Milwaukee Hip Hop artists – also at the Miller High Life Theater starting at 8 p.m.
Tuesday, August 21, features a Jay Morrison Financial Intelligence Seminar at the Wisconsin Black Historical Society at 2620 W. Center St. from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Hip Hop legend Masta Ace will lead a Hip Hop and Health conversation (as he personally battles MS) at St. Joseph Hospital, 5000 W. Chambers St., from 12 to 1 p.m. on Wednesday, August 22.
Please go to www.hiphopweekmke.com to see the full 2018 Hip Hop MKE Week schedule.
An official City of Milwaukee event approved by the Common Council in January, Hip Hop Week MKE celebrates the culture of the music genre of Hip Hop. This series of Hip Hop themed performances and programming opens up the dialogue about key issues including violence, health and wellness, financial literacy and civic engagement with the goal of bringing residents of Milwaukee together. It is sponsored by the City of Milwaukee, Alderman Rainey, Historic King Drive BID, 88Nine Radio, Potawatomi Hotel Casino, V100.7 Jams, Jammin’ 98.3, TRSTD Kicks, VISIT Milwaukee, Summerfest, Associated Bank, MillerCoors, The Rave/Eagles Club, Harley-Davidson, Miller High Life Theater, Gruber Law Offices, The Oriental Theater, General Capital, Mandel Group, Milwaukee Film, Ascension, MorganDezine, The Riverside and others.


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31164086141_eef0fd872a_k | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
August 16, 2018


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Community members demand action from city officials to improve park safety | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Sophie Bolich
August 14, 2018
About 15 people met on the basketball courts, where four men were shot while playing at a church picnic last week. (Photo by Sophie Bolich)
Greg Powell used to bond with his son over games of basketball in Washington Park, but after recent shootings at the park, he said nowhere feels safe anymore.
“It always seemed like one of those places that’s really safe, morning or night,” he said.
Powell, who is part of Peace Garden Project MKE, was one of a group of about 15 community members who gathered at Washington Park to discuss the recent violence in county parks.
Community Task Force MKE called the meeting, prompted by “almost a dozen incidents of violence, death and injury in or around local county parks,” according to a flier for the event.
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A drive-by shooter injured four men at Washington Park on Aug. 4. A spokesperson for the Milwaukee Police Department said no suspects have been identified in the Washington Park shooting.
Days later, a gunfight killed two men at Holton Bridge Swing Park, which is a city park. On Sunday evening, a 28-year-old man was fatally shot, a 14-year-old was injured and a 4-year-old was seriously hurt in an incident near 10th and Burleigh.
In Washington Park, attendees pleaded for city officials to listen and take action to curb the violence plaguing community spaces that should be safe for families.
Gab Taylor of Program the Parks (left) and Akyra Harris discuss the recent shootings. (Photo by Sophie Bolich)
“There are bullets flying and bodies on the ground,” said Vaun Mayes, founder of Program the Park and a community activist. “But nobody is coming out to help.”
“We’re here today to say that our communities are doing all the work. Don’t ask us to do that for free,” he said. “If officials are calling on the community to make a change, they have to do it too.”
Members of the group say their neighborhoods have been ready to make changes for years, but the aldermen, state representatives and Mayor Tom Barrett aren’t doing enough.
“The community is always the one to extend the olive branch, and those at the top aren’t talking to us,” Mayes said. “It’s not enough, all the work we do.” Mayes has pleaded not guilty to federal charges related to a planned firebombing, which never took place, during the 2016 unrest in Sherman Park.
Danielle McClendon-Williams, a candidate for state representative in the 16th Assembly District, said there’s a problem with police, politicians and teachers not involving themselves in the community.
“This has been going on for years and I’m very upset that the same politicians are still in office,” she said.
Powell said the key to decreasing violence is to redirect young people’s energy to productive outlets such as summer jobs and outdoor activities, but that can only work if “both sides” work together.
“The youth are bored and idle,” he said. “Programming is something that can curb the speed of the recklessness.”
Powell suggested actions such as stationing instructors and equipment on the unused tennis courts in Washington Park and building a skate park or ice skating rink.
“If we don’t shape the future, we lose the future,” he said.
Lack of funding for programming is the biggest obstacle communities face, according to Powell.
“Obviously there’s limits to who can get money, but organizations in the community are basically put on the stand before they can get funding,” Powell said.
He added, “The city seems to have an opinion on who is worth it and who isn’t. How many new restaurants and stores can open downtown while people are dying in our communities?”
Attendees agreed that implementing security and activities will help the parks and neighborhoods become safer for everyone.
Akyra Harris, who lives near Washington Park, said she has lost multiple close friends to gun violence and wants to see immediate change.
“I felt like I was next,” said Harris about the murder of her best friend. “I tried to hang in there but it just kept happening. People are losing loved ones every day, and I wouldn’t wish that pain on anyone.”
Powell said the city can’t put all of the blame on residents for the violence.
“There’s a lot of talk about black-on-black violence, but we’re all just snakes in a cage with no food. It’s inevitable,” he said. “Everything you see is a result of something systematic, but it can be reversed.”
“We’re all saying essentially the same thing, and that is we are out here trying, but we need help.”

author: Sophie Bolich


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Ladies of Charity aims to clothe 1,000 children in need | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ladies of Charity Milwaukee
August 14, 2018
Back to school is typically a flurry of activity including shopping for clothing and school supplies, but many impoverished families simply cannot afford to buy these items. For over 50 years, a dedicated group of women has recognized the situation and embarked on a mission to clothe children in need. Since opening the doors of the Children’s Clothing Center, Ladies of Charity Milwaukee has remained steadfast in its mission. Last year, the group clothed nearly 1,000 Milwaukee children. Each child receives five tops, three pants, a hoodie, a winter coat, gloves, a hat, seven pairs of socks, underwear and a dictionary.
At 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 16, the group will open its doors for the upcoming school year. Located at 1936 N. 4 Street in Milwaukee, the Children’s Clothing Center will be open from 9:00 a.m. until noon every Thursday and one Saturday a month: September 8, October 13, November 10, December 8, January 12, February 9, March 9 and April 13. Ladies of Charity Milwaukee invites school social workers and principals to issue vouchers to families in need. All families must have an official voucher to receive clothing from the center. For more information about the clothing voucher program, please visit the website at www.LOCMilwaukee.org.
Ladies of Charity Milwaukee is 100 percent volunteer-based, and the charity relies on clothing and cash donations to operate the Children’s Clothing Center. To support Ladies of Charity Milwaukee, please visit www.LOCMilwaukee.org.
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author: Ladies of Charity Milwaukee


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How to save money when school shopping | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Lisa Schiller, Better Business Bureau of Wisconsin
August 15, 2018
It may seem like school just let out, but it’s time to think about shopping for the new school year.
Here are some tips for saving money when you take your kids shopping for school.
You can either wait for the school supplies list to come out, or start shopping without it. Even if you don’t have the exact list, you should have an idea of what to purchase regarding school clothes, and basic supplies. Jot everything down on a list and stick to it! Impulse buying can jack up your overall total in a hurry.
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You may already have some of the items from last year hidden in your home. Why purchase the same thing twice?
Before purchasing that expensive laptop or tablet, be sure to do your research. Research the brands, warranty, customer reviews and the prices at various stores to be sure you’re getting the best deal.
Compare prices between different retail stores, save your coupons, sign up for email alerts and redeem any cash-back or rebate offers. This will help you get the best deals, saving you a nice chunk of dough.
Many stores and software companies offer discounts to students that have either an .edu email address or a student ID. Even if you don’t see a discount advertised at the store, it doesn’t hurt to ask.
Some teachers ask parents to buy bulk items for the entire classroom to use throughout the year. Talk with other parents about what they’re getting, and see if you can all split the cost.
Kids can be fickle. They can love a new shirt yesterday but hate it today. Ask about return policies before making your purchase. Be sure to save your receipts just in case you have to return the item later.


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
August 14, 2018


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On the Block: Have you seen this dog? | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Edgar Mendez
August 15, 2018
Dulce Castro, a Marquette University student, lost a pet that is like a member of the family recently. Coco, her white and tan, shih tzu/maltese dog was last seen in the area of South 25th Street and West Greenfield Avenue. She’s asking anyone who sees Coco to contact her at (414) 649-0399. The family is offering a reward for her return.

author: Edgar Mendez


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43319223654_1120a9db76_k | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
August 14, 2018


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Skilled-trades training program qualifies city residents for construction jobs | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
August 15, 2018
(From left) Ezzard White and OHMS students William Andrews, Tyesha Townsel and Derrick Dantzler discuss the day’s work on a Friday afternoon. (Photo by Andrea Waxman)
When Ezzard White launched One Hope Made Strong (OHMS), a free skilled-trades training program for young men and women living in the central city, he had no workshop, little equipment and no staff. It was fall 2013 and the construction industry, which had ground to a halt in the 2008-9 recession, was still stagnant.
But White, a retired electricity and electronics teacher who owns and operates EWS Electric was concerned about young adults in the city having few prospects for life-sustaining jobs. With encouragement from some business and religious leaders — and a lot of hope — White set out to use his knowledge and skills to change the employment futures of as many students as he could.
“I just simply want to be a person who helped,” White said in a recent interview.
Now, five years later, after overcoming obstacles that include two failed attempts to access unused workshop space in MPS schools, White is realizing his dream. The local construction industry is booming and, White said, 18 OHMS graduates who are employed in full-fledged construction apprenticeships have purchased homes. In addition, two graduates — a male and a female — have achieved journeyman status.
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In June, White hired 10 program participants as full-time electricians at the Legacy Lofts project on North Avenue at 16 Street, where they are wiring the project’s new building.
White and 10 of his trainees are installing electrical wiring in the new building at Legacy Lofts. (Photo by Andrea Waxman)
White chose to hire the three women and seven men, ages 21 to 46, from among his trainees, he said, because “they were so enthusiastic; they were so driven. They (stood) apart from your average students and they couldn’t wait to be a part of a project that’s working out in the community at a construction site.”
White is paying his workers “a living wage “ — $22 per hour on average. It’s a bit more than the going rate, he said, because he wants to give them “a real incentive, something that makes them feel that it’s worth their while to work — and $7, $8, just won’t do it.”
Tyesha Townsel, 33, learned about the OHMS program, which has operated primarily out of St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 1927 N. 4th St., when it was first established. The daughter of a contractor, Townsel said she has always been around and involved in building and repair projects.
“I’ve been working with my dad on some of his plumbing, electrical, drywall and painting since I was a kid, ” Townsel said.
Having completed the program a year ago, Townsel worked on several demolition and construction projects before joining the Legacy Lofts crew. For her, the best thing about the OHMS program was brushing up on skills, learning new ones and working with people in her age range and from her neighborhood, she said.
Curtis L. Evans, 46, has taken classes through the OHMS program for the past 18 months while working on the Legacy Lofts project and studying IT Support at MATC. Evans worked for the city as a concrete finisher helper from 2007 to 2014.
He has experience with smaller residential remodeling and repair projects, and said he has learned advanced electrical skills through OHMS and the Legacy Lofts project. “(From White) I learned that you have to put your heart into it because you don’t want things to go wrong where people might lose their lives.”
Evans said he learned trade skills in middle and high school that have made it possible for him to always find work. The lack of such classes now leaves young people with no hope for their future ability to support themselves.
“With Mr. White’s program, the few kids that are there, they have some hope and they’re willing to learn,” Evans said. At Legacy Lofts, learning is greatly enhanced by the hands-on experience because “you need to be able to touch the things, you need to be able to see (them).”
White continues to teach his program three nights a week. In addition to skilled-trade training, it includes financial literacy and “soft” employment skills such as appropriate workplace behavior. Students don’t have to pay for anything, he said, but that may change because “when a person is paying … you’re forcing them to invest in themselves.”
For now, White is paying his contractors through his business, but he has applied for a subcontractors gap financing line of credit from Legacy Redevelopment Corp. This relatively new program is designed to help small contractors access working capital and bridge the transition period before they start getting paid.
Andrew Ziebell, construction project manager for Legacy Lofts, hired White partly to fulfill city Residential Preference Program (RPP) requirements.  His company, Greenfire Management, also wanted “to get local workers involved in this project,” he said.
Ziebell met White at one of several meetings Greenfire held to tell community members about employment opportunities. White was also recommended by Walnut Way founders Sharon and Larry Adams and others.
Greenfire’s role includes hiring contractors, meeting budget limits and time schedules, and overseeing the project’s execution, Ziebell said.
The company worked on the recently completed Historic Garfield Avenue Apartments and the soon-to-be-completed Griot apartment and museum development in Bronzeville. It has created joint venture partnerships with Northcott Neighborhood House and other pre-apprenticeship training programs and small contractors in the city, according to Ziebell.
Greenfire has also provided educational programs, including a class specifically for White and his team, who came to the Legacy Lofts project in June.
Hiring minority, central city workers is a win-win situation, Ziebell said. “We’re working not only to bring in buildings but we’re also able to help the growth of local contractors who want to be involved.”
Among the benefits of the OHMS program for Townsel and fellow participants has been that it has opened doors for neighborhood residents, she said. “A lot of these positions and jobs aren’t readily available to people in (central city) communities.”
Another advantage, she said, is that people see that neighborhood residents are participating in redevelopment projects — “working in … and building up our community.”
Townsel noted that she’s benefited from White’s support and career vision. “Mr. White is dedicated to his students. He would do whatever he can to help them out.”


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Volunteers build Zen Den, spruce up Riverside University High School | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Abby Ng
August 16, 2018
Laura Schultz, a volunteer from GE, helps touch up a tiger mascot mural at Riverside University High School. (Photo by Abby Ng)
A surprise tucked away at the end of a basement hallway awaits students at Riverside University High School, 1615 E. Locust St. In a room slightly larger than a walk-in storage closet, a serene sunset mural peeks through a doorway. A small fountain bubbles in the corner. A plush couch exudes a cozy feeling. Designed as a stress-free oasis, this room is aptly named the Zen Den.
A space exclusively dedicated to emotional de-escalation has been years in the making for special education teachers Elizabeth Bart and Drew Rittgers. Before, when students caused a disruption or could not focus in the classroom, they were either sent to the office or sent to roam the halls with Bart and Rittgers. Now, with the help of donations and volunteers from General Electric (GE), students have a designated area to cool down.
“We’re so excited that we finally get to make this happen,” Bart said.
“It is a nice synchronicity that the year we decide to implement this, we get the help of GE,” Rittgers added.
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Bart and Rittgers worked closely with GE volunteers to create the Zen Den. They spent months planning, and the Zen Den was finally implemented during GE’s annual community service day. GE donated a couch and a small fountain, and brought in a volunteer artist to paint a mural.
The Zen Den is targeted toward students with patterns of behavioral difficulties. The main goal of the Zen Den, according to Rittgers, is to refocus students on their classwork and increase their productivity and academic success. He said he hopes to see an increase in classroom participation and a decrease in incidents such as suspensions and office referrals during the next few years.
Teacher Drew Rittgers squeezes out a sponge while helping with the mural in the Zen Den. (Photo by Abby Ng)
With dimmed lights and soft music playing in the background, students can color, meditate, journal and do yoga. Schoolwork is not allowed in the Zen Den because it is meant to provide a break from academics.
One full-time teacher will work in the room to monitor students and teach them coping skills. After 20 to 30 minutes, they can return to class.
“What we don’t want to do is take them out of the classroom permanently,” Bart said. “We want them to be here. They need to know they are wanted here, and they need to be in the classroom learning, whatever that may look like.”
Teresa Buss started the concept of Zen Dens at Casimir Pulaski High School, and although the school will no longer continue its Zen Den this year, she said it made a huge difference. Students were able to build a community with a positive outlook on mental health and diversity, and she said parents told her their children would not have graduated without the Zen Den.
Buss commented that it warms her heart to see her idea spread to other schools.
“I applaud any school that is taking on this amazing concept,” Buss said. “It’s a venture worth going into and worth investing in. … I wish them all the best in creating a space that identifies that students need to deal with their mental health and emotional selves.”
Chad Miller, GE volunteer team leader, said he was excited to help make the Zen Den a reality with Bart and Rittgers.
“It gives you an appreciation for how many people are working to make this city great and keep it great,” he said.
In addition to creating the Zen Den, more than 150 GE volunteers helped refurbish Riverside, which recently celebrated its 150-year anniversary. GE employees painted walls, organized classrooms and created new murals throughout the building.
“This is something (teachers) don’t have to do now,” said Keith Posley, interim superintendent at Milwaukee Public Schools. “Now they can focus on the true mission of what we’re here to do, and that is to educate young people.”
Displaying art not just in the Zen Den, but all around the school, Posley said, offers moments of beauty throughout the day, making students smile and uplifting their mood.
GE has been working with MPS for its community service day for 24 years, and volunteers keep coming back because of projects such as the Zen Den and teachers like Bart and Rittgers, said Wayne Steffen, GE community service day co-leader.
“You’re working side by side (with teachers), and making their start of the school year better,” Steffen said. “To me, that’s contagious.”
“We want to see the students succeed,” Miller added. “They’re the future, and we’re investing in them the same way Milwaukee has invested in us (GE).”
Nearly 2,000 GE employees participated in the service day at public schools across Milwaukee, Waukesha and Wauwatosa.
“We want to strengthen and preserve those communities that we live and work in,” said Holly Mancusi-Hand, Steffen’s co-leader.
Jeni Pearson, a GE employee who helped at Riverside and has been participating in the service day for eight years, said this year was especially meaningful for her because her nephew attends the school.
Students can begin enjoying the new Zen Den and other improvements when classes start on Sept. 4.
“This puts us in a great place to move forward,” Posley said.


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
August 15, 2018


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Douglas, Keefe parents uninformed about combined school | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ryeshia Farmer
August 17, 2018
Early-start students pass the temporarily closed Andrew Douglas Campus on their way home from their second day of classes. (Photo by Ryeshia Farmer)
On a recent week day, children could be seen swinging, playing tag and shooting hoops in the space where Keefe Avenue School’s backyard playground and Andrew S. Douglas School’s basketball court meet, unaware of the changes coming to the schools in just a few weeks.
As part of the Milwaukee Public School board’s new 53206 Initiative, Douglas and Keefe schools will co-locate at Keefe, 1618 W. Keefe Ave., during the upcoming school year. The two will remain separate entities. Douglas’ facility at 3620 N. 18th St. will be renovated into a middle school.
Annie Woodward, MPS District 4’s board director, said that since the renovations need to be made during the school year, “I see this as an emergency situation and as temporary.”
Charles Phillips, the parent of a Keefe student, said locating the two schools in the same building is a great idea, because “it’s time for us to come together as a community.” He said that the plan is a nice complement to “Family and Schools Together,” a weekly parent engagement program designed to foster bonds among students’ families.
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Phillips learned of plans to co-locate Douglas and Keefe Thursday afternoon during a phone call with Christlyn Frederick-Stanley, principal at Keefe. The school board approved the plan at its July 26 meeting.
Phillips said Frederick-Stanley told him that she plans to mail letters to parents.
According to Zerda Palmer, principal at Douglas, two meetings were held at the school last week to inform parents of the plans for co-location. However, only six parents attended those meetings. Palmer said she will mail letters to parents and plans to share more information at the school’s orientation on Aug. 24.
Andrew S. Douglas Middle School will open at the start of the 2019-20 school year. (Photo by Ryeshia Farmer)
According to Lonnie Steel, a fourth-grade teacher at Douglas, students from the different schools will not interact much, except during lunch. He said he was told that the two schools would maintain separate principals, secretaries, classrooms and bus lines.
“We will allow [Douglas students] to have a certain group of classrooms near each other, so that they can feel like they have their own space,” said Frederick-Stanley. Students from both schools will share the cafeteria and gymnasium.
Frederick-Stanley added that students will also interact during recess. “If the students decide to come together to play kickball, then we are not going to discourage that,” she said.
Administrators at Keefe and Douglas plan to foster positive interactions just as they would at the beginning of any school year, but on a larger scale.
Beginning in fall 2019, Auer Avenue, Hopkins-Lloyd Community, Gwen T. Jackson, Benjamin Franklin, LaFollette, Keefe Avenue and Green Bay Avenue, all elementary schools in the 53206 Initiative, and Douglas middle school will feed into North Division.
Palmer said that planning for the Douglas renovations has not begun yet.
The Douglas building housed the Business and Economics Academy of Milwaukee (BEAM), a K-8 charter school, for about 10 years until June 2017. Woodward said BEAM offered programs in home economics and fashion design, so kitchens, large refrigerators, stoves, and other, related equipment will have to be removed from the school.
Keefe has the capacity to hold more than 800 students. Douglas expects 238 students at the start of the 2018-19 school year, and Keefe will have about 250 students.
Woodward said she would like Douglas to become an African-American Immersion school. Fifty-two percent of students in MPS are African-American.
“I expect it to be just like other immersion schools, with an emphasis on the French language, since most Africans speak French,” Woodward said. No schools in 53206 reflect African-American culture in the way that German, French or Spanish Immersion schools focus on these cultures.
Woodward said teaching African-American students about their own culture will boost their self-esteem, which will result in better academic achievement.
Woodward noted that staff members need to be compassionate and able to understand students’ traumas, impoverished conditions and exposure to violence. She added that church leaders, alumni and other community members should be given important roles at the schools as well.
Palmer said that the few parents she spoke to at last week’s meeting were “a little apprehensive, because they are not sure what the school year will look like.” She noted that no parents have withdrawn their children from Douglas after hearing about the move to Keefe.
Editor’s note: This article has been updated to correct the spelling of Zerda Palmer’s name. We apologize for the error.


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
August 16, 2018


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Wisconsin inmate in mass incarceration film wins release after denied parole 7 times | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Odyssey Impact
August 17, 2018
Baron Walker, featured in the award-winning documentary , has received parole and was released today in Milwaukee, after serving more than 22 years in a Wisconsin prison, Odyssey Impact™ announced today. Walker grew up in zip code 53206, which incarcerates the highest proportion of African American males in the nation – up to 62% have been imprisoned by age 34. His plight and more are explored in the thought-provoking film by <>—the production company affiliated with Odyssey Impact—which uses personal stories to take an intimate look at the crisis of mass incarceration and the devastating toll on families and communities. For the past year, Odyssey Impact has conducted a social justice impact campaign around the film, holding hundreds of screenings with an array of partners in order to engage with various communities and inspire social change.
“ personalizes the destructive effects of mass incarceration on entire communities and the repercussions for families like the Walkers,” said Nick Stuart, President and CEO, Odyssey Impact and Transform Films, Inc. “Odyssey Impact’s goal is to elevate awareness of injustices being endured as part of the human experience by connecting with communities to encourage change, and we are grateful to our many partners for helping us to engage and illuminate.”
Directed and produced by Keith McQuirter,  chronicles the harsh reality of those living in the U.S. zip code with more than half the black men imprisoned and removed from the community. It explores the high cost of excessive sentencing and mass incarceration on individuals and families, and the challenges these men face upon re-entering society. The documentary has garnered acclaim at film festivals and premiered on the public television series America Reframed in April 2018.
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“This era of mass incarceration is having a crushing impact on our neighborhoods,” said director/producer Keith McQuirter. “By shining a light on families and communities we open the conversation about criminal justice in a way that is not often discussed in the national dialogue. sets out to humanize the white paper statistics, and we hope the film serves as a catalyst for change on this uniquely American moral crisis.”
The film also spotlights the thousands of prisoners currently being held in the Wisconsin prison system who are eligible for parole—up to 3,000 of the state’s 22,000 incarcerated. Like Baron Walker, these inmates were sentenced in the last century, prior to the 1998 Truth In Sentencing legislation. Many have served the legal time requirements set forth by the old law and their sentencing judge. These men can sometimes serve up to double the time as those who commit exactly the same crimes but are sentenced under the new law.
Now 44, Baron Walker was a young man when he was convicted of being a party-to-a-crime in two armed robberies in which nobody was physically harmed. He was sentenced to 60 years in prison—35 years and 25 years, to be served consecutively. Caught between changing parole laws in Wisconsin, he should have been released years ago, but has been denied parole seven times. Walker was sentenced under Wisconsin’s old law, but has been held to the new law’s standard. The film also follows his wife Beverly Walker, mother of five, who has worked tirelessly toward his release.
With the mission to inspire social change through the power of film, Odyssey Impact and its production company Transform Films build and execute social impact campaigns to inspire people to engage with important issues, such as mass incarceration, poverty, gun violence, intolerance, hate crimes, racial justice, and gender violence. Beginning in May 2017, Odyssey Impact launched a social impact campaign for , and has been working with faith communities, government agencies, advocacy groups and nonprofit organizations to host screenings to help draw attention to the need for parole and sentencing reform in Wisconsin and other areas.
In the state of Wisconsin, 150 community screenings of the film  have been held, and a total of 217 screenings so far in the United States. Two screenings were held at the State of Wisconsin, Department of Corrections, organized by a Corrections Field Supervisor, to help those working in the prison and parole system understand the issues, and another screening took place at the Wisconsin Public Defender’s Office. Together, these outreach efforts have helped raise awareness about racially-biased, excessive sentencing and the need for parole reform in Wisconsin and beyond. They have also brought state-wide recognition to Baron Walker’s case.
Odyssey Impact has also engaged faith leaders interested in social justice and criminal justice reform and has sought to organize them to expand on how mass incarceration is framed—to include an ethical crisis overwhelming families and destroying communities. In the past year, the film has been shown by faith communities, Christian churches and universities, theology schools and seminaries, Jewish organizations, and interfaith groups around the state and the country, which has helped enlighten people with a better understanding of the issues around mass incarceration.
After viewing the film, a number of screening partners and audience members felt compelled to support the families and communities of the incarcerated. Some were so moved by Baron and Beverly Walker’s story they began letter-writing campaigns within their communities. One such partner was a Candler School of Theology student based in Atlanta, Georgia, who organized a public screening of the film at Emory University. Following the screening, audience members were given a call-to-action to write a letter of support to the Wisconsin Parole Commission advocating for Baron to be released on parole. Ultimately, a high-powered attorney saw the  film, took on Baron’s case pro-bono, and filed motions to secure his parole. On August 17, 2018, Baron Walker was released.

author: Odyssey Impact


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
August 17, 2018


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Ex Fabula kicks off 10th Season | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ex Fabula
August 18, 2018
Emcee Tiffany Miller grabs a selfie with the Season 9 ALL STARS at Turner Hall Ballroom in May 2018. (Photo by Art Montes)
“When we started, we weren’t sure if other people would be interested in coming to a true storytelling event” muses Executive Director Megan McGee. “We thought ‘stories are powerful’ but I don’t think we could articulate why – it was more of a gut feeling.”
From a single experimental event at Art*Bar in November 2009, Ex Fabula has slowly but surely grown in size and impact. In 9 years of “strengthening community bonds through the art of storytelling”, they’ve engaged 26,000+ people through 300+ StorySlams and workshops and featured 600+ community members sharing 1100+ stories onstage along the way.
Community input has shaped Ex Fabula’s efforts from day one; for example, their December 2009 show theme, “Second Thoughts”, was suggested by an audience member at the inaugural event. For Season 10, Ex Fabula has made several updates based on audience feedback. First, three monthly Slams will be non-competitive events. As McGee explains, “At most events, attendees vote for an Audience Favorite, and we crown the person who received the most votes. We don’t reveal any other voting details because in our eyes, anyone who takes the stage is a winner. However, we’ve heard from people who would get on stage if there were no voting, so we’re trying this experiment with 3 StorySlams in Season 10.”
Also in response to community feedback, Ex Fabula has added new venues and Friday evening events. “Fridays night spaces are sometimes hard to come by,” McGee notes. “Fortunately, we have a track record of packing the house, so that keeps our venue partners happy.”
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The full schedule of “regular season” StorySlams with locations and themes:
Fri 9/14       Garfield’s 502                         Generations
Tu 10/9       Sugar Maple                           Misunderstood *
Th 10/25     Best Place                              Crush
Fr 11/9        Kochanski’s Concertina Bar   Caught in the Act
Tu 12/4       Mr J’s Lounge                         Beginner’s Luck *
Wed 1/23    Turner Hall Ballroom              SPECTACULAR: Gut feeling
Wed 2/20    Lakefront Brewery                  Damaged Goods
Th 3/7         Times Cinema                        Fear
Tu 3/26       Good City Brewing                 What’s in a Name? *
Wed 4/17    Cooperage                             Deal Breaker
Sat 5/18      Turner Hall Ballroom              ALL STARS:  Forgiveness
For all events, seating is general admission; doors open at 6:30 pm and stories start at 7:30 pm. Those who would like tell a story should sign up by 7:15 pm. 9 names are then drawn from the hat over the course of the evening. Each teller has five minutes to share a true, personal story related to the evening’s theme – without using any props or notes. At most Slams, the attendees select an Audience Favorite via secret ballot – except at noncompetitive events, indicated with an asterisk, which skip right to the storyteller bow.
Ex Fabula will also present several public storytelling workshops where experienced
storytelling coaches will guide attendees through hands-on, small group exercises to help them find, structure and share personal stories. Workshops scheduled to date include:
Sat 9/8, 10-noon     Colectivo Coffee – Humboldt Blvd
Mo 9/17, 6-8 pm     Artists Working in Education
Advance tickets for workshops and StorySlams, venue accessibility details, storytelling tips and more are available at www.exfabula.org.

author: Ex Fabula


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
August 18, 2018


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Local teens celebrate new HUD Smoke-Free rule | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Wisconsin African American Tobacco Prevention Network
August 19, 2018
Members of the Wisconsin African American Tobacco Prevention Network (WAATPN) FACT group, part of Wisconsin’s youth-led tobacco prevention movement, joined the community in celebrating the kick-off of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) national smoke-free rule implementation recently.
“I’m so happy and thrilled that HUD finally made the decision to go smoke free! It was an amazing opportunity to meet the mayor and celebrate this great occasion,” said FACT
Jadon Roder.
The national kick-off event and press conference was held at the Hillside Terrace Family Resource Center, 1452 N. 7th St. Speakers included Mayor Tom Barrett, Milwaukee Fire Chief Mark Rohlfing, and Harold P. Wimmer, National President and CEO of the American Lung Association (ALA).
The rule will protect an estimated 18,000 HUD residents in Wisconsin, according to the American Lung Association.
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“I think having smoke-free housing is really smart because secondhand smoke is really harmful because it can go through vents and into other people’s apartments. Hopefully lives will be saved now that the apartments will be smoke-free,” said FACT member Nia Kamara.
To learn more about FACT or to join the youth tobacco prevention movement visit Factmovement.org.


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FACT_Barrett.JPG | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
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August 14, 2018

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Milwaukee Mustang Track Club takes home 13 medals | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ana Martinez-Ortiz
August 20, 2018
Coach Ray Hale says this year’s team, which includes Amari Brown (left) and Jacey Gray-Hall was one of the best teams he’s ever coached. (Photo by Ana Martinez-Ortiz)
Earlier this month, the Milwaukee Mustang Track Club went down to Iowa to compete in the AAU Junior Olympics Track and Field Championships. The team won 13 medals, the most medals brought home by the Mustangs since the club’s inception in 2002.
Head Coach Ray Hale founded the track club in 2000 at the Police Athletic League (PAL) building located at 24th and Burleigh. As a former track runner and coach, Hale enjoyed attending high school meets. However, he noticed a lack of diversity among the runners. So, he gathered a team of runners ages 10 and under, with the idea that he would add older runners as his original team grew up.
“I wanted to establish a culture,” he said.
Two years later, PAL was sold to the Children’s Outing Association (COA), so Hale decided to strike out on his own. He changed the name from PAL Track Club to the Mustangs.
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Hale, who grew up in Milwaukee, had run track at South Division High School. After graduation, he coached his old team from 1981 through 1989 and won five state championships. As a runner, he knew how to train his team, whereas some of his volunteer coaches, which included the occasional police officer, did not.
Nevertheless, Hale and his team persisted. Currently, his fellow coaches have children on the team, and consequently they know a little more about coaching a track club.
“I have a very high parent participation [rate],” he said.
From left, Ashlyn Uebersetzig, Whitney Thomas, Clair Pitcher and Amari Brown proudly display their medals. (Photo courtesy of Ray Hale)
Hale described his coaching philosophy as focusing more on the runner’s mental state than on scientific running techniques. He strives to know each kid and works hard to get his team to trust and believe in him. His favorite part is seeing an athlete thrive and transform.
“If they believe in you, they believe in themselves,” Hale said.
So far, his coaching strategy is paying off, as evidenced not only by the number of medals but by the number of runners.
Amari Brown, 16, placed in all her events in Des Moines, with a third-place medal in the 200-meter dash. Brown began running in 8th grade for the Rufus King Middle School track club. Hale attended a meet and asked her to join the Mustangs.
Since then, Brown competes with the Mustangs during the summer, trains with the club during fall and winter at the Petit National Ice Center and runs with the Rufus King school team in the spring.
“Track makes me feel good,” she said. “It reminds you how strong you are as a person.”
Brown and her fellow runner, Jacey Gray-Hall, 14, said that there’s a positive atmosphere among team members.
“I feel like it’s the best part of my day,” said Gray-Hall, who will run with Shorewood High School in the spring. She joined the Mustangs after watching her cousin run and decided it looked fun.
Running is a stress reliever, Brown and Gray-Hall both said. And the runners are more likely to push themselves harder than their coaches do. Brown explained that if Hale said to be on the starting line in a minute, they’re there in 30 seconds.
“Everybody on our team, they [are] there ‘cause they want to be there,” Brown said.
Their goal for the team is to make it to the nationals, but they’re each hoping track will help them get into a good college. Hale remarked that participating in clubs such as the Mustangs presents students with an opportunity to attend college and earn scholarships.
According to Brown and Gray-Hall, some of the best schools for track are the University of Southern California and the University of Kentucky.
Although the summer competition season is over, the runners and the coaches are looking forward to training season, which starts in a month. In the meantime, they plan to keep growing the club until everybody knows all about the Mustangs.
“And maybe win the Powerball and build our own stadium,” Hale said with a chuckle.

author: Ana Martinez-Ortiz


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
August 19, 2018