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OPINION: Local Black history every Milwaukeean should know | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
February 18, 2021
Rick Banks, Annia Leonard and Dom Portis
Editor’s note: Have something on your mind? “Community Voices” is the place to let Milwaukee hear what you have to say. To be considered, we need your name, email address and phone number for verification. Please email your submissions to info@milwaukeenns.org.
To highlight some of Milwaukee’s rich Black history, we turned to community members to lift up people, places and projects they feel every Milwaukeean should know.
(Photo provided by Rick Banks)
Rick Banks is the co-founder and executive director of MKE Black as well as an organizer and resident in the Harambee neighborhood.
Marvin Pratt, a trailblazer in Milwaukee
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Marvin Pratt is a former Milwaukee alderman and Common Council president.
He was the first Black person to serve as acting mayor of Milwaukee when he was sworn in on Jan. 2, 2004, following the sudden resignation of Mayor John Norquist. He served until shortly after the election in April of that year, when Tom Barrett was elected.
Pratt also served as interim Milwaukee County Executive from Feb. 4 to April 25, 2011, after being appointed by County Board President Lee Holloway. He’s the only person to have served in both roles.
Harambee: “To pull together”
The neighborhood of Harambee, located between North Avenue and Keefe Avenue (or Capital Drive, depending on whom you ask) and Holton Street to Seventh Street was named after the Swahili word meaning “to pull together” or “to come together and pull.”
This name signifies the neighborhood’s strong identity as one of the first neighborhoods where Black people could move in Milwaukee and its history of strong neighborhood activism. At one point, under the leadership of the Harambee Ombudsman Project, Harambee was home to over 400 active blocks clubs.
The neighborhood also hosts Northcott Neighborhood House’s Juneteenth Day celebration, the nation’s longest continuously running celebration, operating since 1971.
Harambee also has a rich artistic history and features many mural installations dedicated to highlighting it. Among them are the Rose Park mural on the corner of Fifth Street and Chambers Street and the Open Housing Marches murals across from Hope High School.
(Photo provided by Annia Leonard)
Annia Leonard is the youth organizer with Uplifting Black Liberation and Community Vision, or UBLAC.
Young, Black & Opinionated podcast
Have you heard of “YBO”? So you mean to tell me that you’ve never heard of the Young, Black & Opinionated podcast, hosted by La’Cie, Mwanje and Reese? Well, sit tight and let me give you the run down.
These three started this podcast back in 2016 at UW-Milwaukee. Their very first podcast aired during the unrestful month of August — if you’re a Milwaukee native, you would know that summer was chaotic because of Sylville Smith’s death at the hands of police officer Dominique Heaggan-Brown. With the city experiencing unrest and our community still gathering in healing efforts, they released a podcast that exhibited Black joy and friendship.
Young, Black & Opinionated discusses such topics as: Black culture, relationships, gender politics, sex and more. They pride themselves on giving honest opinions and diverse perspectives. I would describe them as hilarious and Black excellence at its finest.
An ode to Heal the Hood, Juneteenth and every other annual Black-centered event
As a Black Milwaukeean, it really saddens me to witness the overwhelming impact a mass pandemic can have on an entire community. Things I didn’t realize I would miss became most important in my reflections during my quarantine and lockdown days.
For instance, Milwaukee has created its own neighborhood culture by hosting a series of festivals that you could call our “cookout,” such as Heal the Hood Milwaukee and Juneteenth Day.
At these gatherings, we wear our best and buy expensive merchandise to support locally owned businesses. You can look around and see the children getting their faces painted and adults watching the rap battles. It’s a place for Black community vendors and healthy rivalry between basketball teams. Churches come to cook their best food, and shop owners pull out their most African or Black-centered clothing and merchandise of the year.
Since so many places have been dominated by popular culture, spaces like Juneteenth and Heal the Hood help to protect the brave space of authentic and local Black culture. In Milwaukee, especially, these spaces remind us of the importance of giving back to the community. Community clean-ups, health resources and a showcase of our local community groups all contribute to hope being brought back into the community.
We have Milwaukeeans like Ajamou Butler and Northcott Neighborhood House to thank for these annual celebrations.
(Photo provided by Dom Portis)
Dom Portis is a lifelong Milwaukee native. He lives his belief in youth through his work with the Community Schools Partnership and also founded the blog Hustle Responsibly.
A Black history staple and something that had a direct impact and influence on me was Strive Media, the umbrella that housed Gumbo Teen Magazine, a nationally distributed publication. Gumbo TV had young Black kids filming, editing and directing Emmy-nominated and winning content right from a small building on MLK Drive.
I remember watching the show Teen Forum before church on the weekend in the mid to late ’90s and being inspired by the programming. Matt Johnson founded Strive Media in 1990 and has been opening up young people to opportunities in media for over 20 years.
There are so many rich layers of Black history woven into Milwaukee’s fabric. I also wanted to share some staples that quickly come to mind; they’ll serve as good conversation starters if you’re new to the neighborhood:
In case you missed it: Black history every Milwaukeean should know from 2020


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annia-leonard | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
February 17, 2021

source: news-milwaukeenns

created: February 17, 2021

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

author: Adam Carr


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dom-portis | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
February 17, 2021


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Adam Carr
February 17, 2021


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Adam Carr
February 17, 2021


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Post from Community: New affordable housing development in Milwaukee offers professional guidance for residents’ long term success | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin and Upper Michigan
February 18, 2021
Editor’s note: Posts from the Community is the place for community announcements and event postings. If you have a community-oriented event you feel our readers would be interested in, please submit here.
Thirteen31 Place Apartments will do more than simply offer affordable housing in Milwaukee’s historic Walker’s Point neighborhood. The goal of the 89-unit apartment building is to uplift the residents through empowerment services intended to help them achieve a sustainable, successful life – in the community and beyond.
In co-developing and managing Thirteen31, Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin and Upper Michigan (LSS) is providing people with more than just a roof over their heads. Professionals will assist residents with financial literacy, and use their connections within the community to help residents find jobs, secure medical referrals, and cultivate relationships. These empowerment services seek to improve one’s quality of life and sense of belonging.
As a leader in affordable housing and homelessness prevention, LSS advocates for the “Housing First” model, where securing housing is the first, most important step in rebuilding lives.  “Knowing you have a safe, respectable home – with reliable heat, water, central air and attentive management – allows people to focus on other valuable areas of their lives, including their health and careers,” says Dennis Hanson, Vice President of Housing Services for LSS.
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Through Thirteen31, LSS hopes to open more detailed dialogue surrounding the importance of affordable housing in building up diverse, equitable, and productive communities.
Seventy-four of the building’s one, two, and three-bedroom apartments are reserved for those qualifying for affordable housing. The remaining units will be rented out at market-rate, creating a unique demographic that serves to strengthen the area and promote future growth. The diverse residents interacting daily – college students, families and business executives, for example – will foster greater understanding and perspective on living and working together for the common good.
Additional amenities and benefits of Thirteen31 include:
The $17.8 million development is on roughly 72,000 square feet of land at 1331 W. National Ave. Applications for leasing apartments will be accepted beginning April 1, with the official move-in day of August 1. In the meantime, individuals can be added to the “interested list” by sending an email to Thirteen.31@lsswis.org and providing their information.

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1331 Rending1 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
February 23, 2021

created: February 23, 2021

author: Dwayne Burtin


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Post from Community: People’s Maps Commission seeks public comment | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
People’s Maps Commission
February 18, 2021
Editor’s note: Posts from the Community is the place for community announcements and event postings. If you have a community-oriented event you feel our readers would be interested in, please submit here.
The People’s Maps Commission will hold a virtual public hearing at 5:30-8:30 p.m. on Thurs., Feb. 25, 2021, to seek public input on the upcoming redistricting of legislative maps from constituents of Wisconsin’s 6th Congressional District.  Although the Feb. 25 hearing will focus on the 6th Congressional District, all Wisconsin residents are encouraged to watch and participate. Anyone wishing to testify at the hearing must register in advance by visiting the People’s Maps Commission website HERE.
The hearing is the Commission’s seventh in a series of at least eight meetings, one for each one of Wisconsin’s eight congressional districts. The virtual public hearing will include testimony from subject matter experts and also provide Wisconsinites the opportunity to express how they have been affected by legislative redistricting and share their ideas for how Wisconsin can work together to achieve fair maps.
The deadline for registering to comment during this hearing is 5:00 p.m. Tues., Feb. 23rd, 2021. Each speaker will have three minutes to speak. Registration is on a first-come, first-serve basis, with priority to residents of Wisconsin’s 6th Congressional District.
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For anyone unable to join the virtual hearing, written comments are strongly encouraged. Written comments can be submitted at any time using the feedback form available on the People’s Maps Commission website HERE. Written comments will be reviewed by the commissioners and are public record.
Selected by a three judge panel, the Commission is a nine-member nonpartisan redistricting commission charged with drawing fair, impartial maps for the state of Wisconsin. More information about the Commission, its members and its activities is available HERE.
Every 10 years, each state redraws their legislative and congressional districts using data from the decennial census. In addition to the data from the 2020 U.S. Census, the Commission will use information gathered during the public hearing process to prepare new maps. It will then be up to the Legislature to take up and approve the maps created by the Commission.
Due to the COVID-19 public health emergency, the People’s Maps Commission will host virtual public hearings for each of Wisconsin’s eight congressional districts. Agendas and additional details will be announced in advance of future meeting dates. The hearing dates are as follows:
The hearing dates are as follows:
Individuals interested in watching previous hearings can find the recordings HERE.

author: People’s Maps Commission


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Dwayne Burtin
February 22, 2021

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5 things to do and know the weekend of Feb. 19 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ana Martinez-Ortiz
February 19, 2021
All of Us or None started a series called “Our quest for democracy,” and this week’s discussion features staff from the Department of Corrections and those impacted by incarceration. (Photo provided by All of Us or None)
It’s Friday in Milwaukee, and here are some things we think you should know about as the nation grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic.
If you would like your event to be considered for this column, please email info@milwaukeenns.org and put “5 things” in the subject line by noon Thursday.
1. Winter Wonderwalks at Three Bridges Park: Friday, Feb. 19 and Saturday, Feb. 20
The Urban Ecology Center is inviting you to attend Winter Wonderwalks at Three Bridges Park, 610 S. 35th St., from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 19 and Saturday, Feb. 20. The two-day affair includes birdwatching, a storytime hike for kids, an art hike and more. Click here for the full list of events and to register.
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2. Citizenship legal clinic/Clínica legal de ciudadanía: Saturday, Feb. 20
Empowering Citizens, 1579 S. 38th St., is hosting a free virtual citizenship legal clinic from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 20. To register, click here or call 414-207-6533. Volunteer attorneys will be available to consult applicants interested in becoming naturalized citizens and review naturalization applications. The clinic is part of the American Immigration Lawyers Association’s 15th Annual Citizenship Day.
3. Black-owned food trucks block party: Saturday, Feb. 20
MKE Black is hosting a block party featuring Black-owned food trucks, including Fully Loaded/Blue Magic Food Truck, Africa’s Finest Cuisine and Bebe’s Food Truck. The goal of the event is to support Black businesses. The event will take place at the Beerline Trail Plaza, 3356 N. Holton St., from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 20. In case you missed it: New app aims to showcase Milwaukee’s black entrepreneurs and creatives
4. “Our quest for democracy”: Justice check-in: Saturday, Feb. 20
All Of Us or None, a project of Breaking Barriers Mentoring, is hosting a series called “Our quest for democracy.” This week’s conversation will feature personnel from the Department of Corrections and people directly impacted by incarceration. The conversation will take place on Facebook Live from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 20.
5. Queens of hip-hop with James Freshluggage: Saturday, Feb. 20
Mad Planet, 533 E. Center St., and James Freshluggage are celebrating the queens of hip-hop on Twitch from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 20. The music will feature female artists from the ‘80s to now, including Lauryn Hill, Lil Kim, Doja Cat, TLC and more.

created: February 19, 2021

author: Ana Martinez-Ortiz


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
February 18, 2021


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SPARC accelerator program for Black, Hispanic and female business owners | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Scale Up Milwaukee
February 19, 2021
Editor’s note: Posts from the Community is the place for community announcements and event postings. If you have a community-oriented event you feel our readers would be interested in, please submit here.
Scale Up Milwaukee is launching its fifth SPARC cohort with applications being accepted from business owners throughout Wisconsin and the surrounding region through the beginning of March for the business accelerator program focused on Black-, Hispanic-, and woman-owned businesses.
Programming will be held in a virtual setting and is open to companies owned by women and people of color with annual revenue under $1 million. Applications for the program can be found at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/SPARCSpring2021. The program offers a great opportunity for business owners to recalibrate their approach to business amid the evolving economic and social landscapes impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic as well as efforts to achieve greater levels of social justice.
There will be 10 weekly classes from March through May, providing one-on-one access with program instructors and experts, with more than 30 hours of instruction. Businesses outside of the greater Milwaukee area are welcome to apply.
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“All of this has me on a whole new level for my business,” said Charisse Cook, owner of CharVid Janitorial Services that participated in SPARC’s fourth cohort this past fall. “I valued success with profit, but now I see success in a whole different light. To know who I am and what I stand for with wisdom and knowledge is true success.”
SPARC has been instrumental in helping companies most affected by the pandemic to stabilize and grow. “SPARC has been of great benefit to growing business owners in our region for the past 4 years. With the need and ability to go virtual, we’ve been able to cast a wider net and provide enhanced tools, partnerships, and resources in our curriculum. Our mission is to transform the culture of growth in our region, and elevating our Black, Hispanic, and women owned businesses is an essential component of that growth,” says Scale Up Milwaukee Executive Director Elmer Moore, Jr.
Curriculum will focus on how businesses can pivot operations to a digital presence, remote work, crisis recovery and planning, cash flow, and use of government funding from programs like the Paycheck Protection Program.
The SPARC program has 93 alumni businesses that average over 50 percent increase in revenue. JP Morgan Chase provided funding support to launch the SPARC program in 2017.

author: Scale Up Milwaukee


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FNL_SCALEUP_logohorz_01.png | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
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February 19, 2021

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The state has raised red flags about the Milwaukee Health Department. Here’s what you need to know. | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Matt Martinez
February 19, 2021
(File photo by Adam Carr)
The Milwaukee Health Department has an incomplete strategic plan, understaffed community outreach programs and needs to figure out the function and role of the Board of Health.
These are some of the concerns raised by the state Department of Health Services that generated headlines this month.
Here’s what you need to know:
Why this matters
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The Department of Health Service’s review cites these concerns as a reason to delay recertifying the Milwaukee Health Department as a Level III department. This means the health department could lose valuable grant funding.
Marlaina Jackson, who has served as interim health commissioner since the departure of Jeanette Kowalik, said the exact dollar amount and programs that could be affected were not known.
She said she is confident the department will pass the review, as it will have 12 months to address the issues raised.
What are the concerns?
Reviewers from the Department of Health Services expressed concerns in three areas: the Milwaukee Health Department’s strategic plan, its implementation of the Community Health Assessment and Community Health Improvement Plan and the role and function of the Milwaukee Board of Health.
The strategic plan is a document meant to define how the Milwaukee Health Department will engage community stakeholders, establish standards and goals for itself and decide the vision for the department going forward over multiple years.
At the time of the review, the strategic plan was incomplete and had not been implemented. It was supposed to be drafted from July 2017 to November 2018. As of December 2019, it had not been completed.
Why is the plan incomplete?
The strategic plan, Jackson said, was incomplete at the time of the review due to leadership changes. Former Commissioner Kowalik was addressing systemic issues in the department and arranging for a major reorganization, Jackson said.
What about the community programs?
The Milwaukee Health Department is expected to conduct Community Health Assessments to collect data and information to determine health policies for the department.
A Community Health Assessment that ran from 2015 to 2016. determined that the department would create a Community Health Improvement Plan to address concerns found in the assessment.
The Community Health Improvement Program is designed to receive community input for health department operations and to engage stakeholders.
At the time of the review, the Department of Health Services found the program was understaffed, with one person in charge of it as of December 2019. The Community Health Improvement Program had also failed to launch, despite being slated to do so by 2017.
Officials during the review said the program had no organizational support until Kowalik became leader of the Milwaukee Health Department.
Since the review, the program has increased to having four staffers, which Jackson believes will be adequate for the review.
What’s the concern about Board of Health?
The Milwaukee Board of Health, a nine-member governing body that helps make policy decisions and advises the health department, was found to have an unclear role in the department’s operations at the time of the review.
The Board of Health, which was re-established in 2019 and had only held two meetings, has now had 11 meetings and its members have been integrated into the health department, Jackson said.
The review process
The review originally took place in December 2019, but the Milwaukee Health Department received preliminary feedback from the Department of Health Services in January. A letter from the department acknowledged that a long time had elapsed since the review and some concerns might have already been addressed.
In addition, in-person site visits and reviews were suspended from March to September to focus on the COVID-19 pandemic.
During the review, which is called DHS 140, officials from the Department of Health Services conduct site visits, interview staff and review operations of local health departments to determine if standards are being met. The review is held every five years.
What are the three levels?
Health departments fall into one of three levels. Level I and Level II health departments serve smaller communities, therefore receiving fewer resources.
Milwaukee was designated as a Level III health department during previous reviews.
Level III health departments are the largest in the state. According to Elizabeth Goodsitt, a spokeswoman for the Department of Health Services, there are 40 Level III health departments in Wisconsin.
Level III health departments are distinct because they serve as community health strategists, develop and advocate for policies to address social determinants of health and must have an environmental health plan, Goodsitt said in an email.
These requirements are determined by state law.
There are three potential outcomes for the department: It gets recertified at Level III, it loses its certification, or it is downgraded to a Level II health department. Lowering the health department’s level could jeopardize grant funding.
What happens now?
The health department will need to finish the plan in order to receive its designation.
The Milwaukee Health Department has 60 days from Feb. 4 to submit a plan to address the concerns, according to the letter from the Department of Health Services. If the plan is approved, the health department will have a year to implement the changes.
The department will be expected to provide monthly updates and an “MHD liaison team” will be assigned, staffed by the Department of Health Services.
The health department will hold on to its Level III designation as long as it complies with state guidelines.
“I’m very comfortable that we’ll meet all the needs,” Jackson said.
Now that Kristen Johnson has been appointed health commissioner, Jackson will return to her previous role as deputy commissioner of community health in the department.
She said the department had more strengths in the review letter than concerns, including recognition for health equity and community engagement.
“Findings are routine, and we fix them,” Jackson said. “That’s what we do in health care.”

author: Matt Martinez


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5 things to know this week in Milwaukee: Feb. 22 to Feb. 27 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ana Martinez-Ortiz
February 22, 2021
Sam’s Place, a café located at 3338 N. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive in the Harambee neighborhood, will be open from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. starting Monday, Feb. 22. (Photo provided by Bader Philanthropies)
It’s Monday in Milwaukee, and here are some things we think you should know about as the nation grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic. If you would like your event to be considered for this column, please email info@milwaukeenns.org and put “5 things” in the subject line by noon Thursday.
1. Soft opening of Sam’s Place: Monday, Feb. 22
Sam’s Place, 3338 N. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive in the Harambee neighborhood, is open for the business. The cafe will be open from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. starting Monday, Feb. 22. The cafe is owned and operated by Sam Belton of the CITY.NET Jazz Cafe. There will be beverages, food and roast coffee available for purchase. Sam’s Place currently has five employees and Belton is looking to hire additional staff from the Harambee neighborhood in the coming months. Sam’s Place will offer limited dine-in options in accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s guidance on social distancing, and a walk-up window is available for coffee and food pick-ups. Bader Philanthropies invested nearly $5 million into buying and renovating the building.
2. Employ Milwaukee Fair Chance Workshop: Wednesday, Feb. 24
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Employ Milwaukee, 2342 N. 27th St., is hosting a Fair Chance Workshop at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 24. The workshop will help participants prepare for a successful virtual job interview. Participants will learn camera and microphone etiquette, practice interviewing, discuss resumes and online applications and more. To join the workshop, contact Frederick Nelson at frederick.nelson@employmilwaukee.org or call 414-335-5208.
3. Milwaukee Public Museum: Black History Month: Ongoing
The Milwaukee Public Museum partnered with America’s Black Holocaust Museum to provide virtual programming for Black History Month. The museum’s programming includes the “Meet the Watson Family” exhibit, a feature on the book “Birding for Everyone – Encouraging People of Color to Become Birdwatchers” by John C. Robinson and more. Click here to view the virtual programming.
4. Listen MKE Live: “Unlearning Racism”: Wednesday, Feb. 24
James Causey, a Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reporter, is hosting Listen MKE Live on Facebook Live from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 24. The event will feature keynote speaker Kondwani Fidel, a writer and spoken word artist. Causey, Fidel and others will then discuss the Milwaukee program, “Unlearning Racism,” which aims to help people identify their views and how to change them.
5. “REPair Divides”: A virtual dialogue series: Thursday, Feb. 25
The Milwaukee Repertory Theater is hosting a virtual dialogue series called “REPair Divides.” This week’s conversation features a performance of “Rise: An African American Word Quilt” written by Rajendra Ramoon Maharaj. A discussion will follow. The event will take place on Zoom from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 25. To join the discussion, email athome@milwaukeerep.com by noon on Wednesday, Feb. 24.


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
February 21, 2021

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Post from Community: African American philanthropists lead $2M effort to support health disparities researcher through ThriveOn Collaboration | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
ThriveOn collaboration
February 22, 2021
Editor’s note: Posts from the Community is the place for community announcements and event postings. If you have a community-oriented event you feel our readers would be interested in, please submit here.
African American philanthropists in the greater Milwaukee area have come together like never before through the ThriveOn Collaboration for a bold investment that will advance racial and health equity for years to come. In leading a $2 million fundraising effort to support a Black leader of national prominence in the field of healthy equity research, these community leaders have seized a generational opportunity to address the societal factors that impact health and to improve well-being in Milwaukee’s Black community and beyond.
The investment will provide a permanent source of funds as Leonard Egede, MD, MS, professor of medicine, chief of the division of general internal medicine, and director of the Center for Advancing Population Science at the Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW), seeks to close persisting health equity gaps in the community. Dr. Egede has been awarded the resulting endowed chair appointment from the Milwaukee community and MCW, which is attributed to a leader focused on health equity research.
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“We are so grateful to the donors who support Dr. Egede’s groundbreaking work to make Milwaukee a healthier place for our communities of color,” said John R. Raymond, president and CEO of the Medical College of Wisconsin. “This investment is a promise to Milwaukee that we are committed to counteracting the burdens of racism and disinvestment through systemic change.”
Through his work at MCW, Dr. Egede explores access to healthcare, quality and cost of care and the social determinants of health and how they intersect to create disparities and influence the overall health of the region. These efforts directly inform and educate activities for MCW, the Greater Milwaukee Foundation (GMF) and Royal Capital’s ThriveOn Collaboration, with the ultimate goal of eliminating disparities through community engagement, research, education and direct community investment.
Cory Nettles and Jackie Herd-Barber, community leaders and board members for both GMF and MCW led this unprecedented initiative on behalf of the ThriveOn Collaboration, which includes numerous diverse and next generation philanthropists. Herb Kohl Philanthropies is also supporting Dr. Egede’s endowment. This chair establishment is a major milestone toward an overall $5 million investment to provide Dr. Egede a source of reliable and consistent funding for his work to reduce the burden of chronic disease and eliminate health disparities in high-risk communities of color.
“Milwaukee is very fortunate to have such strong African American philanthropic leaders who recognize that our impact is greater together and are committed to inviting all people to the table to invest in an equitable future,” said Ellen Gilligan, president and CEO of the Greater Milwaukee Foundation. “The ThriveOn Collaboration has been community-centered from the start, and the collective effort to establish this chair and support Dr. Egede’s vital work clearly shows how that community leadership extends to philanthropy. We are proud to serve the donors who gave to and through the Foundation in support of this effort.”
Many disparities in health and opportunity experienced by communities of color can be traced back to systemic racism, so overcoming barriers to quality health care and overall wellness requires a comprehensive, community-informed approach.
Dr. Egede’s vision is to implement quality health as a component of human capital — the knowledge, skills, competencies, and other attributes acquired by individuals during their life. The presence of disease suppresses the development of human capital.
“The model we have put together comes down to chronic stress,” Dr. Egede said. “Patients say, ‘My very existence every day is very challenging.’ Chronic stress leads to disease. Disease leads to disability, and disability leads to loss of social capital. The individual who is sick cannot contribute to the economy and that impacts the economic base of that environment.”
With 20 years of experience in health disparities research, Dr. Egede has built his career on aiming to understand, explain and reduce inequities. Much of his work has centered on diabetes, focused on identifying, understanding, intervening, reducing and eliminating discrepancies within the disease. Dr. Egede has identified contributors to health imbalances at the individual, provider and systematic levels, which has led to funding from the National Institutes of Health and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, among other organizations.
Dr. Egede joined MCW in 2017. In addition to his roles as chief and professor of medicine and director of the Center for Advancing Population Science, he is an internal medicine physician and associate director for diversity of the Genomic Sciences and Precision Medicine Center at MCW.
More updates on the ThriveOn Collaboration can be found at thriveoncollaboration.org.
About the Greater Milwaukee Foundation
The Greater Milwaukee Foundation is Wisconsin’s largest community foundation and was among the first established in the world. For more than a century, the Foundation has inspired philanthropy by connecting generous people to community needs that align with their interests. The Foundation was founded on the premise that generosity can unlock an individual’s potential and strengthen the community as a whole for everyone who lives here. We work in partnership with those who are committed to ensuring greater Milwaukee is a vibrant, economically thriving region that comprises welcoming and inclusive communities providing opportunity, prosperity and a high quality of life for all.
About the Medical College of Wisconsin
With a history dating back to 1893, the Medical College of Wisconsin is dedicated to leadership and excellence in education, patient care, research and community engagement. More than 1,400 students are enrolled in MCW’s medical school and graduate school programs in Milwaukee, Green Bay and Central Wisconsin. MCW’s School of Pharmacy opened in 2017. A major national research center, MCW is the largest research institution in the Milwaukee metro area and second largest in Wisconsin. In the last ten years, faculty received more than $1.5 billion in external support for research, teaching, training and related purposes. This total includes highly competitive research and training awards from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Annually, MCW faculty direct or collaborate on more than 3,100 research studies, including clinical trials. Additionally, more than 1,600 physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants, provide care in virtually every specialty of medicine for more than 2.8 million patients annually.
About Royal Capital Group
At Royal Capital, having the opportunity to serve its communities in such an intimate and catalytic manner, is a privilege that it carries with high appreciation. From housing, retail, philanthropy, and community services, the people of Royal Capital Group are grateful for the opportunity to provide quality experiences that stretch beyond bricks and mortar. With a disciplined strategy and intentional execution, its efforts have led to the development of quality sustainable communities, while achieving the double bottom line for its investors and partners. The employees of Royal Capital Group are proud to be considered leaders in urban development, and we maintain our excitement to build, create, and be afforded the opportunity to “color outside the box.”

author: ThriveOn collaboration


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Leonard-Egede-1.jpg | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
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February 22, 2021


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Post from Community: Nō Studios launches artist grant program | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Nō Studios
February 22, 2021
Editor’s note: Posts from the Community is the place for community announcements and event postings. If you have a community-oriented event you feel our readers would be interested in, please submit here.
Today, Nō Studios founder John Ridley announced that the organization has established the Nō Studios Artist Grant Program. The program, entirely self-funded by the Nō Studios collaborative, has pledged to give up to $100,000 annually to support Wisconsin artists, especially those in historically underserved populations, to help them realize the completion of their artistic endeavors. Individual artists and the creative industry have been especially hard hit by the pandemic. This program will add resources to the Wisconsin artistic community at a critical time.
The Artist Grant Program was established to support Wisconsin-based creatives working in a range of disciplines including, but not limited to, visual arts, photography, music, film, dance, fashion, poetry, creative writing and performance. The program will distribute up to $25,000 quarterly to qualifying artists with special consideration given to those identifying as BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, female or female identifying, disabled and/or veterans. Individual recipients are eligible to receive grants up to $10,000 each.
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“I remember how challenging it was to find resources to complete the creative projects I wanted to complete,” said John Ridley, Nō Studios founder. “It’s an honor to be able to help fund artists and provide the resources they need to help them realize their vision.”
Nō Studios is partnering with gener8tor, a Wisconsin based platform that provides resources and connections to people working in the creative economy to help run the program. gener8tor will be responsible for handling artist grant submissions, the juried selection process and providing programming support to selected artists through mentoring, professional development and networking opportunities.
“We are fortunate to partner with Nō Studios in advancing this remarkable effort,” said Joe Kirgues, gener8tor co-founder. “By providing a structure of professional development and mentorship, we can support creative professionals and help them execute their creative projects.”
The first application submission round will begin in early March, with grants awarded in June. Individual artists living and working in Wisconsin are encouraged to apply at nostudiosartistgrant.com. gener8tor will also offer a series of webinars and virtual office hours to help artists with the grant application process. A jury of creative professionals from outside of Wisconsin will review all applications and award the grants.
“Artists help us reflect on our common human experiences be they hopeful, confusing, inspiring or painful,” added Ridley. “At this time in particular, we need individuals who can help us make sense of the times we live in and help us understand life and each other a little bit better.”
Link to short video announcing the program: https://vimeo.com/513060363
Nō Studios Update
In addition to establishing the grant program, Nō Studios has taken certain opportunities afforded by the pandemic to upgrade current live streaming infrastructure and add to its robust virtual programming capability. The in-venue first floor gallery space is being renovated to create a production studio and upgraded performance stage with enhanced lighting, acoustics and cameras. Nō Studios has also acquired professional grade production software and hired e-production experts to manage this program.
To complement its production capability and expand the audience for its virtual programming calendar, Nō Studios has entered into partnerships both in Milwaukee and nationally, including with the UCLA Black Alumni Association and Bridges. The UCLA Black Alumni Association will produce and co-host a series of Nō Studios curated virtual events including Nō Boundaries, an emerging filmmaker series. Bridges, in partnership with Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra (MYSO), will continue a series of events this year similar to the Frankly Music live conversation and performance that featured Anthony McGill in January.

author: Nō Studios


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Screen Shot 2021-02-24 at 7.28.25 AM | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
February 24, 2021

created: February 24, 2021


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The NNS coronavirus update for week of Feb. 22: UK variant reported in Milwaukee; new vaccine registry on the way; new ways to get health insurance | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Matt Martinez
February 22, 2021
A new vaccine registry from the state hopes to connect more Wisconsinites with appointments to receive the shots. (Photo by Adam Carr)
Here’s the latest update on COVID-19 in Milwaukee and the resources you need to combat it.
The coronavirus pandemic has prompted federal officials to open up a special enrollment period for the health care plans provided by the Affordable Care Act through the Health Insurance Marketplace.
The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare, is meant to provide a marketplace of low-cost health plans for Americans. From Feb. 15 to May 15, those interested can apply to get a health insurance plan through Healthcare.gov.
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The enrollment period originally ended on Dec. 15, but the Biden administration has opened up the enrollment period.
Those interested can visit Healthcare.gov, where they can create an account and find a plan that fits their needs.
Enrollment benefits will start on the first day of the month following successful enrollment. For instance, someone who applies on Feb. 22 should receive benefits starting March 1.
Those interested can also visit Wiscovered.com to find help enrolling in Obamacare health plans as well as BadgerCare Plus and other plans. The hotline to speak to an expert in Milwaukee is (414) 400-9489.
The highly contagious UK variant strain of COVID-19 was found in Milwaukee on Jan. 28, officials announced last week.
The strain, known scientifically as B.1.1.7., is one of five cases in the state and is expected to be spread 70% more easily than the base strain of the virus.
Dr. Ben Weston, director of medical services for the Milwaukee County Department of Emergency Management, said the UK strain is doubling its number of cases in the United States every 10 days.
Weston said it could become the dominant strain in the United States. But precautions remain the same: social distancing, wearing masks and washing your hands.
“It can be softened through vaccination efforts and it can be blunted through personal precautions,” Weston said.
Despite being more contagious, current coronavirus vaccines are believed to be effective against the UK strain.
The state Department of Health Services is developing a new registry to help Wisconsinites get connected for COVID-19 vaccines.
The registry has a hard launch date of March 1. Participants will be asked to answer a number of questions to determine eligibility. If they are found to be eligible, the vaccine registry will then connect them to local vaccinators if appointments are available.
If there are no appointments, they will be placed on a waitlist. Those who are found to be ineligible will also be placed on the waitlist.
The registry can also provide updates for those waiting to receive their second dose and help monitor any side effects from the vaccine.
On March 1, Phase 1B of the state’s vaccine eligibility will expand to teachers, essential workers in contact with the public and those in congregate care facilities.
However, demand is still outpacing supply significantly, particularly in Milwaukee County. Despite officials asking for more vaccines every week, they are still receiving insufficient doses.
Greenfield Health Commissioner Darren Rausch said the 11 health departments across Milwaukee County received about 35% of what they requested last week.
Interim Health Commissioner Marlaina Jackson said during a media briefing Milwaukee ordered 4,000 vaccines last week and received 2,000.
Rausch said without an increase in vaccine supply, expanding eligibility could lead to “a result of frustration, mistrust and confusion” from eligible groups.
Weston said Milwaukee County has vaccinated about 10% of its population, compared with the state average of 13%.
As of Feb. 19, 94,269 people in Milwaukee County had received the vaccine. This includes 36% of the 65+ population, which amounts to 47,107.
The state of Wisconsin has fully vaccinated 288,747 people with both doses of the vaccine. The state has administered at least one dose to 761,336 people.
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To obtain a free mask, residents can visit these sites:
NNS reporters also gathered a list of where to buy locally made masks if you’re looking to show some local business love when masking up.
Check the City of Milwaukee Health Department’s website for the most updated facts and answers to questions about the mask ordinance.
Look here for up-to-date statistics on COVID-19 in the county. More precautions on how to stay safe and information on COVID-19 can be found on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website.
Contact your health provider, call IMPACT 2-1-1 or take a look at the county’s testing site map to find a testing center near you. The free community testing sites at the Northwest Health Center, 7630 W. Mill Rd., and Southside Health Center, 1639 S. 23rd St., are now open and operating. American Family Field (formerly Miller Park), 1 Brewers Way, is also open as an effective testing site.
For more information on testing, including how to identify symptoms and when you should get tested, visit TestUpMKE.com. Available in English, Spanish, Hmong, Burmese and Arabic.
For more information on vaccine distribution and where to find it, visit HealthyMKE.com. Available in English, Spanish, Hmong, Burmese and Arabic.
Check out our continuing coronavirus coverage.
Looking for more personalized direction to resources and information during the coronavirus crisis? Get connected with News414, a texting-based news resource from Milwaukee NNS, Wisconsin Watch and Outlier Media. You can text MILWAUKEE to 73224 and begin to receive free, personalized data via text messages.


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Milwaukee County sees progress in reducing the number of inmates in youth prisons | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Edgar Mendez
February 23, 2021
Currently, 22 youth from Milwaukee County are incarcerated at Lincoln Hills and Copper Lake, a decrease from 120 several years ago. (Photo provided by Department of Corrections)
While most of the focus on juvenile justice has been on the state’s failure to meet the January deadline to close the Lincoln Hills and Copper Lake youth prisons, Milwaukee County officials continue to make strides to drastically reduce the number of local youth incarcerated in these institutions.
Mark Mertens, administrator of the Division of Youth and Family Services for Milwaukee County, said 22 local youth remain housed at these facilities.
“I’m hoping that the closing of Lincoln Hills is a moot point for us by the end of 2021,” said Mertens, who added that the total was 120 just a few years ago. “Our wildest hope was to get down below 50.”
The order to close Lincoln Hills and Copper Lake was prompted by Act 185, which also mandated that the youth prisons be replaced with state-run facilities for serious offenders and regional county-run centers for youth with less serious offenses.
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Milwaukee County had plans to build a new secure youth correctional facility with 80 beds, but that plan fell apart when the Legislature’s Joint Finance Committee cut funds for the proposed facility.
With that option off the table, the county continues to work with community partners, including the Youth Justice Milwaukee coalition to move forward with its plan to reduce the number of youth who are incarcerated. Those strategies include expanding community-based programs, addressing policy issues, establishing better alternatives to revocation and finding alternatives to incarceration for youth that present a low-to-moderate risk to reoffend. They have also worked to get youth who are incarcerated released sooner.
“Incarceration is quite expensive and the return on that investment is not good,” Mertens said. “It also doesn’t always support community safety or progress for the youth.”
Another part of that strategy is to reinvest money saved by not incarcerating youth back into community programming. According to Mertens, about $615 a day is saved for each youth who does not go to corrections, which led to a surplus within the division of about $3 million in 2020. Some of those funds were used to fill budget gaps created by the pandemic, but $1.5 million was reinvested into the community, including funds to support the new “credible messenger” program. That program allows individuals who have experience with the justice system to provide mentoring aimed at helping youth make better decisions. Similar programs have had success in New York City, Baltimore and Chicago.
Another aspect of the county’s plan is to improve programs and the continuum of care for youth at the Bakari Center and the Vel R. Phillips Juvenile Justice Center. Most of the youth at the Vel R. Phillips Center are participants of the Milwaukee County Accountability Program, also known as MCAP.
MCAP, launched in 2012, was created to keep incarcerated juveniles close to home and their families and to give them access to community resources unavailable to them upstate. It originally served 12 youth but was expanded to 24 participants in 2015. Act 185 capped the capacity of programs like MCAP, which eliminated the possibility of bringing more youth home from Lincoln Hills and into that program, said Mertens. Regardless, he said, youth who were charged as adults or are participants in the state’s Serious Juvenile Offender Program are ineligible for MCAP unless they have their court order changed or complete a juvenile review process.
MCAP helps youth learn to navigate through difficult peer and family situations and connect youth with social services aimed at changing negative behaviors and help them navigate through difficult peer and family situations.
“Many MCAP youth have attained skills in correcting thinking errors that have enabled them to make better, more prosocial decisions in the community,” Mertens said.
Participants also have access to educational services to help them recover credits and eventually graduate from high school. Several MCAP services are performed by Running Rebels, a youth-serving organization based in Milwaukee that provides monitoring and other programming for participants. Tara Martin, coordinator of MCAP for the Running Rebels, has been working with the program since 2013.
“We meet with them on the pod and work on setting goals, and we meet with the families,” Martin said. “We’re building that relationship and trust while we prepare them to enter the community phase.”
That relationship continues once a youth is released, as advocates help youth enroll in school, set up restitution and find music, sports or other positive programs to participate in.
“It really depends on each youth and their needs and interests,” she said. “For the high profile ones who are most at-risk, we try to see them more frequently and make sure they are not in contact with their negative peers.”
Another important component of the Running Rebels work with MCAP youth is to help them build at-home support, as each family is given the option to work with a parent advocate.
“If we’re not helping that family change, we’re setting that young person up for failure because he’s going back into the same environment,” Martin said.
Although recidivism rates for youth in MCAP are better than that for youth in Lincoln Hills, Mertens said, significant room for improvement remains. The larger challenge, he said, is helping youth mitigate the challenges of poverty and crime in their own communities.
“We need more resources for jobs, vocational training, education, and other pro-social activities that are compelling for our youth and can help provide the purpose, structure, relationships, and positive supports needed to counteract the risk factors that exist in the community,” he said.
While that work continues, there remains the issue of what will happen with Lincoln Hills and Copper Lake. Only Racine County accepted funds to build a regional youth facility while groups such as Youth Justice Milwaukee continue to call for a complete overhaul of the state’s youth justice system.
“This transformation should eliminate correctional settings as placements for youth; limit out-of-home placements to only short-term stabilization and respite needs; scale up sustainable resources for prevention, including mentoring, employment opportunities, healthy recreation, enrichment, and wellness,” reads part of a recent statement issued by the group.
The group said the state’s focus should be on helping to heal youth, and not on increasing the availability of secure housing for youth at a time when that population has declined. Back in 2002, the average daily population of youth in Wisconsin correctional institutions was 819. By 2012, that number was 298 and by June of last year it was 120.
Gov. Tony Evers’ recent budget proposal called for several reforms of the youth justice system, including new rules that make it tougher to waive minors into adult court and the elimination of the Secure Juvenile Offender Program. He also proposed the elimination of Type 1 youth prisons (Lincoln Hills and Copper Lake) and authorization for the state to operate secure residential care centers for youth.
State Rep. Evan Goyke, a Milwaukee Democrat, has also called for the state to review what type of youth correctional facilities are needed.
“Three years ago we were envisioning a larger capacity and that’s no longer needed,” Goyke said. “ Milwaukee County and others have done an amazing job of reducing the number of kids who are incarcerated, and that number continues to go down.”

author: Edgar Mendez


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
February 22, 2021


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PHOTOS: Local youth create artwork inspired by Black History Month | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
February 23, 2021
Channeling their inspiration into creativity, students from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee created works of art for Black History Month honoring their heroes.
The artworks feature a range of subjects, including historical leaders, cultural themes and inspirational messages. This is the fifth annual Black History Month Art Contest sponsored by UScellular.
Voting is taking place online for the first time. Community members 18 and older can vote for their favorite on this site. Voting will remain open through Feb. 28.
The three artworks with the most votes will be announced in March and receive cash prizes of $250 for first place, $150 for second place and $100 for third place.
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author: Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service


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Statement on First Citizens Bank $16 Billion Community Benefit Agreement for Fair Lending & Green Homes | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Green Homeowners United
February 23, 2021
Editor’s note: Posts from the Community is the place for community announcements and event postings. If you have a community-oriented event you feel our readers would be interested in, please submit here.
Green Homeowners United, a residential green construction and energy auditing firm, is proud to stand with the National Community Reinvestment Coalition, Metropolitan Milwaukee Fair Housing Council, YWCA Southeastern Wisconsin and all other organizations working to ensure a fair lending agreement with First Citizens Bank as part of their merger with CIT Bank. This $16 billion over 5 years community benefit agreement will ensure equitable lending terms for low & moderate income residents, and joins the bank in offering “green mortgages” to help reduce carbon emissions.
First Citizens Bank has branches in 19 states, and 22 branches in Wisconsin.
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Elements of the agreement include:
More on agreement here
Green Mortgages
Included in the agreement is a commitment to offer Green Mortgages to those refinancing and purchasing homes. Green mortgages are products offered by Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, VA & FHA that all for additional fair financing for energy efficiency improvements to the property, such as solar panels, insulation and smart devices. Green mortgages allow the best financing terms currently available to access the upgrades that cut carbon emissions and reduce utility bills. Green mortgages effectively make it “no-cost” to improve the home’s energy efficiency, as the utility bill savings outweigh the cost of paying the bank over the mortgage term and low interest interest rates. Currently Midwestern banks such as Associated Bank in Green Bay WI, One Community Bank in Oregon WI, and Merchant’s Bank in Onalaska WI are offering green mortgages, to name a few. All banks and credit unions can offer green mortgages through Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.
Green Homeowners United
Green Homeowners United is a Wisconsin-based firm which helps residents with obtaining fair green financing, home energy assessments, economic modeling and green construction. Green Homeowners United has helped homeowners install solar panels, reduce heat loss through attics and basements, increase water efficiency rates and address cold air infiltration; all of which help reduce carbon emissions from homes.
Through connecting homebuyers and those considering refinancing with green mortgage lenders, Green Homeowners United ensures that everyday Wisconsinites can fight climate change at home and be rewarded for it. The majority of our clients pay nothing up front and save more in lower utility bills than they pay in higher mortgage payments to the bank. And with interest rates historically low, many homeowners can reduce both their mortgage payments and utilities to save big while cutting carbon emissions.
Three examples of the effectiveness of green mortgages:
“We are glad for First Citizens Bank’s commitment to investing into the communities where it will make the biggest impact to working people, especially working people of color,” said Kevin Kane, chief economist for Green Homeowners United. “We look forward to when all mortgage lenders will follow First Citizens Bank’s example helping people access green mortgages. Cutting carbon emissions at home and becoming green homeowners!”
To find out if a green mortgage is right for you, click here and let us know more about your home.

author: Green Homeowners United


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logo3small.png | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
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February 23, 2021


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Fire safety 101: The habits and resources you need to survive | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ana Martinez-Ortiz
February 24, 2021
Carlos Velazquez-Sanchez says a majority of house fires start in the kitchen due to carelessness. (Photo by Ana Martinez-Ortiz)
Editor’s note: A wave of deadly fires this month on the South Side prompted us to update this story, which we first published in July 2019.
When a fire started to burn in the upstairs flat of a duplex, the downstairs neighbor called the Milwaukee Fire Department.
As smoke billowed from the windows, the upper duplex’s occupant had failed to respond.
Carlos Velazquez-Sanchez said when he and other firefighters broke the door to enter the home, they found a ham cooking—or rather burning—in the oven.
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It turned out that the upstairs neighbor was an elderly woman who had gone to church and thought she had more time.
“If the person is by the stove or kitchen, they’ll catch the fire in time,” Velazquez-Sanchez said. But people think it won’t happen to them, so they aren’t prepared.
In 2019, the Milwaukee Fire Department responded to 3,568 fires, according to its annual report. The 2020 report is not yet available to the public.
Velazquez-Sanchez has been a firefighter for the past 13 years. Currently he works as one of three education specialists in the department’s Community Relations Division, 1693 N. Franklin Place, which had previously housed Fire Engine 6.
During his career, Velazquez-Sanchez has fought a lot of fires, and most of them start in the kitchen, he said.
While car fires are more likely to occur in the fall due to parking over dry leaves, house fires occur year- round no matter the weather, Velazquez-Sanchez said.
On average, there’s seven to 11 fires a day in Milwaukee. Typically, a fire will double in size almost every 30 seconds, Velazquez-Sanchez said.
Velazquez-Sanchez offers the following tips on dealing with a fire:
What to do if there is a fire
If there is a fire in your house, the first thing to do is make sure everybody leaves the house and to call 911. The sooner a call is made, the sooner the firefighters are dispatched. It usually takes a station five minutes to arrive, Velazquez-Sanchez said.
If the fire is smaller than a small wastebasket, the use of a fire extinguisher can be attempted after making sure everyone is outside and someone is in charge of calling 911. Pull the pin, aim at the base of the fire, squeeze the handle to discharge the extinguishing solution and sweep side to side to put out the fire. Make sure there are 6 feet to 10 feet between you and the fire and an exit behind you.
Once the firefighters arrive and put out the fire, they’ll overhaul or break apart the walls and/or ceiling to make sure the fire is completely out.
Be prepared
A fire extinguisher with a plastic top (left) should be replaced every year, but one with a metal top (right), should be replaced every 10 years and inspected every year. (Photo by Ana Martinez-Ortiz)
A fire extinguisher: Velazquez-Sanchez recommends having an ABC or a dry chem fire extinguisher, which are multipurpose. A water-based fire extinguisher may not be suitable to put out certain fires. Before using a fire extinguisher, make sure you understand how it works and practice using one.
Velazquez-Sanchez said that there are two types of fire extinguisher tops: plastic and metal. If the top is plastic, it should be replaced every year. If the top is metal, it can last up to 10 years but should be inspected every year. The fire extinguisher should be kept in an accessible place.
Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors:  Smoke alarms work 24 hours a day. There should be a smoke alarm on every level of the house, preferably, with one on the ceiling or high on the wall on the hallway outside the bedrooms and one inside each bedroom. The reason for this is that smoke may put people into a deeper sleep said Velazquez-Sanchez. Fire alarms can be sensitive so it’s best to have one 10 feet away from stoves.
Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years and tested at least once a month. If the smoke alarm uses batteries, they should be replaced once a year or whenever they are chirping as a result of the battery running out of charge. It is recommended to replace battery operated smoke alarms with Lithium battery smoke alarms which are intended to last up to 10 years. An interconnected system is recommended because when one sounds, then they all sound.
A carbon monoxide detector should be placed on the wall about five feet from the floor and close to any heating vent or appliance, which can introduce carbon monoxide into the home. The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are similar to the flu or food poisoning and includes headaches, nausea, dizziness, light headedness and shortness of breath.
Velazquez-Sanchez recommends a detector that is run by both batteries and electricity. If the power goes out or if the battery dies the detector can still function with the alternative energy source.
Escape plan: Everyone should have an escape plan and it should be planned with the entire household. Velazquez-Sanchez said people should draw a map of their home and determine two ways to escape from every room: either the door or the window. If the window is on a second floor or higher, having an escape ladder would be beneficial in case escaping through the window is necessary. There also needs to be a meeting place to confirm that everyone has escaped.
Velazquez-Sanchez said families need to practice an escape to ensure that everyone knows what they’re doing.
Additional resources and advice: Velazquez-Sanchez recommends some habits to further ensure fire safety in the home. He said people should practice, “close before you doze.” In other words, close your bedroom door before sleeping to prevent the smoke, heat and fire from entering your bedroom and spreading.
If a fire breaks out and you are trapped in your room, hang a blanket out the window and stay by the window. It’s important to stay visible, so that firefighters can find and rescue you. Having a flashlight by the window can help to get people’s attention if needed.
During a fire, touch the door and around the doorframe with the back of your hand before opening the door. If it’s hot, use your alternative escape option. If it’s cool, then open the door slowly and check for smoke or flames. Once you leave the room, close the door behind you to prevent smoke from entering your room in case you have to return to it.
Also, patch up old holes and spaces so a fire can’t spread. Keep the chute open in the fireplace when having a fire. Don’t smoke while using an oxygen tank. And park away from dry leaves to prevent car fires.
Milwaukee residents can call (414) 286-8980 for a free 10-year lithium battery smoke alarm. Search “fire extinguisher inspections” online to find the place closest to you. You can also visit Survive Alive Milwaukee for more information.
Read: ‘The workload is through the roof’: How the closing of South Side station is affecting the Milwaukee Fire Department


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
February 23, 2021


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Getting covered: What you need to know about the Health Insurance Marketplace | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Matt Martinez
February 24, 2021
(Graphic by Matt Martinez)
The Health Insurance Marketplace for Affordable Care Act health plans has opened up a special enrollment period from Feb. 15 to May 15 because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Enrollment for 2021 originally ended on Dec. 15, 2020, but the Biden administration launched  the special enrollment period to offer health insurance during COVID-19.  Enrollment is open to anyone.
Those who apply may also be eligible for tax credits to lower their premiums, copays and deductibles. Eight in 10 Wisconsinites with Marketplace insurance receive help paying for their insurance, according to the Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance.
Here’s what you need to know:
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1. What do I need to do?
Those interested can visit Healthcare.gov to apply. They will have to create an account in order to apply for coverage.
2. How do I know which plan is right for me?
You can also use webpages on the site to find what plan would work best for you.
3. What materials do I need to enroll?
Healthcare.gov provides a checklist.
4. How can I calculate my income?
Marketplace premiums are calculated based on expected income for the upcoming year. Healthcare.gov provides an explanation on how to calculate this figure.
5. I need help. Who can I call?
To connect with an insurance specialist in the Milwaukee area for help during the application, call (414) 400-9489.
6. When does enrollment start?
Enrollment benefits will start on the first day of the month following successful enrollment. For instance, someone who applies in February should receive benefits starting March 1.
Those interested can also visit wiscovered.com for more information on enrollment in Marketplace plans. The site answers frequently asked questions and also offers help in enrolling for Medicare and BadgerCare plans.
7. What do the plans cover?
All plans on the marketplace cover the following services:
8. What happens if I miss the deadline?
If you miss this special enrollment period, you may still be able to apply due to a qualifying life event, such as getting married, having children or losing your health insurance unexpectedly.
9. What else do I need to know?
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services reported that 11.4 million Americans enrolled for Marketplace health plans in the 2020 open enrollment period.
And 87% of the people enrolled in these plans received advance payment of premium tax credits, which reduced the premiums they paid on their insurance.
The average monthly premium before the credit was $595. With the credit, the average went down to $89.


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Post from Community: First Stage will hold virtual Make Believe Ball on March 6, 2021 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
First Stage
February 24, 2021
Editor’s note: Posts from the Community is the place for community announcements and event postings. If you have a community-oriented event you feel our readers would be interested in, please submit here.
First Stage, one of the nation’s leading theaters for young people and families, will hold their 27th annual Make Believe Ball virtually on Saturday, March 6, 2021 from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. First Stage invites patrons, Theater Academy families, First Stage alumni, their friends and families, as well as Milwaukee theater fans far and wide, to join them as they celebrate the 25th anniversary of Artistic Director Jeff Frank with the organization.
First Stage Founder Rob Goodman commented that, “Jeff is a phenomenal professional director, with a unique and creative gift at taking a stage play and turning it into magic. He is also a human being with a very large and wonderful heart. A heart that is able to see and create art in ways that touches people and moves them and transforms them beyond who they are when they walked into the theater. He is a human being that transforms the lives of children, from his work in the Theater Academy and in the Education office, Jeff is uniquely First Stage.”
On this special evening, families will tune into an entertaining virtual program where they will see some of their favorite First Stage actors and be able to participate in a large online auction.
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Make Believe Ball Event Honorary Co-Chairs Jeff Frank and his wife, Sarah Hunt Frank will welcome guests, before event hosts actor/director Kelly Doherty and First Stage alum, actor/director Karen Estrada take over, leading a program where they share some of Jeff’s First Stage history with selected scenes and songs from the 50 plus productions he has directed during his First Stage tenure. Selected scenes and songs featured are from: SHREK, THE MUSICAL (2013/14 season); A MIDNIGHT CRY (2013/14 season); THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER (2009/10, 2013/14, and 2018/19 seasons); ROALD DAHL’S MATILDA THE MUSICAL (2018/19 season); PETER PAN AND WENDY (2010/11 season) and TINKER BELL (2018/19 season) will be part of the program. The evening’s festivities will also include a video of various alumni sending greetings, congratulations and warm wishes to Jeff. After the program, popular Milwaukee radio host and DJ, 88Nine Station Director Jordan Lee will lead a post-event virtual dance party.
First Stage Managing Director Betsy Corry stated, “First Stage is a national leader in theater for young audiences because of Jeff Frank’s artistic vision, his integrity and passion for the mission of First Stage. First and foremost, he is a believer in young people and their capacity to be creative, empathetic, courageous individuals who will make our world better. He is a natural teacher and a fearless artist. First Stage is a home for so many young artists because of Jeff Frank’s guidance and leadership. We are so fortunate that he has spent 25 years building this special place! I am delighted that Jeff will be honored for his many contributions to First Stage at this year’s annual Make Believe Ball.”
Caryn Esten, First Stage Board President, also commented that: “Jeff Frank is the consummate Artistic Director (and a downright amazing human being)! He is a master of his craft – showing an unwavering commitment to the performers, production artists and community lifted up by his creativity and leadership. I applaud his 25-year legacy and look forward to what is still to come. Bravo, Jeff!”
Added First Stage Playwright in Residence John Maclay: “Working in theater for young audiences, you meet a lot of people who have an incredible amount of heart. And you meet a lot of people who have an incredible amount of brains. And sometimes you meet people like Jeff, who have both.”
First Stage invites guests to join them for this special evening to celebrate Jeff Frank’s artistic accomplishments and leadership on Saturday, March 6, 2021. In a year we won’t forget, this will be a special evening to remember. The event schedule is as follows:
Schedule of Events for First Stage Make Believe . . . It’s a Ball!
Saturday, March 6, 2021 @ 6 – 7:30 p.m.
Virtual – in homes across Southeastern Wisconsin
6:00 – 7:00 p.m. – Event Livestream Program – Join hosts Kelly Doherty and Karen Estrada as they take attendees on an exciting virtual Make Believe Ball journey!
7:00 – 7:30 p.m. – Dance Party hosted by 88Nine Radio Milwaukee’s Jordan Lee.
Attire: This year Ball attendees are asked to show off their PaGLAMas and glam out their pajamas! Pair comfy pajamas with glamorous accessories or a party dress with slippers – creativity has no bounds! Post your PaGLAMas on social media using #MakeBelieveBall and tag First Stage!
Tune into the Livestream Program here:
www.studiogear.events/firststagembb2021
Participate in the large online auction and make a donation in honor of Jeff Frank! A few featured auction items include:
• Private Dinner for eight with Chef Justin Carlisle, owner of Ardent and James Beard Finalist for Best Chef Midwest.
• A one-week stay in a four-bedroom, four-bath single-family home in Breckenridge, Colorado.
• Club Suite for 20 guests for a 2021 regular season game of the Milwaukee Brewers.
Participate in the First Stage online auction here: www.bidpal.net/mbb21
Please note: The First Stage online Auction is live now and will close at 8 p.m. on Saturday, March 6.
Sponsors for this year’s event include: Presenting Sponsor Northwestern Mutual; Corporate Sponsors: AO Smith Foundation, The ECAB Investment Group, BAIRD Private Wealth Management, KMPG, Studio Gear, 88Nine, Associated Bank, Johnson Controls, PNC and We Energies Foundation and Family Sponsors: The Esten Family, The Field Family, The Marschka Family, The Orr Family, The Pence Family and The Puechner Family.
Make Believe Ball Event Honorary Co-Chairs: Jeff Frank and Sarah Hunt Frank. Event Hosts: Kelly Doherty and Karen Estrada. Event Committee: Monica Arnstein, Lisa Boyce, Kelly Calvelli, Terri Field, Laura Hirano, Mary Kramer, Tonya Leuder, Melissa Marschka, Meredith Pence, Melissa Radtke, Kate Schroeder, Amanda Singh, Julia Westphal and Heather Whitmill.

author: First Stage


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061215spebetsycorryeurekaawards04*1200xx5760-3240-0-300 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
February 26, 2021

created: February 26, 2021


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Post from Community: MATC responds to COVID-19 stress by reopening Promise application window for high school class of 2020; Adult and high school Promise deadlines shared | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Milwaukee Area Technical College
February 24, 2021
Editor’s note: Posts from the Community is the place for community announcements and event postings. If you have a community-oriented event you feel our readers would be interested in, please submit here.
In response to stress on students brought on by the pandemic, Milwaukee Area Technical College is reopening the application window for the MATC Promise for New High School Graduates to include students from the Class of 2020 who have not yet attended college. Normally, the MATC Promise for New High School Graduates is only available to the current graduating high school class.
“We know students in the high school Class of 2020 face unprecedented economic, health and family challenges due to COVID-19, leading many students to delay starting college,” said Dr. Vicki J. Martin, MATC president. “In light of these extraordinarily difficult circumstances, we have decided to reopen the application process for those members of the Class of 2020 who have not started college at MATC or elsewhere after graduation. We hope this will provide a much-deserved opportunity to pursue their career goals for a better future.”
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The MATC Promise programs provide free tuition for eligible students. The cost of books, program fees and equipment is not covered. MATC offers two Promise programs. The MATC Promise for New High School Graduates, launched in 2015, was the first Promise program in Wisconsin. The MATC Promise for Adults was launched in 2018.
Application and criteria information:
The MATC Promise for New High School Grads final deadline is June 30, 2021. Graduates from the Classes of 2021 and 2020 who wish to enroll in summer school should apply by April 2, 2021.
Qualifications:
Graduates from the Class of 2021 and the Class of 2020 must meet the following criteria:
— Be eligible for Pell Grants as determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
— Earn a grade point average of 2.0 or higher in high school
— Graduate from a high school in the MATC District or live in the MATC District; Class of 2020 students may not have previously started college anywhere.
MATC Promise for Adults final deadline is Aug. 2, 2021; priority deadline for students who want to start in summer, are in loan default or want earlier consideration is May 3, 2021:
Qualifications:
— Be 24 years of age or older as of Dec. 31, 2021
— Live in the MATC District
— Have an expected family contribution (EFC) of $6,500 or less as determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
— Have earned at least six college credits, but not have earned an associate or bachelor’s degree
— Have last attended college in May 2019 or earlier
Individuals must complete the MATC Promise for Adults interest application, the MATC High School Class of 2021 interest application or the MATC High School Class of 2020 interest application. All applicants must submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Full eligibility criteria and more information is available at matc.edu/promise.
The college is offering virtual information sessions for the MATC Promise and all of its programs at http://www.matc.edu/visit/matc-live.html.
Together, MATC’s Promise programs have served more than 2,000 qualified students. To date, nearly 250 students have completed an associate degree, technical diploma or certificate through one of the MATC Promise programs.
The MATC Promise is funded through a unique public-private partnership model that brings together federal and state financial aid resources with private donations that provide student scholarships to fill the gap between what aid provides and the cost of tuition.
Interested students and community partners can email matcpromise@matc.edu or call 414-297-6668.
Wisconsin’s largest technical college and one of the most diverse two-year institutions in the Midwest, Milwaukee Area Technical College is a key driver of southeastern Wisconsin’s economy and has provided innovative education in the region since 1912. Nearly 35,000 students per year attend the college’s four campuses and community-based sites or learn online. MATC offers affordable and accessible education and training opportunities that empower and transform lives in the community. The college offers more than 150 academic programs; and transfer options leading to bachelor’s degrees with more than 35 four-year colleges and universities. Overwhelmingly, MATC graduates build careers and businesses in southeastern Wisconsin. The college is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

author: Milwaukee Area Technical College


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20160803_PromiseBridge0042_SizedDown.JPG | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
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February 24, 2021


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Post from Community: United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County announces 2021 campaign co-chairs | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County
February 24, 2021
Editor’s note: Posts from the Community is the place for community announcements and event postings. If you have a community-oriented event you feel our readers would be interested in, please submit here.
United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County is pleased to announce four community leaders to head up the 2021 United Way Community Campaign.
The 2021 Community Campaign Co-chairs are Coreen Dicus-Johnson, President and CEO, Network Health; Mark F. Irgens,CEO/Manager, Irgens; Dr. Joan M. Prince,Vice Chancellor Emeritus, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee; and Stacy P. Williams, Senior Vice President, Baird – The Hodge Williams Group.
“Once again, we are honored to have an outstanding group of individuals leading our annual campaign,” said Amy Lindner, President & CEO of United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County. “Our co-chairs are key to the success of our annual campaign, and we are so grateful that this group of incredible leaders will help us continue the work in our community.”
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The co-chairs were introduced Wednesday, February 24, 2021, at United Way’s virtual. Annual Meeting sponsored by Baker Tilly.
AWARD PRESENTATIONS
During the 2021 Annual Meeting, United Way recognized several individuals during their award presentations.
This award was established by Cory and Michelle Nettles. The recipient of is chosen by United Way’s Diversity Leadership Society and a $5,000 grant is made to the organization they represent.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
At the Virtual Annual Meeting, United Way thanked the following community members who are terming off their board of directors’ roles.
The entire list of United Way Board of Directors is available by clicking here.
About United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County:United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County fights for the health, education, and financial stability of every person in our local community.
Learn more at:http://www.unitedwayGMWC.org


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United-Way-Logo | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
February 26, 2021


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Post from Community: Northwestern Mutual commits $5 million to Children’s Wisconsin and the MACC Fund Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders in largest standalone donation | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Northwestern Mutual Foundation
February 25, 2021
Editor’s note: Posts from the Community is the place for community announcements and event postings. If you have a community-oriented event you feel our readers would be interested in, please submit here.
This year, approximately 10,500 children in the United States will be diagnosed with cancer. Among those diagnosed, blood cancers, like leukemia, are some of the most common forms of pediatric cancer. To support those affected both nationwide and in its hometown of Milwaukee, Northwestern Mutual, through its Foundation, today announced a $5 million commitment to Children’s Wisconsin to support its MACC Fund Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders.
The funding, which will span across five years through 2025, represents the company’s largest standalone donation connected to its national philanthropic cause of childhood cancer. The partnership will launch both in-hospital navigator and psychosocial programs to help guide patients and families through diagnoses, treatment and recovery. It will also expand existing programs and services, such as the Northwestern Mutual Day Hospital for Childhood Cancer, to continue to provide outpatient care for children with cancer and blood disorders.
“Through this contribution, patients and families will experience individualized patient support and greater access to resources for navigating their journeys from diagnosis to healing,” said Eric Christophersen, president, Northwestern Mutual Foundation. “We’re proud to help strengthen the exceptional care childhood cancer patients receive at Children’s Wisconsin.”
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This donation will also support patient care and a community navigator for families impacted by sickle cell disease, an often life-threatening blood disorder that occurs in nearly 1 out of every 400 African American births. Like childhood cancer, sickle cell disease is a life threatening condition in need of novel and comprehensive therapies. It is a natural extension to the company’s Childhood Cancer Program, and also aligns with its commitment to addressing racial disparities through a Sustained Action for Racial Equity Task Force.
“Since their first gift in 1978, the Northwestern Mutual Foundation has been a steadfast supporter of the Children’s Wisconsin mission,” said Meg Brzyski Nelson, president, Children’s Wisconsin Foundation. “This $5 million commitment will help every single child and family who turn to Children’s Wisconsin when they are diagnosed with childhood cancer or blood disorders.”
When a child is diagnosed with cancer, a blood disease or immune deficiency disorder, finding the right medical care is every family’s first and most important step. Today, more and more families are choosing the MACC Fund Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders at Children’s Wisconsin, the largest cancer program in Wisconsin and one of the top programs in the country. The multidisciplinary center provides sophisticated treatments and cutting-edge research for the common to the rarest and most complex childhood cancers and blood disorders.
To recognize the donation, the hospital will also feature the Northwestern Mutual Welcome & Information Center at the main entrance of its new Clinics Building 1 at Children’s Wisconsin Hospital-Milwaukee location.
Since 2012, Northwestern Mutual’s Childhood Cancer Program has focused on advancing childhood cancer research, providing family and patient support and serving as a resource to families managing the long-term effects of cancer treatment. With the support of Northwestern Mutual employees and financial advisors nationwide, the company has contributed more than $35 million and funded over 455,000 hours of research through the program.

created: February 25, 2021

author: Northwestern Mutual Foundation


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‘There are no throwaway people’: Sister MacCanon Brown and her mission to serve homeless residents | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
PrincessSafiya Byers
February 25, 2021
“Society has a sick a way of thinking there are people who can be thrown away,” says Sister MacCanon Brown, who has worked for 30 years to make life better for those who experience homelessness. (Photo courtesy of TMJ4 News)
A few years after Sister MacCanon Brown moved to Milwaukee in 1986, she was close to homelessness herself.
She had come to Milwaukee with the dream of being an intellectual artist and spent a lot of time alone.
She ended up at Casa Maria, a hospitality house for homeless families connected with the Catholic Worker movement. There she converted to Catholicism.
Later, when her financial situation becoming more secure, she made a vow to God to do all she could to help those who were homeless or at risk of being homeless.
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“Society has a sick a way of thinking there are people who can be thrown away,” Brown said. “Older people, children and mostly homeless people are treated like they are disposable.”
Advocating for homeless residents, she said, was not something she chose — it chose her.
Brown, 74, has now been serving Milwaukee’s homeless population for more than 30 years.
Most recently, as the president of the MacCanon Brown Homeless Sanctuary, she has been working in the Amani neighborhood to provide resources like hot meals, clothing and hygiene products to those in need since 2013.
The Sanctuary, 2461 W. Center St., is currently in the middle of being renovated to become a hub of resources for those facing homelessness.
“Upgrading the building is just an addition to the work we already do,” Brown said. “With the new building, we will be able to serve people at a greater capacity than we already do.”
One of the Sanctuary’s outreach events has move to a temporary site at the Hephatha Lutheran Church, 1720 W. Locust St., once a week to keep people from standing in the cold.
A religious upbringing
Brown was born in Iowa in 1945 into a family of people whose members had been in the Protestant clergy for three generations before her. The middle of three daughters, she attended Otterbein College, now Otterbein University, in Westerville, Ohio, where she said she participated in Black studies and interracial dialogue, did inner-city neighborhood work and attended civil rights events in Columbus during the peak of the civil rights movement.
After college, she went home to be a newspaper reporter while working as a literary artist for the Iowa Arts Council. Around that time, she got married and had two sons and a daughter before moving to Milwaukee.
“I am an example of walking a distinct path,” Brown said. “I was called to do this work, and every door that has opened has been because of that.”
The road to serving the way she does has not always been easy.
She said she was invited to be part of the founding group of Repairers of the Breach, a daytime refuge and resource center for homeless adults, in late 1991. By April 1992, she became board president and later executive director.
After 20 years of work, a disagreement between Brown and Repairers’ board of directors over control of the mission and vision resulted in her termination.
“The mission and vision stayed the same,” said Rebecca North, current president of Repairers of the Breach board of directors. “There were just some differing opinions.”
However, Brown was not defeated.
A group of friends founded a new nonprofit organization so her work could continue. They named it MacCanon Brown Homeless Sanctuary.
A joy in serving others
While Brown is a nationally recognized homeless advocate and a published author, she said there is more to do.
“The joy beyond all joys is being able to call the people I serve family,” said Brown. “No matter what race, gender or class, I have been able to unify people, and if I can unify 10,000 more people across racial divides I’d be satisfied.”
Brown’s work is centered on letting people know they are important. She believes, “There are no throwaway people.”
Those who work with her say her vision is one Milwaukee needs.
“I appreciate the mission of serving those who need it most in Milwaukee,” said Jill Moore, a volunteer at the Sanctuary and a retired professor at Alverno College. “Her vision is so clear that she lives, breathes, dreams and prays it.”
Moore, who has known Brown for over three years, said she once told Brown to let her know if she needed anything. And she’s been a volunteer ever since.
“MacCanon handles things with such a skill and grace,” Moore notes. “She mediates so well; I’ve never seen violence of fights in the Sanctuary.”
Others say her sincerity is what draws people to her.
“My wife and I volunteered with MacCanon, and how genuine she always amazes me,” said Reuben Harpole, a longtime community activist.  “Everything she does is out of love of the Lord, and it shows.”
In case you missed it: Homeless Sanctuary encourages individuals to find their worth, dignity
See an interview with Sister MacCanon Brown from our friends at TMJ4 News.

author: PrincessSafiya Byers


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
February 24, 2021


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5 things to do and know the weekend of Feb. 26 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ana Martinez-Ortiz
February 26, 2021
Tables Across Borders and the Lynden Sculpture Garden are presenting the Great Community Cooking show, featuring refugee chefs, on Sunday. (File photo by Sue Vliet)
It’s Friday in Milwaukee, and here are some things we think you should know about as the nation grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic.
If you would like your event to be considered for this column, please email info@milwaukeenns.org and put “5 things” in the subject line by noon Thursday.
1. Ayuda Mutua MKE supply drive: Friday, Feb. 26
Ayuda Mutua MKE, 2801 S. 5th Court, is hosting a supply drive from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 26. The group is asking for various donations, including shampoo, tampons and pads, dish soap, toilet paper, diapers (sizes 4-7), baby formula, household cleaners and more. Click here for the full list. There will be a second collection Friday, March 5.
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2. Midwest Refrigerated Services job fair: Saturday, Feb. 27
Midwest Refrigerated Services, 11225 W. County Line Rd., is hosting a job fair from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 27. The company is looking to hire forklift operators. There will be on-the-spot interviews and tours of the warehouse. For additional information, click here.
3. Freedom Together press conference: Saturday, Feb. 27
Voces de la Frontera and Youth Empowered in the Struggle (YES) is hosting a news conference to raise awareness on citizenship, immigration, relief and recovery. The briefing will take place outside the Milwaukee Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse, 517 E. Wisconsin Ave., at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 27. Participants are encouraged to pre-register. Signs will be provided.
4. Pop-up community food and sock donation drive and giveaway: Friday, Feb. 26 and Sunday, Feb. 28
Dream Team United MKE is hosting a food and sock drive and community giveaway. Monetary, non-perishable food and sock donations can be dropped off at Gentle Hands, 6815 W. Capitol Drive, Suite 116, from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 26. The giveaway will take place at Gentle Hands from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 28. Monetary donations can also be sent through the Cash App to Farina Brooks at $FarinaBrooks.
5. HOME: Tables Across Borders cooking show: Sunday, Feb. 28
Lynden Sculpture Gardens and Tables Across Borders have partnered to present the Great Community Cooking Show. The show is a part of the garden’s HOME series and features refugee chefs. This month’s class will take place on Facebook Live from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 28. Click here for additional information.
Bonus: YMCA of Metropolitan Milwaukee: “We Wear Black Day”: Friday, Feb. 26
The YMCA of Metropolitan Milwaukee is joining YMCAs across the nation in “We Wear Black Day” on Friday, Feb. 26. People are encouraged to wear black to demonstrate solidarity and bring awareness to systemic racism.


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
February 25, 2021