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Job Corps prepares young adults for realities of difficult job market | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Brendan O’Brien
November 18, 2014
Milwaukee Job Corps students work together during an exercise in a construction trade class. (Photo by Sue Vliet)
This is part of an ongoing series of articles that put a face on the poor in Milwaukee, 50 years after President Lyndon Johnson declared a “war on poverty.”
Maikou Xiong begins and ends each day the same way, caring for the homebound sick and elderly.
Between the hour-long visits with her patients at the break of dawn and late into the evening, the personal care worker goes to school full time, manages a student store and serves as the vice president of her student government association.
“It’s a lot of work and that’s just reality,” she said.
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The 24-year-old daughter of Hmong immigrants from Thailand is a student at Job Corps, a U.S. Department of Labor career-training program that was created as part of Lyndon B. Johnson’s War on Poverty 50 years ago.
Xiong is in her last year of the program, which is geared toward economically disadvantaged youth and young adults between the ages of 16 to 24. She has been studying to become a certified nursing assistant for a year and a half.
Part of her motivation to endure the grueling days and to become a nurse is to be able to financially help her impoverished family, including her disabled mother and her father, who supports Xiong and her six siblings with his job as a maintenance worker.
“My parents didn’t go to school, so it’s a big deal that I have the opportunity to go to school,” she said. “That motivates me to better myself.”
Students get hands-on training in a Job Corps class. (Photo by Sue Vliet)
Each weekday, Xiong heads to the Milwaukee Job Corps campus, located at 6665 N. 60th St., past fences securing the perimeter and through a gated entryway. Once inside, she joins about 240 students who participate in academic classes, hands-on technical training and personal development courses. Many students also live in dorms and enjoy sports and social activities on the bustling campus.
“Our overall goal is to assist young adults to be more marketable, more employable and to have a sustainable income,” said James Roberts, director of the program in Milwaukee.
Some Job Corps students earn their high school diplomas while in the program. Many take advantage of vocational training in the manufacturing, construction and health care trades. The training that is offered is focused on industries where jobs are in high supply, Roberts said.
“Our goal is to make sure that the training we provide is relevant,” Roberts said. “It’s hands-on. We are trying to give our students exposure [to] the real-world environment.”
After completing the program, 87 percent of the students enroll in college, find a job or enter the military, said Roberts. In addition, Job Corps increases attainment in higher education, reduces criminal activity and increases short-term earnings, according to a 2008 study published in the American Economic Review.
Although the study found “the program has promise,” it also determined only the oldest participants sustained earnings gains over the long term. However, Job Corps is the only federal training program that has been shown to increase earnings for this population, the study abstract said.
Low demand, low pay
“You can’t say the program doesn’t work, because it has worked for some,” said Carolyn Heinrich, a former director of the La Follette School of Public Affairs at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where she focused on social welfare policy and labor force development.
“But, there are a lot of things right now, especially in our current labor market, which have been hindering the employment of teenagers. There’s a lack of demand.”
Since about 2000, the labor market for economically disadvantaged teenagers and young adults has been extremely soft, according to Heinrich. “More and more they are not in an educational program and not in the labor force,” she said. “We don’t know what they are doing, but they are not entering the job market.”
One of the problems young people in Milwaukee face is that so many jobs — not just those in the fast-food industry — are low paying. A fair number of manufacturing jobs in the city also begin at low wages, Heinrich said.
“No one has been treating this in a policy context like the crisis that it really is,” Heinrich said. “The crisis is that we know from many years of research that if young people don’t get a toehold in the labor market by their early to mid 20s, they probably never will.”
A range of ideas have promise in better preparing disadvantaged youth so they can meet the demands of the job market, according to Heinrich. One is to provide training earlier, such as in high school, in skills that are in demand. Another idea is to focus more on employer-led training such as apprenticeships, so that employers have a direct hand in building tomorrow’s workforce, according to a policy brief Heinrich authored.
Building human capital has been a priority for Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett since he was a U.S. congressman in the 1990s, when he was instrumental in bringing the program to Milwaukee. The city was granted a Job Corps site in 2003, seven years before the 25-acre campus opened in 2010.
“We need to put a lot of emphasis on people having skills for specific jobs and not generic jobs,” said Barrett, who called bringing the program to Milwaukee his “17-year overnight success.”
Barrett said he sees a lot of value in programs that offer transitional, summer and apprenticeship job opportunities to teenagers and young adults in the city, where a third of people 16- to 24- years old live under the federal poverty line.
“There are enough people sadly that need jobs that can be plugged into” these type of opportunities, he said.
Policy problem
The Job Corps program is limited by its very nature in how much it can accomplish in reducing poverty, according to David Riemer, a senior fellow at Milwaukee’s Public Policy Institute. Although the program and others like it may adequately prepare young adults for the workforce, Job Corps does not change the quality and quantity of available jobs, keys to reducing poverty, he said.
“In a labor market with more workers than jobs, you will always have losers,” Riemer said. He noted that better education and training are certainly important, “but to imagine that better education is going to solve the problem … is to be living in a fantasy world.
“What we need is governmental policies in place to deal with those times when the labor market does not offer enough work and wages don’t pay enough.”
Research also suggests that a policy package on the federal level that strengthens the transitional job market, raises the minimum wage, and increases and redesigns the Earn Income Tax Credit would reduce poverty by more than half, according to Riemer.
“If you do these policies separately, you get modest effects on poverty. It’s when you put them together…and they interact with each other” that it produces results,” he said.
James Roberts is not blind to the stark realities of the job market for young adults. He attempts to set realistic expectations for students who are about to finish the program and begin looking for a job.
“There are a few locations in Milwaukee where, if you get your foot in the door, [$20 an hour] might be reality,” he said. “But more commonly, you’re talking $11, $12 or $13 an hour and you will need to work your way up.”
That is why Roberts focuses some of his attention on nurturing relationships with the local work force development community and area employers who may not pay the most money, but offer jobs that come with a strong benefit packages and opportunities for career advancement in the future.
“It’s about pulling oneself out of poverty and that takes hard work,” he said.


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
November 17, 2014

source: news-milwaukeenns

created: November 17, 2014

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

author: Adam Carr


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15590924617_02ce63887e_k | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
November 17, 2014


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Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee kicks off Click For Kids online toy drive | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Boys & Girls Club of Greater Milwaukee
November 19, 2014
Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee (BGCGM) will bring smiles to thousands of its youth members this holiday season with the help of generous donations from individuals via its annual Click for Kids Online Toy Drive. The goal for the Toy Drive; open now until Tuesday, December 23; is to give gifts to 6,500 club members, making it a holiday they won’t forget.
The Toy Drive is sponsored by Bayshore Town Center’s Olshan Outreach (formerly known as Bayshore Community Foundation), Meijer, WaterStone Bank and Guy and Louise Osborn. For the first time, Meijer, a Grand Rapids, Michigan-based retailer which will be opening new stores in the Milwaukee-area starting next year, will be matching the donations from each toy purchased through the drive.
“Meijer is excited to partner with Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee as we prepare to open stores in Grafton, Kenosha, Oak Creek and Wauwatosa in 2015,” Meijer Co-Chairman Hank Meijer said. “We are committed to being a good neighbor in the communities we serve and the Click for Kids Toy Drive is a great opportunity to share holiday joy with local children.”
Many of the youth members BGCGM serves come from families where household budgets have little room for holiday gifts. Through the Boys & Girls Clubs’ Click for Kids online toy catalog, individuals and companies have the ability to purchase age-appropriate, kid-approved gifts to ensure that Club members have presents to open this holiday. The youth range from ages 4-18 years old and there is a variety of toys available from Power Ranger figures to bracelet making kits.
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As a part of the Toy Drive, Meijer will be delivering the first round of donated toys to Bayshore Town Center on   where BGCGM volunteers will come together to sort and organize the toys. More than 200 BGCGM volunteers will then gather for the Gift Wrap Party event on  in the Bayshore Town Center Rotunda to wrap thousands of donated toys. Toy Drive donations will continue to be available and will be gift wrapped through Tuesday, December 23. Following the Wrap Party, the toys will be delivered to all 44 Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee locations during holiday parties.
Toys can be purchased online now through Tuesday, December 23 at https://support.boysgirlsclubs.org/toydrive. Donations for the toy drive also can be made via mail at:
Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee
Mardak Center for Administration & Training
Attn: Development Department, Toy Drive
1558 North 6th Street
Milwaukee, WI 53212

created: November 19, 2014

author: Boys & Girls Club of Greater Milwaukee


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How to prevent frozen pipes | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
American Red Cross
November 19, 2014
When water freezes, it expands and puts tremendous pressure on whatever is containing it, including metal or plastic pipes. (Photo by Molly Rippinger)
Pipes that freeze most frequently are those that are exposed to severe cold, like outdoor hose bibs, water sprinkler lines and water supply pipes in unheated interior areas like basements and crawl spaces, attics, garages or kitchen cabinets. Pipes that run against exterior walls that have little or no insulation are also subject to freezing.
During cold weather, take preventative action.
How to thaw frozen pipes.
Future protection to prevent frozen pipes.
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author: American Red Cross


text:
| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
November 18, 2014

created: November 18, 2014


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On the Block: Salvation Army bell ringer shares Christmas spirit | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Molly Rippinger
November 19, 2014
Luther Chambers, a Salvation Army bell ringer collects donations to help the poor outside a local grocery store.

author: Molly Rippinger


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South 27st Street construction delayed until spring | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Edgar Mendez
November 21, 2014
Ariane Fischer, walking along South 27th Street with her son Samuel, said the construction has caused her to take fewer trips to shops in the area. (Photo by Edgar Mendez)
To the dismay of many business owners on WIS 241, more commonly known as South 27 Street, the construction spanning from Dakota Street on the north to West Howard Avenue on the south has been delayed until late spring, according to Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) officials.
The construction, which was scheduled to be completed before Thanksgiving, was delayed as a result of bad weather and a regional shortage of concrete. South 27 Street is the largest business district in the state, according to Julio Maldonado, executive director of Historic Highway 41 Business Improvement District (BID), which along with two BIDs from the city of Greenfield, has been involved in a multi-year marketing and beautification project along the thoroughfare.
According to Maldonado, a couple of businesses have already closed and several more have cut hours of operation since the construction began in March. Mazo’s Hamburgers, 3146 S. 27 St, has a sign in the doorway announcing shortened business hours due to the construction. The street has become a traffic nightmare for the many motorists who still frequent the area’s many businesses while construction closed first the west side, and now the east side of the street. Side streets connecting to South 27 Street have also been closed as a result of the project.
Kim I. Vanselow, who owns Hometown Market, 3174 S. 27th St., said the construction has reduced her business by 50 percent compared to last year. (Photo by Edgar Mendez)
The good news for the owners is that by Nov. 26, the day before Thanksgiving, all lanes on South 27 Street will reopen, thanks to a temporary asphalt surface, said Christine Hanna, WisDOT project manager. Once the frost is gone, the asphalt will be ripped out and concrete surface laid, Hanna said. The project is expected to be completed by the end of July 2015. There’s no exact estimate on cost overruns associated with the delay, according to Hanna, but WisDOT was able to work out a deal with a contractor to save money on the asphalt.
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While pleased that the street will reopen next week, Kim I. Vanselow, who owns Hometown Market, a small Asian grocery store at 3174 S. 27 St., said another street closure after the winter might put her out of business.
“How can a small store like us survive until they’re done with construction; we’re losing more and more money,” said a concerned Vanselow.
She said business has dropped more than half compared to last year, and in recent months, she’s lost money. A few doors down from her shop, Rick’s T- Shirts, which had been open for decades, has been closed since construction began.
Also down the street from the market is Ned’s Pizza, another one of the street’s many landmark businesses. According to Roland Bloom, a manager at Ned’s since 1973, dining room sales have dropped about 15 percent while carryout orders and delivery business have remained steady. He said Ned’s loyal base of customers has helped minimize the impact of the construction on sales.
“I explain to customers over the phone how to navigate the construction and only a few said ‘I’m not dealing with that’ and canceled their orders,” Bloom said. He added that City of Milwaukee officials have been responsive in helping create access points to the business during construction.
Traffic delays and lost business during any construction project of this magnitude are an unfortunate reality, explained State Rep. Josh Zepnick, who represents the area and grew up there. He said it’s the first time in 40 years he can recall a major overhaul on South 27 Street.
People don’t realize that major sewer and utility work is going on beneath the surface, Zepnick said. With that already completed, he expects that laying the concrete in the spring will be a much quicker process.
Business owners and shoppers can look forward to the opening of all lanes on South 27 Street next week, and down the road, a more vibrant and navigable business district.
“2015 will be a much better year for the business owners,” Zepnick said.
Vanselow, who moved her business back to the street from a location on West National Avenue two years ago, just hopes she’ll still be around in July to enjoy it.
“It’s just bad luck I guess,” said Vanselow, referring to the delay.

created: November 21, 2014

author: Edgar Mendez


text:
| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
November 20, 2014

created: November 20, 2014


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Great Handshake competition trains students in character, communication | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Jabril Faraj
November 24, 2014
Students and judges interact during the preliminary stage of The Great Handshake competition. (Photo by Jabril Faraj)
Students, teachers and administrators from Milwaukee College Prep (MCP), a network of public charter schools, gathered in Schlitz Park recently for The Great Handshake championship. The event culminated a weeks-long effort at the school’s four area campuses that focused on improving students’ character and interpersonal skills.
“We believe knowledge plus character paves the road to college and beyond,” said Robert Rauh, CEO of Milwaukee College Prep and founding principal of the inaugural 36th Street campus. “Soft skills — skills like grit and perseverance and determination and joy and optimism — we find are just as important … if not more important than academic skills when determining success in college and beyond.”
Forty students —10 from each campus — set out to impress the judges, area professionals who volunteered at the event, with their handshake, conversation and confidence. The top eight students earned the opportunity to represent their schools as greeters at MCP’s annual Take A Stand fundraising event.
Montavion Pewitt, 11, engages one of The Great Handshake judges. (Photo by Jabril Faraj)
Tim Trzcinko, Lloyd Street Middle School dean of students, said the competition started with all of MCP’s approximately 800 middle-school students participating. While only 40 made it to the final leg of the challenge, Trzcinko said, the hope is that all students will benefit. “I think, ultimately, our goal is to have every one of our students have a mission either to [get to] college or a career that sets them up for success.”
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The initial rounds paired students with judges in a “speed-dating” format, with contestants rotating every couple of minutes. The middle-school students attempted to win over as many of the judges as possible.
Jessica Trzcinko, Tim Trzcinko’s wife, served as a judge. An employee at Food Marketing Services, Jessica Tracinko said before the event that she was hoping to see improvement from 2013 when some students were noticeably nervous. “I hope to see that they can … calm themselves a little bit, so that they can just feel more at ease and have it be a very positive experience.”
Montavion Pewitt was one of the students who rose to the challenge. Appearing calm and confident, he seemed comfortable interacting with adults he didn’t know. But the 11-year-old dismissed the notion that he’s inherently good at talking to people. “Practice makes perfect,” he said.
Many of the students talked about being nervous but attempting to overcome their nerves. Kayla Bates, the eventual champion, said she composes herself by staying focused on where she wants to be in the future.
Jamecia Sanders, who is in her third year at MCP’s 38th Street campus, seemed dejected when she didn’t make the final four but said the experience was a good one nevertheless. “At least I made it this far,” she said.
Abby Andreitsch, executive director and co-founder of Schools That Can Milwaukee, stressed the importance of character education and the effect of events such as The Great Handshake.
“All of these students are meeting a whole bunch of strangers; they’re having to shake hands; they’re having to communicate with them, answer questions about different things and they’re having to think clearly and speak confidently and concisely about themselves,” Andreitsch said, adding that many adults find these skills difficult.
After the event, Rauh praised the finalists as examples for other students. “They were great. All of them came across very positively and expressed themselves confidently.”
“It’s a dose of adrenaline, hope and belief,” said Andreitsch. “You can’t engage with these students without being really hopeful and excited about what’s possible for Milwaukee.”

created: November 24, 2014

author: Jabril Faraj


text:
| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
November 23, 2014

created: November 23, 2014


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Victory Garden Initiative Hiring an Urban Farmer and Educator | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Victory Garden Initiative
November 24, 2014
Victory Garden Initiative is a non-profit organization that builds communities who grow their own food, reintegrating human and food ecology. We are a small, and growing organization seeking the right set of people to take the organization to greater level of success. This is an exciting time to get involved in the creation a local, sustainable, nutritious, socially just food system for all, by working for one of the leading Milwaukee food organizations.
Job Posting: Urban Farmer and Educator
Reports to: Executive Director
Description: Full-time position beginning January 2015, with benefits package.
Primary Responsibilities:
Qualifications:
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Preferred Qualifications
To Apply, please send:
1) Cover letter describing your interest in this work and your specific experiences related to the position
2) Complete resume
3) Three references
Applications can be sent to Gretchen Mead at gretchen.mead@victorygardeninitiative.org with Job Application in subject line.

author: Victory Garden Initiative


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Obama’s immigration reforms leave South Side activists wanting more | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Matthew Wisla
November 25, 2014
Residents listen intently as President Obama explains his immigration reform package at the Voces de la Frontera viewing event at Candelas Hall, 2537 W. National Ave. (Photo by Matthew Wisla)
President Obama’s executive orders on immigration reform ignited both feelings of joy and a resolve to press for more changes in Milwaukee’s immigrant community.
“We have a divided heart tonight,” said Christine Neumann-Ortiz, founder and executive director of Voces de la Frontera, an immigrant rights and social justice organization. “We are inspired and determined to keep going, to keep fighting,” she said. “Momentum is on our side.”
The first executive order allows undocumented parents who have been in the country more than five years and whose children are U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents to apply to stay in the U.S. for renewable three-year periods. Under these provisions people can apply for Social Security cards, and live and work without fear of deportation. Wisconsin law also allows them to apply for a driver’s license.
A second executive order signed by the president affects “dreamers,” people who were brought to the U.S. by their parents and for whom America is the only home they have ever known. The directive eliminates the age cap for dreamers, and offers them the same opportunities provided under the first executive order.
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Christine Neumann-Ortiz, founder and executive director of Voces de la Frontera, reacts to President Obama’s executive order on immigration. (Photo by Matthew Wisla)
“These common-sense decisions are a good step and they will have a big impact,” said Neumann-Ortiz. “It’s going to mean fewer deportations for families here and it’s going to be good for Milwaukee’s economy.”
The new orders do not provide a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants and they don’t establish a permanent legal right for them to be here, according to immigration experts.
The actions announced by Obama are expected to affect about 5 million of the 11 million undocumented immigrants currently in the U.S. About 24,000 to 30,000 live in the Milwaukee area, according to estimates.
“This enables more people in the undocumented community to come out of the shadows, to work legally and to be full members of their community without worry that at any moment they could be deported and lose everything they have,” said Marquette University professor Edward Fallone, an immigration law specialist. “Fewer people will be living in fear now.”
Fallone said the president’s actions will be good for the local economy because undocumented immigrants working at jobs where they are paid “under the table” can now pursue legitimate employment opportunities. “Undocumented workers have always paid sales taxes on everything they bought and property taxes through their rent. Now more of them will be paying payroll taxes.”
Providing undocumented immigrants across the U.S. with work permits will contribute about $45 billion to the economy in payroll taxes over a five-year span, according to the Center for American Progress.
Those not covered by the new executive orders include immigrants who came to the U.S. alone, undocumented immigrants who married an American citizen and undocumented relatives of dreamers.
Guadalupe Romero, 53, is among those who are not covered. “Though I am one of those who will not benefit, I am not defeated,” she said. Romero, a Clarke Square resident, has been living in the U.S. since 1990 and is undocumented, though her grandchildren are American citizens. On the Voces website she wrote, “I will continue to fight for myself and all the people excluded from this relief.”
In a June survey, a majority of Americans supported even broader immigration reform than the president enacted. According to the Brookings Institution and the Public Religion Research Institute, 62 percent would favor an immigration bill with a way for people who are undocumented to become citizens. Another 17 percent said they should be permitted to become legal residents while 19 percent supported deportation.
Political gridlock in Washington may stymie any further progress on immigration reform. “I am not very hopeful that the next step will be positive. I’m concerned about retaliation and backlash from some people,” said Ricardo Diaz, executive director of the United Community Center in Milwaukee.
Obama also acknowledged the difficulties ahead. “I know the politics of this issue are tough,” he said during his announcement of the new measures.
According to Nielsen reports, 6.85 million people watched the president’s speech on Spanish-language television. The Univision network delayed the start of the Latin Grammy broadcast to air the speech.
Voces de la Frontera said it will provide information and ongoing updates on immigration reform.

created: November 25, 2014

author: Matthew Wisla


text:
| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
November 24, 2014


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How to shop smart on Black Friday | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Wisconsin Better Business Bureau
November 26, 2014
Retailers entice Black Friday shoppers with the promise of competitive prices and special sales. (Photo by Maggie Quick)
The Wisconsin Better Business Bureau (BBB) is offering tips to people planning on taking advantage of sales offers on Black Friday — traditionally the day after Thanksgiving.
“Some people are so eager to get big ticket items, they plan their Thanksgiving around Black Friday sales,” explained Ran Hoth, BBB president and CEO. “The crowds this year will be no different. Ease your shopping day by making a game plan, sticking to your budget and understanding each store’s return policy.”
Black Friday shoppers should keep these tips in mind:
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created: November 26, 2014

author: Wisconsin Better Business Bureau


text:
| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
November 25, 2014


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Latino Arts brings high-quality programming to students, community | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
November 26, 2014
When Jane Chu, chairman of the National Endowment for the Arts, visited Wisconsin recently, she toured a Dia de los Muertos ofrendas exhibit at the Latino Arts, Inc. gallery and attended a performance of the Latino Arts Strings Program in the auditorium at the United Community Center.
Chu listened intently, then smiled and enthusiastically applauded the orchestra made up of Bruce-Guadalupe Community School students and alumni. Chu said she and the NEA, a major funder of Latino Arts, are “very proud of the program here.”
Chu noted that research shows a strong relationship between participation in the arts and higher academic performance, lower truancy rates and higher participation in civic activities among young people.
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Jane Chu, chairman, National Endowment for the Arts, applauds Latino Strings student performers at the United Community Center. (Photo by Andrea Waxman)
“The arts are one of the greatest equalizers,” Chu said, referring to their importance to low-income, central city residents. The arts provide some of the best opportunities for people from all walks of life, income levels and cultural or ethnic heritages to express themselves, she added.
Latino Arts, Inc., an independent non-profit organization housed in the United Community Center, 1028 S. 9th St., offers music and visual arts education to students at Bruce-Guadalupe school. In addition, Latino Arts brings performers and the work of visual artists from around the nation and the world to UCC.
The group’s mission is to showcase the best of the arts of Latin America, the Spanish peninsula, the Caribbean islands, Hispanic Americans and North Americans who have an affinity with the Latino culture, said Zulay Oszkay, Latino Arts’ artistic director.
Though the financial climate has not been favorable to the arts in recent years, Oszkay said she strives to bring the highest quality art that she can find within the organization’s means. “There’s a lot of good stuff out there. …We’re a small place but we make a lot of noise with our performing arts,” added Oszkay, a Venezuelan native who has served in her position for 21 years.
Dinorah Marquez conducts students in the Latino Arts Strings Program in a performance at the United Community Center. (Photo by Andrea Waxman)
The Latino Arts Strings Program, an in-school and after-school classical music education program under the direction of Dinorah Marquez, engages more than 150 participants between the ages of 5 and 17. Students play in the classical Latino Youth Orchestra, the Mariachi Juvenil or the Mariachito, all string orchestras or in same-instrument ensembles. In addition to winning musical performance awards, participants consistently excel in academic performance, according to the Latino Arts Web site.
Oszkay noted that Latino Arts welcomes students from around the metropolitan area to its performances and exhibits. In addition, the organization offers student workshops in conjunction with its events.
For Dia del los Muertos, Latino Arts contracted with local artists of Mexican descent to teach eight workshops on the traditions of the ofrendas (offerings). Ofrendas are displays created to remember and honor the memory of ancestors. Workshop teachers showed students how to do traditional paper cutting and create small ofrendas. Ofrendas created by students from University School of Milwaukee were included in the gallery exhibit. Next year, Riverside High School students will be featured, Oszkay said.
The last program of the fall season is slated for Friday, Dec. 5. Latino Arts will stage GlamourTango, an all-female tango ensemble led by Uruguayan pianist and musical director Polly Ferman. A tango-inspired painting exhibition, Tango Colores by Pacia Sallomi, will open in the gallery the same day.
Student matinees will be offered on Dec. 4 and Dec. 5, and tango workshops for students are planned for February.

author: Andrea Waxman


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New restaurant fuels optimism in SOHI District | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Molly Rippinger
November 27, 2014
Bennie Smith, co-owner of Daddy’s Soul Food & Grille, is optimistic about the SOHI District. (Photo by Molly Rippinger)
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Bennie Smith’s inspiration to open a restaurant came from two sources: his desires to have a home for his already-established catering business and to celebrate fatherhood. Earlier this month, Smith – along with his wife of 22 years, Angela – opened Daddy’s Soul Food & Grille, 754 N. 27th St. Read More
Earlier this month, Bennie and Angela Smith opened the doors to Daddy’s Soul Food & Grille, at 754 N. 27 St. The restaurant is located in the SOHI District, which runs along North 27 Street, south of Highland Boulevard and north of St. Paul Street.
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“What excites me is the potential,” said Smith, who is using his years of culinary experience to run the kitchen while his wife manages the business side of things. “I believe that people are going to come in here and realize that someone is giving them something nice. It’s a place they can call their own.”
Trina Johnson, who lives near 29 and Wells Streets, said she discovered Daddy’s while walking on 27 Street. “I love soul food so I wanted to see how it tastes,” explained Johnson. “It all looks so good.”
Open for lunch and dinner Tuesday through Sunday, Daddy’s offers a daily buffet featuring classic comfort-food dishes such as fried chicken, meatloaf and barbecue ribs. Sides include traditional collard greens, yams and black-eyed peas. The grill menu also offers a wide variety of entrees that range from burgers with fries to chicken and waffles.
Other restaurants in the SOHI District include M&M Grill and China Taste, which are both locally owned.
Jessica Perkins, a bartender at M&M Grill, said she has heard good things about Daddy’s. “We’ve had customers order from Daddy’s,” she said. “If it gets more people in the neighborhood, then we’re happy.”
“I’m going to start telling people about Daddy’s,” said Johnson after eating lunch. “We need more things like this.”
“If the SOHI District can work, it will help complete the Near West Side,” said John Hennessy, owner of the building in which Daddy’s is located. The three-story building, on the corner of Wells and 27 streets, was built in 1915 and has recently undergone structural renovations.
According to 2013 demographics collected by Applied Geographic Solutions, 30,460 people live within a one-mile radius of 760 N. 27 St. More than 17,000 employees also work in the same radius.
Trina Johnson and Trevon Brenton, both residents of the SOHI neighborhood, enjoy their first taste of Daddy’s Soul Food & Grille. (Molly Rippinger)
“This might be the best area in the city for upward potential,” said Hennessy, who has spent more than two decades managing restoration projects on the Near West Side. “We’re at a crossroads.” The SOHI District includes Wisconsin Avenue, Wells Street and easy access to I-94. Also, the main thoroughfare of SOHI, 27 Street, is the longest running north-south street in the county.
In 2005, the SOHI District was one of four commercial districts designated as part of the Main Street Milwaukee Program, which was an economic development program of the City of Milwaukee Department of City Development and the Local Initiatives Support Corporation. The success of the Main Street program was questioned by the Public Policy Forum in a 2010 report.
To the south of the SOHI District, other revitalization projects near South 27 Street, such as Mitchell Street and Cesar Chavez Drive, have shown signs of success. Also, in 2011 the Public Policy Forum recognized the efforts to revitalize the South 27 Street commercial corridor from Oklahoma to College Avenues by giving the City of Milwaukee and the City of Greenfield an intergovernmental cooperation award.
Hennessy and Keith Stanley, executive director of the Avenues West Association and former SOHI District manager, both expressed optimism that similar success can be had in the SOHI District.
“Let’s encourage entrepreneurship,” said Stanley. “My goal is to be the champion and cheerleader and say, ‘Come to the SOHI District.’”

created: November 27, 2014


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15884223901_a237f8f6ff_k | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
November 27, 2014


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
November 27, 2014


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Energy conservation tops plans to rejuvenate Pulaski Park neighborhood | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Edgar Mendez
November 28, 2014
Alex Hernandez (left) provides information about revitalization efforts to neighborhood resident Martin Carpio at a recent open house at the Pulaski pavilion. (Photo by Edgar Mendez)
The neighborhoods surrounding Pulaski Park on the South Side are the focus of a concerted effort to revitalize the area near the Kinnickinnic River.
The Kinnickinnic River Corridor Neighborhood Plan is intended to reconnect the river corridor with the urban communities surrounding it. A major component of the project is to learn what types of energy conservation projects or programming community members would like to see implemented, said Craig Huebner, planning consultant for the project.
The effort coincides with the Metropolitan Milwaukee Sewerage District’s (MMSD) ongoing $60 million flood control project along the KK River from South 6 Street into Pulaski Park, at 2701 S. 16 St., though funding for each project is separate.
Nadia Bogue, environmental project coordinator at the Sixteenth Street Community Health Center, discusses possible changes to Pulaski Park with residents at a recent open house. (Photo by Edgar Mendez)
Led by KK River Neighbors in Action (KKNA) and the Sixteenth Street Community Health Center, the plan involves “green” infrastructure on both private and public land, including home rain barrels, walking paths and exercise classes in the park. Youth programming tied to Escuela Verde and other projects are designed to spur community engagement, said Nadia Bogue, environmental project coordinator at the health center. Rain gardens already have been completed along the river trail on West Harrison Street.
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The City of Milwaukee, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and other entities have expressed interest or provided initial financial support for the changes, Bogue said. The area was also designated as a Targeted Investment Neighborhood two years ago, opening up the door for additional funding, some of which has been used to repave streets and alleyways near the park.
Gathering community input is phase one of the project, and will be completed in 2015, Huebner said. Phases two and three include planning, development, seeking funding and partners for the project, and implementation, he added.
Together, “all the pieces will fit together and make the neighborhood safer for residents,” said Maritza Martin, president of KKNA. A holistic approach focusing on both environmental and physical health factors will help accomplish that, she added. Feedback from residents on the types of changes they want implemented will determine what will occur in the neighborhood over the next few years, she said.
Rosendo Rios, who lives across the street from the park, said he is impressed with the scope of the changes planned for the park and surrounding area, but suggested including community gardens in the project.
“I think they’re a good way to get neighbors out talking to one another while they work on the garden,” Rios said.
Martin Carpio, who also lives near the park, said he welcomes becoming more engaged with fellow residents, but it’s the youth programming he most looks forward to.
Carpio and his children live nearby, and despite having access to a park, there’s not much in terms of organized activities to draw them there.
“I want to see more programs to keep the kids off of the streets and safe in the park,” Carpio said.
The changes are long overdue, said Mark Lindvall, a community leader for KKNA. Lindvall, who’s lived near Pulaski Park since 1979, said the park needs a lot of work. “It hasn’t changed much since I first moved here,” he said.
Lindvall considers the park and surrounding area underutilized. To go along with the green infrastructure, he hopes that private businesses will also buy in, bringing amenities such as coffee shops to the area.
“We need to bring this park and neighborhood back to life,” Lindvall said.

created: November 28, 2014


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NNS on Lake Effect: Stunning level of truancy among MPS students | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
November 28, 2014
Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service reporter Kelly Meyerhofer speaks with Mitch Teich of Lake Effect Radio about the truancy rate of Milwaukee Public Schools.

author: Dwayne Burtin


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empty-seats | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
November 28, 2014


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Silver City students go door to door seeking support for outdoor mural | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Raina J. Johnson
December 1, 2014
Yahaira Cruz, 12 (left) and Anna Morales, 13, went together to distribute fliers about their public art project.
Ten seventh-and eighth-graders recently went door to door in the Silver City neighborhood of Layton Boulevard West seeking resident support for a mural the students want to paint outside Anna F. Doerfler Community School at 3014 W. Scott St.
“I think going door to door was a really great idea. We were letting them know (about) the project we are doing and getting their opinions,” said Diana Moreno, an eighth-grader working on the project.
The students are a part of a COA Youth and Family Centers program at Doerfler. Since September they have worked alongside professional artists John Kowalczyk and Diego Heredia, artists in residence at Artists Working in Education.
The artists have been working with the students on a mural that will be painted on the pavement at the intersection of 30 and Scott streets. Students are designing the 15-foot square mural and they hope community members will help maintain it.
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Doerfler students work on the design for a mural at the intersection of 30th and Scott. (Photo courtesy of A.W.E.)
“With 33 percent of the population under the age of 18, we are excited to see local youth collaborating on this public art installation that will build on our recent successful efforts to make Layton Boulevard West a destination for the arts,” said Dan Adams, neighborhood plan coordinator at Layton Boulevard West Neighbors, in a press release.
Juanita Valcarcel, site coordinator at the Doerfler Community Learning Center, praised the students’ involvement and engagement in the program. “They were able to do a project that otherwise they wouldn’t be introduced to. There were a lot of them who said, ‘I don’t know how to draw.’ The guys (artists) convinced them to try, and before you know it they had beautiful artwork,” Valcarcel said.
In addition to learning art concepts, the students also learned how difficult public art projects can be. There are multiple steps in the process from idea, to creation to implementation. Throughout the project, the students have fused art with civic engagement.
“There’s a sense of importance, pride and ownership in being able to do an art project together for the neighborhood they (students) live in,” said Ali Carlucci, program director of the school studio at Artists Working in Education.
“They understand the process of creating public art from design conception to the logistics of permitting through the Department of Public Works, what an alderman is, and the importance of buy-in from the neighbors, because public space affects and belongs to all of us,” Carlucci added.
Jon Anthony Cruz, a seventh grader, was excited about meeting the neighbors and said he understood how important their input is. “Going door to door was fun because we could interact with the neighbors and meet them personally. It (the project) would change their feelings about the neighborhood,” he said.
The students’ goal is to paint the mural in the spring.
“I liked when we were testing the art with chalk in the playground because we could see the visual of how it would look. It came out looking great,” Moreno said.

created: December 1, 2014

author: Raina J. Johnson


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
November 30, 2014

created: November 30, 2014


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New St. Ann Center expected to jump start development on North Side | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Molly Rippinger
December 2, 2014
The new North Side campus of the St. Ann Center will include medical and dental clinics, classrooms, an indoor lap pool and an intergenerational playground. (Photo by Molly Rippinger)
For the past five years, Linda Merrill has found friendship and a strong sense of purpose at the St. Ann Center for Intergenerational Care.
“I come here for the companionship,” said Merrill, 66.
As a client enrolled in the adult day services, Merrill takes a van service from her home in Oak Creek to the center on 2801 E. Morgan Ave. three times per week. Merrill said she enjoys having the chance to engage with people and partake in daily activities that range from art projects to massage therapy.
“This is a good place,” explained Merrill, who said she suffered from depression and loneliness prior to her enrollment at St. Ann’s. “Here, there’s always something to do.”
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At the groundbreaking for the new St. Ann Center, Alderman Russell Stamper spoke about the positive impact it will have on the community. (Photo by Molly Rippinger)
St. Ann’s is now expanding to the North Side. The new Bucyrus Campus will be built on a 7.5-acre plot at 24 Street and North Avenue. Community members, funders and St. Ann Center staff recently gathered at the site for a ceremonial groundbreaking.
Founded in 1983 by Sister Edna Lonergan and the Sisters of St. Francis of Assisi, the St. Ann Center offers an intergenerational approach to health and education services for adults and children. The South Side center, which was built in 1999, serves more than 200 children, older adults and people with disabilities each day.
The North Side center will cater to the needs of local residents, said Lonergan, president of the St. Ann Center. “It will be run and operated by the neighborhood, for no one understands the needs of this neighborhood more than the people who live here.”
The two-story building will provide 80,000 square feet of space, which will be used for a multipurpose, intergenerational care facility. Inside, the campus will include a medical clinic, dental clinic, wellness program and classrooms, as well as an indoor lap pool and intergenerational playground. Exterior plans include a 500-seat band shell, playgrounds and community gardens.
“This is a new beginning for this community,” noted Alderman Russell Stamper at the groundbreaking. “The St. Ann Center will be an anchor to jump start more development.”
Lonergan said that the center will bring an estimated 200 jobs to the North Side community and will provide services for more than 400 people each day.
“Seeing this mission come to the neighborhood is absolutely incredible,” said Lorraine Burroughs, a volunteer for the Milwaukee County Commission on Aging.
The $20.5 million project will be completed in two phases, with the first phase scheduled for completion by September 2015.
“What St. Ann’s does is miraculous,” said Mayor Tom Barrett. “And this is something we need more of in our community.”

created: December 2, 2014


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
December 1, 2014


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On the Block: BU magazine founder Marvin Pope | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
December 2, 2014
In 2009, East Side resident Marvin Pope launched the first issue of BU (Be You) Magazine, an online video publication. He is currently working on the seventh issue. Pope shares some thoughts on his magazine’s goals. (Check out Issue 4.)


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Give the gift of preparedness this holiday season | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
FEMA Region V
December 3, 2014
FEMA encourages holiday shoppers to consider giving family members and friends items for an emergency preparedness kit. (Photo by FEMA)
With the holidays fast approaching, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Region V office encourages everyone to consider giving gifts that will help protect their family members and friends during a future emergency.
“A gift to help prepare for emergencies could be life-saving for friends and family,” said Janet Odeshoo, FEMA Region V regional administrator. “These gift ideas provide a great starting point for being prepared for an emergency or disaster.”
Supplies for an emergency preparedness kit can make unique — and potentially life-saving —holiday gifts, such as:
Holiday shoppers might also consider giving a winter car kit, equipped with a shovel, ice scraper, emergency flares, fluorescent distress flags and jumper cables. For animal lovers, a pet disaster kit with emergency food, bottled water, toys and a leash is also a good gift.
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The gift of preparedness might just save the life of a friend or family member. For more information, preparedness tips or other gift ideas, visit www.Ready.gov.

created: December 3, 2014

author: FEMA Region V


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
December 2, 2014


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Milwaukee Libraries host events for health insurance enrollment | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Milwaukee Enrollment Network
December 4, 2014
With the open enrollment period for the health insurance Marketplace off to a smooth start, individuals who would like help signing up for coverage will have the opportunity at over a dozen events at Milwaukee libraries in the month of December.
“The Milwaukee Public Libraries have been an important partner in our efforts to reach out end enroll people in coverage,” says Danielle Coterel, outreach and enrollment outreach specialist.  “We are very thankful for their willingness to provide ample space and computer access for our certified application counselors to help consumers find the coverage that fits their needs and their budgets.”
Five Milwaukee Libraries will offer enrollment events in December:
Washington Park Library
2121 N. Sherman Blvd.
Mondays from 1 – 5 pm
December 8, 15 ,22 and 29
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Center Street Library
2727 W. Fond du Lac Ave.
Saturdays from 10 am – 2 pm
December 6, 13 and 20
Martin Luther King Library
310 W. Locust St.
Wednesdays from 5 – 8 pm
December 10 and 17
Central Library
814 W. Wisconsin Ave.
Wednesday from 3:30 – 5:30
December 10 and 17
Forest Home Library
1432 W. Forest Home Ave.
Mondays from 4 – 7:30 pm
December 15 and 29
Wednesdays from 4 – 7:30
December 10
The Milwaukee Enrollment Network reminds consumers to be prepared when signing up for healthcare coverage.  Whether attending an enrollment event, visiting healthcare.gov or calling 1-800-318-2596, consumers should have the following information about themselves and their household:
§ Social security numbers or document numbers for legal immigrants
§ Employer and income information for every person in the home who needs coverage (from pay stubs or W-2 forms)
§ Policy numbers for any current health insurance plans covering members of the household
The open enrollment period for the health insurance Marketplace runs through February 15, 2015.  Adults with income below 100% of the federal poverty level ($11,670 per year for an individual) and children and pregnant women in households with income under 300% of the poverty level ($71,550 for a family of 4), may enroll anytime in BadgerCare Plus.  Consumers can learn more about eligibility for enrollment in the Marketplace as well as BadgerCare Plus, by visiting healthcare.gov or calling the Health Insurance Marketplace national call center at 1-800-318-2596  (open 24 hours, 7 days a week).  To get connected to free, in-person enrollment assistance in Milwaukee County, consumers should dial 2-1-1.

created: December 4, 2014

author: Milwaukee Enrollment Network


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Old pavilion bites the dust in Johnsons Park renovation | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
December 5, 2014
A backhoe driver demolishes the Johnsons Park pavilion to make way for a new restroom building and other improvements next spring and summer. (Photo by Molly Rippinger)
By the end of next summer, visitors to Johnsons Park in Lindsay Heights will see a number of improvements. Last week, Milwaukee County Parks initiated the final phase of the Johnsons Park Initiative when it demolished an enclosed pavilion near Brown and 18 streets in the southeast part of the park.
“There’s a lot of good stuff coming in the spring when the groundbreaking happens, but to get this pavilion demolished and cleared out of the way now … means the county gets a jump on (constructing) the new facilities,” said Marcia Caton Campbell, executive director of the Center for Resilient Cities.
During the summer, the county will build a new open-air picnic shelter east of the playground and a new restroom block on the site of the old park pavilion. The Center for Resilient Cities will add a new performance stage, energy-efficient lighting, pathways, a bioswale for storm-water management and about 50 trees. It will also renovate a T-ball field and a larger sports practice field for youth teams, Campbell said.
The Center for Resilient Cities, Milwaukee County Parks and Rotary Club of Milwaukee are partners in the initiative.
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Several new playground structures were added in Johnsons Park in an earlier phase of the reconstruction initiative. (Photo by Andrea Waxman)
Horace Tucker II, who has lived in the area for seven years, said the park is important for the neighborhood kids “to give them something to do and hopefully keep them safe.” Though he doesn’t use the park himself, Tucker said he welcomes all investments in the central city.
Miller Brown, who doesn’t live in the Johnsons Park neighborhood but uses the park, belongs to a men’s group that mentors boys and young men. In summer, “to keep them busy and out of trouble” his group sponsors games and speakers at Johnsons Park. Brown said he would like to see a new baseball diamond at the park some day.
Lindsay Heights residents Janet Williams, Schynitha Mills and Elnora Buckner said their children and grandchildren play in the park. Though they said they would like to see more outdoor grills, they were pleased to hear about the expanded picnic shelter that is planned.
Nora Golden, who lives near 14th and Brown streets, said she will appreciate the open-air shelter after having been robbed in the former enclosed pavilion.
Gradual improvements have been made to the park over the last five years. The idea for rehabilitating and reconstructing Johnsons Park was born around 2005, according to Jeff Rainwater, Milwaukee project director for the Center for Resilient Cities, who designed the plan. The center sought community input and the county developed and approved a concept plan.
“Then nothing really happened until 2009 when Milwaukee County and the City of Milwaukee partnered to remove some large earthen berms” that surrounded the park and obscured visibility within it and from the outside, Rainwater said.
Since then, the city and county have made other improvements including reconstructing the playground and adding swings. In 2010, as part of the Johnsons Park Initiative, the Center for Resilient Cities constructed a Nature Explore Outdoor Classroom at Brown Street Academy and redesigned Alice’s Garden, a two-acre urban farm that is part of Johnsons Park.
In addition, the center remediated the soil, enhanced drainage and added a pavilion, tool sheds, benches, picnic tables and grills. In partnership with Lake Park Lutheran Church, it also designed and installed a labyrinth that nurtures spiritual health and promotes cultural healing, according to the center’s Web site.
In 2011 and 2012, the Center for Resilient Cities renovated the Brown Street Academy schoolyard.
Rainwater said the construction budget for the initiative’s final phase, including some maintenance funds, is $1.23 million. In addition, the county has invested about $800,000. The overall cost of the initiative is $3.2 million, according to Mary McCormick, Rotary Club of Milwaukee executive director.
Based on the age and condition of the pavilion and restroom, Johnsons Park is “next in line” for capital improvements, said John Dargle, Milwaukee County Parks director.
While many community organizations have contributed to the project, the Rotary Club of Milwaukee played a critical role as the major fundraiser, Campbell said.
Rotary helped raise funds for the improvements to Brown Street Academy, and when the group decided to play a similar role in completing the Johnsons Park improvements, “we really achieved liftoff,” she added.
Other partners and planning participants include Johnsons Park Neighborhood Association, Walnut Way Conservation Corp., Alice’s Garden, Brown Street Academy, Running Rebels, NeuLife Community Development, Northside YMCA and LISC Milwaukee.

created: December 5, 2014


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
December 4, 2014


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On the Block: More than a haircut | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Matthew Wisla
December 5, 2014
Brandon Robins’ barber chair is often occupied by one of the youngsters from the Concordia neighborhood, and that’s just how Brandon likes it.


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Position available at Urban Anthropology | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Rick Petrie, Urban Anthropology Inc
December 8, 2014
(Photo by Adam Carr)
Cultural outreach person
Part time (initially). $21.00 hour.
Urban Anthropology Inc. is looking for a man or woman who loves cultural diversity to work with neighborhood residents and youth in the Lincoln Village Neighborhood with our various programs. This person MUST:
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This job will begin at approximately 12 hours a week and gradually increase until it becomes half-, three-quarters-, or full-time (per employee’s preference). In most cases, employee can make his/her own hours.
Send resume and cover letter to Rick Petrie at Urban Anthropology Inc. 707 W. Lincoln Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53215 or email resume to RickPetrie@gmail.com. Expect a response within two weeks (interview or other). Our website is www.urban-anthropology.org. Please check out website before applying.

created: December 8, 2014

author: Rick Petrie, Urban Anthropology Inc


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
December 8, 2014


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Residents ‘on board with positive changes’ in Washington Park | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
December 8, 2014
Washington Park resident Don Balentine (left) and Officer Steve Osmanski of the Milwaukee Police Department attended the recent annual gathering at Washington Park Partners. (Photo by Andrea Waxman)
About five years ago, Sherlon and Orlando Butler got fed up with the poor condition of some properties on the blocks surrounding their home at 44th and Garfield streets in Washington Park.
Determined to protect their property investment and the quality of life in the neighborhood, the Butlers, residents since 1992, contacted Washington Park Partners (WPP) for help identifying and reaching out to those landlords.
“We didn’t know of any other way to do it. We were concerned about the properties bringing down our neighborhood and we weren’t going to stand and let it happen,” Sherlon Butler said.
Washington Park resident Ellen Reed has raised two children and five grandchildren in the neighborhood. (Photo by Andrea Waxman)
That kind of assertive approach to community improvement was echoed by a number of residents who turned out for WPP’s recent annual gathering at Community Care, 3220 W. Vliet St.
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And like the Butlers, whose first contact with WPP led to involvement in many facets of the organization’s work, other attendees also said that their willingness to take action on one front blossomed into fuller community engagement.
“We are definitely on board with the positive changes that are happening around us,” said Sherlon Butler.
David Johnson grew up spending a lot of time in Washington Park. A homeowner in the Martin Drive neighborhood since 2009, Johnson said he has “always been committed to helping our neighborhoods become better places to live.”
Johnson was involved in implementing the Washington Park Quality of Life Plan since 2004 and recently has served as a “farmer in residence” for WPP, supporting community gardens in the neighborhood. That led to the chance “to serve as a mentor for one of the youth who wanted to learn about urban farming,” Johnson said.
Ellen Reed has lived on N. 42nd near Garfield Street for 33 years. She has raised two children and five grandchildren there and says she has “seen the neighborhood come and go,” but still loves where she lives.
She joined WPP because she wanted to see more residents involved in improving the neighborhood, especially in working with the police department. “I wanted to see something more happening instead of nothing happening and just see everything go down,” Reed said.
Washington Park residents Sherlon (left) and Orlando Butler got involved with Washington Park Partners about five years ago after seeking the organization’s help locating owners of neighboring properties. (Photo by Andrea Waxman)
Reed is concerned about safety, beauty, bringing in jobs and “seeing kids grow up and not be scared to walk around their own neighborhood,” she said.
Brother Don Balentine, an 18-year resident, said he got involved because he was looking for help for himself and other veterans in the community. He said he’s seen improvements in public safety, which he credits to the police department.
Among the awards presented at the gathering was the MetLife Foundation Community-Police Partnership Award for Excellence in Civic Engagement to Washington Park Partners, Milwaukee Police Department and Milwaukee County District Attorney’s Office. The MetLife Foundation and LISC Community Safety Initiative recognize innovative partnerships between community groups and police to promote neighborhood safety and revitalization across the nation. This year, Milwaukee received a record-setting three of 11 awards. A previous event in October honored award recipients in the Harambee and Riverwest neighborhoods.
WPP also presented awards to residents for contributions to the community. Rochelle Cooper, who has lived on N. 37th Street for 32 years, accepted an award for a neighbor of 30 years who was unable to attend. Cooper praised Washington Park Partners for its work in the neighborhood.
“I like the way it gives to the community. I don’t like promises,” Cooper said. “WPP has been pretty steady. They’ve been pretty accurate. They’ve also given us a lot of resources.”


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15767571438_d9ef4ab73d_o | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
December 7, 2014

created: December 7, 2014


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
December 7, 2014


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Chavez BID looking to dramatically transform historic street | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Edgar Mendez
December 9, 2014
A mixed-use library at 1135 S. Cesar Chavez Drive would be a catalyst for redevelopment in the area, proponents say. (Rendering courtesy of Eppstein Uhen Architects)
For Milwaukee’s Hispanic immigrants and native-born Latino population, Cesar E. Chavez Drive, formerly known as South 16th Street, has been a popular stop for decades. But, said Julio Maldonado, executive director of the Cesar E. Chavez Drive Business Improvement District (BID), “The street has never really been sold as a destination.” In other words, patrons don’t stay there for long.
Maldonado’s team is working to transform the long-stagnant business district, which runs between National and Greenfield avenues. Partners include nonprofits Journey House, the Clarke Square Neighborhood Initiative (CSNI) and Newaukee, as well as local businesses.
They’re calling it the “Farm Project” and the plan is to seed arts, culture and small businesses to turn the street into a lugar (place), where South Siders can say, “Me Gusta” (I like it). That’s the new slogan, and plans are in the works to place a statue of Chavez on the street and to activate open spaces on the street for arts and other public programming, among numerous projects. Cesar Chavez was a Mexican American civil rights leader and labor organizer who died in 1993.
Julio Maldonado, executive director of the Cesar E. Chavez Drive BID, said revitalizing the street would be a three-year process. (Photo by Edgar Mendez)
“We’re talking about churches holding public mass on the street; businesses having sidewalk sales,” said Jeremy Fojut, chief idea officer at Newaukee. Fojut has been working with the BID and other groups to plan and raise money for the project. Newaukee will fund an artist in residence, who will live on the street and work with business owners to create public art installations.
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The crown jewel of the new development would be a new library to replace Forest Home Library, 1432 W. Forest Home Ave., and named after Chavez. Organizers from Journey House, CSNI and Cardinal Capital Management Inc. put together a proposal for the new library, which would be located between Scott and Washington streets where Dental Associates of Milwaukee, 1135 S. Cesar E. Chavez Dr., is currently located. The proposal includes a mixed-use facility that would also house businesses and 51 residential apartments, most of which would serve youth transitioning out of the foster care system.
Gorman & Company, an Oregon, Wis.-based developer, has proposed repurposing a building at 9th and Mitchell streets to house the library as well as apartments.
Ian Bautista, executive director of CSNI, said it’s an exciting time to be a part of the neighborhood, adding that quality real estate such as the library would be a big boost for development in the area.
“It’d be a big draw with its close proximity to all the schools in the surrounding neighborhoods,” Bautista said.
The initiative evolved from small ideas to a catalytic project, said Maldonado. And big projects need big money. The goal is to raise at least $300,000, which excludes the cost of the library, and the fundraising is ongoing, Maldonado said.
If all goes as planned, the street will look drastically different within a few years. Maldonado hopes to unveil the statue of Chavez on May 15, the activist’s birthday.
“The library and other projects will help the business community and culture thrive on the street,” Maldonado said.

created: December 9, 2014


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Self-absorption and our future | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Della Wells
December 9, 2014
(Photo by Sonji Hunt)
Della Wells, an artist and community activist, argues that Americans’ self-absorption blinds us to the needs of others.
In 1968, Andy Warhol said, “In the future everybody will be famous for 15 minutes.” And individualism has been touted as one of the cornerstones that helped build the U.S. economy and spurred American innovation. Warhol’s prediction seems to be the current state of self-imposed reality and the notion of American individualism has never been more prevalent than it is today. Reality television, social media and other technology have animated Warhol’s assertion, and the notion of American individualism has fueled the current paradigm — the domination of self-absorption. And I am sick of it!
What bothers me most about our self-absorbed obsession is that it does not allow us to see others, situations or ourselves clearly. It blinds us to truth and to the reality of others. More importantly, it clouds our perceptions of ourselves. When this happens, it gives us permission to adopt a “kiss my grits” mentality. In other words, it fuels the notion that certain people are not valued in our society.
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This preoccupation with ourselves has distorted the cultural, economic and political climate in America. It divides us as a nation and it operates on the premise that if you think and act like I want you to, things will be okay. The problem with that logic is it only considers one perspective and feeling. When that happens, conflict can and will occur.
Many of the problems we face, such as racism, sexism, ageism, violence, corporate greed, economic inequality, etc. are rooted in this notion of self-absorption. Even poor customer service can be rooted in preoccupation with ourselves. Often the end result is angry outbursts, because we don’t feel heard.
However, our preoccupation with ourselves may not be totally our fault. Our childhoods and how we were parented may have contributed to this phenomenon. During the 1950s, the world-famous pediatrician Dr. Benjamin Spock influenced how the parents of the Baby Boomer generation raised their children, who in turn raised the millennial generation with the “every child gets a trophy” mentality. This may be a factor in why so many of us now believe our own hype.
Regardless of what factors contributed to our own self-importance, we must move beyond the limited parameters of ourselves and seek out various possibilities for good to make the world a better place for all and for future generations. If we don’t, we are doomed as a society. American individualism cannot flourish without the work and sacrifice of the American collective. Moreover, our 15 minutes of fame or glory will fade into the infinite pages of history, where our self-absorbed society may not even be remembered.

author: Della Wells


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
December 9, 2014


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LISC announces finalists for neighborhood development awards | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Sharon McGowan
December 10, 2014
Cecelia Gore (second from left), executive director at Brewers Community Foundation, presents the finalists for the Brewers Community Foundation Public Space Award. They are (from left) Larry Adams, director of environmental stewardship at Walnut Way Conservation Corp; Tim McCollow, HOME GR/OWN program manager, City of Milwaukee; Curtis Williams, Jacob Liptack, Blue Skies Crew lead and Jeremy Davis, environmental specialist, all of Walnut Way. (Photo by Andrea Waxman)
Fifteen local organizations are celebrating the announcement Wednesday that they are finalists in the MANDI (Milwaukee Awards for Neighborhood Development Innovation) competition.
Sponsored by U.S. Bank, in partnership with LISC Milwaukee, the MANDIs recognize individuals, organizations, and corporations who are improving conditions in Milwaukee’s central city neighborhoods. About 100 community leaders gathered at Botana’s Restaurant, 816 S. 5 St. to hear the announcement.
(From left) LaKetta Caldwell, senior program manager at Boys & Girls Club of Greater Milwaukee; Dionne Grayson, founder and executive director, Lead2Change; and Venice Williams, executive director at Alice’s Garden. (Photo by Andrea Waxman)
“The MANDIs celebrate Milwaukee’s diverse neighborhoods and the many passionate, committed residents and their partners working together to create a better future for themselves, their families and their communities,” said Leo Ries, executive director of LISC Milwaukee.
Three finalists were selected for each of five categories by a 40-member, independent, volunteer committee based on nominations from the public. A sixth category, the “Wells Fargo People’s Choice Award” will be awarded to three finalists who receive the most public votes during the month of April.
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Winners will be announced on April 15 at the Potawatomi Hotel and Casino. Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service is a media sponsor of the MANDIs.
Below are the finalists:
BMO Harris Bank Cornerstone Award
Northern Trust Navigator Award
PNC TrailBlazer Award
State Farm Building Blocks Award
Brewers Community Foundation Public Space Award

created: December 10, 2014

author: Sharon McGowan


text:
| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
December 10, 2014

author: Adam Carr


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Tips for safe online shopping | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Wisconsin Better Business Bureau
December 10, 2014
Online shopping offers convenience and a wide selection of holiday gifts, but shoppers need to be on the lookout for potential scams. (Photo by Molly Rippinger)
Online shopping is convenient because shoppers can avoid waiting in lines and are able to shop at any hour. However, you need to watch out for scams that can cost money or compromise your personal information.
Shoppers can prepare themselves for online shopping by browsing for the items they are seeking in advance and comparing prices. Read a site’s policies for returns and understand shipping policies before you enter your credit card number.
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) offers 10 tips for safe online shopping:
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War on poverty needs to be fought on new fronts, local experts say | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Brendan O’Brien
December 10, 2014
St. Ben’s Community Meal, a program of St. Benedict the Moor parish, provides dinner to impoverished Milwaukeeans six days a week. (Photo by Sue Vliet)
This is part of an ongoing series of articles that put a face on the poor in Milwaukee, 50 years after President Lyndon Johnson declared a “war on poverty.”
At night, a young Tonya Rogers patiently huddled with her nine older siblings hoping and praying that her father, a pastor in the inner city, would arrive home soon with enough food for them all to eat.
On some nights, the family made a meal by spreading honey or mayonnaise on the moldy bread he found digging in the garbage bins outside of the restaurant where he worked as a custodian. On Fridays, he brought food home from “pound night,” a weekly tradition at his church where parishioners would give him food items weighing one pound apiece.
“It was rough. It was a treat to have corn flakes and milk,” Rogers said. “On Friday night, pound night, we knew we would have corn flakes, sugar and milk. We would be so happy; (we’d) stay up watching [cartoons], eating.”
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Rogers, 60, a lifelong Milwaukeean who is now a pastor herself, has had a front-row seat to watch the impact President Lyndon B. Johnson’s War on Poverty has had on her city for the last 50 years. Rogers, who has run various food pantries and meal initiatives for the poor in Milwaukee, believes the war, for the most part, has been lost.
“There are a lot of people who are not getting the food and help that they need,” said Rogers, pastor at the Open Door International Ministries, located in Bethesda Senior Center, 2845 W. Fond du Lac Ave.
According to U.S. Census data, Rogers is correct. The data show the percentage of people who live in poverty has increased from 11 percent in 1969 to 28 percent currently in Milwaukee.
But the poverty rate does not tell the whole story of how anti-poverty programs such as Medicare and Medicaid, food stamps and Job Corps — all part of Johnson’s War on Poverty — have affected the city, according to Ken Taylor, executive director of the Wisconsin Council on Children and Families.
“For seniors, the War on Poverty has been incredibly successful,” Taylor said, noting that nationally the poverty rate for people 65 and older has dropped from 35 percent to 9 percent during the last five decades. “That’s because we collectively made big bets … in Social Security and Medicare.”
No data is available regarding children’s poverty in 1965. However, the current poverty rate for Milwaukee’s children is 43 percent. For them, the War on Poverty has failed, according to Taylor.
“Kids are the poorest portion of our society now,” Taylor said. “It is true that we have not eradicated poverty. In fact it has gotten worse. But the question is whether it’s the War on Poverty’s fault.”
Job exodus
Partly to blame is a great exodus of manufacturers from Milwaukee, starting in the 1970s. The city has never recovered from the negative impact that had on the labor market, Taylor noted. This would naturally impact children, whose parents rely on wages to support their families, much more than seniors, who are out of the job market, he said. The loss of manufacturing jobs partly explains the different trajectories of children and seniors in terms of poverty over the last couple decades in Milwaukee.
“I will be the first to admit that (the War on Poverty) has not been as successful as I would like it to be…that’s because it did not adjust and evolve in the way that it needed to in order to address the evolving economic challenges that people face,” Taylor said.
The definition of poverty complicates determining the impact of the War on Poverty on Milwaukee. Currently, people whose pre-tax cash income is less than three times the cost of a minimum food diet set by the U.S. government are considered living in poverty. The measure is updated each year to account for inflation, based on the Consumer Price Index, and adjusted for the composition of the household.
In recent years, experts have paid attention to alternative poverty indicators, such as the supplemental poverty measure, which take into account resources such as the Earned Income Tax Credit, housing assistance and food stamps, and adjusts for out-of-pocket medical and work expenses. These indicators suggest the War on Poverty has been more effective than the federal poverty measure implies, according to Geoffrey Wallace, a public affairs and economics professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
“Simply not taking into account those things (is) going to lead you to make the wrong conclusion about the effectiveness of those policies,” Wallace said. “You hear there’s a War on Poverty and poverty has won, but it’s more complex than that.”
Wallace’s grandfather was part of the massive migration of blacks to the north that began during the Great Depression. Wallace, who grew up in Milwaukee, said his grandfather was able to make a decent living working at Allis-Chalmers, a farm and construction equipment manufacturer, without a high school education. There were also plenty of manufacturing jobs in the city for his father’s generation in the late 1960s and early ‘70s, when many opted not to go to college, he said.
“But the bottom kind of fell out…so if that’s the choice you made, you were in trouble,” he said.
Another factor that has stymied the battle against poverty in Milwaukee is sweeping demographic changes in the metro area during the last 20 to 30 years. The middle class has moved out of the city and into the suburbs, increasing the concentration of poor in the inner city.
“If you grow up in inner city Milwaukee, you might not know very many people who have a job or you may not have access to people with a college education [or] many people outside of your neighborhood or your city,” Wallace said. “This is a form of social isolation that I think definitely is present and persistent in Milwaukee.”
One solution: education
Research suggests the way Milwaukee and other big cities can reduce poverty is to invest in early childhood education programs and education as a whole, according to Taylor, referring to work done by Jim Heckman, a Nobel Prize-winning economist at the University of Chicago. Heckman found that the highest rate of return in early childhood development, 7 to 10 percent annually, is realized when investing in children from birth to 5 years old.
“If we invest in that, we beat the stock market,” said Taylor, noting that state lawmakers instead have opted to disinvest in Wisconsin Shares, the state’s child care subsidy program. The program has lost $100 million in funding during the last five years, he said.
Taylor also calls on the business community to create jobs that come with livable wages that can support families. In the long run, higher wages create demand and drive the local economy, he said. Although the jury is still out on the affect increasing wages may have on jobs and the economy, a study by the Washington, D.C.-based Center for Economic Policy Research found evidence that raising the minimum wage would create jobs and provide a modest boost to the economy.
Taylor credits leaders of the faith community with helping to alleviate the effects of poverty in Milwaukee.
“They are where the soup kitchens are. They are where the homeless shelters are,” Taylor said.
Rogers said the entitlement system needs to be reformed to better serve poor childless and disabled adults. Rogers, who is single and has never had children, said she has been sickly her entire life and, at one point, needed food assistance.
“They would never give me help, none,” Rogers said. “I went to ask for assistance and they told me I needed to go get pregnant and have a baby and that’s how I can get help.”
Rogers said bureaucrats and politicians need to show more compassion when dealing with poor people.
“Some people are down on their luck…but they are made to feel lazy or messed up,” she said. “People don’t want to be in these situations.”

author: Brendan O’Brien


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poverty-pull-quote-i | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
December 9, 2014


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Library Board rejects redevelopment proposals for Forest Home Library | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Edgar Mendez
December 11, 2014
Proposals to redevelop the Forest Home Library, located at 1432 W. Forest Home Ave., in either the Clarke Square or the Historic Mitchell Street neighborhoods were rejected. (Photo by Edgar Mendez)
The City of Milwaukee Public Library’s (MPL) Building and Development Committee voted not to move forward with two proposals from groups that hoped to bring a new library to their neighborhood.
A press release from MPL offered little information explaining the decision, noting only that the committee had rejected the bids and “would move expeditiously towards a replacement of the library.”
A new development will eventually replace the aged and space-strapped Forest Home Library, 1432 W. Forest Home Ave., which was targeted for replacement in 2013. One of the rejected proposal calls for the library to fill a block on Cesar E. Chavez Drive between Scott and Washington Street in Clarke Square, where Dental Associates of Milwaukee is currently located.
Mayor Tom Barrett and Library Director Paula Kiely announced plans for the Milwaukee Public Library system in October 2013. (Photo by Maria Corpus)
Eric Schwenker, president of Cardinal Capital Management Inc., the firm that proposed the Chavez Drive library site, said he’d received no word on why the bid was rejected, but said his group hoped to continue discussions with the committee.
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Schwenker said he was dismayed that his group’s proposal was not selected, adding that he felt the proposal complied with the committee’s recommendations. He also said that it seemed that strong public support for the Chavez site was ignored.
“I can’t believe that the public voice had so little impact on the decision they made,” Schwenker said.
The other proposal would have resulted in the repurposing of the underused “Hills” building, 930 W. Mitchell St. The proposal called for a mixed-use development, featuring apartments on the upper floors. Gorman & Company, based in Oregon, Wis., led the Mitchell Street proposal and had support from Mitchell Street BID #4, according to executive director Nancy Bush. Gorman & Company president Tom Matkom declined comment on the decision.
The Chavez Drive proposal is a partnership between Cardinal Capital, Journey House and the Clarke Square Neighborhood Initiative (CSNI). Most of the 51 proposed apartments would have been leased to youth aging out of the foster care system. It was envisioned to be the crown jewel of the new development in progress on the street and was to be named after the street’s namesake, civil rights leader Cesar E. Chavez.
“I’m definitely disappointed,” said Ian Bautista, executive director of CSNI, although he said the decision doesn’t necessarily mean the Chavez Drive proposal was off the table. “There’s always a chance; we’ll see what steps they recommend going forward,” he said.
Bautista has said that development of a new library would be a boon to the many schools in the area.
Four public libraries will eventually be redeveloped at a cost of $4.5 million each.
There’s no word yet as to whether the board would consider either site moving forward. Library board members could not be reached for comment.

created: December 11, 2014


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Ben’s Cycle owner invests in future of Lincoln Village neighborhood | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Raina J. Johnson
December 12, 2014
Employees at Milwaukee Bicycle Company fix bicycles for customers. (Photo by Raina J. Johnson)
Ben’s Cycle & Fitness owner Vince Hanoski works on a bike at his store on Lincoln Avenue. (Photo by Paul Warloski)
For the past 22 years, Vince Hanoski, owner of Ben’s Cycle & Fitness at 1018 W. Lincoln Ave., has enjoyed renovating blighted buildings near the bicycle shop.
Hanoski’s newest acquisition is the former bakery at 1017 W. Lincoln Ave. He said he has no plans for it yet, but hopes to repurpose the building for residential and commercial use. Hanoski, 49, also owns the former Riviera theatre, and the building next to the theatre, which houses the Milwaukee Bicycle Company.
Despite his forays into real estate, the third-generation bicycle-store owner has no plans to leave the retail business. Ben’s Cycle was started in 1928 by Ben Hanoski, Vince’s grandfather, and it has always been located in the heavily Polish and Latino neighborhood of Lincoln Village.
The Hanoskis have renovated the bike shop together many times. “It’s a family tradition. “Working in retail is a lot of hours, [but] in the winter, we’re kind of slow so I like to work on other projects then,” Hanoski added.
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In addition to working with his father, Hanoski learned rehabbing in many “trial by fire” experiences when he acquired the old theatre across the street from the cycle shop, at 1013 W. Lincoln Ave., in 1999.
“Our business was growing faster than we expected. With the Internet booming in the early 2000s, our eBay, Inc. side of the business grew,” he said.
Renovating the theatre took a year. For months, Hanoski took truckloads full of garbage out of the building. He now uses the building as a warehouse, although pieces of the theatre are still very much intact. Visitors can see the stage, balcony seating and exposed Cream City brick. The “tres” ceiling is still painted in deep shades of green and purple, contrasting with the white walls.
The light fixtures in the warehouse were all made by Hanoski and a friend, using old bike frames. “I was going to buy chandeliers, but my buddy looked at me said, ‘No, we’re making them,’” Hanoski explained.
Milwaukee Bicycle Company sells bikes manufactured by Ben’s Cycle & Fitness. (Photo by Raina J. Johnson)
The theatre closed in 1955 and at one point it served as a warehouse for Goldmann’s, the former department store giant on Historic Mitchell Street. For years it was an eyesore on the bustling street.
“I didn’t want my customers seeing that,” said Hanoski. “I wanted to make an investment in the neighborhood.”
Hanoski’s efforts have contributed to improving the Lincoln Village neighborhood in recent years. “Vince’s investment in the neighborhood is refreshing; that area of Milwaukee has a rich history and a very bright future,” said Jeff Fleming, spokesperson for the Department of City Development.
Another of Hanoski’s real estate acquisitions was the building adjacent to the theatre, which now houses Milwaukee Bicycle Company, the retail outlet for bicycles manufactured by Ben’s Cycle. Hanoski knocked down a wall and built a doorway to connect the two spaces.
“The Milwaukee Bicycle Company line is our own line of bicycles: high quality steel bikes that we sell throughout the world,” said Paul Warloski, a spokesperson for Ben’s Cycle.
The creation of more bicycle lanes in the city and greater access to bike trials has spurred renewed energy in the cycling community, and Hanoski said he has had the opportunity to move to the East Side, “where the customers are,” but decided against it.
“Ben’s understands what their role in the neighborhood is,” said longtime customer and Milwaukee County judge Pedro A. Colón. “They’ve never lost focus. They’re doing business in a respectful way to the neighborhood.
“Ever since I bought my first bike in 1979, I’ve been going to Ben’s.”

created: December 12, 2014


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
December 11, 2014


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Civic Engagement Program Associate position open at Greater Milwaukee Foundation | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Greater Milwaukee Foundation
December 12, 2014
Civic Engagement Program Associate
For a century, the Greater Milwaukee Foundation has helped individuals, families and organizations realize their philanthropic goals and make a difference in the community, during their lifetimes and for future generations.
Through the generosity of our donors, the Foundation seeks to improve the quality of life in greater Milwaukee by strengthening education, increasing economic opportunities and building strong neighborhoods, all while promoting racial equity and inclusion. By forging partnerships, inspiring philanthropy and transforming challenge into opportunity, the Greater Milwaukee Foundation is an engine for positive change.
You can help us make a difference! The Civic Engagement Program Associate supports and coordinates public policy, advocacy, community convening and civic engagement efforts.
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Responsibilities include:
Qualifications:
Please share your resume and cover letter with us at: hrmailbox@greatermilwaukeefoundation.org
Equal Opportunity Employer

author: Greater Milwaukee Foundation


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On the Block: Homeless and faith-full | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Matthew Wisla
December 15, 2014
Sean, currently homeless in the Layton Boulevard West neighborhood, is committed to his faith and enjoys getting together with others to discuss religion.  We met up with him at Ebenezer Lutheran Church before a hot meal.  (Last name withheld at his request.)

created: December 15, 2014


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
December 14, 2014

created: December 14, 2014


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Youths go from ‘boys in the hood’ to ‘gentlemen on the town’ | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
December 15, 2014
Andre Lee Ellis (right) crosses the bridge on Juneau Street, along with 50 young men and boys and their mentors, on the way to Carson’s restaurant. (Photo by Sue Vliet)
One hundred men and boys, ranging from 6- to 79-years-old, milled around a large upstairs room at Redemption Fellowship Church on the North Side. In one corner, a barber was cutting a teen’s hair. Along a wall, racks of tuxedos hung in brown garment bags. A line of boys waited for a volunteer to pin blue boutonnieres onto their lapels. Boys and men sat at tables writing letters and sealing them in envelopes to present to each other at the end of the day.
This scene marked the final preparations for the latest event in Andre Lee Ellis’s “We Got This” grassroots program to support and mentor young black men in his neighborhood, around 9 and Ring streets. On Saturday afternoon, Ellis gathered the 50 young men and 50 mentors together, encouraged them to continue supporting each other and their community and led them onto two buses that took them downtown.
At Juneau Avenue east of the river, they disembarked and paraded across the bridge, amid cheers and chants of “black lives matter” to Carson’s Prime Steak & Famous Barbecue, 301 W. Juneau. There the tuxedo-clad “boys from the hood” became “gentlemen on the town.” Each young man was to sit with his mentor and enjoy a formal dinner, conversation and a bit of an etiquette lesson. An unnamed sponsor paid for the dinners, and each mentor covered the cost of his own and his mentee’s tuxedo rental.
K’Manuel Coleman (left) and Deonta Oscar Williams look grown up in their tuxedos. (Photo by Andrea Waxman)
Roshaun Collins, 13, a sixth-grader at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School and a member of Ellis’ “We Got This” group since last summer, summed up Ellis’ program.
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“People where we come from don’t make it far and Mr. Andre is showing us that we can,” Collins said.
Isaiah Lavender, 13, a seventh-grader at LaFollette School, 3239 N. 9th St., met Ellis while walking to a corner store last spring. Ellis asked him to join the group. Lavender said he enjoyed helping out in the neighborhood. “All the trash that’s on the ground, it didn’t look right.”
Dwight Willis, 14, another Lafollette student, met Ellis at school. Willis called Ellis “a good man,” adding, “[He] meets with us and talks about stuff like being respectful.” Willis said he “joined up early” with We Got This, working in the garden.
The dinner at Carson’s was the latest in a series of activities designed and carried out by Ellis since he started employing young men to maintain a neighborhood garden and clean up the community last summer.
Like the Pied Piper of Hamlin, the charismatic Ellis drew more and more young followers throughout the summer. He created a structured program, paying the young men $20 if they showed up before 8 a.m. and worked the whole morning. As his numbers grew, people began to notice.
Ellis dubbed the program “We Got This” on his Facebook page, and emphasized the need for the black community to support its own children. Ellis began to draw adult supporters who contributed money to pay the young men and to talk with them about their own experiences growing up in similar communities. Momentum grew throughout the summer and by the end of August more than 100 young men had joined in.
The program is less active with school in session but the young men keep in touch with Ellis and each other. Since summer ended, Ellis has taken them to a Brewers baseball game, to UWM to accept an award, and to see President Obama when he visited North Division High School in October.
The Rev. Anthony Caples, one of the mentors, found “We Got This” through Ellis’ Facebook page and started visiting the garden on Saturday mornings when there were just eight or nine participants. Caples noted that one-on-one mentoring relationships are necessary for young people to grow and flourish.
“I think this is the beginning of building community,” Caples said.


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3,000+ donated clothing items will help students at 6 MPS high schools stay warm | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Milwaukee Public Schools
December 16, 2014
Volunteers from MPS’ Washington High School of Information Technology and Koss Corporation help with the sorting and processing of donations before items head to schools
More than 3,000 items of brand-new, adult-size donated clothing will help students at six MPS high schools stay warm this winter.
NewThreads, a local nonprofit, is facilitating the donation from Harley-Davidson. The group provides new clothes to people in need thanks to manufacturer and retailer overstocks, lines from prior seasons and samples.
The donations are going to students at Bay View High School, Harry and Lynde Bradley Technology and Trade High School, James Madison Academic Campus, South Division High School, Harold S. Vincent High School and Washington High School of Information Technology. The six schools are large high schools with high percentages of students from lower-income families.
“This is an important donation for us because we often receive clothing for younger children but not always for our older students,” MPS social work coordinator Dena Radkte said. “High school students often walk to school or wait at bus stops, so having warmer clothes is crucial for them through the cold months to stay warm and stay in school.”
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Once the clothes are sorted and ready for distribution, C. Coakley Relocation Systems, Coakley Brothers and Graebel Moving and Warehouse Corp. are donating their services to transport the donation to the six high schools. The donations will be distributed to students before the winter break.
“We want to thank NewThreads of Hope, our volunteers, community members and the three moving companies for their commitment to making the lives of our young people better,” MPS Superintendent Dr. Darienne Driver said. “It means a lot to our students to know that there are countless adults in this community who care about them and want to see them succeed.”

created: December 16, 2014

author: Milwaukee Public Schools


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
December 16, 2014