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Worried about lead poisoning in Wisconsin? Here’s what you should know. | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Diana Butsko (Wisconsin Watch)
September 14, 2021
Nazir Al-Mujaahid, top, and his son Shu’aib, 9, sit on the front steps of their Milwaukee rental home on July 1, 2021. In 2017, a test detected 11.4 micrograms per deciliter in Shu’aib’s blood, which prompted the Milwaukee Health Department to warn the family in a letter that Shu’aib was lead poisoned. It wasn’t the first time that Shu’aib tested positive for lead poisoning. A 2014 test had flagged 6.4 micrograms per deciliter of lead in Shu’aib’s blood. No immediate follow up tests were scheduled, and Al-Mujaahid said he wasn’t notified. Credit: Isaac Wasserman / Wisconsin Watch
Leer en español: una versión traducida de este artículo está disponible debajo de la versión en inglés.
No level of lead is considered safe. Young children are particularly vulnerable to lead and may face higher levels of exposure because they often put their hands or other objects in their mouths, including paint chips. But drinking water can make up 20% of a person’s total exposure to lead, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency — or up to 60% for infants consuming mostly mixed formula. Children with elevated lead levels do not typically act sick, meaning blood tests are the only way to confirm a problem.
Adults can be lead poisoned, too. Lead is a particular concern for pregnant women because exposure could harm a developing fetus. If your child has elevated lead levels, get yourself tested, too.
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Most insurance plans cover lead testing. You may be asked to have a second test if the first one shows high lead levels.
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services recommends universal testing for children living in Milwaukee or Racine due to the high proportion of old, potentially hazardous housing in those communities. Those children should be tested at least three times before age 3 — at 1 year, 18 months and 2 years. Children ages 3 to 5 years should be tested annually if they meet at least one of the following criteria: they live in a home built before 1950 or one built before 1978 with recent or ongoing renovations; they have a sibling or playmate with lead poisoning; they are enrolled in the Medicaid or the Women, Infants and Children Nutrition Program or are uninsured; they have no record of a prior test.
Health care providers should weigh the above criteria when considering whether a child living outside of Milwaukee or Racine should be tested around ages 1 and 2 years, or between ages 3 and 6 years, DHS says. Find more details here.
If you or your child register elevated blood lead levels, find and remove the source of lead exposure.
The state mandates investigations and case management services for children only when one venous blood test detects at least 20 micrograms per deciliter of lead — or if two tests conducted at least 90 days apart find lead at 15 micrograms per deciliter. That’s higher than the 5-microgram threshold that the state defines as poisoning. Whether a local health department will intervene for lower levels of lead poisoning depends on their caseload and resources, according to DHS.
Even without a formal investigation, you can seek repairs to an aging home, including by removing any lead-based paint. To limit the risk of tracking lead-tainted soil or dust into a home, remove your shoes before entering.
Wisconsin’s Lead-Safe Homes Program helps qualifying families repair their homes to make them lead-safe. More information is available here.
The Milwaukee Health Department offers tips for lead-safe home renovations here.
The department also provides free drinking water filter starter kits to Milwaukee families that meet certain criteria, which you can find here. Additionally, you can find drinking water filters certified to remove lead — look for NSF/ANSI Standard 53 — at hardware and home goods stores and online.
See this previous Wisconsin Watch story for additional tips on limiting lead risks from drinking water.
Foods high in calcium, iron and vitamin C may help limit lead absorption in the body, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
This article first appeared on WisconsinWatch.org and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.
Ningún nivel de plomo se considera seguro. Los niños pequeños son particularmente vulnerables al plomo y pueden enfrentar niveles más altos de exposición porque a menudo se llevan las manos u otros objetos a la boca, incluidas las virutas de pintura. Pero el agua potable puede representar el 20% de la exposición total de una persona al plomo, según la Agencia de Protección Ambiental de EE. UU., O hasta el 60% para los bebés que consumen principalmente fórmula mixta. Los niños con niveles elevados de plomo no suelen actuar como si estuvieran enfermos, lo que significa que los análisis de sangre son la única forma de confirmar un problema.
Los adultos también pueden intoxicarse con plomo. El plomo es una preocupación particular para las mujeres embarazadas porque la exposición podría dañar al feto en desarrollo. Si su hijo tiene niveles elevados de plomo, hágase la prueba también.
La mayoría de los planes de seguro cubren las pruebas de plomo. Es posible que le pidan que se haga una segunda prueba si la primera muestra niveles altos de plomo.
El Departamento de Servicios de Salud de Wisconsin recomienda pruebas universales para los niños que viven en Milwaukee o Racine debido a la alta proporción de viviendas antiguas y potencialmente peligrosas en esas comunidades. Esos niños deben hacerse la prueba al menos tres veces antes de los 3 años: al año, a los 18 meses y a los 2 años. Los niños de 3 a 5 años deben someterse a pruebas anualmente si cumplen al menos uno de los siguientes criterios: viven en una casa construida antes de 1950 o una construida antes de 1978 con renovaciones recientes o en curso; tienen un hermano o compañero de juegos con intoxicación por plomo; están inscritos en Medicaid o en el Programa de nutrición para mujeres, bebés y niños o no tienen seguro; no tienen registro de una prueba anterior.
Los proveedores de atención médica deben sopesar los criterios anteriores al considerar si un niño que vive fuera de Milwaukee o Racine debe hacerse la prueba alrededor de las edades de 1 y 2 años, o entre las edades de 3 y 6 años, dice el DHS. Encuentre más detalles aquí.
Si usted o su hijo registran niveles elevados de plomo en sangre, busque y elimine la fuente de exposición al plomo.
El estado exige investigaciones y servicios de administración de casos para niños solo cuando una prueba de sangre venosa detecta al menos 20 microgramos por decilitro de plomo, o si dos pruebas realizadas con al menos 90 días de diferencia encuentran plomo en 15 microgramos por decilitro. Eso es más alto que el umbral de 5 microgramos que el estado define como envenenamiento. El hecho de que un departamento de salud local intervenga por niveles más bajos de envenenamiento por plomo depende de su número de casos y recursos, según el DHS.
Incluso sin una investigación formal, puede buscar reparaciones en una casa vieja, incluso quitando cualquier pintura a base de plomo. Para limitar el riesgo de rastrear tierra o polvo contaminado con plomo en una casa, quítese los zapatos antes de entrar.
El programa de viviendas a prueba de plomo de Wisconsin ayuda a las familias que califican a reparar sus casas para que sean seguras con el plomo. Más información está disponible aquí.
El Departamento de Salud de Milwaukee ofrece consejos para renovaciones de viviendas seguras con el plomo aquí.
El departamento también proporciona kits de inicio de filtros de agua potable gratuitos a las familias de Milwaukee que cumplen con ciertos criterios, que puede encontrar aquí. Además, puede encontrar filtros de agua potable certificados para eliminar el plomo (busque la Norma 53 de NSF / ANSI) en ferreterías y tiendas de artículos para el hogar y en línea.
Consulte esta historia anterior de Wisconsin Watch para obtener consejos adicionales sobre cómo limitar los riesgos de plomo en el agua potable.
Los alimentos con alto contenido de calcio, hierro y vitamina C pueden ayudar a limitar la absorción de plomo en el cuerpo, según el Departamento de Agricultura de EE. UU.


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lead_milwaukee_05 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
September 13, 2021

source: news-milwaukeenns

created: September 13, 2021

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

author: Dwayne Burtin


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BBB Warning: Update software to help prevent ransomware | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Lisa Schiller, Better Business Bureau of Wisconsin
September 15, 2021
Editor’s note: Posts from the Community is the place for community announcements and event postings. If you have a community-oriented event you feel our readers would be interested in, please submit here.
The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) along with the FBI recommend consumers and businesses take steps to protect electronic devices against cyber attacks. Ransomware attacks are becoming a regular occurrence, locking computers and networks using file encryption software, with hackers demanding payment by Bitcoin or other non-traceable crypto-currency to release the data. The attack typically enters through a phishing email and then spreads to other machines on the same network.
BBB joins with the National Cyber Security Alliance in suggesting the following cyber hygiene defenses:
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Businesses need to take special precautions when it comes to protecting their customers’ information. One of the BBB Standards for Trust is “Safeguard Privacy: Protect any data collected against mishandling and fraud, collect personal information only as needed, and respect the preferences of consumers regarding the use of their information.”
BBB recommends the following cybersecurity tips for U.S. small businesses.
Consumers can learn more about avoiding scams and fraud at 10 Steps to Avoid Scams.

created: September 15, 2021


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Coggs Center resumes full-time in-person service for first time since March 2020 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Sam Woods
September 15, 2021
Up until this week, the Marcia P. Coggs Human Services Center had only been open part time for in-person support for services like applying to FoodShare. This led to long lines, with some residents lining up as early as three hours before the center opened to ensure they got the help they needed. (Photo by Sam Woods)
The Marcia P. Coggs Human Services Center reopened this week for full-time in-person service for the first time since March 2020, when COVID-19 precautions forced it to pursue more remote options.
This means that Milwaukee County residents looking for in-person support with services ranging from mail pickup for those who are homeless to applying for FoodShare and child care subsidies can now get the support they need from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Coggs Center, 1220 W. Vliet St.
The Coggs Center had part-time in-person assistance because of concerns for staff safety. Tonya Evans, bureau director for Milwaukee Enrollment Services, said during that time, residents could still get assistance over the phone and online. Milwaukee Enrollment Services manages programs that serve low-income Milwaukee County residents.
Community leaders, including the Democrats in the state Legislature who represent the county, said that although the health and safety of staff is a valid concern, the limited hours made it difficult for residents to receive much-needed services.
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In a letter dated Aug. 26, addressed to Karen Timberlake, the interim secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, State Rep. Supreme Moore Omokunde said  the reduced hours created “logistical nightmares.”
When Eric Jefferson, for example, got a letter in May informing him that he would need to submit new documentation to prove his continued eligibility for FoodShare, he wanted to start the process as soon as possible.
“That letter they send you saying you need to reapply has an underlying threat: You’re about to get cut off,” Jefferson said of FoodShare, which pays for groceries for low-income residents.
Jefferson said he went to the Coggs Center after receiving the letter, but when he got there, he found the doors were locked and information about the building’s hours had “conflicting messages.” He tried calling but was put on hold and unable to get through, wasting minutes on his phone at a time when he did not have many to spare.
After submitting his application twice, one by faxing it from the library and another online with the help of his wife, Jefferson was able to get FoodShare benefits. However, he and his wife went two months without them, even though they were qualified, in part because Jefferson could not complete his application without in-person help.
Jefferson said he has a learning disability that makes it difficult to follow instructions because his mind rearranges the order the instructions come in. He said he can complete instructions quicker and without mistakes if someone helps him.
Had he been able to receive in-person support at the Coggs Center, Jefferson thinks many of his difficulties with applying would have been avoided.
“It’s not just about my constraints and how to address them but also about the constraints of a system that wants to find ways to exclude people,” he said. “Our financial situation is worse now than in May.”
Moore Omokunde said the issue is not “about pointing fingers and playing the blame game” but is “about creating a culture of accountability.” He said he respected state officials for “protecting workers and finding a way to open full time.”
Evans said the Coggs Center will have limited staff available for in-person assistance full-time going forward and is expanding its remote support options.
“We learned during the pandemic that it is better for our customers, at least timewise, to provide them with the telephone option, computer option and mobile app option,” she said. “It also ensures customers are safe.”

author: Sam Woods


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51440938508_4477c9b780_k | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
September 14, 2021

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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
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September 14, 2021


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PHOTOS: NNS has the best-looking readers. For real. | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
September 15, 2021
We came. We saw. And we are showing you off.
Here are our photos from the Silver City International Festival 2021, featuring our orange couch and our beautiful community. We had a wonderful time getting to meet wonderful neighbors and seeing so many smiling faces.
Thanks for stopping by!
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!

author: Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service


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Post from Community: It’s never too late to enroll at MATC; Spaces remain in courses beginning in September and October | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Milwaukee Area Technical College
September 15, 2021
Editor’s note: Posts from the Community is the place for community announcements and event postings. If you have a community-oriented event you feel our readers would be interested in, please submit here.
Feel like you missed the boat enrolling in college this fall? Great news! It’s not too late to enroll in a Milwaukee Area Technical College this semester. MATC offers many twelve- and eight-week courses in a variety of programs beginning later in September and October.
These classes offer the same level of instruction as traditional 16-week courses, but in a compressed format, allowing students to achieve their educational goals more quickly.
MATC is working to offer a greater number of shorter-term courses in the future, with a goal of delivering 60 percent in eight- and twelve-week formats by 2024.
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Not an MATC student? Start at matc.edu/apply. Already an MATC student? Visit matc.edu/register. Both pages have a link to search available classes. Search for twelve-week courses by entering Sept. 19 as a starting date and discover eight-week courses by entering a start date of Oct. 17.
For more information, call 414-297-6282 and press “1” or visit any MATC campus.
Wisconsin’s largest technical college and one of the most diverse two-year institutions in the Midwest, Milwaukee Area Technical College is a key driver of southeastern Wisconsin’s economy and has provided innovative education in the region since 1912. More than 30,000 students per year attend the college’s four campuses and community-based sites or learn online. MATC offers affordable and accessible education and training opportunities that empower and transform lives in the community. The college offers more than 170 academic programs; and transfer options leading to bachelor’s degrees with more than 40 four-year colleges and universities. Overwhelmingly, MATC graduates build careers and businesses in southeastern Wisconsin. The college is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

author: Milwaukee Area Technical College


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Post from Community: Milwaukee native Maricha Harris to lead Amani’s Dominican Center | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dominican Center
September 15, 2021
Editor’s note: Posts from the Community is the place for community announcements and event postings. If you have a community-oriented event you feel our readers would be interested in, please submit here.
The Dominican Center has announced that Maricha M. Harris, a Milwaukee native, will take on the role Executive Director of the organization, which is dedicated to working with residents and partners in Milwaukee’s Amani neighborhood to build a better future. “I’m humbled, honored and grateful for this opportunity,” said Harris. “I’m excited to work alongside DC staff, Amani United, community partners and other stakeholders to continue moving the important work that’s happening forward.”
(Photo provided by Dominican Center)
Harris comes to DC from Safe & Sound, where she managed the day-to-day operations of the $2.5 million nonprofit. The position afforded her with fiscal, human resource and operational responsibilities. Additionally, Harris brings 12 years of experience to the role and has served at Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Wisconsin, Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS), Silver Spring Neighborhood Center, Trini-Dad’s Child Development Center and as a Licensed Realtor with Coldwell Banker Realty. “Throughout my progressive career, I have leveraged my communications, relationship building and leadership skills to achieve results,” said Harris.
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Harris takes the leadership torch from Interim Executive Director Denisha Tate-McAlister, who has served as DC’s leader since the retirement of Sr. Patricia Rogers, OP in June. “Working with DC and the Amani Neighborhood has been exciting, inspiring, challenging and rewarding. We have many accomplishments to be proud of and several opportunities we have yet to realize. But the work of the residents, partners and supporters has been life changing!” said Tate-McAlister. “Amani means peace. It is with peace of mind that I welcome the new Executive Director of DC, Maricha Harris, to her role. I pass the torch with pride and promise. I am excited about where she will go, what she will experience, and how the community will embrace her as she loves them.”
And the Amani Community has a lot of love to give. Barbara Smith, DC Board member, Amani United leader, and longtime Amani resident, welcomes Harris to the neighborhood and wishes her well. “Congratulations and welcome to the Amani and DC family,” Smith said. “Sometimes walking into the unknown can seem a bit scary or intimidating, but please be assured that because you have joined a strong family, we are all here together to build greatness.”
Harris, who grew up in Milwaukee, sees this opportunity to serve the community where she grew, studied and worked to progress change. “This is a full circle moment for me. Growing up, I lived in neighborhoods that faced significant challenges. And while I remember those challenges, I also remember resilience, strength and the beauty that lives within our neighborhoods,” she said. “There are so many assets in our community – right here in Amani and 53206.”

author: Dominican Center


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
September 15, 2021


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Six programs to check out if you want to be financially fit | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ana Martinez-Ortiz
September 16, 2021
Organizations such as Riverworks Financial Clinic offers financial literacy programs to individuals seeking to increase their financial education. (Photo by Ana Martinez-Ortiz)
Leer en español: una versión traducida de este artículo está disponible debajo de la versión en inglés.
When it comes to finances, it can be hard to know where to start. Being financially savvy takes work, but it’s not impossible.
Through group sessions and one-on-one coaching, individuals can learn how to budget, manage their credit score, create healthy spending habits, manage their finances and more.
Below is a list of organizations and programs that help people become financially literate.
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Did we miss a program or organization that offers financial literacy courses? Comment below or send an email to amartinez-ortiz@milwaukeenns.org with the subject line “Financial Literacy program.”
1. Social Development Commission
The Social Development Commission offers financial programs to low-income residents. The organization has a financial literacy coach program where individuals can learn how to create a budget, reduce debt, plan for retirement and more.
2. Walnut Way
Walnut Way has the “Community Wealth Building Campaign.” The program focuses on cultivating people’s skills instead of focusing on their deficits. Individuals learn how to use their skills to tackle their issues while helping to strengthen the neighborhood’s economy. Free monthly workshops are offered online. For more information, contact Chandra Ellis at cwb@walnutway.org.
3. YWCA Southeast Wisconsin
YWCA Southeast Wisconsin has a personal financial management class where individuals learn about budgeting, credit building, saving techniques and more. The organization offers individual coaching sessions for free. To sign up, click here. Read: 8 things you should know about credit.
4. Journey House
Journey House has a financial opportunity center, which offers career and personal financial services support to individuals with low to moderate incomes. The financial coaching and education aspects of the program help individuals develop money management skills, understand credit and create smart spending habits.
5. Milwaukee Financial Navigator Program
The City of Milwaukee is offering the financial navigator program in partnership with Riverworks Development Corporation. During the individualized sessions, financial coaches will help people identify their top financial concerns and how to address them. Read: NNS Spotlight: Riverworks clinic teaches clients financial literacy.
6. Wisconsin Women’s Business Initiative Corporation
The Wisconsin Women’s Business Initiative Corporation, also referred to as WWBIC, helps entrepreneurs and business owners as well as individuals looking to improve their financial literacy. The organization offers online workshops such as “Make Your Money Talk” and “Get Your Money Up 2.0.” The calendar of courses can be found here. For more info, call 414-263-5450.
Cuando se trata de finanzas, puede ser difícil saber por dónde empezar. Ser conocedor de las finanzas requiere trabajo, pero no es imposible.
A través de sesiones grupales y coaching individual, las personas pueden aprender cómo hacer un presupuesto, administrar su puntaje de crédito, crear hábitos de gasto saludables, administrar sus finanzas y más.
A continuación se muestra una lista de organizaciones y programas que ayudan a las personas a adquirir conocimientos financieros.
¿Perdimos algún programa u organización que ofrece cursos de educación financiera? Comente a continuación o envíe un correo electrónico a amartinez-ortiz@milwaukeenns.org con el asunto “Programa de educación financiera”.
1. Social Development Commission
The Social Development Commission ofrece programas financieros a residentes de bajos ingresos. La organización tiene un programa de asesores de educación financiera donde las personas pueden aprender a crear un presupuesto, reducir deudas, planificar su jubilación y más.
2. Walnut Way
Walnut Way tiene la “Campaña de fomento de la riqueza comunitaria”. El programa se enfoca en cultivar las habilidades de las personas en lugar de enfocarse en sus deficiencias. Las personas aprenden a usar sus habilidades para abordar sus problemas mientras ayudan a fortalecer la economía del vecindario. Se ofrecen talleres mensuales gratuitos en línea. Para obtener más información, comuníquese con Chandra Ellis en cwb@walnutway.org .
3. YWCA Southeast Wisconsin
YWCA Southeast Wisconsin tiene una clase de administración financiera personal donde las personas aprenden sobre presupuestos, creación de crédito, técnicas de ahorro y más. La organización ofrece sesiones de coaching individuales de forma gratuita. Para registrarse, haga clic aquí . 8 cosas que debes saber sobre el crédito
4. Journey House
Journey House tiene un centro de oportunidades financieras, que ofrece apoyo profesional y servicios financieros personales a personas con ingresos bajos a moderados. Los aspectos de capacitación y educación financiera del programa ayudan a las personas a desarrollar habilidades de administración del dinero, comprender el crédito y crear hábitos de gasto inteligentes.
5. Milwaukee Financial Navigator Program
La ciudad de Milwaukee ofrece el programa de navegación financiera en asociación con Riverworks Development Corporation. Durante las sesiones individualizadas, los asesores financieros ayudarán a las personas a identificar sus principales preocupaciones financieras y cómo abordarlas. NNS Spotlight: La clínica Riverworks enseña a los clientes conocimientos financieros
6. Wisconsin Women’s Business Initiative Corporation
Wisconsin Women’s Business Initiative Corporation, también conocida como WWBIC, ayuda a los empresarios y propietarios de negocios, así como a las personas que buscan mejorar su educación financiera. La organización ofrece talleres en línea como “Make Your Money Talk” y “Get Your Money Up 2.0”. El calendario de cursos se puede encontrar aquí . Para obtener más información, llame al 414-263-5450.

created: September 16, 2021

author: Ana Martinez-Ortiz


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What you need to know about increased FoodShare benefits in October | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Sam Woods
September 16, 2021
FoodShare benefits are increasing permanently starting Oct. 1. FoodShare can be used to purchase food at grocery stores or at some farmers markets. (File photo by Dwayne Burtin)
Leer en español: Lo que necesita saber sobre el aumento de los beneficios de FoodShare en octubre
FoodShare recipients should see another bump in benefits, starting Oct. 1, that will continue through at least Sept. 30, 2022.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has set a 25% increase in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits, or SNAP, compared to pre-pandemic levels.
However, FoodShare recipients in Wisconsin currently receiving the maximum amount of benefits per month will get only about 6% more benefits per month than they will receive in September.
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This is due to current temporary increases in FoodShare benefits expiring on Sept. 30. This increase began in January and was set to expire at the end of this month.
A breakdown of the maximum amount FoodShare recipients are receiving now compared to what they will receive in October by household size is below:
Recipients receiving less than the maximum amount per month will see their benefits increase by up to 6% compared to now, but the exact amount will vary on factors including monthly income.
Households currently receiving FoodShare are also currently receiving additional emergency benefits that total either an additional $95 or enough to bring them up to the maximum amount for their household size, whichever increase is greater.
This additional benefit is approved monthly by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, based both on whether the federal and state public health emergencies are in effect and that one of the following conditions are met:
Currently, both the federal and state public health emergencies are still in effect. However, this is not guaranteed to be true when the program is under review for October.
Elizabeth Goodsitt, communications specialist at the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, said in an email that benefit increases are due to cost-of-living adjustments that are conducted annually and are unrelated to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The cost-of-living adjustments are the first change to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s formula for calculating the cost of food in 45 years.


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5 things to do and know the weekend of Sept. 17 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ana Martinez-Ortiz
September 17, 2021
Ald. Ashanti Hamilton and Ald. Khalif Rainey are inviting people to attend the fourth annual “Promise Zone Bike Ride.” (NNS file photo by Stephanie Harte)
It’s Friday in Milwaukee, and here are some things we think you should know.
If you would like your event to be considered for this column, please email info@milwaukeenns.org and put “5 things” in the subject line by noon Thursday.
1. Family movie night in Johnsons Park: “Space Jam”: Friday, Sept. 17
Friends of Johnsons Park and Alice’s Garden Urban Farm are hosting a family movie night. The event is free and open to the public. The groups will screen “Space Jam” at Johnsons Park, 2222 N. 19th St., at 7 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 17.
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2. Fourth annual Promise Zone Bike Ride: Saturday, Sept. 18
Ald. Ashanti Hamilton and Ald. Khalif Rainey are hosting the fourth annual “Promise Zone Bike Ride.” The bike ride takes participants through the 30th Street Corridor. The ride is five miles long and is family-friendly and slow paced. It will begin at Garden Homes Park, 2600 W. Atkinson Ave., at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 18. Click here to register for the event. DreamBikes will be offering tune ups before the event. A limited number of bikes will also be available to rent. For more details call Sarah Bregant at 414-444-8200, Ext. 8104 or via email at sarah.b@nwscdc.org
3. “Re-entry Unblemished” resource fair and panel discussion: Saturday, Sept. 18
Milwaukee County Board Supervisor Sequanna Taylor (District 2) and All of US or None are hosting “Re-entry Unblemished.” The event is for individuals seeking information on how to re-enter society. There will be presentations from local leaders involved in the re-entry movement, including Judge Derek Mosley, Megan Morrisey of the Milwaukee Justice Center Mobile Legal Clinic and others. The event will take place at All of Us or None, 2821 N. Vel R. Phillips Ave., at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 18.
4. A Summer of Healing final summer event: Saturday, Sept. 18
The City of Milwaukee Office of Violence Prevention is hosting its final “Summer of Healing” event this weekend. The focus is suicide prevention, awareness and healing. The event will take place in Sherman Park, 3000 N. Sherman Blvd., from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 18.
5. Ayuda Mutua MKE’s tacos y senderos/tacos and trails: Sunday, Sept. 19
Ayuda Mutua MKE is inviting the community to come out for tacos y senderos or tacos and trails. The group will be taking a guided walk along Hank Aaron Trail to learn about plants, connect to nature and explore. Kompali Taqueria will provide lunch following the walk. The group plans to meet at the Escuela Verde Newline Cafe, 3618 W. Pierce St., at noon on Sunday, Sept. 19.
Bonus: “Rock Da Block” concert and book bag giveaway: Saturday, Sept. 18
Dream Team United MKE is hosting “Rock Da Block,” a concert and book bag giveaway event. There will be free groceries, resources, a cookout and more. Masks and social distancing are required. The event will take place on the corner of North 35th and West Center streets from noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 18. The African American Roundtable and V100.7 are sponsoring the event.
Bonus 2: Near West Side Week: Monday, Sept. 13 to Saturday, Sept. 18
Near West Side Partners is hosting Near West Side Week through Saturday, Sept. 18. Each day features different events, which can be found here. Visit Near West Side restaurants, take historic and mural walking tours, enjoy movie night in the park and more. In case you missed it: OPINION: We created a support system during the pandemic. And we must keep it going.

created: September 17, 2021


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
September 16, 2021


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LIVING LEGENDS: How Sister Patricia Rogers became a quiet force to be reckoned with in the Amani community | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ana Martinez-Ortiz
September 17, 2021
“Once they see that their voice mattes, they’re more emboldened to be active,” Sister Patricia Rogers says of Amani residents. (Photo by Ana Martinez-Ortiz)
This is part of an occasional series of stories that honor members of Milwaukee’s vibrant senior community.
Sister Patricia Rogers, 72, believes in the power that comes from having high expectations for people.
As a child, she grew up in Arkansas, where her mother was an active member of the NAACP and fondly dubbed “the Rosa Parks of Fort Smith.” Rogers and her siblings would often attend protests and carry picket signs. In high school, Rogers’ involvement increased.
The NAACP called Rogers’ mother and asked her if the family would help integrate a local high school. During her senior year, Rogers, along with seven other Black students, attended the local white high school.
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“It was nothing like the Little Rock Nine,” Rogers said. “We didn’t have people outside the school protesting or anything like that. The biggest thing was that they had no expectations whatsoever. Every teacher was surprised if we could do something.”
Two years later, the two high schools integrated, with the middle schools following shortly after. Her experiences integrating a school informed her later work, where she learned if she sets high expectations, people will rise to meet them.
Rogers retired in June after serving 10 years as executive director of the Dominican Center, a neighborhood organization that serves as an anchor in the Amani neighborhood and focuses on housing, safety, economic development and other initiatives.
Under her leadership, the center is credited with addressing community needs by hosting neighborhood cleanups, mobile food pantries and the resident-led Moody Park revitalization, among other projects.
This week, the center announced that Maricha M. Harris, a Milwaukee native, will succeed Rogers as executive director. Previously, Harris worked for Safe & Sound, where she managed the day-to-day operations of the $2.5 million nonprofit.
In a news release that discussed her retirement, Rogers said:
“Through honesty and hard work, we learned to trust the other and a lifetime bond was developed. Parting does not always mean goodbye. I am sure we will find ways to stay connected because we share a heart.”
‘God, you have the wrong number’
Rogers was teaching at a Catholic school in Chicago when she had a dream.
At the time, the school had several African American teachers, a mostly white staff consisting of white sisters and a predominately Black student population. There were no expectations for the students, Rogers recalled, and some would often show up in house slippers with rollers in their hair.
Rogers said she kept asking God to send some Black sisters to the school.
One day, Rogers wasn’t feeling well, so she stayed home. As she slept, she had a nightmare that the oven was on fire, and a voice spoke to her, saying, “What about you?”
“Instinctively, I got up, because I knew what the question was about,” Rogers said. “I got up and went to the phone book. I looked in the phone book, and there was five other Patricia Rogers listed, and I said: ‘God, you have the wrong number.’”
Rogers, who had grown up Episcopalian, had never thought about being a sister. And she’d never seen a Black one.
Despite her apprehension, Rogers made a deal with God: If the sisters accepted her, she would become one. But if not, she had tried her best.
Staying on the stage
The Dominican Sisters of Sinsinawa did accept her, and through them, Rogers worked in various cities throughout the country, including in New Orleans when Hurricane Katrina occurred.
Although Rogers offered to stay with the Sisters of the Holy Family and help it rebuild a school, she was instead offered the position of executive director of the Dominican Center.
“The stage was set,” Rogers said. “My job was not to fall off the stage.”
As executive director, Rogers listened to the residents and let them lead the conversation. The residents are the experts in their community, she said. She learned that residents preferred programs that came from within the community over ones that came to the community.
Moody Park, for example, had been an eyesore for years, Rogers said, and when the county made plans to restore it, residents made their voices heard.
“Once they see that their voice mattes, they’re more emboldened to be active,” Rogers said.
Barbara Smith, a longtime Amani resident and former president of the resident-led community group Amani United, recalled first seeing Rogers at an alderperson forum hosted by the Dominican Center. As Smith learned more about Amani United and the Dominican Center, she began to interact more with Rogers.
Rogers appears to be quiet and reserved, but she is open and ready to assist, Smith said. When Amani United began its revitalization program, community partners would turn to Rogers, who, in turn, steered them toward the residents, Smith recalled.
“She wants the residents to tell their own story because this is not where she resides, it is where she’s employed,” Smith said.
When Rogers gives someone a task, she equips them with the necessary tools, Smith said. It was Rogers’ belief in her skills that encouraged Smith to get more involved in the community.
“Sometimes, it’s just her voice and her stature that gives me the assurance,” Smith said.
Although Rogers has retired, she said residents know if they need her, she’s only a phone call away.
“The Amani community and residents truly love Sister Patricia for her genuine love and concern she has for the residents,” Smith said. “It’s nothing false or phony; she was and is concerned for the community and the residents as well.”
As for Rogers, she’s pleased to see that other organizations are putting residents in the driver’s seat.
“People are getting that we have to listen first and then act with the people, not for the people, to get things done,” Rogers said.


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Post from Community: Petition to increase investment in Milwaukee’s youth | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Beyond the Bell Coalition
September 19, 2021
Editor’s note: Posts from the Community is the place for community announcements and event postings. If you have a community-oriented event you feel our readers would be interested in, please submit here.
Members of Beyond the Bell have launched an advocacy campaign to invest adequate ARPA dollars in Milwaukee’s youth. We are going to have the petition open for people to sign the rest of this month.  Here is the information:
The Beyond the Bell Coalition is calling for the City of Milwaukee to invest a minimum of $30 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to help meet the needs of young people in Milwaukee. Over 40% of our City’s population is 24 years old or younger, and they have been severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and systemic underinvestment.
You’re invited to sign this letter of support for this investment and to share this message with your family, friends, and other networks to sign.
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created: September 19, 2021

author: Beyond the Bell Coalition


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5 things to know this week in Milwaukee: Sept. 20 to Sept. 25 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ana Martinez-Ortiz
September 20, 2021
Clean Slate Milwaukee and COA Youth & Family Centers are hosting a restoration summit for individuals who have a criminal record or who are currently on parole. (NNS file photo by jabril yousef faraj)
It’s Monday in Milwaukee, and here are some things we think you should know about. If you would like your event to be considered for this column, please email info@milwaukeenns.org and put “5 things” in the subject line by noon Thursday.
1. Milwaukee Recreation: Mil-WALK-ee: Tuesday, Sept. 21 and Thursday, Sept. 23
Milwaukee Recreation’s Mil-WALK-ee program is back for the fall. The program is free to join and those interested in the program can register here. This week, the walking club will be meeting at Valentine Coffee, 5918 W. Vliet St., from 10 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 21 and at the Mitchell Park Domes, 524 S. Layton Blvd., from 10 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. on Thursday, Sept. 23.
2. COA and Clean Slate Milwaukee’s restoration summit: Wednesday, Sept. 22
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COA Youth & Family Centers and Clean Slate Milwaukee are hosting a restoration summit for individuals who have a criminal record or are on parole. Those interested in the summit must sign up for an orientation, which will take place at Silver Spring Community Center, 5460 N. 64th St., from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 22. To sign up, click here.
3. Drive-thru job fairs: Thursday, Sept. 23
The City of Milwaukee and its partners are hosting two drive-thru jobs fairs this week. The job fairs will take place at Midtown, 5825 W. Hope Ave., and Prince of Peace Catholic School, 1015 S. 24th St., from noon to 4 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 23. Attendees will receive information on employment assistance programs and employment opportunities.
4. Milwaukee County community health survey: Deadline Friday, Sept. 24
Milwaukee County residents are invited to participate in a community health survey. The survey asks questions regarding access to health care, tobacco and alcohol use, diet, physical activity and more. The Milwaukee Health Care Partnership conducts this survey as part of its community health needs assessment. The survey is available in English and Spanish and can be accessed here. It will be available through Friday, Sept. 24.
5. “Step to the beat of healing” block party: Saturday, Sept. 25
CORE El Centro, 130 W. Bruce St., is hosting a block party from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 25. The theme is “Step to the beat of healing.” There will be dancing, yoga, raffles, music, free flu and COVID-19 shots, a bounce house and more. The funds raised during the block party will go toward the organization’s holistic exercise program.

created: September 20, 2021


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
September 19, 2021


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Post from Community: 7 Tips for savvy health insurance shopping this fall | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Steven Kulick, Medicare & Retirement Chief Medical Officer, UnitedHealthcare of Wisconsin
September 20, 2021
Editor’s note: Posts from the Community is the place for community announcements and event postings. If you have a community-oriented event you feel our readers would be interested in, please submit here.
Our health needs can change each year, and so can health plan coverage choices. So it’s important to understand your health care options to find coverage that fits your needs and budget.
Annual or open enrollment season is here, a time when more than 882,000 people in Wisconsin and millions of Americans across the country will have the opportunity to select or switch their health insurance plan for the coming year.
For people with employer-provided coverage, open enrollment typically occurs within a two-week period between September and December. Those eligible for Medicare can enroll or make changes to their coverage from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7. For most people, changes made during this time will take effect on Jan. 1, 2022.
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To make the most out of open enrollment this fall, here are seven tips to consider when choosing a plan that may lead to better health and cost savings in 2022.
1. Understand your options. Whether you are selecting a plan for the first time or evaluating how well your current one meets your needs, take the time to understand and compare the benefits, services and costs of each plan, so you can find what will work best for you. A good first step is to make sure you understand health insurance lingo, such as premium, deductible, copays, coinsurance and out-of-pocket maximums. If you need a refresher, check out this quick guide to help decode the terms.
If you’re eligible for Medicare, as you weigh your options, ensure you’re familiar with the difference between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage. If you need a review, visit com — an online resource with answers to questions about eligibility, plan choices, cost basics, prescription coverage and more.
2. Check your prescription benefits. Knowing how to get the most out of your prescription benefits may help you manage costs. For example, check into lower-cost alternatives that may be available, like discounts, generics and more. You may also be able to fill your prescriptions at a participating network pharmacy or with home delivery by mail — two more money-saving options.
For those on Medicare: You may be surprised to learn Original Medicare doesn’t generally cover prescription drugs. Consider adding Part D or a Medicare Advantage plan with prescription drug coverage to help keep your medication costs in check.
3. Anticipate next year’s health expenses. If you are expecting a significant health event in the next year, such as surgery or the birth of a child, compare the differences between plan designs, including out-of-pocket maximums.
4. Consider a plan with the convenience of virtual care. If you’re busy juggling kids’ schedules and work responsibilities, traveling, or you simply prefer to connect with a doctor from the convenience of your home, consider choosing a plan that includes 24/7 virtual care. These visits are designed to be an easier, more affordable way to talk to doctors about common health issues, using a smartphone, tablet or computer.
Virtual care is often available to members of employer-sponsored, individual and Medicare Advantage plans and may provide access to various types of care, including wellness, routine, urgent and chronic condition management.
5. Check for mental health coverage. Managing your mental health is an important step in caring for your overall well-being. In addition to in-person care, you may now be able to access a large virtual health network of therapists and psychiatrists with many plans — including UnitedHealthcare® Medicare Advantage for a $0 copay. Some health insurers, such as UnitedHealthcare, also offer advocacy services to help you find the right therapist and type of care.
6. Look into wellness programs. Many health plans now offer incentives that reward you for taking healthier actions, such as completing a health survey, exercising or avoiding nicotine.
Many Medicare Advantage plans also offer gym memberships and wellness programs for members at no additional cost.
7. Don’t forget about specialty benefits. Additional benefits, such dental, vision, hearing or critical illness insurance, are often available to help protect you and your family, while contributing to overall well-being.
For Medicare beneficiaries: You may be surprised that Original Medicare doesn’t cover prescription drugs and most dental, vision and hearing services, but many Medicare Advantage plans do.
For more helpful articles and videos about open enrollment and health care plans, visit UHCOpenEnrollment.com.


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Post from Community: First Stage announces a return to live performances in 2021/22 season | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
First Stage
September 20, 2021
Editor’s note: Posts from the Community is the place for community announcements and event postings. If you have a community-oriented event you feel our readers would be interested in, please submit here.
First Stage is delighted to announce its safe and triumphant return to live theater performances in the 2021/22 season. Following an innovative virtual season of plays last year and the successful launch of the second Amplify – BIPOC Short Play Series in early September, First Stage proudly announces the full 35 season kicking off in November at the Marcus Center’s Todd Wehr Theater with the perennial and beloved holiday favorite, A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS. With the start of the New Year, First Stage audiences will then go on a journey with the delightfully weird Watson family in THE WATSONS GO TO BIRMINGHAM – 1963. Following that in the spring will be the exciting return of the epic musical battle royale, THE LEGEND OF ROCK, PAPER, SCISSORS, after its world premiere run was cut short in March 2020 due to the pandemic. The mainstage season concludes with a cup overflowing with heart and inspiration in playwright/actor James DeVita’s world premiere play THE AMAZING LEMONADE GIRL.
The season will also include two First Steps offerings: THE DANCING GRANNY, a collaboration with Milwaukee’s Ko-Thi Dance Company, and the joyful LAST STOP ON MARKET STREET, adapted from the book by popular children’s author Matt de la Peña. First Stage’s award-winning Young Company will also present two Performance Projects at the newly renovated Milwaukee Youth Arts Center: the captivating contemporary play THE LARAMIE PROJECT as well as MACBETH, Shakespeare’s gripping story of ambition and madness.
Looking ahead to next season, Artistic Director Jeff Frank commented, “After all of the challenges we faced this past year – and the resiliency our staff and artists have shown in the face of those challenges – we are thrilled to return to the stage, and connect with our audiences once again, live and in person.”
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Tickets
First Stage offers three ways to purchase tickets for its 2021/22 season. The Family All-Access Membership will give families the opportunity to purchase tickets at 40% off regular single ticket prices, receive discounts on Theater Academy classes, receive invitations to special Preview Events and more. The cost of the Family All-Access Membership is $75 per household and are on sale now. Families can also purchase the traditional Family Package, which offers a 25% discount off regular single ticket prices when building a season package of three or more plays. Family Packages are also now on sale. Single tickets to First Stage’s 2021/22 season will go on sale October 4, 2021.
For additional information about the 2021/22 season, please go to firststage.org/events-tickets/2021-22-season/ or call (414) 267-2961.
Safety Precautions
As the house and stage lights shine once again, First Stage is implementing the following safety protocols as it welcomes audiences back for live performances for the 2021/22 season. These protocols were developed with the support of the City of Milwaukee Health Department and in alliance with other organizations within the larger Milwaukee arts community. First Stage patrons should review these protocols as they reserve their tickets and visit First Stage productions:
In accordance with Marcus Center for Performing Arts policies, upon entrance to performances in the Marcus Center’s Todd Wehr Theater, patrons ages 12 and up will be required to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination or proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of their performance. Audiences under age 12 will not need to show proof of negative COVID-19 test.
First Stage’s First Steps and Young Company performances held at the Milwaukee Youth Arts Center will not require proof of vaccination or negative test results, but all First Stage productions will adhere to the following guidelines:socially-distanced seating; mask requirement anywhere inside the performance venue; limited capacity seating in the theater; digital playbills and paperless tickets; hand-sanitizing stations; there will be no intermission and concessions and merchandise will not be sold to alleviate congestion in the lobby.
To read the full list of First Stage’s Safety Precautions, as well any COVID-19 health and safety guidelines that evolve, stay up to date with the latest at: firststage.org/safety
FIRST STAGE’S 2021/22 SEASON
Family Series at the Marcus Center’s Todd Wehr Theater
A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS
By Charles M. Schulz
Based on the television special by Bill Melendez and Lee Mendelson
Stage Adaptation by Eric Schaeﬀer
By Special Arrangement with Arthur Whitelaw and Ruby Persson
Directed by Jeff Frank
Live performances November 20 – December 26, 2021
Marcus Center’s Todd Wehr Theater
Sponsored by Associated Bank, Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren
Come home for the holidays with First Stage and this treasured holiday classic. Everyone is giddy with Christmas cheer, but Charlie Brown has the Yuletide blues. Will directing the Christmas play help him get in the spirit of the season? Join Charlie Brown, Snoopy and the rest of the Peanuts gang as they learn the true meaning of Christmas. This is one holiday gift the entire family will treasure. Suggested for families with young people ages 4+.
“Charlie Brown is a study in perseverance and positivity,” said Jeff Frank. “No matter how many times Lucy pulls that football away, he has faith that one day he will boot that football through the uprights. No matter how many losses his team suffers on the baseball field, he remains hopeful that a victory awaits. All of us can identify with Charlie’s struggles. Life can be hard. We can lose our way and get discouraged. But this show reminds us that we are at our best when we come together, when we care for each other, when we take the time to really see each other.”
THE WATSONS GO TO BIRMINGHAM – 1963
Adapted for stage by Cheryl West
Based on the book by Christopher Paul Curtis
Directed by Aaron Todd Douglas
Live performances January 21 – February 13, 2022
Marcus Center’s Todd Wehr Theater
Supported in part by an award from the National Endowment for the Arts
Ten-year-old Kenny chronicles the events of a fateful summer for the Watson family of Flint, Michigan. When Kenny’s older brother Byron starts getting into too much trouble, Momma and Dad decide the family needs to pay a visit to Grandma Sands in Alabama to set him straight. Momma, Dad, Kenny, Byron and youngest sister Joetta set out on a cross-country journey, heading south and toward a moment in American history where the world seems to change before their eyes. Suggested for families with young people ages 8+.
“The Watson’s Go to Birmingham – 1963 is one of my favorite books of all time. It is laugh-out-loud funny. The self-proclaimed “weird” Watsons are an amazing family; and it is a joy to spend time with them. Like any family they are facing internal challenges as each of the children grow up, but they fight to stay together. We follow young Kenny’s journey as he tries to make sense not only of his mixed up family, but also the mixed up world in which he lives. In his search for perspective, Kenny provides us all with a deeper perspective on family and on our collective history.”
THE LEGEND OF ROCK, PAPER, SCISSORS
By Drew Daywalt
Illustrated by Adam Rex
Book and Lyrics by John Maclay, Music and Lyrics by Eric Nordin
Directed by Kelly Doherty, Choreography by Molly Rhode
Live performances March 5 – April 3, 2022
Marcus Center’s Todd Wehr Theater
Sponsored by The Molitor Foundation
These three fierce warriors return to the stage for a rematch after their brief battle was cut short in March 2020. From the Kingdom of Backyard came Rock, from the Empire of Mom’s Home Office came Paper and from a messy village in the Junk Drawer Realm came Scissors. They were the strongest, smartest and fastest in all the land. Though they searched far and wide for worthy opponents, no one could beat them . . . until they met each other and a musical battle royale began to see who would come out on top! Suggested for families with young people ages 4+.
“Clever, funny, raucous and joyful – just a few of the words that come to mind for this world premiere musical returning to First Stage. John Maclay and Eric Nordin combined their talents to bring the irreverent humor of author Drew Daywalt to the stage in glorious musical form. In their search for individual glory, our heroes discover that healthy competition and friendships are perhaps the greatest glory of all.”
THE AMAZING LEMONADE GIRL
Based on the true story of Alexandra Flynn Scott
By James DeVita
Directed by Molly Rhode
Live performances April 22 – May 15, 2022
Marcus Center’s Todd Wehr Theater
Sponsored by Northwestern Mutual Foundation
Meet Alex Scott. She has a story to tell – about her life and her legacy, her humor and her heart. The story of a young girl fiercely determined to make a difference despite the challenges she faces. Alex’s true story reminds us all that a single person can change the world – one act, or even one cup, at a time. Suggested for families with young people ages 7+.
“The key tenet of First Stage productions is that we present stories from a young person’s point of view, and in THE AMAZING LEMONADE GIRL audiences meet a young woman with a remarkable story to tell. With the help of a magical group of folks, Alex weaves us through the ups and downs, the highs and lows of her inspiring life. Every time I hear her story, it kindles deep inside me a desire to be better and to do more. She reminds us all that we are capable of doing great things if we are willing to believe.”
First Steps Series at the Milwaukee Youth Arts Center
THE DANCING GRANNY
A collaboration with Ko-Thi Dance Company
By Mansa Ra, adapted from the book by Ashley Bryan
Directed by Samantha D. Montgomery, Choreography by DeMar Walker
Live performances February 12 – March 6, 2022
Goodman Mainstage Hall, Milwaukee Youth Arts Center
Sponsored by PNC
Kids and adults will be dancing in their seats as Ananse, the clever spider of African folklore, tries to trick Granny into dancing away from her garden so he can take her vegetables. But his plan backfires when he is drawn into the dance himself. “Shake it to the East, shake it to the West, shake it to the one that you love best!” Suggested for families with young people ages 3 – 7+.
“We are honored to work with our friends at Ko-Thi Dance Company to bring to life this adaptation by beloved author/illustrator Ashley Bryan. This show will make you want to get up and move!”
LAST STOP ON MARKET STREET
Book, Music & Lyrics by Gloria Bond Clunie
Adapted from the book by Matt de la Peña and illustrated by Christian Robinson
Directed by Johamy Morales
Live performances May 7 – June 12, 2022
Goodman Mainstage Hall, Milwaukee Youth Arts Center
Sponsored by PNC
Six-year-old CJ is visiting his boisterous Nana, reluctantly accompanying her on a bus ride that he finds loud, gritty and weird. Guided by his veritable force-of-nature Nana, CJ travels a little closer to his roots and sees that things are not always what they seem. All aboard for this hip-hop, eclectic, heart-thumpin’, toe-tappin’ joy ride! Suggested for families with young people ages 3 – 7+.
“Author Matt de la Peña has quickly become one of the best and most popular writers for young people – and it makes sense. He paints a vibrant picture of the world around him. Throughout this story CJ begins to see the beauty all around him – and in so doing reveals it to us as well. I love his relationship with his Nana and how she gently imparts her wisdom to young CJ.”
Young Company Performance Projects at the Milwaukee Youth Arts Center
THE LARAMIE PROJECT
By Moisés Kaufman and members of the Tectonic Theater Project
Directed by Elyse Edelman
Live performances December 3 – 12, 2021
Goodman Mainstage Hall, Milwaukee Youth Arts Center
Sponsored by UPAF
In October 1998, 21-year-old Matthew Shepard, an openly gay college student, was brutally beaten and left to die on the plains outside Laramie, Wyoming. Hailed as one of the most captivating and encompassing pieces of contemporary theater, THE LARAMIE PROJECT is a breathtaking collage that explores the depths to which humanity can sink and the heights of compassion of which we are capable. Warning: This play is based on a true story, and includes strong language and mature content that some may find upsetting, including descriptions of homophobia, violence and death. Suggested for families with young people ages 13+.
“THE LARAMIE PROJECT is an incredibly powerful piece of documentary theater which remains relevant 20 years after the events it discusses,” said Matt Daniels, Director of the Young Company/First Stage Artistic Associate. Directed by YC alum Elyse Edelman, who is herself a master of transformation, a handful of student actors will play dozens of the citizens of Laramie, WY as they explore the story of Matthew Shepard, who was lynched simply for being gay. This piece is a perfect fit for the Young Company’s signature minimalist, actor-driven performance projects, and I can’t wait to see it myself!”
MACBETH
By William Shakespeare
Directed by Marcella Kearns
Live performances March 25 – April 3, 2022
Goodman Mainstage Hall, Milwaukee Youth Arts Center
Sponsored by UPAF
Tempted by an evil prophecy from a trio of witches, and encouraged by his Lady ever deeper into his own dark ambition, Macbeth rages a bloody path to the throne of Scotland. Infamously known as the cursed Scottish play, Shakespeare’s darkest tragedy is filled with ferocious battles, supernatural horrors, famously gorgeous poetry and some of the Bard’s most vivid characters. Suggested for families with young people ages 13+.
“More than 400 years after it was written, Macbeth remains scarily of the moment. This exploration of ambition and its pitfalls is one of Shakespeare’s tightest plays, and will be expertly led by longtime YC faculty member Marcella Kearns with fight choreography by Christopher Elst. This play is fast, furious and terrifying, and a great way to welcome YC’s award-winning Shakespeare chops to the remodeled Goodman Mainstage Hall, where battles for the vast Scottish landscape will be right in the audience’s lap.”
For more information about any of the offerings for First Stage’s 2021/22 season, please visit firststage.org or call (414) 267-2961.
Please note: All dates and times are subject to change based on CDC guidelines or mandates. Please check website for most current information. firststage.org/safety
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As was previously announced, the 2021/22 Amplify – First Stage’s BIPOC Short Play Series includes:
HOW TO ACTUALLY GRADUATE IN A VIRTUAL WORLD
By Nikkole Salter
Directed by Samantha D. Montgomery
Streaming now – December 5, 2021
When Milwaukee High announces that graduation will be virtual, TT gathers friends to come up with a way to make the ceremony special. As they weigh their options – and battle invisibility, hopelessness and indifference – we learn how the pandemic affected them all. Is an achievement an achievement if it goes unacknowledged? Tune in and consider this question in this provocative short play. Suggested for families with young people ages 12+.
STEP KIDS
A one-act musical by Tyrone L. Robinson and Postell Pringle
Directed by Christopher Gilbert
Limited capacity live performances at the Milwaukee Youth Arts Center:
Saturday, October 2 at 4 p.m. & 7 p.m. and Sunday, October 3 at 1 p.m. & 4 p.m.
Streaming October 11 – December 5, 2021
A group of seemingly unconnected high school students find common ground in the most unlikely of places – the audition for their school’s competitive step dance team. As the students become unified through the power of rhythm and dance, experience the joy of finding your tribe in this energetic performance. Suggested for families with young people ages 10+.
THE TALE OF LA LLRONA AS TOLD BY CONSUELO CHAVEZ
By José Casas
Directed by David Flores
Limited capacity live performances at the Marcus Center’s Todd Wehr Theater:
Saturday, October 23 at 4 p.m. & 7 p.m. and Sunday, October 24 at 1 p.m. & 4 p.m.
Streaming October 30 – December 5, 2021
Disappointed that a thunderstorm has stopped them from their traditional trick or treating, six middle-schoolers huddle together in a basement on what might be the last time they are together to celebrate All Hallow’s Eve. To pass the time, they share some of their favorite ghost stories . . . but are they just stories? Suggested for families with young people ages 12+. Warning – the performance includes blackouts, loud noises and scary moments.
For more information on the 2021/22 Amplify – First Stage’s BIPOC Short Play Series, please visit: firststage.org/amplify

author: First Stage


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Post from Community: Please join us for our Virtual Walk Against Gun Violence in Our Community | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Brenda Hines
September 20, 2021
Editor’s note: Posts from the Community is the place for community announcements and event postings. If you have a community-oriented event you feel our readers would be interested in, please submit here.
According to the Washington Post (2021), 2020 was the deadliest Gun Violence in decades, so far 2021 is worse. Through the first five months of 2021, gun violence killed more than 81,000 people in the United States, about 54 lives lost per day.
Brenda Hines, Founder of the Donovan Hines Foundation of Exeburance Co, knows all too well about how gun violence affects the lives of families because she lost her 23-year old son Donovan Hines to gun violence on November 13, 2017. Therefore, she is combatting gun violence with a race to reduce gun violence. All proceeds will go toward helping families affected by gun violence and domestic violence crisis incidents.
Will you please join us for a virtual race to reduce gun violence and to bring awareness to Mental Health and Substance Abuse within our communities and neighborhoods?
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
Please click this link to join.

author: Brenda Hines


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Post from Community: Urban Ecology Center 7th annual HKE MKE returns with a week full of events | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Urban Ecology Center
September 20, 2021
Editor’s note: Posts from the Community is the place for community announcements and event postings. If you have a community-oriented event you feel our readers would be interested in, please submit here.
The Urban Ecology Center is kicking off their seventh annual HKE MKE week, a family-friendly, fundraising effort to support the Urban Ecology Center’s mission of connecting people to nature, from Sunday, September 25 through Saturday, October 2, presented by the Rotary Club of Milwaukee.
Scheduled hikes are happening at each of the Urban Ecology Center’s branches: Riverside Park, Washington Park and Menomonee Valley, but have limited capacities to keep group sizes small and COVID safe. Masks and physical distancing will be encouraged on all hikes. Participants are encouraged to learn more and sign up at urbanecologycenter.org/hkemke before the available hikes sell out.
“We’re ready for the best year of HKE MKE yet,” said Ken Leinbach, Executive Director at the Urban Ecology Center. “Our vision of inspiring generations to build environmental curiosity, understanding and respect is what keeps the Urban Ecology Center going, and we’re looking forward to sharing that with the community.”
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The week of hikes will conclude with a celebratory event and hike at Riverside Park on Saturday, October 2.
“Nature has the ability to connect people in ways that other things can’t,” said Jen Hense, Director of Development at the Urban Ecology Center. “After a week full of hikes, this celebratory event will bring people together, safely, and in support of all that the Urban Ecology Center does for the community.”
Those participating in this year’s HKE MKE can become a fundraiser and have the opportunity to win a variety of fundraising prizes, including a 2021 HKE MKE t-shirt, a recycled coffee ground travel mug, a Bento Box, an insulated 20-can backpack cooler, or a folding stadium seat.

author: Urban Ecology Center


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How Milwaukee County residents can get free legal help for evictions, foreclosures | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
PrincessSafiya Byers
September 21, 2021
If you are facing eviction or foreclosure, Milwaukee County has a program for qualified residents that offers free legal assistance. (Stock photo)
Leer en español: Cómo los residentes del condado de Milwaukee pueden obtener ayuda legal gratuita para desalojos y ejecuciones hipotecarias
Filings are expected to increase after the federal ban on evictions expires Oct. 3.
To help residents, Milwaukee County Supervisor David Crowley signed “Right to Counsel Milwaukee” into law on July 19. This pilot program provides free legal representation to anyone facing eviction or foreclosure.
Supervisor Ryan Clancy authored the legislation. United Way of Greater Milwaukee and Waukesha County and the Legal Aid Society of Milwaukee are the lead organizations for the program, which launched Sept. 1.
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We spoke to Colleen Foley, the executive director of the Legal Aid Society of Milwaukee, to answer questions about the program.
The Right to Counsel pilot program provides an advocate to help tenants identify and evaluate legal rights and obligations. They plan to help by linking both landlords and tenants to available funding, negotiating disputes and accessing wraparound services.
The goal is to decrease eviction filings and significantly reduce the public costs associated with the court, criminal justice and human service system response to evictions. Ultimately, the program ensures that the legal system works in a fair and just manner and that no one side dominates.
No. Right To Counsel Milwaukee pilot program is for Milwaukee County residents at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines. That would be $25,760 a year for one person and $53,000 for a family of four.
United Way provides administrative leadership, including fundraising, communications and outreach, while the Legal Aid Society will provide legal advice, representation and community legal education. Legal Aid has hired 10 new lawyers, two paralegals and two intake specialists for the project and is developing a robust subcontract for additional attorney staffing from Legal Action of Wisconsin.
You can call the now live hotline at (414) 892-7368 and you can use the website to get in contact with them.
Have information ready in advance. Applicants will be asked to provide the following information during the application process:
Remember that a vast majority of court hearings are still taking place virtually, so you will have to find access if you don’t have it. This is something you’ll have help with from the program.
UPDATE: New eviction ban expires in October. Here’s what you need to know to keep a roof over your head.
8 ways struggling tenants can get the help they need to avoid eviction
Four main takeaways from “Making rent,” a conversation about eviction and tenant rights
Inside the NNS newsroom: I need your help to put a face on our city’s eviction crisis
How to get rental assistance in Wisconsin
Check out our post on Instagram for quick, accessible information
Need more information? Text “MKE” to 73224 to connect with a reporter.

created: September 21, 2021

author: PrincessSafiya Byers


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
September 20, 2021


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Post from Community: Bank On Greater Milwaukee announces 2021 coalition champions & celebrates two-years | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Urban Economic Development Association of Wisconsin, Inc
September 21, 2021
Editor’s note: Posts from the Community is the place for community announcements and event postings. If you have a community-oriented event you feel our readers would be interested in, please submit here.
Bank On Greater Milwaukee (BOGM) celebrated their two-year anniversary with a virtual awards ceremony that recognized six local entities for their efforts to improve the overall financial health of the Milwaukee community. A program of the Urban Economic Development Association of Wisconsin (UEDA), Bank On Greater Milwaukee belongs to a nation-wide network of Bank On coalitions who aim to strengthen the financial stability of communities by increasing access to safe and affordable deposit accounts.
“A basic transaction account is an important first step to participating in the financial mainstream,” says Constance Alberts, Bank On Greater Milwaukee Program Manager. “We are extremely fortunate to engage a coalition of community organizations, banks, credit unions, and governmental entities who are dedicated to ensuring more households belong to the financial mainstream by developing low-barrier accounts and providing supportive financial education services.”
At their two-year anniversary event last week, Bank On Greater Milwaukee recognized coalition members who have made a significant contribution to the mission of Bank On Greater Milwaukee over the past year through innovative product development, programming, and community engagement efforts with their 2021 BOGM Champion Awards.
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2021 BOGM Champions:
“We are honored to receive this recognition from Bank On Greater Milwaukee,” said Sarah Campagna, Managing Vice President of Financial Empowerment for Summit Credit Union. “Summit Credit Union is committed to providing holistic financial experiences by pairing our safe and affordable products with our award-winning financial education. In joining the Bank On Greater Milwaukee coalition this past year, we have been able to reach even more families and communities with these resources.”
Since launching in 2019, Bank On Greater Milwaukee has more than doubled the number of Bank On certified accounts available in the Milwaukee area, from six to fourteen, with two more accounts near certification. Accounts at Bank Five Nine, BMO Harris, Chase, CIBC, Equitable, First Federal, First Midwest, Old National, PNC, Self-Help Federal Credit Union, Summit Credit Union, U.S. Bank, and Wells Fargo all have at least one account that has been certified by the national Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund (CFE Fund) as meeting the 2021-2022 Bank On National Account Standards (NAS).
Key features of NAS certified accounts include low or no monthly maintenance costs, no overdraft or non-sufficient fund fees, online pay bills and money online, and federal deposit insurance. A full list of certified accounts and coalition partners can be found on the Bank On Greater Milwaukee website.


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BOGM-2021-Champions-Post.jpg | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
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September 21, 2021

author: Name *


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Post from Community: Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee hosting free COVID-19 vaccine clinics | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Boys & Girls Club of Greater Milwaukee
September 21, 2021
Editor’s note: Posts from the Community is the place for community announcements and event postings. If you have a community-oriented event you feel our readers would be interested in, please submit here.
Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee (BGCGM) is hosting free community COVID-19 vaccine clinics at four sites across Milwaukee on Wednesday, September 22 and Thursday, September 23, 2021.
“Based on scientific evidence, we know that vaccines are the key to ending this pandemic and saving lives,” said BGCGM President and CEO Kathy Thornton-Bias. “We want to remove as many barriers to the vaccine as possible for as many people as possible.”
No appointment necessary. Walk-ins welcome. Vaccines are free of charge and available to all unvaccinated individuals 12 and older. No ID or proof of insurance required. Individuals 17 and younger must have a parent or legal guardian sign a Milwaukee Health Department consent form and obtain the signature of a parent or guardian. Consent forms can be downloaded and completed in advance atbgcmilwaukee.org/vaccine-clinics.
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A BGCGM spokesperson will be available for in-person interviews Wednesday, September 22, 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. at Don & Sallie Davis Boys & Girls Club (1975 South 24th Street).

author: Boys & Girls Club of Greater Milwaukee


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Post from Community: Independent redistricting committee asks public to attend hearing Thursday night | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Milwaukee County Independent Redistricting Committee
September 21, 2021
Editor’s note: Posts from the Community is the place for community announcements and event postings. If you have a community-oriented event you feel our readers would be interested in, please submit here.
Milwaukee County’s Independent Redistricting Committee (IRC) is encouraging the public to attend a public hearing on Thursday, September 23, and provide input on the new Supervisory District map of Milwaukee County. Public input is central to the County’s independent redistricting process, but so far only four members of the public have shared their views during the Committee’s six meetings held since August 16.
“Public input is essential to the democratic process of redrawing Milwaukee County’s political districts, and we want to stress to the community that they are welcome at our meetings. We want to hear from the public. We need your feedback and ideas. Help us ensure that Milwaukee County’s political districts are drawn to fairly represent every community,” said Committee Chairwoman Jean DiMotto.
Prior to recommending a draft map to the Board of Supervisors, the IRC called an additional public hearing this week to receive more public comment, specifically on the question of whether to create two or three majority Latino districts. The committee will discuss the Baldus v. Members of the Wis. Gov’t Accountability Bd. ruling, which provides guidance on the appropriate population level to sufficiently constitute a majority Latino district.
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The Southeastern Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission will present the most current version of a new supervisory district map at the public hearing. Links to current and previous versions of the supervisory district map are available at the County Legislative Information Center (CLIC). An interactive version of the potential supervisor district map is also online.
Thursday’s IRC public hearing begins at 7 p.m. and will be held virtually. Anyone who wishes to appear before the Independent Redistricting Committee and provide their input on the proposed political districts is welcome to sign up on the County Clerk’s web site.
Thursday’s hearing will be livestreamed via the County Legislative Information Center.


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‘We don’t have a generation to wait’: Ryan Clancy brings activism to Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
PrincessSafiya Byers
September 21, 2021
Supervisor Ryan Clancy, with his family, says, “The actions I take impact my children and that of other children who are here now.” (Photo provided by Ryan Clancy)
Ryan Clancy loves a good fight.
In high school in 1995, the ACLU represented the future father of five after he organized students to write and publish an alternative student newspaper that angered the school administration.
From there, his advocacy and activism soared.
“The actions I take impact my children and that of other children who are here now,” he says. “We don’t have a generation to wait.”
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Now Clancy is bringing his activism to the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors.
“Locally is where change is made,” he says. “Things like defunding happen at a local level, and there is a major gap between what the public wants and how their representatives are voting.”
Voters elected Clancy to the board in 2020. He represents the Fourth District, and he says he is the first socialist to be elected to public office in Milwaukee since 1956.
Before diving into politics, the Nicolet High School graduate spent time crisscrossing the globe doing human rights work. From serving as a Peace Corps volunteer in the Philippines to work in Iraq, where he served students and protested the U.S. occupation in 2003, Clancy has never been afraid to roll up his sleeves.
He’s protested at Standing Rock in North Dakota and has been arrested or risked arrest fighting for immigrant rights in Milwaukee and Racine.
He filed a lawsuit against the city and county in June, alleging law enforcement violated his rights at a Black Lives Matter protest the summer before.
As a supervisor, he’s proposed resolutions that focus on human rights, such as last year’s declaration of the “right to shelter” in Milwaukee County. That bill sought to guarantee that any resident experiencing chronic homelessness or without access to safe housing got accessible shelter. The board passed the resolution unanimously but did not provide much funding for it.
“I’m working to prioritize human needs over putative measures that don’t work,” Clancy says.
Ryan Clancy has been an activist since his high school days. (Photo provided by Barbara Miner)
A focus on community
He says as an elected leader he sees it as his responsibility to defund law enforcement and redirect the money to programs that help the community. Trying to accomplish just that, he proposed that Milwaukee County take from the Sheriff’s Department’s overtime budget and reallocate those funds toward human services in a series of 2021 budget amendments.
Three of the four amendments he suggested were shot down. But the board did support the creation of a “Right to Counsel” pilot program for individuals and families experiencing evictions and foreclosures.
“The board passed many of Clancy’s ideas,” says Jason Haas, the chairman on the county board’s Finance Committee. “Just not through his legislation.”
Haas says the board ended up supporting some of Clancy’s ideas but used different funds to do so.
“In his current position, he is just making formal the work he’s already been doing,” says Becky Cooper, Clancy’s spouse. “He doesn’t want to give up the activist part of himself to become a politician.”
“Ryan is an incredible person,” adds Andrea Rodriguez, a community organizer who ran against Clancy last year. “While I am happy with the work he is doing, I think it’s important we have someone in his seat who represents the majority of the area.”
State Rep. Jonathan Brostoff, who represents the 19 Assembly District, calls Clancy “a huge asset to the human race” and a role model for public servants.
Outside of activism, Clancy and Cooper are the co-owners of Bounce Milwaukee, where the couple works to improve Milwaukee through creative play and entertainment. The venue offers such activities as laser tag, a climbing wall and an inflatable sports arena.
“Ryan is the only person I know that can think about the big picture, like our five-year plan, and small details, like which forks we should use” at Bounce, Cooper says.
“Ryan is very aware of his privilege, so he listens to his constituents and what they need,” she adds. “He will relentlessly pursue the right thing.”


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clancy | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
September 21, 2021


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2 Milwaukee organizations team up with state to remove lead paint, dust and soil | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Matt Martinez
September 22, 2021
The Social Development Commission works in tandem with the Lead Safe Homes program. This is one of the properties served by the program. (Photo provided by Social Development Commission)
Ofelia Mondragon’s “wake-up call” to the dangers of lead poisoning came in 2014, when her daughter had high lead levels at age 2.
After struggling to get the care her daughter needed, she recognized the importance of helping others and their families stay safe.
“I went through that personally, so I have a special touch,” said Mondragon, residential services project manager at the Social Development Commission.
Now, Mondragon works as a key contributor to the Lead Safe Homes Program, a program from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services that removes lead paint, dust and soil in residents’ home.
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According to the Environmental Protection Agency, homes built before 1978 are at greater risk of lead paint, soil and dust exposure. This can occur when lead paint previously used on the homes begins to chip or flake. That exposure can cause lead poisoning.
The Lead Safe Homes Program is available to families with children and pregnant women who are eligible for BadgerCare or Medicaid. Homes in the program must be built before 1978.
The program removes lead paint, dust and soil but does not handle lead service line replacement. It does provide point-of-use water filters when applicable.
Brian Weaver, lead policy adviser with the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, said the program has been around since fall 2019.
“The demand is great in Wisconsin,” Weaver said. “We’ll need a multi-pronged approach, honestly, to be able to address all the potential lead hazards and older properties.”
He said there’s an estimated 350,000 homes with potential lead-based paint hazards.
Weaver said the goal is to renovate 150 properties per year in Milwaukee.
The goal for the state is 400 properties per year, Weaver said. The program has funds to invest $35,000 per property.
The program has two Milwaukee-based partners: the Social Development Commission and Milwaukee Habitat for Humanity.
Mondragon said her team served 74 homes since the beginning of the year. The ultimate goal for 2021 is 100 homes served, and by the end of June 2022, another 100 added to that.
Eric Neeb, critical home repair manager with Habitat for Humanity Milwaukee, said the program plans to target the Midtown and Harambee neighborhoods, two areas where much of the housing stock is older than 1978.
While the program lends support statewide, Weaver said it will operate heavily in Milwaukee.
“We know that there’s a need everywhere in the state,” Weaver said. “We’re making sure that we are prioritizing that and those high-need populations where we see the greatest need.”
How to participate
Property owners can apply for the program, and tenants are encouraged to ask their landlords to participate.

created: September 22, 2021

author: Matt Martinez


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
September 21, 2021


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OPINION: ‘On-the-spot pivots’: How my church closed its doors but opened a new digital space for our members | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Byron Johnson
September 22, 2021

author: Byron Johnson


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242043527_287674089835950_6392309448054590588_n | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
September 21, 2021


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Pilot program helps incarcerated people address opioid addiction before being released | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Edgar Mendez
September 22, 2021
The MAT: Behind the Walls program focuses on improving the lives of incarcerated people. “We’re concerned about the drastic number of overdoses and high rates of opioid deaths upon release,” says  Chantell Jewell, superintendent of the Milwaukee County House of Correction. (File photo by Adam Carr)
Leer en español: El programa piloto ayuda a las personas encarceladas a abordar la adicción a los opioides antes de ser liberadas
As Milwaukee County moves at a pace that could eclipse last year’s grim record high of 545 drug overdose deaths, a new approach is underway to help save the lives of a group that is among those most at risk: individuals recently released from the criminal justice system.
“We’re concerned about the drastic number of overdoses and high rates of opioid deaths upon release,” said Chantell Jewell, superintendent of the Milwaukee County House of Correction. “We’re willing to look at different ways of addressing the needs of our populations here, and sometimes that involves a certain amount of risks and doing things we never did before.”
Jewell is referring to the Milwaukee County Behavioral Health Division’s pilot program dubbed MAT: Behind the Walls. MAT stands for Medication Assisted Treatment, a proven, but sometimes controversial, approach to treat opioid addiction. That treatment includes injections of Vivitrol, a drug used to block the effects of opioids, which is administered four months before a person’s release, said Liz Schwartz, a case manager for the program. Participants can receive up to three injections, she added.
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Planning for the program, which is supported by a grant from the U.S. Department of Justice Bureau of Justice Assistance, began in 2019, although it was delayed somewhat by the pandemic. The MAT approach has been adopted at justice facilities across the country, including at Dane County Jail in Madison.
Along with the medication, inmates meet weekly with a counselor and a peer specialist who has experienced addiction. That treatment, including the Vivitrol injections, continues upon release, which also allows participants to meet with the same specialists they built a rapport with while incarcerated, she said.
“Combining the medication and support is a key element why the program has been successful,” Schwartz said.
So far, 47 inmates at the House of Correction completed the program, and 15 are current participants. It is also being offered to individuals who transfer from the Milwaukee Secure Detention Facility, she said.
The program seeks to save lives. Numerous research studies have highlighted the elevated risk for drug overdoses for the re-entry population. One study in North Carolina found that during the first two weeks upon their release, formerly incarcerated persons were 40 times more likely than the general population to die from an opioid overdose.
“People that were released would go back to using the same amount that they did before they were incarcerated,” Schwartz said. “They didn’t realize that their tolerance had changed, and the dose was really high and they would die from it.”
This is significant considering that 70% to 75% of the population at the House of Corrections disclose a substance use disorder at the time of sentencing, Jewell said.
Part of helping individuals avoid a fatal overdose is working with peer specialists to come up with a safety plan, said Amanda Rodriguez, community programs and integration manager for Community Medical Services. That strategy involves Narcan training and identifying someone in the person’s household who can help in an overdose situation.
“We ask them who’s the safe person in your environment that you’re going to tell what an overdose looks like and to squirt Narcan up your nose,” said Rodriguez, who added that each participant is provided a Narcan kit upon release.
Community Medical Services, along with Wisconsin Community Services, are two local organizations that are supporting treatment while incarcerated and upon release. Other partners include Wellpath and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.
These efforts come as Milwaukee County continues to struggle to stem the tide of drug overdose deaths.
This year, from Jan. 1 to Sept. 15, there were 321 confirmed drug overdose deaths, with 106 cases pending, according to data provided by Karen Domagalski, operations manager for the Milwaukee County Medical Examiner’s Office. Tragically, the number of deaths rose monthly during the first five months of the year, with 40 occurring in January to a high of 60 in May. That month, there were only three days in which an overdose death did not occur.
The single deadliest day this year was March 29, when six individuals overdosed, including two who died together of fentanyl and cocaine toxicity in a North Side home, and two who were homeless. Through the same time period last year there were 414 drug overdose deaths.
In addition to reducing drug overdoses, a major target of MAT is recidivism, Jewell said.
“Oftentimes people are engaged in criminal behavior to support the drug addiction,” she said. “If we are successful, then there will be a decrease in opioid use and with that a decrease in criminal behavior.”
Schwartz said the program has given some participants hope.
“Many of them tell me that they felt all alone and that nobody cared,” she said. “They’re grateful for the help they receive and want to be better.”
Drug treatment services in the Milwaukee area are available at the following locations:
•Gateway to Change
•10th Street Comprehensive Treatment Center
•Rogers Behavioral Health
•West Milwaukee Comprehensive Treatment Center
•First Step Community Recovery Center
•Meta House
•West Allis Community Medical Services
•United Community Center
In case you missed it: NNS Spotlight: ’Individuals are bigger than the mistakes they’ve made’: How one woman wants to transform the justice system

author: Edgar Mendez


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Post from Community: Blessing of the animals planned at St. Ann Center | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Sharon Selz
September 22, 2021
Editor’s note: Posts from the Community is the place for community announcements and event postings. If you have a community-oriented event you feel our readers would be interested in, please submit here.
Animals of all types, shapes and sizes are invited to receive a special blessing at 1 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 4 at St. Ann Center for Intergenerational Care.
Deacon Pat LaPointe, Pastoral Coordinator South Shore Parishes of Milwaukee, will preside at this celebration of the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, patron saint of animals. The blessing will take place in the east parking lot of St. Ann Center’s Stein Campus, 2801 E. Morgan Ave.
Pet owners are asked to wear masks and keep six feet apart from others attending the blessing. If the actual animal is not able to be present, it can be represented by a picture or its collar, leash or toy.
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St. Ann Center provides health and educational day services to children, frail elders and adults with disabilities, all under one roof. The center champions a home-based, intergenerational approach that emphasizes the dignity of each client and child. Its mission is based on the Franciscan values: reverencing all creation, making peace, showing compassion and creating a caring community.
For more information, call Rodican Rose Bonn, Director of Pastoral Care, at 414-977-5075.

author: Sharon Selz