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How to get seasonal work | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Wisconsin Better Business Bureau
November 29, 2017
The National Retail Federation (NRF) expects holiday retail sales in November and December to increase between 3.6 and 4 percent for a total of $678.75 – $682 billion (up from $655 billion last year). In addition, NRF is predicting retailers will hire between 500,000 and 550,000 temporary workers this holiday season.
As job seekers start their search for these seasonal positions, the BBB recommends applicants research potential employers and be cautious of fraudulent job offers.
BBB offer some tips to help steer you towards holiday employment:
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Aside from the traditional jobs on store floors and at the cash register, there is a huge demand for customer service representatives, filling backroom orders and getting them processed and shipped. Find out which companies are offering seasonal employment opportunities. Then, use bbb.org to find additional information on the company including consumer complaints, customer reviews and other details.
. Retailers prefer applicants who are familiar with the store’s merchandise, culture and layout. That gives you an advantage over other applicants. Look for jobs that match your skills. Some people enjoy working at the cash register while others prefer restocking shelves. Keep an open mind. You might find an opportunity you never thought of.
. It’s a busy season and full-time employees are offered preferred shifts. Seasonal employees will likely find themselves working long, inconvenient hours, and on holidays such as Christmas Eve.
Many consumers use online classifieds to search for local job openings. Unfortunately, scammers flock to these sites, posting fake jobs aimed at stealing money or the identities of job seekers. Never give your personal information without thoroughly researching the company first.
. Be careful responding to an unsolicited job offer and don’t give out any personal information unless you have a face-to-face meeting and a formal letter of hire in your hand. Report scams and fraud to BBB’s Scam Tracker.

author: Wisconsin Better Business Bureau


text:
| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
November 28, 2017

source: news-milwaukeenns

created: November 28, 2017

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

author: Adam Carr


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Alverno College part of a pilot program to assess students’ ‘essential employable qualities’ | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Alverno College
November 30, 2017
Alverno College was selected to participate in a national pilot program examining the employability of college students after graduation, a program that aligns with Alverno’s internationally admired abilities-based curriculum that’s been in practice since the early 1970s.
As participants in the Essential Employability Qualities (EEQ) Pilot program led by the Quality Assurance Commons for Higher and Postsecondary Education (the QA Commons), Alverno and 14 other North American higher education institutions are co-creating criteria leading to a certification process that will promote and recognize EEQ-building programs.
EEQ Pilot participants are exploring ways to assess higher education programs that intentionally:
• develop essential employability qualities in students
• engage students and employers in quality assurance
• assure that graduates are prepared for the world of work after program completion
• communicate openly and accurately with the public
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“Alverno has an international reputation for developing innovative approaches to student learning,” said Carole Chabries, Ph.D., dean of Alverno’s School of Adult Learning and New Initiatives. “This pilot brings national attention to the importance of what we’ve known and practiced for decades: that college-level learning outcomes can prepare students to participate in their academic disciplines and excel in the workplace, leading to new approaches that serve the needs of learners, employers and society.”
Alverno centered its curriculum around the 8 Abilities after feedback from industry partners gathered in the early 1970s indicated the types of skills college graduates should possess to be professionally successful. Alverno’s Adult Evening and Online program in Business, a flexible program for adult learners who complete classes both in-person and online, will serve as the incubator for the year-long pilot endeavor.
On September 14 and 15, EEQ Pilot participants met for the first time in Atlanta.
“Work as we know it is changing, so it’s increasingly challenging — and important — to ensure higher education experiences appropriately prepare graduates for the 21st century,” said Ralph Wolff, founder and president of the QA Commons.
According to a 2015 Gallup-Purdue Index report, although 98% of chief academic officers rate their institutions as very or somewhat effective at preparing students for the world of work, only 11% of business leaders strongly agree that graduating students have the skills and competencies they need.
The essential employability qualities that EEQ Pilot participants seek to develop in graduates include :
• People skills such as collaboration, teamwork and cross-cultural competence
• Problem-solving abilities such as inquiry, critical thinking and creativity
• Professional strengths such as communication, work ethic and technological agility
“Participating in the EEQ pilot gives us the opportunity to sharpen and deepen our own practices,” said Chabries. “We are excited to work and learn alongside peers who share our belief that college-level learning outcomes can prepare students to successfully integrate their academic studies, their careers and the fullness of their lives.”
Pilot participants are diverse in the discipline, learning format and degree levels they offer; the types of institutions they belong to, whether public, private, for-profit or faith-based; and the student bodies they serve, such as first-generation students, traditional age or continuing education students, commuters or residential students.
The EEQ Pilot is a project of the QA Commons, an independent, nonprofit organization devoted to exploring, developing and leading approaches to quality assurance that serve the needs of learners, employers and society. The QA Commons and the EEQ Pilot are initially funded through the National Center for Higher Education Management Systems (NCHEMS) under a grant from the Lumina Foundation. Learn more and follow this work at TheQACommons.org.
About Alverno College
Alverno College promotes the academic, personal and professional development of its students in a collaborative and inclusive environment. Undergraduate programs for women are offered in more than 60 areas of study, and graduate programs in education, nursing, community psychology and business are open to women and men.
A leader in higher education innovation, Alverno has earned international accolades for its highly effective ability-based, assessment-as-learning approach to education, which emphasizes hands-on experience and develops in-demand skills. The College has consulted with three U.S. presidential administrations on accountability and outcomes in higher education and for the past eight years has been ranked one of the top five schools in the Midwest doing “the best job of educating undergrads” by U.S. News & World Report.
Based in Milwaukee, Wis., Alverno College is a four-year independent, Catholic, liberal arts college.

created: November 30, 2017

author: Alverno College


text:
| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Name *
November 30, 2017

author: Name *


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Lifelong advocate focuses efforts on Amani neighborhood | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Claire Hyman
November 30, 2017
Editor’s note: This is one of an occasional series of pieces about grassroots leaders in Milwaukee.
Brenda Hart-Richardson never thought she’d sustain her involvement in Milwaukee community organizing into adulthood. As a child, Hart-Richardson tagged along to various volunteer and church meetings with her mother, who was her best friend in a family of four brothers.
“I always said when I get older I’m not going to be doing this. But, as you can see, I’m still doing it,” said Hart-Richardson, 67.
Hart-Richardson has now been retired for six-and-a-half years, but remains an active community advocate in the Amani neighborhood, where she grew up. “Active” might be a bit of an understatement.
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“My kids always say, ‘Gosh, mother, when I call you you’re always in a meeting, leaving a meeting or exhausted from meeting all day,” Hart-Richardson laughed.
Hart-Richardson serves on the board and organizes events for several Milwaukee-based grassroots organizations including Amani United, 30th Street Industrial Corridor, Pastors United and Safe & Sound.
Hart-Richardson volunteers in different capacities for the organizations with which she’s affiliated. She has served as a representative for Amani United, staffed information tables at COA Youth & Family Centers and provided information about job opportunities and events to community members.
Every year, Hart-Richardson and other block-watch representatives beautify their block with Christmas lights and bows.
For Hart-Richardson, being a good neighbor is a lifelong commitment.
She said she has seen some negative changes over the years.
Seven years ago, Hart-Richardson was sitting in a meeting and heard the neighborhood she grew up in referred to as “little Beirut.” This was a shock to Hart-Richardson, who recalls the tight-knit and highly involved neighbors from her childhood.
One of the changes that Hart-Richardson pointed out is an uptick in distrust among neighbors. She remembers being met with suspicion and skepticism when she canvassed her block to ask questions about what her neighbors would like to see in their neighborhood. The neighbors were worried she’d disclose the information to the police, she recalled.
Researchers from Marquette University and University of Wisconsin Milwaukee were met with similar skepticism when they came to Amani to interview people on Hart-Richardson’s block and asked questions concerning their income and financial situations.
“That is too in-depth. You don’t know people so you don’t ask some things. Ask some lightweight questions to build trust: ‘What do you like about your block? What would you like to see change?’”
Hart-Richardson knows that real change comes from gradual, sustained involvement.
“It’s just like peeling an onion to get to the core of it. It takes time.”
Despite apathy and distrust from some neighbors, Hart-Richardson consistently encourages them to visit COA Youth & Family Centers and Dominican Center, where staff members offer assistance with everything from writing resumes and doing practice interviews to getting a GED.
“I’m trying to explain to them… Just go around there and spend some time because if you don’t utilize these things, they will be taken away.”
Hart-Richardson personally takes advantage of community resources. She recently completed a course at the Milwaukee Police Department Citizen Academy, where she interacted with police officers and learned their protocol for handling a chaotic situation.
After this eye-opening seminar she had a message to bring back to the youth in her community: “Respect each other, do what the police ask you to do, and don’t get caught up.”

author: Claire Hyman


text:
| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
November 29, 2017

created: November 29, 2017


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MCTS JobLines ridership numbers reach record high | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Milwaukee County Transit System
November 30, 2017
With 2017 bringing Milwaukee’s unemployment rate to a 20-year low, the Milwaukee County Transit Systems’ JobLines (routes 6 and 61) are seeing record ridership, as the routes – now in their third year – continue to connect over 1,000 of Milwaukee’s urban residents to high-paying jobs at more than 150 employers in Waukesha and Washington counties.
From August to September, month-to-month average daily ridership rose by 11%, while in the third quarter of 2017, average daily ridership increased by 16%, with route 61 alone reaching nearly 1,000 average daily riders–its highest ever since funding began in 2014.
The JobLines routes were established as a result of a settlement with the Wisconsin and U.S. Departments of Transportation, the Black Health Coalition of Wisconsin (BHCW) and Milwaukee Inner-City Congregations Allied for Hope (MICAH) to aid in transporting individuals living in urban neighborhoods to employment opportunities in Waukesha and Washington Counties. Route 6 runs west along Capitol Drive to Moorland Rd. and south into New Berlin. Route 61 runs northwest along W. Appleton Avenue into Menomonee Falls.
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Urban Labor Pool
The JobLines primarily serve about 28,000 households in Milwaukee’s urban neighborhoods, where residents face significantly higher rates of unemployment and poverty. Within these neighborhoods, 19.6% of those households lack access to a car for work (SEWRPC). The JobLines removes this barrier by providing these communities with reliable transportation to good-paying, family supporting jobs.
“Knowing I’ll make it to work on time and prepared is what motivates me to board the 61 every day,” said JobLines rider Lorenzo Camus, who works at FedEx Ground in Menomonee Falls.
Employers also benefit from Milwaukee’s ready labor pool who utilize the JobLines.
“We are fortunate to have a JobLines bus stop close to our front door,” said Dan Andres, Senior HR Business Partner at Fed Ex in New Berlin. “It is a highly reliable and convenient mode of transportation for many of our employees traveling from Milwaukee.”
In addition to an increase in seasonal employment, some of the ridership growth can be attributed to an aggressive awareness campaign, developed by Milwaukee-based firm Creative Marketing Resources, that includes: JobLines-branded buses, transit advertising, social media marketing, and community outreach.
“With the increasing focus on workforce development in Southeastern Wisconsin, it’s imperative that we don’t overlook the importance of public transportation. The JobLines play a vital role in connecting job seekers with the employment opportunities they need to advance their lives,” said Brendan Conway, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer for the Milwaukee County Transit System.
Each day, over 1,000 riders use JobLines to reach jobs they can depend on. Find out more at https://www.ridemcts.com/joblines.

author: Milwaukee County Transit System


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Next Door’s Books for Kids Mobile Library hosts book drive | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Leah Harris
November 30, 2017
Next Door’s Books for Kids mobile library parked near 833 E. Michigan St. Tuesday to collect books to distribute to local children at 12 early education sites throughout the city. For about two hours during lunch hour, visitors could stop by to donate children’s books.
Next Door provides early childhood education to more than 2,000 children from birth to 5 years old in the central city. Quality early education, along with adult education and family support, position children for success in school. Next Door’s Books for Kids program created the mobile library in 2016 to distribute free books to young children.
With three locations in the city, Next Door primarily serves families that are unable to offer educational resources at home. The Books for Kids program provides books so children can build their home libraries and read with their families. Students in the program are allowed to take home two free books a month when they participate in one-on-one reading sessions with volunteers. The program also hosts a weekly community library event where families are invited to come pick up books.
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author: Leah Harris


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NNS on Lake Effect: Opioid crisis in Milwaukee | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
November 30, 2017
Rafael Mercado holds a container of syringes collected during a recent needle clean-up on the South Side. (Photo by Edgar Mendez)
NNS reporter Edgar Mendez goes on the air with Lake Effect’s Joy Powers to discuss the devastating effects of opioid use in Milwaukee, and the $2.5 million in grants aimed at easing the effects of the crisis.
Read the full special report.
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author: Dwayne Burtin


text:
Opioid Crisis | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
November 30, 2017
“1129c”. Genre: Other.


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Alderman Murphy secures funding for opioid addiction awareness | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ald. Michael Murphy
December 1, 2017
Alderman Michael J. Murphy’s budget amendment passed the Common Council on November 10, securing $50,000 for an opioid addiction awareness campaign to address the public health crisis in the community.
Research has shown there are three ways to address the opioid addiction crisis: law enforcement, treatment, and prevention. Ald. Murphy’s recent budget amendment will focus on addiction prevention. In the coming year, he will also work alongside community partners to leverage more funding for a larger media campaign to create greater awareness around the issue.
The number of deaths related to opioid overdoses keeps climbing. In Milwaukee County for 2017, more people have died from opioid overdoses than homicides and fatal car accidents combined. It is also important to recognize the staggering and lifesaving work by the Milwaukee Fire Department, as they have responded to 2,909 overdoses to provide lifesaving Narcan. Milwaukee residents comprised 2,549 of the lives saved.
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Ald. Murphy has been outspoken and active in addressing opioid addiction and overdose deaths. As the former Common Council President, he authored a detailed report in ‘888 Bodies and Counting,’ in 2015 to sound the alarm regarding the scope and impact of this crisis. In January 2017, Alderman Murphy created the Milwaukee City-County Heroin, Opioid, and Cocaine Task Force to bring together city, county, and non-profit resources to address the deadly public health crisis plaguing the region.
As the opioid addiction media awareness campaign moves forward, more information will become available. The alderman looks forward to working with community partners to address the issue.

created: December 1, 2017

author: Ald. Michael Murphy


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Growing Power’s uncertain future saddens community leaders | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Elliot Hughes
December 1, 2017
The Growing Power cafe and market, at 2719 N. Dr. Martin Luther King Drive, is permanently closed after the nonprofit ran into financial difficulties. (Photo by Elliot Hughes)
When Ossie Kendrix was a college student coming home for a visit, he used to buy fresh produce for his mother and grandma at a stand on Silver Spring Drive. When he started working at City Hall, he’d grab some of the same food out of a “pop-up shop” nearby.
The man behind that produce, Will Allen, who founded the nonprofit  and became a nationally recognized leader in urban farming, helped Kendrix visualize more clearly what was possible for an African-American male to achieve.
“Seeing that really made me recognize the level of opportunity as an African-American male to lead an organization and also be passionate about the work that benefits the community,” said Kendrix, who is now the president and CEO of the . “Just to see the trajectory of Growing Power … was a blessing for me.”
The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reported on Nov. 20 that Allen was retiring, and that the organization he leaves behind has an uncertain future. Growing Power is mired in financial trouble with pending  totaling nearly a half-million dollars.
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Growing Power founder and CEO Will Allen participated in the nonprofit’s first Good Food Revolution 5k walk and run in 2014. Allen announced his retirement last week. (Photo by Jabril Faraj)
That news hits hard for some community leaders, who appreciated Growing Power for its green, sustainable food practices, its influence on urban farming and the healthy food it spread throughout the city. But those interviewed feel good about the future of urban farming and that of Dr. Martin Luther King Drive, where the nonprofit had a cafe-market.
“It left a sort of thought in my mind that we would be missing a person that brought a very unique opportunity to Milwaukee… with the health-conscious focus [of] Growing Power,” said Deshea Agee, executive director of the , where Growing Power operated a cafe and produce market. “We’re losing the active mind of a genius.”
Growing Power, which was founded in 1995, will now be led by Operations Manager Brian Sales, who also co-founded , a nonprofit that introduces military veterans to green entrepreneurship. When asked about the future of Growing Power, Sales said, “Green Veterans Wisconsin is spearheading and architecting the transition and reorganization of Growing Power.”
An announcement about the nonprofit’s future is expected soon, he said.
Growing Power’s website has been stripped of all content and workers could be seen emptying the cafe-market at 2719 N King Drive on Wednesday.
Several people lamented that Milwaukee will lose a face that brought positive attention to the city. Allen, 68, was a recipient of the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation’s “” in 2008 and was named one of the 100 most influential people in the world by  two years later.
But at the same time, they expressed confidence that the urban farming movement in Milwaukee would continue. Growing Power helped nurture several other urban agriculture groups in the city, including , which was co-founded by Sharon Adams, a former board member of Growing Power.
Adams and Deneine Powell, executive director of , both said Allen’s legacy of urban farming will continue in the city. Powell said the movement now has an opportunity to experiment with new ideas that differ from the Growing Power model.
“Urban agriculture has to change, has to shift, has to be flexible and I think this is an opportunity for that to happen,” Powell said. “Will has laid the foundation.”
The cafe-market on King Drive had not been operating for about a year, according to Leo Ries of the , which owns the space. Ries said he is “actively working” with a new tenant that would fill a much-desired void in the neighborhood: a gathering space.
“I think the fact that there’s so much desire for that type of venue, I think that bodes well for the next tenant,” Ries said.
Ries and Agee both declined to give any specifics about the possible new tenant, although Agee said it would be a “second location” for the business and that it could open “really soon.”

author: Elliot Hughes


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
November 30, 2017


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Common Council votes to strengthen response to threat of lead exposure | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Jabril Faraj
December 4, 2017
A billboard near North 5th Street and West Keefe Avenue is intended to raise awareness about lead exposure. (Photo by Jabril Faraj)
Editor’s note: This is one of an occasional series of stories highlighting the health risk — particularly to children — of lead services lines, which deliver water from city water mains to about 70,000 homes in Milwaukee.
A resolution passed by the Common Council unanimously Tuesday will change the recommendations of the Milwaukee Health Department as it relates to lead exposure and safety.
The resolution beefs up existing recommendations regarding who is at risk for lead exposure and how early and often children should be tested. It also clarifies the most effective means to protect people from lead in water.
Prior to the resolution’s passage, the Health Department (MHD) considered children under 6 and pregnant or breastfeeding women to be at risk from lead exposure; the resolution adds women of childbearing age (15-45) to that pool.
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Previously MHD followed guidance from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services regarding how often young children should be tested for lead exposure. DHS recommends children be tested three times before the age of 3 and children under 6 be tested if they have had no prior tests, or have a history of lead exposure or high risk of exposure. The resolution directs health providers to test “infants and children up to the age of 6” at least once a year. It also recommends a NSF/ANSI Standard 53 certified filter, which removes 99 percent of lead, as “the most thorough means of lead-water safety.”
The resolution, which awaits the signature of Mayor Tom Barrett, is expected to be signed in the coming days, according to his special assistant, Jodie Tabak.
“It took eight months and 11 names, but we finally came up with a resolution,” said Hunger Task Force Executive Director Sherrie Tussler, referring to the different versions of the measure.
This screenshot of a Milwaukee Water Works Web page, taken Dec. 1, 2017, makes no mention of the need for “women of childbearing age who may become pregnant” to use water filters if their home has a lead service line.
The resolution, originally introduced in May by Ald. Tony Zielinski, was opposed by the Health Department because, as Health Commissioner Bevan Baker wrote, it was “in conflict with current evidence-based research.” The initial version stated that at-risk groups should not drink any unfiltered water, even in homes without a lead service line.
“We obviously pushed the city and the Health Department forward, in terms of adding more teeth and, I think … a greater level of safety,” said Ald. Jim Bohl, who chaired the city’s Water Quality Task Force and was a sponsor of the resolution.
Though Tussler and Robert Miranda, spokesperson for the Freshwater for Life Action Coalition (FLAC), a local advocacy group on the lead water issue, said much more needs to be done, they called the move a step forward.
But Health Department officials are claiming the resolution will have no effect on its filter distribution efforts or guidance to care providers regarding testing.
At an Oct. 6 Public Safety and Health Committee meeting, Health Commissioner Bevan Baker, referring to the practice of providing filters to women of childbearing age who live in a home with a lead service line, said, “We’ve been doing that for the whole filter distribution campaign.” The campaign, which provides free filters through community partners, began in 2016.
In response to emailed questions last week, after the resolution passed, Director of Disease Control & Environmental Health Angela Hagy wrote, “Our recommendation for filter use includes women within that age group (15-45) who may become pregnant. We support that, and our filter distribution program included this population prior to the resolution. Therefore, there is no change in those efforts.”
“It’s a matter of record to the contrary,” said Zielinski, who announced Wednesday that he is running for mayor in 2020.
A May 8 letter, signed by Baker, that opposed the original resolution said a filter is recommended “if the household is at risk for lead in drinking water and is home to children under the age of 6, or pregnant or breastfeeding women.” It made no reference to women of childbearing age. It also promoted flushing faucets for three minutes as “a cost-effective and accessible” way to protect from lead exposure. Research has shown flushing to be an inconsistent method of protection.
Tussler said, “I think what they’re trying to do, at this point, is claim, on some levels, they’ve been doing the work all along,” adding that the Health Department’s website and messaging around lead in water, has “morphed” during the battle over the resolution.
Screenshots taken by the Hunger Task Force over the course of about five months show that, in July, MHD’s Lead Safe MKE campaign recommended people living in homes that have lead lines “run your water if it hasn’t been used in several hours.” By early September, filtering was recommended for “families with pregnant or breastfeeding women and children under 6.”
Bohl said the new recommendations, outlined in the recently passed resolution, are in line with the Water Quality Task Force’s report, issued in April. The report prioritized the use of water filters as “the most thorough means of lead-water safety” and supported — at the urging of Black Health Coalition of Wisconsin President Patricia McManus — including women of childbearing age in the group that should use filters if their home has a lead line.
As of Dec. 3 at 10:30 p.m., the Milwaukee Health Department’s drinking water filter program Web page said that, to be eligible for a free water filter, Milwaukee residents must have a lead service line and be “pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning pregnancy in the near future, or have children under the age of 6.”
The measure to expand the at-risk group was supported by Baker at the time but the guidance was not added as an official Health Department recommendation. MHD pointed Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service to a document from October 2016 that outlines the pilot distribution program. The document mentions women of childbearing age as a target for filter distribution; however, MHD never specifically warned or recommended publicly that women of childbearing age use filters.
The document does not appear on the Health Department’s drinking water filter program page, which says only City of Milwaukee residents who have a lead service line and are “pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning pregnancy in the near future, or have children under the age of 6” are eligible for a free filter.
Online MHD resources — including Web pages focused on lead exposure, what parents can do to protect their children and the drinking water filter program — make no mention of women of childbearing age as being at risk, or needing filters. A Milwaukee Water Works page associated with Lead Safe MKE did not include such language as recently as Dec. 1, but has since been changed.
The Social Development Commission (SDC) is one of the organizations partnering with the Health Department to distribute free filters. SDC has distributed about 600 filters since 2016 through local clinics and at the organization’s North Side location.
According to Greg DiSalvo, who works in SDC’s residential services division, anyone with a lead service line is eligible for a filter, per direction of the Health Department. However, he noted that in April or May the Health Department provided further direction to target distribution to children under 6 and pregnant women. When asked whether women of childbearing age had been added to the targeted list, he said, “I have not heard anything in regards to that, no.”
Baker has said in the past that it does not make sense to supply households with no at-risk individuals with filters, because it would deplete resources that could supply filters to those who are most at risk.
Health Department officials declined to answer questions about the timeline for rolling out changes in messaging mandated by the resolution. MHD did not grant a request to interview Baker for this story.
“There’s been a lot of mixed messages and I think that we need to clarify the message that there’s lead in our water when it comes through lead pipes … and the best thing you can do is to put a filter on your faucet,” said Kirsten Shead, co-chair of Milwaukee Water Commons’ drinking water initiative.
Advocates expressed a desire to work with the Health Department and said it is essential that community organizations, activists and the city work together to make sure children are safe. But, according to Tussler, leadership is lacking and “we’re too busy quibbling about who’s responsible.”
Tussler, Miranda and Shead all said they will continue to advocate for more resources to be dedicated to lead awareness, testing, education and replacing hazardous infrastructure.
But Tussler said, “It sounds like we’re going to have an uphill battle.”

created: December 4, 2017

author: Jabril Faraj


text:
| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
December 3, 2017

created: December 3, 2017


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‘The Long March to Freedom’ book coming soon | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
December 4, 2017
Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service is excited to announce the publication of “The Long March to Freedom,” a commemorative 32-page book illustrated by local artist Gabriela Riveros. The book is a compilation of our 15-part series marking the 50th anniversary of the historic open housing marches organized by the NAACP Youth Council under the guidance of the Rev. James Groppi. It features the personal stories of nine members of the Youth Council, as well as in-depth articles written by NNS staff.
Watch for more information on how to get your copy!
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text:
long-march-to-freedom | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
December 4, 2017


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Public library hosts free wrestling event at Mitchell Street Branch | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Alhaji Camara
December 4, 2017
The Milwaukee Public Library Mitchell Street Branch featured a night of wrestling featuring Milwaukee-based wrestling group Mondo Lucha.
“Crush the Shush” is part of MPL’s Library Loud Days series, which offers free events to showcase the library as more than a place to read quietly and check out books, but one where people can connect and converse.
Organizers gave away free t-shirts, and attendees could decorate their own masks and pose in front of a Mondo Lucha-themed backdrop. Wrestlers stayed after the matches to sign posters, masks,and t-shirts for their fans.
More information about Milwaukee Public Library’s Library Loud Days series can be found here.
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author: Alhaji Camara


text:
| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
December 4, 2017


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SHARP Literacy announces first public fundraising campaign to help meet the demand for school programs | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
SHARP Literacy
December 4, 2017
(Photo courtesy of SHARP Literacy)
SHARP Literacy Inc., a southeastern Wisconsin-based arts and education program for urban students, has announced its first public fundraising campaign to help bring its programming to additional students in urban southeastern Wisconsin schools.
SHARP Literacy helps K4 through fifth grade students build reading, writing and researching skills by using the visual arts as the primary tool for learning. The goal of the arts-integrated program is to help reduce the achievement gap Milwaukee-area students face. Currently, only 15% of third grade students in the City of Milwaukee demonstrate reading proficiency on the state-administered reading assessment, making Milwaukee one of the lowest performing cities in the country. Those results are even more alarming considering that reading proficiently by the end of 3rd grade is a determining factor in a child’s long term academic success. According to recent post-assessment scores, student performance gains on the SHARP Assessment averaged 25-30 percentage points from the pre- to post-assessment in 2016-17.
SHARP is currently in 39 Milwaukee and Waukesha County schools serving more than 8,500 elementary school students. As a privately funded, non-profit organization, SHARP Literacy offers its arts-based program at no cost to the schools. Currently, no other program like SHARP Literacy exists that is fully funded and offered at no cost to participating schools and students. Programming cost is $104 per student per school  year.
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More than 1,200 students in 12 schools are on a waiting list to bring SHARP Literacy’s programs to their classrooms. To meet current waiting list needs alone, SHARP needs to raise more than $124,800. Ultimately, the more that can be raised, the more students SHARP can serve, as well as continuing to add new programs in the future. To continue offering SHARP Literacy’s programs, more funding is needed, which is the reason SHARP Literacy is reaching out publicly for the first time to all Milwaukee and Waukesha County-area businesses and additional donors. Eighty-two percent of the funds that are raised go toward SHARP Literacy programs.
“The need to bring SHARP’s programs into more schools is our greatest challenge,” said Lynda Kohler, SHARP Literacy president and CEO.” To bring more students into the program, we need to find additional donors who believe in our mission.”
With continued cuts in school arts programs, SHARP Literacy has seen a significant demand for and growth in enrollment. SHARP Literacy has seen a 45 percent increase in enrollment in the past three years and has added six schools this year. While the state’s recent budget for 2017-19 included the largest increase in per pupil aid for education, an increase in arts education was not included in the budget recommendations.
In addition, this year Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) has committed bringing an integrated arts program into all MPS schools for the 2017-18 school year with its new “Year of the Arts Initiative.” The goal of the initiative is to be sure that every student is afforded quality arts opportunities.
SHARP provides hands-on learning experiences to 4K through fifth grade students, reaching and positively impacting students in the most at-risk schools. Programs serve a diverse urban Milwaukee and Waukesha student population that is 53% African-American, 29% Hispanic, 9% Caucasian, 6% Asian, and 3% other ethnicities. Through the use of classroom-supported programs, hands-on activities, educational tours, collaborative summer and after-school programs, public art mural projects, writing, researching and publishing books and more, SHARP helps guide students toward new ways of learning that promote creative thinking and problem solving.
“Through SHARP Literacy’s programs, we strive to give our children better futures,” added Kohler. “But to do that, we need help from area donors and to establish additional corporate partnerships to bring more educational and learning experiences to our community’s children.”
An example of an interactive, hands-on unique learning experience that SHARP Literacy offers second grade students is an upcoming Discovery World tour on Monday, December 4.
“Through Discovery World’s collaboration with SHARP Literacy, we have been able to connect two areas of great need – literacy and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Education – for hundreds of second grade students in our community,” said Joel Brennan, CEO at Discovery World. “By working together and uniting Discovery World learning labs with important vocabulary terms, Discovery World and SHARP are opening the eyes of these young people to the Great Lakes and the opportunities that await them through literature and interactive education in the years to come. Our partnership is just one example of how SHARP Literacy collaborates with other community partners to put more young people on a path to being better and stronger readers, students and community members in the years to come. The work of SHARP Literacy is critically important in Milwaukee and Discovery World is a proud partner in their efforts.”
The tour at Discovery World is comprised of three sessions that take approximately 25 minutes each. The first part of the tour, called “The Life of a Salmon,” takes place in the Freshwater Sustainability Lab. During this section, students will draw a freshwater habitat where salmon may live, and will learn about other critters that live in freshwater. The vocabulary words used in this section include “freshwater,” “habitat,” and “horizon.”
The second session is titled “Great Lakes Past and Present” and takes place in the Great Lakes Future exhibit. Students will take a visit in a time machine to learn about the formation of the Great Lakes, learn about the water cycle and see a simulated thunder storm in the exhibits to demonstrate the water cycle. Students will then see a sculpture based upon life on the Great Lakes and discuss the sculpture’s imagery. The vocabulary words used in this section are “glacier,” “Great Lakes,” “movement,” “water cycle,” and “sculpture.”
The final session takes place in the Discovery World Reiman Aquarium. Students will take a tour of the aquarium to observe the various fish that live in salt and freshwater. Along the way, students will observe the various movements that fish make, the components of their habitat, and also pet several types of fish. Then, students will view and reflect upon an underwater life mosaic art piece. The words used in this section are “movement,” “Great Lakes,” “habitat,” and “freshwater.”
SHARP welcomes anyone interested in finding out more about their programs or considering a contribution to help it expand its programming, businesses looking to partner with SHARP, or individual donors wishing to donate, call 414.977.1768 or visit the website at www.sharpliteracy.org.

author: SHARP Literacy


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Awareness campaign targets FoodShare members in Southeast Wisconsin | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
ResCare Workforce Services
December 5, 2017
With more than 18,000 jobs currently available in southeastern Wisconsin, ResCare Workforce Services has launched a “Change the Game” campaign to raise awareness among FoodShare members about enrollment in the FoodShare Employment and Training (FSET) program.
FSET is a free program that helps FoodShare members in Wisconsin build their job skills and find jobs. ResCare Workforce Services administers the FSET program to FoodShare-eligible individuals in Kenosha, Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Racine, Walworth, Washington, and Waukesha counties. The Change the Game campaign provides, in part, information and resources for three regions via three new websites: GameChangeMKE.org (Milwaukee), GameChangeWOW.org (Waukesha, Ozaukee, and Washington), and GameChangeWRK.org (Walworth, Racine, and Kenosha).
“Our goal is to empower individuals to build meaningful careers by leveraging the FSET program along with our extensive resources and employer partnerships,” said DeVone Holt, ResCare Workforce Services customer development director. “We hear from FSET participants regularly telling us how going through the program has improved their lives. By increasing awareness of the opportunities available to eligible participants, our goal is to encourage Wisconsin residents who need assistance with job training to take advantage of these life-changing services,” he said.
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Since 2015, over 13,000 FSET participants in southeast Wisconsin have found jobs with assistance from ResCare. Statewide, almost 21,000 FSET participants have found jobs.
Who is Eligible
Anyone currently receiving FoodShare benefits is eligible to enroll in the FSET program through ResCare Workforce Services. Once a member enrolls, talent development specialists provide support to help create a customized plan of action for education, vocational training, and other support services that are based on the individual’s needs and goals.
“Hundreds of employers in the Greater Milwaukee region are desperately seeking qualified, skilled workers to fill jobs,” said Holt. “FSET program participants are trained with the skills needed to meet the needs of these jobs.”
About ResCare Workforce Services in Wisconsin
ResCare Workforce Services is the largest workforce contractor in the U.S., with more than 350 locations and a team of more than 2,000 professionals who use industry best practices to provide job training, career advice, and job placement services to approximately 1 million job seekers and thousands of employers annually.
In Wisconsin, ResCare Workforce Services is the administrator of the FSET program for Kenosha, Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Racine, Walworth, Washington, and Waukesha counties.
Headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky, ResCare’s 45,000 dedicated employees serve nearly 60,000 people daily in 42 states, Canada, and Puerto Rico. For more information about Wisconsin’s FSET program, please visit http://GameChangeMKE.org. This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

created: December 5, 2017

author: ResCare Workforce Services


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SecureFutures has head start teaching financial literacy to teens | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
December 5, 2017
Keontay Johnson, a senior at James Madison Academic Campus, meets with Money Coach volunteer Gloria Santilli. (Photo courtesy of SecureFutures)
SecureFutures, which has been teaching the basics of money management to teens since 2006, is a model for the type of financial education that is now mandated in Wisconsin. The bill, signed into law last week by Gov. Scott Walker, directs Wisconsin school boards to teach financial literacy in grades kindergarten to 12.
A number of schools have voluntarily created curricula or adopted programs developed by outside organizations, but the law marks the first time that financial literacy education is mandated for all Wisconsin students.
“For those of us who have already been working on improving financial futures for teens, we know this work cannot wait. I’ve been eager for (a mandate) like this since our organization started,” said Brenda Campbell, president and CEO of SecureFutures. Campbell worked with the nonprofit’s founder, mortgage banker Lloyd Levin, since its beginning to teach basic financial literacy to high school students.
SecureFutures trains business community volunteers to teach an interactive curriculum. Six classes held over six weeks cover budgeting; saving; opening and managing bank accounts; protecting against identity theft and fraud; the power of compound interest; credit cards; and credit scores.
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Since its founding as Make a Difference – Wisconsin, the organization has expanded from MPS to schools and community organizations throughout southeastern Wisconsin and beyond. In 2016, it served more than 8,000 teens at about 100 sites, according to Campbell. Last year, the Money Sense program was offered in 22 MPS schools. The organization changed its name to SecureFutures in August.
Dion Saffold, who grew up in the central city and graduated from Riverside University High School in 1993, has taught Money Sense for three years. An information security professional at Northwestern Mutual, Saffold connected with SecureFutures through the company’s African American Employee Resource Group.
Unable to find a model financial mentoring program for teens, Brenda Campbell decided SecureFutures would build “Money Coach” from scratch. (Photo by Andrea Waxman)
It’s important not to take financial literacy for granted, said Saffold, who learned a lot from his hard-working, practical father. “My father worked for Milwaukee County Hospital. He was a farmer from Mississippi who didn’t have much education but the things that he taught me still apply.” One such lesson was: if it sounds too good to be true, it is, Saffold added.
The ability to offer financial literacy to “kids who don’t have parents [who can teach them] and don’t have this in their schools … is what keeps me continuously going back into the classroom,” Saffold said.
Jim Neubauer has volunteered as a teacher in the city and suburbs and he thinks it’s good for students to meet and talk with professionals. “I get a lot out of it too,” Neubauer said, noting that interacting with students of different races, socio-economic conditions and backgrounds is beneficial to everyone. “It demystifies anything you’re reading (about the central city) in the paper,” so much of which is driven by crime.
”We have found that the absolute sweet spot for financial education is ages 16 to 18 because it’s relevant but they haven’t yet made mistakes,” Campbell said. Students this age are starting part-time jobs and opening bank accounts and “credit cards are just around the corner,” she added.
Then a Ronald Reagan High School sophomore, Jeremy Cain’s first Money Sense class in fall 2008 immediately captured his attention. “It was the first week of my first job and I thought,  ‘Hey, I can use this information when I get my first paycheck.’” Cain entered the world of work selling popcorn in front of the penguin exhibit at the Milwaukee County Zoo.
He worked to pay college expenses and, three years ago — shortly after turning 19 — Cain established his own business, Crash Course Driver Education Center. His business streamlines driver education by offering the classroom portion online.
His introduction to finance through the Money Sense program sparked an interest that has continued, Cain said. “I feel like I would totally be behind where I’m at now” without Money Sense.” Cain joined the board of SecureFutures in June 2016.
SecureFutures created a second program, “Money Coach,” after evaluations of the original program revealed that central city teens needed additional support to act on what they had learned. Unlike Money Sense, which is built into required social studies courses, students must opt in to Money Coach.
Money Coach brings three volunteer coaches together with 12 students twice a month for a semester. One coach works with students to make sure they understand the basic concepts taught in the Money Sense program. The other two work with six students one-on-one and in small groups, providing guidance for opening bank accounts, setting financial goals, creating budgets and tracking expenses, among other activities. Coaches hold students accountable for meeting their goals and stay in contact with them between meetings.
“We have hand-selected the volunteers for this program — people that we know are passionate about teens … about financial education, that have the time and a willingness to have that one-on-one relationship,” Campbell said.
Elliyah Lock, 18, a senior at James Madison Academic Campus, said her coach, Dejunae Smith, branch manager at Guaranty Bank, “is awesome.” Smith provides a support system “like a big brother or sister, like your best friend telling you what’s going on,” Lock said.
A unique aspect of Money Coach is that participants who open bank accounts can earn a college/career scholarship of $350. “[It] puts money in their hands while they have a trusted, caring adult looking over their shoulders and talking to them about their spending decisions and what they are doing to save for their goals,” said Campbell.
Lock works 15 hours a week at Froedtert Hospital. With Smith’s help, she has created a budget that divides her pay and Money Coach scholarship into savings categories  — general, prom and college — and spending money.
“I would definitely recommend (the program). It’s unfortunate that a lot schools don’t have this because it’s something that everybody should know,” Lock said.
SecureFutures judges the success of Money Coach on whether participants have a bank account, track their expenses and have a budget. Comparing pre- and post-program behavior of teens who completed the program last year, the organization reported that those who had bank accounts increased from 56 to 100 percent; students who tracked expenses rose from 30 to 94 percent; and those who had a budget grew from 15 to 78 percent.
“What we are seeing in this program is the development of habits … that could lead to long-term financial stability and capability,” Campbell said.
She added that both programs are provided at no cost to schools and students. “We’re committed to raising the dollars, privately, that we need … to make this possible.”
Responding to the new law, Campbell said, “With the right resources and partnerships, this mandate can be a big step toward a movement to make Wisconsin the state with the most financially savvy students in the country.”

author: Andrea Waxman


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How to volunteer in December | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Martha Cannon, Nonprofit Center of Milwaukee
December 6, 2017
Children make gingerbread houses at the East Branch Library in 2015.
Looking for something meaningful to do this holiday season? Volunteer Milwaukee, a service of the Nonprofit Center of Milwaukee features a calendar full of events for volunteers, both one-time and ongoing. Here are a few of the opportunities in December.
Make a Gingerbread House
Prepare materials and help families decorate a gingerbread house, hand out snacks and clean up Dec. 6, 9, 12, 16 and 19 at various times and Milwaukee Public Library locations.
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Contact Sha’Nese Burnell-Jones at smburn@milwaukee.gov or 414-286-3077.
Christmas Box & Toy Distribution
Check in guests, distribute food boxes and help parents select toys for their children for Capuchin Community Services now until Dec. 22; weekdays 9 a.m.- noon or 1-3 p.m.
Contact Shirelle Jenkins at ccsvol@thecapuchins.org or 414-933-1300 ext. 1123.
Wellness Holiday Event
Share your skills in aromatherapy, massage, meditation/relaxation/visualization or balancing chakras at Sixteenth Street Community Health Centers Friday, Dec. 15; 2:30-4:30 p.m.
Contact Kate Jaeger at kate.jaeger@sschc.org or 414-897-5184.
Holiday Luncheon
Set up and serve food to seniors Thursday, Dec. 21, 10:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. at Interfaith Washington Park Senior Center.
Contact Sarah Moriarty at smoriarty@interfaithmilw.org or 414-933-2332.
Musical/Singing Entertainers
Sing or play Christmas music for older adults with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease and for adults with disabilities at Catholic Charities Adult Day Center weekdays anytime between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
Contact Jessica Brandt at jbrandt@ccmke.org or 414-769-3414.
Ring Bells
Encourage giving with The Salvation Army Milwaukee County donation kettles through Dec. 24; two-hour shifts at various locations.
Contact Valencia Clay at valencia_clay@usc.salvationarmy.org or 414-302-4300.
Shovel Snow
Shovel snow in your neighborhood for older adults who receive services from Interfaith Neighborhood Outreach Program.
Contact Mary Steinke at msteinke@interfaithmilw.org or 414-291-7500.

created: December 6, 2017


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
December 5, 2017


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MANDI 2018 finalists announced at LISC holiday celebration | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Edgar Mendez
December 6, 2017
Gisela Ortega and Jonatan Zuniga, outreach managers at LBWN, react as Eugene Manzanet, vice president of community development banking for PNC Bank, announces LBWN’s Block Projects Menu as a finalist for the PNC Bank Trailblazer Award. (Photo by Edgar Mendez)
Finalists for the Milwaukee Awards for Neighborhood Development Innovation, better known as the MANDIs, were announced Tuesday during LISC Milwaukee’s holiday celebration. Two new categories were added this year: the Chase Economic Development Award, for economic and business development, and the Northwestern Mutual Collaboration Award.
LISC is still seeking nominees for the Northwestern Mutual award. Donsia Strong Hill, executive director of LISC Milwaukee, said the award will go to two or more community-based organizations who worked together on a program or project.
About 80 people attended the event at Mr. J’s Lounge, 4610 W. Fond Du Lac Ave.
All of the finalists will be eligible for the Wells Fargo People’s Choice Award. Members of the public will be able to vote online to select the winners. Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service hosts the voting, which will begin on March 1.
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Raina J. Johnson of Artists Working in Education chats with William Coleman, program director at Safe & Sound. Both organizations are MANDI finalists. (Photo by Edgar Mendez)
The finalists for the MANDIs, presented by U.S. Bank in partnership with LISC Milwaukee, were selected after a public nomination process and review by a committee of community leaders representing public, private and philanthropic organizations. Two finalists were named for each category, down from three in the past.
Winners, which receive $1,000, will be announced on Thursday, March 15, at Potawatomi Hotel and Casino. The dinner typically draws more than 800 attendees and is considered one of the highlight events of the year for local developers, lenders, representatives of nonprofits and other stakeholders.
Below are the MANDI 2018 finalists announced in each category:
The Brewers Community Foundation Public Space Award recognizes a public space that helps build the community.
The BMO Harris Cornerstone Award recognizes an organization or program for its commitment and effectiveness over time.
The Chase Economic Development Award for economic and business development
The Northern Trust Navigator Award recognizes an individual for leadership and collaboration.
The PNC Bank Trail Blazer Award recognizes an innovative approach to a community problem.
The State Farm Building Blocks Award recognizes a real estate project that advances the community.

author: Edgar Mendez


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Controversial photo of city contractors with guns prompts reaction along racial lines | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Elliot Hughes
December 8, 2017
This photo of three American Sewer Services employees carrying guns while working on a project for the city of Milwaukee on 19th and Meinecke streets was shared widely on social media and angered several Common Council members.
While several Milwaukee Common Council members said they are determined to prohibit city contractors from carrying weapons on the job, public officials mirrored the social media reaction to an online photo of three contractors carrying guns posted over the weekend.
Some Common Council members find it offensive that three men, who presumably do not live in the North Side neighborhood where they were working, would feel so unsafe that they would arm themselves and flaunt their weapons. Others said that it is understandable why they might feel they need to carry a weapon, given Milwaukee’s public safety issues.
Those perspectives leapt off computer screens and mobile devices and appeared front and center during a Public Works Committee hearing Wednesday, when council members got a chance to question the head of the Public Works Department about the photo.
It featured three white sewer contractors openly carrying guns while on the job near the intersection of 19th and Meinecke streets, a predominantly black neighborhood. Two men had their guns holstered, while the third held the weapon in his hand.
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Ald. Russell Stamper speaks at a public event in November. His district was the scene of the controversial photograph of city contractors with guns. (Photo by Leah Harris)
The photo has raised questions about whether city contractors can or should be prohibited from carrying weapons while on the job, even if they feel unsafe.
“Would any of you spend your day at 19th and Meineke unarmed?” read one Twitter post.
“If we did this [in a] white neighborhood we would be arrested, shot or killed,” read a comment on Facebook.
But the photo also prompted a discussion about Milwaukee’s real and perceived public safety challenges. As Ald. Milele Coggs pointed out at the meeting, the dialogue is falling along racial lines.
“The ethnic backgrounds, apparently, of the men pictured in the photo and the demographics of the neighborhood in which they were working: totally opposite,” said Coggs, who is black. “Much of the public chatter you see about this picture is highly divided along those lines. I would hope that, one, as we continue to make policy and discuss this issue, that we base it in fact. And, two, that we don’t let those same lines that the public is getting caught up in catch us up as we fight to make the best policies possible.”
Wednesday’s meeting became somewhat heated after Ald. Bob Donovan — while repeatedly saying he was not defending the men in the photo — expressed that many people outside of Milwaukee view the city as a “war zone,” a phrase seen multiple times in the online reaction to the photo.
He referenced Legislative Reference Bureau statistics that show the area around 19th and Meinecke — about a three-quarter mile radius — has been the scene of eight homicides and 37 nonfatal shootings in 2017. He also made an offhand remark that suggested crime in Milwaukee is worse now than it was 20 years ago.
That drew some sharp rebukes from other council members. Ald. Robert Bauman said crime is actually “way down” from 20 years ago, when the city was “truly under a homicide epidemic.”
Ald. Nic Kovac then said statements such as Donovan’s fuel misconceptions about safety in Milwaukee.
“We need to be more responsible with facts and the way we describe things,” he said.
Eventually, Donovan, who also claimed to know for a fact that some full-time city employees carry concealed weapons on the job against city policy, asked his colleagues what the proper response is for someone who is asked to work in an area they think is dangerous.
“Very simple: find other employment,” Bauman said.
Coggs and Ald. Russell Stamper, whose 15th district is home to 19th and Meinecke streets, also defended the area as a nice place to live. Coggs noted there are several successful businesses and organizations nearby and that the city and residents have invested in the area. She said the neighborhood is not perfect, but “it’s definitely not a area that warrants people to feel like they have to defend their life to do their work.”
Stamper, who in a press release on Monday called the photo “offensive,” said he walks around the 19th and Meinecke area frequently, never with a gun, and said it is safe. He interpreted the photo as jocular, if not braggadocio, and suggested their decision to openly carry was not about safety.
The three men in the photo had not been involved in an altercation with citizens before or after the photo was taken, according to Ghassan Korban, commissioner of the Department of Public Works.
The men in the photo were working for American Sewer Services, a company that has done business with the city for 30 years, Korban said. The company is finishing a $1.14 million project on sewer rehabilitation at 11 locations.
Korban, who met with the owner of the company Tuesday, said two men in the photo have been suspended and the third was fired. The city of Milwaukee has a policy barring employees and contractors from carrying weapons while on the job, but Assistant City Attorney Katherine Block said that policy is not referenced in contracts. Therefore, she said, terminating American Sewer Services’ contract on these grounds is not advisable.
Stamper said he intends to draft a resolution directing the Department of Public Works to develop a policy prohibiting contractors from allowing employees to carry weapons while working for the city. Coggs and Bauman, who is the chair of the Public Works Committee, said they would co-sponsor it.

created: December 8, 2017


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
December 7, 2017

created: December 7, 2017


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How to shop locally for the holidays | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Lydia Slattery / Wisconsin Watch
December 8, 2017
Melissa Blue Muhammad, owner of Forever Fresh Preserves, sells canned goods at the Outpost Makers Market. (Photo courtesy of Outpost Makers Market)
The holidays are fast approaching and people are looking to buy gifts for friends and family. Several markets in Milwaukee will feature local artists and vendors of color, giving you an opportunity to support community businesses. Here are a few local options that feature vendors of color.
Milwaukee World
On Saturday, Dec. 9, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Milwaukee World will feature books by 10 local authors at the Milwaukee County Historical Society, 910 N. Old World 3rd St. The event is open to the public and the authors selling and signing their books will include John Gurda, Michail Takach and Jessie Garcia. The event includes free admission to the “Milwaukee Holiday Treasures & Traditions” exhibit.
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Holiday Vendor Fair 2017
CORE El Centro is hosting its annual Holiday Vendor Fair featuring a variety of local artists, bakers and more on Saturday, Dec. 9, from 2 to 6 p.m. at 130 W. Bruce St. The Tiny Vegan Kitchen will provide vegan treats and Pear of Pairs will sell clothing and jewelry in addition to live music, food and dancing. There will also be the opportunity for a toy and clothing swap.
Cathedral Christmas Market — Made in Milwaukee
The Cathedral Christmas Market — Made in Milwaukee focuses on businesses owned by people of color and women. The market takes place on Sunday, Dec. 10, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the atrium of Cathedral Square, 812 N. Jackson St. That Salsa Lady, Amu Cherian and Nourishing Nature will be at the market. There will be a wide selection homemade holiday gifts, music and refreshments for shoppers.
Body and Soul Holiday Market
The Body and Soul Healing Arts Center, 3617 N. 48th St., is hosting a Holiday Market on Sunday, Dec. 17, from 12 to 4 p.m. The event will feature local artisans offering soaps, body products, baked goods and more. Funky Fresh Spring Rolls will also be cooking food for shoppers to try.
Outpost Makers Market
The Outpost Makers Market, 1617 W. North Ave, offers products from local businesses every Saturday from 12 to 3 p.m. Vendors include Alice’s Garden, Dawn’s Yummy Delights and Walnut Way Conservation Corp. All items are locally made from businesses in the community.
Milwaukee Winter Farmer’s Market
The Milwaukee Winters Farmer’s Market takes place in the greenhouse annex of the Mitchell Park Domes, 524 S. Layton Blvd. It has about 50 local vendors every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. through April 14. Shoppers will be able to buy local baked goods, soups, cheeses, produce, maple syrup and much more. The farmer’s market is supported by Fondy Food Center and is open to the public.

author: Lydia Slattery / Wisconsin Watch


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“Last chance” events to sign up for health insurance before December 15th deadline | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Milwaukee Enrollment Network
December 8, 2017
As the December 15 deadline nears for individuals to secure 2018 coverage under the Affordable Care Act, enrollment assisters in Milwaukee will continue daily enrollment assistance citywide and offer a number of public events where area residents can receive free assistance in finding a health care plan that meets their needs.
“The ACA has not been repealed or replaced, and it’s important anyone in need of health care coverage understand that all the financial supports to individuals under the ACA are still in place,” said Mayor Tom Barrett. “The clock is ticking and the deadline is just days away. I urge anyone with questions to reach out to our local network of health systems, insurers, and partners who can help.”
Local help is available through a network of partners in the Milwaukee Enrollment Network, a consortium of more than 100 organizations, including upcoming public events scheduled at Sixteenth Street Community Health Centers, Milwaukee Public Library locations, and Community Advocates as well as daily assistance at locations like the City of Milwaukee Health Department’s three health center locations.
“National research shows that consumers who work with a navigator or enrollment assister are much more successful submitting an application in heatlhcare.gov for a plan that fits their budget and includes their providers,” notes Caroline Gomez-Tom of the Milwaukee Enrollment Network. “There are many affordable plans available in the Marketplace – and 9 out of 10 people who sign up for coverage get financial assistance – sometimes with premiums under $50 a month.”
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To meet the strong demand for help in signing up for the Marketplace and Medicaid in Milwaukee, consumers may drop in at the these and other events, but are encouraged to schedule an appointment by dialing 2-1-1:
•Friday, December 8, 1 – 5 pm, Zablocki Library, 3501 W. Oklahoma Ave.
•Saturday, December 9, 10:30 am – 1:30 pm, Capitol Library, 3969 N. 7 St.
•Saturday, December 9, 10 am – 2 pm, Sixteenth Street Community Health Center, 1032 S. Cesar Chavez Dr.
•Monday December 11, 4 – 7 pm, Center Street Library, 2727 W. Fond du Lac Ave.
•Thursday December 14, 9 am – 5 pm, Community Advocates, 728 N. James Lovell St.
•Friday, December 15, 9 am – 5 pm, Community Advocates, 728 N. James Lovell St.
“We know that many people have questions and need help navigating all of the options available to them,” said Commissioner of Health Bevan K. Baker. “The City of Milwaukee Health Department urges anyone who needs help understanding their options to take advantage of the local navigators and certified application counselors who can provide free, in-person assistance.”
Consumers can learn more about enrollment in the Marketplace as well as Medicaid, by visiting healthcare.gov or calling the Health Insurance Marketplace national call center at 1-800-318-2596. To get connected to free, in-person enrollment assistance in Milwaukee County, consumers should dial 2-1-1, or text their zip code to 898-211 for an immediate reply.
The Milwaukee Enrollment Network reminds consumers to be prepared when signing up for health care coverage, and to have the following information about themselves and their household:
In 2018, the fine for not having health insurance will be $695, or 2.5% of household income, whichever is greater.
Adults with income below 100% of the federal poverty level ($11,670 per year for an individual) and children and pregnant women in households with income under 300% of the poverty levels ($71,550 for a family of four), may enroll anytime in BadgerCare Plus.

author: Milwaukee Enrollment Network


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Community members share ideas for new violence prevention plan | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Leah Harris
December 9, 2017
About 25 community members gathered at Washington Park Library to learn about the Blueprint for Peace. (Photo by Leah Harris)
Growing up, Nicole Thompson would walk to school, the arcade and the corner store without worrying about her safety. Kids today can no longer do that, she said.
Thompson is a program director at COA Youth & Family Centers. Her children attend neighborhood schools and she said she hopes to see a day when they can walk throughout the neighborhood and she doesn’t have to worry about their safety.
“The whole dynamic of parenting has changed over the last 40 or 50 years. Parents are scared to send their kids outside,” she added. “We have to start investing in our neighborhoods again to fix it.”
Thompson was among about 25 people who attended a recent community briefing at Washington Park Library about the Blueprint for Peace, a new initiative created by the city’s Office of Violence Prevention to address safety and violence in Milwaukee.
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“I’m really big on community so I wanted to know what they planned for us without us,” Thompson said.
According to the Office of Violence Prevention, hundreds of Milwaukee youth and adults provided insight for the blueprint through surveys and forums.
“We want the community to be able to engage with the blueprint and have discussion and give us feedback on how to transition from plan to action,” said Office of Violence Prevention Director Reggie Moore.
Office of Violence Prevention Director Reggie Moore discusses the Blueprint for Peace. (Photo by Leah Harris)
The blueprint focuses on 10 priority neighborhoods identified because of high levels of homicide, nonfatal shootings, poverty and aggravated assault. According to the blueprint, there were 139 homicides, 3,000 domestic abuse 911 calls and 462 carjackings in Milwaukee in 2016.
Many attendees expressed a need for safety for their children, including adults.
Timothy Scott has a 23-year-old son. Scott said his son knows the dangers of the street, but is still fascinated by it. “He wants to be with his peers, but he also wants to see the neighborhood come up.”
Scott said that residents should be able to feel safe at all times. “A safe neighborhood is one where you’re able to walk your dog at 10 at night. It’s going to the store in your own neighborhood,” he said. “Going home shouldn’t be a life-risking event.”
Scott noted that money plays a big role in fighting violence. “We have to get the money into the hands of the people who really need it.”
David Muhammad, program manager of the Office of Violence Prevention, agreed. “There can’t be a real violence prevention plan without strong economic development in the neighborhoods that are suffering from decades of neglect.”
The blueprint’s primary goals are to stop shootings, help children and families, invest in local economies and foster neighborhoods that are free of violence.
The initiative’s success will be measured by indicators such as the number of shootings in the neighborhoods, youth employment and engagement, and use of domestic violence and sexual harassment prevention services.
Attendees at the meeting also would like to see more grocery stores in their neighborhoods to eliminate food deserts, better transportation to get people to jobs and a bigger emphasis on mental health in the plan.
Moore said that suicide prevention strategies were added to the blueprint after residents expressed concerns at an earlier event. Moore also noted that his office will host more forums and all the feedback will be shared with the mayor’s office.
Two community briefings were held prior to the one in Washington Park and the final meeting will be at the Mitchell Street library on Dec. 13.
Brooke Shawber said stopping gun violence and access to guns would help improve the targeted neighborhoods. Shawber works at Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America, a leading grassroots organization fighting gun violence.
“Youth should be on the streets,” she said. “They should be on the streets and playing without fear of what’s going to happen to them when they walk out the door.”
Shawber said the blueprint is the first step in making change in the community. “We’re finally seeing this collaboration of all these different community groups, residents and activists coming together to make a difference.”

created: December 9, 2017


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
December 9, 2017

author: Adam Carr


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‘500 Tuxedos’ brings black men and boys together for fourth year | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
December 11, 2017
This year, Andre Lee Ellis’ ‘We Got This’ organization expanded its annual mentoring and formal dinner event to include two evening gatherings before the big day.
In an effort to give participants more time together, Ellis invited young black men, mentors and their families to a “meet and greet” at Chic Underground Lounge, 770 N. Jefferson St., on Thursday, two days prior to the main event. Friday evening, the men and boys assembled at Northcott Neighborhood House, where Ellis and others offered inspirational words and free haircuts. Saturday, the adult mentors and young men returned to Northcott, where they donned tuxedos and traveled together to the Hilton Milwaukee City Center downtown for photos and a formal dinner.
Ellis said the idea for “500 Tuxedos” arose when the boys in his neighborhood expressed a desire to dress up and go out for an evening on the town, as they saw Ellis and his wife doing. Ellis’ goal is to build mentoring relationships between black men and black teens and boys. In addition, Ellis seeks to expand the youths’ experience and raise their confidence and self-esteem.
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created: December 11, 2017


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
December 11, 2017


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27193005299_9658ddc958_k | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
December 11, 2017


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38084782785_e3c6bec43c_k | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
December 11, 2017


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Alderman Zielinski seeks review of DPW work that has been outsourced | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ald. Tony Zielinski
December 11, 2017
Alderman Tony Zielinski is asking the commissioner of the Department of Public Works to report to the Common Council within 30 days all DPW tasks previously performed by city workers that have been outsourced to contractors during the past 20 years.
“I am very concerned that the workers working on projects in the city no longer reflect the population of the community they are serving,” said Alderman Zielinski, chair of the Licenses Committee.
Alderman Zielinski said worksite incidents – most recently a viral photo circulated on Friday (December 8) showing a possible contractor worker’s cooler displaying Ku Klux Klan and Confederate flag stickers at a site near N. 25th and W. Wells Streets – has “shown me there is some evidence to be very concerned about who we have performing taxpayer-funded city work in our neighborhoods,” he said.
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“We cannot deny that we’ve had these horrific images circulating in the news media and across social media from city work sites over the past several days,” the alderman said. “As bad as they are, they are the symptoms and not the disease. The disease is the reality that crews working on city projects no longer reflect the population of the city.”

author: Ald. Tony Zielinski


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Free weatherization services lead to lower utility bills | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Social Development Commission
December 11, 2017
As the temperature drops, heating costs rise. When it’s this cold, local families trying to stay warm pay hundreds of dollars each month to heat their home. Help is available for low-income homeowners. Through the Social Development Commission weatherization program, low-income residents may qualify for free weatherization services to significantly lower utility costs.
The process is easy.
After meeting the program requirements, an SDC energy auditor will visit the participants home to conduct an inspection. An explanation of recommendations for energy and cost saving improvements will be reviewed with the homeowner.
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Qualifying homeowners are eligible for free services that may include: air sealing, insulation of an attic, floor or walls, furnace repair or replacement, energy efficient lighting and refrigerator or freezer replacement.
It makes a difference. The 2016 Weatherization Program Savings Report issued by Home Energy Plus showed that participating households typically save more than $400 each year after receiving weatherization services.
Trained and experienced technicians will make the recommended and necessary efficiency improvements at no cost to the homeowner.
Income qualified customers can benefit through monthly savings on their utility bills by conserving energy year-round.
“Annually, the Social Development Commission weatherization department services more than 1,000 homes,” said Ron Klafka, manager of SDC’s residential services. “With the slow start to winter, insulation and furnaces weren’t top of mind for homeowners. SDC still has the capacity to provide free weatherization services to more than 400 homes. We urge low- income homeowners to contact us and take advantage of this free service.”
Low-income residents of Milwaukee County can find out if they qualify by contacting SDC’s weatherization department at 414.906.2700 or stop by the Social Development Commission located at 1730 W. North Avenue, Milwaukee.
For more than 50 years, the Social Development Commission has operated as the largest Community Action Agency in Wisconsin and for Milwaukee County. SDC serves as a planner, coordinator, and provider of human service programs for low-income individuals and families residing in Milwaukee County. The agency provides pathways from poverty to success for thousands of individuals and families each year. For more information on SDC’s programs and services, visit cr-sdc.org. Connect with us on Facebook www.Facebook.com/SDCMilwaukee and Twitter www.twitter.com/CRSDC.

author: Social Development Commission


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Last Call: Neighborhood taverns fading out on Milwaukee’s South Side | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Edgar Mendez
December 11, 2017
Sharon Ward, Safe Ride coordinator and treasurer of the Milwaukee County Tavern League, tended bar at The Last Drop, 1979 S. 15th St., until it closed a few months ago. (Photo by Edgar Mendez)
Editor’s note: This is the first of a two-part series on the changing tavern culture on the South Side. Read the second part here.
In the late 1970s and ‘80s business was so good at Orchard Inn, a neighborhood pub on South 3rd Street and West Orchard, pool leagues ran morning, evening and midnight to accommodate three shifts of blue-collar workers who strolled in from nearby factories including Allen Bradley—now Rockwell Automation and Grede Foundries — since closed, recalled its former owner Sharon Ward.
When Ward, SafeRide coordinator and treasurer of the Milwaukee County Tavern League, and her late husband purchased Orchard Inn in 1975, it was one of thousands of neighborhood pubs in Milwaukee, she said. Like many others it served a vital function for patrons looking to catch more than just a buzz.
“The corner bar was the area’s social hub; it’s where you felt the pulse of the neighborhood and found out what was going on in your community,” Ward said.
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Parents knew each other’s kids and kept a watchful eye, holidays were celebrated together there and when a family was having a tough time financially they turned to their friends at the bar for help, she added. But in the city that once touted itself as the “beer capital of the world,” and is still home to MillerCoors, the tavern culture generations of Milwaukeeans grew up with is fading away in some neighborhoods, as an older, simpler style of life moves to the slow lane to accommodate the accelerated pace of today’s society.
Nowhere is that change more evident than Milwaukee’s South Side, where day care centers, houses of worship, corner stores and residences occupy properties that for decades had been bars. A drive down South 13th Street or West Cleveland Avenue serves as a reminder of just how prevalent corner bars were at one time, and provides evidence that many old-time bars are now closed. Faded marquees and other signage are all that is left.
According to a Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service analysis of data provided by the City of Milwaukee, 40 percent of businesses with tavern licenses in 2012 in the 53204 ZIP code (which includes the Walker’s Point, Walker Square and Clarke Square neighborhoods), where Orchard Inn was located, and the neighboring 53215 ZIP code have now closed for any reason. In 53215 (which includes the Polonia, Lincoln Village and Silver City neighborhoods), 40 of 85 taverns, including stalwarts such as Ducky’s, Grady’s Saloon, Kornerstone Pub, and Frank and Barb’s Silver City Bar, have closed in the past five years ().
“Back in the day you could walk to a bar on every corner and it’d be busy. Didn’t matter if it was 8 in the morning or 8 at night,” recalled Brian Schmidt, as he sipped from an 8-ounce tapper of Pabst at Richies Pub, 1998 S. 11th St. Richies is one of a dwindling number of South Side bars that have been open for decades, said its owner and namesake, Richie Dobs. He’s stayed in the bar business by keeping his prices low and hiring good bartenders, though he plans to retire soon and hopes to find a new owner for the bar, which typically closes by 7 p.m. and serves a racially mixed clientele that includes blue-collar workers and retirees.
Jim Rydzewski, owner of Bob-E-Lanes, 2932 S. 13th, bought his tavern/bowling alley from his parents in 1981. He said he’s seen many a bar in the neighborhood close during the three and half decades he’s been in business.
Rydzewski is in his 60s now, and said he hopes to find a new owner when he’s ready to retire in a few years.
“It would be a shame for this place to close after all the money I spent improving it,” he said of the bar, which runs daytime pool leagues daily and in the morning every other Monday.
Not everyone views a decline in the number of bars on the South Side as a negative. Ald. Jose Perez, who represents the 53204 ZIP code, said one of his memories growing up in the Walker Square neighborhood was seeing a dead body lying in the street outside of a tavern on South 10th Street and West Walker. Perez said his mother collected signatures in the neighborhood to have the bar shut down.
“Bad things happen at bars and they have for a long time,” Perez said.
In addition to increased crime, which has made some neighborhood pubs less desireable to visit or run a business in, the corner bar in Milwaukee is becoming a relic for a number of reasons, according to James Draeger, historic preservation officer for the Wisconsin Historical Society and author of the book, “Bottoms Up: A Toast to Wisconsin’s Historic Bars and Breweries.” The long list includes issues related to licensing, tougher drunken driving laws sparked by the Mothers Against Drunk Driving movement, and ironically an increase in driving, which opened up the city for residents to visit bars in other areas, whereas in the past they likely would’ve walked down the block.
“A lack of transportation in the early 19th century created a legacy of walkable neighborhood taverns in Milwaukee,” Draeger said. In addition, he said, tenements and small houses in 19th century Milwaukee limited the ability for people to host friends, which made the tavern a more suitable place to get together.
There are other basic reasons for the decreased number of bars that are associated with modern times, such as more entertainment options and the fact that mass communication has made taverns less critical to social life, Draeger added.
“Taverns aren’t really about the drinking; they exist because of the social life of the tavern. People want to meet people, or meet with friends and those functions were as relevant today as they were 50 years ago, but people do it in many different ways now,” Draeger said.
The industrial crash that began in the ‘70s and continues today devastated many local communities and the taverns that served them.
South Sider Matt Olson stands outside of Bob-E-Lanes, 2932 S. 13th, a tavern/bowling alley in the Polonia neighborhood that’s remained open for decades. (Photo by Edgar Mendez)
“We lost tool and die makers, mechanics, laborers and machinists. When we lost a big chunk of the labor pool we lost a bunch of customers as well,” said Ward, who tended bar at The Last Drop on South 15th Street and West Rogers until it too closed a few months ago.
Ward and her husband purchased the bar in 1985 and ran it as Wardski’s until she sold it in 2009. She stayed on as a day-shift bartender until it closed, serving the aging client base she’d built for decades consisting almost entirely of retirees.
A decline in customers and profits made running a neighborhood tavern less attractive to the next generation, she said, so when tavern owners died or were too old to run their pub, their kids didn’t want it.
“The next generation didn’t see the value in owning this type of business nor putting in the time and effort it takes because it’s a 24-hour-job. They went to college instead,” Ward said. Rydzewski said his kids helped out at the bar when they were younger, but they wouldn’t be taking over the family business either. “They all got kids and are married. They got good jobs. They’re not interested in running this place,” he said.
Despite the decline in neighborhood pubs on the South Side, the number of businesses with a tavern license in the city increased from 1,096 in 2001 to 1,356 in 2016, according to data provided by the city. Those numbers could be inflated. The Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service found many are actually closed. Much of the new business can be attributed to an increase in the number of specialty bars such as Drink Wisconsinbly Pub & Grub, Oscar’s Pub & Grill, Buffalo Wild Wings and other locations that generate business from food, craft cocktails and a large selection of tap and bottled beers, said Draeger.
One example of a traditional-turned-specialty bar is the popular Walker’s Point pub, Steny’s Tavern & Grill, 800 S. 2nd St. Jerry Steny opened the bar in 1985 and said that at the time Walker’s Point was the top bar area in Milwaukee. Eventually though, his younger clientele shifted to Water Street downtown and Brady Street on the East Side when crime increased in the ‘90s and 2000s.  The bar struggled until his son Ryan Steny came aboard in 2010 with the idea to specialize in craft beer and sports.  Business has been booming since.
“It’s important to set yourself apart from the rest. Competition is fierce and you need to stand out,” Steny said.
Those who didn’t innovate and were resistant to change, including many older tavern owners, haven’t survived as a result, Draeger said.
“Many of the neighborhood tavern providers are elderly and aging out and don’t want to change. They don’t want to have 20-somethings and 30-somethings in their bar; they want people like them,” he added.
The newer bars that are chains, leased or run by general managers and others who don’t live in the neighborhood are a far cry from the days when bars hosted block watch meetings and Christmas dinners, said Ward. The evolution of bars such as Steny’s and the influx of chains has dealt a heavy blow to the neighborhood pub, one from which it’s unlikely to recover, said Ward.
“Those days are gone. Running a bar in the neighborhood was a good way of life and a good thing for the neighborhood. But our bars are dying off and we’re dying with them,” Ward said.
Editor’s note: The original version of this article mistakenly said that Nick’s Anvil Inn is closed. We apologize for the error.


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
December 10, 2017

created: December 10, 2017


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Sewer contractor to appear before the Steering & Rules Committee to address racist symbols at work-site | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
City of Milwaukee
December 11, 2017
The owner of American Sewer Services is being called to appear before a special Steering & Rules Committee meeting on Thursday, December 14 to address a slew of problems, including a photo taken of a contractor’s cooler displaying the Confederate Flag and a Ku Klux Klan logo. The meeting will be at 9:30 a.m. in room 301-B at City Hall, 200 E. Wells St.
The communication file comes after members of the Milwaukee Common Council expressed disgust and outrage to two incidents with the same contractor in the last two weeks. Most recently, an employee of American Sewer Services was spotted with a cooler that had a Ku Klux Klan logo and a Confederate Flag sticker on it. Just last week, American Sewer Services made news for a separate incident where an employee of the Department of Public Works’ contractor was openly brandishing a handgun next to two coworkers open carrying holstered handguns, at a worksite near N. 19th St. and W. Meinecke Ave.
Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs said she is looking forward to the opportunity to discuss the incidents with American Sewer Services’ ownership at Thursday’s special meeting.
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“It is sad and unfortunate that in 2017 we continue to see hurtful and painful symbols from our nation’s past brought into work spaces and places where our community members reside, but we must address it,” Alderwoman Coggs said. “It is my sincere hope that we can create a clear path forward that affirms a standard of respect for our community and one that leaves no room for offensive displays or messages. That standard will be clear and all companies we do business with will be required to abide by it at all times,” the Alderwoman said.
Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II says it’s time to take a deeper look into this company, “This company has allowed an atmosphere of disrespect and intolerance to exist and it is now being brought to the light. The brashness shown in the photo with the guns, and now this photo can be directly attributed to the environment this company has fostered with its employees, an environment where there is a total disregard for the community in which they serve.”
President Ashanti Hamilton head of the Milwaukee Common Council says, “There is an important opportunity, we have to recognize, that comes with shining a light on behaviors, norms, and blatant acts of hatred that persist in this city that we all share. This issue is bigger than a sticker or gesture; the attitudes behind them impact our city, and especially minorities, in very real ways. I want to be clear that such behaviors have no place in this city and will not be tolerated in any public workplace.”
Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, vice chair of the Zoning, Neighborhoods and Development Committee, said he looks forward to listening closely to the testimony from American Sewer Services when the file is heard.
“I am interested in finding out how the company recruits and hires its workers, and where they come from,” Alderman Rainey said. “Too often it is clear that many of these (DPW-contracted) work sites include no individuals of color. I would hope contractors could find a way to hire a more diverse staff so that the workers working on city projects reflect the population of our community.”
The communication file is sponsored by Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs and co-sponsored by Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II, President Ashanti Hamilton, and Khalif J. Rainey.
The Thursday meeting will be televised live on the City Channel (Channel 25 on Spectrum Cable and on AT&T U-Verse Channel 99) in the City of Milwaukee. It can also be viewed via streaming video on the city website at www.city.milwaukee.gov/Channel25.

author: City of Milwaukee


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Last two days to get advance copy of “The Long March to Freedom” with donation | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
December 12, 2017

created: December 12, 2017


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newsmatch-book-offer | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
December 12, 2017