text:
Market-rate project seeks to lure residents to Walnut Circle and Josey Heights neighborhoods | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
PrincessSafiya Byers
January 26, 2022
Brenda Brown is helping people build homes in her neighborhood. “Even if you can’t build your dream right now, you may be more prepared to buy your starter home than you realize,” she says. (Photo by PrincessSafiya Byers)
Leer en español: El proyecto a precio de mercado busca atraer a los residentes a los vecindarios de Walnut Circle y Josey Heights
Brenda Brown and her husband, Henry, have been living in the lone house on North 20 and West Walnut streets for over 13 years.
After building their home in 2008, they expected more homes would follow. But the economy crashed, and new neighbors never came.
Now Brenda Brown is a part of efforts to get people back into the Walnut Circle and Josey Heights neighborhoods near downtown.
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
As a lender for Great Midwest Bank, Brown is personally helping people prepare and start building homes in the two neighborhoods through the city’s New Homes Initiative.
The market-rate project is an attempt to build new homes on the vacant lots at 20 and Walnut and on North 12th and West Lloyd streets. The city partnered with the Emem Group, which created new home design options exclusively for these subdivisions.
The City of Milwaukee is selling 20 empty lots to qualified families for $1 and providing them a $30,000 forgivable grant to build if they live in the new homes for at least seven years.
To qualify, homebuilders must make a combined annual income from $80,000 to $90,000 a year and have a credit score of at least 620.
“This may seem expensive because it is,” Brown said. “This initiative is building dream homes.”
Brown said there are six homes being built for the spring.
The program has been years in the making for Heidi Moore, who recently moved into her new home in Josey Heights.
Moore has been trying to make building in Josey Heights a reality since 2014 when representatives of the City of Milwaukee came to a parent meeting at her children’s school, Milwaukee College Prep’s Lloyd Street campus, to discuss the potential for new developments in the area.
That plan flopped, but Moore was persistent over the years. She reached out to different organizations and banks and sat in many meetings, sharing her story with people across the city.
She said it wasn’t until she met Michael Emem, the president and CEO of Emem Group, that building in Josey Heights became within reach.
Moore said Emem kept her abreast of what was going on.
“This was a difficult process,” she said. “But I’m happy everyone came together to make this happen.”
Kelly Carter, 50, is one of the first people to take advantage of the initiative and is currently building her dream home.
A Milwaukee native and a nurse in the central city, Carter felt it was important to build in Josey Heights, which is located at North 12th and West Lloyd streets.
“I can’t comfortably make money off of people who live here and not also live here,” Carter said. “Milwaukee has been nothing but good to me.”
She said despite some struggles, the process has been worth it.
“I don’t make a lot of money, and this wouldn’t have been affordable to me without this deal,” Carter said. “I have an 11-year-old daughter and I wanted to show her what all is possible.”
Brown said she had concerns about property taxes rising, but as chairwoman of the Johnson Park Neighborhood Association, Browns keeps up with available resources.
“I know most of my neighbors, and the bulk of them have lived here for over 20 years,” Brown said. “I am willing to work and support my neighbors, so there is no displacement.”
She said she hopes the project will create a stronger neighborhood and community.
Brown said homeownership brings wealth, and she wants to help others realize their dreams.
“Even if you can’t build your dream right now, you may be more prepared to buy your starter home than you realize,” Brown said.
To connect with Brown, you can call 414-352-8713 or email Brenda.brown@greatmidwestbank.com.
Social Development Commission can assist with lead, weatherization and other housing-related issues. You can call 414-906-2700.
Metropolitan Milwaukee Fair Housing Councilcan help homeowners protect themselves from mortgage and foreclosure prevention scams as well as from predatory home loans. You can call 414-278-1240.
Housing Resources Inc. can provide counseling to homeowners and has programs to help people prevent foreclosure. You can call 414-461-6330.
ACTS Housingoffers counseling and real estate agent representation to help low-income families transition from renting to homebuying. You can call (414) 933-2215.
Housing Authority of the City of Milwaukee:The Housing Authority’s Section 32 program offers guidance through the homebuying process and sells rehabilitated homes to low-income residents. The agency offers some grants and subsidies for down payment assistance and forgivable second mortgages for current HACM homeowners. You can call (414) 286-5405.
Bronzeville Resident Homeownership Initiative: The Bronzeville Homebuyer Assistance Program provides forgivable loans up to $25,000 and technical assistance to help with property renovation needs for residents buying city-owned foreclosed homes in the Bronzeville Initiative areaYou can call (414) 286-5608.
Common Ground-Milwaukee Rising:
Milwaukee Rising rehabilitates and sells foreclosed properties in the Sherman Park neighborhood. Matching grants of up to $5,000 are available for homeowners wanting to make repairs and improvements. Contact Bob Connolly at bconnolly@jamescompany.com for more information. You can call (414) 751-0755
, or WHEDA, offers resources for homebuyers. You can call 608-266-7884.


text:
| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
January 25, 2022

source: news-milwaukeenns

created: January 25, 2022

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

author: Dwayne Burtin


text:
Post from Community: Civic partnership to present Milwaukee mayoral candidate forum February 9th at Turner Hall Ballroom | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Milwaukee Press Club
January 26, 2022
Editor’s note: Posts from the Community is the place for community announcements and event postings. If you have a community-oriented event you feel our readers would be interested in, please submit here.
All of the Milwaukee mayoral candidates who will face off in the February 15 primary have been invited and are expected to take part in an election forum set for 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, February 9 at Turner Hall Ballroom, 1040 N. Vel R. Phillips Avenue.
The forum, co-hosted by the Pabst Theater Group, the Milwaukee Press Club, WisPolitics.com, and Listen MKE, [a collaboration among the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, WUWM 89.7, and Milwaukee PBS,] will be free and open to the public. Registration for in-person attendance is required and seating will be limited.
The forum also will be livestreamed at the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Facebook page for those who cannot attend in person.
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
The candidates:
•Former Milwaukee Ald. Bob Donovan
•Milwaukee Ald. Marina Dimitrijevic
•Milwaukee community activist Ieshuh Griffin
•Acting Mayor and Milwaukee Common Council President Cavalier Johnson
•Milwaukee County Sheriff Earnell Lucas
•Business owner Michael Sampson
•State Sen. Lena Taylor
Moderators will be Charles Benson, reporter and news anchor at TMJ4 – WTMJ TV and James Causey, columnist and special projects reporter at the Journal Sentinel. Topics will include important issues facing Milwaukee and its residents.
“The Milwaukee Press Club is extremely proud to be part of this forum, which will provide an opportunity for voters throughout the city to learn more about the candidates seeking to become Milwaukee’s next mayor through this historic election,” said Corri Hess, press club president and reporter at Wisconsin Public Radio. “We are grateful to the Pabst Theater Group, our media co-hosts and our community partners for making this possible. We encourage all of our partners to share information about the forum with their members and audience.”
Gary Witt, Pabst Theater Group CEO, noted the rare opportunity for an open mayoral election resulting from former Mayor Tom Barrett’s resignation last month to become U.S. ambassador to Luxembourg. “This is a critical opportunity for the city, not just another election,” Witt said. “Hopefully events like this get many more people from all communities in Milwaukee to be aware, to pay attention to the candidates and to vote.”
Community partners for this election forum to date include Wisconsin Voices, WNOV 860 AM and 88Nine Radio Milwaukee.
For an updated, current list, go to https://milwaukeepressclub.org/events/
Everyone attending the event must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, as defined by the CDC, or have received a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours prior to the event. Proof of vaccination or a negative test result will be checked at the door. Under the city of Milwaukee’s mask ordinance, masks will be required indoors.
To register to attend the forum in person, go to: https://milwaukeepressclub.org/events/.
To view the livestream February 9, go to: Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Facebook page. Please use #MKEMayoralForum22 for social media.
For questions or more information, contact Joette Richards at the Milwaukee Press Club, joette@milwaukeepressclub.org or call 262-894-2224.

created: January 26, 2022

author: Milwaukee Press Club


text:
OPINION: It’s not just a Latino thing when it comes to redistricting. Milwaukee’s Muslim community needs representation, too. | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Janan Najeeb
January 26, 2022
Janan Najeeb writes: “Milwaukee’s Muslim community is a vibrant and bustling community, and we would like to have a voice in our future.” (Photo by Adam Carr)
Editor’s note: Have something on your mind? “Community Voices” is the place to let Milwaukee hear what you have to say. To be considered, we need your name, email address and phone number for verification. Please email your submissions to info@milwaukeenns.org.
(Photo provided by Janan Najeeb)
The City of Milwaukee’s recent redistricting process and efforts by Hispanic leaders to create a third Hispanic-majority or near-majority in the 13 Aldermanic District were fraught with emotion.
On Dec. 6, then-Mayor Tom Barrett vetoed the aldermanic district map approved Nov. 23 by a 14-1 Common Council vote. The veto was meant to give members of the community an opportunity to weigh in on the City of Milwaukee’s redistricting process, particularly the Latino community, which expressed concern that its growing numbers were not reflected in the approved map.
The Hispanic community focused on the 13 District as the area where heavily Latino wards from other districts would be transferred. District 13 wards without significant Latino populations would be moved to other districts. The intent was clearly to bolster their numbers to gain another Latino seat on the Common Council.
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
The 13 District is home to the largest concentration of Muslims* in the state of Wisconsin, an incredibly diverse community with more than two dozen ethnicities represented, including a growing number of Latino Muslims. There are over 100 Muslim businesses and countless institutions, including the Islamic Center of Milwaukee, the largest mosque in Wisconsin; Salam School with 1,000 students on two campuses; the Islamic Resource Center run by the Milwaukee Muslim Women’s Coalition; the Muslim Community Health Center; and the headquarters for Hayat Pharmacy, just to name a few.
A simple drive through the area and one will see entire strip malls with multiple businesses and professional offices that are Muslim-owned. Hundreds of homes, apartment buildings, restaurants, ethnic food stores and gas stations are owned by Muslims of Middle Eastern, North African, Indian, Pakistani, Afghani, Burmese, Somali, Sudanese, Bosnian and Albanian heritage and many others.
The Muslim community has a long and strong relationship with the Hispanic community. We share many of the same struggles, and we have always stood together. Muslim community leaders worked diligently and had multiple meetings with leaders in the Hispanic community to see how we can support their aspirations without damaging our own aspirations. All of the proposed maps submitted by the Latino community would remove wards that are heavily Muslim and put them in a different district. Some of the maps proposed were so extreme, they would have divided the campuses of the Islamic Center and Salam School into two districts.
Hispanic leaders came with census data to verify their growth. The problem is many of the ethnicities represented in the Muslim community are not included in the census. President Donald Trump backed out of a commitment made by President Barack Obama to include a MENA (Middle Eastern and North African) category on the census.
That means we are not identified properly, not that we don’t exist.
When Black Somalis and Sudanese, who are Arab, are lumped under white, this gives skewed data. When Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Burmese, Rohingya and Indian Muslims are all lumped in one category, again the data is skewed.
Unfortunately, the disenfranchisement of minority groups and making them “invisible” is a part of our history as a nation. The success and representation of the Hispanic community is very important to us. It is also crucial that BIPOC groups not be divided.
We must be cognizant that we do not pursue interests at the expense of another group. We must also allow for the natural movement and growth of communities. There are particular wards in some of the other districts with growing Muslim populations representing various ethnicities. Should we establish a precedent that when that happens, we can go “shopping” in other districts to annex wards in order to give us a majority district?
Muslim leaders had multiple meetings with Hispanic leaders and offered to bring in two to three heavily Latino wards into the 13 District. This would increase the Latino population without severely affecting Muslim aspirations and numbers. This was rejected. The decision reached in the end was that the Hispanic community would advocate for their maps and the Muslim community would advocate for theirs. We would let the Common Council decide.
On Jan. 10, after four hours of presentations and testimony by advocates for the Latino community maps and advocates for the Muslim community map, followed by a six-hour closed-door session, the Common Council, under advice of the City Attorney’s Office, emerged advocating for Map A, which is the original map the Common Council had approved 14-1. Acting Mayor Cavalier Johnson approved the map on Jan. 18, bringing the redistricting process to a close.
Although the decision angered members of the Hispanic community, it should not become a reason for animosity toward the Muslim community, a longtime ally. It will be a loss for both communities.
The Common Council decision preserves the diversity of the 13 District, which is arguably the most diverse district in Milwaukee and a source of pride for those who live and work there. With Milwaukee having the shameful title of the most segregated city in America, the diversity of the 13 is a step in changing that.
Furthermore, relying on the artificial creation of minority majority districts to gain representation is limiting in nature and may compromise other political prospects. Allowing the precedent of going into other districts to “shop” for wards to bolster the numbers of one ethnic group is not a recipe for success.
Milwaukee’s Muslim community is a vibrant and bustling community, and we would like to have a voice in our future. We urge all of our fellow Milwaukeeans to come and visit our many establishments in the 13 District. We also remain committed to ensuring the rights of every racial and ethnic community in our city and state.
*The term “Muslim” is used to represent more than two dozen ethnicities in that community.
Janan Najeeb is president of the Milwaukee Muslim Women’s Coalition and director of the Islamic Resource Center. A well-known activist, public speaker and leader in the Muslim community, Najeeb was among those who provided testimony on behalf of the Muslim community during the redistricting discussion.

author: Janan Najeeb


text:
51840751666_3723174858_k | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
January 25, 2022


text:
Post from Community: Bader Philanthropies reaches funding milestone of more than $426 million as it celebrates 30th anniversary | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Lisa Ehlke
January 26, 2022
Editor’s note: Posts from the Community is the place for community announcements and event postings. If you have a community-oriented event you feel our readers would be interested in, please submit here.
Bader Philanthropies, Inc., one of southeastern Wisconsin’s top five foundations, announced today it has reached a milestone as it celebrates its 30 anniversary year which will include opportunities to honor three decades with the theme of “Spreading hope. Creating opportunities.” To date, the foundation has provided more than $426 million in a variety of issue areas that improve the quality of life of people – young and old — living in neighborhoods in Milwaukee, rural Wisconsin and abroad. Of this funding, $248,279,628 has been provided to 940 community partners in Milwaukee.
These milestones include Bader Philanthropies’ efforts to quickly help southeastern Wisconsin organizations continue to provide services in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. In April 2020, Bader Philanthropies announced it provided more than $1 million toward local COVID-19 emergency efforts. The majority of the grants were paid to local organizations in need within days and weeks of the requests. The foundation has funded 63 local organizations for a total of almost $2.3 million dollars. In addition, Bader Philanthropies partnered with Shalem Healing to administer 1,520 COVID-19 tests at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Helen Bader Foundation (HBF) was established in 1992, three years after Helen Daniels Bader’s death. Over the next 24 years, the organization approved grants and program related investments (PRI) designed to improve the quality of life of the diverse communities in which it works. In 2015, the HBF changed its name to Bader Philanthropies, Inc. to reflect the philanthropic commitment from Isabel and Alfred Bader that would allow the organization to continue funding charitable projects in perpetuity.
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
In 2018, the Foundation put down roots in one of the many communities it supports by moving from its Historic Third Ward office into a renovated, state-of-the-art global headquarters in Milwaukee’s Harambee neighborhood. It is there that Bader Philanthropies continues the work begun by HBF and continues to fund innovative projects and programs, convene partners, and share knowledge to affect emerging issues in key areas including Alzheimer’s and healthy aging, the arts, employment, Jewish education, neighborhood engagement, social equality, urban education, and youth development. In addition to the organization’s funding, from 2004 – 2020 the foundation provided essential convening space for almost 1,500 events and 41,837 attendees.
In conjunction with Bader Philanthropies’ 30th anniversary, the documentary, “Helen Daniels Bader: A Life Worth Emulating” was released this month. It is a collection of interviews with family, board members and nonprofit and community leaders who share stories of Helen Daniels Bader’s life and legacy.
Helen Daniels Bader was an early advocate for those afflicted with Alzheimer’s disease, and ahead of her time when it came to envisioning and promoting effective strategies related to care. At 23 years, Wisconsin Alzheimer’s Institute (WAI) is one of Bader Philanthropies’ longest-standing community partners touching the lives of people living in Milwaukee, rural Wisconsin and around the world.
WAI was created in 1998 to help people living with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia, their caregivers, and health professionals who provide support. Today, Alzheimer’s disease affects 110,000 Wisconsin individuals and the number is projected to increase to 130,000 by 2025.  WAI is a hub for research and resources such as the Wisconsin Registry for Alzheimer’s Prevention (WRAP), which is one of the world’s largest and longest-running studies of individuals at risk for Alzheimer’s disease; the Wisconsin Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center (ADRC), which facilitates knowledge sharing among academics and people living in rural and urban Wisconsin; and the Regional Milwaukee office, which focuses on making culturally-tailored and evidence-based health care available, particularly to African-Americans living in the inner city. WAI’s impact extends beyond the state of Wisconsin with the replication of the Registry for Alzheimer’s Prevention in Israel.
Bader Philanthropies’ commitment to the theme “Spreading hope. Creating opportunities.” can be seen in the organization’s program related investments (PRI). Since 1995, Bader Philanthropies has approved 43 loans, loan guarantees, equity investments and other credit enhancements to southeastern Wisconsin organizations totaling more than $18,458,577.
PRIs are impact investments made by foundations to support charitable activities that involve the potential return of capital within an established time frame. Unlike grants, PRIs produce financial returns for foundations in the form of principal plus interest, gains realized on investments, etc., which can then be recycled for other charitable purposes. For the recipient, the primary benefit of this loan is access to capital at lower rates than may otherwise not be available.
“As we reflect on our thirtieth anniversary, it is humbling and heartwarming to hear about and see the spirit of connection, compassion and commitment in the work of our community partners day in and day out,” said Daniel J. Bader, president and CEO of Bader Philanthropies. “They are spreading hope and creating concrete opportunities in Harambee, rural Wisconsin and around the world.”
Since its establishment in 1992, the foundation has awarded a total of 9,113 grants totaling $404.9 million, and approved 55 PRIs totaling $21.4 million since 2000.
About Bader Philanthropies, Inc.
Milwaukee-based Bader Philanthropies, Inc. is a philanthropic leader in improving the quality of life of the diverse global communities in which it works. The organization funds innovative projects and programs, convenes partners, and shares knowledge to affect emerging issues in key areas. Since its founding in 1992 as the Helen Bader Foundation, the organization has committed more than $426 million in grants and program related investments, such as loans, loan guarantees, equity investments and other credit enhancements that advance its charitable mission. For more information on Bader Philanthropies, visit bader.org.

author: Lisa Ehlke


text:
BP_30years_logo_Main.jpg | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Name *
January 25, 2022

author: Name *


text:
Post from Community: LWV publishes VOTE411 Spring Primary Voter Guide | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
League of Women Voters of Milwaukee County
January 26, 2022
Editor’s note: Posts from the Community is the place for community announcements and event postings. If you have a community-oriented event you feel our readers would be interested in, please submit here.
Ahead of the February 15 primary elections, the League of Women Voters of Milwaukee County today published its online Spring 2022 Primary Voter Guide via the nonpartisan election resource VOTE411.org. This “one-stop shop” for election information provides simple, easy tools to help Wisconsin voters navigate the voting process. VOTE411.org provides candidate information and views on issues, polling place information, and other helpful election information for voters nationwide.
“With limited opportunities to learn about the candidates in person, League’s VOTE411.org online Voter Guide is especially important for voters during the pandemic,” said Peggy Creer, president of the League of Women Voters of Milwaukee County. “VOTE411 is the nation’s premiere nonpartisan online election resource.”  Locally, League posed questions in English and in Spanish to all candidates running in Milwaukee and Waukesha county-wide races, in municipal and school district races in Milwaukee County, and in municipal races in several Waukesha County communities.
The Spring 2022 Primary Voter Guide contains candidate answers from those competing in spring primary races for Milwaukee County Board Supervisor, districts 1, 3 and 12; Waukesha County Board Supervisor district 17, Milwaukee City Mayor, Wauwatosa City Alderperson, districts 3 and 8, Waukesha City Alderperson district 11, and Oak Creek City Alderperson district 4.
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
“Good government, representative government begins at the local level,” Creer said. “Protecting and strengthening our democracy is a year-round activity.” There will be some 153 local positions up for election in April, including circuit court judges, county supervisors, mayors, alderpersons, village presidents and trustees, town supervisors, municipal judges, and school board members
“We encourage voters to visit VOTE411.org to make a voting plan so they are prepared to vote confidently on February 15 whether they choose to vote absentee prior to the election or in person on election day.”  Voters may request an absentee ballot at
https://myvote.wi.gov/en-us/VoteAbsentee.
Upon going to Vote411.org, Spanish-speaking voters may immediately select  the Spanish version of the site.
The League of Women Voters works closely with local elections officials throughout the country to compile the information for VOTE411. VOTE411 helps millions of voters nation-wide each year—many of them young people and first-time voters—learn about candidate stances, look up what’s on their ballot, find their polling place, and more.
In addition to VOTE411, the League encourages active participation in government by conducting voter registration drives and candidate forums, get-out-the-vote social media messaging, and educational public forums on critical public policy issues.


text:
Post from Community: Wisconsin Middle schoolers design a waste-free city to compete in the annual Future City Regional Competition | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
STEM Forward
January 26, 2022
Editor’s note: Posts from the Community is the place for community announcements and event postings. If you have a community-oriented event you feel our readers would be interested in, please submit here.
Imagine a city 100 years in the future that generates no waste and no pollution. Is this even possible? If we look to the natural world, the answer is yes! In nature, one organism’s waste is another organism’s food, while nutrients and energy flow in a cycle of growth, decay, and reuse. The 2021-22 Future City Competition hosted by STEM Forward challenged local middle school students to design and imagine such a city.
This year’s competition asked teams to design a waste-free city using the principles of a circular economy.   A circular economy is a way to create, make, and use things. It requires shifting our systems and will involve everyone and everything: businesses, governments, and individuals; our cities, our products, and our jobs. The circular economy is based on three design principles: eliminate waste and pollution, circulate products and materials at their highest value and regenerate nature. It is underpinned by a transition to renewable energy and materials and is an excellent resilient system for business, people, and the environment.
Working as a team with an educator and STEM mentor, students presented their vision of the future through a 1,500-word city essay; a scale model of their city built with recycled materials; a project plan to help keep their project on track; a short video presentation, and a live, online Q&A session with a panel of technical judges. Keeping the engineering design process and project management front and center, students were asked to address an authentic, real-world question: How can we make the world a better place?
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
This year 49 teams competed, representing 21 school schools across Wisconsin, and we are pleased to announce the five finalist teams.
Congratulations to the five Finalists! You will be amazed at the talent of these energic students as they present their cities of the future. Learn more and watch the top 5 team’s video presentations at  https://www.stemforward.org/future-city-competition.
Each year, over 45,000 students representing 1,500 schools and 50 regions in the U.S. and abroad participate in the Future City Competition. Representing Wisconsin, Greendale City from Glen Hills Middle School will face off at the Future City Finals virtual event on April 7, 2022, with the other regional team winners from all over the world.
“STEM Forward is thrilled to be able to offer this program to middle school students and are amazed at their talent and level of work they produce. We hope that participation in Future City sparks their interest in STEM and perhaps pursuit in a STEM career. The future looks bright with these students at the helm!” stated Heather Dummer Combs, Future City Program Manager at STEM Forward.
Future City has ongoing engineering and technical professionals’ endless opportunities to volunteer in several roles, including team mentors, virtual competition judges, and regional coordinators. We couldn’t have done it without the help of the 100 plus volunteer judges and 27 Milwaukee School of Engineering student volunteers! For more information about Future City and volunteer opportunities, visit www.futurecity.org.
About STEM Forward
STEM Forward is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and metro Milwaukee’s leading K-12 STEM education and outreach provider. STEM Forward’s programs, events, and activities inspire local youth to pursue STEM careers and provide a talent pipeline to businesses in southeastern Wisconsin.

author: STEM Forward


text:
2022-Future-City-Winners-v2.png | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Name *
January 25, 2022


text:
Post from Community: First Stage and Ko-Thi Dance Company in collaboration present THE DANCING GRANNY | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
First Stage
January 27, 2022
Editor’s note: Posts from the Community is the place for community announcements and event postings. If you have a community-oriented event you feel our readers would be interested in, please submit here.
Next up in First Stage’s 2021/22 season will be THE DANCING GRANNY, a play by Mansa Ra adapted from the children’s book by beloved author/illustrator Ashley Bryan. The production is part of First Stage’s First Steps Series which introduces younger audiences to live theater. Based on an African folktale, the play is a joyful celebration of storytelling, song, movement, community and the beauty of everyday life. First Stage Director of Inclusion and Community Engagement Samantha D. Montgomery will direct this production and Ko-Thi Dance Company Artistic Director DeMar Walker provides choreography, as well as plays the roles of Old Man and Ananse the Spider. The production will also feature live drumming with Kameron “Keon” Sykes. Kids and adults will be dancing in their seats as Ananse, the clever spider of African folklore, tries to trick Granny into dancing away from her garden so he can take her vegetables. But his plan backfires when he is drawn into the dance himself. “Shake it to the East, shake it to the West, shake it to the one that you love best!” Sponsored by PNC. Performance runtime is approximately 45 minutes, with no intermission. Suggested for families with young people ages 3-7+.
THE DANCING GRANNY runs February 12 – March 6, 2022 at Goodman Mainstage Hall at the Milwaukee Youth Arts Center, located at 325 W. Walnut Street in downtown Milwaukee. Tickets are $15. Tickets are available online at firststage.org or through the First Stage Box Office at (414) 267-2961.
Director Samantha D. Montgomery had this to say about THE DANCING GRANNY: “I am excited about First Stage and Ko-Thi collaborating and working together to share Mansa Ra’s adaptation of Ashley Bryan’s THE DANCING GRANNY with the community. This is a wonderful opportunity for families to share, laugh, strengthen their bond and enjoy one another as they listen to the voice and move to the rhythm of this African folklore.”
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
Choreographer/Ko-Thi Artistic Director DeMar Walker also commented: “THE DANCING GRANNY will bring together two Milwaukee artistic forces celebrating the amazing cultural legacy of oral tradition and storytelling within the Black theatrical experience. I feel this production runs in tandem with the conceptual works that Ko-Thi Dance Company has performed in recent years for audiences of various ages and backgrounds. We are beyond thrilled to showcase our versatility and virtuosity during this unprecedented time with the incomparable First Stage children’s theater.”
Added First Stage Artistic Director Jeff Frank, “We are honored to work with our friends at Ko-Thi Dance Company to bring to life this adaptation by beloved author/illustrator Ashley Bryan. This show will make you want to get up and move!”
BIOGRAPHIES
Mansa Ra (Playwright) was born Jiréh Breon Holder, in Memphis, Tennessee. He is the only child of a first-generation undergraduate and doctoral degree recipient, single mother and beloved community leader. He made his debut as a playwright with TOO HEAVY FOR YOUR POCKET. The New York Times named him a “Marquee Name, Now in the Making” while New Yorker praised him as “a gifted writer who will be amazing to watch as his work grows.” After the pandemic, he returned to New York City with IN THE SOUTHERN BREEZE (Rattlestick Theater, NYC). The play pulls from the author’s own suicide letter to give encouragement to other queer Black men. TheaterMania named it one of their “6 Favorite Theater Productions of 2021” while The New York Times praised it as “formally ambitious” and a “tender tribute to previous generations of Black Americans.” His precise poetic realism for the stage has also carried into his work in film and television, which includes NBC’s hit drama New Amsterdam. In Spring 2022, the Roundabout Theatre Company will present …WHAT THE END WILL BE, a meditation on generational trauma. It asks a potent question: how can we rebuild our families in the face of tragedy? The production will feature Keith Randolph Smith (JITNEY, Spike Lee’s Malcolm X) and Erik King (Dexter, Oz) as an estranged father and son trying to reconcile in the face of Covid and cancer. Mansa Ra was educated at Central High School, Morehouse College, Spelman College, Emory University and earned an MFA in Playwriting from the Yale School of Drama. Between plays, he teaches at Emory University in Atlanta, GA. Mansa Ra lives in West Hollywood with his fiancé and their beautiful dog, Harriet.
Samantha D. Montgomery (Director/Director of Artistic Inclusion and Community Engagement) is a performance artist who is committed to the process of learning. She has worked in both traditional and non-traditional educational settings. Teaching is her passion, connectivity is her goal and working collaboratively in unity to nurture trust, acceptance, inclusion and community is her commitment. She has enjoyed working at First Stage as a Teaching Artist and is grateful for the opportunity to work as the Artistic Inclusion and Community Engagement Director. Samantha is a member of Actors’ Equity Association. She holds a BA from Alverno College in Professional Communication, a MS from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in Administrative Leadership and Supervision in Adult Education and a MA from Alverno College in Education.
DeMar Walker (Choreographer, Old Man/Ananse the Spider) is the Artistic Director of Ko-Thi Dance Company. He has performed and choreographed in the following productions: WORDS FROM THE SOLE, THE SWEET GRASS PROJECT, IMANI: A TRIBUTE TO WEST AFRICA, VIBRATIONS: RHYTHMIC MOTION, UJIMA and the recent production of JUBA-LEE which premiered in August 2019, celebrating the company’s 50 anniversary. He is primarily trained in West African and Afro-Caribbean techniques. He has also received training in hip hop/social, jazz, ballet and contemporary dance techniques. From 2014 – 2021, DeMar served as an Associate Lecturer of African Diasporic dance at the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee – Peck School of the Arts/Department of Dance. DeMar has performed with Wildspace Dance Company and Fist & Heel Performance Group. He has traveled to the countries of Guinea and Senegal to train, research and perform in international workshops with Youssouf Koumbassa, Patrick Acgony, Alesandra Seutin and Thomas Talawa Presto at Ecole Des Sables. DeMar is also a contributor to the 2020 publication entitled Black in the Middle: An Anthology of the Black Midwest. In Fall 2021, he directed and released his first dance short film The Beckoning which has been screened in multiple local, national and international film festivals. It has received several accolades including the 2021 Mozaik Philanthropy Future Art Award, as well as Best Film and Best Director at the VOICES HEARD segment at the 2021 Milwaukee International Short Film Festival. Currently, DeMar is also a first-year graduate student pursuing a master’s degree in English at Marquette University with a research focus in Black performing arts history within the Midwestern United States.
Jeff Frank (Artistic Director) is recognized as one of the top directors in the field with an expertise in developing new work for the theater for young audience field. He holds a BFA in Theater from the University of Wisconsin – Whitewater, and an MFA in Child Drama from the University of Utah. Having served as First Stage’s Education and Academy Director from 1996 – 2003, Jeff remains committed to the power of theater to transform lives and forever thankful to call First Stage home.
ADULT CAST
Marina Murphy (Anika the Granny); DeMar Walker (Old Man/Ananse the Spider); Kameron “Keon” Sykes (Musician/Sun who Drums); Sonya Thompson (Understudy for Marina Murphy); Christopher DeAngelo Gilbert (Understudy for DeMar Walker) and Deonte Ellis (Understudy for Kameron “Keon” Sykes).
YOUNG PERFORMER CASTS
Young Performer roles are double cast. Young Performers in the Whirl Cast include: Kiomara Thompson(Wauwatosa) as Earth and Genevieve Gaertner (River Hills) as Wind.
Young Performers in the Twirl Cast include: Terynn Erby-Walker (Milwaukee) as Earth and Abbie Cashman (Shorewood) as Wind.
The Artistic Staff for THE DANCING GRANNY includes: Samantha D. Montgomery (Director/ Director ofArtistic Inclusion and Community Engagement); DeMar Walker (Choreographer); Sydney Lynne Thomas(Scenic Designer); Sarah Hamilton (Lighting Designer); Sonya Thompson (Costume Designer); Dane Urban, Member of Actors’ Equity Association, (Stage Manager) and Carrie Johns (Assistant Stage Manager).
Tickets are $15 – Tickets may be purchased at firststage.org/or by phone (414) 267-2961.
Special events for THE DANCING GRANNY
Pay What You Choose Performance: Sunday, February 20, 2022 at 2 p.m.
Pay What You Choose tickets are available on a first come, first served basis with a minimum suggested donation of $5 per person. Doors open at 1:00 p.m. on the day of the performance. Patrons are encouraged to arrive early.
ASL Interpreted Performance: Sunday, March 6, 2022 at 2 p.m.
This performance will be sign language interpreted for patrons who are deaf or hard of hearing. Assistive listening devices are also available at the Todd Wehr Theater.
Sensory Friendly Performance: Sunday, February 27, 2022 at 2 p.m.
A Sensory Friendly Performance with accommodations for families with children on the autism spectrum will take place on Sunday, February 27, 2022 at 2 p.m. Sensory accommodations include lower sound, house lights up, a quiet area staffed by an educator experienced with the care of students on the autism spectrum and other developmental differences, and more. Tickets for Sensory Friendly Performances are $10. Order by phone at (414) 267-2961, weekdays 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. to reserve tickets. To learn more visit: firststage.org/plan-your-visit/sensory-friendly-performances/.
COVID Protocols: First Stage COVID safety protocols and updates can be viewed here: firststage.org/plan-your-visit/safety-security/ – performances
FACT SHEET
What: First Stage presents THE DANCING GRANNY
A collaboration with Ko-Thi Dance Company
By Mansa Ra, adapted from the book by Ashley Bryan
Directed by Samantha D. Montgomery
Choreography by DeMar Walker
Sponsored by PNC
Location: The Milwaukee Youth Arts Center, 325 W. Walnut Street, Milwaukee
Dates: February 12, 2021 – March 6, 2022
Description: Kids and adults will be dancing in their seats as Ananse, the clever spider of African folklore, tries to trick Granny into dancing away from her garden so he can take her vegetables. But his plan backfires when he is drawn into the dance himself. “Shake it to the East, shake it to the West, shake it to the one that you love best!” Performance runtime is approximately 45 minutes, with no intermission. Suggested for families with young people ages 3-7+.
Performances:
Ticket and information: Tickets are $15. Call (414) 267-2961 or online at: firststage.org
###
About First Stage
First Stage is one of the nation’s leading theaters for young people and families. First Stage touches hearts, engages minds and transforms lives by creating extraordinary theater experiences through professional theater productions that inspire, enlighten and entertain. Its Theater Academy, the nation’s largest high-impact theater training program for young people, fosters life skills through stage skills and serves nearly 2,000 students each year. As Wisconsin’s leader in arts-integrated education in schools, First Stage’s dynamic Theater in Education programs promote literacy, character building and experiential learning throughout the curriculum, serving over 20,000 students each year. First Stage was selected to participate in the Partners in Education program of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts (2012) and was the recipient of the Milwaukee Business Journal’s Eureka Award, recognizing creativity and innovation in business, education and the arts for its Next Steps program for students on the autism spectrum (2013, 2015). First Stage is a member of TYA/USA, the American Alliance for Theatre and Education, the Wisconsin Alliance for Arts Education, Milwaukee Arts Partners and is a cornerstone member of the United Performing Arts Fund (UPAF). firststage.org.
About Ko-Thi Dance Company
Ko-Thi Dance Company inspires discovery and community celebration through African and Caribbean dance and music. Their mission is to passionately preserve, teach and present these cultures to multiple generations, to celebrate the beauty of traditional African and Caribbean art by translating these diverse cultures for modern audiences; to support teachers and curricula in social studies, geography, math and language, and to help foster greater passion, acceptance, cultural pride and respect.
Founded in 1969, Ko-Thi Dance Company was developed during a time in American history when Black Americans were searching for their roots and connections to the continent of Africa. The arts played a crucial role in this re-connection, recapturing and rediscovering history and culture through dance, song, music, visual arts and theater. Nearly fifty-three years later, KTDC continues the work begun at its inception: to train and develop Wisconsin-based artists in traditional African and Caribbean arts. KTDC inspires artists who are dedicated to African and Caribbean music and dance – artists who are nurtured and enriched by its artistic and educational programming. Learn more at ko-thi.org.
Ko-Thi Dance Company gratefully acknowledges the ongoing support of CAMPAC, the Milwaukee Arts Board, Forward Community Investments, the Highpoint Fund, the Greater Milwaukee Foundation, the Wisconsin Arts Board and the National Endowment for the Arts, whose recent support includes an American Rescue Plan grant in the amount of $150,000.

created: January 27, 2022

author: First Stage


text:
NNS-FirstStageLogo-01.png | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Name *
January 27, 2022


text:
‘I’m so tired, but I can’t sleep’: For hospitalized COVID patients, some effects still linger | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Matt Martinez
January 27, 2022
Pastor Greg Lewis was hospitalized in 2020 with a case of COVID-19 that nearly killed him. Like many others, he says the experience has stuck with him. (NNS file photo by Bridget Fogarty)
As the COVID-19 pandemic stretches on, those hospitalized with the disease are reporting another side effect: Post-traumatic stress disorder.
A study done during the height of the pandemic shows that 25% of those hospitalized with COVID-19 had symptoms of post-traumatic stress after their hospital stay as compared to 7% who were hospitalized with a non-COVID illness with similar symptoms.
Timothy Geier, director of outpatient trauma and acute care surgery psychology services at the Medical College of Wisconsin, said the findings mirror trends from other pandemics about post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, in hospitalized patients.
Such cases also occur in those who are hospitalized in intensive care settings, he said. As of Jan. 18, nearly 94% of all ICU beds in Wisconsin were in use.
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
Patients who have COVID-19 also face isolation, he said. Because the disease is highly contagious, hospitals have needed to impose visitor restrictions, removing social support for patients. Not having people by their side during the hospitalization can increase the risk of PTSD, Geier said.
“Our psychological health and our physical health really are intertwined,” Geier said. “I think sometimes folks are reticent to acknowledge that connection but exploring with them in a non-judgmental way and normalizing these human emotions can really go a long way.”
‘You could die’
The hospital experience itself can be difficult, too. Rebecca Quesada was hospitalized with COVID-19 in 2020.
Quesada described the scene: She was on a bed, hooked up to machines with a tube in her nose surrounded by people dressed in protective gear.
Quesada, who turns 67 this month, said her doctors were frank about her chances.
“They told me, ‘We don’t have a cure for it. You could die,’” she said.
Pastor Greg Lewis, the founder and president of Souls to the Polls and Pastors United, two groups that unite faith leaders in Milwaukee to seek solutions for the Black community, has a similar story.
When he arrived at the ICU at Froedtert Hospital in late March 2020, doctors asked him if his affairs were in order and whether he wanted to be resuscitated if he went unconscious. The doctors told him that if he did become unconscious, there was a good chance they might not be able to bring him back.
Lewis, the assistant pastor at St. Gabriel’s Church of God In Christ, said he only slept about an hour a day for the duration of his seven-day hospital visit. Now, over a year later, he said he still can only sleep two or three hours a night.
“I’m so tired, but I can’t sleep ever since they told me they couldn’t bring me back if I did,” Lewis said.
Lewis, 63, has also had issues with memory loss and hasn’t fully recovered his sense of smell, something that still frustrates him to this day.
Lewis said he was offered a chance to talk with someone about post-traumatic stress after his hospital stay but turned it down, thinking he would be fine. Now, he wishes he had taken advantage of the opportunity.
Lewis said the experience gave him a “deeper appreciation for the fight” and strengthened his belief in God to pull him through. But he urged everyone to get vaccinated so they don’t face a similar bout.
“It kind of hurts when you’re in this condition: Feeling like you’re not as whole as you used to be,” he said.
PTSD: What to watch for
Emily Mazzulla, chief trauma and resilience psychologist for Scaling Wellness In Milwaukee, an organization that advocates for trauma treatment in the city, said there can be many indicators of PTSD.
Some of the more common ones are nightmares and intrusive thoughts about an event and changes in mood, including irritability or sadness. There also are physical symptoms such as a racing heart, increased sweat and clammy palms.
Thinking too much about the event or actively avoiding it can be an indicator, too. People may notice that they aren’t willing to talk about anything surrounding the event or avoid things physically like the hospital where they were treated.
“Trauma is often a result of a loss of that feeling of safety or control,” Mazzulla said. “For any therapy, whether it’s with a therapist or on your own, re-establishing that sense of safety is foundational.”
For a list of resources in the community, check out our previous NNS reporting.

author: Matt Martinez


text:
| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
January 26, 2022


text:
Post from Community: Annual “Phobruary” in Silver City 2022 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Via CDC
January 27, 2022
(Photos by Adam Carr)
Editor’s note: Posts from the Community is the place for community announcements and event postings. If you have a community-oriented event you feel our readers would be interested in, please submit here.
Phobruary, the best time of the year is here! Phobruary takes place in Silver City every February, it is a great time to experience a signature Vietnamese Pho Bowl. Silver City is home to many hidden gems in the city such as the Asian International Market, Bamboo, Thai Bar-B-Que, Vientiane Noodle Shop and more. The community is strongly encouraged to support small local restaurants throughout the year but especially during this time of uncertainty.
What is pho? It’s a soup native to Vietnam, common in Laos and Thailand, which delivers a complex combination of flavors that dance on the tongue’s taste buds. It combines noodles with a choice of thinly-sliced beef, chicken, vegetables or shrimp, and also offers a multitude of garnishes and fresh herbs to tailor the soup to individual preferences. These typically include Thai Basil, sprouts, cilantro, limes, jalapeño, sauces, peppers, and other items. This delicious combination of flavors will satisfy your hunger by the time you get to the bottom of the bowl.
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
This year Phobruary participants include two authentic international restaurants,Thai Bar-B-Que and Vientiane Noodle Shop. Both of these restaurants will be offering specials throughout the month of February. Vientiane will be offering $5 Pho Bowls (dine-in only). Thai Bar-B-Que specials include $5.99 Pho Bowls available from 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. and $1.00 Crab Rangoons (dine-in and carry-out).
ENTER THE PHOBRUARY GIVEAWAYS  – WIN A $25 GIFT CARD
HERE IS HOW YOU CAN PARTICIPATE:
VISIT VIA’S FACEBOOK PAGE AND OR INSTAGRAM PAGE TO ENTER. NO PURCHASE IS NECESSARY TO ENTER!
Step 1. Like the Giveaway post
Step 2. Tag someone who you would enjoy having Pho with.
Optional Step. Share on your story for an extra entry, your profile must be public.
*Winner will be announced and contacted every Thursday. *
Each winner can choose between a $25 gift card to Thai Bar-B-Que or to Vientiane Noodle Shop. If you have any questions please send an email to Media@viacdc.org.

author: Via CDC


text:
Post from Community: Carvd N Stone Loren Martin Hintz Travel Writing Scholarship | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Carvd N Stone
January 27, 2022
Editor’s note: Posts from the Community is the place for community announcements and event postings. If you have a community-oriented event you feel our readers would be interested in, please submit here.
To celebrate Carvd N Stone’s 5 year anniversary, we are announcing a new CNS Scholarship. The Annual CNS Loren Martin Hintz Travel Writing Scholarship will award a $1,000 scholarship to a Milwaukee writer.
Requirements: Reside in Milwaukee, Wisconsin; be between the ages of 17-29 years old and submit one 800-word essay that fits the 2022 theme: “Your favorite traveling experience and why?”
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
Applications open February 1, 2022 at 9 a.m. CST and close on February 28, 2021 at 11:59 p.m. CST. There are no requirements for how the money is spent, though Hintz would encourage the winner to use it in one’s heart’s pursuits.
We’ve created a scholarship in Hint’z name thanks to his son Steve Hintz. Hintz was a self-employed writer after leaving The Milwaukee Sentinel as an editor/writer in 1975. He had more than 100 books published, along with hundreds of magazine and newspaper articles and won a number of awards for his work. He had a graduate degree in journalism from Northwestern University.
He was the chair of the Freelance Council of the Society of American Travel Writers and was president of SATW in 2001-2002. He was also a member of the Society of Professional Journalists. Hintz loved to connect with people and encourage them to try new things to expand their worlds. It’s in the spirit of his loving nature this scholarship is being offered. He was the father of three children and the stepfather of three more, which he poured a considerable amount of love into. He was beloved for his independent spirit, his pursuit of his heart’s passions and the simple consideration and attention that he gave to his fellow humans.

author: Carvd N Stone


text:
CNS_Travel_Writer_Scholarship+flyer_2022 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
January 27, 2022


text:
Post from Community: Free COVID-19 mobile vaccination clinics at Milwaukee Public Schools sites in January and February | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Children's Community Health Plan
January 27, 2022
Editor’s note: Posts from the Community is the place for community announcements and event postings. If you have a community-oriented event you feel our readers would be interested in, please submit here.
Everyone receiving a COVID-19 vaccine at a clinic will get a $10 Walmart gift card.
WHO: Community members ages 5 and older needing first or second COVID-19 vaccinations; community members ages 12 and older needing booster COVID-19 vaccines. All eligible individuals will be vaccinated regardless of ID, documentation or insurance status. Children ages 5-17 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
WHAT: Children’s Community Health Plan (CCHP) and Children’s Wisconsin have partnered with Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) and the Milwaukee Health Department to hold free COVID-19 vaccination clinics. CCHP will be on site at the clinics, and first dose, second dose, and booster doses will all be available. Free COVID-19 testing is also available.
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
WHERE:  Clinics will be held at MPS schools on the following dates:
Visit childrenscommunityhealthplan.org/events to learn more.

author: Children's Community Health Plan


text:
Image-1-27-22-at-9.16-AM.jpg | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Name *
January 27, 2022


text:
Post from Community: Storytellers sought for pandemic pregnancy project | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Pandemic Pregnancy Project
January 27, 2022
Editor’s note: Posts from the Community is the place for community announcements and event postings. If you have a community-oriented event you feel our readers would be interested in, please submit here.
Pandemic Pregnancies and Popsicles! a collection of stories from the brand, .
Hello Community storyteller. Congratulations on making it through the pandemic while bringing up life in the world.  is inviting you to share your real-deal stories of pregnancy, birth, and adoption during the COVID-19 pandemic as part of a limited series called Pandemic Pregnancies and Popsicles!. Overarching conversations around the pregnancy, birth, and adoption process often leave out the nuances of our experiences! What for you was especially beautiful and profound? Or what was especially brutal, and required more support and community care? And in retrospect, where in that experience can you find grace, a deep surrender, some deep humor or a twist of something sweet? Hence, popsicles.
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
Pandemic Pregnancies and Popsicles! is focused on collecting and archiving YOUR stories! What can you expect from us? Well, for one, to hold the complexity of your experience (shout out to one of our favorite doulas, JB, for that concept). We want to invite the real conversations around being pregnant, birthing, and starting a family during this panorama. Oh yeah, and this can be fun, too!
The fact is, people gave birth and are still giving birth during a pandemic. What is predictable if no action is taken is no collective documentation of these historical experiences. The way the future could be if a new possibility occured is documenting and making history of what people actually went through while pregnant, giving birth, or adopting during the pandemic, while celebrating and normalizing the various emotions and experiences.
What can you expect from us? We are collecting 30 stories for voluntary anonymous sharing via a podcast or local radio, narrated by another person; a partnership with a podcast of significant following or a radio station; a mention in a national news outlet; a mention in a local news outlet; a mention in two different theater outlets; and at least 20 social media posts.  You have your choice of who from the project you would like to interview you. It can be the person who sent this invitation, or a member you don’t know who is ready to welcome you and embrace your experience.
If you’re interested in sharing one story from your journey with us, we would love to interview you by February 2oth via zoom or mobile chat for our first round of interviews. If you’re more comfortable writing your story like a journal entry and sending it in, that works too. We know that raising babies takes a lot of time and we want to honor accessibility. We promise to hold space for your experience and adapt it in written word in a way that best represents it! We then intend to share the stories we collect in this project on a podcast, narrated by another person. Your stories are anonymous unless you indicate that you would like specific details about your identity revealed, e.g. first-generation American, San Diego based, or mothers of twins, Texas. If you choose to put details out, think about what details may be needed to understand the context of your story whether it be culturally or socially. To be part of of this project, contact

author: Pandemic Pregnancy Project


text:
Pandemic-2.png | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Name *
January 27, 2022


text:
5 things to know and do the weekend of Jan. 28 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Sam Woods
January 28, 2022
The Hip-Hop Chess Club is back Friday. (Photo provided by Your Move MKE)
It’s Friday in Milwaukee, and here are some things we think you should know.
If you would like your event to be considered for this column, please email info@milwaukeenns.org and put “5 things” in the subject line by noon Thursday.
1. “Hot Sauce Poetry” spoken word open mic: Friday, Jan. 28
Daddy’s Soul Food and Grill hosts this open mic featuring comedy, poetry and music. The show begins at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 28 at 754 N. 27th St. Click here for tickets.
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
2. Hip-Hop Chess Club: Friday, Jan. 28
Old school meets new school at this event hosted by Your Move MKE. This kid-friendly event is tailored to ages 9+ but all ages are welcome if a parent/guardian will be closely watching the younger children. The event begins at 6 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 28 at 2926 W. Forest Home Ave. Click here for more information.
3. Learn to play Ultimate Frisbee: Friday, Jan. 28
Teens and adults are welcome to a chance to learn how to play Ultimate Frisbee from the Milwaukee Medusa, a local women’s Ultimate Frisbee team. Participants receive a Frisbee to take home. The workshop begins at 5 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 28 at Running Rebels East, 225 W. Capitol Drive. No prior experience with frisbees required.
4. The City Review basketball showcase: Saturday, Jan. 29
Milwaukee’s future basketball talent will be on display at this year’s City Review, featuring the city’s top high school basketball teams. Doors open at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 29 at Marquette University’s Al McGuire Center, 770 N. 12th St. Click here for more information.
5. The Healing Gathering: Saturday, Jan. 29
Join others in the community who are trying to heal from trauma at this free gathering featuring a panel discussion and live performance that focuses on the experiences of youths. The event begins at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 29 at City Of Light Church, 6725 W. Burleigh St. Click here for more information.

created: January 28, 2022

author: Sam Woods


text:
| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
January 27, 2022


text:
‘Jesus and therapy will meet the need’: How one ministry takes the church to the community | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Matt Martinez
January 28, 2022
Senior Pastor Willie Davis and his wife, Pastor Ciara Davis, founded Invisible Reality Ministries in their home in 2011. (Photo by Matt Martinez)
For the Davis family, Sunday mornings have always been hectic.
In the early days, the Rev. Willie Davis would wake up and slide the dining room table into the laundry room. His wife, Ciara, used to joke that she’d need a new table after all the wear and tear. But they needed to make room so he would have a place to preach.
Soon, people would start to file in. Eventually they moved to the Dineen Park Pavilion. And then they rented space from Mount Mary University.
It took years to find the place where they’d build their church, and even longer to move into it. But Willie and Ciara never lost faith. They were on a mission.
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
Invisible Reality Ministries, 2700 N. 54 St., is a non-denominational Christian church. Willie serves as senior pastor and Ciara is a fellow pastor. Their three daughters – Destiny, Ashanti and Trinity – also are involved with the church.
“This is what really defines us,” Willie said. “This is our purpose. This is why we experienced what we experienced through our lives.”
Willie and Ciara, both Milwaukee natives, see their church as the best way to give back to the communities where they grew up.
Invisible Reality has engaged with initiatives to promote health for its congregation, including a partnership with the Medical College of Wisconsin that has led to implicit bias trainings and advocacy for Black and brown patients in an exam room.
Jeff Morzinski, a professor emeritus for the Medical College of Wisconsin, said Willie’s work with MCW has evolved over the years from youth outreach to working in re-entry programs for incarcerated individuals. Re-entry specifically, Morzinski said, was an area where Willie brought a holistic approach.
“He knew that people needed personal support,” Morzinksi said. “He knew about building forgiveness and connection with one’s own neighborhoods and community.”
The church also hosts the H.E.A.L.T.H. program, an acronym for “helping everyone attain life that’s healthy.” The program connects church members with graduate students from Alverno College who can provide free consultations and help them identify medical issues.
Mental health ministry
In addition, the church provides free mental health services.
Every Wednesday, the church hosts Stronghold Sessions from 5:30 to 7 p.m. The group discussions bring together those in the congregation who seek help with struggles, including addiction and depression, and connects them with the pastors and Jim Gerber, a psychotherapist.
Ciara said the idea is to give people psychological help and spiritual support. The free services are meant to help those who need assistance but otherwise might not be able to afford it.
“Jesus and therapy will meet the need,” Ciara said. “You need both.”
Willie said the sessions have helped people overcome addiction, anxiety and thoughts of suicide.
Gerber said Invisible Reality stands out from other groups he’s worked with because of its commitment to the community. People in the program look out for each other.
“People move forward in groups,” Gerber said. “It makes a significant difference – they’re not as isolated.”
A vision for community
Willie grew up around gangs, drugs and violence. When he needed a safe space, he had his grandmother’s house.
“My upbringing was very harsh. If it hadn’t been for my grandmother, I don’t know if I’d even be here today,” he said.
Willie was born and raised on North 23 and West Lloyd streets, near the Amani neighborhood. His grandmother, who acted as a “mayor” for the neighborhood, was also the woman who taught him everything he knows now about faith.
“She validated every aspect of the Word for me,” Willie said. “The love that I have for the community, the love that I have for family, my understanding of what family should look like – I received that from my grandmother.”
And he wants others to have the same experience.
“It has to be something better,” Willie said. “A neighborhood that is suffering and full of violence and drugs and gang activity – there’s no way that this should be the norm. There’s no way that this should be the accepted rule.”
The church has tried to make that “something better” a reality.
Invisible Reality Ministries is a member of Common Ground, a citizen-based group in Southeastern Wisconsin that works to address social issues. Willie has worked recently with the group to try to reduce gun violence.
The church leads other initiatives as well, including periodic soup kitchens, back-to-school fairs and youth programs.
“To see families come in and they’re excited and their lives have been changed, and they’re starting to see their purpose and believe they could be better in life,” Willie said. “It makes it all worth it for us.”


text:
Post from Comunity: Urban Candlelight Hike in Three Bridges Park is a winter treat | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Friends of Hank Aaron State Trail
January 28, 2022
Editor’s note: Posts from the Community is the place for community announcements and event postings. If you have a community-oriented event you feel our readers would be interested in, please submit here.
Quickly becoming a favorite Milwaukee winter experience, the Urban Candlelight Hike returns to Three Bridges Park on Saturday, February 26, 2022 from 5:30 to 8:00pm. A candlelit path on the Hank Aaron State Trail invites friends and families outside for a fun winter adventure in Milwaukee’s Menomonee River Valley. Year after year, hardy hikers donned with stocking caps, mittens, and their cheery midwestern spirit are rewarded with an evening of campfires, marshmallow roasting, food trucks, hot drinks, and special activities along the trail.
The Urban Ecology Center will serve hot cocoa and pastries and Friends of the Hank Aaron State Trail will host campfires and marshmallow roasting in the FOHAST Fireside Plaza. Newline Community Cafe will welcome hikers to warm up with a hot drink and Orenda Cafe will have non-alcoholic and spiked hot cocoa to go, as well as chimichangas. From 4:00 – 10:00pm, hikers can extend the fun at Third Space Brewing with locally brewed beer, root beer, games, and a family-friendly winter craft. With or without snow, the year-round beauty of nature is sure to impress!
There is no cost to hike the candlelit trails, but attendees are encouraged to support the event and make the most of their evening with a Fun Pass, $10 for individuals and $20 for families, which gives them access to hot chocolate, pastries, marshmallow roasting, entry for door prizes, Buy One Get One (BOGO) beer and root beer at Third Space Brewing, and 20% off at Orenda Cafe the week following the event.
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
The Urban Candlelight Hike is a warm invitation to explore nature in an urban landscape at the award-winning Three Bridges Park, once a vacant railyard that the community rallied behind to transform into a park home to hundreds of species of native plants and animals.
The Urban Candlelight Hike in Three Bridges Park is co-hosted by the Friends of Hank Aaron State Trail and Urban Ecology Center.
For more information, visit UrbanCandlelightHike.com.
Located in the heart of Milwaukee, along the Menomonee River between 27th and 37th Streets, Three Bridges Park was once part of a wild rice marsh, then a rail yard, and then a vacant site for decades. Following a large community effort over many years, the area was transformed and opened in 2013 as Three Bridges Park – a 24-acre park, outdoor science classroom for the Urban Ecology Center, and a part of the Hank Aaron State Trail. The park with its trails and bridges connect the surrounding neighborhoods to the Menomonee River Valley. This natural area has quickly become a popular destination with more than 20,000 visits per year.

author: Friends of Hank Aaron State Trail


text:
Eddee-Daniel-Candlelight-3.jpg | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Name *
January 27, 2022


text:
Post from Community: Get ready for the unexpected with a disaster go bag | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Myron Smith
January 29, 2022
Editor’s note: Posts from the Community is the place for community announcements and event postings. If you have a community-oriented event you feel our readers would be interested in, please submit here.
Flashlights, jugs of bottled water, a first aid kit, and ready-to-eat meal packs line the White’s living room floor. The family isn’t going camping—they’re preparing for disaster by putting together a “go bag.”
Kevin and Breanna White never used to worry about natural disasters in their Milwaukee, Wisconsin home but after the hurricanes, tornadoes, and fires of 2021, they don’t want to leave anything to chance.
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
Preparing in advance with a disaster-ready kit has helped families nationwide through extreme and abnormal weather events, which experts warn are on the rise.
“Having a personal preparedness plan increases your chances of staying safe,” according to a training program from the Columbia University’s National Center for Disaster Preparedness.
“Life is precious, so we encourage all to heed the Bible’s advice to take practical steps to protect ourselves from danger,” said Robert Hendriks III, spokesman for Jehovah’s Witnesses in the United States.
Go bags also have proven useful in the opposite circumstances as “stay bags.”
Disaster-preparedness suggestions and tips for putting together a go bag are available from FEMA at ready.gov and from Jehovah’s Witnesses at

created: January 29, 2022

author: Myron Smith


text:
| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
January 29, 2022


text:
5 things to know and do this week in Milwaukee: Jan. 31 to Feb. 4 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Sam Woods
January 31, 2022
“Phobruary” returns this week to Silver City. Pho is a soup native to Vietnam but common in Laos and Thailand. (NNS file photo by Ana Martinez-Ortiz)
It’s Monday in Milwaukee, and here are some things we think you should know about. If you would like your event to be considered for this column, please submit your news by clicking here at least two weeks in advance.
1. “Phobrurary” in Silver City: Throughout February
“Phobruary” is back! Vientiane and Thai Bar-B-Que, two Silver City restaurants, are offering deals on pho, a soup native to Vietnam but common in Laos and Thailand, throughout February. Vientiane is located at 3422 W. National Ave and Thai Bar-B-Que at 3417 W. National Ave. Click here for more information. From our archives: PHOTOS: What ‘Phobruary’ looks like in 2021
2. Virtual session on landlord and tenant rights and responsibilities: Wednesday, Feb. 2
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
As a tenant or landlord, it is important to know your rights and responsibilities. Learn more about them in this free virtual presentation from the Wisconsin Bureau of Consumer Protection from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 2. Click here for more information.
3. “Neat,” a virtual performance: Thursday, Feb. 3
Renaissance Theaterworks and Newline Café bring you Charlayne Woodard’s magical, often humorous, coming-of-age story based on the playwright’s experience. A talkback will be held after the performance. The show begins at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 3 on Zoom. Click here for more information. You must RSVP to view the performance.
4. Meet the mayoral candidates: Thursday, Feb. 3
Meet the candidates for mayor from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 3 at El Bethel Church, 5401 W Good Hope Rd.
5. Vaccination clinics at MPS schools: Monday, Jan. 31, Thursday, Feb. 3 and Friday, Feb. 4
Children’s Community Health Plan and Children’s Wisconsin have partnered with Milwaukee Public Schools and the Milwaukee Health Department to hold free COVID-19 vaccination clinics. These clinics are for residents ages 5 and older who need their first or second COVID-19 shots and for residents 12 and older who need their booster shots. All eligible individuals will be vaccinated regardless of ID, documentation or insurance status. Children ages 5 to 17 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
Clinics will be held at MPS schools this week on the following dates:

created: January 31, 2022


text:
| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
January 30, 2022

created: January 30, 2022


text:
Here’s how you can celebrate Black History Month in Milwaukee in 2022 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Sam Woods
January 31, 2022
There are many ways you can celebrate Black History Month this year, including participating in reading clubs with the Milwaukee Public Library. (NNS file photo by Analise Pruni)
February is Black History Month.
Here are some events you should know about in Milwaukee.
(Did we miss a Black History Month event? We tried our best but bet we did. Help us fill in the gaps by posting in the comments below or by sending an email to info@milwaukeenns.org with the subject line “Black History Month 2022.” You can always submit your news by clicking here.)
Concert featuring Black Violin: Thursday, Feb. 3
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
Classically trained violist and violinist Wil Baptiste and Kev Marcus combine their training with hip-hop influences to create something new. They are playing at the Marcus Theater at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 3 at 929 N. Water St. Click here for more information.
Club Noir book release party: Saturday, Feb. 12
Celebrate Black History Month, and watch Kavon Cortez Jones perform his timeless narrations about his home city. The event starts at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 12 at Between Two Galleries, 423 W. Pierce St. Click here for more information.
“Stars, Stories and Rhythms of Africa”: Wednesday, Feb. 16
Enjoy a night of live music, dancing, storytelling and stargazing in different African cities at the UW-Milwaukee planetarium. This free event begins at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 16 at 1900 E. Kenwood Blvd. Click here for more details.
America’s Black Holocaust Museum “Grand Re-mergence”: Friday, Feb. 25
The wait is over, and America’s Black Holocaust Museum is back. There will be a ribbon-cutting ceremony outside the museum at 9 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 25 at 401 W. North Ave. Following the ceremony, the doors of the museum will be open until 5 p.m. Click here for more information. In case you missed it: NNS Spotlight: As America grapples with racist past, leader of America’s Black Holocaust Museum looks toward the future
Ebony Ball: Sunday, Feb. 27
Marquette University’s Black Student Council presents this reliving of a day in 1920s Harlem. The show begins at 6 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 27 at the Alumni Memorial Union, 1442 W. Wisconsin Ave. Click here for tickets and more details.
Milwaukee Film celebrates Black History Month: All month
Milwaukee Film presents a slate of films, conversations and events all month as part of its Black Lens MKE program. Click here to see the full list of events. In case you missed it: Post from Community: Milwaukee Film dedicates February to Black History Month 2022
Presence and Persistence: Visions of American Blackness: All month
The Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design’s exhibition explores Black life in America, with work ranging from black-and-white renderings to paintings to assemblage collage work. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays at 273 E. Erie St. Click here for more information about the exhibition and related events.
Black History Month Reading Challenge: All month
Kids and adults are invited to join the Milwaukee Public Library’s reading challenge all month. Prizes for adults, teens and children are available. Click here for more information.


text:
Post from Community: gener8tor art opens 2022 application | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
gener8tor
February 1, 2022
Editor’s note: Posts from the Community is the place for community announcements and event postings. If you have a community-oriented event you feel our readers would be interested in, please submit here.
Once again, gener8tor will offer its artist accelerator program to the visual arts community in 2022. gener8tor Art will provide educational programming and networking to artists in Wisconsin and beyond. A jury of art professionals will select the four recipients who will each receive a $15,000 grant to be invested into their art practice and participation in the 2022 gener8tor Art program. Three positions will be reserved exclusively for Wisconsin artists, while one spot is open to artists from across the country. In addition to the four artists who are selected for the accelerator program, 50 artists will be selected to participate in a one-week Master Class with webinars focusing on professional development and selling artwork online. Applications are currently open on the gener8tor Art website until .
gener8tor Art is a free, 12-week accelerator designed for visual artists to achieve greater visibility and success by providing the support and mentorship needed to navigate the art industry. gener8tor is the only top accelerator in the nation to offer grants and programming for artists.
gener8tor Art alumni have all taken successful next steps in their art careers, ranging from completing public art projects to increasing income from their art practice by 35%. Alumni from the gener8tor Art accelerator program include Ben Balcom, Phoenix Brown, Brent Budsberg & Shana McCaw, Tyanna Buie, Jessica Harvey, Sydney G. James, Le’Andra LeSeur, Dakota Mace, Open Kitchen, LaNia Sproles, Ariana Vaeth and Hope Wang.
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
In addition to the accelerator program and Master Class series, gener8tor Art will host a series of virtual info sessions and professional development workshops. Topics include an artist statement workshop and a webinar on grant application best practices. All workshops and info sessions are free and open to the public. You can register here for upcoming public programming.
“I’m excited to continue to provide both financial support and mentorship to artists in Wisconsin and beyond,” said Maureen Ragalie, gener8tor Art director. “Through gener8tor Art, we hope to strengthen the creative ecosystem in Wisconsin by investing in individual artists.
gener8tor Art is made possible through support from the American Family Institute for Corporate and Social Impact.
“We continue to be inspired and moved by the creative community in our efforts to close equity gaps nationwide,” said Nyra Jordan, Social Impact Director with the American Family Insurance Institute for Corporate and Social Impact. “The opportunity to provide financial and social support to the gener8tor Art cohort is a privilege. Helping people achieve their professional dream is our passion at American Family.”
gener8tor’s turnkey platform for the creative economy connects startup founders, investors, corporations, universities, job seekers, musicians and artists. The gener8tor platform includes accelerators, upskilling, corporate programming and conferences with content on community growth, impact investing, diversity, equity and inclusion, and innovation across education, agriculture, insurance, healthcare, and more. Recently, gener8tor was named one of Fast Company’s Best Workplaces for Innovators. For more information, visit gener8tor.com.
gener8tor Art is a 12-week accelerator program for visual artists. The program helps artists achieve greater success by providing the support and mentorship needed to maintain a sustainable practice and navigate the industry. gener8tor.com/art
is a venture capital firm and partner of choice for exceptional entrepreneurs who are building scalable, sustainable businesses in a long-term effort to close equity gaps in America. The Institute invests in companies working to provide economic opportunity for all, to build resilient communities, to create healthy youth development and to increase learning and academic achievement. It is based in Madison, Wisconsin and can be found on social media @AmFamInstitute or on their website amfaminstitute.com.

created: February 1, 2022


text:
Phoenix_Brown_Gala_2021.jpg | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Name *
January 31, 2022


text:
Post from Community: Nominations now being accepted for 2022 Vel R. Phillips Trailblazer Award | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ald. Milele A. Coggs
February 1, 2022
Editor’s note: Posts from the Community is the place for community announcements and event postings. If you have a community-oriented event you feel our readers would be interested in, please submit here.
The Vel R. Phillips Trailblazer Award is bestowed annually to recognize a female Milwaukeean who exemplifies Vel R. Phillips’ legacy of selfless service and trailblazing work toward improving the quality of life for residents in Milwaukee. Nominations for the 2022 Vel R. Phillips Trailblazer Award are now being accepted until the close of business on Friday, February 25, 2022.
“The Vel R. Phillips Trailblazer Award was created to commemorate the legacy of Vel Phillips, while also recognizing an individual who captures her spirit, dedication and love of Milwaukee,” said Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs. “The award selection committee is encouraging nominations for this year’s award, and looks forward to reviewing each nomination to learn more about the innovative and creative ways women in our community are creating an atmosphere for others to thrive.”
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
Nominations must include a description of the nominee’s work in the areas of social justice and/or civic engagement, challenges the nominee has overcome in these areas and any other examples of the nominee embodying the spirit of Vel R. Phillips.
Nominees must be female City of Milwaukee residents who are not publicly-elected officials. Applicants may nominate themselves or others. The winner will be announced during the virtual Girl’s Day at City Hall program in March. For more information on how to submit a nomination and for a form, please click here, or contact Joanna Polanco at (414) 286-2366 or jpolan@milwaukee.gov.

author: Ald. Milele A. Coggs


text:
Vel_R_Phillips_Trailblazer_Award_Form copy | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
February 1, 2022
Vel_R_Phillips_Trailblazer_Award_Form copy


text:
Post from Community: United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County announces first investments from their Racial Equity Fund | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County
February 1, 2022
Editor’s note: Posts from the Community is the place for community announcements and event postings. If you have a community-oriented event you feel our readers would be interested in, please submit here.
United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County today announced eleven organizations who are being awarded funding as part of their Racial Equity Fund.
Launched in 2021 from a donation from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott, this new fund is focused on a commitment to deepen United Way’s impact as funders, partners, and conveners, especially as it relates to racial equity and social justice. Their goal is to increase funding to Black- and Brown-led organizations, advocate for, and support Black and Brown-led ideas.
Decisions for funding were guided by the Racial Equity Advisory Committee, featuring a variety of community leaders. A total of $1.5 million is being invested in eleven organizations over the next three years. Four additional investments will be made to unique agencies in the upcoming three years, with grantees determined by the advisory committee.
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
“We are so grateful to our advisory committee who guided us with our funding decisions,” said Nicole Angresano, vice president of community impact for United Way. “They chose a broad range of local organizations who are already doing powerful work right here in our neighborhoods. We believe this funding will not only support their day-to-day operations but allow them to build the infrastructure necessary to make system-level change.”
Organizations receiving funding include:
To learn more about each of the organizations, click here.
(Links to https://unitedwaygmwc.org/Voices-United/2022-Racial-Equity-Fund-Investments-Announced)


text:
Post from Community: Voting begins in UScellular’s sixth annual Black History Month art contest | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
UScellular
February 1, 2022
Editor’s note: Posts from the Community is the place for community announcements and event postings. If you have a community-oriented event you feel our readers would be interested in, please submit here.
Voting is now open in UScellular’s sixth annual Black History Month Art Contest with Boys & Girls Club of Greater Milwaukee. Voting is available online, and the Milwaukee community can go here to vote for their favorite piece of original art. Voting will remain open until February 28, and anyone 18 or older can vote for their favorite.
This year, UScellular introduced an exciting new element to the contest. For the first time, Boys & Girls Club members were encouraged to create their original pieces of artwork in recognition of influential Black STEM icons, including historical figures, world leaders, scientists, and educators.
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
The top three vote-getters will be announced in March and prizes include gift cards in the following amounts:
“We are thrilled to work with Boys & Girls Club of Greater Milwaukee on this contest to help honor Black STEM icons and showcase youth in our community,” said Kristy Baron, director of sales at UScellular. “This year’s art highlights the artistic talent among the Club members, while giving them a chance to learn more about the impact Black people have made in STEM. We encourage the community to check out the art and vote online.”
“The Arts have always been a way for youth to not only express themselves and showcase their creativity but are also used as a tool for healing and identity development,” says Dr. Tanisha Grimes Oakley, senior leader of strategy implementation and youth development at Boys & Girls Clubs of America. “This is even more poignant when African American youth have the opportunity to see themselves represented in the STEM field, showing them that they too have access and can continue to dream big.”
The public can vote for their favorite artwork by going to newsroom.uscellular.com or clicking here.
UScellular is focused on addressing gaps in STEM education and is committed to connecting more than 200,000 of tomorrow’s innovators each year with the resources they need today to help shape future opportunities. For more information about UScellular’s corporate social responsibility initiatives, please go to https://newsroom.uscellular.com/community/.
No Purchase Necessary. Entrants who are minors must have parental consent to participate in the Contest. Official Contest Rules, including full entry details and Finalist and Winner selection criteria/voting are available by email request to USCDLMediaRelations@uscellular.com.
About UScellular
UScellular is the fourth-largest full-service wireless carrier in the United States, providing national network coverage and industry-leading innovations designed to elevate the customer experience. The Chicago-based carrier is building a stronger network with the latest 5G technology and offers a wide range of communication services that enhance consumers’ lives, increase the competitiveness of local businesses and improve the efficiency of government operations. To learn more about UScellular, visit one of its retail stores or www.uscellular.com. To get the latest news, promos and videos, connect with UScellular on Facebook.com/uscellular, Twitter.com/uscellular and YouTube.com/uscellularcorp.

author: UScellular


text:
| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
February 1, 2022

author: Dwayne Burtin


text:
Remembering Dr. Lester Carter | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
February 1, 2022
Dr. Lester Carter was a humble man. “I’m just the community druggist, nothing fancy,” he told us last year. (File photo by Sue Vliet)
Milwaukee is mourning the death of Dr. Lester Carter, longtime pharmacist and a beloved community anchor.
Carter died Monday. He was 90.
Here are some precious memories from our archives to honor a man who inspired many in our neighborhoods.
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
LIVING LEGENDS: ‘It’s better to be seen than viewed’: What I learned from my visit with Dr. Lester Carter
‘Dr. Carter’ recognized with honorary street sign at 24th and Burleigh
‘Dr. Carter’ still ministers to community at 83

author: Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service


text:
17208883013_db423c65af_k | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
January 31, 2022


text:
17208917093_e8ecaac823_k | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
January 31, 2022


text:
17826376622_241035e8a4_k | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
January 31, 2022


text:
20383143382_199c32ccbc_k | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
January 31, 2022


text:
| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
January 31, 2022


text:
32938709132_3ec784e037_k | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
January 31, 2022


text:
49528127696_f70c70a110_k | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
January 31, 2022


text:
We’ve updated our guide to getting free or low-cost meals | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Sam Woods
February 1, 2022
Many grocery stores, such as Pete’s Fruit Market pictured above, take FoodShare. (File photo by Lydia Slattery)
Leer en español: Hemos actualizado nuestra guía para obtener comidas gratis o de bajo costo
Start here for up-to-date information on food pantries
Food pantry hours can vary from day to day, especially during the holidays and with COVID-19 cases rising over the past few weeks. If you are looking for a food pantry, take a look at the resources below or call the pantry you want to visit beforehand.
Use the 2-1-1 Wisconsin website to find the food pantry in your neighborhood. You can also call IMPACT at 2-1-1 or text your ZIP code to TXT-211, which can connect you to food pantries and meal programs in your area.
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
The Hunger Task Force has created an interactive map complete with soup kitchens, MPS meal sites, non-MPS meal sites, mobile markets, meal sites for seniors and more. You can search by ZIP code or by resource type to find what you are looking for at a location near you. The map is updated daily, but call the location before you visit to make sure it is still open.
Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin also has a collection of resources, including a pantry locator and information and help with applying for FoodShare and Women, Infant and Children, or WIC, credits. All of this information is here.
You can also text “MKEfood” to 73224 to connect with one of our reporters about food resources.
Do I need a photo ID to go to a food pantry?
For some, yes. This is because some pantries are required to verify that you live in the area they serve.
If you are not sure if you need an ID, call the food pantry directly or text “MKE” to 73224 and a reporter can get you the information you need.
Pay what you can
Some restaurants and grocery stores allow customers to pay what they can, even if that is $0. However, there is often also a suggested price or way to donate for those who want to support these efforts.
Tricklebee Café, 4424 W. North Ave., is a community cafe offering vegan and gluten free options. The café is open for dine-in from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. Call 414-488-2477 to order for pickup.
The Victory Garden Initiative’s pantry will be opening back up on Tuesday, Jan. 4 and every Tuesday thereafter from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Hot meals cooked by Harambee resident Helen Dixon will be served.
greater good(s) MKE, located at 5205 W. North Ave., is a pay-what-you-can produce store open every Saturday from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. Order online for pickup here.
The MKE Good Food Bus will deliver meal kits on a pay-what-you-can basis on select dates. The meals serve four individuals. You can find more information about menu items and delivery schedule here.
Free or low-cost food delivery (60 and older)
For those who are 60 or older, Meals on Wheels will deliver meals to you and anyone living with you who also qualifies. You can view eligibility requirements and apply here and view this month’s menu here.
Additionally, for those 60 or older and/or have a qualifying disability in the 53204, 53205, 53206, 53215, 53223, 53224 and 53225 ZIP codes, Friedens Community Ministries will deliver food from one of its four pantries. Call 414-289-6030 to sign up.
The Hunger Task Force, DoorDash and the United Way of Greater Milwaukee and Waukesha have partnered to deliver free meal stockboxes to seniors (60 or older) with a monthly income of less than $1,396 for an individual or less than $1,888 for a two-person household. Eligible ZIP codes can be found here.
Get money for food
Those making less than the maximum income requirements can get EBT credit to buy food through Wisconsin’s FoodShare program. You can check to see if you are eligible here, and you can find instructions on how to apply here.
Parents of children who receive free or reduced-price school meals may also be eligible to receive credit to buy food through Pandemic EBT, or P-EBT. You can find more information about who is eligible here.
How long will extra FoodShare last?
Currently FoodShare recipients are receiving an “emergency allotment” of FoodShare credit that amounts to the difference between what the recipient would normally qualify for and the maximum monthly allotment for your household, or an extra $95, whichever is higher.
These emergency allotments are confirmed through February. However, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, who administers the FoodShare program, said it expects emergency allotments to continue as long as a federal public health emergency is in place. Right now, the public health emergency has been declared through mid-April.
Additional benefits for recipients of FoodShare or P-EBT?
Recipients of FoodShare or P-EBT are eligible to receive Amazon Prime membership at half the original monthly cost. If you lack reliable transportation, you can use this membership to receive free two-hour delivery on food items when you buy $35 or more in groceries.