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What’s it like to be a Latino living in Milwaukee? We asked, and you answered. | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
July 10, 2019
Folk dancers on Cesar Chavez E. Drive at Ciclovia MKE in 2016. (Photo by Adam Carr)
What’s it like to be a Latino living in Milwaukee?
With the nation’s largest Latino civil rights group coming to town today, we thought we would consult the experts.
The national conference by the League of United Latin American Citizens, or LULAC, is expected to bring 15,000 to 20,000 visitors to Milwaukee through Saturday.
We asked Milwaukee-based LULAC members to reflect on their city and to offer their thoughts on the greatest challenges and successes of Milwaukee’s Latino community (as well as their suggestions on Latino-owned businesses to patronize while conventioneers are in town).
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Here are their responses:
Mariela Fonseca: Admission coordinator at Carmen Schools of Science and Technology
Recommendation: Looking for hand-made tacos? Go to the family-owned Carnitas Machetes, 2000 S. 8th St.
Challenge: The biggest challenge facing Latinos in Milwaukee is segregation. The lack of social interaction limits opportunities to cultural awareness and resources. It continues to keep us limited to advance in networks we might not know of.
Success: Milwaukee is filled with nonprofits who continue to support any community in need. Safe and Sound, women’s shelters, Walker’s Point Youth & Family Center and more are all partnerships that strive to make Milwaukee better. Milwaukee is a beautiful city filled with history and abundance of culture.
Guadalupe Gomez Soto: President of Milwaukee’s LULAC Youth Council
Recommendation: If I could pick only one Latino-owned business in Milwaukee, it would be Mazorca Tacos. The people who own the “restaurant” (food truck located at 209 S. 1st St.) are close friends and their food never disappoints. Plus, it’s located downtown and has a beautiful scenery.
Challenge: The biggest challenge facing Latinos in Milwaukee are low wages. With low wages, people don’t have the opportunity to grow and provide their children with better opportunities. A recommendation is to start giving this unrepresented population more opportunities to flourish. What makes it special is that as Latinos, we always find a way to better ourselves and always keep going for more.
Success: There are many successes that Milwaukee’s Latino community has accomplished. Voces de la Frontera, a Latino organization, has accomplished so many things in the community. This organization has implemented A Day Without Latinos, which goes to Madison to fight for different purposes like driver’s licenses (regardless of immigration status) in Milwaukee. Because of this, our voices have been heard and many of these initiatives have been passed.
Also, Latinos have grown tremendously in Milwaukee. Many are starting businesses and slowly growing. These businesses are supporting undocumented students and many are accomplishing things many never would’ve thought about.
Vanessa L. Llanas: Regional representative for U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin
Recommendation: Supermercado El Rey, family owned and operated since 1978, and specifically the flagship location, 916 S. Cesar E. Chavez Drive.
Challenge: We need more human and financial resources to strengthen civic engagement of the Latinx community in Milwaukee. Meaningful education and outreach in issues like the 2020 census, voter participation, public service employment and AmeriCorps programs.
Success: UMOS and Mexican Fiesta/Wisconsin Hispanic Scholarship Foundation have been a staunch supporter of maintaining and growing Latinx culture. Both organizations host or sponsor events throughout the year that celebrate Latinx culture, are inclusive of the entire Milwaukee community and provide opportunities for people to volunteer and/or support local Latinx vendors.
Mexican Fiesta draws over 80,000 people from a five-state area to learn about Mexican culture. UMOS Cerveceros Tailgate gives our community the opportunity to show our Latin pride and create a strong, positive presence at a Milwaukee Brewers game.
Arturo Martinez: Associate dean/director Walker’s Square Educational Center at Milwaukee Area Technical College
Recommendation: Supermercado El Rey (multiple locations in Milwaukee)
Challenge: The biggest challenge is closing the achievement gap, which would lead to more Hispanic youths pursuing a college degree. This would increase the number of Latinos in high-level administrative positions within colleges and universities in Wisconsin.
Success: Milwaukee’s Latino community’s biggest success is its buying power. As the Hispanic population increases, their economic impact helps to support state sales tax, city property tax and contributes to federal taxes. This helps cities like Milwaukee to benefit from the economic contributions of Hispanics.
Veronica Rodriguez- Lewis: Director of Talent and Human Resources at Carmen Schools of Science and Technology
Recommendation: BC Modern mid-century furnishings shop, 900 S. 5th St., open Saturdays and Sundays only
Challenge: Latinos need to continue pursuing their education. This starts with seeking early childhood resources to help our children with literacy (especially with English as a second language) to build a strong foundation and confidence in their ability to learn.
Success: Milwaukee is home to a large body of Latinos. You can find Latin culture in barrios across the city and a myriad of Spanish influence in small business restaurants, shopping, fiestas and music.
Milwaukee historically attracted immigrants with work opportunities — many families like mine came to Milwaukee seeking a better life. The American dream was possible in Milwaukee because of work in manufacturing and breweries in the early ‘70s. Today we call Milwaukee home.
Fela Salinas: U.S. Government Civil Service retiree
Recommendation: Oscar’s Pub & Grill (locations at 1712 W. Pierce St. and 3800 W. Burnham St.)
Success: I am especially proud of the Spanish-speaking outreach institute (Roberto Hernández Center) at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee that was initiated by marches in the early 1970s by our Hispanic community. This dramatically increased the attendance of Latinos at this university.
LULAC member Bevin Christie contributed to this report.


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
July 9, 2019

source: news-milwaukeenns

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

author: Adam Carr


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Arturo Martinez (1) | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
July 9, 2019


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Fela Salinas | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
July 9, 2019


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Guadalupe Gomez Soto (1) | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
July 9, 2019


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Mariela Fonseca | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
July 9, 2019


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Vanessa Llanas | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
July 9, 2019


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Veronica Lewis | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
July 9, 2019


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11th Annual Great Midwest Book Fest — Saturday, July 13, 2019 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Radiah Hubbert, UrbanReviewsOnline.com
July 11, 2019

author: Radiah Hubbert, UrbanReviewsOnline.com


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1D2D4EA2-C4DC-4609-A69D-7EE9C71CCE05.jpeg | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
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5 things to do this weekend: July 12 to July 14 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ana Martinez-Ortiz
July 11, 2019
The African Cultural Festival will be hosting its 2019 celebration on Saturday, July 13 in Brown Deer Park, 7835 N. Green Bay Rd. (Photo provided by the African Cultural Festival)
It’s Friday in Milwaukee, and here are some events that can enrich your weekend. 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. Lights for Liberty at City Hall: Friday, July 12
Milwaukee residents are invited to participate in “Lights for Liberty: A Vigil to End Human Detention Camps” on Friday, July 12. The event’s aim is to protest the inhumane conditions that refugees face. There will be a demonstration and a candlelight vigil. The group is gathering at Milwaukee’s City Hall, 200 E. Wells St., and the event goes from 8 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
2. The 2019 African Cultural Festival: Saturday, July 13
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The African Cultural Festival will be hosting its 2019 celebration on Saturday, July 13 in Brown Deer Park, 7835 N. Green Bay Rd. The event is a celebration of African cultural heritage and will feature African music, drumming, dancing, food and more. Admission is free, and the festival begins at 11 a.m.
3. Have coffee with Rep. David Crowley: Saturday, July 13
Rep. David Crowley is inviting the Milwaukee community to join him for a coffee at the Sherman Perk Coffee Shop, 4924 W. Roosevelt Drive, on Saturday, July 13. Crowley wants to discuss ways to move the community forward. The discussion will start at 11:30 a.m.
4. Shine-A-Light kick-off block party: Saturday, July 13
Shine-A-Light MKE 2020 aims to bring awareness to grassroots nonprofits, businesses, churches and more during the 2020 Democratic National Convention, which will be in Milwaukee. The group is launching its kick-off event with a block party on Saturday, July 13 on North 18 Street starting at noon.
5. Milwaukee Public Schools job fair: Saturday, July 13
Milwaukee Public Schools is hosting its first of two job fairs this summer on Saturday, July 13. It is looking for teachers, paraprofessionals and more to join the Milwaukee Public Schools’ faculty and staff. To learn more about the available jobs and benefits check out the job fair at Vincent High School, 7501 N. Granville Rd. The fair goes from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

author: Ana Martinez-Ortiz


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
July 11, 2019


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Community Fun Fest at Penfield | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Penfield Children’s Center
July 11, 2019
We hope you can join us for Community Fun Fest at Penfield!
Enjoy FREE Chick-fil-A chicken sandwiches, family-friendly activities, community resources and more!
Activities provided by:
Details:
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Date: Thursday, July 18, 2019
Time: 4:30-6:30 p.m.
Location: Penfield Children’s Center – 833 N. 26 Street, Milwaukee

author: Penfield Children’s Center


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EXCLUSIVE: ‘I’m not the only one who has a mom in jail’: Camp reunites locked-up mothers with their kids | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Allison Dikanovic
July 11, 2019
Editor’s note: To protect the privacy of the children included in this story, Camp Reunite requested that NNS only use first names for campers.
Bridget Davis eagerly waved one hand in the air and wiped a tear from her eye with the other one as a yellow school bus pulled up in front of Taycheedah Correctional Institution. Her son Lawson was on the bus, and the last time she saw him was more than a year ago, when she dropped him off at school.
“I can’t wait to see him,” she said.
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Davis was sentenced to nine years in prison for “selling a small amount of drugs.” Her son hadn’t been able to visit her since she’d been incarcerated, but she said she has written him letters every Sunday, updating him on things like her success in cosmetology classes. Now, he was getting to visit her at the prison along with 49 other children whose mothers also are incarcerated as part of a program called Camp Reunite.
More than 5.1 million kids have had a parent in jail or prison in the United States, including 88,000 in Wisconsin, according to research published by the Annie E. Casey Foundation. Parent incarceration can have short and long-term effects on a child, and it disproportionately affects children of color.
Now in its second year, the week-long Camp Reunite partnered with Taycheedah in June to provide a bonding opportunity for children and mothers and a fun, healing camping experience for the kids.
“He’s so tall!” Davis said, without averting her gaze from the line of children filing off the bus beyond the barbed wire fence in the distance. “I can’t believe it. He looks like he grew three feet this year.”
Feleesha Bruette put her arm around the woman next to her. “I love seeing us like this, crying and stuff,” she said. “This is the real us, the mothering us.”
The 28 women at Taycheedah who were chosen to participate in Camp Reunite had been preparing for more than a month for their kids’ arrival. They created a carnival in the outdoor visiting area of the institution, complete with games, crafts and prizes that included stuffed animals they and other women had crocheted.
Bruette stitched each of her three children intricately beaded necklaces as gifts. As a registered member of the Mohican tribe, she said she learned how to bead as a child in boarding school.
Bruette said she has been in and out of prison and struggling with addiction for the past five years. She said it has been hard to miss certain milestones for her kids, such as their birthdays.
“It does hurt,” she said. “I’ve realized in the last few months, specifically the past six months or so, that my kids have been struggling emotionally through my incarceration.”
Kids face many challenges when a parent goes to prison. Bruette’s children moved in with their grandmother outside of Green Bay. Lawson, Davis’s son, moved from Eau Claire to Milwaukee to live with his aunt. He had to switch schools and attended Roosevelt Middle School of the Arts for eighth grade. In the fall, he’ll start at Riverside University High School.
Julie Poehlmann-Tynan, a professor of human development and family studies at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, has been studying how parent incarceration affects children for more than 15 years. She described the experience as a “forced separation” that can cause sadness, intense distress, developmental regression, anger and confusion in the short term.
Longer term, she said, the experience can lead to behavior problems.
Poehlmann-Tynan said one of the most important things for kids is to be able to build a positive relationship with their incarcerated parent.
“Parental incarceration is going to be traumatic, but how can we address that while it’s going on instead of waiting for the effects later on?” said Kenzie Kacmarcik, senior researcher and program designer for Camp Reunite.
Bruette, who will leave Taycheedah and move to the South Side of Milwaukee in about five months, said Camp Reunite has given her the chance to begin to repair her relationship with her children.
“I can dig into their little feelings and learn more about what they go through out there, how they feel,” she said.
Kayliahna, Bruette’s 9-year-old daughter, said she had been counting the days in anticipation of Camp Reunite.
In order to make the family visit more special, Taycheedah amended many of its usual rules for visits and decreased certain security measures.
“They might be able to go to a vending machine to get a bag of chips or a soda at a normal visit, but that’s really it, just visiting across a table,” said Sarah Cooper, warden at Taycheedah. “With Camp Reunite, we’ve completely relaxed those rules.”
Bruette got to braid Kayliahna’s hair, something she said she used to do every morning but runs afoul of prison visitation rules.
Davis got to throw around a football with Lawson, when they would otherwise have had to stay seated at an assigned table.
“It’s like they’re interacting in a natural state of mother and child instead of in a highly controlled space,” said Poehlmann-Tynan, who studied and evaluated the success of last year’s camp. “That’s so important for kids. They don’t understand all the rules. They just want to see their mom.”
Cooper said the partnership with Camp Reunite made sense for Taycheedah, because it aligns with its goal of preparing the women for a successful release and reminding them of the people who are counting on them back home.
“I think that this experience really helps them mentally and emotionally plan for releasing and taking back custody of their kids and being able to provide their kids with a loving, nurturing, safe, clean environment,” Cooper said. “They see here how they get to spend this time with their kids, and it means so much to them.”
Hannah Weisbecker, a recreational therapist at Taycheedah, said this experience is therapeutic.
“When women are incarcerated, they’re caregivers at heart, and you know, when that’s taken away from them, a lot of their self-worth and their purpose is taken away in that sense,” she said. “So, this kind of brings that back together, and brings that to light that, ‘Hey, I’m still a mom, even though I’m here. I did something wrong, and I’m doing my time, and I’m still a mom.’”
Bruette said during the visit, she got to laugh and goof around with her kids. She witnessed them get upset with each other, and with her, which she said was actually a “beautiful experience” for her.
“My kids need me, and they’re hurting like that not for any reason other than me being away and me not putting them first and not being there for them,” she said. “So, they have every right to feel this way. I’m very thankful to have this opportunity to see these emotions, because I don’t always see them.”
“It definitely gives me motivation to make this my last incarceration,” she said.
Tears flowed when the kids had to leave Taycheedah.
The giggles that filled the visiting area dissipated as the children returned to the bus and the women had to line up to be counted, a regular prison security measure.
In addition to normal summer camp activities, the camp is staffed with social workers and includes wellness activities such as music therapy and group discussions that are focused on helping the kids process their emotions.
For many of the campers, this was the first time they’ve been with other kids who share their experiences.
“It makes me feel not lonely because I’m not the only one who has a mom in jail,” Kayliahna said. “And to look around and see all these kids, and their moms are in jail, it’s just crazy.”

author: Allison Dikanovic


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i.c.stars|* Milwaukee Information Sessions | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Rosalinda Fowlkes, i.c. stars|*
July 11, 2019
Are you ready to become the next star in Business, Leadership, and Technology?
Do you want to learn skills that will help you become an entrepreneur or make a decent income?
i.c. stars|* Milwaukee is hiring now for our 4th Cycle!
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*4 month paid internship, 16 month residency
*Coding bootcamp
*7 step application process, so APPLY TODAY!
Whether or not you have a background in technology, the i.c.stars training program can help transform your career. Our training covers the technical skills needed for entry-level technology jobs and professional tools that leaders look for in rising talent.
We Find Talent
We Train Talent
We Put Talent to Work
Our mission doesn’t end with training. Instead, our aim is for each intern that completes the program to be gainfully employed and at the start of a long and successful career.
Once you complete the program, our staff will work with you as you seek to begin your career in business or technology, coaching you along the way, and making connections where possible with our network of business leaders.
Requirements:
-High school diploma or GED required
-A needs-based program, geared toward people with partial or no college
-Six months of work experience needed
-NO Technology experience needed
-Availability 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Monday through Friday for 16 weeks
Ready to be the change you want to see?
We host information sessions DAILY, click here to schedule another date/time not already listed:
7/16 @ 2pm
7/17 @ 1pm
7/23 @ 11am
7/25 @ 10am & 1pm
7/29 @ 11am & 1pm
7/30 @ 11am & 1pm
RSVP on Eventbrite or via phone 414-501-5294.
https://calendly.com/rfowlkes

author: Rosalinda Fowlkes, i.c. stars|*


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Now Hiring Cycle 4!.png | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
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July 8, 2019


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South Side church defends decision to keep up banner featuring accused child rapist | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Edgar Mendez
July 11, 2019
Residents are upset that a banner featuring megachurch leader Naasón Joaquín Garcia, charged in California with child rape and human trafficking, among other crimes, still hangs from the La Luz Del Mundo’s Milwaukee church on South Cesar E. Chavez Drive. (Photo by Edgar Mendez)
South Side residents are expressing outrage about two huge banners in their neighborhood that feature the likeness of a religious leader who has been arrested and charged with child rape and human trafficking.
Naason Joaquín Garcia, the leader of La Luz Del Mundo, a Mexico-based religious organization with more than 15,000 churches in Latin America and the U.S. was arrested and charged last month in California with more than two dozen crimes, including child rape and human trafficking.
Two huge banners feature his likeness, one hanging on the front of La Luz Del Mundo Church, 1316 S. Cesar E. Chavez Drive, and another from the side of the building housing La Luz Del Mundo Family Services, 1570 W. Greenfield Ave.
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A second banner hangs from the La Luz Del Mundo Family Services, 1570 W.
Greenfield Ave. (Photo by Edgar Mendez)
Reactions to a Facebook post call for the removal of the large banner, which features a smiling Garcia and hangs above the main entrance to the church. They range from threats to take it down to calls for elected officials to become involved.
“That picture has got to go. It’s an insult,” read one comment. “A disgrace to the community,” read another.
Others defended the church’s decision not to remove the banner.
“Freedom of religion; let them be,” wrote one person.
The post has been shared more than 280 times on Facebook. Garcia became the leader of the church with an estimated following of more than 1 million people after the death of its first leader and founder in 2014. A federal investigation into Garcia’s alleged crimes began in 2018, according to news reports, and led to charges alleging dozens of sex crimes, including child pornography, child rape and human trafficking. He is being held by authorities in California on $50 million bail.
The Milwaukee chapter of the church issued a press statement Thursday afternoon that said Garcia has been falsely accused.
“He is detained but is innocent,” read part of a statement from the church in Spanish.
The letter states that La Luz Del Mundo Church has served Milwaukee for more than 30 years and has over 300 congregants. The statement also compared the charges against Garcia to the false persecution of Jesus Christ.
The church’s International Ministry released a press statement in late June stating that the allegations against Garcia were offensive, irresponsible and false.
The popular church has a good standing in the community and there is no reason to believe that Garcia has ever visited it. Mayor Tom Barrett proclaimed August 14, 2016, as La Luz Del Mundo Church Day in Milwaukee. In 2013, the church opened La Luz Del Mundo Family Services, a violence prevention and intervention center.
It does not appear as if church officials have any plans to remove the banner, but South Side resident Ricardo Jimenez said he hopes leaders change their minds.
“A man that used the name of God to take advantage of families and kids … It’s disgusting,” Jimenez said.” “Milwaukee can do better. We need his banner and his face off all these posters.”

author: Edgar Mendez


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Photo1 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
July 11, 2019

author: Dwayne Burtin


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Photo2 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
July 11, 2019


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Terrorism- and Emergency-Response Training for religious and public institutions in Milwaukee | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Jeff Jones, Milwaukee Jewish Federation
July 11, 2019
Following recent armed attacks against religious and public institutions in the U.S., including attacks at synagogues, churches, schools, and colleges, Magen David Adom, Israel’s national EMS service, will be conducting terrorism- and emergency-response training for civilians.
The training, which will be held from Monday, July 15, through Wednesday, July 17, is sponsored by the Milwaukee Jewish Federation, which distributed $20 million last year to Jewish and non-Jewish organizations locally and around the world, and manages philanthropy through its $190 million Jewish Community Foundation.
The instruction, known as First 7 Minutes training, will teach course participants how to remain safe amid the chaos of a violent incident and how, in the immediate aftermath of an attack, to render critical first aid and other assistance in the seven minutes it typically takes first responders to arrive.
Much of the training, including the first-aid instruction and emphasis on safety and needs prioritization, is also applicable to other emergency situations, such as building collapses, fires, and natural disasters, providing course participants with skills and a sense of empowerment critical in a variety of situations.
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Because of the sheer number of terrorist incidents Magen David Adom has seen in Israel and its role in developing new protocols for responding to attacks, the organization has emerged as the most experienced mass-casualty response organization in the world.
The rise in armed extremist attacks against religious institutions in the U.S. — including lone gunman attacks on churches in Charleston, South Carolina, and near San Antonio, Texas, and the 2012 shooting at the Sikh gurdwara in Oak Creek, Wisconsin — was long a concern of the Jewish community, which has seen repeated terrorist attacks on Jewish targets in Europe and elsewhere in the world. That concern was only heightened following last year’s attack at a synagogue in Pittsburgh and one this past April in Poway, California.
“When we saw the need to better prepare Jewish and other institutions for the remote, but very real possibility of a violent attack, we could think of no organization better qualified than Magen David Adom,” said Moshe Katz, board chair of the Milwaukee Jewish Federation. “Unfortunately, they’ve had to contend with more terror attacks than any other EMS organization on Earth, providing them with expertise that’s unsurpassed in this area.”
While MDA has conducted terrorism-response seminars to EMS and first-responder professionals in the United States, this marks the first time Magen David Adom has offered training for civilians in the U.S.
“Given the frequency and regularity of violent attacks against Jewish targets in Europe,” we’ve long been coordinating training for civilians with the Jewish communities there,” said Raphael Herbst, a senior paramedic and instructor with Magen David Adom, who’s overseeing the First 7 Minutes program in the U.S. “With the recent attacks in synagogues in Pittsburgh and California and against other minority and religious groups, however, we’re now rolling out this program in the States too.”
While the inaugural training sessions will be conducted in Milwaukee, Herbst said, the program will be rolled out across the U.S. to virtually any community where institutions fear being targeted for attack.
“Jews don’t have a monopoly on being targeted for violent attacks,” he said. “Hatred, ignorance, and violence, unfortunately, abound the world over and against many groups. Helping better prepare all members of the community ultimately makes everyone safer.”
More than just a first-aid course, the First 7 Minutes instruction provides participants with the knowledge to effectively and simply initiate care and save lives while ensuring people’s safety and taking actions that can best assist emergency first responders when they arrive.
“Our decision to conduct this training isn’t about scaring people or changing the way people live their lives,” the Jewish Federation’s Katz says. “It’s the opposite — it’s about empowering people and providing them with the skills they need to better handle an attack, to keep themselves and their loved ones safe, and help save lives should an attack occur. And we can think of few things more in keeping with the values of our community.”
The Milwaukee Jewish Federation is dedicated to caring for the needs of the Jewish community and building a vibrant Jewish future in Milwaukee, Israel, and around the world.
Magen David Adom is Israel’s national EMS, blood-services, and disaster-relief organization, and Israel’s representative to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. A leader in mass-casualty response and in EMS technology, Magen David Adom treats and transports nearly 1 million people to hospitals every year, collects, safety tests, and distributes nearly all the blood to Israel’s hospitals, and, through its affiliation with the Red Cross movement, responds to disasters around the world.
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author: Jeff Jones, Milwaukee Jewish Federation


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Urban Kickball League of Milwaukee: Keeping the youth busy all summer | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ashley Brooks, Urban Kickball League
July 11, 2019
The Urban Kickball League of Milwaukee has been meeting it’s mission of keeping the community busy all summer for the past two years. From coaching just one team to growing a league with over 20 teams, ages 18 to over 50, founder James Harris and his staff of 11 has set out to bring mentors and youth together through a childhood games, Kickball.
Playing Sundays, Thursdays, and Fridays, with practices throughout the week, it’s now considered by some to be a real sport. The league is a breath of fresh air, it’s growing daily and allows you to forget about the stresses of real life for a whole day.
I love UKL!
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author: Ashley Brooks, Urban Kickball League


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July 10, 2019


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5 things to know this week in Milwaukee: July 15 to July 19 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ana Martinez-Ortiz
July 15, 2019
Ballet Beat, a program created through the Milwaukee Ballet, will perform Wednesday at Washington Park, 1859 N. 40th St. (Photo provided by Milwaukee Ballet)
It’s Monday in Milwaukee, and here are some events we think you shouldn’t miss. 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
1. Project Restoration career fair: Monday, July 15
Anyone seeking a job is welcome to stop by Project Restoration’s  on Monday, July 15. The fair will be held at St. Paul’s Church, 2661 N. 53 St., in the lower level. Companies include Potawatomi Hotel & Casino, Manpower, Employ Milwaukee and more. The fair starts at 10 a.m. and ends at 2 p.m.
2. Lecture on “Race and color” in Latin America and the Caribbean: Tuesday, July 16
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Patrick Bellegarde-Smith, a professor emeritus for the UW-Milwaukee Department of African and African Diaspora Studies, will give a lecture on on Tuesday, July 16. The lecture, which is hosted by the Ko-Thi Dance Company, takes place in the Mitchell Street Library, 906 W. Mitchell St. The event is free and will begin at 6 p.m.
3. Ballet Beat performance in Washington Park: Wednesday, July 17
Ballet Beat, a program created through the Milwaukee Ballet, is back for another summer. The group . This Wednesday, July 17, the group will perform at Washington Park, 1859 N. 40 St., from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.
4. Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee tutoring info session: Thursday, July 18
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee is  to join the club’s literacy program on Thursday, July 18 at the Mardak Administration Center, 1558 N. 6 St. Those interested will have an opportunity to learn more about the literacy program and interview with one of the hiring managers. The event takes place from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. To RSVP, email Allison Vasquez-Lovell at allison.vasquez@bgcmilwaukee.org or click here to learn more.
5. Guns Down Miltown’s charity kickball game:Friday, July 19
Guns Down Miltown, which aims to reduce gun violence, is hosting a charity kickball game on Friday, July 19. To join a team, email gundownmiltown@gmail.com. The games start at 6 p.m. A location has yet to be decided.
Come meet NNS! Photographer Sue Vliet, along with others from our team, will host a  at Washington Park, 1859 N. 40 St., on Wednesday, July 17 from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. as part of Washington Park Wednesdays. Families, friends and neighbors will get the opportunity to pose in front of the bandshell for a professional photo.


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
July 14, 2019


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Get your picture taken during Washington Park Wednesdays | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ron Smith
July 15, 2019
Come meet us at Washington Park Wednesdays this week. (Photo provided by Washington Park Wednesdays)
You read us.
Now meet us.
And get your picture taken as a reward.
NNS will be at Washington Park Wednesdays this week from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. July 17.
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We will host a photo session, and you will get the opportunity to pose in front of the bandshell for a professional photograph.
It’s all going down at Washington Park, 1859 N. 40 St.
It’s just a small way for us to connect with the community we love so much.
See you there!

author: Ron Smith


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NNS on Lake Effect: Camp Reunite and the ripple effect of parent incarceration | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
July 15, 2019
Bridget Davis wipes a tear as she waits for her 14-year-old son Lawson to get through security on his way in to visit her at Taycheedah Correctional Institution as part of Camp Reunite. (Photo by Allison Dikanovic)
NNS reporter Allison Dikanovic went on the air with Lake Effect’s Joy Powers to discuss her recent visit to Taycheedah Correctional Institution to learn about Camp Reunite, a summer camp that promotes healing and family bonding for children with incarcerated mothers. More than 5.1 million children in the United States have a parent in jail or prison, and the camp is an effort to address the traumatic impact of that experience.

author: Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service


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Allison Dikanovic with Joy Powers on Lake Effect | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
July 15, 2019
“0715a”. Released: 2019.


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
July 10, 2019


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NNS Summer Survival Guide: Here are some resources to help keep our kids safe and engaged | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Allison Dikanovic
July 15, 2019
Chris Conley, 414 Life outreach and resource coordinator, Uniting Garden Homes, speaks with reporters. 414 Life is one of many programs in Milwaukee dedicated to stopping violence in the city. (Photo by Andrea Waxman)
Editor’s Note: This story has been updated to include more resources for young people.
Editor’s Note: Welcome to NNS Summer Survival Guide, which will give you the resources you need to have a successful summer. Did we miss anything? Email us at info@milwaukeenns.org and put “NNS Survival Guide” in the subject line or catch us on Facebook, where you can leave comments.
“This cannot become the norm. Our city is better than this.”
Those were the words of a clearly anguished Assistant Chief Raymond Banks during a news conference to discuss the death of 3-year-old Brooklyn Harris.
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An autopsy was scheduled Monday for Brooklyn, who was shot and killed in a road rage incident Saturday while riding in a vehicle with her mother and three siblings, ages 1, 2 and 4, near North 42nd Street and West Townsend Avenue.
As our city grieves, we wanted to offer resources that will help you and those you love stay safe, heal and thrive this summer.
Milwaukee’s Blueprint for Peace is s the first of its kind in the city dedicated to the prevention of multiple forms of violence.
414 Life
414 Life is a violence interruption team based in Milwaukee neighborhoods and hospitals through partnerships with Froedtert Hospital and the Medical College of Wisconsin and Uniting Garden Homes.
Learn how to connect with the Milwaukee Police Department community liaison officers, how to get involved with neighborhood block watches in your district here.
MKE Promise Zones
The Milwaukee Promise Zones initiative is a collaborative effort of the Common Council, city agencies and community partners to focus on reducing crime, improving economic activity, creating jobs, increasing educational opportunities and enhancing healthy neighborhoods. It is led by Common Council President Ashanti Hamilton.
Learn more about the partners working in each Promise Zone Neighborhood, how to contact them and how to get involved here.
Project Ujima
Project Ujima, based out of Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, works with youths who have experienced violence and end up in the hospital. The project provides crisis intervention, case management, social and emotional support, youth development and mentoring and mental health services.
Safe and Sound
Safe and Sound’s mission is to “unite residents, youth, law enforcement and community resources to build safe and empowered neighborhoods.” You can find its neighborhood safety resources here. See where Safe and Sound works here, and what events it’s organizing this summer here.
Sojourner Family Peace Center
Sojourner Family Peace Center provides services, support and safety resources to victims of domestic violence. Its 24-hour hotline is (414) 933-2722.
Trauma Response Team
The Trauma Response Team provides support to children and families in Milwaukee who have been exposed to trauma or stressful experiences. It’s a partnership between the City of Milwaukee, the Milwaukee Police Department and Wraparound Milwaukee. If you or someone you know could benefit from these services, you can call the team at (414) 257-7621.
Organizations in Milwaukee will be awarded grants from the Office of Violence Prevention to create community healing projects this summer. Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service will update this section when the grant recipients are announced.
Boys and Girls Clubs of Metro Milwaukee
Boys and Girls Clubs offer safe spaces and activities for youths from kindergarten to high school all over the city to learn, play and hang out. Find a club near you that’s open this summer here.
City on a Hill
City on a Hill is a faith-based organization located at 2224 W. Kilbourn Ave. that offers a variety of free youth programming in the summer. The Youth Center is a space for 10 to 18-year-olds to participate in creative arts, life skills workshops, computer lab and tutoring help, leadership training and other activities on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Super Saturdays are held every Saturday afternoon in the summer with activities for kids.
COA Youth and Family Center
COA offers programming and safe spaces for youths of all ages—including athletics, art and gardening—all summer long at its two locations: 909 E. Garfield Ave. and 2320 W. Burleigh St. For more information on specific opportunities, look here.
HeartLove Place
Located at 1927 N. Vel R. Phillips Ave., HeartLove Place is a faith-based organization that offers youth programming and family resources. Find more information here.
Hmong American Women’s Center
HAWA has several programs geared toward Southeast Asian youths that focus on “empowering leadership in youth through community organizing and involvement.”  More details are here.
Journey House
Journey House offers youth development, athletic and art programs on Milwaukee’s near South Side at 2110 W Scott St. You can find the different options here.
Ma’ruf Center for Youth Innovation
Ma’ruf is a youth center that opened this year at 2110 W. Hampton Ave. It offers mentorship and has a gaming zone, a science lab, a technology lab, a library and a gym. Its programs range from leadership to coding to martial arts. Learn more here.
Milwaukee Christian Center
Milwaukee Christian Center has a youth development program at Kosciuszko Community Center, located at 2201 S. 7th St.
Milwaukee Public Libraries
Milwaukee Public Libraries are full of resources, programs, events and activities all free and open to the community. Check out the events being offered at your neighborhood library.
Neu-Life
Neu-Life works to empower and instill leadership in neighborhood youths through a wide array of programs and is located at 2014 W North Ave. Check out more here.
Program the Parks
Program the Parks works to provide community support, activities, food and project-based employment opportunities for youths in local parks. This summer, it’s been in Sherman Park and Moody Park. Follow the group’s Facebook page for more information.
Running Rebels
Both Running Rebels locations, 1300A W. Fond Du Lac Ave. and 225 West Capitol Drive, are open from noon to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday in the summer, with some weekend time as well. Program schedules for everything from basketball to videography to djembe drumming can be found here.
Silver Spring Neighborhood Center
Silver Spring is located in Westlawn at 5460 N. 64th St. and has programs for all ages. You can learn more here.
St. Ann Center for Intergenerational Care – Bucyrus Campus
The center, located at 2450 W. North Ave., offers programming and safe spaces for school-age youths through its summer camp program, plus an educational mentoring buddy program for youths ages 11 to 15.
Urban Underground
Urban Underground offers paid summer leadership programming for youths age 13-18 through the City of Milwaukee Earn and Learn program. Find contact information here.
We Got This
We Got This offers a summer leadership, mentorship and community gardening program on Saturday mornings at the garden on 9th and Ring Streets, 3260 North 9th St. It starts promptly at 8 a.m. each week and offers a stipend for participants.
To learn more about violence prevention efforts and strategy in Milwaukee, check out the Blueprint for Peace.
Do you know of any more resources or programs that should be on this list? Let us know by emailing adikanovic@milwaukeenns.org.


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OPINION: Milwaukee should address inequity between Black and White communities, not spend more on policing | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Devin Anderson & Rick Banks
July 15, 2019
(Photo by Edgar Mendez)
Devin Anderson is the lead organizer for the African American Roundtable, and Rick Banks serves as political director of Black Leaders Organizing for Communities, or BLOC, an affiliate of the Center for Popular Democracy. They say Milwaukee should reduce the police department’s budget and use the funds to invest more in the community.
At Mayor Tom Barrett’s state of the city address earlier this year, he said: “The city budget will remain very very tight” and he expressed concerns “that the entire city property tax levy is not enough to cover the police department budget. And now, it’s not even enough to cover 94% of our police budget.”
His acknowledgment has been without action. Over the past five years, the police budget has increased close to 25%, or about $70 million, while every other department has had to figure out how to provide the same services with less money.
The Milwaukee Police Department request for 2020 is more of the same. MPD has requested nearly $312 million, which is about $13 million more than it was allocated last year, nearly 47 percent of the city’s “general city purposes” fund. In other words, nearly half of Milwaukee’s general fund is putting resources into a police department that has not, in many cases, protected residents — and has even, on occasion, jeopardized their safety.
Compared with other cities across the country, Milwaukee spends the largest portion of its general fund on policing. The Center for Popular Democracy, along with Law for Black Lives and Black Youth Project 100, analyzed budgets in 10 cities and two counties and found that most of the cities profiled devoted 25 percent to 40 percent of their general fund expenditures to policing.
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Such spending will only widen a yawning gap between Black and White communities. According to a report released in 2018 by the financial website 24/7 Wall Street, Milwaukee is the second worst city in the country for Black Americans to live.
The median income for Black households in the city is just 42 percent of median White income, and unemployment for Blacks in Milwaukee is 12.4 percent, nearly triple the rate of 3.3 percent for Whites in the city. More damningly, the website found the Black incarceration rate for the state of Wisconsin is 2,542 for every 100,000 Black residents, more than 10 times the rate for Whites.
Milwaukee should be addressing this gross inequality and investing in community services that actually improve the lives of its Black population, such as education, workforce development training, youth employment programs, non-police violence prevention and ensuring families can afford quality housing.
It is time for Milwaukee to rethink its priorities and the city should seize this opportunity to address the deep inequity between Milwaukee’s Black and White communities.
In our country, safety has been synonymous with policing and incarceration. We’ve seen that the dysfunction and brutality of Milwaukee’s police department cost the city tens of millions of dollars it can’t afford. We’ve also seen that investing in punitive systems is not making us safer. Alderman Michael Murphy recently said: “Most research will tell you that investing in prevention is generally a much better way to address any problem.”
It is time for the city to begin to rein in its spending on the police by divesting $25 million from the department and investing that money into the community. It’s time to reimagine what community safety really means and re-evaluate how we get there.

author: Devin Anderson & Rick Banks


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43916065721_d3c257fce6_o | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
July 14, 2019


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devinrick | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
July 14, 2019


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Information on Chase Avenue water main break for 14th District residents | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ald. Tony Zielinski
July 16, 2019
Alderman Tony Zielinski encourages 14 District residents to read an update from the Milwaukee Water Works about the water main break on S. Chase Ave. & Rosedale Ave. that occurred Saturday (July 13).
“We received over 600 calls for reduced pressure, water quality, and water in the roadway on Saturday due to the water main break on S. Chase Ave. There was a reduction in pressure when the break occurred that resulted in calls reporting low or no water pressure in the Bay View neighborhood.
When the pressure in the main decreased, MWW Operators responded by turning on an additional pump to increase the pressure within 3 minutes, and pressure levels through the system were restored shortly thereafter. We are reviewing data to evaluate exactly how long it took to get to typical pressure levels.
Specific to lead service lines, MWW recommends flushing household plumbing if affected by a main break repair. During repair, the shaking related to construction may cause lead to be dislodged from the service line. Please follow the instructions below:
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1. Remove aerators from the end of every faucet and rinse any particles from them.
2. Start in the basement or lowest level and work your way to the top floor. Fully open each cold water tap and allow the water to run.
3. Run the water for 10 minutes. Start at the top floor and turn off the water at each faucet, finishing in the basement.
4. Re-attach aerators to the faucets. The cost to flush four taps for 10 minutes is about 16 cents.
We also include information on flushing in the Lead -Safe Water Guide distributed regularly in billing inserts and available on our website at https://city.milwaukee.gov/ImageLibrary/Groups/WaterWorks/Lead-Service-Lines/Lead-SafeWaterGuidewebsite.pdf
Constituent questions related to the occurrence may be directed to MWW Customer Service Center at (414) 286-2830 or the 24 hour Control Center, (414) 286-3710.”

author: Ald. Tony Zielinski


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Milwaukee County launches Balancing Act | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Chris Abele, Milwaukee County Executive
July 16, 2019
Milwaukee County officials today launched Balancing Act, an interactive online tool simulating the process to balance the 2020 budget. Users will analyze the $1.2 billion operating budget and determine ways to close the County’s estimated $28 million budget gap. Balancing Act, available at https://county.milwaukee.gov/balancing-act, will be open until mid-August.
“We are the economic engine of the state, and we are running on empty,” said Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele. “For years, we slashed spending and did more with less in order to build the foundation we need to succeed. Now, we are asking residents to get involved and help us make the hard decisions necessary to put our fiscal house and priorities in order and continue building an even greater Milwaukee County.”
Over the past decade, Milwaukee County residents and businesses have increased annual tax payments to the state by more than $400 million, yet shared revenue and other funding from the state has declined or remained flat over the same time period. Milwaukee County has also maxed out on the amount it can collect from property and sales tax.
Without adequate support from the state or the option to use new tools to generate necessary funding going forward, Milwaukee County’s ability to maintain facilities, preserve community assets and provide high-quality services will be decimated. With no more options to fix the budget locally, County Board Chairman Theodore Lipscomb and County Executive Abele convened the Fair Deal Workgroup to explore new revenue options to address the structural deficit. Milwaukee County is working in partnership with state leaders to find a solution that puts both Milwaukee County and all of Wisconsin on a path to a sustainable future. To add to this dialogue, County officials encourage the public to share their budget priorities through Balancing Act.
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“The Balancing Act tool can help the public better understand the choices we face and our need for a Fair Deal from the State of Wisconsin,” said Theodore Lipscomb, Chairman of the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors. “Until state leaders enhance Milwaukee County’s ability to generate revenue and increase funding for state mandates, we will continue to face difficult budget choices. The public’s input through Balancing Act and during the entire budget process, including numerous  public hearings throughout October, will help the County Board craft a responsible and balanced budget for 2020.”
Milwaukee County’s structural deficit has compounded over the years, due in part to the imbalance of revenue the County receives from the state and state-imposed caps to raise revenue locally.
Balancing Act users will find that in order to balance the 2020 budget, there must either be an increase in revenue or reduction in programs and services the County provides. This year, Balancing Act allows users to balance the budget by selecting both revenue options that are
currently available to County officials, and those that would require a change in state law to implement. The County’s most significant revenue-generating option currently allowed by state law is the vehicle registration fee. In Balancing Act, users will also be able to adjust options including property tax, sales tax and state funding. While these options are not currently allowed by the state, Balancing Act showcases how small adjustments can make large impacts in revenue generation.
Milwaukee County provides nearly 1 million residents with state-mandated and non-mandated services ranging from transportation and health and human services, to parks and public safety.
Due to the imbalance of revenue the County receives from the state and state-imposed caps to raise revenue locally, the County has faced a cumulative budget deficit of nearly $250 million. In the same timeframe under County Executive Chris Abele’s leadership, cost-saving measures including moving out of 1.6 million feet of underutilized office space, increasing energy efficiency and streamlining operations have contributed to building the foundation for the County’s fiscal health.
Balancing Act is expected to take less than 30 minutes to complete. The tool walks users through the Milwaukee County budget, with explainers on key financial issues and local topics. In addition to providing input on the tough choices that must be made in the upcoming budget, users will be asked for written feedback on how elected officials can better solve the county’s constraints.
“I want to encourage people to check out the Balancing Act tool, and take a close look at the options we have available to us when we balance the budget,” said Supervisor James “Luigi” Schmitt, Chairman of the Committee on Finance and Audit. “This tool will help the public gain a sense of just how difficult it is to balance the Milwaukee County budget when we have a structural deficit andstate laws that limit our available revenue.”
In 2018, more than 650 Milwaukee County residents submitted balanced budgets through Balancing Act, a record number of submissions of any local government using the tool. This is the third year Milwaukee County is using Balancing Act.
The Fair Deal Workgroup was established in 2018 to propose solutions for Milwaukee County’s financial solvency. The workgroup – which includes a diverse group of community and business leaders, elected officials and local stakeholders – proposed a set of recommendations to build a better Milwaukee County and a stronger Wisconsin. For more information on the Fair Deal Workgroup, visit: https://county.milwaukee.gov/EN/Board-of-Supervisors/Fair-Deal.

author: Chris Abele, Milwaukee County Executive


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Milwaukee PBS sets vision for future with five-year strategic plan | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Milwaukee PBS
July 16, 2019
Milwaukee PBS — the nation’s top-rated PBS station — is focusing on high-quality local programs and adapting to an ever-changing media landscape in a new five-year strategic plan announced to members and volunteers Monday.
The station, a licensee of Milwaukee Area Technical College, worked over the past six months to develop the plan with a consultant experienced in strategy for public television and radio stations.
High-quality content is the focus of the plan, which includes launching a national search for Milwaukee PBS’ first Chief Content Officer. This new senior executive will direct a broadcast and digital team to develop programs that will sometimes launch first online, as one example. While technology enables the station to share content more quickly than in the past, quality storytelling will remain the focus.
“This plan comes at an exciting time for us, including the critical role we will play in coverage of the upcoming 2020 Democratic National Convention in Milwaukee. Milwaukee PBS will host both the PBS NewsHour and Washington Week productions and staff,” General Manager Bohdan Zachary said.
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The strategic plan also addresses the Great TV Auction, a longtime institution at the station. In the last year, Milwaukee PBS made a sustained effort to revitalize the auction, including bringing it to a newly-renovated space. A thorough review of revenues and costs, however, found that the reality is clear: online auctions and shopping through any number of services have changed the way people shop and this fundraising effort ultimately generated a net loss for the station.
New fundraising efforts, including a focus on planned giving and encouraging more online giving from donors, will replace the revenue that it once generated. Longtime auction volunteers will have the opportunity to support an appraisal fair to be held this fall, among other events.
“We are excited to start this new chapter in partnership with our members and volunteers, who will continue to help drive our success and maintain our status as the nation’s most watched PBS station,” Zachary said.
# # #
About Milwaukee PBS
Milwaukee PBS is southeastern Wisconsin’s premier non-commercial media organization.  Milwaukee PBS consists of two high-definition television stations, WMVS and WMVT, and four additional digital television services.  The Milwaukee PBS stations are the area’s only over-the-air source for PBS and other national public television programs. The stations are watched by over 627,770 viewers each week throughout southeastern Wisconsin and northern Illinois. Milwaukee PBS is a viewer-supported service of Milwaukee Area Technical College. MATC is a two-year vocational-technical college based in Milwaukee, WI offering day, evening and weekend classes on four campuses. For more information, visit www.MilwaukeePBS.org.

author: Milwaukee PBS


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NNS Spotlight: Meet Milwaukee’s youngest champion for mental and behavioral health for kids | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
July 16, 2019
Etta Whitley (from left), her son Derell Sultan and Dr. Nicholas Young meet at Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin’s Midtown Clinic. (Photo provided by Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin)
Editor’s note: This story is part of an occasional series that highlights groups and people worth knowing in Milwaukee. To nominate a person or a group, email info@milwaukeenns.org and put “Spotlight” in the subject line.
Derell Sultan started showing signs of depression when he was 7.
He was getting bullied, feeling excluded and coming home from school sad and upset.
“One time in second grade I was fidgeting, and my teacher asked me if I took my pills in front of the whole class,” Derell said. “I really wanted to run out.”
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At school, he was repeatedly disciplined for fidgeting and talking out of turn. For a time, his mother, Etta Whitley, was called into school nearly every day because of Derell’s behavior. She wanted to be there, she said, to help him stay on task so he could learn.
When his academic work started to drop, Whitley began to look for help at a medical clinic. She recognized her son’s symptoms as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, because she had herself received the diagnosis as a child. What helped her, she said, was talking about it with a therapist.
Derell and his mom recently traveled to Washington, D.C., to speak up for mental and behavioral health for kids at the Children’s Hospital Association Family Advocacy Day.
They talked  with their congressional representatives about Derell’s experiences with ADHD and about keeping Medicaid strong for kids, supporting school-based mental health services and investing in the pediatric mental and behavioral workforce, Whitley said.
ADHD is one of the most common mental disorders affecting children, and it also affects many adults, according to the American Psychiatric Association. Symptoms include not being able to keep focus, impulsivity and hyperactivity.
The association estimates that 8.4 percent of children and 2.5 percent of adults have ADHD, which is often first identified in school-aged children when it leads to disruption in the classroom or problems with schoolwork.
After failing to get help from Derell’s school as well as from the first clinic and psychologist they visited, Whitley said she started to get discouraged. Then one day, she noticed Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin had opened a clinic in Midtown Center, near her home.
Whitley walked in and was surprised to get an appointment with a pediatrician within the week. A diagnosis soon followed, and she and Derell were referred to Dr. Nicholas Young, a pediatric psychologist.
Derell and Young hit it off immediately, Whitley said. “It didn’t really feel like a doctor’s appointment for him.” Derell opened up to Young.
The boy told his doctor about how the kids on the school bus ganged up on him and wouldn’t let him sit down and how a girl made fun of him in front of the entire school.
Young taught Derell strategies for controlling his responses and helping him focus.
One strategy: “Keep my attention in one spot. Just stay there in one little tiny spot. If it moves around to another place — wanderland — just take it and say ‘no no no no. Stay right where you’re at,’” Derell said in his best SpongeBob accent.
Another strategy: When there’s nothing going on in class, “and there’s just madness, pull a book out of your desk and secretly read, ” said Derell.
Talking with Young made Derell more comfortable advocating for himself and telling someone what was going on with him, Whitley said, instead of letting his frustration build to a breaking point.
Under Young’s care, Derell’s behavior transformed rapidly. By the end of second grade, his grades had improved, and he was getting along with other kids. Now 9, Derell has recently finished third grade and is thriving.
Integrating behavioral health and primary care at one location, as it has at Midtown Clinic, is a priority for Children’s Hospital, said Lindsay Punzenberger, director of federal government relations. “But we also know we need to get to the kids where they spend most of their day, which is in the schools.”
2320 W. Burleigh St.
(414) 253-1854
Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
(The clinic is managed by nurse practitioners.)
Good Hope Pediatrics
7720 W. Good Hope Road
(414) 253-0853
Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Midtown Clinic
5433 W. Fond Du Lac Ave.
(414) 253-1060
Monday-Thursday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Next Door Pediatrics
2561 N. 29th St.
(414) 253-1776
Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Northside YMCA
1350 W. North Ave.
(414) 409-0278
Monday-Thursday, 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Friday, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
(The clinic is managed by nurse practitioners.)

author: Andrea Waxman


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
July 15, 2019

author: Adam Carr


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The vocal prowess of Bettye LaVette to headline Black Arts Fest mke | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Black Arts Fest MKE
July 16, 2019
Black Arts Fest mke is proud to announce that a woman who is referred to as more than a singer, but as an interpreter of the highest order, will grace the Johnson Controls World Music Stage. Bettye LaVette, can transform any song, whether it originated from rock, country pop or blues and, when she gets through with it, it is pure R&B. The festival will be held on Saturday, August 3 from noon to midnight at Henry Maier Festival Park (Summerfest Grounds).
Black heritage and culture are celebrated throughout the day and evening; one aspect being music. Earlier in the year, the festival announced SWV (Sisters with Voices), a trio with epic voices, would entertain audiences as they perform their string of hits. The band will take the Miller Lite Oasis stage at 10:15pm.
The Johnson Controls World Music Sound Stage welcomes LaVette to the stage at 9:30pm. A unique pick for the festival, her talent is undeniable, and any true blues enthusiast will more than appreciate her unbelievable level of talent. Among an elite group of artists who performed, in a duet, for president-elect Barack Obama on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial; recipient of the Blues Music Awards for Best Contemporary Female Blues Singer and Best Soul Female Blues Artist; and other awards and three Grammy nominations.
Advance Adult (ages 12 – 59) tickets can be purchased for just $9, a 30 percent savings off the gate price ($12). Tickets for Youth (ages 8 – 11) and Senior (60 and older) are also available for $8. Children (0 – 7 years of age) and Military and Veterans with a photo ID and proof of service will be admitted free at the gate. Tickets are only available for purchase online and are on sale now through August 3 at BlackArtsFestmke.com.
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Bettye LaVette to headline Black Arts Fest mke. (Photo provided by Black Arts Fest mke)

author: Black Arts Fest MKE


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Bettye LaVette live Bluesfantom Photography | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ana Martinez-Ortiz
July 16, 2019

author: Ana Martinez-Ortiz


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These young people are changing the world, one story at a time | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ron Smith
July 16, 2019
At the Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service, we believe in providing a platform for our neighbors—and for those who serve them.
And they include young people who often get a bad rap.
Meet some who are doing great things.
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Today we celebrate the emerging high school journalists who recently graduated from Marquette University’s Urban Journalism Workshop. Check out their work.


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Valley Bingo starts this Friday | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Menomonee Valley Partners
July 16, 2019
Valley Bingo kicks off on Friday, July 19 at the Harley-Davidson Museum during Gallery Night & Day. Menomonee Valley Partners (MVP), the nonprofit which has led the Menomonee River Valley’s revitalization over the past 20 years, is coordinating Valley Bingo to showcase the Valley’s transformation and invite the community to experience its nature and trails, entertainment destinations, public art, and more.
Valley Bingo is a fun challenge to explore all the Valley has to offer, from urban nature to premier entertainment destinations to award-winning food and drink locations. Each bingo is redeemable for special promotional deals such as buy one, get one beers, burgers, pizza, appetizers, and more. Those who go above and beyond to complete the entire bingo card can enter a raffle to win one of three grand prizes, including a day at the Harley-Davidson Museum or a night at Potawatomi Hotel & Casino.
In honor of 20 years of transformation in the Menomonee River Valley and Menomonee Valley Partners’ 20th anniversary, Valley Bingo features many of the Valley’s redeveloped properties and green spaces that exist thanks this public-private partnership, such as the land where the Harley-Davidson Museum is now located to the 24-acre urban oasis that is Three Bridges Park. Bingo also highlights fourteen Valley businesses and popular destinations, including:
Friends, families, and individuals who want to play Valley Bingo can find bingo cards at participating Valley businesses from July 19 to October 13. No purchase is necessary to participate. More information is available at TheValleyMKE.org/bingo.
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In 1999, Menomonee Valley Partners was founded as a nonprofit organization to facilitate public-private partnership in order to revitalize and sustain the Menomonee River Valley. At that time, the Valley was nearly 1,200 acres of brownfield land and abandoned buildings; today it is a national model of economic and environmental sustainability. In the last 20 years, 52 companies have moved to or expanded in the Valley, developing more than 1 million square feet of sustainably designed buildings and creating more than 5,200 jobs. More than 60 acres of parks and trails, including the Hank Aaron State Trail and Three Bridges Park, have been developed, and 10 million people visit Valley recreation and entertainment destinations annually.
Menomonee Valley Partners is a nonprofit organization formed in 1999 with a mission to revitalize and sustain the Menomonee River Valley as a thriving urban district that advances economical, ecological, and social equity for the benefit of the greater Milwaukee community. Since then, 52 companies have moved to or expanded in the Valley, more than 5,200 jobs have been created, 60 acres of parks and trails have been established, and 10 million people visit the Valley’s recreation and entertainment destinations each year.

author: Menomonee Valley Partners


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Alderwoman Coggs invites residents to Garfield Days festival | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ald. Milele A. Coggs
July 17, 2019
Monique Atkins (right) samples Nino’s rib tip sandwiches at Garfield Avenue Festival in 2016. (File photo by Jabril Faraj)
Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs invites community members to attend the 22nd annual Garfield Days Blues Jazz, Gospel, & Arts Festival on Saturday, July 20. The festival takes place on W. Garfield Ave. between N. 4th and N. 7th St. from noon to 8 p.m.
Garfield Days is a vibrant annual celebration in the Bronzeville District. This year’s festival will feature local music, food and activities. The event is free and open to the public.
“Garfield Days has a long-standing history of being one of the city’s best festivals to experience Milwaukee’s’ diversity in music and food offerings,” said Ald. Coggs. “I encourage you to come out on Saturday, July 20th and experience everything the festival has to offer.”
What: Garfield Days Blues, Jazz, Gospel & Arts Festival
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When: Saturday, July 20 (noon to 8:00 p.m.)
Where: W. Garfield Ave. from N. 4th to N. 7th

author: Ald. Milele A. Coggs


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More security on buses? Here are some things you should know | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Caroline White
July 17, 2019
The Milwaukee County Transportation, Public Works and Transit Committee is weighing the possibility of replacing current transit security with a Transit Security Division operated by the sheriff’s office. (Photo provided by MCTS)
After a bus operator was stabbed by a disgruntled passenger in May, debate about safety on Milwaukee County Transit System buses has grown increasingly intense.
County supervisors and MCTS employees are exploring new ways to prevent assaults as well as better ways to handle them.
The Milwaukee County Transportation, Public Works and Transit Committee has discussed  replacing current transit security with a Transit Security Division operated by the sheriff’s office.
And the sheriff’s office has released a study on the potential costs of creating a new division.
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Here are some things you need to know:
Several MCTS employees appeared at the committee hearing to provide their insights and experiences. The drivers recounted stories of being punched, threatened with violence, hit with bottles or trash and being verbally harassed.
“I didn’t want to come back to work (after a safety incident), but I need to work. This happens to us all the time,” Sherry Jones, an MCTS operator, said.
Some testified that when they called to report the incidents, transit security officers arrived late or not all. Others said drivers were not asked to fill out incident reports after violent incidents.
“We have no idea how many of the incidents go unreported by drivers because of lack or time or because they fear nothing is going to happen with it anyway,” driver Tom Stawicki said.
The sheriff’s report said that in 2018, bus drivers made just over 6,000 dispatch calls related to security incidents. Transit security officers wrote about 3,500 incident reports, and police officers were called to respond to almost 300 of those incidents.
Many of the MCTS employees who spoke at the hearing explicitly expressed their support of a Transit Security Division.
Milwaukee County Supervisor Dan Sebring, a member of the Transportation, Public Works and Transit Committee, introduced the resolution to study the possibility of creating a Transit Security Division in February.
“There’s no sense in going forward simply taking over security duties,” he said. “What we need on the buses is law enforcement.”
Dan Boehm, managing director of the Milwaukee County Transit System, said a decision on creating a Transit Security Division should ultimately be left to the county board.
Supervisor Marina Dimitrijevic said the testimony of the drivers scared her, but she feels the solution is not law enforcement.
“The amount of money that we spend in this city, in this county on the over-militarization of our community is unacceptable… What we need to be investing in is promoting peace,” she said.
Currently, Milwaukee County pays a private firm to provide security on public transit.
The contract funds 34 transit security officers for $1.5 million per year. To provide staffing equal to current security, the estimated cost is $2.8 million. To create a fully equipped Transit Security Division, including employees and infrastructure, the estimated cost is about $7.2 million.
Deputy Inspector Dan Hughes said at the meeting that he would expect costs for a new unit to be even higher than the report predicted.
After discussion at the committee meeting, Sebring said the predicted costs were much lower than he expected.
Hughes emphasized during the meeting that a Transit Security Division could not appear overnight. The positions that would need to be filled “do not exist.” The process to hire and train new deputies takes a year.
The next Transportation, Public Works and Transit Committee meeting will be Sept. 4.
Got questions? We can find the answers. E-mail info@milwaukeenns.org and put “transit questions” in the subject line.

author: Caroline White


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
July 16, 2019


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Carmen Schools of Science and Technology announces new CEO | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Carmen High School of Science & Technology
July 18, 2019
(Photo courtesy of Carmen Schools of Science and Technology)
The Board of Directors of Carmen Schools of Science and Technology (Carmen) announced today that, after an extensive nationwide search, Jennifer López has been unanimously selected as Carmen’s CEO. Lopez will continue and build upon the work of Carmen founder and former CEO, Dr. Patricia Hoben.
“Jennifer’s qualifications, experience and values were exactly what we were looking for,” said Ivan Gamboa, Chair of Carmen’s Board of Directors. “We are excited for the future of Carmen under Jennifer’s leadership.”
López brings with her more than a decade of experience, including an array of leadership roles across the country in both public district and charter schools. Most recently, López has served as Chief Academic Officer of St. Anthony School in Milwaukee, where she made great strides to build a strong foundation for academic growth and close the achievement gap. Prior to her role at St. Anthony School, Lopez served as a School Leadership Coach for Schools That Can Milwaukee.
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A native Spanish speaker raised by immigrant Salvadoran parents in a low-income community, López attended under-resourced urban schools that did not adequately prepare her for the rigor of a college prep high school. As one of four students of color, López initially struggled academically and socially. This experience served as a catalyst for her life-long commitment to education. López’s passion for education is rooted in her belief that all students deserve access to excellent schools.
López attributes her success to hard work, perseverance and support from her personal education “champions” who always believed in her ability to achieve. And achieve she did, attending Occidental College on a full-tuition paid scholarship.
After graduation, López joined Teach For America and launched her career in education. López went on to hold numerous leadership roles in schools and education-focused organizations before coming to Milwaukee. From the very start, and throughout the course of her career to-date, López’s impact has been palpable and measurable as her students have – against all odds – continually exceeded expectations.
López earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Spanish Literary and Cultural Studies from Occidental College and her Master of Arts degree in School Administration and Policy from Loyola Marymount University.
“I am an example of how any student can achieve success when adults provide them with high expectations, care and love,” said López. “I believe schools are most effective when parents and the community are full partners, teachers are part of a collaborative professional community and all staff see their work as crucial to student success. I believe these factors for effectiveness and success are alive and well at Carmen and I’m thrilled to take the organization into the future.”


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
July 18, 2019


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EXCLUSIVE: City orders South Side church to remove banner featuring accused child rapist | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Edgar Mendez
July 18, 2019
A banner featuring megachurch leader Naasón Joaquín Garcia, charged in California with child rape and human trafficking, among other crimes, has been ordered removed by the city. (Photo by Edgar Mendez)
A South Side church has until July 31 to remove or correct a banner featuring the leader of a Mexico-based megachurch who was arrested and charged last month with child rape, human trafficking and other crimes
The banner features Naasón Joaquín Garcia, the leader of La Luz Del Mundo, an organization with over 15,000 churches. Some residents have demanded church officials remove it from the front of the local church at 1316 S. Cesar E. Chavez Drive.
The Department of Neighborhood Services inspected the banner July 11, and officials say the banner violates the municipal ordinance for exterior signage limits and ordered it be taken down.
Signs are only permitted to be 25 square feet per 25 lineal feet of the length of a building, unless an owner receives a special permit, according to the violation order. The current banner is estimated at 144 square feet by the Department of Neighborhood Services.
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The church has until July 31 to remove or correct the sign, or it could face prosecution or daily penalties ranging from $150 to $10,000, according a violation order sent to the church by the Department of Neighborhood Services. Church officials have 20 days to file an appeal.
A second banner hangs from the La Luz Del Mundo Family Services, 1570 W. Greenfield Ave. It is not clear whether the church will remove the second banner. (Photo by Edgar Mendez)
Residents have demanded church officials remove the banner. But its leaders have refused, comparing Garcia’s arrest and prosecution to the false persecution of Jesus Christ while defending his innocence.
The city says it is not regulating the content of the banner. We “enforce the code with respect to size, configuration, etc.,” Jeff Fleming, communications officer for the city, wrote in an email to NNS.
Saul Cruz, a church representative, said leaders have ordered new banners that will not feature Garcia’s image to meet the city’s requirements.
The controversy erupted after a Facebook post called for the removal of the large banner that featured a smiling Garcia, which was hung above the main entrance to the church.
The violation order does not mention the church’s other property on West Greenfield Avenue that features a similar banner.
Garcia, who is being held in California, appeared in court Tuesday and was denied bail by a judge. According to various news reports, witnesses described videos allegedly showing Garcia participating in sex acts involving minors. New charges of child pornography were added.

author: Edgar Mendez


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Mission: Healthy Kids offers free Summer Healthy Family Challenge for all Wisconsin families July 1-August 16 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Kohl’s Cares
July 18, 2019
Mission: Healthy Kids, a partnership of Kohl’s Cares® and Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, is offering an opportunity for Wisconsin families to participate in a free Summer Healthy Family Challenge now through August 16, 2019. The Challenge is for families to complete activities that contribute to healthy habits focusing on the areas of nutrition, physical activity and healthy minds.
Families completing the Challenge will be entered into a drawing to win one of five family prize packages that include: Fitbit fitness trackers, a certificate for a meal delivery service and a Wisconsin State Parks pass. Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin employees and their families are not eligible for prizes; instead, they can participate in the Challenge and earn Healthy Rewards points.
Families can register to participate here. Once registered, they will find downloadable wellness resources and tip sheets along with the Family Wellness Bingo sheet required to complete the Challenge. In order to complete the Challenge, families will be asked to document and submit their progress along with a few photos and complete a summary questionnaire by August 16, 2019.
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author: Kohl’s Cares


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Name *
July 15, 2019

author: Name *


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NNS Summer Survival Guide: Ways to beat the extreme heat | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Bridget Fogarty
July 18, 2019
Kids enjoy the splash pad at Moody Park. (Photo by Sue Vliet)
It’s about to get hot. Extremely hot.
The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory that covers the Milwaukee area.
The heat index, which measures what the temperature feels like when combined with humidity, could reach as high as 110 in some parts of the region
“Summer heat is finally here,” said Jeanette Kowalik, health commissioner, in a news release from the Milwaukee Health Department. “With this is mind, we must be vigilant about protecting ourselves, our loved ones, neighbors, and pets from the dangers of extreme heat … Prevention is the key to surviving the heat.”
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Here are some ways you can stay cool:
Milwaukee County Parks plans to keep pools open during regular business hours during the predicted weekend heatwave. Look for one of the eight free splash pads close to your neighborhood, or call the pools hotline at (414) 257-8098 for more information.
1. Use your phone
Call Impact at 2-1-1, which can connect you to the overnight shelters and centers closest to you. You can also text your ZIP code to TXT-211.
2. Go online
Use the 2-1-1 Wisconsin website to find the food pantry in your neighborhood. You can also look at the city health department’s list of designated cooling centers.
1. Many serve as a bad weather shelters in extreme heat. Two cooling sites are the Washington Park Senior Center, 4420 W Vliet St., or Arlington Court, 1633 N. Arlington Place.
The county’s Department on Aging is a member of the Milwaukee Heat Task Force, a group of organizations that develop strategies to protect the health and safety of residents in the event of extreme heat. Call the Aging Resource Center at (414) 289-6874 for information on other locations and resources during hot weather.
2. All locations allow individuals to cool down in the air-conditioning during regular business hours. Call (414) 286-3000 to speak with a librarian regarding a specific branch.
3. Many local organizations and governmental buildings welcome visitors to air-conditioned common areas and community spaces to stay cool.
1. Slow down and limit physical activity, especially if you are working outside or in hot settings.
2. Never leave children, persons with a disability, or pets in a parked car – as temperatures can become life threatening within minutes.
3. Use fans to increase ventilation, unless temperatures exceed 90 degrees at which fans become ineffective in reducing heat-related illness.
4. Stay Hydrated!Drink plenty of water throughout the day regardless of thirst, to avoid dehydration.
5. Check in with neighbors and family to make sure they are staying cool.
For more tips on making the most of the summer, check out our NNS Summer Survival Guide.

author: Bridget Fogarty


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
July 17, 2019


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Northwestern Mutual commits to neighborhoods revitalization with nearly $1.7 million in grants | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Jessamyn Spaulding
July 18, 2019
Northwestern Mutual, through its Foundation, is invested in building the capacity of Milwaukee neighborhoods and residents to create a stronger city. Today, the company announced nearly $1.7 million in grants to local nonprofits and organizations that drive community development through housing support, access to youth and family resources, food programs and more.
Since 2013, Northwestern Mutual has invested in Milwaukee’s Amani, Metcalfe Park and Muskego Way neighborhoods, supporting nonprofits focused on fostering safe neighborhoods, healthy and thriving youth, strong families and quality education.
“Partnering with residents and neighborhood organizations is critical to understanding the challenges and opportunities in our city,” said Eric Christophersen, President, Northwestern Mutual Foundation. “Together, we’re laying the foundation for long-term, sustainable impact in Milwaukee.”
Spotlight: Amani Housing Strategy
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The Amani Housing Strategy was developed in partnership with residents, stakeholders and community partners to address the critical need for quality and affordable housing in the Amani neighborhood. The comprehensive plan will engage those already living in and serving the community to improve existing and new housing stock and expand the range of quality developments in the neighborhood. The strategy will concentrate resources to transform neighborhoods block by block.
A collaborative team representing LISC, Dominican Center, Amani United, Ezekiel CDC, and Northwestern Mutual will pilot this concept on a single block in Amani beginning this summer and continuing through 2020. The pilot will connect residents to existing housing programs, engage the community in the revitalization process, and provide residents with on-site training to learn transferable skills.
“The Amani Housing Strategy will not only improve the physical infrastructure of our neighborhood, but it will also deepen the sense of community and connection among neighbors, leading to improved safety, health and economic opportunity for Amani residents,” said Dominican Center Executive Director Sr. Patricia Rogers.
Existing Northwestern Mutual partners like Milwaukee Habitat for Humanitywill be among the many organizations contributing to the Amani Housing strategy. Earlier this year, the non-profit partnered with Northwestern Mutual for two Rock the Blockvolunteer events to engage neighborhood residents in beautification and improvement projects in both Amani and Metcalfe Park, including the pilot block.
The company recently unveiled a new piece of original artwork highlighting Milwaukee Habitat for Humanity, created by Evelyn Patricia Terry, in its public art exhibit, Giving Gallery: Turn Your Hope Into Action
All grant recipients are required to show measurable impact and results of their programs.
Locally, the company also collaborates with partners to improve education and make Milwaukee a great place to live. Nationally, the company supports research to find a cure for childhood cancer.

author: Jessamyn Spaulding


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Protect your heart in the heat | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
American Heart Association
July 18, 2019
With much of Southeastern Wisconsin facing a heat advisory this weekend, the American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health for all, is urging people to take precautions to protect their hearts.
Hot temperatures and high humidity can cause a dangerous heat index that can be hard on the heart. Dehydration causes the heart to work harder, putting it at risk. Hydration helps the heart more easily pump blood through the blood vessels to the muscles. And, it helps the muscles work efficiently.
The American Heart Association suggests that everyone take hot weather precautions:
It’s important to know the signs and symptoms when you may be experiencing too much heat.
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Symptoms of heat exhaustion:
If you experience these symptoms, move to a cooler place, stop exercising and cool down immediately by dousing yourself with cold water and re-hydrating. You may need to seek medical attention.
Symptoms of heat stroke:
If you experience these symptoms, seek medical attention right away. Heat stroke is not the same as a stroke. Stroke happens when a blood vessel to the brain either bursts or is blocked by a clot, causing a decrease in oxygen flow to the brain.
Additional Resources:
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About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for nearly a century. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, Twitter or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

author: American Heart Association


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5 things to do this weekend: July 19 to July 21 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ana Martinez-Ortiz
July 19, 2019
(Photo by Adam Carr)
It’s Friday in Milwaukee, and here are some events that can enrich your weekend. 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. Sculptures and stories walking tour: Friday, July 19
Join Ex Fabula and Sculpture Milwaukee for a walking tour inspired and based on the sculptures on Wisconsin Avenue on Friday, July 19. The event features father and son duo, Shawn and Dominic, as the storytellers. The group plans to meet at the Monarch Lounge, 509 W. Wisconsin Ave. Registration begins at 1 p.m. and the walk takes place at 1:30 p.m. Tickets cost $10 in advance and $15 the day of.
2. Parks & Public Safety Day: Saturday, July 20
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The Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office and Milwaukee County Parks are meeting with community members at Kosciuszko Park, 2101 S. 7 St., on Saturday, July 20. The event is free and provides an opportunity for Milwaukee residents to engage with the sheriff’s office. The event starts at 11 a.m. and includes giveaways, snacks and more.
3. 50 Books Kids club meeting at the library: Saturday, July 20
Families are welcome to join the 50 Books Kids book club on Saturday, July 20 for a club meeting. Children up to age 13 can participate in literacy, STEM and art activities. The meeting will take place at the Washington Park Public Library, 2121 N. Sherman Blvd., from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
4. Neighborhood-wide rummage sale: Saturday, July 20
The Martin Drive Neighborhood Association, 1235 N. 44, is hosting its 16th annual rummage sale, which spans the entire neighborhood. The sale starts at 8:30 a.m. and goes until 4 p.m. To learn more, register or get an online map, click here. Registration is free.
5. Music in Mitchell Park: Sunday, July 21
Milwaukee residents are invited to Clark Square’s concert series, Music in Mitchell Park, on Sunday, July 21. Robert Hawkins, an award-winning gospel singer, will be performing. The concert will be held in the Mitchell Park Amphitheatre, South 24 and West Pierce streets, and starts at 3 p.m.
Bonus: NNS “Family Portraits” photoshoot during Music in Mitchell Park: Sunday, July 21
Come meet NNS Photographer Sue Vliet, along with others from our team, during a free photo session at Mitchell Park, South 24 and West Pierce streets, on Sunday, July 21 from 3:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. as part of Music in Mitchell Park. Families, friends and neighbors will get the opportunity to pose in front of the Domes for a professional photo.
Bonus 2: Don’t forget the annual Garfield Days Jazz, Blues, Gospel and Arts Festival, which takes place from noon to 8 p.m. Saturday, July 20 on West Garfield Avenue from North King Drive to North 7th Street.
And don’t forget our NNS Summer Survival Guide.


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Get your picture taken Sunday, July 21 during ‘Music at Mitchell Park’ | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ron Smith
July 19, 2019
Meet your favorite online newsroom team (that’s NNS, right?) and pose for a free family portrait in front of the Mitchell Park Domes. (Photo by Sue Vliet)
Editor’s Note: This story has been updated to change the time of the event.
You read us.
Now meet us.
And get your picture taken as a reward.
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NNS will be at Music in Mitchell Park from 3:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, July 21. Come meet our team during a free photo session.
Families, friends and neighbors will get the opportunity to pose in front of the Domes for a professional photo.
It’s all going down at Mitchell Park, South 24 and West Pierce streets
And did we mention you get to meet us?

author: Ron Smith


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History in motion: Ailey II. 6 Milwaukee troupes. 1 big weekend of dance. | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Caroline White
July 19, 2019
New York City’s Ailey II will headline a historic night of dance in Milwaukee this weekend. (Photo provided by Ailey II)
History will be made in Milwaukee this weekend when six of the city’s dance troupes share the stage—and the spotlight—with Ailey II, the New York City-based dance company of the esteemed Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.
Nō Studios Dance Fest features a reception Friday night at Nō Studios that is free and open to the public and a dance performance Saturday. The performance has sold out, but the technical rehearsal on Saturday is open to the public from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Sherman Phoenix.
Danceworks Performance MKE, Ton Ko-Thi Children’s Performing Ensemble, the Milwaukee Irish Dance Company, Signature Dance Company, Water Street Dance Milwaukee and WoLF Studios will be dancing on Saturday. The groups represent a variety of methodology and expression.
Danceworks Performance MKE focuses on original contemporary performances and community engagement through learning and fitness programs.
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Ton Ko-Thi Children’s Performing Ensemble uses traditional instruments, costumes, music and dance to celebrate the history and cultures within the African diaspora. (Photo provided by Ton Ko-Thi Children’s Performing Ensemble)
Ton Ko-Thi Children’s Performing Ensemble uses traditional instruments, costumes, music and dance to celebrate the history and cultures within the African diaspora. The group has traveled nationally and internationally performing and educating.
The Milwaukee Irish Dance Company features dancers who enjoy collaborating and improving their traditional Irish dancing.
Signature Dance Company is a place for women and young girls to explore and practice their love of dance while building an environment of personal growth.
Water Street Dance Company has performed contemporary dances across the country.
WoLF Studios focuses on inter-genre performances and pushing the limits of traditional choreography.
Nō Studios opened its doors in October. CEO and director John Ridley created the space with his sister Lisa Caesar as a haven for artists. She emphasized that, although New York City carries the star power, the real draw is right here in Milwaukee.
The Milwaukee dancers “are incredibly talented performers with rich histories. They’re groundbreaking in their own right,” Caesar said. “To see all the local companies and Ailey at once, it has a huge impact and highlights the fact that no one is sacrificing quality by seeing them.”
Dani Kuepper, artistic director of Danceworks Performance MKE, said the venue itself is newsworthy.
Sherman Phoenix, located at 3536 W. Fond du Lac Ave., came into existence as a positive solution to violence and unrest. It opened its doors in November, and it is home to several local small businesses that will be open during the dance fest technical rehearsal on Saturday.
“An outstanding thing for me, is not only to bring dance companies together but to bring attention to Sherman Phoenix, to go there and to see the exciting progress they’ve made in revitalizing that building and bringing all this attention to the local venders. It’s an exciting thing to be a part of,” Kuepper said.