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Clarke Square residents air safety concerns | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Edgar Mendez
October 31, 2011
Veronica Ortiz, Housing Coordinator for Clarke Square, addresses the crowd. (Photo by Edgar Mendez)
Organizers of a recent community information session in Clarke Square say the resources they offer can help residents make a safer and friendlier neighborhood.
Only a handful of residents attended “Hear your voice in Clarke Square,” a recent event sponsored by the Clarke Square Neighborhood Initiative (CSNI) that brought  law enforcement representatives and political leaders to the Milwaukee Christian Center, 2231 W. Greenfield Ave., to meet with residents and share information.
Undeterred by the small crowd despite distributing more than 3,000 flyers for the event, speakers discussed housing, jobs and safety, among other topics.
Sylvia Long, Clarke Square resident, looks over the packet of resources provided at the meeting. (Photo by Edgar Mendez)
The meeting was also billed as an opportunity for neighbors to get to know each other. According to Block Watch Council President Paul Grippe, that doesn’t happen enough in the neighborhood.
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“We have people who’ve been in the area for 10 to 20 years who still don’t know their neighbors,” Grippe said. He added that neighbors getting to know one other makes streets safer, and that safety is the number one concern of Clarke Square residents.
So concerned and vigilant about safety are area residents that District 2, which serves Clarke Square, has more than 200 active block watches, more than any other district in the city, according to Police Officer Jesus Gloria.
Sylvia Long, who has lived in the neighborhood for 53 years, hopes a watch returns to her block soon. Along with a Clarke Square neighborhood association, she helped found a now-defunct block watch more than 20 years ago. She recalls their group hosting events such as neighborhood cleanups and even Christmas parties at the Christian Center, but said that age and other circumstances caused the group to eventually fade away.
Long said it had been a long time since she had come to a neighborhood meeting but that she was glad she came and found out what services are being offered near her home. She said, “I think it’s vital for everyone to know what’s going on in their neighborhood.”
For information on starting or joining a block watch, email Paul Grippe (paulgrippe@aol.com) or call (414) 645-4795.

created: October 31, 2011


text:
hearvoices-01 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dave
April 7, 2012

source: news-milwaukeenns

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

author: Dave


text:
Studies say community development efforts face tough challenges | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Sharon McGowan
October 31, 2011
Community leaders respond to new reports on Milwaukee community development. From left: Julia Taylor, president, Greater Milwaukee Committee; Rob Henken, president, Public Policy Forum; Mayor Tom Barrett; Sharon Adams, founder and director, Walnut Way Conservation Corp.; Gary Grunau, president and owner of The Grucon Group; and Nelson Soler, chief solutions officer, Multicultural Entrepreneurial Institute. (Photo by Lucia Lozano)
“Work is being done, but change is not happening.” That opinion, shared by one participant at a  “listening session” conducted by LISC Milwaukee, sums up the impetus behind a recent symposium on central city revitalization attended by neighborhood leaders, real estate developers, lenders and city officials.
Leo Ries, executive director of LISC Milwaukee, put it this way: “While many people in our industry are working hard every day to improve Milwaukee’s central city neighborhoods, we all agree that change is not happening fast enough to keep up with deteriorating economic conditions in our city.”  LISC Milwaukee is the local branch of the largest community development organization in the country.
The first-ever symposium in Milwaukee focusing on central city neighborhoods was sponsored by LISC and hosted by Marquette University Law School. The symposium provided a forum to release two reports that addressed the issue from different perspectives. LISC released the results of focus group sessions with 119 neighborhood activists, “Voices from the Community: a Summary of the LISC Listening Sessions,” and Paul Brophy, a community and economic development expert and author, released “Community Development in Milwaukee: An Assessment and Recommendations.”
Attendees listen to presentations at a LISC-sponsored symposium at Marquette University Law School. (Photo by Lucia Lozano)
The listening sessions focused on the themes of marketing, education, economic development, leadership, process issues, public policy and workforce issues, explained Christopher Boston, LISC’s director of sustainable communities. Boston pointed out that many organization leaders don’t clearly see how their work fits under the community development umbrella, perhaps because of its historical emphasis on housing. He called for creating a “big tent” that encompasses a larger vision for community development.
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One issue that emerged at every session is the role of race and racism as a threat to the general well being of Milwaukee, Boston said. An example is the staggering unemployment rate among black men, which led some to ask, “If African American employment isn’t decreasing, are we focusing on the right things?” The exodus of young African American leaders from the city also was a common problem identified by focus group participants.
Among the significant signs of optimism that leaders generally agreed on was the renewed effort by the Milwaukee Police Department to work more closely with their communities. Another is the “sincere yearning for greater collaboration and synergy,” Boston said. “There is a love for Milwaukee, and optimism and hope about Milwaukee’s future,” he added. “People want transformational outcomes.”
The LISC report identified five goals: improve access to quality education; stimulate economic activity; increase family income and wealth; foster safe and healthy environments; and expand investment in housing and other real estate.
Brophy’s report praised civic leaders for “getting” the connection between neighborhoods and the broader economy.  “There is a strong philanthropic and government interest in neighborhoods. You have LISC; you have people at the neighborhood level who understand it is their job to help this work. You have interest at the state level,” he noted.
At the same time, he said, there is “very little strategic alignment at the system level,” no apparent correlation between ambitions and resources, and an insufficient market orientation driving neighborhood interventions. He added, “Race needs to be contended with,” and communication could be strengthened.
Brophy, who interviewed 50 stakeholders in Milwaukee and reviewed community development systems in three other cities, concluded that while past and current initiatives to improve neighborhood conditions have had some successes, the general trends are discouraging: racial and ethnic isolation; increased poverty in the inner city; more vacant housing; reduced property values in many neighborhoods; and limited upward mobility.
He recommended a fresh approach to community development known as “collective impact,” defined as “Long-term commitments by a group of important actors from different sectors to a common agenda for solving a specific social problem.” He suggested that funders and select community partners, such as Marquette University and the Greater Milwaukee Committee, develop a shared vision — together with grassroots activists — to improve neighborhoods and the community development system. LISC should expand its role beyond its current function as a funding intermediary, and serve as the communications link and idea broker among the key players, Brophy recommended.
As part of a six-person panel responding to the reports, Mayor Tom Barrett said, “We need to have an honest dialogue.” He added, “No one in this room thinks if we’re all pitted against each other, things will work.”

author: Sharon McGowan


text:
liscsymposium-01_f | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dave
April 7, 2012


text:
Lindsay Heights groups discuss Wellness Commons, community issues | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Jim McGowan
November 4, 2011
The status of the proposed Wellness Commons will be discussed as part of a report to Lindsay Heights residents from 5-7:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 21 at North Division High School, 1011 W. Center St.
Twice a year, “Report to Community” (R2C) events bring together people for a   discussion on what has been accomplished in the past six months   and what to look forward to in the future. Neighbors and agencies are   invited to learn about community resources and ways to get involved.
The upcoming meeting will include a presentation about an application  for federal funds to clean up the proposed site of the Innovations  & Wellness Commons at 1609 N. 16th St.
The event, sponsored by Walnut Way Conservation Corp., is free and open to the public. For more information or to RSVP, call Angeline Wilkes at (414) 264-2326.
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created: November 4, 2011

author: Jim McGowan


text:
Layton Boulevard West announces plan to improve quality of life | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Edgar Mendez
November 7, 2011
(Photo by Edgar Mendez)
Sixteen years ago the School Sisters of St. Francis held a meeting to decide whether to move their international headquarters out of Milwaukee, citing growing concerns about crime and safety in what was then viewed as a deteriorating neighborhood.
Rather than choosing to leave their building at 1501 S. Layton Blvd., the sisters reaffirmed their commitment to the city by forming Layton Boulevard West Neighbors (LBWN), a non-profit organization designed to serve the needs of the Silver City, Layton Park and Burnham Park neighborhoods.
At its recent annual gathering, LBWN announced the next steps to transform the once-struggling neighborhood into a thriving one: a Quality of Life plan developed as part of the Zilber Neighborhood Initiative (ZNI).
The plan for Layton Boulevard West had its origins in 2004 when LBWN began a planning process to improve the neighborhood. The plan was expanded in October 2010, when the Zilber Family Foundation selected Layton Boulevard West Neighbors to spearhead the effort to create and implement a comprehensive community development plan with neighbors and other local partners. LBWN received a grant of $875,000 over four years from the foundation.
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Among seven overlapping strategies announced at the meeting are: improving the appearance of the neighborhood by sprucing up public spaces and featuring more public art; creating a community safety network by forming and connecting block clubs; and developing and marketing a distinctive community identity for the Layton Boulevard West neighborhoods. Implementation of some strategies has already begun; others, such as supporting youth education and leadership, are still in the development phase.
Combined, the strategies represent the vision that residents have for their neighborhood, according to Daniel Adams, neighborhood plan coordinator for LBWN.
Creating the plan took nearly a year of one-on-one interviews with more than 200 residents and convening nine focus groups, 18 workshops and eight meetings of the 14-member Plan Advisory Committee, half of whom are neighborhood residents.
Organizers hope that the plan will accomplish the goal of stabilizing and revitalizing the neighborhood, according to Charlotte John-Gomez, executive director of Layton Boulevard West Neighbors (LBWN).
Key to the plan is to seek out opportunities for economic development. LBWN plans to foster economic vitality in the area by funding a market analysis that will identify how existing businesses can grow, what new businesses will complement the local economy and where they should be located.
Burnham Park storeowner Greg Mertens of Wildflower Bakery, 2800 W. Lincoln Ave., says that the increased attention and development in the area already has benefited his business.
“I’ve gotten customers from all over Milwaukee in my store and I think it’s because they are taking notice of the safety and stability of the neighborhood,” said Mertens.
A key strategy that’s beginning from the ground up is youth education and development, according to Jezamil Vega-Skeels, neighborhood planner for LBWN.
“There are 7,350 kids in LBWN and only one Community Learning Center (CLC) despite a wealth of schools in the area,” Skeels said.
Skeels said that part of the strategy is to attract local agencies to provide after-school activities for local youth. Working with neighborhood young people will encourage them to be more committed and connected to their neighborhood, she added.
Darryl Schaber, who moved to Silver City four years ago, feels that connection.
“I’ve made friends here; I’ve also learned from the LBWN about reimbursements for money I’ve spent to improve to my home,” said Schaber, who won a $1,000 prize for winning the most improved porch contest this summer.
Sergio Gonzalez, who lives Layton Park, also feels a strong connection to his neighbors, he said.
“My family and I feel great living here, and I’m happy to finally get to know the people that live around me and also the agencies that serve me,” said Gonzalez. He recalled other neighborhoods where he lived for years and still did not know his neighbors or local groups.
But, without the continued cooperation and help of the neighbors, the strategies will not work, according to Adams.
“The plan is in your hands and ours together,” Adams said to the crowd.

created: November 7, 2011

author: Edgar Mendez


text:
| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dave
April 7, 2012


text:
Lindsay Heights Report to Community | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
November 14, 2011

created: November 14, 2011

author: Andrea Waxman


text:
10th annual Community Development Summit | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
November 20, 2011

created: November 20, 2011


text:
Food for Thought: New Recipes for Job Growth | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
November 20, 2011


text:
Admission Possible gets new director, new name | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Sharon McGowan
November 21, 2011
Edie Turnbull was drawn to Admission Possible, an organization that helps low-income students gain admission and succeed in their college careers because it allows her to be “part of the solution for Milwaukee education issues.” Turnbull became executive director of Admission Possible on Nov. 14.
The program offers student workshops as well as intensive coaching and support provided by AmeriCorps members.
“Helping low-income students get into college benefits them, their families, their descendants and all the rest of us,” Turnbull said. She will guide all of the activities of the nonprofit organization — which will change its name to College Possible™ in January — and lead a team of 22 AmeriCorps members and four full-time staff members.
“We are thrilled to welcome Edie to the Admission Possible team,” said Jim McCorkell, founder and CEO of the organization, which began in Minneapolis-St. Paul and expanded to Milwaukee in 2008.
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“Edie’s leadership skills and experience in nonprofit development and communications will make her an incredible asset.”
Most recently Turnbull was director of fund development for SHARP Literacy, a Milwaukee nonprofit that helps urban elementary students learn to read and write. Before that, Turnbull was vice president of Public Affairs, Marketing & Communication at Wisconsin Lutheran College. She has worked in the same field for several Milwaukee companies, including the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel and M&I Bank.
Raised in Des Moines, Turnbull received a bachelor’s degree from Marquette University. She returned to Milwaukee after receiving her master’s degree at the University of Iowa.
Admission Possible Milwaukee currently works with more than 350 low-income high school students. Turnbull said she looks forward to helping it grow by adding at least one city high school each year.
“Last year the admission rate for our students was 96 percent. Without this organization, many of them would probably not have made it into college and here they are, going to four-year institutions.”

created: November 21, 2011


text:
Logo | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dave
April 7, 2012


text:
Community development summit focuses on food | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Jim McGowan
November 22, 2011
The 10th annual Community Development Summit, “Food for Thought: New Recipes for Job Growth,” will focus on the regional food economy and its opportunities for economic growth and job creation. The event is set for 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 29 at the Italian Conference Center, 631 E. Chicago St.
The event is sponsored by the Urban Economic Development Association of Wisconsin (UEDA) and the City of Milwaukee. For more information or to register for the event, visit the UEDA web site or call (414) 562-9904.

created: November 22, 2011


text:
Tour features foreclosed homes for sale and rehab | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Sharon McGowan
November 23, 2011
Photo by Sue Vliet
About 40 people participated in a recent Layton Boulevard West tour of foreclosed homes for sale in Layton Boulevard West.
Those who attended also received information about $30,000 grants available to people interested in purchasing and rehabbing foreclosed properties. The free event was sponsored by Housing Resources Inc., Cherry Home Realty, Layton Boulevard West Neighbors and the U.S. Dept. of Housing and Urban Development.

created: November 23, 2011


text:
6364748593_462d384ff2-1 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
April 13, 2012

author: Adam Carr


text:
Community Development Forum and Happy Hour | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
November 27, 2011

created: November 27, 2011


text:
Community Development Forum and Happy Hour | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Delara Bastani
November 27, 2011

author: Delara Bastani


text:
Clarke Square neighborhood takes census into its own hands | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Edgar Mendez
November 28, 2011
Although by law, data collected by the U.S. Census Bureau is confidential and can’t be shared with any other agency, many Latinos are afraid to participate. (Photo by Edgar Mendez)
Citing extremely low participation rates in Clarke Square for the 2010 decennial census, the Clarke Square Neighborhood Initiative (CSNI) has created its own census, hoping to accurately tally the neighborhood’s demographics.
An accurate count will help CSNI become more informed about the needs of neighborhood residents, according to Diana Vang, CSNI community liaison.
“We don’t have accurate information about our neighborhood and the CSNI census project is our attempt to try to count the entire neighborhood,” Vang said.
Only 53 percent of residents in Clarke Square participated in the 2010 census, down 4 percentage points from 10 years earlier according to the U.S. Census Bureau. The overall participation rate for the city of Milwaukee was 69 percent. About 15 percent of Milwaukee residents are Hispanic.
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According to Jenny Negron, who’s lived in the area for 20 years, the low numbers can be attributed to residents’ fears of providing possibly incriminating information.
“People are scared because they’re here illegally,” Negron said. As to whether their fears are warranted, Negron’s not sure, but she’s not alone.
Yanitza Lacen, who lives in the neighborhood, says that people are misinformed about the reasons for the census.
“I’ve heard myself from people who are scared to fill out the census because they lack documents and people could come to look for them, but it’s not true,” Lacen said.
A media campaign created to dispel misconceptions about the census — which emphasized that the data is confidential, isn’t identified by individual and can’t be shared with any other agency — has been only minimally successful.
The U.S Census Bureau has always struggled to accurately tally immigrant-heavy neighborhoods. For example, the nearby Walker’s Point neighborhood had a participation rate of 38 percent. Latinos make up 60 percent of residents in Clarke Square and nearly 75 percent in Walker’s Point, according to city-data.com, compared to 13.3 percent in the city of Milwaukee.
According to the Census Bureau website, the reason questions about race and origin are included in the survey is because the information is critical for making policy decisions, particularly about civil rights.
Another reason for low participation in Clarke Square is the housing stock.
Vang said that along with single-family houses, there are numerous duplexes and triplexes, as well as houses that have up to six different addresses, which makes them difficult to count.
Teresa Sughroue, who lives in Clarke Square and didn’t fill out her census survey, said some people hesitate to participate because they have more people living in their house than they care to report.
“There are too many people, sometimes even 20 living in a single house, and they don’t want to say that,” Sughroue said.
Though Milwaukee has no laws governing how many people can live in a household, zoning laws do forbid dwellings housing more households than they’re designated for. For example, a single-family dwelling is not supposed to house multiple families.
Unlike the census bureau, CSNI is trying to make people comfortable by introducing themselves, showing them literature and explaining how its census is in line with the community’s quality of life objectives, Vang said. Although the new tally won’t affect the census count, it will help serve the needs of residents, added Vang.
For example, the question about educational attainment is related to the “lifelong learning” strategy in the Clarke Square quality of life plan. Vang added that once CSNI learns more about educational levels in the community, it can better focus resources to help residents further their schooling.
The block-to-block process of asking people to answer the seven questions — similar to those asked on the U.S. census form — is expected to run through the spring. Organizers are seeking volunteers to canvass the neighborhood. Volunteers must be 16 years of age and training will be provided. For more information contact Diana Vang (414) 810-2332 or email her at dvang@journeyhouse.org.

created: November 28, 2011


text:
Census1-cropped | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dave
April 7, 2012


text:
Environmental Justice: A Human Rights Issue | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
November 28, 2011

author: Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service


text:
MANDI finalists to be named | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Jim McGowan
November 29, 2011
Finalists for the Milwaukee Awards for Neighborhood Development Innovation will be announced at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 6 by officials of the Milwaukee Local Initiatives Support Corp. (LISC). The announcement will be part of an event held at Kochanski’s Concertina Bar, 1920 S. 37th St., Milwaukee.
The MANDI awards, sponsored by LISC, recognize people and organizations who work in community development. Finalists and winners are selected by a volunteer selection committee; winners will be announced at the Pfister Hotel on March 28, 2012.
The Dec. 6 announcement is to be preceded by a community development forum, and will be followed by a “holiday happy hour.” For details, contact Dawn Hutchinson-Weiss, 414-273-1815.
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created: November 29, 2011


text:
Community Forum with the EPA | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
December 1, 2011

created: December 1, 2011


text:
Gifts Under Glass Art Fair | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
December 1, 2011


text:
Kohl’s Art Generation Family Sundays: The Gift of Art | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
December 1, 2011


text:
Urban Youth Summit | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
December 1, 2011


text:
VOCES DE LA FRONTERA ANNUAL ASSEMBLY | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
December 1, 2011


text:
Community forum with the EPA | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
December 2, 2011

created: December 2, 2011


text:
Gifts Under Glass Art Fair | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
December 2, 2011


text:
Kohl’s Art Generation Family Sunday: The Gift of Art | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
December 2, 2011


text:
Winter parking rules in effect until March 1 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Southside Organizing Committee
December 2, 2011
Near South Side streets that allow night parking on both sides of the street during the spring, summer and fall returned to alternate side parking on Dec. 1. If your block does not have the “4 inch” rule, or a specific sign designating prohibited parking, then alternate side parking is back in effect. Save money by making sure your vehicle is on the proper side of the street.
In addition, many major streets throughout the city prohibit parking on either side of the street from 2 a.m. to 6 p.m. Dec. 1 through Feb. 28. This includes S. 13th St., S. 35th St., W. National Ave., W. Greenfield Ave., W. Lincoln Ave. and W. Mitchell St. You can find winter night parking rules for your block online.
Residents recently won the right to park on S. 6th St., S. 11th St. and S 16th St., where winter parking was previously prohibited.
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author: Southside Organizing Committee


text:
‘Timebanking’ supporters exchange ideas | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Edgar Mendez
December 6, 2011
Edgar Cahn (right), founder of TimeBanks USA, discusses timebanking with Majeed Rahman. (Photo by Edgar Mendez)
In the 1980s Edgar Cahn, founder of TimeBanks USA, suffered a serious heart attack. Suddenly, the man who began his career as a speechwriter for the late Robert Kennedy before becoming a crusader for civil rights, worried about feeling useless. Cahn wondered how people who might feel useless could become valuable contributors to society rather than victims. Timebanking, a system through which people exchange skills and talents, was his answer.
Timebanking also was the answer for Debbie Davis, director of the Milwaukee Area Time Exchange. In 2009, a homicide down the block from her Milwaukee home left her shaken, but moved. Davis contemplated ways to make a difference in economically disenfranchised neighborhoods such as hers. About that time Davis attended a national conference in Madison on timebanking, at the urging of a friend.
Two years later, the Milwaukee Area Time Exchange she founded has more than 500 members. The chapter recently hosted a regional conference at which Cahn was the guest speaker.
“We need people to break free from the sense of powerlessness that they’ve internalized; they need to know that everything you give is valuable, even your time,” Cahn said in an interview with Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service.
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Debbie Davis (right), director of the Milwaukee Area Time Exchange, and exchange organizer Dolka Garcia. (Photo by Edgar Mendez)
Davis believes that Milwaukee, though long known for its racial and economic disparities, also has a strong sense of community. In other words, it’s a place where timebanking can thrive. Though growing, the exchange has made few inroads into Milwaukee’s most devastated communities.
“We’re very grass roots and don’t have the staff to arrange all of the exchanges for people; we’re looking for those champions who will take this tool and bring it to their neighbors and communities,” Davis said.
The idea of timebanking is to promote equality and build caring communities through an inclusive exchange of time and talent, Cahn said. In other words, rather than most transactions revolving around the monetary system, as is customary in our market economy, Cahn believes that people need to be able to barter human skills and services to create social change and rebuild society.
For example, a member of a timebank could earn credits in the exchange by cooking vegetarian meals for one member, and then exchange those earned credits for services as varied as a ride to the doctor, walking the dog or teaching Spanish.
Cahn said that society can unleash the immense capacity of the poor in Milwaukee and elsewhere by helping them believe in themselves and encouraging society to value their time and talents.
“In Washington D.C (home of TimeBanks USA) we have people who’ve come out of prison providing safe passage to school for kids who have to cross gang territories to get there, and sixth grade kids classified as special ed teaching third graders how to read,” Cahn said.
There are now timebanks in 34 countries, 40 U.S. states and 260 cities, with more than 30,000 total members.
In Milwaukee, it’s been tough getting people to grasp and embrace the concept of timebanking, according to Milwaukee Area Time Exchange organizer Dolka Garcia.
“I found that though everyone loves the idea, people are still a little bit shy about taking the next step, so it requires a bit of follow-up and encouragement to get them started,” Garcia said.
Still, more and more people and businesses have been signing up for the exchange. Katie Jesse, who works with the Milwaukee Public Theatre, said that her organization sees it as a great tool.
“As a theatre company, we are always in need of seamstresses and people to help us clean up,” Jesse said.
In exchange, the theatre offers show tickets and the possibility to use space at the company’s new Grand Avenue Mall location downtown.
It’s a concept that Jesse believes is hard to grasp in a capitalistic society. “We’re taught from a very young age that the only way to function is to work and earn money, so how are people supposed to think any other way is possible?” she commented.
“My friend told me about it, and I thought it was great,” said Karen Green of Riverwest, who offers gluten-free cooking and an opportunity to sail in her boat.
For David Drake, a musician at Organic Arts in Bay View, exchanging services has been a way of life. Since most of his life was spent below the poverty line, he had to adapt. “I’m very familiar with doing things for exchange,” Drake said.
But time exchanges are not flawless. Rick Petzke, of Oregon, Wis., has served on the board of directors of the Dane County chapter for five years and admits that he gives more services than he receives.
Petzke said that other challenges include people not calling back or answering emails regarding exchange requests.  Most of that has to do with the fact that there are more than 1,900 members in his branch, with a very limited number of staff to organize the exchanges, he added.
Still, Petzke said that he got involved with the exchange to make a difference, and he believes that he has.
Joining the Milwaukee Area Time Exchange is free for individuals and there is a small fee for businesses and non-profits. After a background check, new members are entered into a database where they can list all the offers and requests they have.
Davis added that being convicted of a felony does not always prohibit someone from joining.
“Everyone has skills to offer and also the capacity to improve their life and community,” she said.
To join the MKE Area Time Exchange or for more information, visit mketimeexchange.org or call (414) 374-8181.

created: December 6, 2011


text:
timebank1 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dave
April 7, 2012


text:
EPA, community to meet | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Jim McGowan
December 8, 2011
Representatives from the Environmental Protection Agency will discuss the effects of poor air quality, environmental justice and the agency’s role in cleaning up local polluters at a forum sponsored by the Cleaner Valley Coalition at 6 p.m. Monday, Dec. 12 at Ascension Lutheran Church, 1236 S. Layton Blvd.
The forum, open to the public, will focus on the Valley coal plant. For more information, send an email or call (414) 383-9038 ext. 5300.

created: December 8, 2011


text:
Grupo de Mujeres Unidas | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
December 8, 2011


text:
Alice’s Garden monthly potluck dinner | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
December 11, 2011

created: December 11, 2011


text:
Neighbors meet on public safety issues in Clarke Square | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Jim McGowan
December 12, 2011
The next meeting of the Clarke Square Public Safety Committee will be from 2-3 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 14 at M&I Bank, 2701 W. National Ave.
The committee meets on the second Wednesday of every month to discuss safety issues in the neighborhood. Community members are encouraged to participate.
For more information or to join the committee, email Minerva Santiago-Gomez or call (414) 349-3240.
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created: December 12, 2011


text:
Bilingual legal services ‘unique’ to Centro Legal | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Allison Kruschke and Katie Doherty
December 13, 2011
Heather Ramirez, executive director of Centro Legal (Photo by Katie Doherty)
For two decades, Milwaukee’s south side residents have had a place to turn for legal help, whether they can afford an attorney or not.
Centro Legal provides free bilingual legal services in areas such as family law and criminal misdemeanor defense to more than 800 people each year from its storefront office at 614 W. National Ave.
Heather Ramirez, executive director of Centro Legal, said there is a great need for free legal services in Milwaukee.
“In Milwaukee County Family Courts, 80 percent of the time one or both parties does not have an attorney,” Ramirez said. “It’s a huge high-needs area.”
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Ramirez said that people charged with misdemeanors also need representation because of the cost and intricacy of the legal system.
“A misdemeanor offense can derail someone’s whole life,” Ramirez said. “They generally aren’t dangerous to society, they just need help navigating the legal process.”
Centro Legal also serves the community through outreach programs. These include free legal clinics to help people represent themselves in court and family law classes through partnerships with other Milwaukee nonprofits.
Four full-time attorneys staff Centro Legal, three of whom specialize in family law and one in criminal defense. The center serves clients from all over the Milwaukee area. Half of the total staff members are bilingual Spanish speakers.
Ramirez said providing bilingual lawyers is a unique and important service of the organization, especially for clients from Milwaukee’s heavily Hispanic south side.
“That bilingual piece we think is really important,” Ramirez said. “You want people to be able to understand the legal process, understand their options, and be able to speak their native language.”
Ramirez came to Centro Legal in March 2009 after practicing general business law at a local firm. She said that she appreciated the charitable services the organization provides.
“I had worked in nonprofits before law school, so I had always had an interest in the field,” Ramirez said.
She added that while some of the work is difficult, such as hearing the stories of domestic violence victims, the job is rewarding.
“In one particular case, an estranged husband threatened to kill a woman and her child,” Ramirez said. “Until you’re in it, you don’t realize how great the need really is.”
Ramirez and other Centro Legal attorneys are personally invested in every client they serve.
“A typical family law case can last anywhere from six months to a year and a half,” Ramirez said. “We are with our clients for a long time, from beginning to end.”
Jason Mishelow, senior attorney and CFO of Centro Legal, provides low-cost legal help to families who cannot afford high legal fees. Centro Legal specializes in family law cases, domestic violence issues and misdemeanor criminal offenses.
[read the post]
This story is part of a special report focusing on eight agencies that provide services to neighborhood residents in a variety of communities. Students from Marquette’s Diederich College of Communication created the pieces under the supervision of Prof. Herbert Lowe and NNS Editor Sharon McGowan.
[see the stories]

created: December 13, 2011

author: Allison Kruschke and Katie Doherty


text:
Ramirez-photo | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dave
April 7, 2012


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Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service Holiday Photo Contest | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
December 13, 2011
Show us how you celebrate the holidays.
Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service (NNS) is looking to spread holiday cheer this season by sponsoring a photo contest. NNS invites Milwaukee residents to submit photos that show how they celebrate the holidays. Submissions are due by Monday, Jan. 2. NNS professional photographers will judge the photos. The 10 best photos will be posted at www.milwaukeenns.org on Monday, Jan. 9.
First prize will be a $50 Visa gift card; two runners-up will each receive a $25 Visa gift card.
Those interested in participating should submit up to three digital photos to info@milwaukeenns.org or post them at facebook.com/milwaukeenns. Happy holidays!
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author: Dwayne Burtin


text:
contest | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dave
April 7, 2012


text:
Crime & Safety meeting | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Allison Kruschke and Katie Doherty
December 15, 2011

created: December 15, 2011


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LBWN awarded grant for home renovation program | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Edgar Mendez
December 19, 2011
(Photo provided by LBWN)
Layton Boulevard West Neighbors, Inc. (LBWN) was awarded a $112,000 national grant as part of Wells Fargo’s Leading the Way Home Program Priority Markets Initiative.
The Wells Fargo outreach program is “designed to help communities understand and act on efforts to stabilize their current housing situation while advancing home ownership,” according to the program website. LBWN plans to use the grant for its Turnkey Renovation program.
Through the Turnkey program, LBWN purchases vacant foreclosed homes and renovates them with an emphasis on energy efficiency and restoration of the original craftsmanship.
“We’re trying to keep the character of our older homes but bring in the best of new technologies and make sure they [homes] are not a burden on the buyer to purchase,” said Jeremy Belot, project manager for the program.
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Typical renovations of a Turnkey home include insulation, air sealing, new windows, and installing a high-efficiency furnace and solar thermal water heating system.
Once complete, the home is sold to an owner/occupant with a moderate income.
“This is an important strategy for creating sustainable homeownership opportunities,” said Charlotte John-Gomez, executive director of LBWN.
(Photo provided by LBWN)
Five homes have been completed since the Turnkey program began in 2008, and a sixth is currently being renovated.
The next Turnkey home hasn’t been chosen yet, but Belot says the grant will bring even more attention to the neighborhood’s housing stock.
“We’re taking foreclosed homes that are blighted and an eyesore and turning them into assets, homes that are attractive to buyers,” Belot said.
The Wells Fargo grant is part of $5.53 million awarded to 52 nonprofits and government entities that have been successful building and renovating housing for low- to moderate-income homebuyers.

created: December 19, 2011


text:
Turnkey1 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dave
April 7, 2012


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Block watch captains honored in Clarke Square | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Edgar Mendez
December 20, 2011
http://youtu.be/xFRm-gq6hPQ
(Photos by Edgar Mendez)
Block watch captains and members gathered recently at Longfellow School, 1021 S. 21St., where officials from the Milwaukee Police Department District 2 recognized them for their crime-prevention efforts. Other guests included Mayor Tom Barrett, state Rep. JoCasta Zamarripa (D-Milwaukee) and Aldermen James Witkowiak and Bob Donovan.
District 2 has 214 block watches, the most in the city, according to police Capt. Rebecca Pixley. During the past year, 62 new block watches were formed in the district.
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The mayor urged those in attendance to continue their vigilance and efforts to make neighborhoods safe for everyone.
“My vision is to have a city where grandmothers can sit on their porch and watch their grandchildren play, regardless of the economic situation in the neighborhood.” Barrett said. “Block watches play a big part in that.”

created: December 20, 2011


text:
6 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dave
April 7, 2012


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Happy holidays to all! | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Jim McGowan
December 20, 2011
We hope the holidays bring joy and peace to the city, its neighborhoods and our readers. News Leads will resume after New Year’s.


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Milwaukee Childhood Obesity Prevention Project (MCOPP) leadership team meeting | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
December 22, 2011

created: December 22, 2011


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15th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Breakfast | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
December 23, 2011

created: December 23, 2011


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Walnut Way Community Meeting | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
December 25, 2011

created: December 25, 2011


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Walnut Way Public Tour | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
December 25, 2011


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Holiday lights evoke “feeling of Christmas” | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
December 26, 2011
The classic Christmas carol, Silver Bells, describes the scene like this: “Strings of street lights, even stop lights, blink a bright red and green, as the shoppers rush home with their treasures.” Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service photographers Jen Janviere and Sue Vliet captured the city’s sidewalks “dressed in holiday style.” From downtown to the neighborhoods, Milwaukee’s streets reflected the spirit of the season.

created: December 26, 2011


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6576655475_8ae0b58c30_b | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dave
April 7, 2012


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Washington Park Partners starts new year with new plan | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
December 27, 2011
Houses on Lloyd Street, across from Washington Park. (Photo by Andrea Waxman)
After watching Milwaukee’s Washington Park neighborhood “disintegrate in a lot of ways” since he moved there more than 40 years ago, Mike Howden is optimistic about the community’s future.
“It’s been very sad to see things change so much. When we first moved here, there was neighborhood shopping, including grocery stores and dime stores, and none of that exists at this point,” said Howden, who moved to 40th Street across from the park in 1981. However, Howden pointed out that good things have happened and are happening now.
He and other residents, business owners, organizations and community development agencies, working together as Washington Park Partners, are beginning to implement a new five-year Sustainable Community Plan, which they developed over the last year and a half.
LISC (Local Initiatives Support Corporation), a facilitator of the planning process, defines sustainable communities as places where residents of varied incomes have the opportunity to build assets, participate in their communities and become part of the mainstream economy.
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The new plan for a sustainable Washington Park focuses on seven core areas, each with its own committee and detailed action steps. The seven are: 1) housing; 2) arts and culture; 3) jobs and business; 4) education; 5) the park; 6) health and wellness; and safety.
For each core area, the plan lists action steps and detailed sub-steps. The plan assigns a specific time period, team of lead agency and partners, and performance measure to each action step.
For example, the housing committee’s initial goals include: demolishing half of the vacant structures that are a hazard (the second half will be demolished in 2013); commissioning a market study to determine the need for senior housing; and developing housing for homeless individuals with on‐site supportive services at 35th and Lisbon.
“People need good quality shelter in order to feel like valued members of society,” said LISC’s Director of Sustainable Communities Christopher Boston. “Housing always emerges as … a strong emphasis in any plan.”
Houses on N. 41st Street, near Washington Park. (Photo by Andrea Waxman)
Boston pointed out that housing development can stimulate other improvements. For example, affordable housing initiatives such as Toussaint Square and Columbia Square on North Avenue, and construction of six town homes on 39th Street by United Methodist Children’s Services helped stimulate the Urban Ecology Center in Washington Park.
Howden and his wife serve on the health and wellness committee, among other activities. They are particularly concerned with bringing healthy food into Washington Park, which Howden says is a “food desert.” During 2012, the committee plans to offer cooking demonstrations that encourage residents to prepare healthy foods; promote a Vliet Street Green Market; promote gardens and gardeners in the neighborhood; and create and sustain a SHARE Mobile Market. SHARE is a non-profit food-buying club for healthy, affordable food.
Lack of jobs is the main challenge facing Washington Park residents, according to business owner and professional community advocate Teig Whaley-Smith. “The primary reason that we have all of these other problems is because of the issue of poverty and people not having job opportunities,” he said. For that reason, the plan is based on building a neighborhood that is healthy in a multi-faceted way “so it becomes an attractive place for businesses to locate, for people to make investments and, for people who are already working, to move into the neighborhood.”
Whaley-Smith, an attorney and consultant operating his own business in the neighborhood, serves as sustainable communities director for Washington Park Partners. He grew up in the community in the 1980s and is upbeat about the improvements that have taken place there since then.
After completing his education, Whaley-Smith decided to move his family back to Washington Park. The high level of commitment of all of the parties now working in the neighborhood has softened many of the challenges he faced growing up, he said.
“When I was growing up in the neighborhood, there were many more abandoned buildings. We didn’t have organizations like United Methodist Children’s Services (Washington Park Partners’ lead agency) or the Urban Ecology Center or Progressive [Community] Health [Centers] clinic [on Lisbon Avenue] or all these other people that are doing great work in the neighborhood.” Gangs were prevalent then and “we didn’t have Westside Academy, Our Next Generation and all of these people working with young people.”
He added, “There are days, already, when I think you would be crazy to be living anywhere else.”

created: December 27, 2011


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Washington Park Partners starts new year with new plan | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
December 27, 2011


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20112801_lhqolmeetingii1 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dave
April 7, 2012


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
May 20, 2014


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28th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Birthday Celebration | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Jim McGowan
January 10, 2012

created: January 10, 2012


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BID 32 eyes banner year in 2012 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Sue Vliet
January 11, 2012
Photo by Sue Vliet
If you feel welcome when you drive along Fond du Lac from 18 to 27 Street, it might be because of the banners hanging from the signposts. The banners read, “Welcome to Marketplace: Advancing Economic and Environmental Innovations.” Marketplace refers to the North Avenue/Fond du Lac Marketplace Business Improvement District. Located in Lindsay Heights, BID 32 works to advance the economic and environmental goals of local businesses, entrepreneurs and community organizations.

created: January 11, 2012

author: Sue Vliet


text:
6671058371_0211c2ea92_b | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dave
April 7, 2012


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3rd Annual Mardi Gras Ball | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
January 12, 2012

created: January 12, 2012


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Clarke Square neighborhood organizer wins award | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Edgar Mendez
January 12, 2012
Manni Marquez sits at his desk inside of Journey House’s administrative office building, 1818 W. National Ave. (Photo by Edgar Mendez)
Manni Marquez, director of the Clarke Square Neighborhood Initiative (CSNI), was recently selected as the 2011 “Mi Comunidad” award winner. The award recognizes an unsung hero in Milwaukee’s Hispanic community each year. Marquez has been active in the Clarke Square neighborhood for more than 15 years.
Manni Marquez, director of the Clarke Square Neighborhood Initiative (CSNI), was recently selected as the 2011 “Mi Comunidad” award winner. The award, sponsored by local television stations MY 24 (WCGV) and CW 18 (WVTV) along with the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Wisconsin (HCCW), honors an unsung hero in Milwaukee’s Hispanic community each year.
“Manni’s efforts stood out to us; he’s making a big difference in the revitalization efforts in the Clarke Square neighborhood,” said David Ford, general manager of WCGV and WVTV.
Marquez, born in Milwaukee, began working at Journey House as a gang intervention specialist in the 1990s. He said the award is a culmination of all the hard work that everyone has done to revitalize the neighborhood.
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“The award is a reflection of the collective efforts of the Zilber Family Foundation, Journey House as the lead agency of the CSNI, and all our volunteers and business partners,” Marquez said.
Clarke Square was one of the first two neighborhoods selected to participate in Zilber Neighborhood Initiative, a comprehensive effort to improve the quality of life in the neighborhood.
Marquez added that the Clarke Square neighborhood used to be known mostly for its high-crime rates and low employment opportunities, but things have changed since the revitalization efforts began a few years ago. He said he hopes that the award sheds even more positive light on the neighborhood, encouraging investment and increased community involvement there.
Marquez will receive the award on Jan. 21, at the HCCW’s 22nd annual gala at the Potawatomi Casino Expo Center.
Manni Marquez sits at his desk at Journey House’s administrative offices, 1818 W. National Ave. (Photo by Edgar Mendez)


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6681204041_796ef602cc_oII | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dave
April 7, 2012


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Walnut Way Community Meeting | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
January 12, 2012


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Walnut Way Public Tour | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
January 12, 2012


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Running Rebels sponsors logo contest for anti-violence campaign | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
January 16, 2012
Running Rebels is sponsoring a logo contest open to youths aged 10-19 for the “It Just Takes One (You)” anti-violence campaign started in September. The winner will receive a $300 cash prize and a $200 gift card.
Rebels members Makeisha Young and Alyandra Maneese, with their adult advisor Norma Balentine, came up with the campaign to get youth and adults to pledge to be that one person who makes a difference in someone’s life and in their community.
The logo design competition is open to all southeast Wisconsin youth ages 10-19. Each participant may submit one design. The entry must be the artist’s original design and should contain no religious or potentially insulting images. Submit designs along with the entry form. Click here for contest rules and submission details. The deadline for entries is Jan. 31.
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created: January 16, 2012


text:
State budget cuts lengthen commute times for south siders | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Edgar Mendez
January 16, 2012


text:
BusChanges1II | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dave
April 7, 2012


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Discussion series set in honor of Black History Month | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Jim McGowan
January 17, 2012
“Changing Our Ways to Strengthen Our Lives,” a discussion series aimed at African American adults, will be held on four Tuesday evenings in February at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 3617 N. 48th St.
The first topic, “Black Folks: In Need of a Movement?” will take place from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 7 at the church. Facilitators are Tyanna McLaurin, Demetrius Brown, Sr., and Venice R. Williams.
The sessions are sponsored by SeedFolks Youth Ministry. For more information, email Williams or call her at (414) 687-0122.
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created: January 17, 2012


text:
Centro Legal attorney serves the Milwaukee community | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Allison Kruschke and Katie Doherty
January 18, 2012
Photo by Katie Doherty
Jason Mishelow has parlayed his passion for public service and his legal skills into a career that helps needy families in Milwaukee.
Mishelow is a senior attorney and chief financial officer at Centro Legal, a free legal clinic whose lawyers help underprivileged clients navigate a mazelike legal system. He said the clinic’s charitable spirit and his desire to serve his native Milwaukee drew him to the position 10 years ago.
“I’ve always been into public interest,” said Mishelow, who earned his law degree from Georgetown University in 2002. “That’s where all my internships were during college and during law school. I started calling service organizations in town, and [Centro Legal] was a good fit.”
Centro Legal, located on Milwaukee’s south side, provides legal services in English and Spanish for people who cannot afford an attorney. Four full-time attorneys specialize in family law, misdemeanor criminal defense and domestic violence issues.
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Mishelow’s duties include meeting with clients who come to Centro Legal and assessing how their problems can be addressed. Clients often need more than just legal help.
“We don’t pretend that we can solve all of these people’s issues,” Mishelow said. “That’s why we partner with so many other organizations. We can only do what we are the best at.”
Many of the cases that Mishelow and his colleagues deal with involve domestic violence. For these clients, Centro Legal waives its fee through a grant from the United Way.
Mishelow added that domestic violence cases are tough, particularly when children are involved. He said he tries to find ways for families to make plans such as custody arrangements without prolonging the conflict with a trial.
“Any good attorney will admit that we cannot create a plan as well as the family can,” he said. “Sometimes they just need the extra help when they are unable to do it.”
Seeing the success that his clients find through Centro Legal makes the job worthwhile, Mishelow said.
“There was a situation where the parties came to the United States and the husband said, ‘Get out, and don’t try and see your kids again,’ ” recalled Mishelow. “We were able to help [the mother] present a case that showed what really happened—and she was able to win full custody.”
Centro Legal serves hundreds of Milwaukee families per year. Appointments are in high demand, and some people try for weeks to get one of the 23 one-hour time slots available each week. Mishelow said that this highlights the need Milwaukee families have for affordable legal services.
“That’s 1,000 people a year if everyone shows up,” he said. “Even with that, we’re not coming close to solving the needs that are out there.”
The nonprofit Centro Legal clinic has provided free bilingual legal services for 20 years on Milwaukee’s south side. The need is particularly strong in family courts, according to Heather Ramirez, executive director.
[read the post]
This story is part of a special report focusing on eight agencies that provide services to neighborhood residents in a variety of communities. Students from Marquette’s Diederich College of Communication created the pieces under the supervision of Prof. Herbert Lowe and NNS Editor Sharon McGowan.
[see the stories]

created: January 18, 2012


text:
Jason_CourthouseII | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
January 17, 2012


text:
Changing Our Ways to Strengthen Our Lives | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
January 18, 2012


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Teens speak out at Martin Luther King Day event | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
January 20, 2012
“What advice can you give us, as adults, when it comes to dealing with you, as young adults, so that we aren’t turned off or discouraged about how you will receive us?”
“Sit down and talk to us. Be more open with us. You don’t have to be too open, but show a little more empathy for us.”
This exchange was typical of the frank discussion between educators and leaders of youth organizations and teens from Urban Underground and Pathfinders, during a “Youth Speakout” session during the 12 Annual Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. Observance of the Kujichagulia Lutheran Center.
Urban Underground is a leadership development organization focusing on youth development, academic enrichment, and civic engagement. Pathfinders helps youth and families in crisis gain control over their lives, connect to others, and become contributors to the community.
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“At MPS, we are not even being prepared for college. So what are we there for? Give us a reason to be there,” said teen participant Marquisa Wince, of Urban Underground.
In addition to the quality of Milwaukee Public Schools and the barriers separating teens and their adult teachers and mentors, participants expressed other concerns during the speakout. Among those were the negative portrayal of black youth in the local media, the difficulty teachers have bridging the generation gap with students, how to express respect and how teens like those present might influence other teens who are behaving badly around them.
The Youth Speakout followed two morning workshop sessions that offered five topics taught by area educators and leaders of community organizations. Topics included education and African history and culture.
More than 200 people attended the observance, according to Kujichagulia director Venice Williams. The event was held at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 3617 N. 48 St., because the Kujichagulia Lutheran Center is undergoing repairs. It was co-sponsored by SeedFolks Youth Ministry; YMCA of Metropolitan Milwaukee; Center for Resilient Cities; Jack and Jill of America, Inc., Milwaukee Chapter; and the Volunteer Center of Greater Milwaukee.
For some, it’s a day of service. For others, it’s a day of reflection. For all of us, it’s a day of unity. Follow the link below to see more stories of organizations and community members in Milwaukee honoring and celebrating the enduring message of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
[read the stories]

created: January 20, 2012


text:
6712011265_4f9158b6ac | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
January 20, 2012


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Connecting Communities Event | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
January 27, 2012

created: January 27, 2012


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Elvis tribute band heats up the Domes | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
January 31, 2012
Amid the crusty mounds of snow and salt-covered sidewalks that typically characterize the January landscape, some Milwaukeeans recently found respite at the Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory, known as “The Domes.”
In the balmy setting of the Floral Show Dome, attendees rocked to the music of an Elvis tribute band, All the King’s Men. The event, one in a weekly winter Thursday evening series of live concerts called “Music Under Glass,” also featured an Elvis costume contest with a $100 prize and a light show.
For admission fees and a listing of live performers appearing through March 22 at the Domes, 524 S. Layton Blvd., click here.
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created: January 31, 2012


text:
6768772323_a2dfbd93b5_z | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dave
April 7, 2012


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Young people draw inspiration from local artists | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Sharon McGowan
January 31, 2012
Works by young artists took center stage at the recent opening of an exhibit at the COA Riverwest Center gallery. (Photos by Jennifer Janviere)
Young artists from COA Riverwest Center recently displayed their work at the center gallery at 631 E. Center St.
“At a time when young people can no longer expect an introduction to art through their schools, COA’s programs are more important than ever,” said Kari Nervig, COA’s Youth Development director. “The local artists we introduce our youth to come from the same roots they do, and they are able to show young people how they can use their life experiences to express themselves in healthy, creative ways.”
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Milwaukee artist Reginald Baylor and Vedale Hill (who began as a COA participant at age 5 and now teaches the art program) and the young artists attended the opening. The program is funded in part by the Mary Nohl Foundation and the Helen Bader Foundation.


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6774122333_6f027228ab | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
January 31, 2012


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Art by Pamela Diaz Martinez | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Delara Bastani
February 2, 2012

created: February 2, 2012


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Art Installation Celebrates Borges | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Delara Bastani
February 2, 2012


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Music performance by Mango Blue | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Delara Bastani
February 2, 2012


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Black History Month Celebration | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
February 5, 2012

created: February 5, 2012


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Healthy Women, Healthy Living | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
February 5, 2012


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Interfaith vigil supports immigrants | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Jim McGowan
February 5, 2012
Voces de la Frontera will host a bilingual interfaith vigil demonstrating solidarity  with immigrants facing deportation at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 7 at Ascension Lutheran Church, 1236 S. Layton Blvd. Refreshments will be served  afterwards in celebration of El Dia de la Candelaria.
For more information, call Voces de la Frontera, 414-643-1620 ext. 208.


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Ninth Annual Daddy/Daughter Dance | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
February 5, 2012


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Great job opportunity from Lindsay Heights! | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
February 7, 2012
Walnut Way and the Lindsay Heights Neighborhood Health Alliance are hiring a Project Coordinator to manage their Healthy Corner Stores Initiative. The goal of this project is to work with store owners and community partners to increase fresh produce sold in three corner stores in Lindsay Heights. The project is grant funded in partnership with the Medical College of Wisconsin and the City of Milwaukee Health Department.
They are looking for an energetic person with strong community engagement skills and project management experience. This is a 50% position that will start in March 2012 and complete in December 2013. Deadline to Apply: February 17, 2012 at 5:00pm. Interested candidates should submit a letter of interest, resume and 3 references to:
Sharon Adams
2240 N. 17th Street
Milwaukee, WI 53205
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created: February 7, 2012


text:
Health fair planned at North Division HS | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Jim McGowan
February 7, 2012
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee will host a resource fair to promote health by increasing awareness and access to community wellness resources from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 25 at North Division High School, 1011 W. Center St.
A basketball tournament, sponsored by Milwaukee Recreation Division, will take place in conjunction with the event. More than 1,000 people are expected to attend. Anyone interested in being an exhibitor should register by Wednesday, Feb. 15. There is no charge for exhibitors.
For more information, email Sarah Tyree-Francis, Health & Life Skills Program Manager-CAPS, or Laura Christenbury, Milwaukee Reality Check Coalition and Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee, or call Laura at (414) 447-5333 ext. 250.
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text:
Child sexual abuse prevention workshop | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
February 8, 2012

created: February 8, 2012


text:
Cooking for the soul | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
February 10, 2012

created: February 10, 2012


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African American Children’s Theatre | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
February 14, 2012

created: February 14, 2012


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District 2 Crime & Safety Meeting | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
February 14, 2012


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LBWN 2012 executive breakfast | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
February 14, 2012


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Special Report: Latino English language learners outperform non-ELL peers | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Edgar Mendez
February 20, 2012
(Photo by Tessa Fox)
Once non-native speakers learn English, they score higher on state proficiency tests in reading and math than their non-ELL peers. An analysis of MPS data on English Language Learners (ELL) found that this pattern holds true for the district as a whole, and is even more pronounced in the south side elementary schools with the largest percentage of Spanish-speaking ELL students.
Nearly 80 percent of ELL students at the seven schools are proficient in reading, compared to 61 percent of non-ELL students. Similarly, 73 percent of ELL students are proficient in math, compared to 52 percent of non-ELL students.
Looking at students who began as ELL students and transitioned into mainstream classes (known as Level 6), 96 percent are proficient in reading and 97.7 percent are proficient in math.
The findings are based on data from the 2009-2010 Wisconsin Knowledge and Concepts Examination Criterion-Referenced Tests (WKCE-CRT) in reading and math, which are designed by the Department of Public Instruction (DPI) and Wisconsin educators in conjunction with CTB/McGraw-Hill.
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The elementary and middle schools included in the study (Allen-Field, Forest Home Avenue, Greenfield Bilingual, Hayes Bilingual, Longfellow, Mitchell and Vieau) are all those with more than 30 percent ELL students within the 53204 and 53215 zip codes, both predominantly Hispanic areas of Milwaukee.
In Wisconsin, ELL students are classified into one of six levels. Students’ levels do not correspond to their grade level. Students in ELL levels 1 – 5 commonly share the same classroom.
The percentage of students proficient in reading and math generally increases as students move up through the levels.
Once students reach the fourth level of English language proficiency, they outperform their non-ELL peers in math at all seven schools, and in reading at five of the seven.
Jesus Santos, director of bilingual-multicultural education for Milwaukee Public Schools, explained that the schools provide differentiated instruction based on which level of English proficiency a student falls into. ELL students are then able to work within both their grade and proficiency level, according to Santos.
“We get new students all throughout the year. For example, we might get fourth- grade students who’ve just arrived from El Salvador or Mexico and they’ll have very different needs than other students in their class,” Santos said.
Professor Javier Tapia, who teaches educational policy at University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, said his research confirms that ELL students are outperforming their peers, especially native-born Latinos. He suggested that’s because ELL students display a more positive attitude towards schooling.
“Immigrant students can compare their educational experience in Milwaukee to that of their home countries; they see that there are more resources present in MPS than the schools they came from and as such tend to remain engaged and focused for a longer period of time,” Tapia said.
Success in elementary and middle school does not necessarily keep ELL students in MPS.
“We lose them (ELL students) continuously to private or parochial schools and some to Chapter 220 (open enrollment),” Santos said.
Santos said that in Latin American culture, people sometimes correlate attending a more prestigious school with higher social status.
In addition, Tapia said that successful ELL students who leave neighborhood schools by the time they reach high school might actually be better off.
“You may have a number of ELL students who are proficient at the elementary and middle school level but if they end up in a high school that is troubled and doesn’t provide a good orderly environment, the students might get sidetracked,” Tapia said.
He added that his research has found that those who leave the district for suburban schools are more likely to be successful because they are in an environment with high “cultural capital.” Places with high cultural capital have “available resources based on group memberships, relationships and networks of influence and support,” he said.
Cultural capital and English proficiency are the highest predictors of student achievement, Tapia noted.
At MPS, English proficiency is a goal, but transitioning students out of ELL courses is not, according to Maria Sanchez, longtime principal at Greenfield School, 1711 S. 35th St. More important is maintaining their language and their culture.
“We have numerous activities and programs here at the school which reflect both languages and cultures,” said Sanchez, who was born in Waukesha to Spanish-speaking parents.
Like Greenfield, nearly all MPS schools — including those in the study except Hayes, which uses a two-way bilingual model — follow the developmental model of bilingual education, which stresses maintaining the student’s native language and culture rather than focusing solely on learning English.
Santos, the director of bilingual-multicultural education for MPS, pointed out that the developmental model is different than many programs in the state “because it focuses on helping the students gain the native language literacy skills first and then we make a transition to English.”
According to Santos, kindergarten starts at 80-20 percent Spanish to English, first grade is 70-30 percent Spanish to English, and by seventh grade instruction reaches a 90-10 English to Spanish ratio.
“It takes from 5-7 years to completely acquire a language; language acquisition is a slow process but it is quicker when you do (it) at an early age,” Santos added.
But a patient approach can also hinder schools that depend largely on federal funding from Title III of No Child Left Behind (NCLB) to pay for learning materials and extra teachers to help bilingual students.
NCLB Title III is designed to assist immigrant and limited English proficient (LEP) students in achieving grade-level and graduation standards as well as acquiring English.
Because math and reading proficiency rates must be reported for the school as a whole rather than by ELL level, Title III funds could be in jeopardy if too many students are at lower ELL levels, Santos said. In other words, schools with students who need the most help are more likely to lose funding under NCLB.
The gradual approach is also a challenge for some parents, who tire of hearing that their child is not yet proficient, according to Maria Gonzalez-Nunez, who teaches fourth grade at Greenfield. She said that some choose to remove their children from ELL courses, preferring the “sink or swim” model of English learning that was common for early U.S. immigrants.
Gonzalez-Nunez said that she tries to convince parents that eventually their children will not just be on the level with their peers, but they will excel.
At that point, language becomes a non-issue and the challenge becomes making sure students maintain their Spanish.
“We don’t want them to substitute one language for another,” Santos said. “We want them to be bilingual.

created: February 20, 2012


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Adam Carr
December 1, 2012

created: December 1, 2012


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nns_specialreport_trimmed1 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dave
April 7, 2012


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Artists to perform South American folk music | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Jim McGowan
February 20, 2012
Arpa y Bandolas, a six-piece folklore band that plays the “llanera”  music of western Venezuela and eastern Colombia, will perform at 7:30 p.m. Friday, March 16 at Latino Arts, Inc. Auditorium & Gallery, 1028 S. 9th Street.
The organization also will offer student performances at  10:30 a.m. March 15 and 16.  Visit latinoartsinc.org for tickets and pricing.
For more information, email Jon Waldbauer or call (414) 384-3100.
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Hard-working teachers help Greenfield students excel | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Edgar Mendez
February 20, 2012
(Photo by Tessa Fox)
Greenfield Bilingual School, like the other six schools in the study conducted by Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service, is having the greatest success with a subset of students: those who’ve mastered two languages.
Ninety-three percent of Greenfield’s 373 students are Hispanic, and 43 percent are classified as ELL.
As Maria Sanchez, longtime principal at Greenfield put it, eventually most ELL students will “break the code” and enter all-English classrooms if they choose to do so.
Of 71 students who were formerly in ELL classes (Level 6), 96 percent were proficient in reading and 93 percent were proficient in math on state standardized tests in 2009-10. That compares to 73 percent proficient in reading and 68 percent proficient in math for those who were always English speakers (Level 7).
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No single reason explains the difference in achievement levels between ELL and non-ELL students. But according to Maria Gonzalez-Nunez, who teaches fourth grade at Greenfield and has been at the school for 10 years, the main reason is the rigorous curriculum and standards that ELL teachers set for their students in order for them to maintain fluency in both languages.
“We have a very hard-working staff here and we make sure to articulate to the kids that they need not just to be bilingual but also not to be choppy and speak the languages clearly,” Gonzalez-Nunez said.
Gonzalez-Nunez teaches in room 32C, surrounded by 18 smiling faces. On this day she is teaching reading lessons in Spanish. She focuses on seven principles: comprehension, fluency, phonics, spelling, grammar, vocabulary and writing. Next week she will teach reading in English.
Gonzalez-Nunez teaches math a little differently than reading. She spends the first half of the year teaching math in Spanish and the second half teaching it in English. She says that her teaching schedule is based on guidelines set by the district.
One of the many challenges she faces is having students of all English proficiency levels in the same classroom. She points out one child who is newer to the country and the language than most of her students.
He’s picking up the language quickly, said Gonzalez-Nunez. “He’s beginning to communicate more and talk to his peers in English,” she added.
Like Gonzalez-Nunez, 6 grade teacher Luis Lopez said that he spends countless hours preparing lesson plans that accommodate students of varying levels of English proficiency, including some who were born in the U.S. but speak Spanish at home and others who have just arrived from Mexico or the Dominican Republic.
Lopez, who was born in Puerto Rico and has taught at Greenfield since 2000, has a teaching degree and bilingual certificate from Carroll University in Waukesha, with a master’s degree in administrative leadership from UWM.
“This year budget cuts have left me without a helper most of the time, so I teach all subjects; I literally feel like I split myself in ten,” Lopez said.
“There is no magic solution,” he added, “but if the parent gets involved you can take giant steps towards helping a student become proficient.”
But there is no way to control what happens outside of school. For example, poverty and parents who are unable to help their children add to the challenges, said Gonzalez-Nunez, who was born in Mexico, as were her parents.
“I know the feeling of not being able to be helped at home,” she said.
Greenfield offers English classes for parents of its students.


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img_1047 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
February 19, 2012

created: February 19, 2012


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Neu-Life black history program | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
February 20, 2012


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We Are The Drum | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
February 20, 2012


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“We Are The Drum” | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
February 20, 2012


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WMSA Music Festival | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
February 20, 2012


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Journey House family dinner night | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
February 21, 2012

created: February 21, 2012


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Silver City Photo Request? | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Delara Bastani
February 21, 2012
I am trying to locate any old photos of the original Silver City Recreations Center/Bowling Alley that used to occupy the corner of 38th or 37th and National Avenue in Milwaukee. My husband’s grandfather used to own the facility in the 1950s and sold it in 1962. His name was Louis Evanich. If you have any information in your archives, especially photos, please contact Paula Evanich, at pevanich@hotmail.com.


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Tweet and toast our first anniversary | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
February 21, 2012
Hosted by: Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service with the Diederich College of Communication
When: Thursday, March 22 from 5-6:30 PM
Where: Johnston Hall jPad (first floor student lounge) 1131 W. Wisconsin Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53233
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
Speaker: James Causey, Journal Sentinel columnist
The Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service (a project of United Neighborhood Centers of Milwaukee) and Marquette University’s Diederich College of Communication are hosting a Tweetup* to observe the first anniversary of NNS. Journal Sentinel columnist and editorial writer James Causey will speak about covering urban affairs.
Join us for refreshments, live tweeting, a compelling speaker and a chance to celebrate with the staff!
RSVP today!
*Tweetup: A gathering of users brought together via Twitter.


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Tweet and toast our first anniversary | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
February 21, 2012


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CDC Forum and Happy Hour | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
February 24, 2012

created: February 24, 2012


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CDC Forum and Happy Hour | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Delara Bastani
February 24, 2012


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Community development forum and happy hour | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
February 24, 2012


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The 2012 MANDI Awards | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
February 24, 2012


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2012 MANDI Awards | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
February 24, 2012


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“Becoming a Love and Logic Parent” Class | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
February 26, 2012

created: February 26, 2012


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Sleeping Inside Our Bodies | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
February 26, 2012


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Sleeping Inside Our Bodies | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Delara Bastani
February 26, 2012


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Bilingual entrepreneurs compete for $3,000 grants | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Edgar Mendez
February 27, 2012
Vanessa Gonzalez (left) and Adelaida Alvarez of Nail It! salon present their business plan to a panel. (Photo by Edgar Mendez)
Prospective business owners Adelaida Alvarez and Vanessa Gonzalez sat anxiously at a cluttered table in the lobby of the Multicultural Entrepreneurial Institute (MEI), 612 W. National Ave., and reviewed their notes. Finally their names were called. They walked confidently into a boardroom to pitch their business plan for a family-friendly nail salon to three judges.
The women’s salon was among a group of 10 businesses that received three months of free business training provided by MEI, in partnership with the Clarke Square Neighborhood Initiative (CSNI) and LISC Milwaukee. Alvarez and Gonzalez were vying for a $3,000 grant to improve or start up their companies.
The Nail It! salon was one of three businesses awarded a grant. The others were Mr. Sebass, a Peruvian restaurant at 3427 W. National Ave., and the Boriké Bakery, which, like the salon, has yet to finalize a location. The grants will be used to fund business products and services such as materials or accounting, rather than being disbursed as cash awards.
“The grant will give me a push and help me provide marketing, buy business cards and open my first retail store,” said Jocelyn Santos, of Boriké Bakery.
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Santos, who currently works out of her home, specializes in making authentic Puerto Rican pastries such as quesitos, pastelitos de guayaba and besitos de coco. She said that what will set her bakery apart from others is the authentic ingredients she uses to give her sweets that Puerto Rico taste.
Santos, along with the other owners received training in business development, legal issues, marketing and finance plans, among other skills. The owners also earned a Bilingual Entrepreneurial Certificate.
The companies ranged from construction and copy centers to cleaners and retail businesses.
The pilot training program, now in its second year, is part of an initiative to support and create diverse businesses to serve the needs of residents in Clarke Square and other south side neighborhoods.
CSNI, the main funder of the program, has been working to promote economic development as part of the Quality of Life plan for Clarke Square.
“We’re trying to create a platform that cultivates the entrepreneurial drive and spirit of our neighborhood’s residents and to spur increased economic development,” said Manni Marquez, director of the CSNI.
Nelson Soler, president and founder of MEI, created the program in 2006 to help fill entrepreneurship gaps in minority communities. Since then, he has provided business training to more than 700 people.
In addition to training new business owners and prospective owners, MEI also provides workshops and seminars in finance and real estate, marketing, blueprint reading and social marketing, among other services.
Soler urges new entrepreneurs to make sure to start a business they are passionate about.
“If you choose to start a business only for the money you usually fail,” Soler said.
Adelaida Alvarez and Vanessa Gonzalez prepare to present their business plan. (Photo by Edgar Mendez)

created: February 27, 2012


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Dave
April 7, 2012


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Gilda’s Club takes cancer support to the neighborhoods | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
February 27, 2012
Korean drummer Saehee Chang at Gilda’s Club’s Jewish Community Center site. (Photos by Andrea Waxman)
When Oakland Avenue in Shorewood turned into a river during the flood of July 2010, water poured into the building that housed Gilda’s Club of Southeastern Wisconsin and caused extensive damage. But the cancer support organization turned the natural disaster into an opportunity.
“One of the things that I always noticed about Milwaukee is that people like to stay in their neighborhoods, and we heard a lot of people say, ‘Oh, you’re too far away, you’re all the way in Shorewood,’” said Susan Mingesz, clinical program director at Gilda’s Club of Southeastern Wisconsin.
“We understand that when people have cancer it’s very hard to travel across town, possibly in bad weather, possibly when your feet may be slightly numb from chemotherapy,” Mingesz said. “There were several of us who really felt it was too bad we couldn’t be in more communities.”
When the directors of the Jewish Community Center in Whitefish Bay and Agape Community Center in Milwaukee’s Thurston Woods neighborhood offered space in their buildings, Gilda’s Club was happy to accept.
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Initially, Gilda’s Club opened a “living room” at the JCC because it is closest to its former clubhouse. About a year ago, it began to offer programs at Agape Community Center.
The activities, wellness groups and information sessions Gilda’s Club offers to people with cancer and their families did not attract many people at Agape in its first year there.
“I think it’s hard for people who often can be very busy, who are sick with cancer and aren’t quite sure why they should take the time to come to a community center,” said Mingesz.
Getting support is important, she said, because cancer impacts lives in so many ways. The disease and its treatment often cause trauma to the body that affects a person’s body image, position in the family, financial situation, social life and sense of control.
Gilda’s Club offers help through support groups, workshops, healthy lifestyle information and activities, lectures and a resource library, Mingesz explained. The organization also offers social and cultural activities such as a Korean drumming workshop held recently at the Jewish Community Center site.
“Gilda’s Club [at Agape] is really in it for the long haul, even though to this point we haven’t had people come. We want people in the community to know that we aren’t going to abandon them,” Mingesz said.
She plans to work with local churches and others in the neighborhood to get the word out that Gilda’s Club is at the Agape Community Center to help people with cancer. A new schedule of programs will be offered there, beginning in March.
Until the flood, the local Gilda’s Club, like all Gilda’s Clubs in the U.S., held most of its programs at centralized “clubhouses.” Since it lacked the funds to repair the building, Gilda’s Club asked its parent organization for permission to give up the clubhouse and pilot a program at various locations in the community.
The parent organization granted permission, and Southeastern Wisconsin became the first Gilda’s Club to move all of its activities into other community facilities.
It is now also offering Spanish language cancer support in Waukesha at the Hispanic Community Resource Center, a department of ProHealth Care as well as programs at other locations throughout the area.
For more information about Gilda’s Club at the Agape Community Center, contact Justine at 414-962-8201 x102 or jlucore@gildasclubsewi.org.
Reopal Holmes and Judy Lewy attend a meeting of the Gilda’s Club Wellness Group at the Jewish Community Center. (Photo by Andrea Waxman)


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Adam Carr
February 26, 2012


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6921243505_4d5dcb0dc5_o | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
February 26, 2012


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Make A Difference with Match Day in Milwaukee | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
February 27, 2012
The Greater Milwaukee Foundation announced that on March 8, individuals, businesses and others will have a chance to support organizations in the Milwaukee community that are helping meet individual’s basic needs. On Match Day, every donation will be matched. Coordinated by the foundation, Match Day will benefit 19 Milwaukee organizations.
Area funders including the Brewers Community Foundation, The Ceres Foundation, Faye McBeath Foundation and The United Way of Greater Milwaukee have pledged to match $675,000.
“With Match Day, we want to leverage support from the community and increase the capacity of those nonprofits to meet the demand for their services,” said Ellen M. Gilligan, president and CEO of The Greater Milwaukee Foundation.
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Roll-your-own ruling unfair | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Tina Rivera
February 28, 2012
Dear Editor,
For many years, the Wisconsin Hispanic/Latino Tobacco Prevention Network (WHTPN) has been working hard to reduce smoking rates in the Milwaukee area and across the state.
On Feb. 24 we took a step in the wrong direction when a Madison judge ruled that roll-your-own (RYO) cigarette stores can continue to dodge the state’s cigarette tax. As a network of Hispanics, we think this injunction blocking the crackdown on RYO machines is unfair to our community.
Cigarettes made in a RYO store are no different from those made in a factory and should be taxed the same. Untaxed RYO cigarettes are harming our communities since cheaper cigarettes encourage our kids to start smoking and make it harder for adults to quit.
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In Wisconsin, tobacco already costs each household an average of nearly $2,000 a year in health care costs and lost productivity. WHTPN has worked hard to lower these costs by helping adults quit smoking and preventing tens of thousands of kids from picking up this dangerous lifelong habit.
Taxing RYO cigarettes isn’t just a matter of fairness – more importantly, it’s a matter of keeping our kids and communities healthy and strong.
Sincerely,
Tina Rivera
Milwaukee

created: February 28, 2012

author: Tina Rivera


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Tweet and Toast | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
February 29, 2012

created: February 29, 2012


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Prescription assistance from SDC | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
March 6, 2012
Income eligible patients can get assistance with filling prescriptions through a program coordinated by the Social Development Commission (SDC). The Prescription Advocacy and Referral Service (PARS) program is a service that helps low-income residents get free or low-cost medications from participating pharmaceutical companies. To find out more about the PARS program, visit the SDC website at www.cr-sdc.org and click on the “Program” page and then the link for “PARs” or call 414-906-2306.


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Bruce Guadalupe students explore ‘Mockingbird’ with Milwaukee Rep | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
March 6, 2012
Students practice a scene from “To Kill a Mockingbird.” (Photo by Andrea Waxman)
On a recent Wednesday at the Bruce Guadalupe Community School, 25 eighth-graders in Sarah Schindler’s language arts class sat attentively in a semi-circle. The students began to discuss character motivation, read from a script and act out scenes, guided by a visitor from Milwaukee Repertory Theater. Gradually, they morphed from subdued observers to lively participants in an exploration of the classic American novel, “To Kill a Mockingbird.”
“There are lots of activities within the curriculum that allow students to empathize with the characters,” said Rep Education Coordinator Leda Hoffman, who created the curriculum. “And unless you can empathize with the characters you are reading about, reading isn’t very interesting or fun.”
Bruce Guadalupe, in the Walker’s Point neighborhood, is one of seven MPS middle and high schools participating in The Rep’s Reading Residencies. At Bruce Guadalupe, three eighth-grade classes comprising about 70 students are involved. The 20-week literacy program aims to strengthen reading skills and familiarize city students with live theater performance. The program culminates in a Rep Immersion Day at the Powerhouse Theater. There the technical crew hosts a behind-the-scenes presentation and a full professional production follows.
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Schindler has been surprised that some students who don’t usually participate in her class jump in with enthusiasm when Rep Education Assistant Neal Easterling is there.
“It gives the students another environment where they might be more comfortable, where they’re reading out loud, where they’re acting, they’re getting up, they’re moving around. It’s more interactive than my class and it allows more students to be involved,” Schindler said.
“We’ve talked about themes such as intolerance and racism and growing up,” Schindler said. “The students are often able to make connections with what they’ve experienced and what they’ve seen on TV. They like it because they can connect with it. “
Rep Artistic Director Mark Clemens chose “To Kill a Mockingbird” as part of the company’s 2011/12 season “because it’s a book that contains an important and powerful message about the effects of prejudice. I believe that theater provides a platform for dialogue that we need to have in our community to counteract this sort of prejudice,” he said in a press release.
Budget cuts to Milwaukee Public Schools have decimated arts education for city students in recent years. Some determined administrators and teachers have found ways to partially fill the gap with the help of non-profit community arts organizations such as The Rep.
Students in Sarah Schindler’s eighth-grade language arts class discuss “To Kill a Mockingbird.” (Photo by Andrea Waxman)


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6802771306_3d99fb76a0_o | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dave
April 7, 2012