text:
Post from the Community: Milwaukee’s newest soccer space opening on the South Side | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Layton Boulevard West Neighbors
September 19, 2019
(Photo courtesy of Layton Boulevard West Neighbors)
A community-led crowdfunding campaign supported by Layton Boulevard West Neighbors (LBWN) exceeded its goal and has made it possible to open Milwaukee’s biggest futsal courts on the South Side.
“The Burnham Park Neighborhood has been the place I call home for most of my life. As I raise my two daughters in this neighborhood, I want the best for them and our community. That is why I decided to join the Burnham Park Task Force and help renovate the park that I used as a kid and that my daughters now use,” said Burnham Park neighbor Eddy Orozco. The conversion of formerly-abandoned tennis courts into futsal courts is the first of many improvements planned for this beloved, active park. Burnham Park serves as the neighborhood park to the nearly 7,000 people under the age of 18 that live just over a mile from the park.
The redevelopment was led by Layton Boulevard West Neighbors in partnership with Milwaukee Recreation (a Department of the Milwaukee Public Schools) with support from Carmen High School of Science and Technology – South and Southeast Campus Students, City of Milwaukee – Neighborhood Improvement Development Corporation (NIDC), Melitta S. and Joan M. Pick Charitable Trust, Mike Mervis, Dr. Patricia Hoben, Sixteenth Street Community Health Centers, Summit Credit Union and the Zilber Family Foundation. In addition, over 100 other individuals and a donation in honor of Beto Villareal contributed to the crowdfunding campaign.
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
This project foreshadows a significant renovation plan for the rest of Burnham Park, projected to begin in 2020.
Where: Burnham Park, 3300 W Burnham St, Milwaukee, WI 53215
When: Speaking Program on Tuesday, September 24th at 5:30 PM, Open play at 5:45pm Who: Burnham Park Task Force (neighbors), LBWN and other Project Partners

created: September 19, 2019

author: Layton Boulevard West Neighbors


text:
| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
September 19, 2019

source: news-milwaukeenns

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

author: Adam Carr


text:
NNS Spotlight: America SCORES Milwaukee teaches youths teamwork through service and soccer | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Xiao Liu
September 19, 2019
A SCORES soccer coach meets with his team during halftime on game day at King Park in October 2018. (Photo provided by America SCORES Milwaukee)
Editor’s note: This story is part of an occasional series that highlights groups and people worth knowing in Milwaukee. To nominate a person or a group, email  info@milwaukeenns.org and put “Spotlight” in the subject line.
On a spring afternoon, 12 students from third to fifth grades at Hayes Bilingual School gathered after classes for a 90-minute extracurricular activity course.
Several small desks had been put together as a big conference table. Children sat in chairs, chatting with each other until their writing coach, Sylvia Banda, stood in front of the blackboard and settled them down.
Before the course, the students had brainstormed ways to rid the campus at 971 W. Windlake Ave. of graffiti.
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
“It’s sad if you were that person” and someone is saying “you are ugly,” said one student, referring to the graffiti on walls. “That would be sad for you that you and your name were on the wall. It’s not that nice,” another added.
This course is a project of America SCORES Milwaukee, part of a national nonprofit program started in Washington D.C., in 1994.
America SCORES Milwaukee is the community outreach program of the Milwaukee Kickers Soccer Club and serves the children of Milwaukee’s Central City.
SCORES students participate in 90 minutes of after-school programming five days a week for 20 weeks throughout the school year.
In the soccer portion of the program, the kids practice two days a week. Then every Friday they travel to a community park and have competitive games. In the portion taught by writing coaches, they spend two days a week learning how to serve communities or to appreciate and write poems.
Kate Carpenter, the executive director of America SCORES Milwaukee, was a soccer coach before she established the organization in 2004. She noticed that although her own children had plenty of extracurricular opportunities, other students were not as fortunate.
She said her program teaches students more than just soccer.
Sylvia Banda teaches her SCORES students writing-and so much more. She says they learn how to respect each other and how to lead by participating in the activities. (Photo by Xiao Liu)
“It really is the concept of building teams, not specifically the sport. For many, this is the first-time kids are introduced to being a part of the team,” she said. “In these teams, children learn … how to make responsible decisions and conflict-resolution techniques. For some, lifelong friendships are formed.”
In addition to Hayes Bilingual School, students in five other elementary schools are involved in the program: ALBA Elementary School, Browning Elementary School, LaFollette Elementary School, Lincoln Avenue Elementary School and Riley Elementary School.
“Once we start in a school community, we try to stay there as long as the school wants us, and a lot of schools have been with us more than 10 years during this program,” Carpenter said.
In addition to overseeing the service-learning project, Banda also taught poetry last fall.  After the training, the students’ poetry was shared in a celebration at Hayes.
All SCORES programs are based on the model: “Soccer + Poetry + Service-Learning = Success.”
“When they (students) were writing and they were working, they were taught to work together. They were taught respect, and they were taught leadership,” Banda said.  “They were taught all of these different pieces. We’ll help them when they are working, when they are playing and working together as a team.”
America SCORES Milwaukee will host a titled “The art of poetry soiree” at the Villa Terrace Decorative Arts Museum. You can purchase tickets here.

author: Xiao Liu


text:
| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
September 18, 2019

created: September 18, 2019


text:
5 things to do this weekend: Sept. 20 to Sept. 22 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ana Martinez-Ortiz
September 20, 2019
Valley week Home photo: Explore Menomonee Valley during its annual Menomonee River Valley fall festival. (Photo provided by Menomonee Valley Partners)
Editor’s note: This article has been updated to correct the spelling of Skechers.
It’s Friday in Milwaukee, and here are some events that can enrich your weekend. If you would like your event to be considered for this column, please email info@milwaukeenns.org and put “5 things” in the subject line by noon Thursday.
1. Shoe giveaway at the Boys & Girls Club: Friday, Sept. 20
Skechers, Rogan’s Shoes and Soles4Souls are donating 1,500 pairs of shoes to children at the Don and Sallie Davis Boys and Girls Club, 1975 S. 24th St., on Friday, Sept. 20. The children also will have the opportunity to personalize their new shoes. The event begins at 3 p.m. and goes until 6 p.m.
2. Menomonee River Valley fall festival: Saturday, Sept. 21 – Saturday, Sept. 28
Valley Week, Menomonee River Valley’s annual fall festival, is back. This year, the festival takes place starting Saturday, Sept. 21 through Saturday, Sept. 28. Milwaukeeans can participate in Valley Bingo, listen to a resident share her story in Campfire Stories and more. For the full list of activities and events, click here.
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
3. Mental health in the black community discussion: Saturday, Sept. 21
Table of the Saints presents “Don’t talk at the dinner table,” an all-day event to address mental health in the black community. James Causey of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel will serve as the moderator. The event takes place at Charles, 4757 N. 76th St., on Saturday, Sept. 21. Admission is free and the event runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. There will be a panel discussion, a keynote speaker, a film screening and more.
4. Milwaukee Urban League Young Professionals celebrates 20 years: Saturday, Sept. 21
The Milwaukee Urban League Young Professionals is celebrating its 20th anniversary on Saturday, Sept. 21. The group began as a volunteer auxiliary to the Milwaukee Urban League. The celebration will be held at Venue 42 at Milwaukee Brewing Company, 1130 N. 9th St., and begins at 8 p.m. Tickets cost $40 and can be purchased here.
5. Ex Fabula’s deaf storyslam: Sunday, Sept. 22
As part of Deaf Awareness Week, Ex Fabula is hosting a StorySlam featuring deaf storytellers at the Mitchell Street Library, 906 W. Historic St., on Sunday, Sept. 22. Members of the deaf community will be sharing stories based on the theme “labels.” The event is free and starts at 2 p.m.
Ana serves as NNS’ newly created community engagement reporter and is responsible for writing stories that help our readers navigate their lives as well as making sure they know the fun things that are happening in their neighborhoods. You can email her here or call (414) 604-6397.

created: September 20, 2019

author: Ana Martinez-Ortiz


text:
5 things to know this week in Milwaukee: Sept. 23 to Sept. 28 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ana Martinez-Ortiz
September 23, 2019
It’s Monday in Milwaukee, and here are some events we think you shouldn’t miss. If you would like your event to be considered for this column, please email info@milwaukeenns.org and put “5 things” in the subject line by noon Thursday.
Ana serves as NNS’ newly created community engagement reporter and is responsible for writing stories that help our readers navigate their lives as well as making sure they know the fun things that are happening in their neighborhoods. You can email her hereor call (414) 604-6397.
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!

created: September 23, 2019


text:
25679960493_7cb4072f60_k-Edit5things-september23 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
September 22, 2019

created: September 22, 2019

author: Dwayne Burtin


text:
BBB: Consumers say they’re powerless to return defective products from online relailer | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Lisa Schiller, Better Business Bureau of Wisconsin
September 23, 2019
Consumers from around the world are telling the Better Business Bureau (BBB) Serving Wisconsin that it’s difficult to get products to work that they purchased from POWR Co., an online retailer of cell phone accessories, and even harder to return the defective items and receive a resolution.
The company, which uses a UPS store in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin as an address, has an F rating, the BBB’s lowest possible rating, and has received 43 complaints from consumers since January 2019. Complainants have come from Arizona, California (3), Florida (4), Illinois (3), Massachusetts (2), Maryland, Maine, Michigan (2), Minnesota, Montana, North Carolina (2), New Hampshire, New Mexico, New York (4), Ohio (2), Oregon, Pennsylvania (3), South Carolina, Tennessee (2), Texas (2) and Virginia. Complaints also have been received from Australia, Dubai, England and South Africa.
The company has not responded to any complaints filed through the BBB.
A consumer from Raleigh, NC wrote: “I bought what was advertised as a ‘wireless’ phone charger, but when it arrived, it would not work unless it was plugged in – hence not truly ‘wireless.’ … When it arrived, it did not function in that way and so I began a series of email correspondence with the company to request a return for a refund.  Despite their website advertising ‘ Fast Shipping’ ‘Easy Returns’, ‘Satisfaction Guaranteed’ – the only promise that was kept was the ‘fast shipping.’  I have tried to resolve with the company directly but was not able to.”
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
The company has not responded to other requests by the BBB, including two requests for basic information, a request to substantiate claims on its website, and a request for the company to address the underlying causes of a pattern of complaints. Specifically, complainants have told the BBB that: Their purchased items were never received; The products they’ve purchased are defective; They’re asked to return defective products at their own expense; The company doesn’t honor its warranty; and they’re told by customer service that they are using the products incorrectly.
Most of the complaints involve the purchase of wireless chargers, and most of the complainants say they’ve lost between $40-$165 apiece.
In addition, complainants say that they’re not able to reach customer service after multiple attempts and that the company doesn’t respond in a timely fashion purposely, in order to surpass the 30-day return period on its website. The company’s website, www.powr.co, lists the company’s address, which is a UPS store, and several email addresses, but no phone number. Many of the complainants state they purchased the products after seeing the company’s Facebook advertisements.
“A reputable company stands behind its products and responds promptly to customer concerns,” says Jim Temmer, President/CEO of the BBB Serving Wisconsin. “Customers shouldn’t have to jump through so many hoops to return products that either don’t work or weren’t as advertised.”
In April and May, the BBB asked POWR Co. to substantiate the claim on its website that its product, “POWR Premium Wireless Car Charger” is the “#1 rated car charger in the world.” According to the BBB’s Code of Advertising (COA), businesses must substantiate objective advertising claims.
In addition, because the company is constantly offering products on sale, with previous prices listed, the BBB asked for substantiation that the products were offered at the former or regular price. “Former” prices must be actual prices at which the advertiser has openly and offered the product for sale, for a reasonably substantial period of time, in regular course of business, and in good faith, according to the COA.
To file a BBB complaint against POWR Co., go to www.bbb.org/complaints.
In addition, BBB offers these tips for hassle-free online shopping:


text:
CBBB_scamtracker_255x100_B-v2 (1) | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ana Martinez-Ortiz
September 23, 2019


text:
Marquette web producer Dwayne Burtin chosen for national diversity leadership academy | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Marquette University
September 23, 2019
Dwayne Burtin, web producer in the Office of Marketing and Communication at Marquette University, has been named a member of the 2019 Leadership Academy for Diversity in Digital Media, a partnership between Poynter Institute and The Washington Post.
The academy recognizes pioneers in the field of digital media from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds who have demonstrated an aptitude for leadership. Burtin is also deputy editor of digital news for Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service.
“It’s an honor to have been picked to be part of such a prestigious academy made up of inspiring, hardworking and passionate people,” Burtin said. “The academy represents a diverse cross section of professionals, and it is an incredible opportunity to be able to come together, hone our skills and strengthen the presence of people of color as leaders in digital media.”
Burtin is one of 30 journalists — out of 120 applicants — chosen for this year’s academy. The group will visit Poynter’s campus in St. Petersburg, Florida, next month for a transformative, tuition-free leadership program and training seminar taught by more than 20 expert instructors. The seminar examines the challenges for journalists of color in management, and provides the connections, confidence and skills to confront them.
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
Burtin’s academy class is considered one of the most intersectional and diverse classes in the history of the program. Academy members were selected by a committee that includes graduates of the program with an emphasis on ensuring diversity across ethnicity, geography, technology platforms, organization size and skill sets.
More information about the organizations
The Poynter Institute for Media Studies is a nonprofit journalism school and research organization located in St. Petersburg, Florida. The school is the owner of the Tampa Bay Times newspaper.
This year marks the first time The Washington Post is involved with the Leadership Academy for Diversity in Digital Media. The news organization will serve as a teaching partner, giving insights about innovation and newsroom diversity.

author: Marquette University


text:
Dwayne | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ana Martinez-Ortiz
September 23, 2019


text:
Roy B. Evans, Venice Williams named winners of the 2019 Frank P. Zeidler Public Service Award | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
City of Milwaukee Common Council
September 23, 2019
Attorney Roy B. Evans, a community activist with more than 40 years of education and civic-minded service and experience, and Venice Williams, a community change agent and visionary leader in Milwaukee, have been named the 2019 recipients of the Frank P. Zeidler Public Service Award.
Mr. Evans and Ms. Williams will be presented with the Zeidler award during a special ceremony on Tuesday, September 24 at 8:30 a.m. in the third floor Vel R. Phillips Ante Chamber (prior to the start of the regular meeting of the Common Council) at City Hall, 200 E. Wells St. Media coverage is invited.
Attorney Roy B. Evans, a Milwaukee native and graduate of North Division High School, earned his undergraduate degree at Dominican College where he majored in secondary education. While an undergrad, Mr. Evans was actively involved in multiple student associations such as the Minority Student Alliance where he served as president as well as serving on the Student Senate. Upon graduation, Mr. Evans received the Board of Governors Extra Curricular Achievement Award and went on to further his education where he earned a Master of Science degree in Educational Administration from the University of Wisconsin—Milwaukee in the Administrative Leaders Program. During his time at UW-Milwaukee, he worked as a full-time counselor and academic advisor to African-American students in the College of Letters and Science. Always on the path of educational excellence, he later attended the University of Wisconsin—Madison Law School where he earned his JD degree.
Mr. Evans was eventually elected President of the Wisconsin Law Alumni Board and for his community involvement was awarded the Legal Education Opportunity Alumni of the Year Award and was recognized for his commitment to community engagement with the Milwaukee Commission on Community Relations Human Service Award for producing television programs that promoted community awareness.
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
Frank P. Zeidler Public Service Award/ADD ONE
Mr. Evans has been recognized by the Milwaukee Community Journal as one of the top 100 most influential African Americans in Milwaukee, and he has been recognized with a Milwaukee Times Black Achiever Award for his many legal contributions to the community.
Mr. Evans’ passion for teaching has allowed him teach in more than 50 Milwaukee Public Schools, while continuing to maintain his successful business law practice. Aside from his law practice, Mr. Evans served as chairman on the City of Milwaukee Administrative Appeals Review Board as a Fire and Police Commission Citizen Complaint Hearing Examiner and as a member of the Mayor’s Tax Incremental Finance Advisory Committee. He is currently chair of the City of Milwaukee Board of Review and a member of the State Bar of Wisconsin’s Alternate Dispute Resolutions Board.
Most importantly, Mr. Evans has served as a role model for youth in Milwaukee. He often visits grade schools to speak to young children about the obstacles he encountered while growing up in Milwaukee and hopes to inspire children who go through similar struggles.
Venice Williams is the founder of Alice’s Garden, an urban farm that teaches cultivation to Milwaukee families. Ms. Williams not only provides the space, but she also provides a multitude of other services in the garden, such as  yoga classes, community potlucks, and even plays movies in the garden for the community. Many of the events Ms. Williams hosts are generally free; what she asks is that everyone come with open arms and respect for one another.
Ms. Williams is also the visionary behind the Mind Body & Soul Center, where she hosts a myriad of events around topics that create awareness in the community. Typically, topics can range from police brutality, women’s rights, social justice and other key social issues. Ms. Williams often allows other community organizations to use the space for their own events, and she has also created the Outpost Makers Market, where she gives small micro-businesses an outlet to market their products and grow their overall customer base.
Ms. Williams is dedicated to helping improve the quality of life in Milwaukee and has received numerous awards and acknowledgements throughout the city, including one of the Milwaukee Awards for Neighborhood Development Innovation (MANDI) in 2011 and the Interfaith Conference of Greater Milwaukee in 2014.
Tuesday’s ceremony will be televised live on the City Channel (Channel 25 on Spectrum Cable and on AT&T U-Verse Channel 99) in the City of Milwaukee. It can also be viewed via streaming video on the City website at milwaukee.gov/Channel25.
Please go to www.city.Milwaukee.gov/zeidlerawards to learn more about the Frank P. Zeidler Public Service Award. To inquire about nominating someone for the award please contact Joanna Polanco at 414-286-2366 or jpolan@milwaukee.gov.

author: City of Milwaukee Common Council


text:
image001 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ana Martinez-Ortiz
September 23, 2019


text:
Alverno Forum Celebrates National Women’s Business Week | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Kelly Cole
September 24, 2019
Alverno College will host a forum during National Women’s Business Week that celebrates the contributions and the advancements women have made to the workplace. A panel of distinguished speakers will share their experiences, reflect on the strengths and experiences women to bring to business, and address the challenges that many women still face today. They will also provide tips for women, whether they are just getting into business, planning to advance, or want to have it all. The panelists will also examine the psyche of businesswomen and what makes each of them tick.
Presenters include:
The Alverno Forum series seeks to join community leaders in discussing cutting-edge topics that have a daily impact on the lives of people in our community and beyond. The first discussion in this year’s series takes place on Thursday, October 17 at 6:00 p.m. in the Bucyrus Conference Center inside the Sister Joel Read Center. The Alverno Forum series is free and open to the public. For more details, please visit our website at
This Alverno Forum is sponsored by the Alverno College School of Professional Studies, Business Division and supported by Abaxent and Women’s Business Development Center.
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
About Alverno College
Founded in 1887 by the School Sisters of St. Francis, Alverno College promotes the academic, personal and professional development of its students in a collaborative and inclusive environment. Undergraduate programs for women are offered in more than 60 areas of study, and graduate programs in education, nursing, community psychology, school psychology, music therapy and business are open to women and men.
A leader in higher education innovation, Alverno has earned international accolades for its highly effective ability-based, assessment-as-learning approach to education, which emphasizes hands-on experience and develops in-demand skills. The college, Wisconsin’s first Hispanic-Serving Institution, ranks among the top schools in the Midwest for its commitment to undergraduate teaching and innovation by U.S. News & World Report. For the past two years, The Wall Street Journal/Times Higher Education named Alverno the country’s most inspiring college.
Based in Milwaukee, Wis., Alverno College is a four-year independent, Catholic, liberal arts college.

created: September 24, 2019

author: Kelly Cole


text:
Forum.jpg | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Name *
September 24, 2019

author: Name *


text:
Sara Thomsen Lecture and Concert: “Songs Like Seeds – Planting Hope Note by Note” | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Cindy Lorentzen
September 24, 2019
First Unitarian Society of Milwaukee is pleased to present the annual Irma Morter Lecture and workshop with Sara Thomsen, singer-songwriter and social activist, who inspires all to “join in singing” on October 5, 2:30 – 4:00 p.m.
Sara will share ways she integrates music and the arts into community engagement and social justice work, drawing from her 15 years as founder/director of the non-audition community choir and arts non-profit Echoes of Peace. She will speak – and sing – about how song builds and bridges communities, note by note, part by part, breath by breath.
For more information, visit: https://uumilwaukee.org/event/irma-morter-lecture/
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!

author: Cindy Lorentzen


text:
saralaughing.jpg | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Name *
September 23, 2019


text:
‘We want to help build the foundation of the next big business’: Rev-Up MKE competition helps launch new entrepreneurs | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Edgar Mendez
September 24, 2019
The day before the grand opening of Pete’s Pops, its owner, Pete Cooney, was approached by a group of teenagers who asked him for a job.
“I told them to come back the next day at 11 a.m., and I would have a job for them,” Cooney said.
They showed up, and true to his word, he put them to work. A year later, some of that original group is still there.
It’s exactly what organizers of Rev-Up MKE, a small business competition hosted by the Near West Side Partners, had hoped for when they launched the contest.
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
“We wanted to attract high-quality businesses to our commercial corridor and also give opportunities to people who have the entrepreneurial spirit, not just to feed their family, but to support the community,” said Keith Stanley, executive director of Near West Side Partners.
Near West Side Partners is a nonprofit founded through the support of five anchor institutions: Harley-Davidson, Aurora Health Care, Marquette University, MillerCoors and the Potawatomi Business Development Corp. The goal of the organization is to revitalize and sustain the Near West Side by promoting economic development, improving housing, engaging residents and reducing crime in the neighborhood, which borders downtown.
Pete’s Pops, which operates a brick-and-mortar store in the Martin Drive neighborhood and sells popsicles at Miller Park, Fiserv Forum and out of carts, won the “Shark Tank” style competition in 2016. This year’s winners will be announced after a “live pitch” event at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 24 at The Rave, 2401 W. Wisconsin Ave.
Stanley said winners are chosen based on the needs and requests of residents and employers in the community and also for their commitment to the neighborhood.
Kelsey Otero, associate director of social innovation at Marquette University, helps identify which businesses are a good fit for the Near West Side and also have a higher probability of success
“We look for a variety of businesses that will fill a need in the neighborhood,” Otero said.
Past winners include restaurants that feature healthy options, catering businesses, fashion stores, a business that offers piano lessons and a mobile salon shop, she said. A common denominator among them is that they all are dedicated to the West Side.
“That’s important because people want businesses that are not only reflective of the community, but also can hire from the neighborhood,” Otero said.
Chef Lisa McKay, owner of Lisa Kaye Catering and a 2017 winner, recently relocated her commercial kitchen to the Forest County Potawatomi Community’s Wgema Campus on West State Street. She’s planning to hold a job fair soon.
“I want to hire from within the neighborhood so my employees can walk to work,” McKay said.
Since Rev-Up announced its first winners in 2015, 26 new businesses have sprouted up in the neighborhood, several from the competition itself. Others came because they saw a neighborhood on the rise, Stanley said.
It’s not by accident that the businesses that have launched after winning the competition have been successful. Aside from cash prizes, (first place gets $10,000; second place, $4,000), winners receive $30,000 to $35,000 in marketing, financial and other services, Stanley said.
All finalists receive training and mentoring support leading up to the event, Otero added.
This year’s finalists include a dessert company, a New Zealand style restaurant and cafe, a transit company, a design and marketing firm and a farm-to-table restaurant.
Maybe one of them will become the next huge company, Stanley said, recalling that even mega institutions such as Harley-Davidson and MillerCoors started out small but now help to fuel the local economy.
The finalists are “continuing that legacy of entrepreneurship and community support,” Stanley said. “We want to help build the foundation of the next big business.”
AUDIO: Our partners at Bridge the City talk with past Rev-Up MKE winners: Lisa Kaye Catering, Pete’s Pops and Triciclo Peru.
POP UP MKE: Rev-Up MKE is not the only avenue for small businesses to get exposure. As part of Pop Up Milwaukee, 12 new businesses will make their debuts. Read more here from our partners at Urban Milwaukee.
Coming Wednesday: We talk with past winners and finalists of Rev-Up MKE to see what lessons they’ve learned and what advice they have for aspiring entrepreneurs.

author: Edgar Mendez


text:
28994450397_0c94dc3d70_k | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
September 23, 2019


text:
30293615558_53be289ec6_k | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
September 23, 2019


text:
Rev+Up+MKE+upload+to+square | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
September 23, 2019


text:
Business class is in session: Catching up with previous Rev-Up MKE winners and finalists | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
September 25, 2019
Editor’s note: This article has been updated to correct the location of That Salsa Lady.
A Goodman’s Desserts emerged as Tuesday’s winner of the fourth Rev-Up MKE small business competition.
In honor of the occasion, we decided to check in with previous winners and finalists to see how things have changed and what advice they might have for this year’s winner and finalists.
‘I learned to be fearless’
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
Name of business: kalyANa Organics
Description of business: An organic and gluten-free kitchen producing baked goods and packaged mixes for sale in the Milwaukee area at Beans & Barley, Woodman’s (Menomonee Falls and Waukesha), Outpost Natural Foods (all locations) and online. (The name kalyANa is the Sanskrit word for well-being.)
Business website
How has life changed for you? I’m busier than I’ve ever been because of the exposure through Rev-Up MKE. (Also, she is sometimes recognized when out in public.)
What are you most proud of? I wasn’t afraid to take a chance. Looking at it, a lot of people would have said “you don’t have a chance of winning that” and … you have obstacles — age, experience, you’re going up against some really great companies. If I had stopped to listen … I wouldn’t even have entered. I’m also proud of being cool in the eyes of my grandkids.
What was your biggest “learning moment”? I learned to be fearless. Winning Rev-Up MKE is a selling point. Because I can say I won Rev-Up MKE, I can say, “Somebody believed in my company. You should believe in my company, too.”
What’s next for your business? We found a building on the Near West Side, and we’re working toward getting the building renovated. We hope to move in next spring. It would be a bakery, manufacturing facility and a small café.
–Andrea Waxman
‘I learned so much’
Name of business: Gearhead
Description of business: “The Gearhead brand is designed and founded by artist, creative director, New Yorker wannabe, concert-goer and troublemaker Paula Hare.”
Business website
How has life changed for you? I appreciate Rev-Up MKE for making me set actual goals for my business.
What was your biggest “learning moment”? I learned so much about setting a foundation for your business through the competition. My business has gotten so much better since I participated.
What’s next for your business? Since the competition, Hare has a new brand called Finn and Luca. Despite her success, her problems are still the same: She is still operating from inside her home.  Hare plans, with the help of funders she met during Rev-Up MKE, to move into a new space.
What advice do you have for this year’s group? Have a solid plan of growth and be committed to your business.
–Princess Safiya Byers
‘We’re trying to hire within the neighborhood’
Name of business: Lisa Kaye Catering
Description of business: Catering for corporate and private social events, including weddings
Business website
How has life changed for you? Since winning Rev-Up MKE, McKay said her business has grown. One of her goals was to increase her corporate business, which she has succeeded at doing. “We have picked up consistent business from Marquette University, Aurora, Potawatomi and the YMCA, and they have referred other companies to us,” McKay said, adding that her profit margin has increased by about 20 percent.
What are you most proud of? “I am most proud of the space that was offered to us by Potawatomi,” McKay said, referring to the large remodeled commercial kitchen on the Near West Side Wgema Campus, where she moved her business.
What was your biggest “learning moment”? “Nothing has been a big challenge yet. We are working to grow our employees. We’re trying to hire within the neighborhood so our employees can walk to work,” said McKay, who has four full-time and two part-time employees. She’s looking to hire at least one more full-time worker and two part-time employees.
What’s next for your business? “Getting more employees so we can do more catering.” Another goal is to grow the nonprofit arm of her business, which operates a one-week culinary summer camp for youths. McKay wants to add a six-week after-school and weekend training program to prepare high school students for restaurant jobs.
What advice do you have for this year’s group? Take advantage of the opportunity for ongoing training that they make available.
Parting thoughts: “Preparing for the competition will make you do a lot of things in business that you probably should have already done and haven’t. It made me do a lot more in business than I was doing and I’m really grateful.”
–Andrea Waxman
‘Know your business’
Name of business: Pete’s Pops
Description of business: “We always say we sell interesting ice pops.”
Business website
How has life changed for you? In the summer of 2016, Pete Cooney decided to apply to Rev-Up MKE. At the time, Cooney viewed Pete’s Pop as a side hustle, given that he worked full time as an accountant. He ended up winning, and two years later, he opened the storefront located at 3809 W. Vliet St.
What was your biggest “learning moment”? Cooney said the competition brought attention to his business, but building the storefront created more awareness and community.
What’s next for your business? This year, Pete’s Pops will begin to wind down its season in October after starting in May. Cooney said Pete’s Pops plans to focus on expanding to Madison and St. Louis.
What are you most proud of? “I’m most proud of having our own space,” Cooney said, adding that there’s a sense of mutual support in the community with the added benefit of having regulars.
What advice do you have for this year’s group?  Have fun with the competition and embrace the opportunity. “Know your business,” he said. “And don’t be afraid to ask questions.”
–Ana Martinez-Ortiz
‘It took a long time to jump off the deep end’
Name of business: Hands in Harmony Piano Studio
Description of business: Our main mission is for students in Milwaukee to have access to quality one-on-one piano lessons.
Facebook page
How has life changed for you? Life got really fast really quickly! It basically felt like we were cruising at 30 mph and we sped up to 70 mph. We were granted the MPS Partnership for Arts and Humanities, which allowed students financial help for transportation and helped us place instruments in more schools and homes. In October 2018, we moved into our studio.
What are you most proud of? That I took the risk and I did it! I probably spent three years on the fence about opening my studio. It took a long time to jump off the deep end.
What was your biggest “learning moment”? As a business owner, it was hire carefully. You have to be able to look at problems or challenges that arise creatively. When you are running a business you are wearing every possible hat all at once … And that’s where having a solid core team was important because I couldn’t do it all myself.
What’s next for your business? We are working on putting more infrastructure in to continue meeting the needs of our families, finding teachers who want to work in an urban setting and sustaining a diverse staff, for the diverse community of kids we are working with.
What advice do you have for this year’s group? You have to be able to look at problems or challenges that arise creatively.
–Bridget Fogarty
‘Run with the opportunity’
Name of business: House of Weaving, 5007 N. Fond du Lac Ave.  (Since Rev-Up, Nelson opened two other saloons: Shampoo’ed, located in the Sherman Phoenix, 3536 W. Fond du Lac Ave., and Prenasis Hair Gallery, 8229 W. Brown Deer Rd.)
Description of business:  Three black-owned, wellness-driven salons that specialize in hair services.
Business websites:
House of Weaving
Shampoo’ed
Prenasis Hair Gallery
How has life changed for you? The entire pitch got me out of my shell. I had never done that before. It inspired me to go even harder in my business endeavors. Now I am the owner and master stylist of my three salons.
What are you most proud of? The fact that I am growing other stylists and other entrepreneurs through our training program.
What was your biggest “learning moment”? Managing more than one project at a time was mentally, physically, spiritually and financially exhausting.  I had to lean on others for help, and I have never done that before.
What’s next for your business? We recently started our stylist training program. I take two days out of the week to teach speed, quality and customer service to train the next generation of future stylists and entrepreneurs. Another goal is to buy a building to put all three salons under the same roof.
What advice do you have for this year’s group? I think the biggest thing for me was the help and assistance from Rev-Up, and sometimes you need somebody at home that’s telling you they believe in you, too. For me, that’s my husband. To have that support system not just with Rev-Up but outside of it that can hold you accountable.
More advice: If you have the opportunity, you have to run with the opportunity. It’s like, what’s stopping you from pushing yourself? Whether or not you win should be the least of your concerns. You already did by being there.
–Bridget Fogarty
‘The best nonprofit works themselves out of the job’
Name of business: Wastecap Resource Solutions
Description of business: Our mission is to provide waste reduction and recycling assistance to the benefit of business and the environment. We’re trying to teach all the other businesses how to property reduce their waste streams, recycle and divert more material from the landfill.
Business website
Parting quote: “The best nonprofit works themselves out of the job, so we’re working toward that.”
‘I am in charge of my destiny’
Name of business: That Salsa Lady
Description of business: We’re the only black- and woman- owned gourmet salsa company in the country. We’re entering our 10 year. We grow most of our ingredients at our farm, Hood Ranch. We don’t add sugars or preservatives. Everything is always fresh. We’re vegan, vegetarian and gluten free.
Business website
How has life changed for you? We’ve taken on a lot more business. We’re at Pete’s Fruit Market new location on King and North. We’re at food stores, special events and farmers markets.
What was your biggest “learning moment”? I didn’t realize just how much we’d connect with people. The thing I’ve learned is it’s hard to find your home, harder than I thought it’d be.
What’s next for your business? Our goal is to find a standalone location for ourselves. We want to offer, not only our salsa, but feature other local food entrepreneurs as well.
Parting quote: “I am the boss. I make decisions for me and nobody else. I can be as creative and destructive as I like—hopefully more creative than destructive. I am in charge of my destiny.”
–Caroline White

created: September 25, 2019

author: Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service


text:
48723293521_b5386f7b2d_k | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
September 24, 2019


text:
48725013423_52f0cd6ea0_k | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
September 24, 2019


text:
Alan Goodman | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
September 24, 2019


text:
PETE | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
September 24, 2019


text:
travis | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
September 24, 2019


text:
How to keep your kids engaged outside the classroom | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ana Martinez-Ortiz
September 26, 2019
Editor’s note: This article has been updated to include additional after-school programs.
Although children spend most of their day in class, many of them are even busier afterward. According to the 2014 census, 57 percent of children from the ages of 6 to 17 participate in after-school activities.
Here is a list of after-school programs available for students throughout Milwaukee.
9.  TBEY Arts Center
TBEY Arts Center, 2266 N. Prospect Ave., offers after-school programs during the fall and spring semester for youth ages 9-19. There is also a program for children ages 2-8. Applications can be found online and financial assistance and scholarships are available. Participants learn about art techniques, themes and concepts through classes and workshops. For more information, call at 414.562.8239 or email Leah at leah@tbey.org.
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
Did we forget an after-school program? Feel free to mention it in the comments below or send us an email at info@milwaukeenns.org.

created: September 26, 2019


text:
40800963943_4065e119b8_k | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
September 25, 2019


text:
5 things to do this weekend: Sept. 27 to Sept. 29 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ana Martinez-Ortiz
September 27, 2019
Help clean up Moody Park on Saturday. The event will honor the memory of Quanita “Tay” Jackson, who was fatally shot in the park over the summer. (Photo by Mark Doremus)
It’s Friday in Milwaukee, and here are some events that can enrich your weekend. If you would like your event to be considered for this column, please email info@milwaukeenns.org and put “5 things” in the subject line by .
Froedtert and the Medical College of Wisconsin are hosting 1-mile and 5K walk/run called Cancer Crush on Saturday, Sept. 28. It will be held on the MCW Milwaukee Campus, 8701 W. Watertown Plank Rd. and start at 9 a.m. Cancer Crush is an opportunity for patients, families, physicians and healthcare providers to raise funds for cancer research.
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!

created: September 27, 2019


text:
tayphoto | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
September 26, 2019


text:
5 things to know this week in Milwaukee: Sept. 30 to Oct. 5 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ana Martinez-Ortiz
September 30, 2019
It’s Monday in Milwaukee, and here are some events we think you shouldn’t miss. If you would like your event to be considered for this column, please email info@milwaukeenns.org and put “5 things” in the subject line by
TRUE Skool is hosting its fall open house this week. (File photo by Andrea Waxman)

created: September 30, 2019


text:
13207290235_68bb8d5e4b_o | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
September 29, 2019

created: September 29, 2019


text:
i.c.stars|* Milwaukee Information Sessions | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Rosalinda Fowlkes
September 30, 2019
We are Hiring for our 5th Cycle of inner city stars |* Milwaukee!
Join us for an information session in the community at Milwaukee Public Library on Mitchell Street!
Thursday, October 3rd from 10-12 p.m.
906 W Historic Mitchell Street Branch, Room 203.
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
Requirements:
-High school diploma or GED required
-A needs-based program, geared toward people with partial or no college
-Six months of work experience needed
-NO Technology experience needed
-Availability 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Monday through Friday for 16 weeks
-PAID a weekly stipend, $150 for 16 weeks
Ready to be the change you want to see?
Learn to code through project based work, no experience necessary.
Develop yourself as leader and use those skills in the workforce.
Check out our website at: milwaukee.icstars.org.

author: Rosalinda Fowlkes


text:
2.jpg | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Name *
September 30, 2019


text:
As a teen, he was forced to bake. Now it’s his passion (and business). | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ana Martinez-Ortiz
September 30, 2019
When Alan Goodman was a teenager, he once told his parents he was going to study at the library when he really was headed to the park to play basketball.
Eventually his lie caught up to him and he was grounded.
As part of his punishment, Goodman had to help his mother and godmother with cooking and baking. Soon after, what started as a punishment turned into a passion.
Now Goodman is the owner of A Goodman’s Desserts, which took first place last week in the Rev-Up MKE small business competition.
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
Using family recipes along with some of his own creations, Goodman started the business in 2018 selling homemade cookies, bread pudding and cakes.
His delectable treats soon became a hit among families and friends, and through word-of-mouth, his business began to expand.
“When you have a good dessert, it changes the energy of the room,” said Goodman, who lives in Lindsay Heights with his wife and three children. They moved to Milwaukee 14 years ago.
The road to Rev-Up MKE
When farmers market season began, Goodman signed up for the Near West Side Farmers Market, and it was there that he first heard of Rev-Up MKE.
Several days before the deadline, Goodman submitted his application, and a few days later, he learned he was a finalist.
Keith Stanley, the executive director of Near West Side Partners, said the competition began as a way to honor and recognize the history of entrepreneurship in the neighborhood.
Twenty-six new businesses have come to the community, and many are there because of Rev-Up, Stanley said.
“Those places are now the lifeblood of the community,” Stanley said.
As part of the competition, the finalists spent weeks prepping for the live-pitch event. They met with mentors, attended workshops and practiced their pitch.
Goodman said the prep work helped him when it came to deliver his pitch. It didn’t hurt that he also had a solid business plan thanks to his two degrees in finance.
As the winner, Goodman received a $10,000 check from WaterStone Bank. In addition, as the winner, he will receive $25,000 in in-kind services that include bookkeeping, payroll and benefits as well as a free legal audit.
He plans to use his winnings for strategic marketing and look for a bigger kitchen space.
“I’m a legitimate business and winning a pitch contest proved my legitimacy,” he said.


text:
Alderwoman Coggs announces 6th District Landscape Award winners | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ald. Milele A. Coggs
October 1, 2019
Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs is pleased to announce the winners of the 6th District Landscape Awards for 2019.
The winners are: Dorothy Greer and Denise D. Wooten.
“I want to thank all the great participants in this year’s landscape awards, and everyone who takes the time to beautify their 6th District neighborhood by maintaining creative landscaping on their property,” Alderwoman Coggs said. “The efforts of these hard-working residents make the district a more appealing place to live and, I truly believe, betters everyone’s quality of life.”
Alderwoman Coggs has consistently reiterated her commitment to supporting and encouraging the beautification and improvement of 6th District neighborhoods. The landscape award is a part of Alderwoman Coggs’s broader Clean City Project.
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!

created: October 1, 2019

author: Ald. Milele A. Coggs


text:
**Community call to action** seats available at more than 100 community tables | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Greater Milwaukee Foundation
October 1, 2019
What: Led by the Greater Milwaukee Foundation, On the Table MKE is a large collection of small gatherings where participants share a meal, talk about topics that matter in their lives and put their ideas in motion through collaborative action.
When: Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019 | 7:30 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Where: Locations across Milwaukee, Waukesha, Ozaukee and Washington Counties
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
Greater Milwaukee Foundation’s third annual On the Table MKE is reaching farther into the community for deeper impact and you can be part of it on Thursday, Oct. 10. It’s a day to connect with others, share ideas and take action together to better our community. The Greater Milwaukee Foundation invites those interested in relationship building and barrier breaking discussions to RSVP and join one of the many conversations taking place throughout southeastern Wisconsin.
You can find a table discussing issues related to these categories, and more. On our website, view a comprehensive list of public tables and descriptions that you are free to join.
Topics:
Race / Racial Equity Mental Health & Wellness Local / National Service
Education, Schools, Youth Criminal Justice Reform Arts & Civic Engagement
Housing, Homelessness Health, Health Care, Human Services Entrepreneurship, Workforce
Community Engagement Environmental Issues LGBTQ + Issues

author: Greater Milwaukee Foundation


text:
NNS Spotlight: Got a question about a neighborhood? This nonprofit most likely has the answer. | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Caroline White
October 1, 2019
Editor’s note: This story is part of an  occasional series  that highlights groups and people worth knowing in Milwaukee. To nominate a person or a group, email  info@milwaukeenns.org  and put “Spotlight” in the subject line.
Jill Florence Lackey and Rick Petrie know all there is to know about your neighborhood. In fact, they probably know about the neighborhood next to yours, too.
Lackey and Petrie are anthropologists. Their nonprofit, Urban Anthropology, has been studying Milwaukee’s neighborhoods and ethnic groups for 20 years.
“We’re trying to bring anthropology away from the academy and into the neighborhood,” Lackey said.
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
Lackey founded Urban Anthropology, or UrbAn for short, in 1999 because she knew that as an anthropologist, she had the skills required to record Milwaukee’s intricate history. A few years later, Petrie joined her.
Lackey and Petrie don’t just conduct studies for themselves. They share them, as part of UrbAn’s mission. A handful of their documentaries are available for free online.
One of their more massive undertakings is an ongoing online database of the city’s neighborhoods. Lackey and Petrie also are compiling a database on the history of Milwaukee’s ethnic groups that they are hoping to launch in the next year.
The databases, in particular, have been a 20-year labor of love for Lackey. She began putting them together the year UrbAn was founded with the help of Petrie and hundreds of other volunteers along the way, and the work is still not over.
“If you know the history of what’s around you, you have a deeper connection that makes you want to make your neighborhood a better place,” Petrie said.
UrbAn also works on various historical exhibits. In late September, the nonprofit reopened its Old South Side Settlement Museum at 707 W. Lincoln Ave. after taking a break to curate new exhibits. The museum chronicles stories of celebrities who used to live on the South Side, discusses its ethnic history and revisits historical events of the area. (The museum is open for tours by appointment or from 2 to 4 p.m. the first Saturday of every month beginning in November. )
Lackey and Petrie also are putting together standalone exhibits in different neighborhoods around Milwaukee, like the model of a traditional Polish flat that is on display at the The Basilica of St. Josephat.
Because UrbAn is a nonprofit, it has to get creative to fund  projects. To stick with its mission of celebrating Milwaukee, Sienna Jacks, another volunteer, writes mystery novels set in historic Milwaukee neighborhoods. The books, a part of “the Milwaukee Series,” are sold through MECAH Publishing, a publishing company focused on Milwaukee’s ethnic arts and humanities. A percentage of Jacks’ book sales go to UrbAn.
In addition to spreading on the word on Milwaukee’s history, UrbAn sends out bimonthly newsletters with current ethnic events and neighborhood programs.
Kathleen Schultz, a Milwaukee native who is involved with the Irish Cultural Heritage Center, said she enjoys reading the Ethnic Newsletter because it helps her engage with other ethnic groups.
“We need to become aware of other ethnicities, other races, other cultures because there can sometimes be so much animosity toward other people outside your circle, but it’s really important to know about” each other, she said.
For Lackey, the aim of her work is connecting communities.
“The focus is always on the positive because in any neighborhood, I don’t care what its reputation is, you’re going to find something very interesting and very positive,” she said.
Lackey said her work with UrbAn help keeps her motivated.
“I had a fourth-grade teacher, whom I adored at one time, and she always taught us that the only thing that you should be concerned about in life is that you leave this world a little bit better place after you leave it if you possibly can,” she said. “For some reason, from then on, that sort of became my mantra.”

author: Caroline White


text:
48805654961_7bcd280796_k | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
September 30, 2019


text:
LACKEY | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
September 30, 2019


text:
NNS Spotlight: How Lupe Martinez went from a migrant worker to a CEO | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ana Martinez-Ortiz
October 2, 2019
Editor’s note: This article has been updated to correct the number of UMOS staff members.
Editor’s note: This story is part of an  occasional series  that highlights groups and people worth knowing in Milwaukee. To nominate a person or a group, email  info@milwaukeenns.org  and put “Spotlight” in the subject line.
When Lupe Martinez was a child he was called El Viejito, which means “the old man” in Spanish. Given the circumstances, it was an appropriate nickname.
“I never had a childhood,” Martinez said. “In my family, there were 10 children, and I, as the fifth member, was the interpreter. I would pay all the bills, I managed the finances for the family, and I would manage the health needs of the family.”
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
These days, Martinez, 74, can be found managing the operations of over 40 performance-based program contracts as the president and chief executive officer of UMOS, a position he has held for 45 years. He celebrated 50 years with the nonprofit in May.
The mission of UMOS is to advocate and provide programs and services that improve the employment, educational, health and housing opportunities of underserved populations.
Martinez was born in Corpus Christi, Texas. Every spring, when picking season came around, his family would pack up the car and head toward the Midwest.
In migrant families, children as young as 6 or 7 are expected to work in the fields. His job was to haul gunny sacks or baskets to the workers. Later on, he joined his siblings and parents in the fields.
“We had our own little work crew,” Martinez said.
Eventually, the Martinez family shifted gears from being migrant workers to owning a farm, when a couple in northern Wisconsin, the parents’ favorite state, agreed to sell their property. But Martinez, along with several of his siblings, decided to leave agriculture work behind and moved to Milwaukee.
At the time, Martinez was managing his brother’s country-western band and working second shift at a metal stamping company.
“I picked up the newspaper, and it said they were looking for someone to be a community worker at UMOS,” Martinez said.
There were two qualifications. The person had to be bilingual, and they needed to be familiar with farm work.
“I had both, so I was immediately hired,” Martinez said.
UMOS, which stands for United Migrant Opportunity Services, began as an agency for seasonal migrant workers in 1965. This was around the time of the migrant workers civil rights movement, which included such groups as the United Farm Workers.
Part of the reason Martinez decided to get involved with the movement stemmed from his responsibility as the family negotiator.
When the family would migrate to Nebraska, for example, Martinez, then 13, would be the one who negotiated with the farmer or crew leader about sleeping arrangements, picking assignments and so on.
Martinez recalled one experience where the workers were forced to stay in a chicken coop, which hadn’t been cleaned. They were also given the worst fields to pick in, which affected their pay.
“We needed to have some strong advocacy for migrant families because my family went through that same experience more than once,” Martinez said.
When Martinez began working at UMOS, his first job was as a community outreach worker. On his first day, he was handed a travel voucher and sent to Door County, where the cherry pickers worked.
He later enrolled at UW-Milwaukee, and he became a teacher and eventually the director of education for UMOS.
In 1974, he became CEO and president of UMOS.
‘Approachable and humble’
Silvia Rathell, who serves on the UMOS Board of Directors and is the executive director of the American College Health Association, is one of Martinez’s mentees. Rathell said she first met Martinez over 20 years ago when she volunteered at Mexican Fiesta during college.
“He was so approachable and humble,” she said. “When I first met him, I never would’ve known he was the CEO.”
Martinez took Rathell under his wing. Everywhere he went, be it a conference or a meeting, he brought Rathell along with him so she could learn the ropes and offer her perspective.
As CEO, Martinez is committed to following UMOS’s mission statement: to provide programs and services to underserved populations. One of his first goals was to diversify funding in order to help more groups. UMOS now receives more than $25 million in grants. Last year, UMOS invested nearly $6 million toward child education and development.
UMOS offers programs throughout Wisconsin, Minnesota, Missouri and Texas, with the corporate headquarters stationed in Milwaukee, 2701 S. Chase Ave. With a staff of over 500, it has five locations in Milwaukee County and an additional 16 locations throughout Wisconsin.
Rathell said Martinez is a leader who rolls up his sleeves. He doesn’t just give the orders, she said.
Martinez never turns his phone off and works seven days a week.
“We’re constantly moving, and that’s what the organization does in order to survive,” Martinez said.

created: October 2, 2019


text:
48654377602_a4981065dd_k | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
October 1, 2019


text:
LUPE | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
October 1, 2019


text:
‘You can make a new start’: Job-training program offers those who’ve been incarcerated a lucrative new career | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Edgar Mendez
October 3, 2019
<rdf:RDF xmlns:rdf="http://www.w3.org/1999/02/22-rdf-syntax-ns#"			xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/"			xmlns:trackback="http://madskills.com/public/xml/rss/module/trackback/">		<rdf:Description rdf:about="https://milwaukeenns.org/2019/10/03/you-can-make-a-new-start-job-training-program-offers-inmates-a-lucrative-new-career/"    dc:identifier="https://milwaukeenns.org/2019/10/03/you-can-make-a-new-start-job-training-program-offers-inmates-a-lucrative-new-career/"    dc:title="‘You can make a new start’: Job-training program offers those who’ve been incarcerated a lucrative new career"    trackback:ping="https://milwaukeenns.org/2019/10/03/you-can-make-a-new-start-job-training-program-offers-inmates-a-lucrative-new-career/trackback/" /></rdf:RDF>
Editor’s note: This story has been updated to correct the first name of Wilberto Velez.
As he stands in front of a Computer Numerical Control machine in a first-floor workshop at Milwaukee Area Technical College, Justin Ashford, 32, reflects on the multiple job offers he’s received.
“It’s not just about the money either. I want an opportunity to grow with the company,”  said Ashford, who was days away from completing the school’s accelerated four-month CNC training program that was made available to inmates in 2018.  CNC machining is a process in which precision parts are produced through computer inputs.
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
Ashford and seven other participants were in the classroom for eight hours a day, five days a week and even some weekends to complete the intensive course. They received training in how to read blueprints, metrology as well as other technical skills. He will walk out with a certificate in a high-demand field in hand — as a free man.
It’s something that would have been hard to imagine a year ago, said Ashford. At the time, he had just begun serving an 18-month sentence at the Milwaukee County House of Correction in Franklin. As a condition of completing the program, all incarcerated participants are released from jail.
“It’s a perfect opportunity to make a new beginning,” said Ashford, who hopes to become a tool and die maker.
Ashford is a participant in the UMOS TechHire program, a federally funded initiative to provide accelerated training in technology fields and other skilled trades. The CNC component of the program was developed through partnerships with the South Side nonprofit UMOS, the Department of Children and Families, the Wisconsin Department of Corrections and several local manufacturers, said Joni Theobald, director of the program. Ashford was a member of the third cohort of the CNC program.
Filling a need
Theobald said manufacturers are struggling to find skilled workers so the program provides incarcerated individuals a career opportunity.
“Unemployment is low and about 40 percent of the manufacturing workforce will be retiring within 20 years,” she said. Demand is so high for graduates of the CNC training program that starting pay averages between $16 and $22 per hour.
“These companies are pitting against each other to hire these students,” she added.
Bryan Obst, human resource manager for Trace-A-Matic, a Brookfield-based company that produces parts for aerospace, mining and other industries, said almost half of his company’s workforce will be entering retirement age within the next 10 years.
In inmates, they’ve found eager students looking for a second chance and to keep learning, Obst said. Supervisors of companies, including Trace-A-Matic, Reich Tool & Design and Senior Flexonics, observe students in the classroom and conduct “pitch sessions” and tours at their respective companies. Eventually, they hire some participants as interns.
“These guys are getting jobs even during their incarceration period. They have taken a sense of pride and ownership of their accomplishments because this program was difficult with high standards,”  said Jose Hernandez, assistant superintendent at the House of Correction.
In addition, the program allows participants the chance to view the correctional facility as a place where they can find opportunities to improve their lives, he said.
Once participants go back home and begin their internships, the TechHire program continues to support them in obtaining their licenses, finding transportation to work and overcoming housing and other challenges that can increase the odds that they will be incarcerated again, Theobald said.
‘Moving forward’
Wilberto Velez, 40, a military veteran who said he fell on hard times in recent years, is among the participants eager to launch a new career.
“I’m completing my sentence, doing what I’m supposed to do and moving forward,” Velez said. “No matter what happens in your life, you can still accomplish anything.” He said he’s already received several job offers.
Another is Andrew Anderson, who became a father seven months ago. He grew up in Cudahy, a manufacturing heavy suburb, and took shop classes in high school. But, he said, he never applied those skills.
Until now.
“It was time to start using those skills and also learn new ones,” he said. “I did it because I want to have a good career and be a good father.”
Dale Howser Sr., who’s been an instructor at MATC for 25 years, said the students from the House of Correction actually do better in the course than traditional students, who also take the training.
“They’re here every day and leave here with the skills and commitment to get a good job and career,” Howser said.
Ashford’s hope is that other inmates take advantage of that opportunity.
“Things happen in life, but you can better yourself,” he said. “You can make a new start.”

created: October 3, 2019


text:
48799427536_b56171179d_k | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
October 2, 2019


text:
48799499507_b6f9d5845a_k | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
October 2, 2019


text:
5 things to do this weekend: Oct. 4 to Oct. 6 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ana Martinez-Ortiz
October 4, 2019
It’s Friday in Milwaukee, and here are some events that can enrich your weekend. If you would like your event to be considered for this column, please email info@milwaukeenns.org and put “5 things” in the subject line by noon Thursday.
The Fatherhood Summit is an annual conference, which takes place during Milwaukee’s Boys and Men of Color Week. (Photo provided by Fatherhood Summit)
Black Lens kickoff party
Black Lens MKE, a Milwaukee Film Festival program that highlights films by African American filmmakers, is hosting its kickoff event on Friday, Oct. 4. During the event, guests will have an opportunity to network, socialize and view Black Lens’ film lineup. The kickoff will take place at No Studios, 1037 W. McKinley Ave., and start at 7 p.m.
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!

created: October 4, 2019


text:
48839219817_275654eecb_o | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
October 3, 2019


text:
5 things to know this week in Milwaukee: Oct. 7 to Oct. 12 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ana Martinez-Ortiz
October 7, 2019
It’s Monday in Milwaukee, and here are some events we think you shouldn’t miss. If you would like your event to be considered for this column, please email info@milwaukeenns.org and put “5 things” in the subject line by
On the Table provides an opportunity for people to converse on topics affecting Milwaukee and foster change. (Photo provided by the Greater Milwaukee Foundation)

created: October 7, 2019


text:
48843799456_5fc5ddaef9_o | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Dwayne Burtin
October 6, 2019

created: October 6, 2019


text:
Announcing #HAM4HAM lottery in Milwaukee 40 tickets for every performance $10 each | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Marcus Performing Arts Center
October 7, 2019
Producer Jeffrey Seller, Johnson Financial Group Broadway at the Marcus Center and Broadway Across America-Milwaukee announce a digital lottery for HAMILTON tickets will begin in conjunction with the show’s first performance (October 22) in Milwaukee at the Marcus Center.  Forty (40) tickets will be sold for every performance for $10 each.  The digital lottery will open at 11:00 CT on October 20 for tickets to the Tuesday, October 22 performance.  Subsequent digital lotteries will begin two days prior to each performance.
HOW TO ENTER
Tickets for HAMILTON are currently on sale.  Patrons are advised to check the official HAMILTON channels and Ticketmaster.com for late release seats which may become available at short notice.
ADDITIONAL RULES
Patrons must be 18 years or older and have a valid, non-expired photo ID that matches the name used to enter. Tickets are non-transferable. Ticket limits and prices displayed are at the sole discretion of the show and are subject to change without notice.
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
Lottery prices are not valid on prior purchases. Lottery ticket offer cannot be combined with any other offers or promotions. All sales final – no refunds or exchanges. Lottery may be revoked or modified at any time without notice. No purchase necessary to enter or win. A purchase will not improve the chances of winning.
HAMILTON is the story of America’s Founding Father Alexander Hamilton, an immigrant from the West Indies who became George Washington’s right-hand man during the Revolutionary War and was the new nation’s first Treasury Secretary.  Featuring a score that blends hip-hop, jazz, blues, rap, R&B, and Broadway, HAMILTON is the story of America then, as told by America now.
With book, music and lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda, direction by Thomas Kail, choreography by Andy Blankenbuehler and music supervision and orchestrations by Alex Lacamoire, HAMILTON is based on Ron Chernow’s biography of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton.
The HAMILTON creative team previously collaborated on the
2008 Tony Award ® Winning Best Musical IN THE HEIGHTS.
HAMILTON features scenic design by David Korins, costume design by Paul Tazewell, lighting design by Howell Binkley, sound design by Nevin Steinberg, hair and wig design by Charles G. LaPointe, casting by Telsey + Company, Bethany Knox, CSA, and General Management by Baseline Theatrical.
The musical is produced by Jeffrey Seller, Sander Jacobs, Jill Furman and The Public Theater.
The HAMILTON Original Broadway Cast Recording is available everywhere nationwide.  The HAMILTON recording received a 2016 Grammy for Best Musical Theatre Album.
For information on HAMILTON, visit www.HamiltonMusical.com, www.Facebook.com/HamiltonMusical, www.Instagram.com/HamiltonMusical and www.Twitter.com/HamiltonMusical.
About Marcus Performing Arts Center
Established in 1969, the Marcus Performing Arts Center is the premier performing arts community gathering space in Southeastern Wisconsin. As the Marcus Center celebrates its 50th anniversary, it continues to build bridges between diverse members of our community through high-quality arts entertainment in the region and the state. The touring Broadway series, sponsored by Associated Bank, is recognized as bringing the best of Broadway entertainment to Milwaukee for the past 20 years and provides opportunities to educate, entertain and engage audiences. The Marcus Center is also the home to the Milwaukee Symphony, Milwaukee Ballet, Florentine Opera, First Stage plus a variety of other important community and family events throughout the year. For more information about events visit the Marcus Center website at www.MarcusCenter.org. The Marcus Center is a private non-profit 501(c) 3 corporation and is a dedicated veterans memorial in Milwaukee.
Johnson Financial Group is a privately owned financial services company offering banking, wealth and insurance solutions through Johnson Bank, Johnson Wealth, and Johnson Insurance. The $5 billion financial services company operates in Wisconsin, Arizona and Minnesota. Principal owners of Johnson Financial Group are members of the Samuel C. Johnson family. Helen Johnson-Leipold is Chairman of Johnson Financial Group.  For more information visit www.johnsonbank.com
Broadway Across America (BAA) is part of the John Gore Organization family of companies, which includes Broadway.com, The Broadway Channel, BroadwayBox.com and Group Sales Box Office.  Led by 14-time Tony-winning theater producer John Gore (Owner & CEO), BAA is the foremost presenter of first-class touring productions in North America, operating in 45 markets with over 400,000 subscribers. Presentations include Disney’s The Lion King, Wicked, The Book of Mormon, The Phantom of the Opera and Hamilton. Current and past productions include Ain’t Too Proud, Beautiful, Cats, Chicago, Dear Evan Hansen, Mean Girls, Moulin Rouge! and To Kill A Mockingbird.

author: Marcus Performing Arts Center


text:
South Florida Sun-Sentinel editor, reporter to discuss ‘What Went Wrong in Parkland?’ at Marquette’s annual Burleigh Media Ethics Lecture | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Marquette University
October 7, 2019
Randy Roguski, metro editor of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel, along with investigative reporter Brittany Wallman, will deliver “What Went Wrong in Parkland?” at the 2019 Burleigh Media Ethics Lecture from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 10, in the Alumni Memorial Union Ballrooms, 1142 W. Wisconsin Ave.
Roguski and Wallman will outline what has and has not changed in the aftermath of the Feb. 14, 2018 shooting that resulted in the deaths of 17 people at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida — the deadliest school shooting in U.S. history.
The two will discuss the Sun-Sentinel’s Pulitzer Prize-winning reporting that examined the prevention and response failures by Broward County law enforcement, the school district and social services in a high school touted as the state’s safest.
They will also provide a look into the lessons the tragic event holds for schools in America, the debate over gun control and ethical dilemmas the reporters faced.
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
The lecture is free and open to the public and is sponsored by the O’Brien Fellowship in Public Service Journalism and the Diederich College of Communication. Online registration is requested.
# # #
marquette.edu/news-center/   |   twitter.com/MarquetteMedia


text:
randy-roguski | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ana Martinez-Ortiz
October 7, 2019


text:
NNS on WGLB radio: Reporter Ana Martinez-Ortiz dishes on Rev Up MKE | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
October 8, 2019
Susie Roberts (right), owner of kalyANa Organics, poses with fellow contestants after winning the 2018 Rev-Up MKE competition. (Photo by Jennifer Janviere)
Ana Martinez-Ortiz talks about Rev-Up MKE with Saryea Murchison and Dennis Walton. During the interview, the three talk about what exactly Rev-Up MKE is and its influence on the Near West Side.
Martinez-Ortiz briefly talks about her interview with the 2019 winner, Alan Goodman, available now.
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!

created: October 8, 2019


text:
| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
October 8, 2019
“190927_0831” by My Recording.


text:
| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
October 8, 2019


text:
UMOS TechHire program, MATC, Milwaukee County House of Correction in Franklin, Computer Numerical Control, incarcerated | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Mark Doremus
October 8, 2019
A new program is giving those who have been incarcerated the training they need to learn high-tech skills and to get high-paying jobs when they re-enter society.
“It’s a perfect opportunity to make a new beginning,” said Justin Ashford, who hopes to become a tool and die maker.
Ashford, 32, is a participant in the UMOS TechHire program, a federally funded initiative to provide accelerated training in technology fields and other skilled trades.
The four-month Computer Numerical Control training program, based at MATC, was made available to inmates in 2018.  CNC machining is a process in which precision parts are produced through computer inputs.
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
Ashford and seven other participants were in the classroom for eight hours a day, five days a week and even some weekends to complete the intensive course. They received training in how to read blueprints, metrology as well as other technical skills.
For more about the program and its participants, read here.

author: Mark Doremus


text:
| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
October 7, 2019

author: Adam Carr


text:
Post from Community: Milwaukee Jazz book event at Wisconsin Black Historical Society/Museum | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Joey Grihalva
October 8, 2019
On Friday, October 11, at the Wisconsin Black Historical Society/Museum, there will be a presentation and panel discussion on Milwaukee’s jazz history.
The event is free and open to the public, food will be provided and there will be a performance by a Milwaukee High School of the Arts advanced jazz trio. It will begin at 6:30 p.m., with Manty Ellis, Howard Austin and Victor Campbell on the panel.
The event is part of the release series for “Milwaukee Jazz”, a new book about the history of jazz in Milwaukee, featuring photography spanning a century. “Milwaukee Jazz” brings to life the players and places that made this blue-collar Midwest city a strong contributor to America’s original art form.
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
Local luminaries featured in the book include Loretta Whyte, Jabbo Smith, Woody Herman, Manty Ellis, Siggy Millonzi, Brian Lynch, Al Jarreau, and many more.
Writer Joey Grihalva, a Sherman Park native and three-time Milwaukee Press Club award winner for his feature writing at 88Nine Radio Milwaukee, interviewed dozens of musicians, club owners, and journalists, and compiled over two-hundred photographs.
“Milwaukee Jazz” is the newest edition to the Images of America series from Arcadia Publishing, the largest publisher of local history books in the nation.
Autographed books, as well as a selection of original photos from the book, will be available for sale. For more information visit www.mkejazzbook.com.

author: Joey Grihalva


text:
| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Name *
October 8, 2019


text:
Milwaukee, Office of Violence Prevention, 414LIFE, youth, community, gun violence, shootings, Ma’ruf Center for Youth Innovation | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Andrea Waxman
October 9, 2019
Teens from across the city speak about the toil of gun violence during a forum last week at the Ma’ruf Youth Innovation Center. (Photo by Andrea Waxman)
Twelve gun-homicides since Aug. 30, all but one on the city’s North and Northwest Sides, have left residents traumatized, attendees at a community forum said last week.
Teens from across the city and staffers from the Milwaukee Health Department Office of Violence Prevention spoke during a news conference and community forum, “Speak Out Against Violence In Our City.” The event took place at the Ma’ruf Center for Youth Innovation, 2110 W. Hampton Ave.
Here are some of the comments made by youth leaders:
Zion Rogers, Rufus King High School:
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
“I love nature but lately I haven’t enjoyed it as much because I’m afraid (when I’m outside), something will happen to me. Many of my friends have the same fear.”
Rogers announced that the teens are working with 414LIFE and other youth organizations to establish a youth violence interruption coalition that will work to de-escalate and mediate conflicts in their schools.
Jynise Foley, Rufus King High School:
“I was walking in the park with my best friend when a group of boys tried to talk to us. We ignored them, but they continued to follow us. Women shouldn’t have to feel like they can’t safely walk around in their neighborhoods.”
Naomi Elim, North Division High School:
“We’re here fighting for our rights to feel safe walking down the street. Gun violence affects me and my parents.”
“Another woman has been killed. Do you know what a mother goes through when her daughter is killed? I demand that you put the guns down. I am sick and tired.”
DeAngelo Lee, Milwaukee Marshall High School:
“There were three deaths yesterday and today. It’s getting out of hand. I’m a teenager and I like to have fun. My mother shouldn’t have to worry about getting a call saying I’ve been in a fatal car accident or caught in gunfire.”
Amaii Collins, Rufus King High School:
“There was a homicide on Sunday (Sept. 22) … Both the murderer and the victim were my co-workers. The murderer was my supervisor.”
Community advocate Erica Mitchell offers her thoughts about solutions to violence in the city. (Photo by Andrea Waxman)
Comments on solutions to violence from community attendees:
Erica Mitchell works with youths and is a personal trainer, community advocate and motivational speaker:
“I fear for my children and grandchildren. I look at myself, at the pain I inflicted because of my anger. We need to control our emotions. We need to control our attitudes. We need peace. Our children need us. You can be so traumatized that you’re acting like your 1-year-old children. It starts with you. If you don’t control yourself, prison will control you.”
Eric Lucas, a 16-year-old Urban Underground participant:
“A lot of teenagers, we don’t know how to express ourselves. Parents don’t have time to listen to us. Mental health is a big issue. Suicide is a big issue. My best friend killed herself when I was 13, and it was the same day I was put into foster care.”
“When parents exert their power over their children, (their children) get angry … There’s a big disconnect with the old kids and the young kids. We need to learn to talk to each other. All that yelling just goes in one ear and out the other.”
Ray Mendoza, a 414Life violence interrupter:
“We talk about loyalty. Be loyal to yourself. Forget about everything else. If you’re not loyal to yourself, it’s impossible to be loyal to your family. You don’t have to be what others want you to be. You can be successful and it’s free. All it costs is energy and time. I’m talking to the youth 21 and under. By the time 414Life comes in it’s too damn late.”
Nazir Al-Mujaahid, director of outreach, Ma’ruf Youth Innovation Center:
“We all suffer pain, the pain of discipline or the the pain of regret. I suggest teaching how to think by forming a book club and discussing “The Autobiography of Malcolm X” or “The New Jim Crow.” We should be having intellectual debates.”
Jesse Rosales, director, Ma’ruf Youth Innovation Center:
“We need to challenge MPS to make school more challenging for our kids. A lot of kids suffer trauma. They need art, music and gym. We need male volunteers. Put pressure on the city to support youth mentoring organizations.”
Karen Baker, a mother, pastor’s wife and MPS teacher, who grew up on North 46 and West Center streets:
“My students come in eating Red Hots and drinking soda. They fall asleep in class, and I’m trying to inspire them. They’re not eating right. They’re not going to bed. Their brother died. Their dad just beat up their momma. We have to teach them how to de-escalate situations. We have to teach them emotional control.”
Kimani Black, recently released after spending six years in a maximum-security facility:
“We need people from the streets to talk to the kids in the streets.”
Bramouse Muhammad, director of education, Clara Mohammed School:
“Our children need organizations in our schools and positive examples of black men in their classrooms. We have to go out and meet with our young men and give them the opportunity to get involved. There are a lot of organizations in Milwaukee doing a lot of work, but they are not getting properly funded. We need our city or state government to provide funding. Follow the money. Where is it going?”
Organizations and programs that help
A list of resources to help kids stay engaged and safe.

created: October 9, 2019

author: Andrea Waxman


text:
NNS Video: Lupe Martinez on his journey from migrant worker to CEO of UMOS | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Mark Doremus
October 10, 2019
Lupe Martinez is a man in constant motion.
As the CEO of UMOS, he has little choice.
The 74-year-old Martinez never turns his phone off and works seven days a week.
“We’re constantly moving, and that’s what the organization does in order to survive,” said Martinez, referring to his nonprofit that is dedicated to improving the employment, educational, health and housing opportunities of underserved populations.
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
Martinez has been with UMOS for 50 years and has served as CEO for 45 of them.
Read more about his journey in our NNS Spotlight.

created: October 10, 2019


text:
| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
October 9, 2019


text:
5 things to do this weekend: Oct. 11 to Oct. 13 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ana Martinez-Ortiz
October 11, 2019
LUNA will be hosting a soft opening for its official storefront this weekend. (Photo provided by LUNA)
It’s Friday in Milwaukee, and here are some events that can enrich your weekend. If you would like your event to be considered for this column, please email info@milwaukeenns.org and put “5 things” in the subject line by noon Thursday.
1. Neighborhood visioning session: Friday, Oct. 11
Residents from Halyard Park, Harambee and Brewers Hill are invited to join the Medical College of Wisconsin and the Greater Milwaukee Foundation for a visioning session from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 11. During the meeting, residents will be asked to offer their input regarding the restoration and redevelopment of a historic building on North Martin Luther King Jr. Drive. The session will be held at On The Bayou, 2053 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive.
2. Black male appreciation dinner: Friday, Oct. 11
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
The Marquette University Women’s Innovation Network will be discussing “what it means to navigate blackness in predominantly white spaces” on Friday, Oct. 11. The theme was inspired by James Baldwin’s essay “My Dungeon Shook – Letter to my Nephew on the One Hundredth Anniversary of the Emancipation.” The dinner will be held at the Alumni Memorial Union, 1442 W. Wisconsin Ave., from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. The event is free, click here for tickets.
3. HBCU college fair: Saturday, Oct. 12
Students and parents can learn more about historical black colleges during the HBCU College Fair on Saturday, Oct. 12. During the fair there will be free FAFSA help, on-site admissions and free workshops. The fair will be held at Harold Vincent High School, 7501 N. Granville Road, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
4. Soft opening of LUNA: Saturday, Oct. 12
Latinas Unidas En Las Artes, better known as LUNA, 1037 S. Cesar Chavez Drive, is hosting its soft opening on Saturday, Oct. 12. Community members are invited to not only view the art but buy pieces along with prints, jewelry, apparel and more. The opening starts at 11 a.m. and goes until 3 p.m.
5. Autumn celebration at Washington Park: Saturday, Oct. 12
The Washington Park Urban Ecology Center, 1859 N. 40th St., is celebrating autumn on Saturday, Oct. 12. Neighbors, families and friends are invited to take a nature bike ride, do crafts, make cider, carve a pumpkin and more. The event is free and open to the public. The day will begin at 10 a.m. and go until 2 p.m.

created: October 11, 2019

author: Ana Martinez-Ortiz


text:
| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
October 10, 2019


text:
Post from Community: City of Milwaukee celebrates the Equal Rights Commission’s 75th Anniversary | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
City of Milwaukee Equal Rights Commission
October 13, 2019
Broadway musical Rent told the world to measure the 525,600 minutes that make up a year in love. For the Equal Rights Commission, that love measures 39,420,000…the 75 years ERC has served the Milwaukee community.
“The current ERC mission statement is to promote and protect equality, equity, and human rights, through education, enforcement, and community engagement,” said Chez Ordoñez, acting chair of the ERC. “It’s much more than an enforcement agency or a watchdog…it’s a community partner. It’s a protector, it’s counsel, it’s a friend, and then, when need be, it’s someone to actually have your back.”
The Beginning
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
The ERC’s genesis came in 1944. While the country was recovering from World War II, then Milwaukee Mayor John Bohn was founding the Mayor’s Committee on Inter-Racial Relations. Bohn’s purpose in forming the committee was to examine community issues, make recommendations on how to improve those issues, and support policies that would make those improvements possible. In short, ERC was the door through which inclusivity could enter the city.
As the city continued to evolve, so did the ERC to more broadly encompass Milwaukee’s people and better address its challenges. ERC’s evolution is apparent in the name changes it underwent in its 75-year history. Just five years after its founding, the Mayor’s Committee on Inter-Racial Relations became the Milwaukee Commission on Human Rights. Community relations, fair housing, employment, and neighborhoods would make their way into the commission’s name and into their ever-expanding areas of focus.
The Equal Rights Commission as it is known today was made official in 1994. Initially serving as the first point of contact for concerns and complaints of unfair treatment, ERC soon grew to take greater action as well as include more and more protected categories from race and sexual orientation to housing and employment.
Making an Impact
ERC has been behind the scenes and on the front lines of many initiatives to make Milwaukee a more inclusive city. In response to an increase in discrimination complaints in the early 1990s, the ERC partnered with local organizations to fight issues like unfair employment and housing practices. That fight included media campaigns to raise awareness, organizing and facilitating community meetings and forums, contributing resources to investigations, and public opposition to policies and practices that could foster discrimination.
In 2007, the ERC worked with the Common Council to amend protected categories to include gender identity or expression, past or present membership in military service, and familial status. In 2017, ERC worked again with the Common Council to recreate that ordinance to include domestic partners, victims of domestic abuse or sexual assault, HIV-positive persons, and homeless individuals. The recreation even provided protection on the basis of genetic identity. A current initiative that ERC is working on is to expand its power to better enforce anti-discrimination as well as better engage communities.
How to Measure 75 Years
Under the rotunda of Milwaukee’s historic City Hall, ERC will mark a milestone. Those 75 years can be measured in 8 commission names, 7 mission statements, 4 major ordinances, 12 major initiatives, and, of course, love for the nearly 600,000 people of Milwaukee.
To celebrate, ERC will host a special anniversary event:
WHAT: City of Milwaukee Equal Rights Commission 75th Anniversary
WHEN: October 16, 2019 at 3 p.m.
WHERE: City Hall
200 E. Wells Street
First Floor Rotunda
Milwaukee, WI 53202
WHO: Tom Barrett, Mayor
Ashanti Hamilton, Common Council President
Chez Ordonez, Equal Rights Commission Acting Chair
WHY: To reflect on 75 years of promoting equality, protecting civil and human rights, and looking at a future where everyone is counted, represented, and celebrated.
In addition to commentary from public officials and even an anniversary cake, the ERC will debut a brand-new video encapsulating those 39,420,000 minutes of dedication to diversity and inclusion.
And as for the next 75 years?
“The future I envision for the ERC is big,” Ordoñez said. “I think these big visions and big goals are what people need, especially throughout Milwaukee. It is a fully funded equal rights commission. It is active complaints that we are investigating, that we are determining where we need to be able to get involved. It’s educating the community, not just on equal rights matters, but on how one community can interact with another, how we’re not so different from each other. That’s the ultimate goal and vision that I see with the Equal Rights Commission.”

created: October 13, 2019


text:
ERC_75Years.png | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Name *
October 11, 2019


text:
Post from Community: Free opera & dance performance at the Indaba Band Shell | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
St. Ann Center for Intergenerational Care
October 13, 2019
The Florentine Opera Company and Danceworks will share the spotlight in a free performance at the Indaba Band Shell at 6:30 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 16, through the United Performing Arts Fund’s UPAF Connect program. The band shell is on the grounds of St. Ann Center for Intergenerational Care’s Bucyrus Campus, 2450 W. North Ave.
The free night of music and dance features the Florentine Opera’s Baumgartner Studio Artists, who will perform music from “Carmen” and “La Traviata,” along with an American spiritual by Aaron Copland.
Soprano Kathryn Henry, mezzo-soprano Meghan Folkerts, tenor Luke Selker and baritone James Dewese will be accompanied by Janna Ernst, the company’s principal pianist. The singers are artists-in-residence, performing in a nine-month professional opera training program and serving as cultural ambassadors in outreach concerts.
Danceworks will showcase three pieces in different dance styles: hip-hop, classical Indian dance and the solo “Maestra” performed by Danceworks Artistic Director Dani Kuepper. This audience-participation piece will have the crowd dancing in their seats.
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
For more information about performances at the Indaba, contact Gloria Miller at (414) 210-2428 or gmiller@stanncenter.org.


text:
INDABA UPAF 9-16.png | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Name *
October 9, 2019


text:
Post from Community: 56th Annual Milwaukee Veterans Day of Honor set for November 16 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
October 13, 2019
Milwaukee is presenting a unique Veterans Day of Honor this year saluting World War II veterans as special guests during the 75th anniversary year of WWII, D-Day, and other historic battles.
This year’s parade and events are scheduled for Saturday, November 16 at the War Memorial Center on Milwaukee’s lakefront with an impressive array of special celebrations including:
• 9 a.m. – Displays, vendors, exhibits and performances at Milwaukee War Memorial
• 10:30 a.m. – Memorial service at War Memorial Reflecting Pool
• 11 a.m. – Veterans Honor Walk from War Memorial main entrance across the Mason Street Bridge followed by a veterans motorcade to Potawatomi Hotel & Casino
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!
The public is encouraged to participate in the events at the War Memorial and show their appreciation to the veterans. Free parking is available in the War Memorial lot on the north side of the building.
Organizers are excited about the new program that will give the public a unique chance to thank these veterans in an up close and personal way. The Honor Walk will be comparable to the energetic and emotional greeting given to veterans when they return from Honor Flights. WWII D-Day veteran Bill Pekrul of New Berlin will lead the walk and motorcade as Grand Marshal.
Kapco Metal Stamping of Grafton stepped up as Veterans Day of Honor presenting sponsor. Kapco President Jim Kacmarcik appreciates the opportunity. “We are so proud to support an event that gives the community the chance to thank these veterans and their families for their sacrifices,” Kacmarcik said. “It’s a meaningful moment to honor veterans and learn about experiences that are a living history.”
The Honor Walk will feature veterans and veteran groups marching from the War Memorial across the Mason Street Bridge to Prospect Avenue where a motorcade will take them to a private reception at Potawatomi Hotel and Casino. The motorcade will head south on Prospect to Wisconsin Avenue, west on Wisconsin to 6th Street, south on 6th to Canal Street, and west on Canal to Potawatomi.


text:
| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Name *
October 10, 2019