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OPINION: Celebrating the holidays: It ‘gives us a sense of belonging’: Kwanzaa with Clayborn Benson III | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Damia S. Causey
December 26, 2019
Clayborn Benson III speaks to a full house during the Kwanzaa Ceremony at the Wisconsin Black Historical Society in 2014. (Photo used with permission from Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
Clayborn Benson III, founding director of the Wisconsin Black Historical Society, has celebrated Kwanzaa at the Wisconsin Black Historical Society for 31 years. Here, he reflects on Kwanzaa’s core ideas, as well as the significance of the celebration to him and his community.
What is Kwanzaa?
It is the gift of life.
It was given to us by Dr. Maulana Karenga and the US Organization. out of Los Angeles, California, in 1966.
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Kwanzaa means “first fruit.” The first fruit in our everyday life is that of our families. In Africa, the first fruit is a period in which you celebrate the bringing in of the harvest.
How long have you been celebrating Kwanzaa at the Wisconsin Black Historical Society?
Thirty-one years. Kwanzaa is very important to us. It is the fiber we breathe in and create our lifestyle based on those Kwanzaa principles.
Our first year, we had maybe 10 to 12 people. And it evolved to this place, this big room being packed with people.
What is the biggest misconception or myth regarding Kwanzaa?
That it’s a religious holiday. It is not a religious holiday. It is a cultural holiday that gives us a sense of belonging to our mother nature and Africa.
What are the principles of Kwanzaa?
There are seven principles called the Nguzo Saba (En-GOO-zoh Sah-BAH) and it’s a way of life.
Umoja (oo-MOE-jah) Umoja means unity and sticking together. It means understanding each other and your brothers’ concerns with family, locally and internationally and how you fit into that.
Kujichagulia (koo-jee-cha-goo-LEE-ah) means self-determination. Being determined to achieve those things that you deem are significant and important to yourself and your families. It means getting off my butt and following my dreams and aspirations wherever they are.
Ujima-(oo-jee-mah) means collective work and responsibility. Ujima means that all of us share making this work, that all of us have a responsibility to carry our load and make the difference. We have a responsibility to participate in those things we deem important — our homes, our schools, our workplaces.
Ujamaa (oo-JAH-mah) means cooperative economics. How we’re managing our money. How we are managing our fiscal and economic growth to provide for ourselves and our families’ quality of life.
Nia (nee-AH) means purpose. To have that third eye. To have that vision for tomorrow. It means one must plan.
Kuumba (koo-OOM-bah) means creativity. Yes, art is creativity. Yes, this includes painting and writing and poetry and dance and even the way I read a book. Even the way I walk is creativity. Kuumba recognizes that each and every one of us is different and that difference in our art forms tells us that we have a responsibility to be respectful to each other regardless of our status.
Imani (ee-MAH-nee) faith. To clearly have a sense of direction and purpose. When I find myself off track and when I find myself having made mistakes, which I clearly do, I’m able to lean on and ask for support and help because none of us are perfect.
If a family or individual wanted to begin their own Kwanzaa practice, where do they start?
You should start by seeing it as a way of life. Not a religious but a cultural way of life. I would start by taking every principle seriously, reading and learning it.
What do people get when they come to Wisconsin Black Historical Society for a Kwanzaa celebration?
We try to include everybody. We try to make sure that everybody is touched by this experience. From the young kids to the college students, we bring them upfront and tell them: “We love you and much is expected of you. Hang in there and we love you.”
What are the details of your Kwanzaa celebration this year?
The Kwanzaa 2019 Opening Ceremonies are taking place at the Wisconsin Black Historical Society (2620 W. Center St.) on Thursday, Dec. 26 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
We will have speakers, entertainment, dancing and drumming, as well as vendors. As always, the event is free and open to the public.
This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
In case you missed it:
Celebrating the holidays: Why we celebrate Hanukkah
Celebrating the holidays: The making of a Las Posadas community celebration

created: December 26, 2019

author: Damia S. Causey


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Kwanzaa | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
December 25, 2019

source: news-milwaukeenns

created: December 25, 2019

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

author: Adam Carr


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kwanzaa_02 nws wood | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
December 25, 2019


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
December 25, 2019


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5 things to do this weekend: Dec. 27 to Dec. 29 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ana Martinez-Ortiz
December 27, 2019
Vibez Creative Arts Space is hosting a paint party for kids this weekend. (Photo provided by Vibez Creative Arts Space)
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. Healing circle for womenWalnut Way, 2240 N. 17th St., is hosting a healing circle for women of color from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 27. The healing circle provides a safe space for women to learn about self-care and self-love. Registration is not required. For more information, contact Angela Smith at (414) 264-2326, Ext. 14 or amsmith@walnutway.org.
2. Kids paint partyVibez Creative Arts Space, 3536 W. Fond du Lac Ave., is hosting a paint party for kids from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, Dec. 27. LeTasha Smith will lead participants through a step-by-step process to create a work of art. Tickets cost $25 and include all the supplies.
3. Dread Friday at Naturally Naps SalonNaturally Naps Salon, 5804 W. Forest Home Ave., is hosting its weekly Dreads Friday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 27. Persons with dreads or locs can receive a palm roll for $45 or an interlock for $55. Both include a wash, deep condition or deep soak, maintenance and styling. To schedule an appointment, call Ange at 414-339-7921 or email her at ange@naturallynapssalon.com.
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4.  SistaStrings + Nickel&Rose: Saturday, Dec. 28
SistaStrings and Nickel&Rose will be performing at Shank Hall, 1434 N. Farwell Ave., starting at 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 28. Tickets cost $15 in advance and $20 at the door. The concert is restricted to those 21 and over.
5. Ujamaa Marketplace at Coffee Makes You Black: Sunday, Dec. 29
The Ujamaa Marketplace will be at Coffee Makes You Black, 2803 N. Teutonia Ave., from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 29. The marketplace is a collaboration between Lilo Allen from the Bronzeville Collective and Coffee Makes You Black. It is a space for black-owned businesses to celebrate Kwanzaa. There will be music, food and drinks, local vendors and more.
Yep. We (still) out here begging. Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service is a nonprofit news organization. Consider making a donation to our NewsMatch campaign, which ends Tuesday, Dec. 31. When you donate, NewsMatch will match your donation up to $1,000. Click here to donate. Every dollar counts.

created: December 27, 2019

author: Ana Martinez-Ortiz


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
December 26, 2019


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5 things to know this week in Milwaukee: Dec. 30 to Jan. 4 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ana Martinez-Ortiz
December 30, 2019
The Domes is hosting a family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration. (Photo provided by Milwaukee Domes)
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.
1. Free admission at the zoo: Monday, Dec. 30 to Wednesday, Jan. 1
The Milwaukee County Zoo, 10001 W. Bluemound Rd., is offering free admission from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 30 to Wednesday, Jan. 1 as part of Frosty Free Week. (Parking fees will cost $12.)
2. Season of giving: blood drive: Monday, Dec. 30
The Versiti Blood Center of Wisconsin is hosting a blood drive from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 30 at the Milwaukee County Zoo Peck Welcome Center, 10001 W. Bluemound Rd. Donors will receive a mystery gift and a light meal will be served. To sign up for a donation time, click here.
3. New Year’s Eve family celebration at The Domes: Tuesday, Dec. 31
The Mitchell Park Domes, 524 S. Layton Ave., is hosting a family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 31. Tickets cost $10 and must be purchased ahead of time. There will be a light show, performances by Prismatic Flame fire dancers, a photo booth and a balloon drop.
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4. Brunch at Vibez Creative Arts Space: Wednesday, Jan. 1
To ring in the new year, Vibez Creative Arts Space, 3536 W. Fond du Lac Ave., is hosting a brunch from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 1. Tickets cost $20 for bottomless mimosas and $30 for mimosas and brunch. Brunch will be catered by the Taste of Love catering company.
5. Meditation at Center Street Wellness: Saturday, Jan. 4
Jordan Klein is leading a meditation session at the Center Street Wellness, 2701 N. Martin Luther King Dr., from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 4. The meditation will incorporate a sound bath while meditators lay in a comfortable position. Tickets cost $25 and walk-ins are available.
Bonus: Milwaukee NNS fundraising campaign: Now through Tuesday, Dec. 31
Yep. We (still) out here begging. Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service is a nonprofit news organization. In order to survive, we rely on donations. Consider making a donation to our NewsMatch campaign, which ends Tuesday, Dec. 31. When you donate, NewsMatch will match your donation up to $1,000. Click here to donate. Every dollar counts.

created: December 30, 2019


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
December 29, 2019

created: December 29, 2019


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Help us continue to showcase the beautiful people of Milwaukee | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ron Smith
December 31, 2019
We were at Washington Park Wednesdays over the summer, and we are here for you every day. Now we need you to come through for us. Donate! (Photo by Sue Vliet)
See these pretty people?
You wouldn’t if we stopped publishing.
That’s why we need your financial support.
Each day, we intentionally celebrate the ordinary people who do extraordinary things in our community.
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You get this news free of charge. But like you, we have bills to pay!
Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service is a nonprofit news organization. In order to survive, we rely on donations. Consider making a donation to our NewsMatch campaign, which ends Tuesday, Dec. 31. When you donate, NewsMatch will match your donation up to $1,000. Click here to donate.
Picture a world without NNS.
Now do your part to ensure this does not happen.
Pay. It. Forward.
NNS in the news: Our editor speaks about NNS and its mission.

created: December 31, 2019

author: Ron Smith


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
November 24, 2019

created: November 24, 2019


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20191277489_ceeb0c52d8_k | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
August 9, 2015

created: August 9, 2015


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5 things to do this weekend: Jan. 3 to Jan. 5 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ana Martinez-Ortiz
January 3, 2020
The band AhVantSoul will be performing Friday at Coffee Makes You Black, 2803 N. Teutonia Ave. (Photo provided by AhVantSoul)
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. AhVantSoul at Coffee Makes You Black: Friday, Jan. 3
AhVantSoul will be performing at Coffee Makes You Black, 2803 N. Teutonia Ave., from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 3. The band is known for its blend of classic soul, funk, jazz and rhythm and blues.
2. Hmong New Year celebration: Saturday, Jan. 4
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Ascension Lutheran Church, 1236 S. Layton Blvd., is celebrating Hmong New Year from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 4. Worship begins at 11:30 a.m., with the banquet to follow at 12:45 p.m. Everyone is welcome to join. There will be music, food and more.
3. Second annual Jibaro Fest: Saturday, Jan. 4
El Conquistador, Wisconsin’s Latino newspaper, is hosting its second annual Jibaro Fest from 7 p.m. to midnight Saturday, Jan. 4. Tickets cost $20 and benefit the annual Puerto Rican Family Festival. There will be food and musical performances. To purchase tickets, call (414) 383-1000.
4. Legal clinic on citizenship: Saturday, Jan. 4
The Mexican Consulate, 1443 N. Prospect Ave., is hosting a legal clinic on citizenship from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Jan. 4. The clinic is hosted by the law office of immigration attorneys Murrar, Oulahan, Rivas and Hochstatter. There will be a presentation regarding the process, cost and requirements of naturalization along with free consultations to review eligibility.
5. Snowshoeing at Mitchell Park: Sunday, Jan. 5
Friends of The Domes and the Riveredge Nature Center are hosting snowshoeing at Mitchell Park Milwaukee Domes, 524 S. Layton Blvd., from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 5. All levels are welcome and a Riveredge Naturalist will be on site to help teach beginners and provide snowshoes. Tickets for members of Friends of the Domes or Riveredge Nature Center cost $9 and tickets for nonmembers cost $16, which includes The Domes’ admission fee.

created: January 3, 2020


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
January 2, 2020

created: January 2, 2020


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5 things to know this week in Milwaukee: Jan. 6 to Jan. 11 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ana Martinez-Ortiz
January 6, 2020
Feeling it Dance and Fitness is teaching a Zumba class this week. (Photo provided by Feeling it Dance and Fitness)
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
1. Screening of “Suppressed: The Fight to Vote”: Tuesday, Jan 7
EXPO, 2821 N. Vel Phillips Ave., is hosting a screening of the documentary, “Suppressed: The Fight to Vote” from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 7. The documentary focuses on voter suppression and features experts, poll watchers and Georgia residents who were affected by these issues. A discussion will follow on voter suppression.
2. Kindfulness and meditation session: Wednesday, Jan. 8
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Woodland Pattern Book Center, 720 E. Locust St., is hosting a meditation circle from 11 a.m. to noon Wednesday, Jan. 8. Attendees can pay a donation amount of their choosing. The class will be led by Anthony Deutsch, a local musician and composer. There will be two sitting sessions, a short walking meditation and more. Guests should bring their own blanket and/or cushion.
3. Zumba dance and fitness class: Thursday, Jan. 9
Feeling it Dance and Fitness is hosting a Zumba class from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 9. The class will feature music such as soca, salsa, reggaeton, hip-hop and more. The class costs $5 per participant and can be paid for at the door. It will be held at Invisible Reality Ministries, 5324 W. Center St.
4. State Supreme Court candidate interviews: Thursday, Jan. 9
Citizen Action of Wisconsin, 221 S. 2nd St., will be interviewing candidates for the state Supreme Court from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 9. Those interested in attending should arrive by 5:45 p.m. Candidates Jill Karofsky and Ed Fallone will be interviewed at 6 p.m. and 7 p.m., respectively.
5. Prepare for tax season: Saturday, Jan. 11
Bank on Greater Milwaukee is hosting a workshop on tax season from 8 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Jan. 11. The workshop will be hosted at the Washington Park Senior Center, 4420 W. Vliet St. The workshop will be broken down into sections such as the benefits of banking, savings accounts for higher education and getting closer to homeownership with your tax refund. For questions, call (414) 562-9904.

created: January 6, 2020


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
January 5, 2020

created: January 5, 2020


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DAMIAA | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
January 5, 2020


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Causey’s Career Corner: Your new place for job tips, motivation and career advice | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Damia S. Causey
January 6, 2020
Here are some events happening near you:
Interested in earning your GED? Contact the Social Development Commission for free classes. To qualify, you must meet the following requirements:
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Click here for information or call the commission at (414) 906-2700 for more information.
2.
Did you know that the Milwaukee Public Library offers drop-in job help? You can receive assistance in getting an email address, resume writing and filling out online applications. There are several libraries offering this service. Click here for an extensive list.
1960 W. Atkinson Ave., 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesdays
2320 N. Cramer St., 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.Tuesdays
906 W. Historic Mitchell St., 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.  Wednesdays, (Bilingual trainer available.)
2727 W. Fond du Lac Ave., 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays; 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Fridays; and 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays
(414) 286-3076
Maximus is offering a job fair from 10 a.m. to noon Thursday, Jan. 9 at Community Advocates, 728 N. James Lovell St.
Dress professionally and have resumes on hand for on-the-spot interviews. Positions include, but are not limited to, customer service, hospitality, education, warehouse work and more.
This location is accessible through the Milwaukee County Transit System. Bus routes 30 and 30x service this area. If you need transit schedules, you may find them here.
For free resume assistance, click here.
Are you looking for a fresh start or a career change in 2020? Do you have college credits but didn’t complete your requirements? Would you like to receive support to help you complete a top 50 in demand career diploma or degree? Does your household make less than $56,000 annually? Have you been out of college for at least two years?
The MATC promise program may be for you. The purpose of the program is to give adults the opportunity to start or finish a degree or diploma program at virtually no cost to them. The program requires enrollment in certain in demand fields.
Applications are currently being accepted. The deadline is Wednesday, Jan. 8.
For more information, email matcpromise@matc.edu or call MATC at (414) 297-6668.
In case you missed it: MATC Promise program gives thousands an education lifeline
About this column: I will share stories of those who have taken a nontraditional approach to employment or an unusual career path. I will also list employment information such as job fairs, resource fairs and job training events. I encourage community organizations to email me at damiacausey@milwaukeenns.org with career information.


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Post from Community: Milwaukee Repertory Theater shines a light on Milwaukee SHEroes during ECLIPSED | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Milwaukee Repertory Theater
January 6, 2020
Editor’s note: Our Posts from Community feature is a platform for community announcements and event postings. If you have a post to be considered, send it to info@milwaukeenns.org or submit it directly.
Milwaukee Repertory Theater will highlight Milwaukee SHEroes during the run of Eclipsed, March 3 -29, 2020. Written by Black Panther star Danai Gurira, Eclipsed is a play about five women and their tale of hope and resilience set in the midst of the Liberian Civil War. Every week of the run in March, Milwaukee Rep will highlight the work of three individual women* of color who are fighting for the betterment of the community as a Milwaukee SHEro.
A Milwaukee SHEro exemplifies the values of dedication to one’s community, collaboration and sisterhood. Nominate a Milwaukee SHEro by visiting this LINK now through February 7, 2020. The nominations will be collected by Milwaukee Rep’s community engagement team and then submitted to an outside selection committee, which includes Rep employees and community members to deliberate the top 12 candidates. SHEroes will be announced in mid-February and featured each week during the run of Eclipsed.
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To be nominated, individuals must:
*Women/she- we recognize the limiting nature of the binary use of women. We are explicit in being radically inclusive to those on the gender spectrum who claim identities outside of that binary; trans, non-binary, gender non-conforming, gender queer/fluid are always welcome.
Eclipsed is sponsored by Executive Producers Jackie Herd-Barber, Michael Barber and Judy Hansen with Associate Producers Catherine and Buddy Robinson. Milwaukee Rep is sponsored in part by UPAF.
Purchase tickets at www.MilwaukeeRep.com, by calling the Ticket Office at 414-224-9490 or in person at 108 E. Wells Street in downtown Milwaukee.
For more information, please visit our website www.MilwaukeeRep.com

author: Milwaukee Repertory Theater


text:
| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
January 6, 2020


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How to be generous on a budget in the new year | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ana Martinez-Ortiz
January 7, 2020
Ladies of Charity provides underprivileged students with clothes made possible through donations. (Photo by Ana Martinez-Ortiz)
The season of giving doesn’t have to end with the start of the new year. Learn how to give back to the community without straining your wallet. A new year doesn’t mean the season of giving has to end.
Volunteer opportunities
Capuchin Community Services
The Capuchin Community Services has multiple volunteer opportunities. At the House of Peace, 1702 W. Walnut St., volunteers can assist in the food pantry or clothes closet.
At the St. Ben’s Community Meal Site, 1004 N. 10 St., volunteers help serve the meals and beverages and clean the table and dishes. Eight to 10 volunteers are scheduled a night and volunteers must be at least 12 years old. Volunteers are encouraged to participate in a “ministry of presence,” which means engaging and listening to the guests. Volunteer services also are needed to help monitor the showers, welcome guests and more.
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To volunteer, email or call Nicole Fair at ccsvol@thecapuchins.org or (414) 933-1300, Ext. 1123, or fill out this form.
Healthcare centers: Ascension, Aurora Healthcare and Froedtert
Healthcare centers will often hire volunteers to help for an extended period. For example, Froedtert requires volunteers to contribute at least 80 hours over the course of six months whereas Aurora requires a 64-hour commitment.
Depending on the location, volunteers may be tasked with various activities such as escorting patients, helping on special projects, baking cookies, being a NICU assistant and more.
Ascension, Aurora Healthcare and Froedtert all have volunteer opportunities at multiple locations. Volunteers must fill out an application form along with additional requirements. Requirements may vary per location.
Habitat for Humanity
Habitat for Humanity has volunteer opportunities in construction and its donation centers. Volunteers must register. From there, volunteers will learn about opportunities and when to sign up. Returning volunteers can click here to sign up for additional shifts. For questions or concerns, individuals can contact Beth Van Gorp at (414) 316-5615.
Habitat for Humanity also accepts items such as appliances, home decor and furniture for its ReStore. Individuals can drop off items or schedule a pickup.
United Way
United Way offers a plethora of volunteer opportunities from offering companionship to someone in hospice to assembling care packages. Volunteers can choose from on-site projects, group and workplace opportunities and off-site projects. Through United Way’s Seasons of Caring, volunteers can help make a difference year-round.
Groups and organizations can click here for the application form. Contact Karissa Gretebeck at (414) 837-3140 for additional questions.
COA Youth & Family Centers
COA Youth & Family Centers have volunteer opportunities suited for the individual, group or family based on interests and commitment level. Volunteers fill out the application form and return it by mail to Attn: Volunteer Coordinator COA Youth & Family Centers 909 E. North Ave., Milwaukee, WI. 53212 or email Laura Lysaght at LLysaght@coa-yfc.org.
COA will work with volunteers to determine volunteer opportunities. Volunteers will also need to complete a criminal background check and attend a volunteer orientation. For questions or concerns, call Laura Lysaght at (414) 263-8383, Ext. 1212.
Donate
Ladies of Charity
The Milwaukee Ladies of Charity, 1936 Vel R. Phillips Ave., collects clothes for underprivileged students in kindergarten through high school. The group accepts monetary donations and gently used or new clothing. Currently, Ladies of Charity needs new socks and underwear in children and adult sizes for teens, tops and pants in children sizes and hoodies in children sizes.
Call Claire Wycklend at (414) 331-2391 for donation hours.
Guest House of Milwaukee
The Guest House of Milwaukee, 1216 N. 13 St., offers multiple services to those in need such as shelter and care packages. Individuals can consider making a monetary donation or donating goods. Each guest receives a new pillow, jeans, backpacks, deodorant, soap and more. It currently needs garbage bags, toothpaste, underwear in small and medium sizes and T-shirts in small and medium sizes. Additional items can be found on its Amazon Wishlist.
The Guest House of Milwaukee also has volunteer opportunities such as working in the garden or helping out in the kitchen. Contact the Guest House at (414) 881-8216 or email info@guesthouseofmilwaukee.org.
Milwaukee Rescue Mission
The Milwaukee Rescue Mission is always accepting donations. It has two lists: urgent needs and year-round needs. It accepts donations from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday at its Kilbourn location, 830 N. 19 St. Clothing donations can also be made at True Value Hardware, 8010 N. 76 St.
Individuals can also consider helping to make homeless care packages or going to Amazon Smile and selecting Milwaukee Rescue Mission. For additional questions or information, call (414) 344-2211.
The Bottomless Closet
The Bottomless Closet helps men and women who are entering or re-entering the workforce by providing them with work-appropriate attire. Clients receive clothing, interview training and more. Clean, gently used and new business clothing and accessories for men and women are needed. Currently, the Bottomless Closet has a need for men and women’s steel-toed shoes, plus sized male and female business-casual clothing, men’s and women’s socks, new or gently used bras (all sizes) and new pantyhose (all sizes).
To schedule a drop off, call or email Jeri Kavanaugh at (414) 270-2984 or jkavanaugh@communityadvocates.net.
Salvation Army
The Salvation Army has several locations in Milwaukee. Click here and enter your ZIP code to find the drop-off location closest to you. The Salvation Army accepts donations of new and gently used items. Commonly donated items include clothing, appliances and household goods. For the full list of acceptable items, click here.
Goodwill
Goodwill has multiple locations throughout Milwaukee. To find the one closest, click here. It accepts gently used or new items such as clothing, housewares and furniture. Click here to see what items it does and does not accept.
St. Vincent de Paul
St. Vincent de Paul accepts gently used or new items. Its donation guidelines can be found here. Smaller items can be dropped off at the Greenfield Store, 4476 S. 108 St., or the Lincoln Store, 2320 W. Lincoln Ave. For larger items, call Cindy at (414) 462-7863 to schedule a Milwaukee County pick up.
Blood Center of Wisconsin
The Versiti Blood Center of Wisconsin is always in need of blood donors. Eligible donors can donate blood and bone marrow and sign up to be an organ and tissue donor.
To schedule a blood donation, donors can select a location closest to them. After selecting the location, view the calendar and choose what to donate: whole blood, double red cells, platelets or plasma. Before the appointment, donors can fill out the VersiPass and complete the questionnaire online.
Milwaukee Public Library
The Friends of the Milwaukee Public Library accepts books donations. The donated books are then sold to the public at the Bookseller Used Book Store and Café, located at the Central Library, 814 W. Wisconsin Ave., for prices as low as 25 cents. Books can be donated during store hours, which are noon to 4 p.m. Monday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. For additional questions contact the store at (414) 286-2142 or friends@mpl.org.
Did we miss a volunteer opportunity or donation site? Feel free to mention it in the comments below or send us an email at info@milwaukeenns.org.

created: January 7, 2020


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NNS on Lake Effect: 5 Things to know this January in Milwaukee | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
January 7, 2020
Children answer trivia questions at the Martin Luther King branch of the Milwaukee Public Library during the 2017 MLK Day event. (File photo by Andrea Waxman)
NNS’s Adam Carr visited the WUWM studios for an interview with Joy Powers of Lake Effect for our monthly “5 Things” preview, focusing on events taking place in our neighborhoods in January.
This month’s list includes events from the Zeidler Center for Public Discussion, Diverse Dining, UW-Milwaukee’s School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Marcus Performing Arts Center, Milwaukee Public Library and artist/filmmaker Portia Cobb.
Do you have feedback on Milwaukee NNS's reporting? Take our survey to let us know how we're doing!

author: Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service


text:
| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
January 7, 2020
“0107b_0”. Released: 2020.


text:
| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
January 7, 2020


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OPINION: Celebrating the holidays: Continuing the tradition of ‘Los Tres Reyes Magos’ (the Three Kings) | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Claudia Delgadillo
January 7, 2020
“Los Tres Reyes Magos,” or the Three Wise Men, pay a visit to St. Peter Lutheran Church. (Photo by Claudia Delgadillo)
The Three Kings or Three Wise Men are celebrated in Christian religions based on the biblical figures that traveled and followed the North Star that led them to Bethlehem where Jesus was born in a manger. With them, the wise men took gold, frankincense and myrrh as gifts for the newborn baby, whom they believed to be the Messiah.
For the Latino community, the celebration is especially important—and fun. Depending on the country of origin, the holiday may be celebrated differently. At St. Peter Lutheran Church, 1205 S. 8 St., a celebration with traditional Puerto Rican food, music and gifts for the children was held on Jan. 5, the night before the holiday. The church typically celebrates the Puerto Rican traditions for the Three Kings but does not exclude other cultures.
Omar Bravo is community liaison and member at St. Peter’ Lutheran Church. Born and raised in Puerto Rico, he came to Milwaukee 20 years ago and has been a member of the church for nine years. The Rev. William Dunn is pastor of the church. Originally from Texas, Dunn graduated from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary and began preaching bilingual services at the church three and a half years ago.
Who are the Three Kings?
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Bravo: We call them the Tres Reyes Magos and in the Latino community the celebration is big.
And in the Puerto Rican community, in some places, it’s bigger than Christmas. The tradition for the kids is on the evening of the 5 [of January] you go up on the mountains with shoe boxes and put grass in the shoe box so in the evening in the 5 when you are sleeping, the camels are going to give you a present. Back home, the three kings are celebrated more than Christmas on the island of Puerto Rico. The reason I like that tradition is because it’s more connected to the religious part and the Epiphany and the star.
Dunn: The Bible doesn’t actually call them kings. It calls them magi, and what does that mean? They could have been elitists, scholars, or even astrologers. They must have known the star from somewhere. Maybe they knew from the scriptures that said a star would appear.
Bravo: That’s why in Spanish they call them the Three Kings or Los Reyes Magos. Magos are magicians in Spanish.
Children receiving gifts during the “Los Tres Reyes Magos” celebration. (Photo by Claudia Delgadillo)
Why is it important to celebrate them?
Bravo: It is important for the culture, especially for the people who come from Puerto Rico to Milwaukee. They know about Christmas, but they really think about the three kings. It’s so deep in their lives because of the connection to Jesus.
One of the reasons we decided to celebrate it, I wanted to do something to bring people, especially from back home and especially after Hurricane Maria. This is our third year and it was right after the hurricane. Just to get people to come to church, but also this is part of the culture.
Is there any traditional food associated with the Three Kings?
Bravo: I have a family member from Puerto Rico who is a great cook and she is going to be cooking Puerto Rican rice, pork roast or pernil, guineos en escabeche, which is a green plantain dish with onions, and a traditional Puerto Rican bread.
Dunn: We try to maintain the Puerto Rican tradition, but we’re also trying to be as inclusive as possible and so with the roscas. I know that is more of a Mexican background with the tradition of finding the little baby Jesus in there, that isn’t a Puerto Rican tradition.
Traditional Puerto Rican food being served during the Three Kings celebration. (Photo by Claudia Delgadillo)
What was it like celebrating the Three Kings in Puerto Rico?
Bravo: I miss that every year. You go to church and they celebrate it and after that you get your gifts. I was raised Catholic and they do have the tradition of doing the rosary for the Three Kings, but they sing it. That has been tradition for hundreds of years. If you don’t see your family on Christmas, you will for sure see them for Three Kings and it used to go nuts.
When you went to church, men dressed up like the Three Kings will be there. And depending, the Three Kings will get on horses and they go around and throw candy at the kids. Or they get in a jeep and then there is a group of jeeps behind them making all this noise that the Three Kings are coming.
Do you have any stories from people who came here after Hurricane Maria?
Bravo: The first year, this lady came in and she had only been here for three months. She was here with her kids. She found out about the celebration on Facebook, she was very grateful, and she told me she didn’t remember the last time she was able to eat Puerto Rican food like this and the kids being able to see the Three Kings. She told me this is a little reminder of home.

author: Claudia Delgadillo


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49337239671_fa9ecebcb3_4k | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
January 6, 2020


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OPINION: Celebrating the holidays: ‘Maintaining a collective memory of our Hmong homeland’ through the Hmong New Year | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Lo Neng Kiatoukaysy
January 7, 2020
(Photo courtesy of Milwaukee Hmong New Year Facebook page)
Editor’s note: Have something on your mind? “Community Voices” is the place to let Milwaukee hear what you have to say. To be considered, we need your name, email address and phone number for verification. Please email your submissions to info@milwaukeenns.org.
Lo Neng Kiatoukaysy is the executive director of the Hmong Friendship Association, where he has worked since 1996. Here, he reflects on the local celebration of the Hmong New Year, which was recently celebrated at State Fair Park in Milwaukee.
The Hmong New Year is our community’s pinnacle cultural celebration. It reinforces the identity of the Hmong community as a whole, as well as strengthening the cultural identity of each of its members. Our annual celebration includes colorful costumes, beautiful dancing, traditional folk songs, delicious food and a Hmong marketplace.
For me, the celebration helps to maintain a collective memory of our Hmong homeland and an ethnic consciousness that is central to who I am. When I was a young child, my family had to flee from Laos to Thailand after the Vietnam War; we then came to the U.S. I remember celebrating the new year in Southeast Asia—I always looked forward to it with great anticipation. It was the only time during the year when I got to eat candy—only a couple of pieces. It was also the only time my parents took a break from working in the fields to spend quality time with their children.
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(Photo courtesy of Milwaukee Hmong New Year Facebook page)
Thanksgiving for our ancestors and for the harvest is also a key part of the Hmong New Year. At this time of year, I am always especially mindful of the hard work of my parents, who labored so ceaselessly to provide for my brothers and sisters and me and who overcame so many obstacles to bring us to the United States to begin a new life.
The New Year’s celebration is a time for the Hmong community to connect, remember and practice our rich traditions. It is also an opportunity to pass cultural traditions to our youth and keep them alive. Many Hmong youth were born in the U.S. and do not have memories of life in Southeast Asia. There are folk songs, dances and social rituals—such as ball tossing—that we are able to teach to a new generation of Hmong youth. It also gives Hmong youth who are learning traditional cultural arts with the chance to demonstrate what they have learned through dance and qeej (a windpipe instrument) performances.
In Milwaukee, the New Year’s celebration is usually held the first weekend in December at the Expo Center at State Fair Park. The entire Milwaukee community is invited to take part in the festivities; we welcome the chance to share our rich cultural heritage with the community at large.
Nyob Zoo Xyoo Tshiab! Happy New Year!

author: Lo Neng Kiatoukaysy


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Hmong New Year 2 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
January 6, 2020


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Post from Community: Last call for spring: It’s not too late to enroll at MATC for next semester; attend our special enrollment events Jan. 11 and 25 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Milwaukee Area Technical College
January 8, 2020
Editor’s note: Our Posts from the Community feature is a platform for community announcements and event postings. If you have a post to be considered, send it to info@milwaukeenns.org or submit it directly.
Considering enrolling in college for Spring 2020? You can still enroll at Milwaukee Area Technical College for spring semester. Take care of everything at our “Last Call for Spring” sessions from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturdays, Jan. 11 and 25 in the Welcome Centers at all four campuses.
Sessions will be held at:
MATC Downtown Milwaukee Campus, first floor, Student Center, 700 W. State St.
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MATC Mequon Campus, first floor atrium, A Building, 5555 W. Highland Road
MATC Oak Creek Campus, first floor atrium, A Building, 6665 S. Howell Ave.
MATC West Allis, Room 114, 1200 S. 71st St.
For your best opportunity, visit fafsa.gov and make sure you have completed your 2019-20 financial aid application, or bring your documents to the session for help in filing your FAFSA. If you are new to MATC, bring your official high school transcripts. Start or finish an application, meet with an adviser and register for classes all in one session.
Call the Recruitment Office at 414-297-6228 if you have questions about MATC’s more than 150 academic programs and transfer options with more than 35 four year colleges and universities.
Wisconsin’s largest technical college and the most diverse two-year institution in the Midwest, Milwaukee Area Technical College is a key driver of southeastern Wisconsin’s economy and has provided innovative education in the region since 1912. More than 35,000 students per year attend the college’s four campuses and community-based sites or learn online. MATC offers affordable and accessible education and training opportunities that empower and transform lives in the community. The college offers more than 150 academic programs; transfer options leading to bachelor’s degrees with more than 35 four-year colleges and universities. Overwhelmingly, MATC graduates build careers and businesses in southeastern Wisconsin. The college is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, the national standard for academics and student services.

created: January 8, 2020

author: Milwaukee Area Technical College


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Two to know: A student making a difference and a writer to get jazzed about | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Princess Safiya Byers & Sean Bush
January 8, 2020
Lashonda “Alex” Good comes from a family of community leaders. (Photo by Princess Safiya Byers)
Editor’s note: This story has been updated to correct the age and occupation of Joey Grihalva.
Name: Lashonda “Alex” Good
Age: 17
Why she’s worth knowing:
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Good comes from a line of people who care for and serve the communities that they live in or identify with. She is carrying the torch.
Good is an active member of Top Teens of America, The 27 Street Drug Free Coalition, Urban Stable, and she is the president of the NAACP Youth Council.
What she says:
“My mom and my grandmother both worked in the community throughout my life. For me, it started with my mom making me go to these events with her, but then I started to like it. I like it because I could see people coming together, and I could see the outcome of what we were doing. Now I love working in the community.”
What others say:
“Alex is one who paves her own way, she is involved in so many things, and she’s passionate about so much,” said Adrian Spencer, Good’s mother.
“I am happy to have Lashonda as the president of the council,” said Linda Carr, NAACP Youth Council adviser. “She is very intelligent, an amazing leader, and I believe she will go far. Alex was proactive, she reached out to the adult chapter to see how she could run for president.”
Issues she’s concerned about:
“Gun violence is a big problem in the Milwaukee community, but it’s also nationwide. There have been lots of mass shootings so it’s an issue everywhere.”
Parting words:
“A lot of people my age don’t try to do things because they don’t know about it or because they don’t think they’re smart enough to get it done.”
“People need to hear what we have to say, because we are the ones that will be affected by the decisions everyone keep making.”
“We need more youth programming for young people. They get into stuff because there isn’t anything for them to do.”
-Princess Safiya Byers
Joey Grihalva hails from Sherman Park and has an appreciation for Milwaukee’s rich jazz history. (Photo provided by Joey Grihalva)
Name: Joey Grihalva
Age: 34
Why he’s worth knowing:
Grihalva is a MPS teacher, writer and author of “Milwaukee Jazz.”
What he says:
“Uncovering the rich jazz history of my hometown has been nothing short of revelatory. I am deeply honored to have spent time with such talented artists and their kin. And I am equally excited to share their stories with the larger community.”
Issues he’s concerned about:
The importance of race is not lost on Grihalva. He understands what jazz music means to communities of color and how music continues to be a vehicle for combating racial oppression and segregation in today’s society.
“I grew up in Sherman Park, and I have always been sort of hyperaware of race. I know and acknowledge that jazz is primarily a black art form,” Grihalva said.
What others say:
“Joey has been a wonderful asset to the music community at large,” says local jazz musician Jamie Beiwick. “He really took a lot of time to do [the book] the right way. It turned out really amazing and I’m so glad it turned out the way that it did.”
-Sean Bush

author: Princess Safiya Byers & Sean Bush


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OPINION: MPS referendum: ‘We have an opportunity to make our city stronger’ | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Larry Miller
January 9, 2020
(File photo by Jabril Faraj)
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Larry Miller is the president of the Milwaukee Board of School Directors.
Over the past several months, we have had an unprecedented conversation in the City of Milwaukee about the future of our children. Thousands of you have spoken through surveys, hundreds have attended community meetings across the city and answered questions directly over the phone and a task force of leaders representing voices from all across Milwaukee dedicated their time to discuss the difficult challenges facing our schools.
We owe all of you a debt of gratitude for your time and thoughtfulness in these important discussions. Thank you.
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The outpouring of support for Milwaukee’s children has been overwhelming. The direction to be wise in the use of resources has been pronounced and your voice has been made clear: “Do what is necessary to support our children, do what is needed to support our students.”
On Thursday, December 19, the Milwaukee Board of School Directors took that direction and voted to place a referendum question on the April 7, 2020, Spring Election ballot that will increase the resources available to MPS students by $87 million.
Because we share the concern of implementing a model that is sensitive to taxpayers, revenue limit authority — the amount of total resources available to students — would be phased in over a four-year period. This is a model that has been used in other districts and allows for a fair balance of local and state support. If the referendum is passed, property taxes on a $100,000 home would increase by $160 in 2020, with a forecast that that level of tax support for the referendum would be maintained and would not increase during the second, third and fourth years of the phase in.
In our community conversations, we talked about the wonderful strength of our students and discussed the fantastic programs that are currently available to our children. We also had an honest discussion about the many areas of need and the additional support that we all want to provide for our students.
The ballot question states that referendum funds will be used to sustain and expand educational programming, which allows the school district to prioritize funds toward a number of areas. The ballot question also specifies that funds will be used to offer more career and technical education programs, to attract and retain certified educators and to expand art, music, physical education and language programs.
What we have before us is an opportunity that we have not had in a generation.
We have an opportunity to join together as a community and to use our collective power, effort and resources to improve the lives of our children. We have an opportunity to make our city stronger.

created: January 9, 2020

author: Larry Miller


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
January 8, 2020


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5 things to do this weekend: Jan. 10 to Jan. 12 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ana Martinez-Ortiz
January 10, 2020
It’s the last call for spring: MATC is hosting a special enrollment session from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 11 at all of its locations. (Photo provided by MATC)
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. Hmong American Women’s Association movement leader kick-off: Friday, Jan. 10
The Hmong American Women’s Association is kicking off its Movement Leaders’ Committee from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 10. The goal is to have community-minded individuals mingle with each other to discuss issues and opportunities facing the Milwaukee Southeast Asian communities. The meeting will take place at Velobahn Coffee & Cycle, 3618 W. Pierce St.
2. Youth summit on sex trafficking: Saturday, Jan. 11
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Milwaukee youths are invited to attend a summit regarding sex trafficking and how to avoid getting caught in the game. The summit will take place at the Northside YMCA, 1350 W. North Ave., from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 11. The event is free and for youths between the ages of 11 and 17. There will be workshops and opportunities to hear from survivors of human trafficking. (Read our special report on the issue.)
3. MATC special spring enrollment day: Saturday, Jan. 11
MATC is hosting a special enrollment session from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 11. Those interested are encouraged to complete the FAFSA form and bring the necessary documents such as high school transcripts. The sessions will be held at all four campus locations: Downtown, 700 W. State St., Mequon, 5555 W. Highland Rd., Oak Creek, 6665 S. Howell Ave. and West Allis, 1200 S. 71st St. For questions call (414) 297-6228.
4. Coat giveaway for youths: Saturday, Jan. 11
The Taylor-Made Foundation will be giving away coats to Milwaukee youths starting at 1 p.m. Saturday, June 11 at the Sherman Phoenix, 3536 W. Fond du Lac Ave.
5. Winter family night: Saturday, Jan. 11
The Urban Ecology Center in Riverside Park, 1500 E. Park Place, is hosting a winter family night from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 11. There will be a puppet show, games, crafts and winter snacks. Registration is required. Tickets cost $14 for non-members and $10 for members.

created: January 10, 2020


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
January 9, 2020


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Post from Community: Snow Emergency requiring alternate side parking in effect | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
City of Milwaukee Department of Public Works
January 11, 2020
Editor’s note: Our Posts from Community feature is a platform for community announcements and event postings. If you have a post to be considered, send it to info@milwaukeenns.org or submit it directly.
The City of Milwaukee Department of Public Works has declared a Snow Emergency for January 11, 2020. There is no parking allowed on arterials from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. and alternate side parking will be required on side streets from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. Posted street signs take precedence. Please read the street signs for winter parking instructions BEFORE YOU PARK.
Arterials (No Parking)
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To confirm the arterials which do not allow any parking and for additional parking restriction information visit milwaukee.gov/winterparking. Residents can also call (414) 286-CITY (-2489).
Side Streets (Alternate Side Parking)
All residents who park overnight on a Milwaukee side street must move their vehicles to the ODD numbered side of the street by 10 p.m. on January 11, 2020 through 6 a.m. on January 12, 2020.
Parked vehicles should be flush to the curb and out of the flow of traffic. This includes the streetcar route and other city roadways.
Designated Milwaukee Public Schools lots will be available for off-street parking beginning January 11, 2020 at 7 p.m. All vehicles must be moved from MPS lots by 7 a.m. the following morning. For a list of school parking lot locations, go to milwaukee.gov/snowparking.
Stay informed
Your cooperation will ensure that DPW crews can access as much of the street pavement as possible to clear ice and snow effectively, efficiently, and most importantly, safely.
Emergencia de nieve en efecto que requiere estacionarse en el lado alterno
El Departamento de Obras Públicas de la Ciudad de Milwaukee ha declarado una emergencia de nieve para 11 de enero, 2020. No se permite estacionar en arterias de 10 p.m. a 6 a.m. y se deberá estacionarse en el lado alterno en las calles laterales de 10 p.m. a 6 a.m. Los letreros de las calles tienen prioridad. Lea los letreros de la calle para obtener instrucciones de estacionamiento de invierno ANTES DE ESTACIONAR.
Arterias (no estacionar)
Para confirmar cuáles son las arterias que no permiten estacionarse y para información adicional sobre restricciones de estacionamiento, visite milwaukee.gov/winterparking. Los residentes también pueden llamar al (414) 286-CITY (-2489).
Calles laterales (estacionamiento en lados alternos)
Todos los residentes que se estacionen durante la noche en una calle lateral de Milwaukee deben trasladar sus vehículos al lado numerado IMPAR de la calle antes de las 10 p.m. el 11 de enero hasta las 6 a.m.el 12 de enero de 2020.
Los vehículos estacionados deben estar al ras de la acera y fuera del flujo del tráfico. Esto incluye la ruta del tranvía y otras rutas de la ciudad.
Los lotes designados de las Escuelas Públicas de Milwaukee estarán disponibles para estacionamiento fuera de la calle a partir del DATE a las 7 p.m. Todos los vehículos deben ser trasladados de los lotes de MPS antes de las 7 a.m. de la mañana siguiente. Para obtener una lista de los lugares de estacionamiento de las escuelas, visite milwaukee.gov/snowparking.
Manténgase informado
Su cooperación asegurará que los equipos de DPW puedan acceder a la mayor parte del pavimento de la calle como sea posible para limpiar el hielo y la nieve de manera efectiva, eficaz, y lo más importante, de manera segura.

created: January 11, 2020


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5 things to know this week in Milwaukee: Jan. 13 to Jan. 18 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ana Martinez-Ortiz
January 13, 2020
St. Anthony School is hosting an open house this week. (File photo by Matthew Wisla)
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.
1. Milwaukee Recreation winter registration: Monday, Jan. 13
Milwaukee residents can still register for classes and workshops offered through Milwaukee Recreation. Click here to find the 2020 winter recreation guide. To register for a class, click here. There are classes available for children, teens, families and adults.
2. Open house at St. Anthony School: Wednesday, Jan. 15
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St. Anthony School, 1669 S. 5th St., is hosting an open house from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 15. This is an opportunity for prospective families and students to learn about St. Anthony School. Teachers, staff and admissions department will be there to provide information. There will be pizza, refreshments and raffles. For more information call (414) 837-3300 or email admissions@stanthonymilwaukee.org.
3. Nomination deadline for Difference Makers Awards: Thursday, Jan. 16
Residents of District 6 have an opportunity to win the Dr. James G. White 6th District Difference Makers Award. Ald. Milele Coggs of District 6 is inviting residents to nominate individuals or groups who work hard to improve the quality of life in their neighborhood and Milwaukee. The deadline to submit a name is Thursday, Jan. 16. Nomination forms can be found here.
4. The Story of a Neighborhood exhibit: Friday, Jan. 17
The Mobile Design Box, 753 N. 27th St., has a new exhibit for gallery night titled “The Story of a Neighborhood.” Visitors can explore Milwaukee’s Near West Side through images from the 1920s to the current day. The exhibit will be on display from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 17.
5. King Drive Commons Gallery and Studio gallery day and night: Friday, Jan. 17 and Saturday, Jan. 18
King Drive Commons Gallery and Studio, 2767 N. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, is hosting two gallery events featuring the works of Willie Lamar and Greg Cox. The first show will take place from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, Jan. 17 and the second show from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18.

created: January 13, 2020


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
January 12, 2020

created: January 12, 2020


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Post from Community: Nominations open for Don Sykes Legacy Award | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Social Development Commission
January 14, 2020
Editor’s note: Our Posts from the Community feature is a platform for community announcements and event postings. If you have a post to be considered, send it to info@milwaukeenns.org or submit it directly.
The Social Development Foundation Board of Directors is pleased to present the Don Sykes Legacy Award. This award is annually given to an individual who the Board of Directors feels best reflects the Social Development Foundation’s mission and the life and legacy of the late Don Sykes. The mission of the Social Development Foundation is to generate awareness, identify resources, and secure support to advance the efforts of the Social Development Commission.
Don Sykes is remembered as one of Milwaukee’s most prominent antipoverty activists. As part of President Bill Jefferson Clinton’s administration, Sykes served as director of the Health and Human Services Office of Community Relations. In Milwaukee, Sykes was executive director of the Social Development Commission for two decades (1968–1988). He is celebrated for a career of service and his fight to empower people experiencing poverty. He was truly a legend in our community. Don Sykes passed away in 2017, but his work continues to inspire advocates working on behalf of people experiencing poverty every day. Therefore, it is fitting that the Social Development Foundation, dedicated to the elimination of poverty, annually select a member of the community, who, like Don Sykes, works tirelessly to move people beyond poverty.
Selection Criteria:
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The recipient of this award will be selected according to the procedures and criteria contained herein. Each nominee will be evaluated on the following:
Guidelines and Deadline
Nominations are now being accepted for the 2020 Don Sykes Legacy Award.  The deadline for nominations will be 5 p.m., Friday, February 7, 2020. Self-nominations or nominations from family members are not accepted. Current Officers of the Social Development Foundation Board of Directors shall be ineligible for consideration or receipt of the award during their respective terms.
Nomination requirements include:
2020 NOMINATION FORM
Please return the completed application by 5 p.m., Friday, February 7, 2020 to LaToya Jones; Don Sykes Legacy Award Nomination; 1730 W. North Avenue; Milwaukee, WI 53205 or ljones@sd-foundation.org.
NOMINEE’S INFORMATION
Name: _____________________________________          Age: _________
Address: _________________________________________City: ____________________ State: ___             Zip:________
Telephone: ______________________            Email:_________________________
Employer or School if applicable: ______________________________________
NOMINATOR’S INFORMATION
Name: ____________________________________________________________
Address: __________________________City: ____________    State: ___     Zip:________
Telephone: ______________________ Email: ____________________________
Please use a separate sheet of paper for the following information.
Share with us why you are submitting this nomination and why your nominee should receive the Don Sykes Legacy Award. Describe how your nominee has demonstrated excellence in areas of community leadership, community impact, alignment to Social Development Foundation’s mission, personal attributes and efforts to eliminate poverty in our community.
How has the nominee impacted the local, state, or national community? How has the nominee engaged with the community and demonstrated a strong sense of purpose? Please share specific details and provide evidence to the nominee’s community accomplishments and impact.
The Don Sykes Legacy Award is an honor we confer upon an individual who has created lasting change resulting in a measurable difference in our community. Please share details and provide evidence on why you believe your nominee fits these criteria.  Please list nominee’s other awards, distinctions, and recognitions.

created: January 14, 2020

author: Social Development Commission


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Basketball coach demands his students score on and off the court | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Edgar Mendez
January 14, 2020
“We’re not just trying to make them better players, we’re trying to make them better people,” Pulaski/Carmen Southeast High School varsity basketball coach Melvin White says. (Photo by Edgar Mendez)
It’s the day after Christmas, and the sounds of thumping basketballs, squeaking sneakers and shouts from Pulaski/Carmen High School boys varsity basketball coach Melvin White echo off the walls of the school’s gym.
“No one in the City Conference is going to fall for that pump fake,” White howled as 11 players rotated from the top of the key to the baseline.
White said his players, who were on holiday break, had even tried to get him to open the gym on Christmas. Now, less than 12 hours after the holiday officially ended, here they were repeating a drill that would run until three shots in a row found their way through the net.
Their reward for successfully completing that task: laps from one end of the court to the other.
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“It’s tough love,” said White, who was a standout basketball player at Dominican High School and a scholarship athlete at Colby Community College in Kansas before deferring his hoop dreams. It’s a decision he still regrets.
“I want them to have the discipline to stick through with things even when they get rough,” White said.
It’s the type of discipline that eluded White at their age. After a rough stretch at Dominican, he said, he persuaded his parents to let him transfer to Rufus King. He never made it onto the court there.
“I was in the hallway all the time skipping school and became ineligible,” White said.
He still played organized ball, hooping in the local AAU circuit alongside his current assistant head coach Mike Causey, before moving to Kansas. It was then that he received a phone call that changed his life. His father had cancer and had half his liver removed. Despondent, White headed home for Christmas and never went back.
“He was my inspiration and biggest fan,” he said. “I just didn’t care about anything else at the time.”
White enrolled at MATC but dropped out. Later, he tried a community college in Wyoming and played intramural ball there. But by then his passion for the game was gone, and so was his father, who died in 2002.
Causey, who has known White for more than 20 years, remembers that dark period.
“He struggled at the time and just didn’t recover,” Causey said.
White worked a variety of jobs including as a manager at Walmart before transitioning to youth work. In 2018, he was hired as a youth adviser at MPS for the Milwaukee Christian Center, first working at Bradley Tech High School and now Pulaski. Pulaski High School shares a building and basketball team with MPS charter, Carmen High School of Science & Technology’s Southeast Campus.
Assistant head coach Mike Causey provides instruction to 17- year-old junior Jamerian Sumler. (Photo by Edgar Mendez)
Causey believes that working with students helped rekindle White’s passion.
“He saw them doing the same things he did and going through some of the things that he did,” Causey said. “He knew he could help them.”
At Tech, White served as head coach of the junior varsity squad, before being tabbed as head coach at Pulaski, 2500 W. Oklahoma Ave. He’s made it his goal to motivate students  not to let opportunities slip through their fingers, like he once did.
“If you don’t have to take that long road, why take it?” White asked. “Getting good grades and handling business in the classroom will help you become successful.”
White’s first year as coach has been a struggle. His team has lost its first six games, among them a 60-point dusting by Grafton, and, most recently, a 19-point defeat to Vincent. And although some coaches might get down about that, that couldn’t be farther from the truth for White, the tall and slender coach with a basketball player physique.
“Everybody is at a 3.0 GPA or higher,” said White. It’s an extraordinary accomplishment at a school where the graduation rate is 54 percent and student achievement score is 6.9 compared with a statewide average for high school students of 59.8, according to the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction’s 2018-’19 school report card data.
The school has fared much better in measures that track school growth and the closing of gaps in English language arts, mathematics and graduation rates.
“We’re not just trying to make them better players, we’re trying to make them better people,” White said. “I think sometimes they’re not used to having somebody pour in and invest in them, and when you do that, it makes them invest in themselves.”
One player who has benefited from that approach is Dallas Lorona, a 17-year-old junior who transferred to Pulaski from Bay View this year. White began keepings tabs on Lorona months before the season even started, once ordering him to do 200 pushups as punishment for getting caught walking the halls.
“If I didn’t have Coach White or basketball, I’d probably be getting in trouble,” Lorona said.
“Everything he does is to make us work for a better future and to be ready for that next level of life on and off the court.”
Jeremiah Baez, a 17-year-old senior, is ready to take that next step. He’s been accepted to three colleges so far. Although he’ll only play one season for White, he said he has already benefited.
“He’s pushing me to show leadership and work on my weaknesses,” said Baez, who plans to study sports management in college. “He’s created a new standard and mentality for us.”
Junior Jamerian Sumler hopes that eventually, the team’s efforts will transition to wins on the court.
“We gotta work hard because people don’t respect Pulaski, but that’s gonna change,” Sumler said.
White said he knows that change won’t happen overnight, but he’s OK with that.
“It’s not all about having an undefeated record and things like that. It’s about seeing a kid who never had success in the classroom getting a 3.0,” White said. “Success on the court and in life will come eventually because that’s the type of standard we’re setting here.”

author: Edgar Mendez


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
January 13, 2020


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OPINION: Black Leaders Organizing for Communities to Donald Trump: “You weren’t invited” | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Black Leaders Organizing for Communities
January 14, 2020
(Photo by Wes Tank)
Editor’s note: Have something on your mind? “Community Voices” is the place to let Milwaukee hear what you have to say. To be considered, we need your name, email address and phone number for verification. Please email your submissions to info@milwaukeenns.org.
Black Leaders Organizing Communities works to “ensure a high quality of life and access to opportunities for members of the Black community in Milwaukee and throughout Wisconsin.”
President Donald Trump had the nerve to hold a campaign rally in Milwaukee, WI tonight where he no doubt continued to spew his usual racist, transphobic, abelist, xenophobic, misogynistic, and classist rhetoric. We, the people of Milwaukee, want no part of it.
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Donald knows that he needs US to win in 2020. His victory hinges on our state which he barely won by less than 23,000 votes. These are votes that if he really cared he could make up for, but the cost of this is too much for him. The cost is affordable healthcare for all people, dignified treatment of immigrants and people of color in this country and equitable economic development for all communities. Donald can’t afford these things, because he’s broke, he has little values and simply doesn’t care.
Instead, he has threatened the healthcare of millions of people, disrupted lives, passed tax breaks for the wealthy and created “Opportunity Zones,” which are no more than tools for outside investors to own our communities. Meanwhile, our communities struggle to make ends meet.
BLOC talks to residents and voters everyday and the greater majority of Black residents in Milwaukee have no desire to see nor hear from Donald. His policies have not benefited us and in fact, have negatively impacted people across all identities and political spectrums.
We will not allow Donald’s Twitter fingers to be turned to trigger fingers and lead us to war with Iran. We will not allow him to ignore black communities and continue to separate families at the border. We will not allow Donald to achieve two terms.
BLOC will continue to engage residents in our neighborhoods on what it looks like for our communities to thrive. Donald isn’t a part of that vision.


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Where to go if you need energy assistance | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Xiao Liu & Ana Martinez-Ortiz
January 14, 2020
(File photo by Brittany Carloni)
Editor’s note: This article has undergone a major update to clarify ways residents can get assistance with their energy bill
Over the next couple of months some families may find themselves strapped for cash when it comes to paying their utility bills. Heat, water and electricity are essential for a quality life anytime of the year, but during a Wisconsin winter, they take precedence.
Cleopatra Echols is the program manager for the Milwaukee County Energy Assistance Program. Ms. Echols explained that each year, Milwaukee County receives funding from the State of Wisconsin – Division of Energy, Housing and Community Resources. This funding provides energy assistance to those in need.
Energy assistance is available during the heating season, which runs from Oct. 1 to May 15 but individuals can apply for assistance thought-out the benefit season Oct. 1- Sep. 30 and they may qualify for crisis assistance and other services. If a Milwaukee County resident qualifies, he or she can receive a one-time payment that will go towards their heating and electric bills. As well as be eligible for furnace repair/replacement and weatherization services.
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Ms. Echols said the first step is checking eligibility. Residents can check if they are eligible using this chart.
2019-2020 HOME ENERGY INCOME GUIDELINES
If a person is eligible or if they need help determining their eligibility, the next step is to make an appointment. Residents can call (414) 270-4653 or click here to make an appointment online. Milwaukee County residents can schedule an appointment by phone or online at the following locations.
Northwest: 4906 W. Fond du Lac Ave.
North: 6900 W. Brown Deer Rd. #100
Downtown: 728 N. James Lovell St.
West Allis: 6761 W. Greenfield Ave.
Southeast: 2701 S. Chase Ave.
South: 5663 S. 27 St.
An appointment can take anywhere between 15 minutes to 30 minutes or longer depending on how prepared the applicant is. She said it’s important that clients bring the required documents to ensure that the process can move along. House visits can be made for the elderly or disabled upon request.
The requirements include:
1. A photo ID
2. Social security numbers and birth dates for everyone in the household
3. The current gas, electric or energy bill or the lease or letter from your landlord stating that heat is included in the rent
4. Proof of the entire household’s income sources from the past three months, including child support, wages, pension, unemployment, etc.
5. Seasonal workers and self-employed persons need to bring last year’s entire tax package. Rental income must be verified by taxes and schedule E.
Crisis Assistance
Although Energy Assistance provides a one-time payment, some residents may experience a crisis. A crisis means that the household has no heat, has received a disconnection notice or is nearly out of fuel and is unable to afford a refill.
If a household requires crisis assistance, they can call (414) 270-4653. A person must apply for the energy assistance program to be eligible for crisis assistance and crisis assistance depends on the availability of funds.
Additional Services
Residents who are part of the Energy Assistance Program may be eligible for additional services during heating season, Oct. 1 to Sep 30. The Energy Assistance Program works in partnership with three local weatherization agencies to provide weatherization and furnace services.
If a furnace, boiler or other heating system fails, and it is after hours (after 5pm and on the weekends) residents should call 211 for assistance. Households may be able to receive assistance to repair or replace the heating system.
If a house needs additional fuel, the Energy Assistance Program may be able to help cover some of the cost.
For more information on the energy crisis, check out the Journal Sentinel’s article on crisis utility assistance.
Did we miss an organization that provided energy assistance? Post it in the comments below or send an email to info@milwaukeenns.org.

author: Xiao Liu & Ana Martinez-Ortiz


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
December 5, 2019

created: December 5, 2019


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Post from Community: Kick Off Black History Month at First Indaba African Ball | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
St. Ann Center for Intergenerational Care
January 14, 2020
Editor’s note: Our Posts from Community feature is a platform for community announcements and event postings. If you have a post to be considered, send it to info@milwaukeenns.org or submit it directly.
Kick off #BlackHistoryMonth with African-inspired attire, hors d’oeuvres, music and fun at the first Indaba African Ball at St. Ann Center’s Bucyrus Campus, 2450 W. North Ave.
You’re encouraged to wear African or Afrocentric attire — and to participate in a fun fashion show. (Need a dashiki or that perfect accent piece? A local vendor will be on hand!) A photo booth will help capture those memories in our gorgeous atrium, which features African art and decor.
Upstairs, explore a Hall of History Makers, spotlighting 12 outstanding community leaders of the past and present.
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Among the evening’s entertainers: Chris Pipkins of Christopher’s Project, a three-peat winner at Showtime at the Apollo, a prestigious theater in New York City showcasing the best of up-and-coming talent. The event features African and Caribbean-flavored hors d’oeuvres by Events by Day.
Funds raised will help provide quality local entertainment this summer at the center’s new Indaba Band Shell, on the Bucyrus Campus grounds.
Tickets are $60 per person and can be purchased at https://stanncenter.org/event/indababall/. Questions? Contact Gloria at (414) 210-2428 or email gmiller@stanncenter.org.


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Indaba African Ball FB Event (smaller).png | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
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January 14, 2020

author: Name *


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Post from Community: Greater Milwaukee Foundation announces 2019 Ideas to Action winners | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Greater Milwaukee Foundation
January 14, 2020
Editor’s note: Our Posts from the Community feature is a platform for community announcements and event postings. If you have a post to be considered, send it to info@milwaukeenns.org or submit it directly.
The Greater Milwaukee Foundation has announced the winners of its 2019 Ideas to Action funding, which helps organizations with creative ideas take action to strengthen community and deepen civic involvement. Each idea was developed during the Foundation’s annual On the Table MKE – where more than 5,000 residents came together on Oct. 10 to engage in hundreds of collaborative conversations on various topics.
Awards totaling $25,000 were given to 13 projects focused on a wide range of issues including youth development, health and wellness, homelessness, human trafficking, gender equality and more. Each recipient earned between $500 and $2,500 to support diverse and tangible activities that will benefit neighborhoods and the public good across the region.
2019 IDEAS TO ACTION WINNERS:
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Alverno College
$825 to support 20 girls and teens of color from Milwaukee Public Schools and Racine Public Schools to attend the State of Wisconsin Girls Summit on Mar. 28, 2020. These girls would work with mental health professionals and policy advocates to develop a plan to galvanize support for policies that encourage mental health for girls of color in Wisconsin.
Calvary Presbyterian Church
$475 to support purchasing bus tickets and reduced admissions to community attractions and events for recent chronically homeless residents at St. Anthony’s Place apartments. The program’s hope is that residents can begin to fully engage with what the city has to offer after the harsh life they’ve experienced within it.
Code for Milwaukee
$2,500 to support the development of a project management framework that will create projects that advance racial equity and inclusion and increase the digital, data and internet literacies of all involved in the project.
Convergence Resource Center
$1,000 to support guidelines for survivors of human trafficking when seeking medical and mental health assistance. A group of human trafficking survivors will help create the initial guidelines.
Greater Bethlehem Temple World Ministries
$1,700 to support an event focused on educating the community on men’s health, in particular, prostate cancer and screenings, addressing the various areas/conditions related to prostate cancer and providing onsite testing and connections to health resources.
Healing First Peer Advisory Committee
$2,000 to support a recruitment campaign to increase diversity and gain members from the wider community, increasing the committee’s effectiveness at tackling homelessness in Milwaukee. The committee will request match dollars from partners to continue the momentum beyond the spring.
Health Connections (TGNCNB)
$2,500 to support a four-month pilot program for the coordination and facilitation of name and/or gender change services to TGNCNB (transgender, gender non-conforming, non-binary) people using the Health Connections Inc.’s “Name/Gender Change Guide” for Milwaukee County.
Milwaukee Environmental Consortium
$2,500 to support three activities including an event celebrating environmental heroes of color. It will feature a nationally recognized keynote speaker on the topic of environmental equity, a camping and outdoor expo to demonstrate outdoor recreation and camping skills, and an anti-bias workshop addressing the history of exclusion in the environmental movement.
Milwaukee Youth Arts Center
$2,000 to support a new youth-led initiative, Milwaukee Youth Arts Center’s Student Advisory Board, which will host informal events that spark conversation and aim to build and strengthen friendships between diverse groups of individuals and programs.
Public Allies Milwaukee
$2,500 to support Healing Justice MKE, a cohort of 15 people engaged in racial equity work. The cohort members will learn how to identify harm they have experienced and implement healing practices in their daily life and social justice work. Informed by practices of self-care, trauma-informed care and healing justice, the workshops will be designed to promote healing, asset-based thinking, collaboration and continuous learning.
SaintA
$2,000 to support an event focused on bringing awareness to the barriers young adults face when they age out of foster care, such as acquiring housing and employment. The event will include a simulation and panel of youth who have aged out of foster care and will invite and engage the community, individuals, groups, organizations and corporate partners.
TEMPO Milwaukee
$2,500 to support bringing the American Association of University Women Work Smart and Start Smart workshops to Milwaukee women in the spring of 2020. The trainings will give women the skills and confidence to advocate for themselves in the workplace.
Walnut Way
$2,500 to support 10 Lindsay Heights residents who are interested in developing their own food and culinary businesses. The project will give tours of commercial kitchens and will help residents with trainings and assistance to acquire their licenses.
“Our community clearly wants their On the Table MKE experience to mean something, where their dialogue represents just an early chapter in the full story of positive change in greater Milwaukee,” said Ellen Gilligan, Foundation president and CEO. “Congratulations to this year’s Ideas to Action recipients and everyone who is building on their newly formed relationships and commitments.”
Over the last three years, On the Table MKE has produced countless stories of learning, listening and most importantly, cross-collaborative problem-solving, igniting further momentum and impact.
The Foundation began its Ideas to Action funding program in 2018 to help encourage On the Table MKE participants to turn ideas generated at their tables into action. Last year, projects such as breaking down stereotypes among high school students and building unity, empathy and opportunity through performing arts emerged from table discussions.
About the Greater Milwaukee Foundation
The Greater Milwaukee Foundation is Wisconsin’s largest community foundation and was among the first established in the world. For more than a century, the Foundation has inspired philanthropy by connecting generous people to community needs that align with their interests. The Foundation was founded on the premise that generosity can unlock an individual’s potential and strengthen the community as a whole for everyone who lives here. We work in partnership with those who are committed to ensuring greater Milwaukee is a vibrant, economically thriving region that comprises welcoming and inclusive communities providing opportunity, prosperity and a high quality of life for all.

author: Greater Milwaukee Foundation


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Post from Community: MLK Day Celebration w/ Mercado Magic | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Center Street Wellness
January 14, 2020
Editor’s note: Our Posts from Community feature is a platform for community announcements and event postings. If you have a post to be considered, send it to info@milwaukeenns.org or submit it directly.
Join us to honor the life and values of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. We will eat, drink, and celebrate diversity right here on MLK Drive, the best King Drive is the nation!
What:
Local makers vendors market
Food
Drinks
Music
Open mic
Cultural celebrations
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Vendors include:
✔A+M Organics
✔Elevated Healing
✔Jess The Essentials
✔Lëvor
✔Victory Garden Initiative
✔And more +
In partnership w/ Botanica Galáctica
Where:
Center Street Wellness
2701 N Martin Luther King Drive
When:
Noon-5pm
FREE Entry

author: Center Street Wellness


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Name *
January 14, 2020


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Two to know: One serves the community through art; the other leads a team of legal volunteers | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Princess Safiya & Byers Xiao Liu
January 15, 2020
Isabel Castro believes that art belongs in the community. Her mural, “Tejiendo Raíces,” can be found on the north wall of 1023 S. Chavez Drive. (Photo by Adam Carr)
Editor’s note: Milwaukee is filled with many ordinary people who do extraordinary things. This year, from time to time, NNS will briefly highlight individuals who are helping our community. To nominate your neighbor, please send an email to info@milwaukeenns.org and put “Two to know” in the subject line.
Name: Isabel Castro
Age: 20
Why she’s worth knowing: Castro, the 2018 Chavez Drive artist in residence, has completed and installed the mural, “Tejiendo Raíces,” on the north wall of 1023 S. Chavez Drive. As part of the Farm Project, which seeks to make Cesar E. Chavez Drive an economic and cultural destination, Castro worked with community members and UWM volunteers to create the mural.
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What she says: “The best part of doing this project was the people. I was a support system for them, and they were a support system for me. I encouraged them to bring food in, and I had breakfast and real conversation with community members almost every morning.”
What others say: “Isabel was such a good candidate because she is so genuine, and she wanted to give back to the community. Anyone who talks to her can see that,” said Ian Bautista, executive director of the Clarke Square Neighborhood Initiative.
“It looks good already. It’s nice for children to see something so big and bright in their own community. I think I’ll use it to help teach my toddler colors every time we walk past it,” said Minerva Valdez, who lives a block away from the mural.
In case you missed it: On the walls: An (admittedly) incomplete guide to murals on the South Side
In case you missed it: On the walls: More neighborhood murals you should see
-Princess Safiya Byers
Mary Ferwerda serves as the executive director of the Milwaukee Justice Center, which provides free legal care to poor residents. (Photo by Xiao Liu)
Name: Mary Ferwerda
Why she’s worth knowing: Ferwerda serves as the executive director of the Milwaukee Justice Center. The center’s volunteers provide help to low-income residents who need legal representation and is a collaboration between the Milwaukee Bar Association, Milwaukee County and the Marquette University Law School.
The center has about 400 volunteers a year, including lawyers, law school students, undergraduate students and some community members.
What she says: “In the last 10 years, we’ve grown from having two employees to seven employees, from helping a few thousand people a year to 10,000 people a year.”
What she loves about her job: “I love our volunteers. We couldn’t do what we do if they weren’t here. They’re so committed and caring. Everyone here wants to help.”
About the center: The value of free services provided by the center was estimated as $1.15 million. The center not only offers services at its office in the Milwaukee courthouse, it also offers help through its Mobile Legal Clinic.
What’s next: “I would like to make sure that our Mobile Legal Clinic is fully staffed and functional, and we don’t ever have to worry about money for this project,” Ferwerda said.
-Xiao Liu

created: January 15, 2020

author: Princess Safiya & Byers Xiao Liu


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
January 14, 2020

author: Adam Carr


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Causey’s Career Corner: Your place for job tips, motivation and career advice | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Damia S. Causey
January 16, 2020
Here are some events happening near you:
Applications being accepted for construction programs
Who: The Social Development Commission, or SDC, is accepting applications for two upcoming construction programs: YouthBuild and Absolute Advantage.
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About YouthBuild: YouthBuild is a job-training program offered through the SDC in partnership with the Ezekiel Community Development Corp.
YouthBuild requirements: Be a low-income Milwaukee County resident from the ages of 18 to 24 and be interested in getting your GED/HSED while being trained in the construction field and can get paid to learn.
About Absolute Advantage: Absolute Advantage is a nine-week construction program offered through SDC in partnership with Ezekiel Community Development Corp.
Absolute Advantage requirements: To apply, you must be age 18 and older and have a high school diploma or GED.
Important dates: An Information session will be held for both programs from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Jan. 22 at the SDC, 1730 W. North Ave.
A mobile jobs van will help Milwaukee’s men
What: The Milwaukee Fatherhood Initiative is sponsoring a meet-and-greet and open conversation for men and the issues specific to them. Men will be allowed to share and learn from one another in a safe, judge-free zone. A panel of experts will discuss mental health, employment, planning for your future and other topics. A mobile jobs van will be on hand to help with employment searches. This event is free and open to men.
When: From 4 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Jan. 27
Where: Gee’s Clippers, 2200 N. Dr. Martin Luther King Drive
Boost your IT skills in 16-week program
Who: Tech/Hire, in partnership with MATC, Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development and Employ Milwaukee, is offering a 16-week hands-on accelerated IT Service Center Technician program.
Requirements: This program is free and 12 postsecondary credits are earned.
Important date: The next information session is Feb. 17
Need more details? To find out more information, click here
Editor’s note: This information was provided from City Clerk’s Workforce Development Office.
About this column: I will share stories of those who have taken a nontraditional approach to employment or an unusual career path. I will also list employment information such as job fairs, resource fairs and job training events. I encourage organizations to email me at damiacausey@milwaukeenns.org with career information.

created: January 16, 2020

author: Damia S. Causey


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‘It wouldn’t go away’: The flu is menacing Milwaukee. Here’s how you can fight back. | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Edgar Mendez
January 16, 2020
Dr. Jorge Ramallo, who practices internal medicine and pediatrics at the Sixteenth Street Community Health Center, said the best way to avoid influenza is by getting the flu shot. (Photo by Edgar Mendez)
The flu is back with a vengeance this year and hitting the Milwaukee area hard.
“I’m seeing about double the flu patients” compared to this time last year, said Dr. Jorge Ramallo, who practices internal medicine and pediatrics at the Sixteenth Street Community Health Center.
From September through December, there were 131 influenza-related hospitalizations in the city, compared with just 17 through the same period the year before, according to the Milwaukee Health Department. The flu season typically runs from October to March, health officials say.
It was during that period that Deborah Montano, who lives on Milwaukee’s South Side, was hit with the flu. She ended up in the doctor’s office twice but still had trouble shaking it.
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“I was sick for four weeks from November to December,” Montano said. “I tried everything you could imagine to get over it, and it wouldn’t go away.”
The increased spread of the flu this season was not isolated to Milwaukee, with state health officials also reporting record number of flu hospitalizations and 15 deaths, including one child who died in southeastern Wisconsin, according to data from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services. The Centers for Disease Control have reported elevated flu levels nationwide, with double the number of pediatric flu deaths as last year.
Because antibiotics don’t work against the flu, doctors prescribe antiviral drugs. Those drugs can only do so much, so many times, and the flu has to just run its course, Ramallo said.
Ramallo said children and those older than 65 are most at risk for severe flu complications, although anyone can get very ill from it. Common symptoms of the flu include high fever, body pains, nausea and vomiting, a runny nose and a cough. Symptoms are similar to that of the common cold but can become much more menacing. Dangers include severe dehydration, the development of pneumonia and even death, Ramallo said.
“The best thing you can do if you’re experiencing any of those symptoms is to go see a doctor immediately,” he added.
The best course of action for avoiding getting sick – and you have definitely heard this before – is washing your hands. It is also wise to avoid going to places where large numbers of people frequent such as grocery stores and other crowded areas because you have less chances to come into contact with the virus through touching or from coughs or sneezes, Ramallo said.
And be sure to get the flu shot.
Ramallo acknowledged that there are many misconceptions about the flu shot, including stories of individuals who say they got sick right after receiving one.
He said the shot doesn’t make a person sick.
Rather, the flu shot works by introducing inactive strains of the flu virus into your bloodstream, which helps it develop antibodies that attack the real virus when introduced, he said.
If you have questions about the vaccine, he advised talking to a doctor rather than relying on social media or what others are saying.
Alison True, director of communications for Sixteenth Street, said costs should not deter anyone from getting the flu shot.
“It doesn’t matter if you have insurance or not, or whatever your status is, there are many ways to access the flu shot,” True said.
And although it is getting late in the season and the best time to get a flu shot is in the beginning of fall, it’s not too late.
“Go to a clinic, and you can get it the same day, and you’ll be safer because of it,” Ramallo said.


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
January 15, 2020


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5 things to do this weekend: Jan. 17 to Jan. 19 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Ana Martinez-Ortiz
January 17, 2020
The Walker’s Point Center for the Arts is debuting its new exhibit, #MKEmovementArt, on Friday, Jan. 17. (Photo provided by The Walker’s Point Center for the Arts)
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 .
1. Timbuktu Art Colony Sarge at Coffee Makes You Black: Friday, Jan. 17 to Sunday, Jan. 19
Timbuktu Art Colony will be at Coffee Makes You Black, 2803 N. Teutonia Ave., starting at 8 a.m. Friday, Jan. 17. Timbuktu Art Colony was founded by Henry Baba Osageyfo Colby, who is known for his handmade jewelry. In addition to purchasing pieces, there will also be opportunities to learn about jewelry making.
2. #MKEmovementArt at Walker’s Point Center for the Arts: Friday, Jan. 17
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Walker’s Point Center for the Arts, 839 S. 5th St., is celebrating #MKEmovementArt from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, Jan. 17. In collaboration with Public Allies and Leaders Igniting Transformation, the event will examine how art has been used throughout history as a tool for communication, positive change and awareness of social issues. The exhibit will be on view through Friday, Feb. 28 and features artists such as Freedom Kilombo, Oscar Quinto Zamudio, Aline Morales and more.
3. Gallery night in Amani and Metcalfe Park:Imagine MKE will be highlighting artists from Amani and Metcalfe Park neighborhoods during Gallery Night. Artists will be featured from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Center Street Library, 2727 W. Fond du Lac Ave. and the Atkinson Street Library, 1960 W. Atkinson Ave., and from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Wisconsin Black Historical Society, 2620 W. Center St.
4. 2020 Wisconsin women’s march: Saturday, Jan. 18
Women Rising, the 2020 women’s march, is taking place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18. The march, which is hosted by the Women’s March of Wisconsin, will be held in the auditorium at South Division High School, 1515 W. Lapham Blvd. The doors open at 10:30 a.m. and parking is limited. Signs are encouraged.
5. Hip-hop karaoke at the Sherman Phoenix: Saturday, Jan. 18
The Juice Kitchen is hosting a hip hop karaoke night at the Sherman Phoenix, 3536 W. Fond du Lac Ave., from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18.
The Underground Collaborative Gallery will be exhibiting artwork at the Grove Gallery, 832 S. 5th St., from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, Jan. 17. The collaborative consists of eight artists who work in various mediums. There will be paintings, photography, wood work and raku pieces.
Bonus: Black Out at Sherman Phoenix: Saturday, Jan. 18
The Sherman Phoenix, 3536 W. Fond du Lac Ave., is hosting its first Black Out of 2020. The Black Out will take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18. Local vendors will be featured and there will be food, music and family fun.

created: January 17, 2020

author: Ana Martinez-Ortiz


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
January 16, 2020


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NNS on WGLB radio: NNS Deputy Editor Adam Carr looks back at 2019 and forward to 2020 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
January 19, 2020
(Photo by Adam Carr)
NNS Deputy Editor Adam Carr recently visited WGLB’s new studios to talk with Saryea Murchison and Dennis Walton. They discussed most-viewed stories from 2019 and early reporting highlights from 2020.

created: January 19, 2020


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| Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
January 19, 2020


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Track 1 | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Adam Carr
January 19, 2020
“Track 1” from Untitled – 01-17-20. Track 1.