whna highlighter summer 2015

THE MAGAZINE OF THE WHNA Summer 2015

www.whna.net

new farmers market locations page 3

growing gardens together page 6

local artist helps church page 10

be safe on the street page 12

a summer of wonderful wednesdays! page 14

good gardens make good neighbors page 16

and more!

WHNA 2014-2015 board of directors

The Highlighter is a quarterly publication of the Washington Heights Neighborhood Association. Washington Heights includes the area from Highway 41 to North 60th Street and from West Vliet Street to West North Ave.

You can expect your Fall Highlighter in mid-September. To submit an article, please contact Jane at [email protected].

EDITOR Jane Konkel

LAYOUT & DESIGN Nicole Julius

ADVERTISING MANAGER Corbett Reinbold

CONTRIBUTORS Laura BurkeAdam CarrBarb HaigGrrl JeaniusMary JumesDebbie KnepkeMary McGrathAllen MillerStephanie MoffettJon Rupprecht

NEWSLETTER DISTRIBUTIONVacant

COLLATORSThanks to all who help us collate and deliver the Highlighter. The next collation date is September 16, 2015 at Art & Soul Gallery.

PRESIDENTDavid Johnson 671.9102

VICE-PRESIDENTSarah Drilias 839.5233

PAST PRESIDENTLarry Kilmer 899.1082

TREASURERJohn Augustyniak 467.3146

SECRETARYSofi Thorne Bambulas 745.4410

REPRESENTATIVES

AREA 1 OPEN

AREA 2Gary Haertlein 283.2269

AREA 3 David Johnson 294.8442

AREA 4 Sarah Drilias 839.5233

AREA 5 OPEN

AREA 6 Ann Navin 477.9528

AREA 7 Tom Rutenbeck 453.3453

AREA 8 Corbett Reinbold 213.9730

AREA 9 OPEN

AT-LARGE EVEN YEARSStephanie Moffett 305.2824 Sofi Thorn Bambulas 745.4410 Josh Roberts 262.385.1775

AT-LARGE ODD YEARSJane Konkel 949.1577Mary McGrath 258.2991John Augustyniak 467.3146

LIAISONSVLIET ST.Pat Mueller 933.5589

NORTH AVE.Larry Kilmer 899.1082

RAINBOW ASSOCIATIONTerri Coughlin 258.4351

OTHER REP YOUTH

SENIOR

COMMITTEESBLOCK WATCHGary Haertlein 257.9634

HOUSING/ APPEARANCETom Rutenbeck 453.3453

MEMBERSHIPMary McGrath 258.2991

WEBSITE John Augustyniak 467.3146

GREEN COMMITTEERich Gaeta 704.3303

ADVERTISER INDEXSinclair Firestone ..........................................................4 Puhl’s True Value ......................................................... 5Joyce Heating & Air Conditioning ...............8Four Corners of the World ..................................8St. James Lutheran Church .................................8Paul Barsch, First Weber Realtor .....................9Mount Olive .....................................................................9Now We Praise ............................................................10The Wonder Bar ......................................................... 11Shelter Real Estate .................................................... 12Stella’s...................................................................................13Art & Soul Gallery ....................................................13Wednesdays at the Shell .......................................15Walk the Hank ............................................................ 17Boulevard Bash ............................................................20

2 ❖ Contact us at [email protected] or visit us online at www.whna.net

THE NEWSLETTER OF THE WHNA Fall 2014

www.whna.net

Welcome new president, david johnson page 3

NEW milwaukee film festival venue: times cinema page 5

let’s celebrate 25 years of spooktacular fun page 6

american craft walk on vliet street page 13

nine homes presented with awards page 19

Fall2014WHNAHighlighter_alt.indd 1 9/8/14 10:08 PM

YOUR PHOTO HERE!

You could be the next Highlighter cover photographer!

Don’t forget to submit your best fall Heights’ photos for consideration – on Facebook or to [email protected].

HAVE A NEIGHBORHOOD EVENT YOU’D LIKE TO INCLUDE IN OUR FALL HIGHLIGHTER?

Email the Jane at the address above.

ON THE COVER: Photo taken at Wednesdays’ at the Shell, 2014, by Adam Carr.

Two new farmers markets are coming to the neighborhood. The Washington Park Community Green Market will be located in the parking lot, east of the Urban Ecology Center (4145 N Lisbon Ave). The Vliet Street Community Green Market — held on Sundays for the past seven years — will no longer be in operation, but several of the vendors will be joining the new Washington Park Community Green Market and Farmers Market at Amaranth Café.

The Washington Park Community Green Market will begin Saturday, June 13th from 10am – 2pm and will continue through Saturday, October 31st. The market will NOT take place on Independence Day and Labor Day weekends.

The Washington Park Market hopes to include additional vendors as well as environmental education activities, including growing onsite at the Urban Ecology Center. Please join your friends and neighbors on Saturday, June 13th for opening day.

The Lisbon Avenue Farmers Market will begin Friday June 19th from 4 – 8pm on the Amaranth outdoor patio area. The market has a few openings for produce vendors, artists, and hot food/prepared foods vendors.

Community collaborations include: • Amaranth Bakery & Cafe (new site hosts Dave & Stephanie

Baucher)• Urban Ecology Center - Washington Park (new site hosts

Terry Evans and staff)• Washington Park Neighborhood Improvement District

(sponsors)• Washington Park Partners (Parks Committee, Health

& Wellness Committee Members on behalf of the Washington Park Neighborhood, & WPP Staff (sponsors/recruiting/marketing)

• Vliet Street Community Green Market (former site host Pat Mueller)

Two New Farmers Markets in our Community by Jane Konkel

Washington Heights Highlighter, Summer 2015 ❖ 3

Offers expire 8/30/2015

WISCONSIN EMISSIONTEST SITE


A WINNING “MEMBERSHIP STEW”by Mary McGrath, Membership Committee.

Many of us have favorite recipes that have proven to be successful and, if made properly, bring us much satisfaction.

WHNA Membership Stew is such a recipe.A priority for any good recipe is having all the necessary

ingredients while allowing for some flexibility on their use.

1. DETERMINE A MAIN INGREDIENT.Most often this takes the form of WHNA Members in sufficient

amount to form a strong base for the stew and provide flavor through their presence.

Any number of main ingredients can be used with the greatest flavor arriving when there is a variety of flavors / members that can blend and provide interest through their combination.

2. ADD SPICES TO TASTE.Spices, added in a balanced manner, provide interest and enhance

the flavors of other ingredients.WHNA Members add their spice through innovative ideas and

strategies that accomplish projects or events in an enthusiastic or innovative manner and encourage the involvement of others.

3. DON’T FORGET THE ALL-IMPORTANT, UNSUNG, (DARE I SAY), VEGETABLES.

Sometimes it’s easy to take the role of main ingredient or spice in WHNA. Success is achieved only when there is also an addition of the consistent, long-term, dependable, Member who is available for a variety of needs and can be depended on to be there until a task is completed

Membership Stew has proven to be a successful recipe when all necessary ingredients are available and meet the needs of the recipe.

Please consider using your Membership Renewal form to indicate your interest in helping with events or efforts, or respond to the many occasions when participation is needed. You then become a valued ingredient in the tasty Membership Stew which gives us all the satisfaction of a well-prepared neighborhood recipe.

WANTED!LOCAL ADVERTISERSAre you looking to increase your visibility in the community? Did you just start a new business and looking for a way to let your neighbors know? Place an ad in the next Highlighter, due out mid-September. The Highlighter magazine reaches approximately 3500 homes 4 times per year in a diverse neighborhood.Complete advertising details and rates available online at whna.net/highlighter/advertising. For more information, email our ad manager at [email protected]. Reservations for ads for the Fall Highlighter are due by August 19. Don’t miss out on this great opportunity!

BEHIND EVERY PROJECT IS A TRUE VALUE

Serving the Community Since 1972

M–F 8:00AM – 8:00PMSAT 8:00AM – 5:00PM

SUN 10:00AM – 3:00PM

Custom Paint MixingKey and Glass CuttingSmall Engine RepairMany Other Services

Friendly, Knowledgeable StaffPipe Cutting and ThreadingWindow & Screen RepairLock Re-Keying

Puhl’s True ValueHardware, Inc.

1525 N. 68th St.Wauwatosa, WI 53213Phone: (414) 476-0833

Talk with Viv and Mary about becoming a member of the WHNA.


THE GARDEN SPOTby Jon Rupprecht

Our great Washington Heights neighborhood has many plusses, not the least of which is a wonderful collection of gardens. We get to see these on various tours, and even on walks through our neighborhood. But among this collection is one very special garden, our own Washington Heights Community Garden. Let’s take a look at it.

I had a nice visit with Jim Bolstad, who told me the story. He and his wife Joey together are the Gardeners in Charge. They guard it, help to maintain it, and supervise its operations. This is a natural arrangement, since where they live, on the northwest corner of 49th and Lloyd Streets, is right next door to the garden.

This lot had contained a decrepit, condemned house, full of big holes. After ongoing complaints from the neighbors, the City of Milwaukee finally tore it down, in one day, about seven years ago. Melissa Scanlan, who at the time lived across the alley on Hi Mount Blvd., suggested that this would be a good locatitn for a new Community Garden. (Our previous attempt, on an empty lot at 51st & Garfield, had recently been replaced by a new home.) Melissa approached Jim and Joey with this idea, and their combined efforts resulted in our garden being first planted in the spring of 2009, after its layout was planned by Jef Owens.

Now in 2015 our garden contains 24 four by eight-foot raised beds, built from re-cycled lumber by Jim and some helpers. There is a separate gardener for each bed, rented at $25 per year. There is no limit to the number of years a bed can be rented, and there is currently a waiting list of three would-be gardeners. But openings

occur frequently enough; it’s not like waiting for a Packers season ticket!

So what grows in our garden? Jim reports that while the gardeners raise a few flowers, they concentrate on produce: radishes, carrots, peas, beans, tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, okra, and even some potatoes and corn.

There are also some communal areas along the garden borders, where you will find, supported by the large box elder tree, a hops vine that gets to be 15 feet tall, plus two cherry trees, two asparagus beds, raspberries, strawberries and rhubarb. Jim also maintains sunflowers and other flowers in a portion of the Bolstad’s yard adjacent to the garden.

The two benches and the arbor gracing our garden were partially donated by Samara Gifts. Two butterfly gardens also adorn the middle of the garden.

Of course it’s not just the garden, the gardeners and the gardening; yes, there’s the administration, too. From the beginning an association was formed with Milwaukee Urban Gardens – now known as Ground Works Milwaukee – through Melissa Scanlan’s connection with them. This group has provided guidelines, insurance, and fire hydrant permits from the City of Milwaukee. The cost to use the fire hydrant across 49th Street is about $105 per season. The City installs a non-threaded spigot on the hydrant, from which gardeners can fill up their buckets with water to use for their plots.


In addition to this association, Jim and Joey have a committee of about six people working together with them to coordinate gardening details, such as charges, finances, and communications. Harlan Ferstl has served as treasurer for the garden since its inception. Rental fees are kept in a bank account and used for expenses such as tools, fences, the tool shed, compost bins, etc. A communications director contacts gardeners as needed if any beds show neglect; all gardeners must supply their emails and phone numbers.

All gardeners are also expected to help with the communal garden areas by doing their part in weed control, mulching and composting. An annual communal activity is Garden Blitz Day, when all gardeners gather to plant their beds and get to know each other. That date this year is June 13, though it is often earlier in the season.

Does the garden come with any problems for the Bolstads? Jim had no real complaints, but mentioned the issue of failure to harvest one year when there was a great abundance of tomatoes. Now there is a flag system to warn gardeners that their beds need attention. Serious failure to comply can lead to forfeiture of one’s garden plot. There have also been some minor theft issues, mostly with tools. As far as animal predators are concerned, guardin’ the garden is a very welcome neighborhood cat who has them for lunch!

Do you want to get involved with our community garden? You can contact the Bolstads at 414.449.9070. At least stop by to view The Garden Spot of our neighborhood, and even if your thumb isn’t very green, why not surprise yourself with the joys of gardening!


DID YOU KNOW?by Debbie Knepke

• Development of our area dates back to 1838 when the federal government gave a parcel of land to the Wisconsin Territory.

• Milwaukee was officially incorporated in 1846.

• In January Terry Evans became the new Urban Ecology Center Manager for the Washington Park Branch.

• You can watch bike polo around 2:00 every Sunday afternoon from March through October, weather permitting, for free, on the bike courts in Washington Park.

• Our neighborhood was named one of the “Great Places in Wisconsin” for 2014 by the Wisconsin Chapter of the American Planning Association.

• We are in the 18th Assembly District and our State Representative is Evan Goyke.

• Wisconsin’s flagship, the Denis Sullivan, has just over 4,000 square feet of sail on ten different sails, and can carry up to 50 passengers and a crew of ten.

• Over 3,300 gallons of used cooking oil were brought to DPW’s Self-Help Centers last year to be processed into cleaner burning bio-diesel.

• The new Northwestern Mutual 550-foot tower will be 32 stories and is expected to create 1,000 construction jobs overall.

• Coca-Cola was originally green.• Bryon Kilbourn, Solomon Juneau and George H. Walker are

amongst Milwaukee’s founding fathers.• The average number of people airborne over the U.S. in any

given hour is 61,000.• When it was completed in 1895, the Milwaukee City Hall held

the distinction as the tallest habitable building in the world.• There is free tour of the new Materials Recycling Facility with

the WHNA Green Committee Tuesday, June 23rd at 6:00. RSVP at http://whna.net/event/milwaukee-recycling-plant-tour/

• Washington Heights is home to a variety of locally owned businesses who need community support. Check out the interactive directory to find what you’re looking for. http://whna.net/business/

• Be sure to like our page at www.facebook.com/WHNA.Milwaukee

I am looking for fun and interesting tidbits about our neighborhood for this quarterly column. If you have something to share, email it to me at [email protected].

St. James Lutheran Church

• •

•

•

•

2028 North 60th Street, Milwaukee, WI Pastor Peter Kassulke, 414-453-5770 www.saintjames-mke.org

414-774-2446

Joyce Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc.

INSTALLATION · 24 HOUR SERVICE

Je�ery JoyceLicensed · Bonded · Insured

5020 West Vliet St · Milwaukee, WI 53208


Washington Heights Wine Tasting Event was a SPARKLING Success!By Stephanie Moffett

On March 2nd, the Washington Heights Neighborhood Association hosted the Annual Wine Tasting Event at Samara Garden and Home (5211 West North Avenue) This is the second year that Samara has opened their doors to the Wine Tasting; the original and eclectic mix of merchandise at Samara provided a great backdrop for the tasting. The event gathered 150 neighbors together to mingle, meet and taste 10 different French wines and champagnes.

The wine was provided by Chris McRoberts, who owns McBob’s (4919 W. North Avenue). We thank Chris for her help in procuring the wine, since without Chris’s help, the Wine Tasting would not happen. This year’s wine selection focused on French wines, and also included two champagne selections. The choices were:

REDSVilla La Reserve Malbec

Beaujolais VillagesChâteau Saint Sulpice Bordeaux

Jaboulet Parallèle 45 Rouge Côte du Rhône

WHITESChâteau Bonnet Rosé

Pascal Jolivet Attitude Savignon BlancHugel et Fils Gentil

Loire Valley Vouvray

SPARKLINGAvive Peach Sparkling

Biltmore Estate Blanc de Blancs

In addition to wine, there were various food stations set up around Samara’s rooms. Food was provided by many local businesses including Birdie’s Café, Café Perrin, Eat Cake, Fred’s, McBob’s, Mekong Cafe, Meritage Restaurant, O’Brien’s Pub, and Truffle Love (By Pam Oxman), and also by area volunteers.

Although the generous support of this event by Samara Garden and Home, Chris McRoberts of McBob’s, all the local restaurants and volunteers who provided food, helped with registration, and poured wine. Special thanks goes out to Laura Burke for once again organizing a great community wine tasting event.

sins forgivenweekly

5327 W Washington Blvd Milwaukee, WI 53208

414.774.2200 www.mtolivemke.org

Sunday Worship at 8:30 & 11:00 AM Saturday Worship at 6:00 PM

Sunday Broadcast on WJYI AM-1340 at 9:00 AM

M o u n t O l i v e l u t h e r a n c h u r c h

PAUL J. BARSCH GRI, CRS, CSSWashington Heights resident since 1971 • Full service Realtor for over 28 years

PAUL J. BARSCHFIRST WEBER GROUP REALTORS

Office phone 262.784.9360, cell 414.333.2435Voicemail 262.754.6624 • Fax 262.797.7158

2008 - 2014 Real EstateAgent Five Star award

best in Client satisfaction

��

My philosophy is to help make a positive difference in

my client’s experience.

“From what we get, we can make a living; what we give,

however, makes a life.” —Arthur Ashe


by Barb HaigJames and Heidi Steeno moved to the Washington Heights

neighborhood in 2003. When their daughter Simone was old enough to attend the PAL child care program at St Sebastian, James and Heidi became more involved in the school and church.

James is an artist with a storefront gallery at 57th and Vliet, and Heidi helps run the business. In recent years they’ve participated in the school’s Hi-Interest Day by leading the students in various art projects, including painting miniature watercolors, acrylic canvases, and creating basic block printing projects on paper.

And now they’re giving back even more by offering to share proceeds from sales of a watercolor painting James made of St. Sebastian church – a combination of the architecture and atmospheric experiences of a late afternoon.

“When I was young, my family enjoyed traveling. My parents also were very dedicated to attending mass every Sunday, giving me the unique opportunity of visiting churches all over the world, from simple to extremely ornate. I see in each church a unique personality of the community, and St. Sebastian church is no exception to this universal concept,” James says.

“One of my first impressions of St. Sebastian church was how the setting sun bathes the light-color stonework in ever changing hues. I love all the little facets that suggest arrows in the outer structure – a direct connection with the familiar Roman saint – and I find that to be a part of the visual poetry in the architecture,” he adds.

James is donating $5.00 from the sale of each 8x10 inch print to the parish, and he plans to paint the other churches in the neighborhood soon. The prints are available through his Etsy shop and the James Steeno Gallery, as well as at the many art shows James, Heidi and Simone visit each year.

St. Sebastian Watercolor Benefits Parish

__________________________________________________________________

Join Us for Our 3rd Annual “Now We Praise” in the Park!

Washington Park Bandshell with Ms. Devon Duke!

Every Friday!

June 5 – August 28, 2015

This Year We are Highlighting One Day in Each Month!!

June 5th – We Kick off Featuring – Nations Feet Band from Chicago, Illinois!! They play Christian Rock and Christian Contemporary!

The State of Real Estate in Washington Heightsby Mary Jumes, CRS

Spring has sprung & summer is unfolding. Our housing market continues to remain strong, with available properties spanning from just under $3,000 (a city tax foreclosure) to just over $400,000. Whether you are looking for your next home or want to pick up a “money maker”, there’s a wide range of opportunities.

Upon submission of this article, as posted in the MLS (Multiple Listing Service), there are currently 51 active properties on the market in the Washington Heights. Another 36 properties have gone to closing since my last article which brings us to 43 for the year, keeping us right on track for another solid year.

Remember, it’s important to consult with your real estate professional to discuss the current market and how it impacts your unique situation and property.


students Celebrate Arbor Day with Milwaukee Forestry Departmentby Barb Haig

Student council members from Saint Sebastian Parish School and the City of Milwaukee Forestry Department planed a New Bradford Pear tree on school grounds in late April to celebrate National Arbor Day and help beautify the historic Washington Heights neighborhood.

Students learned about the environmental benefits of trees, how to properly care for trees, careers in arboriculture, and the importance of choosing the right tree for the right location. Alderman Michael J. Murphy read a proclamation from Mayor Tom Barrett about the significance of Arbor Day and then rolled up his sleeves and helped the students shovel dirt.

5520 W. Vliet Street • Milwaukee, WI • 414.257.9112

THE WONDER BAR

Open at 2pm withdaily drink specials

Best heated patioin Milwaukee

We have peanuts!We have peanuts!

It’s HistoricSINCE 1896


Tips To Protect Yourself when out of the houseby Allen Miller, Block Watch Committee

WALKING, JOGGING, OR RIDING A BIKE:• Don’t walk or jog early in the morning or late at night when

the streets are deserted.• Don’t walk in or near alleys, or on deserted streets. Avoid

unfamiliar areas if possible.• Use caution in parking lots, don’t walk in poorly lighted areas,

or near shrubbery or dark doorways. Avoid isolated hallways, exercise caution in stairwells and restrooms, stand near the emergency buttons in an elevator.

• Watch your surroundings and be alert for suspicious persons, especially around banks, stores, streets, and your car or home.

• Don’t listen to headphones or read while walking.• Perpetrators often walk past, then attack from the rear. If you

think someone is following you, switch directions or cross the street. If the person continues to follow you, move quickly toward an open store or restaurant or a lighted house.

• Make eye contact with people around you. Use body language to communicate that you are calm and confident.

• Carry only the money or credit cards you’ll need on a particular day. Keep a record of the account numbers at home.

• Don’t withdraw large amounts of cash from bank or ATM, or display large amounts of cash while shopping.

• Don’t overload yourself with so many packages that you become defenseless.

• Don’t display inviting targets such as cell phones, hand-held electronic games, cash or expensive jewelry and clothing.

• When crossing a street be aware of oncoming traffic or vehicles turning a corner; anticipate them not stopping.

• Don’t accept rides from strangers, and don’t respond to comments from strangers.

• When being dropped off, ask the driver to wait until you are safely inside.

• When you return home, have your key in your hand so you can open the door immediately.

PROTECTING YOUR PURSE:• If at all possible, don’t carry a purse.• “Spread your risk:” when possible, carry your wallet, keys, and

other valuables on your person, or in an inside pocket, or other suitable place, rather than your purse. Your purse should be used to carry brushes, combs, make-up, etc.

• Carry a shoulder bag securely between your arm and body away from traffic.

• If you are wearing a coat, carry a purse worn over the shoulder, but under the coat.

• Practice the “buddy system”, and shop with a friend when possible. When walking in twos, place your purse between you and your friend.

• Carry a clutch bag un-snapped and upside down between your arm and body with any valuables in the zippered compartment. If someone attempts to steal your purse, loosen your grip, allowing the contents to fall to the ground.

DRIVING A CAR:• Have your keys in your hand as you approach your car.• Check the backseat and floor before entering your car.• Keep your valuables out of sight, under the seat, or in the glove

compartment or trunk (before you park if you can.)• Lock your doors when driving and after parking. • Do everything you can to keep a stranger from getting into your

car or to keep a stranger from forcing you into his or her car.• If you are “hijacked,” drive erratically so you get pulled over or

called in by someone. Give the officer the wrong ID forms so they ask you to step out of the car.

• Try to park in well-lighted areas with good visibility and close to walkways, stores, and people.

• Be observant of surroundings as you arrive at destination and look around before exiting vehicle. Do not exit if you sense trouble.

• Be extra cautious when in parking structures or in desolate areas.

SIMPLE STEPS TO STREET SAFETY

Shelter Real Estate.com

With HUNDREDS of homes

Call Tim 414.258.3570Call Tim 414.258.3570Tim Stemper , T i m @S h e l t e r R e a l E s t a t e. com

Owner - Broker - Advisor

SOLD in Washington Heights!


• If you have car trouble, signal for help by raising the hood or tying a handkerchief to the door handle. Remain in your car with doors locked until identifiable help arrives. Should another motorist offer to help, roll down the window slightly and ask them to call the police or an auto club.

• Keep an emergency kit containing a flashlight, distress signs, and other essentials in your car.

• To protect your car, use a lock bar that prohibits the use of the steering wheel.

• Always lock your car, even if it’s in your own driveway; never leave your motor running.

• Always leave your headlights on when arriving home after dark until you have unlocked the garage door, or unlocked the house door.

• Make sure you have your key out as you approach your house door.

If someone tries to rob you, give up your property—don’t give up your life.

If there is a witness, ask that person to stay until police arrive.

Notify police immediately after an attack. Tell The Police what you know. No fact is too trivial. Call 9-1-1 if an emergency. The District 3 non-emergency # is 933-4444, enter “9” when menu options start so that the call goes to communicator and gets recorded.

INFORMATION NEEDED BY POLICE: What happened? When? Where? Is anyone injured? Description of attacker? Vehicle description and license number? Direction of flight?

Be cognizant of suspicious activity on streets, sidewalks, and alleys. Trust your instincts. Don’t worry about bothering the police – that is why they are there. Don’t worry if your suspicions prove unfounded. Your actions can help prevent someone else from becoming a victim.

References: Milwaukee Police Dept. PCSD-47 Rev. 05/13 “Steps On the Street” Wisconsin Crime Prevention Practitioners Association “Burglary Prevention Tips” (http://www.wicrimeprevention.com/?page_id=789.)


Wednesdays Are Wonderful In Washington Parkby Jane Konkel

There will be nine Wednesday evening concerts in Washington Park this summer. Our season opens on July 1st with a free cookout provided by the Brew City Bruisers. On Saturday, join us back in the park for a day full of festivities. The Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra will play the bandshell on July 4th, thanks to a gift from the Greater Milwaukee Foundation.

Many individuals and organizations contribute to the success of Wednesdays at the Shell in Washington Park. We love our opening acts and we appreciate your support Milwaukee County Parks and Washington Heights Neighborhood Association (WHNA). You can expect to see A.W.E.’s colorful Truck Studio at the bandshell, thanks to a contribution from the WHNA. Artists Working in Education (A.W.E.) will provide art activities for kids at four — That’s right, four! — concerts this summer.

During the afternoon of July 15th, Kids from Wisconsin will work with local youngsters in performance workshops. The six groups

attending will showcase their organizations while performing on stage for others. Then, the Kids from Wisconsin will take the bandshell stage. Tom from Milwaukee Hot Dog Company will be in the park early that evening.

Arrive early on July 15th, but please plan to stay a bit later the evening of August 5th, following the Peter Mulvey Band. Many thanks to the Washington Heights Rainbow Association for helping us bring back the fun and fabulous, Brewcity Fire Brigade.

Community Pie will once again roll out crusts and bake pies with kids at the UEC in preparation for their visit to the bandshell on Wednesday, August 12th. Join us for your piece of community pie. The pie is free, but donations are accepted and greatly appreciated.

Please visit — and like — Wednesdays At The Shell in Washington Park on Facebook for more information, photos, and updates. See you at the shell.


COUNTYPARKS.COM

PRESENTED BY

Wednesday Nights in Washington Park • 6:00pm to 8:30pmOpening Acts 6:00 pm, Main Acts 6:30 pm

July 1 Christopher’s Project - A smooth, melodic infusion of jazz delivered by soulful musicians. Opener: Hmong American Friendship Association Free cookout by the Brewcity Bruisers! Starts at 6:00 pm, picnic available while food lasts. Free Art Projects with Artists Working in Education Make and take art projects from 6:00-8:00 pm. Geared towards ages 4-14.

July 8 Marcell’s Matrix - A fun combination of blues and funk that speaks to all line dancers. Opener: Nia with Angela Smith of The Zen Dragonfly - Nia is a total mind and body workout for EVERY BODY!

July 15 Kids from Wisconsin - Wisconsin’s finest youth performers will boost your spirits with today’s top hits. Free Art Projects with Artists Working in Education Make and take art projects from 6:00-8:00 pm. Geared towards ages 4-14.

July 22 Brew City Big Band - Big Band recreating performances of the 1930’s through the 1960’s. Opener: Sophia’s Heart - Choir & Dance Team (Danny Gokey’s Foundation)

July 29 KT’s Universal Love Band - A fusion of reggae and African music with a bit of a punk spirit. Opener: Express Yourself Milwaukee - Celebrating the Creative Arts Free Art Projects with Artists Working in Education Make and take art projects from 6:00-8:00 pm. Geared towards ages 4-14.

Aug. 5 Peter Mulvey - Tender acoustic picking to rootsy blues and jazz. Closer: Brewcity Fire Brigade - Fire Performance Extraordinare

Aug. 12 Charles Walker Band - Deep grooving, high energy blues, soul, and funk fusion. Opener: Running Rebels - Spoken Word Poetry Community Pie! Celebrating neighborhood kids, nature’s bounty, and the love of pie! Free pie available while it lasts. Free Art Projects with Artists Working in Education Make and take art projects from 6:00-8:00 pm. Geared towards ages 4-14.

Aug. 19 Valerie B. & the Boyz Band - Energizing funk & R&B perfect for dancing the night away. Opener: West End Conservatory - Jazz Combo

Aug. 26 Nabori - A fresh and funky take on Afro-Cuban and Latin Jazz.

With Support From

Special Thanks To

CELEBRATE INDEPENDENCE DAY AT WASHINGTON PARK ON JULY 4TH, 11 AM - 10 PM

Includes Flag Raising, Family Games, Kid’s Decorated Buggy & Wagon Contest, Music, Fireworks, and more!

2:30 pm Milwaukee Symphony OrchestraFree concert courtesy of the Greater Milwaukee Foundation’s June Gift to the Communitygreatermilwaukeefoundation.org

city.milwaukee.gov/July4th


Gardens, Not Fences, Make Good NeighborsA look inside the Community Garden by Grrl Jeanius, Green Committee

While Fred Kaems was shoveling his corner lot sidewalk on 49th and Lloyd this winter, he noticed something odd about a neighbor who was doing the same. Fred was on his way to class at UWM, so he had to quickly finish the sidewalk, but there was something about that figure across the street that kept his attention. The two had yet to meet but there was no time for polite introductions. Fred figured out that the stranger was wearing a post-operative boot on one leg. And so, without permission or an expectation of a thank you, he just jumped in, and helped his neighbor complete the job and ran off to class.

So what does snow shoveling have to do with the Community Garden? Seems quite a bit. After their initial encounter and as the weather got better, Fred and Jim Bolstad started periodically running into each other and talking about the goings on in the neighborhood. Turns out, Jim and his wife Joey have been the resident caretakers and founding members of the Washington Heights Community Garden for the past six seasons. And as luck would have it, Fred and his wife Carolyn’s plan for their backyard garden had already outgrown their three existing beds. So they decided to sign-up for a plot and join in the community.

“It all started with Jim. After we met, we made a conscience decision to rent a plot and get more acquainted with people in the neighborhood,” said Fred.

“I mean, we know the neighbors right next to us, in front and behind, but beyond that? We needed a way to get more integrated and involved with what was happening,” Carolyn seamlessly added.

Carolyn and Fred moved to Washington Heights after buying their home here two years ago. After a disappointing housing search in Bay View, where they were renting at the time, their real estate agent suggested they look at this neighborhood for the quality and affordability. They purchased a four bedroom home that they happily share with their dog Beatrix, and cats Solomon and Isabel.

“We love it here! I am just minutes from where I teach at Roosevelt Elementary, and because we live so close now, I run into my students and their families by chance when doing errands,” Carolyn commented. “I like feeling that sense of community. Plus, Fred grew up in Sherman Park and his parents still live just a mile away.”

“It’s great to be central to everything here, too. I’ve been a bike rider for years, and we take our bikes everywhere — to the Stadium, State Fair, the Hank Aaron trail,” Fred added.

Beyond convenience, this thirty-something couple is definitely drawn to the notion of ‘community’ in Washington Heights, and where that idea intersects with the discipline of design. Fred thinks a lot about the role of art, design and technology in Milwaukee, and is working toward a degree in Digital Studio Practices, with a focus

on digital fabrication and design. He is also one of the founders of MuralMke.com, a company that aims to improve the visual landscape of Milwaukee, through the creation of murals. The company regularly publishes images on social media of iconic works of art photoshopped onto different landmarks across Milwaukee. It’s a digital art project called What if ___MKE? that sparks the public imagination for what a city could look like, when color and design are integrated into daily community life. “He’s constantly stopping to at look at walls,” Carolyn humorously lamented.

“Walls are everywhere. They can create a sense of space, definition, community and safety. When art is present, walls can be a welcoming presence, promote walkability and ownership among diverse residents,” Fred defended. “But it’s more than just paint on walls, it’s about illustrating what’s socially good inside communities. I would love to do something here in the Heights but until then, I’m doing some sketches for a mural on my garage this summer.”

In fact, the design of the Community Garden was also a draw for the couple. “There really seemed to be some intentional design in the layout of the garden. Somebody knew what they were doing,” Fred recalled.

“There’s a whole section, in the front with a pedestrian bench and no plots, that seems to be a welcoming point of entry. You could just read a book on that bench under the tree, maybe chat with a neighbor or someone passing by,” Carolyn — who’s mother is a garden designer — pointed out. “I’m also looking forward to getting to know the other gardeners and sharing the food that comes out of our plots with each other.”

Sharing is encouraged in the community garden, and is part of a larger sustainability movement at the neighborhood level, for resource conservation, environmental improvement and health promotion. Community gardens offer residents opportunities to relax, undertake physical activity, socialize with neighbors, and share across culturally different backgrounds and religions. As a group, they learn and share horticulture and sustainable environmental practices, such as composting and recycling, and how to grow low-cost fresh produce for a healthy diet.

“We were lucky to get this raised bed. We got to the sign-up meeting ten minutes early and got one of the last ones available,” Carolyn said standing over their Community Garden plot. “We’re going to try zucchini and pole beans this year and see what works.”

“It’s all an experiment — you just need to give different things a try. And getting involved with your community is mainly about showing up and being ‘present’ with your neighbors and whatever’s going on —a lot like the Community Garden.”


Walk the HankStroll Three Bridges Park!

Thursday, June 18, 2015 5:30 to 7:00 pm A family-friendly event for all!

Enjoy a guided, one-mile walk with Hank Aaron State Trail Manager Melissa Cook; we’ll learn about the Menomonee Valley’s rich history of fur traders,Native Americans, and explore the new Three Bridges Park.

Mitchell Park Domes (524 South Layton Blvd) Cost: $2 residents/$2 non-residents -- includes a Hank Aaron State Trail themed gift All children under 12 y must be accompanied by an adult; children under 5 y are free.

For more information please contact Melissa at [email protected] or to register please go to www.MilwaukeeRecreation.net and enter code #52519

MILWAUKEE RECYCLING PLANT TOURJUNE 23 @ 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

This free tour of the new Materials Recycling Facility is part of the Recycle It! series of events promoted by the WHNA Green Committee. Join the committee on Tuesday, June 23, 2015 (6:00PM – 7:30PM) to see the completed retrofit of the City of Milwaukee recycling facility in the Menomonee Valley that was developed in partnership with Waukesha County. Participants should meet at the Keep Greater Milwaukee Beautiful (KGMB) building. The Green Committee will provide some light snacks.

See how your recyclables are processed and prepared for the next recycling steps. As a bonus, we will also see some of the products that are made from recycled materials and renewable energy sources at the site.

The staff of Keep Greater Milwaukee Beautiful will conduct the tour and is free of cost for Milwaukee residents thanks to a grant from the City of Milwaukee. Please note that the tour may be restricted to the observation room based on plant operating conditions at the time of the tour.

To register, please visit http://whna.net/event/milwaukee-recycling-plant-tour/

Washington Heights Green Committee makes a Difference

Thanks to pressure from thousands of people like us, Lowe’s is finally taking action on bee-killing pesticides! Today, Lowe’s announced that it’s making a public commitment to phase out neonicotinoid pesticides - the pesticide known for killing off bee colonies.

So what does this mean? Here’s what Lowe’s had to say in their just-released 2015 Corporate Social Responsibility Report1: Lowe’s is committed to regularly reviewing the products and information we offer customers and we’re taking the following actions to support pollinator health:

• Including greater organic and non-neonic product selections• Phasing out the sale of products that contain neonic

pesticides within 48 months as suitable alternatives become commercially available

• Working with growers to eliminate the use of neonic pesticides on bee-attractive plants we sell

• Encouraging growers to use biological control programs

• Educating employees and customers through in-store resources such as brochures, fact sheets and product labels

As soon as The Washington Heights Green Committee realized that the plants it sells at the annual “Bloom and Groom”, were damaging to bee colonies we contacted Lowe’s. We sent two emails and spoke directly with the Plant Manager about our concerns. This victory is proof positive that what we say and do matters.

While this is not a silver bullet solution, this is a major step and you should be very proud of your role in this fight.


DOG MA Summer is a time for adventure! by Laura Burke

The perfect combination of gorgeous weather and longer days makes this the season for exploration and trying new things. However, it can be tricky to think up activities that include our furrier friends. This list contains some ideas of how to help your pet enjoy the warmer months. Summer is calling you and your pets.

Go to the beach with your dog and enjoy the sun D Take your pet to make new friends in the park D Go on a vacation to somewhere new D Instead of a walk, take your dog for a run D Play Frisbee in the park and get your dog some exercise D Go camping overnight D Teach your dog a new trick D Create a new window perch for your cat D Find your dog a summer romance (just make sure they’re spayed or neutered) D Make an obstacle course for your dog D Go shopping with your dog or cat and get some new toys D Build a tree house for your cat D Go fishing with your dog D Organize a dog walk for charity D Have a photo shoot with your cat or dog D Sign your dog up for therapy training D Invent a new sport with your dog — extreme stick-carrying, anyone D Make a Facebook account for your cat/dog D Cook with your dog and make a homemade topper for their favorite food D Go to an outdoor concert with your dog D Play “hide and seek” with your cat D Make your cat a new scratching post D Dance with your dog D Go on a healthy diet with your cat or dog D Let your dog lead the way and take you for a walk D Find other dogs in your area and meet up D Make sure you have the best gear for summer fun, like a travel water bowl D Try Doga — that’s right, yoga with your dog D Stay inside and read a book to your pet on a rainy day D Try teaching your cat a trick — it is possible D Play in the sprinklers with your dog D Bring your dog to a restaurant with a patio that allows pets and enjoy the local eats D Make an ice pop for your pet —Yogurt and a little Peanut Butter D Enter a dog walking marathon D Put some finger paint on your pet’s paws, set them down on a canvas, and make some abstract art D Go out to a large field and play a gigantic game of fetch with your dog D Paint a portrait of your cat or dog D Make your cat a tiny hammock D Protect your pet from fleas, ticks, and heartworm — all summer dangers

SIGNS OF HYPERTHERMIA OR HEAT STROKE.Hyperthermia is a potentially life-threatening disorder where a

dog’s body temperature (normally 101-102.5 degrees Fahrenheit) increases to greater than 105 degrees.

Early symptoms of hyperthermia show as severe anxiousness, panting and restlessness. If the temperature continues to increase they become glassy eyed, wobbly, and the mucus membranes (gums) may be brick red, purple or even blue as they become deprived of oxygen. They also may produce saliva excessively from the mouth and nose.

The most common cause of hyperthermia is leaving a dog in a poorly ventilated car in warm or hot weather.

Another common cause of heat stroke is play or exercise for too long in hot or humid weather. EX: game of fetch where the pet just won’t quit, or bicycle with the dog running alongside.

If you observe signs of heat stroke do the following immediately:Remove the pet from the environment immediately and move

to a shaded cool environment.Cool the body with wet towels placing them on the neck, armpit

and groin area. If possible use a fan to increase evaporation and speed cooling. As soon as possible transport the pet to an emergency veterinary facility.

It is important to NOT use ice or very cold water. This actually can reduce the blood flow on the body surface creating an insulated area trapping heat inside. As always, it is much easier to prevent over heating than it is to treat. Knowing symptoms of heat stress and telling your dog when enough is enough will make the hot weather months as safe as it is enjoyable.

Bark at you later!


UPCOMING EVENTSJUNEFRIDAYS, JUNE 5, 12, 19, 26 NOW WE PRAISE 6 – 9pm Washington Park Bandshell

SATURDAYS, JUNE 13, 20, 27 WASHINGTON PARK COMMUNITY GREEN MARKET10am – 2pm Parking lot east of UEC

MONDAY, JUNE 15 ILLUSIONIST ARDAN JAMES12:30pm & repeated at 1:45pm, Washington Park Library

THURSDAY, JUNE 18 WHNA BOARD MEETING6 – 8pm St. Sebastian’s Community Room

FRIDAYS, JUNE 19, 26 FRIDAY FARMERS MARKET4 – 8pm Amaranth Café & Bakery

SATURDAY, JUNE 20 WASHINGTON PARK POOL OPENS1 – 4pm

MONDAY, JUNE 22 THE FIGUREHEADS12:30pm & repeated at 1:45pm, Washington Park Library

TUESDAY JUNE 23 MILWAUKEE RECYCLING PLANT TOUR6 – 7:30pm Keep Greater Milwaukee Beautiful

MONDAY, JUNE 29 READY READERS12:30pm & repeated at 1:45pm, Washington Park Library

JULYWEDNESDAYS, JULY 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 WEDNESDAYS AT THE SHELL6 – 8:30 Washington Park Bandshell

FRIDAYS, JULY 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 FRIDAY FARMERS MARKET4 – 8pm Amaranth Café & Bakery NOW WE PRAISE 6 – 9pm Washington Park Bandshell

MONDAY, JULY 6 HEROES OF SCIENCE12:30pm & repeated at 1:45pm, Washington Park Library

SATURDAYS, JULY 11, 18, 2 WASHINGTON PARK COMMUNITY GREEN MARKET10am – 2pm Parking lot east of UEC

MONDAY, JULY 13 FOX AND BRANCH12:30pm & repeated at 1:45pm, Washington Park Library

THURSDAY, JULY 16 WHNA BOARD MEETING6 – 8pm St. Sebastian’s Community Room

MONDAY, JULY 20 MS. KIM’S AMAZING ANIMALS12:30pm & repeated at 1:45pm, Washington Park Library

MONDAY, JULY 27 MIND, BODY AND SOUL12:30pm & repeated at 1:45pm, Washington Park Library

MONDAY, JULY 27 – FRIDAY, JULY 31 MURAL MAKING WITH A.W.E. 1 – 4pm Washington Park Pool

AUGUSTWEDNESDAYS, AUGUST 5, 12, 19, 26 WEDNESDAYS AT THE SHELL6 – 8:30 Washington Park Bandshell

SATURDAYS, AUGUST 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 WASHINGTON PARK COMMUNITY GREEN MARKET10am – 2pm Parking lot east of UEC

FRIDAYS, AUGUST 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 FRIDAY FARMERS MARKET4 – 8pm Amaranth Café & Bakery NOW WE PRAISE 6 – 9pm Washington Park Bandshell

MONDAY, AUGUST 3 BOOK JACKET BINGO12:30pm & repeated at 1:45pm, Washington Park Library

THURSDAY, AUGUST 20 WHNA BOARD MEETING6 – 8pm St. Sebastian’s Community Room

SATURDAY, AUGUST 22 BOULEVARD BASH2 – 8pm Washington Blvd., Hi-Mount to 53rd

SEPTEMBERSATURDAYS, SEPT 12, 19, 26 WASHINGTON PARK COMMUNITY GREEN MARKET10am – 2pm Parking lot east of UEC

WEDNESDAY, SEPT 16 FALL HIGHLIGHTER COLLATING6:15pm Art & Soul Gallery

THURSDAY, SEPT 17 WHNA BOARD MEETING6 – 8pm St. Sebastian’s Community Room

THURSDAY, SEPT 24 — OCT 8 MKE FILM FESTIVALDaily and evening film screening at Times Cinema

community ContactsTHIRD DISTRICT NON-EMERGENCY .........933.4444CRIME PREVENTION ........................................ 935.7733GRAFFITI HOTLINE ............................................286.8715BLOCK WATCH ....................................................588.5619

highlighter ContactsADVERTISING INFORMATION [email protected] WHNA VOICE MAIL ..............................................297.9617HIGHLIGHTER EDITOR .........................................................

[email protected] or 949.1577HIGHLIGHTER DISTRIBUTION .........................771.7977RAINBOW ASSOCIATION ..................................258.2991

[email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]

Highlighter online at www.whna.netDo you want the Highlighter emailed to you?

Contact [email protected].

The deadline to submit articles and ads for the fall issue of the Highlighter is Wednesday, August 19, 2015.


Washington Heights Neighborhood Association

Saturday

August 222PM-8Pm

On Washington Boulevard from Hi-Mount to 53rd Street FoodFROM AREA

For more information and a complete schedule, please visit www.whna.net

Activitiesfor Kidsof All Ages

jewelry

Fine art,

craft &SILENTAUCTION

WASHINGTON

HEIGHTSNEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION

presents

restaurants

LOCAL

whna highlighter summer 2015

Documents