FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE MEDIA CONTACT: Lisa Schemmel
April 27, 2009 P: (608) 251-1675; C: (608) 235-6242; E: Lschemmel@wwhf.org
“Healthy Soul Food Cooking” Best Selling Authors to Kick Off Free Health Conference for Women of Color
Wisconsin Women’s Health Foundation and National Kidney Foundation of Wisconsin
Presenting “Women of the World Conference” on May 9
Milwaukee – The 16th Annual Women of the World Conference, a Milwaukee tradition, empowers women of color to become better advocates for their own health. This free health education event, which features a heart-healthy breakfast & lunch, presentations, exhibits, health screenings, and the ability to meet one-on-one with medical experts, will take place on Saturday, May 9 at the Italian Conference Center , 631 E. Chicago St. , from 7:00am – 2:00pm. The conference has been lengthened by nearly two hours this year to give women more time for health screenings. Hundreds are expected to attend.
Featured conference speakers, Fabiola Gaines and Roniece Weaver, Healthy Soul Food Cooking top selling authors and Hebni Nutrition Consultants co-founders, will be demonstrating how to cook healthier soul food without losing traditional flavor. “The strong tradition of soul food in the African American community is taking its toll on the health of African Americans. The liberal use of salt and sweeteners in traditionally prepared soul food is killing African Americans,” says Gaines and Weaver. “We believe that much of the hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, and other diseases plaguing African Americans can be avoided by making simple modifications in diets, meal planning and cooking styles.”
Presented by the Wisconsin Women’s Health Foundation and the National Kidney Foundation of Wisconsin in partnership with a planning committee of health care professionals and community leaders, the Women of the World Conference also features the expertise and talent of several other presenters including:
• Keynote Speaker, Linda Hotchkiss, MD: Being Healthy During Difficult Times
• Timolin Boyd, DDS: More Than A Pretty Smile: Women and Oral Health (the #1 requested topic from last year’s conference attendees)
• Pamela Robbins, RN, BSN; Matricia Patterson 2-1-1- @ IMPACT; Katie Gaulin, Community Advocates: When in Doubt Check It Out – Advocate for Yourself and Others
Free health screenings will include: blood pressure, blood sugar/glucose, glaucoma and vision, cholesterol, and urine analysis (kidney), podiatry and foot care, body mass index, smoking assessment, dental, rapid HIV, and alcohol and drug assessment.
A Web site has been developed for the conference which includes detailed information and online registration. For more information visit wowconference.org, or contact the National Kidney Foundation of Wisconsin at (262) 821-0705, ext. 10.
The Wisconsin Women’s Health Foundation (WWHF) is a statewide non-profit organization whose mission is to help Wisconsin women and their families reach their healthiest potential. WWHF provides programs and conducts educational forums that focus on prevention, early detection and connecting individuals to resources; produces and distributes the most up-to-date educational and resource materials; and, awards grants and scholarships to women health researchers and related community non-profits. To learn more, visit www.wwhf.org.
Founded in 1968, the National Kidney Foundation of Wisconsin is a non-profit health charity dedicated to preventing kidney and urinary tract diseases, improving the health and well-being of individuals and families affected by these diseases, and increasing the availability of all organs for transplantation. To learn more, visit www.kidneywi.org.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
April Minutes
Stand Together Milwaukee
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
9 AM – UEC @ Washington Park
Next Meeting: May 13
1. Introductions
2. Public Allies TSP Update:
Screenings are going well; reaching lots of youth
April 30 screening at Modjeska should be large. There will be a resource fair at 6:30, Film screening 7-9. Looking to reach an older, wider audience.
Allies will email a sign up sheet for booths
March 27 showing at YMCA – kids did performances about gun violence prevention. They want to talk to other groups about how to deescalate conflict. They will be doing events this summer. Youth feel that their parents don’t care and are part of the problem—guns are part of their lives.
Teens are facilitating showings at COA centers
Reflections from the Walker’s Point showing will be displayed with WAVE
Overall and from surveys, kids are shocked and struck by Dear Rita; they don’t understand why she had to die. They wanted their family to come, but parents wouldn’t come to the screening, even if their child is running it.
STM members are encouraged to circulate email about the Modjeska screening, Allies will get it in the press.
A flyer is going out; lit. drops the week before. Ella will print Wendy’s resource guides. If you know a resource that should be included (citywide) type up a short blurb and send it to Wendy. The blurb should include contact information.
(Cody): Facebook group is up.
3. Milwaukee Public Theatre – Update on All-City People’s Parade and Pagent (August 7)
No theme yet, but seems to be leaning toward HOPE– One brainstorming session left at Bucketworks.
Survey for STM Members- included list of events coming up where we can plug the Earth Day event and MPT’s Parade/Pagent
Collaborating with other organizations including National Night Out
Venue is a question yet—will likely be in either Washington Park or Pere Marquette Park
Brainstorming sessions are going well
Heart of the Beast will do powerpoint presentations about how they started the project in Minnesota
Will circulate a “tabloid” at the event—organizations can buy space. A company could sponsor a bus for students, etc.
Artists working on the project are working in kind.
Puppets can be used at future events
Ella’s friend at the Harambee Neighborhood might be interested, as would Gallery Night.
4. PR Action Group – Report on Logo
Press Release has been sent out to several schools
MIAD Submissions go to Ife
As of meeting, there were 3 submissions, all from Caleb at Safe & Sound
5. Joey – Update on UEC Earth Day Festival
Wed 4/22 – Youth will meet at the UEC from 5-7 to create signs for the march/clean-up. STM Members are needed to help. Bring any supplies you have.
Saturday, 4/25 is the actually clean up and festival.
- Group leaders should meet at 10:30 at the UEC to gather supplies. (Liz=Westside Academy, Angie= with Scooter Foundation at the Hmong American Friendship Association)
- Clean up is from 11-12
- Maps, gloves, and bags provided
- Everyone meet at the bandshell at NOON
- Expecting ~100 people
- Sound System and Band are taken care of
- Need more volunteers at Westside Academy and Highland Community School
- Usher’s 13 kids will be announced
- Logo unveiled! (Ife)
- Dan Aukofer = MC
- Other help needed: 3 volunteers to hand out thank you gifts (500 trash cans from Harley)People to help organize and cook the picnicPeople to hang out and direct others around the park
- AWE will be there with art stuff
- Firetruck and Survive Alive House (hopefully) will be there
- Events: 5 stations with Allies, Pick-up games, Silk screening, fishing, canoeing
- Working on a flyer.
- Limited space for volunteers, but anyone can come have fun.
- Space in the UEC and by the bandshell for booths
- Looking for food donations
- Contact Joey with food ideas or $$ for food
6. Jim Bartos – Silver Spring Neighborhood event 64th, 1 block south of Silver Spring.
Flyer passed around
Peace for Change Alliance Saturday, April 18
Blood Center accepting donations beginning at 11
Resource Fair at Neighborhood Center. 11-3
Rally in the gym- goal is 200 people. There will be speakers, performers, spoken word
7. OTHER UPCOMING EVENTS
April 15 – Kids at Scooter Foundation would like MFD to attend Brainstorming Session
Sat., June 13 – “That’s My Dad” Fathers’ Day event in Washington Park
May 30 – Walk for Wellness (from the Domes to Washington park)
May 1 – Voces de la Frontera march for Immigrant & Labor Rights. Janet will send details. Students will carry the STM banner.April 20-22 – WAVE’s Journey for Justice. 450 shirts and letters. Milwaukee display will be April 22 at City Hall at NOON.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
9 AM – UEC @ Washington Park
Next Meeting: May 13
1. Introductions
2. Public Allies TSP Update:
Screenings are going well; reaching lots of youth
April 30 screening at Modjeska should be large. There will be a resource fair at 6:30, Film screening 7-9. Looking to reach an older, wider audience.
Allies will email a sign up sheet for booths
March 27 showing at YMCA – kids did performances about gun violence prevention. They want to talk to other groups about how to deescalate conflict. They will be doing events this summer. Youth feel that their parents don’t care and are part of the problem—guns are part of their lives.
Teens are facilitating showings at COA centers
Reflections from the Walker’s Point showing will be displayed with WAVE
Overall and from surveys, kids are shocked and struck by Dear Rita; they don’t understand why she had to die. They wanted their family to come, but parents wouldn’t come to the screening, even if their child is running it.
STM members are encouraged to circulate email about the Modjeska screening, Allies will get it in the press.
A flyer is going out; lit. drops the week before. Ella will print Wendy’s resource guides. If you know a resource that should be included (citywide) type up a short blurb and send it to Wendy. The blurb should include contact information.
(Cody): Facebook group is up.
3. Milwaukee Public Theatre – Update on All-City People’s Parade and Pagent (August 7)
No theme yet, but seems to be leaning toward HOPE– One brainstorming session left at Bucketworks.
Survey for STM Members- included list of events coming up where we can plug the Earth Day event and MPT’s Parade/Pagent
Collaborating with other organizations including National Night Out
Venue is a question yet—will likely be in either Washington Park or Pere Marquette Park
Brainstorming sessions are going well
Heart of the Beast will do powerpoint presentations about how they started the project in Minnesota
Will circulate a “tabloid” at the event—organizations can buy space. A company could sponsor a bus for students, etc.
Artists working on the project are working in kind.
Puppets can be used at future events
Ella’s friend at the Harambee Neighborhood might be interested, as would Gallery Night.
4. PR Action Group – Report on Logo
Press Release has been sent out to several schools
MIAD Submissions go to Ife
As of meeting, there were 3 submissions, all from Caleb at Safe & Sound
5. Joey – Update on UEC Earth Day Festival
Wed 4/22 – Youth will meet at the UEC from 5-7 to create signs for the march/clean-up. STM Members are needed to help. Bring any supplies you have.
Saturday, 4/25 is the actually clean up and festival.
- Group leaders should meet at 10:30 at the UEC to gather supplies. (Liz=Westside Academy, Angie= with Scooter Foundation at the Hmong American Friendship Association)
- Clean up is from 11-12
- Maps, gloves, and bags provided
- Everyone meet at the bandshell at NOON
- Expecting ~100 people
- Sound System and Band are taken care of
- Need more volunteers at Westside Academy and Highland Community School
- Usher’s 13 kids will be announced
- Logo unveiled! (Ife)
- Dan Aukofer = MC
- Other help needed: 3 volunteers to hand out thank you gifts (500 trash cans from Harley)People to help organize and cook the picnicPeople to hang out and direct others around the park
- AWE will be there with art stuff
- Firetruck and Survive Alive House (hopefully) will be there
- Events: 5 stations with Allies, Pick-up games, Silk screening, fishing, canoeing
- Working on a flyer.
- Limited space for volunteers, but anyone can come have fun.
- Space in the UEC and by the bandshell for booths
- Looking for food donations
- Contact Joey with food ideas or $$ for food
6. Jim Bartos – Silver Spring Neighborhood event 64th, 1 block south of Silver Spring.
Flyer passed around
Peace for Change Alliance Saturday, April 18
Blood Center accepting donations beginning at 11
Resource Fair at Neighborhood Center. 11-3
Rally in the gym- goal is 200 people. There will be speakers, performers, spoken word
7. OTHER UPCOMING EVENTS
April 15 – Kids at Scooter Foundation would like MFD to attend Brainstorming Session
Sat., June 13 – “That’s My Dad” Fathers’ Day event in Washington Park
May 30 – Walk for Wellness (from the Domes to Washington park)
May 1 – Voces de la Frontera march for Immigrant & Labor Rights. Janet will send details. Students will carry the STM banner.April 20-22 – WAVE’s Journey for Justice. 450 shirts and letters. Milwaukee display will be April 22 at City Hall at NOON.
Friday, April 10, 2009
Earth Day @ Urban Ecology Center
Saturday, April 25 12 – 4 p.m.
Washington Park
Let’s Celebrate the Earth!
• A kick-off at noon at the band shell then a picnic!
• Fishing
• Canoe rides
• Arts & crafts
• Games
And Clean up our Park!
• Lagoon clean-up
• Wetland restoration
• Native garden preparation
• Invasive species removal
Free!
Start in the morning!
Neighborhood Clean up, 11a. Meet us at:
Highland Community School, Hmong American Friendship Association, St.
Sebastian & St. Coletta, Washington High School, Westside Academy II
Washington Park
Let’s Celebrate the Earth!
• A kick-off at noon at the band shell then a picnic!
• Fishing
• Canoe rides
• Arts & crafts
• Games
And Clean up our Park!
• Lagoon clean-up
• Wetland restoration
• Native garden preparation
• Invasive species removal
Free!
Start in the morning!
Neighborhood Clean up, 11a. Meet us at:
Highland Community School, Hmong American Friendship Association, St.
Sebastian & St. Coletta, Washington High School, Westside Academy II
Thursday, April 9, 2009
"That's My Dad"
Join us as the Milwaukee Fatherhood Collaborative and Public Allies Milwaukee celebrate Milwaukee’s fathers!
When: Saturday, June 13th
Time: 11-5pm
Where: Washington Park
Resource Fair Activities for Kids Music and Entertainment
Face Painting Free Food
Games Drawings for prizes Tug-O-War Contest
Please contact Andrea Kurth 414-263-8383 X136 if you would like to have a table at the resource fair! Great opportunity to reach hundreds of families!
Statewide Immigrant and Labor Rights March
Dear Members and Allies:
On Friday, May 1, 2009 Voces de la Frontera is holding a statewide immigrant and labor rights march calling for: just legalization, an end to raids that separate families, access to drivers' licenses and higher education, good jobs, employee free choice act, and paid sick days. The event is part of a national day of action coordinated by the Fair Immigration Reform Movement (FIRM).
What: Statewide Immigrant and Labor Rights March
When: Friday, May 1 at 12pm
Where: Begin at 5th and Washington (VDLF office: 1027 S. 5th Street) Will march to Veterans' Park for a program including music and vendors.
For more information, call Voces de la Frontera at 414.643.1620.
Let's Have a Stand Together Milwauke presence at this event, and show our support!
On Friday, May 1, 2009 Voces de la Frontera is holding a statewide immigrant and labor rights march calling for: just legalization, an end to raids that separate families, access to drivers' licenses and higher education, good jobs, employee free choice act, and paid sick days. The event is part of a national day of action coordinated by the Fair Immigration Reform Movement (FIRM).
What: Statewide Immigrant and Labor Rights March
When: Friday, May 1 at 12pm
Where: Begin at 5th and Washington (VDLF office: 1027 S. 5th Street) Will march to Veterans' Park for a program including music and vendors.
For more information, call Voces de la Frontera at 414.643.1620.
Let's Have a Stand Together Milwauke presence at this event, and show our support!
Monday, March 30, 2009
Please reg. online for the Stop the Violence Blood Drive at Silver Spring Neighborhood Center on April 18th. Click on the link below and then enter DRV0098679. THEN PICK A TIME TO DONATE...
THANK YOU SO MUCH
Tracey Dent
THANK YOU SO MUCH
Tracey Dent
I am very proud that our organization has scheduled a blood drive with BloodCenter of Wisconsin for Saturday, April 18, 2009. As you receive information on this drive, I urge you to schedule an appointment to donate. It is important that we maintain an ample blood supply in our community, and that can only be done with BloodCenter of Wisconsin, as they supply 100% of the blood to every community hospital in our area. The blood you donate will save lives right here in your community. Patients are counting on receiving this blood to help them survive or heal. Let's all participate and make this blood drive a success for all of us. If you haven't signed up yet, please consider doing so. You'll be doing more good than you know. | ||
| Please click on the link and enter Drive Number DRV0098679 to schedule an appointment | ||
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
STM Logo Contest!!!!
Stand together Milwaukee logo contest
Milwaukee, wi, February 25, 2008: Stand Together Milwaukee (STM) is opening its search to the community (designers/artists/students, etc.) to create a logo to act as a visible representation of Stand Together Milwaukee’s core efforts.
All entries must be at least 350 dpi & cmyk color in jpeg or pdf format and submitted to standtogethermilwaukee@gmail.com on or before midnight April 1, 2009.
Winner will be announced and the logo will be unveiled at the kickoff of the Urban Ecology Center’s Earth Day Celebration:
When: April 25th, 2009
Where: The Washington Park Band Shell
Time: Noon
Stand Together Milwaukee is a network of diverse groups, organizations, communities and individuals standing together to confront gun violence in Milwaukee as a public health issue. New Moon Productions (NMP) initiated this network as a focus group for their Guns, Grief & Grace in America documentary film series. When levels of engagement intensified, the Greater Milwaukee Foundation offered to continue hosting the participants. Eventually, the group decided to extend their energetic meeting to an official Network promoting collaborative action among groups, many whose populations are disproportionately affected by gun violence. Stand Together Milwaukee desires to coordinate, highlight and promote existing efforts towards a healthier community.
Milwaukee, wi, February 25, 2008: Stand Together Milwaukee (STM) is opening its search to the community (designers/artists/students, etc.) to create a logo to act as a visible representation of Stand Together Milwaukee’s core efforts.
All entries must be at least 350 dpi & cmyk color in jpeg or pdf format and submitted to standtogethermilwaukee@gmail.com on or before midnight April 1, 2009.
Winner will be announced and the logo will be unveiled at the kickoff of the Urban Ecology Center’s Earth Day Celebration:
When: April 25th, 2009
Where: The Washington Park Band Shell
Time: Noon
Stand Together Milwaukee is a network of diverse groups, organizations, communities and individuals standing together to confront gun violence in Milwaukee as a public health issue. New Moon Productions (NMP) initiated this network as a focus group for their Guns, Grief & Grace in America documentary film series. When levels of engagement intensified, the Greater Milwaukee Foundation offered to continue hosting the participants. Eventually, the group decided to extend their energetic meeting to an official Network promoting collaborative action among groups, many whose populations are disproportionately affected by gun violence. Stand Together Milwaukee desires to coordinate, highlight and promote existing efforts towards a healthier community.
Friday, February 6, 2009
On January 14th, 2009 adults, youth from the north side community, and members of Stand Together Milwaukee meet at the Washington Park Urban Ecology Center to watch Promise to America, followed by a discussion on gun violence, activism, and action. Popcorn and fun icebreakers helped to bring young and old together. After watching the educational documentary film, youth and adults shared there experience with violence, and their out look on community change.
Youth from Washington Park began to brainstorm ways they could improve their neighborhood through clean ups.
Ella Dunbar from SDC mentioned how important it was for administrators to meet with and listen to youth give their input on violence.Friday, January 16, 2009
Stand Together Milwaukee Fall Newsletter
STAND TOGETHER MILWAUKEE
The Peace Walk Kick Off
The Scooter Foundation Peace Walk launches the STM Network
Stand Together Milwaukee
is a network of diverse groups,
organizations and individuals
standing together to confront gun
violence in Milwaukee as a public
health issue. New Moon
Productions (NMP) initiated this
network as a focus group for their
Guns, Grief & Grace in America
documentary film series.
When
levels of engagement intensified,
the Greater Milwaukee
Foundation offered to continue
hosting the participants.
Eventually, the group decided to
extend their energetic meeting to
an official Network promoting
collaborative action among
groups, many whose populations
are disproportionately affected by
gun violence.
Stand Together Milwaukee
desires to coordinate, highlight
and promote existing efforts
towards a healthier community.
For two years, community
members volunteered to create
the Stand Together Milwaukee
network and an ideal event tointroduce this ground breaking
organization.
Susan Scmidt of the Scooter Foundation
and Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barreett
For three years Susan Schmidt
has been organizing a peace walk
in memory of her brother, Scooter
Schmidt, who was killed due to
gun violence. Every year Susan
brings students from Oliver
Wendell Holmes Elementary
School, friends and family
together to discuss alternatives to
violence.
This year The Scooter
Foundation joined with Stand
Together Milwaukee to host a
dynamic peace walk and kick off
event. The peace walk was held at
the Washington Park band shell.
More than 200 youth, family, and
community members attended.
The event started with
introductions from The Scooter
Foundation followed by Mayor
Barrett. Trinia, a student from
Oliver Wendell Holmes, read her
poem on violence while her peers
prepared to lead the march.
Students gathered behind the 40
yard peace banners created by
each organization.
They lead participants around
the lagoon as they chanted for
peace in our communities. Once
back at the band shell speakers
like Muhibb Dyer, spoken word
poet, injected the multi-cultural
crowd with hope and excitement
at the thought of overcoming gun
violence. Project Non-Violence
Dancers performed followed by
Browning School African
Drummers. With food, balloons,
and raffles the day was a great
community engagement event.
International Ribbon Project
In preparation for the Peace
Walk and launch of Stand Together
Milwaukee - STM, Scooter
Foundation, & community
members gathered on June 2 at
the Washington Park UEC to
create banners to join
www.theribboninternational.org.
STM and community artist
volunteers decorated banners
with inspirational images of
"what they most want to
protect." All of the banners
were then tied together with
colorful ribbons, creating a
40-yard long community banner
representing Milwaukee standing
together in peace and unity, to
be carried in the Peace Walk.
The day of the walk, participants
created chalk drawings of the
banner.
Stand Together Milwaukee invites organizations and individuals to serve as CORE MEMBERS of the
STM network by making a one-year commitment to attend monthly meetings and actively participate
throughout 2009. The Steering Committee aims to reduce gun violence in our communities by
combining their energy and multiple talents to carry out the mission of Stand Together Milwaukee.
We encourage original steering committee members to re-commit if present schedules allow. All other
interested community members are heartily welcome. WE NEED YOU! SIGN ON -
E-mail outreach@newmoononline.com.
STAND TOGETHER MILWAUKEE CURRENT COMMUNITY PARTNERS
Benedict Center, Block Watch Council, Brandwise
Consulting, Campaign Against Violence, Children’s Outing
Association City of Milwaukee Mayor’s Office, City of
Milwaukee Health Department, Citizen Action, Conceptz
Communications/Urban Journal, Esperanza Unida, Greater
Milwaukee Foundations, Health Policy Advocates, Layton
Boulevard West Neighborhood Association, Marquette
University Law School Restorative Justice/Milwaukee Safe
Streets-MPD District 5, Milwaukee County District
Attorney, Milwaukee Public Theatre, Mothers Against Gun
Violence, New Moon Productions, 9 to 5 National
Association of Working Women, Northcott Neighborhood
Center, Project Ujima, Public Allies, Radio Milwaukee,
Scooter Foundation, Silver Spring Neighborhood Center,
Social Development Commission, Summer of Peace, Task
Force on Family Violence, United States Attorney-Eastren
District of Wisconsin, Urban Underground, WAVE,
Wisconsin Community Services, YWCA of Greater
Milwaukee
THANK YOU
Heartfelt appreciation and thanks to the 2008 STM steering committee, The
Greater Milwaukee Foundation and The Scooter Foundation for modeling the
collaborative spirit STM represents.
The Peace Walk Kick Off
The Scooter Foundation Peace Walk launches the STM Network
Stand Together Milwaukee
is a network of diverse groups,
organizations and individuals
standing together to confront gun
violence in Milwaukee as a public
health issue. New Moon
Productions (NMP) initiated this
network as a focus group for their
Guns, Grief & Grace in America
documentary film series.
When
levels of engagement intensified,
the Greater Milwaukee
Foundation offered to continue
hosting the participants.
Eventually, the group decided to
extend their energetic meeting to
an official Network promoting
collaborative action among
groups, many whose populations
are disproportionately affected by
gun violence.
Stand Together Milwaukee
desires to coordinate, highlight
and promote existing efforts
towards a healthier community.
For two years, community
members volunteered to create
the Stand Together Milwaukee
network and an ideal event tointroduce this ground breaking
organization.
Susan Scmidt of the Scooter Foundation
and Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barreett
For three years Susan Schmidt
has been organizing a peace walk
in memory of her brother, Scooter
Schmidt, who was killed due to
gun violence. Every year Susan
brings students from Oliver
Wendell Holmes Elementary
School, friends and family
together to discuss alternatives to
violence.
This year The Scooter
Foundation joined with Stand
Together Milwaukee to host a
dynamic peace walk and kick off
event. The peace walk was held at
the Washington Park band shell.
More than 200 youth, family, and
community members attended.
The event started with
introductions from The Scooter
Foundation followed by Mayor
Barrett. Trinia, a student from
Oliver Wendell Holmes, read her
poem on violence while her peers
prepared to lead the march.
Students gathered behind the 40
yard peace banners created by
each organization.
They lead participants around
the lagoon as they chanted for
peace in our communities. Once
back at the band shell speakers
like Muhibb Dyer, spoken word
poet, injected the multi-cultural
crowd with hope and excitement
at the thought of overcoming gun
violence. Project Non-Violence
Dancers performed followed by
Browning School African
Drummers. With food, balloons,
and raffles the day was a great
community engagement event.
International Ribbon Project
In preparation for the Peace
Walk and launch of Stand Together
Milwaukee - STM, Scooter
Foundation, & community
members gathered on June 2 at
the Washington Park UEC to
create banners to join
www.theribboninternational.org.
STM and community artist
volunteers decorated banners
with inspirational images of
"what they most want to
protect." All of the banners
were then tied together with
colorful ribbons, creating a
40-yard long community banner
representing Milwaukee standing
together in peace and unity, to
be carried in the Peace Walk.
The day of the walk, participants
created chalk drawings of the
banner.
Stand Together Milwaukee invites organizations and individuals to serve as CORE MEMBERS of the
STM network by making a one-year commitment to attend monthly meetings and actively participate
throughout 2009. The Steering Committee aims to reduce gun violence in our communities by
combining their energy and multiple talents to carry out the mission of Stand Together Milwaukee.
We encourage original steering committee members to re-commit if present schedules allow. All other
interested community members are heartily welcome. WE NEED YOU! SIGN ON -
E-mail outreach@newmoononline.com.
STAND TOGETHER MILWAUKEE CURRENT COMMUNITY PARTNERS
Benedict Center, Block Watch Council, Brandwise
Consulting, Campaign Against Violence, Children’s Outing
Association City of Milwaukee Mayor’s Office, City of
Milwaukee Health Department, Citizen Action, Conceptz
Communications/Urban Journal, Esperanza Unida, Greater
Milwaukee Foundations, Health Policy Advocates, Layton
Boulevard West Neighborhood Association, Marquette
University Law School Restorative Justice/Milwaukee Safe
Streets-MPD District 5, Milwaukee County District
Attorney, Milwaukee Public Theatre, Mothers Against Gun
Violence, New Moon Productions, 9 to 5 National
Association of Working Women, Northcott Neighborhood
Center, Project Ujima, Public Allies, Radio Milwaukee,
Scooter Foundation, Silver Spring Neighborhood Center,
Social Development Commission, Summer of Peace, Task
Force on Family Violence, United States Attorney-Eastren
District of Wisconsin, Urban Underground, WAVE,
Wisconsin Community Services, YWCA of Greater
Milwaukee
THANK YOU
Heartfelt appreciation and thanks to the 2008 STM steering committee, The
Greater Milwaukee Foundation and The Scooter Foundation for modeling the
collaborative spirit STM represents.
STM Press Release
Contact: Ife Olatunji,
Outreach Coordinator for New Moon Production
outreach@newmoononline.com
(262) 617-7264
Public Allies Milwaukee invites you to help kick-off
Stand Together Milwaukee’s 2009 Community Engagement Campaign
Join us for a series of New Moon Productions film screenings and community discussion. Guns, Grief and Grace in America presents an in-depth look at gun violence in America, viewed through the diverse lenses of local, state and national communities.
Dear Rita follows a personal story from Milwaukee, emphasizing the pain of losing a family member to gun violence. The Promise of America follows Rita's mother and other women from all across the country as they travel to Washington DC to participate in the Million Moms March.
On January 7th, 2009 more than 30 activists, artists, teens from Children's Outing Association (COA), philanthropists, STM core members and Public Allies gathered on a snowy evening
at the Urban Ecology Center - Riverside Park (UEC) to watch Dear Rita, followed by discussion of gun violence. Radio Milwaukee(STM founding member) was there to capture stories and accounts from diverse participants. We shared simple food and became instant, inspired community as our lives temporarily intersected. And, that energy continueswith personal responses of being deeply touched and motivated to do more, including:
* COA now is requesting to host their own event and Public Allies tsp wants to work with them on it -
* UEC Washington Park branch is now looking to bring in teen groups to next week's screening at that site -
* Radio Milwaukee is excited to come to that event and is bringing music, etc.
* Allies tsp feels more confident about hosting screenings - are looking forward to the training the Violence Prevention Initiative will provide on Jan. 23 with realistic questions for the trainer.
Stand Together Milwaukee (STM) and Public Allies Milwaukee (PA) joined together to facilitate these discussions. Stand Together Milwaukee is a network of groups, organizations and individuals standing together to confront gun violence in Milwaukee as a Public Health Issue. Public Allies’ mission is to advance new leadership to strengthen communities, nonprofits and civic participation. Through collaborative efforts, Public Allies Milwaukee and Stand Together Milwaukee chose to facilitate the screenings and discussions because of its shared commitment to local communities. These organizations are determined to connect individuals and groups to the ever-growing network and to give people the empowered feeling of change. STM and PA are working to build a strong movement of change to Milwaukee neighborhoods.
The purpose of The Community Engagement Campaign is to raise public awareness of the impact gun violence continues to have on our community every day. These films and discussions are unique because they look beyond gun legislation and focus on gun violence as a Public Health Issue. Come and connect with a network of professionals and individuals in Milwaukee committed to engaging the community, and working together to reduce gun violence.
Join us on
January 14 at 7:00 pm will be the screening of
The Promise of America
Urban Ecology Center: Washington Park. (1859 N 40th St, Milwaukee)
*This is a family-friendly event. However, while these are not graphic films, the topic of gun violence is sensitive, please use your discretion when bringing young children.
December STM minutes
Stand Together Milwaukee- Meeting Minutes, December 10,
2008
Present: Ella Dunbar - SDC; Wendy Mesich - Public Allies TSP; Aria Duax - Public Allies;
Katie Shay- Americore/Vista; Andrea Kurth - RIverwest Health Initiative; Stephanie Paul -
Public Allies PST; Ann Weninger - Concerned Citizen/Business Owner; William Morales -
Milwaukee Mayor's office; Jason Wedesky & Susan Schmidt - Scooter Foundation; Antonia
Nelson - Concerned Citizen/Business Owner; Theresa Kopac - Radio Milwaukee 88.9; Gregory
Williams - WI Correctional Services; Seema Sigh - Nine to Five; Joey Zocher - Urban Ecology
Center; Janet Fitch & Ife Olatunji - New Moon Productions
2009 Citywide Community
Engagement Campaign - Kick OFF
(GOAL - To highlight and promote existing efforts toward a healthier community)
PLEASE JOIN OUR PUBLIC ALLIES TEAM as they KICK-OFF
STAND TOGETHER MILWAUKEE’S
2009 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT CAMPAIGN
Part 1: "DEAR RITA"
UEC Riverside Park - Wednesday, January 7th @ 6p.m.
Part 2: "THE PROMISE OF AMERICA"
UEC Washington Park –Wednesday, January 14th @ 7p.m.
URBAN ECOLOGY CENTER will host these first screenings -
Both are free and open to the public- www.urbanecologycenter.org
• Public Allies Team Service Project (TSP) representatives attended the meeting to
discuss their commitment to assisting the kick-off and direction of the STM community
engagement campaign. Currently they are planning four film screenings and discussions.
They will begin by hosting 2 screenings - to introduce STM partner organizations to
New Moon Productions film series, Guns, Grief, and Grace in America. TSP will then
work with STM members in teams to host citywide events - HIGHLIGHTING AND
PROMOTING STM MEMBER SERVICES TO THE COMMUNITY AND THEIR
REASONS FOR STANDING TOGETHER TO CONFRONT GUN VIOLENCE, The
PA Team will use themes as a way to attract and organize particular groups and further
engage individuals. Current Themes: Art, Youth, and Physical Environment. Screenings
will be1 hour followed by roughly1 hour discussion. (Public Allies TSP meets at the
Medical College of WI Violence Prevention Office on MLK Drive.)
• PA will develop a list of needs for STM partners, in order to see which partners can
provide which needed resources. Allies are currently scheduling the first screenings and
will create PR material to invite all members. SDC offered to host/partner with youth
screening, as well as in-kind donation for printing materials. Ms. Kopac, suggested
creating radio ad for Jan 7th and 14th screening. Allies will create email fliers to be sent
to STM database and partner list serves. And place event of e-calenders, and websites
• Allies will develop resource list specific to each screening, and develop guide for
replication of screenings and discussions.
• Members suggested allies be careful to not overwhelm attendees with information.
Members suggested screening include the voice of ex-offenders, possibly by working
with Running Rebels.
• PA members will be present at the January 7th screening to sign up organization who
would like to partner or attend spring screenings. The Public Allies Team will not be at
the Jan. 14 screening, due to a prior commitment - so STM core members and partners
are encouraged to sign up on the 7th!
Core Membership
The group discussed the importance of having a core member group to focus on the first two
initiatives for 2009. Core members must make a commitment to attend once a month for STM
meetings and take on necessary roles to maintain and build the network. Core members will meet
separately - several times during the year - as a steering committee to direct the group.
Organizations not able to act as core members are encouraged to become "Partner Organizations"
sending representatives as attendees to STM meetings (inc. volunteers from their orgs). Groups
and individuals can join the core membership at any time.
STM Core Members 2009 - to date:
• Americorp VISTA - Katy Shay
• Citizen Action WI - Teresa Thomas Boyd
• Mothers Against Gun Violence - Debra Fifer
• New Moon Productions - Janet Fitch, Ife Olatunji
• Public Allies - Wendy Mesich
• Riverwest Health Initiative - Andrea Kurth
• Radio Milwaukee 88.9 - Theresa Kopac
• Scooter Foundation - Susan Schmidt. Jason Wedesky
• Social Development Commission (SDC) - Ella Dunbar
• Urban Ecology Center - Joey Zocher, UEC Washington Park
• WAVE - Aria Daux, Kristina Paris
• Ann Wenninger - Concerned Citizen/ Business Owner
• WI Correctional Services - Gregrory Williams
The group discussed at length the importance of having core membership and open membership
policy. A one year commitment to be a Core Member is a major piece of time and energy
devoted to continuing the momentum developed in the previous year, with another Steering
Committee.
PARTNERS: all original 2008 Steering Committee Founding Members who have not yet signed
on as 2009 Core Members will continue to be included as "Partners." This level of
participation receives all benefits of STM. Partners are greatly needed (but not required) to
attend and promote meetings - action groups - events whenever possible - and promote STM to
the Greater Milwaukee Community. AND - to keep STM blog posted on your activities!
GENERAL DISCUSSION
Discussion of the importance of building community support in order to put pressure on
companies like Badger Guns, and for background checks. And, the importance of the group
being able to address the underlying causes of violence such as poverty.
Elevator Speeches
• Members were asked to create brief elevator speeches that explain why they stand with
Milwaukee to end gun violence. This is an effort to highlight individual efforts as well as
the collective work of STM, which is to address gun violence as a Public Health issue
effecting every community. This brief description will help each organization and
individual speak about the importance of standing against gun violence, and re framing
the discussion as a public health issue. This description will also help Public Allies
better asses which organization will benefit from particular screenings. Allies will need
this information by January 5, 2009.
• In one to two sentences please answer the following questions: 1. What is your
organizations mission/website? 2. Who do you serve? 3. What services do you
provide? 4. Why do you work with Stand Together Milwaukee? (I changed the 3rd
question because I thought people may write too much) return statement to
outreach@newmoononline.com Remember elevator rides are usually 30 seconds, so be
brief!
Thank you to all who attended.
NOTE CHANGE OF MEETING FOR JANUARY Our next
meeting will be:
January 14, 2009 at 5:00pm at Washington Park Urban Ecology
Center -
Prior to the film screening at 7p.m.
2008
Present: Ella Dunbar - SDC; Wendy Mesich - Public Allies TSP; Aria Duax - Public Allies;
Katie Shay- Americore/Vista; Andrea Kurth - RIverwest Health Initiative; Stephanie Paul -
Public Allies PST; Ann Weninger - Concerned Citizen/Business Owner; William Morales -
Milwaukee Mayor's office; Jason Wedesky & Susan Schmidt - Scooter Foundation; Antonia
Nelson - Concerned Citizen/Business Owner; Theresa Kopac - Radio Milwaukee 88.9; Gregory
Williams - WI Correctional Services; Seema Sigh - Nine to Five; Joey Zocher - Urban Ecology
Center; Janet Fitch & Ife Olatunji - New Moon Productions
2009 Citywide Community
Engagement Campaign - Kick OFF
(GOAL - To highlight and promote existing efforts toward a healthier community)
PLEASE JOIN OUR PUBLIC ALLIES TEAM as they KICK-OFF
STAND TOGETHER MILWAUKEE’S
2009 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT CAMPAIGN
Part 1: "DEAR RITA"
UEC Riverside Park - Wednesday, January 7th @ 6p.m.
Part 2: "THE PROMISE OF AMERICA"
UEC Washington Park –Wednesday, January 14th @ 7p.m.
URBAN ECOLOGY CENTER will host these first screenings -
Both are free and open to the public- www.urbanecologycenter.org
• Public Allies Team Service Project (TSP) representatives attended the meeting to
discuss their commitment to assisting the kick-off and direction of the STM community
engagement campaign. Currently they are planning four film screenings and discussions.
They will begin by hosting 2 screenings - to introduce STM partner organizations to
New Moon Productions film series, Guns, Grief, and Grace in America. TSP will then
work with STM members in teams to host citywide events - HIGHLIGHTING AND
PROMOTING STM MEMBER SERVICES TO THE COMMUNITY AND THEIR
REASONS FOR STANDING TOGETHER TO CONFRONT GUN VIOLENCE, The
PA Team will use themes as a way to attract and organize particular groups and further
engage individuals. Current Themes: Art, Youth, and Physical Environment. Screenings
will be1 hour followed by roughly1 hour discussion. (Public Allies TSP meets at the
Medical College of WI Violence Prevention Office on MLK Drive.)
• PA will develop a list of needs for STM partners, in order to see which partners can
provide which needed resources. Allies are currently scheduling the first screenings and
will create PR material to invite all members. SDC offered to host/partner with youth
screening, as well as in-kind donation for printing materials. Ms. Kopac, suggested
creating radio ad for Jan 7th and 14th screening. Allies will create email fliers to be sent
to STM database and partner list serves. And place event of e-calenders, and websites
• Allies will develop resource list specific to each screening, and develop guide for
replication of screenings and discussions.
• Members suggested allies be careful to not overwhelm attendees with information.
Members suggested screening include the voice of ex-offenders, possibly by working
with Running Rebels.
• PA members will be present at the January 7th screening to sign up organization who
would like to partner or attend spring screenings. The Public Allies Team will not be at
the Jan. 14 screening, due to a prior commitment - so STM core members and partners
are encouraged to sign up on the 7th!
Core Membership
The group discussed the importance of having a core member group to focus on the first two
initiatives for 2009. Core members must make a commitment to attend once a month for STM
meetings and take on necessary roles to maintain and build the network. Core members will meet
separately - several times during the year - as a steering committee to direct the group.
Organizations not able to act as core members are encouraged to become "Partner Organizations"
sending representatives as attendees to STM meetings (inc. volunteers from their orgs). Groups
and individuals can join the core membership at any time.
STM Core Members 2009 - to date:
• Americorp VISTA - Katy Shay
• Citizen Action WI - Teresa Thomas Boyd
• Mothers Against Gun Violence - Debra Fifer
• New Moon Productions - Janet Fitch, Ife Olatunji
• Public Allies - Wendy Mesich
• Riverwest Health Initiative - Andrea Kurth
• Radio Milwaukee 88.9 - Theresa Kopac
• Scooter Foundation - Susan Schmidt. Jason Wedesky
• Social Development Commission (SDC) - Ella Dunbar
• Urban Ecology Center - Joey Zocher, UEC Washington Park
• WAVE - Aria Daux, Kristina Paris
• Ann Wenninger - Concerned Citizen/ Business Owner
• WI Correctional Services - Gregrory Williams
The group discussed at length the importance of having core membership and open membership
policy. A one year commitment to be a Core Member is a major piece of time and energy
devoted to continuing the momentum developed in the previous year, with another Steering
Committee.
PARTNERS: all original 2008 Steering Committee Founding Members who have not yet signed
on as 2009 Core Members will continue to be included as "Partners." This level of
participation receives all benefits of STM. Partners are greatly needed (but not required) to
attend and promote meetings - action groups - events whenever possible - and promote STM to
the Greater Milwaukee Community. AND - to keep STM blog posted on your activities!
GENERAL DISCUSSION
Discussion of the importance of building community support in order to put pressure on
companies like Badger Guns, and for background checks. And, the importance of the group
being able to address the underlying causes of violence such as poverty.
Elevator Speeches
• Members were asked to create brief elevator speeches that explain why they stand with
Milwaukee to end gun violence. This is an effort to highlight individual efforts as well as
the collective work of STM, which is to address gun violence as a Public Health issue
effecting every community. This brief description will help each organization and
individual speak about the importance of standing against gun violence, and re framing
the discussion as a public health issue. This description will also help Public Allies
better asses which organization will benefit from particular screenings. Allies will need
this information by January 5, 2009.
• In one to two sentences please answer the following questions: 1. What is your
organizations mission/website? 2. Who do you serve? 3. What services do you
provide? 4. Why do you work with Stand Together Milwaukee? (I changed the 3rd
question because I thought people may write too much) return statement to
outreach@newmoononline.com Remember elevator rides are usually 30 seconds, so be
brief!
Thank you to all who attended.
NOTE CHANGE OF MEETING FOR JANUARY Our next
meeting will be:
January 14, 2009 at 5:00pm at Washington Park Urban Ecology
Center -
Prior to the film screening at 7p.m.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
January Stand Together Milwaukee Agenda
note time change – stm January 14th monthly meeting is
5p.m. – feel free to bring a snack to share
followed by film - the promise of America @ 7
uec Washington park
Breaking News!
FOX 6 NEWS – 7A.M. TUESDAY WAKE-UP NEWS (JAN. 12)
WATCH FOR IFE AND PUBLIC ALLIES TSP !
Jan. 7 event report – Kicking off STM Community Engagement Campaign:
30+ activists, artists, teens from Children's Outing Association (COA),
philanthropists, STM core members and Public Allies gathered on a
snowy evening at the Urban Ecology Center - Riverside Park (UEC) to
watch Dear Rita, followed by discussion of gun violence. Radio
Milwaukee (STM founding member) was there to capture stories and
accounts from diverse participants. We shared simple food and
became instant, inspired community as our lives intersected. And, that
energy continues with personal responses of being deeply touched and
motivated to do more, including:
• COA now is requesting to host their own event
• UEC Washington is looking to bring in teen groups on Jan.14th
• Radio Milwaukee is excited to again be present - bringing music
• Public Allies tsp is confident and ready to host more screenings
TSP will work with STM members in teams to host citywide events -
HIGHLIGHTING AND PROMOTING STM MEMBER SERVICES TO THE
COMMUNITY AND WHY THEY ARE STANDING TOGETHER TO
CONFRONT GUN VIOLENCE AS A PUBLIC HEALTH ISSUE. TSP will
use themes as a way to attract and organize particular groups to engage
the community. Current Themes: Art, Youth, and Physical Environment.
Screenings will be one hour followed by roughly one-hour discussion.
Elevator Speeches
(Bring your drafts to the meeting and we will complete this important process –
Remember elevator rides are usually 30 seconds, so be brief!)
In one to two sentences please answer the following questions:
• 1. What is your organizations mission/website?
• 2. Who do you serve?
• 3. What services do you provide?
• 4. Why do you Stand Together
network volunteer positions to move STM forward
(Core Members - please think about which area you will manage for 2009 )
• Meetings: Produce Agenda, print and prepare materials for
meeting, maintain pace of meeting objectively
• Records: Sign in members, recognize new members,
take and write up minutes
• Facility: provide refreshments (set up system for
reimbursement from members), room scheduling and set up
• Public Relations: produce press releases, updates and invites.
cultivate press contacts
• Outreach coordinator: coordinate work of other managers -
send emails, maintain materials from STM partners for database,
update blog, and other functions as necessary
STM Core Members 2009 - to date:
* Americorp VISTA - Katy Shay
* Citizen Action WI - Teresa Thomas Boyd
* Mothers Against Gun Violence - Debra Fifer
* New Moon Productions - Janet Fitch, Ife Olatunji
* Public Allies - Wendy Mesich
* Riverwest Health Initiative - Andrea Kurth
* Radio Milwaukee 88.9 - Theresa Kopac
* Scooter Foundation - Susan Schmidt. Jason Wedesky
* Social Development Commission (SDC) - Ella Dunbar
* Urban Ecology Center - Joey Zocher, UEC Washington Park
* WAVE - Aria Daux, Kristina Paris
* Ann Wenninger - Concerned Citizen/ Business Owner
• WI Correctional Services - Gregrory Williams
PARTNERS: all original 2008 Steering Committee Founding Members
who have not yet signed on as 2009 Core Members will continue to be
included as "Partners." This level of participation receives all
benefits of STM. Partners are greatly needed (but not required) to
attend and promote meetings - action groups - events whenever
possible - and promote STM to the Greater Milwaukee Community.
AND - to keep the STM blog posted on your activities!
5p.m. – feel free to bring a snack to share
followed by film - the promise of America @ 7
uec Washington park
Breaking News!
FOX 6 NEWS – 7A.M. TUESDAY WAKE-UP NEWS (JAN. 12)
WATCH FOR IFE AND PUBLIC ALLIES TSP !
Jan. 7 event report – Kicking off STM Community Engagement Campaign:
30+ activists, artists, teens from Children's Outing Association (COA),
philanthropists, STM core members and Public Allies gathered on a
snowy evening at the Urban Ecology Center - Riverside Park (UEC) to
watch Dear Rita, followed by discussion of gun violence. Radio
Milwaukee (STM founding member) was there to capture stories and
accounts from diverse participants. We shared simple food and
became instant, inspired community as our lives intersected. And, that
energy continues with personal responses of being deeply touched and
motivated to do more, including:
• COA now is requesting to host their own event
• UEC Washington is looking to bring in teen groups on Jan.14th
• Radio Milwaukee is excited to again be present - bringing music
• Public Allies tsp is confident and ready to host more screenings
TSP will work with STM members in teams to host citywide events -
HIGHLIGHTING AND PROMOTING STM MEMBER SERVICES TO THE
COMMUNITY AND WHY THEY ARE STANDING TOGETHER TO
CONFRONT GUN VIOLENCE AS A PUBLIC HEALTH ISSUE. TSP will
use themes as a way to attract and organize particular groups to engage
the community. Current Themes: Art, Youth, and Physical Environment.
Screenings will be one hour followed by roughly one-hour discussion.
Elevator Speeches
(Bring your drafts to the meeting and we will complete this important process –
Remember elevator rides are usually 30 seconds, so be brief!)
In one to two sentences please answer the following questions:
• 1. What is your organizations mission/website?
• 2. Who do you serve?
• 3. What services do you provide?
• 4. Why do you Stand Together
network volunteer positions to move STM forward
(Core Members - please think about which area you will manage for 2009 )
• Meetings: Produce Agenda, print and prepare materials for
meeting, maintain pace of meeting objectively
• Records: Sign in members, recognize new members,
take and write up minutes
• Facility: provide refreshments (set up system for
reimbursement from members), room scheduling and set up
• Public Relations: produce press releases, updates and invites.
cultivate press contacts
• Outreach coordinator: coordinate work of other managers -
send emails, maintain materials from STM partners for database,
update blog, and other functions as necessary
STM Core Members 2009 - to date:
* Americorp VISTA - Katy Shay
* Citizen Action WI - Teresa Thomas Boyd
* Mothers Against Gun Violence - Debra Fifer
* New Moon Productions - Janet Fitch, Ife Olatunji
* Public Allies - Wendy Mesich
* Riverwest Health Initiative - Andrea Kurth
* Radio Milwaukee 88.9 - Theresa Kopac
* Scooter Foundation - Susan Schmidt. Jason Wedesky
* Social Development Commission (SDC) - Ella Dunbar
* Urban Ecology Center - Joey Zocher, UEC Washington Park
* WAVE - Aria Daux, Kristina Paris
* Ann Wenninger - Concerned Citizen/ Business Owner
• WI Correctional Services - Gregrory Williams
PARTNERS: all original 2008 Steering Committee Founding Members
who have not yet signed on as 2009 Core Members will continue to be
included as "Partners." This level of participation receives all
benefits of STM. Partners are greatly needed (but not required) to
attend and promote meetings - action groups - events whenever
possible - and promote STM to the Greater Milwaukee Community.
AND - to keep the STM blog posted on your activities!
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