The archbishop of Milwaukee had strong words for President Donald Trump making light of the Catholic Church's most serious mourning period saying it was "very unfortunate," but also added that the country needs to continue to pray for the president Trump's White House posted an AI-generated image of the president dressed as the pontiff late Friday just as the church is set to begin a conclave later this week to elect a new pope Pope Francis, 88, a humble reformer who sought to make the Catholic Church more inclusive and clashed with world leaders over the rights of immigrants Last week, Trump joked that he would "like to be pope." He then posted the digitally doctored image of himself wearing a white cassock and papal headdress, with his forefinger raised, to social media accounts, including the official X account for the White House. Trump said May 5 that he "had nothing to do with" the social media postings "I guess I find it to be an unfortunate thing," said Milwaukee Archbishop Jeffrey S Grob in an interview with the Journal Sentinel May 4 at the Cathedral of St "In my own understanding just of what it means to be a Christian and a person of good will is to be respectful of other people's circumstances," Grob said is in a period of mourning over the death of Pope Francis We've lost great respect for moments like this When asked by reporters May 4 about the image Dolan replied that he hoped Trump "didn't have anything to do with that." "Well, you know, it wasn't good," added Dolan, who has been floated by Trump as a candidate to be the next pontiff Grob hopes for a "true leader" that can guide the church amid the problems of the world "You don't have to be a rocket scientist to look at the vast needs of so many parts of the our world at war Grob said he's not expecting an apology from Trump for the image we are praying for the conclave and we have to pray for (Trump) too This story was updated to add new information Brewers set to take on former division foe in interleague series to wrap up homestand In a matchup of former NL Central foes, the Milwaukee Brewers are set to wrap up their six-game homestand with a three-game set against the Houston Astros The Brewers are 17-18 this year after dropping two of three to the Cubs over the weekend while the Astros sit at 17-16 after dropping two of three to the White Sox in Chicago Milwaukee’s injuries remain primarily on the pitching side with Brandon Woodruff and Aaron Ashby the closest to returning Outfielders Garrett Mitchell and Blake Perkins are also shelved while Sal Frelick could join them depending on the result of an MRI as he was pulled with left knee discomfort in the series finale Sunday in Milwaukee Houston’s injuries are also primarily on the pitching side Cristian Javier and Luis Garcia are both recovering from Tommy John surgery France is out for most of the season with a right shoulder injury and Forrest Whitley could all return in the coming weeks Yordan Alvarez is currently listed as day to day with hand inflammation after missing Saturday and Sunday’s games and outfielders Pedro León and Taylor Trammell are both on the IL with leg injuries The Brewers' offense went stagnant for a few days to begin May but they snuck away with a 4-0 win on Sunday Jackson Chourio is hitting .255/.268/.470 with six homers Brice Turang remains a bright spot in the lineup Rhys Hoskins and William Contreras are also hitting right around .250 so far a .238/.316/.356 line (.672 OPS ranks 23rd) Four players are tied for the team lead with four homers while only Jake Meyers (.303/.357/.449) is hitting over .300 among regulars Christian Walker is hitting .200/.273/.350 I think that’s below average for just about all of them so hopefully they don’t heat up while in town a .243/.314/.370 line (.684 OPS ranks 19th) The Brewers’ bullpen combination of Jared Koenig and Trevor Megill has kept them close in plenty of games this year allowing just one earned run across 12 1⁄3 innings Anderson leads all relievers with 20 strikeouts across 19 innings including a 3.88 starter ERA (13th) and a 4.87 reliever ERA (27th) They rank 16th with 281 strikeouts over 306 innings All four of those guys have an ERA between 1.69 and 1.93 over a total of 60 2⁄3 innings Abreu and Hader are tied for the lead with 20 strikeouts out of the bullpen including a 3.67 starter ERA (ninth) and a 2.84 reliever ERA (fourth) They rank eighth with 303 strikeouts over 290 2⁄3 innings Myers has not had a great start to his 2025 After missing a good chunk of spring training and most of the first month of the season he’s now made three appearances (two starts) After going four innings and allowing two runs in his season debut against the Giants he went just two innings against the White Sox before being pulled with two earned runs He pitched a scoreless inning in relief on Friday against the Cubs but returns to the rotation for his scheduled spot Monday This is Myers’ first career start against Houston pitching to a 2.80 ERA with 166 strikeouts across 167 1⁄3 innings though he outpaced his 4.15 FIP by a wide margin allowing 16 runs and striking out 26 over 28 1⁄3 innings across six starts He’s allowed at least three runs in four of his six starts including his last time out against the Tigers when he allowed three runs over five frames This is Blanco’s first career start against Milwaukee Milwaukee’s rookie righty has been a bright spot thus far making seven appearances (six starts) spanning 31 1⁄3 innings He’s struck out 26 and allowed 10 runs on 29 hits and 11 walks though he hasn’t been particularly bad in any of them he allowed three runs on six hits with four strikeouts over 5 2⁄3 innings this is Patrick’s first career start against the Astros acquired with Isaac Paredes and Cam Smith in the Kyle Tucker trade has had a solid start to his Houston tenure he’s spanned 28 innings with 26 strikeouts and 12 runs allowed His last start came back on April 25 against the Royals allowing two runs on eight hits and just one strikeout across five innings The former Cub has made five appearances (one start) against the Brewers with a 1.86 ERA and 14 strikeouts over 9 2⁄3 innings May 7 @ 12:10 p.m.: Quinn Priester (5.79 ERA Priester had a solid start to his Brewers career allowing just three runs over his first three starts spanning 14 innings In his last two appearances against the Cardinals and Cubs He allowed five runs in five innings against St Louis before allowing seven runs in 4 1⁄3 innings against Chicago though all of those runs came in his first inning of work This marks Priester’s first career start against Houston an All-Star in 2022 and 2023 and a recipient of votes for AL Cy Young in four of the last five seasons is having his worst year since early in his career striking out 37 while allowing 20 runs on 37 hits and 15 walks He’s had two scoreless starts against the Mets and Giants (totaling 13 innings) but he’s allowed at least two runs in each of his other five starts His last start was a four-run outing against the White Sox as he took the loss but struck out six over five frames this is Valdez’s first career start against Milwaukee May 5: FanDuel Sports Wisconsin and MLB.TV (out-of-market viewers); listen via radio on the Brewers Radio Network May 6: FanDuel Sports Wisconsin and MLB.TV (out-of-market viewers); listen via radio on the Brewers Radio Network and MLB.TV (out-of-market viewers); listen via radio on the Brewers Radio Network The perennial World Series contenders from Houston have started slow the last couple of years but you can count on them to make another postseason push in 2025 This is another tough home test for the Brewers but I think they wrap up the homestand at 3-3 as they take two of three from the Astros MILWAUKEE — A Milwaukee family is grieving the loss of a 14-year-old after he was shot and killed Friday afternoon near Northridge Lakes Boulevard and 75th Street Family identified the 14-year-old as Maurice Whiters a freshman at Bay View High School who loved to play football “He wanted to get drafted to the NFL and then cut hair His oldest sister is in college and she gave him clippers so he could practice cutting hair,” Quintrell Smith Milwaukee police say the shooting happened around 3:30 p.m Medical personnel transported both to a hospital The 16-year-old remains in critical condition Maurice’s family and friends gathered at his home to remember his life “I’m going to miss his unconditional love,” Smith said They said he was the only boy in the family and often acted as the protector I’ll hug him really tight and tell him I love him,” Maurice’s younger sister Check out: 'He was our protector': Family mourns 14-year-old killed in double shooting TMJ4 News crews at the scene reported hearing at least 20 shots which triggered a separate police investigation near 12th and Meinecke and people don’t have the respect not to shoot anywhere near us.” Police told TMJ4 that no one was injured in the second incident urged community members to support one another “We need justice and change when it comes to gun violence,” Larry said “We need people to look out for each other.” Police are investigating and searching for suspects Anyone with information can contact Milwaukee police at (414) 935-7360 Crime Stoppers accepts anonymous tips at (414) 224-TIPS or through the P3 Tips app Stream local news and weather 24/7 by searching for “TMJ4” on your device Available for download on Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, and more. Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip Report a typo 2025 4:00 PM EDTMen’s Journal aims to feature only the best products and services.  If you buy something via one of our links The Milwaukee M18 Lithium-Ion XC 5.0Ah Battery and Charger Starter Kit is normally $199 but it’s on sale for just $86 right now a 57% price cut on something that you’re likely going to need sooner or later It has 22 five-star ratings out of 29 total with customers lauding the “quality” and "considerably less” price of this “very good” kit that’s “convenient for charging.” Courtesy of Walmart This kit comes with a 5Ah M18 battery and a charging base that also works with M12 batteries The included battery utilizes Milwaukee's Redlink intelligence a holistic system that essentially allows it to charge quickly while avoiding the damage caused by overcharging It has an onboard fuel gauge and even works in extreme jobsite conditions It packs 66% more run time than the XC 3.0 models along with features like a rubber overfold for protection and it promises updated performance—more power cooler operation—than lesser batteries A theme that runs through the reviews is unwarranted skepticism that this is a top-quality battery and charger One reviewer “figured it was going to be a leftover from a kit” and was surprised when it wasn’t Another wrote that “judging by the packaging it is the same Milwaukee kit you would get from other big box stores.” The only difference “The price is considerably less at Walmart.” And if you’ve yet to dip your toe in the power tool world as a deal this good could disappear at any moment Sign up for Men's Journal's Recommended By newsletter to get gear, fitness, and more deals delivered straight to your inbox. Prices are accurate and items in stock at time of publishing. By Cameron LeBlanc is a commerce writer for Men's Journal based in New York City After last week's shakeup where three programs joined the Milwaukee area's top 10 high school softball power rankings two new programs have joined the fray this week it's basically become the big four with Kenosha Bradford Wisconsin Lutheran and Arrowhead holding just one loss each this season High school baseball rankings: Pewaukee back on top of area high school baseball rankings, holding off team of the week effort Here's Week 4 of the area softball rankings starting with the Southeast Conference leaders and defending Division 1 state champions TEAM OF THE WEEKSussex HamiltonThe Chargers have dominated much of the competition they faced this season but this past week may have been the most overpowering Hamilton won all five of its contests last week by an average of 16.8 runs per game and outscored its opponents The Chargers scored in double digits in all five wins and scored 42 total runs in a doubleheader sweep of Wauwatosa West As you'd expect with win margins like this the pitching inside the circle allowed next to nothing all week Freshman phenom Ashlyn Hunt and Bitsy Palicka are a combined 16-1 this season and out of the five contests last week the duo combined for four no-hit performances Hunt surpassed 100 total strikeouts this season as the Chargers haven't allowed a run to cross home plate in their last six games since the lone defeat this season to Muskego on April 26 COMING UPKewaskum at Kettle Moraine Lutheran Kewaskum still controls its own destiny in the East Central Conference title race at 7-1 in ECC play The time for a rebound is here in a huge way for Kewaskum as it hits the road to face a KML side that isn't out of the title hunt at 5-3 A win here for the Chargers and things get even tighter atop the ECC standings with Waupun also in the mix as the regular season enters its final couple weeks May 6: The two programs atop the North Shore Conference will battle in a massive game with conference title implications Hartford (10-0) heads to West Bend to play the Spartans (9-1) who have battled through a rigorous schedule this season Win out and they're the outright conference champions If the Spartans level things up at 10-1 in NSC play with a win here May 8: The two best programs in the Milwaukee City Conference will face off as surging conference leader Reagan (9-0) will host Riverside (6-1) The Huskies have allowed five runs in their current nine-game winning streak It'll be a tall task for Riverside after a 15-0 loss to the Huskies on April 22 but the Tigers have tallied 15-plus runs in five different games this season They can put the ball in play and keep the Huskies alert May 9: Two teams that have had some pretty solid seasons will face off in an intriguing nonconference battle Woodland East leader South Milwaukee will host Franklin which has positioned itself nicely if Kenosha Bradford slips in the Southeast title chase These two programs are a combined 18-5 this season and both are in this week's top 10 This could be an interesting game to help kick off the weekend What you should see this final week of the fest according to MilMag’s resident film buff And now, the end is near I’ll state my case of which I’m certain I’ve seen a festival that’s full I’ve travelled each and every highway mostly just Farwell and Downer but let’s just keep going.) And more It has been a long three weeks full of popcorn breath Really just a rough time for dental care all around The Milwaukee Film Festival is once again coming to a close for another year If you haven’t had the chance to come out and for the next four days there are plenty of screenings to catch.  Here’s what I’m excited about this final week: this screening of locally made shorts is standing room only I find the grab-bag of different styles and subjects fascinating whether it’s a stone-cold serious drama or a lighthearted music video And the energy at the showing each year is fantastic as filmmakers and their friends and family all show up for the big day It’s a great moment for Cream City Cinema If you can’t make the first screening Kind of like how I started using deodorant but am still fundamentally a very smelly man After a Tokyo factory worker makes a windfall reselling goods online he quits his job and relocates to the countryside with his girlfriend Then bad stuff starts happening because otherwise this wouldn’t be a movie – there are mysterious attacks on our protagonist’s peaceful new farm from unknown assailants and to unravelling a little mystery here.  I initially dismissed this movie because my grandmothers have both already died so clearly the “How to” thing no longer applies to me The emotional comedy follows a “scheming young man” who moves in with his cancer-ridden grandmother This movie reminds me of my short-lived DJ career I guess no one wants to hear Nick Cave in the club this flick follows a 15-year-old from North Macedonia with DJ dreams of his own uplifting tale that I hope will help brighten the end of the film fest Maybe I’ll start spinning “O Children” again sometime soon run from people they don’t know and frequently disappear for long stretches at a time If I could have a one-on-one chat with a feline this documentary is about cats – 25 of them owners of Milwaukee’s Sip and Purr Cat Cafe ran an unsanctioned operation to fly 25 cats from Doha Qatar to Wisconsin for adoption after she heard about the feral cat crisis in the country This post-apocalyptic film is set in Canada which made me realize that in my mind Canada has never factored into the apocalypse I guess I just figured they’d always be up there making syrup and playing hockey even when the rest of the world is reduced to nothing but radioactive waste and cockroaches even our neighbors up north are going to get apocalypsed The movie follows the last descendants of a Black family living on a farm in a food-scare Armageddon scenario who fight to protect their home from invaders.  I have little interest in this movie personally because my heart is black and empty and I no longer feel the joy that romantic comedy could once bring me The film festival ends its run with this literary rom-com set at the Jane Austen Writers’ Residency in England The film’s description says it’s “utterly charming,” which I can’t help but hear said in the most flowery and drawn-out English accent imaginable Perhaps … just perhaps … I might go to try and rekindle that heart of mine.  MILWAUKEE — Milwaukee Peace Week starts Monday with a kickoff rally and march beginning at 5 p.m Participants will walk through the Amani Neighborhood Community resources will be available at the park MKE Peace Week is a citywide initiative aimed at promoting peace May 6 : Youth Peace and Violence Prevention Listening Session Young leaders will share their ideas and experiences in a private dialogue with Mayor Johnson and Milwaukee Public Schools officials on how they envision creating peaceful schools and neighborhoods. May 7: United in Faith Peace Breakfast Mayor Cavalier Johnson will host a multi-faith gathering and panel discussion from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m  May 8: Community Service Clean-up Day Mayor Cavalier Johnson will join MPS Superintendent Dr Brenda Cassellius and students in a neighborhood clean-up to promote peace through service and action Join the City of Milwaukee – Department of Employee Relations for the 2025 Career and Resource Fair from 2 to 5:30 p.m May 10: Peace Kickball Games & Resource Fair Celebrate the final day of MKE Peace Week 2025 with Mayor Johnson during a friendly competition of kickball games from 11 a.m  For a full list of events and registration details, visit the City of Milwaukee website This website is using a security service to protect itself from online attacks The action you just performed triggered the security solution There are several actions that could trigger this block including submitting a certain word or phrase You can email the site owner to let them know you were blocked Please include what you were doing when this page came up and the Cloudflare Ray ID found at the bottom of this page As a Chinese American growing up in Milwaukee Adam Carr never associated his family history with the city.  He knew Milwaukee was known as the “machine shop of the world,” creating jobs in an industrialized economy and the big boom in manufacturing and trade in the late 1800s But he didn’t fully understand the role Chinese Americans played in its success But after talking to community members and doing some research Carr and the Organization of Chinese Americans Wisconsin Chapter discovered a rich history of labor and dignity during the Chinese laundry era.   “Knowing that there was a place for (Chinese) families who came to Milwaukee and… to know that Chinese labor was part of the labor that built Milwaukee is really meaningful,” Carr said on WPR’s “Wisconsin Today.” the Wisconsin State Historical Society in partnership with local community ambassadors is creating 12 historical markers to highlight Wisconsin history that has often gone unrecognized It will include the two markers from the Organization of Chinese Americans that are expected to be installed in the fall.  His mother’s parents migrated from China and found pride and power working at a laundry.   “In thinking about what it meant to grow up working in a laundry and the incredible labor that that represented for (my mother) and her siblings in their family business that’s what made my life possible,” he said “That isn’t just a Chinese story — that actually is a Milwaukee story their labor — it was an act of faith for the future.”  There are roughly 620 markers across Wisconsin Carr said the markers could be considered passive just informational plaques that people walk by But even just the work to preserve the history of Chinese Americans in Milwaukee makes that history less invisible.  “That’s an act of hope,” he said.   Mallory Hanson said connecting Wisconsin residents like Carr to the history of their ancestors is one of the goals of the historical markers.  “Everything we do is to connect people to the past by collecting preserving and sharing stories,” said Hanson the statewide services coordinator for the Wisconsin Historical Society and lead collaborator on the project “The markers program is one of the ways that we do provide that access to history.”  The Historical Society is reevaluating its hundreds of markers around the state to ensure gaps in history are closed.  The other 10 markers the organization is installing over the next year focus on the history of Black people, women, Indigenous people and recent immigrants. For an interactive map of all the state’s historical markers visit the Historical Society website In Barron County, the local historical society will share the story of Ojibwe treaty rights and the Walleye Wars. In east central Wisconsin, Calumet and Cross Heritage Society will install a marker to recognize the Brothertown Methodist Episcopal Church The Prairie du Chien Historical Society in Crawford County is collaborating with the Wisconsin Historical Society on two new historical markers sharing the stories of enslaved persons who lived in the area during the 19th century.  The Wisconsin Hispanic Scholarship Foundation is collaborating on a new marker recognizing Latino urban civil rights activism that began in the 1960s.  People and organizations can apply to have the Historical Society commemorate a piece of Wisconsin history by filling out a form on its website.  Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System and Wisconsin Educational Communications Board Milwaukee Peace Week is back for the third year in a row Mayor Cavalier Johnson's initiative aimed at "promoting peace unity and community engagement" kicks off on May 5 with a rally and march at Moody Park Join Johnson and others for a march through the Amani neighborhood More: Milwaukee violence prevention groups receive $500,000 with goal to reduce gun violence 15% Johnson will be joined by Milwaukee Chief of Police Jeffery Norman Milwaukee Public Schools officials and youth leaders in this private event The group will discuss "how they envision creating peaceful schools and neighborhoods," according to the release United in Faith Peace BreakfastWhen: May 7 from 8:30 a.m Johnson will host a multi-faith gathering and panel discussion at Evolve Church. More details provided upon registration Community Service Clean-Up DayWhen: May 8 from 9 a.m Johnson will be joined by MPS Superintendent Dr Brenda Cassellius and students for a neighborhood clean up event Career and Resource FairWhen: May 9 from 2 p.m The career fair will be hosted by the City of Milwaukee Department of Employee Relations Johnson will be participating in a game of kickball at Kinnickinnic Sports Center There will also be a career and resource fair To find more information on this week's events and to register, you can visit the city's website MILWAUKEE — The Milwaukee County district attorney’s office has cleared five Columbus Division of Police officers in the July 16 fatal shooting of 43-year-old Samuel Sharpe during the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee The DA’s office said the investigation—conducted by the Milwaukee Area Investigative Team—concluded the officers’ use of deadly force was justified under Wisconsin law to prevent imminent harm to an unarmed civilian according to a clearance letter sent Monday The investigation included neighborhood surveillance video and interviews with officers and civilian witnesses The deadly shooting happened just after 1 p.m Surveillance video showed Sharpe approach a group of about 10 civilians in the park appearing to carry objects consistent with knives at 1:10 p.m. VIDEO: Surveillance video shows the moments the shooting happened 14 Columbus police officers were on bicycle patrol for the convention under an aid agreement with the Milwaukee Police Department Officers saw Sharpe involved in an altercation with an unarmed man They identified themselves as police and gave multiple commands for Sharpe to drop the knife Five officers fired more than 20 shots when Sharpe got within lunging distance The Milwaukee County Medical Examiner ruled the cause of death was multiple gunshot wounds Watch: Officer bodycam video from 14th & Vliet shooting Two knives were recovered—one in Sharpe’s right hand and another next to his body—the DA’s office said.The investigation found the officers reasonably feared for the civilian’s safety and stated that Sharpe ignored repeated commands to drop the weapons and the use of force was deemed lawful under Wisconsin law The case was closed with no further action Related: St. Ben's offer for unhoused resources reiterated after deadly police shooting Friends of Sharpe said he was homeless and lived near the encampment at King Park which helps the homeless and are familiar with the King Park encampment the organization's directors asked for a thorough and transparent investigation into why out-of-town officers were patrolling the area near 14th and Vliet Related: Protesters gather to call for justice for D'vontaye Mitchell, Samuel Sharpe Jr. on final day of RNC Following the shooting, Sharpe's family organized a GoFundMe to help cover any "immediate needs advocacy and education on police brutality and racial justice and to assist our family in the days to come Hundreds of man-hours were spent to remove it “Deep Thought,” the boat stuck on Milwaukee’s lakeshore since October Milwaukeeans have embraced the boat as a symbol of their city made pilgrimages to it and rechristened it the “SS Minnow.” Milwaukee County plans to finally remove the boat via crane Deep Thought ran aground on a city beach, less than 2 miles from downtown Milwaukee, when the Mississippi couple who own it ran out of gas bikers and drivers in the popular lakefront park have had a clear view of the boat Locals visited the boat throughout the week ahead of its removal Angela and Jason LeGear were doing a photoshoot there for their homemade humidor cigar boxes “A lot of my clients are very much suit-and-tie people,” Jason LeGear said I am the kind of person who goes and finds an abandoned that’s exactly where I want to do a photoshoot at.’” It was the couple’s first time at the boat “The fact that the other boat that was rescuing it got stuck We have to take the time to go see it,” Angela LeGear said The other boat is a small barge belonging to Jerry Guyer of Jerry’s Silo Marina in Milwaukee Guyer has been salvaging boats in Milwaukee for 40 years His quest to remove Deep Thought started in October He meant to anchor the small barge — which he made himself out of an old pontoon boat — and use it as a platform to pull Deep Thought it just wasn’t enough,” he said “The boat was still too heavy.” he’d tried to air-dredge Deep Thought by running an air hose underneath it for seven hours “Then the weather got us,” he said A large sandbar makes an approach with a larger barge impossible “It’s just the worst possible place in the whole shoreline of Milwaukee,” he said Guyer said he’s spent over $27,000 and “hundreds” of man-hours trying to remove the boat with his crew “I’m not done because I gotta go back and get my pulling barge,” he said “This is not the first time we’ve invested with no return It’s kind of the nature of the business,” he added “Today I am on my first pilgrimage to this very unserious boat,” said Vikram Shanker The communal graffiti was his favorite part of the boat he hoped to recreate one iconic tag with a two-and-a-half watt programmable DJ laser “I want to write ‘ALIENS’ back on the boat with the laser,” he said “I rode here on my high-powered electric scooter and I will ride back on my high-powered electric scooter to do my fusion glass workshop,” he said Terry Puhek-Sandberg also stopped at the boat on her way to an art event — a weaving class Asked why she thought it’d become such a tourist attraction she said “just because it’s here and on the lake.” The boat’s pinned location on Google Maps — labeled as a “tourist attraction” — has racked up 157 ratings While locals were busy making the boat into a tourist attraction government officials tried to figure out who was ultimately responsible for removing it “All sides of government were pointing at everybody else,” said Milwaukee County Supervisor Sheldon Wasserman the county’s chief legal counsel determined that removal was Milwaukee County’s responsibility A contractor will lift the boat out of the water by crane on Tuesday It’s not clear who will pay for the removal The boat’s owners have “stopped answering calls,” Wasserman said Hoan Foundation has pledged $10,000 toward removal and another anonymous donor has pledged funds “We don’t know who’s going to be paying for it but Milwaukee County has to get this boat out,” he said dining critic Rachel Bernhard rounds up some of the most delicious dishes she ate around Milwaukee in recent weeks From food-truck finds to fine-dining dishes these are some of her favorite things that crossed her plate each month Things started off fast and furious with a milestone birthday celebrated near the beginning of the month almost as if my body were rejecting the notion of entering a new decade it turned on me soon after and left me sick for the next three weeks But in between the birthday fun (including a darn good cake made by the wizards at Aggie’s Bakery which I would include here except it was devoured before I could snap a photo) and the time spent bedridden I did manage to squeeze in a few fab meals These are some of the best things I ate around Milwaukee in April After a short winter hiatus, Cavas recently re-opened its darling Third Ward restaurant offering two types of prix fixe menu: a seven-course tasting menu of Spanish-inspired dishes and a “paella dinner for two,” which includes an appetizer I counted the night out as a belated birthday meal so a bottle of bubbly and steamy paella sounded like a perfect way to celebrate Cava’s version of surf and turf with a mix of roasted chicken New Zealand mussels and wild-caught shrimp and the shrimp was plump and bouncy — perfectly cooked With a crispy golden socarrat — that deliciously scorched layer on the bottom of the pan — the rice was aromatic and fluffy and made even better with bright Eating at Cava is such a treat — chef Ana and her sweet husband make it feel as though you’re eating in their home Bistec jibarito from Johanna’s Cafe I stopped into Johanna's Cafe for guava quesitos (horn-shaped pastries filled with guava paste and cream cheese) but was completely derailed when I saw someone at a table digging into a massive jibarito I’ve had the sandwich—a Puerto Rican-inspired creation that uses flattened fried plantains as buns — on my brain for weeks and Johanna’s version looked too delicious to pass up The bistec version ($16.50 with a side of rice) comes with thin slices of marinated steak The top is brushed with a garlicky mojo sauce that will absolutely stink up your hands but the whole thing is so unbelievably delicious that I ordered mine with a side of Puerto Rican rice fluffy and fragrant and punched up with briny green olives and firm pigeon peas Between the sloppy-but-splendid sandwich and the way I shoveled that superb rice into my mouth Kare-Kare from Sinta After interviewing chefs Zach and Katrina Panokse about Sinta, their monthly Filipino pop-up series at Bavette La Boucherie there was no way I was going to miss out on their April installment Eight courses ($100 for the dinner) of elevated Filipino fare in such a warm Any of the dishes could’ve earned its spot as a Best Bite from the shrimp and pork lumpia that kicked off the meal to the flaky It’s difficult for me to choose a favorite but the kare-kare — the final savory course of the evening — was one of the biggest standouts The dish was a confluence of flavors with a hunk of beef short rib at the center As soon as I grabbed a knife to cut into the short rib The short rib essentially melted underneath — so juicy Over a bed of rice and scattered with sauteed the beef played with a mix of sauces like annatto peanut sauce sauteed shrimp paste and dollops of spicy chili crisp umami and spicy — but were balanced and complimentary in every bite I let the sauces soak into the rice before eating up every grain I’m going to remember that meal for a long time and can’t wait to see what Sinta brings next in its beautifully curated pop-up series Over weeks of sniffles, coughs and sleepiness, I kept dreaming about a big bowl of brothy chicken soup. As soon as I felt well enough to be out in the world, to Benji's Deli I went The classic diner’s famous matzo ball soup ($7.29 for a bowl) would heal me That unctuous broth was like medicine: steamy soothing and so richly chicken-y despite no actual pieces of chicken present in the bowl bouncy matzo balls swimming in the broth soaked up so much flavor and as I sipped the last remaining drops of broth from the bowl I can’t say whether it was a placebo effect or the pure magic of the soup but I left the diner with more pep in my step than I’d had in weeks Rachel Bernhard joined the Journal Sentinel as dining critic in June 2023 She’s been busy exploring the Milwaukee area food scene to share her favorite finds with readers along the way accepts no gifts and is independent of all establishments she covers What should she cover next? Contact her at rseis@gannett.com. Follow her on BlueSky at @rachelbernhard.bsky.social or on Instagram at @rach.eats.mke On a rare 70-degree Friday in early spring people strolled along Milwaukee’s RiverWalk downtown enjoying some much-needed outdoor time after another long Wisconsin winter Joanna Stewart and her boyfriend Jacob Wittmer were among them The two live in an apartment a few blocks east of the Bronze Fonz Some days they walk in Juneau Park overlooking Lake Michigan "Where else can you live so close to two bodies of water that you can just walk along like this I don't think I've seen it before," Stewart said the city has been working to give people access to the Milwaukee River via a walkway system along its banks But as the walkway is being expanded into the Harbor District and the Menomonee River Valley While a handful of bar and restaurant patios dot the 3-mile system it’s nothing compared to bustling riverwalks in other cities like San Antonio and Chicago The city says those comparisons are unfair and while it wants more businesses along the RiverWalk officials say it's not the best use of city resources to help get bar and restaurant tenants along it other groups are working to jazz up the walkway through art What used to just be the backside of downtown offices and businesses is now a place to walk Here’s a look at the state of the RiverWalk today as the pathway celebrates the 40th anniversary of its first segment and looks to expand Planning for Milwaukee’s RiverWalk started in earnest in the 1980s when Milwaukee's three rivers were polluted forgotten assets hidden behind factories and other buildings and envisioned a space that connected Milwaukee's businesses and was a destination for Milwaukeeans and visitors adjacent to the Gimbels Department Store (now the ASQ Center) on Wisconsin Avenue the city developed a more formalized plan for the pathway most of the main eight-block section through downtown had been completed started on his section south of East Pleasant Street on the west side of the river The city worked to connect the two sections but ran into roadblocks with businesses unwilling to get on board That led to some of the system's disjointed nature the city created an overlay zone that required any new development on the river to include a public section of RiverWalk The city would fund 70% of the new segments It was a fiscally responsible way to fund new sections but it meant new segments would have to wait for new development — creating more long-lasting gaps in the system the Third Ward BID took it upon itself to develop a RiverWalk section through that neighborhood on the east bank of the river from East St And as new residential buildings popped up along North Water Street the city completed the northern-most section which connects the RiverWalk to the Beerline Trail near the corner of East North Avenue and North Humboldt Boulevard on the river's west bank The city’s been filling in segments ever since about 85% of the original downtown and Third Ward segments are completed RiverWalk project manager with the Milwaukee Department of City Development together with the walkway's crossing of busy streets and constant climbs and descents from river level to street level create an incongruous system through downtown an assistant professor of landscape architecture at the University of Wisconsin-Madison said Milwaukee could get more out of its RiverWalk by smoothing out some of that incongruity and making it a more accessible thoroughfare for users year-round Stairs and elevators like those Milwaukee has are not uncommon to riverwalk systems but Bierbrauer said they're "a temporary solution that is not realistic if we want to think about really using the area as a long-term network to move people downtown," Bierbrauer said That segment will link to future segments that are part of the RiverWalk's expansion west the city created an overlay zone in the Menomonee River Valley that requires new developments to put in RiverWalk segments along the Menomonee River from the Third Ward to Three Bridges Park the city created an overlay zone for the Harbor District requiring RiverWalk segments for new developments mostly along the Kinnickinnic River's western bank from its confluence with the Milwaukee River to Lincoln Avenue and it connects from all these different points that are separated," said Emily Dell Revord which are in the Harbor District overlay zone While the couple did not have to add a RiverWalk section since they did not make any changes to the building when they bought it in 2018 they opted in and are hoping to have a segment alongside their patio on the Kinnickinnic River by this fall "It was an opportunity that we could take advantage of because it’s a 70-30 split to make the RiverWalk so it was a good opportunity to work with the city," Dell Revord said noting she hopes it will help more people find their businesses that are far from the city's main bar districts "We're definitely a destination bar right now — it's not like you stumble upon us But as the whole area gets more developed and with the public access to the RiverWalk that will drive more foot traffic to the area," she said other bar owners recognize the value of having the RiverWalk outside their back doors especially as there are plans to create a new public plaza at the end of East Highland Avenue "We're excited because we think that (plaza) might activate that area even more,” said Jake Dehne which backs up to the river just south of Highland He said he likely would build up RWB's patio once the plaza is finished "(The RiverWalk) is absolutely useful for our business One of the toughest competitions in the summer is to get people on your patio," Dehne said "The RiverWalk helps my business step up our game." Dehne’s neighbor a couple of doors to the north shared his enthusiasm for the walkway especially in the summer," said Tiana Razaa "It brings a lot of business with the Edelweiss boats that dock on the RiverWalk The restaurant has ample seating along the RiverWalk and live music outside in the summer While Dehne and Razaa recognize the benefits of having the RiverWalk behind their bars not all restaurants and bars have found success along the walkway the number of residential properties on the RiverWalk has exploded about 1,650 new residential units have been added on the RiverWalk As far as incentivizing restaurants on the RiverWalk Dorner said the BID has a low-interest loan pool that could be used to support filling a vacant storefront Remington, with the Department of City Development, said city resources weren't best spent trying to get tenants on the RiverWalk, and pointed to those such as Lakefront Brewery — which remodeled its RiverWalk patio in 2023 — that are thriving "Our goal is to increase activation on the river and in the river but the infrastructure is there to activate outdoor dining." In the Third Ward on the RiverWalk's southern end with restaurants like Brisa do Mar and Milwaukee Sail Loft putting picturesque patios along the walkway the pathway through the heart of downtown has a dearth of dining options RiverWalk users hope more tenants will move in "It would be nice to have more spots to walk to," said Julia Kilmer as she walked with friends on the RiverWalk from their downtown office to The Harp on that warm spring day "You can cross the river for a bunch of bars or they don't really have patios on the river," she said Just eight bars and restaurants have patios on the main stretch of the RiverWalk today from Lakefront Brewery to Milwaukee Sail Loft Compare that to perhaps the country’s most famous riverwalk in San Antonio which has dozens in its most well-known section constructed along a manmade bypass channel off the San Antonio River Remington said Milwaukee looked to San Antonio as an example when it started planning its own RiverWalk but the Brew City faced more challenges in trying to build something along a natural river that already had established buildings versus San Antonio's manmade channel "Maybe it would look different if we focused on a four-block stretch rather than a system but we want to ensure that proximity to the water across all of our waterways," Remington said Milwaukee and other Midwestern cities face an added challenge: weather "We don't have the benefit of a year-round mild temperatures and that's really a challenge for any northern Midwestern city to keep places lively year round," said Bierbrauer Even looking at other Midwestern cities like Chicago Detroit or Minneapolis isn't a fair comparison Chicago had the advantage of building a system completely on the river level thanks to 19th-century work that raised parts of the city And Detroit and Minneapolis' systems are less urban running alongside more parks on larger rivers But Milwaukee is doing what it can with the geography and urban architecture it was dealt and various entities from Milwaukee Kayak Company to the Milwaukee Theater District are collaborating with the nonprofit Milwaukee RiverWalk District to make the RiverWalk even better The city created the nonprofit RiverWalk District — which is similar to a BID — to help activate the walkway In the last few years, the RiverWalk District has helped host the Milwaukee River Roundup, a weekly music series done via boat; and It's Alive on the RiverWalk busker-style performances on the RiverWalk staged by the Milwaukee Theater District The RiverWalk District also helped facilitate 30-plus art projects along the walkway and has plans to install new signs this summer that will include maps marking the locations of the new art an associate professor in the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee's School of Architecture and Urban Planning said adding murals to the blank walls along the RiverWalk was one of the best things the city has done there and that the walkway could benefit from even more placemaking — an urban architecture term that refers to private and public entities collaborating to create a cohesive space She said that is especially important with the increase in private residences along the RiverWalk "Instead of a residential building having a blank wall next to the RiverWalk it could have a community room with glass walls It makes it feel like a great place to walk," she said there might be less interest in walking in the location and having a business there." Esswein said the new plaza coming to Highland Avenue was one example of the city executing placemaking along the RiverWalk Harbor View has a play structure for children "We wanted to make an interactive public place," she said And while it might not have the buzz of San Antonio's Riverwalk or continuity of Chicago's progressive move at the time it was created "I think that the long-term benefits will continue to grow and change over time," she said "There is something to be offered by turning toward the river." Summerfest runs three weekends from June 19-21 Here's some options on how to get to the festival this year without a car These Milwaukee County Transit System transit options will take you to or near Henry Maier Festival Park (the Summerfest grounds): These Milwaukee bars are running shuttles to Summerfest 2025Several Milwaukee bars run shuttles to festival grounds during Summerfest Here's a list of bars offering shuttle service: Park your Bublr bike near Henry Maier Festival ParkAttendees can rent a bike from nonprofit bikeshare program Bublr Bikes at one of the more than 100 docking stations in Milwaukee Wauwatosa and West Allis and bike to Summerfest You can dock your bike at the Discovery World station and walk over to the festival grounds For festivalgoers who are taking their own bike You can also take a Lime scooter to the festival grounds by downloading the app and parking it at designated parking areas near Summerfest's North and Mid Gates RELATED: Bublr Bikes is adding 500 new bikes to its fleet this year The Hop streetcar will drop off festivalgoers at Milwaukee's lakefront with a stop at the Couture. The service is free and runs until 12 a.m. weekdays and on Saturday, and until 10 p.m. on Sunday. The L-line arrives every 20 minutes. You can see the full schedule here Where to find parking near Summerfest:Drivers can park at the Henry Maier Festival Parking lots starting at 9 a.m. Parking is $40 a day and is available on a first come, first served basis, according to its website. You can purchase parking at the lot entrances or in advance online For a list of public parking lots near Summerfest grounds, visit Park Milwaukee. RELATED: Here's how to apply for Milwaukee County Transit System's first-ever apprenticeship programs Daz Cameron, whose first hit as a member of the Milwaukee Brewers played a big role in the team's 4-0 win over the Chicago Cubs on Sunday found a moment in the spotlight with his father With Sal Frelick needing an MRI on his sore knee it's possible we see more of Cameron in the coming weeks Here's what to know about the Brewers outfielder. Cameron was a guest on this week's Journal Sentinel Brewers podcast, "Microbrew": He was drafted in the first round by the Houston Astros in 2015 How did Daz Cameron do in the minor leagues?He only played 11 games at Class AAA Nashville stole three bases and amassed a ridiculous 1.273 OPS in 52 plate appearances the former first-round pick has a .765 OPS in the minors He hasn't found that same success in the major leagues 15 career stolen bases and a .263 on-base percentage Mike Cameron played 17 years in the big leagues as an outfielder The former season was particularly memorable as the year the club snapped its 26-year playoff drought with Cameron contributing heavily to the team's 90-win season The Brewers signed him as a 34-year-old free agent before that season and he became the team's regular starting center fielder He battled .243 that year with an .809 OPS and belted 25 homers tied for the second-best mark of his career Cameron hit another 24 and again drove in 70 runs In the unforgettable 2008 finale against the Cubs Cameron singled in the eighth against Bob Howry and was on base when Ryan Braun belted a go-ahead home run with two outs the necessary runs in a 3-1 win that helped Milwaukee clinch the National League wild card Mike Cameron was a one-time all-star (2001 with Seattle) and also played with the Chicago White Sox He last played Major League Baseball in 2011 who was 11 and 12 during his father's two seasons in Milwaukee has vivid memories of those Brewers seasons including playing in the cages with Trevor Hoffman's kids during the 2009 season "I can remember going to the ballpark every day most of the time when guys were going to the field early," Cameron said just to see every guy go about his business and prepare for the game and his routine." 75 on MLB Pipeline's list of top 100 prospects in 2016 a year after the Astros made him a first-round pick he was just behind current Cub Kyle Tucker and ahead of current Cub Ian Happ both of whom played for Chicago against Cameron in the May 2-4 series Cameron was a top-10 prospect in the Detroit Tigers organization after the club acquired him in the deal that sent Justin Verlander to Houston Cameron made his Major League debut in 2020 and played in 73 games for Detroit over the next three years but he was unable to land a full-time starting gig He spent the 2022 season in the Orioles organization and signed as a free agent with Oakland before last season before the Orioles again purchased his contract after the 2024 season Has a father-son combination ever played for the Brewers before?This is the third instance. Tito Francona played his final big-league games with the inaugural Milwaukee Brewers team in 1970 current Cincinnati Reds manager Terry Francona also played his final two years in Milwaukee Dave May was teammates with Tito in 1970 and played with the Brewers from 1970 through 1974 including an all-star 1973 season in which May led the league in total bases (295) and hit 25 home runs May was traded before the 1975 season for Hank Aaron who returned to the Brewers for two final seasons in Milwaukee Dave May returned briefly to the Brewers in 1978 signed as a free agent before the season before getting traded to Houston MILWAUKEE — It is Teacher Appreciation Week and students at Milwaukee French Immersion School are celebrating the educators who make a difference in their lives every single day When asked what they love most about their teachers their answers were filled with joy and sincerity — from extra recess and space-themed drawings to unexpected snacks and shared laughs in the classroom “My teacher lets us do fun stuff,” one student said with a smile Others chimed in with praise for “one-sided homework,” laughter during jokes and even giving bracelets and hand-drawn pictures as tokens of thanks so I thought I’d draw a picture of a planet or a star.” Watch: Milwaukee students celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week It’s these simple but heartfelt gestures that mean the most to the educators who show up every day with patience they deserve to be thanked because I think the job we’re doing is tremendously impactful on our students and children,” said Elhadji Cisse “I think whatever appreciation we get I think we deserve First-grade teacher Christopher Darmedru agreed “It’s always like a good moment when the family cares about you and the student and they bring you like a drawing or like a treat so that’s always a good moment to share with the class.” it’s all about connection: “I love teacher appreciation week It’s so wonderful to feel appreciated and see the tangible gifts and all the love that we receive from parents from students to show their appreciation for our dedication and how much we love teaching we’re really invested in students and we want them to do well in school.” If you’re looking for a special way to thank a teacher in your life Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria is offering a flavorful opportunity In celebration of Teacher Appreciation Week the restaurant is calling on you to nominate outstanding educators for a chance to win Free Pizza for a Year and school staff can submit short nominations — just 100 words or less — about the teachers who inspire them most Ten grand prize winners across Milwaukee, Chicago, and Phoenix will each receive one medium cheese pizza per week for a year, plus a $250 pizza party catering package for their classroom. Sixty additional teachers will receive a $100 Lou Malnati’s gift card. Winners will be announced on National Pizza Party Day, May 16, 2025. To nominate a teacher, visit loumalnatis.com/celoubrate-teachers students are reminding all of us this week that showing appreciation doesn’t have to be complicated — it just has to come from the heart as they put it best themselves: “Thank you MILWAUKEE — The woman accused of killing a prominent Milwaukee dentist pleaded not guilty to second-degree reckless homicide on Monday appeared in court Monday morning where she waived her right to a preliminary hearing and entered a plea of not guilty Related: Woman charged in deadly shooting of prominent Milwaukee dentist Prosecutors say McGowan allegedly shot and killed 41-year-old Dr who she claimed was aggressively kicking her door according to a criminal complaint filed April 24 Watch: Woman pleads not guilty in shooting death of Milwaukee dentist Prosecutors say the dispute was over how loud she was playing music She’s due back in court on June 12 for a scheduling conference It’s Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month Here’s where to celebrate in the city Tune in on Milwaukee Repertory Theater’s Facebook or YouTube page for a livestream of this virtual panel featuring five AAPI artists who will discuss the importance of representation and support for the AAPI community in the theater Support Milwaukee’s AAPI-owned restaurants this month and all year long. ElevAsian has a list with over 100 if you need some inspiration for where to go ALL MONTH ON WEEKDAYS | MILWAUKEE PUBLIC MUSEUM  Join museum educators at MPM on weekdays this month to learn more about AAPI history and culture Topics include: the history of tattoos and the intricate styles of the Pacific Islands how tea was grown in China and ended up becoming the second most popular drink in the world how netsuke helped solve a widespread fashion problem in Japan 400 years ago the history of origami and the importance of cranes across Asian cultures.  Tour unique materials that highlight the diverse cultures of Asia and the Pacific Islands at this pop-up exhibit The Hmong American Women’s Association is hosting its third annual Women’s Ball for Asian Pacific Islanders it is celebrating the 50th year that the Hmong community has been in the U.S This event is open to guests 18 years and older Wear your best formal wear and enjoy dinner and a silent auction while celebrating Milwaukee’s Hmong leaders that have fought and defended the API community throughout history An upscale Mediterranean restaurant is coming to the Ascent MKE apartment complex at 700 E āya comes from New Land Enterprises and Fatima and Hanish Kumar, the owners of upscale Indian restaurant Saffron with locations in Milwaukee’s Third Ward neighborhood and Red Bank "We are thrilled to introduce a new era of Mediterranean dining with āya," the Kumars said in a statement "Our goal is to create a space where guests can connect over exceptional food and drink experiencing the rich culture and flavors of the Middle East in a fresh āya will whisk you away to the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean with our signature twist of elegance and flair."  the globally inspired menu will offer charcoal-grilled specialties mezze (small plates) and large plates for sharing with spice-rich cuisine paying homage to the shores and vibrant bazaars of the Middle East āya's “experiential” cocktail menu will feature fresh ingredients and artistic The restaurant has just begun its build-out stage on the ground floor of the Ascent MKE building āya will offer a sophisticated and inviting atmosphere with carefully curated sound lighting and decor that is meant to transport guests to the coasts of the Middle East Hundreds of protesters gathered in Milwaukee and Madison on Thursday to call out President Donald Trump’s policies and to voice support for immigrants and workers’ rights.  high school students organized a walkout to the state Capitol A crowd of about 300 people rallied inside the building se puede.” Some held a banner that read “Aquí estamos Hundreds of protesters marched over two miles in pouring rain in Milwaukee during a rally in honor of May Day, or International Workers Day. The event was organized by Voces De La Frontera “We stand together to resist the mass layoffs of federal employees the gutting of social programs like public education and health care policies of mass deportation and the assault on our constitutional rights for due process free speech and the freedom to protest,” Christine Neumann-Ortiz executive director of Voces de la Frontera Before protesters marched to Zeidler Union Square, Joseph Jackson, a Milwaukee pastor and member of Milwaukee Inner-City Congregations Allied For Hope “We pray today for and with immigrants and refugees in this country both documented and undocumented,” Jackson said All people deserve to be treated with dignity and respect who didn’t share her last name for the story said she came to the United States as an immigrant when she was 4 years old “I’ve seen so much abuse at the federal level the police has now turned on us in many states and that’s not OK,” said Maria and we need to be treated with respect like we treat everyone else.”  citizen now and has lived in the country for over 40 years. She has family from Mexico and Guatemala just because our rights are being trampled on,” she said We are humans … and we’re treated less than that And that’s not only for [the] Latino community that’s for all the immigrant community.”  the founder of the social activist group PERSISTers Wisconsin took the day off work to be at the event in Milwaukee “I’m out here to be in solidarity with people who are feeling really scared about what’s happening in this country especially in relation to immigrants,” Williams said.  “We are here to demand that Milwaukee County Court Judge Hannah Dugan who has been targeted for upholding the Constitution that the charges against her be dropped,” Neumann-Ortiz said during Milwaukee’s rally.  One sign at Milwaukee’s protest read Several city and county officials attended Milwaukee’s protest including Milwaukee County Supervisor Juan Miguel Martinez “Last year it was 68 degrees and sunny and there was about less than half of this,” Martinez said about the number of people who attended Thursday’s rally everybody understands the urgency of what’s going on and collective power is where we need to stand.” Martinez called Dugan’s arrest “a publicity stunt.” Milwaukee County officials recently worked to create a plan for handling agents from U.S May Day rallies were held across the nation Thursday. Leland Pan said students from at least four high schools came together for the rally Pan is a school social worker at Madison’s La Follette High School and serves on the Madison Teachers Inc “I think our students recognize the importance of May Day as a day that holds a lot of importance for both workers rights and for immigrant rights,” Pan said “And many of our students come from immigrant families Many of our students come from working class families.” Student speakers addressed the crowd at the Capitol in both Spanish and English our families,” said a speaker who identified himself as a University of Wisconsin-Madison student whose family is from Nicaragua Monthly mortgage payments are increasing steadily in Milwaukee even as homebuyers in other regions of the country see some price relief The typical Milwaukee-area homebuyer who bought a home in March has a monthly mortgage payment of $2,299 according to an analysis by real estate brokerage Redfin That's a 4.8% increase from what the typical Milwaukee buyer would've been paying in March 2024 Redfin's analysis considers what a buyer would be paying for the median-priced home in the Milwaukee area The analysis assumed a 15% down payment and a mortgage rate of 6.65% — the average rate on a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage in March 2025 It also factored in median local property tax rates and estimates for fixed insurance and private mortgage insurance rates Although home prices in many Sunbelt communities — including Jacksonville Dallas and Austin — have fallen thanks to a decline in buyer demand and a surge in construction in the past several years Rustbelt home prices have continued to rise that's likely to remain the case for the time being: Buyer demand remains strong and supply isn't catching up quickly enough to meet it given that housing costs in Rustbelt cities are still affordable relative to other regions of the country The abandoned boat "Deep Thought" remains grounded in the sand on the Milwaukee lakefront A small barge previously used by Jerry's Silo Marina during removal efforts now also sits alongside it MILWAUKEE — After nearly seven months it appears the saga of an abandoned boat stuck in the sand on Milwaukee’s lakefront could reach some finality on Tuesday As long as the weather and water conditions cooperate Milwaukee County plans to conduct the removal of the 33-foot Chris Craft Roamer “Deep Thought” between 8:00am and 4:00pm Tuesday Lincoln Memorial Drive will be closed in both directions between Lafayette Hill Road and East Water Tower Road during this time period “Milwaukee County is taking action to remove the abandoned boat from the lakefront I am grateful that our dedicated teams at Milwaukee County Parks and the Milwaukee County Department of Transportation are coordinating this operation while also making sure workers and residents are safe during the process,” said Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley in a statement Monday. “I appreciate the continued patience and cooperation from the public as we work to clear the site and ensure the safety of the lakefront as we head into the summer season.”  Milwaukee-based All-City Towing will lead the removal effort; the company plans to use three cranes set up on land to physically lift the vessel out of the sand and water A security perimteter will be set up around the work zone prohibiting access by the general public and media: parking on Lincoln Memorial Drive through the work zone will be prohibited beginning the evening of Monday and vehicles parked in the zone may be towed “Removing a large boat from the shoreline isn’t something we do every day so it takes careful planning and coordination,” says Guy Smith, Executive Director of Milwaukee County Parks “Our top priority is making sure everyone stays safe — both our crews and the public We’re grateful for the community’s patience as we work to clear the site and restore this stretch of the lakefront.” PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Milwaukee County stepping in to remove abandoned boat “Deep Thought” which has gained plenty of local attention has been stuck in the sand since October 13th and several attempts have been made by local salvage company Jerry’s Silo Marina to remove it over the nearly seven months since to no avail The company’s owner Jerry Guyer previously said he had spent around $20,000 on removal efforts dating back to last fall; on at least one occassion in 2024 Guyer’s boat attempted to pull “Deep Thought” out by a rope which itself snapped during the removal attempt Last week, President of the Daniel W. Hoan Foundation and grandson of former Milwaukee Mayor Daniel Hoan told WTMJ the nonprofit is donating $10,000 in assistance to the removal of “Deep Thought” from the lakefront READ MORE: Milwaukee nonprofit donates $10,000 towards abandoned boat’s removal County Supervisor Sheldon Wasserman indicated the cost to remove the boat could approach $100,000 when things are all said and done Wasserman says the County plans to foot the bill initially before consulting with their legal team to determine the best course of action afterwards Taxpayers are not expected to foot the bill for the boat’s removal “Hopefully it’s going to work on Tuesday because we do not want to go to ‘Plan C’,” said Wasserman on WTMJ’s “Wisconsin’s Afternoon News” Friday According to the 2015 State of Wisconsin Abandoned and Derelict Vessel Legislative and Administrative Review Wisconsin does not have a formal or funded program to address abandoned boats Wisconsin does not have a dedicated funding source for addressing abandoned or derelict vessels; removal costs are supposed to be paid by the municipality with jurisdiction unless the owners can be identified and are able to pay for the removal have previously said they invested their life savings into purchasing the boat in Manitowoc last fall and are not in a position to pay for its removal from the Milwaukee lakefront Wisconsin State Senator Rob Stafsholt and State Representative Shannon Zimmerman have proposed a bill that would levy fines of $10,000 and up to 9 months behind bars if an owner refuses to remove an abandoned vessel within 30 days of a notice MILWAUKEE --  Nehring's Sendik's grocery store on Downer Ave has temporarily closed after the Milwaukee Health Department (MHD) found mouse and rat.. is voluntarily recalling its "on the vine" tomatoes over concerns of potential salmonella contamination... MILWAUKEE -- On the Monday before Mother's Day the Daisie Foundation is bringing its signature "Random acts of Kindness" event.. Rivers and lakes converge in Wisconsin’s biggest city award-winning restaurants and a whole lotta beer Milwaukee expands their lineup of personal protective equipment (PPE) with the introduction of the BOLT Full Brim Safety Helmets- Type 2 Class C (Vented) and Class E (Non-Vented) Safety Helmets Offering protection from both top and side impacts these new safety helmets are the industry’s lightest weight full brim safety helmets and are engineered to stay up to 15°F cooler than competitive type 2 full brim helmets “Through continuous research and user feedback conducted across the country we recognized a growing demand for better protection as well as improved comfort on the jobsite,” explains Kyle Anderson “Our new Full Brim Safety Helmets deliver comprehensive impact protection without compromising on comfort offering an innovative solution for users seeking more protection compared to Type 1 hard hats but prefer the traditional look and feel of it."  Class C and Class E Safety Helmets are ANSI/ISEA Z89.1-2014 Type 2 certified and third-party tested for comprehensive jobsite protection these helmets offer protection against both top and side impacts while helping guard against environmental elements The helmets also meet Energy Absorption Capacity clauses 4.2.1.2 (Front) as well as Retention System clauses 4.2.3 (Strength) of the EN12492:2012 standard The BOLT Full Brim Safety Helmets feature a padded suspension with a swinging ratchet adjustment system customizable fit with an easy-to-adjust dial A five-point adjustable chin strap delivers added stability and slip and fall protection This helmet's interior incorporates foam padding along the sides with ventilation holes optimizing airflow to promote airflow for a cooler washable sweatband and liner help prevent odor and bacteria buildup for improved hygiene and extended product life the helmets are part of the MILWAUKEE BOLT System featuring six total accessory slots (four BOLT slots and two universal slots) that allow users to secure additional PPE and accessories Each helmet includes a BOLT Headlamp Mount—compatible with most headlamps—and a BOLT Marker Clip for quick access to pens and markers users have the option to customize their helmets with company logos or select custom colors.  The new BOLT Safety Helmet flame-resistant Chin Strap can be purchased separately or included with the Full Brim Safety Helmet Engineered to fulfill the needs of power utility the strap is flame resistant and features five-point adjustability for a secure and comfortable fit This new chinstrap can also be used on any existing Milwaukee Tool Type 2 Safety Helmets both front brim and no brim options.  Milwaukee prosecutors declined to bring charges against five Columbus police officers who shot and killed an unhoused man during the 2024 Republican National Convention in the Wisconsin city Samuel Sharpe Jr., 43 died after being shot by Columbus police bicycle patrol officers providing crowd control and security at the July 16 convention Milwaukee County District Attorney Kent Lovern announced his findings in a letter to Columbus Police Chief Elaine Bryant that afternoon in a parking lot outside the RNC security perimeter "The five officers who fired shots at Sharpe indicated they did so out of concern that AB would be seriously harmed or killed by Sharpe," Lovern wrote in his summary of the findings contained in his letter to Bryant under the circumstances presented to them at the time was permissible under Wisconsin law in order to prevent imminent death or great bodily harm to AB this office is closing its review of this matter with no further action." "We expected the same decision to be used that has justified the actions of killer cops that have stolen the lives of thousands of Black people before Sam," Angelique Sharpe told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel about the DA's decision not to charge the officers in her brother's death In a statement released on behalf of the Columbus Division of Police by Sgt the division said it was made aware of the Milwaukee County District Attorney's Office not to pursue criminal charges acknowledged the officer-involved shooting and extended "our condolences to his family and all those affected by this event." now that the criminal investigation is complete an internal administrative review of the incident has begun and upholding the trust of the communities we serve." The five Columbus officers who fired were ordered to return from the convention early and were placed on administrative leave after the shooting have been identified previously by the division as: who joined the Columbus Division of Police in 2022 The Columbus officers were part of a contingency of some 4,000 law enforcement officers from around the country contracted to provide security at the political convention In an investigation led by the Greenfield Police Department the Milwaukee Area Investigative Team reviewed body camera footage and surveillance video and interviewed officers and witnesses They found that the officers were justified in using deadly force against Sharpe because they had a reasonable concern for the safety of the other person Investigators interviewed the 14 Columbus police officers who fired or witnessed the shooting which happened near North 14th and West Vliet streets just under a mile from the RNC security perimeter The officers were being briefed when a dispute between Sharpe and the other man broke out in the nearby parking lot Ten of the officers told investigators they believed Sharpe was going to stab the other man and six said they yelled to identify themselves as police and ordered Sharpe repeatedly to drop the knives Both the knives were found near Sharpe after he was shot Officers immediately began to provide medical aid to Sharpe until medics arrived president of the Fraternal Order of Police Capital City Lodge #9 commended "the brave actions" of the officers involved in the fatal shooting last year "which resulted in the justified use of deadly force" against Sharpe affirmed "their actions were lawful and necessary." "Our officers responded swiftly and courageously to protect AB "Their actions stopped an imminent attack and very likely saved an innocent life The facts are clear: Sharpe posed a deadly threat and the officers used force to preserve life." Steel said the District Attorney’s report confirms that five officers "fired only after Sharpe was within striking distance of the victim and ignored all commands to stop Wisconsin law supports the use of deadly force to protect others from imminent harm and that is exactly what our officers did that day." Two of the five officers in the officer-involved shooting had prior incidents Mason fatally shot a man in 2017 who tried to drive away from officers during a traffic stop The man accelerated and was dragging Mason alongside the car when Mason shot the man A grand jury determined in that case that no charges should be filed against him Groves was one of six officers sued in 2016 by a man accusing Columbus police of wrongful arrest and excessive use of force while the man was detained in 2014 during a burglary investigation Groves used pepper spray or mace to subdue the man while he was arrested but Groves and the city said the man wasn't handcuffed and was resisting arrest The lawsuit was settled for $45,000 in 2020 and Groves and the city did not admit guilt Public Safety and Breaking News Reporter Bailey Gallion can be reached at bagallion@dispatch.com Following a loss to the Indiana Pacers in the first round of the playoffs, Milwaukee was linked to Caldwell-Pope by Bleacher Report writer Zach Buckley who can put a couple gravitational pulls on opposing defenses with Antetokounmpo and a healthy Lillard they could get good mileage out of him yet," Buckley wrote "And they shouldn't have to pay much in trade cost to get him given the degree of disappointment he generated this season." Caldwell-Pope's numbers declined in his first season with Orlando, notably from the 3-point line. He shot 34.1 percent the third-worst percentage of his 12-year career The Magic, who finished last in 3-point percentage desperately needed consistency from Caldwell-Pope at his price tag The organization finds itself with an increasingly aging and expensive roster Damian Lillard's torn Achilles may sideline him for the entirety of next season Because of what Milwaukee surrendered to acquire Lillard Milwaukee is doing all it can to convince franchise superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo to stick around following a disappointing season Caldwell-Pope is still a two-time champion and a proven contributor on a contending roster Magic point guard Mac McClung said it was a big year of growth for him as a leader and a person signed a one-year contract with the Magic last offseason he became the first player to win the slam dunk championship three years in a row while leading the Osceola Magic to the NBA G League Finals After falling to the Stockton Kings in the finals McClung joined the Orlando Magic for their playoff series against the Boston Celtics I was sick about losing the championship game but I am honestly extremely proud of my teammates and the coaches," McClung said I just try to be incredibly supportive and adapt to whatever the situation is," McClung added While McClung did not receive minutes in the playoffs "I'm almost trying to put myself out there like I'm actually in the mix Orlando Magic Could Add Consistent 20-Point Scorer Jeff Weltman Says Orlando Magic Ready For A "Win-Now" Mindset Pursuing Ja Morant May Not Be Worth Risk For Orlando Magic Don Strouble is a contributor to the Magic Insider He can be reached at dondrums727455@gmail.com The content on this site is for entertainment and educational purposes only Betting and gambling content is intended for individuals 21+ and is based on individual commentators' opinions and not that of Sports Illustrated or its affiliates All picks and predictions are suggestions only and not a guarantee of success or profit If you or someone you know has a gambling problem crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER The 151st Kentucky Derby >>> Loading celebrations will be going down across the Milwaukee area bowties and bright colors — and get ready for what's billed as "the most exciting two minutes in sports."  hotels and venues are doing for it this year from fixtures like Maxie's Derby Day party and The Iron Horse Hotel's "Talk Derby to Me" celebration to a KenDucky Derby and River Duck Race in Cedarburg Maxie's 18th annual Derby Day party is again doubling as a fundraiser for the Hunger Task Force Featured cocktails and spirits will include mint juleps Food offerings will include an 11 herbs and spices cauliflower bologna party sandwich and Kentucky hot browns There will be best dressed contests with categories including bold and beautiful the best hat categories of most elegant and most creative There will be live music from Sliphorn Jazz Band Horse bets of $5 will be available all day There are three donation levels for entry into the event, which can be purchased at maxiesmke.com/derby-day: Doors open at 2 p.m. More info: maxiesmke.com/derby-day The Iron Horse Hotel is throwing its annual "Talk Derby to Me" celebration The preshow and races will be shown on a jumbotron Guests are to dress in their Derby best for a chance to win prizes The event runs from 2 to 7 p.m. More info: theironhorsehotel.com/happenings/talk-derby-to-me-2025 Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel is throwing a Derby Day bash in the Bar in partnership with Woodford Reserve The race will be shown on a projector screen The hotel will be serving up Derby-inspired bites and a lineup of specialty drinks Each Mint Julep = one raffle ticket for a chance to win prizes There will be best dressed and best hat contests Frogwater will be playing live bluegrass tunes More info: saintkatearts.com/events/derby-day-at-saint-kate-2025 NorthSouth Club's celebration: Deck shuffleboard mint juleps and contestsGet your shuffleboard on while sipping a mint julep at NorthSouth Club's Kentucky Derby celebration guests at least 21 years old will receive a mint julep upon arrival entry into a best dressed contest and a chance to win a 2025 Kentucky Derby bottle of Woodford Reserve It's almost time for Matty's annual Derby Day celebration in New Berlin The Big Backyard and Event Center opens at noon with toy horse races for all ages Live music from Sound Therapy begins on the outdoor stage at 2 p.m There will be best dressed contests with several categories Attendees can pick the horse they think is going to win the big race they'll be entered for the chance to win a bottle of Woodford Reserve Derby edition and a $100 Matty's gift card A Woodford Reserve rep will be on-site to do guided tastings and give an insider's look at the brand Henry & Sons rep will be offering samplings of this year's Bellefontaine and other special bottle releases and presales There will be a Woodford Reserve Double Oaked Barrel release and a 2025 J. Henry Bellefontaine Bottle Presale. Orders can be placed here Every bottle bought May 3 gives the purchaser a chance to win a pour of Woodford Baccarat More info here Perspective Brewing Co.'s Kentucky Derby party with special releasesWest Allis' Perspective Brewing Co will be tapping out a special limited release Mint Julet Seltzer for its Derby party as well as a special Cask Beer release for Derby/Oaks weekend The brewery will offer $5 pours depending on race outcomes La Vecinidad Taco Truck will be parked at the brewery all day New this year: An outdoor TV for patio patrons More info here While the Kentucky Derby is all about horses a different animal stars in this Cedarburg Derby Day event Rebellion Brewing is again hosting a KenDucky Derby and River Duck Race as a fundraiser for the All My Friends Inc. organization There will also be Kentucky Derby-themed drinks and food Other festivities will include live music on the patio More info and how to purchase ducks: rebellionbrewingusa.com/event/2025-kenducky-derby-fundraiser Tauro Cocina's Derby Day partyAt Tauro Cocina's Derby Day party the race will be played on its jardín’s screen projector drink specials and a complimentary whiskey sampling a best Derby hat/fit contest for a chance to win a bottle of wine reservations can be made by calling 414-488-2941 The Bridgewater will be transforming its patio into the "ultimate Derby experience" from 4 to 7 p.m Attendees are encouraged to don their best Derby outfit to be entered for a chance to win a prize package that includes a bottle of Angel's Envy bourbon a $100 Benson’s gift certificate and a Bridgewater throw blanket More info, including reservations, found here At Central Standard's Kentucky Bourby Party the Crafthouse and Kitchen will be serving up a selection of eight cocktails — all themed around bourbon a prize wheel with giveaways and a contest for best Derby outfit it’s a chance to showcase a refined elegance," the website said "A hat or fascinator is a must (especially if you want to be entered into our contest)." The winner will be announced at 4:30 p.m The event runs from 3 to 6:30 p.m. More info and RSVP here On Tap Bar & Restaurant/the Brewhouse Inn & Suites: Get Down and Derby PartyGet ready for the third annual Get Down and Derby Party at On Tap Bar & Restaurant and the Brewhouse Inn & Suites It'll have more than a dozen large-screen TVs inside and outside to watch the races on best dressed contests and hundreds of dollars in prizes While the event — which starts at 1 p.m. — is free to attend, registration is required and can be done at ontapmilwaukee.com/event-calendar/get-down-derby-party Upgraded tickets to a VIP Winner's Circle area a complimentary charcuterie and crudité display Those tickets cost $100 for a four-top table and $150 for a six-top table The Brewhouse Inn & Suites is offering an overnight package that includes discounted access to the VIP Winner's Circle area, early check-in at 1 p.m. and late check-out at noon. More info and reservations can be found here A Milwaukee police captain who previously was suspended for a slow response to a rape call was fired after thwarting the transfer of a sergeant whom she believed was planning to become pregnant and take family leave then came under more scrutiny for telling a co-worker about the resulting internal investigation into her conduct A police spokesperson said Klein's firing in January was the only termination of a captain the department could recall The records detail allegations of Klein acting unprofessionally calling another sergeant her "little nugget," regularly gossiping about her female colleagues' personal lives and discussing an explicit photo sent to her by an ex-boyfriend Klein did not respond to multiple interview requests She denied the allegations in internal affairs interviews She has filed an appeal to try to get her job back with the city's Fire and Police Commission The appeal hearings are scheduled for May 8 and 9 The Police Department declined to make any official available for an interview about the case The Milwaukee Police Supervisors Organization In 2018, Klein was suspended for six days for a slow response to a woman who was kidnapped and raped Klein and two other supervisors were working in the department's 911 center — which is now managed by a separate city department — when calls on the incident took place It took over an hour for officers to be dispatched and she later told investigators it was "the worst night I've worked." The current investigation began in January 2024 when a department lieutenant reported Klein's General Crimes Division was on the verge of "mutiny," records show "(The lieutenant) questioned if Captain Klein was mature enough to be leading the division," the report reads The division is now known as the Major Crimes Division and investigates crimes other than homicides or gun violence Klein was accused of blocking a sergeant's transfer to her division because she believed the woman was planning to have a child and go on parental leave That accusation was levied against Klein by a lieutenant and another sergeant The lieutenant also said Klein disclosed the personal health history of the female sergeant when explaining why she thought the sergeant was trying to become pregnant Multiple people told internal affairs that Klein openly criticized the use of family leave including texting critical messages to other supervisors of a lieutenant who requested time off following a family member's death She suggested those who used family leave were "not dedicated to the division," internal records show Klein was notified in January 2024 that she was under investigation she was told not to disclose the investigation to anyone investigators learned she showed a notice of the investigation to another colleague Klein's relationship with another police sergeant — whom she called her "little nugget" and who was also investigated — came under scrutiny in the investigation A lieutenant told internal affairs their close relationship "compromised" the division's culture with the lieutenant feeling undermined by the sergeant and Klein was the person who disclosed the medical information of the female sergeant whom Klein later blocked from transferring whose name is redacted from Klein's records denied telling Klein about their co-worker's medical condition The Milwaukee Police Department declined to release the sergeant's name but said the sergeant resigned during the investigation Members of Klein's division also said they feared retaliation for reporting her behavior and several described a meeting where Klein discussed receiving an explicit image from an ex-boyfriend which made some people so uncomfortable they left the meeting early A lieutenant said Klein often spoke in "innuendos" during meetings Klein denied she violated department policies She said her hesitancy to transfer the female sergeant was because of concerns with the sergeant's performance and behavior issues Klein told the investigator she should not have disclosed the internal investigation into her conduct but said she thought she was a "good captain" and that "subordinates are confusing 'hostility' with accountability,'" the records show Klein made $142,194 in gross salary in 2022, according to the Journal Sentinel's most recent records of Milwaukee employees David Clarey is a public safety reporter at the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel The Milwaukee County District Attorney's Office will not charge the five Columbus police officers involved in the shooting death of a Milwaukee man during the week of the Republican National Convention an expected decision that still outrages his family "We expected the same decision to be used that has justified the actions of killer cops that have stolen the lives of thousands of Black people before Sam," said Angelique Sharpe in reference to the DA's decision not to charge the officers in her brother Sam Sharpe Jr.'s death Angelique said the country's record of failing to find officers guilty in addition to state statutes cited by District Attorney Kent Lovern during a meeting April 8 with her and local activists kept their expectations low prior to Lovern making his decision public nearly a month later even though our sentiments had no bearing on the decision that was made regarding his death," Angelique told the Journal Sentinel Sam Sharpe, 43, was shot and killed July 16 by the five officers, who were part of a bicycle patrol unit, who were among the roughly 4,000 officers who agreed to assist in policing the four-day political event The officers had biked to an area by two tent encampments near West Vliet and North 14th streets roughly a mile from the RNC's secure perimeter The situation unfolded rapidly, with 15 seconds passing from when officers first noticed Sharpe was armed with a knife and moving toward another man to when they fired shots Sam was shot 23 times by the five officers according to his sister who was given access to crime scene photos on the front and back of his body," Angelique told the Journal Sentinel The evidence suggested the Columbus officers had "reasonable concern for the safety" of the other man according to Lovern's letter outlining the decision to not charge officers The letter was sent to Columbus Police Chief Elaine Bryant "The five officers who fired shots at Sharpe indicated they did so out of concern that (the other man) would be seriously harmed or killed by Sharpe," Lovern's four-page letter said was permissible under Wisconsin law in order to prevent imminent death or great bodily harm." The Columbus police have launched an internal investigation of the shooting now that the criminal investigation is completed the Columbus Division of Police's public information officer Sharpe's death was a "tragic loss," he said Canaan Dick and Karl Eiginger were the five officers with the Columbus Police Department who shot and killed Sharpe Fourteen Columbus officers responded in total Two of the five police officers who fired their guns — Mason and Groves — have previously been investigated for uses of force Groves was one of six officers sued in 2016 on allegations of wrongful arrest and excessive use of force, which resulted in a settlement of $45,000 in 2020, according to the Columbus Dispatch “Criminal charges are a unicorn when it comes to these kinds of charges,” said Alan Chavoya a member of the Milwaukee Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression who attended the meeting with Lovern Policing the RNCFollowing the meeting with Lovern earlier this month Angelique and three members of the Milwaukee Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression expressed concern that protocols have yet to be put in place to prevent something similar from happening if another large event is held in Milwaukee that requires out-of-state police officers In the case of the RNC, the five Ohio officers were among 4,000 non-Milwaukee law enforcement officers who arrived in Milwaukee to assist in security When the city won the bid to host the event activists immediately raised questions about policing Milwaukee police officials said they did not intend to use outside officers for "forward-facing" roles and they wanted Milwaukee officers to be the ones interacting with local residents The agreements signed by the outside agencies reflected those goals The officers involved in Sam's death were part of a bicycle patrol unit, which were not considered “forward-facing,” the department later acknowledged. Consequently no MPD officers were accompanying their unit Milwaukee Police Chief Jeffrey Norman met with the Milwaukee Common Council's Steering and Rules Committee Norman subsequently took responsibility for local officers not accompanying out-of-state police during the Republican National Convention had questions concerning the mutual aid agreements that were put in place with out-of-state police departments “I am still hearing concerns over how we can prevent this from happening again,” Cross said Ten months prior to his death, Sharpe decided to live among other people in the community without permanent housing a street pastor who ministers to roughly 4,500 of the city's men and women who call the streets home told the Journal Sentinel in the days following Sam's death that Sam chose to live among the homeless to spread the message of God Angelique said her brother had multiple sclerosis a degenerative muscle disease that impacted his mobility not lunging forward in an attempt to stab anyone Angelique points to the knives her brother was holding but more like paring knives that you would use to eat or open cans "If I was planning to kill someone with a knife I'm going to make sure I get knives that are guaranteed to do the job," she said She said the man her brother was fighting with was a known instigator in the encampment who had threatened to kill her brother's dog and had stolen his phone earlier that morning Jessica Van Egeren is a general assignment reporter and assistant breaking news editor with the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel She can be reached at jvanegeren@gannett.com This story was updated to correct a misspelled name You might reckon Milwaukee is historically a polka kind of town but a new trend is rolling like a tumbleweed across the city country line-dancing is shuffling across the area like a grape vine.  There seems to be a dispute on how many hoedowns this town can handle Paul Robbins, creator of Robbins’ Roundup a “honky tonk takeover,” is of the strong opinion that there is plenty of room His Roundup night takes place regularly at Riverwest’s Falcon Bowl and Bay View’s Club Garibaldi Admission to the night includes line-dancing lessons followed by a set by Robbins’ honky tonk band who sing boot scootin’ tunes like “Everything’s Bigger in Texas.” Robbins says the goal of creating the event was to provide a fun time “Our crowd is new to it and casual I would say,” Robbins says He wants the event to appeal to those who are curious and might be intimidated by not knowing the moves “I went to a Texas two-step night once and no one would dance with me so I could learn because they were all too good for a beginner.” Robbins began hosting the Roundup late last summer Everything was going as smooth as a buzzard gliding on a lazy breeze but then Robbins’ dance instructor (we ain’t gonna name names) said he felt pressure from another line-dancing group he trucked with The group felt he was horning in on their territory and feeling about as low as a rattlesnake belly Convoy’s drummer decided it was time to skedaddle Robbins thought the Roundup’s goose might be cooked An anonymous source says the group that had a bee in their bonnet is Redd’s Line Up the group’s namesake (“I only go by Redd”) flatly denies it “I had a crush on a boy who liked country music,” she explains A DJ eventually took her under his wing and she started Redd’s Line Up with a dance team of about ten a little over two years ago developing a following with her weekly events: Tuesdays at Shotzy’s in Oconomowoc a beginner class Wednesdays at the Oak Creek Community Center and another open dancing night Thursdays at Shotzy’s II in West Allis as well as regular nights at Kelly’s Bleachers II in Wind Lake Water Street’s Red Rock Saloon and other locales At a recent Sunday evening at Red Rock Saloon shouted stomping orders into a mic from the DJ booth as an energetic blast of fiddles and banjos played through the speakers put ‘em up!” Redd instructed as the crowd moved side to side “Line-dancing has taken off like wildfire,” Redd says “I got to give a lot of credit to TikTok.” Redd says there are a few other line-dancing groups in Southeastern Wisconsin and that “there’s always drama with groups like this.” She mentions that she knows of at least one other instructor that she’s heard dislikes her I don’t know if it’s territorial stuff or if people feel threatened he was able to find a replacement instructor and says Convoy will find a new drummer or will switch in guest bands He’s got a long string of Friday nights booked at Club Garibaldi and is working on Falcon Bowl dates And if that ain’t enough, there’s a new line-dance night just two hoots and a holler across the street from Club Garibaldi at Cactus Club, the Slap Leather Saloon Queer Line Dance Night both Robbins and this group agree that Wentworth Avenue is big enough for the both of them the night was created to be safe space for the LGBTQ+ community who hosts the event with dance instructor Collin O’Brien with a second installment scheduled for May 22 and after that it’ll be a quarterly hootenanny “Line-dancing has a really rich history in the queer LGBTQ+ space it’s been a safe haven,” Henderson explains “People could just come and be themselves and meet other people.”  Henderson attended a “queer farming convergence” where one of the activities was line-dancing She had a blast and got hooked on the idea more spaces where we can have fun and forget about everything going on,” Anderson says And with the garshdern world in the state it is that just might be the best thing line-dancing provides Redd or the Slap Leather Saloon: it’s a chance to dance those ever lovin’ worldly blues away The Bucks' poor future asset situation means trading Antetokounmpo might be their only route to rebuilding but it seems like neither team nor player is planning to end their relationship Antetokounmpo posted a photo on Instagram with no caption simply letting his t-shirt send a message about his intentions of bringing another title to Milwaukee It seems like the franchise endorses this message as well sharing Antetokounmpo's post on their social media to remind everyone of how loyal their one-team superstar has always been to the city of Milwaukee After the Bucks' 2025 elimination and Damian Lillard's Achilles tear speculation around Antetokounmpo leaving the Bucks in the summer has gone into overdrive.  Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) celebrates a play against the Phoenix Suns at Footprint Center Multiple teams will be willing to offer Milwaukee a franchise's worth of assets to acquire the 31-year-old who is coming off a season where he averaged 30.4 points 15.4 rebounds and 6.6 assists in the playoffs But if Giannis wants to continue leading the Bucks as Lillard spends the next season recovering His loyalty might not be rewarded with a title next season but just having him on the roster gives Milwaukee a better chance at contention than if he were to be traded this summer there was little drama in the final moments as the winner pulled away from Journalism down the stretch there’s a reigning division champion that will need to find a similar spark in order to keep National League Central from turning into the same thing The Brewers were handed a 6-2 loss by the Chicago Cubs on May 3, the second convincing victory from the division’s first-place club in as many nights, thanks to a three-homer barrage against starting pitcher José Quintana. Milwaukee dropped its third consecutive game, including an 8-0 loss to the White Sox to begin the streak although there is still plenty of season left While the Cubs are a team brimming with confidence “It seems like we've misplaced our edge a little bit,” Brewers manager Pat Murphy said “Right now,” said Brewers first baseman Rhys Hoskins The only silver lining streaming from the Brewers’ clubhouse following the loss that dropped them to 16-18 and five games back in the Central is that baseball is a different kind of race than a two-minute sprint around the mud “We don't have the confidence,”we’re not playing with confidence,” Murphy said The reality is that the Brewers didn’t just now run into some obstacles on the track There was the treacherous opening weekend in New York then an 11-day road trip at the end of April where things turned south Murphy sent multiple messages to his club on the trip then by benching two position players and finally by pulling his starter after two clunky innings The fruits of those conversations aren’t quite yet visible “Confidence takes a hit when skids like this happen whether you seem to be doing the right thing and the ball’s not bouncing your way or you’re getting flat-out beat,” said Hoskins who provided the Brewers’ third home run in their last 13 games with a solo blast to cut the deficit to 5-2 in the fifth It would be Milwaukee’s only base runner until a Brice Turang broken-bat infield single to lead off the ninth “I think you could peg that right now,” Hoskins said I just think those two things go together.”  it wasn’t a young player lacking confidence that was burned but rather Quintana who had allowed all of three runs through four starts this season coming in Chicago’s vaunted offense burned him for six runs including three on a Pete Crow-Armstrong home run in the fourth to give the Cubs the lead “I think you give credit to Armstrong,” Quintana said are otherwise dealing with what the manager seems to be diagnosing as a crisis of confidence Any answers that are going to come will have to be from within whose OPS hasn’t risen north of .565 since opening day and currently sits at .464 after three pop-ups to first base in three at-bats Saturday who’s yet to find his slugging at the plate “We’re just trying to bob and weave and stay alive,” Murphy said That’s certainly far from a vote of confidence but there is hope in the Brewers’ future prospects once the beleaguered pitching staff reaches full health “We’re a month-plus into the season,” Murphy said before the game “I’m not discarding how poorly we’ve executed and how poorly some of our replacement players have done We’re going to get healthy and we’re going to have a better shot Simply surviving is beginning to look like a daunting task And that’s as much in part due to the Cubs’ roster as it is the Brewers’ “They went out this off-season and shored up the areas they felt they needed to who homered off Quintana in the fifth inning dominates offensively with an ease that’s almost boring Carson Kelly has turned out to be a godsend of a signing for two years and $11.5 million – more than the Brewers committed to free agents altogether last winter who Milwaukee let go by declining his club option landed with the Cubs and has been a critical piece in stabilizing an injured rotation Then there’s the development of Crow-Armstrong who’s gone from completely overmatched rookie to legitimate MVP candidate in the span of a year and you can easily see why the Cubs are the clear-cut team to beat in the division at this point “They’re a tremendous ball club right now and it doesn't look like they’re going to slow down,” Murphy said There’s currently a chasm between the clubs the Brewers can’t concern themselves too greatly with what’s going on 90 miles to the south It’s not like a mechanical tweak or another post-loss speech can just elicit a spark out of thin air “Like when you don't feel good about something in your life then you gotta maybe take somebody else's advice or prepare so much that something happens to give it back.” There is still time to find what’s missing But the Brewers can’t simply cling onto that line too much longer if they want to catch the club out front that may not only be a pace setter but also the fastest horse but I don’t want to just fall into that because at some point it’s not early,” Hoskins said “But we have a lot of baseball to be played I think because of the talent in this room there’s no reason why we won’t find ourselves where we want to be come the end of summer.” Brewers lineupJackson Chourio CFBrice Turang 2BWilliam Contreras CChristian Yelich DHRhys Hoskins 1BSal Frelick RFIsaac Collins LFJoey Ortiz SSCaleb Durbin 3BCubs lineupIan Happ LFKyle Tucker RFSeiya Suzuki DHCarson Kelly CJustin Turner 1BNico Hoerner 2BPete Crow-Armstrong CFDansby Swanson SSJon Berti 3BBrewers scheduleBrewers at Cubs Please enable JS and disable any ad blocker