South Milwaukee Blog

I especially love this first story … thanks for stepping up, Ms. Bobber!

• English Teacher Steps up to Help Displaced Foreign Exchange Student (CBS 58)
• These South Shore Communities are Cutting Down on Salting to Protect Lake Michigan and Save Money (NOW)
• Case Dismissed Against South Milwaukee Mom Accused of Leaving Kids in Cold Car While She Shopped (Fox 6)
• South Milwaukee Home Decorated in Extravagant Light Display Draws Crowds During Holiday Season (CBS 58)
• Construction Has Begun on New Urgent Care in South Milwaukee (NOW)
• Man Accused of Leading Authorities on 65-mile Chase, Backing Car Over Officer Due in Court (Fox 6)

Effective today, Jan. 3, the Self-Deposit Station, at 1106 Blake Ave, will be changing its user fees from a daily user fee to a per visit user fee.

The new user fee will be $3 per visit.

Making this change will help sustain the facility, a valuable service we are proud to provide, and will continue to.

The self-deposit station will likely never be self-sufficient, and that’s OK.

It costs us more than $175,000 to operate the facility each year, and we recover less than half of that cost through fees. We need to find ways to reasonably cover that expense in an era of rising costs and limited sources of city revenue, and I think this fee change is reasonable.

Remember, each home owner also receives a free special pickup each year.

Self Deposit Station winter hours (December 1-March 31) are …

• Tuesday and Friday 11:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
• Saturday 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
• CLOSED Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday

Get more details on the Street Department and self-deposit station here.

South Milwaukee will soon have an urgent care option.

Physicians Urgent Care — a non-affiliated group of physicians based in Rockford, Ill. — is bringing a 3,500 square-foot center to the Shops of Drexel Square at 3111 S. Chicago Avenue, adjacent to ALDI.

The center will be open daily, Monday-Friday 8 to 8 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 8 to 4 p.m.

The South Milwaukee Plan Commission approved the development in August, and construction has begun. The clinic is expected to open in April.

Welcome to South Milwaukee!

From the Physicians Urgent Care website …

Physicians Urgent Care, also known as Physicians Immediate Care, is a Midwest leader in urgent care and occupational health services with over 40 locations in Illinois and Indiana. No appointments are required, and most clinics are open seven days a week, up to 12 hours a day, to treat non-life threatening illnesses and injuries. Our clinics are staffed by a doctor or advanced practice provider, under the supervision of a doctor, who provides quality, caring service, and effectively diagnoses and treats a variety of injuries and ailments. …

Physicians Urgent Care, also known as Physicians Immediate Care, was founded in early 1987 under the leadership of John J. Koehler, M.D., in Rockford, IL. Today the company is led by Stan Blaylock, President and Chief Executive Officer, and Dr. Koehler, Founder and Medical Director for Occupational Medicine. For more than 30 years, we’ve been dedicated to bringing affordable and convenient health care to the communities that we serve.

Another location is opening in Mount Pleasant, the first for Physicians Urgent Care in Wisconsin.

Thanks again to everyone who nominated a home this year — it was a tough choice! I’m proud to share the winners, chosen from nominations through our web form and Facebook, as well as homes we came across as South Milwaukee’s Happy Day Tours took us on our judging tour.

First, let’s start with last year’s winners, who were not eligible to win again in 2019. Check out all of these addresses on your lights tour, including the amazing Lights on Edgewood show.

Now on to the 2019 winners! Grouped by location (for easier driving) …

I’d also add the following honorable mentions, which scored highly among judges. In no particular order …

• 604 Walnut St.
• 1120 Park Ave.
• 513 Brookdale Court
• 1828 Kristin Lane
• 3310 15th Ave.
• 1313 Columbia Ave.
• 209 Laurel Lane
• 1626 Hickory St.
• 118 Lake Drive
• 1400 Drexel Blvd.
• 1406 17th Ave.
• 1409 Menomonee Ave.
• 1503 Fairview Ave.
• 621 Hawthorne Ave.
• 1201 Russet Lane
• 1915 17th Ave.

And I would add a special mayoral recognition for these two properties …

• 

• 

Again, congratulations to all of our winners … and I close with one ask: Be sure to nominate deserving addresses in 2020! I know there are some we missed because they were not nominated.

Let’s shine this Christmas, South Milwaukee.

The United State Postal Service facility being built at the corners of College and Nicholson Avenues may now be twice as large as proposed earlier this year — and the agency still has not told the public anything about their plans.

That is unacceptable.

From the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel …

A U.S. Postal Service facility coming to Oak Creek now includes an addition that would apparently replace the downtown Milwaukee postal center — opening up that massive building for redevelopment. 

The revised plans for the agency’s Oak Creek project now call for a building, constructed in two phases, totaling 935,000 square feet.

The agency plans to develop the building on more than 60 acres it owns at 2201 E. College Ave., southeast of Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport.

The first phase, a mail processing annex totaling 423,900 square feet, would replace an outdated Oak Creek facility at 7620 S. 10th St. The second phase, a processing and distribution center, would encompass 511,100 square feet, according to newly revised plans filed with the state Department of Natural Resources. …

The Postal Service has already started site preparation work for the first phase, Vickers said. That building is to be partly completed by November 2020, and fully finished by March 2021, according to city officials, who want more time to review those plans. The new documents filed with the DNR do not indicate a timetable for the second phase.

But they do show that the 935,000-square-foot building would be on one level. That would allow for the facility’s automated processing systems to operate more efficiently, the filing said.

The DNR filing is tied to the Postal Service seeking permission to fill some wetlands at the project site.

The Postal Service in 2008 received city permission for an 820,000-square-foot facility, which was to replace both the Oak Creek and downtown Milwaukee processing centers. But the agency didn’t proceed with those plans because of a lack of funding.

The agency believes the 2008 approvals are sufficient for the revised project. Oak Creek officials say those approvals have expired, and are demanding another public review.

The City of South Milwaukee is joining in those demands, and the common Council passed a resolution last month opposing the project.

We want to make sure your voices are heard on this project … and ours too. We as a city have plenty of questions — from concerns over traffic counts to landscaping — and we want answers. We demand them.

Just because you can do something doesn’t mean you should. The USPS should do the right thing. It’s unfortunate they need to be reminded of that.

I’ll keep you posted … and continue to work to make sure the U.S. Postal Service is held accountable.

Thanks to all of our crews for their hard work during this challenging collection season!

The Self-Deposit Station is open Tuesday and Friday 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. More details here.

I love this! From the South Milwaukee Library …

Two grants totaling $2,600 will help the South Milwaukee Library introduce and engage the community’s elementary-grade students in STEAM fields – Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics.

Eaton Corporation, located in South Milwaukee, is the sponsor of the $1,700 Science Kits for Public Libraries grant which originates from the Milwaukee Chapter of the Institute of Electronic and Electrical Engineers.

A $900 grant, awarded from Sequence & Stories, will also involve young people in STEAM activities.

The grants will fund age-appropriate programming and hands-on equipment for young people to learn about STEAM areas with the goal of providing an early pathway into career exploration. In addition, the library’s programs will be shared at a later date with South Milwaukee schools and other Milwaukee County Public Libraries.

“This is an important public-private partnership that will benefit many young students and may even be the launching point for careers,” said Kathy Manning, South Milwaukee Library director.

Eaton Corporation officials will present their sponsored grant at the South Milwaukee Library in a brief ceremony December 12 at 4:30 p.m.

The public is invited.

From the city website …

The 1st Installment of the 2019 Tax bill is due January 31, 2020.  To view or print your tax bill, click here.  You can pay taxes by E-Check, credit, or debit card through our service provider: Official Payments Corporation (a convenience fee will be charged.)  See the Treasurer’s Office page for more information, or refer to the tax flyer you received with your bill.

And for more context on the city increase, and budget, click here.

Here is a full list, and here is what’s coming up, starting tomorrow …

And one important note: There are still some trees left to decorate for the Friday Festival! Email Karin Wierman at Wierman_Karin_A@cat.com to reserve one or three, and decorate them on Friday!

Friday, December 6

• Festival of Trees. South Milwaukee Ace and Caterpillar bring back a bit of holiday magic to the site of the farmers’ market on 11^th and Madison. The unveiling event is from 4:30 to 7 p.m. on Dec. 7, and features Santa, hot cocoa and candy canes. And bring your hats, mittens and scarves to donate to Human Concerns. The trees will remain up for viewing through Christmas.

Saturday, December 7

• South Milwaukee Christmas Market.More than 100 vendors and live music, and meet Santa. 9 a.m.-2 p.m., South Milwaukee High School, 801 15th Ave.
• Craft & Vendor Event.9 a.m.-3 p.m., Zion Lutheran School, 3600 S. Chicago Ave.
• Las Posadas Christmas Party. 2-4 p.m., St. Mark’s Episcopal Church. Celebrate Mary and Joseph’s journey with games, refreshments, and a piñata. Visit Storytime Corner and make cards and coloring books with the elves. Follow along a Los Posadas pageant.

Sunday, December 8

• Milwaukee Circle Choir, “The Song Heard Round the World.” A free concert at Sts. Peter and Paul Polish National Catholic Church, 1308 15th Ave. 3:30 p.m.

Monday, December 9

• South Milwaukee Library Holiday Sweater Party.Bring your own sweater and make it ugly with our best/worst craft supplies! Anytime 4-7 p.m., while supplies last. Under 13 must have an adult assist. South Milwaukee Library.

Wednesday, December 11

• Children’s Holiday Party. Treats, games, story time and crafts with a holiday theme for kids. 6-7 p.m., South Milwaukee Library.

And don’t forget, Light Up South Milwaukee Award entries are due Wednesday, Dec. 11. Nominate an address by commenting on the pinned post on the city’s Facebook page, or by visiting our Google Form: https://forms.gle/T3tWm76KSEz23sAg9

Giving Tuesday is today, Dec. 3, and it reminds me that South Milwaukeeans always step up to help those in need — especially around Christmas.

Don’t know where to start? Here are opportunities to give back locally.

• Of course, I always turn to South Milwaukee Human Concerns, and they are serving more people than ever. I’m told they can especially use personal hygiene products now, but please consider giving money, too. I know they can use it not only during the holiday season, but all year long. And why not give your time?
• Also, take part in the South Shore Chamber of Commerce and DB Tax & Wealth Share the Gloves event, a very cool partnership that helps local businesses and residents at the same time. Details here.
• My family is collecting toys for the homeless, too.
• Get behind the effort to start the South Milwaukee Industrial Museum. Details — and links to give — here. 
• “We serve.” That’s our motto as South Milwaukee Lions. They can use your support throughout the year, financial and in man and woman power, to in turn give back to local organizations in need. The impact they have is real.
• The Rotary Club of Mitchell Field — serving five cities, including South Milwaukee, and Bay View — is also doing some great things, from serving Thanksgiving dinners to needy families to providing college scholarships to high school seniors, and much, much more (including leading our downtown food truck events).
• Want to help the South Milwaukee Police Department? Support DARE. From Chief Jessup: “DARE is the largest, most recognized anti-drug and violence program in the world and is taught by specially trained police officers. Our officers go into the South Milwaukee elementary school classrooms to teach a series of one hour lessons designed to help young students cope with some serious risks. The topics include: learning the harmful effects of drugs, tobacco and alcohol, strategies for resisting peer pressure, and the damaging impact of bullying.  Any donations to the program go toward classroom supplies and graduation certificates.  If interested in donating, please contact Officer Jim McLean at mclean@smwi.org.”
• You can also Stop the Bleed this holiday season. From Fire Chief Joseph Knitter: “The South Milwaukee Fire Department is accepting donations to support their Stop the Bleed Program, an initiative that will place bleeding control kits alongside the Automatic External Defibrillators (AEDs) in all municipal buildings throughout the city. Donations can be made directly to the SMFD in person at the firehouse or by mail to South Milwaukee Fire Department, 929 Marshall Court, South Milwaukee, WI 53172.”
• Join the new Friends of the South Milwaukee Library!
• The work of Da Crusher Foundation is not over. Support it as Crusherfest II takes shape, and they look to pay for ongoing maintenance to the statue, and site upgrades.
• South Milwaukee Performing Arts Center. Support the terrific performing arts in South Milwaukee! (And check out their holiday show, Navidad Mexicana Featuring Mariachi Reyna de Los Angeles on Friday, Dec. 13, as well as George Winston on Dec. 20.)
• Help the South Milwaukee Historical Society preserve our proud past, for our promising future.
• Want to support classroom and other projects in our terrific local schools? Start with South Milwaukee Legacy.
• Or, get behind local athletes by donating to the local sports booster clubs, or give the gift of music by donating to help the South Milwaukee Music Parents, among other organizations.
• Or maybe help one of the groups supporting our terrific parks and public spaces: Friends of the Mill Pond and Oak Creek Watercourse, Friends of Grant Park or Restore the Lagoon.
• And how about the Root-Pike Watershed Initiative Network? They are the nonprofit leading the public information efforts for the ongoing Oak Creek watershed restoration study, and will play a major role in bringing that plan to life by securing funding for and leading various watershed restoration projects.

Did I miss any? I’m sure I did. Send your favorite local charities along!

Also, the station (SDS) at 1106 Blake Ave. has officially switched over to their winter collection hours until March 31st. SDS will be open Tuesday and Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturdays 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

And don’t forget that SDS continues to accept bagged leaves free of charge.

Consider having you, your family or group be part of this holiday tradition!

There is still time to sign up, and decorate this week. Details …

I am thankful for family and friends, and for the privilege to lead this great city every day. I have never been more excited for the future of South Milwaukee.

It starts with our people, especially our 150 or so city workers who deliver our services every day — including holidays. Thank you!

Today, we look back, with gratitude. Tomorrow, we continue our work toward our more promising future.

Stronger, together.

Saturday is Small Business Saturday, and what better time to join me in committing to shopping local this holiday season?

Here are some ideas …

1. Shop at the South Milwaukee Christmas Market on Saturday, December 7. More than 100 vendors are expected at South Milwaukee High School for this really fun local Christmas institution.
2. Buy a limited-edition Crusher Christmas ornament. You will only be able to buy them at the Christmas Market, I’m told. Stay tuned!
3. Nothing says “happy holidays” like jewelry, Check out C3 Designs, including their World of Gemstones event Nov. 29-Dec. 1.
4. Buy gift certificates from some of our great bars and restaurants, from Moran’s Pub to Azteca to Barbiere’s to Paisano’s to Taco Stop to Island Jam to Spirts Pub & Grill to Tap Room to China Chef – and many more.
5. How about giving the gift of burgers and custard at the beach, in advance of Ferch’s returning next summer? Or some AM Ice Cream?
6. Local coffee makes a great gift from Avenue Coffee.
7. Nothing says Christmas like meat products! Milwaukee Sausage Company, specifically. Very cool new business.
8. Give the gift of fitness and health at the South Milwaukee Fitness Center, Sorce Martial Arts, Neutral Ground … the list goes on.
9. Games for Christmas? Absolutely! Shop downtown at Pink Bunny Games for trading card games, board games, table top games, and more; they also have Black Friday specials happening this week. Also, check out the Board Game Barrister clearance center.
10. Get a beautiful stained glass piece from Studio One Art Glass. (We have one hanging in every first-floor window of our home.)
11. We have boutiques! Check out Serendipitous Designs & Gifts and Hollyville for some truly unique holiday gifts.
12. Think leather! Gecko Leatherworks has Black Friday and Small Business Saturday specials planned.
13. Buy Rocket, South Milwaukee and other apparel from one of our downtown t-shirt shops, Styled Aesthetic or JB’s Tee Shirt Factory.
14. Military collectibles? You really need to see the museum-like atmosphere at Military Connection Collectibles.
15. Staying with collectibles, check out South Milwaukee-based MEARS Online Auctions, which has one-of-a-kind vintage sports gear, toys, and military items up for bid as we speak. Wise Owl Auctions also operates from downtown South Milwaukee.
16. Give the gift of performing arts with tickets to an upcoming show at the South Milwaukee PAC.
17. Pick up some holiday flowers or a centerpiece from one of our two awesome Milwaukee Avenue florists: Parkway Floral or Mari’s Flowers, Wine and Gifts.
18. Buy a bandanna, jigsaw puzzle, notebook and other HANmade item — designed by South Milwaukeean Colleen McCarrier.
19. Enjoy a children’s book from award-winning local author Janet Halfmann. (She and HANmade will be at the Christmas Market.)
20. Keep your vehicle running right with the gift of an oil change or three from a local car care center in our fair city.
21. Get your holiday meal from a local caterer like Charlie’s Catering.
22. Pick up a pie, bread or cookies from Wild Flour Bakery.
23. And don’t forget holiday beer, wine and spirits — I’ll put a plug in here for Leinenkugel’s Snowdrift Vanilla Porter, or a nice Miller Lite or Coors Light — from local liquor stores Chicago Avenue Liquor, Marquette Liquor, G&K Liquor or BJ’s Liquor.
24. Give the gift of golf this Christmas, with a free round or three at Grant Park or other county courses.
25. Know a disc golf fan? Stop by Acetime Disc Golf.
26. Hopefully Off the Beaten Path will be open in time for Christmas, for all your vinyl record needs. Stay tuned.
27. How about a VISA gift card from one of our local financial institutions?
28. Get a loved one (or you) a new hair style, with a gift certificate from a local salon, like Barberella, CM Salons, and Venne’s Creations.
29. Get a family photo done at Studio 919 or Sandy Conway Photography.
30. Be the talk of the neighborhood: Buy a Cheata Bike.
31. Or get a tattoo!
32. And, finally, let’s not forget local chains, many of them owned by local franchisees — small business owners themselves. If you’re going to shop at a chain store this holiday season, please do so at places like South Milwaukee Ace, Planet Fitness, Pick ‘n Save, Aldi, Cousins, Dunkin’ Donuts, Pizza Hut, Toppers, Walmart, Napa, Speedway, Walgreens, Aurora Pharmacy, Dollar General, Dollar Tree and others that all call our city home.

What did I miss? Post your comments below … and shop local!