Milwaukee residents can now submit nominations for the annual Vel R. Phillips Trailblazer award. (File photo by Andrea Waxman)

It’s Monday in Milwaukee, and here are some things we think you should know about as the nation grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic. If you would like your event to be considered for this column, please email info@milwaukeenns.org and put “5 things” in the subject line by noon Thursday.

1. Virtual town hall: COVID-19 vaccine: Wednesday, Feb. 10

The Milwaukee Health Department is hosting a virtual town hall regarding the COVID-19 vaccine. The panel will be moderated by TMJ4 News Reporter Tony Atkins and feature Mayor Tom Barrett, Interim Health Commissioner Marliana Jackson and more. Questions and registration can be found here. The event will be streamed on the Milwaukee Health Department Facebook page and the City Channel (Spectrum Channel 25 and AT&T Channel 99) at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 10. Read: 8 things you need to know about coronavirus vaccinations

2. “Lunch & Learn: Rooted in Afro-Latin American heritage”: Thursday, Feb. 11

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The Latino Arts’ series “Lunch & Learn” is celebrating Black History Month with a panel discussion on the topic of “Rooted in Afro-Latino American Heritage.” The discussion will explore Africa’s influence on Latin American culture from music and dance to medicine and religion and more. The conversation will take place on Facebook Live from noon to 1 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 11.

3. Metcalfe Park Community Bridges: MPS School Board candidate forum: Friday, Feb. 12

The MPS School Board elections are scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 16. Metcalfe Park Community Bridges is hosting a community forum with the school board candidates for District 4. The conversation will take place on Facebook Live at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 12.

4. Vel R. Phillips Trailblazer award nominations: Ongoing

Residents can submit nominations for the Vel R. Phillips Trailblazer award from now until Friday, Feb. 26. Each year, the award is given to a female city resident who exemplifies Phillip’s legacy. Phillips achieved many “firsts” in her lifetime, including being the first African American woman to graduate from the University of Wisconsin Law School; the first African American to be elected to the Milwaukee Common Council; the first female judge in Milwaukee; and the first African American judge in Wisconsin. The nomination must include a description of the nominee’s work in social justice and/or civic engagement and the challenges they have overcome. Additional information and nomination forms can be found here or by contacting Joanna Polanco at 414-286-2366 or jpolan@milwaukee.gov.

5. Ko-Thi Dance Company: youth dance class: Saturday, Feb. 13

Ko-Thi Dance Company is teaching an African dance class for youth ages 6 to 15. The class is being offered in person, but occupancy is limited and registration is required. The class will take place at Danceworks Studios, 1661 N. Water St., from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 13. Click here to register. Read: NNS Spotlight: Milwaukee’s queen of dance still reigns supreme – even in retirement

Bonus: Check out community events for Black History Month.

Bonus: The latest coronavirus coverage from NNS

Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service reporters are hard at work bringing readers up-to-date information regarding coronavirus. Stay informed by following us on our Facebook page and subscribing to our daily newsletter. All coronavirus related articles can be found on this landing page. If you have a question or concern about coronavirus, send them in our way. We’re here to serve you.