It’s Friday 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. Take virtual walking tours with Jane’s Walk
Every year, Jane’s Walk MKE looks for ways to engage the community in activities such as walking and biking. While the quarantine prohibits large gatherings, Jane’s Walk has found a way to encourage the community and maintain social distancing. Milwaukeeans can now take virtual walking tours of Milwaukee including Gordon Park and Milwaukee RiverWalk. Additional places, including Sherman Park and Havenwoods State Forest are coming soon.
2. Explore the stars from the comfort of your home
Dr. Jean Creighton, the director of UW-Milwaukee’s Manfred Olson Planetarium, is hosting a series called “Stars Have Stories.” During each 10-minute episode, Creighton teaches the audience about the stars and the stories associated with them, followed by a Q&A segment. To sign up and learn more about the stars, click here. All episodes will be available for streaming after the event, which starts at 10 a.m.
3. Drive-through Eid celebration: Sunday, May 24
The Milwaukee Muslim Women’s Coalition and the Islamic Society of Milwaukee, 4707 S. 13th St., are hosting a drive-through Eid celebration from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday, May 24. Attendees are invited to put on their Eid clothes and decorate their cars. The celebration will include a magician, balloons, animals and goody bags. To volunteer, call the Milwaukee Muslim Women’s Coalition at 414-727-4900 or email staff@mmwconline.org.
4. Sojourner Family Peace Center launches #UntilSheCan campaign
The Sojourner Family Peace Center recently launched the #UntilSheCan campaign to raise awareness about domestic violence. Since the quarantine, Milwaukee city and county officials reported that domestic violence cases have increased by 28%. The goal of the campaign is to garner support for survivors as well as to raise awareness. Survivors and allies are asked to write #UntilSheCan on their face in purple ink and post it to social media to show support. Donations can also be made to the Sojourner Family Peace Center.
5. House of Correction to open an alternate care facility
The Milwaukee County House of Correction will be opening a newly refurbished care facility at the Franklin M. Lotter Building in the City of Franklin. Male individuals from the House of Correction and other statewide correctional facilities who have tested positive for COVID-19 will be put in the new facility. The building can house up to 120 patients and was funded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. It is expected to be fully operational after Memorial Day weekend. Visit the county website for additional information on COVID-19 care for individuals.
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 on coronavirus 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.
Bonus two: Updated hours for National Guard COVID-19 testing sites
Earlier this week, the Milwaukee Health Department announced the updated hours of the National Guard COVID-19 testing sites. The hours of operations are now 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday and closed on Sunday. The sites will remain at the Midtown Center, 5825 W. Hope Ave., and at UMOS, 2701 S. Chase Ave. Read one Milwaukeean’s experience on getting tested.
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