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By Carole Meekins CREATED May. 4, 2012
I have a list of wonderful people in our area that I have wanted to meet, but somehow have never had the chance. Once person on my list was E.B Garner of Milwaukee. After visiting him and his wife in their Milwaukee home, I'm sorry it took so long. For the past 15 years, Garner has been holding free fishing clinics for city kids and adults of all ages. It's his passion, and his mission, and his own way of giving back. His clinics are legendary, and young people love them. Garner tells me the story of one young man who was acting up. E.B promised the kid that he would take him fishing if his grades improved. Well, the boy was so excited he started doing well in school to his mothers amazement. Suddenly, E.B realized that fishing could turn around the lives of troubled kids. Coming up in a few weeks, I'll tell you more about E.B Garner and the 15th annual fishing clinic and outing. Garner is the kind of father and grandfather and role model that we need in Milwaukee. I'm glad I had the chance to meet a man that is certain to inspire you. Look for my report on E.B Garner coming May 21st in Positively Milwaukee on Live at Five.
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By Carole Meekins CREATED Apr. 6, 2012
Statistics show Milwaukee is the 4th poorest big city in the nation. 44 percent of children live in a family where no parent has full-time annual employment. Such alarming statistics must be addressed. That puts thousands of lives in jeopardy every year. Where do people turn when they are living in or on the edge of poverty? A local agency is making strides in turning lives around. Set Ministry Incorporated has 22 offices throughout the city of Milwaukee. It's working to improve the lives of those in poverty. It's primary goal is to teach self-sufficiency. Learn more about SET in an upcoming Positively Milwaukee. Find out why it's an organization you may not have heard much about, but one that certainly deserves the spotlight. Watch for it on Live at Five.
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By Carole Meekins CREATED Mar. 29, 2012
We often report on fights and altercations at MPS. Often lost in the translation, the days of peace where there are no fights. Times where are learning and getting a good education. The success stories are there. But they often do not get the press. But coming up soon, I'll tell you about a program giving students tools to solve problems in a peaceful manner. I got to witness the Peace Program at Silver Spring Elementary School firsthand. Administrators are hailing it as a success. It's one of the many good things happening at MPS that are too often ignored. Watch for the Peace Program in action on Live at Five.
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By Carole Meekins CREATED Feb. 24, 2012
If you want to see some of the best talent Milwaukee has to offer, check out "We are the Drum". It's an inspirational show that pays tribute to Milwaukee's Civil Rights Pioneers. I stopped by a rehearsal recently at North Division High School. I was amazed at the wealth of talent! I will feature the show in an upcoming Positively Milwaukee soon. If you are looking to be inspired, don't miss "We Are the Drum." It's the positive side of MPS and our city that often gets ignored. Here's the press release for more information. ##################### WE ARE THE DRUM RETURNS WITH TRIBUTE TO MILWAUKEE'S CIVIL RIGHTS MARCHERS Directors look to educate and recapture inspiration in Milwaukee community. February 1, 2012 - Milwaukee, WI - After producing a phenomenal show last February, "We Are the Drum", a student and community theater production produced by CAPITA Productions, returns to the stage with a message of inspiration for Milwaukee. "Last year's show had a lot of energy! Those who saw it loved it, sometimes over and over. We had so many return visitors we may have set a record for most returns in a run. This year we are paying homage to Milwaukee's civil rights movement in a way that is both moving and inspirational," says Arlene Skwierawski, President of CAPITA. This year CAPITA has added a very special segment which will celebrate the brave marchers and demonstrators, black and white, who risked their lives for the cause of civil rights, especially in Milwaukee. It will be a dramatic reenactment of the Underground Railroad, prominent in the Waukesha area; the escape of slave Joshua Glover, and Father Jim Groppi's "March on Milwaukee", when for two hundred consecutive nights hundreds marched for open housing through rain, snow and fear of physical attacks. These heroes have not been properly honored until now. "The goal this year was not only to bring the high energy performances, but to reflect on who and what brought us here on a very local level. I encourage Milwaukee's community to come see why we really are the drum." says Vincent Marrow, this year's Director. Tickets are available for purchase online at www.capitaproductions.org, over the phone at 414-807-7322 or 414-429-6573 and in person at Lena's Food Market locations throughout Milwaukee. Show times include: Friday, Feb. 24th, at 7:30 PM Saturday, Feb. 25th, at 7:30 PM Friday, Mar. 2nd, at 7:30 PM Saturday, Mar. 3rd, at 7:30 PM CAPITA Productions Inc. is a unique multi-cultural community theater company based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. CAPITA stands for "City at Peace in the Arts". CAPITA partners with local schools to bring professional level theater to students and the community where limited access to performing arts experiences exists. For more information please visit www.capitaproductions.org or contact Camesha Mullner at 414-429-6573.
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By Carole Meekins CREATED Feb. 10, 2012
10. Not enjoying that beautiful fresh fallen layer of white against a bright blue sky 9. Not being forced to remember gloves and mittens. 8. Not being on the air continuously in Storm Team 4 and blizzard mode. 7 Not seeing those who make a living from the snow, reaping their rewards. 6. Not hearing endless complaints about winter. 5. Not being able to wear my new boots I bought at Boston store on Black Friday. 4. Not driving so slow people give me the...well you know. 3. Not being able to announce that many Bingo games canceled because of the weather. 2. Not seeing two Storm Team Four Meteorologists in one newscast. But the number one thing I miss about not having a severe winter this year... 1. Not giving Mike Jacobs the chance to continue to be a Good Samaritan and clean the snow off my car.
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By Carole Meekins CREATED Feb. 3, 2012
I will be wearing red this Friday, January 3rd. Not because of Valentines day, which is right around the corner. But in honor of American Heart Association's "Go Red for Women Campaign." It's goal is to remind women that heart disease kills one woman every minute. Many women still believe heart disease is a male problem. Even physicians are more likely to give a stress test to a man. That is why it is important for women to know the risk they face. Currently eight million people in the United States live with heart disease. Eighty percent of heart disease is preventable. The American Heart Association asks everyone to quit smoking, get active, and eat healthy. It also urges everyone to maintain a healthy weight, cholesterol, and blood pressure. It's really about saving lives. So, I will join with thousands of people across the country, and wear red this Friday. A small gesture to raise awareness about a problem responsible for 31 percent of all deaths in Wisconsin.
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By Carole Meekins CREATED Jan. 26, 2012
Some people say smiles are contagious. I agree! So are efforts to spread joy. Last week I told you about a woman who left me a kind note and walked away. I talked about the importance or random acts of kindness. Well, that blog sparked this letter from a graduate of Marquette University. Once again, another stranger made my week. Thank you Jill for taking the time to spread smiles. If we all did this on a regular basis, imagine how great the world would be! Here's Jill's letter: _________________ Hi Carole, I read your blog about thanking "Donna" for the note at PF Changs and it reminded me that I should tell people who have touched my life that they are appreciated more often. One of those people are you! I am 28 years old and went to Marquette for college. I worked for M&I Bank in Milwaukee for a couple of years after graduation until 2008 when I moved back to Minneapolis to be closer to family. Growing up in Minnesota, every night at 10pm my family would gather and watch the evening news. Moving to Milwaukee, I tried to repeat that tradition and TMJ4 was my station of choice. You, Vince and all the others became familiar faces I would watch night after night for the 6 years I spent in Milwaukee and watching you on TV reminded me of being home by my family. Even though I live in Minneapolis now, my best friends still live in Milwaukee and I visit and stay with them often. When I see them and they have the TMJ4 news on, I smile because your newscast brings back lots of great memories of my time in Milwaukee (the city I adore and love!) and a sense of "home." I just wanted to let you know you are appreciated and Donna isn't the only one who thinks so! Have a Happy Monday tomorrow. Sincerely, Jill Schlangen
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By Carole Meekins CREATED Jan. 22, 2012
One of the perks of this job is that people will often let you know how they feel about a variety of subjects. Many people are very passionate or vocal about their stance about whatever the topic might be. Most are kind and considerate. Very few are rude. Not too long ago I was at P.F Changs' in Wauwatosa. An attractive African American woman came up to me and gave me a napkin and walked away. The note read, "You are a beautiful woman you represent us well!!! Keep up the good work!!!! It was signed "Donna". How sweet and how touching. Donna walked away before I could thank her. But this classy random act of kindness made my month. Her simple gesture was a strong reminder that it's always nice to share good thoughts. Sometimes people only do so when they are mad or angry. So to "Donna" from P.F. Changs, thank you for finding a way to find sunshine during an uneventful winter day in Wisconsin.
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By Carole Meekins CREATED Jan. 12, 2012
I always love stories about people sharing their talents with perfect strangers. Many are moved to create something that will help others feel better.
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By Carole Meekins CREATED Dec. 18, 2011
Sometimes when you are asked to work the weekends in this business, you are less than pleased. Ok, maybe most of the time.
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By Carole Meekins CREATED Nov. 26, 2011
Having to work Thanksgiving, I decided the best way to get into the holiday spirit, was to be one of the early Black Friday shoppers. So after the news Thanksgiving, yes, I bravely ventured over to Bayshore Town Center. I did not know what to expect. But I was surprised to see a long line to get inside Boston Store around 11:40 pm. I dragged my husband along for the ride. He was a good sport. There's something exciting and exhilarating about being able to shop in the off hours. Maybe it's a throwback to growing up, when my mother would take my sisters and me shopping. We always found stores open late on Christmas Eve and made sure we were there for the last minute rush. It just seemed so right. Smiles. It was shopper's haven and we always had a great time. I also think for many women, shopping is similar to the bonding experience many men enjoy with sports. It's often a way many mothers and daughters connect. All the men I work with here in the newsroom thought I was crazy for venturing out at midnight. But they really missed a good time. Sigh! After purchasing a couple of Doorbusters in Boston store, and several gifts, I really was in the mood to finish up at Kohl's. It had a long line as well. But I did not want to press my luck. It was nice of my husband to go with me, but I know a second late night shopping destination may have put him over the edge. Smiles. But I can hardly wait till our next late night shopping spree!!!
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By Carole Meekins CREATED Nov. 19, 2011
It's always heartwarming to meet people who have turned their lives around. I recently got a chance to visit a clinic in Milwaukee that is helping clients beat their addictions It's refreshing to see adults who discover a new spark and a new reason to live. You can see it in their eyes, and you can feel their spirit. They have changed for the better and have essentially been reborn. I got to witness such individuals recently when I visited the Empowerment Clinic at 6001 W. Center in Milwaukee. I talked to three men who are strong reminders of one of life's truisms. No matter how far we stumble, we can find our way back. But it's a transformation that one must have the courage to take. You can hear their inspiring stories in the 5:00 report Monday November 28th.
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By Carole Meekins CREATED Nov. 9, 2011
There are good weekends and there are great weekends. And this past weekend was great for me and several friends and family members. Why? Well Packers Hall of Famer LeRoy Butler proved that he is just as remarkable off the field as on. This spring I bid on an auction item. It was a LeRoy Butler Package to raise money for the LeRoy Butler Foundation which promotes cancer awareness. Well I won, and that meant a party hosted by LeRoy in my home. That in and of itself was fabulous enough for me. But what shocked me and all of my guests was just how truly wonderful and down to earth LeRoy proved to be. Butler showed up with his own chef. Chef "Bernie" Bernhard apparently accompanies the former safety at these such parties. Honestly, I just figured that the Chef would do all the work, and LeRoy would be a figurehead and shake hands, then quickly leave. Wrong! To my amazement, hanging out with the inventor of the Lambeau Leap was like hanging out with family. He was so easy to get to know and approachable. A friendly man, who clearly enjoys people. And yes, the Packer's legend even cooked! I had to keep doing a double-take when I realized that LeRoy Butler was grilling outside on my patio. And the food, delicious!! But the Hall of Famer did not stop there. LeRoy even went around offering hors d'oeuvre's and served up the dinner. He interacted with each and every guest. Leroy's Famous Burgers, salmon, beef tenderloin, LeRoy's famous Mac N Cheese, and asparagus with Béarnaise sauce were just a few of the menu offerings. This was all a part of raising money for the LeRoy Butler Foundation which raises awareness about breast cancer. Butler credits his mom with teaching him good values and the importance of giving back. As a result, LeRoy Butler is a true inspiration. He understands life, community and reaching out. Even if LeRoy Butler had never helped lead the Packers to a Super Bowl victory, he would still be a winner. His humanity is evident as soon as his smile lights up the room. His warmth, personality and magnetism are irresistible. LeRoy Butler is clearly the real deal. Next week, watch Positively Milwaukee Live at 5:00. I'll have a report on our party and the LeRoy Butler Foundation. You will find out why LeRoy has made a personal commitment to women's health. That's next Monday on Live at 5.
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By Carole Meekins CREATED Nov. 2, 2011
Halloween has always been one of my favorite times of the year. I always love seeing the kids all dressed up for trick or treating. But this year, no such luck. My husband had to hand out all the candy. Why? I had to be out of town. My sister just wrote a book, and I could not miss her book signing party in Chicago. It just so happened to be Sunday during trick or treat hours. And while I had a wonderful time honoring my brilliant sister, I have to admit I did miss the little ghouls and goblins. The kids are always so cute, and the costumes seem to get more elaborate every year. So for now, I have to look toward next year for my Halloween buzz. But for now, I guess I'll just eagerly anticipate Thanksgiving. Oh wait. I have to work Thanksgiving. Never Mind. Where’s Santa? Smiles…..
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By Carole Meekins CREATED Oct. 28, 2011
Chances are kitchen towels do not bring a smile to your face. In fact most likely, they are not items that bring you great joy. Smiles.
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By Carole Meekins CREATED Oct. 19, 2011
We all know the Packers are superior in so many ways, but apparently we have something else to brag about! Beer at Lambeau Field is among the cheapest in the NFL.
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By Carole Meekins CREATED Oct. 17, 2011
Once again, it did not disappoint. The Women For MACC Couture for a Cure luncheon was a huge success! Everyone raved about the fashion show, which every year features beautiful models in beautiful outfits from the Boston store. But the most poignant part, was getting a chance to meet a ten year old girl, who his hopes to start her last round of cancer treatments today. Children like Alexia Rodriguez are the reasons why the luncheon takes place. Alexia really shined in the spotlight, and read out the raffle ticket prices better than most adults. After the show it was lovely to see Alexia's mother Jessica McDermott beam with pride. I plan to feature Alexia in an upcoming report. You will see for yourself that illness has not taken away Alexia's bright smile and glowing personality. Alexia is a real trouper as she battles cancer. Today 80 percent of all childhood cancers are cured. Its thanks in part to the special fundraising efforts by the MACC Fund and Women for MACC. Kids like Alexia are a strong reminder of why we need to support both groups.
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By Carole Meekins CREATED Sep. 27, 2011
Sad news for many of us here at Today’s TMJ4. We discovered that a man who could be called a gentle giant passed away this weekend. Fred Buchanan was an engineer here for 35 years. He was tall, stately, and mild-mannered. Fred was one of the few people everyone liked. He was one of the nicest men I have ever met.
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By Carole Meekins CREATED Sep. 14, 2011
Imagine a park that was once the sight of drinking and drug dealing replaced with the sounds of kids playing. That's just part of the transformation that has taken place at 29th and Melvina.
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By Carole Meekins CREATED Sep. 9, 2011
Coming up in a few weeks, Positively Milwaukee will be telling you about a local woman on a mission to combat an aggressive type of breast cancer.
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