Editor, Author at Milwaukee Independent

Photo Essay: Crop Walk aims to end hunger one step at a time

Posted by Editor | Oct 12, 2016 |

Several hundred adults and children of diverse faiths, cultures, and races participated in the fundraiser on October 9 at McKinley Marina Park along Lake Michigan.

Dan Steininger: A Lego Master Builder who sculpts with plastic bricks

Posted by Editor | Oct 11, 2016 |

In the modern digital age of electronic gadgets and mobile devices, one tiny bit of plastic has survived for 70 years and continues to inspire the builders of tomorrow. LEGO, a creative toy that is enjoyed regardless of age or youth, attracted thousands of visitors to the Wisconsin Center for three days of brick-tastic fun. The award-winning LEGO KidsFest returned this year to Milwaukee, to the delight of fans, from October 7 through October 9. The family-owned company with headquarters in Billund, Denmark was founded in 1932 by Ole Kirk Kristiansen, who began by making wooden toys. His company...

Gary Lukitsch: Looking back at the Blue River Café

Posted by Editor | Oct 7, 2016 |

The Mitchell Building at 207 East Michigan Street was once home to Milwaukee’s folk music scene, where the Blue River Cafe was located.

Oktoberfest turns Pere Marquette Park into Little Bavaria

Posted by Editor | Oct 4, 2016 |

In keeping with the German tradition, Alderman Bob Bauman took the role of beer keg tapper at the opening ceremony of Oktoberfest in downtown Milwaukee on September 29. The custom of having a local dignitary tap the keg dates back to the days when breweries were a ducal privilege, and the beer they brewed was reserved for the court. In the case of Oktoberfest, tradition held that no beer could be served until the official keg had been tapped. Marking the final weekend of the original festival in Munich, The Original Milwaukee Oktoberfest celebration was held from September 29...

Cheryl Orgas: Misconceptions about being blind

Posted by Editor | Sep 30, 2016 |

The most difficult experience of growing up blind was not the inability to see, for Cheryl Orgas it was dealing with the stereotypes other people had about blindness and what she could accomplish. As a wife, mother, and director of a nonprofit that provides alternative ways for people with print disabilities to read, she has dedicated her life to helping others overcome physical challenges and celebrate their uniqueness. | Q&A with Cheryl Orgas Milwaukee Independent: What was the most difficult experience you had growing up with blindness? Cheryl Orgas: The most difficult experience in growing up blind was having...