August 2003
Posted inCommentary & Opinion

RAM “Riverwest Anti-Nigger Movement”

by Editor

by Tanya Cromartie-Twaddle / photo by Tess Reiss

Even the ugliest things in this world serve a purpose. RAM’s pathetic attempt to incite unrest, fear, and racial division served a higher good. The race war didn’t happen. There are too many good souls in Riverwest. We know better. This ugly episode has brought many diverse members of our community closer together. Several of us are having the much-needed sensitive conversations, taking action, and committing ourselves to improving the quality of life in our neighborhood for ALL.

Posted inBusiness Spotlight

Riverwest Film and Video

by Editor

by Kevin Flaherty / photograph by Peter DiAntoni

Xavier (“Xav”) Leplae opened his film and equipment rental store on Locust Street in the fall of 1998 after the film co-op associated with UWM’s Film Department folded. Listening to Leplae explain his motives, it’s clear his decision to open the store was less entrepreneurial than a desire to keep alive a creative, collaborative environment for film and video in Milwaukee.

Posted inNeighbor Spotlight

Juanita Ellias

by Editor

by Sonya Jongsma Knauss / photograph by Peter DiAntoni

At an age when many women are settling into mid-life activities and looking forward a decade or two to retirement, Ellias decided to apprentice herself to a wood-worker in Milwaukee. She took a few classes, and when he went out of business, she decided to open her own shop. She has not regretted that decision.