Bean Head Cafe is alive and well…so stop the wondering. The building was experiencing some plumbing issues and was closed due to repairs for a hot minute. All is good. Join B.L.A.C.K.A.R.T. on Thursdays for poetry open mic and call to check out all the events and offerings the Cafe has lined up for the summer! 1835 N. MLK, Jr Drive. 414/264-2502. “The more you read, the more you know. The more you know, the more you grow. The more you grow, the stronger your voice.” CHOICES: Milwaukee’s Black Festival of Books is in its fourth year of bringing world and power of knowledge of books to the inner city communities of Milwaukee. The event is sponsored by ABC Academy, INC, a non-profit affiliate of Reader’s Choice Bookstore. This year’s theme festival, “Reading: It’s a Family Affair!” will take place on August 1 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive (between Reservoir and Brown Streets). CHOICES offers many activities that are certain to satisfy all levels of family readers. The event features children’s craft activities and story readings, workshops on writing and publishing, essay and poetry contests, book signings (local and national authors), and a variety of vendors and community information booths. Special ticketed events will include a children’s literary breakfast, several “Dine and Sign” luncheons featuring multiple authors, workshops, and a public forum. Contact Viola Rembert or Carla Allison at 414/265-2003 (fax 265-2877) for more information on becoming a vendor or pre-registering for special events. The festival is free and open to the public. ABC Academy, Inc. The education of students in Milwaukee continues to be a hot and crucial topic. Carla Allison, President of ABC Academy, Inc. firmly believes that the support of parents in their children’s education can encourage and support academic and social success. “When a child chooses a book, he or she is choosing knowledge. When you choose knowledge, you choose power. Knowledge shared is a pretty powerful social tool.” It’s On! The Second Annual Summer of Peace City Wide Youth Rally will be held Thurday, July 22, in Kilbourn Park, 909 E. North Ave. One Mission! Peace In Our Streets! Come out and see what Milwaukee’s youth have to say about the culture of violence in our city. Free Food, Fun, Entertainment, and Information! Check out the community notices section of the Riverwest Currents website (riverwestcurrents.org) for details!