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by Brian Holmes and Janice Christensen The date is set for September 25, rain or shine. It’s almost time again for Center Street Daze, Riverwest’s last street party of the year. Late September is generally still mild in Wisconsin, warm with a slight nip in the air to let us know old man winter could be lurking only a few weeks away. Of course, residents of Wisconsin know this is complete speculation – Wisconsin weather is less predictable than the stock market. However, this bash on Center is dedicated and will go on regardless of weather conditions. This year the weather will be gorgeous, I can feel it. Center Street Daze sets up on Center Street between Humboldt and Holton. For those of you homesick for summer past, it is a good chance to get out and socialize with your neighbors, eat good food and support local businesses. The small community festival packs loads of fun into one Saturday, starting with the annual Art Cart Race at noon which has become a Riverwest tradition. You can play pool for a cause at the annual Eddie Favorite Outdoor Pool Championship to benefit the Vince Lombardi Cancer Center. It’s set up on the east end of the festival outside the Uptowner Bar. Toward the west end of the festival, you’ll likely find the Riverwest Classic Car Show, with many glorious automotive memories restored to gleaming perfection. In between are a variety of music stages – rumor has it that Riverwest legend Voot Warnings will make an appearance this year. There are also food and craft vendors and the famous Riverwest Free Market where the Milwaukee Network for Social Change practices its cashless society charms. Another highlight of the festival is the Riverwest Neighborhood Association Dunk Tank, where many a local politician, celebrity and barstool pundit has received his or her watery comeuppance. Even if you do not live in the Riverwest area come on down, you can expect classic culture, friendly people and eye catching items on display. Every section of Milwaukee has a personality of its own. Riverwest is a community of racial and ethnic diversity, interesting people, and old school Milwaukee architecture, rich in history. There is nothing like it in the metro area. The party happens from 11 AM to 7 PM, rain or shine. Of course there are lots of bars and cafes open for the diehards who want to keep going. Get out of the house, enjoy music, food and fun. For more information visit the Center Street Festival Facebook page. You can still apply to be a vendor – contact Ruth Weill, one of the festival coordinators, centerstreetfestival@gmail.com If You Go: Center Street Daze Center Street, Humboldt to Holton Saturday, September 25, 11AM-7PM