Where do you work and what makes your role awesome?
I work as a Digital Specialist, running social media, email, and website for Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin. I love it because I get to use my photo/video production, writing, and storytelling skills to promote our services and education on sexual health.
On our political side, Planned Parenthood Advocates of Wisconsin, I use those same skills to run the digital campaigns for elections, organize the community around issues, and inform the public on the effects of health policy changes. I love knowing I’m making a difference for Wisconsinites.
How long have you lived in MKE & what brought you here?
I’ve lived in Milwaukee for 9 years, coming here for college at Marquette University. I left for a brief period after college to move back in with my parents but the city called me back. I love city life!
What do you love most about MKE?
I love how the city comes alive on the first nice day of spring. You can feel the excitement while driving down Lincoln Memorial Drive seeing everyone getting close to the lake for the first time in months.
What is something that is missing from our community that you would love to see implemented?
It’s a big thing, but a subway system/light rail system. Something I love about traveling to other cities is how easy and cheap it is to get around. In Milwaukee, it is exceptionally hard living without a car.
What is one word that you would use to describe MKE?
Cozy. Milwaukee has a lot of culture but the small city vibes.
Where do you see MKE in 5 years?
Thriving. I could see more development moving south into Walkers Point and the Milwaukee Port. It would be great to see more young people moving into Milwaukee from out of the state and living their best lives.
If you could create one thing in MKE, what would it be?
If I could create one thing I think I would create a comedy travel series where I tour every cheese maker in the area. There is nothing I love more than cheese so basically, it’s an excuse to stuff my face. But why not show the world what Milwaukee has to offer.
What local restaurant is at the top of your list?
This is so hard! Milwaukee has so many great restaurants. But because I love breakfast food I’m going to say Brunch. The best meal of the week is brunch on a Sunday morning with mimosas, bloody marys and eggs Benedict.
What is your biggest hope for this city?
I see Milwaukee as a vibrant city that has a lot to offer. But I also see some systematic issues that it has. My biggest hope is that we can fix these problems, specifically the wealth disparities and segregation so that everyone can prosper and thrive here.
What is your favorite MKE tradition?
Pride Fest is easily my favorite tradition. It’s the best festival of the year because it’s so full of love and joy. I’ve been told from friends around the country that Milwaukee Pride is one of the best in the country because it has it’s own festival grounds.
What does your ideal MKE weekend look like?
My ideal weekend takes place during the best time of the year – summer. I would start by going to the beach, then a happy hour on a rooftop bar. Finally ending the night at one of the many festivals around the city.
What neighborhood do you live in and why do you love it?
I live in Shorewood. I love it because it has a small town vibe but so close to the city. All it takes is a 10 min Lyft ride and I’m in the heart of the city. Shorewood has a lot of local businesses and great restaurants.
What’s your favorite hidden gem or secret fact about the city?
Lakeshore State Park. It’s obviously very public but people always ask how to get out there when they see it from the Summerfest grounds. There is something calming and peaceful about it when I’m out there looking out at the lake and back at the city.
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