
Well readers, the rules are back. My rules in which many must follow, or to simply just to give advice. For this it’s the new traditional Stephen’s Spot Rules of Summerfest. Reviewing again for 2019. By the way, we all know last year that the park celebrated 51 years. But it’s the 52nd year in it’s Golden Age, the fun is still the same. As always a reference: consult Summerfest’s rules of the park here. By the way, I am crediting the park with most of the information I know just to clarify.
First, let’s go over what I said last time in a long sentence mixed with something new. Many of you veterans of the park already know, yet again. Rookies, pay attention! And to those whom been away or seem to try to find your way back, consider this as a refresher course.
Since Summerfest is very well known in Milwaukee, I know about the place well. I first volunteered at the place at the then African World Festival in 1997, saw some shows, and worked in the late 90’s plus the year of 2000. Hard to believe that 20 years ago this summer, I was working there! I know the gates, security things, and the places to park near and far from the venue. So if you ready to party like crazy, start learning and reviewing. By the way, I don’t currently work for the company, BUT I KNOW the rules and regulations for my experience.
1) Summerfest as everyone knows is 11 days starting June 26th to July 7th. Except July 1st. And everyday there will days where you can get in free. Learn it! Especially the timeframes given. Like today, there was free way to get in for donations for the Hunger Task Force from Noon – 3:00pm . Please PAY ATTENTION TO THE TIMES! And pay attention (PLEASE PAY ATTENTION) to the news, internet, social media platforms and radio promos about Summerfest as well. Oh, Summerfest will be open on the 4th of July.
2) The park does have information booths. Need a program? They have them. Or for you mobile folks, you can download them via the net or straight to your smartphone. Your choice. Oh if you got the Sunday Milwaukee Journal Sentinel this past Sunday or the Shepherd Express, you might got a program with the paper.
3) CALLOUT WARNING: Listen Up! If you are an out of towner and have been stuck on the Wisconsin highway for about 2 and half hours getting to the park, that is your loss! The reason why I’m saying this, because when I was working for the company, I got hollered by a man (a white disgruntled man from Illinois mind you) about him being stuck on our highways for two hours. He verbally asked for the manager and the freaking former mayor John Norquist of all people. I am not making this up. This is a true story working at the main gate back in ’99. Keep in mind from my experience, Summerfest Security doesn’t control the freeways for the patrons to get to the park. My advice for you Wisconsin visitors (that yes the traffic will be hectic due to construction mostly, or the 1st shift folks going home, 2nd shift folks going to work), get there early!!!!! Like a day early. Or hours early when traffic is not huge!!! (Yes Illinois, I have NOT FORGOTTEN!)
4) If you ever think that you’ll be videotaping for your own personal use in or near the park (i.e. camcorders/video equipment), don’t record nothing! Knowing security they will take away the recording devices. They got rules for that. And the same goes for the Amp! Leave the camcorders at home. But there is one exception: If you have credentials from a performer or media organization like Fox 6, Channel 4, or the Milwaukee Courier Newspaper that might be fine.
5) If you’re about to pick up a ticket for a concert and if you run into a member of Security or Admissions personnel to pay them for the assistance to wait or ask questions to assist, don’t even try it! Buy the ticket and get an early pick up, or a mailing.
6) Cameras (mostly small cameras) are allowed on the grounds. It’s cool. But in the Amp, Nope. They won’t allow it. Don’t try it. BUT, like camcorders if you have credentials from a performer or media that might be fine. Also, and no selfie sticks. They won’t allow them. Sorry!
7) Like bathrooms, and merchandise areas, there are ATMs on the grounds. Be sure to spot them just in case you need that extra green.
8) Leave your weapons of Swiss army knives at home! The red shirts will take them, as well as any other suspicious item that is deemed dangerous. Just a word of warning.
9) Usually the workers in the colored shirts don’t reveal their names. Best advice, know their numbers! Like 563. Or in this case: Red 563. or Yellow 450.
10) CALLOUT: For the first time goers: Summerfest attracts big crowds. Just a word of warning. Again the park attracts crowds!
11) Best thing to ride at the grounds: Besides the arcades and the interactive stuff, the Skygliders. Take them. It’s legendary and use your cameras for sky pics!
12) Don’t be afraid to help those who don’t know much about the park. Give them some pointers! Now, if you can’t be at Summerfest, but know what the day schedule is, and if your bestie needs that social media assistance: Tweet it. Facebook it. Instagram it. Text it. Google it. #Hashtag it. You know the routine! Help them out. And if you use LinkedIn, use that too!
13) For the bus folks, as you know Summerfest got shuttles (MCTS, Restaurants, Bars, etc) . You know the deal. No need to tell you. And that goes for the Uber/Lyft folks.
14) They say that Summerfest has nothing for the kids. Um……..they do. Look at the children’s theater schedules, and they have a Children’s Fest day. Take them to that. Usually between Noon and 3pm on the day after Independence Day. Speaking of that, if your child gets lost and it happens often let the security folks know! Summerfest does in fact has an Lost Children’s Area for those who don’t know!
15) Yes, you can buy food and drinks at the park. BUT…………if you buy food on the outside as well as drinks trying to get in, can’t do it. Just like having cans and/or glass bottles. Nope can’t bring them in. Sorry! (Just a thought from my Security days) If you have an empty bottle, that is acceptable to bring in.
16) If it’s raining and if you have an Umbrella, yes you can bring it. BUT…….not in the Amp. If it’s hot, better take a towel just in case. If you get hurt, injured or get sick, Summerfest does have First Aid Stations and MFD will be on stat. Plus don’t be surprised if you see cool tents to take a break from the heat. For you with kids, the Elizabeth Bo Black splash pad will be in effect.
17) Like any other venue, there are areas that you can lock up your stuff. Ask the personnel in the info booths for that. Usually it’s for the special needs patrons, but feel free to ask questions.
18) Upon entry, you will be searched. Just a heads up. Bags, strollers, etc. Expect the pat downs and maybe the overhead security things. Summerfest will have metal detectors and wands. Just like in high school in the 90’s with the searches. BAG POLICY: Like the stadiums, other entertainment parks, Summerfest has a bag policy. Please pay attention to this very carefully!: 9″ x 10″ x 12″. When coming to the park, the carry ins of Tote Bags, Cinch Bags (or Drawstring Bags) and Small Purses/Clutches are allowed. If you have a Fanny Pack, that will be acceptable. BUT: If you have a Backpack, Camera Bag, Large Purse or a Cooler – THOSE ITEMS ARE NOT ACCEPTABLE! They cannot be brought into the park. What might happen is either you take the bag back to your parking spot nearby or donate it. That’s what they said! And plus, Summerfest will give you a bag to empty the contents of your original to put in. And they have made this mandatory for everyone, even those who work at the park to follow the same examples as everyone else. If you take the Bus, Uber, Lyft or a buddy to drop off, make sure they pack small with the bags acceptable! If they get dropped off with the wrong bag in all, it’s a wrap. Also, there is an exception that if you have a bag that is for needs like medications, or baby diapers/wipes. And I know many will forget and get angry about a bag that they can’t bring in, and their car is parked in Greenfield or Chicago!
BOTTOM LINE: Just a word of advice, read the rules AHEAD OF TIME! All of this is part of updated security. Just to be safe.
19) Now check this, if you bought a concert ticket to see or any other headliner at the Amp, yes, you can get through the gates with that as well. Mostly the South Gate.
20) Keep in mind, Summerfest does have cameras all around the park. If you mess up, don’t expect to be spotted or thrown out! Warning for those who might be drunk in all. I’m just saying!
21) For the record: Pets are NOT allowed at the park. BUT……….service animals are acceptable as well as many other needs for the elderly and disabled.
22) And as far as parking: Many know well that parking can be a hassle for a good spot. My advice, look for the areas near the park, like parking lots near Michigan or Jefferson Streets. The U.S. Bank Building near Cass Street has festival parking available for those who want to use it. Yep, pay the required amount. Plus also if you have a concert ticket plus a parking validation with it, you are straight. Also if you’re lucky per say, there are parking spots close by the park near the South Gate that you could try. But, it’s a slim chance though.
23) For the record, Summerfest does have urban acts lined up for 2019: Bone Thugs – N-Harmony, Lizzo, T-Pain, Chaka Khan, The Roots, Lionel Richie, Snoop Dogg, Lil Wayne, Schoolboy-Q , Charles Walker Band, Just to name a few. PLEASE CHECK THEM OUT MILWAUKEE!!!!!!
24) Currently, construction right now as we know at times is a beast. Take real caution and be safe. Plus think ahead before planning to drive please!
25) As far as Fireworks: No need explaining. You all should know that the first night of Summerfest and July 3rd. Pick a spot and view with the cameras and smartphones on stat.
26) Now I shouldn’t point this out, but I should. If there is an issue with a Summerfest employee, volunteer or a worker that you might disagree with, the staff does have supervisors on site. Talk with their managers!
Caught up yet? Good.
NEW STUFF THIS YEAR: or the extra reminders you already know.
The park now has Wristbands for re-entry. And are always plentiful. Between Noon and 6:30 that is. But will not be issued on the last day of the event.
Look for the Summerfest Street Team. They are always around. Matter of fact, they might be looking for you!
For all you UBER drivers or Lyft Drivers, I hope you got your plans set up for the extra green. No need to tell you. Or those Ubering a chance to earn money for the first time big gig rides. Feel free to sign up here.
Lyft Drivers, I’m assuming that many of you are probably making ideas for your drivers to set up the schedules. Get the Apps out! Make that money.
For the Power Pass Users, you’re lucky! Use that pass to get in for the days and shows of your choice.
Reminder: The Summerfest Store on the grounds has many merch for your spending. And many of the merch is homegrown. Support the local shops!
If going to the BMO Harris Pavilion Stage for a show, you might have a special pass for the headlining acts. Some of the passes might be sold out, but there are those you can get depending on the shows. For more information, click here.
The Miller Oasis Stage is once again back. And like last year, make a note of it. They have a sale going for some of the performers making that music. The stage still has the Level Up Viewing Deck for your viewing pleasure. Check it out.
The North Gate area is still new. All decked out.
The Amp is now under the banner of American Family Insurance. And still going through renovations. But you can still party though. And no scheduled acts are set for July 4th. (update)
On June 27th, between Noon and 6pm, get into Summerfest for $5.00! It’s a #TBT special with Pick N’ Save.
June 28th is Show Your College Pride Day. Wear your college shirt or hat to get in between Noon and 3pm. Oh, just for clarification: the colleges are comprised of these schools only: Alverno College, Bryant & Stratton College, Cardinal Stritch University, Carroll University, Carthridge College, Concordia University, Gateway Technical College, Herzing University, Marquette University, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee Area Technical College, MSOE, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. And the University of Wisconsin-Platteville. Other schools, sorry. That includes my UW-Stout.
Everyday at Summerfest, there will be an Emerging Artist Series shows that will take place. And word is you can vote for an artists that are coming up.
For the Milwaukee Streetcar folks: yes you can ride near to Summerfest for Free! And yes, the Hop is still free to take!
For the last day of Summerfest, as everyone knows between Noon – 3:00pm it’s free. But there is also a chance to win an admission for Summerfest 2020 next summer.
For other info that you need to ask, comment or question, either business or personal, consult the Summerfest Website for details.
Now, go party and be safe!
My Take: Breaking News just now: The Forum 1510AM is now in the archives.
Posted: September 14, 2019 in #blacktwitter, #TwitterShare, African American Stories and Viewpoints, Facebook, Facebook Viral, Health and Wellness, Introverts are good and united, Joe Biden, Dr. Jill Biden, Local Arts and Entertainment, Local News and Politics, Milwaukee Concerns, Milwaukee Issues, News and politics, Podcasting, Social Media, The hands are up and no comment!, The Hypocritical Minded, The Issues, White Supremacy is a Problem!, Wisconsin African American Commentary, YOU GOTTA BE KIDDING ME!Tags: Democrats, liberals, Milwaukee Black Radio, Sherwin Hughes, The Forum, Wisconsin, WNOV 860, WRRD
I was going to do a “double take” on a subject and a different perspective. But in the recent events of the liberal news gone wrong, (thought I would never say that) this was a bomb shell that many of us had never saw coming. September 10th was the end of The Forum here in Milwaukee. And who’s the blame on this? Let’s read on.
If many listened to the radio station 1510am Tuesday morning on September 10th, you may have heard the very last of The Forum with Sherwin Hughes. For many of us in the Greater Milwaukee Area that know, listening to him was a different perspective on politics and the current events. Many of us listened to Sherwin before in the days of the Basement Crew on 98.3 and of course, WNOV. Last year as we know, Sherwin’s abrupt end on WNOV was in a Facebook post due to “irreconcilable differences” with him and the Management. That was last July, however between last August until now his show was resurrected with Resistance Radio. Again if many have not listened to Resistance Radio its like progressive radio in which it is. There are many Conservative Radio stations around the state of Wisconsin that cater to many white conservative folks that want it keep it on the right and red. But not many liberal and progressive radio news. This is part of the reason why Real Resistance Radio is now on the air.
So who is next to listen to? Who is next to help bring the real pain of progressive radio of Democratic styles in all to the airwaves ESPECIALLY IN THE BLACK MILWAUKEE COMMUNITY! We know Earl Ingram can. He’s been in the game of fight for the truth for DECADES! But he’s doing on the Baby Boomer side of things. Not a concern. But for Sherwin, it was from in my view point, a Generation X Viewpoint. I said it. I’m Gen X also. Not a Millennial or Gen Z. And the thing is during this past year, he picked up where he left off since leaving WNOV last year. And yet when I listened to his final broadcast behind the mic, he kept referring “the writing on the wall” in terms when would be the time to move forward. Of course when a player tells the press or media that it’s time to retire or quit, of course many of us will feel that impact. Maybe because it’s due to family, health concerns, other assignments or many other factors. It’s kind of interesting also that this announcement came on the week of the anniversary of two things: 9/11 and the passing of Eric Von. I think in Sherwin’s case, it’s about moving to a more free and appreciative angle that he can handle. And also the concerns of the station of Real Resistance Radio was highly examined. And he was very vocal about his stance about the work done. Is Real Resistance Radio the blame here? What about the Democratic Party is facing a mess? Internally? And again, which side is truly A BLAME in this matter? The Right Wing or in this case, The Left Wing Progressives that is now starting to mess up? Think about it! Sherwin briefly described it. Even concerning about the DNC Connectional things that are coming to Milwaukee. He’s been on the WRRD thing for 6 months to one year and was just forgotten he was still there. I know I’m spoiling the sentences that he said in his last Forum Radio Show, but the thing is this: It was noting that it was time to tell the butt naked truth. Now, nothing against Real Resistance Radio, or WNOV or 98.3 or any of the bosses or managers that he worked under. Or even the guests he had. At the end of the day, when it’s all set and done, from an individual stance, we must do what is best for us. We know that in the game of working for the man/woman is not going to be forever. We know this. But I see Sherwin in his next level doing things bigger than the talk radio business. There is always that next level thing we have to understand to walk away. We all will have to take this difficult walk. It’s going to be hard and of course what lies ahead is another question in thought. Homer Blow asks the question all the time: “What’s Next?” We don’t know what’s next yet. No one knows that day or hour. But whatever comes next will come into the light.
This is why I blog the way I do. I pick up on his shows to give my viewpoints here of what’s going on. And to summarize it in a way here that many of you outside of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the Midwest and yet the United States don’t know. We “average bloggers” write what is around us. No matter if it’s health, jobs, a unexpected death, politics, fun stuff, whatever. Even if it’s something we regret in our past that should be a life lessons for those reading in the future. Even church. Somebody say AMEN!
So with Sherwin now out of the radio picture unceremoniously, who’s left to listen to in a black perspective? Again, for 1510am we got Earl Ingram, out in Madison there is a black woman by the name of Brandi Grayson who appears on Talk 92.7 in the state’s capitol. Which is part of the Real Resistance Radio Network. Here in Milwaukee: already Homer Blow via Blowradio.com, Michelle Bryant, Keith Parris, Faith Colas, Keyon Jackson-Malone, and Darryll Fortune on WNOV. There’s not too many of us in black talk radio in Milwaukee or in the State.Who is next to join the pack that many ask? Only time will tell. I say for those of us who want to be engaged in black talk radio in the city, I would probably say give these individuals a shot. They may not be the kind you want in talk radio, this is all we have for now.
So like the last time: what were my top 10 Forum moments that I know from memory? Let’s count the ways:
10) The UWM Controversial Poster. This was mostly disturbing.
9) A posting The Forum did on Facebook regarding those who left Milwaukee and thinking what is best for the city. Especially for those who USED TO vote, work, volunteer and play in the city.
8) WRRD 1510 Received an Award from the Wisconsin Broadcasters Association. The station came in third place and it was because of The Forum.
7) Several interviews with Milwaukee/Wisconsin Congressmen, Alder-persons, Senators. All Milwaukee related. And even replaying a footage that Sen. Lena Taylor made an announcement in running for Mayor for 2020.
6) Last year when The Forum was on the scene when former president Barack Obama was in town for campaign of the 2018 election of the state. The same one later on that Tony Evers won.
5) Last year in November, when the acknowledgement of International Men’s Day was mentioned and yes there was a reason why Men should have their day and time to shine. Even though it was short, but it was a mini statement. International Men’s Day in which many forget: it’s November 19th.
4) Sherwin had this guest on The Forum before, but Shannon Lewendowski a FORMER police officer of the Milwaukee PD and like before, she knew the weaknesses of Milwaukee that every-time she talks about it, the guest usually gets warned about it. But the fact of the matter is, most of what she said was the butt naked truth!
3) See Number 4.
2) The Final Broadcast of the Forum we did not see coming on September 10th. And yet, Sherwin was very expressive in the year overall since the left leaning progressive station was not that VERY keen on Sherwin’s intellect and viewpoints. Especially after realization that sometimes DEMOCRATS can be a mistake in starting up stuff they really can’t hardly finish. And yet, it’s a mess not cleaning up. Many didn’t like it, but it was partially the truth.
And the Number one thing that I’ll remember from The Forum in a resistance side: His comeback show from August of last year of 2018. It was his first since leaving WNOV in July of the same year.
To listen to the last talk show of The Forum on this date of September 10th, 2019, click here and press play. The Forum does have it’s own web page, that you can listen to the last broadcast and also the previous broadcasts of the days from WRRD and WNOV at the same time. It’s all on there. So if any one is looking for them to see if it’s still usable to listen to, it’s on there. All of the 1,000 plus episodes of the broadcasts via Soundcloud.
As far as the now former host is concerned, there is an organization in the city he founded a while back and it’s in a supporting role in regarding the future elections of Milwaukee candidates. Look for “Leaders for a Better Community” and find ways to support and get involved! Oh, and one more thing, if many want to keep up with fans of The Forum, follow along for a member group request on Facebook.
Apparently this is not the way to drop another stunner on Milwaukee Black Talk Radio, but knowing that there will be another one that will renew a idea to let us (and I mean US) have our say!