Central City Stories

Acting Police Chief Jeffrey Norman’s sense of humor is delightful and disarming, but beneath the wit, he comes across self-assured, his opinions backed with careful deliberation. Norman holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from UW-Milwaukee, a Master of Public Administration from Kaplan University and a law degree from Marquette University Law School.

Lieutenant Governor Mandela Barnes is Wisconsin’s first Black lieutenant governor and, at 33, one of the youngest.Before becoming lieutenant governor in 2018, Barnes served in the State Assembly for four years, representing District 11 on Milwaukee’s North Side. He authored legislation on juvenile justice reform, out-of-home care for youth in the foster system, early prison release, expanding victim and witness advocacy services, a community schools grant program and tuition-free enrollment for technical colleges. 

In part two, Ed Hennings takes us through what life was like for him after returning from prison after over 20 years. He's started a few businesses and is committed to educating the youth so they don't fall into the same trap as him and rehabilitating those who have.

Host Tom Jenz met Ed Hennings at his Hair Code Barber & Beauty Salon on Capital Drive. In his trim black beard, he comes across as a striking presence, tall, lean and potent with the buffed body of an athlete and a radio voice that threads a tale with sincerity. He is 48, but he looks 28.

Join us later for Part 2, where Hennings talks about his new life after prison.

Not long ago, I interviewed the controversial protest leader Frank Nitty at the South Side’s Wilson Park. A hundred people had gathered to celebrate Nitty’s return to Milwaukee with 25 followers after their long walk to Washington D.C. to honor the 57th anniversary of Martin Luther King’s famous speech. The walk took close to 30 days and was fraught with drama. Although it was raining in Wilson Park, moods were filled of sunshine. When Nitty made his appearance, he was overwhelmed with hugs and good wishes, but he broke away to speak with me.

CENTRAL CITY STORIES is a collection of visual narratives from Milwaukee's central city by writer and fine arts photographer Tom Jenz. Michael Brunson, Milwaukee's new acting police chief, discusses 911 calls, rising crime, COVID, reckless driving and community trust. 

Central City Stories Podcast is brought to you by Shepherd Express.