Milwaukee Foreclosure Search Results

Before the founding and expansion of the townships of Jamestown, Kilbourntown, and Walker's Point, Native Americans lived and roamed in the area. There are many different stories on how Milwaukee got its name. The City of Milwaukee Historical Society says the name came from the Potawatomi word Mahn-oh-wauk, which means “Council Grounds.” Other conflicting stories say that the name came from the Algonquin word Millioke, which means “The Good (or Beautiful) Land,” and also from the Ojibwe word ominowakiing meaning “Gathering Place by the Waters.” Milwaukee's population, as of July 1, 2009, was 604,133 residents, making it the 26th most populous city in the United States. In the Metropolitan area, the population was 1,559,667, according to Census estimates of 2009, which makes it the 39th largest Metropolitan area in the United States. Milwaukee is the county seat and it is located on the southwest shore of Lake Michigan. Milwaukee has one of the highest per capita student populations within the United States. It is ranked 6th among United States and Canadian cities for the number of college students per 100 residents. There are 17 area universities and colleges and its Public School District is the largest school district in Wisconsin and the 5th largest in the United States, which has about 400,000 students enrolled. Christopher Latham Sholes, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, invented the typewriter in 1867. The city has the nickname of “Cream City” because many buildings in the past have been built with cream colored bricks. The Public Museum is home to the world's largest dinosaur skull. It is also the hometown of famed motorcycle manufacturer, Harley-Davidson. Milwaukee became synonymous with Germans and beer starting in the 1850's. There were more than 24 breweries, about 1 per 40 residents, by 1846. Only one major brewery remains today: Miller.

Milwaukee, Wisconsin: “The Machine Shop of the World”

Milwaukee, Wisconsin came by the name “the Machine Shop of the World,” because, during World War II, all of their current manufacturing houses switched over to production of products for the War effort. Absolutely no new buildings had to be erected for this venture. The Potawatomi Native American tribe was the dominant people based in the area when the first Frenchmen came to explore the area around 1674. From 1674 until 1760, the region was under French rule. In 1760, the area was claimed by Great Britain after Montreal fell to them. A Frenchman, Jacques Vieau, and his family came to live in the area and he and his family were considered the first residents of Milwaukee. Jacques maintained a fur trading post from 1795 until the 1830's. In 1818, Jacques sent for Solomon Juneau, a clerk and trader from Montreal, to partner with him in the trading post. By 1830, the first of 3 towns, Juneautown was born. Byron Kilbourn and George Walker then came to the area and founded their own townships. They were Kilbourntown on the west side of the river and Walker's Point on the southern side of Milwaukee.

In 1846, the three towns, Juneautown, Kilbourntown, and Walker's Point, combined to form Milwaukee. In 1848, Wisconsin became a state. Times of growth and the Socialist era began in the late 1880's. In 1910, Milwaukee became the first city, and the first in the nation, to elect a Socialist Mayor, Emil Seidel. Throughout Prohibition (1919), the Great Depression (1930's), and World War II, Milwaukee has not just survived; it has also prospered. An Urban Renewal project happened in the 1960's and ‘70's that destroyed many historical landmarks. Preservationists, though, were finally able to save a few of the historical buildings, such as the Pabst Mansion.

Crime Has Consistently Dropped in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Crime statistics, according the Milwaukee Police Department, has consistently continued to drop for the last 10 consecutive quarters, a July 29, 2010 article said. There was a 16.5% decrease in reported crimes compared to the first half of 2009. Violent crimes also decreased by 12.3%. Violent crimes include homicide, robbery, rape, and aggravated assault. Also, property crime dropped 6.6% compared to the first half of 2009. As a result, the Milwaukee area is becoming a safer place to live.

The cost of living is relatively high at 3.5% higher than the national average and is ranked the 21st city in the nation for best places to live. A normal family home in 2010 will cost an average of $160,000. The average apartment rates, as of August 2010, are $745 for a 1-bedroom, $830 for a 2-bedroom and about $1,030 for a 3-bedroom apartment. The climate in the Great Lakes Region can change rapidly. On average, July is the warmest month with highs around 81 degrees and lows around 63 degrees. January, though, is definitely the coldest month with highs averaging only 28 degrees and lows averaging 13 degrees. Milwaukee is second in the nation for averaging the coldest annual temperatures, next to Minneapolis. The city averages about 52.4 inches of snow annually, which can be highly variable because of the proximity of the Great Lakes. Annual rainfall averages 34.81 inches.

Unemployment Rates and Employment Opportunities in Milwaukee

The unemployment rate in Milwaukee hovers at about 8.6% and the nation averages about 9.5% unemployment as of July 2010. Non-farming jobs in the Milwaukee area, in July 2010, had 792,800 people employed within the Metropolitan area. That number is down 1,500 persons from June 2010 and down by 8,500 for the first half of 2010. Even through the continual job losses, the city is still near 1% below national average.

The median household income, as of August 2010, is about $32,216. The national average is $44,512. Sales tax is low, at 5.60% in Milwaukee with the national average of 7%. The state income tax is at about 6.75%, near the same as the national average. Employment opportunities are out there, though. The managerial and service industry jobs are the fastest growing job markets in Milwaukee's economy. Currently, about 27% of people currently employed are within the healthcare field. About 22% of people are employed within the manufacturing industries, second only to San Jose, California. The national average for manufacturing industry employment is 16.5%.

In June of 2010, Mayor Bartlett launched the 5th annual Earn and Learn program where approximately 1,500 students from around the area participate in employment in the summer and activities for education. Many of these students worked within city government departments and private sector companies such as Palermo's Pizza, and Foley and Lardner, as well as non-profit organizations such as the YMCA, and the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Milwaukee.

German, American and Foreign Foods Abound in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

The best places to go and eat range from the posh, Italian restaurants where their meals are above $25 for an average main course, to the traditional German restaurants. The Osteria Del Mondo, on E. Juneau Avenue, is a very cosmopolitan, and expensive, Italian restaurant. It is a great place to go for special occasions. Their average main course is about $25. The restaurant features Italian, and other, dishes from all across the country. Their menu includes Tagliatelle Verdi al Ragu, which is spinach pasta with veal ragu and fresh basil, and Veal Scallopine. They have an extensive wine list and a cigar lounge.

The Sanford, on North Jackson Street, is an upscale restaurant that features continental and eclectic cuisines. Sanford opened in 1989 and it instantly became one of the most sophisticated restaurants in Milwaukee. They have an ever-changing menu. One of their past meals included Sardinian Grilled Scallops over couscous. The Sanford's dessert menu also changes frequently, but favorites include banana butterscotch toffee tart and chocolate espresso cake. The average main course is $35. They offer 4 course dinners for $49, 7 course dinners for $85 and 7 course meals with a choice of wines for $115.

Mader's German Restaurant offers all of the German favorites that the residents and tourists of Milwaukee have come to love. They are located on North Old World 3rd Street and their average main course is $27. The restaurant opened in 1902 and they serve a wide variety of traditional German foods. These include pork shanks, brats, schnitzels, sauerbraten with gingersnap sauce as well as hundreds of beers and German chocolate cake. They are also the largest Hummel store in the United States.

Theaters, Museums and Much More: The Artful Side of Milwaukee

The Milwaukee Public Museum, on West Wells Street, can boast that they are the first Museum in the world to ever have a natural history diorama. They also have exhibits about the local Native Americans, pre-Columbian times, the Arctic and Asia. The Museum has over 5 million objects and 15,000-square feet of exhibit space. They also have 6 themed gift shops, a café, a library, and an IMAX theater. Admission for adults is $11. Admission for seniors, students, and children (13-17) is $10 and children ages 3-12 are admitted for $8. The Acacia Theater Company, founded in 1980, has made it its mission to integrate art and faith to express the positive moral values important to the Christian faith. They are an independent, non-profit, interdenominational group of actors and artists. The theater company's name, Acacia, is derived from the acacia tree which, in the Bible's Book of Isaiah, is a symbol of resilience and stability. Also, according to the Bible, the wood of the Acacia tree was used to build the Ark of the Covenant.

The Skylight Opera Theater was founded in 1959 by Sprague Vonier and Clair Richardson. They had, in 1959, raised $2,000 for the initial space. The theater is recognized internationally as a renowned producer of a very large selection of musical genre. These include contemporary chamber operas, baroque operas, Gilbert and Sullivan as well as European operettas and Broadway musicals.

Aquariums, Conservatories and Much More Grace the Sightseeing Stage of Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Milwaukee is steeped in history and the residents are very proud of their city and the Great Lakes region. Tours of Lake Michigan and of the confluence of the three rivers, the Menomonee, Milwaukee, and the Kinnickinnic are a one of a kind experience. The Milwaukee Boat Line, located on West Michigan Street, offers fabulous cruise tours that give tourists views such as the lighthouse, shipping docks, and the breakwater. They have historical cruises and they also offer private custom-made excursions. For a regular tour, admission is $14 for ages 13 and up and $7 for children 12 and under. Historical cruises, private excursions and any special event admissions are determinant upon the type of venue.

The Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory, on Slayton Blvd., became known as “The Domes” because of the three 85-foot high dome-shaped glasshouses that were built to house the Conservatory. Each of the three glasshouses is very unique. The Arid Dome features a desert-like environment especially for housing desert plants from around the world. A tropical rainforest, with over 1,200 varieties of palms, iguanas, birds and plants, is housed in the Tropical Dome. The Floral Show Dome changes its themed exhibits frequently.

Milwaukee also has a state-of-the-art aquarium and science facility that includes interactive freshwater, technology and science exhibits, Discovery World at Pier Wisconsin, located on North Harbor Drive. High-tech resources are available that are used to transport guests into virtual environments pertaining to technology. They also have a floating classroom for water conservation and education programs. Their water world encourages the visitor to interact with various types of aquatic life in their touch tank. Admission is $16.96 for adults, $14.95 for seniors, $9.95 for students, and $12.95 for children above 3.

Milwaukee is Always Warm at Night

Even in the coldest weather, Milwaukee, Wisconsin offers a large selection of live music venues, dance clubs and bars. Caroline's Jazz Club, on South 2nd Street, features live music. The place is open Wednesday through Saturday, but they only charge a $5 cover on Friday and Saturday nights. The place has a laid back, but classy atmosphere. Regional and national acts play on the large stage. Vitucci's on East North Ave is open every day. It is a bar that has been in business since 1934 and is known for its great cocktails. They feature good live music as well a jukebox and they have Christmas lights hung throughout the year.

For those that want to get sweaty and hot, no matter what time of year, there is a dance club that has been dubbed as being one of Milwaukee's best, The Mad Planet on East Center Road. It is a dance club that features DJ's as well as live music. Their cover is $4 to $20 depending on the venue and the night. Sometimes, alternative or modern rock bands play live. They also have 80's and retro themed nights as well as house music and techno nights. The Shank Hall, on North Farwell Avenue, was named for the Milwaukee club in the movie “This is Spinal Tap.” Their cover is $7 to $20 depending on venue. They offer live music and the place has become a local proving ground for regional musicians.

Not Just Your Normal Gift Shops: Shopping Milwaukee Style

There are, of course, national chains and shopping outlets available in Milwaukee. The best shopping in Milwaukee, though, for those who want something a little more local, is the various boutiques and locally owned stores available throughout the city and metro area. 16 Candles, on West Chapman Avenue, offers hand-poured candles made from 100% soy wax. There are custom candles available as well. The soy wax is made exclusively from American grown soy beans. The advantages of candles made with soy wax includes the fact that they burn for 50% longer than paraffin and gel candles and any wax spills are easily cleaned up with soap and water.

Aaia Reed, on East Brady Street, is a boutique that specializes in hip, contemporary and classic fashions for men and women. They predominantly offer designer items. On the other side of the coin, Quality Candy and Buddy's Squirrel, on South 76th Street, is known for their award-winning chocolates including melt-a-ways, cordials, and Fairy Food. They also have an impressive collection of nuts available so that the customer can feed both their sweet tooth and salty side all at the same time. Embelezar, on North Broadway, is a home and personal décor store with a mix of art pieces that are both functional and fashionable: Asian cabinets, Venetian silk chandeliers, suede journals from Brooklyn, Afghan rugs, Maori carved stones and textiles from India, Philadelphia and Turkey grace this inviting boutique. The Scented Garden on West Wisconsin Avenue is a new shop that specializes in body and bath products that are custom-scented. The patron can choose from 70 fragrance oils that are then blended into various unscented bath products, as well as other products such as body butter, soy candles, body mist, reed diffusers, organic teas and many others.

Favorite Salons and Spas in Milwaukee

After a long day of shopping, house hunting, and such, it's time to relax before that big night out at one of the numerous night activities available. Azana Salon and Spa on North Moorland Road is a favorite with Milwaukeeans. It was established in 2000 and they offer a full menu of day spa and salon services. A favorite package is the Tranquility Package. It includes a 60 minute Azana massage, facial, spa lunch, pedicure, manicure, shampoo and style and a full makeup application, all for $395. They also offer single services for hair care, nail care, massage, body treatments, skin care and waxing services.

The Well Spa on East Wisconsin Avenue was established in 1986 and it has been lauded as “Milwaukee's Favorite Salon and Spa.” It is a “personal suite” spa that redefines the spa experience. These personal suites are completely equipped with a restroom and a shower so that the client never has to leave their suite. The technician will come to them. Clients can custom-create spa packages. A regular package is Pure Decadence, for $190. It includes a hydro-therapy bath, body scrub and Well Spa's signature Relax Me Massage. If the client wishes a Pure Radiance Facial and professional hair styling can replace the Relax Me Massage. Milwaukee, Wisconsin is a beautiful place to live and visit with their spectacular view of Lake Michigan. A person can get lost in all of the things to do and places to be in Milwaukee. Don't forget to try one of their beers. They have been known for quality beers since the middle of the 1800's.

Milwaukee, Wisconsin Hotels, and Hospitality

If you are going on a trip to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with your family, you should consider staying at the Hilton Milwaukee. This hotel offers the first urban indoor water park. The hotel also offers a unique history. The Hilton Milwaukee City Center has gone by many names. It was completed in 1928 and was known then as the Schroeder Hotel. It was built to be the tallest hotel in the city. The hotel was renovated from 1972-1975. In 1994, the hotel was restored to its 1920s classic stature. Hilton bought the property in 1995 and is now the hotel of choice for many visitors.

If you are a motorcycle enthusiast the only place to stay in Milwaukee is The Iron Horse. This hotel features many amenities designated towards motorcycle riders around the country. It offers covered parking for your bike as well as a place to hang your leathers and take your boots off as you enter your room. Located across from the Harley-Davidson Museum, The Iron Horse is a paradise for motorcycle riders. If you visit the hotel without your bike, you can always rent one from the hotel. The Hampton Inn and Suites offers a location that is in the heart of the city. This is a great place to stay if you want easy access to all that Milwaukee has to offer. It is the middle of the business, entertainment, and cultural district. Located in downtown Milwaukee for over a century, the Pfister Hotel offers a historic place to stay while visiting. The Pfister is a member of the Historic Hotels of America. Offering an expansive Victorian Art collection, this is a place to stay if you value art and history.

Education in Milwaukee

Milwaukee like every other city in the nation is defined by a few key points; jobs, economy, housing and of course education. It is these key points that often are the deciding factor on such things as whether or not people want to move there, work there and raise a family there. If any of these are not up to par then it is most likely that the city will lose revenue as it loses people who leave to find a better place to live. Milwaukee may just be one of those places to avoid.

While they have a large diverse group of schools that offer courses in the Magnet form. All of their public schools operate like this where it is not traditional school that most would find anywhere else. With magnet schooling the course work and material is broken up into being area specific. It's their offering of the specialized schooling that, ‘draws' them from other school zones hence why they are magnets. Still despite this fact the school system in Milwaukee is not the best in the country, even boiling down to the fact that it was voted to be a drop out factory. Such labels and terms are what could really hurt a city's ability to attract new people or to even temp people to stay in the city once they have reached adulthood and have the funds to possibly relocate.

Even being labeled as a dropout factory the city still can provide some good numbers showing that there are still groups of students that manage to graduate and even pursue a degree in a higher education establishment - with about 84.5% having a high school diploma, and 27% having a bachelor's degree or higher. This proves that there are people graduating and moving on to further their education.

Transportation in Milwaukee

The means with which a populace moves and travels in the city is similar to how blood flows and travels throughout a body. Just like in a body, should an issue arise with the transportation or perhaps it just moves too slowly then the city suffers as it loses people who find the congestion or lack of transport to be a waste and hindrance of their time. So it is in the best interest of any city to make transportation available and moderately affordable to its populace. Many major cities focus on the standard main modes of public transit, trains, cabs, buses and airplanes. These can often be found in major cities for they are needed for the natives as well as visitors as a means of getting around and interacting.

However there are some cases where the normal modes of transportation are not enough and something else is needed to meet the needs of the people. Milwaukee has done this with their own transportation by offering something extra for the locals - giving them the ability to travel from one state to another for commuter work, for a relatively reasonable price during late spring and into fall, in about the time of a full length movie. This ferry lets passengers cross Lake Michigan in roughly 2 and half hours by boarding, with or without the family car. It was among the first to provide such a service for the great lakes and is even noted with having saved a fisher man when his boat capsized in the lake. There was talk of having a tram installed but that got shot down due to concern for the costs of the extra taxes that would be needed to fund it. Still in 2009 the idea was brought up again and is making some great headway in building a high-speed train system in which to link all of the neighboring cities together.

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Milwaukee, Wisconsin is a generally Democratic city known for third party candidates and a local government that strives to keep its citizens happy and served to the best of their abilities. The city is run by the mayor and city council together making a strong central force. The City Common Council has an extensive schedule published online and welcomes citizens to its functions in City Hall. Sessions can also be watched live on local channel 25 or online at www.milwaukee.gov/channel25.

On the council site, http://city.milwaukee.gov/CommonCouncil residents can click on the district where they live to find out who their representative is and how to contact them via phone, online, or in person. The city website has a wide range of instant services, from requesting trash pickup, street services, order birth or death certificates, sign up for computer training, make a citizen complaint, or get children immunized. The municipal Milwaukee Courts are some of the highest volume courts in the region. They handle traffic, assault and battery, disorderly conduct, vandalism, loitering, theft, shoplifting, building code, health code, and drunken driving. Most cases are punished only with fines or community programs. The strictest penalties are usually invoked only when the previous fines or services aren't complied with. Then a defendant can have the local driving privileges suspended or be placed in jail until compliance is secured.

All decisions of the municipal courts can be appealed to state courts, which also have downtown Milwaukee locations. Before going to court, information can be found about a case, or the case can be settled or fines paid online at: http://query.municourt.milwaukee.gov/home.asp. The government provides extensive snow information and alerts. Their site is called Are You Ready http://readywisconsin.wi.gov/ and Milwaukee has its own channel and information. There are tips on how to build a snow-ready kit, how to win one, how to get text and email alerts as things get dangerous and what to do if a person is caught out in the elements. Milwaukee weather is serious and severe, and the city addresses it extensively and appropriately in order to keep people as safe as possible.

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