Hispanic Chamber of Commerce honors Marquez
Manni Marquez, director of the Clarke Square Neighborhood Initiative, has been announced as the 2011 recipient of the Mi Comunidad Award. This award, sponsored by the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Wisconsin and local television stations MY 24 and CW 18, is given out annually to an unsung hero in Milwaukee’s Hispanic community. Recognized for his contributions to the revitalization efforts currently taking place in the city’s near south side Clarke Square neighborhood.
“Manni has gained the trust of residents and business owners and is doing an outstanding job leading a team of volunteers to implement the resident-driven Quality of Life Plan for Clarke Square,” said Michele Bria, Journey House chief executive officer. “I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this award.”
Marquez began his work in the Clarke Square neighborhood over a decade and a half ago as a gang intervention specialist for Journey House, serving the organization in a number of capacities over the next dozen years. In 2008, when Clarke Square was named as one of the first two neighborhoods to become a part of the Zilber Neighborhood Initiative, he was a natural choice to spearhead the revitalization efforts as director of CSNI. Journey House serves as the lead agency for the initiative.
Historical Society names new director of Old World Wisconsin
The Wisconsin Historical Society has named Daniel Freas the new director of Old World Wisconsin, the Society’s flagship outdoor history museum near Eagle in Waukesha County. Freas has nearly 30 years experience in outdoor museum education and administration. He previously served as the vice president of guest experiences for Conner Prairie Interactive History Park in Indianapolis, Ind., a position he has held since 2000. He served in a variety of other capacities at Conner Prairie since 1998.
“We are extremely pleased to announce the appointment of Daniel Freas to this key leadership position, directing the day-to-day operations of our largest and most well-attended historic site," said Alicia Goehring, administrator of the Society’s Division of Museums and Historic Sites. "The caliber and content of Dan’s education and work experience make him an ideal fit for Old World Wisconsin."
Boys & Girls Club helps name youth of the year
Larsharae Hooker of the Augusta M. LaVarnway Boys & Girls Club was named 2012 Northwestern Mutual Foundation Youth of the Year for Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee. Larsharae will compete against other Boys & Girls Club members for the Wisconsin Youth of the Year title and a $1,000 college scholarship from Tupperware Brands Corporation. Being named Youth of the Year is the highest honor a Boys & Girls Club member can receive. Larsharae is among hundreds of local Youth of the Year winners across the country recognized by Boys & Girls Clubs of America for her sound character, leadership skills and willingness to give back to the community.
