37 COVID-19 Positive Confirmed Cases Reported In April At Patrick Cudahy Smithfield Foods Inc., At Least 503 Employees Tested For Coronavirus, Cluster Of Infections Spiked In 53215 Zipcode Where 60% Reside

60% of the Patrick Cudahy Smithfield Foods, Inc. Latino employees reside in the 53215 zipcode area in the Southside of Milwaukee.

By H. Nelson Goodson 

Hispanic News Network U.S.A.

April 30, 2020

Cudahy,  Wisconsin - At least 503 Patrick Cudahy Smithfield Foods, Inc. workers were tested for Coronavirus (COVID-19), no results yet and 33 confirmed cases in city were reported by Cudahy Health Officer Katie Lepak on Wednesday, April 29, 2020.

The Cudahy Health Department tested 503 Patrick Cudahy Smithfield Foods workers for COVID-19 in a five day process from April 24 to April 28, 2020.

The Mayor of Cudahy Thomas Pavlic and the management at Smithfield Foods have failed to publicly confirm how many COVID-19 cases have been connected to the company after employees complained that no PPE including facemasks, gloves and employee distancing was being practiced at work, in which multiple employees became sick of suspected COVID-19 and the company later shut down temporarily.

On April 15, 2020 Smithfield Foods announced that it would partially close some areas at the Patrick Cudahy plant in Wisconsin and the Martin City, Missouri plant for two weeks or more after the Cudahy Health Department confirmed that 37 employees at the Cudahy plant tested positive for COVID-19.

According to Walter Garron, a Community Liasion who released the following agreement between the Union at Patrick Cudahy Smithfield Foods and management, that the following conditions will be applied during the partial shutdown at Patrick Cudahy Smithfield Foods, the management agreed to shutdown the following areas: 

• Fresh Sausage (4/15/20) until further notice

• Sausage (4/16 to 4/30/20)

• Refinery (4/17 to 5/4/20)

• Microwave RTE/RTC Bacon (4/18 to 5/4/20)

• Dry Suasage Packaging (4/25 to 5/11/20) 

• Distribution will run during these periods

• Maintance/Waste Water/Refrigeration will run skeleton crews on this time period

• Company also agreed on a non- precedent setting basis to pay employees affected and who will be out, but some employees have confirmed that no pay has been received by employees as of yet.

• At least 60% of the workforce at Patrick Cudahy Smithfield Foods is Latino/Hispanic and 40% of those employees reside in the 53215 zipcode and the other 20% of those workers reside near the Southside of Milwaukee.

Also both Milwaukee County Supervisors Steven Shea and Sylvia Ortiz-Velez released a press release on Tuesday, April 28, 2020, seeking to learn how many employees from Patrick Cudahy Smithfield Foods have tested positive for the Coronavirus (COVID-19). Supervisor Shea represents Cudahy and Supervisor Ortiz-Velez believes many of the employees from Smithfield Foods live in the 12th Supervisor District that she represents and the zipcode 53215 where more than 160 positive cases of COVID-19 were reported in recent weeks is located within her district.

On Friday, April 30, 2020, Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa and Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic released the following joint statement, "There are no walls that separate the communities of Milwaukee County from one another. Even if there were, the COVID-19 virus wouldn’t pay any attention to them...This is what makes the slow reaction and continued silence from both Patrick Cudahy/Smithfield Foods and the City of Cudahy about the outbreak at the former’s meat processing plant so troubling...The urgency is critical because many of these employees live on the near south side of Milwaukee, in the 53215 ZIP code which is home to one of the most diverse areas in the great state of Wisconsin and one of the recent COVID-19 hotspots in the city. With so many calling for a broad, coordinated response to this problem, it is disappointing to see what appear to be parochial concerns standing in the way of an appropriate response in the interest of public health..."

Update: On May 1, 2020,  the Cudahy Health Department confirmed that a preliminary report of results from those 503 workers tested, at least 83 tested positive including those previously tested and additional positive results expected. There are more than 1,000 employees at Patrick Cudahy Smithfield Foods. The Cudahy Health Department released the following, "The Cudahy Health Department worked in partnership with the City of Cudahy, the Wisconsin National Guard, Smithfield Foods, United Food and Commercial Workers Local 1473 Union, Wisconsin Department of Health Services and the Milwaukee County Office of Emergency Management, to offer free COVID-19 testing to all employees at the Smithfield Foods facility in Cudahy, Wisconsin."

"Between April 24-28, testing for COVID-19 was provided for 503 Smithfield employees on-site at the Smithfield meat-processing facility. These efforts led to 22 new positive COVID-19 diagnoses among employees. 31 test results are pending. Among the approximately 1000 employees who work at this location, a total 85 have tested positive to date. On April 15, Smithfield announced a temporary and
voluntary closure the Cudahy facility."

It seems that the management and the UFCW Local 1474 Union at Patrick Cudahy Smithfield Foods were negligent to implement safety and sanitizing practices including providing PPE equipment for employees in early March when employees began to learn that some employees had gotten sick from the COVID-19 and they began to request information from management and the Union about who got sick in order to take precautions to no avail and no efforts were being made by management to contain the possible spread of COVID-19 among other employees. It wasn't until March 28, 2020 that Walter Garron, a Community Liasion and former Union UFCW representative began to reach out to media outlets and exposed the alleged negligence by the company management to deal with employees concerns about the spread of the virus among co-workers at various operations and processing areas. Numerous employees contacted Garron after the Union failed their members to address the issues that were raised concerning the virus spread at the Patrick Cudahy Smithfield Foods.

Employees were demanding from management PPE supplies and to be informed which employees at work were ill and in which areas they worked to take precautions. The company management had claimed that employees illnesses and information was confidential and no information was released to the concerned employees.

It wasn't until after March 28, the COVID-19 spread and growing infection among employees reached its peak and management and the Union began to act and 30 days later 83 employees out of more than 503 tested positive for COVID-19.

According to the Milwaukee County Office of Emergency Management, the COVID-19 spiked results in three zipcodes were reported, total cases per zipcode affected: 

• April 7, 2020 - 53110, 10 cases; 53204, 61; 53215, 82

• April 14, 2020 - 53110, 18; 53204, 81; 53215, 150

• April 21, 2020 - 53110, 24; 53204, 108; 53215, 209

• April 29, 2020 - 53110, 32; 53204, 161; 53215, 322 cases

Joel Acevedo Died From Blunt Force Trauma To The Head Caused By Severe Beating Perpetrated By Off-duty Milwaukee Police Officer Michael Mattioli At A House Party

Acevedo died from blunt forced trauma to the head resulting in fatal injuries to his brain when he was severely beaten by off-duty Milwaukee Police Officer Mattioli who held a house party at his home.

By H. Nelson Goodson

Hispanic News Network U.S.A.

April 28, 2020

Milwaukee, WI - On Sunday, Joel Acevedo, 25, of Milwaukee died from brain injuries caused by battery resulting in blunt force trauma to the head when he was severely beaten by off-duty Milwaukee Police Officer Michael Mattioli, 32, at a house party hosted by him.

Mattioli was taken into custody for pending battery charges and later made bail after posting a $50K bail. The Milwaukee County District Attorney's Office is reviewing the criminal case and Mattioli could face additional felony charges in Acevedo's homicide.

Apparently, Acevedo never recovered from being unconscious and was ultimately declared brain dead a week later at St. Luke's hospital.

According to police, on Sunday, April 19, 2020, at approximately 7:40 a.m., the Milwaukee Police Department responded to a battery complaint on the 4500 block of W. Cleveland Avenue involving an off-duty Milwaukee police officer. 

The off-duty officer was identified as Mattioli, who allegedly was involved in an altercation with Acevedo at Mattioli's home. When responding police officers arrived at the scene, they discovered Acevedo, who was unresponsive. He had sustained serious injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. Mattioli was not injured in the battery incident, according to police.

Mattioli has over 13 years of service with the Milwaukee Police Department (MPD). Per MPD's Standard Operating Procedure, Mattioli was placed on administrative duty pending the outcome of the case. If criminally charge, Mattioli could be terminated from the MPD.


Update: Statement from the FPC Executive Director, April 29, 2020:   

Griselda Aldrete, the Executive Director of the Milwaukee Fire and Police Commission released the following statement, "There has been several inquiries regarding the FPC meeting tomorrow regarding Officer Mattioli. While I’m not able to speak on the details of an ongoing investigation, I can state that as the Executive Director I will ensure the Commissioners have all relevant information on the matter."    

"This is a tragic event and we all feel that.    "As the Board has always done, they are committed to the process with integrity and much transparency as legally allowed.    

"Once more details are available my office will share those with the media and community."

Milwaukee Police Identified 5 Homicide Victims And 1 Suspect Arrested

Five victims that were murdered identified.

By H. Nelson Goodson

Hispanic News Network U.S.A.

April 28, 2020

Milwaukee, WI - On Monday, April 27, 2020, at approximately 10:38 a.m., the Milwaukee Police Department (MPD) received a call for police services from a suspect that was later identified as Christopher P. Stokes, 43, who stated his family was dead. Upon officers' arrival, they discovered 5 deceased victims at a home in the 2800 block of N. 12th Street. Stokes, the caller was identified by relatives and is believed to be the suspect who was taken into custody at the scene by police, according to Milwaukee Police.

A weapon was recovered at the scene. Also, a toddler was found alive inside the home and is doing well.

The victims were identified as:

 • Demetrius R. Thomas, 14-year-old male

• Tera R. Agee, 16-year-old female

• Lakeitha M. Stokes, 17-year-old female 

• Marcus G. Stokes, 19-year-old male

•Teresa R. Thomas, 41-year-old female 

This investigation is active and still ongoing. 

Multiple homicide charges are pending against Stokes in the upcoming days. If convicted, Stokes is facing five consecutive life terms in prison without the possibility of parole.

Stokes is a convicted felon.

Latino MAGAs In Wisconsin Filed State Assembly Candidacy To Run In Two Predominantly Democratic Hispanic Districts (8th And 9th) In The Southside Of Milwaukee

At least three Latino MAGAs in Wisconsin have filed their candidacy to run as Republicans in the predominantly Democratic Latino community in the Southside of Milwaukee 8th and 9th State Assembly Districts.

By H. Nelson Goodson

Hispanic News Network U.S.A.

April 26, 2020

Milwaukee, WI - So far, Veronica Diaz of Milwaukee and Matthew Schigur-Melendez of Germantown, two Latino MAGAs (Make America Great Again/Keep America Great) have filed their candidacy to run as Republicans in the Wisconsin State 9th Assembly District, which incumbent State Representative Marisabel Cabrera (D-Milw.) is most likely to run for reelection and Ruben Velez of Milwaukee, another MAGA has also filed his candidacy to run as a Republican in the 8th Assembly District, which is an open seat after incumbent State Representative JoCasta Zamarripa (D-Milw.) decided not to run for reelection and was recently elected to the Milwaukee Common Council on April 7th. Three Democratic candidates, current Milwaukee County Supervisor Sylvia Ortiz-Velez from the 12th Supervisor District, JoAnna Bautch and Enrique Murguia have also filed to run in the 8th State Assembly District, according to the Wisconsin Election Commission. Other candidates are also expected to file, since it's an open seat.

Both the 8th and 9th State Assembly Districts are located in the predominantly Democratic Latino community in the Southside of Milwaukee.

Last August, the Latino Wisconsin MAGAs created a fake Latino MAGA Facebook page to promote hate and Nazi propaganda targeted at a member or members of the Latino community in the state, in order to raise campaign funds for the reelection of Trump in 2020, according to a link https://bit.ly/30okuXc connected in the Latino MAGA fake Facebook page to Trump's campaign donation site. The MAGAs are considered an alt-right nationalist hate group that strives to promote Trump's hate and racist rhetoric even when Trump has told more than 18,000 confirmed lies and mistruths, since being at the White House. Many conservative Republicans nationally don't attend MAGA rallies nor support the MAGAs and Trump, the pathological liar.

The MAGAs in Wisconsin and the Republican Party of Wisconsin so far have failed to support the undocumented immigrant community by not standing with or advocating for Wisconsin driver's licenses for the undocumented driver as a public safety measure on the highway nor have they prevented the Republican controlled legislature from attempting to pass anti-immigrant bill's in the past.

Undocumented immigrants in Wisconsin pay more than $90M in combine taxes per year to the state.

Today, 26.4M of Americans including legal status workers have filed for unemployment within a four week period due to the "Stay at Home" Coronavirus pandemic order adopted by multiple states under Trump and an additional 13M of U.S. undocumented taxpaying workers have also been unemployed and were left out from the $2T Coronavirus stimulus aid bill passed by a Congressional bi-partisan vote and then signed into law by Trump.

Update: On May 8, 2020, Angel Sanchez, a former Alderman for the 12th Aldermanic District in Milwaukee and who ran previously for the Wisconsin State Assembly 9th District as a Republican filed to run for the Wisconsin State Assembly 8th District. Sanchez on Feb. 2020 ran unsuccessfully for the 8th Aldermanic District in Milwaukee. Sanchez on his Facebook account stated that he is, "a conservative and proud", HNNUSA also learned that he strongly supports Trump and is also a MAGA too.

Also, on April 28, 2020, Michael Rivera filed as a Democrat to run for the Wisconsin 8th Assembly District.

On the Wisconsin 9th Assembly District, Christian Saldivar filed on May 10, 2020 to run as a Democrat. Saldivar ran unsuccessfully for Alderman in the 8th Aldermanic District in Feb. 2020. Incumbent 9th Assembly District State Representative Marisabel Cabrera (D-Milw.) has yet to file for reelection.

On the 21st Wisconsin State Assembly District, Erick Brooks, the Mayor of South Milwaukee filed on April 21, 2020 to run as a Democrat against Yesenia Edelmira Rodriguez, aka, "Jessie", who is a Republican and running for reelection (filed on April 8, 2020).

The Heart Of The Hispanic Community In Milwaukee Experience An Eerie Sight Of Deserted Streets During The Coronavirus Pandemic 2020

Eerie sight and H. Nelson Goodson actually felt like the guy in the movie "I Am Legend" where the last man is standing during a man-made plague that transforms humans into bloodthirsty mutants (Zombie like creatures/World War Z movie)...

Goodson is standing at the 900 block of S. Cesar E. Chávez Drive looking Southbound in the Southside heart of the Hispanic/Latino community in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on April 26, 2020 before 8a.m. during the Coronavirus pandemic.

Before the "Safer at Home" (Stay at Home) order was enacted in March by Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers (D) due to the Coronavirus pandemic at least 20,000 vehicles drove through Chavez Dr. a day and more than 147,000 per week.

Source: Hispanic News Network U.S.A.

Marcelia Nicholson Becomes First African-American And Puerto Rican Descent Milwaukee County Board Of Supervisors Chairwoman

Nicholson who the Vice-chairwoman last year became the first African-American and Puerto Rican descent Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors Chairwoman in Wisconsin.

By H. Nelson Goodson 

Hispanic News Network U.S.A.

April 24, 2020

Milwaukee, Wisconsin - On Friday, the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors elected Marcelia Nicholson, 31, as their Chairwoman making her the first African-American and Puerto Rican descent Supervisor to serve in the position. Nicholson was the former Vice-chairwoman in the Board last year.

Nicholson was elected on a vote of 11-7 and the the following Supervisors voted for her, newly elected Supervisors Ryan Clancy, Shawn Rolland and Liz Sumner. Incumbent Supervisors are Jason Haas, Felesia Martin, Sylvia Ortiz-Velez (Mexican-American and Puerto Rican descent),  Steven Shea, Sequanna Taylor, Sheldon Wasserman, Eddie Cullen and herself.

Nicholson who represents the 5th Milwaukee County Supervisor District was first elected in 2016. Supervisor Nicholson represents several neighborhoods in Milwaukee, including the area around Washington Park, portions of the Marquette University campus, and the east side of Milwaukee. Supervisor Nicholson is Chair of the Committee on Economic and Community Development, according to the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors website.

According to the Marcelia Nicholson dot com website, Nicholson was born and raised in Milwaukee, WI in the 53206 zip code. She is a proud product of Milwaukee Public Schools and graduated from Milwaukee School of Languages. She went on to graduate from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee .  Marcelia was the Vice-Chairwoman on the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors and works as Vice President at the Milwaukee Area Service and Hospitality Workers Organization (MASH), the union and hiring hall for jobs in the Bucks Arena District. She served on Parks, Energy and Environment committee, and chaired the Economic and Community Development committee at the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors.  Marcelia loves to serve her community. She is a member of the Milwaukee Art Museum Board of Trustees, Continuum of Care Executive Board, Milwaukee Public Museum Board of Trustees, and the Milwaukee Public Library Board of Trustees. 

Nicholson is an avid fighter for public education and encourages community empowerment. She was proud to receive the cover of NEA Today, and was able to share her story, her commitment  and reasons for her work.  In the article, Social Justice Activism is Forming a More Perfect Union,  it says, "Nicholson typifies the young, idealistic and energetic educator who are rising in numbers in our schools and in NEA. She is active in her union because she knows it involves educators taking the lead on social reform in their communities and combatting the racism, classism and prejudice so many students and their families experience every day."

Also Supervisor Sequanna Taylor from the 2nd District became 1st Vice-chairwoman and Supervisor Steven Shea from the 8th District became 2nd Vice-chairman.

Both Reelected Milwaukee County Supervisors Sylvia Ortiz-Velez (I) And Marcelia Nicolson (I) Take The Oath of Office By Drive-thru During The Coronavirus Pandemic 2020

Milwaukee County Supervisors take Oath of Office by drive-thru and outdoor social distancing during the Coronavirus Pandemic.

By H. Nelson Goodson 

Hispanic News Network U.S.A.

April 21, 2020

Milwaukee, WI - Reelected Milwaukee County Supervisor Sylvia Ortiz-Velez (I) from the 12th Milwaukee County Supervisor District and Supervisor Marcelia Nicholson from the 5th Supervisor District take the Oath of Office given by Milwaukee County Clerk George Christenson at the parking lot adjacent to the Milwaukee County Courthouse on Monday, April 20, 2020 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

It was a drive-thru and social distancing Oath of Office ceremony for all Supervisors including reelected Supervisors Steven Shea, Felesia A. Martin, Sequanna Taylor, Willie Johnson Jr. and Jason Haas  to practice distancing during the Coronavirus pandemic 2020. No public or family members were present at the special swearing-in event.

Supervisor Ortiz-Velez is the first Mexican- American and Puerto Rican descent elected to the Milwaukee County Board and Supervisor Nicholson is the first African-American and Puerto Rican descent to also be elected to the County Board.

Milwaukee Police Officer Michael Mattioli Arrested For Battery Assault That Left Man Unconscious At House Party During The Coronavirus Pandemic

Mattioli held a house party at his home despite, a "Safer at Home" order by Governor Tony Evers (D) restricting large gatherings during the Coronavirus pandemic.

By H. Nelson Goodson

Hispanic News Network U.S.A.

April 20, 2020

Milwaukee, WI - On Sunday, Milwaukee Police Officer Michael Mattioli, 32, was booked in the Milwaukee County jail in connection with the severe beating of a man at Mattioli's house party. Mattioli was off-duty when a group of people attended a house party hosted by him.

Apparently, the victim was declared brain dead at a local hospital, according to sources.

According to police, on Sunday, April 19, 2020, at approximately 7:40 a.m., the Milwaukee Police Department responded to a battery complaint on the 4500 block of W. Cleveland Avenue involving an off-duty Milwaukee Police Officer. 

The off-duty officer was involved in an altercation with a known subject. When responding officers arrived at the scene, they discovered a 25-year-old man from Milwaukee, who was unresponsive. The man sustained serious injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. The off-duty officer was not injured.

The off-duty officer is a 32-year-old male with over 13 years of service. Per Milwaukee Police Department's Standard Operating Procedure, the officer has been placed on administrative duty.  

The incident is ongoing and is being investigated by the Milwaukee County District Attorney's Office.

West Allis Cheese and Sausage Shoppe in Wisconsin Targets Undocumented Workers And Sanctuary Cities For "Safer at Home" Order By Governor Tony Evers

Racist owner from West Allis Cheese and Sausage Shoppe in Wisconsin blames undocumented workers for "Safer at Home" order by Governor Tony Evers.

April 18, 2020

On Friday, the racism (see attached images) from the owner of the West Allis Cheese and Sausage Shoppe locate at 6832 W. Becher Street in West Allis, Wisconsin on Facebook just pops up and is targeted at essential undocumented workers (Sanctuary cities) for the "Safer at Home" (Stay at Home) order instead of Trump who failed to stop the spread of the Coronavirus pandemic in the U.S. back in December 2019 and was calling it a hoax. 

H. Nelson Goodson, a Civil Rights and immigrant rights advocate posted the following comment on their Facebook page, "B.S., your racism came out targeting the undocumented who are essential workers that put milk, food and etc. on your table and certainly customers of yours. Your apology doesn't take away that you guys are just racists and blame your pandemic frustrations on undocumented immigrants who had nothing to do with the spread of the Coronavirus other then the fault of your President Trump who failed to stop the spread of the virus in December and did nothing, but called it a hoax. Shame on you, aim your frustrations to Trump. Just in case you didn't know, undocumented workers pay taxes too in WI and the U.S. and don't qualify for Coronavirus federal aid due to Congress and Trump's racism."

The owners of the West Allis Cheese and Sausage Shoppe later apologized after a backlash.

"In regard to the post that was published earlier this evening:

"We would like to apologize wholeheartedly for the comments made earlier on our public page. It was not our intention to cause harm to anyone. We realize now that our analogy was unfounded and misplaced. Nothing said was an attack, nor was it intended to be harmful toward anyone at all."

"What we meant to say is that, we like everyone else, are experiencing hardships during this pandemic, and we are scared too. We have worked hard for nearly 20 years to build a business that builds a better community. We care deeply about our community and our patrons. 

"We were airing our frustrations about the current situation impacting our society, and what we meant is that we feel strongly about getting through this and getting back open. We simply wish things were easier on all of us, and that we can get back to what we all do. 

We look forward to moving beyond this pandemic, together. Again, we sincerely, sincerely apologize to our customers and community, and we hope you can understand the situations we are all going through as a business in this current economic climate."

Regards, 

West Allis Cheese & Sausage Shoppe

Unfortunately, after posting an apology on the West Allis Cheese and Sausage Shoppe Facebook page, then whoever posted it then added a smiling face indicating that the apology wasn't sincere.

The West Allis Cheese and Sausage Shoppe is also a vendor at the Third Ward Milwaukee Public Market in downtown.

Source: Hispanic News Network U.S.A.

Milwaukee Department Of Neighborhood Services Enforcing City Code Violations During The Coronavirus Pandemic, Which Jeopardizes The Safety Of Homeowners By Possible Cross Contamination And Lack Of Resources To Comply

The City of Milwaukee Neighborhood Services is enforcing City code violations during the Coronavirus pandemic despite, whether their enforcement puts local residents and homeowners in cross contamination during the Coronavirus pandemic.

By H. Nelson Goodson

Hispanic News Network U.S.A.

April 17, 2020

Milwaukee, Wisconsin - On Thursday, Southside homeowner Virginio Miranda posted a Facebook video (link: https://bit.ly/2yiLJt8) claiming that a City Inspector from the City of Milwaukee  Department of Neighborhood Services (MDNS) had given him a written notice that he had 24 hours to remove certain concrete blocks from his backyard. Miranda says that each block weights over 100 pounds and needs multiple people to help him remove them from the property. He called the MDNS for more time to remove the concrete blocks and was given at least a week to remove them, since the City inspector declared it a Solid Waste violation.

The female manager at the MDNS told him, if Miranda would fail to comply, the City would then contract a construction crew to remove them from Miranda's property and the cost would be forwarded to Miranda.

Miranda had the concrete blocks on his property to use as a landscaping in his property. It's unfortunate for Miranda, since the "Safer at Home" order by Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers (D) has been extended from April 25 to May 26 and Miranda is worried that bringing in help could end up with cross contamination of the Coronavirus between those that will be removing the blocks. He wants the MDNS to suspend the removal order until Governor Evers "Stay at Home" order expires as a safety measure. A fact, many residents and homeowners are not working today, which a lack of revenue is coming into the household, especially in Wisconsin and Milwaukee. 

Over 22M unemployment claims have been filed in the last four weeks in the U.S., according to the U.S. Department of Labor.

The MDNS should definitely cease to enforce such code violations, which are actually not a safety issue unless it is an actual safety matter for residents. In this case, the MDNS should cease to enforce such City violations and prevent other residents and homeowners including Miranda from engaging in any cross contamination of the virus, if anyone is infected or risk being infected.

Hopefully, the Milwaukee Common Council and Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett can suspend any further action by the MDNS targetting certain homeowners until the pandemic subsides and the "Safer at Home" order is canceled by both the City of Milwaukee and Governor Evers.

James C. Possi, Popular Flower Salesman Succumbed To COVID-19

Possi was well known in the Southside of Milwaukee where he sold flowers and roses at local nightclubs, restaurants, bars and social gatherings.

By H. Nelson Goodson

Hispanic News Network U.S.A.

April 7, 2020

Waukesha, WI - On Friday, James C. Possi, 68, of Waukesha succumbed and lost his battle against the Coronavirus (COVID-19), according to acquaintances. Possi became the 77th death reported by the Wisconsin Department of Human Services on Monday during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Possi, also known as the 'Chino' from Korea who spoke limited Spanish and sold roses with his candid sales pitch of 'Want to buy a Rose'. He sold flowers and roses at restaurants, bars, nightclubs and social gatherings in the Southside of Milwaukee.

Victims that succumb to the COVID-19 virus, die alone without family, love ones or acquaintances by their side due to the highly infectious disease. The deceased victims are cremated.

Milwaukee County Jail Inmate Exposed That Fellow Inmates That Shared Pod (Cellblock) With COVID-19 Positive Cellmate Were Not Tested Before Being Placed With Other Inmates Alleging Cross Contamination

Milwaukee County jail inmate cross contamination of COVID-19 alleged by inmate being held on misdemeanor charges.

By H. Nelson Goodson 

Hispanic News Network U.S.A.

April 7, 2020

Milwaukee, Wisconsin - On Tuesday, Javier Salgado, 43, who is currently being held at the Milwaukee County jail for misdemeanor charges alleged that an inmate who shared a Pod (cellblock) with another sick inmate who tested positive for the Coronavirus (COVID-19) did not get tested for the virus before he was placed in another Pod with at least 48 inmates. Salgado says, that multiple cases  of COVID-19 had been reported by inmates in the last two weeks, but correction officers don't provide sanitation items to clean individual cells and the inmates are not provided Facemasks, nor gloves and have to share confined areas with other inmates, which is difficult to practice social distancing with inmates when eating and other activities. Salgado and other inmates who fear getting infected with the virus had requested multiple times to be tested for COVID-19 and correction officers have refused to comply.

Salgado is the only inmate charged with a misdemeanor compared with most inmates charged with felonies that share the same cellblock at the County jail.

Salgado who was booked at the Milwaukee County jail on December 27, 2019 for multiple felony charges had a $200 dollar cash bail placed, but couldn't afford to bail out. Then on January 13, 2020, Milwaukee County Assistant District Attorney Elaine B. Fehrs made a motion to dismiss the charges against Salgado, the motion was granted by Milwaukee County Judge Jean Marie Kies and on January 16, Fehrs refiled the charges as misdemeanors and bail for Salgado was set at $750.

On March 12, Hispanic News Network U.S.A. (HNNUSA) contacted Milwaukee County District Attorney John T. Chisholm via email in regards to Salgado's claimed of a double jeopardy injustice. Chisholm never responded to the HNNUSA email.

Salgado's public appointment attorney had made a motion to dismiss his case in December, but was denied by the presiding judge.

The Milwaukee County Sheriff's Department has confirmed that a sheriff deputy and a staff jail store worker had recently tested positive for COVID-19 and had no contact with inmates or the public at the jail.


Update (4/8/2020): Milwaukee County jail inmate Javier Salgado who is being held for misdemeanor charges says, that Milwaukee County Corrections Officer Ward confirmed that 6 corrections officers have tested positive for COVID-19, 6 nurses at the jail as well and a cook who were all sent home.

Also, the Milwaukee County jail booking room was shutdown for sanitation. Ward also told Salgado, that at least 8 inmates and several corrections officers have tested positive for the virus at the Milwaukee County House of Corrections in Franklin. Salgado said, that about a week ago, a doctor spoke to the inmates in a Pod that everyone could become infected and that some inmates would not survive. Salgado has requested testing for the virus and has also asked for protective Facemasks and gloves for him and other inmates and the corrections officers have denied the requests.

Salgado told Hispanic News Network U.S.A. (HNNUSA) that he has written at least five grievances concerning the current situation at the jail to no avail.

Apparently, Pod 6A is currently being designated as the quarantine cellblock and at least two suspect COVID-19 inmates are or have been in the Pod, which holds at least 48 jail inmates.

The Milwaukee County Sheriff's Department has not confirmed or publicized that inmates, nurses, a cook and multiple corrections officers have tested positive for the virus at the jail other than one sheriff deputy and a jail store worker who have been tested positive for the virus.

Also on Wednesday, the Milwaukee County House of Corrections (HOC) Superintendent Michael Hafemann confirmed that 7 inmates tested positive for COVID-19 and two were hospitalized, also 4 HOC staff members tested positive and 21 employees are self-isolating at home. The first COVID-19 case at the HOC was reported in March, according to Hafemann.

On April 9, Faithe Colas, the Director of Public Affairs & Community Engagement Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office released the following statement, "Be advised that no inmates in custody in the Milwaukee County Jail have tested positive for COVID-19. Additionally, no correctional officers employed at the jail have tested positive for the virus. A deputy sheriff, a stores clerk, and a contracted nurse have each tested positive and internal contact tracing has been conducted to identify possible exposures..."

Robert Roman Morales, The Brother Of Milwaukee Police Chief Alfonso Morales In Custody For Open DWI (5th or 6th offense) 2018 Case In Milwaukee County

Morales in custody for DWI (5th or 6th) offense, according to the Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office.

By H. Nelson Goodson 

Hispanic News Network U.S.A.

April 7, 2020

Milwaukee, Wisconsin - Robert Roman Morales, 55, of Muskego was arrested for an open warrant related to a 2018 Driving While Intoxicated (DWI, 5th or 6th) offense, according to the Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office. Morales was booked in the Milwaukee County jail on March 25, 2020 for a DWI open case and is the brother of Milwaukee Police Chief Alfonso Morales, according to sources.

Milwaukee County court records indicate that Morales failed to show up in court on December 12, 2019 and a bench warrant was issued in the DWI case. Morales was charged on September 2, 2018 for DWI (5th or 6th), a felony offense. If convicted, Morales is facing up to 10 years in prison and up to $25,000 in fines. Morales recent bail was set at $3,000.

Wisconsinites Converged At Five Consolidated Polling Locations In Milwaukee During The Coronavirus Pandemic And Spring Primary Presidential Election 2020

Thousands of Wisconsin voters converged at five consolidated polling locations in the City of Milwaukee on Tuesday during the Coronavirus pandemic and the Spring Primary Presidential Election.

By H. Nelson Goodson 

Hispanic News Network U.S.A.

April 7, 2020

Milwaukee, Wisconsin - On Tuesday, thousands of Wisconsinites headed to the polls in five locations to vote during the Coronavirus pandemic in the City of Milwaukee, Tuesday, April 7, 2020. Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers (D) on Monday decided to postpone the election by issuing an executive order, but was overturned by a majority of the conservative Wisconsin Supreme Court justices when it was challenged by the Republican controlled legislature.

The Spring Primary Presidential Election polls opened at 7:00 a.m. throughout Wisconsin and will close at 8:00 p.m.

Also, the U.S. Supreme Court on Monday upheld the restrictions for the Wisconsin Absentee voting requirements, all Absentee ballots need to postmarked before or April 7 to be counted.

Voters are reminded to wear a Facemask, don't touch you face with your hands (most common way to get infected), wash your hands and practice Social Distancing when voting.

Milwaukee Police To Include Additional Charges For 'Safer At Home' Violators When Committing Crimes

Suspects arrested for committing crimes in the City of Milwaukee will now face an additional charge for violating the Governor's order of 'Safer at Home', according to Milwaukee Police Chief Morales.

By H. Nelson Goodson 

Hispanic News Network U.S.A.

April 7, 2020

Milwaukee, Wisconsin- On Monday, Milwaukee Police Chief Alfonso Morales announced that any suspect who is arrested for committing a crime in the City of Milwaukee during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic will now face an additional charge for violating Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers (D) 'Safer at Home' order, which expires on April 27. According to Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul's office, a "violation of the governor's order could result in up to 30 days imprisonment and a fine of up to $500."

The Milwaukee Police Department released the following press release: To reduce the spread of COVID-19, Milwaukee Police along with several community and intergovernmental partners have educated our residents on the importance of abiding by Governor Tony Ever's "Safer at Home" order. We sincerely thank all of our community members who are abiding by the order and are staying home unless out for essential activities.

This past weekend, the City of Milwaukee saw an increase in violent crime, which included nine non-fatal shootings and two homicides. Many of these incidents could have been prevented if the suspect or the victim would have stayed home.

Violations of the Safer at Home order is a criminal offense. Individuals who are out and commit crime will be arrested for violating the Governor's order along with the crime the individual was initially arrested for. Individuals who are out for non-essential reasons and are involved in activity that leads to their victimization, or to the victimization of another, will be arrested for violating the Governor's order.

Click on the link to view Chief Alfonso Morales' message: https://youtu.be/qotlvZDcsns

Americans And Non-citizens Endure Hunger During COVID-19 Pandemic Including Economic Crisis, Feds Haven't Established 'Feed America' With Military Food Surplus Aid

More than 6.6M U.S. citizens and legal status immigrant eligible workers and nearly 8M undocumented taxpayers have become unemployed during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic in the U.S.

By H. Nelson Goodson 

Hispanic News Network U.S.A.

April 2, 2020

Washington, D.C. - So far, 6.6M of U.S. citizens and legal immigrants including nearly 8M of undocumented taxpayers are facing hunger as a result of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) 'Stay at Home' measure adopted by most states and the feds during the pandemic economic crisis. While state governments including County, municipal and feds are concentrating in stopping the spread of the COVID-19, also finding resources and much needed supplies for the medical frontline workers, doctors and nurses who treat those tested positive for the virus, they have laxed in providing the much needed food for those unable to work today due to the pandemic and social distancing restrictions. 

The U.S. Congress passed a Coronavirus $2.2T Economic Relief Aid and Trump signed into law, it failed to include a federal food bank measure to help states and local governments to distribute military surplus food and etc. to all those affected by the COVID-19 economic crisis and are currently facing hunger due to a lack of earned income in the pandemic.

Millions of people have been conditioned to stay at home with the fear factor of likely to get infected and have become silent and inactive to demand from the feds, states and local governments to engage in Feed America during the pandemic. 

It is not known when the COVID-19 will subside and a anti-viral vaccine will be effective against the pandemic in the U.S. and it could linger for months.

In many localities in the U.S., food pantries do exist, but are not setup to feed millions of hungry Americans, legal status immigrants and the undocumented taxpayers today.

If you are facing hunger today, don't sit back and gradually starve because you are so proud not to ask for help to feed your loved ones at home, remember, many have become unemployed at no fault of their own. 

Standup, riseup and demand for the feds and local governments to enact Feed America today. Also share this article, if you know anyone who is facing hunger today.