Community & Culture : Inside Out – Details, episodes & analysis

In this episode of Community & Culture Inside Out with DJ Fusion, Papa Kobina, founder of The Hitterz Collective, talks movement, mentorship, and the magic of Madison’s dance scene. From humble beginnings as a high-school crew to a company connecting dancers, musicians, and visual artists, Papa shares how he turned art into impact.

Hear how The Hitterz Collective teaches Black vernacular dance, hosts battles and community events, and helps the next generation unlock their superpowers through movement.

💡 Learn more at thehitterzcollective.com and follow @hitterzcollective for class updates.

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Discover how One City Schools is transforming public education in Madison, Wisconsin with its unique charter model, two,generation impact approach, and vision to develop tomorrow's leaders. Check out Fusion's exclusive interview with founder Kaleem Caire and board member Noble Ray.

A Bold Vision for Education in Madison

At the heart of Madison’s south side stands a movement that’s redefining what public education can look like. One City Schools, founded in 2014 by Kaleem Caire, is more than a charter school network—it’s a community,powered revolution with the mission to cultivate future leaders who are not only academically prepared but also passionate about changing the world for the better.

In an exclusive interview with DJ Fusion on 93.1 JAMZ's Fusion Afternoons, Kaleem Caire and former Madison Police Chief and current One City board member Noble Ray shared powerful insights into their work, growth, and goals for the future.

A Mission Rooted in Equity and Excellence

One City Schools operates with a clear mission: to prepare children for college, careers, and community leadership. Through an extended school year and longer school days, they ensure that every child—especially those historically underserved—has the time, support, and environment they need to thrive.

"We’re producing transformational leaders," said Caire. "Our kids are joyful, engaged, and motivated. We’re working with a high,need population, and it shows in our academic gains."

A Two,Generation Impact Approach

One City isn’t just educating kids—they’re empowering families. With programs serving children from infancy through 8th grade, they take a holistic approach to success, combining rigorous academics with family and community engagement. The preschool accepts children as young as two, while staff with infants can enroll them onsite in the school’s infant center.

What Sets One City Apart

As a public charter school authorized by the Universities of Wisconsin, One City is open to students from across the state. With no entrance exams and a lottery,based admission when applications exceed capacity, equity is baked into the process.

Key features include:

Year,round academic calendar (ending in mid,July) , Athletics from kindergarten through middle school , Diverse extracurriculars like golf, ice skating, and Topgolf partnerships , Strong father involvement and parent,teacher engagement , High staff retention and community volunteerism

Real Results, Real Progress

Despite the challenges brought on by the pandemic, One City Schools has delivered impressive academic growth. From 2023–2024 alone:

Black student reading proficiency rose from 2% to 21% , Latino student reading proficiency jumped from 16% to 42% , In third and fourth grade, the gains were even greater—up to 60% for Latino students

"We’re showing what’s possible when you believe in kids," Caire noted. "We’re not just trying to catch up—we’re setting the bar."

A Culture of Belonging and Joy

Visitors to One City consistently notice three things: the joy on students’ faces, deep engagement in learning, and a visible, diverse parent presence—especially fathers. The culture is vibrant, welcoming, and focused on developing proud, solution,driven young leaders.

Community Partnership, Not Competition

One City Schools works alongside MMSD and other local districts to elevate all students, not divide them. As Noble Ray emphasized, "Education is too important to lock into one model. We need innovation, collaboration, and community commitment."

10th Anniversary Celebration: Rally for Our Future

On July 10, 2025, One City Schools will host "Rally for Our Future" at The Sylvee in Madison. Featuring keynote speaker LeVar Burton and education icon Dr. Gloria Ladson,Billings, this celebration is both a fundraiser and a rallying cry for the future of Wisconsin’s children.

Proceeds from the event will support One City’s operating costs and ongoing renovations at their Pleasant Rowland Leadership Campus—a 157,000,square,foot hub for K–8 education on Madison’s Beltline.

How You Can Support One City

Attend the Rally on July 10: Tickets available at weareonecity.org and The Sylvee’s website , Donate: Your support helps bridge the funding gap between charter and traditional public schools , Visit the school: See the difference for yourself , Spread the word: Share their mission, stories, and success

One City Schools is building more than a school system—they’re building a movement. A movement focused on joy, achievement, and leadership for all children, especially those too often left behind. With ten years of proof and a bold vision for the future, One City is creating the change Wisconsin needs—one student at a time.

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https://blesseddivinecreations.com/

Blessed Divine Creations is your one-stop-shop for all of your custom gifts, gift baskets, event decor, event planning, and more.

101 S. MAIN ST SUITE 402, JANESVILLE, WI,53545 USA

EMAIL: – INFO@BLESSEDDIVINECREATIONS.COM

CONTACT #  + 1 (608)921-2611 | +1 (608) 302-7855

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3868 E Washington Ave, Madison, WI 53704

(608) 467-7846

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Ratchet-Boujie Wellness

Created for those of us who are complex, and multifaceted. We cannot be contained by boxes and we were never meant to be tamed. R'oujie is one who gives themselves permission to be Ratchet AND Boujie. Resilient AND Soft, Nervous AND Powerful, Lost AND Loved, Healing AND Whole, Imperfect AND Worthy, Broke AND Valued, Fail AND Win, Learning AND Leading etc. Absent of judgement, or shame for self or others.

https://www.roujiewellness.com/

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In the heart of Madison, Wisconsin, Mentoring Positives is changing lives—one meal, one mentorship, and one opportunity at a time. Founded by Will and Becky Green, this nonprofit is more than just an organization; it's a movement dedicated to uplifting at-risk youth through mentorship, athletics, and social entrepreneurship. And at the core of their mission? Soul food with a purpose.

The Recipe for Impact: Mentorship & Community Engagement

Mentoring Positives is built on a foundation of love, resilience, and empowerment. The program fosters strong relationships between mentors and young people, equipping them with life skills, leadership training, and entrepreneurial experiences that pave the way for success beyond the classroom.

Through their Leader Academy, youth step out of traditional school settings and into real-world experiences where they develop self-confidence, social-emotional intelligence, and professional skills that prepare them for the future. From athletic programs that teach teamwork and perseverance to business ventures that promote responsibility and creativity, every initiative is designed to set them up for long-term success.

Off the Block Enterprises: A Taste of Entrepreneurship

One of the most innovative aspects of Mentoring Positives is its Off the Block (OTB) Enterprises—a social enterprise giving youth hands-on experience in food production, marketing, and business operations. What started as a garden project turned into a thriving initiative, producing Off the Block Salsa—a locally made product that represents hope, hustle, and community pride.

And the impact doesn’t stop there. Mentoring Positives has expanded into soul food catering, providing youth with valuable culinary skills while serving up dishes that feed both body and soul. Their catering arm not only generates funding for their mentorship programs but also gives young entrepreneurs a platform to learn the art of business, teamwork, and customer service.

More Than a Meal: Culinary Training & Hospitality Experience

The Muriel’s Plate culinary program takes this mission a step further. Named in honor of Muriel Pipkins, an inspiring community advocate, this initiative connects local chefs with young learners, teaching them essential cooking and hospitality skills. Youth in the program prepare and serve meals to the community, gaining firsthand experience in kitchen operations, service industry roles, and event management—all while giving back to their neighborhood.

The Power of Social Entrepreneurship

Mentoring Positives is proving that when business meets purpose, lives transform. Their model of social entrepreneurship gives youth not just hope, but tangible skills they can carry into adulthood. Whether it’s through producing and selling Off the Block Salsa, mastering customer service in their catering business, or learning to lead in the hospitality industry, these young people are gaining real-world experience that will serve them for a lifetime.

Get Involved: Be a Part of the Change

Mentoring Positives is always looking for community support. Whether you want to mentor, volunteer, donate, or simply enjoy their delicious soul food, every contribution fuels their mission to empower the next generation.

• Donate: Your support helps fund mentorship programs, entrepreneurial ventures, and community outreach.

• Volunteer: Lend your time and skills to make a difference in a young person’s life.

• Cater with Purpose: Order from their soul food catering service and support youth-driven entrepreneurship.

👉 Visit Mentoring Positives to learn more and get involved today!

Why Mentoring Positives Stands Out

• A holistic approach to youth empowerment through mentorship, athletics, and business education.

• Hands-on entrepreneurship programs that provide practical skills and career pathways.

• Community-driven initiatives that give back while fostering leadership and resilience.

• Soul food catering that feeds the stomach and fuels the future of Madison’s youth.

Mentoring Positives isn’t just transforming young lives—it’s building a stronger, more connected community. Through mentorship, education, and the power of social entrepreneurship, they are setting the table for success—one plate, one lesson, and one dream at a time.

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Now offering a new service: Lash Lift & Tint. This service is for clients who want their natural lashes to lift and darken, lasting up to 4-6 weeksAppointments Available

https://www.vagaro.com/us04/dolleyes

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From Gooh Grocery, LLC

"At Gooh Grocery, we are more than just a grocery store – we are a community dedicated to providing you with the finest selection of fresh, wholesome, and responsibly sourced products. Residents living within walking or biking distance, seeking quick and convenient access to grocery essentials. We take pride in being a locally-owned business, and our roots are deeply embedded in the neighborhoods we serve. Our journey began with a simple mission: to address food insecurity and give back to the community in times of need; also, to make your shopping experience not just convenient, but delightful."

https://goohgrocery.com/

3554 E Washington Ave,
Madison, WI 53704

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Mobile BBQ, Soul food and Catering, Let's eat!!!!

210 S. Water Street Watertown Wi,53094

(608) 216-1197

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When it comes to training your furry friend, finding the right trainer can make all the difference. Enter A Howling Good Time Dog Training, owned and operated by the passionate and highly skilled Tyrese Evans. This Black-owned business is more than just a training service—it's a movement to help dogs and their owners form stronger, more rewarding bonds through expert training, patience, and positive reinforcement.

Meet Tyrese Evans: The Man Behind the Mission

Tyrese Evans isn’t just a dog trainer—he’s a canine communication expert dedicated to transforming relationships between dogs and their owners. His journey began with formal education in professional dog training and behavior science, where he interned at an established dog training company and volunteered at the Humane Society. After completing his training, Tyrese took a leap of faith and started A Howling Good Time Dog Training, a business built on honesty, hard work, and a results-driven approach.

Tyrese believes that dog training is more than just teaching commands—it’s about saving lives, building trust, and creating lasting harmony between dogs and their humans. Whether it’s obedience training, behavior modification, or puppy socialization, his approach is centered on five key pillars: Reward, Obedience, Engagement/Socialization, Behavior Modification, and Management.

Comprehensive Training Programs for Every Dog

A Howling Good Time offers a range of training programs designed to meet the unique needs of every dog and owner. Whether you have a mischievous puppy, a reactive rescue, or a stubborn adult dog, Tyrese has a program that will get you and your pup on the right track.

Private Training: One-on-One Coaching for Lasting Results

If you’re looking to build a stronger connection with your dog while addressing minor behavioral concerns, private training is the perfect solution. These one-hour, distraction-free sessions allow for tailored instruction in a setting that works best for you—whether it’s at the training center, in your home, or out in public. Perfect for teenage or older dogs, this program includes five personalized lessons to help both dog and owner work as a team.

Day Training: The Perfect Balance of Structure and Play

For busy dog parents who need professional help but don’t have the time for intensive daily training, A Howling Good Time’s day training program is a lifesaver. Your pup will spend 8 fun-filled hours training with Tyrese and his team, working on essential skills while enjoying socialization, playtime, and positive reinforcement. From leash manners to impulse control, this program is designed to ensure your dog learns essential behaviors in a structured yet fun environment.

Board and Train: Intensive Training for Maximum Transformation

For those who want comprehensive results, the Board and Train program is the ultimate training experience. Your dog stays with the expert trainers at A Howling Good Time, receiving intensive training based on their unique needs. Programs range from 2 to 6 weeks, covering everything from basic obedience to off-leash training and behavior modification. Whether your dog struggles with leash pulling, aggression, or overexcitement, Tyrese and his team will work diligently to create a well-mannered companion.

Boarding: Safe, Comfortable Stays for Your Pup

If you’re heading out of town and want your dog to stay in a trusted, professional environment, A Howling Good Time offers exclusive boarding services for current and former clients. With a focus on comfort and care, your pup will receive top-tier attention while you're away.

Why Choose A Howling Good Time Dog Training?

✅ Black-Owned & Community-Focused – Support a local Black entrepreneur who is making a difference in the pet care industry.

✅ Scientifically Backed Training – Tyrese’s training is rooted in proven behavioral science and positive reinforcement techniques.

✅ Custom Training Plans – No cookie-cutter training here! Every program is tailored to fit the needs of each dog and owner.

✅ Results That Last – Tyrese’s goal isn’t just to train dogs—it’s to educate owners so that the results last a lifetime.

Get in Touch

Ready to start training with A Howling Good Time Dog Training? Reach out today to set up a consultation and begin your journey toward a better relationship with your furry friend.

📞 Phone: 608-239-8718
📧 Email: contact@howlingdogtraining.com
🌐 Website: https://howlingdogtraining.com

Follow Tyrese on social media for training tips, client success stories, and a behind-the-scenes look at how he’s helping dogs thrive.

🚀 Because We Really Care About Your Dog!

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