Endorsements

“After years of being utterly disillusioned by the political process, where the only difference I could tell between one candidate and another was the tie color, I was utterly vitalized after speaking with Jan and hearing his shared vision with and for the community of Bay View. For Jan, this is about serving the community – not about a career of quid pro quo. I believe in the Bay View community, and I believe in Jan.”

-Scott Davis, District 14 resident

“I have lived in Bay View for ten years and feel that Jan embodies so many characteristics and values of the people of Bay View: honesty, creativity, and innovation. I also spend time in the Ohio Park area of the district and am thrilled at Jan’s commitment to all citizens in District 14 and his willingness to hold office hours on 13th Street. Jan will represent the diverse needs of the 14th District in a way that has not been done before!”

-Ann Marie Nelson, District 14 resident

“Jan Pierce is a part of our community. He’s here doing things from the beginning; not showing up for the photo op at the end. He listens and then he shares his vision. You know where he stands. He knows where you stand. And that’s when the community building begins. I’m supporting Jan because I want a representative for my neighborhood; not a self-declared Leader who decides what’s best for my community.”

-Christina Ward, District 14 resident

“I don’t live in the 14th district but I too endorse Jan Pierce for Alderman. He understands our need to look at energy, resources and sustainability as a city and community. From my experience with him he is pragmatic, clear spoken, and proactive. If you live in the 14th District, I suggest you look into what he is saying and go meet and talk to him.”

-Sarah Moore

“Jan’s candidacy is a breath of fresh air. He has raised the issues I have long felt are needed. His pledge to involve citizens is not an easy challenge. Rather than picking winners or losers, Jan holds out hope that our neighborhood can work together to build the neighborhood we are happy to share. While I’m against term limits by law, I believe in term limits by voter. It’s time to move into our future.”

-Bill Sell, District 14 resident

“I am endorsing Jan Pierce for the 14th aldermanic race because I believe him to be a man of integrity and vision. I have seen him out and about, supporting and participating in events in our neighborhood for years before he began his campaign. I get the idea that he is interested in our neighborhood as more than a job to leverage political ambitions. When we have talked, I got the feeling that he was actually listening to me. I believe that he is one of us.”

-Bill Rouleau, District 14 resident

“I’m supporting Jan’s campaign because I believe that the 14th District can continue to grow and become even better. I believe Jan’s honesty and integrity will bring innovation and positivity to our community.”

-P.J. Early

“I appreciate Jan’s concern for integrity with campaign finance funds and his sense of the historic importance of old neighborhoods.”

-Jeannette Mazur, lifelong Bay View resident

“I have watched Jan fight hard in this election with fresh ideas, his concern for his community, but most of all, a down to earth servant’s heart that wants to make a difference. Bay View is my sister city and I want the spirit that Jan brings to be contagious to all districts. I would be proud to have Jan Pierce as my alderman.”

-Victor Ray, Walker’s Point resident

Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 998
Cam Roberts, Co-Owner, LuLu Cafe & Bar, and District 14 resident
Joe Katz, Owner, The Highbury Pub • Mike Hoffman, District 14 resident
Gretchen Mead • Andrew Temperly, District 14 resident • Michael Szopinski, District 14 resident • Tom Brandstetter, District 14 resident • Luella Dooley-Menet, District 14 resident

“For me, a key concept and differentiator in the race for District 14 is giving people a voice. Also, living in Bay View since 1995, I had come to accept the empty storefronts–not a good thing. Jan’s campaign has opened my eyes to how this could change. It made me remember that awesome BMX Store (CB-4) that was on KK next to where Rushmor used to be. My awareness of empty storefronts has shifted from the back of my brain to the front. Interesting shift, because this means that for too long, not enough attention has been paid to encouraging small business development, something I now see as a key part of improving the neighborhood.”

-Jim Broennimann, District 14 resident

Mark Gill, District 14 resident • Virginia Cassel, Long-term, past District 14 resident
Andrea Luna and Scott Mank, District 14 residents • Doug Kolander, District 14 resident
Terese Draeving and Jeffrey Peterson, District 14 residents
Shannon Mattner, District 14 resident • Siena Bickham, District 14 resident

“I plan to support Jan because I like his views on transparency in government and his desire to improve the climate for small business owners in District 14. Bay View is a gem within this city and I appreciate Jan’s desire to keep it that way!”

-Laura Hartnett-Weiner, long-term District 14 homeowner

“I live one block out of the 14th District but spend all of my time in Bay View. It’s time that the 14th District gets honest and proactive representation. The 14th District deserves a representative who doesn’t bully businesses or their constituents into supporting them. They deserve someone who goes out of their way to keep in touch with members of the community in an open and honest way. After meeting Jan Pierce, it is clear to me that he is the best person for the job. He is responsive and he is not in this to grow a reputation as a career politician. He is a man who is just trying to make his community a better place for everyone.”

-Jeremy Nyklewicz, concerned citizen

“Jan is the kind of honest, creative, compassionate, responsible, hard-working person the City of Milwaukee needs as an alderman. He’s not just another politician and he will bring people together, rather than divide them.”

-David Moss, M.D.

“Jan Pierce has been my attorney since 2007, and he has played a vital role in my entrepreneurial ventures. Not only does he understand and sympathize with the modern-day entrepreneur, he is also a stand-up guy who is always there when you need him. I can honestly say that I wholeheartedly recommend Jan Pierce for Alderman in District 14. There is no other candidate with the integrity, dedication, and follow-through that Jan possesses.”

-William Jensen

“When I think of our city and our south side neighborhood, the first things that come to mind are a hard work ethic, innovation, honesty, fairness, and friendliness to all we meet. Jan personifies these characteristics and brings with them the realization that we should have a vision that keeps us growing in new ways with new thinking. With a leadership style that inspires and empowers those around him, Jan is exactly what our area needs to continue renewing itself.”

-Renee Bach, District 14 resident

“Jan makes Bay View a better community to live in. His drive, commitment, and fresh perspective to improve this community will allow the 14th District to continue to thrive.”

-Kim Surma, Homeowner

“We support Jan Pierce because he has a vision of getting a diverse number of small businesses to fill up the empty storefronts in Bay View. His vision of economic development for the community is to preserve and grow the business district–not to put City resources into a few high profile projects, but rather to create a real downtown Bay View. We agree.”

-Dolly & Greg Mertens, Owners of Wild Flour Bakery Cafe

“Jan Pierce is a person of rare integrity. He means what he says and he does what he commits to doing. He’s smart, forthright, and hardworking. He also is an extraordinary relationship-builder. He’s got great ideas to address our community’s problems, but he knows that the best ideas only emerge when there is open dialogue and collaboration among all of the people involved. As alderman, he will bring the community together to strengthen what’s working in our city and to fix what isn’t. A conversation with Jan rarely goes on for more than a few minutes before he starts talking about his district and the Bay View neighborhood he loves. He feels personally invested in the success of Bay View — and of the entire city — and that investment is obvious in everything he does, from his daily work as an attorney to how he spends his free time.”

-Jennifer Morales

“It is with great pleasure that I endorse Jan Pierce for District 14 Alderman. Mr. Pierce’s demonstrated commitment to working to improve the Bay View neighborhood of the City of Milwaukee, as well as his vision for thought-out, equitable economic development throughout the City of Milwaukee, make him an outstanding candidate for Alderman. Mr. Pierce’s experience serving as legal counsel representing the City of Cudahy’s Community Development Authority during my tenure as Cudahy’s Director of Economic Development put him at the intersection of local businesses, developers, and government. This background has helped him understand how intelligent, creative compromises between local economic stakeholders can work to the benefit of all. In addition, Mr. Pierce has a keen sense of community and has given unselfishly to the community through his volunteer efforts on behalf of his neighborhood association and other organizations. I appreciate Mr. Pierce’s education and experience in business and legal analysis as it will provide a unique voice on the City Council. I encourage you to vote for Jan Pierce.”

-Lara L. Fritts, President/CEO, Annapolis Economic Development Corporation

“Jan Pierce is one of the most honest, forthright, community-active, compassionate, and generous people I have had the honor of knowing. He is a person of integrity, and I expect that he will be an active, honest, open, and collaborative leader.”

-Tinameri Turner

“When I met Jan, he struck me as a very honest man with good integrity. Not being in politics I think helps as well. I really think he would be great for the 14th District.”

-Mike Kais, District 14 resident and owner of Michael G. Kais, LLC

“Jan came to my door to introduce himself one evening and I would like to say how impressed I was. I firmly believe that Jan would have the best interests of Bay View and the 14th Aldermanic District at heart. I felt that he wants to see better things happening in the 14th District for everyone. This is truly what I believe needs to happen to make this neighborhood prosper. I would love to help the campaign, if I could, and I plan on sending a donation on my next payday.”

-Karen Bosetti, District 14 resident

“Jan seems truly interested in tapping and building on the strengths of the community.”

-Barb Basaj, Local business owner of SunSpec, LLC, and District 14 resident

“I have worked closely with Jan over the last several years and know him as a passionate professional who has the best interests of others at heart. The 14th District needs a leader who is focused on the success of the entire area, not just the individual. We need someone who is smart, thoughtful, engaged, and who has a vision for the future. We need someone who can collaborate, share in the success, and give the neighbors an opportunity to have a voice. Jan is that person. I am absolutely thrilled to be part of Jan’s team, and proud to be his Treasurer.”

-Patty Pritchard Thompson, District 14 resident

“My wife Ellen and I met Jan a few years ago. I was immediately struck by his genuine gregariousness. I have found him to be a considerate, thoughtful person who is passionate about the issues that affect the day to day lives of fellow 14th District residents – the bailiwick of an alderman. I know him to be an honorable man possessed of great character and the highest ethical standards. I know he will attend to his duties diligently, honestly, and humbly. I can think of no better qualifications for someone to lead our community and help the City of Milwaukee with its many pressing issues. We are honored to endorse Jan Pierce and plan on spreading the word of all the good he can provide our community.”

-Paul Felician, District 14 resident

“I am very happy to hear that someone is passionate about making the positive changes that are much-needed for Bay View. It also sounds like he has the right vision to turn Bay View’s business district into a place in which I would like to be a patron or potential business owner. Everyone I know is going to vote for him. I wish Jan Pierce well in this endeavor!”

-Dawn Ramirez, Lifelong Bay View resident

“We have known Jan for more than two years and he immediately struck us as someone worthy of serving our community. Jan is personable, engaged, and a man of integrity. His enthusiasm for the district is immediately apparent and without parallel. Jan’s professional background and history of involvement with small businesses in our neighborhood make him well suited to further District 14′s transformation. We are delighted to have this opportunity to support Jan for alderman.”

-Chris & Holly Norton, District 14 residents

“Jan Pierce reads much about questions of future urban economics and culture, and it is reflected in his decision to run for alderman in the 14th District. Such thoughtful persons are much needed in local government. He and I do not always agree, but when we differ, his thoughtfulness invariably challenges me to rethink my positions. That’s what I would desire in a deliberative body such as the Common Council. He’d be a great complement to some of the other thinkers in city government–think of Nik Kovac and he envisioning a revitalized Milwaukee.”

-Peter Goldberg, a Milwaukee lawyer

“Folks need to know that we really can have leadership that looks forward, that collaborates, and that can move from principles to practice with deliberation and honesty. Bay View isn’t an average neighborhood–we’re a great neighborhood! And we deserve a GREAT Alderman. I’m voting Jan Pierce.”

-Paul Shinkle, District 14 resident

“I’ve known Jan for over 15 years as a sportsman, lawyer, and friend. His genuine interest in making those around him better and in making his surroundings better for everyone has always been striking and apparent. It has been my experience that Jan possesses the critical thinking skills necessary to handle complex issues and that he combines reason and logic with compassion for those involved in order to achieve fair and just outcomes. I believe that Jan will serve the district with that same sense of fairness. It is time for a change. Vote Pierce.”

-Matthew Burger, District 14 resident

“I met Jan several years ago at a community event, the South Shore Frolics Festival of the Arts. He bought some of my wares that day and has always been supportive of independent business people like me. I see him at nearly every event I attend in Bay View and he’s always talking excitedly about what’s going on and about how our community is growing and changing.”

-Becky Tesch, District 14 resident

“I met Jan Pierce several years ago when I came to support the Broad Vocabulary Bookstore. Jan was serving as legal counsel to the bookstore. In talking with him, I was immediately impressed with his ability to understand and articulate the nuances around complex issues. As I’ve learned more about him, I’ve come to know him as someone with integrity who has a far-reaching and realistic vision for the vibrant future of our district and our city.”

-Jeannette Tries, District 14 resident

“Why do I endorse Jan Pierce? I’ve seen Jan support small businesses that make our community unique, especially female and minority-owned and operated businesses. He understands that big-money chain stores don’t make a community–we, the people, do. Jan is always around Bay View, and he’s always glad to stop and chat, even if there’s not an election going on! In addition to his wonderful personality, Jan understands the often-shifting perspectives in District 14–our rich past, and our bright future. I think he’s going to bring a little humanity back to the District 14 aldermanic seat and I will glad to be represented by him. Vote for Jan.”
-Jordon Anthony Burich, District 14 resident

“For more than four years, Jan has been my personal friend and valued attorney. Jan has patiently sat with me to outline my professional goals and has developed strategies that have empowered me to translate my love of artistic and philanthropic efforts into business-savvy products and services. Why not have it all? Working with Jan over the years, I have evolved a stronger sense of my business and its direction, its target and its worth, not to mention evolve a clearer understanding of my personal strengths and abilities. When you have an advocate like Jan in your corner who is a passionate, thoughtful and innovative leader, he helps you realize your fullest potential by drawing clear, strategic, reachable guidelines. It is for all of these reasons that I endorse Jan, without reservation, as Alderman of District 14.”

-Robyn Hussa, Executive Director, NORMAL in Schools

“Jan is just the sort of smart, thoughtful candidate that should represent Bay View. I served with him on the Bay View Neighborhood Association’s board, and was proud to work with Jan and others to help make our neighborhood a vibrant, beautiful place to live. Jan looks to solve problems by becoming well-informed, collaborating with stakeholders, and looking for creative solutions. This is just the kind of representation we need to lead us through the mess the state is handing us.”

-Christa Marlowe, District 14 resident

“I served with Jan on the Bay View Neighborhood Association’s board and found Jan to be a refreshing voice of reason and genuinely good-hearted, looking out for his neighbors and the community. Jan is diplomatic while honest and carries himself with high integrity. I can honestly say I was overjoyed when I learned that Jan was running for alderman– I would be honored to have Jan represent me and my neighbors as our alderman.”

-Jenny Aicher, District 14 resident

“I’ve known Jan for six years as a friend, neighbor, and as legal counsel. As a friend and neighbor, he’s honest, ethical, and straight-talking. He’ll look you in the eye and truly listen. He’s never let me down and he always leaves me feeling positive, hopeful, and happy. Having benefited from Jan’s counsel, I can say that he demonstrates thoughtful analysis and manages with a cool and steady head. He’s a strong leader who is outrageously smart, yet sensible. He takes the time to understand issues and concerns by looking at multiple angles and viewpoints, and he reaches out when he needs additional facts and information. I’m a Wisconsinite by birth and a Bay Viewer by conviction. I have lived and worked in the east and the west, the state of Michigan, and in Chicago. I have been fortunate to have traveled across our nation and the world, but I choose Bay View as my home. I am passionate about the people and the well-being of my neighborhood. As a business attorney and accountant, Jan has current and relevant skills to navigate and negotiate current business concerns. Jan Pierce brings far more promise to our community than our current 23-year-term career politician.”

-Victoria Sedlachek, District 14 resident

“I have worked with Jan Pierce for the past 5 years. In that regard, Jan is a very responsible and attentive person. He also picks my mood up if I am down on any particular day. I have also been a Bay View resident for the last 30 years. I think that because Jan is very much in tune with others’ concerns, he would be a very good person to tend to a lot of the items that my Bay View neighborhood has not had taken care of in the very recent past. He has my vote!!”

-Suzanne Mosby, District 14 resident

“I first met Jan at Chill on the Hill while we were volunteering for the Bay View Neighborhood Association. I was immediately impressed by Jan’s passion for our community and its members. He really brought home the truth that in order for a neighborhood to thrive, it takes a committed group of individuals and a strong leader who is focused on change and growth with the best interest of all its members. Jan is clearly dedicated to our community as evidenced by his endless volunteer work, both personally and professionally. He lives in our neighborhood, he patronizes the shops and restaurants, and he encourages others to do the same. Jan lives Bay View; he breathes Bay View; Jan IS Bay View.”

-Kate Otto, District 14 resident

“As a young, working class couple, (Jason works for Alterra Baking and Coffee Co. and Amanda is a full time Graduate student at Marquette University) we would love to see government support for up and coming small business owners who have unique contributions to make to the Bay View neighborhood. We believe that female and minority owned businesses add to the rich diversity of our neighborhood. Candidate Pierce has a history of fighting for the rights of small business owners in the Bay View community. He understands the potential of our space and has the spirit and drive to take our neighborhood to the next level. As a community, we can be all we envision. Candidate Pierce embodies this community spirit.”

-Amanda & Jason Stys, District 14 residents

“A neighbor with great character and integrity, Jan embodies the respectful, honest representation that our community deserves.  He’ll keep us evolving while maintaining the traditions our neighborhood holds so dear.”

-Gretchen Theisen, District 14 resident

“Many people in the world can make a difference. There are a rare few, though, who care enough to make that difference. Jan Pierce is a difference-maker. I work with Jan, but beyond the job, we are friends. As both a co-worker and friend, I know Jan Pierce to be an extraordinary person of balance. Jan makes difficult decisions with compassion. Jan listens, but when it comes time to act, he acts. Jan cares deeply about the 14th District, while also understanding that the 14th District must play its part in greater Milwaukee and the State of Wisconsin. Jan cares about each of you as his neighbors, while also understanding the economics of a community as a whole. Jan will accomplish something as simple as getting the pothole in front of your house fixed one day, while meeting as equals with the Mayor or Governor the next. Balance is the rare quality that Jan employs to be a difference-maker. Although I will be sorry to see him leave our law firm, I am proud to endorse him for alderman of Milwaukee’s 14th District. All the best to Jan and our friends in District 14!”

-Luke J. Chiarelli, shareholder at the law firm of Mawicke & Goisman, S.C.

“As a District 14 resident, business owner, and new mom, I endorse Jan Pierce for alderman because I feel he is in touch not only with the issues but is actually an active part of the community. He doesn’t just talk about Bay View, he participates.”

-Marisa Lange, Owner, Classic Slice, and District 14 resident

“We are really excited about Jan Pierce for Alderman. Please keep your eye out for him during his campaign. He has exciting plans and a history of digging in to get jobs done. Let’s get him working for our district!”

-Kent and Shannon Knapp, Owners, Milwaukee Blacksmith, and District 14 residents

“I have known Jan for nearly 30 years and I can tell you honestly and sincerely that he will serve your district and residents well. I have had the pleasure of spending time in Bay View with Jan over the past few years and your vibrant and exciting neighborhood deserves someone in touch with today’s issues. Support Jan as you can–financially, volunteer, spread the word.”

-David Knapp

“My friend and colleague in the Bay View Neighborhood Association, Jan Pierce, has been a major force in the Association. His energy is amazing. He is smart as hell, LOVES Bay View, and works hard to make things happen. He is NOT a career politician. He is very smart, full of integrity, and has never said anything to me he hasn’t come through on. Vote for Jan Pierce.”

-Bob Piechocki, District 14 resident

“Jan Pierce is a man of integrity, who wonderfully displays the notion of thinking globally and acting locally. He supports Bay View businesses in the most direct way possible, by frequenting Bay View establishments. He is a candidate that I can proudly support in an effort to make Bay View even better.”

-Mauro Colunga, District 14 resident

“We support Jan Pierce because he is the kind of person who will always put the best interests of the people and businesses of our neighborhood first. We know that he will work tirelessly to make our community a better place. Jan is smart, resourceful, and most importantly, a strong community leader. Jan Pierce is the best candidate for Alderman in Milwaukee’s 14th district and that is why we support him.”

-Kate & Mike Fowdy, District 14 residents

“Jan Pierce is as comfortable working with his hands as with his mind. When he makes a decision, it is not a rash or knee-jerk one. He looks at all of the evidence, from every side, and makes a cool, calculated decision. His only ideology is finding the best solution. I certainly hope you win, the City of Milwaukee will be much better off.”

-Ben Dauck

“I can’t think of anyone else I run into in Bay View more than Jan. He seems to be a part of so many great activities in the community. It is no surprise that he is seeking additional commitment to this great neighborhood.”

-Aleisha Anderson, District 14 resident

“Jan Pierce is a straight shooter with an innate ability to get to the crux of the problem.”

-Kristin Groessl, District 14 resident

“I support Jan Pierce as a new voice for our neighborhood. With intelligence, commitment, and passion for his community, I think he best represents the diversity that is Bay View.”

-Angela Johnstad, District 14 resident

“Jan is proactive in supporting Bay View businesses and organizations and we are confident that he will be a strong advocate for the better interests of the 14th District.”

-Russell and Sasha Karnes, District 14 residents