Wildflowers on the Water

Friends of Lakeshore State Park is excited to bring back Wildflowers on the Water. Come celebrate our beautiful blooming prairies and join us on Saturday, September 7, 2024, as the Friends of Lakeshore State Park partner with Sincerely in Song and local singer, songwriter and friend of the parks, Sarah Fierek, to curate an experience that honors the land and helps raise awareness for the work of Friends of Lakeshore State Park. 

2nd Annual Wildflowers on the Water – A Friends of Lakeshore State Park Gathering

The 2nd Annual Wildflowers on the Water – A Friends of Lakeshore State Park Gathering will include live music, local artists and creators as well as food trucks, a community drumming circle, and activities for the youth and general public. During the event, DNR Naturalists will be hosting Take and Make: Native Plants for Tea 3:15-4:15 PM and a Late Summer Prairie Walk 4:30-5:30 PM. All ages and abilities welcome! Event vendors and activities will be throughout the park.

We encourage the public to support the fundraising efforts for projects at the park such as wildflowers being planted in the park, educational programming to the park, infrastructure and more. Sarah Fierek’s song, “Wildflowers”, which was released last year at the inaugural event last September, will continue to support the mission of Friends of Lakeshore State Park and dedicate a percentage of the song’s earnings back to Friends of Lakeshore State Park. Sincerely in Song’s mission is to “Uplift, support and amplify non-profit causes and movements that better our world with our songs, voices and likeness of our brand.”

Can’t make the event but want to support the effort?

Activities & Offerings Throughout the Park

Community Drumming with Angie Mack 

Live Cello by Malik Toure a.k.a. “99TheProducer”

DNR Naturalists will be hosting Take and Make:

Native Plants for Tea 3:15-4:15 PM and a Late Summer Prairie Walk 4:30-5:30 PM. All ages and abilities welcome! 

Canvas Painting – Small Make-and-Takes by Canvas & Company 

Canvas & Company will host a live outdoor painting session for all ages. Materials will be provided for the first 50 participants to join in the fun. Participants will create their own miniature masterpieces to take home as a keepsake. Artist’s will assist make-and-take sessions featuring 4×4 canvases with the theme “Wildflowers on the Water.” 

Honey Petal Farms – Wisconsin Grown

A Sheboygan county farm, specializing in growing native, wildflowers and everlasting cut flowers in the most earthy way. Feel free to sniff away, their blooms are pesticide free!

All Hands Boatworks Table

Learn about STEAM boat-building projects for schools and other youth groups. Sign up for after-school teen skills and mentoring programs at the boat shop – It’s FREE! Community Workshops Info — Learn about workshops for adults to preserve skills in woodworking and maritime crafts. Paper boat-making and coloring activities for kids. Check out the new skin-on-frame canoe on display.

Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District (MMSD) Table

Learn about the work done by MMSD, Highlights will include their Household Hazardous Waste Program, Take Back my Meds, Water Drop Alerts, Native Plant and Rain Garden information.

3:00PM Welcome and Remarks

3:05PM – 3:15PM Ceiba Chavez – Sound Bowl Healing Journey

3:15PM – 3:25PM Kavon Cortez Jones – Spoken Word Poetry 

3:25PM – 3:55PM  Lea the Princess – Spoken Word Poetry

Live Music

3:55PM – 4:10PM The Ukuladies

4:10PM – 4:30PM DJ Shawna

4:30PM – 5:00PM Wildered 

5:00PM – 5:30PM Dandelion Delivery Service

5:30PM – 5:50PM Suzanne Grzanna

5:50PM – 6:10PM Sarah Fierek with special guest Angie Mack

6:10PM – 6:35PM Charlie Vibes

6:35PM – 6:55PM April Henry 

6:55PM Closing Remarks

Artist Bios

Sarah Fierek

Sarah Fierek

Formerly known as a ‘recovering musician’, now recording and lifting others up along the way.  Sarah’s mission as founder of Illustrious Creative Works & Sincerely in Song is to: “Uplift, inspire and amplify non-profit causes and movements that better our world with our songs, voices and likeness of our brand.” Sarah is a visionary who is always learning and believes in the power of music and authenticity. She is a connector who enjoys encouraging those around her to live their purpose and reach their highest potential. “The journey is always the prize.” S. Fierek @sarahfierek · https://sarahfierek.com/

Kavon Cortez Jones

Kavon Cortez Jones

Kavon Cortez Jones (Kj) was born on September 26th, 1994 the same year as Bucks forward Giannis in a city he calls, Paris of the Midwest. He is a Milwaukee homegrown poet, avid biker, and storyteller who was born and grew up in Milwaukee. Young Kj was inspired to write poetry in 7th grade while attending Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. K-8 School thanks to local mentors Kwabena Nixon and Muhibb Dyer.

DJ Shawna

DJ Shawna

Shawna Nicols, widely known as DJ Shawna, has marked her territory on both national and global stages. Previously a professional athlete, Shawna’s journey was always underscored by an enduring relationship with music. ​ In addition to her role as Official DJ and Producer for the Milwaukee Bucks, her career highlights also include rocking the NBA Bubble as an official DJ, setting the rhythm for three NBA All-Star games, and sharing in the euphoria of a World Championship victory. More at https://www.djshawna.com.

Lea The Princess

Lea The Princess

Born and raised in Milwaukee, Lea The Princess is a multifaceted artist known for her abilities as a rapper, singer, songwriter, actress, poet, and producer. Beyond the labels, she is a woman with a passionate love for God that has a gift for creating art inspired by her faith.

Malik Toure

Malik Toure

a.k.a. “99TheProducer” is a classically trained cellist, composer, and music producer based in Milwaukee, WI. He is a Grammy nominated producer, for his work on Kirk Franklin’s Grammy award winning album Long Live Love and Masego’s “Studying Abroad, Extended Stay.” He has performed with the Matt Jones Orchestra, which led to a collaborative performance with PJ Morton on NPR’s Tiny Desk in 2017 and worked on John Legend’s Christmas album released in 2018. In addition to his skill as an outstanding cellist, Malik is a self-taught guitarist, and a formally trained pianist. Malik’s current projects include writing and arranging strings for upcoming projects, teaching, and producing his debut album as 99TheProducer.

April Henry

April Henry

April Henry is a Cinematic Pop alchemist, who sings in every genre,  Blues, Rock, Soul, Pop, in several  languages and is also a conservatory trained Opera singer.  She is based in Los Angeles and has lived in South FL, New York, Chicago and toured Hard Rock Cafes across the U.S. and Canada, and also performing globally reaching from Sweden all the way to Japan! She has performed live with Rock n Roll Hall of Famer Michael Hampton from Parliament Funkadelic, and opened for the Legendary Yardbirds at the Rose Theater as well as working in the studio with Oscar Winning Songwriter Dianne Warren and Multi Emmy Winning Composer Brad Hatfield.  ‘Wildfire’ is the first single to drop of her upcoming album, where April is being compared to  the grit of Bishop Briggs, the soulful style of Adele and the otherworldly vibes of Florence of the machine.

Suzanne Gzranna 

Suzanne Gzranna 

Suzanne Grzanna is a mesmerizing jazz saxophonist, and an accomplished vocalist, who has carved a niche for herself in the world of contemporary jazz. Suzanne’s journey as a musician has been nothing short of inspiring. With passion for music since her early years, she has honed her craft and explored various genres, finding her calling in the world of jazz. Over the years, she has collaborated with renowned artists and graced stages across the globe with her breathtaking performances. Her dedication to her art and her relentless pursuit of musical excellence have earned her a dedicated fan base and the title of Sax Diva®, a moniker she wholeheartedly embodies. Suzanne’s new jazz song “Midnight Blue” has just been released. Check it out at SaxDiva.com.

Dandelion Delivery Service

Dandelion Delivery Service

Dandelion Delivery Service is an intergalactic rodeo of original rock and roll fiddle tunes, star-struck harmonies, and sparklingly nightmarish and intimate song writing and storytelling from the heart of Sheilagh Dandy Lyon. 

Wildered

Wildered

Wildered blends folk music and banjos with synths and full band energy. The project began as singer-songwriter Nate Bjorge’s passion project, born out of the need to express life’s afflicting or “wildering” experiences. Nate grew just minutes from co-founder Joshua Miranda in the northwest suburbs of Chicago, just south of the border of Wisconsin. Eventually, Nate and Joshua had both become fans of each other’s music and, as fate would have it, crossed paths with one another. Since then, Wildered has become a collective project of artists and musicians from across the US. This project continues to write and deliver its captivating live experience through honest lyrics and stories, unique sounds, and a diverse sonic spectrum. Wildered released their debut album ‘Emezov’ in summer of 2023 and travels through the US to share a unique live experience that brings these songs, as well as a unique digest of covers, to life.

Holly Harnischfeger

Holly received her BFA in Ceramics from the University of Colorado in 1977. For years she worked in wheel throwing, clay slabs, and tiles. In 2000, she transitioned to Painting. From wheel throwing to mixed media painting, using charcoal, acrylic, photo transfers and encaustic wax, Holly has courageously embraced continued expression and exploration in her artistry. She feels that by combining different media she can capture the essence of her vision. During her 2021 show at the Grove Gallery in Milwaukee, “About a Vase” Jan Serr and John Shannon bought two of Holly’s paintings for their private warehouse collection which were exhibited as part of their Secret Garden show. Holly resides in Milwaukee, WI and continues to make, teach art and create instructional content as an Art Retreat producer in Wisconsin and Carmel, CA.

Angie Mack

Angie Mack

Angie Mack is a musical director, performing artist, blues educator and writer who has a wealth of experience and connections in the arts and entertainment industry. She has an intuitive creative aesthetic and process that allows for diverse creative communication.  Angie has over 20 years in arts project management and has successfully led international teams with great attention to detail.

Ceiba Chavez

Ceiba Chavez

Ceiba (Say-ba) aka 1stLady. Mom, World Thought Leader, Board Advisor, Consultant, Sr. Celebrity Publicist ,Brand strategist, Management & Booking, Music Supervisor, Arts & Tech Entertainment Vet. Full Service Agency and Business Owner of PR and Arts Agency. Honored to create and maintain the legacy’s of some of your favorite celebrities, brands and businesses. The Wailers/Wutang /WuWear/ UNTV/Roc Nation /G.o.o.d Music / Malik Yusef / Angie Stone / Gilbert Brown /Kapri Bibbs NFL) etc. Art & Lifestyle Curator, Event coordinator, Art to the Art Business Teacher & Media Investor TV&Radio Host & Director, Model, Keynote Speaker. Spiritualist, Reiki practitioner, lightworker, sound bath artist, visionary, alchemist, and guru networker.

Sydney (Artist and Muralist, aka Syd the Muralist)

Sydney (Artist and Muralist, aka Syd the Muralist)

As the lead artist and muralist for Canvas & Company, I bring my passion for art and creativity to every class. I enjoy sharing my unique creating methods and helping others discover their artistic potential. With a background in mural painting and a love for community engagement, I strive to make every event a memorable and inspiring experience. If you would like to learn more about murals, visit sydthemuralist.com.

Mariah (Operations Manager)

Mariah (Operations Manager)

Mariah is the organizational mastermind behind Canvas & Company. With a background in science, she efficiently handles all behind-the-scenes operations and ensures everything runs smoothly. Mariah assists during classes, providing support and enhancing the overall experience for our participants. Together, as friends who love to talk, meet people, and spread joy, we thought what better way to do that than offer painting classes.

Danielle Carroll

Danielle Carroll

Danielle Carroll is the Chief Operations Officer and Voice Over Artist At Nexxlegacy. She is a globally featured Jewelry Designer and the Owner of Danaya Designs4U Productions, LLC. She is the Lead Marketing Consultant and contributing writer at HFL Magazine. Danielle is Tik Tok Influencer with over 11K Followers. She is the Executive Assistant at PR and Arts Agency, Content Creator and Social Media Manager at MMS Networks LLC. She is Media Coordinator for Life After Sports and on the Board Of Directors of Athletes Who Give. Her Website is  www.danayaazure.com

Chuck Diesel

Chuck Diesel

Chuck Diesel is the creative force & provider of good vibes at Diesel Productions MKE, producer of the music of Charlie Vibes and Bocas Breeze Island Sounds, and an ACA Entertainment artist. 2024 is the second year he has been part of Wildflowers On The Water, and it marks the release of “Waiting For The Day,” a brassy call-to-arms for voter registration and poll attendance in this year’s elections, and available at the festival merch table. Chuck, known as Mr. Short to his students, can be found teaching college percussion and with the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music’s Community Connections programs when not onstage or in-studio, as part of Milwaukee’s diverse music scene.

Shanti Lleone

Shanti Lleone

Shanti Lleone is a versatile artist, seamlessly shifting from opera to jazz to soulful tunes to Broadway sounds. As an accomplished songwriter, she has earned prestigious awards like the Billboard Pop Songwriter award and the ISC Award. Collaborating with industry giants from the camps of Black Eyed Peas, Christina Aguilera, and Lady Gaga. Performing in over 60 countries, Shanti has shared the stage with iconic bands such as Yes, Ozzy and luminaries like members of The Eagles, Barry White, and OutKast.

Lindsay Stevens

Lindsay Stevens

A seasoned music industry, live events veteran, and award-winning sustainable events producer, Lindsay Stevens’ expertise spans 26+ years. She is the decade-long Founder and Executive Director of Rock the Green, a nonprofit with a mission to engage and empower the community to take eco-actionable steps to live, work, and play.

The Ukuladies

The Ukuladies

The Ukuladies are fun-loving musicians who perform in a wide variety of musical styles. They have held concerts for numerous private organizations, as well as performances at the Audubon Nature Center, at public parks in and around Milwaukee, and at Summerfest. They vary in age, skill and experience, yet above all they come together to enjoy each other’s company.

Paul Terrien

Paul Terrien

Paul Terrien is a seasoned musician and educator based in Milwaukee.  Paul presently teaches at BeSound Music Studios on Milwaukee’s East Side. He plays with several bands, such as Beatallica,  Realm, Lapulele, Kodachrome,  and the Underwood Baptist Praise Band, covering a wide range of genres from Metal to Hawaiian folk. More info at paulterrien.com

Kevin Maher 

Kevin Maher 

Kevin Maher is a multi-instrumentalist from the Milwaukee area. His main instruments are drumset, guitar, and bass. Starting on percussion from a young age, Kevin has played in various jazz bands and orchestras including Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra, MYSO Jazz, and Kids From Wisconsin. He received his bachelor’s degree in jazz guitar performance from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and continues to play and teach music around the Milwaukee area. Kevin currently plays drumset in a band called The Flood that performs old country and rockabilly tunes.

Jack Tell

Jack Tell

Jack Tell is a graduate from UWM Milwaukee studying contemporary Fingerstyle guitar performance and composition. With music inspired by the works of Andy Mckee, Pierre Bensusan, Leo Kottke, Antione Dufour, Kaki King, Michael Hedges, Tommy Emanuel, Stefano Barone as well as many popular influences coming from classic rock artists such as CCR, The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, and 90s rock such as Incubus and Foo Fighters. On top of being a gigging instrumentalist Jack also teaches lessons out of Brass Bell music store in Whitefish Bay, WI.

Brandon Miller

Brandon Miller

Brandon Miller is a guitarist who holds a degree in Jazz Studies from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. He began his performing career with the singer/songwriter troupe Loup. Brandon also played bass for the prog-punk band YLLA, touring the Midwest from Kalamazoo to Austin. He has collaborated with notable local jazz musicians and earned third place in the Sharon Lynne Wilson Center for the Arts International Guitar Competition in 2013. Currently, he performs with a rockabilly band called The Flood. He has taught elementary and middle school music for eight years with Milwaukee Public Schools. 

Yasmine Traore

Yasmine Traore

Yasmine Traore is the founder of CanIJustColorPls. CanIJustColorPls is a collection of adult coloring books of various themes combining travel and art therapy to help find a sense of calm amongst the chaos. She is originally from New York but raised in Wisconsin. After the passing of her Mother, she dedicated herself to different forms of art therapy. With a combination of 14 years of Stage Production experience and finishing her studies at the University of Wisconsin-Madison in Communication Arts and Theater with a focus on Stage Management and Acting, she pursued a career in Stage Production and Graphic Design; thus CanIJust Productions was created. Yasmine’s mission is to document the beauty within the mundane.

Audio Engineer

Max Nemer is a freelance sound technician and partner of Milwaukee based audio production group SoundLive. Max focuses primarily on live audio, mixing front of house and monitors. He strives to prioritize a calm and enjoyable environment for all performers, while delivering an accurate and detailed mix. Max enjoys the large variety of performers he interacts with, from theatre and classical music ensembles to punk shows at clubs and everything in between. 

Host Partners

WI DNR Logo
Sincerely in Song
FLSP Logo

Media Sponsors

88.9
WMSE

$5,000 Level Sponsor

Anonymous

$1,000 Level Sponsor

Canned Water 4 Kids
Port of Milwaukee
Stone Creek Coffee
Johnson Financial Group
Godfrey Kahn
Milwaukee World Festival
The Sigma Group
Laffey, Leitner & Goode, LLC

Sue & Tim Frautschi

$500 Level Sponsor

MKE MIC
Educators Credit Union
The CJO Agency
The Harp

Roberta & Dave Remstad

$250 Level Sponsor

MIAD
Milwaukee Kayak Company
Baird
Visit Milwaukee
mke downtown
Staythanks

Alexandria Simons

Lela Boutique

David Wenstrup

Other Participating Partners

Honey Petal Farms

Ozaukee Talent

Canvas & Company

Danaya Designs 4U

Uplift, inspire and amplify non-profit causes and movements that better our world with our songs, voices and likeness of our brand.

Sincerely in Song

PREVIOUS GATHERINGS

1st Annual Wildflowers on the Water

September 9th was a beautiful day. Many adults and children came to the park to celebrate nature, music and art, and enjoy a variety of free, family-fun activities. Wildflowers on the Water would not have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors – The Friends of Lakeshore State Park and Sarah Fierek thank you!

overlay image

Upcoming Events in the Park

Lakeshore State Park offers educational programs for teachers, community organizations, private events and the general public. The programs emphasize sustainability and stewardship of our natural and freshwater resources. These experiences are geared toward learners of all ages, and include walks, tours, lectures, hands-on outdoor activities and laboratory exercises.

overlay image

School Groups and Community Organizations

Lakeshore State Park offers educational programs for teachers, community organizations, private events and the general public. The programs emphasize sustainability and stewardship of our natural and freshwater resources. These experiences are geared toward learners of all ages, and include walks, tours, lectures, hands-on outdoor activities and laboratory exercises.