Lighting up blue: After parade trial, Waukesha focuses on healing

 

WAUKESHA, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Downtown Waukesha was busy Wednesday afternoon, many in the community gathering to continue the healing process.

Waukesha residents are showing support with one another, after Darrell Brooks was found guilty on all 76 counts for his attack at the Waukesha Christmas Parade in 2021.

Blue lights have been a symbol of the "Waukesha Strong" motto since tragedy struck last winter.

On Wednesday night, they were impossible to miss, glowing across neighborhoods and businesses.

"A feeling of hope, a feeling of relief, a feeling of a big hug, a big community hug," said Tami Evanoff.

That's what she hopes the people of Waukesha feel when they see the blue lights across the city.

Evanoff is the owner of the downtown shop, Burlap and Lace.

She has been giving away blue lightbulbs and wristbands in exchange for donations toward the future parade memorial.

Many folks stopped in after Wednesday's verdict, grabbing merchandise that reads "Waukesha Strong."

"It has been busy, and it's very heartwarming to see the community coming out and picking up those things," Evanoff said. "Everybody has been affected."

Along with blue lights, downtown Waukesha seemed to take on new life Wednesday.

In an alley behind Friedman Drive, artists continued painting a "Waukesha Strong" mural that has been in the works since last winter.

"It has butterflies symbolize rebirth and new beginnings," said artist, Christina Dreyer. "At the top we'll have sunrays coming out, which is our sunshine after the storm, and then there's going to be six cardinals to represent the six victims."

The bright colors and hopeful imagery will serve as symbol of healing.

"For a lot of people, they have to deal with this for a long time, the rest of their lives. They lost family or had people that were injured. So this will be here for a long time to be a healing, uplifting spot," Dreyer said.

While Nov. 21, 2021 remains a painful memory, the city is tethered by its strength and unity.

"Waukesha strong is all of us coming together as one, as a community," Evanoff said.

The community will gather next month at the one-year remembrance vigil, set for November 21st at Cutler Park.