Faces Behind the Momentum: Meet the People Powering Downtown Kenosha
Downtown Kenosha doesn’t thrive by accident—it’s shaped by passionate people who care deeply about the city and each other. Through the work of the Go Downtown Kenosha committees, local leaders are creating events, building connections, and making sure our downtown continues to grow with heart. In this article, we invite you to get to know two of those changemakers: Kate Bogdala, who brings spark and strategy to the Events & Promotions Committee, and Francesca Kolens, whose leadership on the Outreach & Retention Committee helps local businesses feel seen, supported, and set up to thrive. Their stories are a testament to the power of community and what’s possible when people come together with purpose.
Kate Bogdala: A Hometown Spark Plug for Downtown Kenosha
The Go Downtown Kenosha Events & Promotions Committee is a dedicated group of community members working to energize and enhance the heart of our city. Through creative events, strategic marketing, and strong local partnerships, the committee aims to celebrate all that Downtown Kenosha has to offer—bringing people together and helping our vibrant lakefront district thrive year-round.
And among the passionate voices helping shape that vision is Kate Bogdala—a lifelong Kenoshan whose deep-rooted love for her city and natural leadership spirit are bringing fresh energy to every event she helps create.
When Kate Bogdala walks through Downtown Kenosha, it’s more than just a stroll—it’s a homecoming with purpose. Born and raised in Kenosha, Kate ventured out to the University of Iowa for college but found herself drawn back by the magnetic charm of her hometown. Now, she’s channeling that deep-rooted love into action as a passionate member of the Go Downtown Kenosha Events & Promotions Committee.
“I grew up going to community events with my dad, watching him lead and connect,” Kate reflects. “That’s where the seed was planted.” It wasn’t long before that seed blossomed into something more. Returning to Kenosha wasn’t just about coming home—it was about shaping its future.
Her journey into the committee was a natural evolution. With a long-standing interest in city happenings, Kate knew she wanted to be more involved. A conversation with Jeanette Kelly helped guide her to the Events & Promotions Committee—an ideal space to put her energy, creativity, and hometown pride to work.
Kate jumped in with both feet. “My first meeting? A little nerve-wracking, but mostly exciting,” she says with a smile. “The people in that room genuinely care. That energy is contagious.” Since then, she’s grown into a confident contributor, helping dream up and execute events that bring life and light to the downtown streets.
From the lively buzz of brand-new events like the St. Patrick’s Day celebration to the community favorite Third Thursday series, Kate’s fingerprints are all over the city’s event scene. She’s particularly excited about the new Sidewalk Sales initiative—designed to encourage families to stroll the streets, explore local shops, and experience the creative spirit of Kenosha. “That’s what I love most,” Kate says. “Seeing people connect, support each other, and build something together.”
For Kate, planning events isn’t just about filling calendars—it’s about amplifying the local voice. “We stay in tune with the community. We talk to business owners, we gather feedback, we listen. It’s all about what makes people want to show up downtown—and keep coming back.”
That focus on connection is what makes Kenosha’s downtown feel so different from other places. “It still feels like a small town,” Kate says. “Everyone knows each other. There’s a sense of belonging at every event.”
Her proudest moments often come from seeing those connections in action—like when local shops get a boost from committee events. “Third Thursdays have been huge for business exposure. More foot traffic, more people exploring—it’s a win for everyone.”
Looking ahead, Kate’s fired up for this summer’s downtown series, packed with live music, food, art, and community spirit. And yes, she’s already counting down to the 4th of July— “Nothing beats downtown Kenosha during the parade and fireworks,” she says.
Ask her what Downtown Kenosha means to her, and you’ll get a heartfelt answer: “Home, pride, and opportunity.” She’s watched the city grow—not just in size, but in spirit. “There’s so much momentum right now. More young professionals getting involved, more businesses opening, and more people finding their place here.”
Of course, she has her go-to local spots. Coffee? East View Coffee for the chill vibes. Food? Captain Mike’sfor killer mac & cheese and fries, or APIS for a solid brunch hang. Her ideal day off? Coffee by the lake, a little downtown shopping, and dinner outside with family.
Kate’s not just about what’s happening now—she’s got big goals ahead. She’s setting her sights on a master’s in business to grow her leadership skills and continue making a real difference in the city she loves.
Her greatest inspiration? Her parents. Her dad, recently elected mayor, and her mom, a powerhouse in her own right, have shown her what true leadership looks like. “Watching them lead with heart and purpose has taught me so much. Now I’m ready to do the same, in my own way.”
Kate lives by a piece of advice that says it all: “Be the kind of leader you’d want to follow.” With her dedication, energy, and hometown pride, it’s safe to say Kate Bogdala is exactly that kind of leader—and Downtown Kenosha is all the better for it.
Spotlight on Community Engagement: Francesca Kolens on Downtown Growth and Connection
As a proud salon owner and passionate advocate for local business, Francesca Kolens of Francesca & Co. Salon (5700 7th Ave.) is helping shape the future of Downtown Kenosha through her involvement in the Go Downtown Kenosha Outreach & Retention Committee. This committee, which meets every second Wednesday of the month, is dedicated to supporting and retaining local businesses through outreach, events, and open communication. In this interview, Francesca shares her experience, insight, and why she believes every downtown business owner should get involved.
When Francesca Kolens first heard about the Go Downtown Kenosha Outreach & Retention Committee, something clicked.
“I knew right away it was something I wanted to be a part of,” she says. “I wanted to learn more about downtown, get involved, and surround myself with people who genuinely care.”
For Francesca, the decision wasn’t just about business—it was about connection. She found the committee to be an inclusive space where helpful information is always flowing, and business owners feel supported. “The overall experience has been amazing,” she shares. “I truly believe more downtown business owners would love being a part of it.”
That spirit of collaboration and connection drives everything the committee does. From planning special events and promotions to crafting unique downtown experiences, Francesca sees firsthand how these efforts boost visibility and foot traffic for local shops, salons, and restaurants. But it’s not just about fun events—it’s also about heart. “The committee does a lot of intentional outreach,” she explains. “It’s about personally connecting with business owners, listening, and helping with issues that come up. When a new business opens, there’s a warm welcome. That kind of proactive support makes a huge difference.”
As a salon owner, Francesca brings a grounded, practical voice to the committee. She knows what it’s like to run a small business and values the visibility that events and shared promotions provide. “When a client tells me they discovered my salon through a downtown event or social media post—it reminds me why this work matters.”
One of the challenges the committee faces is parking—something that’s come up from time to time. But Francesca sees it through an optimistic lens. “Honestly, I see it as a good problem. It means people are coming downtown and enjoying what we have to offer!”
For her own salon, being located across from a convenient parking garage makes life easier. And the committee’s clear communication—especially when events are on the horizon—helps businesses plan ahead and keep clients in the loop. “That heads-up makes a big difference,” she notes. When it comes to retention, Francesca emphasizes the importance of making business owners feel seen, heard, and empowered. The committee maintains an open line of communication with the city, shares marketing tools, and looks for creative solutions together. “The more supported and engaged people feel, the more likely they are to stay—and thrive.”
Francesca is also quick to encourage other business owners to get involved in downtown committees. “You gain so much knowledge and become part of a passionate group that’s working to grow not just their businesses, but the whole downtown community,” she says. “It’s about collaboration, creativity, and making sure no one feels like they’re in it alone.” And what about the broader community? Francesca’s message is simple: your support matters. “Shopping local, attending events, even just sharing a post—it all helps. It builds awareness and shows small business owners that their work matters. When people show up, it not only helps current businesses—it inspires new ones to open. That’s the power of a supportive community.” In Francesca’s eyes, Downtown Kenosha is more than just a place to do business. It’s a place where people care, where creativity flows, and where teamwork makes a lasting impact.
Want to get involved The BID Board meets monthly, on the third Tuesday of the month at the Wyndham Garden Kenosha Harborside 5125 6th Avenue Kenosha, WI 53140 at 8:30am. Meetings are open to the public. Learn more about the Lakeshore Business Improvement District HERE
