America goes 244. But again, the struggle continues on. Even during a pandemic.

Well here we are. For the 244th time, it’s America’s birthday. And still many of us have a pandemic on our minds to keep safe. And being aware of the on going struggle of rights and privileges that everyone American should be created equal. We know everytime we see those words should be a constant reminder of every person reading this blog and of course those that use everything else.

However between last year and this year, this Indepenence Day has been a drastic change: COVID-19. Usually I say this that the folks who were here last year celebrating or observing or protesting this holiday are not around this year because many of the thousands have died after suffering this symptom of the Coronavirus. Many of our traditional gatherings at parks, festivals, activities had been either reduced to the social distancing or cancelled for the rest of the year due to the virus. The many folks who previously protsted state capitals in the Don’t Tread On Me Flags, or the Rebel Battle Flags or with Rifles strapped with guns all had this distain that the state houses were promoting “Tyranny” in terms of those wanting to go back to work. That’s not tyranny, that’s being stupid and ignorant. And what’s funny that I mentioned this in the last blog about the words “Tyranny Response Team” on the backs of shirts. Really?

Those men and some women are not a Tyranny Response Team. They are frauds! I know I shouldn’t be saying this on the 4th, but I had to say that it’s apparent that they are misguided about the use of freedom. Oh yes, with out our military and all the guise of implications of our Indedpendcce, we wouldn’t have a 4th of July to celebrate. Nor I dare say a Juneteenth Day. And yes those are #facts!

Let me further say three words on this 244th occasion: Black Lives Matter! That’s right: BLACK LIVES MATTER.

The very same words that our so-called president labeled the organization as a symbol of hate. Other individuals that deflected those words to something like “All Lives Matter”. Let me dive in on this again. I know many had the chance to listen to activists in a response to the message that Frederick Douglass stated years ago called “What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?” Oh yes, that is the speech that many are afraid to read and hear, but to us in the black community, Douglass revealed in his speech of the concerns that the black slaves never had to say but to feel what they were thinking. Even though they couldn’t stand up for themselves. But what Douglass really told was the hardcore truth that the celebration was fine for most folks, but to the black slave: Not as much. He stated at the time was “this is your celebration, not mine”. He also stated that while you celebrate your liberty in all, he must mourn. Keep in mind this was in 1852 on July 5th. Now 168 years later his Great-Great-Great-Great Grandchildren are reciting that same portion of the speech as he did. And it’s poetic because they need to know what their 4th Grandfather had to feel. BUT…….they also must read the WHOLE SPEECH! Not just that portion. My advice to them would be (and they’ll have to understand) read the whole speech before making a comment on Social Media in a weird way then you know. Of course, if Frederick Douglass were alive today saying that speech, either he would be attacked on Facebook, harassed, or shot dead. All because he was revealing a thought that many had been thinking for so long. But he also wanted the Country to improve in a sense of getting to that promised land of opportunity.

Henceforth: Black Lives Matter!

This is also the occasion that individuals like George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Rayshard Brooks, Ahmaud Arbery, and countless others in the country who are black had been killed by the hands of the police, and racism are not here. Which still lingers to this day. The activists of today who scream out Black Lives Matter are the new colonists. They are the new Paul Reveres that ring out warnings. They are the Elizabeth Cady Stantons, and many others of the yesteryear that are ringing out the concerns that many need to be aware of. Or in this case, STAYING WOKE! I know that many of us were on our live feeds today or leading up to the 4th, in regards to wearing black. In terms of Black Lives Matter and many others that wouldn’t wear the traditional colors of Red White and Blue.

So what.

Many know that the folks of Morticians or Goth wear black every day and nobody says nothing. How many folks wear black shoes EVERYDAY? I’m just saying! This is all coming from those who were logging into Facebook in Blackout groups that many tried to get others to join to participate. The whole idea was to be informed about the concerns dealing with black lives, and there is some advertising for black-owned businesses. Me personally, I support black businesses all the time. The ones I know very well from Black Barbershops, Black Daycares, Organizations here in Milwaukee like the Northcott Neighborhood House which was founded by the denomination that I was confirmed 30 years ago in 1990, the United Methodist Church, and my church is black supported! So I know this very well. My thing is like every July 7th, we know that Black Out Day is a time to support black businesses, but it is also a reminder that the support of the black dollar goes on all the time!

Also on the fourth, well there were some that have something to add in the concerns: There was an event and a protest held in Pewaukee and Milwaukee in regarding that Black Americans were excluded from celebrating the 4th of July Celebrations. The idea of the event and acts were to address the concerns of Police Brutality and Racism.

From the transcript via WISN Channel 12: AROUND CUTLER PARK AND THE WAUKESHA PUBLIC LIBRARY. NOT EVERYONE IS CELEBRATING THE FOURTH OF JULY THIS YEAR NATIONALLY, THERE’S BEEN A CALL TO BOYCOTT THE HOLIDAY. PROTESTERS SAY THAT BECAUSE THE BLACK COMMUNITY HAS BEEN EXCLUDED FROM THE FREEDOMS THE HOLIDAY STANDS FOR. NO AMERICANS SHOULD BE CELEBRATING. IN PEWAUKEE, PROTESTERS GATHERED TO CALL FOR AN END TO RACIAL INJUSTICE. THEY MARCHED FROM THE PUBLIC LIBRARY TO PEWAUKEE BEACH, A ALONG CHANTING THE MESSAGE, NO JUSTICE, NO PEACE. ORGANIZERS SAY THE GOAL WAS TO KEEP RACISM AND POLICE BRUTALITY ON THE TOP OF EVERYONE’S MIND. >> A LOT OF TIMES PEOPLE THINK AFRICAN-AMERICANS ARE ANGRY. THEY ARE NOT ANGRY. THERE HAS BEEN POLICE BRUTALITY, BUT LIVES TAKEN DUE TO VIOLENCE, SO WERE TAKING A MOMENT TO STOP AND BREATHE.

BEN: IN MILWAUKEE, ANOTHER GROUP OF PROTESTERS GATHERED FOR A MOMENT OF MOURNING. THE PROGRAM AT THE UNITY GOSPEL HOUSE OF PRAYER INCLUDED POETRY, LIVE MUSIC, AND DANCING. ATTENDEES WERE ENCOURAGED TO REMEMBER THE LIVES LOST RECENTLY DUE TO CORONAVIRUS, VIOLENCE, AND RACIAL INJUSTICE.

https://www.wisn.com/article/people-use-holiday-to-hold-protests/33178206

Also, over the weekend, former NFL Player Colin Kaepernick made his remarks over the holiday by stating “we reject your white supremacy.” He writes on Twitter:  

“Black ppl have been dehumanized, brutalized, criminalized + terrorized by America for centuries, & are expected to join your commemoration of ‘independence’, while you enslaved our ancestors. We reject your celebration of white supremacy & look forward to liberation for all.”

No matter if it was on MSN or Yahoo the story was picked up. And just as I was logging off, here come those who are overly patriotic saying in the comments: “Get over it” or “Go back to a history class”, “quit whining”. Part of what he was saying was in fact true. There has been concerns that America terrorized nations without any consent, bombed innocent people, declared in the Declaration that Indians were savages, and oh, escalated the use of Slavery before, during and the after the founding of the nation. And yes, some of our Founding Fathers that signed the legendary document were slave owners. Even the father of this land by the name of George Washington was a SLAVE OWNER! Instead of hiding from this so-called Fake News, just admit the truth. Yes, of course we can celebrate the 4th, and yes there were black men that fought in the Revolution, but still some of them went back into Slavery! And some also maintained their freedom. Let be real about it.

Also: when many were talking about that had not been researching the story of a white supremacist. I’ll bet that many of those who helped shaped the country, no matter what roles have occurred before and after 1776 probably were connected to White Supremacy! You have the state of Mississippi for the first time in over in one century brought down their state flag with the rebel sign on it. I’ll bet many who were Mississippi born felt jubilant in a peaceful manner that the flag that gave them so many nightmares is finally done! Those monuments of those who were “Civil War Heroes” that lost the war, were taken down. Some were actually destroyed.

In speaking of that when NASCAR finally halted the thought of the Confederate Flags at the events and races that was a jubilant moment. Yes, you can thank Bubba Wallace for that in order to see change happen in the sport.

Now let me conclude this with this. The Fourth is a mixed bag for many folks. Let’s just call it what it is. However in the result of this mixed bag of controversy, yes it’s a day to acknowledge the turning point of the country’s Independence. The document proved to be a starting point to change, to inspire and to confront the issues, concerns and accomplishments that the country endured since it’s founding of 1776. Yes, over the course of human events in the last 244 years, America hasn’t “been that great”. And yet America hasn’t been perfect. But in the years preceded this one in a time frame of a pandemic that already silenced most of the Fireworks displays, parades, and other old-school related events the real Americans must stand up. It must stand up to get the ideas of being self-evident that yes all men are created equal. And should be created equal no matter who or what. Those are not just words, they should be a way of life. All day every day! If that’s the case however then explain why there is so much racism in regarding African-American citizens. From jobs to finance to housing. Even Healthcare! If many are saying “Oh Stephen, you should be lucky to be an American Citizen and have the freedoms to do so. Why are you complaining?” Look, I want THIS COUNTRY TO CONFESS the truth, the ideals founded and have that equality thing that many have been preaching about since Day One! And I also have been discriminated, disrespected, overlooked, unappreciated, devalued and nearly forgotten about. Yes, me! No I’m not going into “I Have A Dream” and recite the same sentences that Dr. King said in 1963. Many of us need to read the whole speech regardless! The same with Frederick Douglass’ speech about again, “What to the Slave is the Fourth of July.” The one portion of that speech many recited over and over again. BUT WHAT ABOUT THE BEGINNING? And black folks you should know better! I’m just saying.

And the part regarding the “Mericless Indian Savages” in the Declaration, and if those who were wearing those shirts on the 4th in regarding the three words, you may have missed out on the words regarding the complaint regarding KING GEORGE III! Beginning with the word “He!” Now many of you saw on Instagram of the picture of Cree Summer (whom had a acting career on A Different World and the voice of Penny from Inspector Gadget) that displayed the shirt just like this:

You know what was missing? See below:

He has excited domestic insurrections amongst us, and has endeavoured to bring on the inhabitants of our frontiers, the merciless Indian Savages, whose known rule of warfare, is an undistinguished destruction of all ages, sexes and conditions.

Question to those who wore this shirt, why wasn’t the whole quote mentioned? There was also a missing thought that it wasn’t addressed to ALL INDIANS! Look at the sentence again: What does it start with again? HE – as in the King of England at the time. The founders I think were describing the dilemmas that were problematic. So when folks said all the Indians, that is taking the quote way out bounds. Hear me out. That’s almost like saying all men are dogs. Or all black men are no good. See the angles here? Or in this case all BLM Members are racists and being funded by George Soros. Or when he was touring the country in the poorest neighborhoods, there were individuals or groups that commented that Bill Cosby had “Harsh words for African-Americans”. Get that mess out of here! And according to the stories, there were Indians that fought with the continental army and for the British crown. You know which folks did that also? Black folks! We got to be real! This is not to drown out the Native Americans here. In which I don’t do at all.

People: it’s time to review everyday of this Declaration. In terms of further understanding the thoughts of why the articles and listings were made and not only just to be one sided. You should be asking why they were one sided at first. I should start by saying #AtFirsttheFourthOfJuly wasn’t a holiday for black folks. That is a fact. And yes, you have many saying the same thing, probably on your timelines on Facebook of asking why. But at the same time, we must not forget that the longevity of the struggle still continues! And also there were black men that fought on the side of the continental during the revolution. If you think that Crispus Attucks was the only one that fought and died in that timeframe, guess what? He was not the only one! There were countless others that served like James Armistead, who was a spy on for the Continental Army under George Washington that helped the Americans. Another was Peter Salem, as well as Salem Poor at the Battle at Bunker Hill. Even the 1st Rhode Island Regiment also fought. Why aren’t these names being mentioned like Attucks? In addition to the struggle, that also is an everyday reminder that must hold dear to these three words: Our Sacred Honor.

So yes, as the nation turns the page, or levels up at 244, and it’s ok to celebrate for a moment. But when the next day happens, its back to work.

It’s back to fight White Supremacy.

It’s back to help Homeless Veterans

It’s back to educating our children.

It’s back to realize that Virtual Learning does count like the Traditional Classrooms.

It’s back to supporting Black Lives Matter, in a sense to find Breonna Taylor’s killers.

It’s back to fight unemployment, health issues of COVID-19.

It’s back to defuse the wickedness of Backing the Badge and Blue Lives Matter.

It’s back to stop the abuse of Police Brutality, stand against racism as well as discrimination based of age, religion, gender, education, and experience on the job.

It’s back to fight for the Church in a sense of fighting depression, hunger, finance problems racially, and it’s back fighting the same “Colonial Causes” that were and are in a long working progress. Which includes VOTING!

This year marks 150 years that African-American Men received the right to vote under Amendment 15. Also it’s been 155 years since the Amendment 15 which declared slaves free, hence brought Amendment 13 in April of 1864, thus making it plain in January of 1865 leading to June 19th.

And the beat, in fact goes on.

Men’s Health Month 2020: During the Pandemic and Violent Protests, and Mental Health.

We all know that the month of June is alot to unpack. June is the month of Juneteenth Day, the first day of Summer, Father’s Day, Pride Month for the LGBT, Black Music Month and most importantly for the men: It’s another month to talk about health. Their health. Yes, June is Men’s Health Month. For all the men reading my blogs and I know you are: this is our month to think about our health and wellness. We hate the constant nagging of our women folks who keep prompting us to get our health checked by doctors all the time. We know also that we hear stories from older men who had friends that “went in to the hospital and never came out.” We often hear about the use of our health life span that men die 5% more than women no matter what age or health status that goes on. So let me just get this cat out of the bag in which many women will nag us to hell yet again. And we know we’re not like the women in this department: MEN It’s time to go back to the doctors and nurses! Period. Many of us have been praising the Docs and Nurses since the pandemic started or developed. We’ve stood outside or virtually saying “Thank You” to those that go to war in the hospitals everyday. We say thanks to the paramedics, etc. just to look out for us. We get it. BUT…….MEN: since are we thanking the Doctors and Nurses all this time, is it time that we need to start seeing them again? Even if you haven’t been in a while. Like I said two years ago when I went back to a doctor, I had my male eye doctor TELLING ME to see a doctor! So Men, we have to talk to other men and BOYS to talk about going into the doctor’s office to get ourselves checked up. Especially of what’s going on in the three phases I am willing to comment: Coronavirus, Violent Protests and yes Mental Health!

First lets review in the ongoing saga of the Coronavirus:

We all know that the pandemic is causing a ruckus all over the world. Ranging from ages, income, education, job status and health. In regards to our health, the coronavirus has reached in the categories in age and health status. Again this goes for everyone. But when it comes to men, its becoming a staggering statistic. Emily Willingham who wrote for MensHealth Magazine gave an synopsis of this objective:

“The first hints at this male-biased effect emerged in studies from China. One report describing early cases said that 106 men were diagnosed with COVID-19 for every 100 women. In another study from China of 99 patients with COVID-19 who were hospitalized with pneumonia, 67 were men. Men in China also have been dying at greater rates than women, at 2.8 percent compared to 1.7 percent among women.

The imbalance crops up elsewhere, too. In an analysis of patients testing positive in Singapore, 41 were men and 26 were women. In Italy, the skew is even more stark, with men making up three of every four diagnosed cases.

This coronavirus is not alone in hitting men harder than women. In the 2003 outbreak of SARS, COVID-19’s cousin in infectious disease, being male was linked to more severe disease. Men were more likely than women to die in that earlier outbreak, too.

One possibility, he (Eng Eong Ooi) says, is that differences in hormone levels between men and women could underlie some of this bias. These differences can affect how men and women respond to infectious disease, vaccination, and cancer.

For example, says Ooi, hormones present in greater concentrations in women may suppress levels of the protein that lets the novel coronavirus into our cells.

Other possible explanations, researchers have suggested, include average differences in how men and women spend their days. Men in China, for example, smoke more than do women, which might make them more vulnerable to COVID-19 disease.

Some studies also point to a role for activities that skew toward one sex or the other, clustering them together on a regular basis, allowing for disease spread. Finally, women lag behind men in some of the other risk factors for more severe COVID-19, including cardiovascular disease.

Pinning down relevant factors will take more research and more time, says Ooi. Meanwhile, he says, “the prevention measures remain the same: good hand hygiene.”

That takes us to another factor that could be in play. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has reported that even though everyone knows to wash hands after using a public bathroom, only 65 percent of women do so and an even more scandalous 31 percent of men do.”

So after reading this portion, it appears that we guys have to watch out for smoking more, washing our hands after using the bathroom, making sure we have a good amount of protein in our foods, and many others. But the bottom line in this is really making sure that our hands are sanitized, clean, and not infections with germs that many carry around! Even when it comes to be socially distant! When I am about, I mask up. I cover my hair with a doo-rag, my face with bandana and or masks, and Nitrile Gloves when going out to the store, restaurant, or where ever when it’s not a lot of people. When I get back home, instead of me going to the easy chair and chilling out, I do the following: I go downstairs to the laundry room and I take off my clothes, my doo-rag, bandanas, and shoes to wash. With Lysol Sanitizers! Then I grab a box of aloe vera wet cloths to wipe around my skin on my face, arms, legs, ears, and other body parts that need attention. After that, I put on CLEAN CLOTHES to wear for the rest of the day. Another important fact: I clean my shoes. Why do I do this? When I’m about, shoes pick up traction of airborne pores. Coronavirus for some is airborne. And rumor has it that it could be on for 5 days if NOT directly washed. For jackets and coats: I spray them by using Fabuloso that has the agent to keep the items clean. And after that is done, I hang up my jackets on a hanger away from other clothes to dry overnight. This is my procedure when going out and coming in the house. Some of you might say, “Stephen, that’s a waste. You don’t have to do that.” With all what’s going on , you have to stay ready! If you have a chronic illness like Diabetes like me for two years, yes I can go out, but I have to stay ready along with my steady diet and exercise. Plus taking my medications. If you have a concern of a medical condition while do work outside, again you need to watch out! Word is that the Coronavirus can be deadly to those 60 years and up.Then I’ve heard that it’s between 20-29 and now it’s 18-35 years old. Why you supposed that is: not many are adhering to the Social Distancing, Physical Distancing, not protected with PPE, etc. Many folks are not thinking smart! Now since many of our stupid Republican folks that opened their states and cities after the idiots of men and women claiming it’s tyranny, guess what? More folks who are not as socially distant are becoming effected with the COVID-19. And what is crazy about it that most of that was done by men. So men we need to think smart about this as we remain vigilant about our health of the coronavirus.

Second on the list: Violent Protests. Say this with me if you dare: BLACK LIVES MATTER.

The very same Black Lives Matter we hear more now like a rally cry. This part of Men’s Health should be focus on violent acts against black men. Over an over again the names of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Rayshard Brooks, Tamir Rice, Trayvon Martin, Ernest Lacy, Terrance Fletcher, Walter Scott, Michael Brown, Derek Williams, Dontre Hamilton, and a host of other Black Men who are not on this list that should be are dead because of that happened to them: Police Brutality, Police Shootings, Racism, and other violent acts. In the 1990’s I heard that African-American men are considered “Endangered Species” in the concerns of them losing their lives. When it comes to Black Men getting killed, it seems that the tipping point always goes sharply with a concern. We hear that the highest homicides, killings, and others that mainly target black men. No matter we read about the murders per capita in a city like Detroit, or Chicago or Milwaukee or anywhere else in America, black men are becoming a target of being extinct. I have to be aware every day when stepping out of the house to be alert of my surroundings. No matters who are looking or driving. Black men have to be on “high alert” when something like this comes around. When you hear stories like this, it’s a recurring nightmare in which families worry about. Especially if you are in a black family! African-American Men, especially YOUNG African-American Men are dying at a violent rate more than the white counterparts and more than their female wives and girlfriends. Men, why haven’t we talked about this during Men’s Health Month? Being killed or shot on the street or highway is a health pandemic. Racism and Environmental Racism is now a health pandemic. Gun Violence is a health matter! Yes, I am very familiar with the second amendment of the right to bear arms. And when the folks start shooting, we should start shooting back. That’s going to be a mess. Pools of blood everywhere. Do we want this? What every MALE group needs to talk about in this discussion is the real hard core reality of why this matters. In terms of this extinction of Black Men. And as far as the protests: we know that the black women are leading this thing, but the black males need to have a synopsis to join this matter. Some black men are standing up and leading the charge. But every black man, have to do this as well.

The third tier to discuss: Mental Health.

The next time when you go to the doctor, gents: there will be this question: They might ask, how is your mental health? You might grade it a high point or low point. And the reason why they ask this because it’s apart of your health. It’s apart of your functioning in all what you do. Mainly thinking. For this, I need to steer away and focus on a mental health subject that I read about and that many joked about that is not humorous. Lil Boosie or Boosie BadA** had this conversation several months ago on the radio, about the concerns of gay folks. He instigated about having his sons and nephews might be turning Gay if they didn’t have sex with females. Boosie was all in the that assuming that if they would have sex with the females, they wouldn’t turn gay. Keep in mind, his sons and nephew are teenagers. VIRGINS! When this story broke, I had to bust out my anger like, why would he encourage this?!!! REALLY?! Almost all of the commentary about this subject was centered about the safety and legality of his male sons and nephew. See when crap like this happens or being talked about, the males are going to be scared for life! Check this out, and I want every male reading this: how many of you have every been Sexually Assaulted or Sexually forced by those you know close that had to prove you’re a man? Almost giving up your virginity to prove that you’re not gay?! And having family members that inserting his/her private part into you that might give you AIDS or some disease? I’m going there on this because based on the stories I read online and other blogs. Believe it or not, this happened to me when I was younger and my cousin did this in a shameful act. When I told my parents this, they were livid! And I had to be about 8 or 9 years old. You talk about mental health issues, fast forward to adulthood, you have Lil Boosie saying all this crap and admitted it was a hoax. Or in this case, he was just clowning. That is not a way to joke about this. AT ALL! This is one example of why Mental Health is a concern in the Black Community. We know that Black Women have issues like this and that’s not a lie. Even when sexually assaulting young boys. Oh, this is the part when you can start saying “Save Our Boys!” Proficiently, this is how many folks get screwed up in a health sense as they get older. For all the men who are just staying silent about this matter, you need to speak up. If this were your son that you want to carry on the family name in all, you better back him up NOW! We know we love our sons, grandsons, nephews, cousins, and stepsons. We want them to grow in a world of no pain and pestilence. But with all that’s going on at a higher rate of Mental Health being serious, this is a wake up call.

This is a must wake up call on Men’s Health in terms of what we go through every time. For the men of the households and the households to be, we can’t just let this sit idly by like it’s no concern. This is a health concern that cannot be ignored!

As this Men’s Health Month is coming to a conclusion of 2020, the issues of our health still goes on everyday. Like Breast Cancer. Like Prostate, Colon, Ovarian, Pancreatic, Lung, Bone and many other forms of cancer we read about all the time. Even dealing with COVID-19 and the forms of issues that men face mostly on their own. Domestic Violence is an issue also that men face alone and it’s a fact. Not just creating the problem but also being a victim! If you think that this issue is not a male concern, ladies ask your man if he was a victim of Domestic Violence. And don’t laugh about this. Maybe he needs to let you know that this was an issue since he was child, or a teenager. Or couldn’t shake it off as an adult. Now everyone knows that Men don’t dig into this well, and its a fact.

So after summarizing these three phases, us males have more work to do. Not just for this Men’s Health Month but also year round. Men, you can stop praising all these nurses and doctors and actually get checked!

Scratching my head all this time in the pandemic: The Father’s Day 2020 Edition.

Before the annual tribute to fathers in all begins, this blog is for all the fathers young and old. Happy Father’s Day to the men who are Dads, Grandfathers, Uncles, Great Uncles, Great Grandfathers, StepFathers, God-Fathers, and many other fathers on the planet that deals daily with being a FATHER ALL DAY EVERY DAY! Oh yes, of course, this is the part where many go hard and stupid on the men who don’t step up and raise their kids as much as the women. Look here: there are real daddies out there that DO and I mean DO HANDLE THEIR BUSINESS! There is no question in that. Also for many like me, another father’s day will be hard because my father is deceased for three years. And yet the memories will never die in vain. So even though I’m new to this being without my Dad, the hard thought of him never dies out. And also for those who sympathize and your Dad is still living and you somewhat understand that you really don’t know the feeling until YOU go through the experience.

CALLOUT: And also for all the women who tell the single men without kids Happy Father’s Day, STOP!!! You know darn well not every man is a FATHER! If you say it, we’ll tell you: “I’m not a father.” Don’t tell us Happy Father’s Day because we don’t earn it until it becomes a hard job for us to try and accept. Especially those of us whom are single, unmarried, no kids of our own and just living the single life that many feel are bad and miserable.  Be careful, ladies. Don’t snag us like that. Of course, you can wait until November 19th for International Men’s Day. Or some honorable thing of celebrating Men in the church or community that don’t have kids.

For all the workers of the world, do you realize that it’s time to go back to the office?

Men, since this is a month for our health, you have been thanking the nurses and doctors during the pandemic, do you think it’s time to go back to one? Men’s Health Month is still an objective.

For all the haters that don’t like Virtual Graduations: the students did graduate. What are you hating on?

Hear me out when I say Distance Education rules! Now what?

Was it just me, or Summer 2020 just came in real quick?

If many are not willing to wait, do the questions of still be being “socially distant” mean anything to any?

June is also Pride Month. How you’re doing LGBT folks?

June is also Black Music Month. Be honest. Who still benefits from Black Music since forever? Even if you hate it!

Word is that the 2020 BET Awards might go simulcasting. Even to the non cable networks. And Viacom will do this, how?

For those whom are black and woke: this might be a hard question to ask but in regarding the 4th and many of us hate it because of it’s ties to slavery. Yes it’s true for those whom are so Red, White and Blue that the period whom

After all the protests and the demands of defunding the police so far, are the communities ready to listen to black Americans?

Aunt Jemima, Cream of Wheat, and maybe Mrs. Buttlesworth’s are on the verge of retirement due to the ongoing views of the products being tied to segregation or this case, White Supremacy. Any questions?

Dealing with coronavirus and all the folks don’t care about the corona, what did your doctor really say, again?

Oh, for all you NASCAR fans: why are you mad about the confederate flag? Oh wait a minute, that’s right it’s racist! Nevermind.

Another question: If you have graduated so far to enjoy the smelling of the roses of your achievement, congratulations. Now you realize that you have to give back to your Alma Mater, right? And if your Alma Mater screws up with Alumni events planned: HOLD THEM ACCOUNTABLE! #AlumniStatus

Speaking of Black Music (after all, June is Black Music Month again) which Music in Black History that many know so well that it will not die through the depths of time?

CALLOUT: How can Black Men and Black Women be woke and hate on each other for petty stuff? Yes, this does happen!

Ok, this I need to know: Which artist is really looking forward to performing for the 2020 BET Awards?

For baseball: there is an opening pitcher and a closing pitcher. Regarding Juneteenth Day 2020, closing pitch. The 4th: opening pitch. Why do you ask?

For all of my Pride Readers: that’s the LGBT folks. Is your Pride Month good this year so far?

This might be asked: will many or some of the areas of Milwaukee have Fireworks? For the 4th of July?

Oh yes, how will us Milwaukeeans will be getting around without Summerfest this year?

Which or many of us Men have on the Light Blue for Men’s Health Month?

The NBA and rumored that MLB might start up again. Will the outlook of competition be less or more? And a reminder: there is a pandemic going on.

The Last Ride was a hit. I’m glad that the Undertaker (aka Mark Calaway) told his story. I like many can understand that he wanted to protect the Deadman character over the years behind the curtain. And I had no idea that he had to go through those surgeries and refreshed wrestling skills to maintain the game. Of course, The Undertaker is already a household name for 30 years, but many a few remember him back as Mean Mark Callous in WCW. He was an original “Paul Heyman Guy”. And similar to many wrestlers that were good, not so marketable; it was a foul ball of bad business. However like many also, it wasn’t all the case against Undertaker. It was the promoters. Let’s be honest, the promoters were indeed wrong but had to appreciate. Overall, the Last Ride was lived up to the hype. Thoughts?

And now: A moment for the Fathers. 

For all the Dads that are just now coming out, what will be your reaction for your OFFICIAL first Father’s Day?

For all the Dads that are still around kicking knowledge, what is your best advice for the new Dads coming up?

In Memoriam: For those of us who miss our Dads. This is hard as we know. How do we go through the storm yet again that our Dad’s memories will not die? No matter when and where? May all of our deceased fathers rest in power for eternity and in peace. Mine also.

What is up with this attitude that when Father’s Day comes around, females get an attitude? Oh especially around this time of year?

Has #GirlsDad been always a norm?

When church comes on Sunday, what will be the estimated percentage of Men coming for Father’s Day? It ain’t big for many!

How many Men have actually wore Light Blue for Men’s Health Month on Father’s Day like the MLB?

After this Father’s Day is over, Men you do realize that International Men’s Day is about 5 Months away after June 19th? For those of us whom are not fathers with no kids, let’s celebrate that! No matter what we do or say. I say as an idea, promote International Men’s Day ON Father’s Day too!

Should all Churches and Community Groups have an All Men’s Day? At least for men whom are not fathers in all?  Unsung, perhaps?

Ok, this needs to be asked: what kind of a man is an “Unofficial” Father? or an “Unofficial Dad?” You heard of Honorary Degrees that might be fake. Just saying.

Another need to be asked: no disrespect to Father’s Day or Mother’s Day, but why we have slept on Children’s Day? Which is every second Sunday in June?! Look it up. And don’t say everyday is a Children’s Day.

And………the final question of Father’s Day 2020: what will the Father’s take from this year into the first Decade of the 2020’s? That’s is even worth celebrating for the next generation to ponder in all.

For all the Dads that read my blog, ENJOY YOUR Father’s Day. Be blessed at it. Don’t let none of the disruptive folks hate the thought you got this day. If your Dad is still around kicking knowledge, hold him close! You never know when the day or the hour when it might be his last.

My Take: Juneteenth Day is legit like the 4th of July. And it matters.

Juneteenth Day Matters!

Today is a legit day to celebrate an occasion that actually mattered. No, it’s not the 4th of July as we know very well. We’re talking about Juneteenth Day. A day that many don’t know about but to quote Kevin Hart: “You gon’ learn today!” For the 155th time, America is recognizing a forgotten Independence Day that almost had right previously in the late 1770’s. Yes we all know that originally, Independence Day was started in 1776 in which that yes and many will hear that black people were still slaves. They were in bondage. No rights. Yes, Master. No Master. We know. Frankly, there was a lot of that and a few black patriots at the time fought in the Revolution, attempted to seek their freedom and most went back into slavery. However, it seems that 4th of July was the mainstay of celebrating the Independence of America. Again, you will know this next month. But again, this day of the 19th is a CLOSER! Think of this: July 4th is the opening pitch to freedom. An opening pitch to eliminate tyranny, oppression, and persecution. Even though it should have been stopped in that particular year, many in the country who benefited and owned slaves actually didn’t want that to end. Yes, let’s call it what it was, slavery and commodity equals money. Even though the British rule was already divorced, but the inner struggle of slavery was a long shot to be eliminated. It took 89 years which in baseball is about 16,198 games. But on the first to last game, which was January 1st, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln wrote the Emancipation Proclamation to decide that black slaves would be declared free. 2 years later in 1865, after the assassination of Lincoln, the news to Galveston, Texas from General Grainger that the slaves would be now and forever free. This was known as “General Order Number 3.” This is why I say Juneteenth is the CLOSER, or the closing pitch that ended the dreaded streak. That ended the game that many fought for so long to eliminate. This is why I also say that “Juneteenth Day Matters Like The 4th!”

For many of you who are not black, and just wanting to know what this is, and we know many of you will be going all decked out Red, White, and Blue next month. Get this: if you know the 4th, get to know what Juneteenth Day is about. Get to know why this day matters. And many of you are in education, working for the curriculum. I challenge you to put Juneteenth Day further ON THE MAP! I challenge all of those who are black educators: put this day of June 19th ON THE MAP for the curriculum. It is necessary because this is part of the historical events that Americans need to know and summarize. After all, do many people still say that “Black history is American History?” Remember that quote that I hated since Black History Month? Yeah well, since Juneteenth Day is an American Occasion, why not add this to the American History that folks again, need to know! And Black History is STILL World History!

Unlike many Juneteenth Day Celebrations in the country, there were not many marches. And social distancing was in effect due to the coronavirus. In spite of that, Juneteenth Day went on regardless. There were marches, shutting the streets down, murals were and are still being painted on to streets that were declared “sacred ground.” Speeches were made to declare slavery was dead but the struggle goes on. Even after the deaths of George Floyd, Ahmaud Aubrey, Breonna Taylor and countless others that died in the hands of the police. And yet, the Juneteenth Day flags were raised in cities that were used for the first time. EVER. Milwaukee, my homecity that has celebrated Juneteenth longer in the north, raised the new flag outside of the Zeidler Municipal Building. This is the same building named after one of Milwaukee’s Mayors, and a centralplex for the April Voting Drives. Not only that , but Madison also held its Juneteenth Day Flag raising on the State Capitol signifying the 155th occasion. And also, our Milwaukee County Courthouse also raised the new Juneteenth Banner for the special day. All areas of Milwaukee and Madison had the historical moments documented and summarized!

Now let me go left field on these non-black companies and advertisers that are now just discovering Juneteenth Day. Even the Networks like ABC, CBS, Fox, and NBC are now just discovering this soon-to-be Independence Day. And our so-called president claimed to “made Juneteenth famous”. Let’s cut the Bull….right now:

First of all: Juneteenth Day was made famous by those who were set free from slavery.

Juneteenth Day was made famous who later marched and protested who were mostly black and fought for Civil Rights that we read about over and over again and making sure that the stories still remain in tact for another era of citizens.

Juneteenth Day was made famous by many who still recognize our concerns, our voices, and our black god-given rights to remain active and ALIVE to let those know that our black rights, and lives still matter! Even at a time when many black men are not as active as black women when it comes to concerns in the community. Even though the black men of TODAY are not as active as the forefathers, but they are out there. And they are active and educating the men of now. Of course, the men of now will do their own thing in the future but guidance must be placed on the table!

If many of the folks who are just now discovering Juneteenth, where have they been?! Black folks have been talking about this for YEARS! This is why the white folks and those who work in non-black establishments must listen to every single black citizen either at work or the house. Not just say, “here you go…………” NO! the key words are to “listen to the black folks!” Let us continue to have our turn to say what we want and need to say. Regardless of our stance on employment, health, finance, spiritual, mental, educational physical and countless others that we discuss that we may agree and disagree, but hear us out! If we don’t see a chair at your table, we have chairs at home to bring. Long ago, we didn’t have those rights as we do now. And that struggle has been going on since the start of loading the boats!

And to have our so-called president to have his “rally” on Juneteenth in a town like Tulsa, Oklahoma that had a history of Black Wall Street being destroyed by racist whites in 1921, was a slap in the face. 99 years this month. Although it was moved to June 20th, which is the first day of the summer solstice. Wow. However even though it’s a different time and a different era, but the struggle again still continues.

So yes, Juneteenth Day 2020 is in the books. However, in the recent “support” of Juneteenth must continue to go on. Like those sales of oil changes to get $17.76 off. Where are the $18.65 discounts? Where are those that need to surface? Yes, I know as a black man that Juneteenth Day MUST be carefully guarded not to be fumbled with a commercialized sense of being jaded. If you don’t know what I’m talking about, look at all those sales that are geared towards holidays: New Years, Valentines, Easter, St. Patrick’s Day, Memorial Day, the 4th, Labor Day, Halloween, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving and yes Christmas. I’m not saying Juneteenth Day should be marketable. But being careful HOW Juneteenth Day should be marketed that it shouldn’t be sold in a negative sense. That is the main point of all of this. Same as Target marketing Black History Month. Which it has. But I hope that those that market Black History or Juneteenth Day should donate some of those sales to most needed black-owned businesses, and especially to the schools. I’ll give four letters: HBCU. That’s the Historical Black Colleges and Universities. Don’t just donate to the causes on these occasions, do them ALL YEAR LONG! And I hope that since the companies are “supporting black workers” and donating all the causes, for all of you big companies from Facebook to U.S. Bank, Harley-Davidson, John Deere, Tesla, Taco Bell (yeah I’m putting them on the list after firing the worker who had on a Black Lives Matter Mask) Best Buy, Walmart, news media, technological companies, health organizations, employment agencies, the federal government, state government, city government, county government and anywhere that they claim or stake their claim in the support of black workers: I got four words for you: step your game up! Prove to many that you back up your African-American employees. No matter what their positions are. Why you ask? simply put, their black lives DO matter. And they should matter just like everyone else.

So yes, we made it to another year of Juneteenth. And its very legit like the 4th. But after this day is over: The struggle continues!

A Stephen’s Spot on WordPress Exclusive: Black People are so Tired.

Preface: Before many get offended or shocked, read on, please.

You may have seen this on Facebook or any other Social Media Website. But to take this all in, we need to understand. And many who may not read this may not get it.

But for those of us do, WE GET IT and WE BEEN KNOWING since day 1!

Black people are so tired. 😓

We can’t go jogging (#AhmaudArbery).

We can’t relax in the comfort of our own homes (#BothemJean and #AtatianaJefferson).

We can’t ask for help after being in a car crash (#JonathanFerrell and #RenishaMcBride).

We can’t have a cellphone (#StephonClark).

We can’t leave a party to get to safety (#JordanEdwards).

We can’t play loud music (#JordanDavis).

We can’t sell CD’s (#AltonSterling).

We can’t sleep (#AiyanaJones)

We can’t walk from the corner store (#MikeBrown).

We can’t play cops and robbers (#TamirRice).

We can’t go to church (#Charleston9).

We can’t walk home with Skittles (#TrayvonMartin).

We can’t hold a hair brush while leaving our own bachelor party (#SeanBell).

We can’t party on New Years (#OscarGrant).

We can’t get a normal traffic ticket (#SandraBland).

We can’t lawfully carry a weapon (#PhilandoCastile).

We can’t break down on a public road with car problems (#CoreyJones).

We can’t shop at Walmart (#JohnCrawford) .

We can’t have a disabled vehicle (#TerrenceCrutcher).

We can’t read a book in our own car (#KeithScott).

We can’t be a 10yr old walking with our grandfather (#CliffordGlover).

We can’t decorate for a party (#ClaudeReese).

We can’t ask a cop a question (#RandyEvans).

We can’t cash our check-in peace (#YvonneSmallwood).

We can’t take out our wallet (#AmadouDiallo).

We can’t run (#WalterScott).

We can’t breathe (#EricGarner).

We can’t live (#FreddieGray).

We’re tired.

Tired of making hashtags.

Tired of trying to convince you that our #BlackLivesMatter too.

Tired of dying.

Tired.

Tired.

Tired.

Just freakin’ tired
#RP

Postface: Now we may not know the author of this statement, but whomever he or she is, we’ll know it. But the author points out harsh truths of murder among Black Americans is noted and should be stopped!

Scratching my head all this time in the quarantine – The Mother’s Day Edition

So here we are once again. Mother’s Day 2020. For all the mothers still alive and teaching, Happy Mother’s Day to all of you. I hope that many of you will enjoy your day that is specialized with customized opportunities to be with your families and friends. And to many of us also, from all the round the clock of the Coronavirus, another rack of lies of the so-called president, Stay at Home Orders being unfairly challenged, stimulus checks running late: I’m scratching my head again.

So there are those whom have names of “Karens” that are being added to “Beckys” and “Nancys”. Oh, they know right?

For all those that work at Walmart, Target, in all you better be extra careful when you address the 6 ft rule. Someone might take it the wrong way and don’t act stupid to a customer. What would happen IF THEY ADDRESS YOUR MANAGER? Don’t be surprised.

Which is better: Working from home, or Working at the job on the job?

Which is better: acting like a mother, or being a mother?

Man…..2020 is already taking folks left and right like 2012. Why the deaths of Andre Harrell, Little Richard and now Betty Wright?

This needs to be asked AGAIN: why there are those 35 years old and under that don’t want to volunteer?

Do Progressive Radio stations really want black folks, or just their folks?

Is AEW Wrestling actually bringing the pain to the WWE weekly?

For all those asking and wondering AGAIN, what is the value of being in the group that is Woke and Conscious? Somebody needs answers!

Since the WWE had fanless shows out, many blamed them for not having fans. Then AEW, and UFC also had fanless events and shows. Will the MLB, NBA or other sports have fanless stuff while the Coronavirus passes?

In Michigan, their State Rep, Sarah Anthony was escorted to her office with armed Black Men. Wait hold the phone, black folks how many times we talked about how Black Men need to protect Black Women on the internet and in our families, and other groups? Now I need to clarify that black men are not going to hear about how they can protect themselves and then protect the Black Queens in all. The women will not say this. CALLOUT: Women, when was the last time you told your sons, cousins, nephews, grandsons, great grandsons, brothers in all that you(in your words) have to protect me? They need to learn how to defend themselves first even though they have to protect you!

Hold up, this needs to be extra clarified: Whenever we see all these foolish protesters with the rifles, the rebel flags and the Don’t Tread On Me Flags talking about reopen this state or reopen that state. For all you morons making a scene outside of that White Privilege, REALLY? You all are crying and pissed just because you want to governors to “Go Back To Normal” as usual. Well, I got news for you, we don’t know that! We don’t know if and when we will or would go back to normal. So technically if we are to open the state, you all ready know that many might DIE right? There are those of you might say, “Oh we are very aware about those dying in all….” Really? If you are really that concerned about those whom are on the illness, why are you fools are making this a political issue!? This is a HEALTH AND WELLNESS CONCERN! Wake up!

The month of May is two things: Military Appreciation Month and also, Mental Health Awareness Month. You know what it is. Why is it important to recognize them both you asked? READ THE HISTORY!

Hold Up, YET AGAIN: So you got this Shelly Luther didn’t close her shop in Dallas Texas because she defied a Executive Stay Home given by the state and city. Then by the judge, she was given 7 days of jail. After that, there was Go Fund Me page for the shop, and it was raised $500,000. A raise in….White Privilege! So opening a shop is worth than saving lives? This is was nothing more than insane thoughts. Ain’t it something? And oh, what would happen if a black woman or a black man opened a Barbershop or a Beauty Salon during the pandemic? Take a while guess.

If Virtual Learning is not that liked or criticized by those who are just now learning it, why complain? And if anyone knows this is me going through UW-Stout. By the date comes on May 13th: 14 years. And oh I survived it!

30 years ago in 1990, Milwaukee had a snow storm that was on May 10th. Did we almost had a repeat?

Last year, there were 20 Democrats for the determination to become the nominee for the General Election. Now since Joe Biden is the last man standing, will he go through

MTV needs more dance shows. Most recently they have brought back Club MTV after 30 years being on the shelf. And to ask, where’s Downtown Julie Brown?

Oh, fair question: how many of you have updated your resumes and portfolios?

Again people: I need to ask though, if you are looking for a job in all in your hometown, then all of a sudden you get calls from out of state that the jobs are open in a temporary basis. My question is: why are the LOCAL COMPANIES not calling or contacting the folks about the jobs in the community?! Very corny.

For the Class of 2020: Many of us are so sorry that you’ll not do the traditional way of walking with your classes. W can still say congrats. However, what about doing it virtually or has that happened?

Should CareerBuilder have an option to not have a choice of not making their customers choosing Temp Jobs?! That’s right I said it!

Since DJ D-Nice showed up on Instagram with the jams. It seems that every other DJ since him has done this on Facebook, Periscope, Twitch, Live TV, and other related platforms after him. Hold up: has this been done before, almost?

Introverts: My fellow Innies, are we winning?

For those whom miss our Barbershops, Beauty Salons, Nail Techs, and other needy stuff, why are we rushing to get back?

How does it feel to turn your homes into makeshift workplaces and dining rooms into makeshift altars for Church?

Speaking of Churches being quarantined: Press Play when you’re ready.

Church folks: does this sound familiar when working with the mute button? Don’t say its the devil, neither! Say Amen, people.

Now: this is for all the mothers:

For all the New School Mothers – Happy Mother’s Day.

For all the Old School Mothers – Happy Mother’s Day.

For all the Mother’s that had to work and still work all day everyday: Happy Mother’s Day.

For all the mothers whom had to go back to school and get that degree many many many years later, but did it for her kids: Happy Mother’s Day!

For all the mothers that continue to teach the Boys, the Girls, the Men and other Women to be productive citizens in life all the time: Happy Mother’s Day!

For all the Mothers who served this nation in uniform and earned the title of Veteran: Happy Mother’s Day.

For all the mothers that are currently serving this nation in uniform and earning the title of solider, airman, shipmate, coastie, or marine: Happy Mother’s Day.

For all the mothers whom are police officers, firefighters, paramedics, nurses, doctors, engineers, mechanics, business owners, media, stockbrokers, and any other profession that is gender balanced: Happy Mother’s Day.

For all the mothers that just committed to Unions, Happy Mother’s Day

For all the Mothers whom are apart of any Sorority that is NOT on the list of Expelled Members, but paying their dues all the time for new members to join: Happy Mother’s Day!

For all the Mothers that guide offices and positions in the workforce, the church, the community, the neighborhoods and others: Happy Mother’s Day!

For all the Single Mothers whom constantly push against the grain but still manage to prove others wrong: Happy Mother’s Day.

For all the Mothers whom are heaven bound, as in gone home to God and had been memorialized, funeralized, had the last rights, had the 21 gun salute and many other final goodbyes: We thank those in their memories to live on continuously!

EXTRA: For all the mothers whom are on the front line during this pandemic, and missing their children and husbands, and missing the free time, family time, and had to Zoom, or FaceTime their folks: yes you get an ultra Happy Mother’s Day!

And for all the mothers whom don’t have children. Yes, not every woman is a mother! Those whom are like mothers, and whom are just there as needed to be called upon. Yes, they too deserve a Mother’s Day also. EVEN THOUGH THEY AREN’T MOTHERS!

And to the mothers that look at my blog all the time or some of the time: yes you too, deserve a Mother’s Day. Even to all the Introverted Mothers and Dark Horse Mothers that keep the peace in times of conflict and telling the truth! And still working.

So to the Momz, Mothers, Mommies, Mami’s, Madres, Mommas, Mother Dears, Big mamas, grannies, aunties, great aunts, Godmothers, Matriarchs, and the New Big Mamas that need transitional ideas to move forward, and many other mothers I can’t even think about: yes this is your Mother’s Day. Enjoy it!

Oh, and PS: Dad’s count too in a sense.

Red Alert: We all must rise against the Coronavirus Part II. And the stupidity must stop!

Oh you thought I was done, huh?

You thought the last blog about the Coronavirus was the last? Well apparently not because like many I’ve been observing all of the cases, deaths, so called conspiracies, closings, delays, and yes those godawful protests of the right wing fools dressed in the battle flags, Gadsden Flags and this thing about Liberating this state and that state. Oh did I forget to mention that our so-called president told us to inject or inhale Lysol? This fool is trying to kill us with a household product that we use everyday to spray our bathrooms to inject that into our bodies to wear off the Coronavirus. If you really did that, consider yourself extremely stupid!

In the last couple of weeks, since many of the states have declared themselves Safer At Home, or Stay At Home there has been alot of “So Far” Stats in regarding to the spread of COVID-19. And yet many are still observing the stats daily with New York State on a constant basis. And of course we still had to hear what 45 had to say in which may are feeling that he is still straight LYING to us in terms of the “invisible enemy” of the Corona. The more he tells this, I’m changing the channel because it’s stupid of him to address the American people of what’s is really going on! The folks who really are feeling the pinch of the Coronavirus is those whom are uninsured have high fevers, real shortness of breath, diabetes, high blood pressure and many other factors of those whom are over 60 that could be and can be are effected. And for those of us whom are Black, we got it the worst. Why do I bring this up, is because it’s no secret. Anytime we see these humanistic symptoms come up we know instantly somebody might say, “Black people aren’t effected. It’s all about money when Coronavirus is mentioned. Then we are all scared in junk……” For all those who think that, you must be drunk with some serious malt juice. And in the last several weeks, in addition with non-blacks dying, black folks have been effected. We know it. And many like to crack jokes like it’s hood comics. WAKE UP! When your friend or family member gets the Coronavirus and DIES, its game over. More recently, I just lost one of my former teachers that I had since college in the late 1990’s. And the teacher, Leonard McGhee was just 75 years old! This was one of my printing teachers from the Milwaukee Area Technical College that I truly followed. And yet you folks want to crack assumptions that the Coronavirus is fake. Oh you all better stop this mess and get real serious about the pandemic. If you’re not that serious, your Mortician or Undertaker is preparing your burial. Keep acting a fool, keep the masks off, no bandanas, no nitrite gloves, keep playing outside, and oh, keep messing around when the cops will arrest you for breaking the Safe Home Laws. More below.

What is also stupid during the Coronavirus? Our so called Republicans in Wisconsin are going to the lawmakers to get the extension of the Safer At Home Order blocked in order to reopen the state. Oh great, leave it to the @$$Clowns of Robin Vos and Scott Fitzgerald to get all the citizens in Wisconsin to DIE! Seriously, these folks want many folks to perish for their personal gain of egos. Even black folks to die away quickly. The Safer At Home Order was extended to May 26th to give time for the State to evaluate the situation of the pandemic. But oh no, the GOP are desperate fools that want to rush the Governor to get all the systems to go by May 11th. What’s even worse is that, the so-called protesters that made fools of themselves with the flags and rifles outside of the Capitol with all that White Privilege were leading the charge. But I also hate to say this, but May 11th is not going to cut it. Nope! No really knows when this pandemic will be over. Another problem with the stupidity: DOMESTIC VIOLENCE IS ON THE RISE! That is a hard one if you know someone or are someone that is going through the problems. And keep in mind, Domestic Violence is STILL a problem! Not just women, but also men and children are effect. Yes I did say MEN why because they get hit also by those who do the damage all the time. Even during the Coronavirus.

Also, beginning this week, in Milwaukee, the Milwaukee Police Department will be handing out L’s. Fines of $500.00 in regarding to those who don’t comply with the Governor’s Orders. They said they would do this and they are not messing around. Have they indicated this before? Yes. Press play:

That was March 23rd. Last month. So don’t act like “Oh I didn’t know. Nobody told me…..” You all should have known that would happen and guess what, according to the news, approximately 133 citizens were arrested for violating the Safer At Home Order. Those are facts. Other cities and suburbs are doing the exact same thing maintaining law and order during the pandemic.

Again it’s not a joke. Know what else: our Milwaukee festivals are cancelled and/or delayed, our July 3rd Fireworks Show is canceled until next summer, some of our businesses can and cannot operate due to getting our hair cuts, nails done, and hosting other needs the most. And by the way, if you’re one of those house calls fools that still operate against the order, you’re dumb as hell. You really want to get a pedicure during a pandemic? Seriously? Oh you still want to congregate in your Church building during this? You mean to tell me that you can’t pray at home or have church at home online? You can do that you know! Don’t be that stupid like those Pastors in Louisiana and Florida that had recently been placed on house arrest and or fined but they still keep coming and congregating. And recently other Pastors who have done this so far, DIED! And to add those who lead and protested the Safer At Home Orders just got the Coronavirus!

But on the flip Some businesses are being tweaked to open up SLOWLY BUT SURELY! On the other hand, they also have to abide by the rules of social distancing. So it’s going to take a while.

Expect a Part III in a blog letter to the Milwaukee Public Schools. And why they should get on the ball for Virtual Learning.

My Take: Milwaukee Strong.

Alright, we are several weeks removed from the horrible shooting that took place at MillerCoors on Ash Wednesday here in Milwaukee during Black History Month 2020. And yet, the reaction of the shooting is not only shocking Milwaukee but also the state of Wisconsin and also captured the lasting impression on the World and North America. Oh yeah, Milwaukee they know us now!

But as we progress in the months and weeks ahead of our work weeks, it’s respectable that we remember those who have been fatally killed in the Miller Brewery Shooting:

• Jesus Valle Jr., 33, of Milwaukee
• Gennady Levshetz, 61, of Mequon
• Trevor Wetselaar, 33, of Milwaukee
• Dana Walk, 57, of Delafield
• Dale Hudson, 60, of Waukesha

These five men were hispanic and white. Some were fathers, brothers, one of them was a Veteran of the Armed Forces, and they were all machinists, electricians, and engineers. And on Ash Wednesday 2020, they never came back home to be with their families. They had their last dinners with their families on the night before, and their last good byes on their final working day on earth at the legendary brewery. Everyone knows that Milwaukee is the original home when it comes to beer. From Blatz, to Schlitz, Pabst, and of course Miller. Milwaukee was a strong hold of Breweries that got the city like Harley-Davidson and Cream food on the map. Of all those those things that made Milwaukee famous, we all know that there was and is another thing that made Milwaukee famous that we talk about all the time: Segregation. For many of us in the city, we know that Milwaukee is “hyper segregated”, hell we’re segregated with our recent voting from February 18th which is different story. But even that also effected the major breweries based on the experiences the black workers went through based on discrimination and racism. The shooter, Anthony Ferrill in which many have labeled him as a folk hero in the black community faced discrimination at Miller 5 years ago when many stated about finding a Noose in his locker and a black spade card. Later on the discrimination portion was solved. But afterwards, it escalated with additional racism. The shooter also killed himself as part of that fateful day of shock at Miller Brewery. For those who don’t know, Miller Brewery has been a staple of Milwaukee since 1855. The company’s headquarters near 45th and State or 38th and Highland has been supporters of our sports teams, community involvement, sponsorship, and yes retail in which many of our stores sell the legendary beer product. When you take a tour of Miller, you’re taking a tour of history from the beginning until now. I’m not talking about the hops only. And also that the company has caves, brewery caves that is. In which many that the beer had been transported years back. Now it’s a highlighted attraction of showing the image of the late Frederick Miller, plus word is that you can do Yoga exercises in the caves that used to transport Beer! And yet, it’s across the street from Harley-Davidson facing Highland Avenue.

But now in all this, we Milwaukeeans or most of us have rallied around a hashtag that many supported. The hashtag, #MilwaukeeStrong has become a new beacon that enable us to get and be strong in our city that has many felt lost it way. The same “strong” hashtag has got other cities like Boston, Las Vegas and many others rallied in terms of rising after a bad disatster of mass shootings that had taken place. We hope that the #MilwaukeeStrong should have a positive role of uplifting this city in the dealt of Segregation, Racism, Violence, and many other concerns that many feel that it must be changed for the better. Milwaukee is 174 years old, but as its status of having this moniker of being a segregated city, its going to take more than a hashtag to move a city better.

The Designer of the Milwaukee Strong Logo.

But..when I was on Facebook, and I’m looking at all the #milwaukeestrong hashtags, there was posting that was questioning an angle relating to racism or being racist. One of our community activist, Tory Lowe recently stated his “opinion” in regarding the “Milwaukee Strong” moniker on March 4th:

Tory LoweMarch 4 at 12:48 PM

“I heard that allegedly the saying Milwaukee Strong is a code word for the Milwaukee white community to stand together. The images promoting Milwaukee Strong came as a cry for unity after the shooting at Miller Coors. A marketing campaign said to further push the narrative of segregation not inclusion of the black community. Milwaukee is considered the worst place in the country for blacks to live and one of the best places for whites to live.

I honestly hope that one day everyone will be included in moving the city forward”

I need to say something here. And while were at it, he is currently is running for Alderman for the 6th district verses current Alderwoman Milele Coggs in April for Wisconsin’s Spring General Election. But I need to call out this comment of being misinformed. Yes you got that right! So Tory’s sources thinks or assumes allegedly that the Milwaukee Strong hashtag, sign, statement or whatever is another division to separate black folks and white folks who want the same thing of thriving, working, building a better city. Really? How does that add up? Let me perfectly clear of what I am about to say and if any of the supporters and backups are reading this that felt this way, STOP! Let me break this down:

Did Tory Lowe ACTUALLY contacted the Leinenkugels about this sign?

Did he ACTUALLY contacted Graphic Designer Lindsay Leinenkugel who works for the Leinenkugels Brewery about this sign and the reasons behind it?

Did anyone of his “sources” ACTUALLY went to the Leinenkugels or contacted them about the reasons why the sign was made in the FIRST PLACE? Did they actually talked to them? Just like among themselves on Social Media? Or anyone in general that uses the Milwaukee Strong slogan regarding something positive?

If all those answers were no, NEWSFLASH: you played yourselves! Straight up! You’re probably thinking, “So what it’s what I feel in all”. Yeah, but did they ask them?! It’s a simple yes or no question. They probably didn’t! Bad move! And if so, where are the receipts? Proof? Evidence? WHERE?!

See, this is what I have learned from things that I don’t understand, I usually do what many folks forget to do at times is to , ASK THE SOURCE! Ask those whom design, promote, advertise and etc. Stop the assumptions! Why is this so hard, even in this technological era of the 21st Century? Even asking the main folks! This really defines stupidity in our so-called Woke Conscious, Hotep era that many don’t really listen or don’t ask! If the Black Panthers for example keep asking among themselves online about why the churches don’t open up their doors when it’s cold and freezing, then they have failed! They haven’t attended the churches! I have not seen not one of them attending a church asking the pastor or congregation about the hard questions. Not one! No church meetings, picnics, block parties, dinners, fundraisers, or even during a service on Christmas, Easter, or Mother’s Day. Yeah I’m saying this. (#ThatPart) Again, for those who feel that the sign is “allegedly racist” per se and never asked the main source without any receipts, congratulations you’ve played yourself. And just to add, I’ve seen on Instagram that some black folks either used or displayed the #milwaukeestrong hashtag moniker in their pictures or comments. So what again in my viewpoint is wrong for a black person who is from this city, and works in this city that uses that hashtag? Well, nothing. Now what will happen if the colors of the sign above were to be Red, Black and Green? Or have a sign that might say “Black Milwaukee Strong?” And check this out, there was a color scheme in Black History Month that the makers of MKE Black App used the People’s Flag design that was designed in the Marcus Garvey Colors. And no one said anything bad. Hmmmmmm, where’s the lie? Lot of you probably assuming that I’m hating on Tory. No, I’m not hating nor judging him personally. I’m hating on the fact that he didn’t do the one thing by asking the main source of this matter. That right there, will get you trapped. I told my church this slightly before my father’s third anniversary passing, and I’m saying it here: to quote Ice Cube, “You need to check yourself before you wreck yourself!” And to add: #FACTS and #THATPART.

Well, it’s a known fact that mis-information or assumption can spread like a virus. But it’ll take the truth or main source to inject the real deal to seal it.

So in conclusion, and might I say in closing, in regarding Milwaukee Strong, we need to be really “Milwaukee Strong” in our neighborhoods, schools, jobs, and many other areas to thrive and rise. EVEN VOTING! And that goes for all Milwaukeeans. Even for us in the Black Community that faces the constant struggle each time we see and experience discrimination of White Supremacy. No matter where in this city or area. We pay our taxes and pull our fair share too! So what’s up with that? And yet, the struggle continues. Even though there are more minorities here than everywhere else in the state, but still we to inject all into to make “Milwaukee Strong” a living breathing reality.

In other words: Steady Progress.

Black History Month 2020: Wake up, Black folks! It’s our time of the month. I’m talking about Black History Month again.

BDP – You Must Learn (1989)

I think it’s time for us black folks to wake up! Like the line from movie School Daze: WAKE UP!!!!!!!

Welcome to the 94th Edition of the occasion that many of find interesting and daring. Black History Month. In the year of 2020. A leap year with a twist of the Summer Games and Presidential Elections.

Now of course, that guys like me are our setting the tables in full Black History Scenary. On the other hand many of us black folks are doing a disservice in the maintenance of our traditional history in various obvious objectives. I’m going to be real today. Many of you are probably hash-tagging #BlackHistory365 or “I wish we learn this everyday.” Or the ultimate favorite, we need to teach our children more. While I agree that we need to learn about ourselves all the time, but at the same time we don’t really honor our ancestors that piloted the green light since day one! We don’t. Want more proof: many of us when we were young and acting stupid on field trips to the museum, we often see the African Exhibits with the naked black women, plus the long breasts hanging with the necklaces we giggle and laugh. Oh don’t tell me that many of us do that. Let’s be honest. Although we should be excited about our historical aspects of events and figures, we need to check ourselves. Time to get woke for real. For those whom are younger than 43 years old, you all are talking about what you’re doing now and ignoring the thought of Black History in all, to quote Boogie Down Productions “you must learn.” There were folks before you had balls and didn’t made hashtags to prove their blackness, wokeness, or anykind of ness on the map. They did it the hard way, so guys like you wouldn’t have to worry. But in the era of the revamped White Supremacy full of Neo Nazis and Jim Crow III making a scene that is killing unarmed black men, anti employment/economic statues/housing and many others against blacks TODAY: again Millennials and Gen-Z black folks: YOU MUST LEARN!

If you’re one of the many that still thinks that Black History is American History, stop hitting the booze and the legal Mary Jane for a second. Please stop! Black History once again is really World History. Not all of it is American History only. Might I say this again and again until we get it right? Also might I add that Black History maybe the “proverbial American History” but there are folks in THIS country that may not want to hear about our historical aspects. They don’t. Unless it’s about Martin Luther King and that’s about it. Really?! Are we playing this game again? Black History Month is much more than one man like him and one woman like Rosa Parks. It’s more than Louis Armstrong, more than Malcolm X, more than Bill Russell, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Reggie White, LeRoy Butler, Russell Wilson, Lamar Alexander, and yes Patrick Mahomes. Black History is much more than the people who founded the idea telling our stories from Dr. Carter Woodson who started this occasion along with his fraternity of Omega Phi Psi. Much more than every architect, scientist, lawyer, Servicemen, Servicewomen, actor, actress, archivist, bloggers, driver, business owner, inventor, minister and many other occupation on the face of the Earth. Like they say in our families, we’ve come a mighty long way. And still making charts left to go. And I may add for our non black folks especially whom are caucasian, this is not racist! This is the time that many of you must listen of what we have to say regarding us! Of course many might ask, why there isn’t a White History Month? or an American History Month? Really? Must we ask this over an over? Next month is Women’s History Month I will not be asking a dumb stupid question why there isn’t a Men’s History Month. And yet, Lord knows there is one. But we just don’t know it yet! If many of you “detectives” want to know the reasons why Dr. Carter Woodson picked February because of the Men like Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass whose birthdays are in the same week had influences regarding black folks.

Abraham Lincoln: February 12th.

Frederick Douglass: February 14th.

So as we once again observe and summarize these 29 days. Yes, for this year, Black History Month has an extra day due to the Leap Year, let us NOT ACT A FREAKING FOOL! Let us be civil with our pride and blackness and let us continue to do the work that our previous folks done by setting the course and for us to continue course. We got so much history all the time to summarize. However, I must say this. If we don’t uphold our historical stories and events all day every day like many of you have been saying, don’t blame society, lack of education, or the white man. Or White Woman. That will be our fault because we have dropped the ball on purpose. By NOT EDUCATING US! By listening to the bogus messages that we are distorted to listen and hear. And basically, our downfall. Mark my words.

Now, let me do the set up of the table begin. And no, there is no permission needed. Never need one. Never have to request one.

#BlackHistoryMonthSTILLMatters

My Take: “Mamba Actually Mattered” – A thing to summarize of Kobe Bryant

*Note, I was about to comment about the packers and this past season of 13-3. But since the passing of Kobe Bryant, I felt this My Take will be appropriate. But, the commentary of the Packers will happen after the SuperBowl.

This past Sunday, we the citizens of the world, heard the shocking news of the passing of Kobe Bryant. Yes, that Kobe Bryant. And yet many have not felt this loss within the last couple of years or decades. As I write this, today is the 34th Anniversary of the Space Shuttle Challenger Explosion that occured when many of us in Generation X were just in Elementary, Middle and High School. This was our major disaster that at the time was on live television. But that was 34 years ago, and no Millennials and Generation Z, Kobe’s death was not bigger than this. Kobe was just about 7 years old when this disaster happened. Me, about 8.

But as many of us were leaving Church on Sunday, we all got this news about the accident. And like many before him, we all were shocked. My memories of this comes back when Michael Jackson, Prince, Whitney Houston all were taken from us that we loved all day with their music and videos. But hold up: Aaliyah was dead at 22 in a plane crash just like legends like Otis Redding, Ritchie Valens, Buddy Holly, and the Big Bopper. Plus Stevie Ray Vaughn. And countless others whom have passed on so quickly. And yet again when their deaths were going on, I’ll bet many had to ask “what about the other folks who died with them? What about those of the pilots, and passengers? It wasn’t just them alone.” We need to stop that. Seriously.

We keep seriously asking because we’ve been reaching too much. I think the only reason this happens that no one gets left out. Yes, we feel bad for the folks who had their lives ended. But we get so over the top with emotion, as if we knew them.

Spoiler Alert: WE DON’T KNOW JACK ABOUT THEM! The ONLY person out of the victims the most known to all was Kobe Bryant! Many of us never knew about Gianna or Gigi his second oldest daughter who was held when the helicopter went down. Others were a Baseball Coach, a Basketball Female coach, a teammate of Gianna’s from the Mamba Basketball Team, and others . We don’t know them. Same thing when Aaliyah passed. She along with 9 passengers died in the Bahamas in 2001. But the MAIN PERSON of the passengers, was Aaliyah! Let’s be clear. Yes, the others should be on the Memorial List. With all due respect with them and their families, again many of US who are looking at all the footage, videos, sound bytes don’t know about the others. PERIOD! So yes as the days and hours and minutes are progressing then we’ll learn about them and also put all the pieces together to get the final results. But yet, in my opinion the center of this as we know was about Kobe Bryant in the terms of main person on the chopper going down.

Now let me continue to say that Kobe was a member of Generation X. Yeah, that so-called slacker generation that I’m apart of that can’t amount to anything. Oh yes, there are those older and way older than 41 are probably asking man, “why didn’t we support him?” (note to the Baby Boomers) Had his head on straight, won all those NBA Championships, got married and raised 4 daughters, owning his own business of Mamba Sports Academy, and most of all: He was involved in his kids lives. Never left them. So yet, why are there are those and others are tripping that a black man, who married interracially to Vanessa had all this going for himself and those he connected with? Seriously, what was and is the problem? Mainly because I think it’s because of jealousy, hate and self absorbed attitudes and behaviors. Think about it!

In the days since the tragedy, there have been most of us showing emotional pain of grief. Mainly of us Men. And yes, Black Men. When that happens that many of our women friends and family members and other male counterparts would tell us to “Suck it up.” Or “Stop making all that noise.” Or “Stop crying like a Bi…you know what.” Or “No tears!” And many of us who go hard everyday for ourselves and families mainly men are not getting any respect at the house that many of us work hard for! I know many of our women folks had and still probably stated that they love us and still give us the boost to keep going in all of our avenues of opportunity. They are saying that now, but what about the next time? Or on our days while we are still here? What’s that quote “Give people flowers while they still live?” Women say it all the time mostly to each other! But for us guys, we don’t get flowers until the casket drops in the cemetery. Tell me I’m lying! So yes women, we’re still waiting up on your end of the deal to really believe that what you say is what you mean. Don’t always assume the obvious that we’re not like you. Matter of fact, we’re not! It’s the dang truth. Let’s just call it what it is. And all that examination has to be on failure mode because we let stuff that was handed down get it the way. Here’s something that we better know. We all laugh, cry, share joys, share concerns, share ideas, get emotional, get woke, get crazy, and many other human emotions we get all the time. Even me. Even you reading this blog. So what is the real problem here?

In reality, Kobe crafted his blueprint. He CRAFTED his blueprint. And I know that many are willing to follow what this man done for his 41 years of life. But we all know that 20 years of his life was his Basketball years to the LA Lakers, and yes The Redeem Team of USA Basketball. And his later years of owning his business, Oscar Award, novels, and many other things and assignments he organized, formulated, built, and summarized he grasped. And this Mamba Mentality? Well let’s talk about the word, Mamba. For those of us who like reptiles like snakes, A mamba is a snake. A poisonous one to be exact. Don’t believe me, google it. Or matter of fact, you can watch a scene from Kill Bill when a Black Mamba snake struck one of the bad guys so fast and so quick. By the way it was the same Black Mamba was a code name for Uma Thurman’s character from the the movie. And yes mamba is a name of a candy that came out years ago. And yet I believe it’s still around. When a Mamba strikes its prey from afar or up close, it will see it, know it and then when it happens, it strikes hard! Sort of like a King Cobra, or a Python, or Anaconda, Boa Constrictors, or any other snake in the jungle that strikes for the kill. More like kill at will. And like many, Kobe didn’t go to college. Like Lebron James, he also went the route from High School to the Pros. Some probably debate that, which is understandable.

Many of us are still in mourning. As we should. But as we approach the final day to say farewell to Kobe and Gianna and as well the rest of the 7 men and women who were on that chopper when it went down, we must continue to give the families their right to mourn in peace. Let them have the right. Let the parents of Kobe Bryant and his Sisters (yes they are still living) to process this loss and have to do the one thing that many won’t do is to bury their only son and brother. And old folks, we all ready know that you said that you should never bury your kids! Don’t seem right.

We know it’s been a week but still. And yes it’ll take a death to pick up that phone and call them to see what’s up. Leave a message please because nobody don’t want to hear no blank responses. Someone said don’t text. I disagree. If using a text message is a way to get a hold of the person contacting then by all means do so! And if you are planning a gathering (not a funeral) do it. Not just in a blue moon. At the top of the year, I always say that if anybperson you met with last year, he or she may not be around this year. Even I’ve heard church folks say this phrase all the time. And when you thinking about it, #FACTS. Right Generation Z and Millennials? So keep checking on your people because we never know. In any way possible!