Scratching my head all this time: The Thanksgiving Edition.

By now, you had the turkey. You had the dressing. You had the cranberry sauce, vegetables, and pie. You’re probably stuffed with all the food. And yes, you probably went to a late night club and got started by shaking down those pounds, carbs and calories. Of course, that’s what Thanksgiving would do to you you fill up and you got to lose weight! Hopefully many of you have had a blessed Thanksgiving, a blessed time with your families and friends and strangers probably came in and see you have something to eat. And hopefully that maybe you’ll do the same thing for the upcoming Christmas season. And of course we have to talk about politics, 45’s crappy stuff, the ongoing problems and concerns about black neighborhoods, churches being so hypocritical, (which partially the good ones can stay afloat) and also your basic everyday road rage and folks driving to crazy and asking the same by the question what is your problem? And just the ad more walls and joys and concerns of holiday employment. Yes if you have not guessed it Christmas is coming. But guess what? I’m scratching my head again.

How thankful are really the things you have already, and willing to go for?

Question for Milwaukee, now we all know that mayor Tom Barrett it’s going to put his seat on the line for the fifth time. But the big question is will he able to retain it with the likes of Lena Taylor and Tony Zielinski. Plus voters that may or may not favor him?

Is the Milwaukee Streetcar really that pointless?! After one year?!

Okay this needs to be asked, which relative really sparked that conversation that you did not want to talk about at the dinner table on Thanksgiving?

You know this is going to happen which came first your football game or Macy’s Parade?

Milwaukee: the Brewers now has a new logo, as a matter of fact: they have brought back the old ball/glove logo that has been slightly enhanced for the ball club’s upcoming 50th season next year. Yes the Brewers are turning 50. Will this next era bring a thing called a Championship?

Already, the 2010s decade is vastly closing real soon, What was your best moment?

Okay this needs to be asked again: which families do and do not use canned cranberry sauce?

For those who may have been “triggered” on Thanksgiving, you probably read about the Indians being murdered after a church service on Sunday morning. And for those of you who probably have never had a chance to re-read the question you might have been triggered all the wrong questions. Did any of us ever had the chance to research the truth?

Which of you Facebook and Instagram users were so scared and worried about the transmissions being almost cancelled on Thanksgiving?

Who was not prepared for the “onslaught” on Black Friday?

For people who drive so stupid in Wisconsin roads, Wisconsin streets, Milwaukee areas, and I know who I’m talking about, when someone is trying to make a turn, or coming out the driveway, coming out of the garage , why do you honk your horn so bad? That right there is going to make you look stupid and irritated. Don’t be surprised if cars come equipped with cameras so they can record your every single driving mode get your license plate and check you. And by the way, that idea is coming for me in 2020 for my cars. Just wait. I’m not playing!

Is Black Friday really worth shopping nowadays?

For the sake of those asking and this is the only question asking why is it that a TV is mentioned on Black Friday the most? As everybody knows.

Right now, the Hallmark channel has it’s Christmas movies playing. And many of us are still wondering why. But you know something, BET, TVOne, and other channels have Christmas movies too. Can you check out those?

For all of my introverted readers, can any of us relate to this?

Attention Black Friday shoppers don’t mean to ask this but, you will be hearing this from your pastor on Sunday. Don’t get triggered because you know it’s the truth. Am I wrong or right?

Is the pressure of the WWE is really building from AEW wrestling?

For all of my UPS, FedEx, USPS, and many other delivery package drivers this holiday season take a look at this:

Now you really have to ask this one question, what kind of mess and crap is this? and the thing is the woman on the video had some crack was on drugs by the way claiming that her car was broken into so many times on outside of a house. Anything is try that turn into racism is really stupid. I hope that no black driver or driver helper this holiday season coming out should not want not and will not go through that type of stupid remarks of racism and many other factors. And this is one of the main reasons why race is still on the deck of the topics of tables in American households, classrooms, churches, the dinner table, the neighborhoods, the malls, the restaurants, and many other places we go and spend our money every single day. They say that the holiday supposed to bring up the good folks in everybody, but I have to remember they can bring out the worst in people too, and this is not about losing folks to death. Even racism place apart around this season especially for those who are trying to do some good deeds by deliver packages to houses or businesses every single day. And don’t assume that the influence of 45 is afoot.

For Small Business Saturday, the day after Black Friday, which is the best small business you go to support every single day?

For Cyber Monday, which online store you support the most everyday? and don’t assume it’s always Amazon.

For Giving Tuesday, which companies or donations you support the most? As in idea: DONATE TO YOUR ALUMNI!

Milwuakee, it was so naked without our former traditional Christmas Parade that lasted for so long. What will it take to get a new tradition like that to stick for another Generation?

Speaking of “the current Generation that doesn’t want to go on” what is up with Milwaukee restauruant Vitucci’s closing up after 85 years?

Now for you Millennials and Generation Z folks: What is up with this #OKBoomer mess? If any generation can go one on one the most, is Generation X.

For my Live Streaming Folks and I know you got this: Christmas is coming and I’m looking for a gift to save money and get the best live streaming device on the market. I’m looking at Amazon Firesticks, Roku, Android TV JetStream devices and that’s it. So I’m asking all of you, which is the best one you think is the best to buy? Drop a comment in the box or on Facebook.

Sometimes football players make bonehead moves. Myles Garrett. And also this Ole Miss Player, Elijah Moore after making a play, made a dog peeing gesture and costed him and the team the game vs Mississippi State. What was the point of that dumb move?

You know the Milwaukee Bucks are RED HOT right now. How far will they go for another playoff run?

So far, the Green Bay Packers had 8 victories and 3 losses. But this last loss vs a different San Francisco Team gave the Green and Yellow a worst L on the record. The last time they played the 49ers: Colin Kaepernick was playing and won 17-3. Yeah Niners, the Pack won that one. But December is coming and the team usually comes out firing the Big Guns the most in the birthday month of Aaron Rodgers. And mine. Will the Packers make a statement and bust out the guns again in the 12th Month?

And so far, the Wisconsin Badgers are undefeated at the Battleground. And they must go for the Axe vs Minnesota. I think the Badgers must use this as a chance to get redemption vs the Golden Gophers after this ugly L in the Mad City last year:

Will they do this? And keep in mind, it’s not the same Badgers team like last year.

In the next 8 months, Milwaukee will be home of the DNC Convention. Is the Brew City/Cream City really ready for full tilt in Democratic Blue?

For you non Milwaukeeans, yes we’re also called Cream City. Not because of cows or milk. It’s really because of the buildings that have a creamy look on them that blend in. Who knows? And you know why the Milwaukee Bucks have “Cream City” on the jerseys?

How about this interview between the Undertaker and Stone Cold Steve Austin? Very interesting to see on the WWE Network!

Is the confidence of Christmas still an all time high? Not weather wise I should say.

Just to add also, TV One is doing at Family Matters Reunion all weekend long. Yes, nothing but Urkel all day and night. Who’s watching?

If the decade of the 2010s were to end today, what would have been the worst and best moment? I’ll also save that next month.

CALLOUT: Black people: why do you still put a pic of White Jesus on your Facebook pages? Knowing the fact you know better that Jesus WAS BLACK! Speaking of “slave mentality” and “being on the plantation”.

Black People: you do realize that there is an African Heritage Study Bible that really details the truth in biblical times?

Uh-oh: there are names being purged from the voting records. You voters better get to your Election Offices to make sure you are straight with your voter statuses! Now will you be ready when the voting year comes?

All this technology stuff and google searches, and you can’t really read certain books?

And the last thing to ask: After all this weekend of Black Fridays in all, and the racism, and the good things to happen yet to come, what will the 12th month bring and to make sure that you stay afloat?

In the meantime: Happy Thanksgiving!

A Blog Letter Once more: To the Veterans of the U.S.

By now, Veterans Day weekend has come and gone, and yet we still appreciate. This Veterans Day marked the 100th Anniversary of the American Legion. That’s 1919 you know. Likewise like many, there are Veterans that are or were not appreciated for their service being skipped over or whatever. Regardless of the dilemmas and the regardless of opinionated thoughts, Veterans you are still appreciated! So in the ongoing honor of this Veterans Day, here is a blog letter for you.

And if you are a Veteran that likes what I write here or the comments on the Stephen’s Spot on WordPress Facebook Page or the Stephen’s Spot Twitter Page, I thank you. It’s only the beginning. Again!

Dear Veterans (and Veteran families) of the United States of America:

It’s me Stephen, a son of a late Vietnam Veteran that served proudly.

Yes, this weekend was and is your weekend. I have 4 words to share for this holiday weekend of yours: Reclaim your Veterans Day! Christmas maybe coming real quick, and Thanksgiving is next to come, but still reclaim your time! I sampled again that from the infamous Congresswoman Maxine Waters who kept constantly saying, “reclaiming my time” over and over again. But seriously, Vets it’s your time again to reclaim the holiday that is meant for you. This is your time to take the heart of this occasion to summarize all of the war stories, the valor, the parades, service stories, lectures, and also experiences that many of you endured in uniform. Those of us that haven’t done the job, we go around that having the opinionated thought about wars and many others. Of course, we have that. But however, without the will of God and you guys, that would not be very possible. Many of you have your say of what you did and yes, your commentary is still and always valid.

But the game doesn’t stop there. Matter of fact, it goes on until the wheels fall off. Even it goes on every day at work, school, church, and leisure. Speaking of the challenges, last year it was an ongoing concern about our so-called president lagging behind when it becomes the statuses of our Veterans. And it’s related to the Department of the Veterans Affairs that many of them are not getting their VA cash due to the fact that it’s an IT issue. This year’s challenge is an everyday challenge in regards to your health, education, job search and most of all, the communities. Why do I say this? every week or month, I hear from Veterans all the time, especially African American Veterans that the issues of Jobs has been a concern. Matter of fact, it’s always been a concern either as a Veteran and as a non-veteran. Homelessness is also a concern, that no one wants to be homeless on any day. In Milwaukee today, there was an idea to build tiny homes that homeless vets can get into to get fed, clothed, and yes to get a new fresh start. The first time I’ve seen the Tiny Homes was in Racine County. But now I’m glad that the Homeless vets here the city can get that chance to reclaim their obligation to get back on their feet again to get going. Speaking of getting back on the feet again: I need to address a concern. Yes, this event is coming up in Milwaukee and it’s an annual tradition, the Milwaukee Veteran’s Day Parade is on November 16th, which is ahead of Thanksgiving and yet it’s in financial trouble. Yep another Milwaukee long traditional parade is in financial trouble due to lack of funding, and further more lack of interest. According to the Milwaukee Independent Website, this question popped up in a gasping thought:

“What does it say about the patriotism of Milwaukee and Waukesha corporations, and the general public interest, to actually honor its hometown veterans and active duty members, when a foreign company has to fund our local Veteran’s Day Parade to keep a half century tradition alive?“

Let me stop you right there: Heard of the company called “TransCanada?” This is the company that is out of CANADA that helped funded the Milwaukee Veterans Day Parade back in 2017, sometime after the Flag Protesting took place across the country. Way after Colin Kaepernick (who was born in Milwaukee) made his stance with the kneeling when the National Anthem was playing in the background. Note to those who may have forgotten, it was against police brutality. Not against the flag, the military, the veterans, or any thing other thing that utilizing the thought of expressing the ideal of patriotism. Also in the article: this was mentionted in regarding those complaining about high ticket prices, and expressing interests but didn’t show up:

“That was the question Milwaukee Independent asked in late October of 2017, during the NFL flag kneeling controversy. It came from the observation that members of the local community were willing buy expensive tickets and travel far to attend an outdoor entertainment event, and in an incidental moment show the measure of their patriotism by standing for a song that barely lasted a minute. However, those same people failed to make any time for a free event in their hometown to actually honor American heroes by simply showing up to wave and smile. “

Wait, so folks who had complained about expensive prices for a ticket per say and not showing up to a free event , kind of shows that there is cheapness in the observation. Does this remind you of something? Read this portion that supports the above statements:

Milwaukee Independent: What factors have you seen affect interest and attendance in Milwaukee’s Veterans Day Parade since you first started attending?

Mary Ann D’Acquisto: That is a very difficult question – we have always struggled with getting people to attend the event. We have tried to get the word out as best we could – press releases, posters, e-mail, Facebook, and such, but it was never enough. The first year we took over the event was 2001 and it was just post 9/11, so everyone was very patriotic and we had a huge crowd. In the 18 years since, we have seen less and less attend every year. I have heard many reasons from people for not attending, like ‘it is too cold, I take my kids to the Christmas parade instead, I don’t have any veterans in my family, I donate money to the veterans,’ and the list goes on. I don’t think people realize how much it means to many of our veterans to have a show of public support. When no one is on the street watching the parade it makes them feel as though they are forgotten.

Milwaukee Independent: Has the elderly condition of World War II veterans altered plans for the 2019 parade, and what will the new format look like?

Mary Ann D’Acquisto: Yes, 2019 is the 75th Anniversary of D-Day and many other major battles in WWII. Consequently the WWII veterans are our Special Guests of Honor for this year’s event. All veterans will be honored and participate, however the WWII vets are our featured guests. In the traditional parade format – veterans are outside for almost 4 hours and the last several years the weather has been less than favorable. That lead us to plan an event that was warmer and drier with more indoor time for our veterans.

The agenda for the day is as follows, this is open to the public: November 16 at the Milwaukee County War Memorial Center. 0900: Displays – military related groups and a special WWII display and performances by some of our favorite parade units. 1030 – Memorial Service. Veterans Day Parade will consist of an Honor Walk and Motorcade, it will not be the traditional 1.5 mile parade route. 1100 – Honor Walk to let our veterans know how much we appreciate them as they parade from the War Memorial over the Mason Street Bridge to Prospect Avenue. 1200 – Veterans Motorcade leaves the War Memorial to take our veterans to a reception at Potawatomi Hotel and Casino. Motorcade Route – leaves Prospect and Mason and heads west down Wisconsin Avenue to 6th Street, south on 6th Street to Canal Street, west on Canal Street to Potawatomi.

The veterans will have their coffee and donuts indoors at the War Memorial and can watch the performances from inside the building. The reception and luncheon for veteran participating in the Honor Walk will be at Potawatomi this year, so that we can have a sit down lunch where there is more room. Also, everyone can watch a documentary we are putting together profiling some of our local WWII veterans.

Milwaukee Independent: For the veterans who participate in the parade each year, what do they enjoy most about the experience?

Mary Ann D’Acquisto: The general consensus is the camaraderie of everyone being together – whether at the breakfast, parade, or luncheon. I do know, however, it has been very disappointing for them to see less and less people coming to the parade to cheer them on.

Ok, let’s stop right there. What you just saw is a portion of the interview that the Milwaukee Independent did with organizer, Mary Ann D’Acquitsto who has held the event in the city for the last 18 years. The organization is overseen by the company called, “Honor Our Military, Inc”. Which has been the nucleus of keeping things in order in the traditional Veterans Day Parade. This parade, or celebration has been going on for nearly 56 years. Which is almost a long time of honoring veterans here in Milwaukee. No matter which war campaign or era. But now in the area, and after this news hitting the fan, guess what? This parade will be on the list like the City of Festivals Parade, Milwaukee Christmas Parade, and The Great Circus Parade all faded out because of lack of money. And to think about it, when the parades was making money in all, guess what? there were more folks in the Milwaukee Area! But overtime, many folks left Milwaukee. The businesses that used to be supporters of the parade, also left Milwaukee. But a few came back. As far as financial support, guess what again, that ties into the businesses. And many also don’t know how the parade process works in terms of money! You got to have sponsors, company backers, a route, the participants, permits, and etc. That’s what it takes. And sadly a lot of folks here in Milwaukee as sad as I hate to say: THEY DON’T KNOW MUCH! They don’t! Oh, when I was reading the comments about this story, specifically from one commenter on Facebook who is “still serving” puts the blame on Tom Barrett in regarding the Streetcar, the DNC Convention and many others that are deemed “liberal”. That’s kind of false. I think the writing was on the wall that had nothing to do with the streetcar nor the convention. Blame it on the lack of knowledge and financial backing that the city encountered in the last 18 years. Blame it on that! There is your reason! Or many might say, oh it’s because Milwaukee is “hyper-segregated”. The only parades left in Milwaukee are the Memorial Day Parade, Juneteenth Day Parade, the Milwaukee LGBT Parade, a Labor Day Parade, and that’s it. No other parades not on the radar. Many of you reading this might be shocked nor surprised. It’s the truth! Matter of fact, continue to read the story and see for yourself.

Now many might say after reading this, “Oh Milwaukee doesn’t care about it’s Veterans. They might support a Trolley or a DNC Convention, or that new Bucks Playhouse called the Fiserv Forum, but won’t lift a finger or pulling the level to acknowledge our Veterans that gave so much to service.” To quote Daniel Bryan: FICKLE! How many here in Milwaukee ACTUALLY acknowledges our Veterans in the City? Even if you do support the Streetcar, Lead Water Prevention talks, Jobs, Black Lives, Health Stats of the Flu, combating racism, Men’s Movember, or the DNC Convention? How many here in Milwaukee ACTUALLY has organizations or local churches that supports and appreciates the valor of Veterans annually? What about everyday? Do you realize that there is void in the city that African-American Veterans aren’t acknowledged enough like the white counterparts that served? Come on now! I know this is Veterans Day respecting the Vets in all, but this stuff is EVERYDAY when many are not organizing. My home church, just recently just celebrated it’s 14th Anniversary in Milwaukee in honoring veterans in the congregation and it’s a BLACK UNITED METHODIST CHURCH! IN MILWAUKEE! Somebody say AMEN! I’m just keeping it real! Veterans, I love y’all but I’m just saying!

Veterans: yes your day and weekend of appreciation will be concluded, but your ongoing ideas and services on this side, will still continue. Like last year, I hinted again that you need to connect with the younger veterans who are currently starting out and settling in after their service. Many of you probably have that idea in mind. Continue to do so! Direct some ideas for them to get started through programs like the American Legion, the VA or any other organization that attracts them to support and get involved.

And one more thing: Young Vets: I need to say this again, you need to respect the OG’s that came before you. It may not be pretty, but like I always suggest that it takes respect to get respect. They are the Military Elders and been in the game longer than you! I’m just saying. As always yes, the non-vets can hear and receive advice from you about your ideas to continue our cause as we move forward. No matter if it’s a job, community time in the church, health, wellness, counseling, or any other idea that is able to do, hey we would welcome and respect it. If I were running a company or a division in a company, yes I would hire veterans in a heartbeat. Why you ask? Since many of you been in places that many of us have seen on TV, why not you? Just asking. No need to go further!

And finally, I realized that the entire month of November is “National Military Veterans and Families Month”. Or National Veterans Month. And it should be. Matter of fact that should have been on Obama’s watch. I know, it was 45’s crazy thing. But however that’s not the case. What is the case that this gives us a chance to have more appreciations, admiration of valor, celebrations and more ways to do Outreach to all of you. Regardless of your service and past duties.

So……To all the Veterans that got the welcome treatment: Never Forget.

To all the Veterans that never got the welcome treatment but got it in small appreciative tokens of appreciations later on: Never Forget.

To all the Veterans who are homeless and still keeping hope alive for the better: Never Forget.

To all the Veterans that were forgotten or being left out: Never Forget.

To all the Veterans that were never acknowledged for their service of any kind, but got acknowledged later on: Never Forget.

To all the WWII Vets: Never Forget.

To all the Korean War Vets: Never Forget.

To the families of WWI: Never Forget.

To the Vietnam Veterans and families: Never Forget.

To the Veterans of Grenada, Beirut, & the Cold War, and Families: Never Forget.

To the Veterans of Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm and Families: Never Forget.

And yes….to the upcoming Veterans and families of Current war on Terror/Iraqi Freedom/etc. – Never Forget!

Additionally: To all the Women Veterans that blazed new paths and set new tones: Never Forget.

To all the Male Veterans: even though you have long historical experiences in the war in uniform, still never forget!

To all of my African-American Veterans: Historically, African-Americans have been in every conflict of wars since the beginning. Even when fighting for the flag and the country that didn’t want them due to race. These are facts, not alternative opinions altered by anyone political. Even with all this: I say NEVER FORGET!

And to all those of other ethnic Veterans ranging from the Indigenous to the European and all: yes, you too should Never Forget!

Never forget your time, Veterans. You have earned the stripes and flowers. Reclaim your Veterans Day!

Thanks to you of all what you accomplished.

Sincerely,

Stephen

Scratching my head all this time: Before Halloween 2019 begins….again.

Well Happy Halloween viewers. Unleash the cauldron! Before you go ghost this year, no I was not quitting. Sure I had to take a break to relax the mind, but I had to be in sync about the issues, concerns and problems that many of us still face today. Oh yes, the cauldron still bubbles. Everything from 45’s wacky results of the world, the uses of Century City due to the fact of a business coming to site, the whole world doesn’t trust the United States, Packers going ok, Badgers need to work it out, snow comes early, dead rising from the grave, dog and cats living together…….ok that didn’t actually happen, but with the closing of the 10th month coming along with our annual awareness reminders……I’m scratching my head again.

For you Simpsons fans, did the Treehouse of Horror XXX actually delivered?

Does Michael Jackson’s Thriller still delivers? Even though that it’s the only Halloween Themed Song like forever in the minds of many? Yall don’t do the Monster Mash?

Here is a fear thought, is the fear of setting your clocks back one hour is a pain? Here we go again as the sky gets dark very early after 4pm.

CALLOUT: How is Halloween is supposed to be “the devil’s holiday” knowing that any day in the 12 months can be devilish?

For you wrestling fans: who’s winning the Weekly Wrestling War? WWE NXT or AEW Dynamite?

Word is that the ratings for both Raw and Smackdown are not doing well. So……what needs to be done, wrestling fans?

You realize that “harvest” means to bring in, right?

You realize that All Hallow’s Eve leads into All Saints Day?

Who in Milwaukee remembers this Halloween commercial?

Who remembers in Milwaukee that the Pabst Mansion was a site of the haunted house in the city?

When is House of the Dead Overkill coming to the Switch? Come on, man!

Before October is over, did every woman (and man) wore pink for Breast Cancer Awareness?

Before October is done, how many of us wore purple for Domestic Violence Awareness?

And when October is done, how many of us ever forget that BULLYING is still a problem? Knowing that October is Bullying Awareness Prevention Month.

After the 31st: you ready for another round of applying for your medical insurance in November? Oh you know it’s coming!

Last week, we lost unceremoniously, Congressman Elijah Cummings. Who was no push over, and always TOLD THE TRUTH! He was not a pushover. If many need to study and follow up on him, you better do it now. Matter of fact, who wants to come up and follow his ideas to actually lead for the next era of politics?

For the record: Men two things to ask – you ready for the ever nagging stuff of “Movember” of going to the doctors again? Oh who’s really ready for International Men’s Day on November 19th? Don’t act like you forgot already!

Is Kanye West’s Jesus Is King Album really making a statement? First 15 years ago he came out with Jesus Walks, then making Yeezus, now this. What’s his angle besides him making it with the MAGA Hats. Oh you know he is.

This just in: we lost John Whitherspoon. You know the man that says BANG! BANG! BANG! Come on now, you knew him as Pops. Right?

The first anniversary of the Milwaukee Streetcar is coming up, and yes it will be charged soon. Which company is coming up with the ideas? Oh, it’s still free to ride for now.

Milwaukee, we are now about 8 months of the DNC coming here next year in 2020. Are we still making plans?

Speaking of the Packers, who is buying the system of Matt LaFleur thus far?

Will Harriet be the movie that can deliver in time before Thanksgiving?

Is Terminator Dark Fate ready? And Linda Hamilton is the lead role once again as Sarah Connor. Like 35 years afterwards.

Remember this last year, Christians?  
ATTENTION ALL Christians and other so-so religious and not very religious, if you hate Halloween so much, you do realize it means “Holy Evening”, right? Do your homework! Not that commercialized version. You know what it is! And the proper word is “All Hallows Eve.” The eve of Saints who have passed on. Go back to class!

For the Christian/Gospel crowds: why the diss of Kirk Franklin and what he had to say about the recent killings among African-Americans, knowlingly that the TBN and Dove Awards changed his acceptance Speech like twice?!!

Kirk Franklin Boycott – 2019

How many of you Black Pastors/Evangelists/Christian Artists that got fueled by the Christian Networks can actually FUND YOUR OWN Network?!

BREAKING NEWS: The Washington Nationals are now the World Series Champions. Now, who will they keep? They are the targets!

Will the Badgers Bounce back big time after the losses of Illinois and Ohio State?

Oooooh! For all you so-called woke folks, President Obama gave y’all the Shade of the 10’s Decade. He called you out big time. Especially to those wishing throwing stones like crazy. Are you crying yet?

So former VP Joe Biden is denied of Communion because his stance on abortion. Really?!!!

CALLOUT: This is very dumb and stupid: there was a thought that Strauss Brands was supposed to be built on the Century City site in Milwaukee. My childhood home is in that area of Lincoln Creek. However there were some protesters with signs like “STOP THE SLAUGHTER” written to counter the idea. So my question is to all those PETA related fools who have been falling for the Okie Doke: What is the real plan to get jobs in that area? Oh, and Khalif Rainey: what were you thinking?!!! Nobody cares about your vegan stance feelings!

So if every so-called VEGAN in Milwaukee hates meat so much, what is the endgame with folks LOOKING FOR JOBS that has nothing to do with you?!

Before Halloween ends, why does it go right into Christmas?!! Um……aren’t we forgetting about Thanksgiving?!!

Fight me on this: Here are my Top Ten Halloween Action Related movies that I watch every year the most:

1. The Crow
2. Ghostbusters (1984)
3. Jonah Hex/Planet Terror (tie)
4. Blade
5. Blade 2
6. Blade Trinity
7. Ghostbusters 2 (1989)
8. The Crow – City of Angels
9. Tyler Perry’s Madea’s Halloween Boo!
10. Tyler Perry’s Madea’s Halloween Boo 2!

What do you got?

For the record, AGAIN: why do folks DON’T trick or treat in their OWN neighborhoods?

For the record: if you are a teenager with no costume, why are you still getting candy?!! DUMB!

For the record: why are some of the Caucasians are still black facing around Halloween? And it continues EVERY TIME! Usually also around Black History Month.

So the Tent City Residents under the 794 Bridge in Milwaukee has to move out. And who’s picking up the tab to make sure that the homeless have a home to go to?

Since the Addams Family is back in theaters in a cartoonish version, who remembers the 90’s version?

There is an idea about having a National Trick-Or-Treating Day in American on the last Saturday in October. Even though it’s not etched in stone. Should there be a “National Trick-Or-Treating Day?” Even though some of us had it on Sunday after Church.

For All Saint’s Day, can we remember those who have died by serving the cause of Justice?

Milwaukee, what it up with these homicide murders?!!! And yet when the problems happen, we don’t go far enough. Why is that?!

So this is haunt-able and unfortunately it’s haunting everyday. Courtesy of WISN.com, they along with the source of 24/7 Wall Street Survey labeled 10 cities dangerous in America. And Milwaukee made the list at 9. So what’s the solution to being in these Dangerous Cities in all to curb the violence? Don’t say just move. It’s bad everywhere!

Wait: this is new. Fox 6 Milwaukee has a new studio look. When did this happened?! Now they getting all futuristic.

With Elvira is retired and Vincent Price being dead for so long, who is the next prince or princess of horror and scare for Halloween?

Is “The Fiend” Bray Wyatt the next Undertaker? Not by a long shot. But he’s coming along. Nobody can’t be the next Undertaker.

Which wrestling promotion should resurrect Halloween Havoc? WWE, AEW, Impact Wrestling or ROH? Don’t choose all at once!

Who remembered when Brandon Lee’s last movie “The Crow” came out 25 years ago? Not the sequels but the original!

And the last question: Milwaukee we will end the month of October with snow on Halloween. Yes, SNOW! The first time it snowed it was in 1926. On Halloween! But for this, will the Monster Mash or the Thriller dance be good? Outside?

Well…Wake the spirits and rise to come. Happy Halloween!

My Take: Juneteenth Day Does Matter Like The 4th of July. And it should matter!

Juneteenth Day 2019

For all those knowing it all, hear these words: “Juneteenth Day Matters Like The 4th Of July.”

I repeat: “Juneteenth Day Matters Like The 4th Of July.”

Saying it is the stone cold truth! And does matter because part of this is American History. And the second part of this is that it’s apart of Black History that many should know . Juneteenth Day or the June 19th is the day in American History that slaves were given news that they have been set free from the villainy of slavery. They were officially free 2 years after the signature of the Emancipation Proclamation that was adopted and in acted by President Abraham Lincoln in 1863. This was done also before his assassination by John Wilkes Booth around the 1860’s time frame. So yet, with all the hoopla surrounding the occasion, yes every American, and I mean EVERY AMERICAN no matter how woke, conscious or all patriotic flag waving american you are, every one should learn about this “black” version of Independence Day that it took nearly 90 years after 1776. Actually it was 89.

Classic Milwaukee Juneteenth Day Footage

But why does June 19th care? Why does it care to many of us African-Americans the most than the 4th of July and also why does it get many white folks upset about this day over the 4th? Especially on Facebook! I’m on the History Channel’s Facebook Page and I’m reading all these comments about Juneteenth that yes many didn’t know that it does exists and it should be taught in schools. However there are those (and white) had to be very stupid in a remarkable manner about well they should be glad that the slaves made it to America during the time-frame and trying to get freedom like the promise was uphold. Well let’s get to the punchline. THEY WERE NOT FREE! It was not enough! Even after the adoption of the Declaration of Independence the black folks were not totally free. At the time, the only way that the slaves were set free in all, is they had to serve in the Continental Army part of the Militia. And if they served during that term, they were given their freedom. That was one of the ways that the slaves, especially the male black slaves were set free the most. Oh, even the British did the same thing. They took the slaves already in America and some did join under the King to take up arms to get freedom. But keep in mind, this was the 1770’s and it took about 80 plus years to get this motion of freedom in the minds of the colonies.

When folks make some dumb remarks about Juneteenth and not understanding the full meaning behind it, this is why America currently is not that well educated. Its dumb idiots on Facebook that have not done their homework, or actually went to a Juneteenth Day festival or any Juneteenth Fundraiser or any Juneteenth Day anything to gain the knowledge and stories of why this matters like the 4th of July. What I’m saying here is not just for some idiots, even those whom disrupt problems can be a fool too at Juneteenth Festivals. Of course I’m talking about festival goers of color. When Milwaukee had it’s Juneteenth Day Parades and Festivals in the beginning, according to the historians, the festival was from Day to Night. Now It’s from Day to late afternoon to 6:00pm. And the main reasons why that many didn’t felt safe after the fights and mess up disruptions that fest goers saw first hand. Oh, of course again this is about the black folks. Way before the era of Woke and Conscious came out. But we know this.

Juneteenth Is Important – The Root.com

CALLOUT: The real issue is lack of knowledge, lack of education, lack of understanding and lack of advisement about Juneteenth!!!!!!

SPOILER ALERT! When the 4th of July comes, folks will be asking about Juneteenth. Just wait. Just wait until someone on your Social Media lists mentions it. I’m giving everyone an “Early Warning” right now and when the 4th comes many will unleash about the truth about 4th of YOU LIE stuff and many of the White Folks will get UPSET! Don’t believe me? Just wait on it. And also, don’t be surprised that many black folks celebrate the fourth and have reminders of Juneteenth EVERYDAY! I’m one of them. Yes, I’ll decorate my Milwaukee house with Red, White, and Blue which is my choice and yet after it’s done, back to reality. So I’m not afraid of the truth about the 4th and nor I’m not afraid that many of the ideals of Juneteenth Day had not reached the many foothills of this country!

What is Juneteenth?

On Juneteenth Day, there was talks about respiration on Capitol Hill. Danny Glover and Ta-Neishi Coates were testifying on why it’s necessary that Black Folks need that 40 acres and a Mule to solidify fairness and prosperity of the faults of America’s Slavery/Racial past. And some of that still exists today in different forms of 2019! This year of 2019 marks 400 years of the last Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade that came to Jamestown, Virginia in 1619. This is also called the “year of the return” in quoting our Ghana brothers and sisters in Africa. And also Ghana is “welcoming” some of us black folks here in the state back there to gain a greeting of being back home. And yes of course it’s same continent that sold their own into slavery in the first place. Black folks, as much as we love Africa, that part is the truth. If we want to learn about our people, yes we can talk about our folks whom were raped, beaten shackled, bought, sold, separated, and many other inhumane acts against our folks whom are our ancestors. And also yes we had black folks that tried to fight back against the slavery acts and even spoke out against the 4th of July being a sham. I’m referencing Frederick Douglass. And I wonder how the black historians will respond about 400 years after 1619 in 2019 on America’s Birthday on July 4th. That remains to be seen.

Juneteenth Day is like the last pitcher in Baseball. When the player comes to the mound, it’s the closer. It’s the “be all end all” of the previous era of slavery. So when you do the math: from 1619 to 1865, it’s about 246 years of oppression, malice and fear of slavery. Between the years, around the 157th year, this was I think 1776 came into play as being as the beginning pitch of a new game of Independence. So if we want to get back with fighting against the 4th, let’s go after August of 1619. That’s where it starts. The Independence Day factor was a build up in trying to break up the slavery acts and freedom. But again, it took 89 years to get to 1865.

I hope that many who acted a freaking fool on Social Media probably got a woke lesson. If not, then they are failing. They will fail, suffer, blame others on education, broke at a job, no relationship or divorce, get old, probably diagnosed with a deadly disease and die. But the fact of the matter is when they try to talk about it, they will just post a message and get likes plus comments. BUT THEY WILL NEVER ACTUALLY DO THE JOB!

Folks, you really want to learn Juneteenth? You better study up all day everyday. And yet you better start doing it right now. Don’t wait until the next Juneteenth, because many of you might be gone. You all better get on it RIGHT NOW! This is not a game and there ain’t no mulligans.

Henceforth: Juneteenth Day Matters like the 4th of July: in terms of Freedom and Independence!

Scrtatching my head all this time. The Post Memorial Day 2019 Edition.

While many of us were taking the day off from work and school, the infamous Memorial Day Holiday returned as well as the “unofficial”start of the 2019 summer season. You know that is when many will start to travel alot? Yeah that one. This is also the same Memorial Day when many of us in the black community will remind the country that it was black folks that made the holiday. Long history of that missed! And also, it appears that the sacrilegious saying again of “Happy Memorial Day” is dumb as a you know what.

But however, I’m scratching my head again.

Stop Saying Happy Memorial Day!

Like last year and this year and the year before that AND THE YEAR BEFORE THAT: WHY THE HELL ARE WE SAYING HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY?!! It’s not for the living! Stop it, new generation folks!

I need to ask this: does the African-American Community receives an honor on Memorial Day when many of our black servicemen died or KIA in battle? Even while serving when the country didn’t give them love previously?

The month of May is Military Appreciation Month, right? So which military member of any branch should be given love each day that HASN’T been appreciated?

Who’s ready for Rambo? Coming in September!

As the field of candidates grows for 2020, which of them really has a shot of getting after 45?

Well they tried, the 2018-2019 Milwaukee Bucks season was ended by the Toronto Raptors in the Eastern Conference Finals. So overall, how did the Deer do with a Central Division Title Win and a budding future?

HOLD UP: Is AEW Wrestling “REALLY THAT SERIOUS” wanting to go after WWE? On the heels of the Double or Nothing Pay Per View? By the way if I’m AEW in all, don’t go greedy in all taking out Vince. Just saying! Be your own brand and your OWN stuff.

Stop the press: who did not know that Assassin’s Creed III was out on the Nintendo Switch?! Anyone surprised?

Question: Are the Milwaukee Black Panthers really serious about disrupting the summer festivals just to protest the concerns of the city? Come on now.

Last year, Wolfenstein II was that combat game for the Nintendo Switch. So….which war game is next for the console?

For the old school gaming crowd: who has the Blast! Controllers with the HDMI plug ins? Why I’m asking this? It’s for the Atari folks at heart.

For the next month of June: Black Music Month, Pride Month, a Month set aside for Fathers, Juneteenth Day, Flag Day, The First Day of Summer………and oh, you know us men have to realize that it’s also Men’s Health Month? Wear light blue, gents!

Why many STILL ask those whom are single and no kids: “what’s wrong?” The real question is, why does it matter to you? Here’s some advice: Get your life! Switch your lanes!

Why many ask those whom are introverted that are “anti-social?!” Knowing its not the people, it’s really the connection.

North American Challenge: How many residents of #Toronto, Canada do not know anything about #Milwaukee? I’m not talking about sports here. Place your bets. Either American dollars or Canadian Dollars.

Hold up: Noah’s Ark is turning 40 years old in the Wisconsin Dells. Who’s parting while riding Black Anaconda or Raja or whatever waterslide they have?

It’s all over: Who still hasn’t seen Game Of Thrones?

For its 100th year, can the American Legion go to the inner city schools/events to assist them about black history war figures? Along with the Auxiliary, Riders and Sons? This is a serious question here. Not knocking the suburbs. I really need to see the African-American Legion posts at work on this!

How do we like the Deer District, Milwaukee?

Is the new Chevy Blazer that serious to sell?

Wisconsin: we turned 171 years old this week. How is the montage connection of Governor Tony Evers is doing after a year not dealing with Scott Walker?

How will Juneteenth Day 2019 turn up? Even in the year of the return?

Black Men/Women: when we are stopped by the police or had been stopped by the police, do we feel a sense of concern like they are going to get us? And could this be one of the reasons why an interest in Police work is not out of the question?

Old Town Road

Seriously folks, is Lil Nas X’s song “Old Town Road” really that disrespectful to country music? Even though black folks made the genre in the first place? Happy early Black Music Month.

And the Final question: Has EVERY American understood this? Be honest. I know we love our troops and veterans in all, but keep it real!

My Take: Kofimania! And it’s about time this happened.

Oh yes, wrestling fans: we just saw Wrestlemania 35 this past Sunday. And if you didn’t get a chance to see the event, you may want to not look at this blog post. Spoiler Alert! It concerns the WWE Championship Match. And the Belt, and the fights and a expected win to happen that did happen.

Where was I? Oh yes. We’re talking about Wrestlemania. The same Wrestlemania that we saw yes, Becky Lynch winning not one but two belts, a returning Roman Reigns beating Drew McIntyre, Women’s Tag Team Belts defended, a Universal Champion Crowned of Seth Rollins, and several others.

But the main part of Mania, was indeed the WWE Championship Match between Kofi Kingston and Daniel Bryan. Oh yes there were some close encounters in the match that went back and forth. It was pretty close! But after that move of Kofi’s with the side kick of the “Trouble in Paradise” and after the 3 count pin: HISTORY WAS MADE!

You hear alot about history being made at Wrestlemania, but this history was made was even better because Kofi was the first Black Wrestler out of Ghana to win the company’s coveted prize that many had before him. Yes, Kofi Kingston may have been “crowned” out of Jamaica. But he’s really from Ghana. BLACK MAN! He’s the first Ghanaian African wrestler to win the title. When Kofi got the strap, I like everyone else was like: it’s about time that the WWE crowned the Black Man a WWE Championship! Folks have been asking for years: when is the WWE going to have a black champion to represent the company? Over the years we had from the Nature Boy Buddy Rodgers to Bruno Samartino, Andre The Giant, Hulk Hogan, Randy Savage, Ultimate Warrior, Undertaker, John Cena, Daniel Bryan, Jeff Hardy, Bret Hart, Sgt. Slaughter, Kane, just to name a few. Most of the men listen were multi time WWE Champions, but none of them were of African-decent. Oh, yes we talk about The Rock winning the belt, but he’s the first third generation to win the title as a biracial competitor. Half black/Half Samoan. Since the WWE acquired WCW in 2001, they had used the old World Heavyweight Championship in transition during the reigns of Booker T (or King Booker) and Mark Henry when they won the title. But keep in mind, this was the WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP. But not the WWE Championship.

Why does this matter? Why had the old commentators used the phrase “that the title is not about race?” Some say that race played a factor in this question, but I also say after all this time, it was about representation of how others see themselves. When Hulk Hogan and them were champions, yes many like them, but in the Black Community as we know now, Representation Matters. It clearly does matter in 2019 and yet the WWE had to respond to that change. This is the same company that year after year acknowledge about the life/work of Martin Luther King, Jr. every year on Monday Night Raw since it’s inception. And also every February, they acknowledge Black History Month, besides visiting the National Civil Rights Museum, they also acknowledge the likes of Ron Simmons, JYD, SD Jones, and many other notable black wrestlers that either won championships or were noted competitors.

Oh yes, Black Champions Matter. When WCW was still on the scene there was concerns about black wrestlers not getting noticed or being held back. We heard those stories out of “Hardwork” Bobby Walker and I believe Ice Train. Remember them? One of the shattered ceilings happened when Ron Simmons won the WCW Heavyweight Championship in 1992. That was the first time an African-American won the company’s top prize. Before the company folded in 2001, Booker T was crowned the World Heavyweight Championship in which was the second time a black man winning the strap. So even though that WCW had really well……SUCKED in dual times, but the company did something that the WWE did not done in their over 5 decades of existence. And even though it was brought up in the 1990’s toward the 2000’s, the story among the fans especially the Black Wrestling Fans still remained in tact. Yes over the years, the WWE has had Black Champions in other divisions: Intercontinental, Tag Team, European, US Championships (post WCW), Light Heavyweight, Cruiserweight, Men’s NXT, ECW, the previous Women’s Championship, Divas title, and yes the women’s belts of NXT, Raw and Smackdown. But in 2019 (also known as The Year of the Return) : this long story of Black Men winning the TOP Belt has been off the hook with Kofi’s win. And many state that this should have been crowned years ago. And yet, that Black NBA, NFL, MLB, Soccer, Rugby and other athletes can be marketable, the WWE must be marketable with it’s black grapplers to be. If LeBron James or Stephen Curry, or Laila Ali, Tiger Woods, Slone Stephens, Serena/Venus Williams, Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Mike Tyson, Muhammad Ali, and a cluster of Black Athletes can be so marketbale of all their likenesses, endorsements why not wrestlers like R-Truth or Kofi Kingston, Shelton Benjamin, Ricochet, Bianca BelAir, or Naomi? And they are black! Plus also, the WWE this past February along with NXT, had celebrated their photoshoots with the attire in the recognition of Black Excellence in this year’s Black History Month. Matter of fact, that started with Kofi Kingston when he and The New Day along with former Raw Women’s champ Sasha Banks, and former Crusierweight Champion Rich Swann were posed in a group shot on Instagram and many of the white fans were upset because it incited racism. Really?! It’s not racism folks, it’s representation! There might be young black boys and girls looking at them for inspiration that they one day can be champions or be something great as they get older in life.

NOW: Enter The New Day. When this group was started, it was designed to get the three wrestlers, Xavier Woods, Big E Langston, and Kofi Kingston all black wrestlers to form their own club in order to get noticed. Many folks thought that it was going to be another Nation of Domination group or it’s version 2. But when the promos were happening full of the all black women’s choir and each of the three wrestlers were shown in the promos for the group’s debut. After the debut and promos the group started to do zany and crude humor segments. Wait a minute, you might have saw DX, or Edge and Christian do crazy stuff in all, but The New Day?! Three Black Men doing crude humor of BOOTY, Twerking, wearing Unicorn Horns, Rap Battles with The Usos, Lyrical battles with SWV, Christmas outfits, Thanksgiving Pilgrims outfits with 6-1 on the front, their wrestling gear that was mixed with their personal statements, even with Kente designs for Black History Month, Fila Track Suits, wearing pink and light blue mixing with their attire, having the word “WHO?” (as in next competitors to challenge), Big E bellowing the intros of: “AWWWWWWWWW (insert your city here)! Don’t you dare be sour! Clap for your world famous (something something) Champs (or event) and FEEL THE POWER!” Like a minister in church preparing you for the worship service or revival. Many of the black fans were like: “they are some minstrel show ish”. Minstrel show for those whom are not black, it’s kind of like performing before an audience that really doesn’t like your skin color as much but you do it regarding your ancestory’s acknowledgements. But through it all, the group’s ideas of humor along with Xavier’s trombone, pancake throwing, Booty O’s Cereal was somewhat coming along. The New Day started out of no direction and getting direction of what they wanted to do. Yes, the New Day before the group were Intercontinental Champs, U.S. Champs, Tag Team Champs and yes thanks to Kofi – the WWE Champion. So yes, black representation and changing the direction does matter. Even if you’re black. Even if you’re in the Wrestling Game as it’s demonstrated many times before.

And besides that, one of the members Xavier has a YouTube Channel called Up Up Down Down, where he and his teammates along with other wrestlers of the company get together out of their time away from the ring and promos to play video games. I checked out the YouTube Channel and I’m looking at the wrestlers and like: man they are still friends! I guess the entertainment side of things are one thing, but this thing says another. Besides video games, they also do other competitive sports of Axe Throwing, Pool, Bowling, just to name a few. And yes, there is a UUDD Championship Belt. No kidding.

Kofi has his shoe promotions out with Fila in the ongoing success of the New Day Colors even with the new shirt designs. 5 years ago, this happened:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B4DZUOmxYUg And even with his segments called I Just Love Kicks on the UUDD Youtube Channel. Plus he’s been on the airwaves in talks about his wrestling career and family.

And Big E, does his job with the videos and promos along with his New Day faithful and other wrestlers. Previously he had done segments and interviews as a singles competitor in the past. And word on the street, is a Double Dare Segment with him coming out? And as a matter of fact: I want to see Big E do his UUDD promos. Come on Big E! I see you, bruh! I know that he’s done some funny segments way back when, BUT……what about coming up? Fill us in!

What does all this mean here? I know this is about Kofi and getting the strap. It also goes by saying that never overlook Black Competitors that might be on the rise coming up. And this being 2019, as known as the Year of the Return: for those who don’t know what that is, this year of 2019 marks the 400th Anniversary of the last slaves arrived in America back in 1619. Even though that many of the Wrestling Universe may not care about 1619, but guess what; it’s not a celebration. It’s a painful reminder that black folks were sold into the slave trade against their will and other aspects. And even though we’ve been talking 400 years, I feel as a black man, we should not make the same concerns of the next 400 years. Now what does that have to do with Kofi Kingston? Yeah many rooted for Kofi to win, but let’s not lose short sighted that many had to endure harsh realities of racism and discrimination to get this far. Just to think 11 years ago, Barack Obama was elected the first black U.S. President. And just to think in 2008, Kofi was getting his big break in the WWE: the very same WWE we know now also was in recruitment of searching for African-American wrestlers! And yet Kofi was one of them. Now look at him! Being a former Tag Team Champ, Intercontinental Champ, U.S. Champ, and now WWE Champion.

Finally as I close this, the next topic will be short and has nothing to do with Kofi. So every wrestling fan like to buy the merch, huh? Well that’s fine. But for all you younger wrestling fans: INVEST and I repeat Invest in WWE STOCK. Buy a share of the stock! Not just to sell and trade, but also to BUY!!!! Put that into a safe deposit box, and just forget it about it. Be a stockholder. Invest in a portfolio and save up more collateral! And goes for the AEW fans, Impact Wrestling, ROH and dozens of promotions that you follow all the time. All wrestling fans need to buy some stock. Instead of buying that replica Championship Belt that cost over $400.00, why not use that pricetag for some stock? Im just saying. If the WWE can put on all these clinics, health awarenesses, and historical ethinc and gender achivements. And they do it so wellWhy not use that community sense for fans or anyone investing in stock? Come on, fans!

But yes, in regarding the WWE Ship, It’s Kofi’s time. ITS ABOUT TIME! And it’s a time that many should believe that a Black Man’s time is definitely here and must defend well! And that really is a New Day that rocks!

Black History Month 2019: Under Review.

Well, it seems that Black History Month 2019 is about to be in the books. And apparently that this was one of the almost weird Black History Month Celebrations that has happened. Oh, yes it’s 93 years old. And it seems that many already forgotten that the occasion is not a racist celebration. And many had to be reminded that it does matter just like the various White stories we hear almost every day at work, school, or anywhere else. I said many times before that Black History is NOT American History. It may have some American elements in all, but it’s not only American. Black History is also celebrated in different world countries like Canada, the UK, France, Haiti, Jamaica, and others. It’s not just America alone!

So what were my moments that helped made Black History Month 2019 good?

Well, let’s start with the Oscars. No, I’m not going to go toe to toe and bash the Oscars in context. But I will say this: Regina King (aka Brenda Jenkins from 227) Black Panther walked with 3 Oscar W’s in the areas of Production Design won by Hannah Beachler who became the first African-American Female to win that category. Original Score of the movie won by
Ludwig Goransson (non-black), and also Best Costume Design by Ruth Carter. Oh, at long last after 30 years in the movie game: Spike Lee (YES THAT SPIKE LEE) after all this time, won an Oscar for directing as part of the win for the movie Black Klansman. This was Spike’s first Oscar Win and many thought that it was about time that he got one. Just to think, 30 years. Since the first movie that he directed: Do the Right Thing. And even though “Green Book” was highly undiscovered, the actor, however, Mahershala Ali became an Oscar Award Winner in getting the category’s Best Supporting Actor. Later on, Green Book won the best picture of the year and yes Octavia Spencer along with Mahershala were acknowledged.

For Music: I can name many: But Gary Clark, Jr won this one. If you have not picked up “This Land” at your Targets, Best Buys, Amazons, iTunes, or Google Play, your music collections in Black History Month was not saved! The album was supposed to be launched in March, but thankfully it was pushed back in February a week after his birthday on the 22nd. Yes, February 22nd was dubbed Washington’s Birthday, but I don’t think no one was thinking of that. Yes, this was the “This Land” album that had many folks buzzing since the video woke up all being shocked and surprised, with the black folks standing on the Confederate Flags. But it also dealt with the fact that racism is still an ugly feeling of hate on someone because of skin color. And many thought that Gary was separating the races in all. BULL CRAP! Many African-American Songwriters and musicians who were and mostly all Civil Rights Activists, Peace Activists and Social Justice Warriors all talked about how bad Racism/Discrimination is. So to those who were are want to be fans of Gary Clark, Jr. after he said the lyrics: “Run N***a Run, Run back where you come from”, you need to check yourself! He’s addressing the concern that many of you probably fear to talk about it at your group events full of black folks! And I’ll bet many of you, got Black Friends on speed dial! Don’t act surprised.

Here in Wisconsin: we had a debate about who should have been and chosen to be celebrated in the badger state’s Black History Highlights. The name Colin Kaepernick was on the minds of many. The Wisconsin GOP overwhelm didn’t add Colin Kaepernick’s name to the list of achievements due to his protesting of the NFL/National Anthem. Many called him being “too controversial.” And it gained national attention. However many in the Milwaukee area, where Colin was born decided to add his name to the City of Milwaukee’s Black History Month Segments in which many deemed well received as a good thing. Many also had agreed that other activists and civil rights leaders were deemed controversial, but many were praised for their work later on when they age or pass on. And yet, that was called out on being hypocritical. So yes, the City of Milwaukee accomplished a notion that the state’s GOP failed! And how DARE the Wisconsin GOP suggested to tell us whom to celebrate for our Month of Black History?! We don’t need NO ONE TELLING US whom to celebrate and highlight. No one! Also our new elected Lt. Governor Mandela Barnes was highlighted not only on the state level, but also in Milwaukee’s news outlets for Channel 6 and 12’s Black History Month’s Segments. Keep in mind, he’s the first African-American Lt. Governor in the state.

Another highlight of Black History Month in 2019 that I didn’t see coming: Solange Knowles, Beyoncé’s baby sister bought a social media website that many haven’t used in a while and also deleted years ago: BlackPlanet. You remember BlackPlanet where black folks and other folks logged in and getting all the info about who’s who? Way before Facebook and Instagram came in slightly after Myspace, and oh that’s where I met “Stacey Heskinson” and “Mary Lee” who were FAKES! Fake hookups! That is why I deleted my Black Planet Page is because of them and others like them who almost tricked me in giving money to them trying to get out of Nigeria. Yes, that’s the truth over 10 years ago. But since then, I stuck with those who know me and that lead me to Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, Instagram, and others that are not tricky. And I’m sure many who used BlackPlanet then had been tricked. So I’m not really looking forward to the reunion of the BlackPlanet party, but I will say that yes if any black folks still want to go to Black Planet and revive the username and password, be my guest. But happy that Solange bought the company though.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GFbUqk3HSvE

Sidenote: even my denomination of the United Methodist Church had several Black History References from quizzes to Black Harry. Yes, black folks played a role in this and the tradition continues to this day as well as other denominations, non-denominational etc. Plus, several African-American Teachers decorated their classroom doors in honor of their Colleges, Fraternities, Sororities, famous figure in history, and many more! And the idea came from Facebook!

Back in Milwaukee, during the first week of Black History Month: MPS had a week of meetings, events, social plays and others in regarding “National Black Lives Matter Week”. And with the week in summary, also regarding the activities, that an idea to incorporate Black History in the school subjects everyday that many of the kids and teens can learn about other black leaders and legends other than Martin Luther King, Jr. other than Malcolm X, other than Rosa Parks, and etc. I don’t know about the other school districts, but WAKE UP! Black History is not just an “American Fad”. It’s for all to learn from. And on a side note, of course, we need to learn about our subject all the time every day like apps and tablets.  Also, one of our Milwaukee Municipal Judges Derek Mosley takes the time every February to summarize stories of Black History to social media. He’s been doing this for 10 years, and yet the summaries are still valuable for all to understand!  Follow him on Facebook!

However: I need to say something that I’ve been seeing a whole lot of #BlackHistory365 or #BlackHistoryEveryday or I’m black every month comments. I think we’re kind of missing the boat here. OF COURSE! We are supposed to summarize our culture everyday. But black folks, hear me out when I tell you at times, we DON’T hardly acknowledge our people EVERYDAY! We don’t do it like the other ethnics do all the time, everyday. The only time we acknowledge I think around celebrating our people is really around family reunions, weddings, anniversaries, the club, and yet also: funerals. But as far as more of everyday when many are not doing problems we skip over that for some reason. We go to work, school, or worrying about that thing in the Mall or stores! There was a comment asked about how can we celebrate our folks everyday and believe it or not, it was on the Stephen’s Spot Twitter Page. The answer was more like an opinionated thought of starting out basic and continue to build on the knowledge every time. Learn from those that have extended knowledge and to build your learning in summary. Of course, it’s hard to do, but ask this: If we can be so knowledgeable about Technology or the latest game, why can’t we be so knowledgeable about our history in the same context? Not just talking the talk, BUT ACTUALLY, WALK THE FREAKING WALK! Man, we can hashtag all we want, but that hashtagging better be in action! Which means also that you better not charge up your Black History in March or later months, but left it lying lifeless in February. That’s a foul ball.

And of course in Black History Month 2019, there were several problems of turmoil: Jussie Smollett of Empire was allegedly attacked in Chicago all to do with some thugs wearing MAGA attire, but apparently, it was beginning to be a rumored attack. And his character on the show is not going to happen in the last three episodes in this matter. And yes also: R. Kelly turned himself in after all this time being in the Hot Seat of this Child Molestation charges that many dodged for so long. And also recently during the Michael Cohen testimonies, the 45 administration brought in Lynne Patton whom she feels that 45 is not a racist. Well, welcome to tokenism! Have a seat next to Candace Owens about what she said about Hitler being a nice guy. STOP IT! Hitler was not a cool dude so let’s not be so petty or tap dance like a fool. And speaking of that in stupidity: the issue of Blackface reared its ugly head. Don’t get me started!

So how do we end Black History Month of 2019? We should end by stating that we always should acknowledge our ancestors that brought us knowledge and wisdom to carry forward. It’s been 2 years since my father’s passing, but I’m holding to the torch. It’s a hard job to grasp but I’m trying. Also, we need to be thankful that a month like this that started with Dr. Carter G. Woodson in 1926 that got us talking about us. Keep in mind, NO ONE was talking about us! Until Dr. Woodson heard the Black Civil War Veterans talking in the coal mines in the South. And we also end the #BHM2019 Celebrations by the ongoing efforts to give our black kids a voice. A black voice to tell them that many might not acknowledge them of their talents and being black, but still, prove them WRONG! I want to acknowledge our young black kings and queens that your time is coming. Be ready and willing.

CALLOUT: And a lesson to all of us that Black History Month SHOULD NOT BE underestimated by anyone! Even if you’re black yourself!

Our proud historical events and ideas are still out in interests. And yet many of us have to begin new chapters to extend the stories. Black History Month 2019 may be already in the archives, but yet the summaries and extended plays still go on all the time. Or if you’re like yours truly: you can do BOTH by celebrate Black History Month and summarize Black History every time. No, it’s not a mistake. Keep it in the middle!

And that alone needs no permission!

#BLACKHISTORYMONTH4LIFE!
And yet, the struggle continues.

Black History Month 2019 – The extension that matters.

So here it is yet again. For the 93rd time, Black History Month is back once more. A time that many will celebrate the traditional version of highlighting the celebrations and accomplishments of black folks and also the ongoing summaries taking about us every day.

And of course, there are those who are so, confused and racist, there are going to be some village idiots who might question again about why there is no “White History Month” that already plagues us every day with the lies buried until generations later will dig up and asking about the truth. Oh, there will be a spoiler alert that many will put out hashtags like #BlackHistory365 in all just stay engaged. Oh, they’ll be engaged with the hashtag for a while, but I’ll ask if you’re stopping the #BlackHistory365 thing by mid-July, then that makes you a hater. No, more like not being responsible. Not being responsible for what YOU put out and not keeping up with the responsibility that YOU put out every time. Yes, I am directing this to the Black Community and I mean it with love! The keyword in this is RESPONSIBILITY! You put it out, you be responsible for it!

So the ongoing asking question yet again: why February, why not every day? I wish we can summarize our history every day, but every day in the calendar year, we work, go to school, hang out at the mall, buying up Air Jordans or iPhones. Or maybe many of you are doing this right now: checking your social media boards about some meaningless and sometimes positive meme or some so-called story of positive vibes. Of course, we say we should study our history and stories every day, BUT WE DON’T do it EVERYDAY! And what I’m saying, is not very new! It’s not new!

I hear folks all the time that “they should teach this in the schools” speech, but to those who say that, guess what, maybe the majority of you mentioning this should become Black History/Multi-African History Instructors in the classrooms and study halls! Oh, did you realize that many teachers are quitting right now? Why is that? How many teachers in the Black History Category quit last year in 2018? How many actually resigned? If you are one of the many who quit, you need to have an explanation. Was it the kids, the teens, or the so-called grown folks that know so much?! Or was it some so-called street smart teacher that didn’t get far as much? Let’s be real.

It’s really interesting that many have to chose the angle about celebrating this way of every day all calendar year. Me personally, I prefer a balance. A balance between highlights and summaries. For many, yes you can still celebrate the highlights of Black History Month. Of course, who’s going to stop you? If you are Black and have been told to not celebrate you, they are flat out stupid! If you are Black and still celebrate Black History Month, and by contrast, SUMMARIZE black history daily or weekly or monthly then guess what, you’re safe. You can do it both ways. Not just wide left or wide right. It goes in the middle. Keep it balanced! Forget about what your friends say and I dare say your family thought to believe at one point, your own point of view stays. I’m talking to those who felt neglected and tricked. This is the truth that many should be following anyway.

Oh, and about the quote that Black History is American History? it’s whack! Not all Black History is American History. Not all Black History is Canadian History. And the same is with the UK, France, Germany, Egypt, South African, and many others that celebrate the history of African Decent citizens. Yes, the idea of a Black History Month Celebration by Dr. Carter G. Woodson did start in America. But let’s be realistic: When folks say, “Black History is American History” per se in a stupid manner, it’s really talking about African-Americans in general IN America. But that excludes the international folks who are not American. That’s why I say it’s a false statement. Not everyone who is black is American. When you talk about BLACK HISTORY, you are addressing the whole black audience, WORLDWIDE! Does this make sense? It should.

So yes, for the 93rd time, we will be once again educated and summarized on why this occasion matters. It does matter. Matter of fact: #BLACKHISTORYMONTHMATTERS Our race of people did and does matter. And will matter as long as folks are misguided or need the guidance of knowledge and truth. And even also, yet to be discovered. So yes, it’s time to bust out the centerpiece one more time for the occasion and summary and celebration for blacks, by blacks, and many others to look and seek. Black History Month is not a time to react to racism from those asking when there’s a White History Month. White folks: NOT TODAY! Or any other folks of color non-black, I’ve mentioned this years ago, you need to hype up your minority months. Just a thought.

Now, I don’t need no one’s permission: I got a Black History Month centerpiece to set up.

#BlackHistoryMonthMatters

2019: What I want to see, and don’t want to see.

So here we are yet again.

Happy New Year!

Welcome to the blog story that is traditional. Let’s review of what I said last year with a twist:

Like Sgt. Hulka used to say in the movie Stripes: “before we proceed any further, we gotta get something straight.”

I’m going to be taking this blog to new heights. It’s not just going to be the same old song and dance. Nope, that is going to be one and done. It’s going to more than just one blog story. No matter if you are in America or in freaking India, be ready. This blog thing will one day, get real. If I got to get my Periscope, or own video thing on here to help my stories, well: that’s what I have to do one day. What does all this mean? It means that I have to get better with the idea of blogging with the issues and concerns. I have to. It’s not just that thing that needs to be done, it must be done to improve. To inspire and yes, to get to the point of view that I need to display.

Yes, folks will walk tall, shoulders back, chin up, conscious up to the 10th level, and of course, this is an idea that would be beneficial. I thought about destroying this blog and ending a 10+ year streak, all because of other concerns of boredom or that same story. But wait…..this could be a benefit to help and inspire. While many might think that one story from a blog is all there is, think again!

“Stephen’s Spot” is not just about one blog story. Or one picture. Or one anything. It can be revolutionary, inspirational, conscious, fun, life experienced, or just plain normal. It’s not a one dance show. It’s one in the million that can be experienced if many take the time to read more than one. Now, I know many are just now discovering the blog based on what I have written back in 2014 or whatever. But if you (yes you) the reader actually like what I write here, in a sense of right now, thank you.

Knowingly I can’t control what others might read, but by me writing more, and thinking more, it will be fully objectionable for me to carry on. I’m in the 40-year-old plus age bracket, and yes this age bracket will indeed test my theory and summarize.

So guess what: you want Stephen’s Spot? I’ll give you Stephen’s Spot! This is no same old song and dance. Nope, not here!

So for now: let’s start my New Year’s Tradition of Stephen’s Spot that doesn’t need a repeat: What do I want to see and not want to see in 2019! 19 things by the way.

It’s GO TIME!

First Five I want to see in THAT YEAR OF 2019:

Employment/Health & Wellness/Politics/Voting

1) It’s time to work, folks. If this is the year that you will get that real job, the time is now! No more wasting time by waiting on others. It won’t work. We need to have a “Career Awareness Month”. We need to have better job fairs, career expos, have a “seasonal vet” career fair for the mature folks. Not that watered down stuff that many are getting. Even if you still have that degree in the display, that many will pass up. We have to do EXTRA better.

2) If you got to get yourself checked, do it. You know where the doctors are. As well as the dentists, eye examination folks and more. Matter of fact some of them might be near you right now. And while we’re at it, we need to for real get educated about the issues of health. I hear say, “you need to do this or that”. or “you need a flu shot.” BEFORE ANY THAT HAPPENS: ASK QUESTIONS! Forget what you saw on Facebook, know that real stuff first! Really stop and ask definite questions!

3) 2019 also means that the Congress will take over with some new #45 laws being placed unfairly. If any of the new members screw up, get on their case! Don’t just complain on social media, complain to the So-and-sos! Write letters or emails with proper sentences! You can do that, you know. Oh, and if you approve of the work that some or many are doing to help this country and mainly in your districts, show some love! Volunteer or work on their staff, help in politics on their behalf. Be an Able Body Person to carry that out!

4) You should know that 2019 is a “mini” voting year? Oh, you didn’t know this? Pay attention! It’s not the Presidential election, but maybe some of your County Judges or Superintendents will up be running on the ballot. Do better!

5) Speaking of the voting thing, this would be a good time to get your voter registration checked and/or updated to get ready for the 2019-20 election years. I want to see this happen even more. Forget waiting until 2020! It’s best to do it NOW!

Next Five I don’t want to see:
Church/African-Americans/Credit Checks/Not Voting

6) Like last year, and the year before that and previous years: I don’t want to see NO ONE complaining about the lack of this or that in the church. If you don’t have a certain something going in your church, then make something happen! Keep at it! What did I say after my father’s passing in 2017: Be empowered, and Stay in the fight!

7) And like many many years ago: I don’t want to see black folks putting other black folks down for stupid pathetic reasons! No matter what happens we must continue to look in the mirror and raise up. Either for Jobs, Education (past or present) contributions, clubs/organizations etc. And that goes for anyone else. It doesn’t matter what you got with you. Either way, NO EXCUSES!

8) Never EVER OVERLOOK THIS: Black Queens: you say you LOVE us Black Kings right? DO YOU?! Here is a “whenever you get a chance” challenge that you might not think. Cater to us for ONE DAY at a restaurant, or maybe give us a day that we might enjoy. Think it over! Many of you got Brothers, Fathers, Uncles, Husbands, Boyfriends, Cousins, Neighbors, and many other male influences that you probably know that need that appreciation! Even Black Kings whom you overlook a lot, never thought about, or being Single and no relationships. You guys go all out for your thing and we’re in the seats. Why not us?

9) I HOPE TO GOD, I don’t want to see credit checks on black folks no more. Matter of fact, not on anyone anywhere with credit checks!

10) I don’t want to see those who didn’t vote to gloat. Guess what: Elections have Consequences. Period!

Five More things I want to see:

Alumni Associations/Results Doing Actual Work and Milestones/ Black Church Groups/Black Community/Fraternities and Sororities

11) I want to see more of us ALUMNI (YOUNG AND OLD) to reinvest in our Alumni Groups. Not just for the class reunions and everyone also shows up broke, mad, left out and uninformed. If you get pissed about not being informed about a class reunion or gathering, DO NOT GET MAD AT THE ALUMNI COMMITTEE! You need to be backing up your Alumni Contacts from your classmates, anyway. And if your Alumni Organizations messes up, get on their case!

12) I want to see the results of us “doing the work”. Not just the partial results of patting on the back and say “nice work”. But also what did it took to get the results needed. And if your employee is celebrating a milestone of service (10, 20, etc), give him or her the due of respect. It’s the right thing to do. Or even if no one gives you a pin of service: give yourself one!

13) I want us “non-scared and scared grown folks in the Black Church Groups” to talk to our youth. Seriously talk to them. Some of them need us to come to them. I don’t care if they are in the schools shooting basketballs or at the community centers or in church playing Chess or Madden. Or double dutching, or even learning a praise dance. Even tutoring and READING BOOKS! Let’s learn to #HashtagAndTalk to our young folks. Male members of the church: get the young men involved in these groups! Women, you know what it is.

14) I want to see more black folks in the communities who think there is nothing there to do, start something! Stop complaining! Stop moaning! Get up and get out and make the stuff happen! Such as Health stuff, job applications, resumes, networking, organizing a business venture. Able Body folks, if you’re still standing outside of a Walgreens or a Gas Station asking for money, and if you can still move around, get inside that building and ask for an application! Why is that so hard?

15) Like last year and year ago, here is a thought: I want to see ALL fraternities, and ALL sororities to “recruit and meet up” with seasoned vets that can help out. Especially those of the black fraternities and sororities. All of the Divine 9 folks: From the Alphas to the Iotas and from the AKA’s to the Sigma Gamma Rho’s: Have a day in which YOU need to go out to the seasoned vets of those who are 40-ish and up that want to join up to support the groups you represent. And also, don’t be so VERY judgmental about those who are at that 40’s range. The best place to find us: either at our church events, alumni group meetings, etc. And this goes for the American Legion Family, Masons, Elks, Eastern Stars, and etc. WE SEE YOU! You need to re-introduce yourselves!

Final four: I want not to see and want to see.
Black Lives Matter/Volunteerism/Grown After 18/If it doesn’t work…..

16) Of all the things I don’t want to see: enough of the blame game on Black Lives Matter that seemed violent or racist. For all you Blue Lives Matter or copying off the Black Lives Matter Movement, you will suck. Instead of hating on Black Lives Matter at least go to a meeting or hear from those who lost a brother, or sister or a parent that was black. Take notes, Blue Lives Matter. And don’t front!
MASSIVE NEW YEAR’S CALLOUT: And also white folks: enough calling the cops on black folks doing CIVILIZED stuff like campaigns, jobs, barbecues, community projects, volunteering or even waiting on a client, going into their apartment, swimming, selling lemonade, or to be SEATED AT A RESTAURANT OR AT STARBUCKS! Be advised and WARNED; if you work at a job, you will be fired for these stupid acts! And it takes a SMARTPHONE with video to get you TERMINATED!

17) Now, this probably might work in this 2019: Get grown in your own work and volunteerism. We know what we need to do, and what to do this year. So why not get involved? And the time is right now! Didn’t I say it’s time to work?

18) This is for the grown folks 18 and up: HANDLE your grown business! After all, we supposed to be grown after 18, right?

19) If any of the plans that don’t work, This should be seen and heard by EVERYONE: If there are things that might be difficult, stressful, unhealthy, not financially, and many others, Leave it alone! Find a Plan B, or what you know best and stick to that! Keywords: PLAN B!

Happy New Year!!

Be Thankful: The 2018 Edition.

Everyone knows how this goes yet again. And it’s really simple. No need to link or google or even #Hashtag. Today, many around the country and in the household or other areas, we Americans will be celebrating that holiday of food called Thanksgiving. From the Parades to the NFL Games, Dog Shows, or other new traditional ideas that will boost the food day. And yes, there will be us going out to the clubs and shaking off the pounds to get loose for Christmas. Or staying home for the house parties.

And yes, there will be constant reminders of the horrors that our Native American brothers and sisters will not participate in this Thanksgiving Day due to the killing of their ancestors outside of a church on a Sunday morning many moons ago. Henceforth, The National Day of Mourning. We know this. 

But this holiday, yes does have the two words of Be Thankful for the things and ideas we already have. So here in its 11th Anniversary tradition, here is another traditional Stephen’s Spot Thanksgiving Blog of “Be Thankful”. Break out the tablets, Smartphones, PC’s or laptops. Start reading!

If you have a GOOD PAYING job that is good for you and it pays well, be thankful.

If you don’t have a job and still looking and STILL not quitting, be thankful!

If you have good insurance, either health, auto, home or dental STILL be thankful.

If you have a good car or truck that gets you to work every day, and still runs well with or without repair be thankful.

If you FINALLY have a good doctor or you still don’t have one, but still want to get that monkey (and constant NAGGING) off your back, STILL be thankful about improving your health. And STILL trying. Take your time!

Now I need to say this: If you found out that you have a chronic illness like Diabetes, and you had a devastating moment of asking why it happened and didn’t have the words. But also you had conversations and online postings about those who have it already and knows the feelings of the battles, and you learn from them and they can inspire you to be better and get with the program of what they know, and still believe that it’s possible that you control diabetes and not let it get the best of you. In the month of National Diabetes Awareness Month: BE THANKFUL that you have a support system that can back you up. I’m learning that since February 20th this year. And personally, if you read my blog story about me being a now Type 2 Diabetic, I thank you. 

If you have a cool dentist and he or she is good and professional, be thankful.

Like any year, if you have lost any loved one this year or years past, and still feel down that the space is empty or the chair is empty, and you want to fill it up with a new generation of family members that want to pull ahead, even close friends, we must try to be thankful to carry on. It’s hard, but we must. I still miss my father, and like last year, my Thanksgiving will be different without him.

If you had folks praying for you all year for all the things you’ve been experienced no matter good or bad, be thankful that there are folks that know, and are in your corner.

If you are expecting a raise in 2019 and will be getting it, be thankful!

Do you still love your gifts and talents that are unappreciated? And still, do them all the time? Be thankful!

If you still got your parents and/or relatives as your back up, be thankful that they still care.

If you had a sibling in the freaking hospital more than once, who is being taken care of and heard good news about coming home, and I know this AGAIN: BE THANKFUL!

If your Mother had a minor surgery done to remove kidney stones, and blood infections, and still be able to eat or move around then some: BE THANKFUL!

Got good neighbors that know you no matter how long? Be thankful.

Met any new neighbors lately? Be thankful.

Moved to a different city recently that you feel is best? Be thankful.

Moved back to a city that is best? Be Thankful.

Got a good plan to get that next step in your career, or a different career, and a mindset? Be thankful.

If you encountered a project or program that really SUCKED MAJOR BALLS and you tried your best, and you had a bad review to feel discouraged in all, but you also realized that there are other things you can do, still be thankful that you can still other things that make you stronger! To hell with the things that don’t work. Stay with the things that can work.

For all of my church folks: if you want your Church to succeed despite those want it to fail due to jealousy, BE THANKFUL that you are willing to fight!

If your birthday or anniversary is coming up or it already happened, be thankful!

If you are STILL very introverted and darn proud of it, and not ashamed to tell about it or embrace it, be thankful!

Single and not in a relationship? Be thankful.

Married with or without kids? Be thankful.

Single and no kids? Be thankful.

Single with kids? Be Thankful.

Divorced? Be thankful.

You still have a church home that you stay and willing to have your kids to grow IN THE CHURCH? Be thankful.

If you have been given a side gig, and love it to be paid with that cash money or checks, no matter what it is, be thankful.

Got a good pet or know a pet that knows you well? Be thankful.

If you STILL give back to your community, your Alumni, your Church, your Scholarship Committees, your Fraternity, your Sorority, your Unions or other groups that have been treating you good all this time, be thankful!

If you have served in your community as an Election Inspector (like me) for 12 years or more and still work, BE THANKFUL!

Wisconsin: If you have voted in this Election and if your favorite actually WON, BE THANKFUL!

If you STILL appreciate the value of your former teachers or coaches, or former principals, of anyone that knew your value of education, be thankful.

If you can’t wait to eat the meal that gives you life, be thankful you can still eat the grub.

Still avoiding fake news? Be thankful. They suck.

If you read the old blogs that I can’t control the reading, but still want to read what I want to say regardless from my black point of view, be thankful! Not just for me, but for you.

If you STILL got stuff in your house that you want to give away, be thankful. Somebody will take it.

Still fighting Racism, White Supremacy, Sexism, and others? – Be Thankful.

Got a good business handy? And it’s good for you to make that money like Uber or Lyft or It Works? Hey, be thankful!

If you switch your career to a new company in the past year or will go to a new company, be thankful!

Own a business? Got your own time schedule? Invested in a product or material? Be thankful.

If you got many reachable sources to give, or to provide, or to share, or to support, and it’s really catching on, you better be thankful!

If you are planning to vote in 2019 and 2020, be thankful! Get your ballots ready.

If you are looking forward to another holiday weekend of fun, be thankful.

If you are NOT shopping on Black Friday, but willing to spend Black Friday outdoors in the woods or parks, Be Thankful! It’s a release to avoid a violent backlash.

If you are not shopping on Black Friday, but willing to spend your cash at a local business, or on Cyber Monday, be thankful.

If you are donating to your favorite charity on Giving Tuesday, Be thankful!

If you can’t wait to deck your halls for Christmas or Hanukkah, or Kwanzaa, AFTER Thanksgiving (some of you did it ahead of time) Be Thankful.

If you criticized Donald Trump for his “horrible so-far job” as President and his tweets, REALLY BE THANKFUL!

If you are breathing right now normally: be thankful.

If you were removed from a company that had you started in the game, then a rift in Management occurred, but went to another company that is good so far, BE THANKFUL!

If many in the black community have black pride PLUS Melanin Responsibility to uplift our black people without sarcasm and forced stuff, BE THANKFUL!

Now I have to say this again: If you kneeled while supported the protest of inhumane acts of people of getting brutalized by the police (as in the NFL Players) and support the idea of waving the flag: your thankfulness is valid because even though many of you supported a kneeling movement in a Colin Kaepernick way. NOTE: It’s not about the Flag or against the military or veterans. It’s about the ongoing concern of black folks getting the wrong treatments of social injustice!

If you are walking tall real good, be thankful.

If you are expecting a really good breakthrough, BE THANKFUL!

If you condemn any racist act on the internet, social media, at your job, or in the house, or in the neighborhood, or any act of disrespect, forced patriotism, and you had to write letters of complaints to a certain company, STILL be always thankful to get your voice heard! Put the pressure on them on not coming back!

If you are upgrading your house to be better, be thankful!

If you got a plan to take a vacation, be thankful.

If you still got your old game systems on a Throwback Thursday and they still work, be thankful!

If you still listen to your old school joints on your radio, or maybe some new school material, be thankful.

NOTE: For my readers that had to go through hell with the wildfires in California, and the Hurricanes out east, and still feeling hopeless. I want you all to understand that it’s a hard Thanksgiving Day for you as we know. But in a sense, you should be thankful that you can rebuild. And BE EXTRA THANKFUL that yet, you are still living! And be EXTRA EXTRA EXTRA THANKFUL that a breakthrough is coming for the better!

If you are a conscious-minded person, a defensive-minded person that you know is best, for your own opinions and viewpoints without any harm or hurtful feelings towards humanity, be thankful!

As of today: I’m thankful that Stephen’s Spot has now reached 1,000 posts! If you read all or some of a few blog posts within the past decade in all: BE THANKFUL! And I thank you for reading! More to come. 

For my Sagittarius readers: guess what? Our season is back TODAY on Thanksgiving Day! Are we thankful, now? (SAGS RULE!)

And finally: If I missed anything that many have thought about, and it’s good: we all should be and forever so thankful that we must march on. Like they say at the black funerals: It’s already been said. It’s already done.

Happy Thanksgiving!

#BeThankful