Scratching my head all this time: The Mother’s Day edition.

It’s been noted, that mother’s day is coming. Actually, it’s already here. So shout out to all the moms in the building, even if you have to play a mother to be a mother. But like many everyday values in stuff, dealing with politics and absent minded opinions meaning absolutely nothing, I’m scratching my head again.

On Facebook as we know, there will be those who will complain about not enough love for Dad’s in all. So will we be surprised after Mother’s Day 2018 is long gone?

Admit it America: has Childish Gambino told the truth in his video?

With Graduation Season College style is now in full swing, why are some black students getting “ushered” off the stage after a dance?

So I guess college students, excuse me Black College Students can’t sleep in college areas where folks can study? And get the treatment from the campus police?

Why there are white folks calling the police all because black folks barbecuing?!

It seems that Kanye West….oh what was that statement again? Nevermind.

How many liked Cobra Kai on Youtube Red? Admit it.

I will ask this: you’re in Church. And it’s Mother’s Day. Why is this day will be higher than Father’s Day?

Will Tyler Perry’s Haves and The Have Nots for this season will be the best banger ever?

Thursday Nights on TV will be not a Scandalous as in the past. Am I not the only one that misses Scandal?

This needs to be asked, why is BET and OWN allowing some graphic language? Oh, it’s cable. Nevermind.

Will the Nintendo Switch get a deal with EA sports for Madden?

Oh, when is Bayonetta 3 coming out for the Nintendo Switch?

I am seriously thinking of cutting my DirecTV Serivce for Streamline TV like DirecTV Now. Good deal or nah?

Can AT&T Prepaid get a deal about 32GB Android Cell Phones? Not just Apple!

Attention United Methodists: we are 50! But what are doing everyday for our churches to grow and be an example for others to do things the right way?

OK, I need ask this: with all this going on about Bill Cosby going to jail, about the queludes and sexual advances, and all his accolades being stripped, did Camille Cosby ACTUALLY knew this?

Heard that ZTE is facing serious trouble. What will that do for those who want to pay for a prepaid phone and save serious money?

So the 45 land crew had spouses to coming out the White House in regards to the military. Um….I have to ask this question but where were the black folks?!

Oh, yes. Every Republican fan and representative is out in fear and full force in a way to promote the good side of the red squad. Um……What good things?!!

Which song is the best Mother’s Day song we know? Is it “Mama” By Boyz II Men, “Always on the Run” By Lenny Kravitz, “Dear Mama” By 2Pac. Or others?

How many of us who don’t have a mother to go to, became that mother to go to?

For all the mothers whom are no longer with us, how will we honor their memory everyday?

For you up and coming mothers, what is your path right now?

Big questions, many will critized fathers living foul, but what about the mothers living foul? Not saying all mother’s here!

They say the Big Mamas are gone. Who are the new Big Mamas?

Show of hands: who did not know about Mr. T rapping in the 80’s about Mothers?

 

I see many Baseball Players will be wearing Pink for Mother’s Day. Yes, does Susan Komen count today? Like every October?

Milwaukee will finally get a Black Festival! In the month of August. What will this festival promote to the masses that miss African World Festival?

I see that the City of Milwaukee will get it’s Second streetcar this month. And this is only a test, right?

Wisconsin NEEDS a Trikke Shop, a Trikke Store, a Trikke Specialist, and a Trikke Advisor. What I’m talking about is a Trikke, a three wheeled Carving Body Powered Vehicle. I currently own one since the early 2000’s and I’ve used it to turn heads. It’s a Trikke 8. The Original one. Can Wisconsin get on board with this like the Segways?

 

 

What about it, Wisconsin?

 

 

And the last thing on the menu: And this is for Milwaukee; Did you really enjoyed the 3rd Annual MPS Alumni Reunion?

 

Real side note: Happy Mother’s Day to all the mothers!

Happy Mother’s Day to the mothers who read my blog.

Happy Mother’s Day to the mothers who are changing lives.

Happy Mother’s Day to the mothers who are staying in the fight!

Happy Mother’s Day to the mothers who are claiming their time.

Happy Mother’s Day to the mothers who aren’t always living foul.

To the non-Mothers that take care of folks on the fly, even though that this day is not really for you but you act upon on being a mother in general!

Lastly, even though it’s Mother’s Day, don’t single out the Fathers. Please don’t. Father’s Matter!  And I lost my father last year. He mattered. Wait for it in June for the Father’s Day Edition of Scratching my Head.

But today: Happy Mother’s Day!

 

 

 

 

 

 

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My Take: March For Our Lives should be an everyday reminder.

I was going to write about the BET’s new show, Mancave and putting my spin on it. But I’m putting that on hold until I write this blog story regarding this subject: March For Our Lives.

I like everyone else, looked at the footages of our young folks in D.C. and locally here in Milwaukee protesting and having their say about the recent shootings that effected their schools and the relationship of their classmates. This wasn’t just an American issue, it was also worldwide. It was estimated in DC that over 800,000 plus came out to this rally/march to hear and to protest a substance that has been lingered for so long. Many of us, including me had lost someone we know personally to gun violence. I lost a cousin to gun violence in the summer of 2002 when Milwaukee was facing one of the worst summers at the time. My cousin was just 21 years old. A young black man going to college. And owned an upcoming Ice Cream Parlor. He was gunned down all because there were other folks wanting his car with the spinning rims on the side. He was killed near 47th and Locust and crashed his car near the corner of 47th and Center Streets not too far from Washington High School. All in Milwaukee. My family like many other families that lost loved ones were in horror about losing a young black male to gun violence. Weeks after my cousin’s death, the perps were tracked down and were caught for the crime. Previously, they were serving time.

But that was a personal matter. I know that the connection wasn’t all school related, but the relation of having someone close to you being killed is understandable. Now why am I putting this out on a day like today? Everyone again, has a story. But for this “March for our lives” event to voice our concerns of the recent tragedies in schools this needs NO relation. At all. NONE!

While I was looking at the young teens and some under 13 years old they seem to have a idea. An objective. These young players and girls have a momentum that would rocket them to the next level. They are the Z Generation from what I hear. And this Z Team is not pulling any punches when it comes to the things or ideas they are seeking to help curb Gun Control.

CALLOUT: And I need to say this: for all of you gun nuts who think that this March For Our Lives group is going to take away your firearms or pew pew pistols, they are not. NO ONE IS NOT TAKING AWAY YOUR GUNS! President Obama didn’t take them away and I’m surprised no one took away his Skeet Shooting Rifle! It’s kind of funny that many would believe that. But your firearms are still in your house.

Some of the speakers did spoke out on their “so far” experience. A few of them spoke were black. And some have expressed about not being at the age to give out activism like remarks. But adults, let us remind ourselves that the well known activists we know and read about, started their activism speeches as young as 5 years old. Don’t tell me that you overshot that. Folks like MLK and Rev. Al Sharpton done that. And even though that MLK is dead for nearly 50 years, and Al Sharpton is still living, their activism are lingered in memory and archived for the future. Grown folks, stop playing! It’s been done before. And it just happened again today! Those like Naomi Wadler who is only 11 years old. A 5th Grader speaking out for those whom are African-American girls that don’t make the front pages of newspapers in the nation. Nor the evening news on TV. And she’s from Alexandria, Virginia who lead a walkout via her Elementary School. The black girls she referenced were ranging from – Courtlin Arrington, Hadiya Pendleton and Taiyania Thompson just to name a few.

She also referenced very same City of Chicago that everyone talks about in a question “What about the black-on-black crime?” “What about Chicago?”  For black boys: same thing. As an example, Trevon Bosley gave his remarks by stating that “Everyday shootings are everyday problems!”  And the keyword is “everyday.”

Now we know that the “suspect supporter” of the lobbyists has the letters “NRA” on them. It’s seems that the NRA has been THE suspect. Why? I think we adults whom have back them and the 2nd Amendment allow this to happen! Of course that the 2nd Amendment has the right to bear arms or having a gun. We know this. BUT when was the last time that NRA has ever backed a thing called responsibility? I never heard the NRA fans like Dana Loesch or that black dude what’s his name, Colion Noir is it? (dude is selling out) never talked about the responsibility of the firearms their members and lobbyists must understood. They never spoke about Philando Castile’s murder in Minnesota nor recently, Stephon Clark’s murder by the Sacramento Police in his grandparent’s backyard! Where you at, NRA? Backing up Trump?! Don’t be surprised if the Gen Z Crew turns that age to vote, get involved in politics/activism and vote out all those who held down that red wall of pain that many fought for so long to take down! Be warned, NRA. They coming. And those who back them, you might be in the wave of truth of getting out of way. Again, these kids now are NOT PLAYING! And they are teaching us and reminding us of our accountable actions!

Many of us in the Baby Boomers, Gen X and yes you Millennial folks, we’ll be in those nursing stations getting someone to wash our butts as we get older and relieve our sickness and diseases to cure our bodies. OK subject off. Not good. But you know what I’m saying.

From David Hogg to Emma Gonzalez and many in between, they were the premiered speakers and survivors and we grown folks had to listen to them. That’s what they wanted. They wanted to speak and they did. But the surprising speaker of all of them was just 8 years old. And she has a legacy to maintain for the next era of the name King. Yes, Yolanda Renee King – MLK’s and Coretta’s only Grand Daughter, Niece of Rev. Bernice King and Dexter King, and daughter of MLK III came out and spoke that she has a dream that enough is enough!

This is King’s Granddaughter speaking. Now I know that she’s only a preteen in elementary school. But after her speaking part of going to be a great generation, there is no telling, she is just beginning to spread her future activism. But I hope that she not only does that, but also maintains the namesake of her family to restore!

Now I want to address all this mess about are the Parkland High School Students are being exploited for all this protesting. My question is, who is exploiting them? Who?

All the grown folks who say that, shut up! They to me are addressing a concern about the violence in the schools recently. There was violence of guns in the Milwaukee Public Schools not too long ago. Were the current students of MPS being exploited about that? When many of us were in high school in the 90’s or 80’s, now as ALUMNI were we exploited with high school violence in our schools not caring?! Yes I went there. And many of us never used the letters “NRA” back then. Unlike now. I don’t think nor believe that the students are being exploited. Seriously, who’s exploiting them?! Who?! One thing about all of this, folks want to stir up stuff that is not true. If that’s the case, they wouldn’t be doing the marching or speaking out period. And their parents would NOT allow them to attend. But wait a minute: this is a country with freedom of expression right? So that means that our young folks can’t speak about the concerns that they witnessed? Many of us grown folks are perpetrating. And many are doing that by the keyboards who think they know it all, but don’t do the homework. Yes grown people I’m talking about us! Or many of us that want to rant with no proof.

Final say: even though that this march is a one day affair of open expression of our youth, it shouldn’t stop today! This needs to be an everyday subject! Everyday! Not just every March 24th, take a photo, say/hear the speeches, performances and go home. I want all the schools to really take heed about what is happening here. And yes this does include the parents! And also the communities, the fraternities, the sororities, the churches, neighborhoods, and many other groups, clubs and organizations that really cares about the safety and well being of our (and I mean OUR) kids! If you don’t have children like me and you’re just looking at this March and rally, I say back up the kids in your churches and community centers/organizations. Women: back up the girls. And as far as the Men (whether you have kids or not) we need to back up our Sons, Nephews, Cousins, Grandsons, Godsons, and young wards/male students who look up to us as head pillars in the community and go to the schools everyday, while we work the clock! Women: same thing if you have sons and no daughters. Men, vice versa with daughters.

I have a message to the Generation Z crew that were active today: I hear you. We all hear you. Let’s do the work to get you started. After all, you are the next players to lead.

My take: This is getting old, International Women’s Day has nothing to do with us dudes at all. Where’s the REAL hype about International Men’s Day like right now?

Ok, I need to say something about this. Women, and those women who read my stuff, quick question: have you really had a blessed International Women’s Day? I’ll leave that up to you to ponder.

My emphasis is really focused on your day being asked the same tired question about this: “When is International Men’s Day?”

Oh don’t lie. Many of us dudes and yes some of you females been asking about a day that is set aside for the men to rejoice of being recognized. Yes I’m talking to you! We’ve seen it over and over again: November 19th. Annually. Every single year. And yet we get mad. Wanna get mad? Get mad and vote out the Republican fools that follow the “Make America Great Again” stuff. And yes Women, in regarding this, some of you probably voted or rooted for Trump in 2016. Tried to tell you.

Now let lay in the horn on the whining. Why was there was “whining” about a International Men’s Day on the International Women’s Day of March 8th?! Taking a deep thought breath here. I can list two to four:

1) Information is Power.

2) Folks are searching for knowledge. Repeated knowledge that many know.

3) Folks really want to know.

And 4) Google and Wikipedia are really a rally source that many don’t access or choose.

There are choices here. I did a Google search here without falling off the cliff last year. I saved my energy for saving of searching for an International Men’s Day. And also I realized that the International Men’s Day does have a website. Matter of fact, here it is:

http://www.internationalmensday.com/

And the theme for 2018: “Positive Male Role Models”.

From the website, these are the objectives:

Objectives of International Men’s Day include a focus on men’s and boy’s health, improving gender relations, promoting gender equality, and highlighting positive male role models. It is an occasion for men to celebrate their achievements and contributions, in particular their contributions to community, family, marriage, and child care while highlighting the discrimination against them.

Okay…what else?

According to the website, this year in regarding Positive Male Role Models”.

Many boys today don’t know what it means to be a man because they don’t have a man in their lives. Sadly, children will go to bed tonight without saying goodnight to their father because he just isn’t there.

Nearly one-fourth of America’s children live in mother-only families. These frightening statistics are similar to a lessor or greater extent the world over.

More than likely, a woman teaches them at school and at home. So, where do they see and interact with positive male role models? Or, how do the boys learn what it means to be a man? Television? Movies? Internet? On the street?

Even in homes where the father is present, research shows that the average father spends less than 10 minutes a day one-on-one with his child. In our society, emotional and spiritual fatherlessness is becoming the norm. Many of today’s fathers did not have positive role models to show them how to be a father, so they are not there to show their children what it means to be a father.

No matter how great a mother is, she cannot replace what a father provides to a child. Irrefutable research shows that mothers are typically nurturing, soft, gentle, comforting, protective and emotional. Fathers tend to encourage risk-taking and to be challenging, prodding, loud, playful and physical. Children need a balance of protection and reasonable risk-taking. If a positive male role model isn’t around, there is a void in this child’s life. Children without positive male role models are more likely to be involved in criminal activity, premarital sexual activity, do poorer in school and participate in unhealthy activities.

Studies have shown that involvement of a father or a positive male role model has profound effects on children. Father-child interaction promotes a child’s physical well-being, perceptual ability and competency for relating with others. Furthermore, these children demonstrate greater ability to take initiative and evidence self-control.

Okay….So how can men of any kind be more in the lives of children, especially with no kids that they want to support?

Via the website:

• Encourage positive male role model involvement in your child’s life if you’re a mum. (Mother)

• If you’re a non-custodial dad, make the effort to visit with your children more often. You can also be very intentional about teaching them important life lessons.

• If you are an educator, encourage fathers to be more active in the classroom.

• You can influence the lives of children in your community be being a positive male role model.

• Faith-based institutions and programs can bring fathers together with their children. Additionally, they can encourage male role models to engage children in their sphere of influence.

• If you are a community leader use International Men’s Day on 19 November 2018 to celebrate Positive Male Role Models and give awards for the same.

• Business leaders can encourage employee involvement in community efforts with children. For example, you can promote mentoring with organizations like Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Big Brothers-Big Sisters, youth groups, Boys Club or Girls, Inc.

More from the site:

The November IMD is a significant date as it interfaces the popular ‘Movember‘ charity event and also with Universal Children’s Day on Nov 20 with which IMD forms a 48 hour celebration of men and children respectively, and of the special relationships they share.

The ability to sacrifice your needs on behalf of others is fundamental to manhood, as is honor. Manhood rites of passage the world over recognize the importance of sacrifice in the development of Manhood.

Men make sacrifices everyday in their place of work, in their role as husbands and fathers, for their families, for their friends, for their communities and for their nation. International Men’s Day is an opportunity for people everywhere of goodwill to appreciate and celebrate the men in their lives and the contribution they make to society for the greater good of all.

Methods of commemorating International Men’s Day have included public seminars, conferences, festivals and fundraisers, classroom activities at schools, radio and television programs, Church observances, and peaceful displays and marches. The manner of observing this annual day is optional; any organizations are welcome to host their own events and any appropriate forums can be used.   

Does this sound like an idea? We see this all the time, but this is more on a international level regarding all men. No matter with kids or not.  International Men’s Day is the youngest of the two. This was started in 1999 in Trinidad and Tobago. International Men’s Day is young. It’s a young international holiday that highlights the achievements and accomplishments of Men in the world.

Now many are probably (AGAIN) joking around and want poke the bear about the day that is way young than International Women’s Day.  It’s kind of obvious that there are those who want to know about the day of International Men, but have NO IDEA what the day is about. Where as International Women’s Day comes every year and yes WOMEN, some of you have no idea why you have Women’s Rights. That’s the main reason right there!

And I, unlike those who didn’t  advised me, I had to do my homework on my own. I had to research International Men’s Day on my own. And I had to summarize International Men’s Day ON MY OWN. NO male and NO female never told me to do this. But as a Man, A black man born in America, I had to do my study time and to familiarize myself about this 19th Day of November. We know that this day for us Americans ties in with the Gettysburg Address by Abraham Lincoln.

But on a black history level courtesy of BlackAmerica.com:

November 19: This Day in Black History

1921: One of the greatest catchers in the history of baseball, Roy ‘Campy’ Campanella was born. He was one of the pioneers who broke the color barrier in MLB. He passed in 1993, aged 71.

1927: Joe Hunter was born. He was one of the original Funk Brothers of Motown fame. He passed in 2007, aged 79.

1936: Robert White was born. He was guitarist for Motown’s Funk Brothers. He died from complications of open heart surgery. He was 57.

1939: Happy Birthday to Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Warren ‘Pete’ Moore who turns 74 today. He was a singer, recorder producer, songwriter and Arranger.

1954: While driving from Vegas to L.A., Sammy Davis, Jr. crashes into another car on Route 66 San Bernadino, CA, and three days later, permanently loses use of his left eye.

1955: The Cues, known mostly as a studio backup group for the likes of Atlantic stars Ruth Brown and LaVern Baker, had their first chart single with “Burn That Candle” (#86 pop).

1958: Happy Birthday to actor Terrence T.C. Carson who turns 55 today.

1960: ‘Georgia on My Mind’ by Ray Charles hit #1.

1962: Influential ’50s blues star Savannah Churchill made a comeback performance at the Room at the Bottom in New York’s Greenwich Village. She had been badly injured several years earlier when a fan fell on top of her.

1964: The Supremes became the first all-girl group to reach #1 in Britain when “Baby Love” hit the coveted top spot.

1964: Blues singer and musician Little Johnny Jones died of bronchopneumonia. He was 40 years old.

1966: ‘Knock on Wood’ by Eddie Floyd was the number one song this day.

1966: Happy Birthday to Olympic Hall of Famer Gail Devers who turns 47 today.

1968: The Supremes performed at the Royal Variety Show in London before Queen Elizabeth.

1969: Happy Birthday to award winning actress Erika Alexander who turns 44 today.

1971: B.B. King began a European tour in London on his twenty-fifth anniversary in the music business.

1973: Happy Birthday to tap dancer, actor & choreographer Savion Glover who turns 40 today.

1979: Chuck Berry left prison after a stay for tax evasion.

1983: Tina Turner begins her fabled Eighties comeback when her version of Al Green’s “Let’s Stay Together,” produced by of Martyn Ware and Ian Craig Marsh of Heaven 17, hits the British charts.

1985: Lincoln Perry aka Stepin Fetchit passed away, aged 83. He was the 1st black actor in history to become a millionaire and the 1st black actor to receive featured screen credit in film.

1990: Milli Vanilli were stripped of their Grammy Award because the duo did not sing at all on the Girl You Know It’s True album.

1992: Janet Jackson’s Rhythm Nation 1814 album was certified six times platinum (six million copies) by the RIAA.

1994: Actor Dedrick Gobert was fatally shot this day. He was 22 years old.

1995: Little Milton, Bobby “Blue” Bland, Johnny “Guitar” Watson, and Clarence Carter appeared at the Grand Olympic Auditorium in Los Angeles on the last night of their Heavyweights of Blues caravan tour.

1998: Natalie Cole sang “They Can’t Take That Away from Me” at Frank Sinatra’s eightieth birthday party at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles. If that didn’t do it for Ol’ Blues, Little Richard’s rendition of “Old Black Magic” surely did.

2002: While greeting fans from a 5-floor hotel balcony in Berlin, Michael Jackson shocks the world by dangling his newborn son over the side of the railing.

Even though this date in black history has little or no effect on International Men’s Day, but there are other events that happened on this day before a thought of a International Men’s Day had ever been thought about.

I’m glad that now, that there is an International Men’s Day that us MEN can actually take an opportunity in to talk about our concerns, joys, problems, and to be celebrated for what we do. And even though there are naysayers and haters on both men and women who feel the equality thing should be all the time, it’s not. The haters who call some men, whinny or bitter of asking the same tired question without reason are just haters themselves. They don’t give enough information. All they tell you was or is “November 19th.” That’s it. And no other reasons why. I’m a type of person wants to know “what else happens on this November 19th day” that we should about besides the infamous International Men’s Day.  That is missing! The homework of that is not finished.

Someone (a female mind you) suggested that International Men’s Day should be a day to highlight concerns or something that men really care about. And she’s right. And also it ties in the “Movember”awareness of men’s health awareness. And originally, voting. (For us Americans who vote in November).

For all the mean tweets, stop it. You all ready know. That goes for BOTH men and women!

From the Time and Date Website: Representatives from organizations such as the UN expressed support for the event, although it is not an official UN observance. A petition has called for the UN to make International Men’s Day an official UN observance in the interest of equality.

CALLOUT: Gents, we got to hype up our day in about 8 months. Get prepared RIGHT NOW! And keep pushing the thought of International Men’s Day on the calendar!

 

A Stephen’s Spot Exclusive: Diabetes.

I’m going to go to a specific topic about a health matter that we know very well. And it’s a health matter that many of us don’t want to hear, nor talk about. A health matter that many of us know through family and friends and associated know. The topic I’m bringing up is diabetes. We’ve heard of it, right? We should.

Picture this: you visit your new doctor for the first time in a while. You kept hearing about getting a physical, check up or what ever you call it. You go to a previous eye doctor of any kind to get your eyes checked in all, and then they check your blood pressure. It’s elevated. And you have to get checked up. So you exercised for about a month and then you go to a new medical physician. After your physical is done and getting your blood checked, you think it’s all good right? Not exactly.

This past Tuesday, after I was working for the Election Commission in Milwaukee, I went home to hear about my test results from my physician. Everything else was good, except one thing: Glucose. My glucose numbers was high like a kite of 237 and my A1C was like in the nines; which is kind of bad. And it was ruled that I contracted or diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes. The shock and disbelief of my nurse telling me this was not good. According to them, they tracked my blood from 3 months ago. And it was high all this time. Didn’t know it. After the shocking news, there was one other source of info I had to turn to, my mother. And she knows about Diabetes because she was diagnosed over 20+ years ago. We went over the results online to get an idea about what happened and why it happened. She broke it down like, in addition to foods and drinks some of them can spike up you blood sugar. Even stress can cause diabetes. February 24th was the one year anniversary since my father’s passing, in which I know now the result of his death was coronary vascular disease. But what lead to that, was Diabetes and he was 69 years old. We dealt with death for like most of 2017 and it was not a easy experience losing my father so soon. Some of my relatives living and deceased had gotten diabetes earlier and two of my 1st cousins had amputations on their legs and feet cut off.

I have heard the horror stories particularity from those who were diagnosed and they were not good stories.

Now you probably asking like, REALLY?! How did this happen?! You’re 41 years old and African American and supposed to be healthy in all. Guess what? Like any other diseases, disorders or health issues, they can strike at ANY AGE. ANY RACE. ANY GENDER. This like bullets has no eyes to look. You can meet a dude or a chick 10 years younger than me and they have diabetes. No matter how fat or skinny they are. My former physician once told me that you can get diabetes when you get older. You know what, the doctor was right, and that quote was about 6 years ago when I was in my 30’s.

Now I’m not a happy camper that I’m the latest causality of the “Diabetic Universe”. Really I’m not. But right now, I don’t know how I’m going to adjust my life doing this blog with my stories reaching you. No I’m not quitting. This blog is not going away as you think.

Why I am telling this story? Why share this story that I know that it’s going to change my lifestyle, goals, objectives, etc. I’m reaching out to those that do WordPress or other bloggers that know what I’m going through right now. I’m new to this club that I didn’t want to join and now since I’m in this club, I’m trapped in this prison. Can’t get out. I know it’s horrifying and dead scary. But I had this quote years ago while getting checked up was something like: “Check your blood or die!” You know what, I’m bring that back. Even in this era that we think we feel good, but we really REALLY have to be sure. What I’ve learned then and now is that you can’t overlook anything with your health. You really can’t. We all have agendas and ideas to maintain, but to be real, our health comes first to the agendas. We know we want to live longer and see our future folks grow up and have kids of their own. Some of us may not be so lucky. No matter if you are a woman and yes men we must know!

I heard and read from lots of folks whom have this Diabetes to live with day after day, year after year, month after month in all that it’s not going to define them. I want to be clear that I’m not going to let Type 2 Diabetes NOT STOP ME! Oh it has slowed me down, made me humble and made me ask why. But there is another question to say the next day after seeing your doctor, “Now what?” Also, what’s next? And also where do we go from here?

We know and hear that Diabetes is not “a go away thing forever”. Yes you can manage it to a point to get it under control. But it has to stay managed! Stay managed like eating the right foods. Stay managed like getting enough exercise everyday. Stay managed like checking your blood pressure, weight, and checking up with your physician on point. And yes stay managed by taking the meds prescribed. It’s about taking back control of your health and you. Time to get moving.

Even though that it’s been a tough week of mixed emotions so far, I know that it won’t be easy to get through. If this is a lesson to be learned in all, then I’m still learning. This not just a black community health concern, this is an everyone health concern. And yes black folks, this hits us the most! Had to say that in Black History Month, but this rings true in every month. And to point out, I just watched Anthony Anderson’s Video Clip on the Get Real About Diabetes Facebook Page. Here is the thing: Anthony was diagnosed with the Type 2 about 16 years ago. And like many others, he had to ask why? He also mentioned about his father’s passing and other health related matters that hindered him. This is the same Anthony Anderson that was on Transformers, Kangaroo Jack, Barbershop, King’s Ransom, and currently, Black-ish. He also had an episode that revealed that Dre (Anthony’s Character) was diagnosed with Diabetes.

I know that this was not the news to share. But I had to bust this out because there are those whom had this for a while can understand of what I’m going through.

And yes, I’ll get the resources via the American Diabetes Association, and any other Diabetes Support Group that I can reach out to, especially to those whom are African-American knows the deal dealing with this everyday. And I’m going to start where I know: my own backyard of Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

I know it won’t be easy, but I’ll try something for once to say that I know now what I must do. This was a real set back, but it’s not a total set back of my goals and dreams in life!

2018: What do I want to see and don’t want to see!

So here we are.

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 that just one blog story. No matter if you are in America or in freaking India, be ready. This blog thing will 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 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’ve give you Stephen’s Spot! This is not no same ol 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 want to see and not want to see in 2018! 18 things by the way.

ITS GO TIME!

First Five I want to see in THAT YEAR OF 2018:

1) 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 display, that many will pass up. We have to do 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 were 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 questions!

3) 2018 means that the Congress will take over with some new #45 laws being placed. If any of the new members screw up, get on their case! Don’t just complain on social media, complain to the So-and-So’s! Write letters, emails with proper sentences! You can do that, you know.

4) You know that 2018 is a mid term voting year. Oh you didn’t know this? Pay attention! It’s not the presidential election, but maybe some of your Governors or County Supervisors will be running on the ballot. Do better!

5) Speaking of the voting thing, this would be a time to get your voter registration checked and/or updated to get ready for the 2018 election. I want to see this happen even more. Plus in the future like all these health months, why can’t we have a Voter Awareness Month? Remember this: FAAN – February, April, August and November!

Next Five I don’t want to see:

6)Like last year: 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: 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 reasons. No matter what happens we must continue to look in the mirror and raise up. Jobs, education (past or present) contributions, etc. And that goes for anyone else.

8) Never EVER OVERLOOK THIS – Black Queens: you say you LOVE us Black Kings right? DO YOU?! Here is a 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! 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 gloat. Guess what: Elections have Consequences. Especially in this Midterm Season!

Five More things I want to see:

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. And by the way, if you see an Alumni Rep at your class reunion, don’t get no attitude about your daughter or son in college needing money and you think that your old High School has no money. That will not work!!!! Just dumb. Have you heard of Scholarships, like churches hand out every year? Stop playing!

12) I want 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 employer 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 Madden. Or double dutcng or learning a praise dance. Even tutoring! 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 whom think there is nothing there to do, start something! Stop complaining! Stop moaning! Get up and get out and make the stuff happen!

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 whom are 40 ish and up that want to join up to support the groups you represent. And also, don’t be so judgmental about those whom are at that 40’s range. 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!

Final three: want not to see and want to see.

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.

17) Now this might work in this 2018: Get Grown in your 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!

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

Happy New Year!

Scratching my head all this time in 2017.

Oh I had to do this! Here we go.

For those of us whom lost folks this year, can 2018 be healing for us?

America, were we really ready for that Trump thing?

Big Question: Did the eclipse did the thing for you to be spiritual?

What is the real setback about racism and getting the jobs in the workplace regarding black folks?

Men: did you see Wonder Woman after the ladies kicked you out of the theaters?

Did December 5th rocked for me? For the 41st time? OH HECK YES!

Before I go on: Remember 2007 when I wrote this blog? Like 10 years ago?

Was Sheriff David Clarke’s resignation was really a blessing to get out and say thank you Jesus?

What was the real reason why Roland Martin’s show was cancelled by TV One? They say financial concerns, but it has to be something else!

The Milwaukee Streetcar is almost done with the tracks. Haters any comments?

Why the fear of black communications like black radio, black tv or black internet platforms?

Anyone signed up for the Affordable Care Act, like REAL EARLY not to get penalized?

OJ got out this year. Worth the wait?

Hey, Evangelicals: Are you really STILL down with Trump?

Why do certain players (ie Kyrie Irving) was still in the false belief of the earth being flat? It’s round idiots!

For you black Trump Supporters: you still follow him?

Milwaukee’s problem with reckless drivers is still a dilemma. What has been the hold up?

Just tell the truth employers: you really need black folks don’t you? Stop playing!

Who watches the Judge Show with the married couple on the bench?

Introverts again unite! May we continue the struggle?

Did many of you partied at Summerfest in Milwaukee?

Who got the Nintendo Switch?

Who has bought the SNES Classic?

The Milwaukee Public Schools Alumni showed out again this year. Can it happen again in 2018?

Surprise, Surprise Milwaukee: Are you ready for UW-Stout’s alumni return in 2018?

For many think that the use of Black Owned Businesses would be the key, can they maintain the subject to fix, or to further create?

Hey Harley-Davidson riders: you know we have this 115th Anniversary next summer for the Motorcycles, right? And Milwaukee black businesses: BE READY!

You: the Alt-Right, you must be still playing yourselves. Aren’t you?

Covfefe. What was that?

Who was the really the biggest fool of 2017?

Who really had the unsung character of 2017?

Who really had the top hand of respect of 2017?

Question: Back in the 90’s Steven Seagal and Jean-Claude Van Damme were the best Martial Arts Actors in the game. Now they support Putin. WHY?!!!!!

Of all the shows: was there any show that was really better than Empire or Blackish in 2017? Be honest now.

In addition to the females being sexually harassed in the game, what about the men who were harassed? Terry Crews was the only man in 2017 that told his story. Men, we need to talk!

Who’s ready for Black Lighting in 2018?

Who’s ready for Black PANTHER in 2018?

Who drank the Pepsi Caramel Soda?

Why did Aretha Franklin and Dionne Warrick had that feud? Like really?!

Haters: Having a Black TV Talk Show is not racist. Must we explain why?

Did the WWE Network delivered again?

Has DirecTV Now really sunk in?

You know that the #MeToo movements really started in 2007 by a black woman, right? Tarana Burke is the name.

Folks again this year talked about Colin Kaepernick taking a stand. Well did he proved a point? By being one of GQ’s Awards winners of the year?

Did many knew or realized that Black Male Introverts can actually exist?

Who really did watched the NFL games despite of the protests?

Getting Real: Why do folks on social media mouth off on those that they don’t like? Church, dating, the other side of the moon, you know the usual? And get all “free thinkish” about it knowing half of what they post or talk about is NOT TRUE! Even though all opinions are respected sometimes.

Don’t believe in God? Start!

Is Amazon Fire Stick, Roku, or DirecTV Now really the new thing in TV like right now?

Which is better for those whom are single, or going to be single in 2018? Dating or no dating?

Will we be really saying in the future: “Remember when Barack Obama was running?” Oh think about it!

CALLOUT: For all you haters of Black Lives Matter and the Police Organizations that run the hate to Walmart: were you really that serious about removing the attire, but said nothing about the KKK or the “Stars and Bars”?

Many believe that this year of 2017 was that year. Well, did you claim what you were looking for?

MASSIVE SOCIAL MEDIA CALLOUT AGAIN LIKE LAST YEAR: Can we PLEASE FOR THE LOVE OF GOD, JESUS, ALLAH, BUDDHA or SCIENTOLOGY: use the “You’re” word on Facebook correctly as well as other forms of Social Media? Like for example, “You’re It!” Not “Your it”. Or “If you don’t follow me on so and so, you’re not welcome here no more. Not “If you don’t follow me on so and so your not welcome here no more.” We need to respell and check our words, folks! – And no stop blaming the Public Schools systems! Blame the person, you.

Who is really the conscious groups: The church folk, the business folk, the activist, the talk show host, or the unsung folk?

Why do Americans have a short attention memory span? All the dang time! Like really!

When many famous folks this year have passed on and we had “this care” about them, where was the CARE for our own folks?

It’s New Years Eve. Stay home or go out?

Since some of the fallen died of heart attacks, diabetes, cancer, or many other factors: are we really looking out for our health needs? This not just to those whom are men, but those whom are females too! Especially those of us who are black!

Which movie rocked the house this year? Besides Star Wars The Last Jedi or Transformers? Or Wonder Woman?

Which music singles or albums have really rocked the house in the year?

Was Amazon Alexa really hard to ask?

Why so many things of #BlackGirlMagic, or #BlackBoyJoy were huge this year again? Well look at the results.

Will many turn up for the Midterm elections in 2018 by not staying home?

Will the United Methodist Church let the ideas of #BlackLivesMatter in the doors?

Who will have the best New Years Eve show? Ryan Seacrest or Anderson Cooper?

For all of my “snow/cold haters”: umm since you like hot weather so much, why weren’t you complaining about the heat EARLIER IN THE YEAR?! Yeah you hot weather dwellers, confess!

If 2017 was the year to “get lucky”, what about 2018 as in to “Get grown?

Will the Green Bay Packers revive to run the table next season? You Packer haters must be thanking the Vikings for putting the injury on Aaron Rodgers.

Will the Wisconsin Badgers Football Team win the Orange Bowl?

Will you continue to read the stuff I put on here? Not just have written like 4+ years ago?

What about that Google Speaker that answers your calls?

Can folks whom are so picky about not going to Church all because of the Pastor or that money really get off the high horse about going and giving advice? Besides behind the keyboards? And acting like foolish keyboard gangsters? They know who they are. Even if they your family members or folks that you haven’t seen in years?

Know any good Doctors that take in folks that know patients families that know them well? Besides those Cigma commercials?

Will many in the black community support (REALLY SUPPORT) black owned businesses that do follow the protocol?

How many black churches will attend Watch Night Services on New Year’s Eve? It’s WAY legendeary than Rockin’ Eve!

Did you support your Alumni this year (not just high school, but college and universities also)?

Why are many of us are NOT EDUCATED that well when it comes to health? Hint it’s not just the men folk here. Women you in this also.

Will there be a “in house online DJ” that will spin the sounds from the crib while many of us are at the house on NYE? THINK ABOUT THAT

CALLOUT: There were bigots on Social Media made names this year. Even those who was at Charlottesville . Who will NOT have a job in 2018?

Any Uber or Lyft Drivers will be on stat on NYE making money?

Any Photohogs and DroneHogs will be on stat making money on NYE?

Will many graduate in 2018 as well as going into the schools in 2018?

If those are really conscious about being pro this and pro that, what about being pro Alumni?

Will Ronda Rousey comeback strong……..in the WWE?

Who used a fitbit this year? Or any fit to walk to burn calories?

How many plan to do something daring in 2018?

How many will do the things that they put off in the previous years and actually do it this year?!

What is that one song you want to end your 2017? And the song you want begin with your 2018?

And the last thing I have to ask: I will say this to ask humbly, will you vote in 2018?

Happy New Year!

Let’s get the 2018 thing started.

2017: Under Review. The Good, Bad and Ugly.

Well folks. The year of 2017 is closing up shop. Hope everyone had a great Holidays of celebrating Christmas, Hanukah, and Kwanzaa. The year of 2017 will be retired and to be put in the throwback archives for future generations to come. There has been alot of the Good, Bad, and essentially Ugly in this leap year of 2017. The year of the rooster will be back in the cage….or the hen house. As far as the issues: we know what they are.

It’s time, folks. It’s time for the Traditional Stephen’s Spot Annual Review of the 2017! So here we go.

 

The Good:

Most recently on December 29th, 2017: The Dow Jones ended the year at 24,719.22

The Affordable Care Act got new folks to sign up for the insurance. Just like last year.

As of January 20th, President Barack Obama cemented 8 years. And also formed the Obama Foundation.

The Houston Astros won a World Series Title. A first!

The Golden State Warriors won another NBA Championship.

For the NFL: New England Patriots. Superbowl 51, Featuring former Wisconsin Badgers RB James White getting the W in OT.

For the NCAA Men’s Basketball: North Carolina.

For the NCAA’s Women’s Basketball: South Carolina.

Again: Scandal, How To Get Away With Murder, Empire, The Haves and Haves Nots, If Loving You Is Wrong, and Blackish still dominates.

Scandal entered the season being the last.

And yet, Modern Family continues to roll.

The Eclipse.

Janet Jackson had the concerts going in.

Yet again, the Hallmark Christmas specials came back for another year.

Netflix again brought back Voltron, but also gave us Luke Cage and Fuller House.

WWE Raw and Smackdown was huge in 2017. Ranging from the Women’s Division rising up to NXT and also WrestleMania.

 

Milestones in 2017:

Robocop turned 30 years old.

Malcolm X movie turns 25.

Meet The Press turns 70 years old.

Golden Globes turns 75.

Dr. Dre’s The Chronic turns 25.

 

HOT NEWS: Nintendo made waves this year: The Nintendo Switch was hot!

 

For the Movies (my only picks I should say):

Fist Fight

Dark Tower

Transformers

Birth of the dragon

King Arthur

Star Wars: The Last Jedi

The Hitman’s Bodyguard all came out this year.

Doug Jones of Alabama beat Roy Moore in the Alabama State Senate Race.

When the BET Awards this year happened the most: New Edition became the Lifetime Achievement Award winners. Plus: the New Edition movie was one of the most watched biopics on the network. Chance The Rapper was awarded the BET Humanitarian Award.

DirecTV Now heated up this year. Unleash the cord cutters.

For the United Methodist Church: UMCOR responded with the buckets of supplies for the victims of Hurricane Harvey. Plus also issues of violence of shootings have been breifed and updated.

 

For the music: Well not that much but I’ll take this:

Michael Jackson – Blood on the Dance Floor (remix)

Gary Clark Jr. – Come Together

BBD -Three Stripes

Eminem – Revival

Miguel – ShockandAwe

Logic – Everybody/America

Living Colour – Inner City Blues, Preachin’ Blues

Fat Joe/Remy Ma – All the way up

John Fulford – Empire

Jay-Z: 4:44

DJ Khaled – Grateful, Don’t Quit

DJ Khaled/Rhianna – Wild Thoughts

Bruno Mars – Perm

Eric Gales – Change In Me

Kendrick Lamar – Humble

Sharon Jones – Searching for a New Day, Sail On

 

Well known to retire:

Reggie Bush, Devin Hester, Percy Harvin, A.J. Hawk (Packers), James Jones (Packers) , Vince Wilfork,  Paul Pierce, Metta World Peace, Carlos Boozer, Martina Hingis all hung up their jerseys and cleats.  Also: The Undertaker retires from the WWE.

 

Straight Outta Wisconsin in a good way:

The Milwaukee Streetcar is still on point. Its coming and the tracks are 90% done.

Train maker Talgo made a comeback: in repairing trains in the same area where it was pulled out due to politics.

The Bublr Bikes still expanded. Again!

The Northwestern Mutual Tower is done. Go see it.

After 15 years of pain in Milwaukee County: Sheriff David Clarke RESIGNED!

According to the recent reports, the unemployment rate around Milwaukee is hovering over 17%. But still a way to go.

The Milwaukee Bucks new arena is in full swing of construction. Should be done in ’18!

Attention Black Milwaukeeans and Wisconsinites: We still have Outdoor Afro in Milwaukee and Madison.

The Milwaukee Admirals officially moved out of the Bradley Center, into the UW-Milwaukee Panther Arena. (For you old heads, the Mecca Arena)

The Milwaukee Public Schools welcomed back the Alumni again.

Milwaukee Public Schools started classes early like August.

Summerfest celebrated 50!

Also celebrated 50: The 1967 Civil Rights Demonstrations in Milwaukee. Plus, the Milwaukee Bucks opened their 50th Anniversary in old Mecca Arena.

For the retirees in Milwaukee: Mike Anderson of Channel 12 and Tom Pipens of Channel 6.

And also on June 2nd several monuments and landmarks in Milwaukee were featured again in Orange.

Milwaukee County got a new Sheriff: Richard Schmidt.

Milwaukee Police Department goes after Reckless Drivers in the Hot Spot Zones of the city.

Several candidates for the Democratic Party of Wisconsin already submitted names for Governor. Even Mahlon Mitchell.

For the Green Bay Packers: Not so much this year. As of now, Davante Adams signed a four year deal to remain with the team. Center Corey Linsley is retained for another extension.

For the Wisconsin Badgers Football team: Say what you want, they are a good team. They finished the season at 13-1. Plus winning the Orange Bowl over Miami. Retained the AXE, Freedom Trophy, and Heartland Trophy. Most of the wins were coming of an undefeated season, which also Camp Randall celebrated 100 years as a stadium. Even though they lost against Ohio State, but still had a great season!

 

The Bad in 2017

Racism happened again.

Trump enters as #45 for the Presidency.

Charlottesville faced racism with Neo Nazi’s

Shootings happened in Las Vegas during a Country Music Concert.

Shootings happened in Texas this year at a church.

And even shootings happened at Ft. Lauderdale’s Airport.

Hurricanes ravaged Houston, Puerto Rico, Sierra Leone.

The “45” Administration eliminated part of the Affordable Care Act’s Individual Mandate.

Harvey Weinstein, Charlie Rose, Matt Lauer, Russell Simmons Senator Al Franken, and others all stepped down, resigned,  or targeted due to Sexual Misconducts in the workplace.

The angle between the US and North Korea reached a unfavorable pitch.

The U.S. pulls out of the Paris Climate Change angles.

Rapper Meek Mill faces prison time.

After 4 years, News One Now with Roland Martin gets cancelled.

Libya had an issue: Slavery

Tom Joyner made an announcement that his show will end in 2019.

In addition to the gun shootings, there were 337 shootings to date in the country this year.

 

Straight Outta Wisconsin in a bad way:

125 – the number of victims died in Milwaukee.

Opioid Crisis

Foxconn – in terms of transportation, the black community in Milwaukee.

The 2017-18 Green Bay Packers finished the season at 7-9 and not making the playoffs. And plus: Anthony Barr injured Aaron Rodgers.

 

Flat out Ugly in 2017

Chicago had topped the homicide numbers of 600.

Sally Yates formally of the Administration was abruptly Fired.

General Flynn was fired.

#45 TWEETED WAY TOO MUCH! To his haters. Even to the mayor of San Juan, Puerto Rico.

ALSO OUT of the 45 house: Sean Spicer, Anthony Scaramucci, Reince Preibus and Omarosa.

White supremacy is still at large.

Sexual Assualt among women is being talked about even more. And also: Men are talking also.

 

 

Ugly for Wisconsin:

Racism – yep. It happened.

Carjacking at Gas stations

The American Red Cross cancels their Milwaukee Area Zip Code Response Sectors

Anissa Weier is going to jail under stable mental commitment. For 25 years.

Reckless Driving as usual.

In addition to Sheriff David Clarke, his paper he written, now being investigated by the FBI.

Same ol Milwaukee Shootings.

 

We Say Their Names. Those whom left us. 2017 had this moniker of having “no chill”. Some of the famous fallen left and right.

Adam West

Bernie Casey

Mary Tyler Moore

Glenn Campbell

Robert Guiallume

Jimmy “Superfly” Snuka

Powers Boothe

Miguel Ferrer

Judge Joe Wapner

Bill Paxton

George “The Animal” Steele

David Rockefeller

Charles Bradley

Aaron Hernandez

Don Rickles

Erin Moran

Chris Cornell

Prodigy

Nelsan Ellis

Chester Bennignton

John Heard

June Foray

Dick Gregory

Jerry Lewis

Fats Domino

Connie Hawkins

U.S. Army Special Forces Sergeant Jeremiah Johnson

U.S. Special Forces Sgt. Bryan Black

U.S. Special Forces Sgt. Dustin Wright

U.S. Special Forces Sgt. La David Johnson

Charles Manson*

Terry Glenn

Earle Hyman

David Cassidy

Della Reese

John Thierry

Jim Nabors

Lowell Hawthorne

Hugh Hefner

Al Jarreau

Dick Enberg

Mamie Johnson

Bobby “The Brain” Heenan

Tom Petty

Chuck Berry

Erica Garner

 

Here in Milwaukee, we also lost those who gave the city a voice, and a reminder:

Andrew Tyler

 

My highlights of the year:

Well my highlights of  the year were as I acknowledged my 10th Anniversary as a worker of my church. I survived a decade with a pin. Also, I started and created a summer developers program that didn’t go well, but it was salvaged with a homework assignment. But the challenge of me as I indicated that I am as well as my family are going to the hard reality of the passing of my father. We still miss him. But not forgotten.

Sidenote: I appreciate the 23,615 hits on my blog. This is great, BUT: the “same old reading stuff” bubbles must be busted in 2018! I will find a way to do it, or maybe not. We’ll see.

Don’t be late in 2018!

Scratching my head all this time: Before Christmas of 2017.

By now, the final leg to Christmas is here. Many are out getting gifts or making that donation popping. But whatever it is, it’s almost the day in which grandma’s house will be visited, light speed to the tree will be at full throttle force. The anticipation of the excitement once again that this Holy Day of Jesus’ birth is mysterious, but is the greatest holiday of all time.

But like before: I still got questions and scratching my head!

For all of us December born males, does this matter? #12thMonthRockers

Does us in the Sagittarius game have a plan that things will be better in 2018? Keep slinging those arrows.♐♐♐♐

Did I had a good birthday on December 5th? Possibly, yes.♐

OK hold up: who is really watching and hating the Hallmark Christmas Movies?🎄❄🎄❄

Again I need to ask, are there other stories to read besides the same ol stories? Time to bust the bubble and extend the homework. Literally.

Not lame: but I only see a few African Americans in these Hallmark Christmas Shows. Why is that?

In history, the Green Bay Packers are so Dangerous in December. But not this year as much. Why?!!!!

Who really gets the Christmas Gifts: those who have nothing newborns or those who have been in the struggle?

Will fake news actually disappear from Facebook, Google or any other news outlet that has real news like last year?

What was the really best stories that captured 2017? More on that later.

With all the snow jobs lately, should there be a reduction in taxes? And should there be snow cycles for fun and at a cheap price? Still waiting for the snow cycle!

Is DirecTV Now still holding up well? I may need to subscribe.

With some of the black population supporting Donald Trump, what will be outcome of what they think they might get, knowing that part of it will get screwed later on?

With all the Christmas stuff now coming down percentage-wise, is it wise NOW to get them for next year? Think about it!

Question: They say that the females have to take over for the men for doctor appointments. My question is, are these the same type of females that really hate men? Be real honest ladies.💊

Last year many of you black queens say you love us black kings, right? Can you takes us out to lunch or dinner or a movie or have an appreciation day that YOU will be paying? Don’t just say you love us kings, show it!🍴

I know this might be old, but what is it about black women or certain type of black women who have this inner hate on black men who date other races? I mean I’m just asking what is the hold up on it? And where is the “hate” coming from? Generational? Cliques?

Many should realize that Canada does have racism like America almost, right?

Still asking: Should the Greater Milwaukee Area get a Hard Rock Café (not the Casino due to Walker’s dumb decision) in order to get Milwaukee on the map more? THINK on this Milwaukee. Hate going to other cities for the Hard Rock fun!

Best Christmas Carol?

Best Holiday Movie?

What is real hate against Obamacare?

By the end of 2017, will you really have all those 2018 resolutions in tact, knowing that many of us WILL NOT due all the things on that list? (lose weight, stop smoking, find this and that…..)

You do realize that when new years comes, you have to start filing taxes right? Keywords: TAX TIME BALLERS! 💸

Oh, many should know, but you know that 2018 is a midterm voting year, right?

Why is the Salvation Army having a hard time with the kettle donations?

So there are those still are at “war” on Christmas. For what pry-tell reason why? Bitterness perhaps?

Hanukkah is done. Christmas will be done and Kwanzaa will finish it by New Years Day. Questions?

Will us Sagittarius folks keep slinging the arrows everyday? Now that our season once again is in the books! ♐♐♐♐♐♐

Did Christmas did you well?

For the holiday jobs folks, how well did you do?

OK last question: and this is for all the cold snow haters. If you are one of the many that hate cold weather so much, then why you don’t say much about………Hot weather? Just wait until Spring/Summer 18. I’ll hold you to that.

So, yet again: Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Kwanzaa, Feliz Navidad to all. 🎄❄🎄❄🎄❄🎁

Scratching My Head All This Time: Before Thanksgiving.

Before us Americans get the cooking stuff out, it’s time think. Get your thinking caps on. With all the media mess going on from the flag to racism, we know food is source of healing. So is the mind preparing the food. But as always, I’m scratching my head again.

You realize that “Movember” really started with voting right? Way before the health awareness male mustache thing. Research!

Why is #45 wasting his time with LaVar Ball?!

Trump supporters: some of you realize that LeVar Burton is not LaVar Ball. How dumb is that?

Milwaukee, stop playing with the Streetcar questions. You know it’s giving folks jobs right? Quit playing!

I want to know: WHY are callers calling Churches for money?!!

Why are the Packers not playing good football right now you ask? – 5 words here – Anthony Barr injured Aaron Rodgers. Say it again and again.

What about those Wisconsin Badgers Football players?

So, Atlanta tore down the Georgia Dome. But why many are upset?

In a recent report, the Greater Milwaukee Area is not good when it comes to African-Americans. Do we know this like, already?

According to Forbes, it once stated that many HR’s look at resumes that get tossed after looking almost scary. What is the real reason why many aren’t getting the jobs?! Race, Credit Checks, Education?

So the Facebook group, “The Whole Milwaukee #1” is now getting noticed. So my questions are, why are those using it for swapping drugs, beat downs and not enough for networking with our people?

Speaking of networking, does the Milwaukee MPS Alumni actually know about it’s networking events and actually go besides the Alumni Reunions?

Is Mahlon Mitchell ready for real to run for Governor in Wisconsin? And you realize that Wisconsin never had a black Governor since it’s founding?

Did the black Veterans received much love on Veterans Day? Minority Vets don’t get that much love though.

International Men’s Day came and went on November 19th. Why is this day not honored enough in the United States? Close your mouths, feminists! It’s not about you.

Hey Sagittarius folks, our season is here. Ready to sling the Arrows?

So GOP, is Trump really that guy? Seriously?!

Again, why are we body shaming?! This ain’t High School.

For all you fans of #45, does the term embarrassing comes to mind?

Why is it always that there are more married couples retreats and not enough singles only retreats that don’t see marriage?

Who is responsible for these young girls and young boys acting a fool based on stolen cars, etc?

The recent victory for the Democrats in Virginia and some parts of America really sparked new heights. Is this the breakthrough for the midterms regarding the blue team in 2018?

For you crazy drivers in Milwaukee, why are you still cutting in-front of vehicles and causing accidents?

On December 5th, are you Georgia residents are actually going to vote?

Who really hates the Hallmark Christmas Movies? Asking for a friend!

For the Wisconsin jobs that have the 60,000 jobs unfilled, what are real skills and experience to have besides just having a High School Diploma?

Who is really shopping on Black Friday to get that ideal T.V.? That ain’t happening!

Why do many non-Native Americans had to jump on the bandwagon of not doing the Thanksgiving thing? You know which ones!

I need to know who is putting out this crap about Churches “supposed to have money” for those whom don’t know? Do they know protocol?

Every church men’s group should know about the safe sanctuary rules from sexual harassment to violent outcomes. Does your Church men’s group do this?

For those of us who have to spend Thanksgiving without a special loved one for the first time this year, how will we get through this? And the same for Christmas, etc? It’s hard for us. Even my family.

Why is David Clarke still running his mouth?

Are the black protest groups really that troublesome being on the FBI watch?

Why would those who go after Rep. Maxine Waters with death threats?

Is Donna Brazille being targeted unfairly after her book was published? Or just happenstance?

Why are the “so-called patriots” coming for Congresswoman Frederica Wilson?

Will the real truth about the late Sgt. La David Johnson please stand up? Don’t act like we don’t know.

I see alot of military hats and division hats, why not have hats for descendants of Veterans or Veteran Families? (sons, daughters, etc.)

What is the percentage of African-Americans in the American Legion Family? Not asking for a friend!

Is the cord cutting thing still going on well? Asking for a friend!

Should the month of November be also the month to spur the support of Veterans everyday?

Why is it always that Black Men, (good ones mind you) get all mistakenly for something that they didn’t do for years and years? Black women, you must explain your part also. As well as everyone else. From molesting, to harassment, to abuse.

For all those whom are so-conscious and running your mouth on social media: what is your motive for ACTUALLY DOING SOMETHING?! Don’t talk about it, be about it!

Will Aaron Rodgers be stronger than ever? Just wait, Packer fans. Revenge is coming.

Why is it always a problem for men to talk about Sexual Harassment? Even if you have men in your life that went through it since childhood? This is not a joke!

Is Brett Hundley learning well? What about Joe Callahan?

Tired of reading the same ol’ stuff? Why not read something different? Hello!

If many complain about other people’s blogs, journalism, radio, TV, Online Podcastings, and others, why not start their own stuff to inform of what they want to talk about?

One of these days, I want to learn Skeet Shooting and Archery. Who is a great teacher? Where? Must be in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Lot of folks might do the Black Friday thing. If you pack Walmart or Best Buy, why not the local small stores?

I gotta ask why did those in Wisconsin think that it’s a good idea to have a gun laws signed for toddlers or those under 10 to have guns in their hands for hunting? No!

Is Foxconn the real way for jobs in Wisconsin regarding black folks who CAN’T get to the jobs? Still asking that for a friend.

Twitter: I like you. Why is your app causing problems of logging in?!

And the final question before you start cooking: has the Black Friday feeling sunk in yet, or are you staying put?

Now you may resume continue cooking your Thanksgiving Meal.

My take: International Men’s Day is just needed like the Women’s Days.

Men of the world: we have a day. International Men’s Day. Today is the 19th of November in which we acknowledge us. Our man angle in which we know. Of course that it’s not just about our man angle. We acknowledge our accomplishments, our results, end what we do and want to do in our community and families.

And yes, we probably read about the butt hurt comments about a day like today from feminists who subsequently feel that having a men’s day set aside is meaningless. Or just being sexist because a few men in society broke rules about respecting the thought of you females that we encounter everyday. And many you feel that having this day for us in the man’s world is a flat out joke.

So why is a International Men’s Day is somewhat needed? You might have seen this on Social Media today.

That’s just one sample. Like many of you females, we men folk got concerns like you. We are immune to suicides, domestic violence, violent crimes, and face health concerns. We know that issues of Prostate Cancer, Colon Cancer and many other health concerns are at our heads. And some of us don’t really have those things called Doctors to trust. And as far as Domestic Abuse: many of the men have been victims according to the graphic. THIS IS NO LIE! You talk about men being the Aggressors which is true. But if you have abusive women who commit crimes physically, sexually, mentally, psychologically, financially, and yet spiritually, guess who becomes the VICTIM? Yes, MEN!

Years ago, I went to a Men’s Meeting that dealt with the subject of feeling broken. And some of the items I listed were examples of men getting to a point in which these problems are posted this is what we go through at times. Even there were many times I felt broken. Not just because of other men. But also females too. I had females attacking me all because of my education, being bullied growing up because of my size or being quiet. Or body shaming because of big noses or whatever. But at the AGE OF 11, that all changed. My late uncle taught me self-defense (Kung Fu) and that energized a thing called self confidence. Mind driven. And more laser focused. If you went to school in the 80’s and 90’s, you know what I’m talking about. Take notes, women! And many of you women had our fathers historically when they were younger and defenseless telling them that “If you don’t go to that school to beat that person, I’m going to beat you!” But what did that do? Fill in the blank.

Back in the day, when a dude hits you or whatever, you hit them back! That was the law in the Schools. I don’t give a care if it involved those ribbing on you. If that person is ribbing on you and will not stop, you will and must FIGHT BACK! If it’s against a girl or chick, you sit on them. Oh, they’ll use the speech, “I’m a woman” or “You not supposed to hit a female.” What are you supposed to do, man? Either take the hit or SIT ON THEM. Make them miss, blindside them without violence. Out Psych them! Use mindgames. Forget about all the so-called “cuffing season”, It’s mind-games season. Stay one step ahead! And you wonder about why there are so many broken relationships. Stay away from that Single folks! I see all this. Read about it. And you want this to happen to a guy who has a squeaky clean record of not in abusive relationships to get into one? I’ll pass. And all that mess you thought about back in High School is a joke now. Admit the guilt. It’s all BS rumors.

You ask again: why a need for a “International Men’s Day?” Why a day that many believe that a day is set aside for the Men where Men are talked about everyday? And yes, women you get your day in March and everyday. The problem is, we get all these days on the calendar, and the thing is: half of the time we complain. We whizz and moan. Admit it. But on the other hand we do praise those who get the recognition and those who left out, get forgotten. Oh, yes we talk about the negative about us dudes, but MANY FORGET that there are MEN (especially men of color) who are doing positive things in this world besides going to work! Besides being the head of the church. Besides being a leader. There are men whom are active on their health, their finance, their place of employment, their place of volunteerism, their act of valor and reflection of valor, their act of raising families, their act on raising or educating children and many other manly deeds and objectives. You have to ask, where are these MEN right now? Where? Women: don’t get an attitude about there are no good men around, maybe because you have been looking or reading about it negatively! Need to say it. And no it’s not a thing about hooking up. Not today, Satan! Not all men are thugs, the cavemen butt jokes or many other things that many been saying since it’s probably generational, or when that same woman who was 13 years old got picked on in school. And been hating men since then. Let’s be real about this women: not every man is not after your bra and panty straps to get the digits and hashtags. Being honest here.

Another reason why a need for a International Men’s Day besides the other stuff I mentioned is to have a day that we can just be appreciated for the things that are UNAPPRECIATED! I do things in the City of Milwaukee that are UNAPPRECIATED! No matter if it’s Election Inspector Jobs, Photos, computers, or various skills I put on my resume. Even though they are all some what good, it’s UNAPPRECIATED! Even me going to my Alumni Outings and Scholarship Meetings. UNAPPRECIATED! I’m saying this as a black man in America. On point. And you women should know what I’m talking about. If you have NOT appreciated the thought that your Man, Brother, Son, Grandson, Nephew, Uncle, Cousin, or any other Man dude in your life that does all this behind the scenes and get NO appreciation for it: You better start. 5 years ago, when we were saying goodbye to Whitney Houston: one of her former bodyguards once said that “Give flowers to those while they’re living!” We know that women love flowers.
CALLOUT: Men, we need our flowers while we are living right now! Don’t wait until the casket drops to get our flowers (seems to be common with Women at times). Get the flowers right now! Get appreciated right now. Once it’s gone, it’s gone!

Now this is my view of a International Men’s Day. Not just “men being men”. But men doing men things. Real things. And setting the tone for our younger men to grow and raise. Let’s do this not just on this International Men’s Day but EVERYDAY! We know we got issues and concerns. We know we got our health nagging talks. Race, Class, Social Status, Interest, and many other Joys and Concerns on a man angle. Just to keep an eye out. That’s all.

About that “Movember” mustache thing, you know it started with voting right?