Scratching my head all this time – the still getting used to 2018…..rr 2019 year.

With the still new year in motion, it’s already being bonkers. Of course today we are removed from the first Federal Holiday in honor of Dr. King. And yeah, New Year’s Day. But in all what has 2019 has done thus far, well not much except the inaugurations and the soon to be done 2018-19 NFL Season. And the disappointing Government Shutdown that plagued the 800,000 workers. Shameful! And like many before, I’m scratching my head again.

Black folks: what about this challenge? Can this happen?

I’m assuming that all of the Divine 9 January Founder’s Day “Days” have been accounted for?

So how’re those New Year’s Resolutions holding up? Like seriously?!

Did anyone act a fool on the King Holiday? Please say no!

So…Wisconsin, how about that new Governor Tony Evers, eh?

What will be missed about the Bradley Center? Besides the empty spot of rubble?

That one weekend in Milwaukee this actually happened on January 12th and 13th: no gunshots. Can we have every weekend or every day without no gun violence?

You know that the Milwaukee Bucks are dead serious of Basketball dominance in the East, right?

Why many conservatives want to test Cardi B? Like seriously?!

It just dawned on me. Not every music artist is “woke and conscious!!!!” Why is that possible?! And who is listening to them? – Regarding R.Kelly.

Since when did Cigna and Queen Latifah hook up for annual physical PSAs for 2019?

Of all the things wild today in Milwaukee, naming rights. Why Miller Park?

It seems that the Milwaukee Streetcar haters got excited about the vehicle being stuck in all this past week. But did they know that an incorrectly parked car caused the problem?! Stupid. And no, this is where you have to defend The Hop.

Is Killer Mike’s Trigger Warning show valuable right now on Netflix?

With now the NFL playoffs set, and Championship Sunday is clear, it either the #Rams or the same ol’ Tom Brady and the #Patriots. Who you really got? Spoiler Alert: There is a shocker.

So Gladys Knight is going to sing the National Anthem for the Super Bowl. And yes we know that the song had the Third Stanza of “No heirling or refuge for a slave” lyric. And many called her to be off-limits to black cards and cookouts. On the flip side, Gladys Knight has been on the forefront way before me, the millennials, generation z, all the so-called woke and conscious revolutionary folks, and even Colin Kaepernick and his girlfriend Nessa. So why we have to question her and her choice of singing the Anthem?! And making her sing the third stanza?! What kind of “ish” is that? Man, regardless of the decision she made and it’s none of our concern, respect the elders. I’m just saying!

Just recently, there was a Black Millionaire, named Robert F. Smith that donated to an HBCU, Morehouse College in Georgia, and many black folks on the Black Enterprise Facebook Page cried foul about this. Seriously, what is the problem?!!

Did many folks display the American Flag out on the MLK Holiday? Be honest.

You realize that January 31st will mark the 100th anniversary of the birth of Jackie Robinson? Watch 42!

Is Kamala Harris the one we want to see as President?

Black Folks: I need us to really explain the truth about what the Black Agenda is. What is it? Why does it matter to us in regarding those we put in office?

Spike Lee at long last will be a nominated for an Oscar. Are we happy about this?

Why is the coverage of Tommy Sotomayor still alive? Dude is STRAIGHT trash!!!!

With all the #SurvivingRKelly stuff still fresh in our minds, why reopen the pandora’s box with all the stuff happened to Michael Jackson? That will not fly right. Spoiler Alert.

In all fairness, what will it retake to reopen the Government for the Federal Workers that need their checks? And to STAY OPEN? And the WALL IS NOT THE ANSWER!

In my view, the House Democrats need to go rogue and nuclear. Around the Senate, around Mitch, around 45, around the Authority of the nation’s principals to get over the shutdown and back to work. Why is this not being proposed?!

Can the Marijuana users in all be very safe after going into the stores smelling so bad?! And the same on the roads?!!
CALLOUT: For all of the African-Americans in Wisconsin: If many had complained about the lack of qualified applicants of color, which is viable so, why many of us HAD NOT APPLIED for the jobs that the Evers Administration had displayed prior to him taking office?! They were displayed online for several weeks! We complain about this and that, and when the opportunity comes up, we go on empty. And also, what’s up the black caucuses’ in Wisconsin?! Why haven’t they been used as a resource in this? No, I’m not talking about the NAACP or the National/Local Urban Leagues. I’m talking about the Black Caucuses that many don’t tap into as much in the African-American Communities. We should know!
SECOND CALLOUT: White folks, why do you have to resort being triggered when it comes to a black man or a black woman who the phrase, “my black brothers and sisters” when addressing our concern of race? Or interracial marriage? This was brought up recently!

Update on the Shutdown: it seems that the workers are getting their checks on again and working. But why only 3 weeks until February 15th?

For all of us in the Midwest, you really believe that the Polar Vortex is not a joke?

The week of January 28th will highlight the 33rd Anniversary of the Challenger Explosion of 1986. Many of us were young when that day happened. I’m talking about us Generation X folks. Just to ask, who are the fools who think that the moon landing was fake back in 1969 which that nothing to do with this at all?!

So I hear that Valentine’s Day is rapidly approaching. Um….not many like valentines though. Who really does? With all the negativity of dating and folks being way too much about that one guy or girl! Or rumors.

And the FINAL QUESTION of the first Scratching My Head All The Time Blog Post of 2019: When that Covington High School student that was disrespectful just staring at the Navajo Elder on his turf, with a MAGA hat. What was his problem?! And you know that was out of bounds dealing with racism. And oh, the jury is still out on this matter after that Today show interview.

BONUS QUESTION: It seems that the hate on Terry Crews getting sexually assaulted way back when is getting a backlash. Usually from Black Men, even D.L. Hughley, and several others. When women get sexually assaulted or abused or inappropriately touched many of them and some men do go out and band together and raise hell on the dude that did the act. HOWEVER: when a Man gets sexually assaulted, no matter how long ago it was, he receives that laughing joking reaction and gets humiliated by the male audience. Folks, when this happens in our society, what is the general common ground that stuff likes this goes on almost everytime, and it doesn’t get the same amount of respect that needed to be heard? I say this every June when Men’s Health Month comes around, with all the “Men need to go to the doctors to get checked out” speeches. BUT THIS is a health matter that Men need to be aware of and tackle with a strong Health and Wellness Foundation to improve. If this issue is bad for Men, what will it mean for the young boys who are running wild and stupid (due to DNA Samples) and many of them without setting them straight because of their dads, uncles, grandfathers, male cousins, and others are LIVING FOUL?! And women who sexually assault or abuse men, don’t get off that easily. You’re in this also!

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My Take: Its time to talk about Trauma. Especially HEAVILY in the black community.

Welcome to the first My Take the New Year. Or it states that many don’t want to begin this in a fashion on TV that dealt with Trauma.

Spolier Alert: Trauma is not new. I’ll clarify on why it is.

Throughout our history growing up in various circumstances, the issue of Trauma really hits us early. No matter if it’s in the family, neighborhoods, churches, jobs, or any other matter of speaking that many already know. Traumatic experiences come in many forms. Many examples and many angles. We all read about them and we all summarize it and usually don’t have answers. We don’t have ideas to convey the solutions at times. But there are some solutions that can cope with the valor of the effects of Trauma. In 2018, my home church had the third installment of Trauma that was about Healing the Family. And one of the speakers, laid in very well detailed information about trauma ranging from Slavery, to family conflicts, and the haunting memories of the pain and suffering about the use of trauma that stays hidden, but the wounds open up years later during adulthood. The speaker said over and over again: “Trauma is not new!” It’s not!

There were several clauses that compelled the issue of trauma ranging from Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome, Racism and Oppression, Stockholm Syndrome Traumatic Bonding, Psycho-Physical Trauma, and Psychological Warfare, just to name a few. And what does this have to do with the black community? Part of this is not new in the black community because many of us know this very well. And it ties into today’s era that many are still scared to talk about. But why???? Is it fate? Is it going to break the family apart forever? Or is it just happenstance? And many wonder why it’s so hard to break that pain of traumatic stress NOW!

Speaking of that, there was a special that was aired on the Lifetime Channel regarding R. Kelly: Surviving R. Kelly. This special aired on three consecutive nights that the women in the special had all their say or commentary about their experiences in regarding R. Kelly. Many have said over and over again that R. Kelly had “sexual advances” towards the young girls over and over many times. And even “marrying and sexual advancing” the late great Aaliyah. Which was a false statement. As I’m watching this, many had to be like why it took this long for the women, who were traumatized by all this pain and suffering had to be succumbed to stay silent and tell their sides of the stories later on as adults? Why do the women who had to sit in front of the camera tearing up are doing this? I get it that it has hit hard on them, and many had to feel for them, but many are asking, why now? Why not then?

Many had to keep quiet about the secrets. Many had to keep quiet about the claims, or the backdoor politics to allow the alleged to walk scot free. Yes, many claimed that R. Kelly probably told the women of now, girls then to keep their mouths shut and never break a word to anyone getting all hyper-emotional years later. Well, guess what, their silence is broken. Plus in all the long traumatic commentary, it seems that also that many are calling this foul ball: It’s all fake, trying to get money, trying to be famous or just yet just want to exploit the real deal about R. Kelly that many feel it’s false. Or speaking of that, many black women and black men are actually defending R. Kelly! Are you kidding me?!!! And not only that, many folks whom have Spotify, probably logging in so many times to play R. Kelly’s music in positive aspects. But these are the folks whom probably don’t care, they are still going to play his music, watch his videos online (music videos) in all. And many still are doing it. I have some of R. Kelly’s music in my collection and I haven’t played them in a long while. Just never did. I just left them alone.

When I looked at all the segments, it brought me back to all the talk about Trauma and the effects of it. The women in the special had a traumatic reaction from the past and it’s something that they can’t shake. Many also had to ask, what compelled R. Kelly to do these things that many are assuming or believing? What is causing the matter of this to occur so many times before? Was this done to him when he was younger growing up in Chicago? As a matter of fact, when he was younger according to a previously recorded footage in the special, he was sexually approached. By one of his sisters! He said it! And he also said that it was a common thing in his family. So what do we have here is a long mental health problem. A Psychological Traumatic Problem. A problem being messed up in the community that has been aware for a long time. Especially in the black families!

This sort of reminds me of a old Chris Rock joke; no pun intended. About not leaving the kids with Uncle Johnny. He summarized about those molesting Uncles that many need to watchout for. This probably was about 2004, during his “Never Scared” segment. It may seemed funny in all, but in reality, as everyone knows, it’s the truth!

So why I’m posting about trauma here on the spot? Many of us probably encountered Trauma in various ways. Families, the workplaces, organizations, the Church, and many many different groups and cliques that we associate with EVERYDAY! Even memories being tormented or attacked of ANY KIND, even embarrassed. No matter the feeling or angle it’s all related. So again, Trauma IS NOT NEW!!!!!

And even this has nothing to do with R. Kelly alleged Sex Scandals with the young girls (now adults) you have 800,000 workers in the U.S. Government that can’t get paid due to the crappy stuff about 45’s Wall. They can’t feed their families, getting the bills paid, and any other necessity that folks need everyday. And oh, even the U.S. Coast Guard under the Department of Homeland Security! Talk about TRAUMA! This crap of this so-called president taking away paychecks for a useless wall is just that: USELESS! And this is called Making America Great Again?! For all you 45 Trump Supporters about this, are you happy about this?! And don’t even front.

So yes, this is how 2019 got started, where the ending of 2018 was left undone: devolving the ability to suck out the soul of the middle class. And I know that the new House members are in place. We got a fight on our hands now which is NOT familiar! And as far as R. Kelly is concerned, already he’s feeling the heat of all this scandalous checkered past of the accusers and also recently, Sony has cut ties with him since the #SurvivingRKelly special aired on Cable TV. And about the Spotify rating that got R. Kelly’s music on rotation, I’m scratching my head on that one. Really I am. (Spoiler Alert, there will be a first Scratching my Head of the year)

If these things are not being called out or being mentioned, I’m just saying. The backdoor has been left WIDE OPEN and many folks just come in like it’s nothing. Time to fix it and shut it down!

Happy New Year.

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!!

2018: Under Review. The Good, Bad and Ugly.

Time to archive 2018. Its time the year of the dog is to be archived in the Dog House. But of course, the living examples of voting, racism, protesting, and yet many others will linger on. Well know, it’s about time that the year of 2018, is now over. But before that happens of dropping balls and popping corks: lets us review the year that was. So now, in that case, it’s time for the Traditional Stephen’s Spot Annual Review blog of 2018! It’s time to review, summarize and learn from the year has gone by very efficiently.

The Good Nationally:

Most recently on December 28th, 2018: The Dow Jones ended the year at 23,062.40.

The Affordable Care Act got new folks to sign up for the insurance. Just like last year, despite the thought of losing its mandate.

The Boston Red Sox won a World Series Title. Their 9th actually.

The Golden State Warriors won another NBA Championship.

For the NFL: A first for Philadelphia winning the big game: Superbowl 52, Featuring former Wisconsin Badgers RB Corey Clement.

Michelle Obama’s Book, Becoming – hot seller of 2018. And voted the most admired.

Pete Souza’s Book, Shade sold very well in the retaliation of 45’s Tweets.

Barack Obama is still admired.

The March for our Lives Rally was about the youth and anti-gun violence.

For the NCAA Men’s Basketball: Villanova.

For the NCAA’s Women’s Basketball: Notre Dame.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle got married.

Yet on TV Again: How To Get Away With Murder, Empire, The Haves and Have Nots, and Blackish still dominate.

On YouTube Red: Cobra Kai.

Heard that Barack Obama and Netflix might be a connectable match coming up.

Scandal ends after 7 Seasons. Great ride.

And yet, Modern Family continues to roll.

Black Lightning had a STRONG debut of Season 1.

Yet again, the Hallmark Christmas specials came back for another year. With black leading cast roles!

TGIF returns to ABC. That’s Thank Goodness it’s Funny for those not born before 1990.

WWE Raw and Smackdown Live were huge in 2018. Ranging from the Women’s Division rising up, NXT and also PVV’s of the Royal Rumble, WrestleMania. Plus the Greatest Royal Rumble. And the PPV Evolution had a strong debut for the Women’s Department.

Milestones in 2018:

Silent Night – 200 years.

The Assassinations of Martin Luther King, Jr. and Robert F. Kennedy were marked at 50 years.

Iota Phi Theta Fraternity and the March on Washington was summarized after 55 Years.

The ending of WWI was marked with 100 years on Veterans Day (formerly Armistice Day).

Monday Night Raw celebrated 25 years on TV and Smackdown Live surpassed 1,000 shows.

For the United Methodist Church: the biggest news that the Denomination celebrated it’s golden year of 50 since the newly created organization was founded in May of 1968.

NASA turned 60 years old this year and the Apollo 8 Mission is highlighted after 50 years of it’s Christmas Eve Space Flight. Milwaukee Native and Veteran Astronaut James Lovell was a featured speaker recently.

Also: The Jackson Family celebrated 50 years in Music combined.

Old School Movies like Die Hard, Crocodile Dundee II, Coming To America, Twins, Rambo III and Bloodsport turned 30 years old.

Old School Hip Hop/R&B Albums like Snoop Dogg’s Doggystyle, Xscape’s Off the Hook and Janet Jackson’s Janet, turned 25.

Old School Hip-Hop/Rap and R&B from 1988 celebrated 30 like He’s the DJ, I’m the Rapper(DJ Jazzy Jeff & Fresh Prince), Tougher Than Leather (Run-D.M.C.) It Takes Two (Rob Base & DJ EZ Rock), and Lovesexxy by Prince.

Throwback Album joints like He Got Game, It’s Dark and Hell it’s Hot, Hello Nasty, The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, War and Peace (vol. 1 The War Disc), Extinction Level Event all turned 20.

Singles like 4 Minutes, Take a Bow, Whatever You Like turned 10.

Black Lives Matter turned 5.
HOT NEWS: The House Democrats in Congress took over and won the majority of the seats of the November Midterms.

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

• Black Panther
• BlacKkKlansman
• Sorry, To bother you
• Creed II
• Bohemian Rhapsody
• The Hate U Give
• Solo: A Star Wars Story
• Halloween (40th Anniversary)
• The Avengers: Infinite War
• Bumblebee
• Uncle Drew
• Ocean’s 8
• Skyscraper
• Aqua Man
• Mission: Impossible – Fallout
• Venom
• Deadpool 2
• Night School all came out this year.

When the BET Awards this year happened the most: Anita Baker was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award. And, Naomi Wadler, Mamoudou Gassama, Justin Blackman, Shaun King, Anthony Borges, and James Shaw Jr. all earned the BET Humanitarian Award respectfully.

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

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

• Kendrick Lamar – Black Panther Soundtrack
• Childish Gambino – This Is America
• The Carters – 713, Black Effect, Boss
• John Legend – A Legendary Christmas
• Drake – God’s Plan
• Eminem – Venom, Fall, Not Alike, Kamikaze
• Cardi B – Be Careful
• Ella Mai – Boo’d Up
• Kane Brown – Lose It
• Jimmie Allen – County Lines
• Amerie – The Wall
• Lenny Kravitz – Low
• Jack White – Corporation; Hypermisophoniac
• Cardi B/ Bruno Mars – Finesse
• Ice Cube – Everythangs Corrupt, Can You Dig It?

Well known to retire nationally:

Joe Thomas, Kam Chancellor, James Harrison, Devin Hester, DeAngelo Hall, Stephon Marbury, Lindsay Whalen, Carson Palmer, David West, Mo Williams, Manu Ginobili, Victor Cruz, Kyle Lohse, Justice Anthony Kennedy all hung up their cleats, jerseys and robes.

The Nintendo Switch still made a surge in sales.
TRADE ALERT NATIONALLY:

Roland Martin was under contract via TVOne until the Summer of 2018. Now, he owns (OWNS) a daily digital show called, Roland Martin Unfiltered. With this show, Roland highlights the daily news topics of politics and special reports. His show is making a mark of what is missing that the major networks don’t cover nor talk about. Plus his theme song is performed by EnVogue.

Lebron James goes from Cleveland Cavs to the L.A. Lakers.

Straight Outta Wisconsin in a good way:

Tony Evers BEAT Scott Walker for the Wisconsin Governor Election. Thus also, Former State Rep Mandela Barnes becomes the first black Lt. Governor in Wisconsin’s 170th-year history. More recently, the newly Governor-Elect appointed Carolyn Stanford Taylor to be the next State Superintendent of Schools: Another FIRST For Wisconsin’s Black History.

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

For the Wisconsin Badgers Football team: The Team has a few downs and mostly ups. The team finished 8-5 overall in the 2018 Season. Jonathan Taylor becomes the latest Badger to finish with All-American Honors. And recently qualified for a bowl game, a Pinstripe Bowl game to defeat Miami 35-3.

Milwaukee Police Department goes after Reckless Drivers in the Hot Spot Zones of the city. Just like last year.

For the Green Bay Packers: Not so much this year. Despite a 6-9-1 record on the standings, the organization surpassed 100 Seasons in the NFL. Jimmy Graham was traded to the Packers from New Orleans. Davante Adams became a new force in the wide receiver angle for the team. Blake Martinez, Kyle Fackrell stepped up the defensive side of the team, and Aaron Rodgers signed a 100,000.000 contract for the next couple of years to keep him in the green and gold until he turns 40. (If possible)

The Good Locally

Light the Hoan. Get used saying that name, because they will “Light The Hoan!” Oh and the sample was good!

Attention Black Milwaukeeans and Wisconsinites: Black Arts Fest MKE debuts after a 5-year absence of no Arts Festival for the Black Community on the Lakefront.

The Milwaukee Public Schools welcomed back the Alumni again. For the third time at The Tripoli Shrine Center!

Here’s a shocker, Milwaukee was recently listed as one of the cities in the U.S. that you can start a business.

Milwaukee Public Schools started classes early like August, again.

The Milwaukee Streetcar debuts in November after many years of political fights.

A portion of 4th Street between St. Paul Avenue and Capitol Drive has been named after Vel Phillips.

The Milwaukee Brewers finished the season with a strong ending of 96 Wins 67 Losses, capturing the NL Central Division, and were the runner-up in the NLDS vs the LA Dodgers. Christian Yelich was chosen the NL Player of the year of 2018.

The Fiserv Forum opens its doors for business and entertainment. While conversely, the Bradley Center ends its 30-year reign.

The Milwaukee Bucks had a strong season this year earlier finishing 42 wins, 40 losses. Ending up in the 6th seed in the NBA Eastern Conference Playoffs as a runner-up vs the Boston Celtics. Since moving to the new Fiserv Forum, the team got a new coach, Mike Budenhozer and as of this week ending in 2018, the team was 24-10, and in first place in the Eastern Conference.

The Bublr Bikes still expanded. Again!

Ikea debuts in Oak Creek.

Since 2016, the BMO Harris Bank was demolished after the Sherman Park Riots. The Bank has been rebuilt and also in the building of the former bank rose a Phoenix. A Sherman Phoenix!

Amazon will build a plant in Oak Creek by 2021.

The Grand Avenue Mall is getting a makeover.

The Old Warner Grand Theater (or the Grand Theater to the current heads) will become the new home of the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra.

The BMO Harris Tower is under construction in Downtown Milwaukee.

Milwaukee County: Sheriff Earnell Lucas was voted to lead the Sheriff’s Department.

Well known to retire locally:

For the retirees in Milwaukee: Kathy Mykelby of Channel 12 retires after 38 years of Broadcasting. Milwaukee Police Chief Ed Flynn retired after 40+ years in Law Enforcement.

Also celebrated milestones locally:

Harley-Davidson marked 115 years as a motorcycle company. And featured several attractions of bike races on Bradford Beach and many others. The race on Bradford Beach was a first for Harley in over 100 years. If those were wondering, that’s part of how Harley was noticed. Also, the traditional Harley-Davidson Parade concluded the festivities along Wisconsin Avenue.

The Harley-Davidson Museum turned 10.

The Wisconsin Black Historical Society celebrated 30 years in the black community.

50 years ago, Milwaukee had an Open Housing March that ended in 1968, following up from the year earlier. Thus starting up the Housing Laws.

Hold Up: Those that left professions locally:

Several Milwaukee TV personalities recently left their craft all over the city but now, they have decided to find new ideas in their careers. Fox 6’s Beverly Taylor and Myra Sanchick, plus Today’s TMJ 4’s Tatiana Cash have resigned from their professions. We thank them for their Milwaukee TV Broadcasting Services.
TRADE ALERT LOCALLY: In late July, a shocking announcement (via Social Media) that “The Forum” with Sherwin Hughes on 860AM WNOV was ending its 6-year reign. But several weeks later on August 13th, 2018 it was resurrected and started fresh on another station, Real Resistance Radio, 1510AM WRRD.
The Bad Nationally

Racism struck again in America.

Most of the Black Republicans were not very vocal against the 45.

School Shootings in Parkland, Florida.

45 made stingy enemies out of April D. Ryan, Yamiche Alcindor, Jemele Hill, Stacy Abrams, Andrew Gilliam, Joy-Ann Reid, and many other African-American folks that protested and commented against the so-called President. Even against Congresswoman “Auntie” Maxine Waters.

The Senate retained the position overseen by Republicans.

Many of the Caucasian Americans had false accusations of Black folks ranging from barbecuing, shopping, entering their place of residence, jobs, campaigns and many other constructive ideas and objectives.

Nigeria faced flooding issues. As well as Japan and North Korea.

Several members of the 45 Administration were fired or resigned despite the position of power.

Bill Cosby – formally known as America’s Favorite Dad, was off to jail.

California Wildfires

John Acosta of CNN gets booted from the White House after questioning 45. Then came back in due to his First Amendment Rights.

Families separated near the U.S. Mexico Border.

Larry Nassar – the now former USA Gymnastics/Michigan State Doctor goes to prison. All or most of the 175 years sentencing.

Shootings in Bakersfield, California.

Shootings in Alabama.

School Shootings in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

The 45 Administration just loved Government Shutdowns.

Cambridge Anlythica and Facebook had a revealing concept of data.

The Caravan.

After the blackface topic, Megyn Kelly gets fired from NBC.

In addition to the officers killed in Milwaukee, other officers in different parts of the Country also passed on in duty. Slightly higher than 2017.

Sears Stores as many shopped for years had announced the closing of their stores. Same with Toys R Us. (But came back as “Geoffery’s Toy Box” in the grocery stores)

Indonesia was hit with a Tsunami and an EarthQuake.

Several black pastors caused a stirring meeting with 45.

Hurricane Florence.

The “Russian Bots” and their interference in the elections and social justice concerns against the United States.

Cyber attacking hit the American Newspapers.

In recent reports, Teachers are quitting at a rapid pace within the 10 month period of the year.

The UK was struck with Racism around their Black History Month Celebrations in October.

The woes of Stormy Daniels.

Christine Blasey Ford vs Brett Kavanaugh.
The Bad Locally

Racism, of course, struck Wisconsin. Not just in Milwaukee.

For the first time in 25 years: Klement Sausage lost its sponsorship via the Milwaukee Brewers.

For the first time in nearly 100 years, the Milwaukee Christmas Parade was canceled due to lack of funding support, and the family overseeing the parade had retired. Plus the singing bears were not around in the Grand Avenue Mall.

For the first time in 22 years (1996), 2 Milwaukee Police Officers were killed in the line of duty.

DRS is moving from Milwaukee to Menomonee Falls.

Boston Store, one of Milwaukee’s last surviving shopping stores, closed it’s doors permanently.

A tried attempt to acquire more federal funds for the Milwaukee Streetcar fell short in trying to expand the Vel Philips Avenue area to the Fiserv Forum.

FIRED COACHES: Mike McCarthy was fired from the Green Bay Packers after 13 seasons. Conversely, Jason Kidd was fired from the Milwaukee Bucks previously earlier in the year.

Foxconn remained in question about the legality of access to jobs and government.

By the numbers: The number of homicides in Milwaukee was at 101.

Opioids in the rural areas were mostly a problem and it remains a dilemma to this day.

In regarding the black pastors and 45, Bishop Darell Hines a local minister of Christian Fellowship Church also met with the enemy and not many were pleased. Especially FORMER Members and current antagonists.
The Ugly Nationally

The unlikely viewpoint of White Women and some men calling the police on African-Americans due to being civilized and doing constructive aspects. Even jobs. Such as : Barbecuing While Black, Campaigning While Black, Working While Black, and Volunteering While Black.

Voter Suppression was unleashed harshly in several states. Especially among elderly black folks.

Blackfaces.

Kanye West meeting with 45. Then realizing it was a mistake.

The ongoing talk of 45’s Wall.

The VA encountered glitches for our veterans for their ongoing payments.

Draketown, Georgia and a KKK Rally.

The Ugly Locally

Before leaving office, Governor Scott Walker signs a Lame Duck bill benefiting limiting powers to the incoming governor-elect Tony Evers and Attorney General Josh Kaul.

An unlikely turn of events, the City of Milwaukee’s Election Commission was under the scrutiny of the number of absentee ballots recorded that gave the victory to Tony Evers. Who lead the scrutiny? Governor Scott Walker.

Before on speaking good terms, the Brothers of Aaron Rodgers were not on the same page.

We Speak their names – last drink to those that passed on in 2018

Billy Graham

Stan Lee

Penny Marshall

George H.W. Bush

Barbara Bush

Aretha Franklin

Roy Clark

Dynamite Kid

Jim “The Anvil” Neidhart

Brian Lawler (aka Grandmaster Sexay)

Larry “The Axe” Henning

Nikolai Volkoff

Big Van Vader

Stephen Hawking

Burt Reynolds

Sen. John McCain

Mac Miller

Stephen Hillerburg

Joe Jackson

Robin Leach

Craig Mack

Bruno Sammartino

Winnie Mandela

Ken Berry

Neil Simon

Ed Schultz

Anthony Bourdain

Kate Spade

Verne Troyer

Charlotte Rae

R. Lee Emery

Richard Overton

XXXTenaction

We speak their names – Those that Milwaukee Lost Locally

Milwaukee Police Officers Charles Irvine, Jr. and Michael Michalski.

Sandra Parks

Shannon D. Mani

Kiara Brown

Alfred Bader

Vel Phillips

And the final analysis of my point of view: I must say that as a blogger in my own right, the creative side of this writing continues to thrive my ability to communicate. The fact of the matter is, my style is very much in its zone by itself. When the announcement came to me on Thanksgiving after I written the “Be Thankful” surpassing 1,000 posts that were like……where was this going? I am now extra motivated to do this even more.

If you the audience no matter where you’re from and if you checked out this blog beforehand or just now tuning in, thank you. Yes, this blog site has reached 1,000 plus posts and over 25,000 hits. But likewise, there is so much to discuss. Ideas like health, finance, employment, my city of Milwaukee, religion, social media and other avenues to explore. Even as a black man in America, I must write my stories.

Knowing that yes, writing 1,000 plus posts was and is, definitely hard work! It’s not easy at times, but when it’s on your mind to know and summarize of what’s going on in your community, that is when you get your mind jogging and get to work.

1,000 posts are good. But the best is still YET to come!

Happy New Year!

Onward to 2019.

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

Scratching my head all this time: Before Thanksgiving.

Before we Americans throw down on the turkey, yeah there will be political drama at the dinner table. There will be many other factors in which we will ask the question, what are we thankful for in all. It’s also a Thanksgiving that yet the truth will bust out that some of our Ingenious Native American Folks will not partake in the holiday due to the national day of mourning. If you’re not familiar with it, research! Even you might watch football and the ongoing traditional Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade ushering the Christmas Season.

But likewise….I’m scratching my head again.

Milwaukee, how’s that streetcar thing doing? Overall, please. No Hop Haters from those who DON’T live in Milwaukee!

So it seems now that the People’s Flag and the Milwaukee Arts Board have to get back in talking about the ongoing idea of getting a new flag. We’ve all have seen it like everyday. But many will agree that the People’s Flag Folks HAVE NOT talked to the whole Milwaukee Community. Why?!

They say that the voting never mattered in the Governor’s race in Wisconsin, mainly Milwaukee. Ummmm, did anyone see the totals while yet folks complained?

Can you be a real church member and bring a level of consciousness that many might fear and still be loyal? Not talking about money in all.

Can the Wisconsin Badgers think big and quietly usher in better talent to run pistol plays? Be advised, Big Ten.

Black Woke Folks: we need to stop all this talk about getting us not to vote. And what is the reason why? Back off! Jeez!

Mostly, in that Georgia Election, the reason why Stacy Abrams lost was due to voter suppression, and I dare say: Racism. Agree or disagree?

Remember when the WWE or the WWF Survivor Series was ON Thanksgiving Day?

What will it take to get the Green Bay Packers to get red hot AGAIN?

You know that Country music has two African-American singers that are killing the scene right now. Like Kane Brown and Jimmie Allen. Heard of them? And Country Music is part of Black History!

Who still goes to the clubs and bars after the big meal on Thanksgiving to shake off the pounds?

How about those Milwaukee Bucks though?

And why did Andrew Gillum lose in Florida again, to really someone who is deemed racist?

Since November is National Veterans and Military Families Month, how really those who love our Military actually SUPPORT our Military? And how many of us really love our Veterans SUPPORT OUR VETS?!! Don’t start illing of not being a fake patriot.

When will Milwaukee EVER get their Holiday Parade…..err Christmas Parade BACK? Come on Harley-Davidson, Northwestern Mutual, Kohls, etc!

This is very disturbing: Why a fight in the Milwaukee Courthouse?

It seems that this portrait in Baraboo sparked an outrage. Of course. But what was the real reason again? Let me guess: that blasted Nazi salute and of course that got Wisconsin in a bad light yet again.

I asked this question last time and I’ll ask it again: The Hallmark Christmas Show is back. Who’s still watching them?!

No offense to the Christmas decors but, why does Thanksgiving get suddenly skipped? I’m mean HELLO! Turkey Day is missing!

This is interesting: Sagittarius Season BEGINS on Thanksgiving Day. Sags: what are we thankful for 9th house rulers?

Remember when Thanksgiving shows actually was reclaiming their time?

Men, has #movember really sunk in? After all that no shave, November thing?

International Men’s Day had come and gone. Why is this day not formally recognized again? And why are the whiny feminists of the world, still treat as this day being sexist?

Speaking of Feminism: why target Kleenex for Mansize tissues again?

Wait a minute: there is a Football Game out the Nintendo Switch? Not Madden! But how do many like the MFL? As in the Mutant Football League? Rated M but this might attract those in the think tanks to actually MAKE A FOOTBALL GAME for the Switch! Madden, or make an “NFL 2K” Sports game. I’m calling this!

Men (and women),  can we remind ourselves not to complain about International Men’s Day on International Women’s Day next year in 2019?!!!

When Thanksgiving Day is here: is it Macy’s, Football and Food? or is it Macy’s, Food then FOOTBALL?

When Thanksgiving is over, and for many of us who do not work on a Friday, why is it necessary for those who work on Thanksgiving have to start the Black Friday sales all early?

Speaking of Black Friday: NO SHOPPING FOR ME! But who will be the idiot of the moment when engaging in others for stuff on sale in a violent physical bloodbath? It’s bound to happen. You know it!

Speaking of Small Business Saturday: Who will actually shop locally? No national stuff!

Speaking of Cyber Monday: Best online deals right now. Who has it?

Speaking of Giving Tuesday: Who will donate? To Schools, Organizations, Alumni, Church Groups, Fraternity, Sorority, Legion, etc?

I don’t get it. Since the victory of the recent Wisconsin midterm election, there might be some folks from the black community might call out the new administration of not being diverse enough. My question is: why aren’t many who are complaining (i.e. Facebook and Twitter) not applying?!!

Will Creed II be a hit?

In the last 100 seasons, how many games the Packers won on Thanksgiving? I know, I know. They got archives.

Yes, there was a time that the Native Americans were slaughtered outside after a church service on a Sunday, and years later it was dubbed as the National Day of Mourning. A real question: do many today know that part of the history?

Who might fill up the table that once was occupied by those who passed on?

Who will fill up the table and set a new tone for the big dinner?

And the last question before: how REALLY thankful are you? Like really?

Happy Thanksgiving!

Expect a “Be Thankful” Traditional Blog

My Take on International Men’s Day 2018: it’s still relevant for a reason to celebrate and learn.

Men of the world: Today of the 19th Day of November, is our annual day of us. International Men’s Day is here and yet many still complain. I think the many that are complaining are those of the feminists who constantly bash men like a bad habit. Females, you need to calm your nerves in all, this part is just for the guys. And there is a message in all this: it’s just our one stinking day of being appreciated.

With all that’s going on in the world full of mostly men wrecking the shops like ill-mannered clockwork, it’s safe to say that yes, there are of us that do the manly things around the game that need and should be paying attention too. Of course, men have to step up. OF COURSE! But the question is: how?

Here in Milwaukee, my local United Methodist Men’s folks within the past year have the decision to come together to generate our ability to revive a Men’s Group. In a way to get us actively involved in our local United Methodist Churches and also among each other. In a way of evangelism, mission, and outreach. And other factors that favor men. Here is the kicker: Men’s group in churches are a gray area. It’s not like the well rounded like the women’s groups. Yes, the women outnumber the dudes 3 to 1 in about everything. But the dudes have and must hold their own! Of course, we heard about the Men being the Heads and women being the tails. But mainly folks are forgetting, not every man can’t lead!

When this international men’s day was coming up, I had to reference back 8 months ago when we were asking the same ol’ tired question around International Women’s Day: “When is International Men’s Day?” Over and over again it was a hot-button topic and still is. Men, did we forget this? For the folks who complain and piss and moan all day: did we complain?! I’m sure many will complain in the next 4 months into 2019 that when another Women’s Day comes around, there will be many more complaints about asking about a men’s day that is worldwide. Already, folks are saying “We have Father’s Day!” or “The whole month of November is for the Movember Movement to get men to think about their health……” or “the pay gap is unfair and men are just messing up to get what we think!” Ya think?! Not really close. Of course, the pay gap is unfair and unbalanced. But that’s not the reason why International Men’s Day shouldn’t exist. And plus not every MAN is a FATHER! Let’s be clear, females! Stop saying Happy Father’s Day to the men who don’t have kids! When the men have children, then you can say that!

As I was reading the think tanks via Social Media, The Guardian Newspaper out of the UK, and talk shows like Ellen today, and even The Forum on Real Resistance Radio this morning: the theme of the day was talking about International Men’s Day. Many have joked about this day occurring, but when you think about these stats from the International Men’s Day Website: 

“Men face a series of health challenges that need to be addressed in order to have our communities function to their fullest potential.”

Current research tells us that:

1. men have a suicide rate 3 times higher than women
2. 1 in 3 men have been the victims of domestic violence
3. men on average die 4-5 years before women
4. men are nearly twice as likely to suffer from lung cancer than women
5. men are nearly twice as likely to suffer from heart disease than women

With all the other health concerns listed here: we know that the average man dies early, getting lung cancer and yes heart disease/prostate cancer/colon cancer mostly more than women. BUT…..when you talk about Men dying more of Suicides and above all else being victims of Domestic Violence! Yes ladies, men can be victims of being abused physically, mentally, financially and yes spiritually. And other bad influential beings. Now we know why the International Men’s Day has come into the light since 1999. Be advised ladies! 

It’s almost in comparison like, when we have let’s say in the United Methodist Church, a day set aside for Women for Women’s Day (depending on March or May) and yet Men’s Day is set aside for mostly in June around Father’s Day. And here’s another kicker: I don’t hear any complaints about having a UMW Group and UMM Group so why are we tripping about having a day for the Men? Grow up, folks. 

Men of the world: yes all of us dudes that are single, married, widowed, divorced, in life partner relationships of any kind, active in the classroom, active at work, active in the Church, active in the community of choice, active as introverts (yes I’m one of them), active in the health fields, active in business ownership, active with fraternities, active in the military/veterans groups, active in entertainment,active in politics (in a nice way) active in many other factions: continue to guide your end of the ship to get to the point of where YOU want to go.

Men of the world whom are unemployed, underemployed, underappreciated, forgotten, overlooked, beaten up, scared for life, picked on, generally attacked, disrespected, physically/mentally/spiritually and financially attacked (by both MEN and WOMEN no matter what year or timeframe), discouraged, humiliated, embarrassed, or any other feeling of disrespect or left out: I would say man up,  but excuse my french: HELL NO! If you are a man that has been wronged by these words, it’s ok. If you felt this way or still feeling this way, you are NOT A PUNK! I don’t know who started this crap to think that Men aren’t supposed to feel this way (either men or women) but this crap MUST STOP WITH MEN, PERIOD! It must stop with a strong family. It must stop with a strong education. Strong jobs, strong economic values, strong health and wellness, strong community, strong neighborhoods, strong faith, and a strong structure of better endeavors that many must grasp! It must STOP! And the rebuilding begins with healing. And I don’t know that forgiveness comes in at times, even though it’s hard to forgive. 

And to the men who are the Dark Horses or the Unsung Heroes. And I’m one of these also. Those whom have been undiscovered and still have some talent: the folks will know your name. But for now, keep them guessing and keep your game under wraps. Be that STILL dark horse that many (either other men and women) will stop denying you! They will regret you for not picking you to join their team and I dare say employment!

Men, even though that this International Men’s Day of 2018 is coming to a close for another year, and all have happened, what will we do for International Men’s Day 2019: The 20th Anniversary? What will we do between this International Men’s Day and the next? What will we do? We hear it from the Women that Men need to step up. I agree! But again I ask as Man: a Black man from the United States of America: what’s next to step up too? That’s the million dollar question.

Now, ladies. You may talk.  But enjoy OUR International Men’s Day, gents! Between now and the next November 19th every time. But not every March, OK?! 

For more info about International Men’s Day, here is their link. I would say that this should be useful around every November 19th. But it can be useful to summarize every day!

#InternationalMensDay

#November19th

Scratching my head all this time: Unleash the Harvest!

Well, it has been a minute that I have written a scratch blog, but as I sat back and listened to all the mess in regarding 45, Brett Kavanaugh, the Midterms, and more stories of women getting raped and others, it’s clear that this came at the right time. There is no question about it.

But yes, I’m scratching my head again.

Males: we know October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. But during September, did we wore light blue for Prostate Cancer Awareness? And oh, why don’t we see no “Fight like a Boy” gear or stickers with the light blue ribbon?!

When it comes to Introverts and yes I’m one of the many, why that is still a problem for many WHO DON’T UNDERSTAND?! Ask your kinfolk, church folks, co-workers, teachers, etc.

25 years ago, I was so hooked on the Wisconsin Badgers Football team. How has that team really paved way for the next squads that did Rose Bowl wins? Even for the school, and the state? Plus that 1993 squad was the first I saw winning something, ever!

It seems that the Brett Kavanaugh saga is just starting to unravel. All these back stories coming out. And just today, a key Republican Susan Collins just supported to get him on the bench of the Supreme Court. Women I need to ask, you really back this crap? And many feel that the decision “raped” every single American today! Screwed up! If only just only that the more votes should have happened in November of 2016………oh wait!

45 just made a comment about the concern about the sake of the nation’s boys. Really?! What brought this on? Like seriously.

In the local midterms of Wisconsin, if Scott Walker were to win in November, it would be his last. Should Tony Evers and Mandela Barnes just make that happen like under 30 days? Like November 6th?

For all the so-called Woke Conscious folks: Can you please lay down your weapons for once and actually VOTE THE F UP?!

How will the 2018-19 Wisconsin Badgers do without those whom cowardly left the squad?! Come on, man!

Oh, it seems that Halloween is upon us. Let me guess, which demons should we exercise right now? Even if his name is……..you guessed it. Same with females.

For all of the movies lately, why Venom?

For all of my Introverted folks: whatever you do, please do not be a Summer Program Developer in your community! It’s not for us being semi-communicative. Is there a way that there are Developer Programs that INTROVERTED folks can come to? No matter if it’s for a church, or community organization? I need answers! And plus it’s a problem if you have no training or apprenticeships! Or should I say ONGOING Training or Apprenticeships?

Since it’s already Autumn, what has or will be an “Autumn Suprise” coming up? And everyone will be talking about it. Just wait.

I should ask: what’s up with those Brewers? In a good way? Postseason wise.

Why is the United Methodist Church talking about the One Church Plan stuff, and not enough of it is being presented to the Black Methodist Community? Like Black Milwaukee?!

While many of you are laughing about this, the Milwaukee Streetcar (aka The Hop) is debuting on Friday, November 2nd, 2018. Which is like 2 days after Halloween. And 20 days before Thanksgiving. And many of the FB laughable are still making jokes. Hmmm…..we’ll see who has the last laugh. Won’t we?

Is the Fiserv Forum really ready for the new era of Milwaukee Sports and Entertainment? Will the Bradley Center be missed like already, The Marcus Amphitheater at Summerfest?

For my black British folks, I know that October is your month of Celebrating Black History. And yes there were or are Hackers that tried to shut your page down in a racist manner. Man, check those fools! STAY WOKE! Why? The hackers are just scared of the truth about black culture, black existence, and black excellence in all areas! And yet they hack the pages in order to have this fear. Again: As we Black Americans would say, STAY WOKE! Any questions?

Why this quote means well? “Be careful what you wish for because you just might get it.”

When we say “It’s Harvest Time” we really mean to say, it’s time to take in the plants. Agree?

Why is Columbus Day is still celebrated in America, KNOWINGLY Columbus was really a thief?! Can’t stand the holiday! And usually bad luck for me gets around Columbus Day. Not with it!

With the blue wave still intact, can it withstand the October Surprise?

How will Black Lightning favor for Season 2?

I’m sure many are not job shaming Geoffrey Owens now since he is no longer bagging groceries for Trader Joe’s, right? Ever since that boost from Tyler Perry giving him a shot on The Haves and the Have Nots.

This needs to be asked: why isn’t the WWE promoting Prostate Cancer Awareness in September? We know Childhood Cancer Awareness and Breast Cancer Awareness. But yes the Men’s Health Awareness must be included. I’m just saying, WWE!

Wishful thinking: should the franchise of Revenge of the Nerds be rebooted? Nah, keep the originals!

Since the Packers are in their 100th Season, has it been a slow start? But hey, they’ve started slow and got hot when it’s stone cold. Prove me wrong.

Millennials, your favorite latte season is back. Oh, you know we still say Fall or Autumn, right?

And the last thing to ask: now since Bill Cosby is in jail, and many of the folks non black usually goes free, and you know many ask: why is still the Justice system is BROKEN?! Many because of unfair treatments?!

My Take: “The Forum” on WNOV is no more. But it did mattered to Black Milwaukee, and also others that had to listen.

Check out @TheForum860’s Tweet: https://twitter.com/TheForum860/status/1023248092425019393?s=09

July 28th, 2018.

Mark that date down that many in Black Milwaukee will not be happy to hear. The reign of WNOV’s The Forum segment has surprisingly closed. Due to this decision was not “mutual” or irreconcilable differences. By now at this hour, you’re just listening to the hours between 9am – 12pm and no Sherwin Hughes on the microphone. No Forum. No more “Bye Felicia Awards”(the awards that got you locked out with bad remarks) and no voice here. But the voices are still out for more.

What will actually be a factor to enhance the voice of concern to the African-American Audience of Milwaukee? And second, if those had been following The Forum for all or most of the six years, is the due season coming for the next level of hosts? When I was listening to the radio today this morning, nothing but music in the 9-12 hour slot. Nothing but R&B, Rap & Hip Hop. Nothing but that. Of course the show at the previous hour was on during the slot but many like me, didn’t hear that voice to talk about the issues and happenings of the day. Yeah, that was missed! Was there friction between the management and host? What really let to the dismissal? Most of us reviewed the comments of the listeners online via Facebook when the story broke, and many found it like: “WNOV made a huge mistake of this decision”. “That’s jacked up”, or “Why during the midterm election season going on” (shades of 1290 WMCS being cancelled), and many also did appreciate the value of the host for his political viewpoints and raised an idea to get back in the game by using a different platform like podcasting .

I will admit, the Monday of today is not the same as last week. It’s a different week. And I don’t know how the radio works in terms of broadcasting or getting your messages out to the mass folks that are listening with management and experience. Hopefully, we’ll get to the real bottom of this and actually get a real conclusion beyond the “irreconcilable differences” in Milwaukee Radio. Not trying to speculate anything, but many may ask, why this dismissal was necessary in 2018?

“The Forum” ran for 6 years. And yes in those six years, we heard many topics. And to me, it mattered to Black Milwaukee and the listeners alike because we needed a fresh prospective from an angle that was never given before. I think also we needed a fresh prospective from the Generation X point of view because its clearly thought that the older generation was listening and learning. Many look at Generation X being all slackers and can’t do nothing right. Well that’s a load of BS. That’s not in part of the truth. And I’m part of the 1965-1981 crowd of the generation. And another reason why it mattered to the black community and it’s an obvious one, we need to keep and maintain our issues, our conversations, happenings, health stories, finance, lifestyle, creations, education and dozens of topics at hand everyday! Even yes addressing crime and racism. The three hours were just a spoke on the wheel, but the reality is that must keep the voice of the community on point and visible all the time. And that is why partially, the voices in the black community must be more than just one. It must be many!

What were my top moments in The Forum’s history? Let’s go into that right now. But first, I’ll dig into the crates of my blog stories that can support the story.

Going back to 2013, I remember a segment about opinion polls:

Now I’ve been heard about the recent Marquette Poll, or the Raussman Poll. This percentage of citizens this and this percentage of that. And mostly I’ve heard the question on black radio stations like WNOV, and asking, “Were you polled?” or “I was never polled on this topic.” Most of the folks in my opinion who do these polling statues, are white. Think about it. I’m just saying. And check this, how many of these polls in Wisconsin were done by African-Americans? No matter which side they see? AGAIN: there is 6% of African-Decent living in the Badger State.

 

2014: During Black History Month….

I was listening to WNOV today. Yes The Forum with Sherwin Hughes. He had on a guest of the name Oshi Adelabu who really dropped serious knowledge on why Black History Month is around. He also dropped real serious topics about us black folks don’t really know our history as much as the other ethnics. If anyone in America, or in Milwaukee had a chance to listen to him, you probably got lectured on a different level. And he did address the concerns of those who are our children who don’t care about the history. And the reason being, partially many of the adults don’t really go into the deep reason of the hidden stories of lynchings, hangings, inside discrimination, the first Egyptians being black (in which they were) or telling blacks not to go into the doors that whites used to go. I think our generation (the lower half of Gen X, Y, Millennials) were and are shielded from the extreme part of it and many of us don’t care. It’s sad to say but it is. Want a prime example: go to the Instagram and look at those bogus pics like, “Pookie and them were the first blacks to get turnt up in the club drinking Hennessy.” You mean to tell me that we would poke fun at those who have blazed trails, set new foundations, and declare holy hell on those who feel that this occasion that was started in 1926 is a joke of a failure? No its not a joke of failure because those who made the joke or the bad assumptions felt cheated because we haven’t learned the deep gist of the occasions. Of what it supposed to be. Yet, many years ago, I didn’t understood a lick of why black history month exists. But as I grew older and to appreciate the value of our summarizing our ancestors, and what is going on now, it has become to me a staple. More like a centerpiece celebration. I mean “every occasion” has a centerpiece.

2013 when Harley-Davidson was 110 years old. And the black community was almost left out, and yes even the late Polly Williams weighed in:

Recently up until the days and weeks before the start of the celebration, there was almost a concern. A concern about the African-American Community being left out of the celebration with nothing on the program. I read the Harley Bikers Guide courtesy of Visit Milwaukee, in which almost every organization or company had sponsored the event, but I didn’t see ANY representation of the African American Community that either was on the cover, nor in the ads! Come on, now! Just a thought that African-Americans do ride motorcycles, and are apart of the biker culture and network. But until recently, the organization of the MLK Street Jam folks have added a line up, vendors, and live music for the 110th. Originally, “The MLK Street Jam BBQ” was the name in the Black Community and yes 5 years ago, it was a listing among the Brady Street, and other Street Jams for the Harley Riders and non riders alike. I was listening to WNOV last Monday about the concern, and about the concern of the black bikers not having a connection for the 110th in which the black community, I think I may have heard that, in means of where to go, and having black businesses to engage the support of the event. Personally that almost hurt. Did some businesses or connections from H-D or Visit Milwaukee, ever talked to the Milwaukee black community, or those along MLK Jr. Drive about hosting a spot for the 110th Anniversary ahead of time? Did anyone who is African-American that works for H-D in the Greater Milwaukee Area asked those in the black community or inform of the 110th events beforehand? That is a question I want to know. Maybe Harley-Davidson needs to have Inner City Sessions on jobs, or outreach. Or have a parade to route along MLK Drive or Sherman Boulevard to Milwaukee’s Washington Park for a fellowship. I heard that portion on WNOV.

Just to add: in the days after this segment, Jammin’ 98.3 held a Iron Elite Black Biker Jam at Uihlein Soccer Park in which displayed the different motorcycles, vendors, The Kevin Hayden Trio Band and several famous faces like Willie G, whom we all know is a descendant of the company. And even film director, F. Gary Gray. Whom also did a special documentary of the Iron Elite and the history of the African American Harley-Davidson Riders. Food for thought. And no, it was not racist.

Elsa’s on the Park and the issue of racism and this was my “introduction” to The Forum in it’s inaugural year of 2012:

This story has been non-stop. Even on the radio has been non stop. This morning, I was listening to WNOV 860AM, and there is a new segment called “The Forum” with radio host Sherwin Hughes. By the way the radio station is now online at http://www.wnov860am.com; and as well on the radio. Plus you can listen to the station via the Apps on Android, Blackberry, and the I-Phone. “The Forum” is a hard hitting segment in which the topics of political, civil and many other issues that seem and gain the thought in the African-American Community; that will you will not find like on WTMJ or any other station that most don’t address issues like this in Milwaukee. Sherwin voiced his liberties in terms of the incident at Elsa’s as of what happened. Apparently, the information given was from of his close friends in which was the victim of the incident that took place. Sherwin and those like him will never set foot in a place that doesn’t feel “welcomed”. But he also said that there might be folks who would still support the establishment and spend their money! Hold up. Why would ANYONE would continue to support any organization or company that has or had bad experiences that dealt with racial problems concerning African-Americans and not everyone else?  It’s the same thing with Milwaukee’s clubs on the East Side. Some of them had negative experiences with black folks too, as in terms of not letting them in. If I was a customer per say, and this went down, GOODBYE! No more Elsa’s. Go somewhere that can be appreciative to me,and fair quality of service. Like Black-Owned Businesses. And for the record, I have some members in my family that do own, operate, coordinate, and direct their own businesses. And they’re African-American living in Milwaukee. Yes, I know that this experience is well “sensitive” to most, BUT it is a concern that must be addressed. Everyone around the country that knows about Milwaukee’s Segregation problems, I can them saying, “you need to talk!” NO MORE HIDING! It’s either “put up or shut up.”  We have too. Matter of fact, we Americans have to address this issue of race as well instead of running away to other cities and countries just to get away. I’m just saying.

2016: The year we lost Eric Von.

When the day of September 8th came when Eric’s death came up: it was like a shock. I kept reading my Facebook Newsfeeds to see if this was real. When you get those notices of a well known figure around your community that died, usually it’s a hoax via Social Media. BUT……this was no hoax. Eric Von really did die at his home in the Sherman Park Community. The next day, WNOV was really focused on him, his life and work. I was listening to his segment and The Forum and let me tell you: it was sad, but it was a time to celebrate him of what he brought to us over the years. No matter if it was his days at 1290, or WNOV. The callers kept calling the station to offer their condolences and sympathies. Even former 1290 Personalities that called in to do the same thing. And those that used to rival WNOV were also called in to equal the messages of those offering condolences. I will admit, it will be hard to replace him on the radio. But I think that with all of this, the WNOV Family; no, the remaining WNOV family will be fine. It will take time, but still will be fine.

Also with that, there was radio broadcast about Sherwin commentating about his then-health problems in terms of him going under an examination. Which also led him to get an colonoscopy. He was very expressive about his health in terms of what he had and was able to still do the show. In the lessons followed, yes he still addressed the medical issues that many of us in the African-American Community don’t go to the doctor. Specifically us African-American Men! This was an eye-opener and yes, I’ve been woken as well. It’s a life saving issue that many must not cover up nor ignore! Speaking of colonoscopies, the age limit for that, is still in the 50’s, but there might an age reduction to about 45 and up because now many of the those in that age range may have to get checked for that detection! Either way: GET SCREENED! I would say this to the men, but women you too! Of course you already know that.

Also in 2016: The aftermath of picking 45 and questioning whom to look next.

Sixth: I was listening to WNOV this morning. And there was question about who will represent the Black Community in the Trump era? Black folks: Look to our Senators, Our Congressmen or Congresswomen. Our Alderpersons, regional leaders whom are black. Here in Milwaukee: We got just to name a few, Senator Lena Taylor, State Representative Jason Fields, Congresswomen Gwen Moore, Alderwomen Chantia Lewis and Milele Coggs, Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderman Khalif Rainey, Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderman Russell Stamper II, County Supervisors: Marcelia Nicholson, Supreme Moore Omokunde, and Willie Johnson Jr. And no, I’m not putting Sheriff David Clarke on the list because I think now we in the community are waking up with the real truth about him. He’s not what he says he is. He don’t qualify.  Other black leaders like Kamala Harris, Cory Booker, Shelia Jackson-Lee, and other well known black officials must not be overlooked either that can be viable to represent.

 

Let’s see, another highlight I remember: Building an African American Community Center in 2013.

Let me go in on my home of Milwaukee for a bit. I have to blog about this story that is very dear and I think important to think about for the African Americans for our city. Recently this week, I was paying attention to Milwaukee Black Radio, namely WNOV about a comment of a potential (idea-wise) African Community Center. As many of us Black Milwaukeeans know it was supposed to be built near the Milwaukee County Transit System Headquarters, which is near 17th and Fond Du Lac, years back. But however it never got built. Many were and still asking why.

Just yesterday and today, I listened to WNOV’s Sherwin Hughes, with guests Mikel Holt, former Alderman Fred Gordon, and Troy Shaw,  and in a twist of that thought: It had something to do with that project and the Italian Community Center. From the commentary, one of the then-Milwaukee Alderman’s Mike D’Amato had a problem with that. In regarding that project of the African Community Center, that would give dilemmas for the Italian Community Center. Say what?!!! When you really think about that, Milwaukee has Community centers of the Irish, German, Mexican, LGBT, Spanish, Asian and Italian. But not a African Community Center, based on this absent minded thought? Really?

Now I know that others who are non-black and reading this blog and from the Greater Milwaukee Area are probably might come out and say, “Oh that racist! Why does he have to write that? We are all Americans. We should be equals.”  Oh Shut up! I’ve heard that so many times. I get it. Remember when I said that I’m embracing my African-American side, while expressing my slice of Americana? This is what I’m doing right now. I’m expressing my freedom of expression as an American, while honoring my African-American, or American of African decent laurels. Period. If WNOV’s “The Forum” can do it, so can I.

Just to clarify currently that the site of the former America’s Black Holocaust Museum that the late James Cameron founded was torn down, but as of this year on Juneteenth Day, it was resurrected in a new Museum with Apartments. It’s called “The Griot” and it sits near the corner of 4th and North Avenue in the same area. Hopefully this can be a new start of getting OUR African Community Center started up to educate, entertain, inform and summarize the news and happenings in the Black Community.

From last August: Confederate Monuments in Wisconsin.

Most recently, I was tuning into a radio broadcast of WNOV, yes the black station in Milwaukee. And it featured a story that had a Confederate monument in my homestate of Wisconsin. I’m not joking. You might be saying to yourself: WAIT, WHAT? Wisconsin had a Confederate Monument?! Really? Here is the featured story, from June of 2015. As we all know that Wisconsin was a Union state during the Civil War. Check out the site called “Iron Brigader”, or do a search called, “The Confederate Cemetery in Madison, Wisconsin”. I’m reading this article for the first time. And the thing that struck me out of the story was the fact that I had no idea, no iota that this existed in the state of Wisconsin. Never in my near 41 years living in the Badger State I knew that. The story summarizes that the use of the Cemetery was the burial place of the Union Soldiers that died in the Civil War. It also summarized that part of the Cemetery was known as “Confederate Rest” in which that 140 of the Confederate Soldiers whom were POW’s was buried in the area. Before that, majority of the Confederate Soldiers (approx. 1,000 plus) that were captured, were sent to Prairie Du Chien, and then to Madison. Many of them also were diagnosed with Measels, Mumps, Pneumonia, not enough food or medicine for the prisoners and many died because of it. Also some the prisoners were transported to Camp Randall (the same Camp Randall where the Wisconsin Badgers play on the UW-Madison Campus) for medications and supplies to receive treatments. Additional before Camp Randall was the house that many of the Big 10 feared, it was a training ground for the then Union Volunteer Soldiers during the Civil War. Now you wonder why Camp Randall Stadium is a “battleground” on Saturday afternoons! The story also summarized about a woman, Alice Waterman who was southern born that moved to the city to care for the Cemetery that housed the dead soldiers. She put her own financial needs to care for the graves and markers to maintain them. She is also buried at the cemetery towards the front of the site.

And to add, like other Confederate Monuments in America, that too was removed.

2014 when many got so “sensitive” about Black Milwaukee Radio. Like really?!

And check this: even Sheriff David Clarke had to call in and say “It’s David Clarke. Tone it down.”

I want to make a comment about this. I want to tell all the folks, the hyper sensitive folks something. Just my opinion: THIS WILL NOT BE TONED DOWN ON ANY FRONTS! NONE! Many times I said that Milwaukee is the most segregated city in America. That is a fact. Even if those live in the North Shore area gonna learn today. Obviously, most are afraid. They are scared. When I listening to the entire 3 hours, Sherwin had made strong references that many agreed about the understanding of black and white citizens. Even a black Vietnam Veteran! Where’s Sheriff Clarke on that? No where. Where are those who had to gall to call the station, after not what they want to hear based on strong and TRUE references? I said this on the MyFoxMilwaukee blogs that many will get mad when the truth comes out. Even if an owner gets all hyped negatively about a McDonald’s harboring Drugs and Mary Jane!

Speaking of Toning Down: Where is the “Toning down” of prevention of drugs in businesses?

• Where is the toning down of high unemployment among African Americans IN Milwaukee? WHERE YOU AT CONSERVATIVES?!!!!!!
• Where is the toning down of admitting the fact that this region and state is still segregated? And having Transportation issues of getting to the jobs? Hello, folks!
• Where is the toning down of preventing teen pregnancy, not being in the poor category IN Milwaukee? EXCUSE ME?!!!!!
• Where is the Toning Down of Drugs being going into the suburbs and while many get off easy, but hard in the larger metro areas?
• WHERE IS THE TONING DOWN of the so-called others who thought that a school like Malcolm X shouldn’t be an Community Center after it was legally PASSED by MPS?!!
• Where is the toning down on the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Comment folks who blast things that they don’t and get a freaking pass? Such as one JSOnline commenter at one time had talked about that an officer should have punched Jeanine Tracy harder while being handcuffed in a squad car!
• Where is the toning down on these Conservatives Radio folks like Mark Belling who labeled Derek Williams a thug after being handcuffed in the back of a squad car? Couldn’t breath in all. Neck broken. And died on the scene.
• Where is the toning down of the Hilton Garden Inn, and Alderman Bob Bauman, about the accusations of black nightlife like 618 on Water, and many other clubs that mostly cater to African-Americans,and Urban Hip Hop Music?!!!  And having those NOT LIVING in Milwaukee had to jump in? UM, EXCUSE ME?!!!
• Where is the toning down of the State of Wisconsin that is getting sued by Talgo because of the refusal of the High Speed Rail project, that many of the leeches of the Tea Party Wisconsin based, plus Scott Walker shutting it down? Hmmmmm………don’t see it here!

What’s up with that? Milwaukee County Residents?!!!!! You all getting all hyper sensitive about a black man’s strong truthful reference, and don’t want to admit it. Folks like Sheriff David Clarke needs to understand that he is going to get talked about. Period. I mean, if various folks can talk about Chris Abele, Tom Barrett, Scott Walker, Senator Lena Taylor, or any other official, so Clarke is off the list? REALLY?! But if Sherwin is wrong of what he said about him, maybe the second black Democratic (but mostly REPUBLICAN supportive) Sheriff needs to be a man about it and defend his record!

 

And what about being “Church Hurt?” From this year in January!

Last week on the first Friday of the year, I listened to WNOV’s The Forum Program. And the full 3 hours of the program was about those who have been “church hurt”, or being hurt by the church. It was based on the article that some folks read (mainly younger black folks) about the reasons why they don’t attend church. And I’ll bet it came from those who haven’t been there. It also featured those whom have had history in the church ranging from bishops, ministers, and members whom have those vivid memories but mostly it was NEGATIVE! As I was listening to the program, it was coming from those who say it was a scam, the black church don’t allow the LGBT no love, and other negative factors. Oh the issue of money was conversed. I want those being effect by this “church hurt” thing to hear me out on this. Yes, there are pastors, bishops, deacons, and many other church leaders that did things negatively on the value of money. Yes, it’s true. BUT: don’t assume that it’s all of the Churches! Not all the churches are about MONEY. Not all of the church are about kicking out the LGBT. Not all the Churches are about the erasing the thought of supporting young folks. Not all churches are about hating on someone who is in need of coming in to keep warm from the freezing cold! Not all CHURCHES are the same! WAKE UP! If that were the case, I wouldn’t be in church now! I’m sorry you’ve been hurt. Church hurt. But many of you members who haven’t been to any the services in a minute, and you’re complaining, why haven’t you come forward? Ok, maybe you have been working. Raising families. Taking care of a senior person. Or sat out and did nothing. And you complain. If you complain and not attended the services, you need to go! If you are on the membership roll that haven’t been at the services, meetings, events, activities or there special outings to support or donate, then you need to retool and revise your membership! Hate to say that.
Don’t always assume that the church is ALL evil. What is evil is being put or driven by those who spoil the bunch. That is EVIL! Hell, I wouldn’t stepped into a 4th Generation family tradition that I wouldn’t be able to work, earn scholarships, utilized groups (both men and women), photograph archives, record sermons and still raised almost 28 years later! That’s right, this June will be my Church Anniversary of coming in as a full member through conformation class. That’s a joy. And that’s positive. And the Church NEEDS MORE POSITIVE OUTLOOKS! Not just hearing the music or the sermons. And also the biggest issue that many have against the church besides the money and pastor, is when we get done hearing the sermons, we go out to eat to Red Lobster or a local restaurant. Church folks got to eat too! There are 168 hours in week. The Average hours on a Sunday morning Worship Service is like what, 2 hours? So in those two hours of Church, we go to the restaurant and chow down for about 1 hour or so. And we go home. BUT THE WORSHIP WORK in the week goes on. It goes on at your job. Your community centers. Your activities of recreation, homes, the elderly, Your Sorority, Fraternity, Veterans Groups, Peace Groups, Activism, Alumni Associations, etc. Even when you help folks to Vote! That is your Worship Work in the continuation of the Church! Think about that. If many more folks in Milwaukee who were listening to that broadcast would actually get it, they would actually get it. I know some understand.
I say this mainly to Milwaukee. After all, it was a Milwaukee Black Radio broadcast of WNOV that commented on this. We know what the host said. We know what the guests said. And we know that. But look here: it’s not perfect. Many of you go to clubs on Saturday Night, partying in all. Being catered. Which is nothing wrong at all. But also, like the church at times, there are members of the clubs whom can be hypocritical of the DJ, the clothes, the set up, the bar, the drinks, the food, the parking, and the security. Just like your jobs, groups and etc. You don’t hear me! We’re trying. We know it’s hard. After all, being a Christian or a every Sunday church person is not just happenstance. It’s a hard job. Period. But with God’s grace, we’re up for the challenge.
Amen.

These are just a sampling of the highlights while listening to the program for those 3 hours. And 6 years. And the things I mentioned here, serves as a lesson to engage and take it out to the world and educate our minds and thoughts about the concerns and joys per se to commence. A lot of this, I do credit “The Forum” for allowing me to express my viewpoints here and summarize them to all of you. Mainly for those whom haven’t been to Milwaukee or have not seen Milwaukee in ages! And to think that, it was not a surprise in coming. And the host has seen this blog before, so I say to that thank you!

However, why I talked about this? It goes all the way back to February 2012, when there was a rally on King Drive in about “We stand for our men for Jobs”. The very same rally that former Wisconsin State Rep Elizabeth Coggs formed. And the guest MC you asked? Homer Blow. He also expressed that morning about that we must continue to tell about what’s going on in Milwaukee. If we take pictures, blog (like I’m doing now) or whatever, this is what we have to do. So I’ve been doing this since 2005 by doing this blogging thing that may not be noticeable. But based on this and the good highlights I’ve written about in the past, my voice along with my brain, is paying attention. If this blog had not existed, I wouldn’t be telling this now. Not about anything that pertains to Milwaukee or Black America. That would be in the interests of the Newspapers or journals that rely on the sources all the time. But what happens when the sources don’t get to the source we want? That is why that blogs like this and many others need to fill in the gaps of what we know to continue the conversation. As I said before, this is not for a job thing, this is a personal thing. And the personal thing to me is to help correct the wrongs that I went through growing up to be added on to the masses of research and homework assignments. And yes, WordPress camps.

The guests over the years comprised of politicians, business owners, activists, educators, historians, young men and women, Gen X’ers, Baby Boomers, Millennials, and organizers all stopped by to lend their viewpoints of the subjects at hand. Even guests like Officer Jack, a former MPD Police Officer that gave the audience about scenarios in regarding police work and also what to do regarding law enforcement and the understanding the law. Former Milwaukee Public Schools Superintendent Darienne Driver (who recently resigned this year) was on the show usually on the first Fridays of the month that gave us statuses about the conditions and happenings in the Schools.  Others from Mary Burke to Lena Taylor, to Gwen Moore, and to Mahlon Mitchell, same thing. Speaking of Mary Burke that many didn’t realized that when she was campaigning for Governor (and later lost to Scott Walker)  she appeared on the show more times than any other Republican Representative. Even more than Scott Walker whom have not appeared once. Something should have told you there. And yes, even the former Sheriff David Clarke stopped through as well wearing a Trump Shirt. The callers you asked? They ranged from everyday folks that know the city very well, even a black Marine Corps Veteran that the host ALWAYS acknowledges every time!

So guess what, black people and those others wanting to know? “The Forum” was only the spoke on the wheel. But, there is so much work to be done. Even telling our stories continuously. You will not hear this from WISN 1130 or 620 WTMJ. Or any other progressive format. Nope, not here! Not happening! Oh, by the way: for those of us that couldn’t get past the emptiness of The Forum, the show recorded 832 segments in it’s 1,000+ shows. Check out The Fourm 860’s Website for all the references.

America goes 242. And yes, like before: The Struggle STILL Continues.

Oh, is it Independence Day? The day of the 1776 that many were “partying?” Oh yes, it’s July 4th. The 242nd Anniversary of the Independence. And yes like before, we can celebrate in all. Plus I dare say to comment this: The Struggle Continues!

Why do I keep saying, The Struggle Continues? I keep it as a reminder that no matter what happens in life and in our daily lives, the struggle of the ideas, objectives, faith, financial, manhood, womanhood, your sexual preference, voting ideas, marital status, and other things we hold dear like a musket still continues with this struggle. Even being black and conscious about our black-selves is a struggle EVERYDAY.

Black folks: we know that already that a day like this may or may not favor us likewise. When this day of Independence was established as we know, our people was not partying like everyone else. Others may ask why, we know that SLAVERY and BONDAGE were a factor of us not celebrating the fireworks. It took 89 years, (that’s right 89 years) for us to have our share of freedom when Juneteenth Day was created. For you the non-black audience this is part of history that many (and MANY) slept over. We get caught up in the hype and we forget that there were cracks in the ground that didn’t get covered. Think about this, the next 4th of July Holiday will be in 2019. The same 2019 when we will summarize the last slaves arrived from Africa in 1619. We’re talking on the real: 400 years. We will be saying 400 years alot next year. But when that happens, we’ll recognize it and surely it will be summarized that will make 45’s hair snap out! We can talk about the use of Patriotism in the country. But for us Black folks here me when I say this: We are Patriots too! When someone on our social media folks says that black people aren’t patriots, they are lying. We are patriots due to the speaking out of Police Brutality. We are patriots speaking out on our Black Lives Matter every time! We speakout on the hate on us being denied of jobs, homes, assistance of medical and finance, where to shop, having our say of education, voting, innocent lives getting killed, and many others with the moniker “Amerikkka” in all in the addressing the thought and issues and concerns about this country that really affects us! We have to address it! And the reason being because is if anyone is not going to address our issues, we have to do it. That is OUR patriotic duty as citizens to upkeep the words that Dr. King once said as an example: “Be true what you say on paper!” That is just not being patriotic in our way, but it’s also being held accountable for the things and issues that get put out there! Yeah, we have a patriotism in our own right. And you don’t necessarily have to wave the Red, White and Blue all the time. The real patriotism is in your heart and your viewpoints. I just had to say that.

Frederick Douglass even questioned that when he asked, “What to the slave is the 4th of July? Martin Luther King even ask that question more than just “I Have A Dream”. Rosa Parks even asked about that question when hanging a banner about those being lynched. Malcolm X was questioning that very often about the formality of Black Excellence/Nationalism being questioned along with peace and freedom. And many countless others said the same thing whom were and are African-American and having the balls to do it. In his last 4th of July as President, Barack Obama commented about “imperfections in our union”. And he was right. And still there are imperfections today that still need to be tackled right now.

Currently, we are still speaking out. Even Rep. Maxine Waters of California still criticized the antics of Donald Trump. Yes, Auntie Maxine is speaking the truth like it or not. And many can hate all they want. Even some Democrats need to shut up and listen of what’s really going on. And oh, they and others want to her to stop talking that jazz and having civility. You want to talk about civility?! And all that talk about her inciting violence? What a joke! The real joke is the 45 acts of stupidity. The real joke of seeing that stars and stripes side by side with the North Korean Flag which almost make me puke. The real joke is hating on Harley-Davidson Motorcycles for the criticisms about this American made product that is Milwaukee Born being some of the jobs being shipped overseas and of course some of the employees probably favored Trump. Plus would this act stains the 115th Anniversary? And even rolling back the ideas that Barack Obama placed regarding the Affordable Care Act, College Admissions and others were classified as a joke for Trump. And all that so-called “Make America Great Again” stuff is nothing more that a fake revolution to bring to light. It’s a farce! Even separating families at the border for no apparent reason. And black folks we know the feeling of separation as many times explained how our people were on auction blocks being sold into slavery. And generations in the future are putting the links together to assemble our family trees.

Why I am saying this on a day like today? Why many are saying, “Stephen this is our country’s birthday. Leave it alone”. WHY?! Come on, now! I am like a Patriot that is addressing the concerns that many are afraid to touch just like everyone else. And no I’m not hating the Vets like many of you. My father served in the Vietnam War, an UNPOPULAR WAR mind you that was hated by many. This year would have reflected 50 years since he came home from Vietnam and when he got back, he like many others were disrespected by being called “baby killers” from the same folks who probably then waved the flag for support. Even though that the Vietnam Vets that I know and knew served in the was that wasn’t all that, they still served, period! And now 50 years later, they are just getting their just due for service. Well, I need to ask where was that love for them 50 year ago when they returned? I’m just asking and saying at the same time.

Despite of all this, yes we are lucky to have this time. But however we also recognize that it has not been easy. We have to grind every time to get to our objectives and goals. We can still be bold of our Independence but we still have alot of work to do. Even with this crazy So-called President that many right are realizing that Hillary might have been a better choice. There are many of us have been saying it. But……like Roland Martin says on Twitter: #WeTriedToTellYa!

So with all that, we still got work to do. We still got to weed out the wickedness that plagues us very badly. What that means is we got to do better. Like former VP Joe Biden once said that America is a better country that this. We can be better and will be better. Not just with a catch phrase. But with the actions behind it.

Well, as they say: The Struggle Continues!

#Happy4th

#IndependenceDay

#242