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.

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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

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

So here we are.

Happy New Year!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

So for now: let’s start my New Year’s Tradition of Stephen’s Spot that doesn’t need a repeat: What do want to see and not want to see in 2018! 18 things by the way.

ITS GO TIME!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Next Five I don’t want to see:

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

7) And like many many years ago: I don’t want to see black folks putting other black folks down for stupid reasons. No matter what happens we must continue to look in the mirror and raise up. Jobs, education (past or present) contributions, etc. And that goes for anyone else.

8) Never EVER OVERLOOK THIS – Black Queens: you say you LOVE us Black Kings right? DO YOU?! Here is a challenge that you might not think. Cater to us for ONE DAY at a restaurant, or maybe give us a day that we might enjoy. Think it over! Many of you got Brothers, Fathers, Uncles, Husbands, Boyfriends, Cousins, Neighbors, and many other male influences that you probably know that need that appreciation! You guys go all out for your thing and we’re in the seats. Why not us?

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

10) I don’t want to see those who didn’t vote gloat. Guess what: Elections have Consequences. Especially in this Midterm Season!

Five More things I want to see:

11) I want to see more of us ALUMNI (YOUNG AND OLD) to reinvest in our Alumni Groups. Not just for the class reunions and everyone also shows up broke, mad, left out and uninformed. And by the way, if you see an Alumni Rep at your class reunion, don’t get no attitude about your daughter or son in college needing money and you think that your old High School has no money. That will not work!!!! Just dumb. Have you heard of Scholarships, like churches hand out every year? Stop playing!

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

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

14) I want to see more black folks in the communities whom think there is nothing there to do, start something! Stop complaining! Stop moaning! Get up and get out and make the stuff happen!

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

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

16) Of all the things I don’t want to see: enough of the blame game on Black Lives Matter that seemed violent or racist. For all you Blue Lives Matter, or copying off the Black Lives Matter Movement, you will suck. Instead of hating on Black Lives Matter at least go to a meeting or hear from those who lost a brother, or sister or a parent that was black. Take notes, Blue Lives Matter.

17) Now this might work in this 2018: Get Grown in your work and volunteerism. We know what we need to do, and what to do this year. So why not get involved! And the time is right now!

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

Happy New Year!

Scratching my head all this time in 2017.

Oh I had to do this! Here we go.

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

America, were we really ready for that Trump thing?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

OJ got out this year. Worth the wait?

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

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

For you black Trump Supporters: you still follow him?

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

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

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

Introverts again unite! May we continue the struggle?

Did many of you partied at Summerfest in Milwaukee?

Who got the Nintendo Switch?

Who has bought the SNES Classic?

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

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

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

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

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

Covfefe. What was that?

Who was the really the biggest fool of 2017?

Who really had the unsung character of 2017?

Who really had the top hand of respect of 2017?

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

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

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

Who’s ready for Black Lighting in 2018?

Who’s ready for Black PANTHER in 2018?

Who drank the Pepsi Caramel Soda?

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

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

Did the WWE Network delivered again?

Has DirecTV Now really sunk in?

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

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

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

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

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

Don’t believe in God? Start!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Was Amazon Alexa really hard to ask?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Will the Wisconsin Badgers Football Team win the Orange Bowl?

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

What about that Google Speaker that answers your calls?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How many plan to do something daring in 2018?

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

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

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

Happy New Year!

Let’s get the 2018 thing started.

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

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

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

 

The Good:

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

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

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

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

The Golden State Warriors won another NBA Championship.

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

For the NCAA Men’s Basketball: North Carolina.

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

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

Scandal entered the season being the last.

And yet, Modern Family continues to roll.

The Eclipse.

Janet Jackson had the concerts going in.

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

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

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

 

Milestones in 2017:

Robocop turned 30 years old.

Malcolm X movie turns 25.

Meet The Press turns 70 years old.

Golden Globes turns 75.

Dr. Dre’s The Chronic turns 25.

 

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

 

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

Fist Fight

Dark Tower

Transformers

Birth of the dragon

King Arthur

Star Wars: The Last Jedi

The Hitman’s Bodyguard all came out this year.

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

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

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

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

 

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

Michael Jackson – Blood on the Dance Floor (remix)

Gary Clark Jr. – Come Together

BBD -Three Stripes

Eminem – Revival

Miguel – ShockandAwe

Logic – Everybody/America

Living Colour – Inner City Blues, Preachin’ Blues

Fat Joe/Remy Ma – All the way up

John Fulford – Empire

Jay-Z: 4:44

DJ Khaled – Grateful, Don’t Quit

DJ Khaled/Rhianna – Wild Thoughts

Bruno Mars – Perm

Eric Gales – Change In Me

Kendrick Lamar – Humble

Sharon Jones – Searching for a New Day, Sail On

 

Well known to retire:

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

 

Straight Outta Wisconsin in a good way:

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

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

The Bublr Bikes still expanded. Again!

The Northwestern Mutual Tower is done. Go see it.

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

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

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

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

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

The Milwaukee Public Schools welcomed back the Alumni again.

Milwaukee Public Schools started classes early like August.

Summerfest celebrated 50!

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

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

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

Milwaukee County got a new Sheriff: Richard Schmidt.

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

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

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

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

 

The Bad in 2017

Racism happened again.

Trump enters as #45 for the Presidency.

Charlottesville faced racism with Neo Nazi’s

Shootings happened in Las Vegas during a Country Music Concert.

Shootings happened in Texas this year at a church.

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

Hurricanes ravaged Houston, Puerto Rico, Sierra Leone.

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

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

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

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

Rapper Meek Mill faces prison time.

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

Libya had an issue: Slavery

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

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

 

Straight Outta Wisconsin in a bad way:

125 – the number of victims died in Milwaukee.

Opioid Crisis

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

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

 

Flat out Ugly in 2017

Chicago had topped the homicide numbers of 600.

Sally Yates formally of the Administration was abruptly Fired.

General Flynn was fired.

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

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

White supremacy is still at large.

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

 

 

Ugly for Wisconsin:

Racism – yep. It happened.

Carjacking at Gas stations

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

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

Reckless Driving as usual.

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

Same ol Milwaukee Shootings.

 

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

Adam West

Bernie Casey

Mary Tyler Moore

Glenn Campbell

Robert Guiallume

Jimmy “Superfly” Snuka

Powers Boothe

Miguel Ferrer

Judge Joe Wapner

Bill Paxton

George “The Animal” Steele

David Rockefeller

Charles Bradley

Aaron Hernandez

Don Rickles

Erin Moran

Chris Cornell

Prodigy

Nelsan Ellis

Chester Bennignton

John Heard

June Foray

Dick Gregory

Jerry Lewis

Fats Domino

Connie Hawkins

U.S. Army Special Forces Sergeant Jeremiah Johnson

U.S. Special Forces Sgt. Bryan Black

U.S. Special Forces Sgt. Dustin Wright

U.S. Special Forces Sgt. La David Johnson

Charles Manson*

Terry Glenn

Earle Hyman

David Cassidy

Della Reese

John Thierry

Jim Nabors

Lowell Hawthorne

Hugh Hefner

Al Jarreau

Dick Enberg

Mamie Johnson

Bobby “The Brain” Heenan

Tom Petty

Chuck Berry

Erica Garner

 

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

Andrew Tyler

 

My highlights of the year:

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

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

Don’t be late in 2018!

Part III: You know where I’m going with this.

For the second time, I had to sit in my chair and looking at all the upgraded mess in the land of 45. Believe me, I like many of you are still watching football and also being woke in a sense to counteractive with the nonsense that Ol’ Donnie has done.

Oh, what has Ol’ Donnie done now you ask? Same B.S. Everyday! We know it. Most recently another Hurricane struck Puerto Rico. I’m looking at this footage of 45 doing this crazy stunt. Look at this:

This is so stupid! Really. 45 tossing paper towels to the folks in Puerto Rico. Almost like shooting hoops. Um…this is not a basketball game!  It’s not a game, 45! You know better than this. As a matter of fact, he doesn’t know. And YOU the 50% plus percent, it’s your fault. You picked him. Let that sink in. And the rest of world would be like, “whelp those Americans are at it again. You had a great president like Barack Obama that did so well, but then elected a MORON like Donald J. Trump”. I know that many in the world doesn’t think that many of us Americans doesn’t think like him. OH NO! But many have this assumption that this is what America is about. We got the land of opportunity in all of that, but when it comes to NOT holding up the ideals, that is when we fall flat on our stomachs. We’ve been flopping for about 241 years since the declaration has been signed. And consequently, over 150 since the birth of Juneteenth Day. That’s right I said it!

But really, who in their right minds would do this and get away with this like murder? That is what this really is. Getting away with murder. And 45 is off to a bad start doing it. The irony of all this is, Donald Trump or the leader of the land of 45 in squeamish is getting away with this from trying to undo the ACA, in which many Americans need to keep up with the Health thing, and many of the things that Obama had, Trump is trying to undo! THAT IS WRONG! And last November that was the straw that broke the camel’s back! And now he wants to build a wall on the U.S.- Mexico border. Ironically, there is wall built on the border anyway. Investigate that!

In speaking of getting away with murder, “Forced Patriotism” is heck of a drug. And it seems that this MORONIC LEADER is still at it when it comes to the NFL. It’s a bunch of nonsense. Again: for all the veterans and servicemen and any other patriotic waving folks whom seem to be on the fence when it comes to the Anthem and Flag and the NFL Players kneeling, let me say this again as a veteran’s son: it’s not about the Flag nor about the National Anthem! Again it’s not about those. It’s about the ongoing concerns and problems whom blacks are the victims being killed for no reason. And it goes many years of being covered up and no one said this or that. Until we get old and gray. And further more, if the kneeling is such a hateful gesture, explain this to me:

 

We’ve seen it at Committal Services. Heck I’ve seen it this year at my Dad’s Funeral! And this is supposed to be disrespectful?!

Give me a break!

Literally.

Part IV is coming: Scratching my head all this time!

Scratching my head all this time: The Mothers Day Edition.

Let me say this: Happy Mother’s Day to all of the Mothers who are grinding. Those whom are old school, new school, community, and many others. Oh yes it’s your day and you probably had a blast.

For now, I’m scratching my head again.

So James Comey got fired by #45. The same one that took down Hillary and the so-called emails.  Are we suprised?

Oh I see that the class of 2017 at Bethune Cookman College did not appreciate the presence of Betsy DeVos. And the folks on Social Media (in an opposite sense) had to call them disrespectful or “they won’t get any jobs” speech. Who’s the blame? Not the students! And for the record, she did talked “smack” about the HBCU Schools! Let’s be real.

If you’re a black graduate from Liberty University and just heard #45 spoke, and after the stuff he pulled so far, what is going through your mind?

What’s it going to take to solve this? Seeing a bunch of folks protecting a statue with torches?

Really, Steve Harvey? You fired your staff and having this “shield” that you don’t want to talk? Dude, stop!

Is Facebook really that hypocritcal? You get your movie clips with music banned but they don’t remove a pic with someone being hanged. Really?

Most recently, there have been alot of Sky Fox drones for news. Can there be more Sky Fox drone Jobs? Hmmmmm…..

In Wisconsin, can there be “Telepresence Jobs” and “Fab Lab Jobs” in the making for us over 30 years old? Training perhaps? With Bachelor’s and such.

Who is making all these so called memes about the Holy Bible and Slavery? Like the design and slave boats?

Does Wisco have a “Real Strong” candidate against Scott Walker? I mean a real strong candidate? No weak folks in 2018!

So folks hate these “spinning fidgits” that are being advertised. Being all distractive. How so?

Why I don’t see more POC in the Sons of The American Legion, Auxillary Legion or the Legion Riders? Especially in areas where not enough POC’s reside? I think they need to expand it more to the minority communities.

Milwaukee: did we enjoyed the 2nd Annual MPS Alumni Reunion?

Looking at the polls about the firing of James Comey. 29% only approve of his removal. What about the other percentage?

Milwaukee: what about that streetcar construction?

Why is #45 using the word “tapes”?

Glad to see that the Obamas are not going away. Good. Will the haters listen yet again?

Why is hazing still a problem in Fraternities and Sororities that lead to death? I don’t know it’s time to use a background check on the groups.

Dang, why was a 15 year old black teenager Jordan Edwards, who had straight A’s was recently killed in a car by a local police department in Texas? Did his life (black life) mattered? Oh I don’t hear the “All Lives Matter” groups talking now!

Ok. I have to say this: why was Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders took on the salary speaking funds that Barack Obama is getting?  Let the man get his paper!

Alot of the haters still hate on the Affordable Care Act. And those are supposed to be “Gun Touring Christians and follow the Good Book to screw others” in all. And I’m saying this as a Christian! Um….explain the details of why that about 29 million Americans should not get any coverage of pre-existing conditions. Explain why that those who are diagnosed with Diabetes, MS, Cancer, Heart Disease, or any other health concern should not get nothing to treat! Y’all making me run back to the medical folks for physical. Dang!

And the last question is…….. Mothers, are you blessed once again for Mothers Day? Enjoy and have fun. And always honor those whom are not here physically but around spiritually.

Speaking of which, I will be doing a Father’s Day Scratching head in honor of my father, and other fathers whom are eternally resting. And those whom have stepped up to the plate that act upon like fathers. It will be special. Stay tuned.

Scratching my head all this time. The hot minute edition.🔥🔥🔥🔥

It’s been a hot minute since the scratching my head blog has been unleashed. I know it’s been a couple of weeks since my father passed and still dealing with the fact he’s gone.

But I still have something to say about the not so happy current affairs of the country and the world. So here it is.

Why do certain folks have an issue of Angela Rye’s shirt: “We built this joint for free!” Knowing it’s the truth when it concerns African Americans? 

Why do certain folks (Church Minded) have to get attacked knowing that they have to go harder every single time in and out of the four walls?

Is going after North Korea really all that? 

What’s this? Bill O’Reilly got fired from Fox News? And the station is under fire of racial discrimination of it’s black employees. Why hasn’t no one seem to realize that racism still rears its ugly head in America’s DNA? Especially at Fox News!

Stop hating on the Milwaukee Streetcar, Milwaukee. You know folks need jobs right?

Who was so glad to hear Former President Obama’s voice after all this mess of 45?

Men, when the women had Women’s History Month in March, we realize that every “Movember” is our International Men’s Month, right? Why trip?

The Republicans failed to sign away the Affordable Care Act. Why didn’t they say something to change it then 7 years ago? Oh, they were still hating on Obama.

Was Shea Moisture really that marketable to black women? 

For the Serena Williams haters worldwide: she’s beating you. Why hate her and her choice of marriage, and her soon to be child? And Black Kings(and queens): let it go.

Is anyone feeling the Milwaukee Bucks lately? #FearTheDeer #DeerRun

Yo, this Eric Thames “talk” about him doing roids or juicing is nothing but a distraction. Dude was tested three times and nothing came out bad. So what is the real problem? Where are the test results?!! We speculte too much, Americans.

Can African American Men be relaunchers for Adult Internships too? 

If moving out of Milwaukee is a solution to get away from violence, why do the suburban areas have issues of drug problems? And some violence issues too? My father once said, “it’s bad everywhere.”

In 2018: the midterms are coming. Midterm Elections. Can Wisco get rid of Scott Walker and David Clarke for real? 

Introvert folks, are we still good? 

So the State of Wisconsin has this problem of 80,000 plus jobs that need to be filled. As well as Milwaukee. And the companies all say “we need to find people.” Well what is the real problem with hiring, matching, education, training and transportation, in getting that job? 

Was the “Mother of all Bombs” really that necessary in Syria?

So the Nintendo Switch is out. Who is really waiting to see if us “grownfolks” gamers can try it? 

Milwaukee: you realize our 2nd MPS Alumni Reunion is coming in May, right? 

I need to ask this question: and it’s for those who wished reunions. Why do many get mad about a so so class reunion that tried to happen but didn’t work? Also why get mad at all class reunions? You know you can use that to generate your class reunions right?

Why is there not enough representation for African Americans when it comes to groups like The American Legion and it’s subgroups? Note: some of them might have been or are American Legion members.

Why is Wisconsin “the state so far” doesn’t do expungements?

Really Ivanka Trump? Your father is a champion when it comes to women? You know what he said to Billy Bush, right?

Question: is it a check up, or a physical? Make up your minds when going to the doctors, folks. Jeez.

Should TJ Watt be a Green Bay Packer?

In May, Military Appreciation Month is approaching. Why do we get “Veterans Day” and “Memorial Day” mixed up? 

I need to ask: why did we sent our kids back to school the DAY AFTER EASTER?! Back in my day, we started our spring break on Good Friday, then the week was nothing but a break. And the week after, it was back in the classrooms. Explain!

Do folks really believe the fake news on Social Media that folks display? 

Why do folks have to test the Bible in what the folks who want to say that the people are right and the Good Book is bad? Seriously.

If you are a single man with no kids and not married (Especially if you’re Black) why the barrage of assumptions from women who wanted them to have kids and a wife? Um….Last I checked: kids cost money! And many women today have gone “Independent”. Society does suck.

And the last question to ask: Is the truth dead? Or just opinionated? 

I’m back, folks. Get woke! Stay empowered.

My take: The Women’s March and yes Men, stop complaining. Let’s have our own March.

Oh did you see the TV?

The 58th Inauguration of the new Administration has passed to you know who, which looked like a ghost town in Washington. But yesterday after looking at the remains, the Women’s March was like a new Tornado that swept in the bare spots that were heavily empty. I mean it was a jam packed wall to wall March and protest. In Washington, it was close to over 500,000 plus that shut the city down! Washington wasn’t the only city: New York City, LA, Seattle, Indianapolis, Chicago, Milwaukee, Boise, and Madison all had these demonstrations. Even London, Sydney, and not really thought about: Antarctica! Yes even Antarctica was in this demonstration as well.

Yeah, the March was cool. All the females from Gloria Steinem, to Janelle Monae, the Mothers of the Movement, Alicia Keys, which featured Maria Hamilton, mother of Dontre Hamilton was killed at Red Arrow Park in Milwaukee in 2014. Even men like Michael Moore, Jidenna, and Maxwell all appeared.

Like I said: that was a jammed packed event not only for empowerment, but also directed at one man: Donald Trump. The same Donald Trump whom back in 2005 had the quote “grabbing them by the p*ssy” on a well known daily entertainment TALK SHOW of Access Hollywood! And many of the females at the time had on the same shirts or jeans with messages about “Donald can grab my ****** anytime.” REALLY!  Talk about Locker Room conversations. But many might know that it wasn’t all those who said it.

The turn up for the march of course went high of course. But online, the turn down of the march: MEN. As I was viewing the live feeds of the march on Facebook Live, there were men of course that were talking smack if you will about the march, there’s going to be a whole lot of sandwiches missing, back in the kitchen talk, or um some black dude on a black TV host Facebook page saying it should be stopped, and bringing up about America’s problems of overseas. WHAT!!!!

OK MEN: Settle down. It wasn’t our march. It didn’t address our concerns. And if I wanted a freaking sandwich, I’ll get it myself. Men: I’m sure we had our hatefest about this march of women hearing them roar.

But my question is: when are WE AS MEN are going to have our own march? Like for real.

When are we going to march about our concerns of immigration?

When are we going to march about our concerns of jobs and careers?

When are we going to march about our concerns of finance?

When are we going to march about our concerns of health – OOPS!  Many of us are scared about going to the freaking doctor to get checked, and having the females to take over. Really? We got reproductive things too!

When are we going to march about our concerns about VOTING RIGHTS and CIVIL RIGHTS?

When are we going to march about our concerns about our Fathers, Sons, Uncles, Nephews, Grandfathers, Male Mentors that need those connections to bond? SPECIFICALLY, BLACK MEN!

CALLOUT: Hey Fraternities: All of you. BGLO (Alpha Phi Alpha, Kappa Alpha Psi, Phi Beta Sigma, Omega Psi Phi, and Iota Phi Theta), Service, and many others. What are you doing to reach out to Men, especially young males in your communities? What are you doing also to reach out to men that want to join your frats for life that want to help your cause? Not just the young crowds, but also the SEASONED VETS?

When are we going to march about our concerns about housing?

What about the MALE concerns of education? Besides that High School Diploma, job and not actually going further. Specifically with our sons, and other male relatives? Is college on the mind also?

When are we going to march about our concerns about: racism, sexism, body shaming (heck we body shame like crazy everyday), gun violence, the phobias of transgender, homosexuality, bullying in all angles, etc. Being single. Even Introverts, Ambiverts, Extroverts? Oh I know what it is: “We men don’t get all sensitive. Don’t bring that up to make us look weak.” Hate to say it, but it’s all ready out there. Females, stop laughing.  And don’t go all MLK and the dream with that one line!

When are we going to march for our OWN male needs? No disrespect to the women whom feel that the equal thing should be on the table, but the fact of the matter is, when I see all these women’s meetings and seminars, or events, where are the Men’s meetings? For example: in the church there are more reps for females than males. There are female meetings but not male meetings. There are females in the church per se whom support the church in sense of programs and events, but the men don’t. Except when the men might have a their own fundraiser and a day on Father’s Day to set aside to support.

I ASK AGAIN: WHEN ARE WE: THE MEN ARE GOING TO MARCH FOR OUR CONCERNS?

If many of the Men, whom were watching the Women’s March in DC or in their Cities, did anyone of male folk actually steal some ideas?

Men, we need to get to work. Straight up. Enough about us on the things that we can’t touch, but what about the things that the women can’t touch, but we can to propel our concerns? Hmmm………..think about it.

And also: Educated!

 

 

 

Scratching my head all this time: The Barack Obama edition

For many of us, it’s the last leg for President Barack Obama and Family. He will always be a type of President that many will talk about for years to come.

HOWEVER: there are those who felt that he didn’t do enough or should have been more on the Black Community over the Gays, Women, and many others. Of course, we can talk about the times that the Republicans REFUSED to have the vote in, the ACA, jobs, and world issues. And of course we can talk about the many many times that some goober talked about “YOU LIE” and many other hate angles. Oh, including that Mitch McConnell said that he would be a one term president. We know that bullet was dodged.

So today, being that it’s the day that we celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. And the hopes that many WILL learn besides the dream. King wasn’t always about I Have A Dream. More on that later. With today being for MLK, I’m shifting the focus on the past 8 years that America Had it’s Black President for real and for the yahoos, racists, haters, sellouts, and wackos who felt he didn’t deserve it: YES HE DID!

Who thought that the 8 years was so positive for Obama?

Did the Republicans really succeed badly when they decided to go against Obama?

Why did the “Blue Dog” Democrats had sold out?

They say that Obama was a socialist. REALLY?!

When was the day that Obama had to really defend himself?

Many of you must have forgotten that Barack got a Nobel Peace Prize, right?

Oh for the forgotten doors: Why so much has been asked what he had done? Another reason why Americans have some short memory spans. And I’m not talking about the older folks. Younger folks don’t remember much either. SAD!

So the soon-to-be President Donald Trump had Barack to produce his Birth Certificate and many had followed. You do realize that was a dumb move, right?

Why did Fox News feared Barack’s middle name “Hussein”?

Oh when the time that Osama Bin Laden was killed, were you  or anyone else cheering along with the President’s decision then?

For you: the Tea Party jack offs: Why so racist? Like really!

Has EVERY COLLEGE really had to dig deep about the degrees and jobs that Obama made a declaration to check on?

Has EVERY ORGANIZATION of Debt, or Credit Checks, really assigned themselves well after a few changes when OBAMA made that declaration?

Oh let’s talk education again: specifically community colleges. Have many of us realized that Community Colleges cannot be slept on? Also like science fairs for the kids?

For all you conspirators and jack offs: why making all this mess about him wanting to be killed?

For all you Michelle Obama haters: yeah those kept those so called “ape in heels”, or “she should act more First Lady Like” or like Wisconsin Rep. Jim Sensenbrenner said something about her having a big butt, or others making ridiculous comments about her outfits or just her in general  that weren’t as lady like: Do you ALL realize that you sounded so stupid after making those remarks, and many of you probably don’t have jobs now?

For all you Sasha and Malia Haters: you know that ignorance is a mitch, right?!

And folks, were we so overboarded when Sasha wasn’t at her father’s last speech?

And also: that time when Malia was at Lollapalooza in Chicago and yes she was being a normal carefree teen at 18. But did we really OVERREACT that much?  Yes, Malia will learn accountability as she grows up. 18 doesn’t mean much that well per se.

What about Malia taking a year off before starting college? Should all High School Graduates follow that same procedure?

Did the losers like John McCain and Mitt Romney actually learned their lessons after losing to Barack in 2008 and 2012?

Did Black Entertainment really rocked when Obama was in office?

Did Hip Hop really rocked when Obama was in office? So many Obama references in rap songs like crazy.

For all of the black media: BET, TVOne, Podcasts, Social Media sites, Newspapers, Radio Shows, Magazines, Blogs, Articles, and more: was all that appreciated of the JOLT of Confidence by our work to archive for the Obama-Biden Crew?

For all of the black businesses that printed up Obama T-shirts, hats, buttons, sweaters, jackets, in all: Can we do more of that even after Obama is not in office?

For all the black supporters that backed Obama since DAY ONE: did we really back him up other than hearing the speeches?

For all the black churches that invited Obama to speak: was it good?

For all of the Joe Biden haters: have you disregarded him too much?

Joe Biden was the huge F-ing deal as VP. Agree or Disagree?

Yes, Barack and Joe had the bromance thing going. We know. But others are asking why and how. Really?

Obamacare was the jolt for healthcare. Why are those wanting to kill it for those who want to be insured, get checked, pay less, etc?

For those whom are major confused: Obamacare and the Affordable Care Act are the same thing! Why is that so hard?

 

Did anyone of us got lucky when we can finally take pictures IN THE WHITE HOUSE?

Why do republicans as much want to erase everything that Obama did like he never existed? Hate does come into play.

CALLOUT: For all of my conscious, hotep, and sometimes not connectable black people: what was it that Obama wanted to do for us?

CALLOUT: For all of my conscious, hotep, and sometimes not connectable black people: what was it that Obama should have done for us besides well, being President of the United States?

CALLOUT: For all of my conscious, hotep, and sometimes not connectable black people: did we really partied that much in these 8 years?

CALLOUT: For all of my conscious, hotep, and sometimes not connectable black people that didn’t do enough: why are we mad now that Donald Trump is going in? EXPLAIN! Put down the Hidden Colors and Dr. Umar Johnson speeches for a moment. Just explain why.

CALLOUT: For all of my conscious, hotep, and sometimes not connectable black people that didn’t vote (as well as everyone else): REALLY?

For all the international folks, can you really remind us that Obama was the best thing that America had since Kennedy or Bill Clinton?

CALLOUT: For the international folks that hated Obama. Called him a monkey and all that mess, you realize that your racism is just as deadly as America, right? And you know who you are. Don’t front!

For the racists: You really think that Black Lives Matter was linked with Obama all this time?

About that 60% approval rating though. Really? Yeah really though.

For all the gun freaks: were you really that scared that Barack was coming for your Guns way after the gun issues were handed out? Oh, he Skeet Shooted at Camp David with a rifle. Hmmmm………..

For the misinformed that were way too misinformed about Obama: when will you get your facts straight? Besides him where he was born, got his education, his teachings, his first jobs, etc!

For the doubters: have you underestimated Obama by a slight margin?  Or should I say a big margin?

Who is getting Obama’s book when it comes out in the near future?

Anyone is still or will continue to donate to OFA and/or My Brother’s Keeper? And the female groups?

Did GM rocked the house after the bail out for jobs? Plus the jobs that bounced back to positive digits?

What group of folks are still hating on Community Organizers? Don’t front!

Will this President inspire those to run for office, especially of color?

Will the Obama-Biden Crew continue to be a force that no one can NEVER EVER overstep or deny

And the last question. After 8 years, one term in Illinois: Will you miss “the hell “out of President Barack Hussein Obama II? Admit the guilt.