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

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

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

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

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

1) Information is Power.

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

3) Folks really want to know.

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

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

http://www.internationalmensday.com/

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

From the website, these are the objectives:

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

Okay…what else?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Via the website:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More from the site:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

November 19: This Day in Black History

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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Scratching My Head All This Time: Before Thanksgiving.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What about those Wisconsin Badgers Football players?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Why is David Clarke still running his mouth?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Is Brett Hundley learning well? What about Joe Callahan?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Now you may resume continue cooking your Thanksgiving Meal.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Scratching my head all this time: Before Halloween.

Oh yes.…….(In my Paul Bearer voice) Many of you probably had or will have a Halloween thing between now and the 31st. But of course there will be many whom have an attitude about church or the clubs being drunk might come in. However since the theme of Halloween is all about fear, and sometimes fun, we know everyday. But of course, I’m scratching my head again.

So you still hate the Church, huh?What about them clubs though?

Is #45 so far the worst president to come out of the gate?

What is up with all the culture that ain’t for the cause?

Wait a minute? Elvira is retiring?!!

Which is more fearful to Men? Commitment or Doctors?

Which is more fearful to women? I’m allow you women to answer that.

Is Halloween really that spooky holiday that most religious folks fear and with all the goblins?

What is fearful for Milwaukee: Crime, not enough jobs, or the Streetcar?

What is really fearful: no flu shots or that awareness of Movember?

Men, you know that International Men’s Month is coming up in November, right?

Just a thought in asking, I go to church every Sunday. Do you hate me?

Why do certain heels like Elias and Gulak in wrestling talk smack about the Green Bay Packers, and then lose their matches? Explain, WWE.

Will the Minnesota Vikings’ Anthony Barr be a target for a soon to be returning Aaron Rodgers? Expect that to come Vikings Fans.

How bout them Wisconsin Badgers?

Will anyone of the NBA actually “Fear The Deer” from the Bucks?

Ready to reapply for the medical insurance?

Does anyone actually care about the World Series? No offense to the Dodgers and Astros.

Which is more fearful: Breast Cancer, Domestic Violence or Bullying?

Is UW-Stout or could UW-Stout bring in a group that can start a Black Alumni Chapter?

Milwaukee, remember this Halloween Commerical? 35 years ago?

United Methodist Men, should you bring in young male folks?

For the record: you know that Halloween means “All Hallows Eve” or “Holy Evening” leading to “All Hallows Day” or “All Saint’s Day”? #HallowedMemories

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

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

For the record: why are some of the Caucasians are still black facing around Halloween?

For the record: why do those who had the moniker “White Lives Matter” had to get an attitude?

For the record: what is the fear of disconnect with one group and several seats with communication?

For the record: what is your fear (Human Resources) of not hiring people of color (mostly black) who are still waiting in the wings for a job? With degrees, experience……

For the record, what is the real deal of discrimination?

For the record, black folks we see the Cosby Shows, Family Matters, etc. But yet we somewhat complain about shows (positive ones) not being shown because of the “reality TV”. Why are we not doing the shows we want? Hello! Education!

For the record: when younger folks see all these groups – VFW, American Legion, Mason’s, Elks, Church Organizations, Alumni Boards, they have this attitude that they’ll won’t join because they’re are young or no knowledge. Or just being thrown into the fire, just because. Well does the phrase, “be the change” ring a bell? If you are a young veteran maybe you need to have a voice at the table in the American Legion or another Veterans group to address YOUR concerns and be the change. And this goes for the church, Alumni Committees, etc. If a young person comes to the table about a sermon and they are not mentioned at all then you young folks need to speak to your pastors about including you in their sermons! In 1990, my former youth group, was talking to my former pastor about his sermons. We felt at the time that the sermons weren’t reaching us. We didn’t complain, piss or moan like many do now. And we certainly, talked smack about it. We talked. And we talked the reasons why! And it was a good suggestion! So all you younger folks who feel left out, come to the table and bring your concerns in all, join the group and BE THE CHANGE! Period! Sure you might feel left out but still, be the change.

And the last thing: what was or is your costume? And your movies or traditional things for the 31st of October?

Happy Halloween!

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.

A Blog Letter to: us the Voters. Specifically Generation X, Gen Y and yes Millennials. 🇺🇸

Oh for those of us whom of the Generation X, Y and Millennials whom are 18 and up to about 45, next week we like those many before us that have to make a decision: voting in a new administration for our country. Plus maybe activating or reactivating those whom want their seats back in the Senate, House, or others. No matter how we feel about the candidates or their stance, know this: WE NEED TO VOTE! No more hiding before the keyboards or being so called conscious about not voting period. The voting games maybe somewhat “rigged” but what are we doing to “unrig” it? Other than whining and complaining everything on Social Media or our cliques. Oh yes, I just went there.

To us voters between 18-45 years old:

It’s me, Stephen. You know that blogger you’ve noticed lately?

I haven’t written a blog letter in a minute, but I feel this is the blog letter that must be written. Our generation is in Crossroads mode.We see the signs of concern. Majority of us probably will and will not vote for a cluster of reasons. But look here: if you are not voting this Election Season towards the end of this year and write some stupid remark, then you must be dumb as hell. Do you realize that our future is on the line? Majority of us don’t have the caliber of our Baby Boomer and Greatest Generation counterparts who raised us to be where we are now. Yes, we have alot to be grateful for right now, but we must not overlook the playbooks that got us here in the first place. Many of us got great degrees, owing our stuff like clockwork. Nothing wrong with that. I see that everyday. But again, we didn’t get here on our own. Many of us know that we had folks whom acted wise and gave us butt whoppings acting up pushed us to a point where we want to be.

Had a chance to talk to my 70 year old mother today and we compared contrasts about why there are those of us who know about the assasinations of MLK and others in our history books, BUT NEVER LIVED IT! She highlighted that if it weren’t for Black people in Milwaukee years ago, there wouldn’t be black folks living near the Grand Aveune Mall or any other part of Wisconsin Avenue. And it seems that about the Millennials: the act of not acknowledging about the past before them and keeping it current is not right. If you are a Millennial and only will vote for the locals and not national is not a good idea. If you are a Gen Y that stated on Social Media that you will not vote: that is inexcusable! And if you a Gen Xer who would think that Daffy Duck, Casper the Ghost, Jesus Christ, Lion-O, Cobra Commander, Optimus Prime, Megatron, or Mickey Mouse would make the cut on your ballot, CLUELESS! That will get no play. NONE. And the thing is it’s like we don’t no part of this.

This also probably have ties to slavery in some ways that the way of thinking of back then, translates to now. Yeah I said it!  I know some of you probably don’t want to hear that, but guess what: It’s part of the painful truth like White Supremacy. And we in the black community know it.

Remember when Cory Booker talked about of the Gen X’ers  being on third base after all being drunk and happy like we don’t see the real reasons why we can’t have all this goodies that many of our folks fought hard to get! And I don’t give a care how educated we are. Yeah we got those degrees hanged up on our walls and offices. But many of US aren’t educated to give back to our Alumni functions for scholarships!  Hmmmmm…Oh you think I ruffled the feathers? I told the truth!

Many of us aren’t “educated enough” to go to the doctor, and yes ladies I know it’s “Movember” in which men have to be on our game when our health is on the line. But here’s my question, isn’t every month a Movember?! Whereas the every month is Aids, Cancer, Diabetes Prevention, Domestic Violence Awareness, Gun Violence Awareness, and any other Awareness on the calendar? Tell me I’m wrong! Not just men, but also women and children.

I need to see a “VOTING AWARENESS” Month. And it doesn’t matter whom is on the ballot, I just want to Vote Up!

I want to see a “CAREER AWARENESS” Month in which many of us whom are unemployed and underemployed that want to work and make a freaking LIVING! Many of us or some of us got that drive, but not actually executing it to the next level.

If we can have THOSE AWARENESS Months like Cancer, Men’s Health, Women’s Health, Childhood Health,  Bullying, Gun Violence Awareness and any other awareness that we put up each month, I want to see a Career Awareness and a Voting Awareness month. I suppose you guys like that, huh?

For voting: I think we’re just not engaged. I think the sign came at the top of the year that 2016 will be a “Hard Election” in which the main Administration of the Obamas will be going out in January 2017. And yes, every single hater on the planet will be waving that goodbye flag in a racist manner. President Barack Obama will be deeply missed that he wasn’t that bad after all. Maybe there were those that should have given him more credit of the work he did. Maybe those so-called fools who decided to go against all the calls that Obama did try to bring out should have worked. Even fully try to decide the best course for the Afforable Care Act. In which like Black Lives Matter is working. That’s right I said it!

What does it all mean, you ask? Well yes we’ve made some great strides, but the work IS STILL NOT DONE! That means we have to work hard, do our jobs everyday, give back, fight the forces of racism, sexism, shaming, and any other ISM that is on our target list. For us black folks, we have to always work twice as hard. That will never change no matter who is in office. Enough of us being all so-called conscious after looking at Hidden Colors. Enough of all the mess. Enough of the “I gotta go get my hair done than voting” talk. If we can stand in line to get that new IPhone or at the club looking at Lil’ Boosie, can we stand in line to vote on November 8th and EVERY SINGLE ELECTION DAY AFTER THAT?!

The elders will be leaving us soon and they have already solidified the future, but it’s mainly up to us to take care of the things we have to do to extend the life of groups, organizations, churches, your business connections, the schools, colleges, Alumni Associations, and others. It’s not just the next four years, it’s the four after that. And so on.

So: GenX, Gen Y and Millennials: STOP BEING SO F-ING LAZY! Stop this being that “this won’t effect me”. Oh it will. After Election Day is done, don’t even think about complaining on Facebook, your texing buddies, or any other connection that you weren’t the ones who went to the polls and didn’t cast a ballot. I’ve been voting for 20 years out of my life and I voted in boring elections, high elections, and elections I never really cared about. Plus when Obama was being elected for the first time. But I still voted regardless and I don’t have a complaint to do it!

So why in THE HELL are we tripping? STOP THE PAIN! STOP THE LAZINESS! And just put away all this mess that voting that won’t make it. It will make it, but you have to put in the WORK! I don’t care if you hate Hillary’s guts or like her ideas, or despise the effect of Donald Trump and what he recently said about nasty women, the disabled, getting the clues of turning back the clock with Jim Crow,  and the on going talk about the 1994 Crime Bill that BILL CLINTON put into effect way back. Hillary had nothing to do with that. Let’s be clear on this. Now add that to the radio or websites.

This is not a reality show, nor back in High School where you used to believe EVERYTHING! But in reality, when leaving High School and those rumors, will be addressed and debunked personally.

VOTE UP!

Sincerely,

Stephen