Scratching my head all this time: The 2019 Father’s Day Edition.

Before the annual tribute to father’s in all begins, this blog is for all the Fathers young and old. Happy Father’s Day to the men whom are Dads, Grandfathers, Uncles, Great Uncles, Great Grandfathers, God-Fathers and many other father on the planet that deals daily with being a FATHER ALL DAY EVERY DAY! Oh yes of course, this is the part where many go hard and stupid on the men who don’t step up and raise their kids as much as the women. Look here: there are real daddies out there that DO and I mean DO HANDLE THEIR BUSINESS! There is no question in that. Also for many like me, another father’s day will be hard because my father is deceased for two years. And yet the memories will never die in vain. So even though I’m new to this being without my Dad, the hard thought of him never dies out. And also for those who sympathize and your Dad is still living and you’re somewhat understand that, you really don’t know the feeling until YOU go through the experience.

And also for all the women who tell the single men without kids Happy Father’s Day, STOP. You know darn well not every man is a FATHER! If you say it, we’ll tell you: “I’m not a father.” Don’t tell us Happy Father’s Day because we don’t earn it until it becomes a hard job for us to try and accept. Of course you can wait until November 19th for International Men’s Day. Or some honorable thing of celebrating Men in the church or community that don’t have kids.

With all the hoopla of Men’s Health looming for June, Graduations, Black Music Month still being celebrated, Juneteenth Day that must be examined, 45 still acting a freaking fool, and the start of the Summer Season that will commence on the 21st. Oh yes, I’m scratching my head again. Time to get the questions flowing.

Well it seems were in the month of June, and yet Pride Month is in full effect. Take a look at this courtesy of OnMilwaukee.com via Instagram:

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❤️💚💜💙💛🧡 to @northwesternmutual and @usbank for bringing the 🌈😍 to #Milwaukee and @mkepride. #risemke #milwaukee #pride #pridemonth #onmilwaukee #greatmkesummer #cityoffestivals #loveislove

A post shared by OnMilwaukee (@onmilwaukee) on Jun 7, 2019 at 7:44pm PDT

This scene is Downtown Milwaukee. And our Iconic buildings of the US Bank and Northwestern Mutual Tower are lit in the Rainbow Colors for Pride Month.

Hold on, wait a second. Check this out:

This picture is outside of the Chase Bank Plaza also Downtown Milwaukee with the Rainbow Flag waving.

Or wait just one more courtesy of Today’s TMJ Channel 4 (dang that rhymes):

At the state Capitol in Madison last week Friday, the Rainbow Flag Flies over. All of this really was expected and unexpected.

And here at the Milwaukee State Office Building in Downtown Milwaukee:

But…..many have asked since “when are they going to raise the RGB Flag? Or to symbolize the other ethnic festivals with celebrations of Black Arts Fest MKE? Now we should know how to write letters, Milwaukee. Do we? Better get the writing! Better also take it to the CEO’s and Organizers and ASK! State your reasons why this should be necessary as an idea why they should consider this thought for every Festival Season! Don’t talk among yourselves on Facebook to get a reaction! Get to the table and conversate the idea! Heck, point me to the table! And while we’re at it, write this same letter to the Wisconsin Governor and Lt. Governor. You know their names!

Another question: If you have graduated so far to enjoy the smelling of the roses of your achievement, congratulations. Now you realize that you have to give back to your Alma Mater, right? And if your Alma Mater screws up with Alumni events planned: HOLD THEM ACCOUNTABLE!

For us in Milwaukee: does it feel naked not having a NBA Finals here?

If those asking about Milwaukee again, (Toronto) when will you make that visit to see the city? Got plenty of time.

Just recently, we have commentated the 75th Anniversary of D-Day. In which we honored and appreciate the Men that fought along with the Allied Forces to take down Hitler’s Forces. And yet it was a positive thing. HOWEVER: Many missed the boat when African-Americans whom also served and/or died in the battle was not acknowledged! For those whom are in the dark, the African American soldiers had to fight on two fronts: Abroad and Home. And many of the African-American soldiers never had awarded the Medal of Honor due to discrimination and being racially target just because they were black. So who’s at fault? And who is still not listening?!

On CNN, W. Kamau Bell hosted United Shades of America in which the spot light was certain cities facing the struggles of racism and systematic segregation. This time, he chose to highlight the problems of a city that is not below the Mason-Dixon line: my hometown of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. You all know that Milwaukee is hyper segregated, etc. A major concern that looms the dangers even today for employment, housing, economics and many other concerns. So after all of this, and yet many still ask about black folks in Wisconsin?

For us Milwaukeeans, Summerfest will start up the core genesis of the Summer Musical Season. Which acts that you know personally should be on your radar?

Dang Wisconsin GOP Republicans: that Rainbow Flag must got your goat, huh? We all know that when Scott Walker was in charge, he didn’t do it. So what?

Again: is Lil’ Nas X’s Old Town Road that disrespectful to country music?!

Speaking of Black Music (after all, June is Black Music Month) which Music in Black History that many know so well that it will not die through the depths of time?

Ok, this I need to know: Which artist is really looking forward to perform for the 2019 BET Awards?

As of June 25th this year, it will mark 10 years since Michael Jackson’s death. How would he feel after his legacy being interrupted again by those accusations of him and young boys, and on a lighter side: seeing his first born son graduating from college?

For baseball: there is an opening pitcher, and a closing pitcher. In regarding Juneteenth Day 2019, that is the closer. The 4th: opening pitch. Why you ask?

For all of my Pride Readers: that’s the LGBT folks. Is your Pride Month good this year so far?

Does the United Methodist Church really have to examine its own self before splitting off with the LGBT? As also with black folks?

Education! So AEW’S Double or Nothing PPV was a hit. I need to see more than just one show. So my question is what else is next?

Seriously, why is 45 is hooking up with Mexico after another hurdle with the trade agreements?

Word is that Sarah Huckabee might be gone from her White House Post. And how so we’ll know about this?!!

Which or many of us Men have on the Light Blue for Men’s Health Month?

You realize that the host city of Tampa is also WrestleMania?

And now: a moment for the Fathers. 

For all the Dads that are just now coming out, what will be your reaction for your OFFICIAL first Father’s Day?

For all the Dads that are still around kicking knowledge, what is your best advice for the new Dads coming up?

For those of us who miss our Dads. This is hard as we know. How do we go through the storm yet again that our Dad’s memories will not die? No matter when and where? May all of our deceased fathers rest in power for eternity and in peace. Mine also.

What is up with this attitude that when Father’s Day comes around, females get an attitude? Oh especially around this time of year?

When church comes on Sunday, what will be the estimated percentage of Men coming for Father’s Day? It ain’t big for many!

How many Men have actually wore Light Blue for Men’s Health Month on Father’s Day like the MLB?

CALLOUT: What is up when females telling all Men “Happy Father’s Day”, BUT MAINLY MEN WHOM ARE NOT FATHERS?!  Especially those of us whom are single, unmarried, no kids of our own and just living the single life that many feel are bad and miserable.  Be careful, ladies. Don’t snag us like that.

After this Father’s Day is over, Men you do realize that International Men’s Day is about 5 Months away after June 19th? For those of us whom are not fathers with no kids, let’s celebrate that! No matter what we do or say.

Should all Churches and Community Groups have an All Men’s Day? At least for men whom are not fathers in all?  Unsung, perhaps?

Ok, this needs to be asked: what kind of a man is an “Unofficial” Father? You heard of Honorary Degrees that might be fake. Just saying.

Another need to be asked: no disrespect to Father’s Day or Mother’s Day, but why we have slept on Children’s Day? Which is every second sunday in June?!

And………the final question of Father’s Day 2019: what will the Father’s take from this year and the last Father’s Day 2010’s Decade, into the first Father’s Day Decade of the 2020’s? That’s is even worth celebrating for the next generation to ponder in all.

For all the Dads that read my blog, ENJOY YOUR Father’s Day. Be blessed at it. Don’t let none of the disruptive folks hate the thought you got this day. If your Dad is still around kicking knowledge, hold him close! You never know when the day or the hour when it might be his last.

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

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

But however, I’m scratching my head again.

Stop Saying Happy Memorial Day!

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

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

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

Who’s ready for Rambo? Coming in September!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How do we like the Deer District, Milwaukee?

Is the new Chevy Blazer that serious to sell?

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

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

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

Old Town Road

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

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

Scratching my head all this time: The 414 Milwaukee Day Edition.

Well, it’s Milwaukee Day. The unofficial holiday to somewhat celebrate as an extension of the city’s original birthday with pride, but however yes it’s a day to celebrate us Brew City folks. Now, yes we do got problems of Lead Water, Segregation, Jobs, and a way just to be economically sound. Yes, this is our day of April 14th, as we once again for about the 10th time, recognize 414 Day. And despite of the positives and negatives, we know by now: I’m scratching my head again. And this time, it’s for the locals.

So how does one celebrate Milwaukee Day, or 414 Day, anyway?

MILESTONE: Oh, 2009 marks the 10th anniversary of Milwaukee Day. It started with a joke. Now with that joke in the rear view, again how does one celebrate and what will be for the next 10 years of future Milwaukee Days and beyond?

City Hall with the 414 Flag

Many probably wondered about the 2020 DNC Convention coming to Milwaukee next year. BUT, if Milwaukee can hold over 50,000 folks every 5 years for Harley-Davidson’s Birthday, why not this?

At this year’s State of the City Address, the Mayor stated that “Milwaukee is fighting back.” Well many will ask, what are we fighting back with?

Is the Milwaukee Streetcar or The Hop holding up well? I don’t see any haters talking. They must be quiet.

This past election for the State of Wisconsin: Milwaukee was the deciding factor to get Gov. Tony Evers the chair. YES! But what happened this year after the April 2019 election? That need a real scratching on the head!

If you haven’t heard by now, one of our former Malls, Northridge might be dust soon, UNLESS if the Chinese Investors realtors or any step up and actually take charge. Already that ‘s money wasted. Where’s the results?

Northridge Mall back in 2013. Closed.

When you think about Milwaukee famed artists: Tank, Eric Benet, and Al Jarrreau, you know that two of them were and are MPS Alums, right? That’s Milwaukee Public Schools!

Speaking of Facebook: If you follow the Page 414 Milwaukee Mil Town, you might be brought back to yesteryear when the City was totally different. And actually stood for something other than being a bland city. Take a look if you don’t mind. And ask yourself, “Was Milwaukee like this?!” WOW!

This needs no asking: Which Milwaukee neighborhood that many already knows, has the best outings, on point, real progressive, and actually gives back by stating of giving back? I say the Riverwest.

Oh this needs to be asked: Over the years, Milwaukee was and is known as the City of Festivals. And yet we had a City of Festivals Parade, a Milwaukee Christmas Parade and also The Great Circus Parade. If you can get one of these Parades back, what will it be?

This needs to be asked by some or a few, which neighborhoods in Milwaukee should be on the rise, on the comeback, and waiting to be recoginized to represent? I’ll say: Bay View, Bronzeville and my neighborhood I know personally: Lincoln Creek. And I say Lincoln Creek because I was raised in the neighborhood back in day when folks knew your name and where you live! It’s has to be represented even more NOW!

With the lasting memory of the BMO Bradley Center is this:

How will the Fiserv Fourm do this?

Of all the men and women who are buried at Forest Home Cemetery, this cemetery is where the souls of Byron Kilbourn, the Founders of Pabst, Miller, Harley-Davidson and among others are resting in peace. Which of them not mentioned in that cemetery were black folks that made an impact on the city’s past?

What’s your museum? The MAM or the MPM?

Milwaukee Art Museum – Milwaukee, WI

By the way: That’s the Milwaukee Art Museum and Milwaukee Public Museum.

Milwaukee Public Museum – Milwaukee, WI

What’s your Historical Society? The Milwaukee County Historical Society or the Wisconsin Black Historical Society?

What’s your movie that was filmed here? Blues Brothers, Public Enemies, Transformers, Mr. 3000, or Major League?

What’s your TV show that was based here? We know Happy Days and Laverne & Shirley as usual. But what about another show or something else?

Remember when Alice Cooper from the first Wayne’s World Movie talked about Milwaukee’s meanings and three socialist mayors? Oh, for you triggered folks, Solomon Juneau, Byron Kilbourn and George H. Walker were all DEMOCRATIC Socialists. Stop running. And each of them had their little towns: JuneauTown(Easttown), KilbournTown(Westtown), and Walker’s Point.

Where would we be when local bands are discovered by a Milwaukee Festival like Summerfest?

Milwaukee County Stadium – We know.

Miller Park – We know.

But after the name change at the same ball park, what will American Family Insurance do?

Speaking of American Family Insurance: They along with TM Partners, and the Milwaukee Brewers are extending the play of continuing the July 3rd Fireworks traditon on the Lakefront. We all know that U.S. Bank is no longer sponsoring this. But seriously, AmFam? What was the reason behind this?

You know that the Core DJ’s started in Milwaukee, right? The CEO is a MPS Alum.

Of all the Milwaukee High Schools, which high school has the active ALUMNI?

Of all the Milwaukee Colleges, which College/University has the active ALUMNI?

Of all the Milwaukee Companies, which Company has the ACTIVE EMPLOYMENT that many should know and apply to?

Of all the Milwaukee Clubs, Fraternities and Sororities: Which of them are CURRENTLY ACTIVE for anyone to join or donate or support?

From the Bascillia of St. Josephat to St. Mark’s AME Church, what other churches are well known and on the rise to be known to do something different?

CALLOUT: With all the Segregation problems of Milwaukee’s checkered past, why does it seem to be not normal for those that moved out? Same with violence?

Which Radio stations in Milwaukee that we miss the most? I say Hot 102. Which is now online.

Of all the radio stations in Milwaukee that do Hip-Hop and R&B, which tops the most?

For a while, Milwaukee used to have two black Radio Stations that were neck and neck: 860 WNOV and 1290 WMCS. Remember them? Sure we do. However, 860 is still alive. But still kept on the pulse of Black Milwaukee.

Of all the newspapers: we know about the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. But what about that Shepherd Express, Milwaukee Courier, Milwaukee Times, Community Journal, El Conqusistator, etc?

Lets see: Ask this, which local bloggers are way popular now, and also which bloggers are on the rise to be noticed in Milwaukee? Regardless of their experience, gifted and talented, etc?

Which Milwaukee Photographer is on the rise right now that you never heard of?

Remember when Harry Kemp was the man with the camera at Milwaukee’s black events?

Of all the Milwaukee news stations: Channel 4, Channel 6, Channel 12 and Channel 58 are all in different categories, BUT…..which one takes the crown?

Which hospital has the best care in Milwaukee that you trust personally?

Which Milwaukeean right now needs a job plan that wants to impact folks very differently?

Remember that Milwaukee commercial that used to have a quote: “If you’re going to make it Milwaukee, you got to know Milwaukee?”

Is Midwest Express Airlines making a comeback?

Back in the day, remember when Channel 18 actually had a news segment and a news show at 9:00pm?

Which Milwaukeeans are the Dark Horses that you need to look out for?

Which Milwaukeeans are the Introverts that make their money like everybody else due to them being not as vocal but working?

This needs to be asked: which Milwaukeeans in the city that is making an impact that many don’t know that will know?

What’s this? Milwaukee’s MPTV station channel 10 is popular in the country? How this happen?

Of all the Black Activists in Milwaukee: who’s next to be heard?

Of all the activism in Milwaukee: ranging from environmental, to LGBT in all, who’s next to be leading?

Of all the poets, and musicians in Milwaukee: who’s next to step up?

Is Harley-Davidson still relevant in Milwaukee right now, after 115 years concerning employment?

Is Miller Brewery still relevant? Same with Harley, and Pabst? AND JOBS?

Who’s rocks the best Barbershop in the City?

Who was and is the most recognizable actor/actress/directors out of Milwaukee? We know Charlotte Rae and Gene Wilder. Who else? Also include John Ridley and George Tillman, Jr.

You know Milwaukee made bowling famous, right?

When Gimbels, Schuster’s, and Boston Store were happening, it was on like Gangbusters. Which of these stores would you bring back?

Which State senators who is Milwaukee born is really making waves in a category that no one is talking about?

What’s your mansion in Milwaukee: Pabst Mansion or the Schuster Mansion?

Are many still rocking the Flag? I’m talking about the Sunrise over the Lake that looks like the O. You know which one!

Which athlete made an impact on Milwaukee sports the most and least and the same as of now?

Which drug stores from the past that need to make a Milwaukee comeback? I say Pill and Puff!

Is the Old/Current Milwaukee Flag can still be relevant no matter anyone’s absent minded opinion?

Pro Wrestling and Milwaukee go hand and hand. And when is “Da Crusher” statue will be done?

I asked this years ago with rock music and black musicians: who was and were the well known Black Artists from Milwaukee that were and or are made an impact onto Rock Music? We know R&B, Blues, Soul, Rap, and Hip-Hop.

And the final question before this Milwaukee Day ends of 2019: What will you take from this #414Day to the next #414Day? Besides the unexpected snow?

Bonus Question: How about those Bucks? In the Playoffs? And have the best record in the league thus far? And is the “Fear The Deer” Mentality really working for the better? Look out, NBA. The Deer is not messing around! And the first win though: Came on April 14th vs the 313 of Detroit And April 14th is aka Milwaukee Day.

And may I add:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Scratching my head all this time: the Turning Point edition to Spring.

As the month of March is in progress, so is Women’s History Month. And yes, March Madness is in effect, as well as the turning point of the seasons from Winter to Spring. Not exactly yet. And oh, for us every Sunday church buffs, we got lent. Nothing but 40 days and 40 nights until Good Friday and Easter. Oh again, what is up with Viacom killing their channels on DirecTV/AT&T and why is 45 tripping on Twitter like always. And racism? And sexism? Let’s go in. I’m scratching my head again!

Who’s giving up stuff for Lent? Like really?

For all the Women that really had to ask: why are YOU asking about International Men’s Day?!!! Now you know how the Men feel asking on your International Women’s Day!

Is it really Spring time yet? Or is it still Winter Extension?

Anyone in the United Methodist Church fighting back in the ongoing decision of the “general” vote?

Next question: Can all the Schools, specifically High Schools really talk about Prostate/Breast Cancer? I don’t see none of that.

So Milwaukee: we got the 2020 DNC Convention coming here next summer. By now, you should probably received a lot of information about how to work and volunteer. And plug your business. Now is the time to talk about Milwaukee to the world. Agree?

The American Legion this month turned the century mark! 100 years old of supporting Veterans and their Families! My late father was an American Legion Member here in Wisconsin. As well a few other African-Americans that previously served during wartime. And yes, countless other Veterans, and current Military. But the million dollar question is: what will the American Legion do to reach out to the next 100 years? Even to the younger vets?

Whenever I hear about the stories about the Freemasons doing good work and service through stories (like the Black Fraternities, Churches, Alumni Associations), it’s a good feeling. But recently here in Milwaukee, I read the Community Journal that the long standing fraternity since 1717 (Black Members came later since 1775) has had seen cracks in the wall: In terms of trying to get to the younger folks to join up. My question to the Freemasons, Shriners, Scottish Rites, Elks, Fraternal Order of Eagles, and others: what are you really doing to reach young men whom are you trying to get, and what are YOU doing to see what they are into?….And for the record, no one asked me about the Masons! And I’m my 40’s. But I know…….if I want to be one I have to ask one.

For all the Conservative types hating on Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, you are making her famous. You are giving her good press, but why do you bring the hate? Y ‘all are making her rich! And the same with Rashida Tlaib, Ilhan Omar, and countless others that want to shake up the House of Representatives and also 45’s unkindly butt.

For the Women readers of the Spot: Will you continue to celebrate Women’s History everyday, or will March 8th or the whole month of March is just the only time to appreciate? Not trying to stir the pot, but just asking. I’m sampling that thing from Black History Month.

Did Tyler Perry really sent Madea out with a bang with the funeral movie?

Are the Milwaukee Bucks despite of the record, are making a case for a Playoff Push? Keep in mind: they were once a basement team that had poor records that nobody cared! Oh, just a surprise: Central Division Champs!

CALLOUT: VIACOM!!!!! You are tripping! What is up with the cancellation of your channels via AT&T/DirecTV?!!! If this keeps up more, there will be a consequence like dialing 888-250-5557. And after all this, what’s next? Sling? Hulu? YouTube Red? And now DirecTV would like to lower the bills with retaining the channels? My other question is, why don’t they let those who has been a customer more than 10 years to get a free reduction of their billings PER MONTH?

Hey, how about those Wisconsin Badgers Women’s Hockey team, winning the Natty? Or the Ship? Or their National Championship? Hmm..

So the Green Bay Packers lost Nick Perry, Randall Cobb and yes Clay Matthews to the off season. What will the rebuilding of the team contribute to the powerhouse overall for the 2019-20 season, which also is the 100th Anniversary of the Packers Organization and the 100th Season of the NFL?

So the GOP Lame Duck Laws in Wisconsin got blocked! HA! Why the tripping, GOP Wisconsin Republicans?

CALLOUT: For the Men’s BB March Madness, show of hands: who does NOT want to see Duke winning the tournament? They have won enough. (and had the “illegal W” against Wisconsin years back) #AnybodyButDuke

Does the BMCR or all Black Methodists for Church Renewal really need to agitate against the concerns of the current status of the United Methodist Church? Like the predecessors did over 50 years ago? Read about how they rejected a thing called TOKENISM!

Next month in April, after Easter, Mortal Kombat 11 is coming. Who’s buying? And yes, the Nintendo Switch is included!

Many folks still think Michael Jackson did the job by sleeping with young boys?!

I suppose that R. Kelly after the Gayle King interview is getting the massacred treatment?

In Milwaukee, there is an event called “Girls Day at City Hall” that takes place every March. So I need to ask ALL the Men in the Common Council, Milwaukee County, and the State of Wisconsin, is there a plan to have a day for the Boys in Public Service? Gotta to be fair! Boys need to see and do examples of civil service and be recognized in November for International Men’s Day!

Is there a specific reason why various white folks who go on to black social media platforms or black social media posts to get triggered?

Why is it so hard for the older generation of Church goers who talk about the future, in the reality of not talking to the young folks of what they want to see CURRENTLY in church?

HOLD UP WAIT A MINUTE: So through the Milwaukee grapevine that the traditional before the 4th of July Fireworks on the 3rd might not happen this year and U.S. Bank declared last year in 2018 that it would be their last. Where was the warning on this? And also, which well known backer organization in the state that would STEP UP and actually pay up $350,000 annually to get the traditional thing going? Harley-Davidson? Kohl’s? Northwestern Mutual? American Family Insurance? Catholic Knights? Somebody step up!

Speaking of this, As of March 19th, 2019: International Men’s Day was 4 months ago. And also it will be on a Tuesday 8 months from now on the same Tuesday date. MEN and I mean MEN, DUDES, GUYS, BROTHERS in all, what will be your sole purpose of making THIS International Men’s Day be more meaningful and recognizable?! Don’t act like you’ll forget!

Many need to really ask: is being apart of an organization a networking need or a recognizable want?

Next question: Will the Brewers make a push to be potential Dark Horses Part 2 for the 2019 Season?

How is it exactly that many ask about jobs, but when looking, they get depleted after the search is done?

Speaking of newer M rated Video Games, will Wolfenstein: Youngblood really making a new impact on the Nintendo Switch? Wait until July.

So is the movie “US” by Jordan Peele is really stepping up to be a real horror film?

Every March 29th is National Vietnam War Veterans Day, in which is a day that is set aside for those who fought, served and/or died in uniform. After all of this: why did 45 had to sign it into law before Obama? Barack should have signed it first. And second with all the Honor Flights for the Vietnam Veterans that are taking place, where’s the love of them that were welcomed back over 50 years ago?!! And my late father who served recalled his viewpoints very well!

Oh yes, A black father stands up! What about this? Don’t trip!

And the last thing on the list: Cardi B just revealed that back in her stripping days, she used to rob and drugged men for the green backs in the clubs at 19 years old. Question….does that constitute for rape? Let’s be honest, if this was on the female angle, everyone would be on point in all. BUT…..since this was about men getting almost raped by a then 19 year old Stripper, it seems laughable. Women on the other hand would be asking “what if this was your daughters?” Now for this: Ladies what if this was your Sons, Brothers, Nephews, Grandsons, etc?!! Speak on that!

More to come.

My Take: Hands off Wisconsin GOP! Your version of a Black History Month Resolution is just whack.

Normally, I hate to interrupt my ongoing celebration of Black History Month of 2019, but recently today, I caught an ire of a story that nearly had my blood boiling. This is the article that many of us Black Wisconsinites had to read while encountering a thing called a Snow Day:

From the Wisconsin Public Radio Website:

Wisconsin lawmakers clashed Tuesday over a Black History Month resolution that names controversial athlete Colin Kaepernick, a former NFL quarterback.

According to Assembly Majority Leader Jim Steineke, R-Kaukauna, some Republican members of the state Assembly were concerned about Kaepernick’s inclusion in the resolution, which was drafted by the state Legislative Black Caucus.

The resolution text says it aims to “recognize the significant contributions people of African descent have made, to the foundation, growth and development of our country and state.”

It includes figures like Lucien H. Palmer, the first African-American to be elected to the Wisconsin Assembly, Violette Neatley Anderson, the first African-American woman to practice law before the United States Supreme Court and former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice.

Kaepernick, former quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers, has been a lightning rod for political debate since he began kneeling during the national anthem preceding games in 2016 as a way to protest racial inequality in the United States. He has since left professional football, but remains a polarizing figure.

Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, R-Rochester, said it was unfortunate that the state’s Legislative Black Caucus chose to include such a divisive figure in their resolution.

“We’re in a new era, we’re trying to figure out ways to work together,” Vos said. “We would hope they would have more consideration to say, let’s look at finding ways to work together, rather than always looking at ways to drive us apart.”

Rather than vote on the resolution drafted by the state’s Legislative Black Caucus, Republican lawmakers attempted to bring up their own Black History Month resolution. That resolution omitted Kaepernick and Milwaukee Rev. Greg Lewis, and added Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes and Vel Phillips, the first African-American to be elected to statewide office in Wisconsin. 

Chairman of the state Legislative Black Caucus, Rep. David Crowely, D-Milwaukee, called GOP lawmakers’ refusal to take up the caucus’ resolution a “slap in the face.” 

“The biggest issue that we have as a black caucus is people choosing to pick our leaders for us,” Crowley said.

The state Senate is expected to take up a Black History Month resolution Wednesday.

The office of Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald, R-Juneau, did not immediately return a request for comment about which resolution to the Senate would vote on.

https://www.wpr.org/wisconsin-lawmakers-spar-over-including-colin-kaepernick-black-history-month-resolution

Later on, in a 61-34 vote, it was almost that the vote went through, but later on afterward, the Wisconsin GOP removed Colin’s name because he was deemed as well: “too controversial.”

After reading this article, this was the stupidest thing I ever read. For the second time behind closed doors that the Wisconsin GOP who are mostly white are telling black folks what they can put into a resolution that makes them feel better. But when the name Colin Kaepernick appeared in the idea of the resolution, they all had those nightmares of him kneeling before the National Anthem. Oh, did they mention that Colin was born in Wisconsin? Yes, he’s from here! We’ve found this out when he torched the Packers. Colin Kaepernick is from Milwaukee. Grew up here. Liked Brett Favre and everything. And yes he went out west with his family after age 4 and also played ball in college and of course played in the NFL with the San Francisco 49ers until he went through Green Bay and en route to the Superbowl. And lost. And of course Colin got beat by the Packers 17-3 and the majority of the season just benched. Then the kneeling started. Everywhere he went and just kneeled during the National Anthem. Why?!! We know that he didn’t take any future offers with other NFL teams. But with all the Kneelings he was protesting, later on, was against police brutality. Not against the Flag or the Pledge! And the thing also VETERANS who saw his protesting also joined his cause. Even a Veteran named Nate Boyer who was a fan of the 49ers at first didn’t like Colin’s cause, but the two got together and talked about why was it necessary. Hell: EVEN President Obama commented that Colin’s protest was exercising his Constitutional Right as a citizen. And plus, Colin Kaepernick is a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. A black fraternity that was founded in 1911.

So to the so-called Wisconsin GOP: in regarding your resolution to choose whom we should recognize during Black History Month in Wisconsin is indeed a “direct kick in the crotch.” That’s almost sound is like you telling us what we can do and what we can’t do just to stay in our lanes and keep quiet. That to me as a black resident of Wisconsin is flat out ridiculous and I dare say racist! Majority of you probably never had the ability to acknowledge the legality of Black Wisconsinites of the contributions we made here in all of the 170+ years that the Badger state has been in the union. Thusly, you haven’t known anything. Probably never attended a Black History Month or Juneteenth Day Festival or anything that pertains to the ongoing contributions of Wisconsin’s African-American Historical Aspects. For once, I’ll say in regarding not including Colin Kaepernick in “your” Black History Month Resolution is really stupid! You labeled him as a “controversial figure” all because of his protests of the Flag, his Pig Socks, the National Anthem and amongst others. And you label him as a controversial figure. You know who was a deemed a controversial figure that was deemed hated and many folks after about 50 years since his assassination is still admired: that’s right, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Oh, I can name another controversial turned likable figure: Muhammad Ali, who had to relinquish his championship belt in boxing because he refused to join the military during the Vietnam War. But many liked him! Juan Carlos and Tommie Smith, whom in 1968 had the black fists raised and head bowed on the podium in Mexico City, And oh…..they were controversial, but many now are liking them after their gesture. And keep in mind that 1968, MLK was killed, along with RFK months later. Another controversial figure that stood up for civil rights for the female side of things: Fannie Lou Hamer, who stood up for the movement fighting for the right and encouragement to vote in the south then was beaten up for her act of protest along with her supporters. But most of her cause, she progressed forward. Even after she questioned the statement regarding the idea of black folks were being murdered for their rights to vote such as: “Is this America?” to a convention in 1964. And oh: Remember Rosa Parks, whom as we know refused to give up her seat on the bus in Montgomery, Alabama? Yeah, that one. And that was deemed controversial!

So what does of all this mean? I highlighted a few African-Americans most we know by reciting events, examples of protesting, and speeches. But THEY COLLECTIVELY were criticized for being controversial. But many years later are being admired as part of the movement and want to effect change. Even other men like Malcolm X, other women like Dorothy Height, and countless other African-Americans that fought for EFFECTIVE CHANGE!

What I hate to say that the GOP of Wisconsin does not give Zero F’s about black folks. And the population of the African-Americans in the state is roughly under 8%. While is ok to recognize the black leaders in the state for various contributions is fine, but to not recognize Colin Kaepernick and for the Activism/Philanthropy he has brought: such as Anti-Police Brutality, Youth Initiatives, Community Reform and Minority Empowerment, Health Reform and Nourishment, and Climate Change Awareness. And additionally, he donated $50,000 to two organizations here in Milwaukee a couple of years ago. So this guy as many looked at being un-Patriotic, in all, with the flag in all, looked controversial, but at least he’s doing something right to address the ongoing concerns of America’s dilemma dealing with racism and countless others. Even this biased BS crap in Madison of a controversial resolution of Black History Month!

Black History Month 2019 – The extension that matters.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#BlackHistoryMonthMatters

Scratching my head all this time in 2018

Oh you know I’m about to go in. 2018 had me crazy! It had me on point, it had me on rotation, and it had me bugged out. But at the end of me asking these crazy questions we might understand it better. But…since this is the last Scratching my Head all this time of the year, but it’s not the last! So as we countdown to the last ticks of 2018, and we prepare for our Watch Night Services, All Night parties, and family gathering to usher in 2019, and yes to get our resolutions out of what we want to do in all: you’ve guessed it, I’m scratching my head YET AGAIN!

Alright, who remembers any of my blog posts from 10 years ago?

Did anyone really pay attention to the fact that the 45 Administration is getting punked with all the Government Shutdowns in all?

What’s up with the Bird Box?

How will the Governor-Elect Tony Evers Crew really will tame the still Republican Legislature in the first term?

Why is White Supremacy still a maximum problem? Even if it’s a problem among black people in 2018?

What will be next for the Green Bay Packers that got knocked the “F” out of the playoffs, knowing that the team will rebuild and reform for the 2019-2020 Season?

You know that the Milwaukee Bucks are for real, right?

So Milwaukee, has anyone really benefited from riding the streetcar thus far in its free year?

Will the Fiserv Forum be that new guard changing of the now “soon to be dust” Bradley Center?

When Stan Lee passed away, did Bill Maher actually checked him to see he served in the Military? Mainly WWII?! Many need answers!

How many folks outside of Wisconsin never knew anything about the late great Vel Phillips?

What was the best car in 2018?

What were the worst jobs of 2018 that many will NEVER DO AGAIN?

Why did the black websites and Facebook Pages kept repeatedly on rotation published the same story about Pastor John Gray and that Lamborghini gift to his wife?

Level with me OWN viewers, what was the real reason why Love Is was canceled?

For all the black women that watched this show and I know you did: Why BET’s Mancave?

Was this the first year that many REALLY recognized International Men’s Day in November?!

For all of the Becky’s and other white folks that called the police on black folks doing civilized stuff this year and you know you did, where were your conscious minds at doing that foolishness?

Did the #MeToo Movement reach its breaking point in a sense of things that backfired?

If you smelled like Marijuana all through 2018, and you’re in the store or were in a store, did you remember to wash up before leaving the house?

For all those hated Introverts, especially BLACK Introverts, why you picked on them? Like seriously.

Will anymore Black Pastors meet with 45 in 2019 that embarrassed themselves in 2018?

So, Mutant Football League on the Nintendo Switch is making a good impression. What will it actually take for EA to get a Madden game on the system?

Most recently, I’ve seen black authors publish their books on Amazon about their Introvert experience in 2018. I need to see more. Can that happen?

Was Diablo III for the Nintendo Switch really good?

Oh, this needs to be asked, Wolfenstein II was HOT in 2018. Will it be a sequel for the Nintendo Switch?

Which jobs or careers were or are beneficial for the introverted crowd in Wisconsin in 2018?

In 2018, did many benefited using bitcoins?

In this year of stock investing, who bought a share of the Nike Stock or yet, Marijuana stock?

When the Grads of 2018 had their moment of commencements, why were some were being touched by those after dancing on stage?

Who has or is really learning from Roland Martin’s show online?

What was the worst interview this country has ever seen in 2018?

Was Black Panther that darn good this year at the movies and on DVD?

Black Church folks, are you ready for the Watch Night Services?

Was not getting the flu shot that worst in 2018?!

Black Milwaukee, what was better in 2018: WNOV 860AM between 9am-12pm or 1510AM WRRD between 9am-12pm?

So now the WWE will be getting the Women’s Tag Team Belts in 2019. But…………….what about a title that is a mid-carder for the women’s squad? For Raw, Smackdown, and NXT?

Black folks, why are we still saying the N-Word?

In 2018: who got promoted?

In 2018: who actually voted? Not just one time during the midterm election!

In 2018: Did many actually went to the doctor?

In 2018: Did any of you retained your resolutions?

In 2018: Milwaukee, did you enjoyed the Harley-Davidson 115th Anniversary? As well as Summerfest?

In 2018: Black folks, especially in the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, I know this was reported, why all the “underground pledging” that sends your pledging member in the ER?!!!

In 2018: Have any of you saved up financially for that nest egg?

In 2018: level with me, how many times that many of you DID NOT support your Alumni groups?

In 2018: Who did the most work in your community?

In 2018: Who did no work in the community? They need to be called out.

In 2018: Who was the “Dark Horse” in your family, church, organizations, etc?

In 2018: who has a job lined up for 2019 that will be even MORE SECURE?

In 2018: Who wanted a job lined up that no one wanted but applied anyway?

In 2018: How many churches you prayed to, in order to be the best they can?

In 2018: What influenced you to vote against the Republicans that many despised?

If you are a Veteran or related to a Veteran, did you call out a Veteran that protested in support of the Wall in 2018?

The American Legion will be 100 years old in 2019, right? I want to know how many African-Americans will join up and also, how many Sons of Black Veterans will join the Sons of the American Legion? Even Black Daughters the same with the Auxillary?

How many liked Black Lightning this year?

In Milwaukee, many of us have seen the sample of Light the Hoan. Who made a donation in 2018?

Black Methodists in Wisconsin, guess what? BMCR made a comeback this year. What did you think?

United Methodist Men in Wisconsin, there is a metro men’s group in town looking for “Men at Work”. Have you checked out any the meetings this year? If so, what did you think?

Who was this Jacquees dude, and why is claiming to be the King of R&B? Like in 2018?!

So I have heard that some of the GM cars might be on the chopping block in the year ahead, Which of those cars will be less to buy in the future?

Was it really a downer that Luke Cage was canceled on Netflix?

I need to ask also, who missed Scandal?

With all the retirees retired this year, who is next to go in 2019?

Many of us watched the Pinstripe Bowl when the Badgers beat Miami. A good game of course. So many questions like where were this Badgers team all year?!

If many still did blackface in 2018 which was shameful, can many not do it in 2019?

Who actually “migrated” out if Milwaukee that moved to Atlanta or Texas just to get away from the racism but only to realize that racism is everywhere?

Was it really necessary that 45 pulled the troops out of Syria?

If you hated Church folks so much in 2018, why keep talking about it?!

If many did this in 2018: Resumes. Did many kill it for job interviews?

Can someone explain the bad connection between buying Christmas gifts and Tax Time?

In all of the 1,000 posts so far, what wasn’t mentioned?

In all of the 1,000 posts what was learned from you?

In all of the 1,000 posts did anyone ever to follow what else I had to say?

Which Wisconsin teams surprised many in 2018? Brewers or Bucks?

Of all the folks who passed away this year, who was the main person that didn’t receive much recognition?

Of all the folks who were honored this year for their hard work, who didn’t get any recognition after their hard work?

Anyone lost their job unfairly in 2018?

Who was EMBARRASSED HARSHLY in 2018 that will not go away? And will it take to heal?

And this is the last question before the ball drops and clocks out for 2018: What will you carry into 2019 that you learned in 2018? And also, what will you NOT take into 2019 that you went through hellfire and brimstone in 2018?

Now: let’s go party.

Happy New Year!

Be Thankful: The 2018 Edition.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Met any new neighbors lately? Be thankful.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Single and not in a relationship? Be thankful.

Married with or without kids? Be thankful.

Single and no kids? Be thankful.

Single with kids? Be Thankful.

Divorced? Be thankful.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Still avoiding fake news? Be thankful. They suck.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

If you are breathing right now normally: be thankful.

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

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

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

If you are walking tall real good, be thankful.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Happy Thanksgiving!

#BeThankful

Scratching my head all this time: Before Thanksgiving.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How about those Milwaukee Bucks though?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Remember when Thanksgiving shows actually was reclaiming their time?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Will Creed II be a hit?

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

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

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

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

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

Happy Thanksgiving!

Expect a “Be Thankful” Traditional Blog