So NFL Fans, you really want to boycott until Colin Kaepernick gets a job. Really?!

Man, some of you NFL fans need to lighten up. Like really. All along we all know that the “blackballing” of Colin has reached it’s breaking point. Matter of fact it’s well passed that. By the time many read this, most of us will be looking at the games while many of you might be having a fit thinking of him getting a job. Who also didn’t vote up in 2016!

What is it about him looking for work when you have the average African-American Men and/or Women who are scrapping up work as in trying to find work EVERYDAY due to the hate of skin color or a dumb thing of credit reports? Explain that to me.

Last night, well this has nothing to do with this, but when the Packers started their Preseason, they didn’t started with Aaron Rodgers. Brett Hundley did. And he’s black.

So in that, there was his numbers or ratings being not up to par, an injury might have been a factor, and he had this theory of not getting resigned by the 49ers.

And oh, here comes the additional theories of not standing for the national anthem and assuming that the Stars and Stripes had or is oppressing black folks or POC’s. And many from the activists and even some of our Veterans stood in support of what he protested. You even had young Volleyball Black Players and Football Players of High School, kneeled. Plus a former pro Soccer player kneeled. And some of the WNBA players, kneeled. We all know. But was it worth it? But the person you copied of kneeling, didn’t even vote. That’s one of the reasons why the 45land leader is in office and it’s like a slap in the face! We know it is. And everything that 45 or ol’ Donnie is doing to reverse the policies and ideal decisions that President Obama did in his 8 years. That is a direct slap as well.

Folks are saying that Colin Kaepernick’s angle is in line with Rosa Parks, or Muhammad Ali. CALLOUT: I don’t think so. Colin Kaepernick will never be a Rosa Parks, or Muhammad Ali! We need to be clear! Never have, never will. What they did was real. Not all about me and disguising a theory about the flag in a wrong matter. But alas: Colin said that all his protest wasn’t about the flag, nor the military. It was really about addressing the injustice about the treatment that African-Americans get every single time. And the same treatment or treatments harbored us so many times and we know it. But many believe all that protesting is about him and not really much about others.

Now last year, I written a blog piece about the National Anthem in which I commented about Colin’s protest. Well here is a review:

Speaking of that: The Star Spangled Banner. The official theme song of America. For many many years, the anthem has been played, sung at events, played in solos and many others. And there were those got criticized of the Anthem being a disgrace to those serve in uniform. But I’ll say that the Anthem is good “on display”. But the author, Francis Scott Key that made the anthem in 1812, was also an owner of slaves! The third stanza in the Anthem, which no one hardly sings by the way, spells out as this:

And where is that band who so vauntingly swore

That the havoc of war and the battle’s confusion

A home and a Country should leave us no more?

Their blood has wash’d out their foul footstep’s pollution.

No refuge could save the hireling and slave

From the terror of flight or the gloom of the grave,

And the star-spangled banner in triumph doth wave

O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave.

Well ladies and gents, let’s breakdown the meat of the third stanza. Now many are already saying that the stantza is racist. The words in the stanza: “No refuge could save the hireling and slave” some say that is so racist that it needs to be erased. But what did Francis Scott Key meant by this? Since he was a slave owner by the way.

• The word Refuge means in dictionary terms as we know is related to Refugee, as being forced to cross national boundaries and cannot return home safely.
• Hireling means: A person who works only for pay, especially in a menial or boring job, with little or no concern for the value of work. In a adjective sense: it also means serving for pay only, vernal, and mercenary. See that?

But when you put it all together in that ONE LINE: The Refugees of the slaves, our ancestors were forced in bondage, couldn’t return to Africa that had to be worked for menial jobs, with no concern for the work values of the jobs that was slave related. Henceforth: “No refuge could save the hireling and slave.”

Now that was last year, but this morning as I was listening to the radio , there was different definition about the use of words. “Hireling” in this sense was a reference to the British Soldiers and the “Slaves” was a reference to the American soldiers. There was a “stipulation” that if the slaves served under the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War, they would granted their freedom. Same as the side of the British. If the Black Slaves served under the British Crown, they would be granted their freedom. And also we know that Francis Scott Key was the composer of the Anthem, but according the radio broadcast, he was mad by getting beat by the black troops during the time period. To be clear, it was about another version of Black Power! You might listen to WNOV on the Tune-In App for that.

Now that might sound kind of strange but the thing is this version might be kind of stronger than the first definition we heard last year. Why haven’t we really heard the third stanza of the Anthem before in school?

EASY ANSWER: It was never taught to us! Just like in all the extensive history we are just now exploring about the nation and yes Black History. All that extensive history that we didn’t know about that we just found out on Social Media, IT WAS NEVER TAUGHT TO US! NOT ONE EXTENSIVE SUBJECT!

We can blame all the same old “they didn’t teach us this stuff in school in all” but you know whom I really blame in all of this? Read my lips: Blame the curriculum! The same curriculum that circulates all the lessons plans that many of the teachers will be getting for your kids in the fall.

*Sidenote: Milwaukee Public Schools will start school on August 14th and September 5th, and most schools will have Uniforms.

But seriously folks, NFL Fans: I hate to say this in all, but Colin Kaepernick is not going to save you. I hate to be a hater for the “Colin Worshipers” who was all flashy against the Packers, went to the Super Bowl against the Ravens and LOST in the blackout game in the Superdome. And a season later his numbers weren’t all to par, he was injured at one point prior, and he was 2-1 against the Packers in a game that the 49ers lost 17-3. I told you Niner Gang. All that flashy stuff came and went! He’s a heck of a ball player, and since the plays of the Pistol he started, guess what? Everyone is going to use it and rename it the Lombardi Cannon or whatever. And of course his chances of getting a job dwindled, plus having a fear of getting cut by the team, and what does he do in between: kneel before the flag during the national anthem. And again, he didn’t vote! And many of the fans whom are now just WOKE, we have a guy name of Ol Donnie in the White House. Let that sink in.

Instead of worrying about Colin and his job, again what about those who are still looking like crazy everyday? And other issues of healthcare, the economy, drinking water concerns, not enough support for the church, or many of the concerns that are more IMPORTANT about everyday values! Again, he is NOT here to save you!

The Rant of Stephen’s Spot: A note to the Leftists hating on 3 black potential picks.

Well I thought I wouldn’t do this, but it’s time to do an rant on the spot. And that rant is about the Leftists or some of the Democrats has this “dislike” of three potential ideal picks in the next run to get the seat back. I’m talking about Sen. Kamala Harris, Senator Cory Booker, and former Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick. All three are very potential in having the idea in the eyes of others to run for President for 2020, but the latter of matter is that many in the “Leftist” rank think that they are not potential enough. Mainly still stuck on the Bernie Sanders/Hillary Clinton angle. And for those whom are not known for this, Bernie is an Independent Candidate that ran as a Democrat. But I don’t understand why are the senators of Harris, Booker and Patrick are getting this “dislike” and somewhat hate from the same party group that they are supporting. For Senator Harris, look: I really like her. She’s got a poise on her. And according to the stories, the angles of her being supportive of Black Lives Matter, and an experience with being a prosecutor in California. So what’s the matter with those I ask? Like really? The hate on Cory Booker, relates to the ties to Wall Street, and this “not so nice” relation to Big Pharma. And as former governor Deval Patrick is concerned: he works for Bain Capital as a managing director. And yes, even Cory Booker at one time defended Bain Capital while realizing that notion when both parties were facing the same examples of financial concerns on Wall Street.

But I have to ask, why are we the African-American base of the Democratic Party have to go through this “permission list” of whom to pick of the whole contenders? Can we make our own picks?

The whole thing in this predicament, is almost like, “oh we shouldn’t pick them because of the angles of being a prosecutor or with Black Lives Matter is flat out ridiculous. Really it is. It’s shameful that the progressives wouldn’t dive in on it. Why not progressives?!!! Let’s be real! These picked out of the black side of the DNC are interesting and should be on the pulse of the 2020 Election. And should be. But oh……no.

If I have to be a betting man I would pick a Kamala Harris/Cory Booker ticket for 2020. Just my opinion. No Progressive or Leftist opinions necessary!

My Take on Foxconn and also the continued issues of Wisconsin Transportation.

Oh yes. I have to talk this. Really I have too.

I’m sure that many in America already knows about the deal that was signed when Foxconn, a Taiwan company that landed a deal that would boost Wisconsin’s job numbers concerning employment. We all know that when Scott Walker boasted a plan to have the 250,000 jobs to happen, actually DID NOT WORK. I told you so, Wisconsin. The same words, I told you so rang out so many times I can’t event count. And this was about 6 years ago. Now with the jobs for Foxconn according the sources that it would attract about 13,000 jobs. And it’s going to come to the area of Racine or Kenosha Counties. And just like Amazon, they will NOT come to the Milwaukee Metro Area. And the fact is that yes, when Foxconn inked the deal there had some concerns about also about the taxation part. This deal per se might cost us taxpayers to be on the hook for the next 15 years. How is this deal is going to be beneficial for taxpayers like me for the next couple of years?! Like really, Madison. Plus, Foxconn has been in bad blood in the last couple of years. To the residents of Pennsylvania, we have read about your dilemma about the plant that hasn’t been built. And many of us in Wisconsin are fully aware about it the promises that you were to be given, but didn’t work. And the result was bad broken politics. We get it.

I’ll bet many probably thought, really Wisconsin?! Have you been screwed up already? Oh and other thing, many think that this would seal up Scott Walker’s deal as a way to get reelected for 2018.

Now since the Foxconn company is coming to the state, what will become of us whom don’t have transportation to get to the jobs? We know that Amazon can’t do it alone, but many of us don’t have a jeep, a truck, a car, or a Go-Kart to get to Foxconn every day? Think about it. And what will the state black residents have a say in this?

Oh wait! We had an idea that was seemed very VERY interesting. It was a High Speed Rail Train that would have linked Milwaukee and Madison. You do remember that we HAD over 800 million dollars stacked up for the Talgo Trains and the jobs? Is all that memory coming back? And what did our glorious Governor Numb Nuts did with that money and the jobs and the trains? He gave it all away! The state got sued due to a breach of contact and it was THE biggest blunder ever! Wisconsin, you should have kept the trains. But you failed to follow the advice of Scott Walker. And those like Robin Vos and Alberta Darling. And did I mention that part of which of that dumb decision was geared towards racism? Let that sink in! After 6 years. That was also to help integrate the region. And many were worried that black folks would go to Jefferson County for coffee and donuts. Really?! And to do the math, Wisconsin’s black population is around 8%.

Oh, now that there is talk about using a Canadian Railway track to combine the Twin Cities, Milwaukee and Chicago for a Intercity Rail Route with Amtrak. That seems like an idea, but how is THIS is going to get paid? And the thing is, you got this Foxconn plant coming up, and they need some kind of transportation for Freight and also what about those who don’t drive, that live in far places, how are they are going to get to work? You see what I’m saying? Yeah let that REALLY sink in! And now Walker wants a train! So hypocritical.

Our Republican state hood “friends” really messed up. They realized it. Talgo at the time could have benefited ALOT of jobs. I visited the Talgo plant 5 years ago in the black community in the 2700 block at Townsend Street area, and wanted to see the HSR trains up close. They were good. With all the digital stuff and everything. Plus they worked hard on them! Our people. And the State shamefully gave it all up. All because they thought the tax payers would be on the hook for the vehicles. Or the personal favorite: boondoggles! “No one will ever ride it.” Um………you really think that Badger State? Better change your tune and repent. I hear mostly about the value of the trains on Black Radio like WNOV than 620 WTMJ or 1130 WISN. And let remind our Republican fans, not many in the state doesn’t have their own transportation! And Foxconn wants in. We’re unprepared. Matter of fact were unprepared in getting some of the highways and roads done. Which was LOOOONG talked about for years! Let that also sink in! Why you asked? Too many dang politics messing up. And dang is not a bad word.

At least the Milwaukee Streetcar is still on point.

All of this in my view needs the reexamination of what we really want to have in the state. And of course there will be questions. Like already as I speak, Foxconn is already being talked about but it should be talked about more in the areas of Milwaukee’s north side that can get more insight about what is going on. Especially when the state’s transportation system is on one leg losing to political standpoints so many times over!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Scratching my head all this time – another meme version

Did this once, will do it again.

Ready. Set. Go!

 

They say stay woke, right? Well….

 

Black folks: why does the American Flag is labeled as a “Symbol of Oppression?” Asking for a friend!

Ummm. Yeah, when are the godly MEN and the godly WOMEN are ACTUALLY going to hook up? Like seriously?

 

Ain’t this the real truth? Ask those who are “woke and conscious”. Just saying.

 

Should this sink in for all my single brothers in the game? And actually NOT LOOKING?

But the real question is, what is the REAL problem with this single thing?

 

BRUH! Really? Now for the “melanin powered conscious folks”, are you really putting this on notice?

 

Can anyone relate to this at Walmart? Be honest!

 

If you black Friday shoppers planning to do this after Thanksgiving, then explain why you can’t do this on a Sunday morning for a church. Anyone?

 

Who ACTUALLY believes this? Call them out!

 

CALLOUT: We heard the announcement of being free since June 19th, 1865. Tell me also why we in the black community still haven’t been fully free since. (Except for 1970)Anyone want to clarify? Be TRUTHFULLY honest. If we fully haven’t gained our 1776 INDEPENDENCE, then we’re still in the struggle for that 1865 FREEDOM!

 

Yeah, that thing anyone to clarify? Us introverted folks know to well.

 

Just like folks being all up in your business. Like really?

 

Do many realize the real truth of being introverted? Let that sink in.

 

You know they got belts out, right? Think about it.

 

For you confused folks on the fly: What is the real solution to this “tithing” problem? Too many these negative church memes will not save your mind.

 

I told you that this movie came out years ago. For you black queens out there, you had watched this with your black kings, right?

 

I thought “Hotep” means peace. Since when it became a weapon of choice against?

 

We black men do more than that. Ever heard of working or getting those degrees? Let that sink in. At least some of us are doing this besides drinking up that 40 ounces in a club every Saturday, or not being so well “lazy”of what’s going on.

 

And the last thing to say:

 

Oh, I got a question to ask: for all you Eric Thames Haters, you thought that he was on that stuff. Those steroids. He was tested negative. And many of you are now starting to like him. Really?! Many of you have that hypocritical thoughts. So I dare to ask: You still like him, huh? Don’t get mad at the messenger!

 

 

More “meme counter thoughts” to come.

 

 

 

 

 

Sigh…..This is so stupid. A group wants to recall Tom Barrett. No really!

Oh the irony. There is a group out now that wants to recall Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett. There is an organization called “Save Our City: Milwaukeeans Can’t Wait” that has filed a petition to get about 50,000+ signatures in order to have an recall election to run against the 4 time mayor of the Milwaukee.  As many DO RECALL: Mayor Barrett won his election bid to continue against then opponent Alderman Bob Donovan for another 4 years. Yes, Milwaukee he won.

What was some of the reasons for this so-called request?

1. Streetcar Project
2. Lead Pipes
3. Not enough to fight Crime

 

After reading about this petition idea, I have only ONE Question to ask: Why didn’t this came out last year in 2016 when the Mayor was re-elected? I mean they had the chance to out him on the ballots, BUT Tom still won. 

For this bogus recall group, they are just mad. They are mad at what many think that Tom here is this nice guy mayor that many feel that he’s projecting the work downtown than in the other sectors of the city. For the record there are some projects in the City that are under construction, developing and others that are happening right now. It’s not just downtown! I’ve seen them with my own Nikon.

Plus according to Urban Milwaukee, Mayor Barrett had noticed this idea for several weeks. And of course if or when these signatures and others made themselves known, expect the DEFENSE of Mayor Barrett will come out and defend his record in the last previous term. Expect that Milwaukee!

Also, I heard that one of the Milwaukee Black Panthers Darryl Farmer is acting as the treasurer for the Organization. Not familiar with Darryl Farmer? He is also known as King Rick by the way. And I’ll bet some of the Panthers might question why he is in this instead of the black fist rising. I’m just saying!

And by the way, ASK ME THIS: why hasn’t no company or organization has NOT gone into the Century City Park I Building that A.O. Smith used to be? And it’s still vacant?

We know that Mayor Barrett isn’t perfect. We know this. But in all of this request to get 50,000 signatures in 60 days in my opinion, will not happen. I’m sorry, Allen L. Jansen! Many don’t realize that the petitions will again cost taxpayers extra money to get this done. And who is going to challenge Mayor Barrett? Who?!  Keep in mind that the election was LAST YEAR!

For all of those whom are the “Save our City: Milwaukeeans can’t wait” flagship whatever group, if you challenge this per se, with this idea of a recall, and Barrett defends his record in a truthful manner, guess what?  you will make him a 5 time mayor. I’m calling it right now! And no I will NOT sign your petition.

Let me just say this on the real though: How is the Milwaukee Streetcar a potential problem of Police and Schools when the federal tax dollars (you heard that right) were used, plus also the ongoing construction is putting in jobs?

Second about the Lead Pipes: we all know that the lead in the water is a problem. There is no denying that. Matter of fact it’s been a problem BEFORE Tom Barrett was in office. Why wasn’t the issue discussed when Norquist was in office? Remember cryptosporidium? Explain that, Save our City folks.

As far as the crime statistics, we know it’s a major problem.

As a native and still living in the Brew City, yes Milwaukee is not perfect. It wasn’t perfect when John Norquist was mayor, and neither now. So what’s the haps?

It’s going to take all of the near 600,000 plus Milwaukeeans that live in the City Limits to get this city going. Not all the former residents who still got love for Milwaukee whom work and go back to the boonies. Nope, you don’t count. In all of this, it’s all about some dude who thinks that when someone is in office, there is always whom feel that someone that is not doing all things, or not focusing on all of the Milwaukee sector except DOWNTOWN! Oh, we talk about the Milwaukee Bucks. We know that the Arena is coming up, but did you know that the Milwaukee Bucks will turn one of the former battered playgrounds into a multi-field for track, soccer, basketball, tennis and other sports?

This is what I’m talking about for those whom are late to the bar:

The title says: “Milwaukee Bucks, Johnson Controls to build $150,000 ‘multi-sport complex’ in the city’s Westlawn neighborhood”

This was reported in Milwaukee Journal Sentinel 2 months ago! HELLO! Anyone of the Save our City folks read this? Where have you been?! Ok, I get it. Everybody got different schedules. BUT STAY ON SCHEDULE!

And I’ll bet whom probably already forgotten after reading this will be like, oh yes that right, but what else is being built? First of all, I see construction stuff alot. No matter if it’s in Wauwatosa, Downtown, The East Side,  or the South Side. But mostly, on the North Side besides the Multi-sports complex, there are some construction projects that are happening, and I’m not talking about the roads nor new stores that might sell liquor. Some are popping up. You need to get out and look that yes there are construction jobs coming and doing, but there might other jobs too.

Let’s be real. We know better than this.  All I’m saying!

 

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

Happy 4th again, y’all.

We already know that the country has turned another age in all, but we already know that the struggle indeed continues. And yes if you’re Black, you might had been called out being a sellout all because you wore the Red/White/Blue instead of the Red/Black/Green. Or you might have sang the National Anthem without any concern except the fact the third verse had a racial thing attached. But as we put away the fireworks in all, I’m scratching my head again.

Did anyone actually read the Declaration? I mean really?

Black folks, we know about the slavery side of 1776, but what about those whom served in both armies that guranteed freedom? Yes blacks did served under the flag back then.

I was reading Sophia A. Nelson’s book, E Plurbis One, and two of our founding fathers, Benjamin Franklin and John Adams were against slavery. Did you know this?

With all the parades in America, why not enough black folks?

Frederick Douglass’ speech “What to the slave mean to the Fourth of July?” is like a call out to the hypocritical attitude of being free for most, not many. Any questions on that?

I hear folks saying, “that flag wasn’t meant for us!” What flag is?

Why do certain folks scream out “Fourth of You Lie?!”

And also to add, what are you celebrating? Like really.

How come we didn’t point out the verse “No heirling for a slave” before like last year?

Was Whitney Houston’s version of the Star Spangled Banner from 1991 the best ever?

Was Marvin Gaye’s Star Spangled Banner from 1983 good?

What about Jimi Hendrix’s version of the Anthem?

Which Team USA Basketball team was better: 1992 or 2008? 92 all the way!

Which team is America’s team deserving? I say the Green Bay Packers!

Chris Rock once said, Happy White People’s Independence Day. More recently, Damon Wayans Jr said Happy racist white people’s day. Both got slandered and attacked after telling the truth. Well white folks, had their punchlines told the truth?

Is “every way” the American way?

How many Americans did not know what Juneteenth Day was about?

How many Americans did not know that the 4th of July is not always about fireworks?

This is interesting, can this be done? Singing Lift Every Voice And Sing on Independence Day?

Check out @Tiffanydloftin’s Tweet: https://twitter.com/Tiffanydloftin/status/882409041141673985?s=09

Can the hashtag #MelalinPatriot be a thing to follow? Melalin relates to black by the way.

We know that Philly throws 4th of July Celebrations alot. But can Milwaukee have a 4th of July party concerts with the locals musicians?

And now for the final question:  Don’t be offended by the picture.

Relax and breathe.

Black folks: we know already that many of us don’t really celebrate the 4th Of July by an example of the memes below. And yes our ancestors were in shackles, branded, whipped, had no freedom, no liberty, no justice, no peace to be us. We were stripped from our former names to get the names like Toby. We were forced to be bought and paid in auctions, but like Cicely Tyson said in one of Tyler Perry’s movie Madeas Family Reunion: “Now it’s time to take your place!” We also have this tendency to tell folks not to celebrate the 4th all because our ancestors were slaves. We weren’t beaten. But the legality of those beatings linger into police brutality, racism, sexism, discrimination among minorities, and others. We get sensitive when we see our brothers and sisters wearing red white and blue and shake our heads. Why?!!!!

If a black man or a black woman wants to celebrate the 4th in a way different, LET THEM CELEBRATE! I was listening to one of my local black radio hosts on WNOV. There was a black female caller who expressed about the celebrations of Juneteenth Day. However she also expressed about celebrating the Fourth of July. As we all know from her comment that this country was built on the backs of us Black folks either as slaves and freed people. We definitely know this and should know. And the thing is we always hear about us going back to Africa. Well many people forget, not too many in Africa like us African-Americans maybe because many of us haven’t been there! Many forget that part of the slavetrade, came out of Africa which was a forgotten comment! And of course, America ate up the idea of slavery and served it until 1865, when the slaves were declared free. According to Vibe.com,  Roland Martin was on the Wendy Williams Show last year (after she talked smack about the HBCU’S), cited that black people were “technically free”:

If you had to place a marker on when black folks were technically fully free Americans, it’s 1970.

So as I look at this meme with the word Independence spelled wrong, (don’t blame the Public Schools) a Tupac pic, and all the talk about Juneteenth Day being celebrated and something forgotten, and with the ongoing crimes, racism, sexism, discrimination, police brutality, war against blacks lives, undocumented murders against black folks and many other concerns, I must ASK this:

Have we fully gained our Independence? And after celebrating Juneteenth, did we fully gained OUR freedom? Let that sink in.

Callout: Freedom is still not free. Even after 241 years. And even after 152 years. Let’s be real, the struggle to get to that freedom thing is going to take a four letter word of WORK!

And by the way if a black man or woman or kid wants to celebrate BOTH the Fourth and Juneteenth, even if you fly the flags, let them. Just let them. Some folks celebrate their birthdays on the days. Or a anniversary. Or whatever. Let’s be clear. For those of us whom are so conscious and woke, look: your opinions are just that. With all due respect. Let the folks whom are “Melanin Powered” have their day. Leave them alone!  No one is not forcing you to celebrate the holiday.  Where as you should not force anyone to say “Remember and celebrate Juneteenth Day!” Trust me you will not win that argument. You say that forcefully and folks will still sleep.  I mean correct me if I’m wrong that isn’t one of the Bill of Rights has the words, “Freedom of Expression” in it? Hey, let that sink in! And this applies to us like everyday.

Can I get a Hotep peace mixed in with a thanks of God Bless America?

Thank You.

Stephen’s Spot Rules of Summerfest 2017

 

 

Well readers, the rules are back. My rules in which many must follow, or to simply just to give advice. For this it’s the new traditional Stephen’s Spot Rules of Summerfest. Reviewing again for 2017. By the way, this is Summerfest’s 50th Anniversary and it should “be lit”, as our young folks say. As a reference: consult Summerfest’s rules of the park here.

 

First, let’s go over what I said last time in a long sentence mixed with something new. Many of you already know.

Since Summerfest is well known in Milwaukee, I know about the place very well. I volunteered at the place at African World Festival in 1997, saw some shows, and worked in the late 90’s plus the year of 2000. I know the gates, security things, and the places to park near and far from the venue. So if you ready to party like crazy, start learning and reviewing. By the way, I don’t currently work for the company, BUT  I KNOW the rules and regulations for my experience.

1) The 50th Anniversary of Summerfest is 11 days. Except July 3rd.  And everyday there will days where you can get in free. Learn it! Especially the timeframes given. Like today, there was free way to get in for donations for the hunger task force from Noon – 3:00pm . Please PAY ATTENTION TO THE TIMES! And pay attention (PLEASE PAY ATTENTION) to the news and radio promos about Summerfest as well. Oh, Summerfest will be open on the 4th of July.

2) The park does have information booths. Need a program? They have them. Or for you mobile folks you can download them via the net or straight to your smartphone. Your choice.

3) CALLOUT WARNING: If you are an out of towner and have been stuck on the Wisconsin highway for about 2 and half hours getting to the park, that is your loss! The reason why I’m saying this because when I was working for the company,  I got hollered by a man (a white man from Illinois mind you) about him being stuck on our highways for two hours. He verbally asked for the manager and the freaking former mayor John Norquist of all people. I am not making this up. This is a true story working at the main gate back in ’99. Keep in mind from my experience, Summerfest Security doesn’t control the freeways for the patrons to get to the park. My advice for you Wisconsin visitors (that yes the traffic will be hectic due to construction mostly, or the 1st shift folks going home, 2nd shift folks going to work), get there early!!!!! Like a day early. Or hours early when traffic is not huge!!!

4) If you ever think that you’ll be videotaping for your own personal use in or near the park (i.e. camcorders/video equipment), don’t record nothing! Knowing security they will take away the recording devices. They got rules for that. And the same goes for the Amp! Leave the camcorders at home.

5) If you’re about to pick up a ticket for a concert and if you run into a member of Security or Admissions to pay them for the assistance to wait or ask questions to assist, don’t even try it! Buy the ticket and get an early pick up, or a mailing.

6) Cameras (mostly small cameras)  are allowed on the grounds. It’s cool. But in the Amp, Nope.  They won’t allow it. Don’t try it. And no selfie sticks. They won’t allow them. Sorry.

7) Like bathrooms, and merchandise areas, there are ATMs on the grounds. Be sure to spot them just in case you need that extra green.

8) Leave your weapons of Swiss army knives at home! The red shirts will take them, as well as any other suspicious item that is deemed dangerous.  Just a word of warning.

9) Usually the workers in the colored shirts don’t reveal their names. Best advice, know their numbers! Like 563. Or in this case: Red 563. or Yellow 450.

10) CALLOUT: For the first time goers: Summerfest attracts big crowds. Just a word of warning. Again the park attracts crowds!

11) Best thing to ride at the grounds: Besides the arcades and the interactive stuff: Skygliders. Take them. It’s legendary and use your cameras for sky pics!

12) Don’t be afraid to help those who don’t know much about the park. Give them some pointers! Now, if you can’t be at Summerfest, but know what the day schedule is, and if your bestie needs that social media assistance: Tweet it. Facebook it. Instagram it. Text it. Google it. #Hashtag it. You know the routine!

13) For the bus folks, as you know Summerfest got shuttles (MCTS, Restaurants, Bars, etc) . You know the deal. No need to tell you.

14) They say that Summerfest has nothing for the kids. Um…they do. Look at the children’s theater schedules, and they have a Children’s Fest day. Take them to that.

15) Yes, you can buy food and drinks at the park. BUT…………if  you buy food on the outside as well as drinks trying to get in, can’t do it. Just like having cans and/or glass bottles. Nope can’t bring them in. Sorry! (Just a thought from my Security days)

16) If it’s raining and if you have an Umbrella, yes you can bring it. BUT…….not in the Amp.  If it’s hot, better take a towel just in case. If you get hurt, injured or get sick, Summerfest does have First Aid Stations and MFD will be on stat.

17) Like any other venue, there are areas that you can lock up your stuff. Ask the personnel in the info booths for that.

18) Upon entry, you will be searched. Just a heads up. Bags, strollers, etc. Expect the pat downs and maybe the overhead security things. Side note as of June, 2016: Summerfest will have metal detectors. Just like in high school in the 90’s with the searches.

19) Now check this, if you bought a concert ticket to see or  any other headliner at the Amp, yes, you can get through the gates with that as well. Mostly the South Gate.

20) Keep in mind, Summerfest does have cameras all around the park. If you mess up, don’t expect to be spotted or thrown out! Warning for those who might be drunk in all. I’m just saying!

21) For the record: Pets are NOT allowed at the park. BUT……….service animals are acceptable as well as many other needs for the elderly and disabled.

22) And as far as parking: Many know well that parking can be a hassle for a good spot. My advice, look for the areas near the park, like parking lots near Michigan or Jefferson Streets. U.S. Bank near Cass Street has festival parking available for those who want to use it. Yep, pay the required amount. Plus also if you have a concert ticket plus a parking validation with it, you are straight.

23) For the record, Summerfest does have urban acts lined up for 2017: T-Pain, Ludacris, Charles Walker Band, Big etc. PLEASE CHECK THEM OUT MILWAUKEE!!!!!!

24) Currently, Construction  right now is a beast. Take caution and be safe.

25) As far as Fireworks: No need explaining. You should know. First night of Summerfest and July 3rd. Pick a spot and view with the cameras and smartphones on stat.

Caught up yet? Good.

NEW STUFF THIS YEAR: or the extra reminders you already know for the Golden Anniversary.

AGAIN: Summerfest has metal detectors. Be advised.

Look for the Summerfest Street Team. They are always around.

For all you UBER drivers or Lyft Drivers, I hope you got your plans set up for the extra green. No need to tell you. Or those Ubering a chance to earn money for the big gig rides. Feel free to sign up here. Lyft Drivers,  I’m assuming that many of you are probably making ideas for your drivers to set up the schedules. Get the Apps out!

Even though it’s relatively new, feel free to leave your mark on the festival with a brick. No really, you can! Check out the “Brick Order” on the Summerfest website. It has a variety of prices on it, but it is worth to have your name etched in stone for life!

For the Power Pass Users, you’re lucky! Use that pass to get in for the shows of your choice.

If going to the BMO Harris Pavilion Stage for a show, you might have a “Blue Circle Seat Pass” for the acts. Some of the passes are sold out, but there are those you can get depending on the shows. For more information, click here.

The Miller Oasis Stage is so new now. Please make a note of it.  They have a sale going for some of the performers making that music.

Jimmy Kimmel Live is also doing some connectional thing with Summerfest. Be on the lookout for that. Matter of fact, some of you know about it anyway.

On June 29th,  Between Noon and 6, get into Summerfest for $5.00! It’s a TBT special with Pick N’ Save.

Everyday at Summerfest, there will be an Emeregening Artist Series shows that will take place. And word is you can vote for an artists that are coming up.

For other info that you need to ask, comment or question, either business or personal, consult the Summerfest Website for details.

Now, go party and be safe!

Three Way Dance: Youth fights, a family gets kicked out for cheering loud, oh and Sheriff David Clarke rescinded his application.

Usually around this time, I want to tell the 2017 Graduation Classes Congrats. That will come in the next two blogs. But right now, a three way dance is looking and it’s about the stuff that my homecity is going through.

First Dance: Milwaukee Youth, Stop all this mess!

On Facebook today through one of my local DJs page, there was a shared footage about two teenage girls were about to engage in a fight. They duked out. Then the teenage boys later on got in and fought the girls on the spot. This footage I saw where a bunch of girls and boys jumped into a fight, by taking it to the extreme is nothing but more trouble brewing. Of course we can talk about Juneteenth Day about the jubilation of us black folks being all Melanin Proud and free. We can. I’m going to start a #MelaninManic hashtag. But what I saw on this footage on Facebook is nothing to be proud of. It’s not! We see this stuff everyday when the news comes on and oh “Milwaukee School Students fighting again. I’m pulling my child out of the school system!” You can pull your child out of MPS for example, but there will be more problems and concerns. Right now, MPS is on Summer Vacation to about August 14th. But when I saw this footage about the boys jumping in and taking their liberties I have to ask this, where are these dudes fathers at? I know that Father’s Day came and went, but these BOYS need their FATHERS! And I know many go in on the boys being no good because of their father’s behavior from years ago before all of this happens. Of course I can blame them, and partially the Mother’s can be at fault too! Where did the upbringing went too? Broken homes! There it is. If that were me in that mess, I would be spanked at home. Punishments. NO TV, NO INTERNET,  NO VIDEO GAMES, NO FACEBOOK. NONE!  And no, there are NO EXCUSES! Your actions will spell it out for you. Ok so the young black males put their liberties on the black girls because either they thought it was funny, or maybe one of the girls jumped their sister or cousin and they went in even further. That right there, is also dumb. The thing is, these fights that you the younger folks that want to be highly successful later on, things like this will be RECORDED and many will wonder why should I hire this person, when this person was a teen beating up girls in a useless fight? And oh, you get mad and get passed up on a job interview. I know many us grown folks had been there, but there are of us having this convo about “What can I do to help these kids?” My question as a “Melanin Grown Black King”, what haven’t we tried yet? When I attended the 46th NCJ-Black Methodist for Church Renewal’s Convention last year in Milwaukee, we had a group discussion about the concerns of our communities, and one of the concerns was brought up about was about talking with our young people. That’s true! WE NEED TO TALK TO OUR YOUNG FOLKS! Not just on the computer, or in a video game chatroom. Face to face. Women to Girls, Men to Boys, and I dare say, Women to Boys and Men to Girls. Yes I said this! Grown folks, we need to stop being “friends” to our young folks. Mothers and Fathers, stop being friends with your kids and start being REAL FREAKING PARENTS! Many of you aren’t real parents because your parents were better than you! And you didn’t listen. Well, you say that these kids are getting crazy, but when I see these kids messing up, your parental game is messed up. YES I said it! Get it right! Don’t kill the messenger!

Second Dance: A family gets kicked out for being too loud, at a Brewers Game.

Right now, the Milwaukee Brewers are in the top rankings in the National League Central Division. They are playing good baseball as of late with Eric Thames smacking homeruns.

But that’s not what this is about. Most recently, a hispanic family was at a Brewers game, and they were enjoying their team playing. But the scene changed when some white baseball fans flipped off the kids. Sad! What’s even worst than that, they were escorted out of the Ball Park all because they were “cheering too loud”. Keep in mind, they were kids! Young folks whom were cheering for their favorite team! I’ve gone to Baseball Games, Basketball Games, Football Games, even WWE Wrestling Matches and children were cheering loud at those events. I didn’t front nor told them to hush up. Many are looking at this being an angle of racism. If that’s the case, the Milwaukee Brewers need to address that. Seriously. In a Facebook post, the mother of the boys expressed the concern, and yes she had to go there.

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=1662286440471404&id=100000701917637

Now let me get this straight. So kids or fans of baseball can’t cheer at their favorite teams? This ain’t no rocket science. This is just them having a good time . Period. For those “fans” who like to flip off with racism at a bunch of kids at a ballpark, a dome, a soccer field, a whatever field, you plainly SUCK! And mixing that with racism is just that: stupid. And of course when kids see that they might get traumaized and they might be effected with all the situation at hand. AGAIN, they are children! They didn’t deserve that and neither the family! NONE. Stuff like this is very inexcusable and it’s not fair. No excuses!

The last dance on the card: Sheriff David Clarke is not resigning.

As I stated in the last couple of blogs, many of us had been rejoicnig that Sheriff David Clarke was on his way out. Oh we were happy to think that this man, would have gone to join #45’s Cabinet for Homeland Security. But recently: Sheriff Clarke recinded his application. He didn’t take the job. What was the reason? He didnt like The Donnie? Or 45? Many are saying that outside of Wisconsin that Clarke is unfit to lead that operation in the DHS. Heck he’s unfit with his politics in Milwaukee County as SHERIFF! Richard Artison can beat Clarke in a foot race and still win. But the fact of the matter is, since now David Clarke is staying put, he will get beat by his 2018 opponent. The person I’m betting on is Earnell Lucas. Get used to say that name because I think that he’ll be the man to lead Milwaukee County Sheriff’s chair for a new clean slate. Yes we can research all we want and still think Clarke is the best for your Clarke/Republican fans. But the fact of the matter is, when he was out campaigning for the 45 Donnie who is VERY UNFIT TO BE PRESIDENT, he sold his soul. Flat out. And many of us in the Milwaukee County know it. Even you live in the outline areas in the County know it too! Yeah, your fault. I will admit that I thought that David Clarke was considered to be “Votable”, but I was wrong. Dead wrong. And he will get his day to get voted out. And you real voters whom thought that Clarke was wrong and is still wrong, 2018 better be your chance!

End of rant, and the bar is closed.

Breaking News: Sheriff David Clarke resigns. Officially.

If many of us in Milwaukee can be happy for one day, is this. The soon-to-be former Sheriff David Clarke whom gave us pain and pestilence in the last 15 years in the county is finally moving out. My last blog talked about him being voted out in 2018, but I think 2018 for him came early.

This is just breaking news today, that Sheriff David Clarke resigned to take a position in Washington DC under #45’s Administration in the Department of Homeland Security.

Stay tuned. What I’m about to write next, will be a reason why this could be good for Milwaukee County. And a reason that America must pay attention in sense of being warned. 

You may seen this on Facebook. But it’s interesting. And needed to be said.

You may have seen this on Facebook. Or any other outlet. Many of us who have posted this stat are taking real stands of what we see in our U.S. Government. And the center of it is number 45. No, I’m not going to use the name, but we know who he is. But however as far as all that “Making America Great Again” in all: NOPE. Time to rally against the thought that many who supported “45” and having his attitude against immigrants, blacks, Mexicans, and many other things that are not like him is just is. Yes, it’s like a call to activism.

WAKE UP!

This is where I stand. To me, FB (or this blog post) is a useful vehicle for connecting with old friends and keeping up with family, but it is also a place for my passion and activism. I believe and respect all opinions, even if they don’t agree with mine, so we can all use FB (or this blog post)to vent.

I believe that our 45th President, his power hungry cronies, and the majority of Republicans in Congress are a real and active threat to me, my way of life, and all the people I love. Some people are saying that we should give Trump a chance, that we should “work together” with him because he won the election and he is “everyone’s president.”

This is my response:

•I will not forget how badly he and so many others treated former President Barack Obama for 8 years…

•I will not “work together” to privatize Medicare, cut Social Security and Medicaid.

•I will not “work together” to build a wall.

•I will not “work together” to persecute Muslims.

•I will not “work together” to shut out refugees from other countries.

•I will not “work together” to lower taxes on the 1% and increase taxes on the middle class and poor.

•I will not “work together” to help Trump use the Presidency to line his pockets and those of his family and cronies.

•I will not “work together” to weaken and demolish environmental protection.

•I will not “work together” to sell American lands, especially National Parks, to companies which then despoil those lands.

•I will not “work together” to enable the killing of whole species of animals just because they are predators, or inconvenient for a few, or because some people want to get their thrills killing them.

•I will not “work together” to remove civil rights from anyone.

•I will not “work together” to alienate countries that have been our allies for as long as I have been alive.

•I will not “work together” to slash funding for education.

•I will not “work together” to take basic assistance from people who are at the bottom of the socioeconomic ladder.

•I will not “work together” to get rid of common sense regulations on guns.

•I will not “work together” to eliminate the minimum wage.

•I will not “work together” to support so-called “Right To Work” laws, or undermine, weaken or destroy Unions in any way.

•I will not “work together” to suppress scientific research, be it on climate change, fracking, or any other issue where a majority of scientists agree that Trump and his supporters are wrong on the facts.

•I will not “work together” to criminalize abortion or restrict health care for women.

•I will not “work together” to increase the number of nations that have nuclear weapons.

•I will not “work together” to put even more “big money” into politics.

•I will not “work together” to violate the Geneva Convention.

•I will not “work together” to give the Ku Klux Klan, the Nazi Party and white supremacists a seat at the table, or to normalize their hatred.

•I will not “work together” to deny health care to people who need it.

•I will not “work together” to deny medical coverage to people on the basis of a “pre-existing condition.”

•I will not “work together” to increase voter suppression.

•I will not “work together” to normalize tyranny.

I will not “work together” to eliminate or reduce ethical oversite at any level of government.

•I will not “work together” with anyone who is, or admires, tyrants and dictators.

•I will not support anyone that thinks its OK to put a pipeline to transport oil on Sacred Ground for Native Americans. And, it would run under the Missouri River, which provides drinking water for millions of people. An accident waiting to happen.

This is my line, and I am drawing it.

•I will stand for honesty, love, respect for all living beings, and for the beating heart that is the center of Life itself.

•I will use my voice and my hands, to reach out to the uninformed, and to anyone who will LISTEN:

That “winning”, “being great again”, “rich” or even “beautiful” is nothing… When others are sacrificed to glorify its existence.

If you agree feel free to copy and re-post (this results in larger numbers of people seeing a post), and if you want, sign your name below ours. Also, if we have left anything out, feel free to add it to this list.

Signed:

Me. And anyone else that wants in to really save the honor of this Country the right way.