My Take: March For Our Lives should be an everyday reminder.

I was going to write about the BET’s new show, Mancave and putting my spin on it. But I’m putting that on hold until I write this blog story regarding this subject: March For Our Lives.

I like everyone else, looked at the footages of our young folks in D.C. and locally here in Milwaukee protesting and having their say about the recent shootings that effected their schools and the relationship of their classmates. This wasn’t just an American issue, it was also worldwide. It was estimated in DC that over 800,000 plus came out to this rally/march to hear and to protest a substance that has been lingered for so long. Many of us, including me had lost someone we know personally to gun violence. I lost a cousin to gun violence in the summer of 2002 when Milwaukee was facing one of the worst summers at the time. My cousin was just 21 years old. A young black man going to college. And owned an upcoming Ice Cream Parlor. He was gunned down all because there were other folks wanting his car with the spinning rims on the side. He was killed near 47th and Locust and crashed his car near the corner of 47th and Center Streets not too far from Washington High School. All in Milwaukee. My family like many other families that lost loved ones were in horror about losing a young black male to gun violence. Weeks after my cousin’s death, the perps were tracked down and were caught for the crime. Previously, they were serving time.

But that was a personal matter. I know that the connection wasn’t all school related, but the relation of having someone close to you being killed is understandable. Now why am I putting this out on a day like today? Everyone again, has a story. But for this “March for our lives” event to voice our concerns of the recent tragedies in schools this needs NO relation. At all. NONE!

While I was looking at the young teens and some under 13 years old they seem to have a idea. An objective. These young players and girls have a momentum that would rocket them to the next level. They are the Z Generation from what I hear. And this Z Team is not pulling any punches when it comes to the things or ideas they are seeking to help curb Gun Control.

CALLOUT: And I need to say this: for all of you gun nuts who think that this March For Our Lives group is going to take away your firearms or pew pew pistols, they are not. NO ONE IS NOT TAKING AWAY YOUR GUNS! President Obama didn’t take them away and I’m surprised no one took away his Skeet Shooting Rifle! It’s kind of funny that many would believe that. But your firearms are still in your house.

Some of the speakers did spoke out on their “so far” experience. A few of them spoke were black. And some have expressed about not being at the age to give out activism like remarks. But adults, let us remind ourselves that the well known activists we know and read about, started their activism speeches as young as 5 years old. Don’t tell me that you overshot that. Folks like MLK and Rev. Al Sharpton done that. And even though that MLK is dead for nearly 50 years, and Al Sharpton is still living, their activism are lingered in memory and archived for the future. Grown folks, stop playing! It’s been done before. And it just happened again today! Those like Naomi Wadler who is only 11 years old. A 5th Grader speaking out for those whom are African-American girls that don’t make the front pages of newspapers in the nation. Nor the evening news on TV. And she’s from Alexandria, Virginia who lead a walkout via her Elementary School. The black girls she referenced were ranging from – Courtlin Arrington, Hadiya Pendleton and Taiyania Thompson just to name a few.

She also referenced very same City of Chicago that everyone talks about in a question “What about the black-on-black crime?” “What about Chicago?”  For black boys: same thing. As an example, Trevon Bosley gave his remarks by stating that “Everyday shootings are everyday problems!”  And the keyword is “everyday.”

Now we know that the “suspect supporter” of the lobbyists has the letters “NRA” on them. It’s seems that the NRA has been THE suspect. Why? I think we adults whom have back them and the 2nd Amendment allow this to happen! Of course that the 2nd Amendment has the right to bear arms or having a gun. We know this. BUT when was the last time that NRA has ever backed a thing called responsibility? I never heard the NRA fans like Dana Loesch or that black dude what’s his name, Colion Noir is it? (dude is selling out) never talked about the responsibility of the firearms their members and lobbyists must understood. They never spoke about Philando Castile’s murder in Minnesota nor recently, Stephon Clark’s murder by the Sacramento Police in his grandparent’s backyard! Where you at, NRA? Backing up Trump?! Don’t be surprised if the Gen Z Crew turns that age to vote, get involved in politics/activism and vote out all those who held down that red wall of pain that many fought for so long to take down! Be warned, NRA. They coming. And those who back them, you might be in the wave of truth of getting out of way. Again, these kids now are NOT PLAYING! And they are teaching us and reminding us of our accountable actions!

Many of us in the Baby Boomers, Gen X and yes you Millennial folks, we’ll be in those nursing stations getting someone to wash our butts as we get older and relieve our sickness and diseases to cure our bodies. OK subject off. Not good. But you know what I’m saying.

From David Hogg to Emma Gonzalez and many in between, they were the premiered speakers and survivors and we grown folks had to listen to them. That’s what they wanted. They wanted to speak and they did. But the surprising speaker of all of them was just 8 years old. And she has a legacy to maintain for the next era of the name King. Yes, Yolanda Renee King – MLK’s and Coretta’s only Grand Daughter, Niece of Rev. Bernice King and Dexter King, and daughter of MLK III came out and spoke that she has a dream that enough is enough!

This is King’s Granddaughter speaking. Now I know that she’s only a preteen in elementary school. But after her speaking part of going to be a great generation, there is no telling, she is just beginning to spread her future activism. But I hope that she not only does that, but also maintains the namesake of her family to restore!

Now I want to address all this mess about are the Parkland High School Students are being exploited for all this protesting. My question is, who is exploiting them? Who?

All the grown folks who say that, shut up! They to me are addressing a concern about the violence in the schools recently. There was violence of guns in the Milwaukee Public Schools not too long ago. Were the current students of MPS being exploited about that? When many of us were in high school in the 90’s or 80’s, now as ALUMNI were we exploited with high school violence in our schools not caring?! Yes I went there. And many of us never used the letters “NRA” back then. Unlike now. I don’t think nor believe that the students are being exploited. Seriously, who’s exploiting them?! Who?! One thing about all of this, folks want to stir up stuff that is not true. If that’s the case, they wouldn’t be doing the marching or speaking out period. And their parents would NOT allow them to attend. But wait a minute: this is a country with freedom of expression right? So that means that our young folks can’t speak about the concerns that they witnessed? Many of us grown folks are perpetrating. And many are doing that by the keyboards who think they know it all, but don’t do the homework. Yes grown people I’m talking about us! Or many of us that want to rant with no proof.

Final say: even though that this march is a one day affair of open expression of our youth, it shouldn’t stop today! This needs to be an everyday subject! Everyday! Not just every March 24th, take a photo, say/hear the speeches, performances and go home. I want all the schools to really take heed about what is happening here. And yes this does include the parents! And also the communities, the fraternities, the sororities, the churches, neighborhoods, and many other groups, clubs and organizations that really cares about the safety and well being of our (and I mean OUR) kids! If you don’t have children like me and you’re just looking at this March and rally, I say back up the kids in your churches and community centers/organizations. Women: back up the girls. And as far as the Men (whether you have kids or not) we need to back up our Sons, Nephews, Cousins, Grandsons, Godsons, and young wards/male students who look up to us as head pillars in the community and go to the schools everyday, while we work the clock! Women: same thing if you have sons and no daughters. Men, vice versa with daughters.

I have a message to the Generation Z crew that were active today: I hear you. We all hear you. Let’s do the work to get you started. After all, you are the next players to lead.

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Scratching my head all this time: Before Spring Starts.

With the season of spring is coming up and also a thing of St. Patrick’s Day coming up going green, and also we’re just coming off a day or more from International Women’s Day being once again asked by men and some women of the previous and upcoming International Men’s Day. And the same GOP attacking High School Students after the Parkland School Shooting. Plus many stupid stuff out of the 45 land Trump. I’m scratching my head again, let’s go!

For the Misguided Women and the ongoing Whining Gents had to ask the International Men’s Day question: why is that important to you?

And seriously women, did I hear that some of you won’t celebrate your International day until you celebrate a International Men’s Day?

Females: I like you. Can you please the next time you go on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and EXPLAIN the details behind why there is a International Men’s Day?! You claim to know the day more than we do. Just saying! And Google doesn’t save us at times.

So the GOP like to attack high school students and those like Emma Gonzales protesting. How juvenile. Really?

Speaking of our children: In Austin, Texas: why did that young man, who had high hopes of opportunity had his life cut short at 17-years-old?!! Due to a bombed package?

Did Daylight Savings Time really fooled you?

I need to ask this question about International Men’s Day, why is this day is not on the calendar and rectified by the United Nations, like International Women’s Day?

Health officials: is it OK to have Blood Pressure Screenings in Barbershops for Black men who don’t trust doctors?

First KB Toys, now Toys R Us. Why is our Toy stores getting cut?!

The Milwaukee Streetcar is doing the test next week in Milwaukee. Ready for the teaser?

For all of the Non-Black Audience: why are you hating on Black Panther being “too-black?” I don’t get mad at the X-Men being majority too white!

When will the Android Phones get 32 GB’s? Really for AT&T Prepaid Phones?

Black people, did you get called out on St. Patrick’s Day?

This is worth asking: by now, you’re watching March Madness. Has your bracket been busted yet? LOL!

Jordy Nelson didn’t take the pay cut to stay with the Packers. Now, he’s a Raider for 2 years. Why?!!!!

Have the offseason moves for the NFL is really turning heads so far? And of course, Colin Kaepernick is not in a NFL Uniform signed up.

This has been on my mind though: for the United Methodist Church and particularly the United Methodist Men, why the addition of support to the Girl Scouts? Let the United Methodist Women have that.

Should I do a blog story on BET’s Mancave? Get set, gents.

Seriously? What got into Snoop Dogg doing a Gospel Album?

Many of our young folks expressed their concern about the Gun Violence in schools. But there is always that group of folks had to get stupid and say something stupid. Adults, why?

So the younger sister of Dylan Roof had to say something negative on Snapchat and got arrested by bringing in a weapon to school. Is the family on the stuff again?

Speaking of BET’s Mancave: again (and I mean no disrespect) why are you the female audience watching this? I’m sounding kind of old school, but the MEN should watch the Men shows, and the females you watch The View, The Talk, Sister Circle, and any other women’s programing on the screen. Even The Real. I know it’s 2018 and the change in times, but still why? Hint: not all men think the same ladies.

Moving forward: What about those Marquette Golden Eagles though? In the NIT?

When Spring time is here, Wisconsin don’t break out the shorts yet! We know it gets warmer in April, right?

You know already that the 45 leader is crashing and burning with all those vacanies and firings, right?

Black people, we need to be careful about the talk shows should be for another hour or so. The last show was like that and got cancelled was on BET . Remember the show “Don’t Sleep with T.J. Holmes”? Let that sink in.

Who liked the Cobra Kai previews on YouTube?

Last question: with Easter coming up and yes your church will be packed and the Easter Suits will be on point. What is the reason why this holiday and Christmas is like the main reasons folks go to church and other other Sundays don’t count? You know the reasons, don’t lie!

Welcome to Spring, readers.

The First Three Way Dance of 2018: Milwaukee’s Police Chief Ed Flynn Retires, the H&M Mess, and Being Church Hurt.

Well it’s about that time to go to the dance floor of the first three way of 2018. And you know what time it is. For those who are just reading this for the first time I do a “three way dance” on this blog in which I summarize three different stories into one. That’s a three way. For this, I’m commenting about the retirement of Milwaukee Police Chief Ed Flynn, the recent crap out of H&M, and a local radio comments about “being church hurt.”

First on the dance card: The retirement of Chief Ed Flynn.

If those in Milwaukee haven’t heard: the first announcement of a retirement of 2018 has been declared that Ed Flynn is stepping down as police chief of the city. Just to think that 10 years ago this month of January,  he came in as an outsider to Milwaukee in which Mayor Barrett wanted a police chief to make a difference. And yes, it wasn’t an easy search. But it paid off. Ed Flynn was sent to Milwaukee from Massachusetts at a time that the community and citizens were deeply concerned. They were concerned about out of control crime, tension, happenstance, and the ability of one word: trust.  There were other concerns but to me that was a concern that many feared in Milwaukee. The crackdown on fear in the city was heavy issue to tackle. But it was faced in a new way. Ed Flynn had brought in new ideas since his first day on the job. Again, this was 10 years ago.

In the past decade, under Chief Ed Flynn in the Milwaukee Police Department:

Technology – the birth of CompStat and the Greater Milwaukee Committee with new ideas of data driven.

Crime Analyst Program

Early Intervention Program

Opioid Task Force

OMAP – Office Management Analyst and Planning

Neighborhood Task Force

Crisis intervention team

ShotSpotter

Homeless Outreach team

Implement of the  Digital Radio System

Creation of the Salvation Army Chaplaincy Program

Body Camera Programs

Social Media

Town Hall Meetings with President Barack Obama and Steve Harvey

Awarded over 1600 medals of heroism

He is the 5th Police Chief since the Harold Brier Days serving longer than any of the previous predecessors behind the badge. And with the announcement of his retirement, Chief Flynn along with the 10 years of policing in Milwaukee, he has accomplished 40 years overall with Law Enforcement.

This is just a few examples of what the Milwaukee Police Department had experienced under the “Ed Flynn Era of Change”. However, there are those in Milwaukee felt that the Chief didn’t do enough to curb the violence of Milwaukee’s concern. There are those whom are going to say that oh, Chief Flynn didn’t do crap because of the corruption of certain cops harassing black people in Milwaukee. It’s a common thing, ask the activist whom are out in the funk everyday. Yes, there were hits and misses. The Chief knows this as do we. Chief Ed Flynn will remain on the desk until February 16th in which he’ll return to the east coast with his family.

Second Dance:  The Mess of H&M.

Oh, let me go in on the first mess of 2018.

This story though, was so crazy. A black child on the UK version of the H&M Website is posed with a green hoodie stating the words: “Coolest Monkey in the Jungle.” We looked at that site and it was lit with hate and unfavorable examples of why racism is not just an American problem, but more of a INTERNATIONAL INCIDENT! As the story also went on, the mother of the boy (whom is black) went on the social media and act is if that it’s nothing. And oh, the words “get over it” was used. When I hear the words “Get Over It” it usually comes from White Folks on Black Folks regarding slavery. Now you have a black woman in a different country telling us black folks who see her son in a hoodie with a coded message telling us to get over it. I mean what year is this again? This maybe 2018 and we just got here on the 18 train, but the fact of the matter is that, the more things change the more things remain the same.  Sorry Millennials: that is everyday life! This is like the house negro and field negro comments that Malcolm X often said. Yeah, we know what he said. The mother said also she wanted the money. Those dollar signs. When that picture again went viral, so did those whom were celebrities like Diddy whom wanted to sign the boy a modeling contract based on this matter. Remember Rachel Dolezal? Me neither. She made a picture that had a different message on it. Other folks redesigned the picture adding two crowns to signify the pride of the young boy being a future king.  Now why I’m talking about this: Why is H&M is distracting us from the real issues of the world and merely our country? When we wake up in the morning, reading the news, social media, and all we talk about the news with distractions! We’ve been distracting by the news for weeks, months, years, era, generations, conflicts, etc. That’s been a problem since day one! Are we surprised by this? Yes and no.  And this mother whom ever she is must realize that one day when another child comes up and puts on a shirt, pants or what ever that has some coded message per say that many will disagree with, they will talk! And again the deep discussions will reignite the reasons why. No matter if you’re in America, the UK, Africa, or ANY COUNTRY that deals with racism every day!

Final Dance on the Card: Being Church Hurt

Last week on the first Friday of the year, I listened to WNOV’s The Forum Program. And the full 3 hours of the program was about those who have been “church hurt”, or being hurt by the church. It was based on the article that some folks read (mainly younger black folks)  about the reasons why they don’t attend church. And I’ll bet it came from those who haven’t been there. It also featured those whom have had history in the church ranging from bishops, ministers, and members whom have those vivid memories but mostly it was NEGATIVE!  As I was listening to the program, it was coming from those who say it was a scam, the black church don’t allow the LGBT no love,  and other negative factors. Oh the issue of money was conversed.

I want those being effect by this “church hurt” thing to hear me out on this. Yes, there are pastors, bishops, deacons, and many other church leaders that did things negatively on the value of money. Yes, it’s true. BUT: don’t assume that it’s all of the Churches! Not all the churches are about MONEY. Not all of the church are about kicking out the LGBT. Not all the Church are about the erasing the thought of supporting young folks. Not all churches are about hating on someone who is in need of coming in to keep warm from the freezing cold! Not all CHURCHES are the same! WAKE UP! If that were the case, I wouldn’t be in church now! I’m sorry you’ve been hurt. Church hurt. But many of you members who haven’t been to any the services in a minute, and you’re complaining, why haven’t you come forward? Ok, maybe you have been working. Raising families. Taking care of a senior person. Or sat out and did nothing. And you complain. If you complain and not attended the service, you need to go! If you are on the membership roll that haven’t been at the services, meetings, events, activities or there special outings to support or donate, then you need to retool and revise your membership! Hate to say that.

Don’t always assume that the church is ALL evil. What is evil is being put or driven by those who spoil the bunch. That is EVIL! Hell, I wouldn’t stepped into a 4th Generation family tradition that I wouldn’t be able to work, earn scholarships, utilized groups (both men and women), photograph archives, record sermons and still raised almost 28 years later! That’s right, this June will be my Church Anniversary of coming in as a full member through conformation class.  That’s a joy.  And that’s positive. And the Church NEEDS MORE POSITIVE OUTLOOKS! Not just hearing the music or the sermons. And also the biggest issue that many have against the church besides the money and pastor, is when we get done hearing the sermons, we go out to eat to Red Lobster or a local restaurant. Church folks got to eat too! There are 168 hours in week. The Average hours on a Sunday morning Worship Service is like what, 2 hours? So in those two hours of Church, we go to the restaurant and chow down for about 1 hour or so. And we go home. BUT THE WORSHIP WORK in the week goes on. It goes on at your job. Your community centers. Your Activities of recreation, homes, the elderly, Your Sorority, Fraternity, Veterans Groups, Peace Groups, Activism, Alumni Associations, etc. Even when you help folks to Vote! That is your Worship Work in the continuation of the Church! Think about that. If many more folks in Milwaukee who were listening to that broadcast would actually get it, they would actually get it. I know some understand.

I say this mainly to Milwaukee. After all, it was a Milwaukee Black Radio broadcast of WNOV that commented on this. We know what the host said. We know what the guests said. And we know that. But look here: it’s not perfect. Many of you go to clubs on Saturday Night, partying in all. Being catered. Which is nothing wrong at all. But also, like the church at times, there are members of the clubs whom can be hypocritical of the DJ, the clothes, the set up, the bar, the drinks, the food, the parking, and the security. Just like your jobs, groups and etc.

You don’t hear me!

We’re trying. We know it’s hard. After all, being a Christian or a every Sunday church person is not just happenstance. It’s a hard job. Period. But with God’s grace, we’re up for the challenge.

Amen.

 

 

 

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

So here we are.

Happy New Year!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ITS GO TIME!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Next Five I don’t want to see:

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

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

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

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

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

Five More things I want to see:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Happy New Year!

Be Thankful: the 2017 and 10th Anniversary!

Everyone knows how this goes. And it’s real simple. No need to link or google or even #Hashtag. Today, many around the country and in 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.

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.

But this holiday, yes does have the two words of Be Thankful of the things and ideas we already have. So here in it’s 10th 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 job that is good for you and it pays well, be thankful.

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

If you have good insurance, be thankful.

If you have a good car or truck that gets you to work everyday, be thankful.

If you have an idea or a lead to get a good doctor, but 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!

If you have a cool dentist, be thankful.

If you have lost any loved one this year, 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. Hard, but we must. I still miss my father, and 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 2018 and will be getting it, be thankful!

Love your gifts and talents that are unappreciated? And still do them? 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, who is being taken care of, and heard good news about coming home, and I know this: BE THANKFUL!

Got good neighbors that know you? Be thankful.

Met new neighbors? Be thankful.

Moved to a different city 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 want your Church to succeed despite of those want it to fail due to jealously, 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, be thankful!

Single and not in a relationship? Be thankful.

If you tried to do a summer program this year and it didn’t go well. But you tried it, be thankful.

Married with or without kids? Be thankful.

Single and no kids? Be thankful.

Single with kids? Be Thankful.

Divorced? Be thankful.

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, be thankful.

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

If you 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 a Election Inspector (like me) for 10 years or more and still work, 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 to your meal that gives you life, be thankful.

Still avoiding fake news? Be thankful.

If you read my old blogs that I can’t control of 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.

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

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

If you switched your career to a new company in the past year, or will go to a new company, 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 2018, be thankful!

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!

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 done 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 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: 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. 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.

If you are walking tall real good, 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 thankful to get your voice heard! Put the pressure on them on not coming back.

If you are upgrading your house, 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, be thankful!

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

If you are a conscious-minded person, a defensive-minded person that you know is best, for your own opinions, be thankful!

For my Sagittarius readers: guess what? Our season is back. Are we thankful? (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

My Take on Hurricane Harvey and also it’s time to stop believing the hype about Joel Osteen’s Church not being open during the disaster.

For all of my readers in Houston: Stay strong. We know what’s going on with the situtation with Hurricane Harvey. I know many of you had lost homes, or couldn’t recover things that were damaged or irreplacable. We all know. If that were to happen in Milwaukee, you would do the same for us. So Houston: as well as my family folks in Texas, we will keep you in prayer and thoughts as you recover from the Hurricane. As I said the night of my father’s wake: Stay in the fight!

Now: I’m going to shift gears here and talk about false prophets and false info that can be a contagious bug. (dont’ worry I’ll talk about Michael The Black Man next) Yesterday as we were reading about the Hurricane in Texas, and seeing all the flooding that has plagued the city of Houston and the surrounding areas. Yes we manily had that reactionary thought about “Oh we need to pray for our folks in Houston…” And like many of you, I got relatives and friends in Texas that are residing in the state now. Mostly from Milwaukee. And yes, they are happy that they found something or somewhere to live. That’s them. But as I was reading about the Lakewood Church in Houston, many had to go in about Joel Osteen and this story about his church not opening up, all about the money, he don’t care about your feelings and many of the “myths” that many had to bring up about his situtaion and his church. Oh, and lumping all the Churches and Christians in a big lump of being hyprocites, and well: stuck up. That same story over and over again on Social Media that had folks all in this uproar. Now for all of the Joel Osteen fans outhere, I ‘m not a fan nor a follower of Joel Osteen. Never have been. Not willing to try. Never bought his books, his website downloads, never watched his tele-evagelist stuff on TV. By the way I’m not a fan of Televangaelist anyway.

While all this story about his church was being flooded or somewhat wet, many had to call him a liar, and pupit pimp or many other names I can’t even say here. But many of us who don’t live in Houston or never paid attention to his material, WE DONT KNOW SH*T. We don’t! Many of us had to lay claim that he is just like many other the preachers who get infront of the congregations every Sunday to preach the word, are thinking all about the money after being collected in the plates and taking it to the banks.

Well to all of my non-believers in Christ: What else do you know? I can wait.

In an updated story that Joel Osteen stated that he never closed his doors. And did state that his church will be open for those who need a place to recover. So when I read that statement, I had to ask where all this overreaction came from, especially from those who are NON-BELIEVERS who are not so very informative when it comes to stories of being heard from other people that they assume it’s true. People let’s cut the BS right now! For all of the non-belivers who think that all churches and pastors are in this lump pot of hypocrites: stop it.  Not many of us who are church weekly attendees are like that. Many of you know us way back since sunday school and choir practice that were positive folks. And many of us still have that today. So why are YOU worried about the church opening doors that you haven’t tried since you left?! And futhermore, your connections at the clubs or joints that you spend on Saturday nights and you know who they are, what are they doing? Are they helping? It’s kind of funny many talk smack about Church but actually mentions them when disaster strikes.

 

SPEAKIING OF THAT: UMCOR. Heard of that? That stands for United Methodist Church on Relief. And this is part of my demonation at work. When I said disaster strikes, this organization doesn’t just preach the word, they act on it! No matter if it’s dealing wtih damages of Earthquakes, flooding, Hurricanes, Tornados or any other disaster. They are on it to support from loading supplies to grants.  They have been in business since 1940 and still helping out.  Many of the volunteers (according to the video) are UMC Members, UMC Personal Staff,  UMC Connections and etc. They also understand that the proceess of recovery takes time. And UMCOR is still with the folks that are still with the folks with needs. So technically they are still in the game and not leaving the bench. UMCOR is the real deal. And I should say this is what we, in the United Methodist are called to do. We can also Rethink Church to make us relevant, but this by no means is not just about rethinking, but redoing what we’ve were assigned and called to do.

So with that being said: for all you non-believers who think that all churches or church connections don’t do enough or all about the money to the bank, or with us going out after eat after worship an all that: let me sink this in.

There are those who PLAY church and there are those who DO church.

And part of the assumption of the hyprocrites that plagues with the Christians or false teachings does NOT APPLY TO ALL. You know what else is considered false teachings: anyone can do this. Even you non-church folks do this everyday on Social Media – False Stories. False information! Yeah you do it too! And even at times journalists can be corrected too.

Whether you like or hate Joel Osteen or any other Minister, Bishop, Apostle, or whatever, even a Church Secretary like me, if you hear some false info about whatever you read everyday and you believe that source is credited properly, I ask this: what did the main person say? What did the main person say in all this? I don’t want to read about what some conscious person thinks online WITHOUT CREDIBILITY! Folks if you want to read the real shiznit, read the real SHIZNIT. Post that with credibility! Don’t always assume the obvious that oh…..that’s what they said. Who is “the they?” The so-called HOTEPS?! I have to say that they too can spread some false info too! Let that sink in! And many of you follow the acts of per se of folks were or are afraid to hear about God’s Work at Work. But when disaster strikes, folks run to the church for help. And you just criticized them for being false prophets from the pulpit getting all that money! If I went to you for help and I’m a good dude that does good work, would you do it?

Pray for Houston folks. And at the same time, give yourself a prayer because you just never know.

And for those who want to help Houston in a UMCOR sense, here is their website on how you can donate or contribute.

 

Scratching my head all this time. In Black History Month 2017.

I did this last year in Black History Month. And it’s back again. So yep, it’s time to scratch the noggin and actually boil the questions. Oh yes, we know we’re in the era of that dude named Trump, and many of us might loose our minds. So now I ask, what’s next for the future of Black History Month? And many of us have been spoiled that it’s supposed to be everyday, but hardly: we black folks DON’T acknowledge our history EVERYDAY! WE DON’T. Yeah, we can do this after March and get all charged up, but might ask where was the energy during February? Hmm……It’s the same ole thing we encounter every time.

Are we still believing this statement? Be honest.

Why are those saying that it’s “National African-American History Month”, than “Black History Month?” Black History Month is now global, not just for the United States.

Is the whole thing about the 45th President saying that the word “black” is outdated true? Last I checked: BLACK is BLACK!

Someone stop me: when we black folks say we celebrate our people everyday or I’m black everyday, are we meaning this or just saying to get the monkeys off the back? Just be honest!

Someone stop me again: are we really teaching our children more about black history everyday? Be honest.

I asked this last year many times: Have you missed Obama?

Is Donald Trump really supporting black folks? Or should I say, those whom are on his side are black?

When was the last time that many took their kids to see a tomb of a famous African-American Figure than to see a  pair of Air Jordans at the mall?

When was the last time that many saw a famous African-American figure that was still dropping knowledge and took the kids?

How many more of the New England Patriots whom are black will not attend the White House?

Dang MSNBC! Why did you kicked off Tamron Hall?!

Is it just me, or is America wants to be driven by those in office whom do not have experience or just being dumb?

You do know that 2017 is a voting year, right?

Is the black media still on point?

I’m surprised that many in America didn’t know who James White was after the Patriots won the Super Bowl. Um, did anyone checked the Wisconsin Badgers for Reference?

How hard will “The Quad” on BET will go?

Is it just me, or what has gotten into BET with the added cussing in movies?

Had everyone seen Hidden Figures? Not Hidden Colors. HIDDEN FIGURES!

Should AFROPUNK make a Milwaukee Visit? Take my money.

When will President Obama release his memoir? If that happens TAKE MY MONEY!

Black Businesses: are you holding up well?

Was Maxwell out of bounds for his remarks about including whites for Black History Month?

Did The New Edition Story on BET really sparked new ideas for biopics?

Should all of the black Alumni of High Schools or Colleges rock dashikis for Black History Month? Primarily with the school colors we know?

Who still reads books? Mainly African-American Novels?

For my Black Introverts, are we good? Are we are still holding up to resist?

This year in Music Anniversaries: 30 years of Jody Watley’s Real Love, Whitney Houston’s I wanna dance with somebody under the self titled Album, Whitney. Kool Moe Dee’s How You Like Me Now made the cut, NWA and the Posse made it’s debut by the group itself. Even Michael Jackson’s Bad was good.

25 years of R.Kelly & The Public Announcement’s She’s Got That Vibe and Honey Love. Sir Mix-A-Lot’s Baby Got Back. EnVogue’s Funky Divas of Free Your Mind, Giving Him Something He Can Feel, My Lovin’and Give it up Turn it loose. Mary J. Blige’s What the 411? Whitney Houston and The Bodyguard Soundtrack.  Boyz II Men (ALL FOUR OF THEM) serenade the women with the single, End of the Road. Also, Prince with the Love Symbol Album premiered,  and Bobby Brown had the joint Bobby out with Humpin’ Around as a hot single. Just to name a few.

20 years of Missy Elliott’s Supa Dupa Fly, Puff Daddy and Family’s No Way Out, Aaliyah had The One I gave my heart to and Hot Like Fire, Timbaland/Magoo debuted Welcome to our World, Will Smith was back with Big Willie Style, The Notorious BIG’s last album before his death: Life after Death, and Michael Jackson had the album out called “Blood on the Dance Floor.” Just to name a few.

15 years ago: Ashanti and Tweet both debuted with their albums, Musiq Soulchild had “Juslisen”, Meshell Ndegeocello had the album, Cookie: The Anthropological Mixtape.  Plus Donell Jones had the joint Life Goes On, Will Smith was Born to Reign, Nelly had the joint Nellyville, Sean Paul had the Dutty Rock thing going, LL Cool J: 10,  Deborah Cox (one of my favorite black Canadian exports) had the album out called The Morning After, and Missy Elliott took us back in time with old school hip hop beats in Under Construction. Just to name a few.

And  10 years of Angie Stone’s The Art of War. Plus Timbaland took us a Shock Value favor with Keri Hilson singing hooks. What music are you celebrating….IN BLACK HISTORY MONTH?

This year in Movie Anniversaries: 10 years of I am Legend, Why Did I Get Married? and Black Snake Moan. 20 years of Men in Black, Soul Food, and Amistad. 25 years of Class Act, Mo’ Money, Bebe’s Kids, Diggstown, Malcolm X, and Trespass. 30 years of Beverly Hills Cop II, Leonard Part 6, Sign ‘o’ The Times, and Shaka Zulu.  What flicks are you celebrating….IN BLACK HISTORY MONTH?

This year in TV Shows that are Anniversary material: Martin. 25 years since WZUP, Martin Love the kids, get the steppin’, and many of the quotes that we know it like that. Also, Living Single debuted in the same year also of 1992. Plus, The Cosby Show ended the 8 year reign the same year.  Easy question: What shows are you celebrating in Black History Month?

Is Tyler Perry’s The Haves and The Have Nots show still rolling with new ideas?

Will TVONE continue to roll hard with shows and news?

We keep talking about the firsts in Black History. Who’s next?

I’m not easily fooled by the phrases, Black Future Month, or Black Conscious Month. Nope. Wanna know why?

I’m not easily fooled by this notion of blacks not referencing the ideals that Africans were sold by their own and America ate up the idea of slavery commodity. Wanna know why? (Hint: Part of it is the truth whether we like it or not.)

When will all schools acknowledge Black History? Not just in the cities.

When all those who hate the idea of Black History Month actually stop hating?!

When will all those who don’t like the thought of having a Black History Month actually read what Dr. Carter Woodson wrote about the miseducation portion of us not knowing our history?

And yet again, how will all of this be worthy for our children, especially our black children that need to know this? Not just in school, but in the homes, and certainly in other areas like the church and community centers?

I learned black history in the house, school, and church!

So, Happy Black History Month! or #HapppyBHM2017 whatever many prefer.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

Oh did you see the TV?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

And also: Educated!

 

 

 

Scratching my head all this time: The Barack Obama edition

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

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

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

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

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

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

They say that Obama was a socialist. REALLY?!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Did Black Entertainment really rocked when Obama was in office?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2017: What do I want to see and don’t want to see!

So here we are.

Happy New Year!

Welcome to the blog story that is traditional.

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

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

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

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

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

So guess what: you want Stephen’s Spot? I’ve give you Stephen’s Spot!

So for now: let’s start my New Year’s Tradition of Stephen’s Spot that doesn’t need a repeat: What do want to see and not want to see in 2017! 17 things by the way.

First Five I want to see in THAT YEAR OF 2017:

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

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

3) 2017 means that the New Congress will take over. If any of the new members screw up, get on their case!

4) You know that 2017 is a voting year. Oh you didn’t know this? Pay attention! It’s not the presidential election, but maybe some of your county judges or school folks will be running on the ballot. Do better!

5) Speaking of the voting thing, this would be a time to get your voter registration checked and/or updated to get ready for the 2017 election.  I want to see this happen even more. Plus in the future like all these health months, why can’t we have a Voter Awareness Month?

Next Five I don’t want to see:

6) I don’t want to see no one complaining about the lack of this or that in the church. If you don’t have a certain something going in your church then make something happen!

7) I don’t want to see black folks putting other black folks down. No matter what happens we must continue to look in the mirror and raise up. Jobs, contributions, etc.

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

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

10) I don’t want to see those who didn’t vote gloat. After all, most you don’t like Donald Trump after he won, well guess what: Elections have Consequences.

Five More things I want to see:

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

12) I want see the results of us doing the work. Not just the partial results of patting on the back and say nice work. But also what did it took to get the results needed. And if your employer is celebrating a milestone of service (10, 20, etc), give him or her the due of respect. It’s the right thing to do.

13) I want us non scared and scared grown folks in the Black Church Groups to talk to our youth. Seriously talk to them. Some of them need us to come to them. I don’t care if they are in the schools shooting basketballs or at the community centers playing Madden. Or double dutching or learning a praise dance. Even tutoring!

14) I want to see more black folks in the communities whom think there is nothing there to do,  start something! Stop complaining!

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

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

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

17) Get lucky! Get lucky in all there is. We know what we need to do, and what to do this year. So why not get involved! And the time is right now!

Happy New Year!