COMMUNITY VOL. XXXIX Number 33 March 11, 2015
The Milwaukee
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Reflecting on the 50th Anniversary of “Bloody Sunday”
President Barack Obama, fourth from left, walks holding hands with Amelia Boynton Robinson, who was beaten during "Bloody Sunday," as they and the first family and others including Rep. John Lewis, D-Ga, left of Obama, walk across the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Ala,. for the 50th anniversary of the landmark event of the civil rights movement, Saturday, March 7, 2015. At far left is Sasha Obama and at far right is former first lady Laura Bush. Adelaide Sanford also sits in a wheelchair. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin) The 50th Anniversary March across the Edmund Pettus Bridge, over the weekend, brought back many memories. As one who witnessed the original marches, these videos are vivid reflections of a tragically divisive time in our history. The right to vote, to purchase in any neighborhood, to attend the schools in your neighborhood, or the college of your choice, were not givens...as they are today. And while 50 years seems a long time, it is a continuing flicker in the history of our country. Regrettably these travesties to living the precepts of the Constitution, are often under attack in many communities, these fights for equality, under the laws, continue. People often say, by now there is no excuse, but be born into poverty, with all of the ravages including disproportionately single-parented families, or families who have never been able to vacate impoverished neighbor-
MCJ COMMENTARY By Patricia O’Flynn Pattillo, MCJ Publisher
hoods, or images and expectations for youth reverberate “at risk” instead of promote “yes you can”. And health disparities often entrenched by historical/cultural choices, yet compounded by the need to teach another way, or a better way, and distanced groceries with fresh produce, we knew when we were in rural settings. Add mental health issues like safety, stress, abuse, physical, verbal and sexual, alcoholism and drug addictions, to the point that children take care of parents; and WE have to take another look introspectively. We are the change we must implement.
One cannot deny legislated opportunities, or the many changes made in the original legislation, albeit the historic right to vote that continues to be under attack, requiring State Supreme Count rulings, in the last two Presidential elections. In states determined to suppress the voting outcomes, people still march. Wisconsin experienced this recently. Lest we forget. WE HAVE TO VOTE...others died for it. Consider, also, extremely difficult upward mobility, including wage suppression from employment unavailability and unlivable low-wages. Too many families work
Our Glorious Past!
Introducing Dr. Ramel Smith, “The Blaquesmith”! MEN MEN EMPOWERING MEN MEN
Dr. Ramel Smith
The Introduction Family, I greet you in the name of the creator with infinite intelligence. I stand tall, but humbled, on the shoulders of our ancestors. It is my prayer that the strength and wisdom from our ancestors of yesteryear and yesterday will pour through my spirit and bless the words I write. It is my prayer that these words will encourage, inspire, motivate, and even anger; but, produce an anger that will lead to positive and productive action. Far too many times, we are angered; but, let it slowly dissolve and return to our normal lives. Far too often, we are angered; but, direct that venom and violence toward members of our own community—and even more sadly, ourselves. The call has been made before for our community to
PULSE OF THE COMMUNITY Photos and question by Yvonne Kemp
LATRISA GILES: “It is very important for Black men and women to work together so that we can pose excellent role models to our youth, showing them how powerful our impact can be when we work together!”
unite. Why is this time different? It is not different, but our lack of action in the past has only allowed the condition to worsen. We must put our differences aside to focus on the grand picture. It is true, our community is not a monolithic group. There is great heterogeneity inside of our community as we are comprised of people with a plethora of ideologies, a myriad of military strategies and multiple forms of intelligences. This has been used to divide us in the past, but our differences are our greatest asset. What if we could galvanize and combine these economic, educational, intellectual and physical resources and employ them for the common good. Sadly, we see some of our allies as our enemies.
My loved ones, let me submit this for your consideration: enemies can be civil. Even more, enemies have forged powerful alliances when their survival demanded the unlikely partnership. Family, do we now look upon our brothers and sisters as the enemy? Has the social engineering of those cruel captors of our African ancestors coupled with the propaganda of the current media that continues to overtly and covertly confuse, neutralize and intoxicate our community, finally won? The longer we procrastinate to unify, the more difficult it becomes for us to have collective success. Can we not unite for the benefit of our children? Our children are the true gift, the true prize. And We, repeatedly, continue to (continued on page 2)
QUESTION OF THE WEEK: “During a recent luncheon meeting held by the Wisconsin Black Chamber of Commerce, we asked for participants: “How important is it for Black men and women to work together to build our community economically?”
SHANYEILL MCCLOUD: “It is important for Black men and Black women to get along because we HAVE TO encourage each other. Only we can build/destroy our families and communities. After all, we are all we got, and all we need.”
DENISE HOLMES: “It’s important for our Black men and women to be examples to the youth in the community; to let our Black youth know they can be leaders.”
BRENDA HANSKNECHT: “It is very important for Black men and women to work together to build our community, because it will take men and women in our community to build neighborhoods; from which comes boys and girls who will eventually grow up to become men and women. Structure in the community builds solid foundations, which helps make the community economically strong.”
two low-paying jobs and yet remain under the federal poverty guidelines. How do these families quickly rise to the middle class rung of opportunity. When there were heavy manufacturing jobs in Milwaukee, many poor, rural families were able to mount these ladders; some of current leadership are examples of that ascendency. Today, those numbers are comparatively reduced as new issues add to the slow, grinding ascent, including contacts with the criminal justice system. One could only cheer as we watched the President and first family, walk arm in arm, as did Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and hundreds of like-minded supporters on that historic Bloody Sunday remembrance; Congressman John Lewis, among them. We were filled with pride and praise. His election and re-election sent a resounding message to America and the world. Yet, his presidency (continued on page 5)
Madison police response to shooting contrasts with Ferguson By Todd Richmond, courtesy of the Associated Press
Tony Robinson
MADISON (AP) — Within hours of a white officer shooting an unarmed black man, the police chief of Wisconsin’s capital city was praying with the man’s grandmother, hoping to strike a conciliatory tone and avoid the riots that last year rocked Ferguson, Missouri.
Chief Mike Koval said he knows Madison is being watched across the nation since 19-year-old Tony Robinson’s death Friday evening, and he has gone out of his way to avoid what he once called Ferguson’s “missteps.” “Folks are angry, resentful, mistrustful, disappointed, shocked, chagrined. I get that,” Koval said Saturday. “People need to tell me squarely how upset they are with the Madison Police Department.” The contrasts with Ferguson are many. While Ferguson police initially gave little information about the
“The contrasts with Ferguson are many. While Ferguson police initially gave little information about the shooting of Michael Brown, an 18-year-old, unarmed black man, Koval rushed to the home of Robinson’s mother. She didn’t want to meet with him, he said, but he talked and prayed with Robinson’s grandmother in the driveway for 45 minutes.It took a week for Ferguson to release the name of the officer who shot Brown. Koval announced the name of the officer involved in Madison, Matt Kenny, the day after the shooting. He volunteered to reporters that the officer had been in a previous fatal shooting in 2007, and that he had been cleared of wrongdoing.”
shooting of Michael Brown, an 18year-old, unarmed black man, Koval rushed to the home of Robinson’s mother. She didn’t want to meet with him, he said, but he talked and prayed with Robinson’s grandmother in the driveway for 45 minutes. It took a week for Ferguson to release the name of the officer who shot Brown. Koval announced the name of the officer involved in Madison, Matt Kenny, the day after the shooting. He volunteered to reporters that the officer had been in a previous fatal shooting in 2007, and that he had been cleared of wrongdoing. On the day that Ferguson police named the officer who shot Brown,
(continued on page 2)
Men Empowering Men
Our Glorious Past
The Milwaukee Community Journal March 11, 2015 Page 2 (continued from page 1)
fail them. Let us put our eyes back on the prize. Let us consider our failures and correct them. Let us illuminate our successes and replicate them on a larger scale. Let us go back to the way of the Masai society, where they greet each other in the words “Kasserian Ingera,” which translates: “How are the children?” The late rapper Tupac, stated clearly “if there ain’t no hope for the youth, then there ain’t no hope for the future.” From a psychological standpoint, when depression is chronic, hope vanishes and we witness aberrant behavior that is self-destructive. To stop that, we need to create hope. This is not done through blaming others inside and outside our community. Family, if this was easy, it would have already been done. So, we must be willing to sacrifice some of the conveniences that the blood, sweat and tears of our ancestors have provided for you. We must be willing to sacrifice our time, talent, treasure until it hurts. If we are not willing to deliver the ultimate sacrifice of our life for the struggle and for our children, then the injustices we witness will continue and worsen. If we do nothing, how can we be surprised or complain? Like Joseph who was sold into slavery by his brothers and falsely imprisoned by his socalled master; but he remained faithful and arose to claim a place of prominence and helped to save the kingdom. We are the modern day Joseph. We must remain steadfast and faithful. We must not sit down cause we ain’t walking up no crystal stairs. --Selah. Ashe The BLAQUESMITH
Madison police response to shooting contrasts with Ferguson
(continued from page 1) they also released video showing what they said was Brown robbing a store. When Koval was asked about Robinson’s past criminal record Saturday, he declined to comment, saying it would be inappropriate to do so a day after the man died. “We have a police chief who genuinely feels for a family’s loss. It should be abundantly clear to anyone following this incident that Madison, Wisconsin, is not Ferguson, Missouri,” said Jim Palmer, executive director of the Wisconsin Professional Police Association, the state’s largest police union. But the chief’s measured approach hasn’t impressed some demonstrators. Koval angered some of them earlier this year with a blog post demanding they stop blaming police for their problems. “There are no apologies that can repair the loss or deal with the loss of (Robinson),” said Brandi Grayson, an organizer with Young, Gifted and Black, a Madison group that has demonstrated against what it says is mistreatment of blacks by the justice system. “This was bound to happen. There’s nothing the chief can say short of changing the system.”
By Dr. Ramel Smith, AKA “The Blaquesmith It was the Greek philosopher, Socrates, who is credited as the architect of the quote “Know Thyself.” It is paramount for every sentient being to have an understanding of self. It is only when we know who we are, that we can begin to understand our life’s meaning and mission. Ironically, this quote from Socrates was originally coined by Imhotep. When great philosophers from times of antiquity are mentioned, rarely is anyone of African descent acknowledged. Imhotep was not only a philosopher, but the world’s first architect, doctor, and astrologer. His list of accomplishments and titles are much more extensive, he was the quintessential Renaissance man. Then why is his contributions to the world barely acknowledged by the annals of history? Why is his very existence reduced to mythical status? The answer is simple: history is written by the winners; and, then re-written by the next conquerors to show them-
selves as foundational architects of knowledge and wisdom. Carter G. Woodson understood the importance of the contributions of those from African descent and the need for their posterity to keep the tradition rich history alive. Woodson went on to create a recognition week that has evolved into Black History Month. Malcolm X stated “Our history and our culture were completely destroyed when we were forcibly brought to America in chains. And now it is important for us to know that our history did not begin with slavery.” It is important for our children, and many of our adults, to recognize the glorious past that comes from the mother continent of Africa. Not just the Pharaoh’s of Egypt, but the other Kings, Queens, Sultans and Rulers from territories today recognized as Ghana, Ethiopia, the Congo, and Zimbabwe and the great Zulu nation. The great warrior and general, Shaka Zulu, lived and reigned in the age of the transatlantic Slave trade. Our ancestors were never slaves. Our ancestors were kidnapped and trafficked to a far-away land where they and their descendants were held captives for centuries. Never be confused, don’t get it twisted—we come from a line of royalty.
People march Sunday, March 8, in Madison, Wis., following the shooting death of Tony Robinson. Robinson, a 19-year-old black man, died Friday night after being shot by a police officer in an apartment during a confrontation. (AP Photo/Andy Manis)
No one answered the door at Robinson’s mother’s home on Sunday. A reporter left a note in the door asking her to contact The Associated Press but she had not done so as of late Sunday afternoon. Robinson died Friday night after Kenny shot him in an apartment during a confrontation. Kenny had responded to a call of a man jumping in and out of traffic. Kenny forced his way into the apartment after hearing what Koval described as a “disturbance.” The state Justice Department’s Division of Criminal Investigation has taken over the investigation under a new state law passed last year that requires an outside agency
to lead probes of officer-involved shootings. DOJ spokeswoman Anne Schwartz declined to comment on Sunday. The shooting comes against a backdrop of multiple instances of white police officers killing unarmed black men around the country over the last year. The highestprofile incident was the death of Brown in Ferguson last August. Days of violence ensued, marked by looting, fires, police firing tear gas into a crowd and officers pointing weapons at demonstrators. Another round of riots broke out in November after a grand jury chose not to indict the officer who shot Brown, Darren Wilson. Last week the
And, it is just as important that we understand that all of our ancestors were not Kings and Queens. Not everyone is built to be a King; but, we are all built to be leaders in our own right that can exhibit compassion, intelligence and strength. We have the biographies of heroes like Kunta Kinte (Roots) and Aminata (The Book of Negroes). These individuals exhibited a quiet strength that could not be broken by the bitter pangs of separation from their people, land, religion, language, name and freedom. When we learn who we are, we will take pride in our ancestors and our rich history, and more importantly, begin to exhibit those characteristics and qualities that will help the entirety of our community-rather than just a select few. Our glorious past cannot be fully covered in a simple page. Our glorious past may never be fully recovered; but, we must search for the remaining truth and have the strength to build a new history for the generations of tomorrow. My loved ones, we must resurrect the spirit of community and family from our ancestors. We must resurrect the spirit of love and protection for our community. (continued on page 5)
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U.S. Justice Department declined to charge Wilson with civil rights violations but issued a scathing report accusing the Ferguson police department of racism and using policing to fund the city’s budget. Koval, who is white, took over as Madison’s chief in April, replacing retiring black Chief Noble Wray. In September he told the Wisconsin State Journal he believed his department could deal with a racially charged shooting better than Ferguson, saying his agency is more diverse and more invested in the community than Ferguson’s “rent-a-cops.” “I see in Ferguson a series of missteps and miscues where they’re always reacting and, in fact, over-reacting to every set of facts that is thrown in their midst, frankly,” Koval said in the interview. Two months ago, Koval wrote a blog post criticizing Young, Black and Gifted for blaming his officers for “everything from male pattern baldness to global warming.” The entry came in response to the group staging protests over officer-involved deaths during rush-hour traffic, demanding jail officials release 350 black inmates and imploring police to stay out of black neighborhoods. Koval tried to be diplomatic when asked about the post on Saturday, saying he and the group have agreed to disagree on policing black neighborhoods. Grayson said Koval has had plenty of time to prepare for a racially charged shooting after watching what unfolded in Ferguson. “He had a perfect response — perfect for white people,” she said. Associated Press writer Jeff Baenen in Minneapolis contributed to this report.
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PERSPECTIVES
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QUOTE OF THE WEEK: “There are places, and moments in America where this nation’s
destiny has been decided. Many are sites of war – Concord and Lexington, Appomattox and Gettysburg. Others are sites that symbolize the daring of America’s character – Independence Hall and Seneca Falls, Kitty Hawk and Cape Canaveral. SELMA IS
GUEST COMMENTARY Urban Renewal is about Urban Removal
The future of MPS, its students, and community
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The Milwaukee Community Journal March 11, 2015 Page 3
By MPS Board Pres. Michael Bonds
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With a new legislative session underway, lawmakers have proposed bringing education reform ideas to Milwaukee. Many of the proposed ideas strongly resemble reform efforts that have deeply impacted public schools in New Orleans over the course of the past decade. -Specifically, the concept of a recovery or turnaround district within the city of Milwaukee brings to mind Louisiana’s Recovery School District (RSD) and its wide-reaching implications on the public Dr. Michael Bonds school district in New Orleans. The Milwaukee Board of School Directors ” has invited three experts who have lived through and researched the reforms in New Orleans to visit Milwaukee. They will present free workshops and participate in ga panel discussion to share with the Milwaukee community their experiences and how rsimilar proposed legislation in Wisconsin could impact our classrooms and neighbor-hoods. Among the experiences and research they will share are ideas around parent advocacy, access to education, and urban space economy as they relate to recovery district models. r The three featured experts are: · Dr. Kristen Buras, who is an Associate Professor in the Department of Educational Policy Studies at Georgia State University in Atlanta. She is considered a leading expert on urban charter schools, has studied education reform in New Orleans for the past decade, and has been active around issues of racial and economic inequity in the ecity’s public education system for more than two decades; - · Mrs. Karran Harper-Royal, who works as an education advocate in New Orleans. She is a member of the New Orleans Education Equity Roundtable and the Coalition -for Community Schools, which is a member of the national Journey for Justice Alliance; and s · Dr. Raynard Sanders, who has over thirty-five years of experience in teaching, educational administration, and economic and community development. Most recently, his work has been around educational equity, providing consulting services to numerous school districts and community groups across the country. I invite you to hear from the New Orleans experts firsthand. Workshops on The Power of Parent Advocacy, Equity and Access, and Race and Urban Space are set for Thursday, March 26, at 4:30 p.m. at MPS’s Milwaukee High School of the Arts, 2300 W. Highland Avenue, Milwaukee 53233. The experts will also participate in a community-wide panel discussion on Friday, March 27, at 6 p.m. at Parklawn Assembly of God, 3725 N. Sherman Boulevard, Milwaukee 53216. Both events are free and open to the public. For more information, contact (414) 475-8284 or visit mpsmke.com/supportmps. I encourage you to join us in this important discussion regarding the future of public education in Milwaukee.
SIGNIFYIN’ TO RETURN NEXT WEEK!
Good news for MCJ readers and fans of Signifyin’! Associate Publisher and columnist Mikel Holt will return next week with his first Signifyin’ in several months! He will be giving Mikel Holt his unique take on the recent 50th Anniversary celebration of “Bloody Sunday,” the Selma Civil Rights March of 1965!
THE MILWAUKEE COMMUNITY JOURNAL Published twice weekly, Wednesday & Friday
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Phone: 414-265-5300 (Advertising and Administration) • 414-265-6647 (Editorial) • Website: communityjournal.net • Email: Editorial@communityjournal.net/Advertising@communityjournal.net MCJ STAFF: Patricia O’Flynn -Pattillo Publisher, CEO Robert J. Thomas Assoc. Publisher Todd Thomas, Vice Pres. Mikel Holt, Assoc. Publisher Thomas E. Mitchell, Jr., Editor Teretha Martin, Technical Consultant/Webmaster Billing Dept./Publisher’s Admin. Assist.
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Opinion and comments expressed on the Perspectives page do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or management of the MCJ. Letters and “other perspectives” are accepted but may be edited for content and length.
SUCH A PLACE.”--President Barack Obama during the 50th An-
niversary ceremonies in Selma, Alabama to commemorate “Bloody Sunday.”
Where you start matters! For the Black community in America the economic start has been so disproportionate and bankrupting that so called “ghettos” and the Black community go hand-in-hand. This has created an accepted stigma of inferiority about Black people and Black neighborhoods. Let’s do the math. During slavery, the majority of Blacks lived in inferior and dilapidated housing settlements on plantations except those that lived in the slave owner’s house. These living and working conditions, coupled with the type of food that Blacks were allowed to eat, were absolutely inhumane and unbearable - this was the lifestyle that Black children, men, women, and families were accustomed to for generation after generation. Slavery was such a harsh and terrible way of life for Black people - their sole purpose for existence was production. Their duties were raising, planting and cultivation of crops, clearing land, burning underbrush, rolling logs, splitting rails, carrying water, mending fences, spreading fertilizer, and breaking soil. Working from sunrise to sunset was merely and analogy for slave labor, they often worked before sunrise and considerably past sunset. The daily routine included caring for the house, the yard and gardens, cooking meals, caring for the children of their slave owner and droving carriages. Housing for Black people was an unintended consequence and expense for the slave owners. Restated, the only concern for housing for Blacks existed so that during the harsh winters, they didn’t lose too many slaves – very little went into housing for slaves. Housing for Blacks varied from plantation to plantation but most slave quarters were generally arranged in avenues or streets and located behind the mansion or ‘Big House.’ They were strategically placed to give the owner or overseer a clear view of the slaves, so their activities could be easily monitored. Typically, slave housing consisted of hand-hewn one-room log cabins
measuring 20 by 20 square feet with brick end chimneys. Some cabins were 18 by 36 square feet. Each cabin had log flooring and sometimes a loft where children slept. Each cabin housed an average of 8-10 individuals. This all took place while Blacks lived on extremely wealthy plantations but stayed in uninhabitable housing. What was the psychological impact on Blacks to live in squalor while the White plantation owner lived in absolute wealth and luxury only a few yards away? White slave owners lived in beautiful homes and stable neighborhoods and held immense wealth as the result of slavery and they lived a billion times better than Blacks (this was the first “ghettos”). After emancipation in the early 1860’s, Blacks transitioned from the plantations to similar housing and neighborhoods – new ghettos. This is the start for Blacks but not for Whites. For Whites, their start begins nearly 300 years earlier. Why do I use emancipation as the starting measurement (baseline) for Blacks? I used this as a start because this is the first period when Blacks were supposedly to be free – nothing could be further from the truth. At that time Blacks didn’t own anything and had no asset or wealth of any kind. Without government help, which was very limited during the “reconstruction period,” how were Blacks supposed to invest in themselves? Without capital, how were Blacks supposed to purchase land and build houses that were better than the houses they lived in during slavery? After slavery, Blacks owned ½ 1% of the nation’s wealth and this statistic remains the same today. In addition to the capital disparities, two other crippling conditions emerged as a result of slavery and both are in full force today: inferior housing and a dependency on the government. We must examine how Blacks lived coming out of slavery in 1865 in order to understand the dilemma Blacks face today with urban renewal – Where you start matters!. If you take into consideration this reality and the many strides that Blacks have made in
August 10, 1991: The Spaniels with Willie C. Jackson (lower right front) and writer Richard G. Carter (back row, second from left), backstage at the Apollo Theater in Harlem, New York. (Photo by Janice Carter)
Remember when…
Willie C. Jackson “played it cool” with the original Spaniels By Richard G. Carter
“I took my girl out, the other night. She said, what you want, Willie? I said, gimme a light. She said, look here Daddy, don’t you forget. A light’s no good, without a cigarette…” The Spaniels, “Play it Cool” (Vee-Jay Records -1954)
The passing at 79, late last month, of Willie C. Jackson -- lone surviving member of the original Spaniels -- was a body-blow to countless fans of original Black rhythm and blues. Many of us grew up with Willie C. and his groundbreaking, spoken lead on 1954’s “Play it Cool” -- thought by many to be the very first rap record.
The gracious Willie C. -- what he was called by those of us who knew him -- was a warm and faithful friend over the years. It all began for me in Manhattan on Feb. 21, 1991 -- proclaimed by Mayor David Dinkins as “Rhythm and Blues Day in New York.” That night, as a columnist with the Daily News, I first met Willie C. and the rest of the Spaniels when they received a Pioneer Award from the Rhythm and Blues Foundation. In Gary, Indiana, in July of that year, I began researching my authorized biography “Goodnight Sweetheart, Goodnight: The Story of the Spaniels” (August Press1995). To this day, it remains the high point of my fiveplus decades professional life. How well I recall those hot, summer days in Willie C.’s paneled, basement recreation room at 4321 Jefferson St.
America in spite of having their hands tied and literally in an economic straightjacket, you must acknowledge the greatness of Black people. Coming out of slavery, Blacks were able to become sharecroppers, farmers, business owners and create competitive neighborhoods in the South. The White hatred of Blacks and the terrorism of the KKK against Black people with no legal protection, placed Blacks in very extreme levels of fear. Lynching of Black men became common place and the destruction of Black property also became the norm. With Jim Crow Laws in place in the south (a system that gave Blacks no protection or the ability to control their own destiny) added to the emerging industrial revolution and job opportunities in northern cities, Blacks relocated to cities like Chicago, New York City, Philadelphia, Detroit, Washington DC, Boston (1890 – 1950). Upon moving north most Blacks resided in inferior housing and economically challenged neighborhoods (ghettos). Today, there are nearly 45 million Black people in America and approximately 75% of them live in 30 urban cities. Because of economics, Blacks didn’t move into manicured and well-groomed neighborhoods; they lived in areas that re-
All the middle-aged, original Spaniels -- except for top tenor Ernest Warren who had become a minister -- gathered to recount their experiences. I was in awe as they opened up to me and sang some of their many hits a cappella. Along with Willie C. -- and his wife, Zola -- there was James (Pookie) Hudson, Gerald (Bounce) Gregory and Opal (Shag) Courtney Jr. Also present was old pal Billy Shelton, of their predecessor Three Bees, and his son, guitar virtuoso-bass singer, Teddy. Pookie kicked it off with his soulful lead on “Danny Boy” -- which was to bring down the house at the Apollo Theatre in New York a month later. Gerald followed suit with his classic bass lead on “Heart and Soul,” and Willie C. brought smiles to everyone in the room with his staccato, spoken lead on “Play it Cool.” And now, all but Billy are gone. Together, these talented men first made their mark as teens on May 5, 1953, recording the haunting “Baby, It’s You” -- initial release in June by Black-owned Vee-Jay records -- and still the best doo-wop/R&B record ever. A few months later, they struck gold. On Sept 23, 1953, Willie C. and the Spaniels recorded their iconic top-seller, “Goodnight Sweetheart, Goodnight.” One of 200 written by Pookie, this tune introduced original Black rhythm and blues -- which evolved into rock ‘n’ roll -- to White America. It was covered by at least eight White recording artists and, over the years, has been prominently heard in a number of big-screen movies. During my week-long visit to Gary, I stayed at Opal’s house and was able to meet, and be greeted by, countless old friends and fans of the original Spaniels, while being shown around town by Billy. At Willie C.’s invitation, I also attended a gala, evening dinner-dance sponsored by his Masonic lodge. In conversations with customers in the crowded Smitty’s Barber Shop, lunch at a diner, a visit to Roosevelt High School where the group first sang together in 1952 and an impromptu appearance on a radio show in a store window with a Black disc jockey, I kept being reminded how everyone loved Willie C.’s “Play it Cool.” (continued on page 4)
sembled the same surroundings during slavery (impoverished settlements on plantations). It’s very easy to look at today’s urban conditions and forget how we got here – that’s so easy and convenient. It goes back to blaming the victim and not the culprit. It’s never been a bed of roses for Black people in America – Blacks have been on defense for nearly 400 years since being in this country. If we use emancipation as the baseline, we can track the progress of Black people over the past 150 years. For the most part, Blacks have worked hard to secure housing and education and live in good neighborhoods but it’s been very illusive. Blacks carry a stigma that is also a legacy of slavery. For many White people this stigma has promoted a fear of Blacks moving in their neighborhood and after legal segregation (1960’s) when Blacks managed to move into all White neighborhoods, there was massive White flight (in a matter of a few years complete White neighborhoods had become Black). White flight has happened since emancipation – this isn’t some new phenomenon. For many Black people this stigma has helped to create a deep rooted Black “inferiority” about themselves and their neighborhoods. This stigma has also produced a pent-up demand to jettison (Black flight) at the first possibility. Since our existence, Blacks have compared good with White people – this is called a euro-centered perspective. Starting on the plantation living side by side (squalor next to extreme levels of wealth), many Blacks have viewed their own as being bad and inferior and Whites as good and superior. The euro-centered mindset is perfectly find for White people but extremely crippling for Black people – this is even more troubling when Black people don’t know they’re own culture and history. Even our most learned scholars don’t have the skilled sensibilities or mental thinking to “do for self.” I’ve rarely heard that we as Black people should stay and create the neighborhoods we envisioned and need – it’s always been about getting out of the “ghetto.” This combination has made America more segregated today than it was before so-called integration. There are very few traditional poor and disenfranchised Black neighborhoods (these are the neighborhoods that have been designated blighted) that have been physically redeveloped while at the same time allowing those residents who have lived there for generations to be able to reap the benefits of a “renew” community specifically enjoying the wealth of appreciated real estate. Why? The answer has its roots in where you start. Many Black residents have been renters for generations. This represents a real knowledge and financial gap that I say is a legacy of slavery. Over the years, the housing stock continues to decline from good to fair to poor and ultimately you begin to have high levels of vacant properties that after years of being uninhabited fall down or must be torn down. These neighborhoods are on the trajectory to reach economic bottom (this doesn’t even speak to the families and children who grow up in these type of environments and what the psychological damage is being done to them). This neighborhood decline becomes permanent and is exacerbated by the high cost of construction which exceeds the appraised values. Add to that the “ghetto” stigma which fails to stimulate the demand of the Black buyers who could afford to pay “market” rates needed to justify development costs are just not available (most Blacks with some economic capacity have moved to either White neighborhoods or recently abandoned White neighborhoods). The undesired outcomes will continue until Blacks are able to get in front of the real estate curve versus being behind the curve – investing in the Black neighborhoods versus relocating to suburbs (another legacy of slavery). While most experts believe that good communities are a “mix” of different incomes (this was common in Black commu-
(continued on page 5)
RELIGION
The Milwaukee Community Journal March 11, 2015 Page 4
Services set for noted community businesswoman, mentor and humanitarian Nellie “Nell” Kendrick
came from a musical background Funeral services will be held of singers, like her father, mother March 14 for Nellie W. Kendrick, and her brother. who was among the first Black feShe was an accomplished vocalmale managers at Blue Cross insurist – a lyric soprano – and served as ance company in Milwaukee in the a soloist and choir member at St. 1960s. James United Methodist Church, in She was known as a mentor and Milwaukee, for many, many years. business owner who was involved Her love for worship would later in community service, helping the lead Nellie and George to church homeless, domestic violence vicmembership with the Mount Zion tims and poor women in Africa. Assembly Healing Temple, in MilKendrick died, Friday, February waukee. 27. She was 81. Family was extremely important Service will be held at the to Nell and she loved entertaining Chapel of the Chimes at Wisconsin Memorial Park, 13235 W. Capitol at family gatherings by singing her Drive, in Brookfield, starting with rendition of Gershwin’s “Summervisitation from 9 to 11 a.m., foltime.” lowed by the funeral starting at 11 She was an advocate and major Nellie “Nell” Kendrick a.m. supporter of the United Performing Affectionately known as “Nell,” Arts, especially the Milwaukee Kendrick was born on Saturday, September 23, 1933, in Symphony Orchestra. Beloit Wisconsin. Nell was the eldest child of the late In the early years, between 1950 and 1960, Nell Dr. William Hill Marshall and Mildred Ofia Conrad. worked in a management capacity at Blue Cross – Blue Educated in the Beloit School District, Nellie continued Shield, serving as the company’s first black manager. She led her constituents with a strong work ethic and her education at Governor State University, in Forest Park, Illinois, after graduating from high school. After conviction, as she mentored others to achieve their her move to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, she attended the Uni- dreams. During her tenure at Blue Cross – Blue Shield, she was versity of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and Marquette University. instrumental in promoting awareness of the sickle cell Nellie united in holy matrimony with “the love of her disease and the trait and encouraged many to be screened. life,” George W. Kendrick, on June 24, 1970, in Milwau- In 1972, Nell was the only African American to receive kee, Wisconsin. God blessed these kindred souls with the Germaine Monteil “Woman of the Year” Award for nearly 45 years of love and devotion. Community Services. Nell was full of life, love and a ball of energy, always This award acknowledged her work with screening for interested in a wide variety of activities which life had to the sickle cell trait and the disease itself of individuals. offer. She committed her life to Christ at a very early age She was given this award by the Links organization. and enjoyed worshipping at many churches during her After working at Blue Cross-Blue Shield for more than travels. two decades, Nellie, and George owned and operated 5 She especially enjoyed worshipping at the Living Stone private methadone substance abuse clinics in Milwaukee, Cathedral of Worship, in Little Rock, California, when- Appleton, Menasha, Wausau and Madison, Wisconsin. ever she visited her brother, Bill, and his family. Among Her brother, William T. Marshall, PhD, also played an her enjoyments and favorite past-times, were the fine arts, important part in the operations of the clinics in addition such as Broadway plays, especially musicals. Nellie (continued on page 7)
PASSAGES
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Ernestine O’Bee, Founder
Quality Service... a tenured tradition sincere concern at your time of need.
Offering pre-need, at need and after-care services to families in Milwaukee, Racine, Kenosha and other communities throughout our state.
Sanders, Patricia A. Age 73 yrs. February 28, 2015. Funeral services will be held on Friday, March 13 at 11AM at Liberty COGIC 1811 W. Center St. Visitation Friday 10AM at the Church until time of services. The family is served by: Northwest Funeral Chapel/O'Bee, Ford & Frazier, 6630 W. Hampton Ave. (414)462-6020 Malone, Taft Jr. Age 72 yrs. February 26, 2015. Beloved husband of Karen Malone. Loving father of Allison Malone. Brother of Arthur T. (Sandra) Malone and Iris Young. Also survived by a host of other loving relatives and friends. A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, March 6 at 10AM at Mt. Zion Baptist Church 2207 N. 2nd St. Visitation Thursday 3-7PM at Mt. Zion Baptist Church. The family is served by: Northwest Funeral Chapel/O'Bee, Ford & Frazier, 6630 W. Hampton Ave. (414)462-6020 Ferguson, Wayne Age 54 yrs. March 2, 2015. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, March 10 at 11AM. Visitation Tuesday 10AM until time of services. The family is served by: Northwest Funeral Chapel/O'Bee, Ford & Frazier, 6630 W. Hampton Ave. (414)462-6020 Harris, Charles Jr. Age 76 yrs. February 27, 2015. He was born in Rockford, IL.He was preceded in death by wife Sheila Harris, parents Charles Sr. and Mary Harris and grandson Derrick Harris. Beloved father of Renee Harris, Tracy (Nick)Monfre, Steven (Devon)Harris, Tammy (Linnen)Hodo, Charles Harris III, Shelby Harris and Brittany Harris. Loving grandfather of Marshell, Damian, Santrice, ErIck, Shaun, Kendall, Nick, Sam, Kiara, and Jonah. Mr. Harris retired from Milwaukee County Transit System in 2001. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, March 5 at 11AM at Wisconsin Memorial Park "Chapel of Chimes" 13235 W. Capitol Dr. Visitation Wednesday 3-7PM at: Northwest Funeral Chapel/O'Bee, Ford & Frazier, 6630 W. Hampton Ave. (414)462-6020 McDuffie, Angela N. Age 54 yrs. March 1, 2015. Beloved husband of Warren K. McDuffie Sr. Loving mother of Warren K. McDuffie Jr., Antoine N.(Jade)McDuffie and Kristin M. McDuffie. Loving daughter of John and Rosetta Cannon. Loving sister of Ursula T. Cannon, Justin W.(Rosalind) Cannon and Tabitha F. Cannon. Also survived by 1 grandchild and a host of other loving relatives and friends. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, March 7 at 11AM at Metropolitan Baptist Church 1345 W. Burleigh St. Visitation Friday 3-7PM at: Northwest Funeral Chapel/O'Bee, Ford & Frazier, 6630 W. Hampton Ave. (414)462-6020
J.C. Frazier, Funeral Director
Russ, Sterling Age 70 yrs. March 5, 2015. Funeral services will be held on Friday, March 13 at 11AM at Progressive Baptist Church 8324 W. Keefe Ave. Visitation Friday 10AM at the CHURCH until time of services. The family is served by: Northwest Funeral Chapel/O'Bee, Ford & Frazier, 6630 W. Hampton Ave. (414)462-6020 Moore, Etherlean Age 93 years. February 25, 2015. Funeral services will be held on Friday, March 6 at 11AM at Calvary International Worship Center 2122 N. Halyard St. Instate Friday 10AM at the CHURCH until time of services. Visitation Thursday 3-7PM(The family will receive guest from 6-7PM) at: Northwest Funeral Chapel/O'Bee, Ford & Frazier, 6630 W. Hampton Ave.(414)4626020 Bingham, Victeur Age 42 yrs. March 1, 2015. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, March 7 at 11AM at Hampton Ave Church of Christ 5705 W. Hampton Ave. Visitation Saturday 10AM at the CHURCH until time of services. The family is served by: Northwest Funeral Chapel/O'Bee, Ford & Frazier, 6630 W. Hampton Ave. (414)462-6020 Boyce, Alice L. Age 61 yrs. March 3, 2015. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, March 21 at 1PM at St. Martin DePorres Parish 3114 N. 2nd St. The family is served by: Northwest Funeral Chapel/O'Bee, Ford & Frazier, 6630 W. Hampton Ave. (414)462-6020 Sanders, Patricia A. Age 73 yrs. February 28, 2015. Funeral services will be held on Friday, March 13 at 11AM at Liberty COGIC 1811 W. Center St. Visitation Friday 10AM at the Church until time of services. The family is served by: Northwest Funeral Chapel/O'Bee, Ford & Frazier, 6630 W. Hampton Ave. (414)462-6020 Stevenson, Carrie Age 80 yrs. March 6, 2015. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, March 12 at 11AM at Mission of Christ Lutheran Church 912 W. Center St. Visitation Thursday 10AM at the CHURCH until time of services. The family is served by: Northwest Funeral Chapel O'Bee, Ford & Frazier 6630 W. Hampton Ave. (414)462-6020
Families served by:
Northwest Funeral Chapel O’Bee, Ford & Frazier
Milwaukee 6630 W. Hampton Avenue Milwaukee, WI 53218 Telephone: (414) 462-6020 Fax: (414) 462-9937
Racine 800 Barker St. Racine, WI 53402 Telephone: (262) 637-6400 Fax: (262) 637-6416
Calvary to celebrate 13 pastoral anniversary for Rev. John R. Walton
The congregation of Calvary Baptist Church, Milwaukee’s oldest African American Baptist Church, with great happiness, will celebrate the 13th anniversary in honor of the Reverend Dr. John R. Walton, Jr. and First Lady Lorrie Craig Walton, Sunday, March 22, 2015, during the 9:30 a.m. service. Calvary Baptist Church, located at 2959 North Teutonia Avenue, is wheel chair and elevator accessible. Parking is available east and west of the church and on-street. The Reverend Walter Lanier, Senior Pastor, Progressive Baptist Church, will preach the celebratory sermon centered on the theme, “Pastor and People: “ACTIVATING OUR AUTHORITY” Matthew 16:18-19 Pastoral anniversary tributes will be given by the Male Chorus and Fine Arts Ministries. In addition to its long-standing monthly Community Outreach Dinner meal and clothing bank, Annual Summer Enrichment Camp that has extended from one week to a month, Calvary continues to meet intergenerational needs. The church has a strong emphasis on Bible study, Fine Arts Ministries, Children’s & Youth Church, early Saturday morning prayer, Leadership training and Children and Youth Development. Through much prayer and planning, Calvary builds on its mission of transforming the Community for Christ with the weekly radio program JOY 1340 AM to preach the Word and reach the community, a Mildred Leigh-Gold Health Ministry, active involvement in Teen Age Pregnancy community programs and a revitalized Family and Fellowship ministry.
Canaan to hold Mother’s Day Extravaganza April 18
Rev. Dr. Frederick Jones, Pastor of Canaan Baptist Church cordially invites the community to the church’s Mother’s Day Extravaganza Saturday, April 18, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event is a fundraiser for the Canaan Baptist Church Youth Ministry. Canaan is located at 2975 N. 11th St.
Willie C. Jackson “played it cool” with the original Spaniels
(continued from page 3) This, although they acknowledged it was “Goodnight Sweetheart” that shot the Spaniels to everlasting fame. Yet, much like Gregory’s booming first five bass notes which introduced this, the original Spaniels’ signature song, many fans of original Black R&B today gravitate as much to Willie C’s preacher-like lead -- saucily backed-up -- on “Play it Cool.” To wit: “How many more years, will it be, before I, yes, I can get high? I wanna know, how many more years, will it be, before I can get high? You know Mogen David, jumped on a White Horse, and it beat Paul Jones down to the Sunny Brook. Oh yes, that same night, Lord Cherry got his Seven Crowns... “I took my girl out, the other night. She said what you want, Willie? I said, gimme a light. She said, look here Daddy, don’t you forget, a light’s no good, without a cigarette. And so Mary, she said Willie, Willie C., do you love me? Do you really, do you really, do you really, love me… “How many more years will it be, before I, yes, I can smoke? You know my Pall Malls jumped out my pocket,
got on a Camel, rolled across the Chesterfield. Then I got some Old Golds, they say it’s just a Lucky Strike. Uhhuh. Now they all stand back, and play it cool. Yes, play it cool. That’s right. Everybody. Uh-huh. And play it cool.” Evidenced by my eventful tour of Gary -- also the hometown of the Jackson Five -- the Spaniels remained leading local icons and celebrated pioneers of doo-wop and original Black R&B. As a result, many decried the fact that the groundbreaking vocal group was not among the first inductees to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1986. And sadly, all these years later, this seminal group -of which Willie C. was such an integral part -- has yet to be accorded the honor. This is a tragic oversight and a mystery that remains a music industry sacrilege. And now, all but Billy are gone. Rest in peace, Willie C, and the rest of the original Spaniels. You belong to the ages. --Milwaukee native Richard G. Carter is a freelance columnist
Youth organization offering five week musical workshop for talented and gifted teens
Our Glorious Past
The Milwaukee Community Journal March 11, 2015 Page 5
Talented youths between the ages of 13 and 17 interested in tapping into their musical gifts will have an opportunity to make their dream of an entertainment career come true by participating in a five week workshop titled, “The Power of Music,” which kicks-off Saturday March 14, from 1-3p.m. at Washington Park Library, 2121 N. Sherman Blvd. The workshop series is being sponsored by Diverse Minds, Inc., a local organization that focuses on youth development, self-discovery and gift cultivation for those ranging in age from
eight to 17. The organization was founded by Tara D. Williams, who is also the organization’s president. She is being assisted by local recording artist Nathaniel Robinson-Verner, who also goes by the name “Mr. Universalist.” He is the director of creative arts for the organization. Diverse Minds, Inc. was “birthed” by Williams after seeing countless acts of senseless violence—which is often fatal—especially acts of violence towards young people, happening in the community.
The workshops will teach youth who like to rap, sing, do spoken word (poetry), and production and engineering, the basic fundamentals of the music business and sharpen their entertainment skills. Attendees will also receive information on highly accredited colleges and scholarship opportunities. Youths interested in making their musical dreams come true, can pre-register on-line at DiverseMindsInc@gmail.com. Or they can call 262-706-1dmi.
(continued from page 1) has been marked with flagrant questions of birth and citizenship, loyalty to his country, inferences of values other than Christian ones. He has not been unscathed. Politics are politics and disrespect is disrespect. The country has successfully come through the Great Recession; and General Motors and others have repaid their debts, and the stock market is at an all time high, yielding great dividends to those in the market, with 99 % of the nation owning 1% of its wealth while the 1% owns 99%. And, we have not had an active soldier to be die, in over three months, until the helicopter nighttraining, in Florida, last evening. The President continues to fight for every plat-
form on which he campaigned, including improving the status of education, initiating and supporting legislation that strengthens the middle class, addressing the issue of immigration, climate control and his most significant success, the Affordable Health Act, which lingers in the Supreme Court, though it has brought thousands into healthcare, heretofore unavailable; and the savings, today, show controls in hospital costs. Still, attacks by the GOP surpass any other opposing party or President in the same 50 years, on which we reflect. We must see the progress. Indeed there has been much progress. And we must see that the struggle continues. We cannot become complacent. We can not be hopeless nor entitled. We must be expectant and resilient as were the
forefathers on that Selma bridge. We must see ourselves as capable and expectant and willing to continue the non-violent fight...the marches..and the changes that catapult us. Destruction of property or one another does not build us...it stereotypes us. Fifty years ago, we carried no guns and we walked side by side with brothers and sisters from all over the world, black and white, Christian and Jews, Catholics and Baptists and COGIC’s, CME’s and AME’s, young and old, rich and very poor. We won because we showed the brutality of a few who were determined to subjugate a committed majority. In this 2015, there are still many who see it, know it, fight side by side and believe that the precepts of this country remain the strength of our democracy...We the People...We Shall Overcome and Yes We Can!!
(continued from page 3)
gies that will create new places over a period of several years that might possibly jump-start a stagnant real estate market; and/or 2) any/all benefits are relegated to the lowest of income residents which in some cases produces even poorer communities with a large concentration of poorer people. This phenomenon is only interrupted when these neighborhoods have defensible and/or strong economic borders (i.e. near downtowns, neighborhood parks, education and medical institutions, rivers and lakes, etc.). Sometimes even these neighborhoods need public support to address some of the real concentrated blight (i.e. public housing sites) and once removed you see real estate values skyrocket and the massive removal of long term poor Black residents that are replaced with high income White residents – this is classic gentrification and urban renewal becomes urban removal. The market forces are brutal and while they are color blind, we all know which sides of the coin that Black and White people reside (Whites have all of the capital and
Blacks have very little). Now, with public support and treatment of the hardest blight that the market couldn’t undertake, coupled with: a large ownerless neighborhood (vacancy and renters); a neighborhood that is adjacent to massive economic assets; a national trend and renewed value for urban living (empty nesters moving from the suburbs); unlimited access to wealth and capital; multi-year tax abatements; low mortgage rates, like magic the real estate “ceiling” is lifted and real estate values appreciate exponentially and initiates an economic tsunami that most people of color are unable to gain any traction to beat. The absolute opposite exists for most Blacks who live in these neighborhoods (the market forces them out). In addition to addressing several of the key issues (i.e. education, public safety) so that traditional Black communities can compete, they must be organized and both a supply side and a demand side strategy must be implemented – we call it the Universal Plan.
Reflecting on “Bloody Sunday”
Urban Renewal is about Urban Removal nities during segregation) because of our inability to attract Blacks to invest, the term for many mixed neighborhoods has come to mean high income White people and poor and low income Black people. The combination of poor education facilities, high levels of crime and violence, lack of commercial amenities and a whole host of other socio-economic issues make these neighborhoods nearly impossible to correct. Current public policies aren’t nearly effective enough, especially to attract mid-to-high income Black people (that’s if they would even want to come). Many of the public policies are short sighted, ineffective, and motivated by transactional politics. Even when not motivated politically, current public policy tries to optimize scarce dollars and spread the development opportunities around and the results are: 1) the inability to develop “sustained” and “place based” development strate-
(continued from page 2) We must refocus on what is important for our happiness and survival. Far too many of us have assimilated to the capitalistic, materialistic and individualistic ways of America. We are descendants of proud villages that were collective in nature. That is who we are! When you don’t know who you are and act in a manner outside of your true character, your success will never be maximized. Let us remember the words of Imhotep. Only when we know our true selves, can we authentically love ourselves. Self-knowledge is the beginning of self-love. Only when we love ourselves, can we love our fellow man. Love is the most effective weapon to defeat your enemy, and the true enemy, is our “inner me.” Once the collective “I’s” are healthy, we can create a healthy “We.” Start with the man in the mirror- don’t be afraid to look, because the reflections of our ancestors shine through you- and it is beautiful! Selah. Ashe. The BLAQUESMITH
About Dr. Ramel Smith
Dr. Ramel Smith was born and raised in Milwaukee, WI. He is a product of the Milwaukee Public School system, where he attended Green Bay Avenue, Samuel Morse and Rufus King. He continued his education at the University of Wisconsin- Whitewater, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Psychology. He later went to the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, where he earned his Masters of Science in Educational Psychology and Doctorate of Philosophy in Urban Education with an emphasis in School Psychology. Dr. Smith has served as a para-professional, regular and special education teacher, and school psychologist within MPS over the years. In addition to his work with MPS, he has worked in the Wisconsin Department of Corrections and Children's Hospital of Wisconsin, as a clinical psychologist. Smith has also taught undergraduate and graduate courses at UW- Milwaukee, Marian University, Springfield College and Wisconsin School of Professional Psychology. Since 2007, Smith has been the President of BLAQUESMITH Psychological Consultative Services, LLC. In this capacity, he has conducted scores of workshops, seminars and presentations to business, governmental, religious, and educational milieus. He has authored several scholarly journal articles and book chapters, edited a book and coauthored another book entitled "Building Better Men." Smith has been used as an expert by, both, local and national outlets. He has served as the resident Psychologist for the Earl Ingram show on WMCS 1290, the Fresh Start program on WNOV 860 and Black Nouveau on Wisconsin PBS. Smith, affectionately known as "The BLAQUESMITH," believes his strength comes from the love and support of his faith, family and friends. He lives by the words of his maternal grandmother who taught him, "the best way to heal yourself is to help others." He does multiple service projects within the city of Milwaukee with his fraternity brothers of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., through his company and as an Urban Campus Board Member of the YMCA. Smith is a proud son, brother, father, cousin, nephew and husband. For the next 12 weeks, The BLAQUESMITH will illuminate on various issues that plague our community and provide shovel-ready interventions for all who want to help make our community a better place for our children. The topics will include, but not be limited to, acquiring an intimate knowledge of our history; exploring the tragedies and triumphs of our families, schools, communities and government; and creating realtime solutions to be employed immediately to help individuals, families and our community.
BUSINESS CORNER A Loving Adult Daycare It’s Nation Building Time! The Milwaukee Community Journal March 11, 2015 Page 6
Reuben Hopkins, CEO and Founder of the Wisconsin Black Chamber of Commerce (at the head of the table) and the organization’s president, Steven Mussenden (sitting to Hopkins’ right) recently held the inaugural monthly lunch meeting Saturday at the African American Women’s Center on Vliet street. Attending the meeting were a majority of Black business women. The aim of the meetings is to challenge Milwaukee Black small businesses to help them register 3,000 businesses per year for the next four years. New business owners, or those looking to start a business, are encouraged to log onto www.twbcc.com and register their business. (Photo by Yvonne Kemp)
Three Steps to Happiness
(not your brochure) or needs you out of his life. Next, you want to ask your prospect to help you answer one simple question. That question is -What type of product or service would make you, Mr. Prospect, feel better than just happy? This question allows you to extend the conversation and find out a posOne of the most common ways a sible need that your prospect wasn't potential customer can blow off a willing to admit upfront. salesperson is to hide behind the ever Finally, you want to listen closely familiar smokescreen - we are happy Antoine Miller to what your prospect is telling you. with what we have. If the response is pointing to the fact The funny thing is, most sales peothat your prospect truly is happy, now would make a great ple take that smokescreen to be gospel. It's not Gospel. to thank the prospect for his time and agree to stay time Most times, it's not even the truth. Consumers have many in touch. levels of happiness. However, if your prospect is like most, listen for key Until your prospect knows what he is missing, of phrases such as: We could use…, It would be nice if…, course he will say he's happy. He doesn't know any better. I've always wanted… Key phrases like these are great Your job, as a sales person, is to show potential customers signals that your prospect is not truly happy. the value of what you are offering and what he is curUnhappy prospects are like manna from heaven for rently missing. Here is what you say to never fall victim salespeople. to the "we are happy with what we have" smokescreen Capitalize on this opportunity by figuring out how your again. or service can help this happy prospect go from product First, thank your prospect for his response but let him just happy to an absolutely thrilled customer! know that you would still like to keep in touch and proAntoine Miller is Founder of 99 SALES iDEAS for vide information down the road. Business Development. Miller is excited to help business As long as your information is free, most prospects will owners sell more of their products and services. Contact accept your offer because they know it will get you off Miller at 414-939-9515 or amiller@99salesideas.com the phone or out of their building. with your sales and marketing or business start-up For the most part, you never really have to send any inquestions. formation because your prospect either needs your help
OWI in Wisconsin and the Refusal
Many Wisconsin residents are surprised to learn they are required to consent to a chemical test from a law enforcement office after an arrest for an OWI (operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated). If you have a driver’s license in Wisconsin you grant your implied consent to a chemical test by driving on Wisconsin highways. Wisconsin law requires that upon the arrest of a person for an OWI he or she is required to give a sample of their breath, blood or urine for the purpose of determining the presence or quantity of controlled substances or alcohol in their system.
ASK A LAWYER!
By Atty. Anthony Jackson If you refuse to take the test there are significant consequences. You will be charged with a refusal. A refusal has a mandatory penalty of a revocation of your license for one year. This penalty for a refusal is actually more extreme compared to a first OWI offense penalty where you license can be suspended for 6-9 months. No fines or jail will be im-
posed for a refusal, but for those who are dependent on their vehicles, a revocation of one’s license can have a significant effect on one’s livelihood. As a matter of law, you can request a hearing to contest your revocation of your license, however this must be done within 10 days of your refusal. If you fail to contest the matter your license will automatically be suspended after 30 days. Usually it is not beneficial to refuse to take a blood test. The Prosecutor can use your refusal as an admission of guilt in the underlying OWI case. Furthermore, a refusal hearing is difficult to win. For those drivers who have prior OWI offenses, the penalties increase and can result in a 2 year revocation of your license. Complying with the law and understanding the law is important for those who are impaired while driving. Attorney Anthony Jackson practices in the area of criminal defense, employment law, and personal injury. His office is located at 6045 N. Green Bay Rd, Glendale, WI 53209, (414) 704-5680.
Business Corner Profile
and Residential Home
Bianca Williams
A Loving Adult Daycare & Residential Home is passionate about improving tomorrow for the elderly and disabled adults today. A Loving Adult Daycare & Residential Home will be a place where the elderly & disabled indidvuals come to feel important, respected, protected and supervised on a timely basis. The Adult Daycare & Residential Home is both designed to serve the every minute growing population. Our Adult Daycare & Residential Home will provide consistent quality and dedicated services. A Loving Adult Daycare & Residential Home will regularly publish a newsletter containing any upcoming events or announcements, and any available room for both the adult daycare and residential home, which we will send to potential clients and customers by mail or email. A Loving Adult Daycare & Residential Home will also offer a relaxing home-like atmosphere and unlimited resources. All employees will be knowledgeable on the latest health issues and general illnesses to best suit each client and residents. A Loving Adult Daycare & Residential Home will be located on the Milwaukee north side, and will maintain regular business hours for both the adult daycare and residential home. The Adult Daycare will operate Monday-Saturday, from 8am-6pm,
“A Loving Adult Daycare & Residential Home will be located on the Milwaukee north side, and will maintain regular business hours for both the adult daycare and residential home.”
9am-4pm on Saturdays. The Residential Home will operate 7-days a week, 24-hours a day with supervision. These hours will be convenient to our clients and residents. A Loving Adult Daycare & Residential Home will not only provide care to the family loved ones but also provide reli-
able transportation to and from their destinations. We will also maintain a website together with an active email correspondence with our clients and potential clients so they can express their feelings about any concerns regarding the care there loved ones receiving and the facility. The owner is a certified personal care worker with 5+ years of experience in dealing with the elderly as well as the mentally unstable adults. At the time she currently operates her own home based business Full time inside her home providing assistance with the clients daily living activities (bathing, eating, dressing, etc) she also provide the clients with assistance to their doctor apts and various other appointments she also prepares meals, provided light housekeeping, assisted with medicine reminders and encourage the client to walk and exercise.--Bianca Williams, Owner
FROM THE BLACK By Tony Courtney
• “What do I do with my life” Part 2 ( A look at how we spend our time) discussion will be hosted at the Body and Soul Healing Arts Center 3617 N. 48th St on Monday, March 16th from 7PM – 9PM. This event is hosted by Men of African Descent Men’s Circle. Men of African Descent are invited to come together in a weekly strategizing session on how to heal ourselves and our community. • TREE OF LIFE QI GONG CLASS – Every Tuesday from 8pm-9pm at Khamit Institute 4712 W. Fond du Lac Avenue (upstairs). Learn how to heal your organ systems (liver, kidneys, lungs, spleen and heart) that determines both your state of health and your behavior. It’s time to eliminate the negative emotions in your life that is stopping you from being successful. Fear, anger, worrying, depression, indulging in excess pleasure, jealousy and grief are the emotions that are holding you back. It’s time to get rid of them. There is no cost for this class. We start and finish on time so get there about 10 minutes early. • “Dedicated to Black Women That Got Black Men’s Backs” are still looking for Black men to sponsor this page that will appear in the Milwaukee Community Journal Newspaper in either the March 18th or March 25th edition. Brothers, don’t miss this opportunity to sponsor women who have your back whether living or deceased. The cost for sponsoring is $25 per Black woman. Contact Tony Courtney if you want to participate at 374-2364 or stop in at Coffee Makes You Black 2803 N. Teutonia Ave Tuesday thru Saturday from 10AM-2:45PM. Call first to make sure I am there. • Brothers Stand Up The Time is now Ages 1880 Come be a part of this year's Juneteenth Day Celebration and show that all life matters. Become a brother to your brother, mentoring by example during this great 2015 festival. Contact Torre Johnson WCS Project liason Community Improvement/ J.T. Program 510 E. Burleigh St. Call 755-6824 or 234-0663. • Men Helping Men 3020 W. Vliet St.Cell on Wheels Phenomenal Men's Support Group, Inc. Contact Neighborhood for more information at 6108666.
Services set for Nellie “Nell” Kendrick (cont. from page 4)
The Milwaukee Community Journal March 11, 2015 Page 7
to another clinic in Los Angeles, California. Dr. Marshall is the Founder, President and CEO of that clinic, the California Institute of Health and Social Services, in Los Angeles, California. An avid world traveler, she and George, enjoyed the company of many citizens across the United States and from numerous foreign countries. They travelled around the world, visiting every continent, except Antarctica. They once sailed on the Queen Elizabeth II, from New York to London, before returning on the Concorde. She and George escaped the cold winters of Wisconsin by residing in their home, in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands. If you were among the welcomed guests to St. Thomas, you were in for treat. The hospitality of Nellie and George was unparalleled. Nellie also immensely enjoyed travelling to the bi-annual summer reunions of “Back to Beloit Days” with George, her brother Bill, Bill’s wife, Annie and dear childhood friends, Lillie B. and Michael E. Wilson, of Brookfield, Wisconsin. This outing always provided a chance to meet and greet other former Beloit residents who were lifelong friends from Nell’s childhood. Nellie was extremely active in charitable activities. These included her involvement in the Zonta Club of Milwaukee and Lane College, in Jackson, Tennessee. She was a charter member of Eta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., and the organization’s national secretary. She was also a “Life Member” of the NAACP. Nell was also an active supporter of Lane College, as a member of the Lane College Alumni Association-Milwaukee Chapter. She was a Past two-term President of Zonta Club of Milwaukee, which was chartered in 1926. Nellie was an active member of Zonta for 26 years until her passing. While serving as president of Zonta Club of Milwaukee, Nell helped start the “Bags” program for the homeless people sleeping in the streets of Milwaukee on cold bitter nights. “Bags” is an acronym for “Blessed and Giving
Sewing.” Nellie, along with other members of Zonta, arranged to have a group of teenage girls from North Division High School (the Z Club), assist in sewing bags with a group of nuns at All Saints Catholic Church, in Milwaukee. Former WTMJ-TV, Channel 4 reporter, Bill Taylor, highlighted the group’s efforts in his “Positively Milwaukee” human interest stories. She was also a longstanding board member of Prevent Blindness of Wisconsin and the California Institute of Health and Social Services, in Los Angeles. Nellie spent a great deal of her life being concerned about the youth in the world. Nell is responsible for bringing the “Spirit of Youth” program to Milwaukee and garnered support from major corporations, such as the Joseph Schlitz Brewing Company, other corporations and private donors from the community. Foreign exchange students participated in the “Spirit of Youth” program. During the student’s visit to Milwaukee, they were housed and fed by Marquette University, and homes from members of the community, including Nell and George’s home. Like her father, Nellie was a humanitarian in every true sense of the word! Nell always believed in giving to others in need. Her philosophy was, “If I can help somebody, then my life will be worth living!” Nellie is survived by her beloved husband, George, one stepson, Erik W. (Deena) Kendrick, of Palmdale, California; two step-daughters, Valerie Kendrick, of Palmdale, California and Fran Kendrick, of Akron, Ohio; one brother Dr. William T. (Annie) Marshall, of Culver City, California, one sister, Carolyn (James) Harley, of Beloit, Wisconsin. She is also survived by six sisters-inlaw, Emma Rush, of Milwaukee, Sharon (Joe) Montgomery, of Peoria, Illinois, Frances Kendrick, of Jackson, Tennessee, Brenda (Raymond) Mays, of O’ Fallon, Illinois, Annie Marshall, of Culver City, California and Dr. Dorsey Kendrick of New Haven, Connecticut. Nellie’s survivors further include two brothers-
in-law, Curtis (Dorsey) Kendrick, of New Haven, Connecticut and James (Carolyn) Harley, of Beloit, Wisconsin. Additional survivors include nieces Cynthia Mildred Marshall, of Los Angeles, California, Dawn Andrea (Mario) Marshall-Rios, of Lawndale, California and Jamie Parker, of Beloit, Wisconsin. Surviving nephews William Gene (Pauline) Marshall, of Baldwin Park, California, Christopher Tyler (Flor) Marshall, of Jonesboro, Georgia and Anthony Hagler of Los Angeles, California. Also, many, many nieces and nephews too numerous to mention here from the Kendrick family, who Nell loved dearly and mentored whenever the need presented itself. Special cousins, Maureen Miles,
Myrna (Joe) Miles, of Ocala, Florida; a special God-Daughter, Pastor Monica Parchia-Price also survive her. Nell was preceded in death by her parents. Nellie leaves a lasting memory for special girlfriends Carolyn Bolton, of Milwaukee, Mildred Harpole, of Milwaukee, Lillie B. Wilson, of Brookfield, Wisconsin, Hester Bestesda, of Milwaukee, Claudyne Whitaker, of Mequon, Wisconsin, Toni Trapp, of Las Vegas, Nevada, Jacqueline Beaudry, of Dousman, Wisconsin, Carolyn Anderson, of Madison, Wisconsin, Gloria Jones, Joyce Campbell, Lottie Smith and Diana Bradford-Cannon all of Milwaukee, Wisconsin; also Charlene Ross, of Lawrenceville, Georgia and
Pat Grady of Bloomington, Illinois… .her Zontian Sisters, Eta Sisters, Women of Lane Alumni-Milwaukee Chapter and many, many other friends and relatives whose lives Nelllie touched. George wishes to acknowledge and thank a very special friend, Willette Bowie, of Mequon, Wisconsin, for all of the love and support shown to Nell. Willette was a constant friend, companion and an absolute “angel” during Nellie’s illness these past several years. In addition to the other memorials, the family asks that individuals include the Committee For the Program of Excellence in Music, P.O. Box 12868, Milwaukee, WI 53212.
Sista Speak...Speak Lord! “RAINBOW”
Covenant It rained for 40 days and 40 nights. People wallowed in sin so a cleansing was needed. We have seen snow which is frozen rain, show up in cities on the map that should have never seen snow. Snow has wreaked havoc upon the east coast and we took our lumps as usual here in the Midwest. Maybe God is trying to tell us something? The dove flew over the rainbow and came back to Noah with an olive branch in its beak, representing dry land and hope to begin again. The rainbow is God’s covenant of hope that we need to keep... and fear God least He have history repeat itself. Sonya Bowman
Colors It is that time again when we are anxiously awaiting for spring to fall upon us. We look forward to the April showers that wash away the Winter Blues and bring us the beautiful colors in the Rainbow. Spring brings the bright colors of flowers, deep green grass, Sun and warm breeze. We bring out our lighter clothing, wear bright colors and our smiles are as bright as the Sun. The colors of the Rainbow after an April Shower represents the end of the Winter Blues. Let's look forward to being renewed, re-
Zelda Corona
Tara R. Pulley
Sonya Bowman
freshed and open to all the bright colors that are forthcoming in the months ahead. Always remember the infamous saying "April Showers Bring May Flowers". Tara R. Pulley “Keeping It Real” This Too Shall Pass The storm is powerful. It can bring sorrow and tears and destroy what was once built from love. The storm is durable. It can endure its own wrath and live to fight another day. The storm is resilient. It cannot be stopped because it is tired – it will continue until the Universe tells it to rest. The storm is sturdy. It cannot be moved by
the request of any person – its orders come from the Creator. The storm is tough. It will not run and hide at the first sign of weakness – it maintains as long as it can before it retreats. The storm is effective. It may not produce what you want, but it teaches preparation. The storm is intense. Its goal is to make a bold statement that is penetrating. The storm is good. It exposes our fears and leads us to seek a higher power. The storm is temporary. It was never meant to last forever – but rather to create a lasting impact. The storm is necessary. Without it, you would never find the rainbow. Zelda Corona
The Milwaukee Community Journal March 11, 2015 Page 8
The Milwaukee Community Journal March 11, 2015 Page 9
The Milwaukee Community Journal March 11, 2015 Page 10