MILWAUKEE RECREATION GETS READY TO “DANCE, DANCE, DANCE”
COMMUNITY
Twelfth Annual Daddy/Daughter Dance set for February 21
Milwaukee Recreation has partnered with the Milwaukee Fatherhood Initiative and the Social Development Commission (SDC) to host the twelfth annual Daddy/Daughter Dance at North Division Community Center, 1011 W. Center St., on Saturday, February 21 from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. The night will include dancing, food, prizes, and a live DJ. “The Daddy/Daughter Dance is a chance for fathers and daughters to dress up and enjoy a great evening together,” says MPS Recreation Supervisor Percy Eddie. “This event provides a great way for young ladies to strengthen their relationships with their fathers. We also encourage grandfathers, uncles, and other adult males who are father figures to sign up with the special little
JOURNAL
ladies in their lives.” Fathers and daughters of all ages are welcome to attend. The cost is $25 per adult and $5 per child (limit 3 for every 1 adult). Doors open at 5:00 p.m. Dinner will be served at 5:15 p.m. This event is limited to pre-registered guests only. The registration deadline is Monday, February 16. For more information, please call (414) 475-8811. To register online, visit www.MilwaukeeRecreation.net. The Milwaukee Fatherhood Initiative is a non-profit organization with a broad-based mission to improve the well-being of young people by increasing (continued on page 7) www.communityjournal.net 25 Cents
VOL. XXXIX Number 27 January 28, 2015
The Milwaukee
MCJ File Photo
BULK RATE U.S. POSTAGE PAID MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN PERMIT NO. 4668
Aldermen condemn statements by one of their own that streetcar would attract crime
W I S C O N S I N ’ S L A R G E S T A F R I C A N A M E R I C A N N E W S PA P E R
MT. MORIAH BAPTIST CHURCH OPENS NEW CHAPEL Chapel completes first phase of project to build new church on same site in the community!
Dr. Charles E. Thornhill, pastor of Mt. Moriah Baptist Church (holding microphone) explains the artist rendering of the new Mt. Moriah to congregants during the recent grand opening of their Chapel, located at 416 W. Christine Lane directly behind the current church. The new chapel (built on the same location where their Education Building once stood) represents the completion of the first phase of the reconstruction project, and will be utilized by Mt. MoRev. Thornhill with current and former political representatives who spoke to the congregants at riah minister, officers and the new chapel and congratulated them on their accomplishment (left to right): Former State Sen. congregants while the current Gary George, Mayor Tom Barret, U.S. Cong. Gwen Moore, Thornhill, Milw. Cnty Sup. Willie Johnson, church building is razed and reand Ald. Joe Davis, Sr. (Photo by Yvonne Kemp) built on the same property. Rev. Thornhill and Mt. Moriah were determined to stay in the community and rebuild on the same land when they were faced with the realization the current structure was deteriorating and needed to be replaced. The church has been worshipping and studying the Word at Mt. Moriah and serving the Harambee community at their current location for over 50 years and felt a responsibility to stay where they are and provide service. The pastor, associate ministers, officers and congregants kicked-off the grand opening with a march from the church to the new chapel. A number of political dignitaries were on hand to speak to the church members, including Mayor Tom Barrett and Cong. Gwen Moore. (Photos by Yvonne Kemp. More photos on pg. 4)
PULSE OF THE COMMUNITY Photos and question by Yvonne Kemp QUESTION OF THE WEEK:
“What is your prediction for the Milwaukee Brewers for this 2015 season?”
Brewers and fans have fun together at annual Brewers On Deck event
JAMES ROGERS: “I think the Brewers will not have a collapse like they did in 2014. As long as the pitching staff stays healthy, they will continue into the post season.”
Milwaukee Brewer Hector Gomez shows a young fan how to properly field a baseball during one of the clinics the team held during its annual pre-season “Brewers On Deck,” that took place Sunday at the Wisconsin Center. Brewer players also signed autofgraphs and took photos with fans, and took questions from fans as well. The Brewers On Deck featured a number of activities for the entire family. Besides the autographs and photos from Brewers players, coaches and alumni, there interactive games in the Kids Area, Q&A sessions and game shows with players, coaches and broadcasters. (Photo by Yvonne Kemp)
LAMARCUS ALSTON: “I think if we stay healthy throughout the 2015 season, we can make it to the World Series.”
Compiled by MCJ Staff
A majority of Milwaukee’s aldermen blasted fellow alderman Joe Dudzik recently for saying the proposed $123 million downtown streetcar project would be a magnet for crime. Last week Dudzik—an opponent of the streetcar being championed by Mayor Tom Barrett, members of the business community and a number of the aldermen—called a WTMJAM afternoon news show, reportedly predicting their would be “a couple of assaults, or maybe a rape Ald. Joe Dudzik or a shooting on one of these street“The aldermen also cars. “And the millennials who claim expressed disapthey are going to be riding this thing are going to be nowhere to be seen,” pointment in Dudzik added Dudzik on the radio program. for referencing sex“And we’re going to be stuck with the ongoing maintenance cost for- ual assault, saying it ever.” The alderman pointed to the crime was used as a problem on Chicago’s transit system “scare tactic” in a and the need for that city’s system to have its own police force “that basi- political debate cally ride on their streetcars just to about a transportakeep certain people off.” In a joint press statement, 12 of the tion project that was 15 alderman condemned Dudzik’s completely devoid of remarks, calling them “hurtful and divisive.” any basis in fact.” In the statement, the aldermen said Dudzik’s comments regarding the streetcar were “baseless and do not warrant repeating.” “The message of fear and divisiveness at the heart of the comments is not what we stand for as members of the Common Council, nor does the message resonate in our community.” The aldermen said they stand together and embrace the rich and diverse city Milwaukee is that was built by generations of good hardworking people. “And we celebrate our neighborhoods where people of all colors, religions, and ethnicities live, work and play together. We are united in our belief that our city’s best days lie ahead. The aldermen also expressed disappointment in Dudzik for referencing sexual assault, saying it was used as a “scare tactic” in a political debate about a transportation project that was completely devoid of any basis in fact. “Rape and sexual assault should never be used to advance a political position or to stir fear in the hearts of our citizens.” The joint statement was signed by: Aldermen Michael Murphy, Ashanti Hamilton, Joe Davis, Sr., Nik Kovac, Robert Bauman, Milele Coggs, Willie Wade, Jose’ Perez, Terry Witkowski, Tony Zielinski, Russell W. Stamper, II and James A. Bohl, Jr. Two aldermen didn’t sign the statement: Aldermen Bob Donovan, who has been the most outspoken opponent of the streetcar project since its introduction, and Ald. Robert Puente. (continued on page 7)
MARQUISE SIMPSON: “If the pitching staff stays healthy and the boys keep hitting the balls out of the park, we can win it all.”
SHANNON BEENE: “I predict we will make it to the playoffs. If our pitching staff holds up and our guys keep hitting the ball out the park, we can go all the way.”
The Milwaukee Community Journal January 28, 2015 Page 2
PERSPECTIVES UNIVERSALLY SPEAKING QUOTE OF THE WEEK: “You can shine a light
The Milwaukee Community Journal January 28, 2015 Page 3
MCJ EDITORIAL
Embattled Ald. Dudzik should think twice before making statements, especially on issues of crime and race
We applaud 12 of the 15 members of Milwaukee’s Common Council for immediately condemning the statements made by fellow Alderman Joe Dudzik, who said the new downtown streetcar would attract crime, going so far as to even predict sexual assault. Dudzik, an obvious opponent of the streetcar like several of his colleagues on the Council, called a radio station last week critical of the proposed $123 million streetcar that will initially run through downtown with plans to expand it to other areas of the city, including our community. Dudzik predicted on the program there would be assaults (especially sexual assault) and shootings on the streetcars. He went so far as to make comparisons between the streetcar and Chicago’s transit system, and the defunct Northridge Mall on our city’s far Northwest side and downtown’s Grand Avenue Mall, which had their struggles with crime—and the perception of crime. Dudzik’s comments had a racist undertone, especially when he talked about Northridge and Grand Avenue, suggesting that what crime problems the two malls were perceived to have had were caused by people of color. Dudzik obviously forgot about the only fatal crime to Northridge was committed by a white male upon his white wife. The male, Jessie Anderson, tried to convince police (to no avail) he and his wife were attacked by a “Black man.” If Dudzik thought his “scare tactic” would work to help push the current campaign by Aldermen and streetcar opponents Bob Donovan, Joe Davis, Sr. and Terry Witkowski (both Davis and Witkowski signed the Council letter condemning Dudzik’s statements; Donovan did not) to get signatures to force a referendum on the upcoming spring election ballot, he may have done more harm than good to Donovan’s, Witkowski’s, and Davis’ cause. Dudzik’s radio statements were—and are—divisive, hurtful, wrong…and racist in their intent given his references to Northridge and the Grand Avenue. There is probably no other punishment to levy at Dudzik for his statements. Too bad. We will have to settle for the united front presented by the Council and the obvious embarrassment we hope it is causing Dudzik who, as of this writing, has yet to apologize for what he said, only admitting his colleagues have expressed their disappointment in his poor choice of words. We hope this experience will force the alderman to think before he speaks when offering his opinion on issues of importance to the city and our community, particularly if it relates to crime and race.
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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in a dark corner and make life better for people living there in the dark.”
--Late CBS/60 Minutes correspondent Ed Bradley speaking on journalism and what reporters can do for the underserved.
Lest we Forget by Rahim Islam
Malcom X once said, “the oppressor will never feel the pain of the oppressed.” The question becomes who are the oppressors and who are the oppressed.
The state of Black America is in a serious state of crisis. Despite our best efforts, to date, the general conditions within many Black neighborhoods and our schools continue to deteriorate for way too many Black families and their children. Blacks continue to lose ground in nearly every category with “positive” demographics decreasing and nearly every “negative” demographic increasing. This dynamic has created alarming, nearly catastrophic disparities and multiple “risk” factors amongst a large population of the Black community (this is a key issue that gets no traction). It is clear that the Black community in America is “oppressed” and has been since the enslavement of Black people ending in 1865 after nearly 300 years. It is also equally clear that the oppressor, at least during slavery (approximately 400 years), have been white people and their white establishment. With the passing of landmark civil rights legislation in the ‘60s and the general racial growth of White people, public displays of outright racism are seldom tolerated at any level any more, but structural racism is alive and well. While there are no more white slaveowners and the barbaric and criminal chattel enslavement of Black people no longer exists, Black people are still suffering significantly. The American institution of slavery represents one of the saddest commentaries on man’s inhumanity to man in modern history. The history of this period is so brutal and morbid that they will arouse hostilities at thought that these things occurred. As cruel and painful as chattel slavery was, it was exceeded by the capturing of a people’s mind by imprisoning the motivation, perception, aspiration and identity in a web of anti-self-images, language, art, etc. Also gone are Jim Crow laws that supported terrorist groups like the Ku Klux Klan and sometimes perpetuated the physical and psychological abuse of Black people for nearly 75 years after slavery. Today, nearly 50 years after civil rights legislation, the economic conditions and structural poverty for too many Black people threatens every aspect of life that will continue for untold generations. I contend, like wealth, poverty is inherited and where one starts in life is extremely important and Black people have never had the opportunity to not only inherit wealth but to create wealth because they were enslaved and their labor was never compensated. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once stated that the worst form of oppression is poverty and by this definition the Black community in America is being oppressed. The more I study the conditions facing the Black man in America, the more Malcolm X’s quote rings louder and louder in my head: “the oppressor will never feel the pain of the oppressed.” My problem now is,what do we do? Do we just give up trying to get people to understand how the current white generations have benefited and are “privileged” as the result of the massive disadvantage (oppression) orchestrated against a whole people. Does the truth matter anymore? I can’t believe that, at the end of the day, the truth will not prevail. There is a natural disposition to argue the truth with the hope that everyone would come to the same conclusion. It’s time for the white community to stop denying that this even happened, and to recognize who the oppressors and who the oppressed were. It’s also time that the white community accept the benefit and privilege this afforded them. I liken the current benefits of slavery to the person who is criminally charged in a theft even though they didn’t “directly” participate (i.e. they didn’t do the actual stealing). What they did was receive and currently use the stolen property and therefore they are “conspirators” in the crime. After countless struggles, marches, riots, demonstrations, and the passing of civil and voting rights legislation, Black Americans have entered the new millennium the same way they entered the previous four centuries, impoverished. Blacks still bear nearly 10 times their propor-
tional share of poverty and all of its nasty derivatives (i.e. broken homes, drug abuse, incarceration, unemployment, etc.). The redistribution of wealth and power has never been achieved nor has any compensation been given to Blacks for nearly 300 years of free labor, what we really have seen in America is social integration not economic integration. As Dr. Claude Anderson stated, “It is extremely difficult for Black people to progress when the same hands that held the whip still holds all of the wealth and power.” Maybe this is why the oppressor will never feel the pain of the oppressed. One must look at the challenges when you argue how the state of the Black man in America is connected to the role that the white ancestors played and the overwhelming “stacking” of deck that confronts most Black people today. During this period that most white people want to forget or try to downplay, they secured and amassed trillions of dollars in wealth and an economic system that is second to none in the world that will ensure prosperity for its owners for generations to come. Whites control nearly 100 percent of America’s wealth (est. $9 Trillion), its values as well as a system that supports the protection and growth of their wealth. THAT WEALTH, POWER, AND REAL ADVANTAGES HAVE BEEN PASSED DOWN TO THE CURRENT WHITE GENERATION, WHILE BLACKS, FOR THE MOST PART, HAVE INHERITED POVERTY AND A WHOLE HOST OF DISADVANTAGES INLCUDING THOSE THAT ENGROSS AND FINALIZE BLACK INFERIORITY. Whites must come to understand the economic disadvantage that today’s Blacks have inherited within our capitalistic economy. I liken this to being in a gun fight with, not only no gun, but the competition is armed with high quality and high powered weaponry. How can the Black man truly compete in America’s economic race when the competition has been given a 400 year head start? I recognize that white people do compete amongst each other and with other groups and this should not be overlooked. However, this should not be confused with white people being in competition with Black people, it’s absolutely no contest, white people have a very clear and lopsided advantage. The American institution of slavery was not only a crime against Africa, Africans, and all of humanity, but when expressed in economic terms, slavery was the largest and most sustained economic windfall the world has ever witnessed; slavery was the catalyst for a global economy creating wealth beyond anyone’s comprehension. Not only did Americans become extremely wealthy, but nearly all the countries of Europe were direct participants and beneficiaries of slavery on the backs of free black labor. When you consider the following two key facts (there are so many more): 1) Black ownership of the nation’s wealth remain where it was in 1860 near the end of slavery (pre-emancipation) at one half of one percent . After 150 years and 100% physical freedom; America’s token addressing of social issues, Blacks still only own one half of one percent of the nation’s wealth. Why is this? Wealth inheritance is the passing of past benefits and gains from previous generations and ultimately passed to future generations. Currently, nearly 90% of all of the nation’s wealth was passed from one generation to another, this wealth is forever locked up (i.e. cash, stocks, bonds, land, business, trust accounts, endowments, foundations, etc.). While not all white people are rich, there is a massive disparity between the net assets of the average white family versus the average Black family ($100k+ vs $6-8k). This plays out in education opportunities, housing and neighborhood selection, capitalization of entrepreneurial aspirations, and a genuine ability for self-determination for Black people. When I was developing “market” rate housing at price points at a million dollars there was no limitation of white buyers who could make nearly 90% deposits ($900,000 cash) to outright cash purchases (100 percent). In all my adult life, I’ve only known one Black person who could do this. In making inquiries to very successful white businessmen on how they became successful especially when everyone of them were born poor (rags to riches), every one of them had a family member or friend that made a substantial investment into the “start-up” of their business. Many times this was done several times before the entrepreneur got it right (millions of dollars
were lost in the process), patient capital. This capital relationship would continue and going forward these entrepreneurs had access to capital that helped to expand their business along the way. Again, I know of no Black person that provided seed capital for a startup business and if this did happen, no way do we have Black people able to “loose” on their investment if they actually made an investment, our community doesn’t have these type of resources. The disadvantages of not having capital shows in multiple ways all have devastating ramifications on the suitability of a family and a people (i.e. education, health, travel, exposure and creativity, etc.). Capital resources (wealth) and access to quality education are key factors that predestined the Black community to becoming a permanent underclass trapped in poverty unless Blacks break this cycle. Black people are still discussing reform goals that Brown vs Board of Education has yet to resolve nearly 60 years ago. In America it’s understood if you get a good education, there are no limits to how high you can succeed, education, while not alone, can fundamentally change the trajectory of a people. Let’s examine the Black man’s relationship with America and education. We recently acknowledge the 60th anniversary of the historic Supreme Court Ruling of Brown v. Board of Education which proves less a cause for celebration and grounds for questioning the current education inequities. The ruling was historic because it declared “separate but equal” not only is an impossibility, but unconstitutional. During the enslavement of Black people, there were numerous states that had laws on their books that forbid Blacks to read and/or to be educated (it was a crime)” upon the end of slavery; the majority of Black people were illiterate. Blacks continue to fight for equality in education. With Blacks lagging behind in every key educational indicator (i.e. literacy, academic achievement, reading, math, and science, high school graduation, college graduation, etc.), the current failing public school system will dictate that these numbers remain and/or worsen. With a funding formula that funds nearly half of public education coming from the taxes derived from the valuation of real estate values. With majority of Black people living in sub-standard neighborhoods where real estate values are either stagnate or in decline (the housing stock is fair to poor), it’s no wonder that public education can’t get up off its knees, it’s financially impossible. Contrary to this dilemma is that white neighborhoods have appreciating real estate values and therefore are able to derived far more (up to 50 percent more) local funds for the education of white children, who have had education from its inception. The funding issue continues to undermine the delivery of quality public education and therefore significantly underserves Black children. Public education for Black children is still separate and still very much unequal. According to the U.S. Department of Education in 2009-2010 school years, there were nearly 8.2 million Blacks attending public schools and approximately 400,000 attend private school (nearly 80 percent attending religious schools with the majority Catholic Schools). What’s most astonishing is that nearly 77 percent of all Black students attended predominantly all black schools within urban cities with nearly 30 percent of white students leaving public schools all together. The academic disparities are so alarming and none greater than what is happening to Black boys, the school to prison pipeline is alive and strong. Not only are our school facilities unequal and inferior, many of our schools lack the very essentials to educate our children (i.e. books, equipment, facilities, educational programs, summer school, etc.). Given the struggles that Blacks have had in this country from the beginning, you would’ve thought that at least one commitment would be fulfilled for Black people, equitable schools. Lest we forget. In my upcoming article we will explore more critical legacies of slavery that fundamentally cripple the Black community, and white privilege. --Rahim Islam is a National Speaker and Writer, Convener of Philadelphia Community of Leaders, and President/CEO of Universal Companies, a community development and education management company headquartered in Philadelphia, PA. Follow Rahim Islam on FaceBook(Rahim Islam) & Twitter (@RahimIslamUC)
RELIGION
The Milwaukee Community Journal January 28, 2015 Page 4
Mt Moriah Baptist Church Chapel Grand Opening
WHAT’S HAPPENING...
In Your Faith-Based Community
Brentwood Church of Christ’s Christian Couples Ministry to hold 5th annual Black Marriage Day event March 28
Christian Couples Ministry (CCM) of the Brentwood Church of Christ will hold their 5th Annual Black Marriage Day Event on Saturday March 28, 2015 from 2:00 - 4:00 pm at the church, 6425 N. 60th Street, Milwaukee, WI. The theme of the event will be Respect the Ring. The event will include entertainment by jazz vocalist Cassandra McShepard and Evangelist Steven Thompson, Minister of the Central Church of Christ, will provide an inspirational message. At each event, special honors are given to the most newlywed couple and the one that has been married the longest. A dessert social will be held immediately following the program. Black Marriage Day is a national observance on the 4th
Eleventh (11th) annual relationship conference Valentine’s Day weekend event
In celebration of the past success of the “Without Distraction” relationship conference its 11th Annual event; a combination of both relationship education and entertainment has become one of Milwaukee’s best social and romantic Valentine weekend of the year. Milwaukee has found this event to be rewarding for both singles and Married Couples. Dr. LaFayette Russell and Dr. Ingrid Durr Russell will be among the International speakers for this year event February 13th, 14th & 15th 2015. Venue- Crown Plaza Milwaukee Airport: 6401 South 13th St. Milwaukee WI. 53221. Singles are the foundation of every marriage because a good marriage starts with your singleness. Marriage brings you into a true opportunity to express your love, feelings and what you are made of. Understanding the process and learning how to unmask your feelings is one of the basic keys to success. Sometimes people
Sunday of March that celebrates marriage in the Black community. This event is open to everyone who believes in and supports the value of marriage in the Black community; this includes singles and individuals from all cultures. Tickets are $20 per person and $25 for two, tickets can be purchased in advance at Herb’s Hair Studio, 4800 N. Hopkins Street or at the event. For questions, please contact Thomas & Clarene Mitchell, event organizers, at 414-736-1546 or brentwoodccm@gmail.com. The Black Marriage Day Event Facebook event page is a source for more information as well.
adopt ways in their childhood development and influences that becomes the norm; consequently the norm to them could be a negative pattern that could sabotage their relationships. Recognizing and Identify those patterns could be the very answer to probable cause. Being realistic about yourself and having a realist view of others will help give you a solid building foundation to build on. Together we can discoverer what areas in your life that can use some more fuel and Socializing with other singles or couples like yourself is good for everyone! The week end event includes: Friday 6:30pm Meet/Greet Social (refreshments provided) 7pm begins with both Singles and Marriage Topics in two sessions. Building and keeping a healthy relationship with understanding is power tools we are giving to our communities for FREE! Yes, we are making the “Relationship teaching sessions” absolutely free. That means no cost to get this wealth of information for life. Saturday at 11am combined Singles and Marriage session Question & Answer panel discussion. The workshops is to empower and remove all frustrations. We will cover all areas of relationship from personal, business to finance. Each year there are numerous testimonies of this life changing event. Don’t miss the Saturday evening 7:00pm-Valentine’s Special Eloquent Romantic Dinner Including; Live Music, clean Live (continued on page 5)
Baptist Sate Congress to hold Christian Education Leadership Confab Feb. 7
The General Baptist State Congress of Christian Education will be hosting its annual Leadership Conference Saturday, Feb. 7, 2015 at Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church, 2505 W. Cornell St., from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The theme for the conference is, “Spoken Word” (1John 1:1-4), with a minor theme fo “3D:Spoken, Written, and Living.” For more information on the conference, contact Dean Hughes at 414-449-9272.
All Peoples Church expands ministry into a new neighborhood
All Peoples Church, a congregation planted in the Harambee neighborhood of Milwaukee is sowing seeds in a new part of the city. As part of a new partnership with Florist Avenue Lutheran Church, All Peoples will offer a Sunday evening worship service. Both congregations are part of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. The new worship service is called SEEDS and is inspired by a Mexican proverb: They tried to bury us. They didn’t know we were seeds. Rev. Steve Jerbi, senior pastor at All Peoples, said this proverb captures the spirit of this new service. “In a part of the city living with poverty and violence it is easy to see people being buried with struggle. Too often those with the power to invest would rather cover it up with dirt. What we see in the Havenwoods community is a resilience and a
Scenes from the recent grand opening celebration of Mt. Moriah’s new Chapel, the first phase of the church’s project to rebuild its church in the community where they have been located for more than 50 years. (Photos by Yvonne Kemp)
hope. No matter what gets thrown on them, they find a way to not just survive but thrive. That is a resurrection story we are honored to join.” The new service will be led by Rev. Jerbi and minister of music David Nunley. It will also incorporate the talents of young adults and youth through spoken word and hip hop. While All Peoples develops SEEDS, Florist Avenue will continue to offer worship and programs under the guidance of Rev. Carol Crietz. “The staff of the Greater Milwaukee Synod welcomes and encourages SEEDS as a positive contribution to the Synod's emerging look at revitalizing ministry on the Northwest side of Milwaukee,” said Rhonda Hill, director of discipleship and assistant to Bishop Jeff Barrow. SEEDS begins February 8. There will be an open mic at 5:00pm and worship begins at 5:30pm. About All Peoples Church All Peoples Church is a congregation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Rooted in the Harambee neighborhood of Milwaukee, the congregation is racially, culturally and economically diverse. Its commitment to racial and social justice has earned it awards and recognition. For more information about All Peoples Church, visit www.allpeoplesgathering.org.
In Loving Memory
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.
Wyrick, Jessie M. Age94yrs.January25,2015.Funeralserviceswil beheldonSaturday,January31,at11AMatCanaanBaptistChurch2964N.11thSt.VisitationSaturday10AMattheCHURCHuntiltimeofservices.Thefamilyisservedby: NorthwestFuneralChapel/O'Bee,Ford&Frazier,6630W.HamptonAve. (414)462-6020
Shelton, Ethel M. Age92yrs.January25,2015.Funeralserviceswil beheldonMonday,February2ndat11amatMt.ZionBaptist Church2207N.2ndSt.VisitationMonday10AMattheCHURCHuntiltimeofservices.Thefamilyisservedby: NorthwestFuneralChapel/O'Bee,FordFrazier,6630W.HamptonAve.(414)462-6020 Ashford, Derrick D. Age41yrs.January19,2015.AMemorialservicewil beheldonMonday,January26at11AMatPilgrimRest BaptistChurch3737N.ShermanBlvd.Thefamilyisservedby:NorthwestFuneralChapel/O'Bee,Ford&Frazier, 6630W.HamptonAve.(414)462-6020
Giles, Helen J. Age86yrs.January21,2015.BelovedmotherofVincent(Lanell)Giles,George(Carmen)Giles,CrandleGilesand Raymond(Brenda)Giles.Alsosurvivedby12grandchildren,20great-grandchildren,5great-greatgrandchildren andahostofotherlovingrelativesandfriends.Funeralserviceswil beheldonThursday,January29,at11AM. VisitationThursday10AMuntiltimeofservicesat:NorthwestFuneralChapel O'Bee,Ford&Frazier,6630W.HamptonAve.(414)462-6020
Coker, Dorothy Age80yrs.January19,2015.Funeralserviceswil beheldonTuesday,January27at11AMatWisconsinMemorialPark"ChapelofChimes"13235W.CapitolDr.VisitationTuesday10AMatthe"ChapelofChimes"untiltime ofservices.Thefamilyisservedby:NorthwestFuneralChapel/O'Bee,Ford&Frazier 6630W.HamptonAve.(414)462-6020 Colbert, Jessie Ruth Age77yrs.January13,2015.Funeralserviceswil beheldonFriday,January23at11AMatNorthwestFuneral Chapel.InstateFriday10AMuntiltimeofservices.VisitationTODAY3-7PM(Familywil receiveguestfrom6-7PM) at:NorthwestFuneralChapel/O'Bee,Ford&Frazier,6630W.HamptonAve.(414)462-6020
J.C. Frazier, Funeral Director
Jackson, Beulah "Barbara" Age73yrs.January19,2015.AMemorialServicewil beheldonThursday,January22at1PMat: NorthwestFuneralChapel/O'Bee,Ford&Frazier,6630W.HamptonAve.,(414)462-6020 Hickman, Minnie J. Age87yrs.January17,2015.Funeralserviceswil beheldonSaturday,January24at12NoonatSiloah LutheranChurch 3721N.21stSt.VisitationSaturday11AMattheCHURCHuntiltimeofservices.Thefamilyis servedby:NorthwestFuneralChapel/O'Bee,Ford&Frazier,6630W.HamptonAve.(414)462-6020
Mathis, Johnny R. Age60yrs.January17,2015.Funeralserviceswil beheldonMonday,January26at11AMatMonumentalBaptistChurch2407W.NorthAve.VisitationMonday10AMattheCHURCHuntiltimeofservices.Thefamilyisserved by:NorthwestFuneralChapel/O'Bee,Ford&Frazier,6630W.HamptonAve.(414)462-6020 Robinson, Jane (Nee Alden) Age83yrs.January12,2015.BelovedmotherofCharlesAldenofSaukvile,WIandHumbertoRobinsonJr.LovingsisterofWiliamE.Alden.GrandmotherofBrianAlden.Alsosurvivedby5great-grandchildren,andahostof nephews,niecesandotherlovingrelativesandfriends.AMemorialLuncheonwil beheldonSaturday,January 24at11AMatNorthwestFamilyActivity&EventCenter4034W.GoodHopeRd.Thefamilyisservedby:NorthwestFuneralChapel/O'Bee,Ford&Frazier,6630W.HamptonAve.(414)462-6020
Lyles, Susie Ann Age56yrs.January12,2015.Funeralserviceswil beheldonThursday,January22,at11AM.VisitationThursday 10AMuntiltimeofservicesat:NorthwestFuneralChapel/O'Bee,Ford&Frazier,6630W.HamptonAve. (414)462-6020
Grant, Louise Age90yrs.January15,2015.Funeralserviceswil beheldonFriday,January23at11AMatTabernacleCommunityBaptistChurch2500W.MedfordAve.VisitationFriday10AMattheCHURCHuntiltimeofservices.Thefamily isservedby:NorthwestFuneralChapel/O'Bee,Ford&Frazier,6630W.HamptonAve.(414)462-6020
Staples-Genett, Bobby Joyce Age67yrs.January13,2015.AMemorialServicewil beheldonSaturday,January24at10AMatCommunity ofChristChurch12320W.BluemoundRd.Thefamilyisservedby:NorthwestFuneralChapel/O'Bee,Ford&Frazier,6630W.HamptonAve.(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
BREAD IN THE WILDERNESS
Jesus Christ: “The very Word of God” By Fr. Carl Diederichs, All Saints Catholic Church
Funeral services set for Jimmie Ruth Beckum
Jimmie Ruth Beckum
Funeral services will be held Saturday, Jan. 31 at Greater Galilee Baptist Church for Jimmie Ruth Beckum, the wife of James Beckum, one of the founders of the Beckum-Stapleton Baseball Little League. The funeral service will begin at 11 a.m. with the viewing starting at 9 until 10:45 a.m. Visitation will be held Friday, Jan. 30, from 3 to 7 p.m. at Reid’s New Golden Gate Funeral Home, 5665 N. Teutonia Ave.
The readings from scripture for this coming weekend are: Deuteronomy 18: 15-20, 1 Corinthians 7: 32-35, and Mark 1: 21-28. The message is clear: God’s Word has power, if we let it. The first reading has Moses saying something that we can now attribute so perfectly to Jesus: “I will raise up for them a prophet like you from among your kin, and I will put my word into his mouth; he shall tell them all that I command him.” For our ancestors, there was “power” in words; especially of they came from the mouth of God. And Jesus became centuries later the very “Word” of God. In Mark’s narrative under discussion, we have Jesus exercising the power of His word; he was able to confront the evil spirit within a man and not run from the man because he would have made himself unclean. The evil spirit counted on Jesus not wanting to become unclean. If someone had an evil spirit the faithful would shun the person lest they become unclean. So, it gave evil spirits the freedom to roam unchallenged. Even having (continued on page 9)
The Milwaukee Community Journal January 28, 2015 Page 5
YOUTH&EDUCATION
The Milwaukee Community Journal January 28, 2015 Page 6
Arts Education is brought to the forefront in Next Act’s NO CHILD…
This winter Next Act Theatre will take the opportunity to say thanks to educators with their production of NO CHILD… by Nilaja Sun. Marti Gobel brings to life 16 vivid characters – students, principal, custodian, parents and teachers – to relate this uplifting tale of one artist’s passionate quest to leave none of her children behind. NO CHILD… will play January 29 – February 22, 2015 at Next Act’s home, 255 S. Water St., in Walker’s Point. NO CHILD… follows a teaching artist, Ms. Sun, who brings her passion for theatre into a New York City classroom. She challenges her students to become actors themselves and produce a play. Pushback from the “toughest class in the school” doesn’t make it easy, but her unwavering belief that the
Kids were on deck at annual Brewers event!
Kaden Green got a chance to meet the mascots of the Milwaukee Brewers and UW-Milwaukee sports teams at the recently completed Brewers On Deck event held at the Wisconsin Center downtown. Besides mascots, Green and other children got to meet Brewers players and coaches, as well as partake in interactive games in the kids area and the Brewers Community Foundation Treasure Hunt and other activities, food and fun. (Photo by Yvonne Kemp)
arts can enrich young lives ultimately wins the day. It is an inspiring story of trial, hope and belief in education, the arts and the best of the human spirit. This one woman play will be performed by UPROOTED theatre’s Producing Artistic Director Marti Gobel, last seen in PERFECT MENDACITY, 2013. Opening night is Friday, January 30. Tickets range from $28 - $38 and may be purchased by calling 414278-0765 or visiting www.nextact.org. Mary MacDonald Kerr will direct NO CHILD… and comments, “In these times, in this city, I hope this story inspires conversation about education and equality, education and teachers, education and social change. Conversation is what I always hope for when making a show, and NO CHILD… is no exception.” NO CHILD… is sponsored by BMO Harris Bank, City of Milwaukee Arts Board, Dorothy Inbusch Foundation, Inc., Herzfeld Foundation, Robb & Sally Marks Education Fund, Robert W. Baird & Co., and Steigleder Charitable Trust. Next Act Theatre’s 2014-2015 Season is supported in part by a grant from the Wisconsin Arts Board with funds from the State of Wisconsin and the National Endowment for the Arts. Next Act Theatre is a proud member of the United Performing Arts Fund (UPAF).
MPS moves forward on plans to improve; Assembly accountability bill troubles continue
The Milwaukee Community Journal January 28, 2015 Page 7
by Dr. Michael Bonds, MPS Board president
Milwaukee Public Schools is making progress. More MPS students are meeting reading standards. The MPS Class of 2014 earned $31 million in college scholarships, an increase of $7 million from the Class of 2013 and U.S. News and World Report tapped four MPS high schools among the top 15 in the state of Wisconsin. Under the leadership of MPS Superintendent Dr. Darienne Driver, the district is increasing efforts to improve student achievement even more. Over the next several months, Dr. Driver and the Milwaukee Board of School Directors will consider a series of Strategic Objectives and a Regional Development Plan. Working in tandem, these two ef-
forts have the ability to jump start MPS improvement efforts. The Strategic Objectives are aligned with the MPS Strategic Plan and the administration’s goals: Academic Achievement; Family, Student and Community Engagement; and Effective and Efficient Operations. Each of these goals has a series of programs that will be developed. For example, the Academic Achievement goal will include efforts to close the gap, educate the whole child, refine the MPS experience and rethink high schools. I am excited to work with the administration to move these efforts forward and to work with the community on shaping and implementing these plans. The administration has also developed a Regional Development Plan which is designed to increase the
number of seats in high-performing schools and improve the capacity for quality community support activities. The Regional Development Plan has three main components: a Pathways Plan, Spotlight Projects and Community Cornerstone Projects. Each component of the Regional Development Plan will have community input prior to Board approval. The Pathways Plan increases the number of high performing seats and re-establishes feeder patterns that provide parents and students with program consistency from kindergarten through 12th grade. Facility improvements, instructional program support, community building, neighborhood outreach and transportation redesign are key parts of this plan. The Milwaukee Board of School
Aldermen condemn negative statements of one of their own regarding streetcar and crime
(continued from page 1) But in a statement he released on Monday, Puente explained he did not sign the statement because he was unable to obtain a transcript of what Dudzik said, nor the draft of the statement of the other aldermen. However, Puente stressed in his statement he “wholeheartedly” agreed with the other aldermen once he read what Dudzik said and the statement by his colleagues. Puente said he was particularly offended by comments Dudzik made about the long closed Northridge Mall on the far Northwest side of the city, which lies in Puente’s district. On the radio show, Dudzik said the streetcar will have the same fate as Northridge and the Grand Avenue Mall downtown. Both malls were believed by many to draw criminal activity. “I don’t want to make it a racial thing,” Dudzik said, “but you look at what happened to Northridge (and) Grand Avenue Mall. I believe those same things will happen to the street car.” At Northridge Mall in the late 80s, Jessie Anderson killed his wife in the parking lot of the now defunct TGI Friday’s, which was located across the street from the mall, claiming a Black man killed his wife and wounded him. However, police investigators found Anderson’s claims to be false. “After reading the transcript of comments Alderman Dudzik made on the radio program, I am especially offended by the reference he made to Northridge Mall, and I share the strong belief that the alderman’s comments were divisive, hurtful and just plain wrong,” Puente said. A spokesperson for the mayor said he was “shocked” by what Dudzik said, adding of all the irresponsible statements made about the streetcar, his is among the worst. In a statement to Fox6 News Monday, Dudzik would only say his fellow aldermen let him know he used “unfortunate phrasing” and that it was all he was going to comment on. Sources for this story: MJS, Fox6News.com, and city hall.
Daddy/ Daughter Dance
(continued from page 1) the proportion of children growing up with involved, responsible, and committed fathers in their lives. The Social Development Commission (SDC) serves as a planner, coordinator, and provider of human service programs for lowincome individuals and families in Milwaukee County. Milwaukee Recreation is a department of Milwaukee Public Schools, established in 1911 to provide the entire community with affordable and enriching recreational activities. For more information, visit MilwaukeeRecreation.net or contact Brian Hoffer at (414) 475-8938.
communityjournal.net
Directors already approved a key measure of the plan which increases space for our popular Montessori program. Spotlight projects improve enrollment and performance by aligning and restoring specialty programs and contribute to feeder patterns. Examples of projects include an arts campus development. Community Cornerstone Projects create, restore and expand non-classroom-based opportunities that benefit students and the community. Projects such as Teachtown II – another housing and professional development program for new educators – an expanded Newcomers Center for immigrant families and Northside community recreation centers are among the possible projects. These are well-thought out and well-developed plans by the MPS ad-
Valentine’s Day weekend event
(continued from page 4) Comedy, and bliss of Love in the air set just right for the occasion. The cost is only $45 per person and couples $10 off. (Advance only). Sunday at 1pm join us the close of the weekend event. The entire family is welcome to be apart of our special Worship service. The topic is “Kingdom Relationship.” Knowledge is powerful.” Plain and simple we could all use some guidance to maintain or build a long lasting good relationship based on Biblical truth. Free Registration and (no cost for the teaching sessions) . For additional information, tickets, sales, groups, vendors, hotel overnight reservation, and other compliments please contact us 708-745-4393 or 414-520-1567 Website:WWW.withoutdistractionrelationship.com Email: ingriddurr4u@yahoo.com facebook.com/Ingrid Durr P.O. Box 170024 Glendale Wisconsin 53217. Website: WWW.withoutdistractionrelationship.com. Email: ingriddurr4u@yahoo.com. facebook.com/Ingrid Durr. P.O. Box 170024 Glendale Wisconsin 53217
ministration designed to improve outcomes for our students and our families. Contrast our efforts to those in Assembly Bill 1, the school accountability bill being pushed by some Republican legislators. It lacks details on how the program will be implemented. It would turn public schools over to for-profit charter school companies. It hurts school districts and students across Wisconsin by syphoning money slated for all public schools to for-profit charter schools. Quite frankly, there’s more in this
proposed legislation that benefits private charter companies than Wisconsin’s children. The authors of Assembly Bill 1 are planning to make changes to the bill, but their concepts remain flawed. Assembly Bill 1 is a step backward and moves away from true transparency by allowing for a muddled grab bag of different tests. Assembly Bill 1 experiments with Wisconsin’s students and their educational futures. Our children are too precious and the outcome is too uncertain for Assembly Bill 1 to become law.
KALEIDOSCOPE
Fresh Perspective the M C J l i fe s t y l e & e n tertainment section Art Show and Sale
The Milwaukee Community Journal January 28, 2015 Page 8
MEETING OF MINDS TO SAVE YOUNG BLACK MALE LIVES--Staff members from the Boys&Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee had coffee and talked about Club program for boys of color and young Black males. The staffers are front row, left to right): David Muhammad, Dr. Glen Matthews, Walter Goodwyn, Michael Waite, Reggie Riley. (Back row, left to right): Leighton Cooper, Tony Little, Sam Williams, Robert Jackson, Michael Chishom, and Charles Brown. (Photo by Yvonne Kemp)
RAISING MONEY FOR YOUTH TO VIEW MOVIE SELMA - Kudos to the brothers Richard Lewis, manager at Concurs Motors and Vincent Lyles, Greater Milwaukee Boys and Girls CEO for seeking to raise $50,000 to send students to see the movie “Selma”. This movie will definitely have an impact on how they will see the world. MKE BUSINESS NOW ENTREPRENEURSHIP SUMMIT – Is designed to provide information and resources to entrepreneurs interested in starting and growing businesses. This event will have workshops, vendors and more. It will be held Saturday, January 31, 2015 at the Milwaukee Math and Science Academy 110 West Burleigh Ave. from 10AM – 2:00PM. DEDICATED TO BLACK WOMEN THAT GOT BLACK MEN’S BACKS – Brothers make sure you get the Black women you want to get sponsored in the February 5th edition of the Milwaukee Community Journal Newspaper by the January 31st deadline. The cost is $25 per listing. This page initially appeared in the January 7th edition. Recognize the Black women that have supported your efforts that are alive or have joined the world of your ancestors. Contact Tony Courtney at 374-2364.
MOVIN’ ON UP! Milwaukee native Carl Wesley, Jr. new chief executive officer for Center for SelfSufficiency
He replaces organization’s founder an CEO Angela Turner
The Board of Directors for the Center of Self-Sufficiency (the Center) announced today that Angela Turner, founder, president and chief executive officer (CEO), will leave her position on January 12, 2015. Her departure comes after a yearlong succession plan. After an extensive search and screening process,
FROM THE BLACK
Next month Wisconsin’s African-American men will unveil their art and crafts at the Fresh Perspective Art Show and Sale. At least 40 artists will participate in this event in a spectacular former bank space in Milwaukee. The Fresh Perspective Art Show will allow everyone to experience their inspiration, intelligence, imagination, and diligence under one roof. The art will reflect the broad diversity of men in the black community of Wisconsin. Participating artist Ken Brown says, “It is very encouraging to see black male artists being given new and exciting opportunities to feature and sell their work.” There will be 3 Fresh Perspective shows in all, two in Milwaukee and one in Racine. The first Fresh Per-
spective show took place on February 1, 2014 at the Coffee Makes You Black Coffee Shop, where about 300 visitors saw 20 black male artists show and sell their works. Their work includes paintings, sketches, ceramics, photographs, quilts, woodcarvings, screen prints, and multi-media sculptures. Though the Fresh Perspective Art Show is not a juried affair, many skilled artists will participate, including a number from the Wisconsin 30 exhibition at the Milwaukee Art Museum. The Fresh Perspective Art Show and Sale is free for the artists and attendees and, furthermore, the artists keep 100% of their sales. The artists are the core of this organization and have been meeting to organize these events. The first Fresh Perspective Art Show and Sale will take place on February 6 & 7 at 2200 North Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive in Milwaukee. 6th 6 pm-10 pm 7th 11am-3pm A second Fresh Perspective show will take place later in February at the Racine Arts Council, 316 6th Street in Racine. 27th 6 pm-10 pm 28th Noon-4 pm A third show will take place on March 11 at the JusticePoint, Inc. open house at 205 W. Highland Avenue, Suite 201, in Milwaukee from 5-8 p.m.
Legendary Isley Brothers perform to benefit local children
By Tony Courtney
FRESH PERSPECTIVE ART STORE – Featuring the inspiration and talent of Wisconsin Black males. 2200 N. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. Friday, February 6, 2015 from 6PM – 10PM. MEN OF AFRICAN DESCENT MEN’S CIRCLE Men of African Descent are invited to come together weekly strategizing session on healing ourselves and healing our community. The first, second and third Mondays are for men of African Descent Only. On the fourth Monday men of other ethnic groups that are our allies are invited to join us. These meetings are held at the Body and Soul Healing Center 3617 N. 48th St. 6PM – 9PM. The first meeting will be held Monday, February 2, 2015. I can be reached at Coffee Makes You Black 2803 N. Teutonia Ave. Tuesday thru Saturday after 10AM. Call me at 374-2364.
Carl Wesley, Jr.
Milwaukee-native Carl Wesley, Jr., assistant director of P.E.O.P.L.E. (Pre-college Enrichment Opportunity Program for Learning Excellence) at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, has been named the new president and CEO, effective January 20, 2015. “We thank Angie for her service to the Center and look forward to starting a new chapter,” said William Sulton, Chair of the Center’s Board of Directors. “We are grateful for Angie’s lead-
ership and the many hours she has worked with us to ensure the transition leaves the agency strong and intact,” said Mr. Sulton. Carl Wesley has served in increasingly responsible roles at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He served as assistant director of P.E.O.P.L.E. before being promoted to his current position as director. Carl has a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice and two Master’s degrees in Adult Education and Counseling Psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville; and he is currently completing a doctorate degree at Edgewood College. Carl is married with four children. “The Center will continue to provide outstanding evidence-based programming and services under Carl’s leadership. “He has the background, qualifications and experience to expand the Center’s activities and improve the lives of those we serve,” said Mr. Sulton.
King of Glory hosted their second annual Royal Masquerade Ball and Benefit Concert on January 17, 2015 with special guests the legendary Isley Brothers. The goal of the event was to raise awareness around the need to license quality foster homes in Milwaukee in order to keep black children connected to their families and community. Some funds raised also benefited Black Child Development Institute-Milwaukee. (Photo by Yvonne Kemp)
THE SPORTS PAGE
MARQUETTE LOSES TO GEORGETOWN
Marquette Golden Eagle Guard Jajuan Johnson passes the ball around Georgetown Forward Paul White during the Golden Eagles loss to the “G-Men” at the BMO Harris Bradley Center recently. (Photo by Bill Tennessen)
5 Reasons Kids Should Play Organized Sports
Entrepreneurs & Former Pro Athlete Explain Life-long Lessons Learned in Youth Competition
In the past 30 years, obesity has more than doubled in young children and quadrupled in adolescents, potentially leading to a host of chronic diseases later in life, according to the Centers for Disease Control.
Conversely, the CDC reports that regular physical activity provides a long list of physical benefits for children, but that’s not all. Daily exercise also promotes mental and emotional well-being that includes self-esteem. “By now, I don’t think anyone is surprised that regular exercise is good for children and inactivity is places them at risk for illnesses later in life, but when you take a moment to consider the data in-depth for children who exercise and play organized sports, the details of a child’s future come to life,” says Danyel Surrency Jones, president of Power To Give and co-founder of Powerhandz Inc., (powerhandz.com), a company specializing in athletic training products to improve performance in baseball, basketball and football. Danyel and her business partner and husband, Darnell Jones, a former professional basketball player who also co-founded Powerhandz, want kids in their community and beyond to benefit from the values learned from youth sports. That’s why they created the Power To Give program, which promotes positive development. “We believe in the power of sports to change a kid’s life for the better,” says Darnell, who lists five signifi-
cant benefits of youth sports. • Cultivates a positive attitude: Sports are demanding. Come game time, a young athlete wouldn’t last
long with a negative mindset. “Practice is no cakewalk either,” Darnell says. “As adults, we understand the need to hype ourselves before hitting the gym. The rewarding feeling we get walking out from the gym is similar to what young people feel after a game or tough practice.” • Offers a sense of accomplishment, confidence and self-esteem: As the CDC noted, simply being physically active builds self-esteem. We are physical beings who are not meant to sit in front of a videogame for several consecutive hours. “Again, if you’re a physically active adult, you feel that sense of accomplishment in outdoing your last performance at the gym,” Danyel says. “Kids feel a similar way learning new skills and succeeding in a game, except more so.” • Builds better peer relationships: Kids want to fit in, but it’s not always easy. Organized sports hurdles the high wall of social awkwardness so many children feel. Team sports such as baseball, basketball and football demand participants to work together for a common goal, which is a valuable lesson some adults still haven’t learned while interacting at work. • More restraint in avoiding risky behavior: Ideally, parents can get their children engaged – in anything that’s productive, really. Bored or disengaged children have a way of getting into trouble. A student is less likely to misbehave in class or break the law if it means getting kicked off the team of a sport they love. • Greater family attachment and frequent interactions with parents: Famous athletes say it all the time, “Thanks Mom. Thanks for driving me to and from practice, and thanks for showing up at the games.” And that doesn’t even count helping a child with actual practice – playing catch, squaring off one-onone, etc.
About
Danyel
Surrency
The Milwaukee Community Journal January 28, 2015 Page 9 for over 17 years, sat on non-for- Mesa State College before he went Jones and Darnell Jones
Danyel Surrency Jones is COO and Co-Founder of Powerhandz Inc., (powerhandz.com), which specializes in performance-enhancing training products for athletes. Danyel is a business leader who led sales and marketing departments
profit boards and invested in early stage companies. Darnell Jones is an entrepreneur and investor, athlete and sales professional. Before cofounding Powerhandz, he was a team captain and academic all-conference basketball player at
on to play for the Utah Eagles of the former Continental Basketball Association. Danyel and Darnell created the Power To Give- Building Character Through Athletics, which help fund athletic programs in financially challenged communities.
(continued from page 5) the man in the synagogue would have made the “clean” a target of uncleanliness. But Jesus spoke as someone with power and authority and the evil spirit recognized this and even challenged Jesus: “Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are – the Holy One of God!” Jesus, not afraid of becoming unclean, ordered the evil out of the man. And now, not only was Jesus not unclean but neither was the man. That is why those in the synagogue said: “What is this? A new teaching with authority. He commands even the unclean spirits and they obey him.” Remember, this story comes at the very beginning of Mark’s Gospel. It was the story that set the tone of the whole gospel. Jesus spoke with authority and none of the purity codes would prevent him from exercising that authority. We claim to be followers of Christ,
at least many of us do. What “power and authority” do we give Jesus’ words? Do we see them as a challenge to us to live a new way, a way that empowers us to want to remove the evil spirits we find? Jesus spoke with authority and power. Those powerful words come to us for a response. If we simply see them as a personal comfort and not as words that compel us into action
for others, we will be like our ancestors who were afraid of becoming unclean and simply turned away for pain and suffering, hunger and thirst of those who not “clean” like they were. Being a Christian today is not for those who have a “me and Jesus” faith and ignore those who Jesus cared for the most: the poor, the sick, or the ignored.
Jesus Christ: “The very Word of God”
“Mister Speaker, I am proud that the Milwaukee Community Journal hails from the 4th Congressional District. It has consistently informed, analysed and entertained readers for nearly 38 years. I am pleased to give praise to Patricia O’Flynn Pattillo and her staff for providing a voice to the community and providing educational opportunities to students. I wish them many more years of success.” The Milwaukee Community Journal January 28, 2015 Page 10
--A segment from Cong. Gwen Moore’s remarks she made on the Congressional Record paying tribute to the
Milwaukee Community Journal’s Dr. Terence N. Thomas Scholarship Annual Brunch
The Milwaukee Community Journal January 28, 2015 Page 11
The Milwaukee Community Journal January 28, 2015 Page 12