COMMUNITY VOL. XXXIX Number 25 January 14, 2015
The Milwaukee
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Divas Nite Out with the Bucks
The young ladies of “Born 2 Dream-Divas In Training” recently enjoyed a “Bucks Nite Out,” taking in their first ever NBA basketball game between the Milwaukee Bucks and the Minnesota Timberwolves. The Bucks preArtist rendering of the sented the Divas with proposed Streetcar tickets to attend the contest at the BMO Harris Bradley Center. The Bucks won 98 to 84. (Photo by Yvonne Kemp)
PULSE OF THE QUESTION OF THE WEEK: “With the surprising sucCOMMUNITY cess, so far, of the Milwaukee Bucks, do you think the
Photos and question by Yvonne Kemp team
DEACON LEON KEITH: “Yes. Because they have young legs and a lot of energy. They have no fear, a great coach and excited fans. Go Bucks!”
will make it to the playoffs? Why or why not?
J.W. ARMSTEAD: “Yes. A few things (as to why they’ll make the playoffs): Jason Kidd is good for the team. The team plays like they believe in themselves. Confidence goes a long way. (And) defense, defense, defense!”
PATRICK GREER: “Yes. The team is buying into the new coach’s philosphy. They share the ball and play good defense. The players also seem to enjoy playing together, which helps with communication on the court. They have a chance to be a really good team.”
DARRYL EASTERN: “Yes. The Eastern Conference is very weak. The Bucks have a (combination of) new young talent and a new coach that seems to have a very good rapport with the players.”
Alverno College holds Bestowing of the Kente ceremony
Last month, African American women graduates of Alverno College participated in the Bestowing of the Kente ceremony, held in the college’s Sister Joel Read Conference Center. The event was sponsored by Alverno’s Cultural Education Center and after the regular graduation ceremony. This year marked the 20th year for the ceremony, which was developed to celebrate the traditions of the Kente cloth of West Africa. It is the college’s way of acknowledging those who have been inspirations throughout the graduate’s educational process, and to connect with the student participants ancestral African heritage. Kente is a Fante-West African word meaning “basket.” Baskets are woven and the cloths are woven, so the term was applied to the cloth. Adekola Adedapo is the program’s coordinator. (Photo by Yvonne Kemp)
MPS Sup. Darienne Driver talks education to press club
Recently appointed Milwaukee Public Schools Superintendent, Dr. Darienne Driver (pictured left) talked about the state of MPS and education during a recent Newsmaker Luncheon presented by the Milwaukee Press Club at the Newsroom Pub, 137 E. Wells St., downtown. Dr. Driver answered questions from a panel of reporters on what she and the district are doing to improve student achievement, making the best use of district resources, and develop opportunities to increase parental and community involvement. Driver served as acting superintendent of MPS from July 1 until her appointment was made permanent. She succeeded former MPS Superintendent Gregory Thornton, who accepted a position to run the Baltimore school district. (Photo by Yvonne Kemp)
Mayor Barrett says streetcar project a job creation “vehicle” By Thomas E. Mitchell, Jr.
Aside from being a “vehicle” that can grow Milwaukee’s economy and make it a world-class city with a 21st century transit system, the proposed Milwaukee streetcar would create jobs and improve access to jobs according to Mayor Tom Barrett. During a Monday phone interview, Barrett touted the federally funded $123 million project as a major generator of jobs for the Black and Latino communities in the construction and maintenance of the streetcar system, which would eventually be expanded into communities of color. Mayor Tom Barrett The mayor has emphasized construction of the streetcar system alone could create 720 jobs. The project would be paid for with grant money, an already approved TIF district and $54 million in federal dollars earmarked specifically for the streetcar project. There will also be no property tax increase. “I want people in the community to have jobs; to build this (streetcar),” Barrett said, admitting that the streetcar would help spur economic activity downtown and the Third Ward. But he also stressed he wanted to expand the streetcar system beyond downtown to outlying areas of the city which includes the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (eastside), Bronzeville (northside), the Fifth Ward (south). The mayor said he has been touting job creation as the key reason for pushing the streetcar project. “Jobs is a big part of this. I want investment in other areas of the city. “We have to make investment (in the streetcar) so that the investment will grow.” Saying the process for getting the streetcar system off the ground has been totally transparent, Barrett questioned why opponents of the streetcar, led by Alderman and Mayoral Candidate Bob Donovan, are now calling for a referendum on whether or not a streetcar is needed in Milwaukee. Donovan believes the money earmarked for the streetcar can be used to address more pending issues confronting the city. Barrett called the opposition’s push of a petition for a referendum during a future election a “last ditch effort to delay the project. Donovan, and Ald. Joe Davis—who is also a mayoral candidate who has joined the southside alderman in opposing the streetcar project—must collect 31,000 signatures in the next two months to force the issue to a binding referendum. “They had four years to get a petition drive going,” Barrett added. “I haven’t seen a lot of evidence for its success. They’re calling for a referendum on a referendum. Why did they wait so long? It’s part of a legal strategy to slow it (the streetcar project) down.” The Common Council is scheduled to vote on the project next Tuesday, January 21. If the Council approves the project and the petition drive fails, the streetcar could reportedly be up and running by 2018. Sources for this story:fox6now.com
Cnty Sup. Rainey drops attempt to have Red Arrow Park renamed after Dontre Hamilton Compiled by MCJ Staff
Milwaukee County Supervisor Khalif Rainey has dropped his plans to have Red Arrow Park renamed after Dontre Hamilton. According to published reports, Rainey dropped his proposal after being contacted by military veterans and their families from across the state who voiced their opposition to his effort, Rainey said Wednesday renaming the park is “off the table.” The park is named for the 32nd Infantry Division of the Army National Guard that fought in both world wars and is a tribute to the Wisconsin soldiers who died in the wars and local veterans organizations raised funds to place a granite monument there. However, Rainey still wants to put something in the park that will remind visitors, the city and county what happened in the park in April of 2014 when fired Milwaukee Police officer Christopher Manney fatally shot Hamilton 14 times after an altercation stemming for an attempted search by Manney of Hamilton, who was sleeping in the park. Manney was fired by Milwaukee Police Chief Ed Flynn for not following proper protocols dealing with the mentally disabled. Hamilton had a history of schizophrenia— but was not violent—according to his family, who have been waging a protest campaign calling for justice for Dontre and others who have been killed by police. Though fired by Flynn, Manney was not charged by Milwaukee County D.A. John Chisholm after several months of investigating the case. Chisholm reportedly ruled that Manney’s use of deadly-force was justified self-defense. Rainey said he will be in communication with the veterans to discuss options for a proper memorial for Hamilton in the park.--Source for this story:jsonline.
THE PULSE
The Milwaukee Community Journal January 14, 2015 Page 2
The WHO•WHAT•WHERE• WHEN of YOUR Community!
F o r m e r l y
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C o m m u n i t y
H a p p e n i n g s
The Salvation Army just a few donations away from reaching its Red Kettle goal
There’s still time to contribute to The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Christmas Campaign. This year’s Campaign goal of $3.8 million is critical to meeting the needs of families, children, those who are unemployed, underemployed and homeless, all people we serve. Donations received to date total $3.5 million. Eighty four cents of every dollar donated is used to sustain 80 distinct year round programs and services including The Salvation Army Emergency Lodge, food and clothing, disaster relief, utility and rent assistance, employment services and summer lunch programs for children.
The Red Kettle Christmas Campaign will close on Saturday, January 31, 2015. To make a donation visit www.SAmilwaukee.org
Milwaukee Postmaster Announces New Posting of Job Openings Job seekers urged to create online profile and apply between JANUARY 16, 2015 thru JANUARY 25, 2015
The Milwaukee Post Office will post more of the new City Carrier Assistant (CCA) positions. Jobseekers in the community are encouraged to build their online profile and apply at http://usps.com/employment. The posting will open on Friday – January 16, 2015 and close at midnight on Sunday – January 25, 2015. The CCA is a new category of non-career employee and is the path to possible future employment as a fulltime mail carrier with Postal career employee status. Starting pay is $15.68 per hour. CCAs will be appointed for a term not to exceed 360 calendar days. At the end of the term, CCAs are eligible for reappointment for another 360-day term. CCAs will enjoy benefits including salary increases, vacation time, and an opportunity to enroll in a health benefits plan after 360 days of employment. Positions are posted online at http://usps.com/employ-
ment. All applications must be submitted online. Immediately after an application is accepted, applicants will be directed to information to assist in preparing for the Postal Entrance Examination 473. Although this is the only test support material made available by the Postal Service, applicants might also choose to acquire additional test practice material from outside sources such as a library, bookstore, or online search. A minimum score of 70 (excluding veterans’ preference points) is required to be considered for the position. Higher scores are given hiring preference, so it is very important to be prepared and do well on this exam. To be considered for employment, an applicant must also have a valid state driver’s license, demonstrate and maintain a safe driving record, and successfully pass a pre-employment drug screening.
PERSPECTIVES
QUOTE OF THE WEEK:"THE FIRST DAY I STEPPED ON THE SET OF SELMA, I BEGAN TO FEEL LIKE THIS WAS BIGGER THAN A MOVIE. AS I GOT TO KNOW THE PEOPLE OF THE CIVIL RIGHTS MOVEMENT, I REALIZED I AM THE HOPEFUL BLACK WOMAN WHO WAS DENIED HER RIGHT TO VOTE. I AM THE CARING WHITE SUPPORTER, KILLED ON THE FRONT LINES OF FREEDOM. I AM THE UNARMED BLACK KID WHO MAYBE NEEDED A HAND, BUT INSTEAD WAS GIVEN A BULLET.I AM TWO FALLEN POLICE OFFICERS MURDERED IN THE LINE OF DUTY. SELMA HAS AWAKENED MY HUMANITY."—RAPPER/ACTOR COMMON DURING HIS ACCEPTANCE SPEECH WITH SINGER JOHN LEGEND FOR
THEIR SONG “GLORY” FOR THE MOVIE “SELMA,” WHICH WON A GOLDEN GLOBE AWARD FOR “BEST SONG”
Contractor says proposed streetcar will connect employers with employees
GUEST EDITORIAL
Job creation is essential space, 90% of its downto strengthening the econtown attractions and 77% omy, but there’s something of its parking and housing. else we need to do as well: Unlike a bus, a streetcar bring people to work. The runs on a fixed route. It Milwaukee Streetcar does isn’t going anywhere for By James Harris just that; it connects emOwner, Sirrah Construction years, infrastructure can be ployers with employees. built around it. Employers The central business district, where the will have the benefit of setting up shop at streetcar will be built, already has 25,000 locations that can bring employees right to residents and 80,000 workers. their doors. And, this is just the first step. As MilwauThe Milwaukee Streetcar will address kee Streetcar expands, so does people’s the need for job creation, too. The starter ability to get to work. route will generate 720 local construction The starter route and initial extensions jobs for masons, laborers, electricians, are within ¼ mile of 100% of downtown’s plumbers and others. largest employers, 100% of its hotels, The Streetcar is a vital part of moving 90% of its occupied office and retail Milwaukee businesses forward.
The Milwaukee Community Journal January 14, 2015 Page 3
UNIVERSALLY SPEAKING God Made Man in His Own Image, Why? Part 1
Rahim Islam
If you stare out into the universe and take in the sun, moon and the stars; watch the rivers flow and the world’s (three quarters) awesome seas and oceans; admire the highest and most majestic mountains and the energy, minerals, and natural resources buried deep into the earth; acknowledge the multitude of gifts that the earth produces from the sweetness of sugar to the bitterness of salt; and the millions of other physical attributes and benefits of creation, you must conclude that this existence we call “life” isn’t some accident. If you believe in a higher being, a Creator, a supreme being (God), you are instructed that this existence we call life is by design and we are told to have faith. The laws and principles that govern creation are perfect and have existed for billions of years. The intricacies between life and death (change) are an absolute marvel that we must acknowledge. There are so many daily miracles: the seasons changing every few months; the day changes into the night and night changing into day; humans inhale oxygen and exhale carbon dioxide and plant life does the opposite (we sustain each other); the remarkable birth of our children knowing that the possibility that a future leader has just entered he world, just to name a few. As you study creation, you must come to appreciate that there is a definite hierarchy within creation with man as its sole benefactor, man is at the top of the food chain. While we have come to learn much about creation, there is so much that we don’t know and probably will never know. When did this creation begin? Some equate our beginning with the story of Adam and Eve in the Bible (estimated 6,000 years ago); some say 30,000 years ago; and some say billions of years ago. The fact of the matter is that no one really knows the beginning of life norhow vast this creation is. With new technology we now can see new planets, stars and new solar systems.Some scientist say they have discovered a new sun. No one really knows the extent and or the depth of the universe, it’s never ending. With three out of five scientists not believing in God, the discussion has always persisted, does science refute faith or does science address a different set of questions, with answers that can point toward faith? The relationship between religion (faith) and science (facts) are sometimes at odds with each other, when the fact of the matter is that they should support each other. Science and religion generally pursue knowledge of the universe using different methodologies, the common denominator is that both
By Rahim Islam
are reflecting on the universe. Science acknowledges reason, empiricism, evidence, and is a systematic enterprise that builds and organizes knowledge in the form of testable explanations and predictions about nature and the universe. Proponents for religion argue that the universe is finely tuned for life, with certain fundamental parameters in nature that make our existence possible, however; we would be surprised to find ourselves in a universe in which we couldn't live - most of the universe is rather inhospitable to life. While religion includes revelation, faith and sacredness both religion and science point you to the same conclusion; there is a Creator and this Creation is no accident, Creation has been designed. Just like the architect of Creation (God), Creation is so massive; the human mind is unable to contain it all. The human mind can’t contain God. Humans can only come to know God through His characteristics and through His Creation (everything in creation is a sign from the God). The mysteries of this Creation are unfolding daily and what is absolutely clear; this Creation is the ultimate mystery full of on-going revelations. These revelations speak to us about the Creator (God) and what our relationship should be with Him and what our relationship is with each other. The culmination of knowledge (science and inspired) creates a standard for human behaviour today. This is why it is critical for man to study and marvel Creation so that he can absorb and embraceh is role inCreation. All behavior is learned (good and bad). My fundamental belief is that when you know better, you can do better - isn’t that what is expected. If you don’t know your purpose then how can you fulfill it? If you think you’re somehow superior then you will treat others inferior. If you think that you’re somehow inferior, then you will hate yourself and treat others superior. How is that we expect anything differently? It is impossible to ask someone to do something he doesn’t know anything about, he must be taught (instructed) and he must learn. As humans, we have a unique capacity because man is a very special species, it goes back to our beginning, origin, and our purpose. Where did all of this come from? How did man get this special favor? The historical biblical account of the creation of Adam and Eve states that God made the first man in His own image. What does this mean? And why is it important? The architecture of Creation begs and challenges man’s intellect to the creation having an architect, designer, creator (God), the wonders of all of creation confirm the existence of a Creator (God) - It’s really a no brainer. The Creator prepared the earth as a habitat for man; created the fish life, the bird life, and animal life. How all of this happened remains a mystery and part of the Creator’s own mystique. Given the power and amazement of His creation, He commanded (or willed) each event to happen and it was done (if you know another answer, I’m ready to listen). This is where science and religion begin to go in separate directions but I say they shouldn’t because Creation is so perfect in its design that the architect must be perfect. The architect also has the ability to, will, into existence His plans, this shouldn’t be a heavy concept for those who understand. Since we will never really know and if you must have an answer, one must be able to combine his faith with his logic? With the creation of man, there appears to be a big difference, a distinction with all other creation. The inspired record reads: “And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness.... So
(continued on page 6)
RELIGION
The Milwaukee Community Journal January 14, 2015 Page 4
In this Sept. 1, 1996 file photo, Grammy winning gospel singer Andrae Crouch sings during service at the Christ Memorial church in Pacoima, Calif. Crouch, a legendary gospel performer, songwriter and choir director whose work graced songs by Michael Jackson and Madonna and movies such as “The Lion King,” has died at age 72. His publicist says Crouch died Thursday, Jan. 8, 2015, at a hospital in Los Angeles, where he was admitted Saturday after suffering a heart attack. (AP Photo/Frank Wiese, File)
Andrae Crouch, Legendary Gospel Figure, Dies at 72
ROBERT JABLON, Associated Press via blackpressusa.com
LOS ANGELES— Andrae Crouch, a legendary gospel performer, songwriter and choir director whose work graced songs by Michael Jackson and Madonna and movies such as “The Lion King,” has died. He was 72. Crouch died Thursday afternoon at Northridge Hospital Medical Center, where he had been admitted Saturday after suffering a heart attack, said his publicist, Brian Mayes. The Recording Academy, which awarded seven Grammys to Crouch during a career that spanned more than a half-century, said in a statement that he was “a remarkable musician and legendary figure” who was “fiercely devoted to evolving the sound of contemporary, urban gospel music.” Crouch and his twin sister, Sandra Crouch, also a singer, lived in the Pacoima area of Los Angeles. They were pastors at the New Christ Memorial Church in the Los Angeles suburb of San Fernando. “Today my twin brother, womb-mate and best friend went home to be with the Lord,” said Pastor Sandra Crouch. “I tried to keep him here but God loved him best.” Born in San Francisco, Crouch wrote his first gospel tune at age 14. Crouch wrote dozens of songs, including gospel favorites such as “The Blood Will Never Lose Its Power,” ”My Tribute (To God Be the Glory)” and “Soon and Very Soon,” which was sung at a public memorial to Jackson. Debuting in 1960, Crouch helped pioneer the burgeoning “Jesus Music” movement from the late 1960s and ’70s that started the spread of contemporary Christian music. “We’ve lost a true pioneer and he will be missed,” said Jason Crabb, another Grammy-winning gospel singer.
His influence also crossed over into in pop music. Elvis Presley performed his song “I’ve Got Confidence” for a 1972 gospel album, and Paul Simon” recorded “Jesus Is the Answer” for a 1974 live album. Crouch worked with many other stars, from Diana Ross to Ringo Starr, and his gospel albums sometimes featured performers from other musical genres. His 18th solo album, “The Journey,” released in 2011, featured Chaka Khan, Shelia E., Take 6, Kim Burrell and Marvin Winans. Crouch was one of only a handful of gospel performers to have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. His choir, The Disciples, sang background for Madonna’s song “Like a Prayer.” Crouch helped Michael Jackson arrange the King of Pop’s 1987 hit song, “Man in the Mirror.” He also arranged music for the 1985 film “The Color Purple” — which earned him an Academy Award nomination — and Disney’s “The Lion King” in 1994. His success came despite a lifelong struggle with dyslexia. To create, he would make drawings that allowed him to grasp the concept. For the Jackson song, he drew a mirror with an image in it. “I memorized everything through sight, the shape of the word,” Crouch told The Associated Press in 2011. “Some things that I write, you’ll see a page with cartoon pictures or a drawing of a car — like a Ford — or a flag. I still do it on an occasion when a word is strange to me.” “So when I finish a song, I thank God for bringing me through,” he continued. “You have to press on and know your calling. That’s what I’ve been doing for all my life. I just went forward.” Crouch had health issues in recent years, including diabetes and cancer. Last month, he was hospitalized for pneumonia and congestive heart failure and had to cancel a tour.
FIRST PERSON By Traci Whitley Struggling bride needs help of community with making the happiest day of her life possible
Hello, my name is Traci Whitley and I have been trying to get married for two years now. My fiancé and I are planning to get married on September 6, 2015. My family and I have been going through many trails and tribulations trying to put this wedding together. I wanted to get married before my grandmother passed away last year but her illness took a turn for the worst. Then my aunt passed three months later. My fiancé and I have been trying to save all we can since the deaths of my loved ones. Now I have only one living grandparent and would love for her to see me walk down the isle. Since last year we have been struggling to meet our goal to pay for our wedding. I come from a large family of 10. I am the first girl to get married. I have a brother who is legally blind and has autism. My parents aren’t able to help us out as much as they would like, because most of their time and money goes to my brother for his care and doctor visits. I also help my parents with my brother when they need me. To make my day special, I was wondering if anyone or businesses in our community could find it in there heart to help sponsor or donate us with anything towards our wedding. I am really aiming to have a special
wedding. I would like to accommodate my disabled brother so he can be apart of my special day. In return for any sponsorship, there contribution will be recognized at our wedding and, a portion of our gifts
THE MILWAUKEE COMMUNITY JOURNAL
will be donated to Autism Awareness of Greater Wisconsin. I have tried reaching out to the community but haven't had any positive feedback. I have always given (continued on page 6)
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WHAT’S HAPPENING...
In Your Faith-Based Community
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. VenueCrown 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 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 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
Major Dan Jennings, Salvation Army Divisional Commander for Wisconsin & Upper Michigan, will give the invocation at the 2015 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Birthday Celebration. Salvation Army volunteers will also be on hand serving free hot chocolate to guests. The event will be held on Sunday, January 18th, 2015 at the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts, 929 N. Water St., from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. Milwaukee’s Dr. King celebration is only one of two nationally that is still held on an annual basis. This year’s
theme is “ We Have A Great Deal of Positive Work To Do”, will include performances from local arts groups representing many cultures. The event will also include winners of the student speech and writing contests. “The Salvation Army is happy to be part of an event that celebrates Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.,” said Major Dan Jennings. Dr. King once said, “Everyone can be great because anyone can serve. You don’t have to have a college degree to serve. You don’t even have to make your subject and your verb agree to serve…you only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love.” “Dr. King was a man who believed in service to others, a man full of peace and love, a man I know would support our mission of meeting human need without discrimination through the love of Jesus Christ,” said Major Jennings.
SALVATION ARMY TO GIVE INVOCATION AT ANNUAL DR. KING CELEBRATION
In Loving Memory Quality Service... a tenured tradition sincere concern at your time of need.
Ernestine O’Bee, Founder
Offering pre-need, at need and after-care services to families in Milwaukee, Racine, Kenosha and other communities throughout our state.
Avant, Melvin C. Sr. Age 86 yrs. January 10, 2015. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 24 at 11AM at Central Church of Christ 1830 W. Monroe St. 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 Colbert, Jessie Ruth Age 77 yrs. January 13, 2015. Funeral services will be held on Friday, January 23 at 11AM at Metropolitan Baptist Church 1345 W. Burleigh St. Instate Friday 10AM at the CHURCH until time of services. Visitation Thursday 3-7PM(Family will receive guest from 6-7PM) at: Northwest Funeral Chapel O'Bee, Ford & Frazier 6630 W. Hampton Ave. (414)462-6020 Francis, Harvey W. Age 84 yrs. January 8, 2015. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 17, at 11AM. Visitation Friday 3-7PM(Family will receive guest from 6-7PM)at: Northwest Funeral Chapel O'Bee, Ford & Frazier 6630 W. Hampton Ave. (414)462-6020 Newsom, Robert G. Age 80 yrs. January 5, 2015. A Memorial Service will be held on Wednesday, January 14 at 1PM at: Northwest Funeral Chapel O'Bee, Ford & Frazier 6630 W. Hampton Ave. (414)462-6020 Randle, James Sr. "Blue Goose" Age 83 yrs. January 7, 2015. He was preceded in death by his
J.C. Frazier, Funeral Director
wife of over 50 years Sallie Randle. Beloved father of O.C. Price, Robert Simpson, Dave Randle, James Randle Jr., Dennis Randle, Gloria(Ollie)Miles, Bettie(Donald)Burmester, Annette Randle, Linda(Aaron)Greer and Vickey Randle. Also survived by 5 sisters, 1 brother and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren and a host of other loving relatives and friends. Funeral services will be held on Monday, January 19 at 11AM at Bethel Baptist Church 2030 W. North Ave. Visitation Sunday 3-7PM(Family will receive guest from 6-7PM) at: Northwest Funeral Chapel O'Bee, Ford & Frazier 6630 W. Hampton Ave. (414)462-6020 Nichols, Odelle Age 89 yrs. January 6, 2015. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, January 17 at 1PM at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses Estabrook Park 5747 N. 29th St. The family is served by: Northwest Funeral Chapel O'Bee, Ford & Frazier 6630 W. Hampton Ave. (414)462-6020 Koreen, Janet Age 75 yrs. January 9, 2015. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, January 17 at 1PM at: Northwest Funeral Chapel O'Bee, Ford & Frazier 6630 W. Hampton Ave. (414)462-6020 Butler, Frank A. Age 89 yrs. January 13, 2015. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, January 17 at 3PM at: 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
The Milwaukee Community Journal January 14, 2015 Page 5
YOUTH& EDUCATION The Milwaukee Community Journal January 14, 2015 Page 6
Wisconsin Assembly changes to accountability law are a step backward
Y Y& &E E OPINION
schools could take, making it impossible for anyone to see if schools were truly effective and impracticable for parents to determine which schools are performing best By Dr. Michael Bonds • Schools working hard to improve wouldn’t receive assistance under Assembly Bill 1, they’d be punished, closed and taken over by privately run charter schools. MPS’ experience has been that structured intervention and additional supports help low-performing schools improve and we’re seeing that transformation in several of our schools including Franklin, Grant, Curtin, Carver and Gwen T. Jackson. There I don’t always agree with the Wisare also cross sector efforts underconsin Legislature on matters of way now to improve outcomes for public education, but Wisconsin got all students. it right when it adopted the current • Locally-elected and locally-acstate law promoting school accountcountable school boards know their ability for all publically-funded stu- Bonds schools and communities best. Asdents. sembly Bill 1 would remove local control by appointing The current law is thoughtful, fair and it lets parents a non-elected, statewide accountability board that and taxpayers make an apples-to-apples comparison of performance for publically-funded students, whether would determine which schools stay open and which are closed and turned over to private companies to run. the students are in public, voucher or private schools. I believe strongly in holding schools accountable We’ve waited for this legislation for more than 20 when they fall short. Since the 2011-12 school year, the years, since the first voucher schools were created in Milwaukee Board of School Directors has voted to Milwaukee. close or terminate the contracts of 31 MPS schools. That’s why an accountability proposal just introduced While never easy, each of these decisions was made in the Wisconsin Assembly, Assembly Bill 1, while well in the best interest of students using comparable data intended, is just plain wrong. to make decisions. Less than a year after a comprehensive school acJust as importantly, MPS has also developed a plan countability law was enacted – and before it has even been put fully into practice – the Assembly wants to to help those schools that struggle the most. MPS has identified 14 Commitment Schools. These are some of change it. This proposed change by the Wisconsin Assembly is our lowest performing schools and they receive additional help and support to improve student achievea step backward. It provides less transparency, creates confusion, pun- ment. In addition, all of our schools with the lowest ishes public schools and their students and takes control ranking on the most recent state report card are receiving additional assistance. away from locally elected school boards. Taxpayers and parents have the right to know how • Under the current accountability law, all publicallywell publically-funded schools are performing. Assemfunded students take the same tests so taxpayers and parents can make a true comparison of results. It’s good bly Bill 1 is a step backward and takes the wrong steps to improve student achievement. common sense. Michael Bonds, Ph.D., President, Milwaukee Board Assembly Bill 1 would create a hodge-podge of tests of School Directors
School Daze: The case for banning computers in the classroom
Article courtesy of Deseret News via “The Rundown” Tal Gross, a public health professor at Columbia University, has pulled the plug in his classroom. From now on, he announced last week, his students will have to put away all phones, computers and tablets before class begins. "Since most students can type very quickly, laptops encourage them to copy down nearly everything said in the classroom," Gross wrote in the Washington Post. "But when students stare at the screen of their laptops, something is lost. The students shift from being intellec-
tuals, listening to one another, to being customer-service representatives, taking down orders. Class is supposed to be a conversation, not an exercise in dictation." Distractions in the classroom go beyond the student using the device, Gross notes, pointing to researchers in Canada who found "that laptops in the classroom distracted not only the students who used them, but also students who sat nearby. Meaning, not only do the laptop-using students end up staring at Facebook, but the students behind them do, as well." Earlier this fall, Clay Shirky, who teaches social media at New York University, banned technology in his classroom. In doing so, he acknowledged the irony of teaching a social media class that requires laptops and phones to (continued on page 10)
Struggling bride needs help of community with making the happiest day of her life possible
(continued from page 4) back to my community. Right now for pictures of our wedding we are going to buy kodak disposable cameras and sit at tables just to capture our special day. We will continue to stay in prayer and continue being their for my parents and help raise my younger brother so he can overcome many obstacles he has to face. Thank you in advance for listening to my story. Donations or sponsorship offers can be sent to Ms. Whitley at 3167 N. 54th Street, Milwaukee, WI 53216
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WHITLEY/NORTH WEDDING
September 6, 2015 Looking for donations or sponsors for the following:
Bride's Dress, Shoes, Jewelry Accessories, Bridemaid's and Attendants, Bride's Bouquet and Attendants, Flower Girls Dresses, Parents Clothing, Head Dress for Bride, Jewelry. Groom Tux and Attendants, Ring Bearer, Groom's Boutonnière and Attendants. Isle runner, Photographer, DJ, Head Table and Guest Table Decorations, Gift Basket for couple, Party Favors, Toasting Glasses, Gift Certificates and or Coupons. Fresh Flowers and or Silks, Colors are Orange Coral
and Teal or Turquoise. Invitations, Stamps. List of possible sponsors: Applebee's, McDonalds, Cousins Subs, Subway, 5 O' Clock Steakhouse, Lena's, Torrence's, Abby's Flower Nook, Carter's Creations, Shaws, Zales, Goody Gourmet, Hessler's, Jared's, Jammin 98.3, V100, David's Bridal, Macy's, Boston Store, Powell Jewelry, Burger King, Alfa Flower, Claire's Boutique, Men's Warehouse, Bachrachs, Sentry Foods. Contact info: Lyn Grant 414-429-3234
God Made Man in His Own Image, Why? (continued from page 3)
God created man in His own image, in the image of God created He him; male and female created He them” (Genesis 1:26-27). Now I’m not a theologian and I’m not even a student of the Bible, but I do believe in this concept which is supported by many other religious doctrines. I also believe that this concept has been abused and misused and have elevated one group (white superiority and supremacy) and disintegrated another group (black inferiority). Unlike some who believe, man is not a close cousin of the animals, nor a distant relative of primitive plant life, he is someone great, wonderful and different, the most excellent of all God's works, and a special expression of the divine’s nature, created by the Creator’s own personal activity provided that he knows his role in creation. Everything in Creation has a role and responsibility towards the sustainability of Creation, and man has the biggest role and responsibility. Man's life is not the result of some spontaneous “coming together” of molecules within his body, nor is it derived by evolution from any animal or 'lower hominid' (as theistic evolutionists teach), but is a direct gift from the Creator. When the Creator created man in His own image, I believe the image wasn’t anything physical because physical reduces the discussion to limitations and the Creator has no limitations. The image of the Creator is the characteristics of His “spirit” and His “will,” these are the things that men are suppose to emulate. Man has abused his position by portraying himself as the God and has led man down a poisonous path that supports hate of other humans and the destruction of the earth. We hear about the ultimate friction between good and evil; God and the devil and many of us are confused by this dynamic. My belief is that this contrast is part of the Creator’s design. The devil, if he does exist (I do believe that a devil spirit exist) is part of God’s creation, this is no accident. Also, the devil is not in competition with God. God has no competition. The devil spirit is competition with the human spirit and has used humans to elevate himself to God; God-like, or a kin to God. Even though man, one of the Creator’s most complex creations with a soul (spirit) and will, he is still enclosed within a physical body that has a predetermined end date, so the physical characteristics of man (his body) can’t be what we are holding up high in comparison to the Creator. Every human that is born will taste death and his spirit will leave his body. It is his spirit that is his identity not the body. No matter how great or beautiful the body, it will be of no use to anyone once that human spirit leaves it. I’ve personally seen the last breath leave the bodies of both my mother and my father and once that happened, that body was no longer my parents, they were empty corpses. So I ask you, why is the image of God portrayed in human physical form when this is obviously the lowest level and form and who does it benefit. The birth, death, and the life of human beings can’t be equated with anything associated with the divine(the human being is in complete dependency on the Creator’s Creation and has no independence, an obvious characteristic of the Creator). The whole world and specifically many Black Americans have been given the wrong ideas about God. They have been made to look for the God that they can see with their physical eyes which is impossible. Your thoughts about an invisible thing bring many ideas and pictures to your mind. When these ideas and pictures begin to take shape or form in your mind, you arrive at a concept. A concept of a thing is how you see that thing in your mind. Many Black Amer-
icans have been given the wrong ideas about God and religion. This is because they have been made to look for the God that they can see with their physical eyes. The Church taught Blacks that God, the Creator of the heavens and the universe, is a three-in-one-god. Blacks were told that there was God the father, God the son, and God the Holy Ghost. The Church used a picture of a white man on a cross as Jesus the son of God. Blacks believed that the white image that they saw on the cross was God. So the divinity or the god that they worshipped was in physical white flesh, this is a false image of the Creator of the Heavens and Earth (God). Since the image of a white man was put on the cross as Jesus, Black people identified white physical flesh with God which has made them accept and love white people and reject their own group and hate Blacks. The tricky plan of white divinity made Black people worship a visible, whitened god. When something is visible, you can see it with your physical eyes, and a white Jesus on the cross is the visible god of the flesh consciouschurch. What would be the impact on white children if for hundreds of years, a Black man was portrayed as God, the Creator of the Heavens and the Earth. How much would that white child love hate or dislike themselves while loving someone else. This “lie” has been devastating to the overall psyche of Black people, especially our children. The myth that young children are blind to race has been debunked time and time again, and studies have found that the self-esteem of our youth is easily influenced even before they hit puberty. To help illustrate this, a group of preschool-aged black children were given the choice between two dolls, one Caucasian and one with darker skin, and were told to point at either doll to answer the questions asked by an interviewer. The results were shocking. “Can you show me the doll you like best or the one you want to play with?” The first black girl immediately picks up the white doll, and the next four young black girls choose the same. Of the group, only two picked the darker-skinned doll. At one point, the interviewer asked one girl to pick which doll was the nicest, to which the girl responded by picking up the white doll, but when asked which the bad doll was, she picked the black one. When the interviewer asked her why she chose the “bad” doll the way she did, the girl had a surprising answer: “It’s black.” At such a young age, these young girls are already showing signs of self-loathing and internalized racism. Is it possible that our society is perpetuating a standard of beauty that is impossible for these girls to attain, thus trapping them in insecurity and low self-esteem for the rest of their lives? The “doll test” was first performed by Drs. Kenneth and Mamie Clark in the 1940s. They found that while most black children identified with the black doll, they would much rather play with the white doll. The test has been repeated numerous times since with the same results; for example, student Kiri Davis re-did the test in Tampa Bay, Florida and found that 15 out of the 21 black children preferred the white doll. Another experiment done by Good Morning America had similar findings. GMA found that out of the 19 young black girls they interviewed, the majority believed the white doll was prettier. Devastating doesn’t quite cut it. Coupled with institutional and structural racism, a mass media campaign that portrays Black people in the worst light; this has ripple effects in our society, beyond the direct effects it has
(continued on page 9)
BUSINESS CORNER Shawn Ward
The Big D (Debt)
The holidays are wrapping up and the leftovers are gone. With the New Year approaching, most of us are
Black Health Coalition of Wisconsin to host forum on Foster Care
On Wednesday, January 21, 2015 Black Health Coalition of Wisconsin, Inc. (BHCW) will be hosting a community forum titled, The Foster Care Industrial Complex in Milwaukee Part III: Voices of People Who Were In Foster Care. The meeting will be held at BHCW, 3020 W. Vliet Street, from 5:30 - 7:30 pm. Dr. Patricia McManus, BHCW President/CEO, will facilitate a panel of individuals who will share their personal foster care experiences. This forum is free and open to the community, a meal and on-site childcare will be provided. The community is encouraged to RSVP by contacting Bianca at (414) 933-0064 Ext. 212 or bwilliams@bhcw.org. BHCW is holding this series of forums on the foster care system because far too many families are losing their children to the child welfare system and child abuse tragedies are continuing. The public forum will provide the community an opportunity to learn important facts about the child welfare system and provide an opportunity to get answers to their pressing questions. BHCW is providing this forum through its Milwaukee Healthy Beginnings Project's (MHBP) African American Infant Mortality Task Force. MHBP provides perinatal services to the most "at risk" populations in our community with the goals of reducing low birth weight babies and infant deaths. In recent years, BHCW has been working as advocates for families who have open child welfare cases. Through this work, the agency has seen firsthand how families are treated by the child welfare system; oftentimes loosing placement of their children because of their lack of understanding of the system and having no one on their side to truly fight for their rights.
looking at our finances and most of us need to do something about the Big D in our life. That’s right, our debt. I want to talk to you about debt consolidation as an alternative to bankruptcy. Debt consolidation is often marketed as rolling up all of your debts into a single account. However, in reality, it involves paying off your outstanding accounts while taking on a new debt. When you consolidate your debt, you get a new line of credit, usually through a home equity loan, personal loan or credit card. You use the money from that new line of credit to pay off your credit cards and other debts you have. After you have paid off those bills, you are left with the single payment on the new line of credit you used to satisfy your other debts. In short, this simply transferring your debt. In my last column, I wrote about Chapter 128, the NON BANKRUPTCY Wisconsin statue, which allows Wisconsin residents to pay back unsecure debts at 0% interest. This repayment plan allows you to pay off your debt over 36 months without the risk of entering into a new financial obligation. The Chapter 128 can be useful for consolidation because it’s a 0% interest repayment plan and you are simply making out one check a month instead of several which is obviously easier to manage. Let’s be honest, a big reason a lot of us have financial problems is simply due to poorly managing our financial obligations. Debt consolidation only works if you manage it correctly. An important part of your credit score is the amount of credit you have available and what percentage of that credit you are using. If you close your accounts after you pay off your debts, you will reduce the amount of credit you have, thus lowering your score. If you leave the accounts open, however, you may be tempted to use
“Let’s be honest, a big reason a lot of us have financial problems is simply due to poorly managing our financial obligations. Debt consolidation only works if you manage it correctly. “
them again. You could end up with paying your debt consolidation loan payments plus charging up all of your cards again. By going the Chapter 128 option, this risk is eliminated because you are closing and consolidating the bills you choose and you are not taking on new debt to pay your old debt. It’s time for us to begin listening to these two sayings: don’t fatten the frog to feed the snakes and stop robbing Peter to pay Paul. A Chapter 128 allows you to face your bills in an easy affordable way all while avoiding bankruptcy. This New Year, let’s work towards true financial freedom. Shawn Ward is a Debt Consultant at the Wisconsin Debt Clinic. With 13 years of legal and debt consolidation experience, Ward is happy to provide information to people looking to get out of debt and make a financial comeback. Visit wisconsindebtclinic.com with questions or comments.
The Milwaukee Community Journal January 14, 2015 Page 7
“There is no reason to not make planning a part of your routine. Will you say "I have too much money, I don’t need to plan" or, "I don’t have enough money, how can I plan?" Neither scenario is true and all reasonable ages need to participate. “
Lydia Brown Beasley
How Planning for Year-End Moves you ahead into the New Year
Planning is needed in every aspect of our lives and should be viewed as a necessity. We often say, "I plan to do it", but never take action on establishing steps. There is always so much to do, that proper planning can be ignored. There is no reason to not make planning a part of your routine. Will you say "I have too much money, I don’t need to plan" or, "I don’t have enough money, how can I plan?" Neither scenario is true and all reasonable ages need to participate. You can get your five year old in the habit of planning simply by having a scheduled routine everyday – by doing this you’re giving them a great foundation. Get Excited About Planning Your Life Write it down – what a difference a few sheets of paper can make! It can get pretty exciting when you start to lay it out. Planning will give you more benefits than I can list both personally and professionally. It helps you to come up with strategies, instead of just letting things happen. Creating a Plan
Think about where you want to be in 5 years. Then what do you need to do in the first year to get started? Next scale back to what you need to do in the first month that will set you on the path to achieve your five year goal. Now, write it down! The key
is to stay focused – if something happens to take you off the path, get back on it as soon as you can. Business Planning When making plans for your business, be sure that the company’s fi(continued on page 9)
The Milwaukee Community Journal January 14, 2015 Page 8 ADVERTORIAL•ADVERTORIAL•ADVERTORIAL•ADVERTORIAL•ADVERTORIAL•
Inspiring stories of our UWM graduates
By Mark A. Mone
of her employers and worked throughout her time as a student. Last Chancellor month, she graduated with a degree University of in criminal justice. Jennifer is emWisconsin-Milwaukee ployed full time with the I Have a Dream Foundation. Graduation and recognition Honor student Christopher Medina ceremonies at the University Kirchner described himself as a of Wisconsin-Milwaukee “low-income, first-generation minor(UWM) are the times when ity student” who, “if it wasn’t for edyou hear some of the most inucation I do not know where I would be right now.” spiring student stories of the Christopher was involved in gangs year. Commencement on Dec. and drugs and dropped out of high 14, 2014, was no exception. school when he was a sophomore. Nearly 2,100 students were eligiAfter earning his GED, Christoble to participate in our graduation Chancellor Mark A. Mone pher wanted to change his life and ceremony, with 300 of those students enrolled at UWM, where we are also eligible to participate in UWM’s known for our access as well as our Honors Convocation the week beresearch mission. fore. Combine these students with He said, “I didn’t even think I those who graduated last spring, and would get in, but they accepted me. there were more than 5,400 students At this point my life completely who earned their degrees from UWM changed.” Working with UWM’s in 2014. McNair Scholars program, ChristoThat is a great number of college pher applied himself and went from graduates who earned bachelor’s, a low grade point average to a high master’s and doctoral degrees. Even level that earned him Honors status more remarkable are the stories of at his graduation in December. our students. Along the way, Christopher beI’d like to share just a couple of came interested in brain imaging and these many stories from our Decemneuropsychology. ber graduating class. He did research in labs and preIt’s clear that in each story individsented academic papers at national uals overcame some tough chalconferences. lenges and succeeded because of He was a teaching assistant, and is determination and support, whether heading to graduate school. through student services at UWM, Jennifer and Christopher are just a friends and family, or other organizacouple of examples of the inspiring tions. individuals who graduate from Jennifer Beamon is an extraordiUWM and go on to positively impact nary example of leadership born of others in our world. Our university hardship. As a child, Jennifer recalls graduates large numbers of students rummaging through garbage to find something to eat, and and is the most diverse campus in Wisconsin. being called “dum dum” and “stupid” by the adults in her It is the individual stories of people such as Jennifer life. and Christopher that show how powerful higher educaJennifer’s life changed when she joined Public Allies tion can be. AmericCorp and began using her life experiences to serve As we celebrate the birth and impact of Martin Luther young people. She completed the program and began her King Jr., let us remember his wise words, “Intelligence studies at UWM. plus character – that is the goal of true education.” A single mom of two children, Jennifer had the support
“It’s clear that in each story individuals overcame some tough challenges and succeeded because of determination and support, whether through student services at UWM, friends and family, or other organizations.”
KALEIDOSCOPE First of all I want to thank Robert Thomas, one of the associate publishers of the Milwaukee Community Journal, for inviting me to write a column for this newspaper. Mr. “T” has been a mentor to me since 1972 when I was “strong headed, young and quite opinionated.
” We’ve had some lively discussions about the status of Black people and what should be the path we need to take to rectify the conditions that exist in our community. The same discussions are taking place today, except now I’ve become the mentor to others that Monroe Swan, Ben Johnson, Babalowo C-1, Mr. Thomas and many others have been to me. I am calling this column “From the Black” because I can be found at Coffee Makes You Black Cultural Café and Restaurant on almost a daily basis. Many involved Black men and women from the community make this facility a regular place where they come to meet with friends, take care of their business and organizational needs and enjoy good food. I get an opportunity to talk with many of them about what’s going on in our community. This column will share with you the happenings and events going on in the community you may find interesting. DEDICATED TO BLACK WOMEN THAT GOT BLACK MEN’S BACKS – Black men sponsored a magnificent page in the January 7th edition of the Milwaukee Community Journal honoring Black Women who have supported their personal efforts and/or community efforts. This page also highlighted women who have made their transition to the world of our ancestors. Any Black men who missed the opportunity to include the woman who has had his back will be able include the woman who has their backs in the February 5th edition of the newspaper. The deadline for that edition is January 31st. Get in touch with me if you are interested at 414-374-2364.
God Made Man in His Own Image, Why? (continued from page 6)
on these young girls. The impact of portraying a white man as God is damaging to all people, it’s a deviation from the real image of God. It especially hurts white people because it has given them a sense of superiority that has allowed them to do some of the most despicable acts to Blacks QI GONG CLASS – The Ausar Auset Society will hold a Qi Gong class on Sununder the guise of religion. More than 400 years ago our ancestors were taken from Africa day, January 18, 2015 at 4712 W. Fond du Lac Ave (upstairs). Come and learn how to and forever enslaved under a form of chattel slavery never seen before in history, this was remove negative emotions that have lodged themselves in your liver, spleen, kidneys, done by white Christians against Black people. The slave trade flourish and millions of Blacks heart and lungs and are affecting your behavior and physical health. The cost of cthe were forcibly relocated from their mother land, and ultimately stripped of their culture, herlass is $5. For more information call 248-5529 after 6PM. itage and history and became free labor for new industries in the Caribbean, South and North America, this was done by white Christians against Black people. BLACK MALE ACHIEVEMENT MEETING – Jacob Gatlin is hosting Sir John Newton, famous Christian hymn writers, was a slave trader. He wrote “How this meeting at Redemption Fellowship 3500 N. 26th St. on Friday, January 16, 2015 sweet the Name of Jesus Sounds” and “Amazing Grace.” The name of one of the most fafrom 6pm – 7:30pm. This is the first meeting mous British slave vessels was “Jesus.” The Christian Church quoting apostle Paul gave of the year when the mentors can sanctioned to the global industry of slavery. After slavery, Blacks lived in absolute terror in meet and greet each other. For more which they were segregate, burned, and lynched by Christians. During Jim Crow , it wasn’t information call 551-2260. unusual to see a Sunday service interrupted so that clergy and members of the church could join a mob attack against Blacks. When the punishment had been enacted, usually the death DR.MARTIN LUTHER of a Black man, the participants would return back to church and resume their worship of a KING JR. DRUM white God. When Blacks demanded civil and equal rights and/or reparations for the pain MAJOR LUNCHEON – and struggles that are clearly documented, it was Christians who opposed this with all their The Milwaukee Frontiers will power and influence. host a luncheon in honor of The Creator (God) made man in His own image, it wasn’t anything physical but it was Dr. King Saturday, January that man has the ability to emulate a will similar to God’s will. Of all the creatures created 17, 2015 at the Wisconsin by the Creator (God), only the human has the ability to implement his will freely. Man, possesses a mind, a heart, and a will. The mind, or intellect, allows him to think rationally, not African American by sheer instinct like an animal. The heart, or emotion, enables him to feel, unlike a robot or Women’s Center, 3020 machine, human experience. The will, enables him to make decisions and choices that have W. Vliet St. Three stu“real” consequences. It is his capacity for action, a capacity that allows him to choose this dents from North Di- over that and those instead of these (free will). The humans havethe ability to make certain vision High School choices on their own (i.e. free from compulsion, force, or coercion). Those choices are exwill be honored. tremely compromised when he doesn’t know his purpose in life set forth by the Creator. For example, humans have the ability to choose to go to the store or stay home, to buy a Tickets are $30. newspaper or not, to eat beef or to eat fish, etc.; such choices are within the natural capacity Call 933-1652 of human beings. People are free to act according to their nature. People are not free to act for more incontrary to their nature. I cannot choose to fly. Yes, I can choose to travel by airplane, but I formation. cannot choose to sprout wings or become a bird. My will, you see, is not entirely free. It is KING bound by the limits of my nature. We do not have the freedom to be anything we are not. FEST Man, in other words, is not free to act outside the boundaries of his human nature. He cannot live the life of a fish in the ocean or fly like a bird in the air without external resources enabling CELEBRA- him to manipulate his natural environment. Just as that is true on a natural level, it is also true TION - on a spiritual level, he is not free to associate himself with the Creator (God) he is a member of Creation. There is the Creator and there is Creation and the two shall never be combined. Dr. The God likeness is also linked to man’s intellect. God has endowed man with intellectual ability which is far superior to that of any animal. Man was given a mind capable of hearing and understanding at a very high level, intellectual emotions capable of responding to humanity in love and devotion, and a will which enables him to make choices. Man has been equipped, not only to love the Creator, but also to be the sovereign vice agent of the earth. Like the Creator, man's intellectual gifts are further seen in his ability to design things and M. L. King Jr. 86th then make them, to appreciate beauty, to compose glorious music, to paint pictures, to write, Birthday Recognition will be held at the to count to large numbers and do mathematics, to control and use energy for his own benefit Wisconsin African American Women’s Center 3020 W. Vliet (e.g. fire, electricity, nuclear power), to organize, to reason, to make decisions, to be self-conSt. from noon to 2PM. There will be Vendors on hand and video reflections of scious, to laugh at himself, and to think abstractly. All this behavior is non-instinctive, as distinct from animal behavior, and as such it is of unlimited variety. Dr. King. From 2PM – 6PM there will be Drumming, Spoken Word, Praise Dancers, In my next article I will discuss how and why human beings are described as the caretaker Scholarship Presentation and Keynote speaker Dr. Greg Carr, Associate Professor & for all of Creation and are prepared to be the world’s custodian when man knows “how” he Chair of the Department of African American Studies, Howard University. is made in God’s likeness.
t he M C J l i f e s t y l e & e n t er t ainment s ec t i on FROM THE BLACK With Tony Courtney
The Milwaukee Community Journal January 14, 2015 Page 9
How Planning for Year-End Moves you ahead into the New Year
(continued from page 7) nancial statements are reviewed at least quarterly and especially before year end. Be sure to review the company’s business plan annually. Seek advice to make sure you have the correct type of business entity; find out where you stand compared to industry standards; determine if you need to pay estimated taxes; are you correctly recording business transactions; do you have a retirement plan, etc.? The Magic of Planning We all know that we need a plan, however, we also know that things don’t always go “as planned." But, here is the magic of planning...when circumstances change, you are able to make adjustments much easier than just trying to stay afloat. Review, Reset and Move Forward! Get Started Now Starting your plan now in preparation for the New Year, ensures that you will start 2013 in action! Begin with a simple outline and add levels as you discover more of your interests and goals. Don't just write it down, keep moving, keep watch over your plans and stay on the path. Final Tips Conduct planning meetings for the 2012 year end and get maximum results by outlining your 2013-15 strategic plans. Contact professionals and mentors that you feel can assist you and offer guidance. Have an agenda, allow for honesty, take ownership, delegate, and be open. “Like” Brown-Beasley Accounting on Facebook, where we can continue this discussion.
The Milwaukee Community Journal January 14, 2015 Page 10
371 Productions to Present “Precious Lives”
young people and gun violence. The series captures the emotional and social impact on families and the community. Precious Lives presents gun violence as a public health crisis and serves as a call to action for the entire community to come together and solve it. The 5-7 minute stories will air on WUWM 89.7 on Tuesdays and WNOV 860 AM on Wednesdays. Both stations will air the stories around 10:45 am (CT). The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel will present the stories as podcasts on JSOnline each Tuesday along with additional reporting on the topic. The Wisconsin Center for Investigative Journalism will conduct investigations into issues related to gun violence and release related stories as part of the project. In addition, a website designed and maintained by Cramer Krasselt will provide an interactive social media platform. 371 Productions will convene its partners and other stakeholders throughout the city and state for a summit later in the spring. Brad Lichtenstein, president of 371 Productions and executive producer of the project, is a seasoned documentary producer whose recent feature film, As Goes Janesville was broadcast on PBS’ Independent Lens and was nominated for a national
Emmy. He was moved to create Precious Lives after hearing a similar broadcast about a young man shot and killed in New York City. Lichtenstein sees gun violence as everyone’s problem. In producing Precious Lives he sought several objectives: “We want to go beyond reporting crimes. We want the public to learn about the victims, their families and their communities. We want to know more about who the shooters are and why they decided to pull the trigger. We want to understand the factors that contribute to gun violence. If we can understand gun violence as a public health problem the entire community faces, we can make progress in curbing it.” The news conference was hosted by the Holton Youth and Family Center, 510 E Burleigh Street, Milwaukee, at 4:15 pm on Monday, January 12th. Featured speakers include the production team and Bevan Baker, Commissioner of Health for the city of Milwaukee. There will be interview opportunities with dozens of community partners ranging from the DA’s office and the Milwaukee Dept. of Health to Urban Underground and COA as well as the families featured in the series and Mr. Baker.
Two-Year radio and community engagement project to focus the public’s attention on gun violence and its impact on youth and fami“We want to understand the factors that contribute to gun violence. lies On Monday, January 13, 2015, 371 Productions, with support If we can understand gun violence as a public health problem the from the Helen Bader Foundation, the Greater Milwaukee Foun- entire community faces, we can make progress in curbing it.” dation, COA and over 40 community partners, introduced Precious Lives, a two-year, 100-part weekly radio series about
--Brad Lichtenstein, president of 371
The case for banning computers in the classroom
(continued from page 6) be put away. He struggled against making the decision for a long time, Shirky wrote at Medium.com. "Over the years," Shirky wrote, "I've noticed that when I do have a specific reason to ask everyone to set aside their devices ('Lids down,' in the parlance of my department), it's as if someone has let fresh air into the room. The conversation brightens, and more recently, there is a sense of relief from many of the students. Multi-tasking is cognitively exhausting, when we do it by choice, being asked to stop can come as a welcome change."
“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.”
--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 14, 2015 Page 11
The Milwaukee Community Journal January 14, 2015 Page 12