MKE Fellows Program Fellowship Open Embarks on an Innovative Commitment to Retain Top Talent in Milwaukee
COMMUNITY
JOURNAL
Persistent double-digit unemployment rates among Wisconsin African-Americans prompted leaders of the Fellowship Open, an annual fundraising golf tournament, to create MKE Fellows, a program designed to combat that statistic by training young African-American college students to become the next generation of Milwaukee's leaders. The 2015 Fellowship Open also honors the careers of Major League Baseball ComMajor League Baseball Commissioner Emeritus Bud Selig with members of the MKE Felmissioner Emeritus Bud Selig, former PGA lows program, John Daniels, Sr. and other Fellowship Open officials. Selig is one of three America Executive Earnie Ellison, and individuals to be honored during this year’s Open. (Photo provided by Fellowship Open)
VOL. XXXIX Number 48 July 1, 2015
The Milwaukee
City officials announce winning entries in MKE Peace Project
civic leader Jackie Herd-Barber. MKE Fellows is an extension of the Fellowship Open's support of the Morehouse Scholars Program, established in 2011. Funding for MKE Fellows started with a $1 million investment from the Milwaukee community. The tournament provides career development activities for these and future local African-American college students. MKE Fellows is holding a variety of professional development workshops and business learning sessions this summer.
For the past 15 years, the Fellowship Open has encouraged community organizations to foster academic achievement in urban Milwaukee’s youngsters. The event prides itself on numerous collaborative efforts with prominent local business leaders. The leaders who will serve as mentors to these students at an upcoming professional development workshop on Saturday, June 20, from 8:30 a.m.–12:45 p.m. at the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Milwaukee, lo-
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St. Ann Center hold’s job fair to fill 200 positions for new location St. Ann Center, a day, health and wellness center for all ages and abilities, recently held a job fair at the offices of the Milwaukee Area Workforce Investment Board, 2342 N. 27th St. St. Ann Center was looking to hire 200-plus individuals for their New Bucyrus Campus. Some of the positions available were: Early Childhood Education Teachers, CNA’s , PCW’s and LPN’s, Kitchen and Housekeeping Staff to name a few. St. Ann’s new location will open Sept. 1, 2015 at 2450 W. North Ave. (Photo by Yvonne Kemp)
Milwaukee Health Services, Black Health Coalition among organizations participating in HIV Testing on day of national observance
Twelve teams of Milwaukee Area young people received prize packages and recognition for their winning submission describing solutions to reducing violence in Milwaukee during a news conference in the rotunda at City Hall. The youths were part of the MKE Peace Project, which gave the youths the charge of identifying a cause of violence in their neighborhood or school, to propose a solution to the problem and discuss its potential impact. More than 70 teams--more than 180 students-submitted entries to the contest and they were reviewed by the Milwaukee Youth Council on issues facing young people in the community. The top submissions were forwarded to a team of judges which included Common Council President Michael Murphy, Mayor Tom Barrett, Police Chief Ed Flynn, and Council members Ashanti Hamilton, Jose Perez and Russell Stamper, II. The Council will examine implementation of the proposals in future legislation. (Photo by Yvonne Kemp)
In observance of the 2015 National HIV Testing Day on June 26th, Milwaukee Health Services, Inc. (MHSI) Early Intervention Program held a collaborative HIV testing event with the Black Health Coalition of Wisconsin (BHCW), Milwaukee Health Department, ARCW, Diverse and Resilient and Neighborhood House at the YWCA located at 1915 N. Dr. Martin Luther King Drive. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) more than 1.1 million people living with HIV in the U.S., an estimated one in six do not know that they are infected and only one and four has their virus under control with treatment. According to the Wisconsin AIDS/HIV Program’s 2014 Annual Review, at the end of 2014, 6,899 persons reported with HIV or AIDS were presumed to be alive and living in Wisconsin. Milwaukee County accounted for 58% of these new HIV cases in 2014 and 49% of all people living with HIV reside in Milwaukee County.
Groundbreaking at Johnsons Park marked an official beginning to the renovation of the park located along Fond du Lac Ave. in the Lindsay Heights neighborhood
Representatives from local organizations, municipalities and foundations joined neighbors on Saturday, June 27 to mark the groundbreaking of the $1.2 million revitalization efforts at Johnsons Park, a project of the Center for Resilient Cities in partnership with the Rotary Club of Milwaukee and Milwaukee County Parks. Pictured from left to right are: Laura Schloesser, Milw Co Parks, State Rep. David Bowen, Rayna Andrews, Office of the Milw Co. Exec, County Supervisor Supreme Moore Omokunde, Cecelia Gore, Brewers Community Foundation, Susan Lloyd, Zilber Family Foundation and John Bernaden, Rotary Club of Milwaukee. Planned improvements include sports fields, treelined pathways, benches, and a performance stage. Bike racks, energy-efficient lighting, and a bioswale to help manage stormwater onsite will be included to conform to the county’s sustainability efforts. All improvements will be completed by the fall of 2015. The total public-private partnership investment in Johnsons Park is $1.2 million; the park project is part of a broader $3.2 million initiative that included improvements to Alice’s Garden and the Brown Street Academy Schoolyard. (Photo provided by Milwaukee County Parks)
Bree Newsome of Charlotte, N.C., right, is taken into custody after she removed the Confederate battle flag from a monument in front of the South Carolina Statehouse in Columbia, S.C., on Saturday, June, 27, 2015. The flag was raised again by capitol workers about 45 minutes later. (AP Photo/Bruce Smith)
South Carolina Confederate Flag Protesters Charged and Released
COLUMBIA, S.C. — The two people arrested for removing the Confederate flag from the front of the South Carolina Statehouse have been released from jail in the state capital. Officer L. Tucker of the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center said 30-yearold Bree Newsome and 30-year-old James Ian Tyson were released from jail Saturday after posting bond. Both Newsome and Tyson are from Charlotte. Newsome was about halfway up the more than 30-foot steel flagpole just after dawn Saturday when officers of the South Carolina Bureau of Protective Services ran to the flagpole and told her to get down. Instead, she continued up the pole and removed the flag. She and Tyson, who had both climbed over a wrought-iron fence to get to the flag, were arrested. The flag, which is protected by state law, was raised about 45 minutes later, well ahead of a rally later Saturday by supporters of keeping the flag where it is. Sherri Iacobelli, a spokeswoman for the state Department of Public Safety, said Newsome and James Ian Tyson, 30, also of Charlotte, have been charged with defacing monuments on state Capitol grounds. That's a misdemeanor that carries a fine of up to $5,000 and a prison term of up to three years or both. A staff member at the Alvin Glenn Detention Center where the two were taken said she did not know if they had attorneys. According to the crowdfunding website Indiegogo, the "Bail for Bree Newsome" fund had raised just over $77,000 in nine hours as of 8 p.m. EDT. The fund was set up to pay for her bail and legal expenses. About the time of her arrest, Newsome released an email statement to the media. "We removed the flag today because we can't wait any longer. We can't continue like this another day," it said. "It's time for a new chapter where we are sincere about dismantling white supremacy and building toward true racial justice and equality." Authorities said Newsome was from Raleigh. However, Mervyn Marcano, a spokesman for the small group of activists who worked together to take down the flag, said she had recently moved to Charlotte. Tamika Lewis, another member of the group, said taking down the flag "was done because we were tired of waiting for the judicial system to make the decision they have been prolonging for a very long time." Later Saturday, about 50 people who support keeping the flag held a (continued on page 5)
Written by Emily Masters, Bruce Smith, courtesy Associated Press
PULSE OF THE COMMUNITY
rally at the statehouse. Many were waving Confederate flags as they shouted "Heritage Not Hate!" "This is not a flag of hate. It's a flag of herPhotos/question Yvonne Kemp itage, and we haveby a right to our her-
QUESTION OF THE WEEK: “Should the Confederate flag be removed from the state capitol of South Carolina? Why or why not?”
DERECK GRAY: “I think the flag should be removed. This is 2015 and times have changed. The flag that should be on the state capitol should be the United States flag, representing all people of all races.” WILLIE G. LOVELACE: “Absolutely! It is out of order. It does not represent freedom. Our country was built on solid ground. That (Confederate) flag does not represent what our ancestors fought for! Freedom for all!”
AVIS WRIGHT: “Yes, it should be removed; it should have been removed a long time ago. It is a constant reminder of a negative time in history. Our flag is the U.S. flag and it represents all people of all cultures of freedom.” CLARENE MITCHELL: “Yes! The cruel history of slavery in America is linked to the Confederate flag. Removing it in South Carolina and elsewhere will help to begin making right (past) wrongs.”
The Milwaukee Community Journal July 1, 2015 Page 2
THE PULSE
The WHO•WHAT•WHERE• WHEN of YOUR Community!
F o r m e r l y
t h e
4 W
C o m m u n i t y
H a p p e n i n g s
The 2015 Century Family Reunion ("CFR")
was held June 26-28 in the City of Milwaukee, which is an Annual gathering dating back to 1962, when the family first met in Indianapolis. Each year, the purpose is to reunite family members, strengthen the bond of kinship among all Century Family Members as well as extended family, and to encourage pride of the family's heritage. This year, and most years, there are typically 5-6 generations represented at the CFR, with the eldest member present being 92 years old and the youngest member just over a year old (oldest currently living is recorded at 103 years old). Family members travel from right here within the city and come from as far as Nebraska and California to attend the gathering. In an effort to explore different activities, expose family to various environments and engage more people in the planning, the reunion rotates from city to city each year. Next year's event will take place in Atlanta, GA, with future CFR gatherings planned in Nashville, TN, Forest, MS, Indianapolis, IN, Houston, TX, and Biloxi, MS. For additional information or photos, please be sure to visit our website at www.CenturyFamilyReunion or follow us on Facebook.
Packers’ Legend Ahman Green Named Honorary Chairman of Milwaukee IndyFest Milwaukee IndyFest Returns July 11-12 at Wisconsin State Fair Park
Link’s recognize Black fathers and mentors
The Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc.--Milwaukee Chapter--held its 9th annual Celebration of Outstanding Fathers and Mentors Breakfast recently at the Clarion Hotel and Conference Center, 5311 W. Howell Ave. Thirty-one men were honored. (Photo by Yvonne Kemp)
Program Aims to Expand Minority Representation in Commercial Real Estate
Associates in Commercial Real Estate (ACRE) Program now accepting applications for 2015-2016 Class
The Associates in Commercial Real Estate (ACRE) Program is an industry-supported initiative that recruits and retains minorities for professional careers in the field of commercial real estate. The ACRE program was created by Professor Mark Eppli and the Marquette University College of Business in 2005 and is now administered through LISC Milwaukee in partnership with Marquette University and the Milwaukee School of Engineering. The goal of the Associates in Commercial
Real Estate (ACRE) Program is to expand minority representation in the commercial real estate fields of development, property management, and construction management. This program offers students the opportunity to expand their knowledge of these industries while creating a valuable network of fellow students, ACRE graduates and industry professionals. ACRE is a 26-week program that runs from September through May. Typical ACRE students have some college training
and several years of business experience. Instructors include industry leaders in related fields. Key contributors include The Mandel Group and The Opus Foundation. The deadline for application to the 20152016 ACRE class is Friday, July 31, 2015. Interested candidates can find program information and an application through LISC Milwaukee’s website at http://www.lisc.org/milwaukee.
Ahman Green, the all-time leading rusher of the Green Bay Packers, will be the Honorary Race Chairman for the 2015 ABC Supply Co. Inc. Wisconsin 250 at Milwaukee IndyFest presented by The Metro Milwaukee Honda Dealers, part of Milwaukee IndyFest July 11-12 at Wisconsin State Fair Park. “As a race fan and proud Wisconsin resident, it’s an honor to be a part of Milwaukee IndyFest this summer at The Milwaukee Mile,” Green said. “Wisconsinites’ passion and enthusiasm for sports is unmatched, so I’m excited to see everyone at the track supporting this great annual tradition.” The Packers’ legend will be on stage for a Q&A session at 3:20 p.m. (CT) Sunday, July 12 in the Coors Light Music and Beer Garden and participate in pre-race festivities. Green played running back for the Packers for eight NFL seasons from 2000-06 and 2009, amassing 8,162 rushing yards. The green flag waves for the ABC Supply Co. Inc. Wisconsin 250 at Milwaukee IndyFest at 4:30 p.m., marking the 113th IndyCar race at The Milwaukee Mile. Tickets are available for purchase online at milwaukeeindyfest.com or by dialing 800-514-ETIX. The Official Box Office is located at the House of Harley at 6221 West Layton Ave. in Milwaukee.
PERSPECTIVES
An American dream turned nightmare!
All the Jay Ro family wanted was a chance for a new life. A life that most Americans take for granted; a life of opportunity, freedom from oppression and poverty. For nearly eight years, the Burmese family fought to survive while living in a refugee camp in Thailand. When given a chance to migrate to America—the supposed land of the free and the home of opportunity---they jumped at the chance. Jay, wife Ca Tri Na, their four children and parents, felt privileged to be on the receiving end of Catholic Charities’ efforts to eventually relocate to Milwaukee. Living in the heart of the ghetto-30th and Cherry--was a step up. Working menial jobs was a giant leap up the economic ladder. The Ro family was content, even if by most standards they were living on the edge. It’s about perspective. And in their case, life was 100 times better than the existence they left behind. A hard working family that valued God, good citizenship and education for their children, the Ro’s struggled to keep the central city roof over their heads and food in their children’s mouths. But they never lost their dignity and by all measures, were a happy family, good neighbors, and taking steps to be good Americans. But it all came crashing down on them last week. Their dreams of a prosperous life in America became a nightmare. Their reward for following the rules netted them tragedy when their oldest son, 11, innocently responded to a knock at the door. In “walked” two urban terrorists, who ransacked the house before entering the living room to confront the family. One of these disciples of Satan had a gun to the neck of the 11-year-old. When Jay Ro moved in to remove it, he was shot dead. So much for this great American opportunity. A senseless murder, a family left shattered. A dream turned nightmare. Jay Ro’s death is not even the latest murder in a year where the homicide rate has already doubled over last year’s. And make no mistake, the Ro family tragedy is no less painful or significant than the 73 other deaths, mostly of Black men, women and children whose “crime” is just being residents of an area some refer to as the Central City, but more appropriately may be called “Herat” or “Ramadi.” The Ro family may be better off than many of the victims of urban terrorism; even as the murder forever
THE MILWAUKEE COMMUNITY JOURNAL
SIGNIFYIN’
accepting the things I cannot change, I am changing the things I cannot accept.”--Angela Davis
Our shame of forgiveness and absolution in response to the Charleston murders By Taki S. Raton
By Mikel Kweku Osei Holt
“Many civic and religious groups are stepping up to intercede; it is a comforting reality that some in the community have extended a hand. That can’t be said of many victims of ‘urban terrorism.’ Many African American families are left without insurance, or even the wherewithal to pay for a funeral. Teddy bears and flowers attached to trees and light poles throughout our community to commemorate senseless tragedies is little relief, even if it symbolizes an outpouring of concern.”
scars the survivors and leaves them without the foundation they stood upon. Many civic and religious groups are stepping up to intercede, including Catholic Charities, the local Archdiocese and Messmer Catholic Schools. That collective assistance will never erase the pain family members will feel, but it is a comforting reality that some in the community have extended a hand. That can’t be said of many victims of “urban terrorism.” Many African American families are left without insurance, or even the wherewithal to pay for a funeral. Teddy bears and flowers attached to trees and light poles throughout our community to commemorate senseless tragedies is little relief, even if it symbolizes an outpouring of concern. The old adage about a silver lining is inappropriate here. But, in its very strange way, Mother Nature, or some mysterious spiritual source does offer a lesson from these tragedies that
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QUOTE OF THE WEEK: “I am no longer
The Milwaukee Community Journal July 1, 2015 Page 3
Colleen Newsom, Classified Advertising Jimmy V. Johnson, Sales Rep. CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Taki S. Raton, Richard G. Carter, Fr. Carl Diederichs, Rev. Joe McLin PHOTOGRAPHER: Yvonne Kemp
Opinion and comments expressed on the Perspectives page do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or management of the MCJ. Letters and “other perspectives” are accepted but may be edited for content and length.
could save the life of someone else. Some recommendations: • Instruct your children not to open the door without identifying who’s on the other side. In fact, forbid your young children from opening the door, period. • Don’t buy gas at night at a central city gas station. That may be an inconvenience, but as law enforcement will tell you, there has been an epidemic of car jackings, and a gas station is a favorite target for young thugs, as are inattentive women. • While we’re talking about cars, don’t leave your’s idling. Lock the (continued on page 5)
Parishioners applaud during a memorial service at Morris Brown AME Church for the nine people killed Wednesday during a prayer meeting inside a historic black church in Charleston, S.C., Thursday, June 18, 2015. | David Goldman / AP
Mainstream culture media outlets over these past weeks since the June 17 murder of six women and three men by 21-year-old Dylann Roof at the Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, SC has surfaced and seemingly allowed only a certain narrative to be expressed from Black adults and elders on this murderous act by a White male. Such narratives reflect expressions of forgiveness, prayer vigils around the county, even an ultimate surprise that such an event happened here in 2015, and finally resolution in the form of swaying circles of Blacks and Whites together singing, “We Shall Overcome.” Such a visible national response has presented in this writer’s mind a shameful view of a Black people with no sense of dignity or self-respect in the eyes of themselves, in the eyes of America, the world’s people or even in the eyes and hearts of our children. But fortunately, Western televised mainstream media is not the only view for us to consider. Writers, thinkers and historians from our own cultural frame of reference have additionally weighed in. “Historically, Black churches have nurtured the politics of forgiveness so that Black people can anticipate divine justice and liberation in the next life,” says Stacy Patton in her June 22 Washington Post account, “Black America should stop forgiving White racist.” She adds that this sentiment had shaped non-violent protest during the Civil Rights Movement under the assumption, “that displays of morality rooted in forgiveness would force White America to leave behind its racist assumptions,” Well obviously, our civil rights leadership – then and now – were wrong in this regard. And Black people are the only people expected to forgive. She writes that after 9/11, there was no talk about forgiving al-Qaeda, Saddam Hussein or Osama bin Laden. “America declared war, sought blood and revenge, and rushed protective measures into place to prevent future
The Black Community in America is at a Crossroads – Part 3
As I’ve tried to articulate in parts one and two of this article, the Black community is at a serious and unprecedented crossroads in our history in America and IF we want to change the negative trajectory that is currently in place for hundreds of thousands of future Black children – WE HAVE TO DO SOMETHING THAT WE HAVEN’T BEEN ABLE TO DO FOR SOME TIME (COME TOGETHER). There is good news - we can do this but we must act quickly, we’re at a crossroads. The Black community has faced some of the toughest challenges known to modern man and we have prevailed time and time again (our ancestors have been up to the challenges). Yes we faced the notorious and vicious transAtlantic passage; 300 years of brutal chattel enslavement that reduced generations of Blacks to being less than animals and internalizing this inferiority; Jim Crow segregation and physical and legal “apartheid” by denying Blacks access into American institutions and places ; the “unchecked” violence and terrorism orchestrated by the KKK and now the local police inflicted on Black men with the sole purpose of destroying Black manhood (masculinity). Despite these unimaginable challenges,the Black community is still around and hasn’t given up the fight for full and complete freedom in America. Still, at some points in our history in America, Blacks have prospered under such inhumane conditions and oppression. However, the racist enemy of the Black man today is even more lethal today than the “outward” racist of the past, because the enemy is hidden and invisible and is buried within all of America’s institutions. Racism is now structured with participation standards that disqualify a good portion of the Black community from the door at a time when America has developed a serious and “convenient” bout of amnesia. Because of the massive bombardment of negative Black images of inferiority; the danger that Blacks have been portrayed to be to mainstream America; and the substandard living conditions for Blacks, Blacks have lost the fight for justice and equality in public opinion and now ignorance of our “col-
“...Expressions of forgiveness, prayer vigils around the county, and finally resolution in the form of swaying circles of Blacks and Whites together singing, ‘We Shall Overcome” has presented in this writer’s mind a shameful view of a Black people with no sense of dignity or self-respect in the eyes of themselves, in the eyes of America, the world’s people or even in the eyes and hearts of our children.”
attacks,” she posits. And from my perspective, this is what men are supposed to do! She continues to note that no one expects Jewish people to forgive the Nazis or contemporary anti-Semitic acts. “But Black people are held to an impossibly higher standard. This rush to forgive - before grieving, healing, processing or even waiting for the legal or judicial systems to process these crimes – and the expectations of Black empathy for those who do great harm is deeply problematic.” Quoting Chad Williams, Associate Professor and Chair, Department of African and Afro-American Studies at Brandeis University, “I think the expectations that Blacks are always willing to forgive makes it harder to engage in radical transformative social justice work.” Further challenging mainstream media narratives, Hidden Colors series producer Tariq Nasheed, on his special June 18, 2015 live YouTube radio show, positioned that: (continued on page 5)
lective” past prevails. Now, many believe there is no need to treat the Black community any different than other groups. Today, the dominating thought regarding Blacks’ progress in America is that Blacks are being judged in a race that miraculously has become “fair” and “even” forgetting about America’s open and protracted and prolonged assault on Black people and the damaged that has been done. While Blacks struggled at the hands of white supremacist for nearly 450 years, white America has amassed a tremendous level of wealth and power that was the direct results of the American institution of slavery - the impact and consequences thrive today (the legacy of slavery). The social and economic disparities are the size of an ocean. The social and economic challenges are so pronounced for Black Americans at the same time that America has elected its first Black president – this is proof that America has changed and it is no longer intolerant and oppressive of Black people – THIS IS A VERY BIG LIE AND A MASSIVE ILLUSION. There are way too many Black people that have been deceived by this lie. While we see symbolic changes of a so-called race-neutral society, the dayto-day life for most Black people is completely opposite and THEIR BLACK SKIN IS THE SOLE REASON. It’s very clear to Black people that they are unwanted in American society – this message is clear, continuous, and extremely loud. Even when evidence of abuse and oppression is uncovered (i.e. the video of an outright shooting of an unarmed Black male, etc.), many in white America say they need to study the issue a little more – this is code for don’t believe your lying eyes. Yes, the Black community is in A STATE OF UNPARALLELED CRISIS with no real and strategic plan that adequately combats the negative demographic data coupled with the structural and institutional racism that is buried in the continuums (pipeline) that exist that certainly will ensure that the neg-
(continued on page 5)
RELIGION
The Milwaukee Community Journal July 1, 2015 Page 4
Pastors Packing Heat: Church massacre has faithful headed to gun ranges Article courtesy of USA TODAY via “The Rundown”
For seven years, Geof Pea-body - owner and instructor at Peabody's Shooting Range - has been teaching his fellow church members how to use guns. Peabody said interest in his class has been growing among the faithful, as they feel a need to be prepared in case of an attack. The shooting at the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in South Carolina Wednesday that left nine black parishioners dead is reinforcing that feeling, and some church members' belief that they may need to pack a gun when they go to worship. Dylann Roof, the white 21year-old suspect of the Emanuel killings, sat with the church prayer group for about an hour before he allegedly yelled racial epithets and then opened fire at the group. "We need protection," Debbie Caudle, member of Green Valley Community Church in Placerville, Calif., said. "People that go through classes and get licenses and stuff to carry a gun. I fell like we need this in our lives. We need it in church and in our businesses." Caudle has taken the introductory handgun class for ministers. "I never had held a handgun before in my life and I wanted to be comfortable with it," said Caudle, who is white. Peabody starts training in a classroom where ministers learn about safety. Then, they move over to the shooting range to get hands on practice. He said the purpose of the class is not only to learn how to shoot, but also to know how to stop someone else from shooting.
Happily Ever After! Le’ Ashia S. McDaniels and Anthony D. Johnson were joined in holy matrimony recently at Lamb of God Missionary Baptist Church, 8415 W. Bradley Rd., where its pastor, Rev. Christopher R. Boston, officiated the nuptuals. (Photo by Cy White)
African American Gospel Music Hall of Fame Established
PHILADELPHIA, Christian Newswire/ -- We are pleased to announce the establishment of an African American Gospel Music Hall of Fame during AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSIC APPRECIATION MONTH. Richard Arnold Associates of Philadelphia, PA is pleased to announce the establishing of the African American Gospel Hall of Fame (AAGMHOF) has been created a non-profit entity under the federal guidelines. The AAGMHOF has been created as a vehicle to preserve, enhance and promote the heritage of the multi-cultural gospel music in America and Internationally. Special emphasis will be placed on honoring the gospel music contributors/performers/writers/produced/educators and individuals and organizations to preserve their legacy. The AAGNHOF's organization overall goal to serve as a tribute for preserving the past, present and future of gospel music through a collection of artifacts, memorabilia, films, compact discs, tapes and recorded information and video/audio. The AAGMHOF will develop and serve as depository for the permanent records, music collection, and annual recognition ceremony, maintain archives and provide
tributes to Gospel Music. The collection of reference data, historical documents, publications, recorded histories, relating to gospel and gospel related music which will available to researchers, historians, educators and the general public. The organization will utilized the most current technology and social media resources to communication with the diverse population of fans, followers, supporters, advocates and performers of Gospel Music. A nationwide campaign will be initiate to select a permanent location for a state of the art facility for housing of a permanent collection of recording, music, pictures, historical documents, memorabilia, items of historical significant in the growth and heritage of Gospel music. A primary objective of the AAGMHOF will be to develop a comprehensive Time Line of Gospel Music from its origins to today and projections of its future. The AAGMHOFMF will offer a wide spectrum of events, program activities and educational seminars/ workshops to promote Gospel Music. An annual Recognition Program will be developed to Honor Inductees into the AAGMHOF and highlighting the honorees contribution to Gospel Music. In addition, the organization will serve as a vehicle to educate and inform the general public about gospel music and serve as a resource center for Gospel Music in the United States and the World. A national wide poll with be conducted to establish locale/facility for the AAGMHOF which will offer a wide spectrum of events, program activities and educational seminars/ workshops to promote Gospel Music.
What’s Happening In Your Faith-based community
Gospel Musical set State Baptists to hold Congress of Christian Education will present WHY CHARLESTON IS NOT theirTheannual Christian Education Gospel Musical Sunday, July 12, 4 p.m., at The Way of the Cross Missonary Baptist Seminars 1401 W. Hadley St. FERGUSON OR BALTIMORE Church, The musical will feature choirs from the General RELIGIOUS COMMENTARY
A Statement from Bishop Harry Jackson, Bishop T.D. Jakes and James Robison-TheReconciledChurch.org
We mourn with the families and friends of the Christian martyrs shot at the Emmanuel AME church in Charleston, South Carolina. Yet though we mourn, we celebrate the bond of Christian love that transcends race. We also declare that evil will not triumph over love, justice, and mercy. We rejoice because we see God at work against a backdrop of temporary darkness. As some police officers in split-second decisions victimize black men, as an emotionally depraved white man disrupts a bible class to kill nine of the people who welcomed him in—names like Ferguson, Staten Island, Baltimore and now Charleston join the roll call of an issue impossible now to ignore or explain away or hush to silence. In one significant way, however, Charleston is not Ferguson or Baltimore or Staten Island. In Charleston, on the heels of abject wrong came seeds of forgiveness, and instead of riots and looting, blacks and whites demonstrated pain-filled solidarity. It’s possible to avoid hate, and a Church is showing that. Not easily, not without pain, not without mistakes but with hope that transcends what we have now. Black, white, brown, yellow; here is the value of what the Church can bring. Charleston becomes a call to all people of faith to leave our silos for a new brand of solidarity. With a comprehensive strategy of hope, we can serve the underserved and justice-deprived. On the side of righteousness, justice and freedom for all, it’s possible to turn the tides on declining economics, on deprived education. In love, we can work together to create a fair and equitable justice system in a country that stands for our highest and best ideals!
Baptist Convention Churches: Greater Spring Hill Choir, Hallowed MBC Choir, Jerusalem MBC Choir, The Voices of Newport Baptist Church, Philadelphia MBC Choir, Risen Savior Community Choir, The WAy of the Cross Choir, Second Baptist Madison Choir, True Love Choir, Friendship Baptist Church Gospel Allstars.
In Loving Memory
Ernestine O’Bee, Founder
The General Baptist State Convention of Wisconsin will be sponsoring a series of Christian Education Seminars from Juluy 12 to 17, from 6 to 8:15 p.m., at Way of the Cross MBC 1401 W. Hadley St. Rev. Kurt Boyd is pastor. The youth location will be at Canaan MBC, 2975 N. 11th St. The subjects include: c Spritual Transformation, How to become a strong Christian Black Woman, Christian Stewardship, Women in the New Testa- l a ment, the Synoptic Gospels, and Introduction to Psalms.
Offering pre-need, at need and after-care services to families in Milwaukee, Racine, Kenosha and other communities throughout our state.
Banks, Otha B. Age 71 yrs. June 28, 2015. Visitation Only Tuesday, July 7 at 1PM at: Northwest Funeral Chapel O'Bee, Ford & Frazier 6630 W. Hampton Ave. (414)462-6020
Brown, Sedric J. Age 42 yrs. June 25, 2015. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, July 1 at 11AM at Christ Presbyterian Church 1930 W. Walnut St. Visitation Wednesday 9AM 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
Newburn, Kwang H. Age 60 yrs. June 27, 2015. Funeral services will be held on Friday, July 3 at 11AM at Mason Temple COGIC 6098 N. 35th St. Visitation Friday 10AM at the CHURCH until time of services. The family is served by:
Holloway, Maxine Age 82 yrs. June 28, 2015. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, July 8 at 11AM at New Hope Baptist Church 2433 W. Roosevelt Dr. Visitation Wednesday 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
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Quality Service... a tenured tradition sincere concern at your time of need.
Northwest Funeral Chapel O'Bee, Ford & Frazier 6630 W. Hampton Ave. (414)462-6020
Clark, Hector Age 63 yrs. June 24, 2015. A Memorial Service will be held on Fri-
day,July 3 at 1PM at:
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J.C. Frazier, Funeral Director
Northwest Funeral Chapel O'Bee, Ford & Frazier 6630 W. Hampton Ave. (414)462-6020
Butler, Stephanie D. Age 31 yrs. June 24, 2015. Funeral services will be held on Friday, July 3 at 11AM at St. Mark AME Church 1616 W. Atkinson Ave. Instate Friday 10AM at the CHURCH until time of services. Visitation Thursday 3-7PM (Family hour 5-6PM) at: Northwest Funeral Chapel O'Bee, Ford & Frazier 6630 W. Hampton Ave. (414)462-6020
Prince, Eugene S., Sr. Went Home to the Lord on June 29, 2015 at the age of 85. Beloved husband of Jeanetta for 65 years. Loving dad of Deborah Carter, Joan Prince, Thomas Rhone and the late Eugene P. Prince, Jr. Proud and beloved grandfather of Tracy Carter of Milwaukee. Brother of Delores Brooks of California, PA, Helen Littleberry and Jean Littleberry of Bridgeport, CT. He is further survived by a host of closely loved nieces, nephews, great-nieces, other relatives and many dear friends. Visitation will be Tuesday, July 7, 2015 at St. Philip’s Lutheran Church, 3012 North Holton Street in Milwaukee at 10:00 AM (family hour) until the time of service at 11:00 AM. Private entombment at Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery on July 8. He will be greatly missed. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Eugene’s name to St. Phillip’s Lutheran Church (of which he was a 55-year member) would be greatly appreciated. The
family is served by:
Northwest Funeral Chapel O'Bee, Ford & Frazier 6630 W. Hampton Ave. (414)462-6020
Families served by:
Northwest Funeral Chapel O’Bee, Ford & Frazier
Milwaukee 6630 W. Hampton Avenue Milwaukee, WI 53218 Telephone: (414) 462-6020 Fax: (414) 462-9937
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Racine 800 Barker St. Racine, WI 53402 Telephone: (262) 637-6400 Fax: (262) 637-6416
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HOC inmates graduate from Fatherhood Initiative’s Re-Entry Program
The Milwaukee Community Journal July 1, 2015 Page 5
In this May 10, 2000, file photo, Kevin Gray of the Harriet Tubman Freedom House watches as a Confederate flag burns during a demonstration in Columbia, South Carolina, to protest the Confederate flag flying atop the dome of the South Carolina Statehouse. On the left side was a Nazi flag which burned first. | AP
South Carolina Confederate Flag Protesters Charged and Released
(continued from page 1) itage," said Leland Browder of Greenville. "And, you know, I'm from the South and proud of the South and, you know, proud of this flag." Supporters also said the voters should decide the fate of the flag and shouted: "Let the People Vote." Calls for removing the flag have been renewed since nine black churchgoers were killed in what police characterized as a racist attack at a Charleston, South Carolina church last week. South Carolina lawmakers took the initial steps last Tuesday toward removing the Confederate battle flag from the Statehouse grounds by agreeing to allow discussion of the matter during the legislative session. The agreement came a day after Republican Gov. Nikki Haley reversed course and called for the divisive symbol to come down. The flag has flown in front of the state Capitol for 15 years after being moved from atop the Statehouse dome. The NAACP praised Newsome for her actions and called on authorities to treat her with leniency. "Prosecutors should treat Ms. Newsome with the same largehearted measure of justice that inspired her actions. The NAACP stands with our youth and behind the multigenerational band of activists fighting the sub-
An American dream turned nightmare!
Lewis Lee (far left, standing) and Dennis Walton (far right, standing), executive director of the City fo Milwaukee’s Fatherhood Initiative, pose with inmates of Milwaukee County’s House of Corrections (HOC) who proudly hold certificates denoting their completion of the HOC’s Re-Entry program after a ceremony recognizing their accomplishment. (Photo by Yvonne Kemp)
stance and symbols of bigotry, hatred and intolerance," NAACP President Cornell William Brooks said in an emailed statement. Some state lawmakers, however, worried that Newsome's actions will hurt efforts to bring the flag down permanently. "There are 2 ways the Confederate Flag can be removed forever. Citi-
zens please engage legally or we lose!" state Sen. Marlon Kimpson of Charleston, a Democrat, said on his Twitter account. And, in another tweet, Republican state Sen. Shane Massey of Edgefield said such actions" will make this discussion much more difficult." Both lawmakers favor bringing down the flag.
NASCAR to vows to eliminate presence of Confederate flag from the sport Article courtesy of Associated Press via “The Rundown”
Calling the Confederate flag an "insensitive symbol" he personally finds offensive, NASCAR chairman Brian France said the sport will be aggressive in disassociating the symbol from its events. "We want to go as far as we can to eliminate the presence of that flag," France told The Associated Press on Saturday. "I personally find it an offensive symbol, so there is no daylight how we feel about it and our sensitivity to others who feel the same way. "We're working with the industry to see how far we can go to get that flag to be disassociated entirely from our events." Earlier this week, NASCAR said it backed South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley's call to remove the Confederate flag from state capitol grounds, and noted that it bars the flag symbol in any official NASCAR capacity. But banning it on race track property is a much larger task for NASCAR, which began as a Southern sport and many of its fans still embrace the flag. It flies atop campers and at camp sites at many races as fans spend entire weekends in either the infield or surrounding areas of track property. The size of the crowd, and NASCAR's own acknowledgment that fans have a right to freedom of expression, would make it difficult to police the presence of the flag. But France insisted NASCAR is exploring its options. "That's what we're working on - working on how far can we go," he said. "If there's more we can do to disassociate ourselves with that flag at our events than we've already done, then we want to do it. We are going to be as aggressive as we can to disassociate ourselves with that flag."
MKE Fellows Program
(continued from page 1) cated at 1558 N. 6th Street in Milwaukee include: • John W. Daniels, III, pastor, Old Mt. Zion Church • Ron Adams, diversity and inclusion consultant with Northwestern Mutual • Robert LaGrant, financial consultant with Charles Schwab • Jeremy Bennett, treasury analyst with PNC Bank • Justin Baker, sales manager with the Milwaukee Bucks • LaNelle Ramey, director of athletics, Boys & Girls Club of Greater Milwaukee "Retaining the best talent in Milwaukee demands that we use all of our resources to help these young men succeed while they are in college and after graduation," said John W. Daniels, Jr. chairman emeritus, Quarles & Brady LLP. "We are committed to providing education and exposure. The workshops we have developed and the presenters we have assembled are dedicated to making sure these young men learn how to present themselves in the workplace and the marketplace, how to network, and how best to leverage this experience personally and professionally." “The Greater Milwaukee Committee’s membership knows the importance of bringing talent back to Milwaukee after they have obtained their educations,” said GMC president Julia Taylor. “We have been involved from the start to ensure that these scholars feel supported, that they return to school with skills that will help them succeed, and that they have a reason to come back to Milwaukee in the future.” MKE Fellows takes local students currently enrolled in Atlanta's Morehouse College under the Morehouse Scholars Program and other historically black colleges such as Howard University, Alabama A&M University, and Tennessee State University, and holds mentorship seminars with influential Milwaukee business leaders. program includes a summer internship component, working with several Milwaukee companies to provide the Morehouse students with real-world job experience. "My education at Morehouse, as well as the internships I've held thus far, was made possible by the generosity of the Milwaukee business community and the Fellowship Open," said Nicholas Stokes, Morehouse scholar, rising senior and finance major. "
The MKE Fellows Program has been invaluable to me and the other participants. Learning how to successfully navigate the marketplace, and how to become business leaders from business executives who look like us, is really a blessing." 2015 MKE Fellows Aaron Blake; Jaylin Durham;Devon Kidd; Nicholas Stokes;Justin Wilks, Samuel Buchanan;Jaree Collins; Brandin Davis; DeMarchus Harris; Justice Hudnall; Daquan May; Christon Sykes-Smith; Jeffery Carter;JaQueis Gooch; Jeremy Henry; Myles Davis; Alex Erdmann; Collins McClain; Michael Nichols; Michaiah Hinds; Ryan Gray; Kyle Williams; and Isaiah Ezemba. About the Fellowship Open The Fellowship Open was founded in 2000 by a group of business and civic leaders, to promote and inspire youngsters to pursue careers in business and to foster support for diversity and inclusion in the business community. The event’s list of honorary chairs features some of Milwaukee’s most prominent professionals in business, government, and civic affairs. Each year, its ranks have grown with individuals that bring outstanding attributes and commitments to the community. Over the years, the Fellowship Open has contributed nearly $1 million to youth organizations, involving more than 70 organizations throughout Wisconsin. About the Morehouse Scholars Program The Morehouse Scholars Program, conceived by former Johnson Controls Chief Diversity Officer and Vice President of Community Affairs Chuck Harvey and John W. Daniels, Jr. Chairman Emeritus of Quarles & Brady LLP, is a collaborative effort with the Milwaukee Public Schools to provide four-year scholarships for high-potential, young African-American men in the Milwaukee area to attend Morehouse College in Atlanta. The initiative, which began in 2011 with lead donations from Johnson Controls, Northwestern Mutual,Ralph Evinrude Foundation, Inc. , and other Wisconsin and national donors, funds scholarships totaling more than $1 million and is providing scholarships for 20 Milwaukee students who are currently attending the school. The Milwaukee scholarships are part of a pilot program in which Morehouse plans a nationwide push to recruit students from cities with low high school graduation rates for young black men.
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passenger door and close the windows while driving. • Don’t park too close to the car in front of you that you can’t pull out without backing up. • Don’t pick up strangers; and drive off if someone approaches your car while at a stop. That may be illegal, but a judge would probably understand. • If robbed, give IT up! Don’t fight, don’t argue, and don’t make any sudden moves. Nothing in your wallet or purse is worth your life. • Along those lines, don’t wear sound impairing earphones in certain neighborhoods. They are not only a target of thieves, but they restrict you from hearing someone coming up on you. • If you can’t afford a home alarm system, there are cheap--if not free--instruments you can use to deter home invaders, or alert you to their presence. Door jam alarms are a good ideal, as are motion detectors. During my lengthy stay in the hospital, my wife put a string of bells on our house doors. If a punk, or punkette, made it passed that line of defense, she had another surprise for them. • Lastly, listen to that special sense God provided you
with. Some call it intuition; scientists have complicated explanations for it. But the reality is, you have it, and it would be senseless not to use it. It will alert you when something is wrong, (it generally is, pay heed). It tells you not to walk down that dark alley or street. It warns you about approaching strangers. It tells you not to sleep with that window open, or to investigate what you ‘thought’ was a strange sound. (If it’s a ghost, run like hell.) Sadly, we live in a society, a city that has forced us to change our lifestyles and adjust and adapt our culture. We are less trustful of strangers. We avoid certain neighborhoods. Many of us carry guns and other weapons. Church ushers carry guns (if they didn’t, they probably do know after what happened at Emmanuel AME Church in South Carolina almost three weeks ago). Our schools employ metal detectors. I know women who carry claw hammers between their seats, illegal mace and butcher knives. I’m not the one to tell them not to. After all, the fine for illegal concealed carry is far less than the cost of a funeral. Hotep.
(continued from page 3) ative demographics will be maintained. Brothers and sisters we must wake up to the challenge that lies before us and take our rightful place in the chain and brotherhood of our ancestors and the continuation of the struggle of self-determination for Black people in America. What are we waiting for? What evidence do you have that demonstrates that America even cares about the plight of the Black man? Most, if not all, of the issues we are faced with were caused by a racist and dangerous white America that practiced and implemented the most brutal and tortuous campaign against a people that the modern world has ever witnessed, and now we seek their compassion coupled with our inability to do the work – it’s a foolish proposition. Who will represent and fight on behalf of our ancestors, who were the victims of this obscene treatment – where is the justice? Who will fight for this historical justice for them? How do we honor our ancestor’s struggle? We can honor their struggle by continuing to fight and demand justice for them and ourselves. We can honor their struggle by continuing the fight for self- determination of Black people. True freedom, the freedom that allows you to determine the highest of heights; the freedom that gives you true liberty and the ability to pursue happiness ; the freedom that allows for full protection under the law – the same protection that hundreds of thousands of Black men have fought and died for in American wars; the freedom to be “full” American citizens that enjoy the human and civil rights afforded to white Americans; THE TRUE FREEDOM THAT BLACKS MUST HAVE IN AMERICA MUST BE ECONOMIC FREEDOM. The Black community is at a crossroads because the issues we face are very severe and near permanent. I use the term “near” to signal a sense of urgency and unless we act NOW, the near will disappear and the issues and problems facing the Black community will become forever permanent. We are witnessing the “perfect storm” and the enemies of the Black community are winning – I dread what 2115 will look like for Black people if we don’t respond today. Why the sense of urgency? Why should the Black community be concerned? Let’s consider the following: • Blacks Face Multiple Risk Factors – Most experts don’t truly appreciate and most people just don’t even know. Many times our approach to addressing the issues facing the Black community in America is usually viewed from a very narrow lensed, specifically a “silo” approach (this is how the entire society is arranged). Usually we isolate our discussions to focus on one issue at a time. The reality is that all of the negative demographics (i.e. health, poverty, unemployment, incarceration, education, etc.) that we’re always discussing are just mind teasers and don’t truly reflect the massive disparities and its impact on the Black community. • The Pipeline is Primed – Unfortunately the massive disparities and multiple risk factors are not the only prob-
lems facing the Black community - they represent only half of the problem. The other half of the problem lies in the continuum (pipeline) that is producing these staggering and alarming outcomes for Black people. When we begin to examine the continuums (systems) that produce the current demographics (outcomes) we see that the pump is primed to,if not continue, increase the problems facing the Black community – this is very alarming. Each one of these continuums is comprised of a number of systems and institutions that contribute to the outcome that we primarily focus on. If you are to change the outcome, you must address each system and how those systems and institutions contribute to the overall problem. These systems and institutions operate based on existing laws, rules and regulations, and the overarching policies that have been crafted by politicians and are being implemented by bureaucrats – they’re running on autopilot. It’s hard to make the distinction from the other disparities that the Black community faces, but the mass incarceration of Black men is absolutely destroying the stability of the Black family and the Black community. • Passing of Elders – Those African Americans that actually lived as adults prior to the historic legislation of the 1960s represent the closest victims from the American institution of slavery. Many of these Blacks were born in the 1930s and early 40s and are now 70 years and older (this group is only one totwo generations removed from slavery). This group experienced directly the threat of the KKK or colored only participation. This group was physically and legally discriminated against and it was, not only acceptable, but it was also legal. This group also clearly understood the enemy of the Black community and fought to end its rule over them – they clearly understood that being Black was a curse in America and that their civil rights were nonexistent. Today the argument regarding having the United States government repair what was done to the Black community has been hijacked by a very weak argument that slavery ended 150 years ago and there are no slaves living today, not acknowledging the current damage and the legacy of slavery. This generation represents our biggest defense against such a ridiculous argument and this group has the capacity to help restore this conversation to a healthy dialogue which must not be defeated. The Black community must restore this conversation back to the main stage of American public discourse. The multiple risk factors, the primed pump of the continuums, and the passing of our elders create a sense of urgency for the Black community that require us to quickly organize at the highest level or risk our Black children becoming a permanent social and economic underclass in America. Because America is driven by free markets the ability to challenge structural racism will become much more difficult, if not impossible, to combat.
The Black Community in America is at a Crossroads – Part 3
SMALL BUSINESS
The Milwaukee Community Journal July 1, 2015 Page 6
St. Ann Center job fair a huge success!
Job applicants at the recent Job Fair sponsored by St. Ann Center. (Photo by Yvonne Kemp)
“From the moment our team walked into MAWIB until 1pm there was never a dull moment. Close to 800 applicants showed up for an opportunity to meet with department heads in hopes of being considered for a job opportunity. “As the day went on I was excited to see so many people show up and wait in line to get inside the building. As I watched and interacted with the applicants I found myself wishing that we had 800 jobs to give everyone who was diligent enough to attend the fair. “June 26th Job Fair’s turn-out is proof that there is a
Are Schools Failing Students When It Comes To Money Matters? Educators Must Make Financial Literacy A Priority, Says CEO Of Society For Financial Awareness
FIRST PERSON By Monique Taylor,
Human Resource Director, St. Ann Center for Intergenerational Care
major need within the inner city of Milwaukee which is JOBS. “No one, I mean no one can tell me that people don’t want to work. They showed up by the hundreds, whether they came with their children, not dressed appropriately for an interview, or without a resume – they made a concerted effort to show up. “There were MANY qualified candidates who attended the job fair but unfortunately we cannot employ everyone. I say to those who did not meet our qualifications and didn’t advance within our process… do not give up. Keep pressing – Keep being positive and conscientious, your blessing is only an arm’s reach away. God Bless.”
Something may be missing as high school seniors across America accept their diplomas this graduation season. Those years of K-12 learning likely provided them opportunities to learn about historic figures, find Canada on a map and dissect a frog. But superintendents at most school districts across the country have failed to include required classes in the core curriculum that would help ensure the teenagers are prepared to handle money wisely after they graduate. The teens’ financial illiteracy could prove costly throughout their lives as they make – or fail to make – decisions about purchasing an automobile, borrowing for college, taking out a mortgage, saving for retirement and racking up credit card debt. It’s a potentially disastrous scenario just waiting to unfold, says Jim Chilton, founder and chief executive officer of the non-profit Society for Financial Awareness (www.sofausa.org). “Most of our schools do little or nothing to teach students about financial literacy, even though it’s a practical skill that will serve them all their lives,” says Chilton, whose organization’s mission is to “eliminate financial illiteracy, one community at a time.” SOFA does that by conducting free workshops and seminars for corporations, small businesses, government agencies, community colleges, libraries, churches or organizations. Chilton says the need for his organization’s services is great because so many adults, uneducated in the ways of money, struggle to understand finances and are prone to making decisions that prove costly to their bank accounts, retirement funds and investments. What’s especially frustrating, he says, is that the situation could easily be changed for the nation’s future adults if schools made financial literacy a priority. “Financial literacy really needs to be part of the core curriculum for every high school in America,” Chilton (continued on page 8)
Job Interviewing Do's and Don'ts for Job-Seekers
by Randall S. Hansen, Ph.D. Here are the keys to successful job interviewing. Job-seekers who follow these simple rules and guidelines should achieve success in this important phase of job-hunting. (Note, if you have a video screening interview scheduled, do read our Online, Video Job Interview Do's and Don'ts for Job-Seekers. For phone interviews, also do read our Phone Interviewing Do's and Don'ts for Job-Seekers.) • Do take a practice run to the location where you are having the interview -- or otherwise be sure you know exactly where it is and how long it takes to get there. • Do your research and know the type of job interview you will encounter. (See types of job interviews.) And do prepare and practice for the interview, but don't memorize or over-rehearse your answers. (See our some of the best collections of interview questions.) • Do dress the part for the job, the company, the industry. And do err on the side of conservatism. If you're not sure, consider reading our article, When Job-Hunting: Dress for Success. • Do plan to arrive about 10 minutes early. Late arrival for a job interview is never excusable. If you are running late, do phone the company. • Do greet the receptionist or assistant with courtesy and respect. This situation is where you make your first impression with the employer. • Don't chew gum during the interview. If presented with a job application, do fill it out neatly, completely, and accurately. Do bring extra resumes to the interview. (Even better, if you have a job-skills portfolio, do bring that with you to the interview.) • Don't rely on your application or resume to do the selling for you. No matter how qualified you are for the position, you will need to sell yourself to the interviewer. • Do greet the interviewer(s) by title (Ms., Mr., Dr.) and last name if you are sure of the pronunciation. (If you're not sure, do ask the receptionist about the pronunciation before going into the interview. • Do shake hands firmly. Don't have a limp or clammy handshake! • Do wait until you are offered a chair before sitting. And do remember body language and posture: sit upright and look alert and interested at all times. Don't fidget or slouch. • Don't tell jokes during the interview. • Do make good eye contact with your interviewer(s). • Do show enthusiasm in the position and the company. • Don't smoke, even if the interviewer does and offers you a cigarette. And don't smoke beforehand so that you smell like smoke. Do brush your teeth, use mouthwash, or have a breath mint before the interview. • Do avoid using poor language, slang, and pause words (such as "like," "uh," and "um"). • Don't be soft-spoken. A forceful voice projects confidence. • Do have a high confidence and energy level, but don't be overly aggressive. • Don't act as though you would take any job or are desperate for employment. • Do avoid controversial topics. • Don't say anything negative about former colleagues, supervisors, or employers. • Do make sure that your good points come across to the interviewer in a factual, sincere manner. • Don't ever lie. Answer questions truthfully, frankly and succinctly. And don't over-answer questions. • Do stress your achievements. And don't offer any negative information about yourself. • Don't answer questions with a simple "yes" or "no." Explain whenever possible. Describe those things about yourself that showcase your talents, skills, and determination. Give detailed examples. • Do show off the research you have done on the company and industry when responding to questions. (See our Guide to Researching Companies.) • Don't bring up or discuss personal issues or family problems. • Do remember that the interview is also an important time for you to evaluate the interviewer and the company she represents. • Don't respond to an unexpected question with an extended pause or by saying something like, "boy, that's a good question." And do repeat the question aloud or ask for the question to be repeated to give you a little more time to think about an answer. Also, a short pause before responding is okay. • Do always conduct yourself as if you are determined to get the job you are discussing. Never close the door on an opportunity until you are sure about it. • Don't answer cell-phone calls during the interview, and do turn off (or set to silent ring) your cell phone. • Do show what you can do for the company rather than what the company can do for you. • Don't inquire about salary, vacations, bonuses, retirement, or other benefits until after you've received an offer. Be prepared for a question about your salary requirements, but do try and delay salary talk until you have an offer. (You might consider visiting our salary tutorial for more tips and strategies.) • Do ask intelligent questions about the job, company, or industry. Don't ever not ask any questions - it shows a lack of interest. • Do close the interview by telling the interviewer(s) that you want the job and asking about the next step in the process. (Some experts even say you should close the interview by asking for the job.) • Do try to get business cards from each person you interviewed with -- or at least the correct spelling of their first and last names. And don't make assumptions about simple names (was it Jon or John?) get the spelling. • Do immediately take down notes after the interview concludes so you don't forget crucial details. • Do write thank you letters within 24 hours to each person who interviewed you. And do know all the rules of following up after the interview.
Wedding business expects boom following gay marriage ruling Article courtesy of International Business Times via “The Rundown”
Bleu Copas' voice grew wistful as he described his planned wedding venue, a small chapel located in a treehouse at his friend's place in Nashville, Tennessee. His friend was lending him and other gay couples the outdoor venue for free to celebrate gay marriage rights. Sure, a treehouse chapel is untraditional, not air-conditioned and might get hot, but Copas said it was perfect nonetheless. With the Supreme Court legalizing gay marriage across the country in a landmark decision Friday, more gay couples are expected to walk down the aisle than ever before. That's good news for the wedding industry, which has struggled amid years of sinking marriage rates. The typical total cost of a wedding is about $26,000, and a surge of gay weddings could send hundreds of millions of dollars into local businesses and economies in the coming months and years. "It feels like a dream coming true, that I didn't even know I was ever going to have," Copas said Friday after learning about the Supreme Court ruling. "I can't wait to get married." The Williams Institute at UCLA, which performs public policy and law research on sexual orientation and gender identity, estimated in 2014 that same-sex weddings could be worth about $2.5 billion total through the first three years they are legalized nationwide. For the 13 holdout states that had refused to recognize gay marriage before the Supreme Court decision, same-sex weddings were expected to have an economic impact of more than half a billion dollars in the first three years, according to a Williams Institute estimate released Monday. The states will perhaps see $47.7 million in tax revenue as well, along with anywhere from 2,069-6,210 jobs created as a result of same-sex marriages, according to the Williams Institute. "Suddenly we have 150,000 same-sex couples [in the 13 states] that can get married. That has the potential for quite a big boost," said Lee Badgett, a Williams distinguished scholar at the Williams Institute and director of the Center for Public Policy and Administration at the University of Massachusetts Amherst.
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KALEIDOSCOPE the MCJ lifestyle & entertainment section
Nearly 2,000 YMCA Day Campers to attend July 8th Brewers game versus Atlanta Braves as guests of the Brewers Community Foundation
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Straight talk on men’s health at Brain, Brawn and Body event
Brain, Brawn and Body, a website that focuses on the health of dBlack men, recently held a health fair to celebrate Men’s Health Month this past June. The event y was held at Journey House, 2110 kW. Scott St. Aside from the workshops, health screenings and rother demonstrations and activities for children, there was a “Brother to Brother forum (shown above). The participants who parlticipated and answered questions from the audience on issues perataining to health were (left to right): Ernest Colburn, a registered nurse and patient supervigsor with Wheaton Francescan Healthcare; Daryl Davidson, diIrector of men’s health centers for oWheaton Francescan; City Treasurer Spencer Coggs, and George g Hinton, president and CEO of the tSocial Development Commission. (Photo by Yvonne Kemp)
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For Women Only!
The Milwaukee Community Journal July 1, 2015 Page 7
By Tony Courtney
Health&Wellness
City of Milwaukee Health Department Services for Independence Day Weekend
The City of Milwaukee Health Department (MHD) administrative offices and health center locations will be closed Friday, July 3, in observance of the Independence Day holiday. Regular hours and services will resume Monday, July 6. During this time, City of Milwaukee residents are advised to call (414) 286-CITY for information or assistance. For more information on MHD services and health center locations, visit www.milwaukee.gov/health.
It will be a major league field trip for nearly 2,000 YMCA Day Campers from across Southeastern Wisconsin on July 8, 2015, when they head to Miller Park to watch the Milwaukee Brewers take on the Atlanta Braves. As part of YMCA Day at Miller Park, day campers from the YMCA of Metropolitan Milwaukee, Kettle Moraine YMCA, and the YMCA of Greater Waukesha County will attend a Brewers game through the generous support of the Brewers Community Foundation. This will be the sixth consecutive summer that the Brewers Community Foundation has invited Y Day Campers to a game at Miller Park. “Our mission to positively impact the lives of children and their families in Greater Milwaukee is right in line with that of the Y, so we are thrilled to have so many Y Day Camp kids join us for a game,” said Cecelia Gore, executive director of the Brewers Community Foundation. With a focus on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, the Y is a cause-driven organization committed to strengthening the community. Y Day Camps work to support Milwaukee kids by focusing on instilling the values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility in day campers throughout the summer. Safe, fun-filled Day Camp activities allow for physical exertion, social interaction, educational opportunities, leadership building, personal growth and creativity. “YMCA Day at Miller Park is an incredible highlight for our campers and for many it is their very first Brewers game experience. We couldn’t be more grateful to the Brewers Community Foundation for this tremendous gift and their continued support of the Y,” said Julie Tolan, president and CEO of the Milwaukee Y. Campers singing camp songs throughout the game, adding another level of excitement and joy to Miller Park.
Old School: We Ain’t Through Yet! – Black men over 6o with some selected 50 year olds. Will meet again on Monday, July 6th at the Wisconsin African American Women’s Center 3020 W. Vliet St. If you are a Black Man over 60 years old you are invited to attend and participate in the discussion. For more information call 374-2364. “Superstar on a Losing Team” – Pick up a copy of this pamphlet and learn how to prepare young Black men to work together as a team and compete in this world. Our young Black men have only been programmed to compete against each other. Pick up a copy of this $3.00 book Tuesday thru Saturday at Coffee Makes You Black 2803 N. Teutonia Ave. between 10AM – 2PM. Stress Free for Life – Order a copy of this book online today and learn how to eliminate negative emotions that is running your health and personal relationships. Only $29.95 (Includes shipping and handling), Call 718-469-3199.
Misty Copeland Named First Black Principal Ballerina at American Ballet Theater
Misty Copeland, whose openness about race in ballet helped to make her one of the most famous ballerinas in the United States, was promoted on Tuesday by American Ballet Theater, becoming the first African-American female principal dancer in the company’s 75-year history. Her promotion — after more than 14 years with the company, nearly eight as a soloist — came as Ms. Copeland’s fame spread far beyond traditional dance circles. She made the cover of Time magazine this year, was profiled by “60 Minutes” and presented a Tony Award on this year’s telecast. She has written a memoir and a children’s book, and has more than a half-million followers on Instagram. An online ad she made for Under Armour has been viewed more than 8 million times, and she is the subject of a documentary screened this year at the Tribeca Film Festival. Over the past year, whenever Ms. Copeland, 32, danced leading roles with Ballet Theater, her performances became events, drawing large, diverse, enthusiastic crowds to cheer her on at the Metropolitan Opera house, the Brooklyn Academy of Music and the David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center. After she starred in “Swan Lake” with Ballet Theater last week — becoming the first African-American to do so with the company at the Met — the crowd of autograph seekers was so large that people had to be moved away from the cramped stage door area. Ms. Copeland, who declined to be interviewed for this article, was unusually outspoken about her ambition of becoming the first black woman named a principal dancer by Ballet Theater, one of the nation’s most prestigious companies, which is known for its international roster of stars and for staging fulllength classical story ballets.--New York Times Breaking News
Are Schools Failing Students When It Comes To Money Matters? The Milwaukee Community Journal July 1, 2015 Page 8
(continued from page 6) says. “It’s a subject our young people will have to deal with in life, whether they are prepared or not.” State education departments are making progress, but in fits and starts, and certainly not with the urgency that is called for, Chilton says. For example, New Jersey now requires that high school students take a course in economics and financial literacy to earn a diploma. The requirement began with the class of 2014. “New Jersey has the right idea and is to be applauded,” Chilton says. “But the education systems in most states are nowhere near where they need to be if we hope to have a nation of financially literate adults.” A 2013 study by the Center for Financial Literacy at Champlain College in Vermont gave 11 states an F because they had few or no requirements for personal finance education in high school. Chilton’s own home state, California, was among the F states, which to him is further demonstration of just how crucial SOFA’s services continue to
be. “That’s downright appalling,” Chilton says. “We really need to turn the situation around. You can look at the spending and saving habits of so many Americans and the need for financial literacy just jumps out at you. People take on too much credit card debt. Many of them don’t set aside money for emergencies. And about one-third of Americans have no retirement savings at all.” Just seven states earned an A in the Center for Financial Literacy study. Those top-performing states – Georgia, Idaho, Louisiana, Missouri, Tennessee, Utah and Virginia – require a standalone personal finance course or require that personal finance be part of another mandatory course. New Jersey earned a B in the study, which happened before that state’s new graduation requirement kicked in. The study noted that “we would not allow a young person to get in the driver’s seat of a car without requiring drivers education, and yet we allow our youth to enter the complex financial world often without any related
education.” It’s a point Chilton wholeheartedly agrees with. “Change needs to happen in our education system,” he says. “And it can’t happen soon enough.” About Jim Chilton Jim Chilton is the founder and chief executive officer for the Society for Financial Awareness, or SOFA (www.sofausa.org), a non-profit public benefit corporation with a mission to provide financial education across America. SOFA conducts free financial workshops and seminars to individuals, companies, and organizations on such topics as “Getting Fiscally Fit,” “Financial Blunders,” “Exploring Your Options for a Quality Retirement” and “Solving Debt.” Chilton is a San Diego, Calif., native and alumnus of San Diego State University. After college, he became a high school teacher and coach, but later joined the financial services industry. After achieving a desirable level of success, Chilton felt the need to do more for the community and in 1993 founded SOFA.
“Mister Speaker, I am proud that the Milwaukee Community Journal hails from the 4th Congressional District. It has consistentlyinformed, 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 July 1, 2015 Page 9
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