Where to apply for Health Insurance from the Affordable Care Act
Black Health Coalition of Wisconsin 3020 W. Vliet Street (414) 933-0064 Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.- 5 p.m.
Central Library Computer Training Lab, second floor 814 W. Wisconsin Avenue (414) 286-8620 (City of Milwaukee Health Dept.) Wednesdays until March 26, 2014 3-5:30 p.m. Department of Health Services (DHS) Milwaukee Enrollment Services (MilES) 1220 W. Vliet Street 1-(888)-947-6583 Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m.- 5 p.m. Hillside Family Health Center 1452 N. 7th Street, second floor (414) 935-8000 Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.- 5 p.m. Keenan Health Center 3200 N. 36th Street (414) 286-8620
COMMUNITY VOL. XXXVIII Number 15 November 6, 2013
The Milwaukee
Mon., Wed., and Fri., 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. third Thursdays, 12 p.m.- 6 p.m. All other Thursdays, 12 p.m.- 4 p.m. Legal Action of Wisconsin, Inc. 230 W. Wells Street, Room 800 (414) 274-3455 Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Spanish language assistance available Lisbon Avenue Health Center 3522 W. Lisbon Avenue (414) 935-8000 Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Northwest Health Center 7630 W. Mill Road (414) 286-8620 Mon., Tues., third Thursdays and Fri., 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Tuesday and all other Thursdays, 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. Outreach Community Health Centers Outpatient Clinic 210 W. Capitol Drive (414) 727-6320 Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Southside Health Center 1639 South 23rd Street (414) 286-8620 Monday, 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. Tues., Wed., and Fri., 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Thursday, 8 a.m. - 5:45 p.m.
JOURNAL www.communityjournal.net 25 Cents
BULK RATE U.S. POSTAGE PAID MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN PERMIT NO. 4668
W I S C O N S I N ’ S L A R G E S T A F R I C A N A M E R I C A N N E W S PA P E R
State GOP’s latest witch hunt to roll back early voting discribed as racist
weekend hours for early voting MADISON — Not to be outwill fall most directly on urban done by Assembly Republican's areas, working families and nonreintroduction of a voter ID bill partisan get out the vote efforts that could disenfranchise hundreds like "souls to the polls" program of thousands of voters, Wisconsin run on Sundays by many churches. State Senate Republicanss recently Local clerks, including those in launched their own witch-hunt the City of Milwaukee and Madiagainst voter rights in Wisconsin. son, responsible for administering Senate Bill 324, limiting the elections offered extended hours hours of early voting in Wisconsin, for voting to allow working people and all but eliminating evening to participate in democracy and and weekend voting options used cast their vote after work and on to reduce election day congestion weekends. in communities across the state ap"The despicable racism this bill peared before the Senate Commitembodies has no place in a democtee on Elections and Urban Affairs Stock Photo racy. for a public hearing. “The people behind this legislaOne Wisconsin Now Executive tion apparently don't get that votDirector Scot Ross commented, "It ers are not the enemy and that is appalling that Republicans legal voters doing their civic duty would even consider passing a law and voting is not a problem," comthat would ban communities from mented Ross. making it easier and more convenIn November 2012 nearly ient for their citizens to legally 400,000 Wisconsin residents took participate in elections. advantage of early voting and And it is infuriating that the roughly one in four ballots cast in --Scott Ross, Executive Director of One Wisconsin Now sponsors of the bill and those that 2008 were cast early. support it have the temerity to try to disguise their proposal as anything He concluded, "Bills like SB 324 unmask the ugly face of the real other than the blatant, racist attack on voters in Wisconsin that it is." voting fraud in Wisconsin, politicians like Mary Lazich and Glenn Ross noted that the bills provisions all but banning extended and Grothman manipulating the rules on voting for their own advantage."
By Mike Brown
The State of The Black Child
Editor’s Note: Recently, the National Black Child Development Institute (NBCDI) released a report on Black children in America titled, “Being Black Is Not A Risk Factor: A Strengths-based Look At The State of The Black Child.” Instead of focusing on what’s wrong with Black children and their families, the report examines how our children, their families and communities use their respectiveyet little known and ignored by the mainstream-strengths to improve outcomes for Black children. Saying her organization understands the crisises Black children face and are “broken hearted” by the high poverty rates, low test scores and dismal health outcomes, Dr. Felicia Dehaney, president and CEO of the NBCDI, said the report chooses to celebrate the “considerable strengths, assets and resiliance demonstrated by our children, families and communities. “We celebrate and chrish our children. They are not risks, but rewards,” Dehaney continued. “We believe that the true state of the Black child lies in their natural curiosity, excitement and genius, and we believe that they will indeed walk forward in the light.” From time to time, your Milwaukee Community Journal will publish excerpts from the 68 page NBCDI report which outlines the strengths of our children, families and community, and how those strengths can be used to improve the outcomes for Black children. This week, we are reprinting excerpts from the report’s foreword written by Barbara T. Bowman, the Irving B. Harris Professor of Child Development at the Erikson Institute titled: “The State of The Black Child.”
I
t is no secret that life is more challenging for African American children than for other American children.
The continuing legacy of segregation and discrimination feeds poverty—of the body and the spirit—and casts a shadow over their lives. Many are mired in a level of poverty that carries significant physical and mental dangers.
They are likely to live in segregated and poorly resourced communities, with poor schools, poor housing, poor employment opportunities and a hostile outside world. And even families who escape the stifling effects of poverty are handicapped by the inequalities they experience daily. Evidence of racial (continued on page 5)
“The people behind this legislation apparently don't get that voters are not the enemy and that legal voters doing their civic duty and voting is not a problem,"
Rev. Joe Games, PULSE OF THE COMMUNITY founding member of MICAH, passes Photos and Question by Yvonne Kemp QUESTION OF THE WEEK: “Noted minister and member
Rev. Joe Allen Games, pastor of Providence Baptist Church and one of the founding members of the Milwaukee Innercity Congregations Allied for Hope (MICAH), passed peacefully November 3. He was 72. In 1969, with only 17 members, Rev. Games founded Providence Baptist Church in the living room of his home. The church quickly grew, moving from a living room, to a basement, to a storefront at 3267 N. Green Bay, to a location at 2429 W. Hampton to Rev. Joe Allen Games their present location at 3865 N. 82nd Street, where 30 ministries meet to serve the needs of not only the congreation, but the community. Rev. Games was the second president elected to lead MICAH, a faith-based organization that focuses on social justice issues. He served as president of MICAH from 1993 to 1995. Until his death, Rev. Games was a very active supporter of MICAH’s mission to “do what is just.” Games was involved in a successful “sleep-in” in the offices of former Milwaukee County executive Tom Ament to get money for a treatment-insteadof-prison program put back into the county budget. He also joined ministers in lobbying local banks for $500 million to help people buy homes. Current MICAH president, Rev. Willie E. Brisco, called the news of Rev. Games’ death “devastating.”
of the Winans Gospel music clan Rev. Marvin Winans recently refused to bless a baby born to a woman out of wedlock. Is having a child out of wedlock still considered a sin?
CURT HARRIS: “If having a child out of wedlock were ever a sin, it is still a sin. (However) the child did not commit the sin. Therefore, the child should still be blessed.”
BRIAN CUNNINGHAM: “No. Nowadays, it’s not (looked upon by society) as a sin. All babies need to be blessed. These children need to be blessed the most.”
WANDA BROWN: “I think all babies should be baptized regardless of their parents’ sins. I am a new soul. The Lord washed me clean.”
“SHARON TOWNSELL: “Jesus said, ‘He who is without sin, cast the first stone...’ Maybe Dr. Winans needs to think if he is worthy to pass judgement on the single parent. The child didn’t sin.”
(continued on page 7)
ACA enrollment and family health fair
Individuals and families are encouraged to attend a Milwaukee Affordable Care Act (ACA) Enrollment and Family Health Fair Tuesday, November 12, from noon until 6 p.m. This event will be held at the offices of Wisconsin Jobs Now, located at 1862 W. Fond du Lac Ave. The ACA Enrollment and Family Health Fair is being sponsored by the Black Health Coalition, the City of Milwaukee Health Department, and Wisconsin Jobs Now. The healthfair will include health and resource booths, as well as healthy snacks and a kids’ books giveaway.
Attendees will get assistance with signing up for health insurance for the Insurance Marketplace Exchange: • See if you qualify for BadgerCarePlus • If not, examine the available insurance options through the Qualified Health Plans (QHPs) to see which is best for you • Find out how much financial assistance you will qualify for to help cover insurance premiums • Make your choice of what plan works best for you and they will assist you with completing the online application
The Milwaukee Community Journal November 6, 2013 Page 2
POTAWATOMIBINGO CASINOMARKS MILESTONEWITH TOPPING-OFF CEREMONY FOR$150 MILLION HOTEL
Potawatomi Bingo Casino celebrated a benchmark in its $150 million hotel project Friday with a topping-off ceremony of the 18-story tower. The celebration recognized the nearly 800 workers who have been involved with the project to this point in the hotel’s construction. It is expected that nearly 1,000 workers will participate in the project by the time the
hotel opens in early fall 2014. Additionally, during construction, Potawatomi Bingo Casino has committed to awarding 20 percent of construction bids to minority-owned businesses, and 25 percent of construction jobs to city of Milwaukee employees. “It’s a privilege to be part of a project that will redefine the city’s skyline,” said Toma Goodbear, a speaker at
African Centered school series extended on Internet radio broadcast By Taki S. Raton
The “MenThink” radio show announces an extension of its series on African Centered schooling. During the month of October, this Internet broadcast featured an African Centered school serving our children during each of the five Thursday’s in the month. Due to an inspired social media response, this series will be extended to December 19. October guest included founders and representatives of such African Centered schools nationally as the Garvey School in Trenton, New Jersey, the Harambee Institute of Science and Technology Charter School in Philadelphia, West Palm Beach, Florida’s Joseph Littles Nguzo Saba Charter School, the Nsoromma Saturday School in Atlanta and the Marcus Garvey School in Los Angeles. This November programming will include on November 7, the Harvest Prep and Best Academy in Minneapolis, Minnesota; the Akoben Institute in Atlanta on November 14, and Chicago’s Betty Shabazz International Charter School on November 21. There will be no broadcast on Thanksgiving, November 28. The December schedule will open that first Thursday December 5 with a special presentation on the 2nd Annual Black Homeschool and Education Expo held this past summer in Atlanta. Sponsored by Roots to Fruits, this tremendous gathering
today’s event and city of Milwaukee carpenter. “The construction market certainly sees its ups and downs, especially in Wisconsin where the weather can be so unpredictable. It’s nice to be part of such a long-term, stable, exciting project.” In addition to representatives working on the project, speakers at Friday’s event included leadership from Potawatomi Bingo Casino and the Forest County Potawatomi, as well as Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett and Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele. During the event, the final beam, signed by Potawatomi Bingo Casino team members, was dropped into place by the project’s tower crane. “This hotel will provide another opportunity for us to shine as Wisconsin’s premier entertainment destination,” said Mike Goodrich, Potawatomi Bingo Casino General Manager. “In addition to elevating our casino property to a new level, the hotel will serve as a new icon in Milwaukee and another chapter in the storied history of this property.” Potawatomi Bingo Casino’s 18-story hotel will feature 381 guest rooms, including 16 suites and a presidential suite on the top floor. The smoke-free hotel will offer a full-service casual restaurant, lobby bar, exercise area and more than 10,000 feet of additional meeting space. A third parking structure with 1,400 parking stalls will be built east of the existing parking structures. The hotel development will also be smoke-free and green, designed to include a number of environmentally friendly features integrated into the hotel’s construction and design. These include the use of recycled products and materials during construction, the incorporation of energy efficient mechanical, electrical and plumbing design strategies, an innovative storm water management sys-
of African American parents, children and community supporters from around the country lends evidence of the growing surge of and interest in African Centered homeschooling initiatives nationally. Features planned for the remaining December 12th and 19th dates will be announced. Our esteemed scholar-warrior ancestor Dr. Jacob H. Carruthers noted that “The African Centered curriculum is both a teaching and student developmental model placing the African World experience from humankind origin to the present at the center of the instructional experience.” The founder of the Kemetic Institute in Chicago adds that “Our students, therefore, become the subject rather than the object of human activity.” Author of “Intellectual Warfare” and a host of other published material on the African Centered paradigm, Carruthers further shares that this instruction serves as a “corrective model whose thrust is to challenge and correct distortions and falsifications of Africa, Africans, and African ascendants that have historically been present in Eurocentric historical, literary and cultural reference framed arenas.” A purpose of the African Centered curriculum often used in staff development session is to “prepare our students to inherit and ascend to notable ideals of ethical prominence, cultural integrity, creative accomplishment and academic excellence as modeled by Classical, historical and present day Higher Order preeminent African American and African World exemplars.” Numerous studies over the years have proven that when African American students are immersed within this culturally specific model, there is nearly an immediate improvement in both their social behavior and academic performance. In her September 21, 2004 study for example, Jocelyn Freeman Bonvillain in “Racial Identity Attitudes, Self-Esteem, and Academic Achievement Among
tem, the use of native plant species in the landscape design and other measures to aid the environment and control long-term costs. Since opening as a 2,000 seat bingo hall in 1991, Potawatomi Bingo Casino’s success can be seen in its tremendous growth. In 2000, the first phase of Casino expansion was completed with the introduction of 800 additional slot machines, 25 blackjack tables, full-service dining venues and a 500-seat theater. In 2008, the Casino saw its most ambitious expansion project come to fruition, tripling its size and offering many new amenities and gaming options to its more than 6 million annual guests. During this same period, Milwaukee’s Menomonee Valley has been revitalized, becoming a model for business development, entertainment and recreation.
“This hotel will provide another opportunity for us to shine as Wisconsin’s premier entertainment destination. In addition to elevating our casino property to a new level, the hotel will serve as a new icon in Milwaukee and another chapter in the storied history of this property.” --Mike Goodrich, Potawatomi Bingo Casino General Manager
African American Adolescents” reveals in her sample of 175 seventh grade African American students that “racial identity and self-esteem are predictors of academic performance.” She shares that students “who exhibited high levels of self-esteem and racial identity performed better academically than students who showed low levels of self-esteem and racial identity.” Appearing in the Journal of Black Psychology, Columbia University’s Arthur L. Whaley’s 1993 study clearly demonstrates that a child’s strong cultural identity is “influential in the positive psychosocial adjustment of African American children.” Published in the fall of 2012 in the Journal of Child Development, assistant professor of Psychology in Education Ming-Te Wang in “Parental Racial Socialization as a Moderator of the Effects of Racial Discrimination on Educational Success Among African American Adolescents” concludes that “African American adolescence tend to have more success in school if their parents instill in them a sense of racial pride, thereby reducing their vulnerability to the effects of racial discrimination from teachers and peers.” The study’s lead author adds that “When African American parents instill a proud, informed, and sober perspective of race in their sons and daughters, these children are more likely to experience increased academic success.” And there are numerous other studies positing similar outcomes. But the point herein is that repeatedly and consistently, scheduled October guest validated in African Centered schooling the findings of Bonvillain, Whaley, and Wang. At the age of 7 on February 20, 2013, Zora Ball set a Guinness World Record by becoming the youngest video game programmer ever to create a full version of a mobile video game application. A first grader at the Harambee Institute of
(continued on page 5)
PERSPECTIVES GUEST COMMENTARY
Conservative games in Washington played at the expense of the vulnerable
I
By Christian E. Weller and Farah Z. Ahmad, Center for American Progress
nstead of allowing Congress to pass targeted, large, and progressive policies that have been shown to boost economic growth and job creation, a radical conservative minority has instead repeatedly gambled with the country’s economic health and with it the livelihoods of many Americans, particularly communities of color, which are, according to the Center for American Progress’ recent report,
The State of Communities of Color in the U.S. Economy, still in a fragile state from the setbacks caused by the Great Recession in 2007. This dangerous and obstructionist gamesmanship was done all in the name of undoing the Affordable Health Care Act, or ACA, commonly known as Obamacare, which House Republicans have voted to dismantle 46 times and forced the recent two-week federal government shutdown, despite the fact the law is already helping millions of uninsured and underinsured American families. The impacts of the actions of this radical minority are especially detrimental to communities of color who stand to gain significantly from a fully implemented and funded health care law. Americans need and want health insurance. Nearly 50 million Americans— 47.9 million, to be exact—were without health insurance at some point in 2012, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation. Among this population, 19 percent of African-Americans had no health insurance in 2012, compared to 11.1 percent of white Americans. House Republicans intent on destroying Obamacare—which is already providing 7.3 million African Americans with access to preventive health services and will provide an estimated 6.8 million uninsured African-Americans with access to health insurance—could further put communities of color behind whites in terms of economic security. According to The State of Communities of Color in the U.S. Economy, so many Americans still face high-economic insecurity and desperately need jobs. The unemployment rate, for instance, stood at 7.3 percent in August 2013—50 months into the recovery— and when compared to past recessions, has never been this high this far into an economic recovery. Moreover, the unemployment rate for African-Americans was twice that of whites in the third quarter of 2013, 12.8 percent compared to 6.4 percent. Also, the employed share was only 53.3 percent for African-Americans, but was
59.4 percent for whites, meaning that while job growth is moving slower than the American people want and has failed to keep pace with population growth, African Americans saw fewer gains from the economic recovery than whites. The report examines how continued weak recovery feeds into widespread economic insecurity. Four years into the recovery, mortgage foreclosure and delinquency rates remain relatively high by historical standards, household debt still exceeds after-tax income, and the homeownership rate is still at levels as low as they were in 1995. Even more sobering is the fact that most of these measures are worse for communities of color than for whites. As of the second quarter of 2013, the homeownership rate was 73.3 percent for whites, while only 42.9 percent of African Americans were homeowners. The data analyzed in The State of Communities of Color in the U.S. Economy suggest that millions of Americans lack economic security because of the weak recovery, but they also indicate that policymakers can influence the direction in which the economy moves. Progressive, targeted, and substantial policies, such as the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, helped the economy avoid another Great Depression, and subsequent temporary payroll tax cuts targeting middle-class workers can help improve the lives of communities of color by creating desperately needed jobs. That is, targeted policies to create more and better jobs, especially in African American communities, in addition to continuing the implementation of Obamacare, can have a measurable impact on the economic security of American families. All that is missing is sufficient political will to tackle the nation’s meager economic growth and a subpar labor-market expansion. Unfortunately, fiscal brinkmanship— seemingly the favorite sport of congressional radicals – not only doesn’t help, it has created enormous economic uncertainty that has slowed investment and hiring. And while a deal to fund the government through January 15, 2014 and raise the debt ceiling (the maximum amount the federal government can borrow without congressional approval) through February 2014, finally reopened the government, it also opens the door to the possibility of yet two more manufactured crises in the coming months – one over funding government operations and another over the debt ceiling— that could again suck up what little political energy exists on the Hill. The American people need House Republican leaders to stop playing political games with their livelihoods and pass a budget that strengthens economic
THE MILWAUKEE COMMUNITY JOURNAL Published twice weekly, Wednesday & Friday
3612 North Martin Luther King Drive, Milwaukee, WI 53212 Phone: 414-265-5300 (Advertising and Administration) • 414-265-6647 (Editorial) • Website: communityjournal.net • Email: Editorial@communityjournal.net/Advertising@communityjournal.net
Classified Advertising MCJ STAFF: Jimmy V. Johnson, Sales Rep. Patricia O’Flynn -Pattillo Joan Hollingsworth, Sales Rep. Publisher, CEO CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Robert J. Thomas Taki S. Raton, Assoc. Publisher Rev. Roxanne Cardenas, Todd Thomas, Vice Pres. Troy A. Sparks, Mikel Holt, Assoc. Publisher Sports Editor Thomas E. Mitchell, Jr., Editor PHOTOGRAPHER: Yvonne Kemp Kia Marie Green, Mang. Editor Teretha Martin, Technical Consultant/Billing Dept./ Publisher’s Admin. Assist. Colleen Newsom, 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.
THE FOURTEENTH AMENDMENT (SECTION 1): All persons born or naturalized in the United States and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and the state wherein they reside. “No state shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United States; nor shall any state deprive any person of life, liberty or property, without due process of law; nor deny to any persons within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.”
growth and job creation. America’s middle class and especially communities of color deserve at least that much from their elected representatives. Dr. Christian E. Weller is a Senior Fellow at American Progress and a professor of public policy at the McCormack Graduate School of Policy and Global Studies at the University of Massachusetts, Boston. Farah Ahmad is a Policy Analyst for Progress 2050 at American Progress.
The Milwaukee Community Journal November 6, 2013 Page 3
November is Prematurity Awareness Month
Nicole Angresano
Article by Nicole Angresano, Vice President of Community Impact, United Way of Greater Milwaukee
"There is no footprint too small that cannot leave an imprint in this world." ~Author unknown According to the March of Dimes, each year more than half a million babies are born too soon in the United States. The nation’s premature birth rate has risen by 36 percent over the last 25 years. Premature birth, when a baby is born more than three weeks early, costs us more than $26 billion a year. Even when infants survive prematurity, they are at risk of severe health problems and life-
long disabilities. Just this week, another baby in Milwaukee died as a result of unsafe sleeping. As a mother, I’m heartbroken for this family. The public concern and grief is justified, but the story is incomplete. Despite our increased awareness of and attention to what are often termed “co-sleeping deaths,” it is premature births that are the cause of most newborn deaths. In Milwaukee, nearly half of the infants that do not reach their first birthday die as a result of prematurity. African American women bear the highest burden. In 2011, 10.4% of live births in Wisconsin were born preterm or less than 37 weeks gestational age. However, rates of preterm birth were 16% among births to Black mothers, significantly higher than both state and national averages. Research indicates that there are multiple risk factors that may lead to premature labor and delivery, including a history of preterm birth, expecting more than one baby, and uterine and/or cervical abnormalities. Other risk factors include: diabetes mellitus, hypertension, inadequate prenatal care, smoking, and alcohol/drug use. The positive news is that many of these factors can be changed, even pre-
ventable. November is Prematurity Awareness Month. You will hear about tremendous local efforts, many being led by the Wisconsin Chapter of the March of Dimes, that are addressing this crisis. In fact, Milwaukee is currently engaged in substantive collaboration to reduce the overall infant mortality rates, rates of prematurity, and, in particular, the disparity between white birth outcomes and those of non-whites. United Way of Greater Milwaukee is mobilizing its resources—human and financial—to impact this issue, and has made Healthy Birth Outcomes a priority. Our goal is that all of our community’s babies are born ready to thrive. Within this initiative, we engage in two core strategies: Teen Pregnancy Prevention and Infant Mortality Reduction. Two weeks ago, we were proud to stand with the City of Milwaukee and announce that Milwaukee’s teen birth rates, long among the highest in the nation, had fallen over 50% in 6 years. With similar vigor and breadth, we will address the issue of prematurity and infant mortality. We want every baby born in Milwaukee to blow out that first birthday candle. *Special thanks to the March of Dimes for providing data and their work on this important community issue.
RELIGION The Milwaukee Community JOurnal November 6, 2013 page4
Why should we pray and to whom should we pray? R ecently during a discussion there were questions about prayer and its significance. Two of the questions were about the title of this article.
These were honest questions from people who are on their Christian travels. It was not a concern to anyone that the questions were asked, but how we as a group of 'Christian' friends could collectively and freely try to answer these questions.
What follows are parts of the contributions in this discussion. The Lord created all things through His Word; why doesn't He just have to speak now to make things happen the way He wants them to be? Why do we have to participate in prayer to get the things that we feel are needed to make our lives better and pleasing to Him? First of all, prayer is truly a simple thing to do. Prayer doesn't require that you have superior intelligence or know every book and meaning of the Bible. All you need first is your confession of belief in God, and of course His Son, Jesus Christ. As we all travel our own road to Christian Maturity we will sometimes have questions that
Evening of Gospel to be held !ov. 15 The Marcus Center for the Performing Arts is privileged to present An Evening of Gospel on Friday, November 15 at 7:30 pm in Uihlein Hall. The evening will be filled with talented and anointed gospel artist that will move you out of your seat and onto your feet. You will enjoy the experience of solo artists, choirs, an assortment of bands and praise dancers. This gospel concert will take you on a musical journey and uplift your spirits. Get ready! Performers include: Diante Harris & More Worship, Sharon Willingham, The Spiritual Believers and Bishop RJ Burt & The Greater New Birth Mass Choir. Tickets are only $20 for general admission seating and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchases in person at the Marcus Center Box Office at 929 North Water Street, Downtown Milwaukee, by phone at 414-273-7206 or online at Ticketmaster.com. More information is available at MarcusCenter.org.
Greater Galilee to hold Family Day Worship Service
Greater Galilee Missionary Baptist Church (GGMBC), 2432 North Teutonia Avenue, Milwaukee, Wisconsin will hold their annual Family Day Worship Service at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, November 17. This year’s theme is The Caring Family scripturally based on Luke 5:17-26. The dynamic guest speaker will be Pastor Sudie Jones, the Pastor of Unlimited Life in Jesus Christ Church. Her personal mission has been to proclaim the Gospel of the Kingdom with great humility and determination to give God her best. She is the vice president, ministerial board and board manager for the American Baptist, Wisconsin Region. Pastor Jones has served as chaplain for the Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin for the past six years. The purpose of Family Day is to celebrate and invite others into the family of God, as well as to honor GGMBC families. Over the years, it has also become a fellowship and homecoming celebration for former members. Pastor Johnny C. White, Jr., D.Min and the congregation invite the public to join in this powerful, spiritually-charged open door worship celebration. For more information, please contact the church office at 414-562-1110.
we need to talk about with someone.It might be someone further along on their journey. Prayer is where we gain access to God in the most intimate way. Prayer is also where can receive our instructions on what He wants from us as His children. We find ourselves closer to God. It is also the place where we may find strength and refreshment to continue even when things don't seem to be going the way we had envisioned them to be. We know the first principle of our Christian faith is that Jesus died for us, so that our sins be forgiven. Of course we must remember what Jesus said, if we have anything against our brother, we must first make amends, then return to prayer. If we want forgiveness of our sins, we must first forgive others. Matthew &: 1-2 NIV,“Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to".
Having forgiven, we may love others. The Lord, has forgiven us, so we may love Him. The loving heart expects only the good from a loving Father. So often our Father listens to our complaints and negative statements that He may not see the faith necessary to grant our prayer petitions. The loving heart expects only the good from a loving Father. A negative attitude suggests that not only are things bad now, but will continue to be so. Thus, we decide the matter for ourselves. But, there are occasions where out of love for his children the Father may override our negativity and grant your prayer. God’s ultimate demonstration of love is forgiveness of the sins each of us have committed. He is the only God who has done this, and is the only God able to do so. Pray acknowledging He is God, and that you accept His gracious gifts. Pray confessing our sins and ask for His forgiveness. Pray with a thankful heart for all the ways He blesses us. Pray when we are ill, lonely, going through trials or interceding for others. There is nothing we can’t pray about. There are many references to prayer in the Bible. Be confident that God knows and wants only what is best for us. We go to Him in faith, knowing He hears and answers all our prayers. When we choose to have a positive attitude, we realize we have received many blessings for which to give God praise.
Let us not judge anyone’s righteousness
Prayer for Family Elev8.com - Our Family is what defines us. It may not be the biological one you were given. It may be that we have a lifetime of friends that have become our families by their love and caring support. Let us start right now with a prayer for our families. Heavenly Father, most good and gracious God, sustain our family in your love. Make it a place where holiness can abound. Help us to learn to be like Jesus in all our actions. Aid our family to imitate the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. Help us to learn from the good example of others and to give good example to others. Assist us in learning to bear our pain and suffering as Jesus did. Aid us in overcoming difficulties and carrying our crosses. Help our family life to lead only to Jesus, the source of true happiness. Please give wholesome habits to our family. We ask this through Christ our Lord. AMEN. If we are ever to become the people we are to be, than we must welcome prayer or meditation as integral part of our lives. Let this be the moment now when we embrace that.
The scripture readings for this weekend are: Sirach 35:12-14. 16-18, 2 Timothy 4: 6-8, 16-18, and Luke 18: 9-14. Our theme: God raises the lowly and the sinner. So, I guess that is us. The first reading is especially addressed to the lowly, the poor, and the oppressed. "The prayer of the lowly pierces the clouds." We find the same theme in the Beatitudes and the Magnificat of Mary. "The Lord is not deaf to the wail of the orphan, nor to the widow when she pours out her complaint." The widow and the orphan stand for all who are poor and powerless today. The Gospel message from Luke gives us the parable of Jesus about the Pharisee and the Publican, the religious person and the non-religious person. So, which one are you? We are saved, we say. We have been born again by water and the Spirit, so it is easy to say that we are faithful like the Pharisee is faithful, right? by Fr. Carl Diederichs, The Pharisee is faithful, but he doesAll Saints Catholic Church n't really know who the God is to whom he claims fidelity. And maybe we don't either. It is easy for many of us to see the Publican, the sinner, so humble and honest, as the person we are. So, we can stand back and say to ourselves that we are humble and we are no way like that self-righteous Pharisee and we can feel so "justified." But our God does not play favorites and we can never claim that we are better than anyone else in the sight of an all-loving, all-forgiving God. So, the insight we can get from this parable is that if we go around thinking we are justified and others are not, we have fallen into the pit of excluding folks from the merciful love of the God who puts up with us. We are saved. We are loved. Whether we are Pharisees or Publicans on any one-day, we know the role can be reversed in a minute. So, let's not judge anyone's righteousness. For us to make this inclusivity a way of life, I think we need to be open to the great mystery that Jesus became the ultimate "scapegoat" and took upon himself all the hate that we humans are capable of and did not retaliate. Jesus wanted to be the last scapegoat and became the forgiving victim. This is the example that we need to live by; judging no one, loving everyone, forgiving everyone who has hurt us; we live as faithful Christians by becoming forgiving victims, living without the need to retaliate. We need to work on making this a just society with the power of love and forgiveness. Who went down justified? We will have, if we do not judge another.
BREAD IN THE WILDERNESS
Ja Rule’s new, faith-based film brings him to Jesus
EURweb - Hip-Hop veteran Ja Rule has given his life to Jesus. The raspysounding rapper has been all over the country promoting his new movie, “I’m in Love With a Church Girl.” Rule confessed in a recent interview with the “I’m in Love New York Daily News that he recently With a Church found Christ as a result of being involved Girl” is in with the film. theaters now. “I actually just got saved,” he confessed to the paper. In “Church Girl,” which features Rule starring opposite Adrienne Bailon, the 37-year-old rapper plays the character Miles Montego, a retired criminal trying to make good with God at the encouragement of his girlfriend, Vanessa Leon. “When I read the script, I saw the similarities between myself and Miles, and I really felt that this might be a good vehicle for me,” Rule explained. The New York-bred rap star, who is working on his own salvation after serving a prison sentence for attempted illegal gun possession and tax evasion, hopes the film reaches a crowd outside of the church. “That’s the beauty of the movie, we’re going to touch people who do not come from a church background, and it brings a certain level of cool to it,” he said. Despite giving his life to Christ, Rule isn’t abandoning his hip-hop roots. Set for a tour with “R&B Divas LA” star Lil’ Mo next month, the rapper said don’t expect him to start recording church hymnals. “I don’t want people to get confused,” he joked. “I’m not going to be putting out a gospel album.”
EXTERM PEST CONTROL
QUALITY-WARRANTY
CALL DAY OR NIGHT (414) 321-8005
42 YEARS EXPERIENCE SAVE MONEY • !"#$%&'(!$")*+',+-)*!./" • '++)!"0/1(0• 1$12%$'13/0 • 1'%4/"(/%)'"(0)• #+/'0 • 5//)• 6'04)• 3$%"/(•/'%6!* • '"!&'+)• 5'()%/&$.'+ • 5!%,)• $,$%)• ,!0!"#/1(!$"0 • &!1/7%'(075/,58*0
ALL PESTS (EXCEPT) HUSBANDS, WIVES, GIRLFRIENDS & BOYFRIENDS RESULTS MAKES THE DIFFERENCE RICHARD • CELL (414) 788-4908
The Milwaukee Community Journal November 6, 2013 Page 5
The State of The Black Child
(continued from page 1) disparities can be found everywhere—in housing, insurance, business, and funding for schools, as well as in racial profiling, job discrimination and more severe sentencing by courts. One should not wonder at the number of families that succumb to these hazards, but at the number who live their lives with dignity and hope. The child rearing practices of African American families are different, in some instances quite different, from those of other Americans. Comparisons of White and Black child rearing usually results in finding fault with African American families’ ways of raising children. Yet, except for those families struggling under the most extreme social pressure, Black families provide their children with the developmental supports necessary for healthy development. The vast majority of African American children are supported by their families; they walk, talk, love, make categories, represent ideas, use symbols, etc., even though they may do these things in different ways than White children. Difficulties arise because African Americans do not have access to the skills and knowledge considered necessary for success embedded in White institutional arrangements. Further, the social and economic constraints of living Black in America may make some aspects of White child rearing a hazard for Black children. The challenge for
African American families is to prepare children for current realities without limiting their ability to succeed in the larger community. That is what this book is about. While it inventories the challenges facing African American children and families and the failure of various systems to address their needs, it also tells the story of resiliency in the face of despair. It is about the risks and the successes of Black families who love and protect their children to the best of their ability. It is also about what African Americans and the larger society can do to ensure a better tomorrow. What is provided here is a handbook for families and community helpers such as teachers, librarians, coaches and policemen, giving them the information they need to recognize the strength of the community and to design services that build on those strengths. A rich body of issues and options are offered. Should we concentrate on only the poorest children? How should we balance academic content and children’s interests? Should we focus equally on all the years between birth and age 8 (infancy to 3rd grade) or only on preschool/primary years? Should we aim toward excellence (even if only for a few) or be satisfied with incremental gains across a wider audience? Should we look for gender differences and design education with that in mind? How important is the history of our community in leveraging change? Ideally, this book will be used to jump st art a serious discuss ion about the st rengths of African American children and families, and the ways in which they can best be supported as they reach for the American dream.
African Centered school series extended on Internet radio broadcast (continued from page 2)
Science and Technology Charter School, Zora’s work was unveiled at the FATE Bootstrap Expo held in January, 2013 at the University of Pennsylvania. Students Diriki Geuka and Louis Jean Baptiste finished as 8th graders from the Florida’s Joseph Littles Nguzo Saba Charter School and both graduated Magna Cum Laude this past June from Florida A & M University. The Marcus Garvey School in Los Angeles has received national acclaim for its academic achievements. Serving children in grades PreK through 8, their accelerated curriculum teaches math at levels that are two to five grades above state standard mandates and the students learn to spell two to five grades above their actual age performance level. Upon completion of their secondary schooling, former graduates of the Marcus Garvey School have gone on to attend and graduate from some of the most prestigious colleges and universities throughout the nation to include the University of California Los Angeles, the University of Southern California, the University of California at Berkeley, California State Dominquez Hills, California State Northridge, Claremont, Loyola, Howard, New York University, Bentley, Xavier, Grambling, Morehouse, Spelman, Clark, Fisk, Tuskegee Institute and Dillard University. The Garvey School in Trenton has produced students who have consistently excelled above area public, private and parochial schools.
Their focus has been that education for our African American children is “more than schooling” and should be recognized as a process that reflects our own interest as a people and is “grounded in our cultural history.” The Nsoromma Saturday School in Atlanta takes exceptional pride in its STEM instruction (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). Their Math Enrichment Saturday class thrives with handson projects where students learn basic engineering concepts, the practical application of mathematical skills, physical science exploration, and project management and team work. In addition to accelerated and competitive academic competency, each African Centered school featured had the following attributes in common such as successful at and above level secondary educational preparedness of elementary and middle level students; critical thinking skill incorporation; acceptable positive peer and elder interaction; a commendable moral character presence; a vision and commitment to college admission; future career mobility orientation; community service accountability, and a vision of contributive benchmarks towards the onward flow of humankind ideals. Hosted by this writer, MenThink streams live and in Black from Milwaukee and is dedicated to the ancestral and cultural essence of the Black man’s spirit, thought and scholarship. Its schedule airs each and every Thursday evening from 8 to 9 p.m. (CST) on Harambee Radio and TV. Tune in for a listen at: www.harambeeradio.com.
SMALL BUSI!ESS The Milwaukee Community Journal November 6, 2013 page 6
‘
Cybersecurity for Small Businesses is one of SBA’s newest online courses to help business owners safeguard their information from computer attacks and determine their readiness against security breaches.
!ew online security course available to small business owners WASHINGTON – Small businesses can help keep their business information safe and protect their online information with a new free course from the U.S. Small Business Administration. In support of President Obama proclaiming October as National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, SBA is launching this new course, designed for small businesses, to provide an overview on how to secure business information, identify security threats and guard against cyberattacks. Cybersecurity for Small Businesses is one of SBA’s newest online courses to help business owners safeguard their information from computer attacks and determine their readiness against security breaches. The course, available at http://www.sba.gov/tools/sba-learning-center/training/cybersecurity-
small-businesses, teaches best cybersecurity practices and protection against cyber threats for the nation’s small business community. The protection of sensitive data such as business invoices, payroll records, client and employee data and other proprietary information is essential to a company’s success. A computer failure or other system breach could undermine a company’s reputation, expose it to costly recovery expenses, and disrupt the business’ overall operation. Cybersecurity for Small Businesses will help to identify information security vulnerabilities that can put a small business at risk, and the protective tools and techniques used to measure, maintain and guard business information and systems. Small business owners will learn the types of information that should be secured, how to protect them-
selves from intentional attacks or unintentional damage, guard themselves from decreased productivity caused by security breaches and evaluate the needed security tools and techniques. The course also gives useful and practical steps to take to protect a business’ operations. Cybersecurity for Small Businesses is self-paced and also offers best practices for guarding against cyber threats, potential computer weaknesses and the corrective actions for risk management. Course participants completing the online course can earn a certificate of completion from the SBA. The SBA Learning Center offers free courses covering topics such as Starting, Managing, or Financing a Business, and can be found at http://www.sba.gov/sba-learningcenter.
Burleigh Street CDC to hold free Entrepreneurship Fair
T
he Burleigh Street Community Development Corporation (BSCDC) will hold a free Entrepreneur Fair on Thursday, !ovember 14th from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. The Forest County Potawatomi Foundation is the premier sponsor for the event which will take place at the Mary Ryan Boys & Girls Club at 3000 N. Sherman Boulevard.
The fair will offer a variety of information to help aspiring business owners start their businesses on solid foundations. Topics range from basics like writing a business plan to more complex financial concerns such as lending options, restoring credit and building banking relationships. The keynote speaker will be Gaulien “Gee” Smith, owner of Gee’s Clippers, the well-known barbershop he has operated for nearly 18 years. “We’re excited to launch this event because it provides yet another way to fulfill our mission of encouraging business development,” said Renée Lindner, BSCDC’s Outreach Manager. “In addition to helping current businesses in our neighborhood, we’re also trying to help the next wave of entrepreneurs find the resources they need to succeed.” All across America, small businesses have found success in the last two decades. According to the Small Business Association’s website, the number of small
Highlighted by speaker Gee Smith, this event offers resources and networking to help future business owners businesses in the United States has increased 49% since 1982. In fact, 65% of the net new jobs created since 1995 have been generated by small businesses. While the economy continues to pose challenges, the Entrepreneur Fair will provide encouragement, shining a spotlight on the opportunities, information and resources that are available to people who start small businesses. Representatives from banks and credit unions, nontraditional lending agencies, the City; plus accountants, lawyers, insurance representatives and bookkeepers will be on hand to share their knowledge. Beginning at 1:00 p.m. on November 14, the fair is free and open to the general public. Anyone interested in attending should contact Renée Lindner at the phone number or email address listed above.
(()*+,)+-,.,/01 (()* ,) -,.,/01 2/0,/22.,/03456 2/0,/22.,/034567.587.9+ 67.58 587.9 .9+ !"#"$%&'(%)*+#"$*%,$%!!!"##$%"&'#% !"#"$ &'( )*+#"$* ,$ !!! !"##$%"&'#
!!"#$%&$'())%**+,$*($+-./0$+)10(2)+3*$ (11(4*.3%*2$/3,$*($3(3,%&'4%)%3/*%(3$%3$/00$ /&1+'*&$(5$*6+$+)10(2)+3*$4+0/*%(3&6%1
230 W. Wells Street, Suite 600 Milwaukee, WI 53203
Call Us Today at: 414-704-5680
• Estate Planning Wills and Probate
• Divorce
• Criminal Defense • Personal Injury
Your !eighborhood Law Practice
Get your free copy of the 2013
We Energies Cookie Book Wednesday, Nov. 13 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
We Energies Milwaukee Metro North Service Center, 3100 W. North Ave.
Visit www.we-energies.com/recipes for a complete distribution schedule or to download a copy of the book.
!!"!#$
-&(%.'((*/$%&0*/"/1#%,/2%,%2*$,"3*2%2*4 -&( .'((*/$ &0*/"/1# ,/2 , 2*$,"3*2 2* 4 #.("0$"&/5%(*6'"(*7*/$#%,/2%#,3,(8%"/-&(4 #.("0$"&/5 (*6'"(*7*/$# ,/ /2 3,(8 "/-&(4 7,$"&/9 :003".,$" 7,$"&/9%%:003".,$"&/%7,$*(",3#%,(*%,;,"34 +3 ,+3*%-&(%2&)/3&,29
KALEIDOSCOPE
The Milwaukee Community Journal November 6, 2013 Page 7
the MCJ lifestyle & entertainment section
CODE CUTS
BY CHRISTOPHER MCINTYRE
RIHANNA
The Good Girl Gone Bad
Superstar singer Rihanna is known for her foreign accent, popular music, various fashion ventures, and her beauty. Hailing from Barbados, Rihanna had stardom on her mind. As her demo traveled throughout the world, it came to the desk of the President of Def jam at the time, Jay Z. Upon hearing her, Jay Z signed her immediately to a six album record deal. Rihanna released her first album, which could have hinted sun worshipping given its title: "Music of the Sun" in 2005. Her sophomore album, released in 2006, was called, "A Girl Like Me.” Her image during the time of her first
two albums was clean and fun loving. But as of 2007, Rihanna began to undergo changes that leaned to the “dark side.” It began with her third album, titled fittingly, "Good Girl Gone Bad.” In the words of Jay Z: "You can't turn a bad girl good...But once a good girl's gone bad, she's gone forever." People.com speaks of this time in Rihanna's life: "Although she released two hit albums in eight months, it wasn't until Rihanna chopped her hair and released 2007's ‘Good Girl Gone Bad,’ that she bypassed any comparisons. After her summer anthem, ‘Um-
One Hundred Black Men of Milwaukee to host the 2013 Leadership and Legacy Awards Gala
Mentoring and personal responsibility continues to have been key to developing a healthy community. Much of the work done in the community goes unnoticed and unannounced. It is with a quiet step, a helpful hand and a directed push a cadre of men throughout the community lead and mentor young men to reach their personal and professional potential. In line with these attributes, The 100 Black Men of Greater Milwaukee, Inc. and MillerCoors, will host the
brella,’ topped the charts, she became a CoverGirl, won her first Grammy, and began dating singer Chris Brown." Rihanna’s album “Good Girl Gone Bad” is tangible audio and visual evidence of Rihanna’s transformation from a “good girl” with class, to a “bad girl,” who promotes sexual immorality, an object of lust for the sake of money, as most recently shown in her controversial "Pour It Up" video. Her hit single “Umbrella” is flooded in occult symbolism, especially considering she is naked in a pyramid for a few seconds in the music video. This sexualized persona she has adopted has become the norm, something that you automatically associate with the singer whenever you hear her name or she her in magazines or television. In the video to her song, "S&M," you see Rihanna objectify herself as a sex object with projected words from newspapers and headlines such as "Princess of the Illuminatti." In her "Where Have You Been?" video, there’s a voodoo ritual dance scene, as well as a scene showing Rihanna performing in an owl's nest which has Bohemian Grove ties. The Bohemian Grove is a place where the world's 'elite' fellowship for networking, ritual human sacrificing, as well as to worship an owl idol. Most recently, there is a photo from her own Instagram page showing Rihanna on the cover of the British GQ magazine. She’s nude with reptilian eyes and a snake around her neck as she 'channels' Medusa from ancient greek mythology. She quotes the song "Versace" and has the caption "Versace, Versace. Medusa head on me like I'm 'lluminatti!" I encourage you to do your research before you listen to artists like Rihanna and Jay Z be-
2013 Leadership and Legacy Awards on Friday, November 8, at the Milwaukee County War Memorial Center, 750 North Lincoln Memorial Drive, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, 53202. The social hour begins at 6:00 PM with the Program commencing at 7:00 PM and dinner to follow. The 2013 Award Recipients: Rev. John W. McVicker, Sr. Pastor, Christ The King Baptist Church Spoken Word Artist and Author Mr. Kwabena Antoine Nixon Mr. Mark Wade President, Mark II, LLC This event will highlight the outstanding accomplishments and community involvement of these men dedicated to building a better business climate, spiritual foundation, and sustainable community. It is an opportunity for the business and extended community to share in thanking them for their contributions to the community. For more information contact Michael Mayo, Event Chairman at 414-881-9742 or Dr. Kenneth Harris, Jr., at 414-737-3939.
Rev. Games passes
(continued from page 1) “It is a loss to Providence and to the community,” Rev. Brisco said Wednesday, adding Rev. Games was one of the great senior pastors of the community who he looked up to as a mentor during his tenure with MICAH. Rev. Brisco said there is a long list of ministers in the community who were also mentored by Rev. Games. “He was the spiritual consciousness of this city,” Rev. Brisco said. Born in Smackover, Arkansas, Games first felt the call to preach at age 17. However, it wasn’t until he was 24 that the spritual call to preach evolved into a need. By the time he was 29, Games was pastor of his own church, Providence, which reportedly made him the youngest Baptist preacher in the community. Rev. Games was one of the first graduates of Milwaukee Institute of Technology. He received a degree in education from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. He earned certificates from the American Baptist College and the McKinley Theological Seminary in Jackson, Mississippi. Services for Rev. Games will be held this weekend. On Friday, November 8, a celebration of life will be held starting at 6 p.m. The funeral will be Saturday, November 9 starting at 10 a.m.
Memorial service set for A. J. Cochran
A memorial service will be held for A. J. Cochran Friday, November 8, starting at 3 p.m., at Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church, 5277 N. 36 Street. Cochran was the husband of Sheila Cochran, who is the Chief Operating Officer/Secretary-Treasurer of the United Auto Workers Local 438.
cause what 'vibe' or 'spirit' they use to create their music is attached to the product. It will influence you, knowingly or unknowingly. The Bible says, "My people perish for a lack of knowledge." We are judged upon what we know so if you continue to allow your little girls to 'idolize' this woman, do not be surprised if they grow up with the same traits as Rihanna...and even looks like her. Would you rather have beauty, whoredom, fame and riches, or beauty, modesty, chastity work ethic, intellect and a sure path toward wealth. These are things the Most High wish to impart to the final creation given to earth, which is woman. Study Proverbs 31 to see a true queen and do not fall for the spirit of Jezebel. Next week, we will decode Nicki Minaj. Until then, may the Most High keep you, protect you and bless you. Shalom.
50th VETERANS DAY PARADE SET
The 50th Annual Veterans Day Parade will take place Saturday, November 9, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. The parade starts at the corner of Plankinton and Kilbourn and will head east via Wells Street ending at the War Memorial. The Veterans Day Parade is more than just a parade. This special event is an opportunity for the community to show their support and appreciation to those who have served and sacrificed for our country. On this, our 50th Anniversary we are honoring generations of veterans. There will be approximately 120 units in this year’s parade including veterans groups, floats, marching bands and military vehicles. The Wisconsin Veterans Quilts will be on display in the lobby of the War Memorial along with a historical display of the Veterans Day Parade. Immediately following the conclusion of the parade, there will be a Memorial Service at the War Memorial Reflecting Pool. For more information and to find out how you can honor your favorite veteran, please visit our website at www.honorourmilitary.us
442-5064
The Milwaukee Community Journal November 6, 2013 Page 10