Insider News
Yolanda James Owner/Publisher 3001 Douglas Ave. Racine, WI 53402 262-681-2345
in s n o c s i W
insiderwisconsin@yahoo.com
Volume 1 No. 8
July 1-15
Tak ONEe FRE E
INW
Juneteeth 2011
People & Faces of Juneteenth
Photos by Yolanda James See more pictures inside.
Above left: Pastor Breon Norton and his companion “Leon” bring happiness and fun to the Juneteenth celebration. The pair spent the afternoon spreading laughter everywhere they went. Right: Mia Bell enjoys the festivities at Racine’s Juneteenth held Saturday, June 18 at the Dr. John Bryant Center. Over 2,000 individuals attended the all day family event. Bottom left: the John Bryant Center Dancers take center stage with their performance. Bottom right: Ada Hamilton gives a customer a sample of her products.
Our Opinion: Is a national search really necessary? Racine is looking for a new chief of police since Chief Kurt Wahlen has announced his retirement. The Police and Fire Commission (PFC) is considering doing a national search which will cost the city over $20,000. The questions raised by many is why an external search is needed when two qualified minority candidates exist within the department and why the process has changed compared to previous hiring procedures. In 1992, Karl Hansen retired and the PFC limited the applications for a new police chief to in-house applicants with the necessary qualifications set forth by the commission. Then, in 2000 when Police Chief Richard Polzin announced his retirement, the Police and Fire Commission stated that a search for a replacement would begin within the department. The chairwoman of the committee at that time, Marilyn Murrack, according to the Racine Journal Times said, “I know for a fact there are qualified people right here. I think our first desire would be to promote first from within.” The same pattern was repeated in 2006 when David Spenner retired. The PFC again first looked inside the Racine Police Department. The presiding chairman then and now, Chuck Johnson, stated, “We’re not going out for a big search.” He told the Racine Journal Times the commission was looking within because it felt there were good candidates in Racine. After looking at this precedence set by the PFC, it makes one wonder what is the justification for changing the process. The procedure should follow past practice and first limit the search to internal candidates before taking away funds from the city budget that could be utilized elsewhere. Martin Luther King said, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to equality everywhere.” We must hold our elected officials accountable and let them know that our goal is to ensure fairness and equality in the decisions that affect the whole city. The next Police and Fire Commission meeting to discuss the issue of the national search will be held on Monday, July 11 at 3:30pm. The location of the meeting has not yet been released. Check our website: www.insiderwisconsin.com for details.
Deputy Chief Art Howell, right, a life long resident of Racine, is one of the two candidates who is qualified to be the next Racine Chief of Police.
Page 2 The Insider News Wisconsin, July 1-15, 2011
The Insider News Wisconsin (INW) is saluting this year’s Juneteenth celebration. Yolanda James, publisher/owner spent time walking the grounds meeting, greeting, and talking to people as well as taking pictures of those who attended this year’s fabulous event. The INW wants to thank all those who allowed us to capture your photo for this edition. Copies of your picture in color can be purchased from the newspaper.
People & Faces of Juneteenth The annual Juneteenth celebration marks the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation by President Abraham Lincoln in 1862 and the freeing of the last slaves in Texas. The sunny weather made it ideal for the various vendors that sold corn on the cob, bar-b-que ribs, fried fish, and other novelty items. Right bottom: Michael Blake and his partner Una Walker were selling T-Shirts. Blake has been the official t-shirt vendor for the Juneteeth celebration in Milwaukee for 40 yrs. He joined Racine this year to market his business in this area. Page 3 The Insider News Wisconsin, July 1-15, 2011
The Divine Cakes Social club,
which has been in the community since 2009, was fundraising at this year’s Juneteenth. Their mission is to mentor young girls and give back to the community. The ladies worked hard selling sweet treats. Pictured: Ebony Jeans (CEO), Valencia Washington, Elizabeth Edwards, TaRia Riley, Delitha Bostick, Shirleeta Miles, TamikaWhite, Jakitta Hollins, Champagne Burnette, Latoya Jackson, Christa Scott, Adrianna Williams, and Lashawn Luster. Members not pictured: Candice Burnette, Ericka Hubbard, Mercedes Jackson, Rashanda Luckett, Ruby Cobb, Diana Young, Joreena Cobb, and Latrice Tiller
People & Faces of Juneteenth
Page 4 The Insider News Wisconsin, July 1-15, 2011
Tanya Evans, center, the administrator for the Racine Community Health Center, listens attentively as Sharon Shultz, the Chief Executive Officer of the Racine/Kenosha Community Action agency, speaks during a forum held to tackle the African American Infant Mortality Crisis in Racine. The meeting, held on Thursday, June 23, was spon-
sored by the Greater Racine Collaborative for Healthy Birth Outcomes, Lifecourse Initiative for Healthy Families and the Johnson Foundation at Wingspread. Community leaders, politicians, and local pastors were in attendance supporting the effort.
Wisconsin Slashes Budget, 354 Teachers Laid Off
Cuts to Wisconsin's state budget are resulting in layoffs of 519 staff members in Milwaukee Public Schools, including 354 teachers, reports CNN. "The layoffs are effective Friday, the beginning of the third quarter, when cash-strapped state and local governments are forecast to shed up to 110,000 jobs, according to IHS Global Insight." The cuts will likely expand the class sizes and ensure the use of old textbooks for students, said Superintendent Gregory Thornton. The move follows the signing of a two-year state budget by Gov. Scott Walker on Sunday that cut spending to schools, resulting in $200 less per child. Milwaukee Public Schools has approximately 82,000 students and slashed $182 million in budget cuts, according to its communications director. CNN reports that budget cutting in Wisconsin is likely to be echoed across the country. "Though tax revenue is starting to rise, states continue wrestling with multibillion-dollar budget gaps. Federal stimulus funds helped minimize job cuts until now, but that money essentially runs out on June 30. Property tax assessments have plunged in many areas."
Page 5 The Insider News Wisconsin, July 1-15, 2011
Top Dog Hot Dog Celebrates
2 years
Caleb Robinson, a 26 years old entrepreneur, has been making his living for 2 years in the hot dog business. He is the owner of “Top Dog Hot Dog” located at 520 Main Street, Racine. Robinson was born and raised in Racine. He attended Case High School where he played baseball and football. From there, he proceeded to UWWhitewater and transferred to UW-Parkside where he is currently finishing his bachelor’s degree. Difficult economic times is what inspired Robinson to start his own business. He was employed by Phoneix Chocolate Shop, but was laid off because of the recession. He found another job but hated it. He said, “I remember going downtown for lunch and walking around thinking about what a great idea it would be to have a hot dog cart down- town.” There he began his journey. Robinson started with one cart and worked the downtown area through the summer. He did pretty well which is what prompted him to go further. In addition, the owner of the space he now occupies wanted to have that particular area rented by wintertime. His hard work paid off. He now has 3 carts in addition to the business. One of those carts is on a project a couple days a week. The other outdoor carts are put in use as the weather permits. He has used the carts at the Regency Mall, at Westgate Mall, and when there was a Farmers’ Market. However, he said, “My priority is downtown because that is where I started and it draws so many people.” Robinson attributes a portion of his success to working in the corporate world at an early age and being a part of the “TOP” program sponsored by S.C. Johnson. This program is geared toward helping minority students who are at the top of their class get started in business. He shared that he gained valuable experience in this program. His advice to young people who want to be in business, “Starting a business can be difficult, but look for a market where you can start a business.” He stated that your attitude, the way you dress, and the way you present yourself will make a huge difference in your success. Above are pictures from Robinson’s two year celebration of business. He held a “Hot Dog Eating” contest, on Mounment Square, for both youth and adults.
St. Paul Gardens Apartments 1120 Center Street ~ Racine Sponsored By:
St. Paul Baptist church 1-bedroom or Studio Apartments Homes! St. Paul Gardens is now accepting Applications for immediate occupancy! HUD-Subsidized for eligible Seniors 62, older or Disabled (single person household earning under $23,800 annually) (two person household earning under $27,200 annually)
Rent approximately 30% of gross income Allowable medical expenses apply to lower monthly rent! Kitchen Appliances / Monthly Electrical Allowance Laundry Facility / Community Room / Off-Street Parking Resident Manager / Secure Entry / Elevator / ADA Direct inquiries or request an Application at:
St. Paul Office (262) 632-6086 Rosenthal Assoc., Inc. (414) 362-7240
Page 6 The Insider News Wisconsin, July 1-15, 2011
The Ladies also shine in GREEN LANTERN The comic book hero comes to the big screen for the first time in GREEN LANTERN. Costars include Angela Bassett and Blake Lively, in theaters.
LANTERN is distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures. Hal Jordan (Reynolds), your typical human being -though the cocky test fighter pilot would argue otherwise-- has been chosen to wear the fabled green ring that bestows supernatural powers and by default, enlists him into a brigade of fellow crusaders.
Sandra Varner’s Celebrity Profiles If you didn’t get enough of Oscar nominee Angela Bassett (What’s Love Got to Do with It) in the acclaimed romantic comedy, Jumping the Broom, check her out as “Dr. Amanda Waller” in GREEN LANTERN. The classic human conflict, good vs. evil, centers the action sci-fi thriller that stars Ryan Reynolds (The Proposal, Smokin’ Aces, The Amityville Horror), Blake Lively (Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants franchise, TV’s Gossip Girl), Bassett (Jumping the Broom, Malcolm X), Peter Sarsgaard (Jarhead, The Skeleton Key) and Michael Clarke Duncan (Daredevil, The Scorpion King). Rated PG-13, GREEN
In a universe as vast as it is mysterious, an elite, powerful force has existed for centuries. Protectors of peace and justice, they are called the Green Lantern Corps. Warriors sworn to keep intergalactic order, each Green Lantern wears a ring that grants him the ability to create anything his mind can imagine. When a new enemy called Parallax threatens to destroy the balance of power in the Universe, their fate and the fate of Earth lie in the hands of Hal Jordan. Racine Insider’s Entertainment columnist, Sandra Varner, talked to the cast of GREEN LANTERN. Read the full article at HYPERLINK "http://www.Talk2SV.com" www.Talk2SV.com.
BE READY TO VOTE IN 2012!
Written by Yolanda James Owner/Publisher Insider News
Wisconsin law has changed so that voters are required to show a photo ID at polling places. These changes will be in effect beginning in 2012.
With one stroke of the pen, on Wednesday May 25, 2011 Gov. Walker signed into law that voter ID is now required in Wisconsin to vote, despite the fact that there has been no hard evidence of voter fraud in the past. This move will create hardship on many fronts.
Acceptable forms of ID: • Wisconsin DOT issued driver’s license • Wisconsin DOT issued identification card • Identification card issued by a US uniformed service • US Passport (Identification cards must be unexpired, or if expired, have expired after the date of the most recent general election) • A certificate of naturalization that was issued not earlier than two years before the date of an election at which it is presented • An unexpired driving receipt issued by WI DOT • An unexpired ID card receipt issued by WI DOT • An ID card issued by a federally recognized Indian Tribe in WI • An unexpired ID card issued by a WI accredited university or college that contains: Date of issuance Signature of Student Expiration date not later than two years after date of issuance
For one, in Wisconsin, implementing photo ID requirements will cost the state at least $7 million. This seems to be fiscally irresponsible as the state faces budget deficits, education cuts, and teacher layoffs. In addition, this law would increase the barriers to voting for minorities, the elderly, and the handicapped . One main concern is transportation to the DMV, which is located outside the city and is not situated on a bus route. Also, the hours of operation for the DVM are not convenient for those working. It is imperative that the African American community work together to identify those who need assistance and get them registered now. Same day voter registration has been eliminated because of this bill which means if we wait, many will not vote. We cannot allow this to happen. The African American community will lose its voice if we do not go to the polls. The Insider News is committed to keeping our readers informed of upcoming elections. Election dates and candidate information will be provided to help voters make informed decisions.
TO APPLY FOR A WI STATE ID THE FOLLOWING ITEMS WILL BE NECESSARY
• Proof of name, date of birth, • Proof of Identity (usually a document with a signature or photo) • Proof of Wisconsin residency • Proof of US citizenship, legal permanent residence status, legal conditional resent status or legal temporary visitors status • Your social Security number
UNDER WISCONSIN ACT 23 THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION IS REQUIRED TO PROVIDE PHOTO IDS AT NO COST TO APPLICANTS WHO REQUEST ONE FOR THE PURPOSES OF VOTING.
Page 7 The Insider News Wisconsin, June 1-15-, 2011
Urban League speakes to young people pects failure A nation whichwex . ns io at ct pe remain in ex ill is The third E le that accepts second place, ild who ch a op at pe th today, f, ill fail. A w oo pr g in liv e l ar W ia or eed. hether you e. You cc ac su pl e n nd gu ca ea co L ho se By Marc H. M w an rb ild U ch ational re is a grows up anywnheor President, CEO, N to ce downan ch e th w to is b up my jo ew up of gr s rt pa ng ua di ad nts or ar gr re w at re pa t o ents town, with twyo One of the mos ally college stud t ci en pe m es ew up ce , gr le en u m op m pe co er g speak to youn s year, I was honored to be the eans and Howard one, wheth rity or poverty, with prospe e highest tion time. Thi Xavier University in New Orl t historic and th os m bo e at th r of hold fast to th two speake ashington, DC,tio expectations. riter once n. University in W the na in ’s U C B H g in As a great w brains in outstand opportunity to is th ke ta to t te, “You have in your an ro w w I ge lle co te your head andnfesteteer yourcongratula yer ev s te oes. You ca ion you gradua are with you sh sh to d an lf in any direct re se he w some of what Io choose. You’re on your ow what said at the tw own and you knyo u are the commenced an u know yo of ss la :C ts ci en m de de one who will C of 2011, the .” where to go lass world that you 2011, choose wisely. on, this face is a world That is your mist.si en in the throes ofsom is your m change and tranthe Congratulations. Good formation. From luck and Godspeed. ic om on ec g in ow gr power of India the and China, to presence of a e black man in th is th , se ou H te hi W a long nation has comeen ts like ud st ge way since colleAmerican South. the ys, Riders to change By Marc H. Morial m do ee Fr e the many valleyo th e ed se in d you jo zon an ri ur ho e ut th d ho ar ug w ro to th traverse As you look ains that you will in mind: The hilltops and mouentto ask you to keep three E’s ab t Oprah life, I would liklence. Whether we are talking all,ou e are witw el sh first E is Exc k Obama, or Thurgood Mar nce. Winfrey, Baracthat have committed to excelle te themselves nesses to livese the graduates of 2011 accelera t to being the I want to se rough an absolute commitmen tever profession and their lives thin everything that you do. Wha E is Equality. best you can bemmit to be the best. The second merica. An you choose, cok for a more just and equitable Aam st great You must wor will not tolerate deep poverty id ch hi America w rcent of its te almost 40 peon prosperity. ra le to t no es time each do ch A nation whi ren not finishing high school rece ssion has young black chotildbe comfortable when the greatof people their year. We cannof people their jobs and millionsago, like the stucost millions e Freedom Riders of 50 years e who marched homes. Like thlenged the Vietnam War or thos to commit to dents that chal id, you must have the courage against Aparthe and economic equality for all. work for social
The Insider News Wisconsin is a community based newspaper published in Racine, Wisconsin. The newspaper covers a variey of events that highlight lifestyles in the African-American comunities in Southeastern Wisconsin. The Insider News Wisconsin is a free publication, printed on the 1st and 15th of each month and is distributed in over 107 locations. All inquiries about advertisement or news should be made five to seven days before the 1st and 15th of each month.
Yolanda James, President/CEO Dadra Lockridge, Account Representative Julius Gails, Staff Photographer
3001 Douglas, Avenue • Racine, Wisconsin 262.681.2345 Page 8 The Insider News Wisconsin, July 1-15, 2011
Page 9 The Insider News Wisconsin, July 1-15, 2011
Page 10 The Insider News, July 1-15, 2011
Page 11 The Insider News Wisconsin, July 1-15, 2011
Page 12 The Insider News Wisconsin, July 1-15, 2011
Designer showcases her fashions at Geralds D2 Distingued & DWB Xclusives joined forces to put on the first annual “Addicted to Fashion Extravaganza” at Gerald’s Smokehouse on Saturday, June 18. Sarah Martin , right, showcased her own designs. Fashions from both businesses were featured.
Visit Our Website at: InsiderWisconsin.com
Page 13 The Insider News Wisconsin, July 1-15, 2011
Diverse business relationships are an important part of an evolving community. That’s why we’re dedicated to the success and advancement of minorityand women-owned businesses. Diverse businesses not only contribute to our supply chain and business strategies, but also to the communities we serve. From architectural and construction services to financial and legal services, minority- and women-owned businesses provide the resources needed for us to evolve together.
100 Women In Red Celebrate The New Omega Missionary Baptist Church Women’s Ministry held their first 100 Women In Red program on Sunday, June 26, at New Omega Church. Above: Women from the host church as well as Christ Chapel Baptist Church paraded into the sanctuary wearing a variety of fashionable red dresses. Upper photo: The singing sensation group “Admiration,” sung two muscial selections to an audience of more than 125 people. Below: Pastor Mark and Iris Gates, left, pastor of Christ Chapel Baptist Church, is joined by Pastor Fred and Barbara Richmond, and Doris Frierson. Standing: Virgina Barnes, Winnie McGhee, chairperson of New Omega Women’s Ministry, and Annie Berry, Worship Leader.
2K11078-PC-IW
Visit www.wisconsinenergy.com/supplier to learn more about participating in the We Energies Supplier Diversity Initiative.
Page 14 The Insider News Wisconsin, July 1-15, 2011
Kenosha Juneteeth Annual Community Celebration
Photos by Yolanda James
Kenosha held its Juneteenth event on Saturday, June 25, one week after the Racine festivities. It was held at Lincoln Park and drew a good crowd of young people, as well as adults. The aroma of tasty bar-b-que ribs, fried chicken, corn-on-the-cob, and many other delicacies filled the air of the festival grounds. Page 15 The Insider News Wisconsin, July 1-15, 2011
Insider News
SHEPHERD’S GUIDE St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church
ZOE OUTREACH Ministries
1120 Grand Ave. Racine, Wis.
262-632-1467 www.stpmbc.org
2130 Racine Street Racine, WI 619-3027
Sunday School 9:15 AM Sunday Worship Service 7:45 AM & 10:40 AM
Bishop Lawrence L.
Wednesday Prayer & Bible Class 11:00 AM and 6:00 PM Dinner - 5:30 PM
Christian Faith Fellowship Church Racine, Wisconsin Pastors Willie & Patricia Scott 262-631-0196
Melvin Hargove Pastor Sunday School - 8:45 a.m.
1201 Center Street • Racine, Wis. 53403
Sunday Worship Service - 10:00 a.m.
(262) 880-6521
Sunday NA Meeting 6:30 PM
Worship with us at: Sunday Worship Service • 10:00 AM Sunday School • 9:00 AM
KIRBY
Tuesday Bible Study • 6:30 PM
Senior Pastor
2849 92nd St. Sturtevant, WI
Community Dinner 5:00 - 6:00 p.m. Wednesday: Midweek Worship 6:15 a.m.- 8:15 p.m. Thursday NA Meeting 6:00 PM
SEARCHING TOGETHER MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHuRCH Rev. Willie Riley, Senior Pastor 262.633.4421
825 21st Street • Racine Sunday School Worship Service Mid Morning Worship Service Wednesday Afternoon Bible Study Wednesday Dinner Wednesday Evening Bible Study Saturday Morning Prayer
Greater Mt. Eagle Baptist Church
Greater St. Luke’s
Missionary Baptist Church
Sunday School • 9:00 AM Sunday Worship Service • 10:45 AM Bible Study (Wed.) • 6:00 PM Word of Life (Youth Program) (Thur..) • 6:30 PM
929 State Street • Racine, Wisconsin 53404
637-1606
9:00 a.m. 10:30 a.m. 12:00 noon 5:30-6:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 8:00 a.m.
Trinity United Missionary Baptist Church 306-5th Street, Racine, WI
Come Worship with us at: Sunday Worship Service 11:00 AM Bible Study Wednesday 6:00 Pm - 8:00 PM
Pastor Joseph L. & First Lady Thomas
New Brighter Day Baptist Church 1225 25th Ave., Kenosha, WI
262-552-8090 Joseph L. Thomas, Pastor Sunday School - 9:00 a.m. - Sunday Worship Service - 10:30 a.m. Tuesday Prayer Service - 6:00 p.m. Bible Study - Tuesday 11:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.
Gospel Mission Ministries
Sunday School 9:15 am Sunday Worship 11:00 am Bible Class (Wednesday) • 6 pm
Pastor Keith Evans
“A God Glorifying, Christ Centered, Spirit-Filled Church”
Christian Tabernacle Baptist Church
Prayer Service (Thursday) • 6 pm
Sunday School 9:30 AM Sunday Worship 10:30 AM Prayer Service (Wed.) 5:00 PM Bible Class & Prayer (Wed.) - 6:00 PM
262.635.1994 Pastor Jessie Summerall
1326 State Street 632-4146
email: tumbcc@ameritech.net
Pastors Breon and Karen Norton 945 N. Memorial Drive • Racine, WI 53403 262.634.3156
Rev. Buddy Vinson Senior Pastor
Sunday Service • 1:30 p.m. Wednesday • 7:15 p.m. Friday Prayer and Praise Dance • 7:15 p.m.
Page 16 The Insider News Wisconsin, July 1-15, 2011
Empowering for Evangelism Photo left: Evangelist David & Mary Bluford from Living Word Christian Center in Forest Park, IL ministered at Changing Lives Ministries NonDenominational Church June 25-26. Their message equipped and encouraged the congregation to share the gospel of Jesus Christ to the world. Above left: the CLM worship team prepares for the message as they sing praises to the Lord.
Stella Young, left, President of the Racine Rotary West Club (RRWC), and Melvina Lube, President-Elect of RRWC held a banquet to celebrate the 43 year legacy of the organization. It was held at Infusino’s banquet hall on Monday, June 20.
Fair Fair H Housing ousing it it’s ’s N Not ot A An nO Option. ption. It’s The Law! It’s T he L aw!
you you have been IIff y ou ffeel eel y ou h ave be en discriminated discriminated against against in in your your search search for for housing, housing g,, contact c ontact tthe he City City of of Racine’s Racine’s Fair Fair Housing Housing Department Department
Race Ra ce
National Na tional Origin Orig in
Family Fa m ily Status Status
Color Co lor
Source So urce o off IIncome nco me
Sexual Se xual O Orientation rientation
Disability Di sab ility
Religion Re lig ion
Sex Se x
Ancestry An cestry
Marital Ma rital St Status atus
Age Ag e
EQUAL HOUSING EQ UAL H OUSING OPPORTUNITY OP PORTUNITY
City Racine C ity of R acine FAIR HOUSING DEPARTMENT FA IR H OUSING D EPARTMENT Washington Ave Room 730 30 W ashington A ve • R oom 102 636-9595 ((262) 635-5347 262) 636 -9595 ((Fax) Fax) ((262) 262) 635 e-mail e-m mail address address fai@cityofracine.org fai@cityof yofrracine.org “Fair Housing FAIR EVERYONE” “F “Fai air H ousing iiss F AIR ffor or E VERYONE” Here YOU… H ere ffor or Y OU…
Page 17 The Insider News Wisconsin, July 1-15, 2011
June Wedding Bells Ring King/Willams
Marian King, the daughter of Archie (Dan) and (The Late) Brenda King, became the bride of Clenton Williams, the son of (The Late) Joe Curtis and Lula Mae Williams on Saturday June 18th, 2011 at two-o’clock in the afternoon at Searching Together Missionary Baptist Church with Pastor Willie Riley officiating. The bride’smaid of honor was Tonya M. King, and the bridesmaids were Tasha M. King, Sonya M. Farris, Anna R. Baker, Leslie Bruno, and EarlyMae Williams. The junior bride was Ceani Williams and the flower girls were Tiana Marshall, Essence Williams, and Keyaira Marshall. The groom’s best man was Andrew Williams. The groomsmen were Micah Tharpe, Josiah Willams, Billy Smith, John Buruno, and James Williams. The junior groom and ring bearer was Leaf Burno. A reception in their honor was held at the Roma Lodge in Racine fellowing the wedding.
Brown/Carter
Tiffany R. Carter (Brown), the daughter of Leon and Debra Brown Sr. and Frank J. Carter III, the son of Frank Carter II and Stepmother Joanne Carter, were wed on June 18, 2011 at Greater Grace Temple COGIC. The ceremony was officiated by Elder Mitch Bravermann of Christian Faith Fellowship, Bishop Darrell Hines.
Mrs. Obama hits her stride as first lady Gaborone - After more than two years as America's first lady, Michelle Obama won't say she's hit her stride. Her performance on a good will mission to Africa, including an emotionally rousing speech about youth leadership and a packed itinerary that rivalled her husband's travelling schedules, said otherwise. On her second overseas business trip without the president, and to Africa, America's first black first lady was warmly received everywhere she went, often with song and to the point of almost being moved to tears. She spoke passionately about her causes, tickled and danced with some of the youngest Africans, and sat with presidents and first ladies, including Nelson Mandela, South Africa's former president and a hero of the antiapartheid movement. She held 20 public events in five days, landed on newspaper front pages and was fashionably dressed, as usual, including outfits with an African connection. In between all that, Mrs Obama squeezed in dinner with gal-pal Oprah Winfrey, who was in South Africa for unrelated business. Setting her own agenda It was the first lady's biggest moment on the world stage. She was reluctant to grade herself, telling reporters that it embarrasses her to "talk about my stride and being on my game". But she does realise her power as first lady and says it's a time-stamped opportunity that she doesn't want to waste. "I have the advantage of really being able to set my own agenda and not having to deal with the day-to-day challenges that ... just keep coming at you," she said, speaking of President Barack Obama. "That's a privilege and there is real opportunity there." Her signature issue - both in the states and around the world - is encouraging young people to become the next generation of leaders and problem-solvers. It's a major reason why she spent a week visiting the model democracies of South Africa and Botswana, her first visits to those countries. In Africa alone, nearly two-thirds of its population is younger than 25-years-old. Mrs Obama also promoted education and uses the story of her upbringing by working-class parents in Chicago to inspire high school students to dream big.
Resonance She lately has taken to arranging for groups of students, particularly those who aren't from the best backgrounds but who have shown academic promise, to spend a day at a top university. She held such as session at the University of Cape Town for 50 South African high school students, following up on one last month at the University of Oxford in London. "I want to make sure that you all see the promise in yourselves," the first lady told the youngsters. "It's so clear to me and so many others. The challenge is to make sure you see it in yourselves." Mrs Obama's message resonated with women in Africa. "She gives hope not just to women of colour, but to women everywhere," said Kiri Maponya, a member of one of Soweto's leading families who now lives in the US. The first lady spent Wednesday in Soweto, a black township in Johannesburg that was at the centre of the uprisings against apartheid, the now-abolished system of racial separation. Before the youth leadership speech, Mandela's wife, Graca Machel, gave Mrs Obama a rousing introduction that nearly moved the first lady to tears. "We welcome you as a daughter of African heritage and we can call you the queen of our world," Machel said. President's secret weapon Mrs Obama said she doesn't understand why some things, such as that speech, go really well, and why other things just go OK. "I just want to be useful," she said. There's no question that she is useful and will continue to be because, as she often says, there is much more work to do. For one thing, the presidential campaign season is revving up in the US and her husband wants another four years in office. While also shies away from the idea that she's the president's "secret weapon", as she came to be known during the 2008 campaign, Mrs Obama is helping him raise money this coming week at three fundraisers in Boston and Burlington, Vermont.
Page 18 The Insider News Wisconsin, July 1-15, 2011
Page 19 The Insider News Wisconsin, June 1-15, 2011
Page 20 The Insider News Wisconsin, June 1-15, 2011