September 15 edition

No Supprise: City Close Park 6 for 45 Days

Tak ONEe FRE E

VOL. 20, No. 15 |September 1-15, 2010 | Web site: Racineinsider.blogspot.com | E-mail: insider@wi.net | 262.632.9370

Farming in the city catches on fast

Read story on page 3 Carolyn Huston clears dead leaves from her tomato plants on her plot located 734 Marquette Street

Racine NAACP Baby Contest Winner Named Sanyiah Maxey, the 17-month-old daughter of Claudia Gonzales and Kwame Maxey, was named the Racine Branch 2010 Freedom Baby at a program held Aug. 8 at the Dr. John Bryant Sanyiah Maxey Center.

The Racine Branch of the NAACP held its 45th annual Freedom Baby Contest which was in honor of Mrs. Corinne Owens, the chairperson and sponsor of the first Freedom Baby Contest held in 1965.

The winning total turned in by her parents was $1,215. Sanyiah received the Freedom Baby trophy, a $1,000 U.S. Savings Bond, a $50 gift certificate from Walmart, clothing items from Attitudes, a recordable picture frame from Hallmark Cards, a baby stroller and other gifts.

All of the runner-ups received a $100 U.S. Savings Bond, a merchant-supplied gift certificate, stroller, clothing items, recordable picture frame and other gifts.

Page 2 The Insider News, August 1-15, 2010

Gardening Network Provides Opportunity for Residents to Grow Farm Produce

Tamika Esho carries a bucket of water to her plot of land she rents to grow veggies.

Tamika Esho and Carolyn Huston do not know each other formally although the two share a common interest at the same location. The pair is part of a growing number of people living in the city who want to experience the enjoyment of growing their own food products in an urban community setting.

In May, Tamika learned of the small plots of land that could be rented to would-be farmers for $20, or an amount according to a individual’s ability to pay.

The whole idea is the brainstorm of the Racine Urban Garden Network. The network seeks to promote a strong gardening effort in the Racine area, and to create a network of resources and education to improve sustainable gardening and farming.

In May, Esho bought her small plot and began to prepare it for food growth.

“Everything is grown six inches above ground,” she explained. Large mounds of topsoil are available to each farmer where you enter the gardens located at 734 Marquette Street. There are about 25 individual plots divided by straw.

Esho says that the network have given her an opportunity to do what she has always wanted, but because of where she lived was never able to own a garden. “I lived in an apartment and did not have a garden in the backyard, nor did I have the space for growing anything and I have always wanted to grow something.”

In the hot blazing sun she beamed joyfully at the items that she had grown from

seeds.

She and her mother continually walked to a large container of water with buckets to water her small plot of land where she had already grown zucchini, cherry tomatoes, yellow squash, pepper plants, and basil.

Already she has attained the rewards of her garden. “It feels great to have something grow that I planted in the ground. I did the work and now I can take it home and eat it,” she said.

Born in Mississippi, Carolyn Huston remembers working in the garden with her parents and began her plot recently with the little experience she gained as a child.

She said she learned of the Network while attending the 6th Street Neighborhood Watch meeting.

Huston says much of her joy comes from sharing her food with others. “ She has grown a sizeable selection of food items . Although she prides herself on her tomatoes, she has also planted cumbers, jalapeño peppers, collard greens, turnips, and pinto beans. When asked what she plans to do with the food items she responded, “Eat them.”

The gardening Network serves as a central point to connect individuals and organizations that have visions for their own gardens, and to find available land and resources for people to start gardening projects. The goal is to facilitate communication among all who have the initiative to start a garden.

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Page 3 The Insider News, August 1-15, 2010

Ludacris flipped the script and took pictures of the Twins Food Mart Conjure display. Right: He took time out to take pictures with his fans. He insisted that no pictures be taken with his product in the presence of young people. He posed with over 65 fans during the two-hour visit. Right below: Anxious fans waited for hour for Ludacris to see the national rap artist in person. They lined 16th Street around the corner for a block. See pictures at: http://news.racinepost.com/2010/08/chris-bridges-aka-ludacris-swings.html

National Hip-Hop Artist Makes Stop In Racine at Twins Food Mart

Recording artist Ludacris, signed bottles of Conjure, his brand of Cognac liquor on Thursday, August 12, 2010 at Twins Food Mart, 1812 16th St. in Racine, Wis. Twins held this event Thursday evening where Ludacris appeared in person to promote his cognac brand and pose for photos with guests.

Many people did not believe that he was actually coming to town, but Ludacris made believers out of everyone and showed up in a black Suburban escorted by his entourage.

He was very down to earth and friendly to those who came to meet him and have their picture taken with him. As he promoted his product, his message was clear, drink responsibly. As the kids came to have their photo taken, he joked, had fun with them, and was quite respectful. He insisted that the product be pushed aside and not appear in any photos with children.

The event started out with a small crowd, but as the day went on many fans poured out

Page 4 The Insider News, September 1-15, 2010

Page 5 The Insider News, September 1-15, 2010

STRUT YOUR STUFF: LOVE YOUR SIZE FASHION SHOW Plus Versus Petite: The Ultimate Runway Walk Off Paje’ Productions is Kryg Piatek of certainly about celeKryg Photography, brating talent, diversiand Hank ty, and community.

McClellan, all of Established in May Milwaukee.

2009, Paje’ “Big girls can’t Productions was conmodel,” exclaimed ceived by a group of one young sassy women who wanted fashionista. She to see change come to helped to set the the community. In its stage as the show grassroots beginning, began. Throughout Paje’ Productions the evening, Paje’ sought opportunities Productions to encourage empowfounder, Temacca erment and diversity McMurtry, would and involved itself in ask the crowd, proactive events “Who you for? including cancer Petite or Plus walks, theatre producSize?” That was tions, open microthe question of the phone events, and night! Regardless more. To date, Paje’ of size, the mescontinues to be active sage Paje’ wished in their community to send with the Caution – This unique and creative design is not for the through its events unadventurous or shy person. You must be bold, confident, audience, as well including this fashion and ready to show your flavor for fashion. as all who particishow and talent perpated, was: never formances and only seeks to continue to mind the expectations of society and send the message to “Stop Existing and what is more socially acceptable, ALL Start Living” through upcoming projects shapes and sizes can be embraced with non-profit groups as well as events whether it is strutting out on the runway to entertain. or down the aisle of the market.

Paje’ Productions hosted its first fashPaje’ was pleased to have fashion ion show, Strut Your Stuff: Love Your designers join the show who shared the Size, on Saturday, August 14th. This vision of: love your self, size does not dynamic and diverse show astonished all matter. Collections featured on the runwho attended from start to finish. Taking way included designs by NEWD, May place at the sophisticated Racine Theatre Vora Jewelry, Lolita Evonne, BDBM, Gg Guild, Inc. {2519 Northwestern Avenue, Collections, Deztinni, Moda Muneca, Suite 1, Racine, Wisconsin} this red carAHBE, Seyah, and Conceited. In addition pet event introduced some of the most to the stunning creations provided by the talented fashion designers of the designers, others involved to create and Southeast Wisconsin and Northern capture the memories of the evening were Illinois region, as well as several of the make up artists Dana McIntosh and most fabulous up and coming female and Nicole Tooze and photographers Byron male model talent of the area.

Graves of The Racine Mirror, Kenneth The night began with a welcoming Lumpkin of Insider News, David Fayne reception for guests which included live of Discreet Designs and Photography. jazz music and catering provided by the In addition to fashion genius, Paje’ Ivanhoe Pub of Racine. On hand to proProductions was excited to entertain the vide guests with their own red carpet audience throughout the night with perphoto opportunity were photographers, formances included finalists from Eric Gaurkee of Lightworks Imaging, Standing Room Only, vocalist JVocal,

These ladies from Kenosha, WI came out to support the fashion show and enjoy the latest fashions from the over a dozen designers.

Visit us at: Racineinsider.blogspot.com

actress, Mia Amber Davis also joining this fabulous production!

Paje’ Productions founder, Temacca McMurtry, would have never believed in just how incredible this journey would be and how amazing the outcome after the many months of long hours to prepare for this first fashion event. "The success of the Strut Your Stuff Fashion Show was beyond my expectations. I expected extravagance but I received far more than that! Can't wait until next year!” exclaimed Mc Murtry upon completion of the show.

McMurtry and the Paje’ Production team are already in the planning process of their next fashion event, as well as other upcoming projects.

They came, they strut, and it was all love!

The Paje’ This elegant dress tells the whole story – full figured women are beautiful Productions Strut Your and can make any design come alive.

Stuff: Love Your Size poets Nicole White and Marcelles Brown, Fashion Show is definitely one event that rap artists Bull Jr. and Tweet Deez, as set a standard; however there is nothing well as the winner of the Standing Room standard about Paje’ Productions. For Only acoustic guitarist, Glenn Morrison. information about Paje’ Productions, teleAnd if that was not enough, Paje’ phone 262-237-1671 or email Productions was excited to have special Apajeproduction@gmail.com. guest for the evening, plus model and

Call 262.632.9370

Page 6 The Insider News, September 1-15, 2010

Page 7 The Insider News, September 1-15, 2010

Can One Player Be Above the Team

Hello Insider Family. Every sports fan, athlete, coach, owner, and commentator says that there is no “I” in TEAM. As a former athlete, I was taught to sacrifice my personal goals for the greater good of the team. When that is done, then we are all successful. We win as a team and we lose as a team. It doesn’t profit anyone to be a prima-donna or a superstar, but you never win. I remember thinking I was bigger than the team when I was in high school. I wanted to skip practice, and expected to still start. I walked in the barbershop before pregame walk through to find my coach there. I tried to sneak out before he saw me, but too late. He looked at me and said, “I don’t care if we are up 50-0 tomorrow night. The only time you will touch the field is when you are warming up with the team.” What? Are you serious? I am a returning starter, this is my senior season, it’s our first game of the season, and a home game. I know you are not going to bench me. Fast forward to the next night and when our defense took the field, I was on the bench. No, he didn’t actually bench me the entire game, but he did bench me the entire first quarter, which seemed like an eternity. At that moment, I learned a valuable lesson…with or without me; the team will keep moving forward. No one man is above the team.

I know you remember the exploits of Michael Jordan in the 1990’s. His “Airness” has been hailed as the greatest player that the game has ever seen. I can remember seeing him do things with the

basketball in his hands that will never be duplicated by anyone else in this lifetime.

His passion to will to win was unmatched. However, we cannot forget that until he started to trust his teammates, instead of trying to be a one-man show, his teams could not conquer the elite teams of that day. Scottie Pippen made one of the most insightful quotes when he said, “You all say I couldn’t win any championships without Michael…well, Michael didn’t win any championships without me either”. The Bulls did not become the dominant team of the 90’s until they became a TEAM themselves. A TEAM of players will beat one player every time. If you don’t believe me, just check your sports history.

The proof is in the pudding.

Another example that comes to mind is the New York Yankees. I want you to think back to when they first acquired Alex Rodriguez. For a few years, it seemed that they forgot about the formula that had led to so much success for their

franchise, which was team play. At the point that they started putting their focus on him as an individual, he could not deliver when it was needed most. You take that, along with the distractions of living in NYC, where the media scrutiny is at an all time high for the superstars of the game that is a recipe for disaster…even if you are A-Rod. However, last season, the focus came off him as an individual and went back to the team as a whole. As a result, not only was A-Rod able to shine, so was the entire team by capping off their season with another championship. The MVP ended up being the least likely candidate going into the World Series.

My last example is the most compelling one, Brett Favre. When dealing with Favre, it seems that he is, in fact, bigger than the team. He held the Green Bay Packers hostage for 2 seasons before they had enough of his antics and released him. Now he is doing the same thing to the Minnesota Vikings. He has

Page 8 The Insider News, August 1-15, 2010

used the threat of retirement for nothing more than a clever way to hold out of training camp and demand more money, which the Vikings have willingly conceded. I would respect him more if he would just “MAN UP” and tell the truth.

What is more disappointing to me is that Favre gets a pass for his behavior every year, but other players like Brandon Marshall, Anquan Boldin, or more recently, Darrelle Revis, get scrutinized by the media and called selfish for not honoring their contracts, when they hold/held out for what compensation they felt is/was due to them. So let’s get this straight…there is no “I” in TEAM if your name is not Brett Favre. However, if your name is Brett Favre, then there is not only and “I” in TEAM, the TEAM will bend over backwards for you and tell the world that it is ok. Never mind what this does to your locker room and to the players that are sacrificing everyday for the TEAM. All I can say is the Vikings better win the Super Bowl this year to make it worth all the trouble the rest of the team has to endure to accommodate one player. If they don’t win it all, then it is price you pay for giving an individual superstar treatment. I applaud the Packers for having the testicular fortitude to send Favre packing and moving the TEAM forward with Aaron Rodgers.

More teams should follow suit. They are a shining example of showing that one man is not bigger than the team, even if he is Brett Favre. Kudos to the Green Bay Packer from the world’s biggest Dallas

Page 9 The Insider News, August 1-15, 2010

Page 10 The Insider News, August 1-15, 2010

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Page 11 The Insider News, August 1-15, 2010

Page 12 The Insider News, August 1-15, 2010

Is the Airing of the Racine Branch of the NAACP Internal Rift A Violation of An Unspoken Organizational Law? Nearly 24 months ago, Michael Shields took the reins of the local branch of the NAACP and has tried to work through an internal rift. Last week he told his executive committee members at the monthly meeting that as president he was kind of disappointed and warned that members needed to learn to work together.

The Racine branch, which has spanned over seven decades, has faced a split in the organization based on the perception of Shields leadership style.

Shields, who has been a city Alderman for 12 two-year terms, says he is not inclusive enough and operates outside of the organization’s committee structure.

Jerry Ann Hamilton, president of Milwaukee branch, is no stranger to problems of being the leader of a large metropolitan branch of the oldest civil rights organization in the country. “As president you have to run the organization,” she said by phone. Stepping down after 12 years as president, Hamilton said that it’s important that branches give their president flexibility. “What can you do if you can’t make some type

In a rare moment, Carl Laster, (left) treasurer of the local branch, and Alderman Michael Shield who is serving his first-two year term as president, shares information during a Mayor’s forum at the Dr. Martin Luther King Community Center. Organization insiders say that the two are heavily at odds over the branches finances and by-laws processors.

of decisions.”

Shields troubles are believed to have begun when he made comments in the Racine Journal Times recently about a report alleging city leaders conspired to

keep African-American businesses out of Downtown Racine. People with knowledge of the Downtown Racine report, titled "Sun City, Sister City or Gaza on Lake Michigan: A Report on the State of Racine's Downtown," said little input was taken from NAACP members or its executive committee, and that it was written and distributed by a small group operating under the organization's name, but without the organization's support. However, up to now, the group has not formally rebutted the claims in the report.

One member of the executive committee said she had received calls from both her White and Black friends and was upset over the way the report was written. Some people from the city government showed their distaste for the report and considered it inflammatory.

"After investigation and talks with both downtown officers and officials within the Racine Police Department, it has become clear to the NAACP that a good downtown Racine is viewed as a white

Page 13 The Insider News, August 1-15, 2010

downtown," is one example sited in the NAACP report.

The report struck enough anger among some members that a whistleblower insider the organization released minutes as well as e-mails between executive board members. Finding out who turned the information over to the Racine Post, a local blog site, has become an obsession of Shields and his supporters. In an executive meeting last Thursday, the RacinePost reported that an informant inside the meeting, reported the committee voted to spend up to $500 for an investigator to find out who leaked to the RacinePost. The money would be spent on investigative services to find out who accused the committee of inappropriate behavior, the insider said. “I will get to the bottom of this,” Shields said during the meeting.

But the internal rift is not isolated to the Racine branch. At 82, Rufus Brooks is old enough to know better. He's been a member of the NAACP since he was 16. He served as president of the Orange County branch. He's a respected educator and civil rights activist.

But when he publicly criticized branch president Rev. Randolph Bracy Jr. during an Orange County school desegregation hearing earlier in May, he violated an unspoken rule within the NAACP: never air internal differences.

In doing so, he gave voice to those inside the organization who have complained about Bracy's style of leadership, while antagonizing Bracy's many supporters.

"Mr. Brooks knows that's not how we do business in the NAACP," said Beverlye Neal, a Bracy supporter.

But how does the NAACP do business? More important is the question, “How does the NAACP do business in Racine?” By phone, an officer in the branch said that we need to be about please turn to page 16

Racine/Kenosha Shepard’s Guide September Calendar of Events Christ Baptist Church – 1801 Durand Avenue (414217-5055) Pastor Daryn David Crenshaw Worship is every Sunday @ 9:30 AM, Join us at 1810 Durand Avenue (Racine Seventh Day Adventist Church Building).

The Church where Christ is Center, The Community is Cared for and The Word of God is made Clear.

Follow us at: TheChristBC (At Twitter) for your daily dose of inspiration. Don’t follow any man, Don’t Follow every Tradition,” Follow a Relevant Word.

Christ Chapel Missionary Baptist Church - 815 Park Avenue (633-6662) Pastor Mark D. Gates Sunday, September 19 @ 11:00 AM Woman's Day Celebration Guest Speaker Mrs. Mary A, Taylor Sunday, September 19 @ 3:00 PM-Guest Speaker Mrs. Barbara Richmond Sunday September 26 @ 11:00 AM Sunday School Promotion Day Faith Christian Fellowship Church 1200 Racine Street (637-6220) Bishop Sheila Neinhaus Sunday, September 5 @ 4:00 PM Back to School Praise & Worship Service Saturday, September 11 Women’s Day Worship Service Sunday, September 19 @ 4:00 PM Membership & Evangelism Worship Service Greater Grace Temple COGIC – 522 N. Memorial Drive (634-6246) Elder Jettie L. Cornett Sunday, September 5, 2010 12:30 PM - 2:30 PM Rally Sunday Sunday September 12, 2010 All day Youth Sunday Greater Mt. Eagle Baptist Church-929 State Street (637-1606) Keith T. Evans, Pastor Sunday, September 26 @ 10:45 Mission Annual Day Celebration Theme: Disciples of Jesus, Believing Him, Learning Him, Following Him and Loving One Another Matthew 16:2427/John 13:34-35 Fall Revival-Tuesday-Thursday, September 28-29 @ 6:30 PM Theme: Disciples of Jesus, Believing

Him, Learning Him, Following Him and Loving One Another-Matthew 16:2427/John 13:34-35 Guest Evangelist: Pastor Nathaniel Christian, Durant Missionary Baptist Church, Durant, MS Greater St. Luke’s Baptist Church-1326 State Street (262-632-4146) Pastor Jesse Sumerall Thursday-Saturday, September 23-25 @ 7:00 PM Nightly Pre-Anniversary Celebration Pastor Sumerall 10th Year Pastor Anniversary Sunday, September 26 @ 4:00 PM Pastor Sumerall 10th Year Pastor Anniversary Mt Sinai Institutional Baptist Church, - 2401 Argonne Drive North Chicago, IL (847-689-4422) Pastor Gerald Wilcoxon The 15th Pastoral Anniversary for Pastor and 1st Lady Janice Wilcoxon is set for September 18-19, 2010.

Saturday the 18th ~ "Hats Off" with 1st Lady "J" Wilcoxon, serving brunch @ 11:00 am (wear your favorite hat). This event is at Mt. Sinai's Heavenly Places Fellowship Hall- $5 donation.

Also, on Saturday the 18th ~ "Tee Off" with Pastor Gerald Wilcoxon, 10:00 am at Foss Park Golf Course. $30 donation is requested.

Sunday the 19th ~ 15th Pastoral Anniversary @ 3:30 PM, Mt. Sinai Baptist Church, "Seeking the Blessings of God" Jeremiah 7:23. Special guest~First Baptist Church of Melrose Park, IL. New Omega Baptist Church – 5731 Northwestern Avenue (634-4655) Pastor Fred Richmond Wednesday, September 8 @ 5:30 PM Family Life & Bible Study Sunday, September 19 (After 10:30 Worship Service) Rainbow Tea Host by the Women's Fellowship Ministry Saturday, September 25 @ 6:00 PM Musical Host by the Love Ministry Guest-Rev Odell Hughes and Company from Indiana & Local choirs and groups Searching Together Baptist Church – 825 21st Street (633-4421) Pastor Willie Riley Saturday, September 11 @ 7:00 PM Pastor & First Lady Riley Pre-Anniversary Theme: This is Your Life Worship Service/Musical Local Guests Choirs and Groups Sunday, September 12 @ 3:30 PM Pastor

& First Lady Riley Anniversary Celebration Theme: Your Turn Around Year Scripture: Jeremiah 29:11 Guest Church-Pastor Charles Thornhill, Mt. Moriah Baptist Church, Milwaukee (Dinner served @ 1:00 pm…community is invited) Second Baptist Church – 3925 32nd Avenue, Kenosha, WI 53144, 262 - 652-1692-Minister Lawrence Kirby, Pulpit Assistance Sunday, September 19 @ 3:30 PM Voices of Second Baptist Choir's Anniversary Sunday, September 26th @ 3:30 PM Annual Fellowship Service with Christian Valley Church North Chicago, Illinois St. Paul Baptist Church – 1120 Center Street (6321467) Bishop L. L. Kirby Sunday, September 5 @ 6:30 PM Appreciation Service

Sunday, September 19 @ 10:00 AM Worship Services Sunday, September 19 @ 3:30 PM Fellowship with Pasotr G. Wilcoxon@ Mt. Sinai Institutional BC, North Chicago, IL Sunday, September 26 @ 10:00 AM Worship Services, Inspirational Voices Annual Day Celebration & Water Baptism The Vine Church Pastor James Ford 2405 Northwestern Avenue Racine, WI 53404 262-880-9479 Sunday Worship @ 11:00 AM Bible Study on Thursday @ 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM Church Theme: Connecting and Encouraging God's People.

"THE TRUE VINE"

Monday-Friday, September 6-10 National Baptist Convention, Kansas City KS Saturday, September 11 @ 7:30 AM Word in Motion Workshop Saturday, September 11 Word in Motion Annual Worship Service Sunday, September 12 @ 7:45 AM & 10:45 AM Women’s Fellowship Celebration Sunday, September 19 @ Deacon’s Annual Day Celebration Friday, September 24 Gospel Music Workshop of America Celebration Sunday, September 26 @ 4 PM Adult Choir will host a Dinner and Fashion Show in the Fellowship Hall. Tickets are $8. Call 262-632-1437 for your ticket info.

Submit your church’s calendar by the 15th of each month to Minister Della Buckley @ dbuckley4@wi.rr.com or by calling 262-634-0428 First Baptist Church Pastor John L. Belser 2114 Main Street, Melrose Park, Illinois 60160 Phone: 708 344 7411 Fax: 708 344 7265 www.firstbaptistchurch.org Sunday, September 5 @ 10:00 AM Worship Service and The Lord's Supper Thursday, September 9 @ 7:30 PM Bishop Porter's Anniversary Celebration @ Proviso Baptist Church, Maywood, IL Sunday, September 12 @ 10:00 AM Worship Service Ministries' Annual Day Celebration Sunday, September 19 @ 9:30 AM Sunday School Promotion Day

Page 14 The Insider News, August 1-15, 2010

Submit your church’s calendar by the 15th of each month to

Minister Della Buckley

Life’s Choices Religious Editor, Racine Insider News @ dbuckley4@wi.rr.com or by calling 634-0428.

Michael is the kind of guy you love to hate. He is always in a good mood and always has something positive to say.

When someone would ask him how he was doing, would reply, "If I were any better, I would be twins!"

He was a natural motivator.

If an employee was having a bad day, Michael was there telling the employee how to look on the positive side of the situation.

Seeing this style really made me curious, so one day I went up to Michael and asked him, "I don't get it! You can't be a positive person all of the time. How do you do it?"

Michael replied, "Each morning I wake up and say to myself, you have two choices today.

Please turn to page 14

“Each time something bad happens, I can choose to be a victim or...I can choose to learn from it. I choose to learn from it.”

From page 13

You can choose to be in a good mood or .. you can choose to be in a bad mood.

I choose to be in a good mood.

Each time something bad happens, I can choose to be a victim or...I can choose to learn from it. I choose to learn from it.

Every time someone comes to me complaining, I can choose to accept their complaining or... I can point out the positive side of life, choose the positive side of life.

"Yeah, right, it's not that easy," I protested. "Yes, it is," Michael said. "Life is all about choices. When you cut away all the junk, every situation is a choice.

You choose how you react to situations. You choose how people affect your mood. You choose to be in a good mood or bad mood.

The bottom line: It's your choice how you live your life."

I reflected on what Michael said. Soon thereafter, I left the Tower Industry to start my own business. We lost touch, but I often thought about him when I made a choice about life instead of reacting to it.

Several years later, I heard that Michael was involved in a

serious accident, falling some 60 feet from a communications towe.

After 18 hours of surgery and weeks of intensive care, Michael was released from the hospital with rods placed in his back.

I saw Michael about six months after the accident. When I asked him how he was, he replied. "If I were any better, I'd be twins. Wanna see my scars?"

I declined to see his wounds, but I did ask him what had gone through his mind as the accident took place.

"The first thing that went through my mind was the well-being of my soon to be born daughter," Michael replied.

"Then, as I lay on the ground, I remembered that I had two choices: I could choose to live or... I could choose to die. I chose to live."

"Weren't you scared? Did you lose consciousness?" I asked.

Michael continued, "...the paramedics were great. They kept telling me I was going to be fine. But when they wheeled me into the ER and I saw the expressions on the faces of the doctors and nurses, I got really scared. In their eyes, I read "he's a dead man. I knew I needed to take action."

"What did you do?" I asked.

"Well, there was a big burly nurse

shouting questions at me," said Michael.

"She asked if I was allergic to anything.

"Yes, I replied." The doctors and nurses stopped working as they waited for my reply. I took a deep breath and yelled, "Gravity."

Over their laughter, I told them, "I am choosing to live. Operate on me as if I am alive, not dead."

Michael lived, thanks to the skill of his doctors, but also because of his amazing attitude. I learned from him that every day we have the choice to live fully.

Attitude, after all, is everything.

"Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself.

Each day has enough trouble of its own."

After all today is the tomorrow you wor-

SHEPHERD’S GUIDES Insider News

MLK Church of Christ --

1131 Douglas Avenue Racine, WI 262.412.3984 Sunday School - 9:30 a.m.

Sunday Worship Service - 11:00 a.m.

Wednesday Bible Study 6 p.m.

Lewis Givens Jr., Senior Pastor

Mat: 6:33 Seek ye first the Kingdom God and his righteousness all these things shall be added unto you.

The Vine Church 2405

Christian Faith Fellowship Church

Northwestern Ave. Racine, WI 53404 262-880-9479

Racine, Wisconsin

Sunday Worship @ 11:00 AM Bible Study on Thursday @ 6:30 PM 8:00 PM

Pastors Willie & Patricia Scott 262-631-0196

Church Theme: Connecting and Encouraging God's People.

Worship with us at: Sunday Worship Service • 10:00 AM Sunday School • 9:00 AM

"THE TRUE VINE" 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

Wednesday Bible Study • 6:30 PM Gilmore Middle School’s Auditorium 2330 Northwestern

Page 15 The Insider News, August 1-15, 2010

SHEPHERD’S Insider News

NAACP from page 13 civil rights and stop the internal strife.

However, he feels it will be hard to move forward with mistrust sitting in the room, he suggests.

I agree and feel that there are a number of civil rights issues in Racine that need to be addressed rather than where the leak may exist on the board. After all the NAACP is not a clandestine group that needs to hold secrets from its membership. In fact the successfulness of the NAACP has been it openness to its membership as well as the public.

We hope that these disagreements among members of the NAACP can be set aside for the good of and the prolonged existence of the organization.

The Insider values your feedback on this article. Please email insider@wi.net with your comments.

Church for Rent Great place for a growing congregation 1848 Howe St., Racine, WI Contact: Greater Shiloh Cathedral (262) 456-1162

Come as you are, you won’t stay as you are.

7pm

210 7th St. - (262) 632-1201

KIRBY Senior Pastor

Wednesday Prayer & Bible Class 11:00 AM and 6:00 PM Dinner - 5:30 PM

Gospel Mission

Pastors Breon and Karen Norton 945 N. Memorial Drive • Racine, WI 53403 262.634.3156 Sunday Service • 1:30 p.m.

Wednesday • 7:15 p.m.

Friday Prayer and Praise Dance • 7:15 p.m.

A Family Church Where Jesus Abides

SEARCHING TOGETHER MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH

Greater St. Luke’s Missionary Baptist Church

Rev. Willie Riley, Senior Pastor 262.633.4421

1326 State Street 632-4146

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

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.

Sunday School 9:15 am Sunday Worship 11:00 am Bible Class (Wednesday) • 6 pm

Pastor Jessie Summerall

For Lease Rev. Tommie L. Knuckles Senior Pastor

Christian Tabernacle Baptist Church 1201 Center Street Racine, Wis. 53403 (262) 634-6657

Come Worship with us at: Sunday School 9:30 AM Sunday Worship Service 11:00 AM

Pastor Joseph L. & First Lady Thomas

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.

Greater Mt. Eagle Baptist Church

“A God Glorifying, Christ Centered, Spirit-Filled Church”

Ministries

Christ Centered • Kingdom Driven • Family Focused

Wednesdays

Sunday School 9:15 AM Sunday Worship Service 7:45 AM & 10:40 AM

ZOE OUTREACH Ministries Rev. Melvin Hargrove, Pastor

262-552-8090

www.stpmbc.org

Sunday Service 10:30 Am Bible Study • Tuesday 7:00 pm

Sunday School - 8:45 a.m.

Sunday Worship Service - 10:00 a.m.

Sunday NA Meeting 6:30 PM 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

Sundays

262-632-1467

Bishop Lawrence L.

2130 Racine Street • Racine, WI 619-3027

Prayer: 11:15am Worship: Noon

1120 Grand Ave. Racine, Wis.

3433 Douglas Avenue, Racine, WI 53402 (262) 637-5433

Pastors Elliott & Josette Cohen

New Brighter Day Baptist Church 1225 25th Ave., Kenosha, WI

St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church

Abundant Life Christian Center Ministries ALCCM

Space Located at 5731 Northwestern Ave Racine WI (New Omega MBC) 3200 plus sq. feet (ideal for children’s day care). Also includes afenced in outside playground.

Property is available immediately.

Please call Pastor Richmond at (262-634-4655 ext 13 or 262-8806254)

Page 16 The Insider News, August 1-15, 2010

Prayer Service (Thursday) • 6 pm

Trinity United Missionary Baptist Church 306-5th Street, Racine, WI 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 email: tumbcc@ameritech.net Rev. Buddy Vinson Senior Pastor

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 Pastor Keith Evans 929 State Street •

Racine, Wisconsin 53404

637-1606

New Birth Baptist Church

1840 Howe Street Racine, WI 53403 262.898.8031 Rev. Larry Jackson

Sunday School - 9:30 am Sunday Worship - 10:45 am Bible Class (Wednesday) - 6 pm For the perfecting of the Saints, For the Work of the Ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ Ephesians 4 & 12

Christian Education Classes to be announced

WAYMAN

AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH

424 MEMORIAL DRIVE • RACINE, WI

Pastor Charlene & Evang.

Dimitri Mills Sunday School 9:00 a.m.

Sunday Worship Service- 10:30 a.m.

Tuesday Prayer Service - 9:30 a.m.

Bible Study Wednesday 6:30 p.m.

262-632-1650

How We Feel: It should come as no suprise that the city wants to close Park 6

It should come as no surprise that a Downtown nightclub owner Thomas Holmes, owner of Park 6, will get his liquor license back after a 45-day suspension as part of a forced agreement reached between him and the city.

The night before the hearing, Holmes told the Insider News that the city wanted to close him down for 40 days, but he feared that if he tried to fight them to remain open his license would be revoked.

The city's Public Safety and Licensing Committee scheduled the due process hearing for Holmes’ bar, which caters to a primarily African-American clientele. He agreed to the settlement offered in fear of losing his business if he did not agree.

Holmes also told the Insider News that he will lose close to $20,000 because of the closing. He also said that he was not sure how things will be once he re-opens.

The daily paper reported that Thomas Binger, an attorney hired to represent the city, reached the agreement with Holmes and his attorney after weeks of negotiations. "The suspension that is in place will close Park 6's door for a relatively significant period of time," Binger said.

The paper also reported that Holmes waived his right to appear at the due process hearing Thursday. As part of the agreement, Holmes accepted the city's finding that he operated "a disorderly or riotous, indecent or improper house," as defined by state law.

Many feel the committee has been out to close the popular club after a situation turned dangerous on May 20 when a stray

they went in and out of the bar.

Also, several people have been observed recording the crowd near Park and Sixth Thomas Holmes stands in front of his streets Park 6 bar. Holmes worry that the city from a is out to close his pouplar Hip-Hop establishment down to his African parked American patrons vehicle. In July, a video crew bullet struck a security officer outside of was spotted on top of a nearby building.

Park 6. While initial reports suggested Most recently Holmes said he was issued suspects were arrested in a car stopped in a citation for under-age patrons, which Kenosha after the incident, the shooting were ticketed several blocks from his remains under investigation and no establishment who told the police that charges have been filed. In short, police they had came out of Park 6. These don’t know what happened that night. actions have Holmes feeling like the city Days after the incident, the Committee is out to get him. quickly voted to take Park 6 to due In a NAACP report that has met public process which would close his doors scrutiny over its unauthorized release, before the police investigation was comstates that there seems to be an effort by pleted. Some believe that forcing Racine city officials to drive Blacks out Holmes to agree to a charge of running a of the downtown area. disorderly or riotous, indecent, or Holmes’ agreement with the city puts improper house is an attempt by the him in a bad position. It give officials 45 heavy-handed committee to save face for days to look deeper into the problem that their rush judgment. many feel is a law enforcement issue In recent months, lot of effort has rather than the bar owners’. The citygone into making a case to close the bar. acquired attorney hinted this when he On one occasion the Racine Police spoke before the committee, "It will give Department’s surveillance van was us a good idea what issues that are presparked near Park 6 filming patrons as ent in that area of town are the result of

Page 17 The Insider News, September 1-15, 2010

Park 6 or may be the result of other causes." This also shows a weakness in the case that they city developed against Homes.

Although Alderman Aron Wisneski, the committee's chairman, thinks the agreement is a fair deal for both parties involved, we greatly disagree.

The forced agreement was a win-win for the city only. But for the Black community it was unfair and a foreseeable problem.

First with police walking the downtown location on weekends, there had already begun an improvement in the area. These actions by the Chief of Police, we feel was not allowed to come to fruition.

Some others feel that the city is trying to dodge its responsibility to the African-American community. “If someone has a headache, you don’t cut off their head,” one suggested. Is the city really trying to solve the downtown issues, or are they trying to put a bandaid on the wound by punishing Park 6?

But what worries many other bar owners is wheather or not the closing of Park 6 will put a new burden on their own establishments. Will the patrons leave the downtown area and find other places to go or will they over crowd the other well visited downtown bars?

The committee's recommendation still has to be approved by the City Council next month.

What do you think? We would like to hear from you.

Page 18 The Insider News, August 1-15, 2010

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