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VOL.XL Number 6 September 9, 2015
The Milwaukee
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MEN WHO COOK...AND GIVE BACK!
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
Annual Wisconsin Black Chamber of Commerce event recognizes fathers from the community who have and are making a difference
Wisconsin's Black unemployment rate the highest in the nation
Photo: Joe Raedle/Getty Images
Wisconsin's unemployment rate for African Americans was the highest in the nation last year, a new report shows.
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The Wisconsin Black Chamber of Commerce held its 16th annual “Men Who Cook” and sixth annual “Dads Who Cook” event over the Labor Day weekend at the Parklawn YMCA, 4340 N. 46th St. The event was co-sponsored by WBCC, My Father’s House, Parklawn YMCA and the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. The chamber also recognized several young and old fathers from the community who are making--and have made--a positive impact on their community. Among the highlights: A) The participants and winners of the competition. (B) Lillian Pounds, wife of the late community activist Ron Pounds, who received the award for him; (C) Earl Ingram, Sr. (seated in wheelchair) with his family and representatives of “Men Who Cook,” (D) Charles Muhammad (center) with WBCC official and “Men Who Cook” organizer Reuben Hopkins (far left) and Khalid Whalid, one of the cook-off participants and a member of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community; (E) Dr. Michael Bonds with his wife Kathy, and cook-off organizers; (F) Christopher Sewell with his son, a representative of My Father’s House and event organizers. (More photos on page 8) Photos by Yvonne Kemp
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By Jessie Opoien, article courtesy of The Capital Times of Madison, WI
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QUESTION OF THE WEEK:
PULSE OF THE
COMMUNITY What were your plans for the just held Labor Day Holiday? Photos and question by Yvonne Kemp
SHONTINA GLADNEY: “(I spent) much needed time with the family and reflected on the time in my life when I was not as fortunate.”
TYRONE DUMAS: “Family, friends, faith and relaxation made my Labor Day a time of reflection, appreciation and fun!”
JACQUELINE MUHAMMAD: “Besides spending time with my family, I promoted the 10-1015 “Justice Or Else” in Washington, D.C. Both were a “labor of love!”
DALE KALEE: “Being alive!”
“According to the report, Wisconsin gained 140,700 jobs from January 2011 to June 2014 at a growth rate of 5.1 percent. Over the same period, national job growth was 8.4 percent. Had Wisconsin kept pace with national growth, it would have added 90,127 more jobs.”
The Center on Wisconsin Strategy released its State of Working Wisconsin 2015 report on Friday, which found that the state has seen slow job growth, wage stagnation and disparities tied to race and gender. Unemployment among AfricanAmericans in Wisconsin was 19.9 percent in 2014. That's the highest rate in the nation, and 4.6 times higher than the state's white unemployment rate. Nationally, AfricanAmericans are 2.3 times more likely to be unemployed than white workers. Meanwhile, Wisconsin's overall unemployment has returned to prerecession levels. The report also found that the ratio of women's to men's median wages was 81 cents for every dollar. Accounting for inflation, median worker wages are 71 cents higher today than they were in 1979. But the gender gap is shrinking. In 1979, the median woman earned 59 cents for every dollar earned by the median man. The progressive think-tank has looked at the state's working climate every year since 1996. According to the report, Wisconsin gained 140,700 jobs from January 2011 to June 2014 at a growth rate of 5.1 percent. Over the same period, national job growth was 8.4 percent. Had Wisconsin kept pace with national growth, it would have added 90,127 more jobs. However, the report also noted that Wisconsin's manufacturing job growth outpaces the national market. The sectors that substantially lag the national rate are trade, transportation and utilities, professional and business services and leisure and hospitality. "We’ve all been hoping for an economic recovery strong enough to lift wages and income,” said COWS associate director Laura Dresser in a statement. "Unfortunately, we’re just not seeing it in 2015, and this Labor Day, we’re still waiting for good news. But the national momentum toward a minimum wage increase is very good news. And as attention grows around the need to invest in our educational systems, this also holds promise for Wisconsin’s workers and future." Gov. Scott Walker's spokeswoman responded to the report with a statement Friday. Governor Walker has invested millions in worker training and workforce development programs in order to equip Wisconsinites with the skills they need to find good-paying, family-supporting jobs in our modern workforce. "Governor Walker has also focused on implementing policies to help spur economic growth in Wisconsin, and it’s working. Our economy is growing and we are creating jobs — 2014 was Wisconsin’s best year for private sector job creation in a decade. “Not only that, but our disposable income growth adjusted for inflation was 3rd best in the Midwest and better than the nation," said Laurel Patrick in an email. "More people are working. While the national unemployment rate was 5.3 percent in July, the unemployment rate in Wisconsin is down to 4.6 percent."
The Milwaukee Community Journal September 9, 2015 Page 2
THE PULSE
The WHO•WHAT•WHERE• WHEN of YOUR Community!
2015 Walk to End Alzheimer’s Has a New Date and Location Sunday, September 20 at Henry Maier Festival Park F o r m e r l y
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C o m m u n i t y
The Walk to End Alzheimer’s in Milwaukee County, the 15th largest event of its kind in the nation, will be held this year on Sunday, September 20 at Henry Maier Festival Park. CV and Van McNeil of Trending Radio 93.3 will serve as masters of ceremonies to welcome thousands of individuals, families, and members of the corporate and small business community. A moving Promise Garden tribute to all those whose lives have been touched by Alzheimer’s will be followed by a beautiful walk around Lakeshore State Park. On-site registration begins at 8:30 a.m., with the walk starting promptly at 10:00 a.m. Walkers will enter the festival grounds at the South Gate and proceed to the Briggs and Stratton stage. Parking is free, courtesy of Summerfest and the Italian Community Center. After the Walk, attendees are invited to stay for the Purple Palooza, which will feature music from WAMI award winning singer-songwriter and Alzheimer’s Champion, Nora Collins. The Tom Anthony Band, fresh off their 30 stint shows at the State Fair, will also be on hand to entertain the crowd. Food, soda and spirits will be available for purchase. Come join the fun!
H a p p e n i n g s
The Walk to End Alzheimer’s in Milwaukee County is chaired by David Simbro, Northwestern Mutual; Thelma Sias, We Energies; and Ricardo Diaz, United Community Center. The event is also supported by a committee of local community leaders. “Everyone has a reason to end Alzheimer’s disease,” said Tom Hlavacek, executive director of the Alzheimer’s Association, Southeastern Wisconsin Chapter. “Individuals living in Milwaukee County have a proud tradition of supporting this important cause, and helping the Alzheimer’s Association provide care and support services to nearly 16,000 local people and families living with this disease.” -In 2014, nearly $620,000 was raised by the Walk to End Alzheimer’s in Milwaukee County to help individuals living with Alzheimer’s and their families access support and services, including the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline, support groups, research, education and training. Participants can register, support another walker and get information online at www.alz.org/walk. For questions or assistance, please call 800-272-3900. Registration can also be done the day of the walks, beginning at 8:30 a.m. The Walk begins at 10:00 a.m.
PERSPECTIVES
The Milwaukee Community Journal September 9, 2015 Page 3
QUOTE OF THE WEEK:
More questions that will make you go...“Hmmmmm”
Several weeks ago I wrote a column that focused on unanswered rhetorical questions that plagued me throughout the year.
I mentioned at the time that the annual endeavor coincided with this paper’s anniversary. Oops, my bad. Apparently, I’m getting old. Our actual anniversary falls on the first of September. That being the case, allow me to fire off some additional questions: What do unemployed folks have to celebrate on Labor Day—another day off, or maybe an unemployment check? For that matter, what did the Black slave have to celebrate on the fourth of July? Hypocrisy? A lie about freedom and justice? For that matter, what did the so-called free Black “American” have to celebrate? Did you know that there was a Prisoner of War (POW) camp on Port Washington Road that held German prisoners during WWII? The rationale for the local prison was that Milwaukee was originally a German settlement, and thus many people of that era spoke German. Interestingly, at the “request” of the prisoners, Black residents were restricted from being hired as guards. Would you return to a White business that provided poor service or inferior products? What about a Black business? If the word ‘publican’ as used in the Bible means a swindling tax collector, what does Republican mean? Do you hold your breath every time there’s a report of a murder, hoping against hope that the assailant is not Black? Did you know if every Black dollar touched three Black hands before leaving our community, we could cut unemployment in half? Why are restrooms designated for men or ladies, instead of gentlemen and women? Truth of the matter is, not all girls grow up to be ladies, and not all men claim to be gentlemen. At last count, there were 1,872 new programs guaranteeing weight lost in seven days. Are you dumb enough to believe any of them? Did your hear about the new study from an Ontario, Canada university that found a link between cognitive ability (intelligence) and prejudice? Which of the following Civil War questions are true: 1. Slavery was not a factor in the Southern States seceding from the union. The resolution passed by Congress in 1861 made that abundantly
THE MILWAUKEE COMMUNITY JOURNAL
SIGNIFYIN’ By Mikel Kweku Osei Holt
clear. 2. The St. Andrews cross flag maligned by the media was never the flag of the Confederate States of America. It was a Battle flag used to assist troop movements on the battlefield. 3. A handful of freed Black slaves fought alongside White soldiers for the Confederacy. 4. Union Commander Ulysses S. Grant continued to own slaves until after the war ended. Confederate Commander Robert E. Lee never owned any slaves during the conflict and frequently spoke out against slavery. 5. The Emancipation Proclamation only applied to slaves in the South. Northern slave owners were not affected. 6. Lincoln was not an abolitionist and frequently supported anti-black legislation. 7. The slave owner with the most slaves in the south was neither white nor a man. She was a Negro widow who with her son owned 157 slaves in Louisiana. 8. Lincoln once said about freeing the slaves that “I would do it if I wasn’t afraid half the (union) officers would fling down their arms and three more states would rise (join the Confederacy). 9. Did Abe Lincoln support a plan to pay $400 for every freed slave and then encourage the newly freed slave to return to Africa? The statement prompted abolitionist Wendel Phillips to call Lincoln a ‘first rate, second rate man.’ Speaking of the Confederacy, did you know organizers of a Confederate flag rally originally slated for next week in Sheboygan are rescheduling the event? The organizers said the rally was merely to express support for their southern brothers and that the Confederate flag is not about racism, but Southern pride. Hum… didn’t know there were so many “Southern sympathizers” in Sheboygan. Congressmen returned to Washington, D.C. Tuesday after a monthlong vacation. With all of the problems America faces, our representatives get month long vacations? On the other hand, since Republicans control the House and Senate, the vacation means there is less trouble they can cause. I witnessed four cars this past week in which infants and small children were not in safety seats. Were the female drivers ignorant of the danger their neglect put their children in, or just stupid? Why do all the men on the
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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.
“Maury Show” think they can beat the lie detector? Why doesn’t ESPN cover the WWE? Oh I forgot, for the same reason network news ignores “professional wrestling.” A majority of Black ministers preach homosexuality and abortion are sins. But a large percentage including, Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton, say they will follow the law. Which side is right? Did you know the infamous Koch brothers are the largest contributors to the United Negro College Fund? Is it right for Black students to take money from those conservatives? And if not, are Black people going to dig deep to replace the lost revenues? Is arming police with cameras and then giving them discretion as to when to turn them off a good ideal?
The case against mandatory minimum sentences for violent felons Hotep.
Gun crimes in Milwaukee are on the rise, and something has to be done to stop it. That is something we can all agree upon. But how?
it was last year? As a member of the Judiciary Committee, I asked tough questions about this bill of both the authors, Milwaukee Police Chief Ed Flynn and Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett. I believe in data driven strategies. If you want me to support something, give me hard numbers to prove that your idea will result in desirable outcomes. When I asked for numbers, Mayor Barrett said, "We can talk for 50 hours about data. My data is -- (this criminal) committed a violent crime. And he`s using a gun. Back in May, I wrote a guest column for the MilwauWhat`s there to talk about?" That’s a great soundbite. The kee Courier anticipating a mandatory minimum sentencproblem is, there’s a lot to talk about. ing debate at the Capitol saying, “…often the things that There are four major problems with AB-220. First, the make for the best sound bites make for the worst public bill ignores the fact that we already have a punishment policy.” for a felon carrying a gun, which is up to ten years in Last week, that’s exactly what happened. The Senate prison and a $10,000 fine. Judiciary Committee held a public hearing on Assembly Current law wisely gives judges the discretion to deBill 220, authored by Rep. Joel Kleefisch (Rtermine punishment because they have all the facts availOconomowoc) and Rep. LaTonya Johnson (D-Milwauable to them. kee). Whereas, mandatory minimum sentence are automatic, The goal of the bill is simple, to curb violent crime taking judicial discretion out of the hands of judges, just with use of a gun through longer prison terms. The bill like truth in sentencing takes discretion out of the hands would apply a mandatory minimum sentence to anyone with a felony record who’s been out of prison five years By State Sen. Lena Taylor of parole boards, and we all know how ineffective and or less and commits another “violent crime” while in possession of a gun. expensive that’s been. A second problem is that violent crimes under the bill, while terrible often The punishment would be approximately 3-8 years on top of the sentence have nothing to do with gun violence. Under AB-220, certain food, drug or they would normally get for committing that crime. Sounds like a slam dunk, right? That’s what some people want you to be- household item tampering can be considered a violent crime. The bill also covers mental abuse of a child, arson, mayhem and Molotov cocktails. lieve because it pulls on people’s heart strings to be “tough on crime.” Third, legislating like this tugs on heart strings, but doesn’t take into acAdditionally, it’s a lot easier to be tough on crime than to be smart on crime. count the purse strings attached to these laws. It costs approximately $33,000 But does locking them up and throwing away the key actually work? After all, we incarcerate twice as many people in Wisconsin than Min- per year to incarcerate a person in Wisconsin. Adding between three to eight nesota. We incarcerate almost twice as many black men than the national av- years to a prison sentence will cost an additional roughly $100,000 to erage, which is why more than half of African American men in their 30’s in $250,000 per inmate. Just ten incarcerations under this proposed law could cost Wisconsin someMilwaukee have served time. So, does putting people behind bars cause less violent crimes? Well, if that where between $1 million and $2.5 million. Can you imagine the jobs we was the case, then why is Milwaukee’s murder rate twice as high this year as (continued on page 8)
GUEST
COMMENTARY
JUSTICE OR ELSE Part II
We Need Black Leadership to Fight for Justice
When do we begin to acknowledge that Black people have real and unique issues? We can no longer blame everything on others and we are unwilling or unable to look within. Yes, so much has been done to us, but what will it take to not only acknowledge those issues, but to begin to do something about them. When do we assume control of our own challenges and our own destiny? I remember Malcom X once saying that the Black community doesn’t have a moral position to blame White people for all that its problems because, if immigrants can come here with no education and no resources and pool their funds together to amass wealth, then why can’t the Black man in America do the same? Malcolm raised this question over 50 years ago. He was challenging Black leadership. Malcom X was challenging whether we even have Black leadership and he accused Black leaders for placing more focus on Blacks assimilating into the White community versus doing what all other minorities have and continues to do in America – act as a minority and pull together its resources. Shouldn’t black leadership be an organized fight for justice? Today, we must ask the same questions of our leaders because not much has changed and, the truth is, our problems have worsened. At the time of the Malcom X statement (1963), the Black community generated nearly $20 billion annually and couldn’t develop an economic plan. Today, the Black community generates nearly a $1 trillion annually and yet we still have little
or no capacity (infrastructure) to move the economic needle towards self-determination. I agree with his basic premise, Blacks do have more to work with (then and now) than any other immigrant group coming to America but we have not truly understood the economic impact of this statistic. I now understand why some consider American Blacks the highest paid slaves in the world. Why? Slaves are people who are owned and ultimately controlled by another group and/or economic system with no capacity to free themselves and chart their own course. Today, slavery is unlawful, but a person may still be described as a slave if a group is completely dependent upon the actions of another group and are unable to change their outcome and is, in fact, unable to chart a course for self-determination. This is the state of Black America and this is the legacy of the American institution of slavery and, like chattel slavery, it represents a gross injustice. To be a Black leader without addressing this glaring injustice reduces the leadership to basically being a label on an empty can. Let us look at the facts and not be emotional about who we are and what our socio-economic status truly is. Since emancipation, only a couple Black people out of 45 million have been able to become rich and I don’t believe that any Blacks have achieved the title of being wealthy – wealth would indicate that Blacks would have achieved several generations of progress and future generations or family members would never have to worry about money again – ever. Sure, we have a few Black people that have become millionaires (extreme low percentage of the Black population), but it pales in comparison to the thousands of White individuals who have become billionaires and/or the documented tens of thousands of existing White millionaires. The wealth gap between Blacks and Whites is not a gap at all its more like the Grand Canyon. Where you start matters.
(continued on page 8)
RELIGION
The Milwaukee Community Journal September 9, 2015 Page 4
WEDDING ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION
Olamide and Janelle Olatunji (pictured inset at left) recently celebrated their third wedding anniversary with family and friends at the Blues Egg Restaurant, 317 N. 76th St. The couple was married in Kaduna, Nigeria West Africa. (Photos by Yvonne Kemp)
MOUNT CARMEL MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH PRESENTS
“BREAK THROUGH AND LIVE”
Annual Community Parent and Youth Workshop Offers Tools to Seek Peace and Succeed
Mount Carmel Missionary Baptist Church, headed by Reverend Dr. Hugh Davis, Jr., wants Milwaukee’s youth to know that despite the hurdles to adulthood, they can “Break Through and Live.” That’s the theme of its Annual Community Parent and Youth Workshop to be held on Saturday, September 12, 2015 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Mount Carmel is located at 1717 W. Meinecke. Regis-
tration is $3 for adults and $2 for children under age 12. The workshop is inspired by Amos 5:14 (King James Bible) and pertains to "seeking good and not evil." Lunch is included for registered guests. The presenters and topics are as follows: The Milwaukee Police Department will present a segment from its successful STOP program (Students Talking It Over with Police) with Sergeant William Singleton. Representatives from Growing Minds, Pamela Hansen and Tina Grace, will share tips for children and teens to use in dealing with anxiety and stress, including how to calm down when angry. From the Wisconsin Baptist State Convention’s Laymen, Deacon Albert Brown will discuss how involvement in the Junior Laymen can further teens’ Christian education and spiritual development. In addition, Minister Vincent Cockroft will give his testimony of how the Junior Laymen changed his life. Talijah Williams, President of the Wisconsin General Baptist State Youth Convention, will offer an inspirational message to both youth and their parents. For more information about the workshop, call the Mount Carmel business office at (414) 264-2560 or Evangelist A. Wilburn at (414) 699-5747.
WHAT’S HAPPENING in YOUR Faith-based community
Women of Destiny will hold its annual conference Friday, Sept. 18 and Saturday, Sept 19, at the Radisson Hotel Northshore, 7065 N. Port Washington Rd. The theme is: “Pursuing What Matters the Most” (Matthew 6:33). The conference’s mission is to stir up the gifts and encourage the body of believers. A seed offering will be given in support of the Scott Christian Youth Center. On Friday, the conference will start at 7 p.m. The inspirational speaker for that evening will be Evangelist Sharon Butler. The keynote speaker will be Pastor Elliot Joes of Walking In The Spirit. Health tips will be provided by Askia Haney. On Saturday morning, starting at 9 a.m., the inspirational speaker will be Alisa Crawley, the first lady of Bethel COGIC. The keynote speaker for that morning will be Dr. Robert E. Garner, administrative assistant at Word of Truth COGIC, Detroit, MI. The luncheon cost is $45 for adults. For children under 12, it’s $20. Overnight stay conference rate is $79. For further details, contact Evangelist Margaret Adams at 414-554-3888.
'In God We Trust' decals drive police into constitutional controversy Article courtesy of Associated Press via “The Rundown”
A police department in a Texas Bible Belt community has placed large "In God We Trust" decals on its patrol vehicles in response to recent violence against law enforcement officers, drawing criticism from a watchdog group that says the decals amount to an illegal government endorsement of religion. The decision by police this month to unveil the phrase in Childress, an agricultural community of some 6,100 people at the southern edge of the Texas (continued on page 8)
PASSAGES PASSAGES
Funeral services for Pam Harris were held yesterday at Mt. Zion Baptist Church. Pam was loved by her family and friends which included nine brother, one sister, three aunts, one uncle and a host of other relatives and friends. Pam Harris
In Loving Memory
Earnestine O’Bee-Founder
Women’s Day at Peace Temple COGIC Sept. 27
Peace Temple COGIC will hodl its annual Women’s Day Sunday, Sept. 27, starting at 3:30 p.m. Peace Temple is located at 3332 W. Lisbon Ave. The theme is: “Holy Women On the Move for God.” The guest speakers will be First Lady Sandra Bent, First Lady Bonita Mills, and Sunday School Field Representative Rosetta Forrest. Peace Temple is pastored by Elder Ulysses Brewer. The First Lady is Sis. Lady Brewer. Women’s Day President is Irene Brewer. Evangelist Margaret Adams is the coordinator.
Quality Service... a tenured tradition sincere concern at your time of need.
Offering pre-need, at need and after-care services to families in Milwaukee, Racine, Kenosha and other communities throughout our state.
JONES, LINDA F. Age 60 yrs. August 29, 2015. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, September 12, 2015 at 11AM at Holy Temple Baptist Church 4245 N. 60th St. Visitation Saturday 10AM at the CHURCH until time of services. The family is served by: Northwest Funeral Chapel O'Bee, Ford & Frazier 6630 W. Hampton Ave (414)462-6020 HARPOLE-WHITE, MARDREE J. Age 99 yrs. September 1, 2015. Funeral services will be held Saturday, September 12, 2015 at 11AM at Shiloh Tabernacle Church 3436 N. Port Washington Rd. Visitation Saturday 10AM at the CHURCH until time of services. The family is served by: Northwest Funeral Chapel O'Bee, Ford & Frazier 6630 W. Hampton Ave. (414)462-6020
TOWNSEND, WILLA MALVENE (NEE ALEXANDER) peacefully entered into Eternal Life on September 7, at age 84. Beloved wife of the late Luther Townsend Jr. Dear mother of Angela Renee Townsend and stepmother of Luther Tyrone and Gregory Lance Townsend. Fond sister of Frances Alexander of Louisville Ky.; Martha (Rev. Willie) Stamps of Detroit; and Claudette (Dr. Clifford)Claiborne of Chicago. Also survived by a host of nephews, nieces and other loving relatives and friends. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Calvary Baptist Church's Scholarship Fund for college-bound students. Funeral services will be held on Monday, September 14, 2015 at 11 AM at Calvary Baptist Church, 2959 N. Teutonia Ave., Milwaukee. In state Monday 10 AM at the CHURCH until time of services. Visitation Sunday 3-6PM(Family reception 6-7PM) at: Northwest Funeral Chapel O'Bee, Ford & Frazier 6630 W. Hampton Ave. (414)462-6020
PARKER, NELLIE A. Age 76 yrs. September 5, 2015. Funeral services will be
J.C. Frazier, Funeral Director
held on Saturday, September 12, 2015 at 11AM. Visitation Saturday 10AM until time of services at: Northwest Funeral Chapel O'Bee, Ford & Frazier 6630 W. Hampton Ave. (414)462-6020
WILLIAMS, WILLIE H. JR. Age 61 yrs. September 6, 2015. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, September 15, 2015 at 11AM. Visitation Tuesday 10AM until time of services at:
Northwest Funeral Chapel O'Bee, Ford & Frazier 6630 W. Hampton Ave. (414)462-6020
SCOTT, RICHARD L. Age 43 yrs. September 3, 2015. Funeral services will be held on Friday, September 11, 2015 at 11AM at Calvary Baptist Church 2959 N. Teutonia Ave. Visitation Friday 10AM at the CHURCH until time of services. The family is served by: Northwest Funeral Chapel O'Bee, Ford & Frazier 6630 W. Hampton Ave. (414)462-6020
BANYARD, CHRISLER Age 64 yrs. September 2, 2015. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, September 8, 2015 at 1PM. Visitation Tuesday 12 Noon until time of services at: Northwest Funeral Chapel O'Bee, Ford & Frazier 6630 W. Hampton Ave. (414)462-6020
WILLIAMS, WILLIE H. JR. Age 61 yrs. September 6, 2015. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, September 15, 2015 at 11AM. Visitation Tuesday 10AM until time of services at: Northwest Funeral Chapel O'Bee, Ford & Frazier 6630 W. Hampton Ave. (414)462-6020
Families served by:
Northwest Funeral Chapel O’Bee, Ford & Frazier
Milwaukee 6630 W. Hampton Avenue Milwaukee, WI 53218 Telephone: (414) 462-6020 Fax: (414) 462-9937
Racine 800 Barker St. Racine, WI 53402 Telephone: (262) 637-6400 Fax: (262) 637-6416
The Milwaukee Community Journal September 9, 2015 Page 5
Social Security and your spouse – Some great advice from AARP By Jean Setzfand
Do you want to do something really special for your spouse? Then skip the chocolates and flowers, and let’s talk Social Security. Okay, it’s not the most romantic topic, but if you plan well, your spouse will feel your love for years to come. Let’s start with the basics. Normal retirement age for Social Security is currently 66 if you were born between 1943 and 1954. (It rises to 67 if you were born in 1960 or later). But “normal” doesn’t always mean “best.” To get the highest benefit from Social Security, you can delay retiring up until age 70. Now, you might not end up in a position to do this, but it’s well worth it if you can. Your benefit goes up 8% a year until age 70. On the other hand, you’re permitted to take Social Security beginning at age 62. But this can reduce your benefit by 25% or more. Here’s an example for someone with a $1,000 monthly benefit at normal retirement age:
Claiming age 62 66* 70
Monthly benefit $750 $1,000 $1,320
*For individuals born between 1943-1954.
So now you know how deciding when to claim affects you. Here’s how it affects your spouse: #1. You’ll have higher annual income as a couple. The longer you wait to begin taking your Social Security retirement benefit (up to age 70), the more income you’ll have as a couple. A few hundred dollars a month in additional income during retirement can have a meaningful impact on your budget. #2. Her survivor benefit will be higher. If you die first, your spouse gets 100% of your retire-
ment benefit. If you take your benefits early, you’re leaving her with less monthly income for life. If you retire later, you’re giving her a monthly gift that keeps on giving. And, if you outlive her, you still have the higher benefit. #3. She can start claiming before you retire. Here’s a neat option if your spouse has lower lifetime earnings than you – it’s called the “file and suspend” strategy. You can file for your retirement benefit at your normal retirement age, but ask to receive it later. When you do this, the love of your life can file for spousal benefits on your work record. Then, when you turn 70, you can start receiving your higher benefit. Social Security has a built in way of increasing retirement benefits for your spouse if she has earned less income than you over her lifetime. If her retirement benefit will be less than yours by 50% or more, she’ll get the higher amount. She can wait until her full retirement age to claim this “spousal benefit” to maximize her monthly income. There’s a lot for couples to consider when looking at Social Security retirement benefit options. It’s not the easiest thing to do in the world, but then again, neither is love! But everything worthwhile is worth working on. Hmm. Social Security claiming is kind of romantic after all. To learn more about Social Security, head on over to www.aarp.org/work/social-security. You can also find lots of information from the Social Security Administration at www.ssa.gov. Jean C. Setzfand is Vice President of the Financial Security issues team in the Education and Outreach group at AARP. She leads AARP’s educational and outreach efforts aimed at helping Americans achieve financial ‘peace of mind’ in retirement. She can be reached at jsetzfand@aarp.org.
Y&E
The Milwaukee Community Journal September 9, 2015 Page 6
YOUTH&EDUCATION
Ribbon-cuttings set for new MPS athletic fields
Photo from the new South Stadium
Rebuilt South Stadium, renovated Custer Stadium part of district effort to strengthen athletic opportunities
Milwaukee Public Schools student athletes, district leaders and community members will come together Friday to cut the ribbons at two new MPS athletic fields, celebrating new opportunities for student athletes that enhance the MPS experience.
The new football and soccer fields at the rebuilt South Stadium and the renovated Custer Stadium are a component of district-wide efforts to expand athletic programs, tied to MPS' eight Strategic Objectives or "Big Ideas" to improve student success. "We want to redefine the MPS experience for our students and making sure that our students have access to stronger extracurricular and athletic opportunities is a critical part of a well-rounded education," MPS Superintendent Dr. Darienne Driver said. Ribbon-cutting events are set for: • Approximately 5:30 p.m. (halftime of the 4:30 p.m. football game) at Custer Stadium, immediately southwest of MPS' Barack Obama School of Career and Technical Education, 5075 N. Sherman Boulevard, Milwaukee 53209; Rufus King International High School will be taking on North Division High School • Approximately 7 p.m. (halftime of the 6 p.m. football game) at South Stadium, adjacent to MPS' Hayes Bilingual School, 971 W. Windlake Avenue, Milwaukee 53204; Pulaski High School will be taking on South Division High School
“The two new fields feature synthetic turf to both improve player safety and help the fields handle a higher volume of games. Each stadium is the home field for multiple teams.”
The two new fields feature synthetic turf to both improve player safety and help the fields handle a higher volume of games. Each stadium is the home field for multiple teams. Custer Stadium is home for the football programs at Rufus King International High School, James Madison Academic Campus, Morse*Marshall School for the Gifted and Talented, North Division High School, Barack Obama School of Career and Technical Education and Washington High School of Information Technology. South Stadium is home for the football programs at Bay View High School, Lynde and Harry Bradley Technology and Trade High School and South Division High School. Each stadium is also home field for a number of soccer teams. The stadium projects were funded
through Qualified School Construction Bonds issued by MPS through the city of Milwaukee. Other MPS efforts to strengthen athletic opportunities include: Expanding student access to team sports: Three new varsity football teams are on the field for 2015-16 -North Division High School, Barack Obama School of Career and Technical Education and Ronald Reagan College Preparatory High School Expanding access to Certified Athletic Trainers in multiple sports, including a grant from the Green Bay Packers and the NFL for football trainers.
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KALEIDOSCOPE
Sister Speak...Speak Lord!
The Milwaukee Community Journal September 9, 2015 Page 7
the MCJ lifestyle & entertainment section
MADISON,WI-- Take one romantic couple, sprinkle in 18 holes of golf, a couples massage and candlelight dinner, mix in a winery tour, stir in a festival, garnish with two cozy nights and serve with a kiss.
In Wisconsin, romance is always on the menu – from award-winning dining experiences and historic wineries, to luxurious spas and scenic golf courses that are worth the drive.
Eat, Drink and Be Merry! Foodies and wine-lovers delight in all that Wisconsin has to offer. L’Etoile Restaurant, located on the Capitol Square in Madison, is an upscale farm-to-table establishment that serves French-inspired American fare using fresh ingredients and a seasonal menu. Braise is Milwaukee’s first communitysupported restaurant featuring an everchanging menu of seasonal ingredients they receive from more than 40 Wisconsin farms! Wisconsin Dells is also home to great eateries. The Ishnala Supper Club is one of the Dells’ famous fine dining options with beautiful views right on Mirror Lake, and the nearby Del-Bar, designed by a protégé of Frank Lloyd Wright, is known for its supper club casual elegance. Oenophiles rejoice! At Cedar Creek Winery in Cedarburg, guests are invited to tour the family-run winery and enjoy a variety of award-winning, traditional-style red, white and blush grape wines. Established before the Civil War, Wollersheim Winery in Prairie du Sac is a
THE BON-TON STORES, INC. and GOODWILL SALE HELPS COMMUNITY
Donate apparel at Bon-Ton stores and receive discounts on new fall merchandise
MILWAUKEE—The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. (NASDAQ: BONT) which operates Bon-Ton, Boston Store, Bergner’s, Carson’s, Elder-Beerman, Herberger’s and Younkers stores, today announced the semi-annual Bon-Ton Goodwill Sale will take place from September 16 ¬– October 3, 2015. People who donate clothing, shoes, accessories or other household textiles for Goodwill at any of the Bon-Ton Stores’ 270 locations will receive discount coupons to purchase the newest fall fashions for the entire family as well as home merchandise. Donors will receive coupons of up to 25 percent off merchandise at their local Bon-Ton, Bergner’s, Boston Store, Carson’s, Elder-Beerman, Herberger’s or Younkers stores. The special Goodwill donor discount applies to women’s, men’s and children’s apparel; shoes; handbags; home items; and luggage, with 15 percent off on cosmetics and fragrances. “The Goodwill Sale is Bon-Ton’s signature cause-marketing event,” said Kathryn Bufano, president and chief executive officer of The BonTon Stores, Inc. “Our customers look forward to this sale because they can get involved by donating to help others and also receive discounts on new fall merchandise.” Bon-Ton stores will donate the items collected to Goodwill, where they will be sold in Goodwill stores. Revenues from the sale of those items help fund job training and services in the communities where they are collected, and they help people find jobs and build their careers. In addition, Goodwill uses the funds to provide support services to help people strengthen their families, including free tax preparation, financial education and youth mentoring. “When you take part in the Bon-Ton Goodwill Sale, you can be certain your donations provide services that help thousands of people who face challenges to finding employment,” said Jim Gibbons, president and CEO of Goodwill Industries International. “Bon-Ton shoppers get great deals on new fall clothing and other items, and Goodwill is better able to support career development programs that help individuals and families.” This marks the 21st year of the partnership between Goodwill and Bon-Ton. Customers may register for at www.MillionActsofGoodwill.com for a chance to win a $25 gift card and one lucky winner will receive a $500 shopping spree. See official rules online for details.
Serving up the Recipe for Romance
Wisconsin offers full menu of experiences for couples seeking romantic getaway
National Historic Site. Visitors can tour the winery, visit the underground aging caves and taste their award-winning wines. As an added bonus, travelers can stop by the newly opened Wollersheim Distillery, which produces whiskey, absinthe, gin and brandy made from locallysourced grains and Wisconsin-grown grapes. Spa-aaaah… Wisconsin Wisconsin spas offer a complete range of treatments that will leave you saying, ‘pamper me, Wisconsin!’ Sundara Inn & Spa in Wisconsin Dells was named a “Top 5 Destination Spa in the World for 2014” by readers of Travel + Leisure magazine. Those looking for a holistic, organic experience can visit Aspira Spa at The Osthoff Resort in Elkhart Lake, which ranked #3 on Condé Nast Traveler’s list of Top Spas in North America. Last but certainly not least, Kohler Waters Spa at the American Club is one of only 48 five-star spas worldwide, offering a range of therapeutic water treatments. Fore! Link lovers of all levels will enjoy Wisconsin’s 500 courses available for public play. Geneva National Golf Club tees up championship-level rounds at its Palmer, Player and Trevino Courses – all 54 holes designed by the masters themselves. Wild Rock, selected as one of this year’s best resort courses by Golf Week
magazine and one of the top fifteen in Wisconsin by Golf Digest, is arguably at the top of almost any golf trip to the Dells. Sculpted along two miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, Whistling Straits in Kohler offers two courses that have hosted the PGA Championship, U.S. Senior Open and the Palmer Cup, and will host the prestigious Ryder Cup in 2020. Home of the Greater Milwaukee Open from 1994-2009, Brown Deer Golf Course was one of the few municipal golf courses to ever host a PGA Tour event. In 1996, 21-year-old Tiger Woods made his professional debut at Brown Deer, finishing in a tie for 60th place! Wisconsin Fests are still the best! Wisconsin has a long-time reputation for hosting fantastic festivals! Don’t miss out on the upcoming festival fun! Taste of Madison – Madison, Sept. 5-6 Every year over Labor Day weekend, Wisconsin’s capital city fills with local food, beverage and entertainment stands. This year’s event will feature more than 85 vendors covering the Capitol Square all weekend long. Fox Jazz Fest – Menasha, September 5-6 Tap your toes at this local jazz event in Jefferson Park. Enjoy jazz artists from around the globe along with food, art and
Cedar Creek Winery
“COFFEE MAKES YOU BLACK”
Java Me! It wakes me up and jolts me into the reality that my ancestors left behind a legacy that was stolen. Black and as rich as the java bean. As I read and research Khemet's illustrious past, it's knowledge races to my brain akin to a caffeine rush… further enlightening me with more truths to a myriad of African contributions I never knew about. My daily brew of choice is my love of the mother land. It warms my soul while keeping me robust, bold and as smooth as black silk. Sonya M. Bowman "It Is What It Is"
family fun. Indian Summer Festival – Milwaukee, Sept. 11-13 Through storytelling, dance, song and drumming, Indian Summer Festival invites travelers to experience the food, crafts and culture of Wisconsin’s Woodland tribes. Wine & Harvest Festival – Cedarburg Sept. 19-20 This festival in historic Cedarburg features live music, hayrides, a scarecrow contest, the Giant Pumpkin Charity Regatta and the Giant Pumpkin Weigh-Off, along with the award-winning wines of the Cedar Creek Winery. Travelers looking for year-round Wisconsin getaway ideas, travel planning, events and free guides can discover their own fun by visiting TravelWisconsin.com on desktop, tablet or mobile devices. You can also choose to “Like” us at Facebook.com/TravelWisconsin or follow along on Twitter at Twitter.com/TravelWI and Instagram at TravelWisconsin.
Sonya M. Bowman
Stirred not Shaken! My spectrum is like the earth – strong and organically natural. My mood is high and energizing.
My taste is versatile, and my shell is hard.
I am not afraid to grind, as it refines me. I am not afraid to mix it up, as modification transforms me.
Zelda Corona
Sometimes I am hot, and sometimes I am cold – the difference depends on you.
I like to be savored like a fine wine, but I can also be indulged like fresh spring water. The fruits of my labor nourishes many, as my seeds are meant to be sowed.
I sit at the table with kings and presidents, yet I still keep company with the vagrant and destitute. I am simple, but yet complex…I am a good cup of Joe.
Zelda Corona Vision Represents Faith!
MEN WHO COOK!
The Milwaukee Community Journal September 9, 2015 Page 8
More Photos from the recently held
A
B
Photo Ops
JUSTICE OR ELSE
PHOTO A: SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS WITH REPRESENTATIVES OF THE AHMADIYYA MUSLIM COMMUNITY AND REPRESENTATIVES AND PARTICIPANTS OF THE MEN WHO COOK EVENT. PHOTO B: THE WINNERS OF MEN WHO COOK (LEFT TO RIGHT): CHELDTON WADE-BROWN (FIRST PLACE FOR ENTREE AND BEST OVERALL) TYRONE DUMAS (3RD PLACE FOR BEST DESSERT), AND REUBEN HOPKINS OF THE WISCONSIN BLACK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE (FIRST PLACE APPETIZER). THE WINNERS TOOK HOME CHARCOAL GRILLS. (PHOTOS BY YVONNE KEMP)
(continued from page 3) I believe that Black people’s effort to emulate white people has created a class system that has further divided our community. Consider the following, Black unemployment and underemployment are at very high levels; nearly two thirds of Black people are living at or near poverty levels; and nearly 1.5 million Black men are in prison. These numbers and statistics point to a large population of Black people struggling economically in America. These numbers would suggest that if justice were achieved, Blacks would be earning approximately $3-4 trillion annually. The fact that Blacks are only earning $1 trillion annually suggests that Blacks suffer from an inequitable distribution of income. Because so many Blacks are living at/or near poverty levels, this represents that only a small percentage of Blacks are living in the higher income brackets. Restated, we have the Black version of the one percenters. We need leadership to correct this injustice. We need Black leaders fighting for justice for Black people. There are several reasons why this is not happening. First, we must consider who taught our leaders and the type of education they received. If that education didn’t expose the hypocrisy of America; didn’t teach you how to value and love yourself over others; didn’t teach and reinforce how great you and your ancestors are; didn’t teach you personal responsibility to your own group; didn’t teach you how to use the systems and tools for self-determination; didn’t teach you leadership, then it wasn’t education that you received. What you got was a bunch of information that validated white supremacy and Black inferiority and perpetuated assimilation of our more economically mobile Black leaders. Too many of the more successful Black people have followed the path that their success is defined by how far they are removed from their own people. In fact, being the “only” Black around all white people has become a true measure of success for Black elite (i.e. the only Black on the job; only Black living in the neighborhood; the only Black children at a school; the only Black admitted in the social club; the only Black being invited, etc.). This has physically removed many of our more talented Black people from being in direct contact with the struggles of Black people. Many Black people are extremely detached from the struggles of their own people. In addition, this behavior has further confirmed the concept of Black inferiority (Black neighborhoods are inferior) and white supremacy (white neighborhoods are superior). Even with limited individual success, Blacks are at the bottom of the economic ladder. Black assimilation has threatened and compromised Black leadership and undermined the Black economic base. Unfortunately, many of the more affluent Blacks, because of the positions that they hold or the titles they have, are viewed as being the leaders of Black people, but they are unable to fight for Black causes. This dysfunction has caused the Black community to lose significant ground in nearly every category of positive demographics decreasing and nearly every negative demographic increasing. These “silent” leaders refuse to speak out against the injustices and the consequences of not being compensated for nearly 300 years of free labor. Where you start matters and the start for Black people continues to cripple Blacks today in comparison to whites, (the playing field is absolutely unfair). Black leadership should never let America forget what she did to Black family and the Black community, but when you assimilate completely within their culture and systems, you are unable to speak out or fight for justice for Black people. The more I examine why we continue to languish be-
hind as a group, the more I come to the realization that we have been significantly damaged, not just socially and economically, but we have been damaged emotionally and psychologically. How else do we explain our situation? How else can we continue to justify doing nothing? Why is it we are unable to do for ourselves, why aren’t we able to fix these issues? Black families and the continent of Africa have definitely been damaged by the brutal and forceful kidnapping of millions of Black people (children, mothers, fathers, etc.) from Africa, which has yet to recover (Africa still suffers from this travesty) and the injustice has never been rectified. The Black community as a group has not had a real win in nearly 50 years and our issues have become extremely complex and severe. There is no infrastructure nor strategic planning underway to address these issues. Blacks suffer from a severe case of hopelessness and near psychological paralysis including our so-called leadership. Who, if anyone, has the capacity to change the trajectory for Black people if not their leadership? As I stated previously, the more I examine why we continue to languish behind as a group I come to the realization that we have been damaged significantly, not just socially and economically, but we have been damage emotionally and psychologically and our leadership is impacted the most. Blacks suffer from a heavy dose of white supremacy and Black inferiority. I know many of those that are doing well and some are Black leaders who might disagree that they suffer from Black inferiority. How else, then, can you explain our level of despair and paralysis? We talk about “Black Life Matters” but there is little evidence that leaders show any real concern about the issues that are derailing Black lives. Where is the outcry for senseless killings occurring daily by young Black against other young Blacks? If Black lives matter, where is the mobilization and organization to fight against the injustices perpetuated against Black people? Where is any sustained mobilization efforts of Black people? If Black lives matter, where is the infrastructure to fight against the injustices perpetuated against Black people as a whole? Where are the efforts to restore the Black voice and Black leadership? Where are the strategies to build our infrastructure for our future generations? Where is the commitment to develop strategies and plans to defend the Black community? Where is the demand that we unite our efforts under a bigger banner? Where is our Black leadership? How is it that our leaders are unable to mount any real and sustained campaign to challenge the multitude of very serious issues facing the Black community? Given our current socioeconomic condition, coupled with the history that we have faced in this country, having leadership is not some option. It is an absolute necessity. The Black man in America is a unique group, unlike no other in the world. Our leaders continue to fail us by not doing the very basic things we need. We have no Black leadership because we have no Black unity. We see division at every level. We won’t have Black unity until the leadership begins to unite. This is real leadership. I contend that if Black people do not have this type of leadership, given the state of affairs of Black people, then they do not have leadership at all. This and the level of division amongst Black leaders represent the symptoms of self-hate, which is a derivative of Black inferiority. We are greater than the sum of our parts. Our problem is that we just don’t get to see often enough. If Black leaders aren’t fighting for justice for Black people given our history in this country, then they by their actions, are advocating Black inferiority. Black leaders by your very nature must support and fight for Justice or Else.
Former Milwakee Brewer, now Pittsburgh Pirate, Aramis Ramirez was given a warm welcome back by Brewers fans and the team, which presented him with an award. Ramirez did get a couple of home runs off his old team, but the Brewers swept the “Bucs,” winning the season series against its division rival.
Deniece M. Fields holds a copy of her new book, “A Principal’s Expectations from A-Z (for Students) during a book launch and signing party for her held at Stonegate Complex in New Berlin. A former educator and principle, Fields is the founder and proprietor of F.I.E.L.D.S. Talks, LLC for which she is a professional presenter and motivational/keynote speaker. (Photo by Yvonne Kemp)
'In God We Trust' decals drive police into constitutional controversy
(continued from page 4) Panhandle, follows a similar move by dozens of other police agencies elsewhere in the country. Police Chief Adrian Garcia said he decided to add the decals in response to recent attacks on law enforcement personnel that have received broad attention, including the Aug. 28 killing of a sheriff's deputy who was shot 15 times at a Houston-area gas station. "I think with all the assaults happening on officers across the country ... it's time we get back to where we once were," Garcia told the Red River Sun newspaper. In fact, of the dozens of complaints about the decals lodged in recent months by the Wisconsin-based Freedom From Religion Foundation, about half were sent to law enforcement agencies in Missouri. Departments in Arkansas, Florida, Kentucky, Virginia and elsewhere also
received complaints from the foundation, which says it will consider suing but acknowledges it can be difficult finding a plaintiff willing to be publicly identified as challenging the use of the phrase. Gary Parsons, the sheriff in Lee County in Virginia, said his office spent a total of $50 to have the decals added to about 25 vehicles. He said many people feel their belief system is being trampled and that adding the phrase is a way of pushing back. "It's not only a symbol of moral values but also a symbol of patriotism," he said. In its letter to Nichols, the foundation said, "Statements about a god have no place on government-owned cars. Public officials should not use their government position and government property to promote their religious views."
(continued from page 3) could create and the reading programs for children we could fund in Milwaukee with millions of dollars? Finally, AB-220 isn’t data driven. In Racine, they invested money in converting foreclosed on homes in high crime neighborhoods into Community Organized Policing Houses (COP Houses). The city that was formerly known as Wisconsin’s murder capital has reduced its violent crime by 70% by using strategies such as these and other data driven solutions.
Whereas, supporters are so unsure that AB-220 will work that they even included an end date in 2020. Essentially, this bill is an experiment. Now, I don’t know about you, but I don’t think we should be experimenting on our people. Assembly Bill 220 is a great tool to pull on heart strings, but the data doesn’t support that it will deter crime. If we are going to spend millions of dollars, let’s put it into community oriented policing and reentry programs that are proven to reduce crime.
The case against mandatory minimum sentences for violent felons
The Newspaper with its FINGER on the PULSE of YOUR Community! The Milwaukee Community Journal
The Milwaukee Community Journal September 9, 2015 Page 9
The Milwaukee Community Journal September 9, 2015 Page 10