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MILWAUKEE, WISCONSINPERMIT NO. 4668

MPS Board approves acting SuperintendentMPS CENTRAL OFFICE — The Milwaukee Board of

School Directors tonight named Darienne Driver, Ed.D.as Acting Superintendent of Milwaukee Public Schools,effective July 1, 2014. Dr. Driver will serve as the head ofthe nearly 80-thousand student school district – thelargest in Wisconsin – until a successor superintendent isselected.“Dr. Driver has accepted the position and will lead us

forward and build on the foundation laid by Dr. Thorn-ton,” said Milwaukee Public Schools Board of School Di-rectors’ president Dr. Michael Bonds. “We are honored tohave such an outstanding candidate to lead us during thistransition period.”Dr. Driver has served as the district’s Chief Innovation

Officer since July 2012. She leads district efforts to im-prove outcomes in the schools in greatest need of im-provement; oversees the district’s implementation of theWisconsin Common Core State Standards in literacy andmathematics in partnership with the GE Foundation andStudent Achievement Partnership through the develop-ment of ten MPS-GEF Demonstration Schools; recruitsmultiple educational organizations to serve as partners in

efforts to improve student achievement; and oversees thedistrict’s contracted school services which serves studentsthrough alternative programming for at-risk students andnon-instrumentality charter schools and turnaround mod-els."I look forward to continuing to serve Milwaukee Pub-

lic Schools and the children of the city in my new roleand appreciate the confidence of the Milwaukee Board ofSchool Directors,” said Dr. Driver. “We will continue to build on the great work that’s

being done in the district. Much more remains to be doneand it is challenging work. Working with my colleagues,the community, our students and families, we will move

FATHER’S DAYFATHER’S DAY: Lessons From Dad: Lessons From DadNot many people dispute the fact that Father’s Day doesn’t

get equal time with Mother’s Day. As we celebrate Father’sDay, we don’t typically conjure up images of dads baking cup-cakes, helping with homework or cleaning the house. The re-ality, though, is that many dads—married and single—dothese things, but society continues to perceive equal parentingas a rarity.A recent study by the U.S. Department of Education found

that a father’s involvement in his children’s lives is the mostinfluential factor in determining a child’s success in school. Moreover a 2013 Pew Research study on modern parent-

hood found that nearly half of working fathers—about 48 per-cent—would prefer to be a home, but stay in the workforce

because they need the income.The inequality between Father’s Day and Mother’s Day is

ironic because the original notion of Father’s Day was con-ceived by Sonora Smart Dodd in 1910, because she wantedto celebrate and honor her father—a single parent and wid-ower who raised her five siblings. Dodd’s father, WilliamJackson Smart, was a Civil War veteran. His wife died in childbirth, and Smart raised the newborn

and five other children with love and care. Thus, SmartDodd’s idea of Father’s Day was intended as a complementto Mother’s Day—celebrating parenting. Unfortunately, itwas 50 more years later before President Lyndon Johnsonsigned a presidential proclamation declaring the third Sundayof June as Father’s Day in 1966. Then, in 1972, President Richard Nixon established a per-

manent national observance of Father's Day to be held on thethird Sunday of June. Sonora Smart Dodd was honored forher contribution at the World's Fair in Spokane, Washingtonin 1974. She died in 1978 at age 96. If you’re like many of us boomers, growing up our parents’

advice (mother’s and father’s) sounded more like nagging andwe made a conscious effort to tune them out. However, as we

GOLDENGOLDENYEARSYEARS

By Kathy Gaillard

(continued on page 7)

DONALD B. JACKSON: “I’m plan-ning on spending time with my associ-ates and friends at a brunch for allfathers.”

HENRY POLK: “I plan to start the dayby going to church on Father’s Day toenjoy just being alive to enjoy the dayand being a father.”

LORAYE WILLIAMS: “My hus-band and I are planning a week ofspecial dates. He gets to choose whatwe do and I get to pay. On Sunday, wewill go to church, then spend the restof the day with family.”

DR. SHIRLEY MOUTRY: “My hus-band and I will attend a weekend ofchurch sponsored activities relative to hon-oring fathers and spend sometime reflect-ing on how God continues to bless ourfamily.”

QUESTION OF THE WEEK: QUESTION OF THE WEEK: At the annual scholarship dinner

sponsored by Milwaukee Frontiers International, we askedfour members: “How are you plan-ning to celebrate Father’s Day?”

PULSE OF THE COMMUNITYPhotos and question by Yvonne Kemp

CITY HALL--In an effort to increase employment opportunities for Mil-waukee’s jobless, Mayor Tom Barrett, members of the Common Council andrepresentatives from two job readiness programs unveiled Monday details ofa program connecting residents with construction jobs at the new Northwest-ern Mutual building site.Using $500,000 in funds from the Northwestern Mutual Tax Incremental

District, the city has engaged the Wisconsin Regional Training Partnership(WRTP/BIG STEP) to lead the training and placement activities.The Milwaukee Area Workforce Investment Board (MAWIB) will also play

a significant role. City departments and members of the Milwaukee Common Council helped

develop the program’s framework.“There are opportunities for city residents to work at construction jobs in

Milwaukee as major projects such as the Northwestern Mutual Tower comeout of the ground,” Barrett said in a statement. “We are dedicating resources

to make sure our residents are ready to fill the jobs.”During a news conference announcing the program with Big Step and

MAWIB, the mayor praised Northwestern Mutual for embracing the goal ofemploying city residents during the three years of construction.Northwest Mutual aims to exceed the requirement that 40 percent of the

construction workforce live in Milwaukee. A city ordinance requires the 40percent of the hours worked on a project receiving direct subsidy will be per-formed by city residents.Working in coordination with the contractors, the workforce development

program will identify specific jobs that will be in demand on the NorthwesternMutual construction site. WRTP/BIG STEP will find and train city workerswho will be ready to fill 150 jobs at the Northwestern Mutual site and another200 workers ready to fill jobs at other construction projects.Earl Buford, president and CEO of WRTP/BIG STEP, called the new ini-

City program to connect hundreds ofworkers to jobs on Northwestern Mutual construction, other projects

MPS’ Chief Innovation Officer DarienneDriver brings extensive leadership experience; work with improving schoolsmost in need

(continued on page 6)

90-year-old WWII Veteran Honored

Black Health Coalition of Wisconsin holds annual health walk

Congresswoman Gwen Moore (far right) and General RobertCocroft, national commander of the National Association ofBlack Veterans (NABVETS) presented 90-year-old WWII VeteranAnna Mae Wilson with military service medals during a specialceremony at NABVETS headquarters-. Robertson received the Women’s Army Corps Service Medal,

the American Campaign Medal, European-African-Middle East-ern Campaign Medal, World War II Victory Medal and the Hon-orable Service Lapel Button WWII. Robertson enlisted in theArmy in 1945 and served in the Women’s Army Corps 6888Central Postal Directory Battalion (The Six Triple Eight). The6888, comprised of 855 women, has a long list of firsts andaccomplishments, including the first African American all-femalbattalion to be deployed overseas. The 6888 confronted life threatening German U Boats en

route to Europe in February of 1945, and upon their arrival inEngland were greeted by Buzz Bombs. Cong. Moore includedRobertson and her accomplishments into the CongressionalRecord. The well deserved honor came in the midst of reportedmisconduct within the Department of Veterans Affairs. (Photoby Yvonne Kemp)

Black Health Coalition of Wisconsin (BHCW) held their 11th Annual AfricanAmerican Walk for Quality of Health on Saturday, June 7th with over 200participants. Mayor Tom Barrett is shown in the above photo leading thewalkers on the 2.3 mile event.

The Mayor recently announced his Walk 100 Miles With the Mayor cam-paign, which promotes a healthier Milwaukee through increasing physical ac-tivity. During the program at the end of the Walk, the Mayor noted how hewas able to log 5,600 steps on his pedometer as result of walking the entireevent route. Co-chairs for the Walk were Health Commissioner Bevan K. Baker(seen in photo on the left with blue shirt and holding banner) and Dr.Earnestine Willis of the Medical College of Wisconsin; the theme wasWomen's Health. Also in the photo holding the banner from left to right isChristal West, Gregory Fanning - BHCW Board Chair, Janette Herrera andJessie McSwain - BHCW Board Member. BHCW holds the African AmericanWalk for Quality Health each year to engage the community in a meaningfulhealthy activity and to bring attention to the health disparities that plaguethe African American community.

This event goes a long way in sending a positive message that AfricanAmericans indeed do care about their health as the event route is directly inthe community that is adversely impacted by health disparities the most, theroute started at the Milwaukee Urban League and ended at the WisconsinBlack Historical Society & Museum. The program at the end at the event in-cluded performances by the Jazzy Jewels and the African drum group AjagunArts, as well as a tribute to Dr. Maya Angelou. (Photo by Clarene Mitchell)

Darienne Driver

(continued on page 3)

The Milwaukee Community Journal June 11, 2014 Page 2

The Milwaukee Community Journal June 11, 2014 Page 3

PERSPECTIVESPERSPECTIVESQUOTE OF THE WEEK: “Music gives a soul to theuniverse, wings to the mind, flight to the imagi-nation, and life to everything!”--Unknown

THETHEMILWAUKEEMILWAUKEECOMMUNITYCOMMUNITYJOURNALJOURNALPublished twice weekly,Wednesday & Friday3612 North Martin LutherKing Drive, Milwaukee, WI 53212Phone: 414-265-5300 (Advertising and Administration) • 414-265-6647 (Editorial) • Website: communityjournal.net • Email: Editorial@communi-tyjournal.net/Advertising@communityjournal.net

Opinion and comments expressed on the Perspectives page do not nec-essarily reflect the views of the publisher or management of the MCJ. Let-ters and “other perspectives” are accepted but may be edited for contentand length.

MCJ STAFF:Patricia O’Flynn -PattilloPublisher, CEORobert J. ThomasAssoc. PublisherTodd Thomas, Vice Pres.Mikel Holt, Assoc. PublisherThomas E. Mitchell, Jr., EditorKia Marie Green, Mang. EditorTeretha Martin, Technical Consultant/WebmasterJosephine Joki, Billing Dept./Publisher’s Admin. Assist.

Colleen Newsom,Classified AdvertisingJimmy V. Johnson, Sales Rep.Joan Hollingsworth, Sales Rep.CONTRIBUTING WRITERS:Taki S. Raton,Rev. Roxanne Cardenas,Troy A. Sparks,Sports EditorPHOTOGRAPHER: Yvonne Kemp

Known for his 1969 novel, “TheSpook Who Sat by the Door” andhis independent screen adaptationof the same name in 1973, poet,novelist, and screenwriter SamGreenlee passed away on Monday,May 19, 2014 in the early morninghours at his South Side home inChicago. He was 83.On Friday, June 6, 2014, Chicago’s

DuSable Museum of African Ameri-can History sponsored an evening ofcelebration in honor of his life andworkFollowing traditional and protocol

opening ceremonies to include thepouring of libation, DuSable Mu-seum director, Dr. Carol Adams bidswelcome to the friends, family, andcommunity of Bro. Sam Greenlee.“We are the people of the day be-

fore yesterday and the day after to-morrow, she says. “And it is becauseof this fact that we understand thatfor us, there is only life and lifecomes in many forms.”Dr. Adams explains that in these

multiple spheres of life, she adds, are“those who have come before, thosewho are here now, and those who arecoming forth.” The museum director shares that

this evening is a, “welcoming inhonor and a recognition of Sam whois now of ancestor status, somethingof which to be very proud becauseyou can’t get any more powerful thanthat.”To this seated auditorium of more

than 400 attendees, Adams posits thatGreenlee through his many works,“was bold enough to tell our story,and tell our story in a way that wewanted to hear it.”The museum director further de-

scribes that Greenlee’s brilliance andmagnificent massive intellect, “stillshines forth” through his poetry, nov-els, films and through memory of hismultiple life arenas spanning the cor-ridors of formal speaking engage-ments and to include interpersonaldiscussions in his home and on theblock were a casual “wuz up” en-counter would spiritedly – and rather

quickly we might add - evolve into acherished moment of intellectual andconscious raising exchange. Greenlee would always have prob-

ing insights and seemingly infinitewisdom to share. Adams says of Samin this regard that he was truly a“weapon of mass instruction.”According to his life chronicle as

prepared in the evening’s program byO’Modele Jeanette Rouselle, Green-lee wrote and published a prolifera-tion of work. Among them is the independent

documentary film entitled “Infiltrat-ing Hollywood: The Rise and Fall ofthe Spook Who Sat by the Door.” This was an effort designed to ev-

idence the making, popularity, andthe sudden strange closing and disap-pearance of the film from area andnational theater venues.As in the novel, the film depicts a

Black former CIA agent trainingChicago gang members as insurgentsto wage armed resistance against op-pression.As cited by Paul Vitello in the May

30, 2014 posting of the New YorkTimes, following a very successfulthree-week run in the fall of 1973 inChicago and in several other cities,the film mysteriously disappearedfrom movie theaters, presumably be-cause of its subject matter. The dis-tributor, United Artists, never offeredan explanation. After 1973, the film was seen oc-

casionally in various art venues anduniversity auditoriums. A remasteredversion was released on DVD in2004.In December 2012, the Library of

Congress, in the Rouselle account,selected “The Spook Who Sat by theDoor” for inclusion in the NationalFilm Registry of Congress as, “a cin-ematic treasure which represents im-portant cultural, artistic and historicalachievement in filmmaking.”Greenlee additionally published

“Blues for an African Princess,” acollection of poems in 1971 and“Ammunition” in 1975 followed bythe novel, “Djakarta Blues.” In 1990,Greenlee was named Illinois PoetLaureate and wrote the screenplayfor the film entitled “Lisa Trotter” in2010.“It came to our attention that Sam

passed on May 19, Malcolm’s birth-day,” said listed program tributaryKhari B. Jestingly from the podium,this speaker following Dr. Adams de-scribed Greenlee as a, “stubborn”man. “He was going to make sure that

he was going to make a statementwalking out of here on Malcolm’sbirthday. He did that on purpose,” anobservation generating laughter and

(continued on page 7

Chicago’s DuSable Museumcelebrates life of writer andfilmmaker Sam Greenlee

Sam Greenlee

A youngSamGreenlee,whosebook andfilm, “TheSpookWho Sat byThe Door,”are bothconsideredclassics ofBlackliteratureand film

By Taki S. Raton

tiative a pathway to developing jobsand careers. “It’s a entry point so cit-izens can have access and continue intrades after the program.”Calling construction a growth sec-

tor in Milwaukee, Linda Stewart,COO of MAWIB, said WRTP/BIGSTEP’s participation is important inthat the program will “help peoplenavigate their way through the tradesand training.”Alderman Willie Wade, who is on

the MAWIB board, noted the mayorand the other entities present at thenews conference have been workingon avenues to employment for three

years, such as the “Learn and Earn”program, SNIP, and “Be TheChange.”“Citizens have been preparing, the

mayor and Common Council havebeen preparing (for this day),” Wadesaid. “Now it’s time to get peopleback to work.”The workforce development pro-

gram pays WRTP/BIG STEP withmoney from the Northwestern Mu-tual tax incremental district, and withthe exception of the first $50,000, thefunds will go to WRTP/BIG STEPfollowing successful placement oftrained city workers on constructionjobs. In the final weeks, WRTP/BIG

STEP will finalize both the projectwork plan and the project trainingplan. Residents interested in participat-

ing in the Workforce DevelopmentProgram can contact WRTP/BIGSTEP at 414-342-WRTP (414-342-9787).

Alderman Stamper invites residentsto discuss proposed Lee School saleAlderman Russell W. Stamper, II

will hold a second public town hallmeeting tomorrow (Wednesday, June11) to discuss the proposed sale ofLee School to St. Marcus School.Alderman Stamper is encouraging

anyone interested to please join himfor the discussion at 6:30 p.m.Wednesday in the cafeteria of theNorthside YMCA, 1350 W. NorthAve."Education and the future of our

children are such important issues,"Alderman Stamper said. "That is whyI am asking community members toplease join me and express any opin-ions or concerns they may have."St. Marcus, the operator of an existing schoolat 2215 N. Palmer St., has expressed interest in opening an additional campusat the former Lee School at 921 W. Meinecke Ave. The proposed sale of the Lee School building to St. Marcus School will be

considered by both the Milwaukee Board of School Directors and the Com-mon Council.

When you reach that point inyour life when you realize you havemore days behind than in front ofyou, it’s time to come to grips withsome of life’s harsh realities. For example, I now realize that I

won’t outlive racism--nor will mychildren, or their children afterthem. That’s a perturbing truth thatI’ll take to my grave; along withthese other truths and harsh reali-ties:• Racism is not an American in-

vention, but it is part of the fabric ofAmerican society and until all citi-zens are light skinned, have curlyhair, slant eyes and rhythm, it willcontinue to separate, divide andplague us.• I also recognize that I’m not

going to hit the lottery, own a$100,000 sports car or become anadvisor to Pope Francis, U.S. presi-dent or the postman. Of course, thatwon’t stop my providing them withadvice through this column, but it does mean I’ll be critiquing what theydid instead of what they could have done.• It truly saddens me to realize chances are slim to none that I’ll be

beamed up to the starship Enterprise, appointed the ship’s science officer ordate Lieutenant Uhura.Interestingly, I’ve lived long enough to see the practical applications of

many of the science fiction gadgets introduced on Star Trek 40 years ago.While we can’t scatter human molecules across the galaxy (yet), we can‘teleport’ inanimate objects. Much of the technology introduced with the television series Star Trek is

actually available today. The telecommunications device used by CaptainKirk and crew is available at Verizon for $60 a month. And the computerdiscs used by Mr. Spock, are for sale at the corner store or on the Internet.In fact, a flash drive is even smaller, yet contains much more space fordata.• I won’t see an end to war in the Middle East, let alone an end to the ex-

ploitation of Third World nations by Superpowers, including the U.S., or arealistic compromise on the immigration problem before I type my finalcolumn.There’s probably a greater likelihood that God will commission a new

Noah than any of the aforementioned happening. And who can blame Godif He did decide to cleanse the earth of sinful mankind and start over. Let’sface it, we just won’t act right--the powerful will always exploit the weakand nations will always justify their murderous actions. Everybody claimsto be God’s Chosen (it’s not just the Palestinians and the Israelis). Actually,I have theorized that Black people are (since we are the first people).Chances are we are all misreading the Bible, and probably should readthose books and writings excluded from King James after the conference ofNicaea.• By the way, biblical misinterpretation was used to justify racism and

slavery. And sadly today, the Black Church has become big business. Toomany preachers sell insurance and false hope. It probably won’t happen inmy lifetime, but I surely would like to be there when God publicly punishesall those false prophets.• Speaking of the Bible, I’ve come to grips with the fact that despite pro-

nouncements to the contrary, the overwhelming majority of people are whatI call “neo-Christians.” By that I mean most people selectively adhere tobiblical mandates they agree with, and disregard the rest. Most neo-Christians also believe they can commit sins on a daily basis

and still get to heaven. For those so-called “sanctified folks” who believethat, I have some bad news for them: Heaven is not a very crowded place!• I’ve had to finally admit that a majority of Black folks will wake up to

the reality that as long as they continue to stand under the shadow of slav-ery, like Moses, they will never be allowed to set foot in the “Promised

Land” of equality and freedom.I hate to be the bearer of bad

news, but no ‘niggers/niggas/nigras’will be allowed in the “land of milkand honey.” In fact, if you look inthe mirror and a so-called ‘nigger’stares back at you, or you feel com-fortable in calling your neighbor oreven Jesus one, you’re too stupid,ignorant or naïve to take up spaceon the Freedom Train.• I have sadly concluded that the

majority of Black folks will not re-connect to the Africentric path wewere heading down in the 1970sand 80s. Those were the days whenwe immersed ourselves in Africanculture, restoring our link with theMotherland, taking pride in our truecultural heritage.Today, instead of sporting Afros

or Naturals, many sisters buyweaves and extensions to promote aEuropean look. Many in my generation followed

African customs and ‘anointed’ our children with names from the Mother-land that held meaning and aspirations. Today, children are given whatsome consider “ghetto” names that most teachers can’t pronounce andallow prospective employers to prejudge. To be fair, there are no cultural guidelines that anyone is forced to adhere

to, and an argument can be made that Black Americans are carving out anew identity through these names and cultural parameters that redefineBlack nuclear families, Biblical principles and time tested African ethos. You can also say parents (or more likely a parent) is being creative and

resourceful when naming their child(ren). But that flies in the face of logicwhen you learn of children named after liquor (Remy and Courvoisier), dis-ruptive plants (Dandelion) and food (Cupcake).• Despite my youthful assumptions to the contrary, I have lived long

enough to witness the swearing in of a Black president, although his elec-tion did not kick off the reversal in Black fortunes that I had hoped. Beyond the symbolism, we have to realize, we’re no better off today than

we were six years ago: the Black poverty rate is actually higher, the Blackhigh school drop out rate has remained consistent and the Black familystructure is on life support. Black-on-Black crime is the new terrorism, andthe drug war has long been lost.Of course, we can’t blame that on the president, the conditions that ex-

isted long before his election are firmly entrenched in the American ethos. The same can be said of our hopes of political involvement fueling the

engine of our Freedom Train. More Black representation has not translatedinto greater Black empowerment. One of the reasons for that dichotomy is that unlike other ethnicities,

Black people elect Black candidates based on their ability to ‘articulate’ andplace blame on a problem outside the community, versus offering solutionsfor them. It’s also our fault that we allow partisan Black politicians to puttheir party before the people and showering us with rhetoric instead of re-sources.• Given our political predicament, and the fact that neither major political

party truly has our interests at heart (I continue to say they are differentwings on the same bird), it is irrational that we have not sought an alterna-tive. Yet, that’s the case and I have resolved myself to the fact that myhopes for an independent Black political party will not materialize in mylifetime, if ever.All of that said I thank God for the opportunity to live during these excit-

ing times. I’ll go to my grave cognizant that we have made much progress,the world is a better place and our future is in good hands. Obviously, we haven’t made as much progress as I’d like, and our Free-

dom Train has been detoured more times than I can count. But there is aPromised Land out there, if not in this life, surely the next.Hotep.

Program to connecthundreds of workers to jobs on Northwestern construction(continued from page 1)

SIGNIFYIN’SIGNIFYIN’By Mikel Kwaku Osei Holt

“I hate to be the bearer of bad news, butno ‘niggers/niggas/nigras’ will be

allowed in the ‘land of milk and honey.’In fact, if you look in the mirror and a

so-called ‘nigger’ stares back at you, oryou feel comfortable in calling your

neighbor or even Jesus one, you’re toostupid, ignorant or naive to take up

space on the Freedom Train.”

Some of life’s harsh realitiesI’ve come to terms with

In honor of Black Music Month...

Billie Holiday

Ald. Russell Stamper II

RELIGIONRELIGIONThe Milwaukee Community Journal June 11, 2014 Page 4

In Loving Memory

Quality Service...a tenured tradition

sincere concern at your time of need.

Offering pre-need, at need andafter-care services to families inMilwaukee, Racine, Kenosha and

other communities throughout our state.

Services scheduled for , 2014

Milwaukee6630 W. Hampton Avenue Milwaukee, WI 53218

Telephone: (414) 462-6020Fax: (414) 462-9937

Racine800 Barker St. Racine, WI 53402

Telephone: (262) 637-6400Fax: (262) 637-6416

Families served by:Northwest Funeral Chapel O’Bee, Ford & Frazier

CHILDS, GLENEVAAge 87 years. June 3 2014. Beloved Mother of Robert G. ( Audrey J.) Childs,Rev. Martin Jr ( Thresessa D. ) Childs, Gerald ( Michelle) Childs, TheresaChilds, Milton L. ( Michelle) Childs, Donna M. Childs, Judy M. Thomas andJerry J. Badger. Beloved sister of Luther Clay, Robert Clay, Mary Howard,Dorothy (Emell) Patterson, E.D.( Willie Ann ) Clay, Ruby ( James ) Carter,Edith ( Willie ) Jones, Charles ( Bobbie )Clay, Harry ( Lora ) Clay andJohnny ( Jessie ) Clay. Also survived by 28 grandchildren, 65 great grand-children and a host of other loving relatives and friends. Funeral serviceswill be held on Saturday 11AM at Tabernacle Community Baptist Church2500 W. Medford Ave. Visitation Friday 3-7PM at the CHURCH ( Family willreceive guest from 5-7 PM). The family is served by:NORTHWEST FUNERAL CHAPELO'Bee, Ford & Frazier6630 W. Hampton Ave. 414-462-6020

MORGAN, EMILAge 71 yrs. June 1, 2014. Funeral services will be held on Monday 1PM. Visi-tation Monday 12 Noon until time of services at:Northwest Funeral ChapelO'Bee, Ford & Frazier6630 W. Hampton Ave. (414)462-6020

EMERSON, EARTHARENEAge 87 yrs. June 6, 2014. Funeral services will be held on Saturday 11AM atMt. Zion Baptist Church 2207 N. 2nd St. Visitation Saturday 10AM at theCHURCH until time of services. The family is served by:Northwest Funeral ChapelO'Bee, Ford & Frazier

6630 W. Hampton Ave. (414)462-6020

COGGS, JOHN SIDNEYAge 57 yrs. June 7, 2014. He was preceded indeath by parents Calvin and Erma Coggs.Belovedfather of Isaiah Coggs. Step-Son of Rosie LeeCoggs. Loving brother of Kathleen McIntosh,Glenda Bradley(William)Perry, Spencer(Ger-shia)Coggs, James(Frances)Wilson, RobertCoggs, Perry(Diane)Wilson and Sandra Coggs.

Also survived by a host of other loving relatives and friends. Funeral serviceswill be held on Tuesday 11AM at Holy Redeemer COGIC 3500 W. MotherDaniels Way. Instate Tuesday 10AM at the CHURCH until time of services. Vis-itation Monday 3-7PM(Family will receive guests from 6-7PM) at:Northwest Funeral ChapelO'Bee, Ford & Frazier6630 W. Hampton Ave. (414)462-6020

LATHEN, OLEANAge 83 yrs. June 9, 2014. Funeral services will be held on Monday 11AM atSt. Mark AME Church 1616 W. Atkinson Ave. Visitation Monday 10AM at theCHURCH until time of services. The family is served by:Northwest Funeral ChapelO'Bee, Ford & Frazier6630 W. Hampton Ave. (414)462-6020

une 15, 2014is the Feast ofThe Holy

Trinity. The read-ings are: Exodus34: 4b-6, 8-9; Sec-ond Corinthians 13: 11-13;John 3: 16-18. All three scripture passages speak a merciful and gra-

cious God, a God who will be with us always, a God whosent his Son that the world might be saved through him.The Feast of the Holy Trinity was given to the church

early in the 14th century. Since then, the church each yearponders the Christian understanding of God. Even though the scriptures do not use the word "trinity"

to describe God, the scriptures do speak about God as Fa-ther, of Jesus Christ as the Son, and the Spirit as the "go-between God." When we speak this way, what kind ofGod as we affirming? I believe it is a God who is totallove.And this understanding of God became possible only

with the Death and Resurrection of Jesus. After the res-urrection it was possible for our ancestors to see that theGod of scripture, even though portrayed as violent, curs-ing, and killing, was not that way ever. Through Jesus' death and resurrection, we could see

that God was always immutably, loving, and that that lovewas made manifest in sending his Son into the midst of

the violent humans, even into the midst of their willing-ness to kill him, to show the depth of the love of God. The cruel death also showed just how much the Father

of lies had dominated even the religious of the time.Jesus came to turn that all around.Jesus on the Cross gives up his Spirit to the Father. The

Father at the resurrection gives back the Spirit to the Son,and the two of them are then able to give that same Spirit,the Spirit of the crucified-and-risen victim to humans asinduction into a new way of being human -- becomingchildren of God, quite outside the violence of the "world." And that non-violence of Jesus in the face of over-

whelming violence against him is our Anointed One ofGod the Father. And the love each has for the other is sopowerful that the Spirit of Love is there with them, Fa-ther, Son and Holy Spirit.We will never be able to understand the Trinity, three

in One and One in Three, but we can see the results ofthat union in the Creator God, Redeemer God and Sanc-tifier God.And the realization is that God is love and his will for

us to is love and be loved. May the blessing of AlmightyGod, Father, Son and Holy Spirit come down upon youand remain forever.

The Feast of the Holy Trinity

BREADIN THE WILDERNESSBy Fr. Carl Diederichs,All Saints Catholic Church

J

Brentwood Health Organization held its annual Healthy Promise Bowl-a-thon recently at AMFBowlero’s Bowling Lanes, 11737 W. Burleigh Street. The event was held to raise funds for the healthorganization’s “Healthcare Without Walls” program, which help support all healthy family, elderand youth services; Immunization, testing, disease prevention and nutritional services. BrentwoodHealth Organization is a subsidiary of Brentwood Church of Christ. (Yvonne Kemp photo)

Bowling for a healthy promise

The Milwaukee Community Journal June 11, 2014 Page 5

Public safety and gun violence aregrowing concerns for Wisconsin,particularly in the economic hub ofMilwaukee. Milwaukee has one ofthe highest crime rates in the nation,coming in at #10 on Forbes’ “MostDangerous Cities” list last year.This violence is not only a

tragedy—it’s a threat to upward mo-bility for many Milwaukee residents.Neighborhoods with especially highcrime rates see their housing values,quality of schools, and economic op-portunities plummet in the face oframpant violence.Our public safety officials and our

government leaders should be work-ing together to eliminate this growingproblem, but Scott Walker has disap-pointed when it comes to his positionon the safety of Wisconsin commu-nities. His empty rhetoric combined with

his efforts to make it easier for Wis-consin residents to obtain guns are indirect opposition to his purportedpublic safety agenda.In the summer of 2011, Governor

Walker signed a concealed-carry billinto law with serious issues that putcommunities at risk. Less than a yearlater, the Milwaukee Police Depart-ment had to ask state legislators andgun rights activists to back threeamendments to the concealed-carrylaw to address the problems with thelegislation. The proposed changes would have

prevented repeat criminals from ob-taining concealed carry permits andtoughened punishments for thosewho do—part of the problem withconcealed-carry is that offendersplead down their sentences until theybecome misdemeanors, which meansthey can still obtain a concealed carrypermit despite their criminal history.How did Walker and Republicans

respond to this request from law en-forcement in Milwaukee? With si-lence and inaction.Instead, in 2013, Wisconsin Re-

publicans—led by GovernorWalker—cut over $445,000 fromMilwaukee’s public safety budget.That money was to be used to expandShotSpotter, a system with a proventrack record of success that uses sen-sors to identify and pinpoint gunfire,allowing public safety officials andmedical professionals to respondmore quickly to shootings. Walker’s budget cut went against

the advice of the Milwaukee PoliceDepartment, who had high hopes forthe program. Republicans claimed they were not

familiar enough with the technologyto allow expansion of the program,despite the proven track recordShotSpotter already had at the timeof the cuts.The massive cut to ShotSpotter ex-

poses Walkers latest attempt to spinhis commitment to public safety.Claiming credit for restoring$175,000 to the ShotSpotter programafter cutting it by $445,000 is some-

thing only a career politician likeWalker would dream up. Gun violence continues to plague

the streets of Milwaukee with almost8,000 violent crimes annually. Thevictims of these crimes are oftenyouth with little or no connection tothe perpetrator. Working to get illegal guns off the

streets and ShotSpotter technologyonto them should be the priority ofour state legislatures, not strippingbudgets and lip-service about safetyfrom Governor Walker.Democratic candidate for Gover-

nor Mary Burke on the other handhas proven her dedication to the issueand acknowledges that there is no

single answer to the problem. Burke recognizes that the solution

includes a commitment both to en-suring law enforcement has the re-sources it needs and to education. Preventing crime is about both

limiting access to weapons, and pro-viding education and opportunity toyoung people so they make smart de-cisions early in life.Public safety should be a top pri-

ority for Walker and Republicans; wecan no longer accept the mediocrityof empty rhetoric and conflicting ac-tions. It’s time for new leadershipthat has a concrete plan on how tokeep Wisconsin communities safeand stable.

PP OLITICSOLITICS&& GG OVERNMENTOVERNMENTC i t y • C o u n t y • S t a t e • N a t i o n a lRepublicans must walkthe talk on public safety

“Burke recognizes preventing crime is about both lim-iting access to weapons, and providing education andopportunity to young people so they make smart deci-sions early in life.”

By Urban Media News

Milwaukee6630 W. Hampton Avenue Milwaukee, WI 53218

Telephone: (414) 462-6020Fax: (414) 462-9937

Racine800 Barker St. Racine, WI 53402

Telephone: (262) 637-6400Fax: (262) 637-6416

The Power of EffectiveBusiness Networking

inding a joband startingyour own busi-ness are noteasy tasks.Filling out ap-

plications online and at-tending various businessseminars are all greatthings to do, howeverhave you taken a stepback and assessed yournetworking abilities?Effective networking is vital in

today’s economy. Some people arenaturals, as it takes a little more plan-ning and practice for others. Makingthe right connections will put you onthe path to success. Not to mention,leveraging your people network willsaves you time, energy, and money. As you progress through this

process remember that people dobusiness with people not with busi-ness cards. Deals are typically closed based on

your relationship, knowledge andreputation. Networking can be one ofthe most profitable activities inwhich you can engage; however ittakes a slight shift in attitude, profes-sional presentation and practice.Below are 5 effective networkingtips:1. Create a Plan: It’s important to

have a networking plan in place be-fore you start this process. What areyour goals? Are you looking to meetnew colleagues, scout out a potentialproject partner or get your name outthere? How many connections doyou plan to make? Ensure that youare aware of the various audiences,as doing this will assist in the plan-ning process. 2. Elevator Speech: Ensure that

you are able to clearly articulate yourservice or profession in 20 seconds.Your speech should be concise and tothe point. This is not a time to recite your re-

sume. You must be on your toes andready to respond when a person asksabout your background. You cannotblink or act as if you are at a loss forwords. Have confidence and let it beknown that you are one of the expertsin your field. 3. Image: Presentation is every-

thing, as you do not get a secondchance to make a first impression.Ensure that your attire (from head totoe) is up to par and make sure thatyour business cards are updated as

well. Do not hand out cards thathave been written on and avoid draw-ing a line through your contact infor-mation. If you have outdated cardsplease make the time to order newones, as they are part of your profes-sional package.4. Work the Room: Making the

right connections is vital. In order toaccomplish this goal, you must bestrategic and timely. As soon as youenter a social event scan the roomand assess how people are posi-tioned. Break the room into fourquadrants and decide what area youare going to work first. Go to thatarea and start the networking process.Introduce yourself and listen to theconversation and make a few re-marks (if necessary) as it is okay tolisten. Give yourself about 15 to 20 min-

utes in each area (depending on howthe conversation is going), as it isvital that you work all four cornersand the middle of the room. When you determine it is time to

move on, you politely say somethinglike, “Would you excuse me? I seesomeone I need to say hello to.” Oreven just a plain, “Excuse me,” asyou step away from the group. Ifyou’re moving to another groupwhere there is someone you know,simply repeat the introductionprocess from the first group. Making your way around the entire

room is critical as this gives you achance to thoroughly see who’s in theroom and how much time you haveto make your rounds. 5. Follow-Through: The most

critical part of networking occursafter you’ve made the connection.

Following up in a timely manner isthe first step in developing the rela-tionship. If the contact is interested in doing

business, looking for staff for a cer-tain position or maybe a potentialfunding source, you need to stepthings up. Be the “Purple Cow” andset yourself apart from the rest. Takethe time to pick up the phone andmake voice-to-voice contact, send atext message and set up a lunch meet-ing. If the person does not answer,

leave a message and note that youlook forward to hearing from them.Send a follow-up email, as thisshows that you want to ensure thatthe person receives your message.Last but not least, do not get discour-aged if they do not respond to you ina timely manner. Keep in mind that if YOU are try-

ing to make a connection others aretrying to do the same thing. Just re-main persistent and think outside thebox. Email is definitely an effective

form of communication; howeversending the person a hand-writtencard is even more effective. Networking should produce re-

sults; however it is an on-going taskthat takes commitment, practice andfollow-through. Remember, you can’t do the same

thing and expect different results, sotake the time and explore the Powerof Effective Business Networking! We want to hear from you! Please

email me at drwendy@drwendyjohn-son.com if you have a professional orpersonal development topic you wantus to explore.

THECAREERDEPOTBy Wendy Johnson, PhD“The Career Coach”

“Networking can be one ofthe most profitable activitiesin which you can engage;however it takes a slight shiftin attitude, professional presentation and practice.”

F

The Milwaukee Community Journal June 11, 2014 Page 6

KALEIDOSCOPEKALEIDOSCOPE

forward with our efforts to improve outcomes for our students.”Prior to joining MPS, Dr. Driver served as Deputy Chief – Curriculum,

Instruction and Professional Development, and Deputy Chief – Empower-ment Schools for the School District of Philadelphia. In Philadelphia, sheoversaw the Empowerment Schools efforts to increase achievement withlarge numbers of underperforming students and coordinated district effortsto provide needed support. Under her leadership, Empowerment Schoolsoutpaced district schools on the Pennsylvania State System Assessment inReading and Math. Empowerment Schools’ high schools made the largestgains on PSSA in history in English/Language Arts and Math.Dr. Driver began her career as an elementary school teacher in the De-

troit Public Schools.Dr. Driver received a doctorate from Harvard University in Urban Super-

intendency. She has a master’s degree from Harvard’s Graduate School ofEducation and also received a master’s in curriculum development from theUniversity of Michigan. She earned her undergraduate degree at SpelmanCollege in Atlanta, Ga.The Board will continue the search process for a permanent superintend-

ent.--Article courtesy of Tony Tagliavia/MPS

MPS board approves interim superintendent(continued from page 1)

Milwaukee Collegiate Academy is now accepting applicationsfor the 2014 - 2015 school year. Milwaukee Collegiate Academyis a City of Milwaukee charter high school conveniently located at29th and Capitol Drive. We are now enrolling students with school mission of sending

scholars to and through college. For more information, or to sched-ule a tour, please call (414) 873-4014.

Milwaukee CollegiateAcademy is Now Accepting ApplicationsFor Attorney Jaron Mosier coping

with lost hearing is a daily challenge.“I represent workers and retirees whohave lost their hearing because ofworkplace noise,” Mosier said. “It’s great to recover $10,000 and

get hearing aids for a retiree who isstruggling with hearing loss.”Adam Bernstein, owner of the

Hearing Professionals and a hearinginstrument specialist, echoed

Mosier’s sentiment. “I like workingwith individuals who’ve sustainedhearing loss because of on-the-jobnoise. “While hearing loss makes daily

life more difficult, it’s very satisfyingto fit a patient with new hearing aidsthat help to restore that patient’s qual-ity of life.”The Hearing Professionals is spon-

soring free screening tests and legalconsultations on Wednesday, June25th from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.at the Radisson North Shore, 7065 N.Port Washington Road. Anyone who has worked in noise

is welcome to attend. Free hearingtests and legal consultations will take

about 20-30 minutes. “Attendees candrop in, get a free hearing test, talkwith the hearing loss attorney, and beon their way,” Bernstein said.“We’re not selling anything. We

simply want to conduct a brief hear-ing test and inform people of theiroptions. “One of the best options available

is to bring a claim for worker’s com-pensation benefits. Most people whobring such claims recover $5,000 to$20,000 and get hearing aids!”Anyone interested in attending is

encouraged to pre-register by callingThe Hearing Professionals at (414)332-3377. “Or if someone finds just a few

minutes of free time, I’d encouragethem to stop by and find out what op-tions they have,” Bernstein said. “It’s certainly worth the few min-

utes it takes to be tested in order todetermine whether you’re eligible toreceive significant compensation.”Wisconsin law provides for com-

pensation even if a worker has notworked in noise for many years.While some workers will not qualify,compensation for those who do qual-ify can be up to $60,000 plus the costof hearing aids. Attorneys represent-ing workers only charge attorney’sfees if money is recovered by aworker.

Museum exhibit, lecture and discussion foradults and children to be held at King CommonsGallery and Studio on Juneteenth Day June 19As Martin Luther King Drive

comes alive with the sights, soundsand enticing smells of JuneteenthDay Thursday, June 19, the KingCommons Gallery and Studio willpresent an exciting exhibit for chil-dren and adults to see artifacts de-picting the contributions of Blackinventors that helped shape theworld.Called “Black Inventors and Their

Inventions,” the exhibit will be heldfrom 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the KingCommons Gallery and Studio, lo-cated at 2767 N. King Drive. Juneteenth festival goers will be

amazed to learn about the accom-plishments of Black people ofAfrican descent and their inventionsin America. Children and families can also experience role playing

activities expressing the importance of learning andteaching our history 365 days of the year.Aside from the exhibit, there will also be a story hour

for children and families to learn and celebrate traditionalAfrican American stories and music from the African Di-aspora presented by storyteller Jahames Finlayson. There will be a presentation of stories about Brer Rab-

bit and Uncle Remus that not only provide humor andfun, but teach moral lessons and wisdom.In addition, there will be lectures and discussions on

Black history that examines the plights, accomplishmentsand strength of our ancestry, including African American

narratives and how our Black youth are prt of a greaterlegacy and are meant to make monumental achievements.A fitness and dance demonstration will be given by

“Yoga with Marquita.” “Khatioc Damage Dance Company” (a Hip-Hop

group) will also perform.The exhibit will open three days before the festival on

June 16, and run until Saturday, June 21 from 12 noonuntil 4 p.m. It’s free and open to the public.For more information, contact Marquita Edwards at

414-573-1295. This event is sponsored by the Martin Luther King

Economic Development Corp. The museum is sponsoredby community elders Ronald and Joyce Shabazz andGene’s Lanes Supper Club.

Free Hearing Loss Testing toAssist Workers and Retirees

By Jaron L. MosierNowlan & Mouat LLP

CompensationAvailable forWorkers in NoisyEnvironments

Free is Better than AffordableDo you know when umbrella sales

are at their peak? If you guessed inthe middle of a thunderstorm, you’dbe correct. People buy things as theyneed them. The opportunity is therefor you, as a business owner or sales-person, is to make your product orservice available to potential cus-tomers as they need them. Makingcustomers aware of what you sell isaccomplished through marketing.You have to advertise and talk upyour product or service if you everwant to sell it. The challenge is infinding affordable ways to marketand advertise your business and whatyou sell. There are many affordable ways to

advertise. The trouble is with theword “affordable”. What’s affordableto you may not necessarily be afford-able to me. So let’s be daring andfocus on free advertising. I like free.In fact, we all tend to like stuff that’sfree. Amazingly, there are manyways to advertise our business, prod-ucts and services for free! You’regoing to want to hang on to this col-umn so that you can get started rightaway.The yellow pages online (yp.com)

offers free listings in at least threebusiness categories of your choosing.This is great for many reasons mainlybecause it’s free exposure for yourbusiness. Even more, studies haveproven that customers who search theyellow pages are ready to buy. Inother words, these customers are notwindow shopping. They are about tospend money for what you sell. Nowyou can have a shot at the businessby simply listing your business onyp.com for free.Freedom is Facebook. You’re free

to share all the details you’d likeusing social media. In fact, some-times we share too many details. Fora business owner, creating your busi-ness a free Facebook page is a nobrainer. It costs you nothing but it of-fers you a chance to be found by peo-ple all over the world looking for thetypes of products and services yousell. Just visit facebook.com and getstarted with advertising your busi-ness for free.There are many ways to take ad-

vantage of free marketing for yourbusiness including: Craigslist, Twit-ter and a host of other social mediaplatforms. There are opportunities totake advantage of free airtime on TVand the radio. You may not knowabout all of these areas of free oppor-tunity. Don’t worry, I didn’t have allof the answers when I started mybusiness either. Ten years later, I’mfortunate to be able to give back allthat I have learned to help businessowners earn the money and lifestylesthey deserve. Even better, I sharethese marketing tips and more withyou at 99salesideas.com for free!Antoine Miller is Founder of 99

SALES iDEAS for Business Devel-opment. Miller is excited to helpbusiness owners sell more of theirproducts and services. Contact Millerat 414-219-1989 oramiller@99salesideas.com with yoursales and marketing or businessstartup questions.

By Antoine Miller

Antoine Miller

The Milwaukee Community Journal June 11, 2014 Page 7

KALEIDOSCOPEKALEIDOSCOPEt h e M C J l i f e s t y l e & e n t e r t a i n m e n t s e c t i o n

Sista Speak...Speak Lord!Sista Speak...Speak Lord!TEACH MELORD!Life teaches us thatthe roses smell bet-ter if we actuallystop and smellthem.Life teaches us thatwe are truly not incontrol, althoughwe work so hard atit.Life teaches us to surrender, even when we are try-ing so hard not to.Life teaches us to see ourselves through the ac-tions, or inactions of our children.Life teaches us that perfection can be sought after,but never attained.Life teaches us that balance doesn’t exist, but har-mony is what we should be seeking.Life teaches us that prayer changes things, evenwhen we are not the ones praying.Zelda Corona“Vision Represents Faith!”

I DON’T HAVEALL THE AN-SWERS…BUTIT’S OKAY!What I havelearned about my-self lately is that Ijust don’t have allthe answers.Life has been kick-ing my butt at

things I thought I had mastered.A few challenges I was so sure I had licked, haveactually licked me.But it’s okay. The beauty in this is that I am learn-ing. Learning from my parents…Still at the age of 46.Learning things about my man, that he is not per-fect, but we are perfect together when we agree todisagree and stay together.Learning to think before I act and speak. Learningthat haste does truly make waste.Learning about my GOD…That He is merciful be-yond belief when it comes to me…Especially whenI know I don’t deserve it.What I have learned about myself lately is that its’okay that I don’t have all the answers right now,because I am still in the process of being taughteven at this age.Sonya Marie Bowman“It Is What It Is…”

SCHOOL OF LIFEWe at times blamepeople, places orthings for ourdownfalls and baddecisions we makein Life.

We at times feel ata certain age, weknow everythingthere is to knowabout all life isgoing to bring.

We at times fail at Life Lessons by choice.

The School of Life is never ending. As soon as wetake in the lessons along with God we learn how topass through this journey of life.

In the School of Life you don't graduate you gainwisdom if you follow the lessons correctly.

Let's take in and embrace this quote: "When Godsolves your problems, you have faith in HIS abili-ties, when God doesn't solve your problems, HE hasfaith in your abilities."

THE PRINCIPAL OF THE SCHOOL OF LIFE IS GOD!!!!!!“Always Keeping it Real”Tara R Pulley

Sonya Bowman

Tara Pulley

Zelda Corona

age, that sage advice often haunts us—slapping us withhands of truth. As we watch our own children grow up, sometimes it

feels like our parents ‘put a curse on us,’ as we observe theirwarnings, life lessons and old adages play out in the livesof the children we attempt to nurture and raise.In celebration of Father’s Day, we asked a few Milwau-

keeans, some of whom are members of the faith-basedcommunity, to share some of the best advice received andlessons learned from their dads. Not surprisingly, almostof the advice received by these boomers focused on edu-cation. Here are their comments:“Always be better than the next guy. While you’re not

working, somebody else is. That’s why I can survive; I’malways working and I love what I do.” Matthew Johnson,publisher of GIRLFRIENDS and FELLAs magazines.“(My father) was raised in the era of share cropping

which meant he had to leave school in the third grade towork the farm. “Since he lacked education he saw to it that his children

took full advantage of the education afforded us and hewould always nudge us a bit by saying, "If I had access tothe things you had access to, I'd rule the world." Ken Little,Vice President Commercial Lending at Seaway Bank andTrust Company"It is better for you to have it (education) and not need it

than to need it and not have it.” Steven Robertson recallsthat his dad offered that piece of advice, along with another,

"Nothing beats a failure but a try!” Steven Robertson, SiteCoordinator, TEAM GEAR UP at Milwaukee PublicSchools"Don't tell me why you can't; tell me how you can." Pas-

tor Walter Jack Lanier, Progressive Baptist Church“My dad and mom divorced when I was about six. He

wasn’t must of an advice giver. He was a musician. Hetaught me to play the piano and most of his advice was re-lated to music. He taught me to be respectful, mind yourmanners, and play music.” –Eric Von, former radio talkshow host, founder/publisher of Brain, Brawn & Body“I would say that my father demonstrated his advice by

his actions instead of his words. He was a hard worker andbelieved in being the best at what he did. “He was a machinist by trade but he went on to become

a master machinist by going back to school later in life andgetting his diploma.” Pastor Danny Whitelaw, Team Co-Chaplain, the Milwaukee Bucks“Salvation and education are an unstoppable combina-

tion,” Elder Kenneth J. Lee, Clinical Substance AbuseCounselorOn this Father’s Day, we salute and honor fathers—sin-

gle, married, surrogates and stand-ins. We applaud you forstepping up and honoring your children by loving and nur-turing them. Research shows that children fare better withdads in their lives. They have higher cognitive abilities, do better profes-

sionally and are healthier and better adjusted. We encour-age you to continue to do what you do and share yourwisdom and advice with younger dads. Happy Father’sDay!

Lessons from DadLessons from Dad(continued from page 1)

a resounding applause from the audience.In addition to Adams, Khari, moderator Rami - and to include this writer -

a listing of thirteen speakers were invited that evening to say a few wordsfrom the stage on behalf of Greenlee.Singing stylist Georgia Johnson said that, “When I think of Sam Greenlee,

I have to go down memory lane. I think I was ‘fifteenish’ and I rememberSam when they had an acting session at the Better Boys Foundation and I re-member my first class. My instructor was none other than Sam Greenlee.”Johnson adds that over the years, “I just grew to learn and to really know

who Sam was and I met a lot of people in his circle. He use to open up hishome as we got into the late 60’s and he would have these intense group ses-sions with all these actors, actresses, singers, musicians and poets.”She recalls that, “I was just glad to be in that group and that’s how I met a

lot of other people who would then follow Sam’s lead and have similar meet-ings of singers, actors, dancers, poets, and writers in their homes. It was justa great time to be exposed and groomed in and by this inspiring and inspiritedcreative Black Chicago culture.”Chicago born actor, comedian, writer, and director, Robert Townsend ap-

peared as a surprise guest paying tribute to Greenlee.“One movie that affected my life forever was ‘The Spook Who Sat by the

Door,” said Townsend. “When I saw the movie, I saw a film about revolution.I saw a film about Black people working together and I understood that weare smart and that we can do many things and that when we come together,we can make a difference.”The Hollywood producer said of Sam that he was a, “true revolutionary”

and that he possessed, “the most beautiful spirit that you ever wanted to meet.He was an authentic, grounded and a beautiful man that always gave so muchof himself.”Greenlee was born of second-generation immigrant parents escaping the

segregation of the Deep South. His mother Desoree Alexander was a singerand dancer in the chorus line of Chicago’s Regal Theater and his father,Samuel Greenlee was a railroad man and union activist. Chicago journalist and area WVON 1690AM – The Talk of Chicago radio

talk show host Salim Muwakkil who was in attendance said that, “the term‘authenticity’ is the first thing that comes to my mind when I think about SamGreenlee.”He adds that, “he was a brother who was rooted, attached, and appreciative

of the street and the wisdom it confers. But he is also a classical intellectualin that he was addicted to the world of ideas and he infused that kind of en-thusiasm into the people around him with which he had those select discus-sions, particularly concerning the status and state of affairs of the BlackcommunityHis passing is an enormous lost. But at the same time, I think that he will

inspire a whole lot of people once we begin to reflect upon his legacy.”Chicago’s Kennedy-King adjunct instructor Tulani Jackson says that he re-

members Greenlee’s, “great biting humor, but more importantly his insightas an elder.” Highly nationally acclaimed area poet, writer, playwright and youth worker,

Useni Eugene Perkins recalls that he has known Sam for about forty to forty-five years:“I remember when he had the premier of “The Spook Who Sat by the Door”

at the Maryland Theater on 63rd and Maryland right there off Cottage Groveand I did a review of the movie for the Black Express Newspaper. That filmwill always be a classic and just a great work of art.”Greenlee’s daughter Natiki Montano from the podium said to the gathering

that, “It brings me tremendous joy to see all of you here and the great com-mentary about your experiences with my dad, and I am learning so muchmore about him through you and I highly appreciate that.”Montano further expressed that when she looks out over the audience, “I

see people who are striving to make a difference; to do things in the commu-nity and to make a change in the world – one person at a time. And as such,I see, therefore, that my father, his life and his legacy are right here in thisroom.”Moderator Rami discloses from the podium that there is an African proverb

that says: “You will live as long as the last person on earth remembers yourname.” He shares that how we leave this earth may vary.

“But in life, were you to be that model that outspoken voice; if you arethere to be a leader, then move in the direction that leaves a legacy, a directionthat impacts the future, a future anchored within the annals of history so thatthe history also moves forward with your name.”And one the back page of the memorial celebration program quite reflective

of Greenlee’s life is the reminder for us “to be a consistent servant of the peo-ple,” as it is written in Dr. Maulana Karenga’s 1984 work, the “Husia” - notingthe quote on this page - that, “the wise are known by their wisdom. But thegreat are known by their good deeds.”

(continued from page 3)Honoring Sam Greenlee

The Milwaukee Community Journal June 11, 2014 Page 8

The Milwaukee Community Journal June 11, 2014 Page 9

The Milwaukee Community Journal June 11, 2014 Page 10