by B. White
Holla!

Twenty-four thousand, five hundred (24,500) down 220,500 to go, I-Witness touching Black people all over the city of Milwaukee, and the world one event at a time.

Black People are the First Wonders of the World--We have survived and continue to survive in spite of those who wish for and work toward our demise.

Holla-Outs

To: Larone (Too Much) Cage who calls me Ms. Thick cause thickness is his weakness, I love it when you call my name, Holla!

To: Reggie Crawley just hollering at you, Merry Christmas.

To: Iran Jennings, have a merry Christmas.

Hey, Miles Davis over at St. Marcus Lutheran School, you know I love you, a student-athlete with a 3.5 G.P.A., a violinist, a soccer and basketball player what can I say...I know you understand your mission keep advancing that next generation I love it!

Birthday-Holla

Hey, Barbara Reese I was walking around picking up 50-cent pieces when I was informed it was your birthday! Of course, I will not tell your new age. Therefore, your daughter Melody and I thought we would sing to you: "Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday, Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday!" Okay you have to say we made a great duet and we can sannng, girl, Holla!

Hey, Mr. Wonderful, (Gaulien "Gee" Smith) I bet you thought I forgot your birthday. I know I am a trifling Angel, but I will make it up to you. I thought I would sing to you, "Keep smiling, keep smiling knowing that you can always count on me, for sure. That’s what friends are for..." I know I sound good didn’t I, Holla! Happy Birthday Mr. Wonderful friends forever, you know you are my favorite, Love Ya!

Hey, Michelle Allison, I bet you thought I forgot your birthday too...glad I am not your angel so you cannot call me trifling, Holla! You know I wish you the best, I just feel very bad for you and Mr. Wonderful because you are both older than me, Holla! Happy Birthday! Love Ya!

Kathleen Crawford so it is your birthday, huh, well I am wishing you the best day ever!

Hey, Mr. Melody, (Mo Williams) too bad I could not go out with you and party with you on your birthday, but I know you had a good time. I am still waiting for you to be Santa Claus so I can sit on your lap and tell you everything I want for Christmas, Holla! Happy Birthday to You.

Hey, Jason Boothe Jr. over at Parkway Elementary, it’s your birthday, it’s your birthday, Happy Birthday.

Hey, Celeste Dinsmore, all your friends wanted I-Witness to Holla at you on your Birthday, Happy Birthday, and Holla!

FYI

Montal L. Hinton has just opened the old Luther’s Lounge on Holton Avenue. It will so be called Libations; Tracy Nash will be your friendly bartender. Libations will open daily at 4 p.m., so stop by and give a brother a Holla!

Tish Taylor the mom of Milwaukee’s singing superstar Lil’ Jacob has just launched a new business called Consider it Done, which will provide you a service of valet, running errands, dog-walking, clerical duties; anything you need done she will get it done to help you manage your busy life. Hey, Tish I think I want to hire you and I know you are good.

Congratulations

To: Zenobia Randolph, who just graduated with her degree in Business Administration from Cardinal Strict University. Congratulations Zenobia, keep advancing that next generation, I love it!

To: Nicole Zick! There are some folks who are really proud of you, I hear you just received your degree from Alverno College. I love that you have become a strong advocate for education and have that strong sense of commitment to your community by mentoring others! Senator Lena Taylor and all your colleagues want to congratulate you on a job well done! Congratulations and keep advancing that next generation, I love it!

New Bronzeville-area restuarant is a hit!

Corey Smith, owner of Soche’ Milwaukee, addresses the crowd at his recent grand opening for his restaurant. (photo by Barbara White)

Soche’ Milwaukee, a split-level upscale causal dining restaurant and lounge, opened last week in the Bronzeville area or Downtown North, as Stella Love of the Ponderosa Steak House likes to call it.

The atmosphere at the new restaurant/lounge razzled and dazzled all that came. This community turned out in droves to get their peek at what I-Witness says will be one of the hottest spots in the city, a sure rival to many downtown clubs.

Corey and LaMonica Smith, owners, opened the doors to a community that hailed the words over and over that it is about time: a nice place in our community where we can go and feel the same plush as any club downtown. Folks loved the ambiance and couldn’t get enough of it; the "ooohs" and "ahhhhs" were nonstop.

This is a very special story about two brothers who wanted to provide this city and our community with businesses that would be in our community but give us that upscale touch in atmosphere and good customer service.

You cannot talk about one brother with out talking about the other, for sometimes; even I think they are twins. Gaulien (Gee) Smith opened a second 20-station barbershop complete with nail techs and a masseuse right next door to Soche’ Milwaukee.

The two brothers have side-by-side businesses where they have invested over $1.3 million into revitalizing the Bronzeville area, which includes the strip of Dr. Martin Luther King Drive between North Avenue and Garfield Street, where both businesses are housed.

The Smith brothers are truly unique, both in their early 30s, they are very sound business men who have worked hard all their short lives with dreams and visions that they just didn’t only talk about, but learned how to make their visions come true.

Back in the day, beginning in the late ’40s the Bronzeville area was the official entertainment district for our community as well as Milwaukee’s melting pot. Many national entertainers, as well as national figures visited the Bronzeville area for all its entertainment needs and it was a jumping.

The opening of Soche’ Milwaukee along with Garfield 502 and Andre’s on Garfield is attracting other major investors to the area, thus helping to bring back and reshape entertainment in the city of Milwaukee for all who love to party.

On opening day at Soche’ Milwaukee, folks came in minks and other furs as they drove up to the valet service provided by Soche’ ... it was like a premiere party at the Oscars.

There was Alderman Mike McGee who is the councilman of the district, representatives from all branches of government with proclamations and letters of congratulations as well as bankers, investors, judges, associations and a proud community wishing them well.

Corey addressed his guest by introducing his wife LaMonica who publicly supports him 100%, thanking all who came out to support them in their new endeavor. He talked about what he really does in life for a living, he is a developer, he owns over 150 properties, employs nearly 100 people and growing; he owns several Cup of Java Coffee Houses.

He wanted to thank the people who made this venture happen for him. The first on his list was his brother Gaulien (Gee) he tells the story of Gaulien coming to him telling him he was going to buy one of the buildings to open a second location of Gee’s Clippers but if they brought both buildings, they could get a better deal. "I asked him, what I would do with that building? Gaulien told me, ‘well maybe you need to open a nice restaurant’ and the rest is history," Corey said.

He went on to thank Craig Hanes, Business Development officer of Associated Bank, Smith states that upon meeting Craig he learned so much about investing and he appreciated all the assistance and financial backing he has granted him. He thanked Alderman McGee for assisting him when Murphy’s Law (when things happen they will) appeared during this venture.

The alderman thanked the Creator and stated, "the Bronzeville of the ’50s where you had the Ma and Pa hole in the walls are no longer, this is a historic moment and we must seize it. We have a place here, which displays real professionalism. We are the largest ethnic group in the city of Milwaukee and we must start to flex our muscle economically." Alderman McGee then turns to Corey, smiled and said, "it is my job to help and assist you."

Maxine May of the Governor Doyle’s office, presented the couple with acknowledgements from the governor, Carl Hampton of U.S. Senator Feingold’s office, the list went on.

Smith introduced many of the contractors like Flux Design who truly did an excellent job in the design of Soche’ Milwaukee; he further introduced the general contractor Nick Woods and key staff member.

Teig Whaley manager of the Historic King Drive Improvement District states, "we love people with strong visions and implement them well."

Corey closed saying: "we want your experience at Soche’ Milwaukee to be an enjoyable one so we will always be looking at providing you the best in customer service because we would like to make sure our customers enjoy their experience here with us."

There were plenty more congratulations and hugs as Whaley and Alderman McGee lead us in champagne toast, wishing much success Soche’ Milwaukee.

As the party began folks came from everywhere and it was a "Who’s Who" list. Many of the folks in the media were on hand, not to cover the event but to partake in the party. Folks could not resist going next door also to tour the new Gee’s Clippers.

The band ASI was rockin’ the house they were good. Folks were to capacity on both levels as the music flowed throughout the place from 5 o’clock until close, the flow of people continued. Okay I-Witness had a good time I know y’all know I can sing but what you didn’t know is I now can play guitar. I sat in with ASI for a song and I was good, Holla!

I chatted with many folks on their thoughts about Soche’ Milwaukee. Lottie Smith says, "it brings a touch of class and it gives an indication that King Drive is coming back to life. I am a Milwaukeean who has lived in New York and Soche’ has a New York bistro style and I like that. I feel it is a litmus test to the future of King Drive."

Adam Nilson of Nilson Sound was the contractor who put the sound system in both businesses. He says I-Witness is now his sister because we both have vitiligo, a skin disorder, I loved it!

Kwabena (the People’s Champ) Nixon said, it is a beautiful day for Black people that "these two men lost their father this year and instead of building a shrine or putting a picture on a t-shirt, they build businesses to pay honor and tribute to their parents and community. It is a new day in Milwaukee."

P. Thomas Thadison, CEO of Milwaukee Black Online.com, states, "this is great and we must all get behind them to help make them successful, I now have some where to come to in my community and I plan to do all I can to see it’s success and I’m asking others to join me."

LaTasha Greg and a group of her friends celebrated Lacal Bates’, owner of Studio 105 Hair Salon, birthday. LaTasha stated "the chicken wings were great; service was great about six people checked on us during our stay. The atmosphere is hip and I love the cream city bricks. It is a very nice upscale atmosphere for Milwaukee and we plan to return."

I-Witness sought out numerous folks asking their feel of Soche’ Milwaukee and its atmosphere and appearance mesmerized every one.

I-Witness did not try any of the menu items but will return sometime next week to do so.

There were three nights of live entertainment ASI band, which was my favorite; Cigarette Break was really good also. All three nights were the bomb. If I had to sum up the spirit and energy in one word it would be "pride," no one had to say it you just seen it in everyone’s face, you heard it in their voice but more importantly I saw them come to personally say thank you for dreaming.

Hey, Corey, LaMonica and Gaulien (Mr. Wonderful,) y’all know you have excited me; I have never met such polite, caring people as y’all, means you were raised well.

My editor, Tom Mitchell, wanted me to roll with your projects because he felt there was something good at the end of this rainbow. Moreover, he was right. From it’s inception to the end I truly got a chance to see how you worked, planned and executed and I am truly impressed.

I know this community thanks you for daring to be and I thank you as well not so much for Soche’ Milwaukee or Gee’s Clippers but for making the death of Dr. King not be in vain. If he were here today, I know he would say, "That’s what I’m talking about." Y’all are his example, that all people irrespective to the color of their skin, be afforded the opportunity to pursue their dreams, be able to get bank loans, buy property to stabilize and grow neighborhoods thus providing family sustaining jobs, living the American Dream to its fullest.

How interesting that you all had a dream on Dr. Martin Luther King Drive and made it real. All I can say is the universe is yours dance in it dance. Asante’ Sana (thank you), keep advancing that next generation I love it!

Holy Redeemer and a Milwaukee Buck

Bishop Daniels of Holy Redeemer introduces Maurice "Mo" Williams of the Milwaukee Bucks. (photo by B. White)

Mo Williams, of the Milwaukee Bucks, autographs basketball for young basketball fans at Holy Redeemer. The fans, young and old, were treated to Christmas gifts and goodies on behalf of Williams and Holy Redeemer. (photos by Barbara White)

Holy Redeemer Institutional Church of God and Christ was "tis" place to be spreading Christmas cheer throughout their compound and community.

Bishop Sedgwick Daniels hosted their annual Christmas Dinner for their Jurisdiction Leaders, Officers of the Church and staff. While in another area of the grounds, Valerie Daniels of V&J Foods hosted their staff Christmas party with a full dinner and fun-filled games.

I-Witness was there at the invitation of Maurice (Mo) Williams, point guard for the Milwaukee Bucks whose generosity was spread to children whose parents are incarcerated and those families who needed someone to assist in bringing joy to their family on Christmas.

When I arrived, folks had begun to line up as we waited for Mo. Skip Robinson, Community Relations director for the Milwaukee Bucks, was on hand to assist and came with more than 1200 tickets to give as gifts to a Bucks game. Hundreds were lined up.

As Mo arrived in this special car made just for him from Italy, called Mo 25, excitement filled the air. Attorney John Daniels greeted Mo, accompanying him was his fiancee, Kesha Thompson. Hey, y’all, I had her calling him Mr. Melody, Holla!

According to Billy Young, the director of the Mother Daniels’ Conference Center, "holiday cheer is everywhere and we at Holy Redeemer want to share and spread it."

Mo was taken to the banquet room where the dinner was taking place and was greeted with much love. Bishop Daniels introduced him and spoke on his kindness and goodwill presenting him with a plaque of appreciation.

Mo thanked the Bishop and began to talk about how he knew what it was like to be a child and not have much. Therefore, he wanted to just show up, shake a few hands and share a few kind words.

Mo contacted Holy Redeemer because he felt the need to help those in our community have a wonderful Christmas, especially those who could not be with their parents. Mo and Holy Redeemer created a partnership to make the good things happen and y’all know I-Witness loves it when Black People do the good things.

We were whisked away to the gym area where families awaited Mo. The families came in all hues and colors of the rainbow. Showing his true humbleness Mo went through the whole line shaking hands and chatting with his guest and they loved it.

According to Gloria Dixon, "Bishop Daniels goes out of his way every Christmas to bring joy to the children because it was what Mother Daniels did." (Mother Daniels has passed.)

Corp Care assisted the Bishop in making purchases of the gifts. Every item of clothing is brand new; the items come from places like Kohl’s Department store and other places. This year Bishop received more than $50,000 in merchandise that he purchased for a fraction of the cost. He does it up big, his commitment to giving comes from the actions of his mom.

Mo is working and chatting with the children signing their toys, posters, even helping them select gifts from all the different items to choose from.

The children have swirled all around Mo now getting autographs and just talking. I will tell y’all the Bishop and Mo had it laid out for the families there were cookies, candies, appetizers juices and hot apple cider, which was really good.

Not only did the families receive toys and clothing of their choice, but they also received bags of groceries with all kinds of goodies in them.

Dorothy Madden was truly excited about a decorative pillow she received. She stated, "It so nice and it will match nicely in my house."

Madden was elated about several gifts she received, including a purse and a pair of boots. "I had been asking God for a pair of boots for a long time and he finally sent them." She continues, "Look I got something for everybody," she said as she beamed bright as the sun. I was almost in tears at her joy and thankfulness for something so small, yet so big.

Mo helped pick out gifts, stuff grocery bags, shook hands, signed autographs on everything including the cake box tops and gave out plenty hugs and much love.

He said good-bye to all just like Santa Claus wishing all a Merry Christmas.

Hey, Bishop you know you are one of my favorites! You know I love the way you do the things you do.

Mo thanks for the invite; it was heartwarming. You have earned your way to being one of I-Witness’ favorites now. So I must now officially give you your name Mr. Melody, Holla! Bishop, Mo keep doing the good stuff I, love it! Merry Christmas...

Ho Ho Ho, Merry Christmas

The Milwaukee County Black Caucus recently hosted a toy drive benefiting CYD’s the Kids that Santa Forgot, But Got Remembered program. The event was held at Garfield 502 and was co-sponsored by Martin Scriber and Associates, Miller Community, Harold Gee Agency and Gerald Randall. (photo by Barbara White)

Christmas at the McCallums

Mavis McCallum (far left), Milwaukee’s own Martha Stewart, poses with guests at her recent Christmas party. (photo by Barbara White)

Everybody hears about her and wants her in all their homes. I am talking about Martha Stewart, Ms. Know-how-to-do-everything woman. Well guess what y’all, we have our own Martha Stewart right here in our community. Mavis McCallum is the Martha Stewart of Milwaukee she gardens, bakes, decorates and tells every one else how to do it very well, Holla!

Mavis and her husband Thomas hosted their 38th Annual Family Christmas Party. I loved this party it is where all the home-growns of at least five generations come and enjoy.

When you go to Mavis and Thomas’ house it is like stepping into the "Better Homes and Gardens" magazine, it is simply beautiful. So imagine it at Christmas: lights strung all over the house with flashing white bulbs just like in the books. Upon entering the house, the smell of Christmas fills your nose. This was truly the angel house; I thought I was the only one that did everything in angels. Mavis had beautiful angels all over the house even the tree was filled with them. Any kid would love this house.

All kinds of folks were in the house, Judge Maxine White, Mac Weddle, Peggy Burton, Curt and Helen Harris, Mavis’ sisters Mary Russell and Delores Carter.

Pretty Ben Watson attended the party, as did Brenda Wilkes; the Agape Neighborhood Coordinator, Pam Harrell, Veronica Burton, Charles Henry, Sheila Payton, Louise Small-Hamilton and Phyllis Phillips. Mavis’ niece from Atlanta traveled to join her for the family holiday.

Mavis said that she and her husband host the holiday gathering because they have a large family and most of them and their friends were raised up together; went to school together and have just enjoyed life as family. "It is a great way to share with young people, allowing them to network, learn how to entertain and share. Our family has been very blessed and as we have been blessed, we extend those blessings to our friends," Mavis said.

The Christmas sounds of Nate King Cole, Bobby Blue Bland and the Temptations filled the air, as many chatted and caught up for the year.

Okay I told y’all Mavis was Martha Stewart well how about she baked 57 loafs of breads, cranberry, apple nut, pumpkin, several kinds of homemade cookies; and homemade candies of all kinds, white pecan chocolate bars, chocolate caramel turtles; pound cakes, sweet potato pie; even Chinese fried walnuts and pecans. Y’all know I-Witness was in sweet heaven. Bullox Special Blends caterers, Darnell and Pandora Bullox laid it out, complete with relish green beans, marinated carrots, turkey, pork, beef, and some of the best seafood pasta salad. I even had Mississippi Caviar (black-eyed peas with veggies) and it was so goooood.

Hey, Mavis I just want to say I had a good time and I tasted everyone of the homemade desserts, you go Martha Stewart doesn’t have a thing on you and I’ll give her up for you any day. Merry Christmas to you and your family, have a healthy and prosperous New Year.