by B. White

Holla!

Forty thousand, five hundred (40,500) down 204,500 to go, I-Witness touching Black people all over the city of Milwaukee, and the world one event at a time.

"Until the Lion writes his own story, the tale of the hunt will always glorify the hunter."

--African proverb

Thought for the Day

When one loves self, one can spread that love throughout their family, their block, their community, to a nation for they will have the utmost respect and love for life...

Holla-Outs

To: Robert Knoxs over at Community Care so you say, you love when I do the Holla-Outs, well guess what, I am hollering out at you, today Holla! Holla-Out to all the rest of the drivers at Community Care for me. Say it loud, Holla!

Hey, Denise Smith over at St. Joan Antida High School, I just wanted to holler at you and tell you to keep advancing that next generation I love it!

Birthday Holla-Outs

Hey, Carl Gee, I heard it was your birthday so I felt like singing, Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday, Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday, I sound just like Jennifer Hudson don’t I? I know you are saying: “Go I-Witness, Go I-Witness,” Holla! Have a great day.

Hey, Jonathan Spence I heard you just turned 16 and that you are learning how to drive now. Wow, Happy Birthday to you! You know you are one of my favorite authors, singers, poets and actors, but with this driving thing, let me know when you are on the streets, Holla! Have a great day.

Hey Ms. Volina Deennison, I hear it’s your 80th Birthday and your children just want to holler at you, Happy Birthday!

Happy Birthday, Della Wells wishing you the best day ever.

Congratulations

To: Oscar winners Forest Whitaker and Jennifer Hudson, you two are fantastic artists, Congratulations!

To: the Finalist spitting to represent Milwaukee at the National Spoken Word Slam: Dan Vaughn, Remy the Gambit, DeShawn Ewing, Dasha Kelly, Nigel Wade, Free Bird and Jelaqua.

Hey, Diamond Johnson over at 65th Street School I hear you are on the “Honor Roll,” I love it! Keep advancing that next.

To: Marvin and Jodine Ivy of Elegance Entertainment and Ivy Media Group, the young couple has just launched a new magazine called “Anointed Pages,” which is geared to the faith-based, a gospel magazine. “The Anointed Pages” will be published on a bi-monthly basis. Hey, Marvin and Jodine, you know I wish you the best in your new endeavor. Keep advancing that next generation, I love it!

A Word from a Reader

Dear I-Witness,

Hello, my name is Somer Tyler. First of all thank you so much for the shout out in the “Community Journal.” When I grow up, I plan to become a pillar in the community like you. The shout out that I received from you boosted my confidence and made me realize I AM a phenomenal young woman and for that thank you again.

I would love to meet you in person, maybe have lunch.

Sincerely,

Somer Tyler

Ms. Somer, you are a phenomenal young woman. You know you made my day. About that luncheon date, do not worry I will make it happen. I will be in touch soon. Again, thank you for making me feel like a phenomenal woman, Holla! Keep advancing that next generation, I love it!

Thank You

Hey, Christopher Robertson, Marva Danielle Lacy and the Thunder Cats I heard that you were wonderful in loving and taking care of your mother while she was ill. Your mom Cassandra WMCS 1290 wanted to let everyone know how good you were to her as well as to tell y’all how much she loves each one of you. I-Witness also thanks you for loving your mother when she most needed it.

Condolences

To: the family of Jeanette Ross, Terry, Anthony, Tracy (Sabrina), Larry (Serita) Whatley, Samantha, and Earl Motley and Nicole Whatley, We hold you in our prayers.

A Football Player and a Church

Bishop Sedgwick Daniels of Holy Redeemer Institutional Church of God and Christ (left) smiles as Willie Davis, former Green Bay Packer great turned successful entrepreneur, looks on during a recognition program honoring Davis. (photo by Barbara White)

Former Football player, NFL Hall of Fame Inductee and Businessman Willie Davis and Holy Redeemer Church of God in Christ Mother Kathryn Daniels Conference Center (MKDCC) joined hands in loving the children and their families of this community.

An induction ceremony and jersey retirement took place at the MKDCC where Willie Davis’ jersey and number was retired to the MKDCC “Wall of Fame” where he will join his fellow Hall of Fame teammates Willie Woods, Herb Adderly and Reggie White.

The celebration opened with Bishop Sedgwick Daniels doing the opening prayer and the welcoming.

Billy Young, director of MKDCC gave the history of the Wall of Fame, which was established to feature historical memorabilia that salutes exceptional individuals for their achievements and contributions to the greater Milwaukee community.

Many folks came out to see the jersey retirement and induction ceremony, including Davis’ relatives from Texarkana, Arkansas, his brother Al and wife, Delphynne Davis, his sister Lavenia Davis-Bratton and husband William Bratton Jr. and his son William Duane Davis.

There was a Willie Davis retrospective video presentation where Commissioner of Baseball Bud Selig, Dick Strong and Jack McKertheran all congratulated Davis, and shared with us his strong commitment to his family, friends and community.

The “Circle of Champions” Argilla (Argilla in Latin means Pottery Clay- to shape and mold) Initiative under the direction of Richard Walker thanked Davis and shared with him that more than 85 young students are partaking in the program.

Many of the students who attend the MKDCC School were present and thanked Mr. Davis for all that he has done in allowing his name to be used in moving the Circle of Champions Argilla program at the MKDCC and Holy Redeemer.

DeJean Perique, a young lady in the Argilla program spoke eloquently and with passion expressing to Davis what she and the other students felt about him.

“We look up to you and appreciate all that you have done. The Argilla program has helped me to develop my skills as a student and a person; I have now earned a four-year paid scholarship. I have gained so much. The program has opened a completely new chapter in my life and I had to come and say thank you,” Perique said. I loved it! Willie Davis was getting to see the lives he is touching.

Bishop Daniels thanked Davis for everything and the use of his name as well as the support he has given the children at MKDCC and Holy Redeemer. The Bishop shared with us what the Bible says about a good man and he told Davis he was a “Good Man” by God’s definition.

Many from WMCS 1290 the radio station, which Davis owns, came out to congratulate him, including Morning Show host Cassandra, Cassandra, GM-Don Rosette, Bill Hurwitz GM of Milwaukee Radio Alliance. Others in attendance included: Oshi Adelabu, Michelle and Jailyn Allison, School Board Candidate Wendell Harris, Ms. Rose, Mary Shaw, Sheryl, Samuel and Justin Cummingham, Richard Walker, Dr. Valerie and Hattie Daniels.

Bill Hurwitz introduced the inductee Davis, he shared with us that Davis serves on 10 Fortune 500 Companies boards, but is best known for his humanitarian out reach and how he has touched thousands of lives. “I know how big his heart is and how important it is for him to give back. I bring to you Mr. Willie Davis,” Hurwitz said.

Davis states: “I am humble today. Every since I have been in Milwaukee Holy Redeemer has been on every radio station and I keep wondering how I can lay claim to the Daniel Family.” Davis looked at Bishop Daniels and said, “Your family is awesome.”

Yes, I have blazed some trails and did some achievements as he looks around the room then ask Bishop how did you get people to come. He began naming off his son, sister and brother.

Davis showed such humbleness when he said, “How can I be in this position and not be grateful, in the NFL Hall of Fame, Mom this is a long way for Texarkana. If my mom could be here today, it would truly be a complete occasion.” He looked to the ceiling and said, “Mom I know you are up there helping God. I just want to say thanks to everyone.” He also thanked his assistant Edna for 37 years of service, exciting growth and development. I just want young people to know you are doing the right things. One of the best things you could do is pursue education. I do not care how tough it gets hang in there get that education.

He showed favor to Hattie Daniels saying she is a good person. He turns to Billy Young and says, “I truly appreciate this event and I commend you.” He again turns to Bishop with his heart reflecting in his eyes he says, “I shall remember this day and I promise you Bishop I will not let you down.” With that, he again thanked every one.

Davis’ then pulled the strings unveiling his jersey to join the other Hall of Fame displayed on the walls at the MKDCC. A reception ensued.

Look for more on Willie Davis’ grand induction to the “Wall of Fame” in the March 10-11 WKND edition, as he receives the Mother Kathryn Daniels Conference Center Lifetime Achievement Award.

I-Witness: Say it Loud, I’m Black and I’m Proud 

Holla! I-Witness received recognition for reporting the community good news. Milwaukee County Board Chairman Lee Holloway presents I-Witness with her award.

The Milwaukee County Board of Supervisor Black Caucus hosted its 11th Annual Black History Month Celebration in the Milwaukee County Courthouse Rotunda. The Caucus honored its 2007 Black History Month Warriors in grand style. I-Witness was one of the warriors honored.

The Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors, the Black Caucus, Chairman Lee Holloway, Supervisors Michael Mayo, Beth Coggs-Jones, Willie Johnson, James White and Toni Clark celebrated Black History Month. Its theme “Say it Loud, I’m Black and I’m Proud” The celebration is to raise the consciousness and highlight the great contributions Black people have made to not only American History but also World History. It is one of the largest Black History Celebration in the city.

Every year each supervisor selects people throughout the community who have made positive impact, contributions and who dare to make a difference in the community, which they live.

More than 30 honorees were recognized by the Black Caucus Mother Myrtle M. Davis, Judge Maxine White, Antoinette Michelle Pitts, Edward W. Smyth, Gwen T. Jackson, Gerald Randall, Jr., Dr./Rev. Fred and Louise Crouther, Rev. Nathaniel Stampley, Former Mayor Marvin Pratt, Larry Stephens, Mitchell Avant, Jacqueline Crymes-Zeledon, Shirley Warren, Ofnsegun Sijiwade, Gerald Dunae Coleman, Douglas Patton, Rev. Mark and Sheila Fossie, Gaulien (Gee) Smith, Jerry Hamilton, Jeannetta Robinson, Reuben and Mildred Harpole, Earnestine Shipman, Eloise Moore, Ms. Rose Lu Hing, Josephine Hill, Eric Von, Tyrone Dumas and yours truly Barbara White aka I-Witness. I felt truly honored to be among the selected group of warriors.

It’s not often that you go to awards where you see the works of folks who are being awarded in the community but among this group of people you see the things they do every day and how they dare to impact our community.

The rotunda was filled and the sounds of James Brown singing “Say it loud, I’m Black and I’m Proud” filtered all through the halls of justice. The rotunda was festively decorated with banners saying “I’m Black and Proud.” All along the walls were the honorees photos for all to see. Two Big screen televisions introduced every segment of the celebration.

The honorees were pinned with a pretty purple flowers, because purple is the color which represents royalty. Of course, I-Witness made her grand entrance; I did not do it on purpose though. DeMarco said I looked like a queen so did MCJ’s Sales Representative Jimmy Johnson, I liked that after all I was feelin’ somewhat royal, Holla!

The program opened with the Milwaukee County Sheriff Honor Guard, Supervisor Toni Clark introduced the Master of Ceremonies, WISN 12 Weekend Co-anchor DeMarco Morgan, all of you who know DeMarco knows he is an inspirational MC and one heck of an orator besides he’s one of I-Witness’s Favorite guys.

Pastor Bruce Dyson did the Invocation and Tyrone Dumas poured Libation. Linda Durham who works for the county board led us in “Lift Every Voice.”

Then there was the presentation of the honoree’s each supervisor presented their warrior with a plaque and an award like an Emmy along with a big pretty colorful bag, which contained all kinds of things from each of the supervisors. Devon Coggs-Jones was the Vanna White assisting all the supervisors. I loved the beautiful coffee mug mine was fire red, hot, hot, hot, I loved it.

DeMarco begins with, “our next honoree is known throughout the city as Holla” okay y’all everybody in the place started hollering, Holla! Y’all know it was wild and I loved it! Chairman Holloway presented me with the plaque and Emmy award and I think I was doing a Kool-Aid smile, showing all ... thirty that is all I have, Holla!

After the presentations, Shelly Davis graced us with poetry and the Brothers of Kwanzaa rocked the halls of justice.

There was also a winner of the best Black History Window Display among the supervisors Peggy West took third, Michael Mayo took second, and Beth Coggs-Jones won first Coggs-Jones’ display was creative; it feature the Children are Crying 2007 calendar produced by Campaign Against Violence. I went and viewed all the displays, which were creative, I loved it!

Holloway thanked all their sponsors with special thanks to Doug Patton of Patton Funeral Home as their major sponsor. Reverend Dyson did the benediction and DeMarco closed us out with the words of know what you speak for words are powerful.

We all fellowshipped afterwards, taking pictures, getting hugs and congratulation there was a wonderful luncheon laid out for us. I was in very good spirits I was with three of my favorite guys, Mr. Wonderful (Gaulien Smith (Gee) who also received the Warrior Award, the Distinguish Gentleman (DeMarco Morgan) and Mr. Personality (Shawn Williams).

Danielle Bolden was the host coordinator of the Black History Celebration with a committee of other administrative assistants and clerk staff.

Afterwards everyone went to Garfield 502 for a festive cool out and to thank all the staff for their hard work, Danielle received a big Hear, Hear, toast even Parks’ Director Sue Black joined as well as many others.

To all of the County Board Black Caucus Supervisors, I had a really good time and I was truly humbled by your recognition of the little things we all do to try to make a difference in our community and the world. But I must thank y’all for one more thing, having the guts to show the world the humanity of Black people and continuing to show off the great things Black people contribute to the betterment of our community and the world. Keep showing us off, I love the way you do the things you do.

Acknowledging Black Excellence

Local paper awards Africans Americans for their contributions

The 2007 Milwaukee Black Excellence Award honorees stand as they are recognized for the contributions to the community in various forms. (photo by Barbara White)

The “Milwaukee Times” hosted its 22nd Annual Black Excellence Awards at the Italian Community Center. The awards were started to recognize those unsung heroes whose contributions and leadership would have gone unnoticed. Therefore, 22 years later and more than 650 honorees the “Milwaukee Times” still salutes the best.

There are numerous awards presented at the Black Excellence Awards like the Louvenia Johnson Journalism Scholarship Fund where more than $200,000 has been awarded to Milwaukee youth to pursue a career in Journalism. The 2007 Louvenia Johnson Scholarship Recipients are Camile Johnson, a senior at Riverside University School, Robyn Lockett-Rufus King International Baccalaureate High School, Sequoya Allen- Rufus King International Baccalaureate High School and Raetricia Byrd-Townsend-Milwaukee School of the Arts.

Mike Anderson and Joyce Garbaciak of WISN 12 News were the Masters of Ceremonies. The honorees were introduced one by one and so many of my favorite people were being honored Josephine Hill, Mr. Wonderful (Gaulien (Gee) Smith), Dorothy Buckhanan, J.C. Frazier, my fellow firefighter Nathaniel C. Green, Brother Bob Smith, Catherine Miles, Gregory T. Ware and Dr. Tito Izard. There were so many good people honored and I must say had I not seen a one of them, I can still see their work through out the community affecting lives and giving hope.

I was seated with Brian Spewer, Van Kern and his wife who was the proud father and step mom of Evan Kern who displayed their joy. Tracy Evans joined us Evan Jr.’s mom, she stated Evan was her only child and she was so proud of him. It was very clear to me that most of Evan Jr.’s success is that he has a whole lot of good people who love him.

Many folks were in the house, Perry, Michelle Brown, Rick Norwood, two school board candidates Stephanie Finney and Wendell Harris as well as Rose McDowell, Ruby Jackson, Victor Smith, Paula Dorsey, Oshi Adelabu, Assist Fire Chief Mark Sain, Ralph Holloman, Worthington Hortman, Mary Shaw, Michelle Crockett, Mary Jo Avery, Lawrence Jenkins, and WISN 12 News Director Lori Walton.

I was fortunate enough to meet many of the people I will be working with at the Goodwill on one of my job assignments, Shannon Mattox, Diane Wager, Alma Rogers, Bob Gleason, Mathew Terry Leahy, Vickie Volpano, Ingramar Dagrella, Courtney and Quinton Buckhanan who were there to celebrate their mother Dorothy.

Brenda Sheppard-Nelson did the greetings, the “Star Spangled Banner” and “Lift Every Voice” was led by God’s Ensemble, Dr. Dwain Berry of Tabernacle Church gave the Invocation. During dinner God’s Ensemble entertained us.

Mayor Tom Barrett thanked the “Milwaukee Times” for recognizing those citizens who are doing great things in our community.

There was also the unveiling of the Ella Fitzgerald edition of Black series stamps by the U.S. Post office and all of us were given one as a gift. As well a salute to former columnist Mattibelle Woods.

The keynote speaker was Police Chief Gwendolyn V. Boyd, Ph.D. of North Miami, Florida Police Department.

Chief Boyd stared off as a public service aide with Miami Police Department; she worked her way up through the ranks serving as a police officer and in undercover operations. Chief Boyd has been breaking ground everywhere as the first Black female sergeant, lieutenant, captain, and major in the Miami Police Department as well as Assist Chief of Police. Her first position as chief was for the Prichard, Alabama Police Department. In 2002, her experience, service and education propelled her to the forefront and the only female in the 100-year history of the Department to be appointed Chief of Police. She is a true trailblazer.

Chief Boyd shared many of the challenges she faced being not only Black but being a woman as well. She states but never under estimate the power of a woman as she smiles that woman smile. She thanked the “Milwaukee Times” for inviting her. She states: “I have seen hurtful things but I have also seen many accomplishments. Every time you feel like quitting don’t, do like James Brown and make them holler. Do not quit, get promoted.

“Stand the pain of racism, and get promoted, you see when you are on top you can influence policies and make changes in attitudes, behaviors and departmental changes.”

She continued with her dynamic speech and closed it with a little saying she feeds herself and wanted to leave with us, “Mirror, Mirror on the wall, I just want to be free to be that person, me...” She got a standing ovation.

Now one of the most special parts of the program the special salute to Milwaukee Black Female Officers “Women Behind the Badge.” It was fantastic to just see the officers as they filed in it was a beautiful sight.

In closing, there was the honoring of the talented teens and the presentation of the honorees and closing words of thanks by Vice President Linda Jackson Conyers saluting all the honorees and thanking every one for coming.

Hey Linda, I thought the program was awesome and I loved the keynote speaker and the special salute to Women behind the Badge, it was a class act. Keep doing the good things!

Happy Birthday times two...

What’s it like to be 100-years-young?

Hessie Hubbert celebrated her birthday with over six generations as she turned 100. Folks came from across the country, the Kimbrough Family from Mississippi, Hubbert Family from California and the Smith family from Illinois to say Happy Birthday to the oldest living Matriach of the Sims and Hubbert Family. Her grandson, pharmacist Jerome Hubbert, invited I-Witness to the celebration.

Mother Hubbert came to Milwaukee in 1951. She had nine children eight girls and one boy, Kattie Mae Kimbrough, Willie Mae Nash, Lorraine Fields, Felix Hubbert, Essie J. Gregory, Gladys Smith, Levoria Atkens, Mammie Gladney and Floria A. Gordon. Excitement filled the air at Prince Hall as her family tree of six generations ranging in age of 3 months to 82-years-old toasted the woman who started it all.

Hubbert worked for the George Ziegler Candy Factory. She is on the Mother’s Board over at Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church.

The family had a fun-filled day planned for her, there was a proclamation from Mayor Tom Barrett, a video presentation of her 100 years shared with family and friends over a lifetime.

Each family generation was introduced and recognized as well as her 64 grandchildren and numerous great grands to the sixth power and a host of nieces and nephews. Many shared their memories with all.

Mother Hubbert loved doing many things sewing, fishing, cooking big meals for friends and family, canning, singing in the church choir and they stated she was very talented at making beautiful quilts.

There was a beautiful dinner presented to her as well as many gifts. What do you give to a woman who has turned 100? How about 100 dollar bills and of course, beautiful shawls lots of hugs and kisses.

Mother Hubbert is kept very busy and active at Prospect Place Nursing home where family visit her daily. Hey y’all she even still bowls. Hey Jerome thank you for inviting me to your grandmother’s party when I grow up I am going to be just like her, Holla! Happy Birthday, Ms. Hessie.

Age ain’t nothing but a number

If you think, being 100 is something how about being 85-years-old and still loving the blues.

Geri Lyday threw her dad Casper Lyday a birthday party at Casper’s Lounge.

Casper Lyday is a well-known businessman in the community; he opened Casper’s Lounge many years ago but has since retired.

Many of his family and friends joined him to celebrate 85 years, Lonnie Armon, Dr. Earl and Barbara Wheatfall, County Board Chairman Lee Holloway, Supervisors Michael Mayo, Willie Johnson and Beth Coggs-Jones.

Hey y’all Casper did not look a day over 40 and he acted as if he was 35, he has energy, Holla!

Many joined Casper in a champagne toast, including Cledis and Maria Lyday, Daniel Harris, Barbara Nucle, Janice Weeden, Betty Brown, Vicki Sprewer, Collisa Webb, Jesse Ward, bartender Gloria Kelly and Frank Cameron who was also celebrating his 62nd birthday.

Curtis Harbin had me rollin’ on the floor when he spelled his name for me: “Har-B as in broke-in.” He was too funny.

There was a nice spread and some very good birthday cake. In addition, what does an 85-year-older get as gifts on his birthday, how about money, money, money, money, Holla!

So now y’all know how a 85-year-older parties, good food, friends and family, a champagne toast, a sip of this and that and plenty of down home blues.

Hey, Casper Happy Birthday, wishing you 85 more and when I grow up I am going to be just like you “all I wanta hear is some down home blues, all night long,” Holla!

*** Look for pictures of these two great celebrations in MCJ’s March 10-11 WKND edition!**