Chicagodefender 02 28 18

Chicago and suburbs $1 Volume 112 No. 44 | February 28 - March 6, 2018

CHICAGO DEFENDER

Mayor Harold Washington

Let’s Eat: 14 Parish

City.Life.Style: Page 10

Chicago Defender’s Top 20 Most Infuential Political Figures CP Around Town: Page 12

| In the Mix: Page 16

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Wednesday – Tuesday February 28 - March 6, 2018

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2 February 28 - March 6, 2018

CITY NEWS

The Chicago High School for the Arts Teachers Vote to Unionize Academic teachers and paraprofessionals from The Chicago High School for the Arts (ChiArts) voted this week to join the Chicago Alliance of Charter Teachers and Staff, the charter school local that has recently merged with the Chicago Teachers Union. Educators are organizing a union in a proactive move to more effectively advocate for the students they serve.

“ChiArts has the potential to be an international model for public arts education, but in order for us to get there it is absolutely essential that the teachers of ChiArts have a say in the negotiation of the policies that impact our students and us,” said Dan Duffy, English teacher at ChiArts. “The students at ChiArts deserve consistency in their education and in the culture and climate of their school. Now that the teachers of ChiArts have the power to negotiate with management over issues that impact our students and us, that consistency will be possible.”

“We welcome the educators from ChiArts into the Illinois Federation of Teachers with open arms,” said Dan Montgomery, veteran English teacher and President of the Illinois Federation of Teachers. “In both higher education and in our K-12

schools, we are seeing thousands join the labor movement in spite of continued attacks on collective bargaining from Governor Rauner and President Trump. It is clear that educators and other workers know that unions are good for America and our sisters and brothers at ChiArts are helping lead this charge for both workers’ rights and better schools.”

“These teachers have taken a courageous stand for their students, their dignity and their rights on the job,” said CTU Vice President Jesse Sharkey. “In the face of enormous pressure from management, ChiArts educators have embraced what we know to be true in the CTU: when we come together as a union, we leverage our democratic strength to improve learning conditions for the children we serve, and strengthen our struggle for living wage work and the respect that is our due as educational professionals. We share common values and common goals -- and we’re proud and honored to welcome ChiArts into the family of union educators in this city, as CTU members and as partners in the battle for educational justice for our students.”

Madigan Announces Heather Ireland Robinson To Head Jazz Settlement With Takata Institute of Chicago Air Bag Manufacturer Following a nationwide search, The Jazz Institute of Chicago’s Board of Directors recently announced that Heather Ireland Robinson will join the organization as its new Executive Director effective March 1, 2018. Ireland Robinson brings a wealth of nonprofit experience as well as knowledge of Chicago’s jazz scene and the Jazz Institute, in particular, having worked as its Heather Ireland Education and Community Coordinator Robinson from 2002 - 2004. Ireland Robinson helped develop the foundation for what has become the Jazz Links Education and Artist Development programs which connect teachers and students to Chicago’s jazz legacy.

Ireland Robinson’s previous tenures at the Beverly Arts Center, Southside Community Arts Center, Marwen and Gallery 37 represent a career steeped in building community through the arts. She is recognized as a thoughtful and creative leader who has contributed to increasing access to the artistic experience for communities across the city.

“We are excited about what Heather will bring to the organization and we’re looking forward to having her as part of the Jazz Institute of Chicago team,” said David Helverson, President of the Jazz Institute of Chicago Board of Directors and leader of the executive search committee. “Her previous experience with the organization gives her a unique perspective and will allow her to get up to speed quickly. It also plays an important role in her ability to look forward and effectively position the organization for continued success in the future.”

Ireland Robinson looks forward to the challenges leading a growing arts organization presents. “I am truly excited about this new opportunity. The organization has grown by leaps and bounds since my time there and I am looking forward to continuing that growth,” she expressed. “The Jazz Institute is a pillar of Chicago’s arts scene and gives life to communities, youth and musicians by promoting and nurturing jazz in this great city of ours.” www.chicagodefender.com

Attorney General Lisa Madigan announced this week that she has joined with 44 other attorney generals to reach a settlement with air bag manufacturer TK Holdings Inc. (Takata) over exploding air bags installed in millions of vehicles around the country.

Madigan and the attorney generalsß filed the agreement in Takata’s ongoing bankruptcy proceedings and are asking the judge to confirm the settlement as part of the bankruptcy plan.

The settlement follows a massive recall of Takata’s ammonium nitrate air bags that can deteriorate with age and heat causing them to explode. The airbags are installed in front of both the driver and passenger seats in various vehicle models manufactured by most major car companies. The explosions have resulted in 20 consumer deaths and numerous other injuries nationwide. The airbags have since been recalled, affecting more than 2 million air bags in Illinois alone.

Under the settlement, Takata will continue recall efforts, and Takata and the auto manufacturers will fund replacement air bags. Consumers whose vehicles are equipped with the hazardous airbags are receiving recall notices. These notices will contain important consumer information, including how to schedule air bag replacements. More than 60 million of Takata’s ammonium nitrate air bags have already been recalled.

“The Takata air bag recall is the largest recall in the auto industry in history, yet the number of people who have had their car’s airbags replaced is low,” Madigan said. “Illinois residents will not have to pay for replacement air bags. It is critical that people take the time to find out if their car’s airbags need to be replaced to protect themselves and their passengers from potential tragedy.”

Illinois residents who are unsure if they are impacted by the recall can visit safercar.gov and enter their vehicle’s VIN to find out whether it is included in the recall.

Also under the settlement, Takata is prohibited from deceptive advertising or misrepresenting the air bags’ safety. Takata must also discontinue production of ammonium nitrate air bags.

Assistant Bureau Chief Greg Grzeskiewicz and Assistant Attorney General Cassandra Halm handled the case for Madigan’s Consumer Fraud Bureau.

THE CHICAGO DEFENDER

COVER STORY

Chicago Defender’s Top 20 Most Influential Political Figures

By Mary L. Datcher Defender Managing Editor Chicago’s political environment has had an interesting and dramatic history since the days of the first Black Elected Cook County Commissioner John Jones in 1871.

Nearly four decades later during the Great Migration, Blacks relocated from the South bringing with them the red dirt under their shoes from Louisiana, Arkansas, Mississippi, Alabama, Tennessee and Georgia. With high expectations of better job opportunities and a quality of life—the same levels of exclusion and racism welcomed many arriving in the city of broad shoulders. But, with great perseverance and determined to overcome obstacles, we gradually began to understand that power lies in numbers—despite blatant segregation and invisible racial boundaries. We increased the number of Black residents who steadfastly called this city home-- securing employment, purchasing homes and starting businesses to build a community within a community-- to grow beyond the contained boundaries challenging a machine system controlled by White-led politics.

In the 1960s, as Black Southerners began to find their preferred communities, whether it was in the Black Belt of Bronzeville or the near Westside—many were raised as Republicans. Chicago, a staunch Democratic party town, was built on patronage, favors and selective gatekeepers to maintain a sense of dominating order to each community. While others prospered, Black and Latino communities were often the last to receive the crumbs. The Civil Rights movement would catapult the work of local activists who fought for fair housing, equal and quality education along with employment inclusion especially for city and government jobs.

The arrival of a young minister from Montgomery, Ala., would bring national media attention to Chicago’s blatant and despicable culture of racism. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s march through the communities of Marquette Park and Cicero would change the course for many young activists’ lives and journeys. Those who are no longer with us today and the ones alive who we call our elders continue to remind us why the fight must continue. The Chicago Defender’s Top 20 most influential political figures is comprised of men and women breaking through barriers or aligning themselves in THE CHICAGO DEFENDER

a system to provide opportunities, becoming the voice for many who are often silenced.

1. Harold Washington (April 15, 1922 – November 25, 1987) Harold Washington is referenced in every major conversation when the history of Black political power arises. His intellect was unrivaled as well as his ability to move a room of people to their feet. He was the nucleus of having a “seat at the table” for Black Chicagoans across the board i.e. local government, business, education, law enforcement and community activism. His influence and the opportunities he presented to many are relevant today. Washington rose up the ranks in machine-style politics knowing how to play chess when others failed by playing checkers. He served the 26th District as the State Representative from 1965 to 1976; State Senate from 1977-1980 and won the US Congressional seat in the 1st District from 1981-1983.

Washington defeated incumbent Jane Byrne in 1983 to become the first African American mayor for the city of Chicago. He would appoint both Black and Latinos in administration and senior positions in local government, making a defining statement that would lead to the infamous “council wars.” He faced opponents who were against providing minority-owned firms city contracts. He was for more than having a seat at the table; he wanted to make sure people were fed. His legacy continues to be the topic of discussion for those who felt his death on November 25, 1987, was a halt to progress for Black communities across the city. Several buildings are named in his honor throughout the city-- from former Loop College to the Harold Washington Library on State Street.

2. Barack Obama Barack Hussein Obama arrived in Chicago as a community organizer in 1983. Getting schooled by the elders who took him in to guide throughout the variables of Chicago neighborhood culture and history—he cut his teeth on real grassroots engagement. He met, and later married attorney Michelle Robinson. A civil rights attorney, he taught constitutional law at the University of Chicago and felt at ease in his environment—building solid friendships along the way that would later become the glue to his candidacy for public office. He served the 13th District as Illinois State Senator from 1997 to 2004 and was elected to the US Senate in 2004—a seat that was held by

Barack Obama Carolyn Mosely Braun. Mentored

by IL Senate minority leader Emil Jones II and ministered by Rev. Jeremiah Wright, Obama learned the power of political strategy and understanding his constituents.

His impeccable style of moving the masses through words would bring one of the largest voter turnouts during his bid for the White House in 2008. History was made as Obama would be elected for two terms as the 44th President of the United States. Under his administration he would put in place the Affordable Care Act; appeal to the Supreme Court to support same-sex marriage; immigration assistance for undocumented children through the DACA program; promote discussions on climate change; push legislation to allow students college loan debt relief, among a great deal of other accomplishments.

3. John Stroger (May 19, 1929 – January 18, 2008) John Stroger changed the course for Cook County government as the first African American Board President of Cook County Commissioners, he would serve from December 1994 to August 2006. A native of Helena, Ark., he went on to attend Xavier University in New Orleans where he earned his BA in Business Administration. He relocated to Chicago in 1953 working on the administration side for the Cook County Jail.

Jones attended DePaul University Law School, where he earned his J.D. His rise in the 8th Ward as the Democratic committeeman sealed his future as an active participant, pushing out significant Black voter turnout on the Southeast side. Elected to the County Board of Commissioners in 1970, Stroger would chair every commitwww.chicagodefender.com

Jesse White tee residing over the governmental functions of county business.

Stroger was at every turn of local and county politics clearing a path for jobs and management positions many African Americans were denied for a long time. From balancing the county’s $2.9 billion budget to opening a new AIDS treatment and research facility, he advocated for women’s issues and rights. The Cook County Hospital was named after him during his tenure as county board president.

Although Stroger repeatedly came under fire for patronage hiring and leaning more towards serving poor residents with healthcare provisions—he was revered as a true advocate for his community.

4. Jesse White Jesse White’s name was re-

cently heard on the Blagojevich/J. B Pritzker FBI wiretap as a possible US Senate candidate nearly 10 years ago because he was a familiar key African American candidate. White has made public service his mission, first elected in 1983 to the Illinois House of Representatives until 1993; he served as Recorder of Deeds of Cook County from 1993 to 1999 and assumed his current office of Illinois Secretary of State in 1999.

As the first African American Illinois Secretary of State and the founder of his namesake tumbling team, he is entrenched in the community throughout the state.

The Jesse White Tumbling team has taught and mentored nearly 15,000 youth traveling around continued on page 4

February 28 - March 6, 2018 3

COVER STORY

Carol Moseley Braun Political Figures, continued from, Page 03

the world. White has serve as the 27th Ward Democratic Committeeman for several years, solidifying his political presence on the local front. As the longest-serving Black public official, White is considered a major power player and one who has provided employment for more minorities than his predecessors at Secretary of State facilities. To receive an endorsement from this elder statesman is a priceless gesture.

5. Carol Moseley Braun No longer in politics, Carol Moseley Braun became the first African American female to serve in the US Senate in 1992. She was the second Black senator to serve, making significant history for not only Illinoisans but Black and women policy makers around the country. As an attorney, she joined the U.S. attorney’s office in Chicago working as an assistant in 1972.

In 1978, Braun was elected to the Illinois House of Representatives working for social change and reforms in education and healthcare.

Prior to Jesse White, she served as recorder of deeds for Cook County in 1988 and in 1992 decided to throw her hat in the ring for U.S. Senate. Braun defeated incumbent Democratic Senator Alan Dixon in the primary and later Republican rival Richard Williamson.

Becoming the first African American female Senator would push her out there as the posterchild for women and civil rights.

Her strides for changes in gun control reforms and education left a fingerprint on the issues that plague us today. She was appointed by President Bill Clinton in 1999 to serve as U.S. ambassador to New Zealand.

6. U.S. Rep Bobby Rush During the late 1960’s, Rush was a community activist in the Chicago chapter of the Black Panther 4 February 28 - March 6, 2018

Party, a group that stood for racial and economic independence to provide essential resources within the community. With controversy for “baring arms”—they immediately became a number one target on the FBI’s list and later on Daley’s Chicago Police Department’s list. Rush ran the Panther’s Free Breakfast for Children program as well as the medical center. As a graduate of Roosevelt University, he earned his MBA in political science at the University of Chicago and later received his theological degree from McCormick. Elected in 1983 as 2nd Ward Alderman at the same time Harold Washington was elected as mayor, Rush later ran for the office in 1999 against incumbent Richard M. Daley.

In 1992 he ran for the U.S. House of Representatives in the 1st District defeating incumbent Charles Hayes with 83 percent of the vote. He has held the office for nearly three decades, earning senior tenure and becoming one of the leaders of the Congressional Black Caucus.

7. U.S. Rep Danny K. Davis

A native of Parkdale, Ark., Davis rose through the ranks as 29th Ward Alderman on the Westside of Chicago. A graduate of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, he earned his MBA in guidance from the University of Chicago, and his Ph.D. from the Union Institute & University in Cincinnati, Ohio. His passion for public service was non-stop, challenging Cardiss Collins in back-to-back Democratic primaries in defeat but winning a seat on the Cook County Board of Commissioners from 1990 to 1996. Before entering the U.S. House of Representatives, he tried his bid for the mayoral race in 1991 against Richard M. Daley.

Elected in 1995 to U.S. Congress for the 7th district, Davis has won every election becoming a leading policy maker in Washington, D.C. He has one of the largest congressional districts in the Midwest. He is an avid voice in the African American community and would be considered the elder statesman of the Westside political Democratic machine.

8. Jesse Jackson, Sr. Civil Rights activist and an integral part of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s entourage during a historical period, he was recruited while he attended Chicago Theological Seminary as a seminary student as a leading voice among young activists for SCLC. After King’s death, he would go on to establish Operation Breadbasket, later known as Operation PUSH. Jackson’s oratory skills for rallying the best of Black voices against racial discrimination and boycotting companies that show little or no diversity in their workplace transformed how corporate companies operate today. His reach across international waters put him on the forefront as he became the peace negotiator bringing back hostages. In 1984, Jackson took a leap of faith and became the first African American U.S. presidential candidate during

U.S. Rep Bobby Rush www.chicagodefender.com

Jesse Jackson, Sr. the Democratic primaries—twice.

He would fall short of securing the Democratic nomination, but it would open the path to securing his place among one of the most familiar faces that crossed cultural and religious lines. “Keep Hope Alive” was made famous. As the head of what is known as Rainbow PUSH Coalition, Jackson has built an interfaith, multi-media organization that connects leading Fortune 500 companies with entrepreneurs and students for coalition’s annual conferences and seminars.

9. Emil Jones, Jr. Considered one of the most influential state legislators in Illinois, he and his wife’s names are one of the biggest on Chicago State University campus. Boisterous, direct and outspoken—Jones retired in 2009 after serving since 1983.

He started in1960, working on the John F. Kennedy presidential campaign, rising up the ranks as part of the 8th Ward Democratic political powerhouse—he’s held several jobs in local government.

Jones served in the Illinois

House of Representatives for ten years from 1973 to 1983; and was elected to the Illinois Senate in 1982. Over the next 26 years, he would be a top player in statewide legislation, serving as the president of the Senate and a member of the Executive Committee. Although he lost Democratic primary bids in 1988 and 1995 congressional races—he would become a thorn in Illinois House speaker Michael Madigan’s side. An ally of former Gov. Rod Blagojevich would allow him to flex his seniority in pushing through financial assistance to certain state educational institutions. There have been several controversial issues concerning patronage but no more than other political figures who have blessed family members with positions in government. Jones bares no bones about where his loyalty lies, recommending his seat be held by his son, Emil Jones III. 10. Toni Preckwinkle For the past 25 years, Preckwinkle has steadily moved up the ranks of the Cook County Democratic Party. Lately, she has been criticized for the county’s sweetened beverage tax, which was repealed in October 2017.

She first served as alderman of the 4th Ward for 19 years and strengthened relationships with Hyde Park, Kenwood and Bronzeville families who have set down roots in those communities for decades. It’s one of the few truly diverse wards in the city and includes the University of Chicago – a villain to some and a savior to others.

She became Cook County Board President in 2010, after beating incumbent Todd Stroger, Jr. over the heavily promoted one penny sales tax, which she later implemented to close budget gaps. continued on page 18

THE CHICAGO DEFENDER

POLITICS

“Chuy” Garcia Campaign Receives Bernie Sanders’ Support

By Lee Edwards Defender Contributing Writer Jesus “Chuy” Garcia’s race for Congress felt “the Bern” of support that only Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) could provide at a recent campaign rally in Chicago.

The political rally entitled “America’s Progressive Future: Rally with Bernie Sanders and Chuy Garcia” was a standing room only affair by the time Garcia made his way to the podium as he was showered with chants of “Chuy!”

The event was held in the Little Village neighborhood at Apollos 2000, 2875 W. Cermak Rd. In what was once a crowded field, Garcia has become the presumed frontrunner for the fourth Congressional district of Illinois in the upcoming March primary. If elected, he will be replacing incumbent Luis Gutierrez, who is not seeking re-election.

Garcia was the second to last speaker at the free rally as Sanders would close the scheduled twohour long event. He rolled out portions of his platform to a predominantly Hispanic audience which featured his support of undocumented workers, safe and respectful workplaces for women, a $15 minimum wage, and support of public education and housing for all communities as he proclaimed he wanted to “fight Trump” in Congress. Although he didn’t speak for long, less than 15 minutes, what he said had a resounding impact on those in attendance as boisterous cheers rang throughout the colossal venue after nearly every point he made.

“We should be so happy and proud of what we are working on to transform politics in the Chicagoland region and the fourth district is representative of that aspiration for a better union,” said Garcia. “We are here today because we want Bernie Sanders to know that the revolution is alive and well in the Chicagoland area.”

Sanders, who was also met with chants of “Bernie,” said although he’s a friend of Garcia, applauded his campaign for mayor of Chicago in 2015, and thanked him for his support during his presidential campaign, he said he came to Chicago because, “We are living in a pivotal moment in American history, we need strong progressive voices in Washington and Chuy Garcia will be that voice.”

“This is an unprecedented moment in American history,” Sanders continued. “The future of this country, in fact, the future of the world, and the future of our chilTHE CHICAGO DEFENDER

Jesus “Chuy” Garcia along with his family were joined by Sen. Bernie Sanders at the Apollos 2000, 2875 W. Cermak Rd., where the two politicians spoke about the future they want to see in America.

Kahalem Mathews and Rashieda Weaver were among two of hundreds of attendees at the “America’s Progressive Future: Rally with Bernie Sanders and Chuy Garcia” held at Apollos 2000, 2875 W. Cermak Rd. www.chicagodefender.com

dren, and the future of our grandchildren depends on what you do, and what you do, and what you do.”

Sanders implored attendees to not only send Garcia to Washington but to do so in convincing fashion come election time. He said the timing for the vote was critical as he called President Trump a “pathological liar who has told outright lies hundreds and hundreds of times since he has been elected.”

“The biggest lie that [Trump] told during his campaign was that he was going to stand for the working families of this country; what an outrageous lie,” said Sanders.

“We need members in Congress who are not only prepared to stand up to Trump and his racism and xenophobia.”

The Garcia/Sanders rally garnered support from outside the Little Village community as African Americans hailing from Chicago’s South Side were among those in attendance.

Kahalem Mathews, 20, wanted to see how the race for Congress involving Jesus “Chuy” Garcia was developing firsthand. That’s why the West Pullman resident decided to attend the rally after his classes at Richard J. Daley College where he’s a senator for the school’s student government. He said he will share his experience at the Garcia/Sanders rally with his classmates.

“I’ve been following Chuy Garcia for a minute,” said Mathews, a first time voter. “I wanted to come out and show my support and get the feel for what this election was all about.”

Mathews told the Defender that Garcia’s stance on supporting net neutrality was an important topic for him.

Rashieda Weaver, a current South Shore resident, who worked on Garcia’s mayoral campaign, stated the energy at the rally gave her encouragement to continue to be a part of the electoral process.

She said the rally was the first event she attended in support of Chuy for Congress.

“When you get down to it, it’s still about knocking on doors even though we do social media, and I do social media; in the very, very end you gotta talk to somebody and you’ve got to let them know I like this person, and as my neighbor this is the reason why you should too... otherwise they vote on emotion,” said Weaver.

For more information about the Chuy Garcia campaign, visit http:// jesuschuygarcia.com/.

February 28 - March 6, 2018 5

COMMUNITY

Community Organizers Bring Chicago’s Youth to Wakanda

Youth of all ages were excited to see the “Black Panther” screenings held at Studio Movie Grill on Presidents’ Day.

By Lee Edwards can all look up to and run with it,” Defender Contributing Writer said Taylor. “As a young person, to be able to see so many talented young African Africans during Marvel Studios’ record break- Black History Month will evolve ing blockbuster Black Panther has them to say they should dream bigcommunity organizations across ger and to dream higher. In today’s the U.S. organizing events where society we have to do everything they can couple the star studded we can to empower our youth of film with an educational element tomorrow.” for children and young adults. The The decision to host the Black McDonald’s Operators As- screenings at Studio Movie Grill sociation of Chicago and North- was made in an effort to connect west Indiana (BMOA) followed with the African American comthat trend by sponsoring two munity, according to Taylor. The screenings of the superhero Afri- screenings were followed by inforcan king flick at Studio Movie Grill, mal discussions about various ca210 W. 87th St., in collaboration reers in film led by African Amerwith Creative Cypher, Be Super, ican professionals. Listed among and ROYAL Media on President’s the community organizations in Day as a treat to more than two attendance were: Free Spirit Mehundred Chicago youth. dia, True Star Foundation, Donda’s Derrick Taylor, vice president of House, Free Lunch Academy, and BMOA of Chicago and Northwest more. Event participants received Indiana, applauded the film call- free copies of a Black Panther ing its talent “off the charts.” He comic book and a short history explained creating a pathway for book on Black history. youth to see positive role models Troy Pryor, founder/president who look like them and empow- of Creative Cypher, an organizaering them to know they can suc- tion dedicated to helping emergceed were the major goals of the ing filmmakers obtain access to event. production resources, stated that “We’ve seen superheroes, ev- Black Panther had strong themes eryone wants to be a superhero, that are important for all African but now we have a superhero we Americans but especially youth to 6 February 28 - March 6, 2018

Marlon Haywood, a mentor with Urban Male Network (UMN), brought a group of young men to watch “Black Panther”. see.

“It was important to bring a project like this to the South Side because Black Panther is much more than a superhero film or a comic book character, this is a positive representation of a regal Black who’s a prince who becomes a king,” said Pryor.

Matthew Manning, co-founder/ www.chicagodefender.com

creative director of ROYAL Media, which strives to celebrate the complexity of Black life, unpacked the impact of Black Panther in terms of what it means for the representation of people of color.

“It’s an incredible film that I think it really gives a new definition of representation and I think what’s powerful is that diversity and there’s inclusion, diversity to me is who is in the room and inclusion is who has a voice in the room,” said Manning. “This movie is very inclusive in that it doesn’t just have representation but they all have a part, their roles matter, and they’re not accidental, they exist for a reason on the screen, they have a purpose, they come with lines, a backstory, and a mission, and I think that’s a really powerful thing for these kids to see.”

Among the scores of moviegoers was Marlon Haywood, a mentor with Urban Male Network (UMN), an organization dedicated to supporting systems for men through community service; personal and professional development; and mentorship. He brought with him 18 students from Richard T. Crane Medical Prep., 2245 W Jackson Blvd. He said his hope was that the young men would feel em-

powered by the film’s use of science and technology, celebrating Black kings and queens, and depicting Black women as powerful.

“To me I’m loving how everyone is so proud of Black culture and what it promotes and the boys are excited to see a superhero who looks like them, that represents them, it’s just an exciting movement,” said Haywood, who had already seen the film twice.

Darnyieh Brewer, 18, a student at Richard T. Crane Medical Prep, has been active with UMN ever since he first learned of it while in school. He said although he had not seen the movie prior to the screening, he was hoping to see characters he could relate to.

For more information about BMOA of Chicago and Northwest Indiana, visit http://bmoachicagoland.org/.

To learn more about Creative Cypher, visit http://www.creativecypher.org/.

To learn more about ROYAL, visit https://royalmvmt.com/vision/.

For more information about Be Super, check out their Twitter account at https://twitter.com/besupertweets.

THE CHICAGO DEFENDER

COMMUNITY Chicago Non-Profit Raises Funds for “Black Panther” Screenings

By Lee Edwards Defender Contributing Writer Non-profit organization Go for Yours Foundation held an online fundraiser to give youth in Chicago, Atlanta, and Los Angeles an opportunity to attend screenings of Marvel Studios’ Black Panther.

Go for Yours Foundation’s founder Erika McCall launched the organization after speaking to students at Julian High School, 10330 S. Elizabeth St., where she shared about her book entitled, Go For Yours. The mission of the Go for Yours Foundation is to provide young people (ages 13-21) with financial assistance, guidance, and resources to create opportunities for success.

“I chose to start the Go for Yours Leadership program at Julian High School in honor of my cousin Ben Gibson who graduated from Julian in 2000,” said McCall. “Like too many young people in Chicago, he didn’t make it to see past his 23rd birthday due to the senseless violence. There is a huge opportunity gap for young people of color in the United States. They are being isolated from the resources that will make them successful.

Through the Go for Yours Foundation, I want to make sure no dream is left behind due to lack of money or resources.”

Originally, McCall intended to raise funds for just a Chicago screening but after speaking with friends she was able to extend the fundraiser to include Atlanta and Los Angeles through generous donations, social media assistance, and great momentum towards young people seeing the film.

More than 450 young people were slated to benefit from the fundraiser. According to the Go for Yours Foundation’s website $7,100 was raised toward a goal of $50,000.

The screening dates were: February 19 - Los Angeles February 23 - Chicago February 25 - Atlanta The Defender spoke with McCall in the days leading up to the premiere of Black Panther.

Defender: Why was Black Panther your movie selection? How much money do you hope to raise from the Black Panther screening?

McCall: Black Panther is the movie selection because we want to provide young people with a chance to see themselves depicted as strong, intelligent, and beautiful on the movie screen while simultaneously serving the youth and community.

We hope to raise at least $50,000 for the fundraiser. Additional proceeds will go to the foundation’s Go for Yours Fund. The Go for Yours Fund is available for

Erika McCall young people who have modeled a commitment toward reaching their goals and are in need of financial assistance and support to achieve their short-term and long-term endeavors.

Defender: What does it mean to you for your organization to return to Chicago and do good work with the students?

McCall: I’ve been doing work in Chicago for quite some time.

I started the Go for Yours Leadership Program in 2013 before I moved to Los Angeles. Living in LA has allowed me to gain a lot of connections and resources that will be

beneficial to the students living in the city. My overall goal is for the foundation to create a platform for others to give back. For instance, I brought actor and Chicago native Cory Hardrict to speak to a group of students at Julian High School back in 2016. Additionally, I spoke at a graduation for Donda’s House in 2015.

Defender: How many youth are served through the Go For Yours Fund annually? How much money was raised last year and so far this year?

McCall: We just launched the Go For Yours Fund in January. We

created the fund for students in expedient need. Our participant whose dream is to compete in the Olympics is the first of many that will be served. The foundation currently serves about 50 students.

We have just began fundraising this year. So far the Go for Yours foundation has raised a little over $10,000.

Defender: Would you provide more details about the activities/ goals being set for participants of the Go For Yours Leadership program? Is there an application process? Application fee?

McCall: The foundation has created a leadership program called the Go for Yours University.

It consists of an 8-week leadership academy for students (ages 1321). The curriculum is meant to inspire, educate, and provide participants with the resources needed to grow academically, personally, and professionally. Upon completion of the program, students are offered services through the foundation that will allow them to gain access to the resources needed for them to succeed.

Currently, the program is provided on a need basis. All of our programs are free to the students being served.

For more information about Go For Yours, visit https://www.goforyours.com/.

South Shore Hospital Opens More Beds for Chemically Dependent Patients

By Lee Edwards expansion, available beds were alDefender Contributing Writer ways in short supply. He estimated 15 employees including counselors, therapists, and nurses will be A South Side hospital has dedicated to the CDU, which will helped itself save more lives of be open day and night. community residents.

Alfred Bolden, Jr., Chief Nurse South Shore Hospital, located Executive at South Shore Hospital, at 8012 S. Crandon Ave., recent- who has been at the hospital for ly held a ribbon cutting ceremony four years, said South Shore has a to celebrate the reopening and high incidence of drug abuse. He expansion of its Chemical Depen- said now with the additional beds, dency Unit from 14 beds to 22. patients can be seen quicker.

South Shore Hospital president/ “We’ve heard all about the opiCEO Timothy Caveney said the oid epidemic in America, our comproject had been in development munity is no different, we needed for a year. The wing was formerly to expand to accommodate the a Medical Surgical Unit; however, needs of our patient population,” Caveney said a decline in that area said Bolden. “I don’t think the probalong with the findings of a com- lem is any worse than it has been, munity needs assessment, which it just has not been addressed and is conducted every three years, that’s our focus here. It’s a great prompted the switch in focus. ability to serve this community, I “This is really something that live in this community, I feel great our community needs so it’s a about serving the community.” good fit for our hospital,” said The South Shore Hospital ofCaveney. “We thought this would fered this informational about the be a better thing for us to serve the features of the Chemical Depenneeds of our community.” dency Program: Caveney said the additional •A pick-up service for clients in beds will help meet the needs of need of transportation assistance the hospital because prior to the •Clients do not require a posTHE CHICAGO DEFENDER

itive drug or alcohol screening to enter the program •Detoxification from all substances including suboxone maintenance (60 mg) •Medicare part A & B and Private insurance is accepted ONLY (no HMO) •A level IV program, meaning it is medically monitored and provides therapeutic and rehabilitative services.

•The program is not a 12-step program however it is structured around the same principles such as spiritual awareness and accountability •This is a voluntary program in which patients have the option of leaving at any time.

•All counselors are highly skilled and trained to meet the needs of clients •Group therapy is a requirement for all participants of the program. Individual counseling sessions are also available.

•Each group focuses on a range of topics designed to promote rehabilitation such as cognitive behavior, psycho education, www.chicagodefender.com

and skilled development/support.

•Group therapy is offered 7-days a week from 9:30 am until 8:30 pm.

•Recreational periods are provided and encouraged.

•Outdoor passes are provided in emergency situations for up to six hours and are only authorized by a physician’s order. Drug screenings are performed upon readmission.

•Prior to the completion of the program, each patient will receive aftercare options such as housing, long-term care, and referrals for additional support programs.

Ald. Michelle Harris (8th Ward), who helped cut the ceremonial ribbon to the CDU, said the expansion is “much needed.”

“I’m glad the hospital is figuring out how to reinvent themselves in this time of economic trouble for a smaller hospital,” said Harris. “In this community…we do have a lot of issues with substance abuse.”

Harris explained the impact of a neighborhood hospital like South Shore Hospital goes well beyond healing the sick.

“What we want to do is grow our smaller hospitals to be economic booms and engines for our communities,” she said. “I don’t know what the community would be like without the hospital being an anchor here, and so we have figure out how to tell the story about our community because they employ people. A lot of the folks who work here live here, too.

It’s important to get all of those pieces and keep it whole.”

Ald. Greg Mitchell (7th Ward), who was also a participant in the ribbon cutting, called having the new wing in the hospital “progress.” He said he believes the next step is increasing drug awareness among youth.

“When I was in grammar school and high school, they talked about how drugs and how you can become addicted,” said Mitchell. “I would like to see the hospital bring this into our schools and talk to our children about that so they’ll think twice about starting the use of a drug.”

To learn more about South Shore Hospital, visit http://www. southshorehospital.com/.

February 28 - March 6, 2018 7

COMMUNITY

A Conversation with JaShawn Hill: A Family Support Specialist and Chicago Survivor

By Kerris Guinn Defender Contributing Writer This conversation was held as part of the series Defender vs. Offender: Gun Violence; this series attempts to breakdown why gun violence continues to be a prevalent issue in Chicago and what steps we need to take as a community and in politics in order to address and resolve this issue. Feel free to be a part of the conversation on the Chicago Defender website, Facebook page and Twitter.

How long have you been working with Chicago Survivors?

JaShawn Hill: I have been with Chicago Survivors since November of 2015 What brought you to Chicago Survivors?

JH: It was definitely a “call” to do the work, something Divine and Spiritual about how I was connected to Chicago Survivors. I was working at Cabrini Green Legal Aid for 8 years – in several capacities; [at the time] as a Social Worker for Restorative Justice Rights and I was fulfilled in that work when I got the email to interview for a job I never applied for. A previous job I had applied for, to obtain part-time experience, forwarded my resume to Susan Johnson and I ended up interviewing for the position. When I realized the nature of the work, I immediately thought of my own experience with violent loss and how my family and I faced many unresolved issues and lacked the support to heal after such a tragedy… I knew then, this was my window to fill a gap that I was oh so familiar with.

How has Chicago Survivors benefited the community?

JH: I believe we have benefited the community in several ways 1.

We offer crime victims services to individuals who often don’t realize they are a victim of crime, so we educate them on their rights and opportunities to be supported. 2.

The services are free, so families are able to receive intensive case management from our Family Support Services team in the aftermath of a homicide. 3. We serve as a support in the relationships between families and Chicago Police Department districts. We are there at the scene of the incident to ensure no arrests take place, which has not happened- 0 arrests. When families are in crisis 8 February 28 - March 6, 2018

JaShawn Hill and very emotional, we assist in connecting officers and detectives to families when there are threats of retaliation and intimidation on families. We assist in detective meetings to assist with the communication style and messaging from both parties as well as create a platform for Cold Case meetings after a year from the homicide and there may be no arrest. This meeting is with the detective on the case and his supervisor. Lastly, we benefit the community with the youth program that I have been graced to manage. This segment of our services provides support, counseling and referrals to youth 17 and under who are directly impacted by the homicide. The opportunities to offer youth support, psycho-education and coping skills has proven to reduce scores of PTSD by leaps and bounds.

How many survivors have you talked to since working with the organization?

JH: I have worked with over 175 families- which is not a true number of individuals since we serve families that can include anywhere from 2 people at a session to 1012 people.

What is a survivor’s story that really sticks out to you?

JH: So many of them stick out to me, but the story of a grandmother who was raising her grandchildren in Englewood lost her 12-year-old granddaughter in senseless gun violence. This story sticks out because the granddaughter was just doing what a normal child would be doing, playing basketball at the park when someone decided to open fire in a public park… this grandmother was very broken when I met her. Yet she was able to connect with every resource who would hear her voice as we at Chicago Survivors were able to support the experience. She met with the mayor and shared her thoughts regarding the harm this was now causing their very small knit family. She was so determined to keep her granddaughter’s legacy alive that she decided to provide back to school supplies each year in honor of her loved one to the school she attended, this is all something she did out of her own resources. And lastly, they decided to keep her name alive by naming the newest granddaughter who was born 1 month after the homicide after her granddaughter. I speak to this grandmother here and there, and she continues to grieve but she also continues to fight to bring justice and light to her www.chicagodefender.com

granddaughter’s story by telling it as often as she can, to whomever will listen!

What do you think about the South and West Side of Chicago consistently having higher shooting incidents and subsequent homicides than the North side?

JH: I believe that this is a byproduct of individuals facing and normalizing poverty and lack of resources to support their basic needs. What I also see as a frontline service provider is a tremendous amount of hurting people hurting people. There is untreated trauma, complicated grief, unforgiveness and lack of hope within these particular communities.

Don’t get me wrong the families I serve are very resilient, but there is only so much one can take after being saturated in so much violence, trauma and loss. The families I serve in these areas have poor relations with the public servants because when they interact with them, the families report that the officers can often times make them feel like they are responsible or they don’t respect their grieving process. Families will often share details about crimes that could lead to arrest but because their

interpretation of those who should protect and serve cause them to feel violated, I and the rest of my team will gladly communicate that for them, if the information will get delivered. I mention this statement because the low clearance rate and lack of consequences to the offenders in these areas also cause for more violence. Cases need to be solved at a higher rate!

What do you think we as a city should do to decrease the gun violence in the most disadvantaged neighborhoods of the city?

JH: I know we have tried more police coverage, but in my opinion that is not the answer; the answer is better police relations with the community! And if that means we as a city decide to hire more officers with the intention of supporting families with a social worker to enhance the avenues in which we protect and serve, so be it! The communication between communities and CPD is the central root of our troubles, because when communities go silent, the public servants don’t have the support they need to enter domains and territories required to access those stories and connections that are the missing link to closing cases. Of course, we need to have stricter gun laws, but there are states operating under the same laws we have, with far less gun violence than we experience.

So the key word here is “impunity” on violent offenders agitates crime numbers.

Do you know about the Gun Dealer Licensing Act, what do you think about it?

JH: Actually I did not know a lot about it, but in general I believe that gun dealers need to be held more accountable to those they serve, because this is a life and death matter, just as a physician who serves a patient with the highest ethics, professionalism (recording/reporting) and values or he loses his license to serve. I use this analogy because a doctor would not just serve anyone without first taking information, looking at past medical history and evaluating the effects of giving the client a particular service. The ramifications of not assessing properly can be deadly in this way as well in the way of the gun dealers…. So I find this system of accountability imperative to reducing crime in not only our city, but around the world.

THE CHICAGO DEFENDER

12 VOICES

Combining Black History and Love

Shanita Baraka Akintonde Shanita Baraka Akintonde 12 Voices As we closeout February, a month that celebrates two things that I hold close to my heart— Black History and Love-- I think it apropo that I focus on a combination of the two: Black Love.

Black Love comes in many forms and fashions; many shapes and sizes. But for this column, I am going to focus on one type of Black Love: the “say my name, say my name” kind of vibe that

reverberates in your spine before bursting in the air like a cacophony of bubbles when you hear your loved one’s voice summoning you.

The kind of Black Love that slips through the fork as you take that first bite of homemade goodness or slip underneath a blanket thrown carefully over your shoulders with great tenderness and care.

This kind of Black Love is rarely displayed by Black characters in main stream media, at least not consistently. Granted, there have been a few occasional blips on the cinematic scene, like two of my personal favorites, “Love Jones” (1997) and “Love and Basketball” (2000), where the characters’ love stories leapt off the screen right into the hearts of viewers. There’s “The Best Man” (1999), “Jason’s Lyric” (1994), “Just Wright” (2010) and if you want to go old school with it, “Mahogany” (1975). I can still hear that line from the always debonair Billy Dee Williams to his character’s love interest in the film, Diana Ross. “Success is NOTHING without someone you love to share it with.” Classic. Black Love

Just as Black Lives Matter, Black Love Lives Matter too, and it’s important that they are shared and showcased, particularly on the big screen. at its finest. I’ll even count the movie “Ray” as a Black Love story, given the in-depth manner in which they showcased the deep love shared between husband and wife, as depicted by the uber-talented panoramic pair, Jamie Foxx and Kerry Washington. Theirs was a love that was sweet and savory, wrapped in some bumps and bristles, in other words—REAL Love. I appreciated the authenticity of the portrayal.

But these isolated images are not enough. Just as Black Lives Matter, Black Love Lives Matter

too, and it’s important that they are shared and showcased, particularly on the big screen. Research shows that people imitate what they see on television or in films, and Blacks are some of the highest consumers of media. A 2015 Nielsen study states, “African-Americans have a diverse approach to receiving content and information—they fully engage and connect through various mainstream and niche media outlets and platforms, and they consume more content than other groups on all fronts.”

When you juxtapose that fact against what the Motion Picture Association of America says is “an average of 600 movies [that] are created in the US every year,” with only roughly 15 or so in the past 40+ years depicting Black Love—Houston we have a problem. But hopefully not one that the Love Doctor can’t fix. As the newly released “Black Panther” film demonstrates, a film featuring amorous affection between a young Black couple, T’Challa (Chadwick Boseman) and Danai Gurira ( Lupi-

ta Nyong’o), Black Love can be a core theme in a film and still break box office records around the globe. It is also a story line that is embraced and celebrated by the Black community as well.

I am preparing my students to uncover and illuminate authentic love stories, with a primary focus on the WHO and not the HUE. However, my personal interest lies in showcasing Black Love. It’s an issue I’m tackling one heartbeat at a time.

Shanita Baraka Akintonde is an associate professor at Columbia College Chicago. She is also President and Chief Visionary Officer of Creative Notions Group, a professional speaking and consulting company. Professor Akintonde will release two books, Hear Me ROARR and The Heart of a Leader in 2018. She’s for hire to inspire and will gladly share her rates for each of her uniquely crafted workshops, keynote addresses and/ or seminars. Contact her at sakintonde@colum.edu. Follow her @ SHAKINTONDE and www.linkedin.com/in/shanitaakintonde/

#OnBlackPanther: 10 Takeaways To Think On

Elle Smith

By Elle Smith 12 Voices 1. If you have a blood Sister, don’t ever sleep on her creative skills and what she can pull off, just for you! Blood is so much thicker than water, and your blood relatives, especially your Sister, can “outfit” you for things that no one else is able to do. PLEASE never fall asleep on your Sister!

2. You have some people who aren’t blood relatives, going to bat for you...and are loyal to the very end (Forest Whitaker). And then you have some THE CHICAGO DEFENDER

who #appear loyal (W’Kabi), but if the wind shifts, they will shift with it. W’Kabi is the definition of a “fairweather friend.” He didn’t learn ANYTHING being in the Wakanda camp over the years, and all it took was Killmonger to come in and change his entire train of thought. Have you ever experienced this? I surely have...and then life goes on!

3. Some people are raised on survival (Killmonger), not love (Black Panther)...so now you see why certain people have certain ways. Listen...Killmonger is already dealing with being a child “left behind,” so his mind is focused on retaliation. Black Panther was in a community of love and full support, so he was not one displaying a “takeover” mentality. A huge takeaway from this example? Be careful who you align yourselves with; some people are only looking for their next come up, and they may attempt to use YOU to get it.

4. When women mount up and join forces though…the Doja Milaje Tribe? BLACK GIRL MAGIC AND UNITY PERSONIFIED. There was nothing that they wouldn’t do

for the throne, and they were loyal not only to the kingdom, but to each other. Ladies: do you have a tribe of Black Women who would unify and come together on your behalf?

5. Personally Speaking?

Weave sucks (Referring to Okoye in that scene when they went to find “Klaw” in the casino, and she was wearing that hideous wig as a disguise). She couldn’t WAIT to release herself from the confines of that wig; that wig/weave hid her true personality, and also the fullness of her beauty.

Weave is personally not something I get down with...so that part of the scene only validated my feelings about it!

6. Black People will ALWAYS have special handshakes. We are a creative people. Our handshakes MEAN something. And from now on, I will greet all of my Wakandan Brothers and Sisters with that handshake! It’s SUPER lit...

7. You will always need to reflect on your past to get answers about your present and future.

Each time anyone had to go “under the sand,” it was symbolic of www.chicagodefender.com

the healing that one needs in order to move forward. Our past will key us in on why we do what we do, where we get certain behaviors from, and how we ultimately may turn out. Reflecting on your past certainly can and will help assist you with present growth and growth in your future!

8. A Mother’s Love is THE BOMB, and no Mother wants to bury their “child.” I buried my mother at the young and very tender age of 31, and to have a woman who was in my life be “called home,” while I was JUST discovering all that God had for me, was absolutely devastating. A Mother’s Love is EVERLASTING, and I can guarantee that ANY Mother would prefer that her child bury her and not the other way around.

9. There are people designed to challenge you...but it could simply be a test of your strength. And, they may admire you so much that they will come to your aid and assistance when you least expect it (Winston Duke). During that fierce battle on the land, and hearing the “barks” coming in full force was heart-warming, and it actually

charged the battle which Wakanda ultimately won over the opposition.

What you may not know is...you are inspiring people who pretend that you aren’t so great. Trust me!

10. Relationships progress at their own pace, but you’ll know if you have a “ridah,” because she’s sticking by you...and will join the fight to keep you alive (Nakia). This is self-explanatory.

We knew that Nakia had love for Black Panther; it just had to manifest itself in the time and space that would eventually be created for it. Prior to that manifestation, she got DOWN and fought to protect the kingdom. Love is a VERB, and she embodied love in that act.

If you still haven’t seen “Black Panther,” what are you waiting for? This is just a list of TEN takeaways...there are tons more that I didn’t cover. Let’s start the conversation around salvaging our community. Even though this was a Marvel Comic, this was a roadmap on how to live in harmony.

Elle is CEO of Elle’s Digital Agency IG: @ellesdigitagency_ & @officialchicagobrw

February 28 - March 6, 2018 9

City.Life.Style

Let’s Eat: 14 Parish

By The Black Foodies Something new and exciting is cooking in the Motor Row District of Chicago’s South Loop. Racquel Fields has opened 14 Parish, an upscale Caribbean fusion restaurant, located at The Black 2333 S. Foodies Michigan Ave. FYI, the Caribbean Island of Jamaica is divided into 14 parishes, hence the name. When we strolled into 14 Parish on a cold February afternoon, we first noticed the beautiful lime-green colored walls that warmly welcomed us, immediately transporting us back to the Caribbean. White booths and chairs give 14 Parish a chic, modern look, while artwork by resident artist, Lessie Dixon, adds character to this spacious eatery. (Lessie Dixon’s artwork was exhibited in the White House under the Obama Administration.)

A server quickly greeted and seated us, menus and water followed shortly thereafter. Our server was very knowledgeable and proud of the menu and suggested we start with 14 Parish’s rendition of Elote – elote meaning corn cob in Spanish. The dish came with roasted corn, black beans, habanero peppers, Cotija cheese and crème fraiche and was served with house-made plantain chips. It was a delightful introduction to 14 Parish’s cuisine. The dish seamlessly combined Mexican and French flavor profiles into one cohesive, delicious dish. The crème fraiche acts as the broth for what is essentially a tepid, roasted corn soup. The plantain chips were thinly sliced, crispy and sprinkled with a dash of sea salt. When eaten with the elote, the end result is the perfect bite.

Up next were the Caribbean Wings, which can be served with either a jerk, habanero mango or Caribbean BBQ sauce. The wings were jerked to perfection! They were juicy, meaty and had a char on the outside, that telltale sign that there was an open flame in-

Elote and plantain chips

Coconut Curry Shrimp and jasmine rice 10 February 28 - March 6, 2018

volved in the cooking process.

Miss Coretta feels that 14 Parish will eventually bottle each sauce and offer them for sale. This wing and sauce combination is toe-tapping good.

We also sampled 14 Parish’s Coconut Curry Shrimp, which is served with jasmine rice. A mound of jasmine rice is centered on a plate, surrounded by julienned peppers and shrimp, nestled in a spicy coconut sauce. This dish is an ideal fusion of Caribbean and Thailand flavors. Its eye-popping curb appeal almost makes it a crime to eat. The velvety coconut curry sauce paired extremely well with the freshness and sweetness of the peppers. The wise culinary choice to not have the curry powder overpower the coconut milk created a masterfully balanced sauce. The sticky, floral jasmine rice was a joy to eat, and the shrimp were expertly prepared and plentiful. Our only critique of this dish is that we wanted more of that yummy coconut curry sauce.

While the rice-to-sauce ratio may have been slightly off, this is a must-try dish.

If you are a fan of Red Snapper, do yourself a favor and order 14 Parish’s Red Snapper Escovitch. A whole Red Snapper is pan seared, served with sides of red beans and rice and cabbage. Let us start by saying that this entrée is generous enough to feed a party of two. The Red Snapper is fresh (watch for the bones) and seared expertly.

The pepper sauce was a truly spiritual experience. The preparation of this Escovitch fish was executed flawlessly. The only thing missing was the beach and a bottle of Red Stripe. The red beans and rice is topped with the pepper sauce, and the cabbage is silky and scrumptious. This dish is good old-fashioned Caribbean comfort food at its finest.

Other dishes we suggest are the Reggae Burger, the Coconut Conch Chowder and the Sweet and Spicy Short Ribs. 14 Parish also offers vegetarian/vegan options, great desserts and is BYOB. For a trip to the Caribbean – by way of Chicago – put 14 Parish on your “gotta’ try it” list. The food is absolutely phenomenal, and the service is impeccable. Owner Racquel Fields and her staff have made 14 Parish a destination spot for dining out. Yeah Mon! We rank restaurants based on number of kisses (one thru five, with five being the best). 14 Parish receives 5 kisses. Check out the video of our review at https://youwww.chicagodefender.com

Miss Coretta of Black Foodies with 14 Parish owner Racquel Fields tu.be/94X-OZ-Co9k The Black Foodies are food bloggers/vloggers and husband and wife of 25 years. We are also home cooks who believe in group economics and LOVE great food.

We write the food blog “Let’s Eat,” where we review Black-owned and other ethnic restaurants.

FOLLOW us on Instagram and Twitter @theblackfoodies, SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube Channel “The Black

Foodies,” where we review restaurants, share recipes, and give cooking tips. https://youtu.be/ f1fsSQ24wgQ. Also LIKE us on Facebook and join our Facebook group, “World Wide Black Foodies.”

Lastly, if you have a restaurant you would like The Black Foodies to review, email us at theblackfoodies@gmail.com. One love. . .

Reggae Burger

Red Snapper Escovitch THE CHICAGO DEFENDER

City.Life.Style Breach: A Girl Recovering From Self-Hate Seeks To Find Love Within

By Brenda and Rick McCain Let’s Play There is an adage that states one must learn to love oneself before loving someone else; but what happens when you are the one plagued with so much self-hatred you don’t even know what Brenda and Rick love is? What McCain happens when you have a hatred that is so deep-rooted that you are incapable of looking in the mirror and liking what is looking back? A person who has a multitude of prejudices against his/her own race can become delusional to the absolute truth of what life means.

In playwright Antoinette Nwandu’s “love letter to Black women” comedy-drama “Breach,” she explores gender and race in America through the eyes of a young Black girl recovering from self-hatred.

Her dynamic storytelling proceeds her stellar work in “Pass Over”, a

mashup of “Waiting for God” and the biblical Exodus story in a modern urban setting.

Margaret (Caren Blackmore), the protagonist of the play, is in a fizzling relationship and has a dead-end job that allows her to teach classes at her local college.

She has been raised by her sassy Aunt Sylvia (Linda Bright Clay) who had unknowingly embedded hate within Margaret’s heart on how she views the Black men in her life starting with her father who abandoned her when she was a young child. Fast-forwarding into the future, the young, intelligent, and effervescent Margaret is caught up in a love triangle with two men vying for her heart.

Nate (Keith D. Gallagher), her MBA Finance White boyfriend of many years who loves to drink $7,000 bottles of champagne and spoil her with shiny trinkets, is a workaholic who is on the fast track of retiring by 30 if the numbers are right.

Then there’s Rasheed (Al’Jaleel McGhee), who is the total opposite of Nate. He is a young African American guy who was once in prison who has climbed his way out from his past to become de-

Victory Gardens Theater Presents BREACH: a manifesto on race in America through the eyes of a Black girl recovering from self-hate

By Antoinette Nwandu Directed by Lisa Portes February 9 – March 11, 2018

partment head who just so happens to be Margaret’s new boss.

Rasheed and Margaret’s relationship starts off extremely combative, which makes her self-hate more challenging in more ways than one. However, Margaret finds herself attracted to Rasheed, and afterward, she is unexpectedly having his child. Rasheed is a man she never even considered giving the time of day due to her thoughts about Black men.

Director Lisa Portes engaged us with this profound content on self-hatred and how it can affect one’s life. However, she inserted in lots of humor with the quick-witted actress Karen Rodriguez (Carolina), who played the pregnant cleaning lady at Margaret’s office who stole the performance in every scene, which was the right mixture to help us intake Marga-

ret’s self-hate.

With the help of Carolina and Sylvia, we ultimately get a chance to see a gradual change in Margaret. Her change can be seen during one scene where she discarded her over-the-top wig she once wore to be more attractive and acceptable. Margaret finally seems to have embraced her natural coils of hair and has learned what is important in life. (Note: hair is symbolic in Margaret’s self-discovery of learning how to love herself indefinitely.)

After telling Nate about her pregnancy and who the father is, Margaret realizes that no matter how good Nate looks on paper, and the tremendous financial future he could offer her, he was never going to cure her feelings of self-hate. She also realizes they are not compatible. She also makes the decision not to fully commit to Rasheed because she still doesn’t believe as a Black man, he will be someone she can trust. Nevertheless, Rasheed finds comfort in getting to know Margaret’s Aunt Sylvia in hopes of becoming closer to her in the future.

The story takes a sad turn when Margaret finds out that someone

she loves has passed, but she learns that Rasheed, the person she didn’t want to love and didn’t believe she could trust, is there for her.

Written six years ago during a phase where Nwandu admits that she didn’t like herself, she does a remarkable job focusing on and helping others understand systemic racism.

One critique we have is that we were left wondering what was going to happen with Rasheed and Margaret’s relationship, but that doesn’t take away from this fantastic play.

“Breach” is a very entertaining and witty play that will help you overcome self-hatred and find love from within.

We highly recommend that you check out this play about friendship, motherhood, and family!

The cast includes: Caren Blackmore (Margaret) Linda Bright Clay (Aunt Sylvia) Karen Rodriguez (Carolina) Al’Jaleel McGhee (Rasheed) Keith D. Gallagher (Nate).

To read more about this review, click on http://www.chicagonow. com/lets-play/2018/02/breach/

YOU’RE NEVER TOO YOUNG OR TOO OLD TO HAVE DREAMS.

Whether it’s first grade at 5 or first time college student at 65, we believe it’s never too late to turn your goals and dreams into Real Possibilities.

Real Possibilities is a trademark of AARP®

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www.chicagodefender.com

February 28 - March 6, 2018 11

By Carolyn Griffin Palmer

Email: cpalmer@chicagodefender.com

Bronzeville Children’s Museum Celebrating 20 Years Congratulations to Peggy Montes, Founder and CEO of the Bronzeville Children’s Museum.

She is a civic, cultural and women’s right activist and an educator who saw the need for a “child friendly” museum to educate all children ages 3-9 about the contributions and culture of African-Americans. It is the first and only African-American children’s museum in the country. Mrs. Montes encourages her audience of children and adults to “Live Your Dream.”

The Chicago Aldermanic Black Caucus provided a show of support for Dr. Janice Jackson, CEO of the Chicago Public Schools, at a reception this week. The event gave Dr. Jackson a “thumbs up!”

The Chicago Chapter of the National Black Nurses Association, President Ellen Durant, Toni Oates, RN, President, Alpha Eta Chapter of Chi Eta Phi Sorority, and Louise Hoskins Broadnax, RN , President, Provident Hospital Nurses Alumni Association, celebrated Black Nurses Day with guest speaker Sandra Webb-Booker, RN, Chairman National Black Nurses Day Committee, and guest speaker Mary V. Muse. The nurses also recognized nursing students.

Dr. Willie Wilson invited Chicago educators to his home to discuss their concerns and issues.

The event was well attended and suggestions and comments were discussed.

A room full of successful beautiful Black and Hispanic women packed the IUOE Local 399 Union Hall for Beyond the Vote: “Black Women Claiming Our Seat at the Table,” hosted by Lt. Governor Candidate Juliana Stratton. The band was great, but Julianna’s speech electrified the audience.

Happy Birthday Eugene Dillanado Bonita Herring Condolences to Sharon and Paul Vallas in the loss of their son Mark Vallas. Arrangements are pending.

Front Row: Carleigh Lewis and Bradley Ross Jackson, Push Excel Oratory Society Back Row: Bronzeville Children’s Mu- Members of the staff at the Bronzeville Children’s Museum are seum Founder/President Peggy Montes, Judge Stanley Hill, Pia Montes, Peggy Montes, Margaret Galloway, Vernon Lockhart and Rosie Coleman (not shown Paul Montes II).

Director of Push Excel Oratory Society, and Pia Montes.

Aldermen showing support for Dr. Janice Jackson, CEO Chicago Public Schools, include: Alderman Jason Erving, Ald. Greg Mitchell, Ald. Walter Burnett, Ald. Michael Scott, Dr. Janice Jackson, Ald. Carrie Austin, Ald. Michelle Harris and Ald. Roderick Sawyer. Photo by Alvin Rider

Celebrating Black Nurse’s Day are: Marilynn Parker, RN; Mary Muse, RN; Louise Broadnax, RN; Fallon Flowers, MSN; Carolyn Rimmer-Owens, RN; Dr. Sandra Webb-Booker; Rev. Patricia Price, RN; Toni Oates, RN; Ronald Campbell, RN.

Mark Vallas

Educators gathered together with Dr. Willie Wilson for a conversation about Chicago schools.

12 February 28 - March 6, 2018

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THE CHICAGO DEFENDER

By Carolyn Griffin Palmer

Email: cpalmer@chicagodefender.com

Toi Salter, President, Salter Financial Management; Candidate for Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton; Frances Jackson, Publisher Chicago Defender.

Lesle Honore, Frances Jackson, Felicia Davis, Nikki Hayes and Fran Bell.

“Claiming Their Seats at the Table:” President Cook County Commission Tony Preckwinkle, Josephine Wade, Captain Hard Times Restaurant, Frances Jackson, Publisher Chicago Defender

The National Women of Achievement Inc. celebrated Founder’s Day. Dr. Carrie Filer Davis was the Chicago chapter founder. (standing, l-r) Mercedes Martinez, MD., Dr. Angie Roberts Watkins, Donna Hodge, Helen Davis Gardner, M.D., President, Nita Nelson, Dr. Susan Frazier, Dorothy Lockett, Gina Davis, Esq., Asia Bush. Seated: Paula Branton and Vivian Branton.

Willie Wilson Hosts African American and Latino Press

Gubernatorial candidate Chris Kennedy and running mate Ra Joy (r) greet Kennedy and Rep. Danny Davis enjoy a laugh at the special reception hosted guests at Willie Wilson’s home.

by Wilson to engage members of the press.

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February 28 - March 6, 2018 13

ON THE SCENE LEGACY Awards

LEGACY Award Honorees (l-r) 1st annual Young Entrepreneur Winner Cecil Wilson of Goffers Inc.; LEGACY in Advocacy Honoree Sheldon Smith, The Dovetail Project, Founder; LEGACY in Leadership Honoree Dr. Jeffrey Sterling, Sterling Initiatives, CEO; 2nd Annual Young Entrepreneur Winner Shamari Walker, Ascunia Tech, CEO; Keynote speaker and Groundbreaker honoree Miko Branch, CEO, Miss Jessie’s; Lifetime LEGACY Honoree Jory Luster, CEO, Luster Products; LEGACY in Growth Honoree Dorri McWorther, YWCA, CEO; LEGACY Awards Founder and CEO of WDB Marketing Keeana Barber. Photo by Parthenia Luke

LEGACY awardee for Community Impact Sherida Morrison, Founder of Demoiselle 2 Femme, surrounded by women who were once a part of her young girls mentoring program. Photo by Parthenia Luke

LEGACY Awards co-presenter Emile Cambry Jr. and Executive Director of BLUE1647, LEGACY in Growth Honoree Dorri McWorther, YWCA, CEO and LEGACY Awards Founder and CEO of WDB Marketing Keeana Barber. Photo by Parthenia Luke

Lexington Betty Smokehouse – part of the Restaurant Showcase; owner Dominque Leach. Photo by Parthenia Luke

A. Philip Randolph Pullman Porter Gentle Warrior Awards Gala

Ra Joy and Dr. Lyn Hughes Photo by Carl Ankrum of TheMediaMD.com

JinJa Birkenbeuel, Dr. Byron T. Brazier, Dr. Lynn Hughes. Photo by Carl Ankrum of TheMediaMD.com

Cliff Kelly, Jacquie Algee, Dr. Lyn Hughes and Dave Peterson. Photo by Carl Ankrum of TheMediaMD.com 14 February 28 - March 6, 2018

J.B. Pritzker and Dave Peterson Photo by Carl Ankrum of TheMediaMD.com

Cliff Kelly, Derrick Brown, Dr. Lyn Hughes and Dave Peterson Photo by Carl Ankrum of TheMediaMD.com

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THE CHICAGO DEFENDER

City.Life.Style ComEd Volunteers Teach Chicago Area Students Valuable Skills in STEM

By Mary L. Datcher Defender Managing Editor ComEd hosted two weekend sessions for its Third Annual Solar Spotlight program designed to continue to expose African American high school students to opportunities in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) as part of its annual Black History Month celebration.

More than 60 high school students will have participated in the second day of the educational session where they interacted with STEM professionals, including ComEd engineers and executives, to learn more about solar energy, famous African American STEM leaders and careers. The educational events are part of ComEd’s effort to cultivate the next wave of underrepresented students to vast opportunities in STEM, therefore being a part of a growing and stimulating workforce of the future.

Students working on a STEM project. Photo by Mary L. Datcher Students with ComEd’s Corey Foster. Photo by Mary L. Datcher

the brain, but I [also] want to be an architectural engineer,” she says.

“I’ve taken away the problem-solving skills and the networking. I love seeing if things work like powering a light bulb and working in a group Arkayla who attends Plainfield helps your communication skills, East H.S. as a Junior says, “I want so you have to listen to other peoto be a neuroscientist so I’m into ple’s ideas and put them together

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for a plan.”

Jordan, a sophomore at Holy Trinity High School, was part of the program.

He says, “I heard about this program from my administration’s office and said this would be something I would be interested in, so I signed up for it.” Knowing

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he shared an interest in STEM field careers, he is finding his groove.

“I really like the program. This is something that is great, and I get to meet really cool people. I want to pursue Electrical engineering and information security on the offensive side—doing the hacking and finding what the bugs are for

companies.”

When asked if he would recommend this program to his friends or people interested in STEM, he replied, “Do it. It’s something you should do, it’s a great program and ComEd does it to help people no matter what your skills are.”

February 28 - March 6, 2018 15

IN THE MIX Rauner and Chocolate Milk Don’t Mix Well; Willie Wilson For Mayor?

By Mary L. Datcher Defender Managing Editor As we enter the “do or die” stretch of the primaries, media is on standby for pertinent soundbites by the characters of this political drama.

At last week’s Governor Rauner’s DifferMary L. Datcher ence Makers Awards during their Black History Month program at the Thompson Center—scrutiny surrounded a special demonstration of diversity in the workplace.

The keynote speaker, Tyronne Stoudemire, Global V.P. of Diversity and Inclusion for Hyatt Worldwide, is known to share his knowledge and resources for employees and employment recruitment. His speech was not out of the ordinary in discussing why it’s important to include people of color into the management and senior roles at companies with predominately White senior management.

As Gov. Rauner, Janice Glenn (Acting Director, Illinois Department of Human Rights) and emcee Dometi Pongo (WGN Radio) looked on from the stage—Stoudemire walked over to the table that had a glass of whole white milk, a bottle of chocolate syrup and a spoon.

“This glass represents corporate America, fortune 500 companies. If you look at any corporation website, look at their leadership team, you’ll see all White men, a few White women and maybe an Asian in technology. This chocolate syrup represents diversity, women, people of color, disabilities, Generation X, Y and Z,” he said. “It’s not that organizations are not diverse, but if you look at most organizations, diversity sits at where? The bottom of the organization. You don’t get inclusion until you actually stir it up.” He instructed the governor to stir it up and added, “Diversity is the mix and inclusion is making the mix work. I’m not going to ask the governor to taste it because it may not taste good.”

Enthusiatically, Rauner said he had no problem and took a sip commenting, “Very, very good! Diversity!” Now, here’s where it got a little awkward—people applauded, but not because the governor took the sip from the glass but because they could relate to Stoudemire’s speech. What the media centered on was a White Governor who has been criticized repeatedly by de16 February 28 - March 6, 2018

Gov. Rauner, Helen E. Sinclair, Janice Glenn, Tyronne Stoudemire and Dometi Pongo cisions made that have direct impact on African American communities involved in a demonstration that promotes the importance of diversity. Plus, let’s not forget—it’s election primaries.

Now, the flipside is the backlash of opinions from that soundbite that hurt Stoudemire who was dragged through social media by repeated comments of his “demonstration” not being accurate. Well, let me add… as one of the senior executives for the Hyatt Corporation, he has been instrumental in training and hiring many Black and Latino young adults. Through his diligence and dedication to Black excellence, he continues to make sure the Hyatt is partner for several organizations that support community efforts. In addition, his diversity workshops are an instrumental part of the company’s management practices. Not to mention, the media missed the entire purpose of the that day’s program.

Twelve African American individuals were honored for their achievements in their respected fields and community service: Erica Douglas, Cornelius Griggs, Dwayne Hirsch, Jahkil Naeem Jackson, Spencer Leak, Jr., Bernard Loyd, Sharon Rossmark, Queen Mother Helen E. Sinclair, Cassiopeia Uhuru, Josephine “Mother” Wade, Dr. Walt Whitman and P. “Patrick” Saingbey K. Woodtor.

Now let that be your soundbite…

The Illinois Attorney General’s race is heating up with Senator Kwame Raoul as the bull’s eye for direct concerns about his contri-

Winkk Atme celebrates March Sean Long celebrates birthday Pete Frazier celebrates birth1.

March 3 day March 4 butions. A topic of discussion the Illinois Senator had hoped would die down is not going away from the various candidate forums. In a closely watched race, the last couple of forums—one held this past weekend at Chicago State University and NABJ hosted discussion at CBS 2, Sharon Fairley and Scott Drury made it clear—Kwame Raoul is the target.

“I’m Kwame Raoul running for Attorney General and Kwame Raoul has a 13-year record. In regard to the Cook County endorsement, I gladly accept it. I gladly accept Madison County and I gladly accept the St. Clair County endorsement and the Kankakee County. I have a record I’ve accomplished over the years with criminal justice reform, access healthcare, sexual harassment domestic assault.” CBS reporter asks, “So you’re not an insider?”

Raoul answers, “I’m an insider because I’m an elected official and everything I’ve accomplished because I’m inside.”

Although, it may appear Raoul will get high support from the Black community—looks can be deceiving. Former IL Gov. Pat www.chicagodefender.com

Quinn has significant name recognition throughout the state and still holds favor with older Black voters.

With no television commercials on the air and little visibility, Quinn is apparently banking on that name recognition.

Guess who held a private reception in his downtown luxury condo to announce his run for the city of Chicago mayoral office?

Well, it wasn’t Jesus ‘Chuy’ Garcia but millionaire businessman Willie Wilson feels good enough to go for a second try. Sending out a special invitation to both Black and Latino media outlets and faith leaders from their communities— he made it clear, he will support the brand that supports him. Apparently, Mr. Wilson has hosted a couple of gatherings similar to last week’s reception including a group of young voices that were open enough to share their ideas and concerns.

At this point, no other Black potential candidates have stepped up because some are afraid of not receiving the financial support to raise monies to beat Emanuel’s deep pockets. It was a close call for the mayor in the 2016 run-off

and best believe—back door meetings are taking place on who will be his strongest opposition for round three.

Birthday Shout-outs As the weather changes from cold to warm back to rainy snow, so does those fabulous sometimes moody Pisces! Happy Belated birthday to my girl, comedian/ actress Erica Watson celebrated on Feb. 26 and Midway Documentary filmmaker Ryan Brockmerier on Feb. 27. Chicago to Cali transplant Charles Little and Chicago Jazz Philharmonic co-founder Mark Ingram celebrate on Feb.28. Choreographer, dancer and author Winkk Atme; Diane Womack Foreman; and actor Leon Albritton kick up their feet on March 1. Big hugs to Nadia Allen Bush; Chicago rap artist Mush Millions and West Coast marketing executive Kelly Woo on March 2. A special “Q Dog” shout out to my JA-AM 1390 alumni and proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Sean Long on March 3.

I can’t forget the King of Steppers Pete Frazier “steps in the name of love” on March 4.

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BLACK HISTORY MONTH

Chicago Politicians

Rev. Jesse Jackson and Harold Washington (Chicago Defender Archives)

Danny K. Davis and Mayor Washington (Photo: Walter S. Mitchell, III)

Jerry ‘Iceman’ Butler wins Cook County Board Commissioner election in 1985

John Stroger with Mayor Eugene Sawyer

Attorney Arnette Rhinehart Hubbard (third from right) hosted a breakfast at Vinzant’s Restaurant for Alan Dixon, U.S. Senate candidate. From left Sen. Harold Washington, IL Comptroller Roland Burris, Dr. Cannutte Rusell and Clark Burrus.

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Bobby L. Rush holds up petition with Mayor Harold Washington (Photo: Jim Biery) February 28 - March 6, 2018 17

COVER STORY Political Figures, continued from, Page 04

A former history teacher, Preckwinkle has worked with several organizations including the Chicago Jobs Council working with civil rights attorney Eugene Pincham.

Her fight for affordable and fair housing and at times in opposition to Mayor Richard M. Daley as a council member has earned her stripes in staying steady in the game of male-machine driven politics.

A Minneapolis native, her role as the second African American woman to serve as Cook County Board President (Bobbie Steele appointed in 2008 after John Stroger’s death was first) would be blazoned with balancing the budget, lay-offs, restructuring the county healthcare system and oppositions from within the board.

Preckwinkle’s position in the Democratic party is strong and her support for those who have gone on to serve in electoral seats includes State Rep. Christian Mitchell; city of Chicago Treasurer Kurt Summers; State Rep. Julianna Stratton and Cook County State’s Attorney Kim Foxx.

11. Chief Judge Timothy Evans As the first African-American Chief Judge of the Circuit Court, Evans has deep political roots. He was the alderman of the 4th Ward for almost 20 years and the late Mayor Harold Washington’s floor leader and Chicago City Council Finance Chair during his administration.

His bid to fill Washington’s post after his death was defeated by Eugene Sawyer and Evans later lost during a special election against Richard M. Daley, running as an independent candidate. In 1991, his reign as 4th Ward Alderman ended when Toni Preckwinkle won that city council seat.

Never one to back down, a year later, the John Marshall Law School graduate was sworn in as the first Black chief judicial officer in a court system that had been criticized with a long history of non-transparency before his takeover.

“Now, that I’m in this position, I can open the doors of opportunities for others. Yes, from the African-American community, but for any community that feels oppressed, I can open that door and let them see how the justice system works.”

12. Gus Savage (October 30, 1925 – October 31, 2015) Augustus “Gus” Savage was born in Detroit and moved with his family at age 5 to Chicago. He attended city public schools and entered the U.S. army in 1943. Segregation within the armed forces had a lasting impression on his approach to ending racial inequality.

He attended Chicago-Kent College of Law and Roosevelt University.

Savage would choose to pursue a career in journalism and served 18 February 28 - March 6, 2018

Dorothy Brown

Eugene Sawyer

Dorothy Tillman as editor and publisher of the Citizen Newspapers chain. During this time then-Mayor Richard J. Daley did little to build economic development and substance in Black communities, and Savage spoke out about the city’s White power structure that controlled politics.

With his bid for Congress in 1980, Savage joined then-U.S. Representatives Harold Washington and Cardiss Collins making history. It was the first time three African-American lawmakers represented multiple districts, symbolizing the growing political influence of Blacks in Congress Savage was known for his “unapologetically Black” interaction putting him further on the radar.

In 1992 he was defeated by Mel Reynolds in the Democratic primary amid accusations he made improper sexual advances to a female Peace Corps volunteer during a trip to Africa.

13. Eugene Sawyer (September 3, 1934 – January 19, 2008) Eugene Sawyer was the second African American mayor of Chicago, which is overshadowed by how he earned this appointment versus his ability to carry the office. A long-time Chicago council member, Alderman Sawyer served the residents of the 6th Ward for 16 years.

Born in Greensboro, Ala., Sawyer attended Alabama State University. There he became a member of Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity.

During the Montgomery bus boycott, he and the members of his fraternity served as security for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. He would later relocate to Chicago in his adulthood; he had become familiar with the city as a child who would spend time during summer vacations with his aunt.

He joined the 6th Ward Democratic committee serving as the president for the Young Democrats.

After the abrupt death of Mayor Harold Washington, there was a split among Black council members between Sawyer and then-alderman Timothy Evans for the appointment.

Sawyer was sworn in on December 2, 1987, and served until April 24, 1989—being defeated by Richard M. Daley for the mayoral office. During Sawyer’s time as mayor, he would follow through on Washington’s mission to pass the Human Rights Ordinance to protect people from discrimination along with approving an ordinance to install lights at Wrigley Field for nighttime games. His support of the Clean Indoor Air Ordinance banned smoking indoors. www.chicagodefender.com

14. Dorothy Tillman When you think about Black women in the Chicago Civil Rights movement, Dorothy Tillman is at the top of this list. At the front lines, Tillman worked with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. as a young activist. Raised in Montgomery, Ala., Tillman joined the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) as field organizer. As part of organizing King’s move to Chicago to fight unfair housing and discrimination, she settled—later marrying and raising a family.

She was appointed in 1985

by Harold Washington to the 3rd Ward seat and would later hold the office until 2007.

Known as a loud and booming voice for Black people, especially poor Black people—her ward contained the highest concentration of poor Blacks. From fighting to improve socio-economic changes to quality education—she made no apologies for demanding reparations for slavery. Tillman was the first to recognize the rich history of the 3rd Ward as the centerpiece of entertainment and the arts and set out to find reinvestment into the community.

So, she began implementing a 70/30 plan, which meant that 70 percent of the business and jobs in the community would go to Black people. She spearheaded the first TIF to be utilized in the Black community and co-founded the African American Home Builders Association.

Interviewed by the Chicago Defender in August 2015, Tillman recalls her time as 4th Ward Alderman.

“I wanted our people to be able to stay in our community. I did not want them to leave because they had to, but because they wanted to,” Tillman said. “We were redeveloping Bronzeville, really Grand Boulevard, with Black people benefitting. We wanted to build our community off of our strengths, which were the arts,” she continued. “If you go to Chinatown, they sell you on the rice; I wanted people to come to Grand Boulevard and be able to hear our music and

see our culture. I wanted to mark our community.”

15. Dorothy Brown A lawyer and certified CPA, Dorothy Brown currently serves as the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County, an office she has retained since 2000. Although, there have been media coverage surrounding investigations involving business dealings by her husband and a former county employee, Brown’s popularity is unrivaled.

Her Southern roots have guided her through the eye of the storm— working throughout college to graduate Magna Cum Laude from Southern University, she received her MBA with honors from DePaul University and earned her law degree from Chicago-Kent College of Law. She has worked in the private sector as a CPA for both Arthur Anderson and Commonwealth Edison—she would go on to become General Auditor for the Chicago Transit Authority for nearly 10 years.

In the last election, Brown was not endorsed by the Cook County Democratic party as an attempt to replace her with endorsed candidate—Alderman Michelle Harris.

Brown overwhelmingly won with 76 percent of the county vote.

She clarified, “The Circuit Court of Cook County is the court of first impressions for the citizens of Cook County. We maintain the original records, exhibits, wills, and evidence for court cases. Unlike the Appellate and Supreme Court, where the original record from the Circuit Court is reviewed, these records can make a difference in whether a person goes free or is incarcerated; they can make a difference in them losing their homes to foreclosure, getting evicted, paying large sums of money – the records hold information that can affect people’s lives; as a result it is important that the office is independent and is accountable only to the people.

To read the full list of Chicago Defender’s Top 20 most influential political figures, visit: www.chicagodefender.com THE CHICAGO DEFENDER

COMMUNITY CALENDAR Loni Love

MARCH 1-3

MARCH 4

MARCH 15-17

Loni Love At the Improv Co-Host of “The Real” The Chicago Improv 5 Woodfield Rd. Schaumburg, IL Showtimes: Thurs. 7:30 p.m.; Fri: 8 p.m. & 10:15 p.m.; Sat: 7 p.m. & 9:15 Tickets: $24 Visit: Chicago.improv.com

Global Connections Presented

by ComEd This series pays tribute to the world-wide cultural celebrations of Carnivale, Chinese New Year and Holi. For more information about the series, visitwww.navypier.org.

Aon Grand Ballroom at Navy Pier Free and open to public 1-5 p.m.

National Conference of Black Political Scientists Open Forums The 49th Annual meeting of the National Conference of Black Political Scientists will be in Chicago with panels, forums and roundtables centered around the theme: “Race and the Environment: Agency, Survival, and the Continuing Challenges of Black Inequalities.

The meeting features three community forums: The Black Environment: Gentrification, Community Development and the Obama Library Thursday, March 15 9 -10:15 a.m.

The W Chicago Lakeshore Hotel 644 N. Lake Shore Drive, 6th floor The New Black Chicago Politics Friday, March 16 9-10:15 a.m.

The W Chicago Lakeshore Hotel 644 N. Lake Shore Drive, 6th floor Redistricting and the 2018 Midterm Election Saturday, March 17 2:30-5 p.m.

Dusable Museum 740 East 56th Place

MARCH 3 9th Annual Woodlawn Community Summit The annual event is designed to share vital information about future developments. Invited speakers are from the areas of community policing strategy, economic development and much more. Special guest: Melody Spann Cooper, Chairman, Midway Broadcasting Corporation. Plenty of prizes and giveaways; a luxury charter bus tour of Woodlawn properties for sale will follow the summit.

University of Chicago School of Social Service Administration 969 East 60th St. 7:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m.

Lunch sponsored by Bon Appetit *Must be pre-registered To RSVP, visit: woodlawnsummit2018.eventbrite.com THE CHICAGO DEFENDER

MARCH 9 A Taste of Glenwood Glenwood Academy celebrates its 25th annual community celebration with a Taste of Glenwood.

The family event benefits the organization’s programming and extracurricular activities. Guests can enjoy a silent auction, specialty food and beverage tastings, raffles, and festivities.

Glenwood Academy’s Irwin Family Center 500 West 187th St Glenwood, IL 7-10 p.m.

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MARCH 17 Books N Brunch Gala Meet award-winning, best-selling authors Victoria Christopher Murray, ReShonda Tate Billingsley and Rick Ross. Art Chat Daddy Sims is the Emcee. Will include spoken word performances and raffles.

East Bank Club 500 N. Kingsbury St. 12-5 p.m.

For tickets, visit Eventbrite.com (search Books N Brunch Gala) For more information, email booksnbrunchgala@gmail.com or call (773) 443-3763.

MARCH 17 2nd Annual Celebration of the 70’s Tour Stylistics Featuring Mr. Lee Hosted by Ramonski Luv The Chi-Lites, The Delfonics, Carl Carlton and The Dramatics Chicago Theatre 175 N. State St. Doors at 7 p.m.; Showtime at 8:00 p.m.

Ticket Master: 800.745.3000

MARCH 18 Best Dressed African American Women in Illinois The Society of Mannequins presents the 10 Best Dressed African American Women in Illinois.

Tuscany Falls Banquets 9425 W. 191st St. Mokena, IL 1-5 p.m.

Tickets: $80, includes an open bar.

For tickets or more information, contact dlewis@chicagodefender. com

March 24 An Evening With A King of Comedy Cedric The Entertainer Chicago Theatre 175 N. State St. Doors at 7 p.m.; Showtime at 8 p.m.

Ticket Master: 800.745.

MARCH 24 Meshell Ndegeocello The Neo-Soul pioneer makes her Promontory debut, supporting her new album “Ventriloquism.”

Promontory 5311 S. Lake Park Avenue 7 p.m. and 9 p.m.

February 28 - March 6, 2018 19

MEMORIES

Father Duris Ordained as a Catholic priest in 1969, Father Duris was the spiritual leader at the St. Ailbe parish community from 2009 until his death on February 19th, 2018. Prior to that he was the pastor at St. Philip Neri Catholic Church, pastor of St. Laurence Church on S. Dorchester Ave., and a dean of the southside vicariate representing a number of South Side parishes. The parish was preparing to celebrate him for his 75th birthday celebration in March of this year.

Father Duris’ will lay in state at St. Ailbe Catholic Church 90th & Stony Island Avenue beginning on Tuesday, February 26th, 2018 from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and the Funeral Mass will be preceded with a visitation from 9:00 a.m. with the mass beginning at 11:00 a.m.

Wednesday, February 27th, 2018 also at St. Ailbe Catholic Church.

Leak & Sons Funeral Home

ARMOUR Yvette Armour…..Wake was held: Friday, February 23, 2018; 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. @ Bethlehem Star M B Church, 9231 S. Cottage Grove Ave. Funeral: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

JOHNSON Sheila Johnson…..Wake was held: Friday, February 23, 2018; 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. @ Chapel Jackson Funeral: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

WASHINGTON Kaye Washington…..Memorial was held: Saturday, February 24, 2018; 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. @ Salem Baptist Church, 11800 S. Indiana Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

SHAW Isabell Shaw…..Memorial was held: Saturday, February 24, 2018; 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. @ Chapel Country Club Hills, 18400 S. Pulaski Road Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

PLEASANT, JR. Thomas Pleasant, Jr…..Wake was held: Saturday, February 24, 2018; 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. @ Chapel Lunford Funeral: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Interment: Cedar Park Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

ACOFF Lerene Acoff…..Wake was held: Saturday, February 24, 2018; 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. @ Third Baptist Church, 95th Ashland Funeral: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Interment: Evergreen Cemetery Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

TAYLOR Althea Taylor…..Wake was held: Saturday, February 24, 2018; 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. @ Restoration C O G I C, 6043 Hohman Ave. Funeral: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Interment: Homewood Cemetery Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

OKASILI Azuka Okasili…..Wake was held: Saturday, February 24, 2018; 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. @ Chapel Jackson Funeral: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Interment: Cedar Park Cemetery Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

BAXTER Geraldine Baxter…..Wake was held: Saturday, February 24, 2018; 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. @ Indiana Avenue Pentecostal Church, 35th Indiana Funeral: 11:00 a.m.

– 12:00 p.m. Interment: Lincoln Cemetery Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

JONES Alma Jones…..Wake was held: Saturday, February 24, 2018; 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. @ Chapel King Funeral: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

CARROLL Keith Carroll…..Wake was held: Saturday, February 24, 2018; 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. @ Monument of Faith Church, 2750 West Columbus Ave. Funeral: 10:00 a.m.

– 11:00 a.m. Interment: Mt. Hope Cemetery Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

LEE Dorothy Lee…..Wake was held: Saturday, February 24, 2018; 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. @ Greater Metropolitan, 5957 S. Wabash Funeral: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Interment: Washington Memory Garden Cemetery Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

LARRY Demond Larry…..Wake was held: Saturday, February 24, 2018; 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. @ Fellowship B.C., 4501 S. Princeton Funeral: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Interment: Mt. Hope Cemetery Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

MITCHELL, JR. Henry Mitchell, Jr…..Wake was held: Saturday, February 24, 2018; 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. @ Word of Truth, 415 W. 111th Funeral: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Interment: Mt. Hope Cemetery Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

JONES Juanita Jones…..Wake was held: Saturday, February 24, 2018; 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. @ Greater Bethesda Baptist Church, 5301 S. Michigan Ave. Funeral: 10:00 a.m.

– 11:00 a.m. Interment: Evergreen Cemetery Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

HARRIS Ida Harris…..Wake was held: Saturday, February 24, 2018; 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. @ Tabernacle M.B. Church, 4130 S. Indiana Funeral: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

CANTRELL Justin Cantrell…..Wake was held: Saturday, February 24, 2018; 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. @ Hill Crest Baptist Church, 17300 S. Pulaski Road Funeral: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Interment: Washington Cemetery Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

MORRIS Marilyn Morris…..Wake was held: Saturday, February 24, 2018; 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. @ True Church of Christ Devine, 7208 S. Ashland Ave. Funeral: 12:00 p.m.

– 1:00 p.m. Interment: Mt. Hope Cemetery Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

20 February 28 - March 6, 2018

SHIELDS Tyrone Shields…..Wake was held: Saturday, February 24, 2018; 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. @ Zion Temple C O G I C, 1754 W. 79th Street Funeral: 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Interment: Mt. Hope Cemetery Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

GILL Phillip Gill…..Wake was held: Saturday, February 24, 2018; 1:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. @ Chapel Country Club Hills, 18400 S. Pulaski Road Funeral: 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Interment: Mount Glenwood South Cemetery Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

JOHNSON Pearl Johnson…..Wake was held: Saturday, February 24, 2018; 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. @ Bethlehem Star M B Church, 9231 S. Cottage Grove Ave. Funeral: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Interment: Abraham Lincoln Cemetery Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

PRINCE LAMPTEY Prince Lamptey…..Wake was held: Saturday, February 24, 2018; 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. @ Chapel Country Club Hills, 18400 S. Pulaski Road Funeral: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Interment: Monday, February 26, 2018; 9:00 a.m. @ Mt. Hope Cemetery Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

BOWEN Richard Bowen…..Memorial was held: Saturday, February 24, 2018; 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. @ Holy Temple Evangelistic COGIC, 15912 Lincoln Ave. Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

COVINGTON Havis Covington…..Wake was held: Saturday, February 24, 2018; 1:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. @ Sweet Holy Spirit East, 8621 S. South Chicago Ave. Funeral: 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Interment: Monday, February 26, 2018; 9:00 a.m. @ Evergreen Cemetery Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

BROWNRIDGE Nathaniel Brownridge…..Wake was held: Saturday, February 24, 2018; 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. @ Chapel King Funeral: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Cemetery Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

BROWN Anthony Brown…..Wake was held: Saturday, February 24, 2018; 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. @ Chapel King Funeral: 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

KUNA Joshua Kuna…..Wake was held: Saturday, February 24, 2018; 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. @ Chapel Funeral: 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Interment: Monday, February 26, 2018; 1:00 p.m. @ Mt. Hope Cemetery Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

ROBINSON, SR. Robert Robinson, Sr…..Wake was held: Saturday, February 24, 2018; 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. @ Chapel Jackson Funeral: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

BATES Delshawntae Bates…..Wake was held: Sunday, February 25, 2018; 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. @ Chapel Country Club Hills, 18400 S. Pulaski Road Funeral: 11:00 a.m.

– 12:00 p.m. Interment: Monday, February 26, 2018; 10:00 a.m. @ Restvale Cemetery Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

AUSTIN Richard Austin…..Wake was held: Monday, February 26, 2018; 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. @ Chapel Funeral: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Interment: Burr Oak Cemetery Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

STOREY Ervin Storey…..Wake: Thursday, March 01, 2018; 10:00 a.m.

– 11:00 a.m. @ Chapel Jackson Funeral: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Interment: Oak Woods Cemetery Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

KING De Andre King…..Wake was held: Monday, February 26, 2018; 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. @ True Vine B.C., 400 E. 111th Funeral: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Interment: Oakland Cemetery Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

BROWN Walter Brown…..Wake: Thursday, March 01, 2018; 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. @ Chapel King Funeral: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Interment: Oakridge Cemetery Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

WALKER Cornelious Walker…..Wake was held: Monday, February 26, 2018; 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. @ Chapel King Funeral: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Interment: Mt. Hope Cemetery Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

THOMAS William Thomas…..Wake was held: Monday, February 26, 2018; 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. @ Apostolic Church of God, 6340 S. Dorchester Funeral: 11:00 a.m.

– 12:00 p.m. Interment: Lincoln Cemetery Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

TOMPKINS Virginia Tompkins…..Wake was held: Monday, February 26, 2018; 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. @ New Life Covenant, 1021 E. 78th St. Funeral: 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Interment: Mt. Hope Cemetery Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

BROWN Diane Brown…..Wake was held: Monday, February 26, 2018; 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. @ Chapel King Funeral: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

MC DANIEL Virgie Mc Daniel…..Wake was held: Tuesday, February 27, 2018; 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. @ Chapel Country Club Hills, 18400 S. Pulaski Road Funeral: 11:00 a.m.

– 12:00 p.m. Interment: Mt. Hope Cemetery Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

MC COY Anna Mc Coy…..Wake was held: Tuesday, February 27, 2018; 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. @ Chapel King Funeral: 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

DILLON, III Howard Dillon, III…..Wake was held: Tuesday, February 27, 2018; 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. @ Chapel Country Club Hills, 18400 S. Pulaski Road Funeral: 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

GARRETT Claude Garrett…..Wake: Wednesday, February 28, 2018; 10:00 a.m.

– 11:00 a.m. @ St. James, 8539 S. Racine Funeral: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Interment: Mt. Hope Cemetery Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

WOODS Loretta Woods…..Wake: Wednesday, February 28, 2018; 10:00 a.m.

– 11:00 a.m. @ Chapel Jackson Funeral: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Interment: Veterans Cemetery Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

DILWORTH Annie Dilworth…..Wake: Wednesday, February 28, 2018; 6:00 p.m.

– 7:00 p.m. @ Chapel Funeral: 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

www.chicagodefender.com

HARMON Michael Harmon…..Wake: Thursday, March 01, 2018; 10:00 a.m.

– 11:00 a.m. @ Chapel Lunford Funeral: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Interment: Mt. Hope Cemetery Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

MYART Leon Myart…..Wake: Friday, March 02, 2018; 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. @ Chapel Funeral: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Interment: Abraham Lincoln Cemetery Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

JAMES Roy James…..Wake: Friday, March 02, 2018; 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. @ Apostolic Church of God, 63rd Dorchester Funeral: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Interment: Mt. Hope Cemetery Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

MC CLENDON, SR. Walter Mc Clendon, Sr…..Wake: Friday, March 02, 2018; 1:00 p.m.

– 2:00 p.m. @ Chapel Funeral: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

JOHNSON Ulysses Johnson…..Wake: Friday, March 02, 2018; 1:00 p.m.

– 2:00 p.m. @ Chapel Jackson Funeral: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

BANKS Mary Banks…..Wake: Saturday, March 03, 2018; 9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. @ Universal Community M B Church, 10801 S. State St. Funeral: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Interment: Oakridge Cemetery Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

THOMAS, JR. Charles Thomas, Jr.…..Wake: Sunday, March 04, 2018; 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. @ Chapel Lunford Funeral: 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Arrangements Entrusted To: Leak and Sons Funeral Home, 7838 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 846-6567.

TAYLOR

Funeral Home WILSON Donna Jones Wilson.....….. Wake was held: Tuesday, February 27, 2018; 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. @ Taylor Funeral Home. Funeral was held: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Interment: Homewood Memorial Gardens, Homewood, Illinois.

Arrangements Entrusted To: Taylor Funeral Home, 63 East 79th.

Street, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 488.7300 cbtaylorfuneralhome. com HARRIS Clarence Harris Sr.......….. Wake was held: Wednesday, February 28, 2018; 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.@ First Lutheran Church of Harvey, 45 East 150th Street. Funeral was held: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Interment: Washington Memory Gardens, Homewood, Illinois. Arrangements Entrusted To: Taylor Funeral Home, 63 East 79th. Street, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 488.7300 cbtaylorfuneralhome.com

Funeral Directory Call Classifieds 312-225-2400 to advertise

CALAHAN

A.A. RAYNER & SONS

“The Home of Personal Service” 7030 S. Halsted St.

318 E. 71st St. 5911 W. Madison St.

FUNERAL HOME

(773)723-4400 W.W. HOLT FUNERAL HOME

175 W. 159th St. Harvey, IL 60426

(708) 331-0310

FUNERAL HOME

(773)846-6133 (773)626-4222 GOLDEN GATE FUNERAL HOME

2036 W. 79th St.

(773)846-7900

A Community Family, Serving with Honesty & Dignity

“Families Come First at Golden Gate”

Taylor Funeral

LEAK & SONS

63 East 79th Street Chicago, IL 60619 & 5350 W. North Ave. 773-488-7300 Chicago, IL 60636

7838 S. COTTAGE GROVE AVE. (773) 846-6567 18400 S. PULASKI 708-206-0860

HOME, LTD.

FUNERAL HOME

Muriel Jarrett Ibom Muriel Jarrett Ibom, age 86, passed away on Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2018.

Muriel Jarrett Ibom was born May 17, 1931, in Chicago, Illinois, to Moses and Thelma Lee (Wallace) Jarrett. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Richard Jarrett.

Muriel received a Bachelor of Science degree in 1952 from Illinois State Normal University (known today as Illinois State University). She received her master’s degree from Atlanta University (now Clark-Atlanta University). Muriel was president and founder of The Leaguers of the Chicago Urban League.

Muriel worked for the Chicago Public Schools as a teacher at Curie High School, Grant and Abbott Elementary schools. She was a counselor at Wallar High School and for the Upward Bound Program at Northwestern University. Muriel also taught at Southern University in Baton Rouge, LA, and at Governors State University. She was the Director of the National Achievement Scholarships Program for the National Merit Scholarships Corporation as well as an Assistant Principal at Carver Area High School in Chicago.

Muriel was a world-class traveler. She visited such places as Spain, Italy, England, Greece, Egypt, and Jerusalem. She lectured on and taught Civil War History and Black History. Muriel was a member of the South Suburban Civil War Round Table.

Muriel leaves to cherish her memories one nephew, Anthony (Emily) Jarrett, four nieces: Camille (Andre) Jackson, Christine Jarrett, Celine Arroyo, and Carolyn Jarett; as well as many gran nieces and nephews and friends.

Visitation Saturday, March 3, 10:00am until time of funeral Mass 11:00am at Corpus Christi Church, 4920 S. King Dr., Chicago, Il. Interment Mt. Glenwood Memory Gardens South, Glenwood,Il. GUNN Lovella Gunn.....….. Wake was held: Wednesday, February 28, 2018; 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. @ Taylor Funeral Home. Funeral was held: 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Interment: Mount Hope Cemetery, Chicago, Illinois. Arrangements Entrusted To: Taylor Funeral Home, 63 East 79th. Street, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 488.7300 cbtaylorfuneralhome.com WINFREY Rutha Winfrey......….. Wake will be held: Saturday, March 3, 2018; 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.@ Greater Institutional A. M. E. Church, 7800 South Indiana Avenue. Funeral was held: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Interment: Evergreen Cemetery, Evergreen Park, Illinois. Arrangements Entrusted To: Taylor Funeral Home, 63 East 79th. Street, Chicago, IL 60619: (773) 488.7300 cbtaylorfuneralhome.com

CALAHAN Funeral Home

JACKSON Edna L. Jackson..…..Wake: Thursday, March 01, 2018; 10:00 a.m. @ Chapel Funeral: 11:00 a.m. Interment: Oak Woods Cemetery Arrangements by: Calahan Funeral Home Inc., 7030 S. Halsted St., Chicago, IL 60621: (773) 723-4400.

TWILLEY Mary Twilley..…..Memorial Service: Saturday, March 03, 2018; 2:00 p.m. @ Chapel Interment: Private Arrangements by: Calahan Funeral Home Inc., 7030 S. Halsted St., Chicago, IL 60621: (773) 723-4400.

ROSS Billy Ross..…..Wake: Saturday, March 03, 2018; 10:00 a.m. @ St. Paul MBC, 6954 S. Union Funeral: 11:00 a.m. Interment: Mt. Hope Cemetery Arrangements by: Calahan Funeral Home Inc., 7030 S. Halsted St., Chicago, IL 60621: (773) 723-4400.

WHITMORE Mary A. Whitmore..…..Wake: Saturday, March 03, 2018; 9:00 a.m. @ NCC, 754 East 77th St. Funeral: 10:00 a.m. Interment: Washington Memorial Garden Cemetery Arrangements by: Calahan Funeral Home Inc., 7030 S. Halsted St., Chicago, IL 60621: (773) 7234400.

SHELTON Aubria J. Shelton..…..Wake: Saturday, March 03, 2018; 10:00 a.m. @ Christ Bible Center Church, 134 E. 111th St. Funeral: 11:00 a.m.

Interment: Oak Woods Cemetery Arrangements by: Calahan Funeral Home Inc., 7030 S. Halsted St., Chicago, IL 60621: (773) 7234400.

MEMORIAL

A service in memory of the life of Alfred DeLeon Cantu will be held on Saturday, 3 March 2018.

Service will be at St. Philip Lutheran Church, 6232 South Eberhart Avenue, Chicago, Il, and will begin at one o’clock.

THE CHICAGO DEFENDER

CLASSIFIEDS PROPERTY FOR SALE

PROPERTY FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE

REAL ESTATE

REAL ESTATE

REAL ESTATE

REAL ESTATE

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION PENNYMAC LOAN SERVICES, LLC Plaintiff, -v.PATRICK BROOKS A/K/A PATRICK L BROOKS Defendants 17 CH 11944 325 WEST 59TH PLACE CHICAGO, IL 60621 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on December 11, 2017, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on April 3, 2018, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 325 WEST 59TH PLACE, CHICAGO, IL 60621 Property Index No. 20-16-402-0100000.

The real estate is improved with a four or more units with no garage.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale.

The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information.

If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales.

For information: Visit our website at service.atty-pierce.com. between the hours of 3 and 5pm. McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC, Plaintiff’s Attorneys, One North Dearborn Street, Suite 1200, Chicago, IL 60602. Tel No. (312) 416-5500. Please refer to file number 263718.

THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales.

McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC One North Dearborn Street, Suite 1200 Chicago, IL 60602 (312) 416-5500 E-Mail: pleadings@mccalla.com Attorney File No. 263718 Attorney Code. 61256 Case Number: 17 CH 11944 TJSC#: 38-100 I3076460

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A. Plaintiff, -v.MAJESTER MCDADE, DANIEL MCDADE, PHELESIA MCDADE, CITY OF CHICAGO, STATE OF ILLINOIS, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS Defendants 15 CH 10352 6731 SOUTH UNION AVENUE CHICAGO, IL 60621 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on August 18, 2016, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on March 22, 2018, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 6731 SOUTH UNION AVENUE, CHICAGO, IL 60621 Property Index No. 20-21-302-0130000.

The real estate is improved with a two units with a detached two car garage.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale.

The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information.

If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales.

For information: Visit our website at service.atty-pierce.com. between the hours of 3 and 5pm. McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC, Plaintiff’s Attorneys, One North Dearborn Street, Suite 1200, Chicago, IL 60602. Tel No. (312) 416-5500. Please refer to file number 10362.

THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales.

McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC One North Dearborn Street, Suite 1200 Chicago, IL 60602 (312) 416-5500 E-Mail: pleadings@mccalla.com Attorney File No. 10362 Attorney Code. 61256 Case Number: 15 CH 10352 TJSC#: 38-1122 I3076703

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC D/B/A CHAMPION MORTGAGE COMPANY Plaintiff, -v.MICHAEL BOZEMAN, ALZETTA HENRY A/K/A ALZETTA BOZEMAN, CITY OF CHICAGO, ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE, SEATTLE MORTGAGE COMPANY, CHICAGO TITLE INSURANCE COMPANY, JULIE FOX, AS SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE FOR IRENE GARY Defendants 16 CH 5958 8114 SOUTH MAY STREET Chicago, IL 60620 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on January 8, 2018, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on April 10, 2018, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 8114 SOUTH MAY STREET, Chicago, IL 60620 Property Index No. 20-32-216-025-0000.

The real estate is improved with a single family residence.

The judgment amount was $179,507.04.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance in certified funds/ or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in AS IS condition.

The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale.

The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information.

If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales.

For information, contact Plaintiff s attorney: MARINOSCI LAW GROUP, P.C., 134 N LaSalle St., STE 1900, Chicago, IL 60602, (312) 940-8580 Please refer to file number 16-04893.

THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales.

MARINOSCI LAW GROUP, P.C. 134 N LaSalle St., STE 1900 Chicago, IL 60602 (312) 940-8580 E-Mail: mlgil@mlg-defaultlaw.com Attorney File No. 16-04893 Attorney Code. 59049 Case Number: 16 CH 5958 TJSC#: 38-254 NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff s attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION BANK OF AMERICA, N.A. Plaintiff, -v.JOHN J. LYDON AS SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE FOR AUDREY JOHNSON, JEFFREY G. ROUNTREE AKA JEFFREY G. ROUNDTREE, ANTONIO WILLIAMS, PRAVION WILLIAMS, CITY OF CHICAGO, CITY OF CHICAGO DEPARTMENT OF WATER MANAGEMENT, UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LEGATEES OF AUDREY JOHNSON, UNKNOWN OWNERS-TENANTS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS Defendants 16 CH 266 8628 SOUTH JUSTINE Chicago, IL 60620 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on January 9, 2018, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on April 10, 2018, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 8628 SOUTH JUSTINE, Chicago, IL 60620 Property Index No. 20-32-323-022-0000.

The real estate is improved with a single unit dwelling.

The judgment amount was $78,412.78.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance in certified funds/ or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in AS IS condition.

The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale.

The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information.

If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales.

For information, contact Plaintiff s attorney: WEISS MCCLELLAND LLC, 105 WEST ADAMS STREET, SUITE 1850, Chicago, IL 60603, (312) 605-3500 Please refer to file number IL-002965.

THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales.

WEISS MCCLELLAND LLC 105 WEST ADAMS STREET, SUITE 1850 Chicago, IL 60603 (312) 605-3500 E-Mail: intake@wmlegal.com Attorney File No. IL-002965 Attorney Code. 56284 Case Number: 16 CH 266 TJSC#: 38-405 NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff s attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION WELLS FARGO BANK NA Plaintiff, -v.JULIE FOX, SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE DECEASED MORTGAGOR MARGARET GRIER, SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS, UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LEGATEES OF MARGARET GRIER A/K/A MARGARET A. GRIER, IF ANY Defendants 2016 CH 9955 249 WEST 108TH STREET CHICAGO, IL 60628 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on September 18, 2017, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on March 29, 2018, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 249 WEST 108TH STREET, CHICAGO, IL 60628 Property Index No. 25-16-408-004-0000.

The real estate is improved with a single family one and a half story home with a detached two car garage.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance in certified funds/ or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in AS IS condition.

The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale.

The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information.

If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales.

For information: Visit our website at service.atty-pierce.com. between the hours of 3 and 5pm. McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC, Plaintiff’s Attorneys, One North Dearborn Street, Suite 1200, Chicago, IL 60602. Tel No. (312) 416-5500.

Please refer to file number 257194.

THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales.

McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC One North Dearborn Street, Suite 1200 Chicago, IL 60602 (312) 416-5500 E-Mail: pleadings@mccalla.com Attorney File No. 257194 Attorney Code. 61256 Case Number: 2016 CH 9955 TJSC#: 38-1355

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION U.S. BANK TRUST, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR LSF10 MASTER PARTICIPATION TRUST Plaintiff, -v.ESPERANZA PINEDO, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS Defendants 2017 CH 6115 908 CHICAGO ROAD THORNTON, IL 60476 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on February 16, 2018, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on March 28, 2018, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 908 CHICAGO ROAD, THORNTON, IL 60476 Property Index No. 29-27-305-0590000, 29-27-305-069-0000.

The real estate is improved with a single family home with an attached 1 car garage.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance in certified funds/ or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in AS IS condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale.

The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information.

If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4).

If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales.

For information: Visit our website at service.atty-pierce.com. between the hours of 3 and 5pm. McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC, Plaintiff’s Attorneys, One North Dearborn Street, Suite 1200, Chicago, IL 60602. Tel No. (312) 416-5500.

Please refer to file number 262039.

THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales.

McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC One North Dearborn Street, Suite 1200 Chicago, IL 60602 (312) 416-5500 E-Mail: pleadings@mccalla.com Attorney File No. 262039 Attorney Code. 61256 Case Number: 2017 CH 6115 TJSC#: 38-1546

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION U.S. BANK NA, SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE TO BANK OF AMERICA, NA, SUCCESSOR IN INTEREST TO LASALLE BANK NA, ON BEHALF OF THE REGISTERED HOLDERS OF BEAR STEARNS ASSET BACKED SECURITIES I TRUST 2006-HE5, ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-HE5 Plaintiff, -v.TIMITRI TAYLOR A/K/A TIMITRI PIERCE, CAPITAL ONE BANK (USA), N.A. Defendants 12 CH 30663 8234 SOUTH CAMPBELL AVENUE CHICAGO, IL 60652 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on October 30, 2017, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on April 4, 2018, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 8234 SOUTH CAMPBELL AVENUE, CHICAGO, IL 60652 Property Index No. 19-36-229-0390000.

The real estate is improved with a single family home with a detached two car garage.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance in certified funds/ or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in AS IS condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale.

The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information.

If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4).

If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales.

For information: Visit our website at service.atty-pierce.com. between the hours of 3 and 5pm. McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC, Plaintiff’s Attorneys, One North Dearborn Street, Suite 1200, Chicago, IL 60602. Tel No. (312) 416-5500.

Please refer to file number 9317.

THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales.

McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC One North Dearborn Street, Suite 1200 Chicago, IL 60602 (312) 416-5500 E-Mail: pleadings@mccalla.com Attorney File No. 9317 Attorney Code. 61256 Case Number: 12 CH 30663 TJSC#: 37-9884

THE CHICAGO DEFENDER

www.chicagodefender.com

February 28 - March 6, 2018 21

CLASSIFIEDS REAL ESTATE

REAL ESTATE

LEGAL NOTICE

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION WELLS FARGO BANK, NA Plaintiff, -v.SHANELLE BRANDON A/K/A SHANELLE R. BRANDON, JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION SUCCESSOR TO WASHINGTON MUTUAL BANK FORMERLY KNOWN AS WASHINGTON MUTUAL BANK, F.A. SUCCESSOR TO BANK UNITED, MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC. AS NOMINEE FOR EQUIFIRST CORPORATION Defendants 15 CH 13651 10632 SOUTH EBERHART AVENUE CHICAGO, IL 60628 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on January 2, 2018, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on April 4, 2018, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 10632 SOUTH EBERHART AVENUE, CHICAGO, IL 60628 Property Index No. 25-15-224-026-0000.

The real estate is improved with a single family home with a detached two car garage.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance in certified funds/ or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in AS IS condition.

The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale.

The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information.

If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales.

For information: Visit our website at service.atty-pierce.com. between the hours of 3 and 5pm. McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC, Plaintiff’s Attorneys, One North Dearborn Street, Suite 1200, Chicago, IL 60602. Tel No. (312) 416-5500.

Please refer to file number 10679.

THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales.

McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC One North Dearborn Street, Suite 1200 Chicago, IL 60602 (312) 416-5500 E-Mail: pleadings@mccalla.com Attorney File No. 10679 Attorney Code. 61256 Case Number: 15 CH 13651 TJSC#: 38-1159

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION WELLS FARGO BANK, NA Plaintiff, -v.CHAUNCEY M TUCKER, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, CITY OF CHICAGO, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS Defendants 2017 CH 11225 39 EAST 101ST PLACE CHICAGO, IL 60628 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on January 30, 2018, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on March 26, 2018, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 39 EAST 101ST PLACE, CHICAGO, IL 60628 Property Index No. 25-10-316-017.

The real estate is improved with a single family home with no garage..

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance in certified funds/ or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in AS IS condition.

The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale.

Where a sale of real estate is made to satisfy a lien prior to that of the United States, the United States shall have one year from the date of sale within which to redeem, except that with respect to a lien arising under the internal revenue laws the period shall be 120 days or the period allowable for redemption under State law, whichever is longer, and in any case in which, under the provisions of section 505 of the Housing Act of 1950, as amended (12 U.S.C. 1701k), and subsection (d) of section 3720 of title 38 of the United States Code, the right to redeem does not arise, there shall be no right of redemption.

The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property.

Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information.

If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales.

For information: Visit our website at service.atty-pierce.com. between the hours of 3 and 5pm. McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC, Plaintiff’s Attorneys, One North Dearborn Street, Suite 1200, Chicago, IL 60602. Tel No. (312) 416-5500.

Please refer to file number 264045.

THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales.

McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC One North Dearborn Street, Suite 1200 Chicago, IL 60602 (312) 416-5500 E-Mail: pleadings@mccalla.com Attorney File No. 264045 Attorney Code. 61256 Case Number: 2017 CH 11225 TJSC#: 38-1000

Notice is hereby given, pursuant to “An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name In the conduct or transaction of Business in the State, “as amended, that a certification was registered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County. Registration Number: D18153405 on the January 31, 2018. Under the Assumed Name of JUSTUSCREATIONS with the business located at 14720 HARPER, DOLTON, IL 60419. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owners(s)/partner(s) is: Owner/Partner Full Name: CHRISTIAN RYAN WARD, Complete Address: 7818 S GREEN APT 3, CHICAGO, IL 60620, USA Owner/Partner Full Name: CRYSTAL T MAGGIO, Complete Address: 9247 SOUTH 89TH COURT, HICKORY HILLS, IL 60457, USA Owner/Partner Full Name: TAMIKO L PERRY, Complete Address: 14201 UNIVERSITY AVE DOLTON, IL 60419, USA Owner/Partner Full Name: TAMIKO L TALBERT-FLEMING, Complete Address: 14720 HARPER, DOLTON, IL 60419, USA

22 February 28 - March 6, 2018

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Chicagodefender.com

LEGAL NOTICE Notice is hereby given, pursuant to “An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conduct or transaction of Business in the State, “as amended, that a certification was registered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County, Registration Number: D18153463 on the February 6, 2018. Under the Assumed Name of H&H CONTRACTORS with the business located at 7532 SOUTH MICHIGAN AVE, CHICAGO, IL 60619. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owners(s)/partner(s) is: Owner/Partner Full Name: JOHNNY HUNT Complete Address: 7532 SOUTH MICHIGAN AVE, CHICAGO, IL 60619, USA

LEGAL NOTICE Notice is hereby given, pursuant to “An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conduct or transaction of Business in the State, “as amended, that a certification was registered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County, Registration Number: D18153481 on the February 7, 2018. Under the Assumed Name of H E R NATURE with the business located at 9221 SOUTH COLFAX AVE, CHICAGO, IL 60617. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owners(s)/partner(s) is: Owner/Partner Full Name: KAYLA MARIE MELDON LONGSTREET Complete Address: 9221 SOUTH COLFAX AVE, CHICAGO, IL 60617, USA

MECHANIC LIEN NOTICE MECHANIC LIEN NOTICE Notice is hereby given that on 03/30/18 a sale will be held at First Wheel Inc, 5601 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago, IL 60659; 773.784.5678 to sell the following articles to enforce a lien existing under the laws of Illinois against such articles for labor, services, skill or materials expanded upon a storage furnished for such articles at the request of the following designated persons, unless such article is redeemed within (30) days of the publication of this notice.

Name of Person: Islam A. Ibrahim Description of Articles 1995 Bombardier Speedster Boat Hull# ZZNH2273D595 Amount of Lien: $4,501.79

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LEGAL NOTICE This letter is to notify that on March 25, 2018 at 9:00 a.m. an auction will be held at Hyde Park Self Storage, Inc., located at 5155 S. Cottage Grove Ave, Chicago, IL 60615, to sell the following articles held within said storage units to enforce a lien existing under the laws of the state of Illinois.

This letter is to notify that on March 25, 2018 at 9:00 a.m. an auction will be held at 83rd & Halsted Self Storage, Inc., located at 8316 S. Birkhoff Ave, Chicago, IL 60620, to sell the following articles held within said storage units to enforce a lien existing under the laws of the state of Illinois.

1. 10153 James A. Lott 2. 10163 Denice Spencer 3. 3015 John V. Moore 4. 354 William E. Rollins 5. 374 Brianne Kelly 6. 427 Thomas McElroy 7. 465 Julie Wilson 8. 507 Michael Jones 9. 55 Alex D. Myers 10. 60 Michael Enaholo 11. 84 Patricia Baines 12. V333 Darryl Simmons

1. 102 Kirby Collins 2. 126 Sabrina Leason 3. 198 Donna Brandon 4. 203 Lisa Leason 5. 219 Melvin Brown 6. 226 Belinda Deberry 7. 266 Jovonais Bouargoub 8. 306 EPVReports.com 9. 458 Greg Thomas

This letter is to notify that on March 25, 2018 at 9:00 a.m. an auction will be held at Aaron Bros. Self-Storage, Inc., located at 4034 S. Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60653, to sell the following articles held within said storage units to enforce a lien existing under the laws of the state of Illinois.

This letter is to notify that on March 25, 2018 at 9:00 a.m. an auction will be held at South Shore Self Storage, Inc., located at 7843 S. Exchange Ave, Chicago, IL 60649, to sell the following articles held within said storage units to enforce a lien existing under the laws of the state of Illinois.

1. 200 Charles Ranson 2. 2000 Floyd Wilkerson 3. 229 Floyd Wilkerson 4. 329 Tanya Lyda 5. 509 Queenetta Nicks

1. 231 Theresa Bruce 2. 265 Sabrina Burns 3. 439 Peter Austin 4. 514 Genee Simpson 5. 617 Michael King

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02/28/18

THE CHICAGO DEFENDER

SPORTS

The Leader of The Pack The Bigs sits down with Simeon’s Head Coach Rob Smith and talk about his legacy and upcoming road for yet another State Championship

By Terrence Tomlin & Eugene McIntosh Sports by #TheBIGS CHICAGO -- When it comes to legendary coaches on the high school hoops scene in Chicago, Simeon’s Rob Smith is in a class of his own. Always calm, cool, and collected, Smith has earned a Phil Jackson type of reputation as a “Zen Master” type that gets the absolute best out of his players … and he has the “SHIPS” to back it up. His six City Championships and six State Championships have cemented Simeon Career Academy as the premiere basketball program not just in the city of Chicago but in the entire state of Illinois… and he’s done it with some of the best hoopers to ever come out of the city. Before Derrick Rose was seeing red on the Bulls, he was sharpening his skills with Rob Smith. Before Jabari Parker had folks “fearing the deer” in Milwaukee, he was leading Rob Smith and the Wolverine’s to four straight Class 4A IHSA State Championships.

Now, with his latest group of Wolverine’s finishing off a “threepeat“ as City Champion’s, “The Bigs” got a chance to sit down with the head Wolverine and reflect on what Rob has called a “challenging” rode to the top for one of the best high school basketball coach-

es the state has ever seen.

The Bigs: We know about the legacy you have grown at Simeon, but where did you begin your career as a high school coach in Chicago?

Rob Smith: I started at Curie High School a while back coaching the freshman team. I went through all the proper channels, I coached elementary, I’ve coached freshmen and sophomores and then I was able to become the varsity head coach at Simeon. I just went through all the proper channels and got great guidance along the way.

The Bigs: You’re fresh off a “three-peat” as City Champions but that’s really just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the accomplishments in your career. Do you ever get a chance to sit back and reflect on all you’ve been able to do?

Rob Smith: I talk to people about it all the time. They tell me I won’t fully understand it until I’m done coaching so the goal is always to continue to win and continue to build. I always feel these type of things are huge for the players. For them to be able to say that they are the first to win three in a row since the 60s is huge for them.

The Bigs: When we talk about

your legacy it’s important to note that you are a product of coach Bob Hambric. What does that mean to you?

Rob Smith: When he first decided to give me the job, I was like “whoa” am I even going to be ready for this? Because of all the things he had done and accomplished, being next in line after Bob was huge for me and I still talked to him a lot when I first got the job. He still was at practices and he walked me through a couple of things…and then came Derrick Rose and that helped a lot with getting to the next level. But Bob built Simeon…that’s his house and I’m just there making sure everything is run right.

The Bigs: You made a comment earlier this year that sparked a lot of debate. You’ve coached squads led by Derrick Rose and Jabari Parker respectively but you called your current squad the most dominant team you’ve coached. Can you elaborate on that?

Rob Smith: The thing about the current team I have now is that they mean business. An it’s a different time as far as the game goes now so when you hear me say the word “dominate,” it’s more about them being dominant in this era.

I think people kinda got it mixed up. I don’t know if they would have been dominant the when Derrick was playing but they’re dominant

Simeon’s Head Coach Rob Smith (Courtesy of Simeon Career Academy) now and the way they go out and take care of business now is a different animal.

The Bigs: We just mentioned some of the great players you’ve been able to coach. What do you think Talen Horton-Tucker’s legacy will be?

Rob Smith: You could see early that he had a chance to be very good. The biggest obstacle for him in the beginning was his weight.

How or was he going to lose weight and how would we play him. Those type of questions. But when you realize that he just turned 17 two months ago and he has a 7’1 wingspan and wears a size 15 in shoes.

So you know he’s growing into his body. But his versatility as he got older, he’s taking off as one of the top 15-20 players in the country.

The Bigs: You are moving towards yet another state championship run and we’re sure your guys’ confidence is through the roof based on how you guys rolled

through the city playoffs. Is it safe to say you guys are at a point where you feel you can’t be beat?

Rob Smith: I saw something at practice from my guys that I haven’t seen in a while. They had a full tank of energy. Guys were diving on the floor and they were getting after it. I think we’re focused on our goal, but I tell them all the time nothing is promised. It’s easy to go out there and not play well and get beat so you have to be prepared and be mentally focused. But the biggest thing for us is that “X” on our back is so big it’s ridiculous and they have to understand that.

They’ve been on business all year so that has to continue into the state playoffs. But our guys have to stay focused. I don’t want them to get distracted because let the fans tell it, we’ve already won the state championship this year…but you have to play the game and that’s what we’re gonna do.

The Bigs Presents: This Week’s Top 5 Hoopers We shook it up as we get ready for the home stretch of our “Hooper Of The Year” race!

By Eugene McIntosh & Terrence Tomlin Sports by #TheBIGS The state playoffs have begun with 1A/2A headed to sectionals and 3A/4A starting regionals. Only the strong survive and The BIGS Hooper Of The Year Award race gets set to enter the home stretch!

1. Talen Horton-Tucker (Sr-Simeon) - The front runner for the Hooper Of The year...Simeon will play in the Reavis regional. Last Week’s Rank - #1 THE CHICAGO DEFENDER

2. Ayo Dosunmu (Sr-Morgan Park) - Ayo is ready to lead his squad to back-to-back state titles.

The Mustangs play in the Evergreen Park regional. Last Week’s Rank - #2 3. Javon Freeman (Sr-Whitney Young) - Vonno is also looking to lead his squad to back-to-back titles...beating Simeon in the ship 2 years in a row will be a challenge.

Last Week’s Rank - #3 4. Messiah Jones (Sr-SImeon) - The best big man in the city this year....”no one will outwork me!”

The Drake commit will have to

come up big for the Wolverines.

Last Week’s Rank - Knocking At The Door 5. Dannie Smith (Sr-Orr) - He’s a threat from inside and out and is always thinking team first. Orr faces Uplift Tuesday night in the Elmhurst sectional. Last Week’s Rank - Knocking At The Door Knocking At The Door- Xavier Pinson (Sr-Simeon), George Conditt (Sr-Corliss), Raekwon Drake (Sr-Orr), Adam Miller (So-Morgan Park), Chase Adams (Sr-Orr)

www.chicagodefender.com

February 28 - March 6, 2018 23

Save the Date

This year, The Black Women’s Expo will continue its tradition of celebrating Phenomenal Women by partnering with the Chicago Defender in hosting the Women of Excellence awards.

This highly anticipated event will take place on April 5th and will recognize Chicago’s most accomplished and influential African-American women.

Thursday, April 5, 2018

Hyatt Regency Chicago

•

6-9 pm

Regency Ballroom • 151 East Wacker Drive, Chicago For sponsorship packages, tables and tickets, please contact 312-225-2400 or dlewis@chicagodefender.com

Join the conversation 24 February 28 - March 6, 2018

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#WOECD18 THE CHICAGO DEFENDER

Friday, March 2, 2018 6-9 pm Hyatt Regency Chicago Regency Ballroom • 151 East Wacker Drive, Chicago sponsored by

Join the conversation #CDMOE2018

Lifetime Achievement Award

GENE CHANDLER

Singer, Songwriter & Entrepreneur - Duke of Earl Enterprises What can one say about the man “fondly called” The Duke of Earl (Gene Chandler) who entered our lives as an entertainer during the 1950’s and from 1962 to 1970, had nineteen songs on the top forty billboards. Born on this earth to make a difference in the lives of individuals whom he has touched and sang for, The Duke of Earl has enjoyed a fruitful life exploring options for change various business ventures, smart investments and success. Over the past 60 years Gene Chandler has traveled the world both singing and recording, but during his travels he acquired a taste for good food and fine wines.

In the words of the American writer Ernest Hemingway (1932) —…wine is one of the most civilized things in the world and one of the most natural, brought to the highest perfection; it gives more satisfaction to the senses than any other product that can be bought. In our contemporary society wine is an indispensable asset in some important moments of life. Wine can also be classified as equal with good taste, fine dining and helps create a culture of people who seek the “finer things in life.” On behalf of Gene Chandler and his wine connoisseurs, he is pleased to embark upon the world of fine wines who will enter our households and restaurants from France and Italy. The wineries selected

by the Duke of Earl Enterprises, LLC each maintain the tradition of producing quality wines while using historic, yet innovative, yet sustainable practices throughout the production process.

Founded in 2015, the Duke of Earl Enterprises, LLC is a small owned minority business whose goal is to provide direct-to-customer sales through which our company offers customer services (direct and online). Our company seeks to provide an opportunity to taste our wines via wine tastings and customized events.

Duke of Earl Enterprises, LLC will sell wine by the bottle and case. The main objective is to develop a product designed with higher standards and a method production and quality that distinguishes the type of grape used to make a wine that is famous throughout the world for its versatility. Under the leadership of Ms. Tyra Dixon, CEO and her Chief of Staff, Dr. Phyllis P. Hayes the Duke of Earl Enterprises, LLC is pleased to launch their wine company today. It is our goal to introduce a new audience of consumers who desire “an eccentric taste of goodness,” for the best interest of their palate. For more information: www. dukeofearlwines.com.

Legacy Award

THEASTER GATES Artist - Art21

Theaster Gates lives and works in Chicago. Gates creates work that focuses on space theory and land development, sculpture and performance. Drawing on his interest and training in urban planning and preservation, Gates redeems spaces that have been left behind.

Known for his recirculation of art-world capital, Gates creates work that focuses on the possibility of the “life within things.” Gates smartly upturns art values, land values, and human values. In all aspects of his work, he contends with the notion of Black space as a formal exercise – one defined by collective desire, artistic agency, and the tactics of a pragmatist.

Gates has exhibited and performed at the National Gallery of Art, Washington D.C., USA (2017); Art Gallery of Ontario, Canada (2016); Fondazione Prada, Milan, Italy (2016); Whitechapel Gallery, London, UK (2013); Punta della Dogana, Venice, Italy (2013) and dOCUMENTA (13), Kassel, Germany (2012). He was the winner of the Artes Mundi 6 prize and the Nasher Prize for Sculpture 2018 and is the recent recipient of the Légion d’Honneur, awarded in 2017.

2 | Chicago Defender Men of Excellence

#CDMOE2018

John E. Adams, CPA Chief Financial Officer Rainbow Push Coalition

John E. Adams, CPA, is a native Chicagoan. He is a son of the “Great Migration” as both of his parents were born in the South. John is the 98th African-American CPA in Illinois.

Directors.

Upon graduation from St. John’s University, Collegeville, Minn., John founded the Chicago Chapter of the National Association of Black Accountants, Inc. (NABA) in April 1977 and served as its first President and on its National Board of

He also served as Director, National Alumni Board, St. John’s University; Director, Corpus Christi Men’s Club, Exchequer, CAC Kappa Alpha Psi, and Director, Senior Centers of Metropolitan Chicago.

In 1984, John was appointed by Mayor Harold Washington as the Managing Deputy Director of the Department of Revenue for the City of Chicago. He began his professional career at the public accounting firm Arthur Young & Co and is currently the Chief Financial Officer for the Rainbow PUSH Coalition & Affiliates, founded by Reverend Jesse L. Jackson, Sr.

Quinton R. Arthur

Fred L. Bonner President Bonheur Development Corporation

Mr. Bonner is currently the Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) of Peoples Consumer Co-Operative (“PCC”). He has held this position since joining PCC in 2002.

PCC is the parent entity and Sponsor of the Paul G. Stewart Center (“PGSC”) campus, which encompasses six mixedincome rental apartment developments of 893 units for senior households and non-senior households in Bronzeville at 41st Street and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive.

Prior to joining PCC as CEO, Mr. Bonner was Senior Vice President of Technical Assistance Corporation for Housing for 26 years and President of Crossroads Development Corporation.

He is currently the President of Bonheur Development Corporation since 1997. Among these three entities, he has developed more than 3,400 rental units.

Mr. Bonner has a Master of Arts degree from the University of Chicago from the School of Social Service Administration, a Master of Divinity degree from McCormick Theological Seminary, and a Bachelor of Arts degree, Magna Cum Laude, in Social Science from Stillman College in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

Owner/Founder Q. Ramone Media and Man of Substance Quinton R. Arthur, owner of Q. Ramone Media, is a multimedia content producer who specializes in photography, video, and editorial services for individuals, organizations and businesses. He is the founder of Man of Substance, a media brand that inspires, empowers and appreciates Black Men. Content for the brand focuses on eight key areas of development, and the tagline is “Define Yourself. Create Substance.”

Quinton has published work with a variety of outlets, including Black Fitness Today, Progressive Greek and BNTheMix.com, which brings awareness to social issues and provides a space for individuals to interact with, and support, causes together. In addition to his professional endeavors, Quinton serves as the Public Relations Chair for the National Pan-Hellenic Council of Chicago, Inc.; the Creative Director of the Metropolitan Board of the Chicago Urban League; a mentor for 100 Black Men of Chicago, and a proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Quinton earned his Bachelor of Arts in English from Northern Illinois University and his Master of Science in Journalism from Roosevelt University.

Lester Barclay Attorney The Barclay Law Group, P.C. A native of Chicago’s Englewood community, Lester Barclay obtained his B.A. with honors from Oberlin College and his J.D. from Case Western Reserve University.

Over the years Attorney Barclay has leveraged his resources to effectuate change in his community in the areas of civil rights, health and education. One of his most notable cases was working as the Court appointed Child Representative for the children of NBA star Dwayne Wade during Wade’s custody battle for his children. He is well respected by his peers and fellow members of the bar. Additionally, Attorney Barclay has been involved in various civic and charitable organizations including: President of the Board of Directors for the Christian Community Health Center; President of the Chicago Office of Tourism & Cultural Affairs, President of the Chicago Transit Authority Advisory Council and the Illinois African-American Family Commission. Attorney Barclay is married to Sue Barclay, M.D., and they are the proud parents of three children.

#CDMOE2018

UBER

Chicago Defender Men of Excellence | 3

Thomas Bowling Founder, President & CEO Obama Energy Corporation Thomas Bowling is a Serial Entrepreneur. He started his career as a Trade Checker for Merrill Lynch balancing AM and PM Out Trades. As an entrepreneur and investor, he started companies such as Professional Janitor Services; Mr. Limo International; Black Investment Corporation; Computer Doctor Inc.; The Detail Factory and Automotive Inc. and King Kong Movers Corp.

His newest entrepreneurial endeavors led him to create Obama Energy Corporation 8 years ago. With his creative vision and his strong team of experts, he believes that OE will make history as an African American Energy owned company.

Bowling holds a Ph.D. in Economics from NYU; a Master of Business Administration and B.S. from Purdue. He graduated from Dunbar Vocational High School. He enjoys spending time with his grandson, Adyn.

Morris Brent Director of Staff Education Maryville Academy

A current Staff Education Director in the mental/behavioral health arena, Morris Brent provides innovative education to mental health professionals throughout Illinois.

A 12-year U.S. Navy Cryptologist, Author, Community Activist, Youth/Family Advocate and Mentor, he has demonstrated an unrelenting commitment to serving others throughout his life and career in Chicago and overseas. He is the Founder of peoplEnvolved©, a grassroots movement that utilizes social media to address community, legislative and educational challenges facing Chicago. He is the Founding President of the College of Lake County (CLC) Men of Vision, Student African-American Brotherhood (SAAB Chapter), which was awarded the national chapter of the year award in 2010 (out of 282 chapters) by the Student African-American Brotherhood.

Currently, Brent works diligently as one of the Founding Board Members of Unity Partnerships (UP), a non-profit organization committed to fostering positive law enforcement and community collaboration. He created the self-funded CounterPoint Music & Life Program, for which he was featured on ABC7’s premier Heart & Soul television show as a Chicagoan who strives to empower others.

Ty Cratic Principal Partner/President Cratic & Shaffer Consulting / Cook County Young Democrats Ty Cratic is a native Chicagoan and started his political journey at the age of 16 under the-late 15th Ward Alderman Ted Thomas. Ty later earned his degree in Political Science at Southern Illinois University, serving as President of the SIU College Democrats his freshmen and junior years, and then President of the Statewide College Democrats organization for Illinois his senior year.

In 2010, Ty served as senior staff for two Congressional campaigns in Ohio and Georgia for the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC). After being a part of both winning congressional campaigns, Ty returned to Chicago and joined Chicago’s 28th Ward Aldermanic Staff as the Communications Director and later Chief of Staff.

Upon leaving the City of Chicago and joining Cook County Government, Ty understood and was prepared for the future challenges facing the Democratic Party.

This led him to partner with long-time friend and political counterpart Christopher Shaffer to start Cratic & Shaffer Consulting, a political consulting firm. Cratic & Shaffer Consulting focuses on building future candidates, political fundraising, and campaign infrastructure for City, County and Statewide campaigns.

Thomas E. Crosby President The Insurance Exchange Ltd. Since 1974, Thomas E. Crosby has established himself as a leader in the insurance industry. Beginning with Prudential Insurance Company, he became one of the first top selling African-American insurance agents in the nation.

After 9 years with Prudential, he moved on the Country Companies, where he became the first minority agent hired in the state of Illinois.

Over the years, he has grown The Insurance Exchange, Ltd. to one of the largest family owned, independent, insurance agencies in the country. The agency represents over 40 major insurance companies and offers products for life, health, property and casualty insurance. Under Crosby’s leadership, the agency has won prestigious awards such as AAA’s “Presidential Elite Award” and the 100 Million Dollar Club awards from Grange Life Insurance Company.

Crosby is known for providing African-American agents with the opportunity to start their own insurance business while mentoring them along the way. Thus, even after building The Insurance Exchange, Ltd. he still focuses on providing integrity and education regarding insurance products to our community.

Jahmal Cole

Randy Crumpton

Community Activist My Block, My Hood, My City

Attorney Law Offices of Randy Crumpton

Jahmal Cole found his passion and calling helping teenagers and underprivileged youth. After graduating at WSC with a degree in Speech Communication/Corporate, Community, and Public Relations, he decided to head back to his hometown of Chicago to make a difference in his neighborhood.

Cole formed a non-profit organization—My Block, My Hood, My City—whose mission is to help teenagers overcome the poverty and isolation they face, boost educational attainment, and expose them to opportunities that make a difference in their lives. My Block, My Hood, My City provides underprivileged youth with an awareness of the world and opportunities beyond their neighborhood, taking students on explorations focused on STEM, arts and culture, citizenry and volunteerism, health, community development, culinary arts, and entrepreneurism.

4 | Chicago Defender Men of Excellence

Randy Crumpton is a solo practitioner with a concentration in the areas of entertainment, real estate, child protection and election law. Crumpton’s entertainment practice is primarily focused in the area of film. As a producer, he has produced short films, “The Truth” and “Lil K.” Currently, he has several film projects in pre-production including, “The Warehouse,” which is about the evolution of house music.

Crumpton is a member of the Board of Directors of the Chicago International Film Festival. He co-produces “Happy Birthday Langston Hughes: A Celebration in Poetry, Prose & Music.”

Crumpton is the attorney for the Frankie Knuckles Estate and Member of the Board of Directors of the Frankie Knuckles Foundation.

He received his Juris Doctorate degree from the University of Iowa and his Bachelor of Arts degree from University of Illinois at Chicago. He was appointed by the Illinois Supreme Court to the Character and Fitness Committee. He is member of Phi Beta Sigma, Inc.

#CDMOE2018

Jeff Dase

Will Davis

Robert Fletcher

Chief of Schools – Network 12 Chicago Public Schools

VP of Development/Chief Executive Officer Governors State University

Coordinator of College Placement Chicago White Sox Charities

on the South Side.

Jeff Dase has been committed to the students and communities of Chicago Public Schools since 1998.

Jeff Dase currently serves as Chief of Schools for Network 12 with Chicago Public Schools. He is charged with supporting 35 school principals, 30 elementary schools and 5 high schools

He served as Principal of Edward Coles Model for Excellence World Language Academy in Chicago for nine years. He has risen through the ranks of Chicago Public Schools as a teacher, Assistant Principal and Principal.

In each position he has a proven track record of success such as taking a low-achieving all male class from failure to success with a 100% benchmark promotion rate and being a catalyst in removing Percy L. Julian High School from probation. While he was Principal, he helped increase Edward Coles Academy’s Meet/Exceed scores from 48.1 to 76.5 and ultimately helped remove the school off the district’s probation list with a Level 1+ school status. Level 1+ is the highest school status for Chicago Public Schools.

and a community heart.”

Will serves as Governors State University’s Vice President of Institutional Advancement and Chief Executive Officer of the GSU Foundation. Will leads and oversees GSU’s strategic partnerships in the area of corporate, foundation, alumni, community and individual relations. He describes himself as “a leader with a capitalistic mind

Prior to joining GSU, Will served as Senior Corporate Relations Officer for the American Cancer Society, where he acted as the relationship manager for Executive Officers at Fortune 1000 companies in Chicago.

Prior to the American Cancer Society, Will spent eleven years with GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceutical Company serving as Senior District Sales Manager, National Sales Trainer, and faculty for the Emerging Leadership Development Program, spokesperson, and the National Diversity Team.

He serves on the Board of Directors at Trinity United Church of Christ; and he is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Will has a BA in Psychology from Mount Union College, an MS from DePaul University, School of Public Service, and a Project Management certificate.

Robert Fletcher Sr.’s passion for baseball started in the Jackie Robinson West League. Baseball afforded him the opportunity to give back by helping youth hone their skills and earn coveted scholarships to college.

Robert attended Simeon Vocational and excelled in the classroom and baseball.

He attracted scholarship offers from multiple universities.

He attended Grambling State and won All Conference honors in 1995. Fletcher is a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity. He matriculated with a BA in Business. Robert declined offers to play baseball in the Independent League to pursue a career in Finance. Robert has 4 children to mentor and nurture.

Fletcher has over 20 years with Chicago Public Schools and completed an MBA in School Leadership from Concordia.

Robert coached both high school and Little League teams to success. He is the Coordinator of College Placement for White Sox Charities and has helped over 250 males earn scholarships and over 20 players get selected in the MLB draft.

Will resides in a Chicago suburb with his wife and daughter.

CHICAGO REGIONAL COUNCIL OF CARPENTERS

We tip our hard hat in recognition of the honored MEN OF EXCELLENCE. Thank you for your commitment to community and your inspiring leadership that sparks hope and optimism for those in need.

Chicago Regional Council of Carpenters 12 E. Erie St.  Chicago, IL 60611  312-787-3076 (p); 312-951-1540 (f) www.CarpentersUnion.org #CDMOE2018

Chicago Defender Men of Excellence | 5

Devry Graham

Reginald Guy II

CEO Graham Funeral Directors and Cremation Services

Esq. Corporate Associate Ropes & Gray LLP

Revolutionary, Father, Business Owner, Trend Setter, community leader and most important lover of God are just a few words to describe Devry Graham Sr. the president and owner of the most premier funeral homes in the city of Chicago. The GRAHAM FUNERAL DIRECTORS AND CREMATION SERVICES known to many as the “TOP HAT BOYS”, whenever you see the top hats you know excellence is in the atmosphere. As well as providing premier service throughout Chicago land areas every year we give out over 3,000 bags of school supplies and Christmas gifts to underprivileged children in the Englewood community. Which is why “My life’s mission is ask not what the world needs but to do that which makes one to come alive, for what the world needs are those who have come alive because people don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care”.

College Prep Middle School.

Reginald is an Associate at Ropes & Gray LLP in their corporate department. Reginald has worked at several Fortune 500 companies such as Lehman Brothers, Freddie Mac, & McMaster-Carr. In 2011, Reginald decided to make a career change to education to align his passion of mentoring the next generation of minority youth with his career by becoming an Administrator at Gary Comer

Reginald Guy II is from the South Side of Chicago and graduated from Whitney Young Magnet High School. He is a 2008 graduate of Howard University where he obtained a Bachelors of Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing. While a student at Howard University, he became a member of Phi Sigma Pi National Honor Fraternity Inc., Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc., Xi Chapter, and a host of other organizations.

Reginald is the Founding President of the Society of Collegiate Black Men at Howard University, which focuses on increasing the retention rate of males at Howard University.

Reginald is a graduate of Northwestern Pritzker School of Law, where he was a Black Student Initiative Fellow.

Charles Harrell President The Information Technology Architect Corporation Charles H. Harrell II is the President of The Information Technology Architect Corporation dba The IT Architect Corporation (ITA).

His career started in Investment Banking at Merrill Lynch, Fenner and Price where he championed the raising of capital for middle market organizations. However, he officially transitioned into the technology industry in May 2003 as a founder of ITA, a technology and communications firm which specializes in the design, implementation, and management of the automation of business processes with innovative IT and communications solutions.

He serves on several boards and committees, including the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) Diversity Advisory Committee; the Illinois Black Chamber of Commerce’s Information Technology Committee and Minority Business Enterprise Input Committee (MBEIC) with the Chicago Minority Supplier Development Council (CMSDC) as a Supply Chain Integration Committee Member.

Charles H. Harrell II graduated from Michigan State University with a BA in Finance and received his JD (Corporate and Tax Law) from University of Miami School of Law.

Victor Harris Sergeant Illinois State Police Sgt. Victor L. Harris currently holds the position as Acting Master Sergeant on the 2nd shift. He is often sought out by local, state, and federal agencies because of his Law Enforcement acumen. Sgt. Harris started his Law Enforcement career over 25 years ago as an I.D.O.C. Correctional Officer. In the I.D.O.C. Academy, Sgt. Harris was identified as the top academic and most physically fit cadet.

During his Illinois State Police tenure, he’s held numerous positions which include: Instructor, Field Training Officer, Gang Expert, Juvenile Officer, Child Safety Seat Technician, Investigator, and Gaming Agent.

Sgt. Harris’ passion for leadership is evidenced in how he engages subordinates. He believes that we should use our presence, position, power, and platform for a productive purpose.

Sgt. Harris was born and raised on the South Side of Chicago by a single mother who believed he should mention individual accolades modestly. He is married to a loving wife of 23 years and has two beautiful children.

Victor L. Harris holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice and is a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. 6 | Chicago Defender Men of Excellence

#CDMOE2018

Rod Height

Dr. Shawn Jackson

Principal Arias Information Solutions

President Truman College

Rod Height, a partner with Arias Information Solutions, is a respected Technology Executive with a professional career that expands over 35-years. Currently, Rod manages a management consulting practice where he is responsible for strategic technology deployment, management advisory services, process re-engineering, enterprise technology planning, and implementation of systems for federal, state and local government clients.

Dr. Shawn L. Jackson is the Interim-President of Harry S Truman College. He is a longtime educator, who served as a teacher, Assistant Principal/Principal, and a Chicago Public Schools District Office Administrator over a 15-year span in primary and secondary education. Dr. Jackson is known for his innovation in education, stretching beyond classrooms and integrating parents, communities, and technology to better the lives of those he serves.

Rod’s experience includes executive-level positions such as Chief Technology Officer for the Cook County Bureau of Technology, Chief Information Officer for the Cook County Treasurer, and Senior Manager for Price Waterhouse Coopers.

Dr. Jackson holds a Ph.D. in Administration and Supervision from Loyola University, an M.A. in Curriculum and Instruction from St. Xavier University, and a B.A. in Education from Northeastern Illinois University. His research on Chicago Public Schools Desegregation Consent Decree earned a Dissertation with Distinction Award in 2010. Dr. Jackson continues to support new leaders and researchers in the field of education by serving on dissertation committees, mentoring doctoral students, and serving as part-time faculty at Loyola University’s School of Education. Dr. Jackson has been a guest lecturer at several of Chicago’s universities and served on panels across the country including the Superintendent’s Hot Seat, Learn Launch Conference at the Harvard Business School.

Rod’s Community Service includes serving as a Board Member at Circle Urban Ministries— an Austin based ministry working to make the community a better place by inspiring children, empowering the community and equipping families.

Additionally, Mr. Height is involved with the “Prepare for Work” program—an initiative designed to bridge the “technology divide gap” affecting underserved communities.

Rod holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Management Information Systems from the University of Illinois at Chicago. He is married to Willie Ann Height, and together they have raised two children and 11 grandchildren.

C O N G R AT U L AT I O N S T O

TONY MEDLIN

FOR BEING A MAN OF EXCELLENCE

#CDMOE2018

Chicago Defender Men of Excellence | 7

Gregory Kelley

President SEIU Healthcare Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, Kansas Greg Kelley is president of Chicago-based SEIU Healthcare Illinois, Indiana, Missouri & Kansas (SEIU HCIIMK), one of the largest local unions in the nation, representing more than 90,000 private- and public-sector home healthcare, child care, nursing home and hospital workers.

Rising from the rank-and-file with 20-plus years of labor movement experience, he was elected president in 2017. Kelley is the first African American to head the local and also was selected this year to serve as an International Union Vice President.

Nissan Corporation Salutes:

Kelley graduated from Proviso East High School and the University of Iowa, where he was president of the Black Student Union and a member of Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity.

He began his career in 1993 at the Cook County Clerk’s office and went on to organize physicians at the former Cook County Hospital.

Among Kelley’s goals is to “help lead the transformation toward a 21st-Century labor movement that is inclusive and serves as a catalyst for a wider movement for social, economic, racial and immigrant justice.”

Howard V. Little

Ty Cratic, Principal Partner/President Cratic & Shaffer Consulting/ Cook County Young Democrats

Will Smith, Jr., President Will Smith Jr. Security Services

President Video Twist Productions After a 25 year career with UPS, in 2000, Howard V. Little launched Video Twist Productions, starting in the multimillion dollar wedding industry.

In 2008, with his twist on the industry, he was ranked the second highest wedding video & photography company in the Chicagoland area.

In 2010 he entered the corporate and commercial markets.

Video Twist Productions has since become a full-service video production company with an impressive list of clients including, HBO Real Sports featuring Bryant Gumble, FOX TV/Chicago, NBC-TV/Los Angeles, ABC-TV/Los Angeles, Chicago Police Department and Windy City Live, just to name a few.

Gregory Mitchell, Alderman – 7th Ward City of Chicago Rod Height, Principal Arias Information Solutions

As the official video producer for Traveling Culturati, Video Twist Productions has produced destination videos in Italy, Egypt, South Africa, Cuba, Brazil and other countries.

Howard V. Little speaks at high schools on entrepreneurship and mentors students in the industry, some of whom have gone on to land top jobs in their field and work with the likes of Tyler Perry.

Howard V. Little is a proud family man, devoted husband of 36 years and father of two.

Eric Washington, Deputy Chief Chicago Police Department

Ian Mahoney Director of Emerging Networks Viacom Media Networks Biography Not Available

Frederic Robertson, Doctor of Chiropractic Halo Medical Professionals

And Congratulates The 2018 Men of Excellence Class 8 | Chicago Defender Men of Excellence

George Wright, Director Midwest Region Citi Community Development

#CDMOE2018

Tony Medlin

Anthony Mootry

Head Equipment Manager Chicago Bears Football Club

Tony Medlin is in his 31st season with the Chicago Bears and his 21st as the team’s head equipment manager. Medlin is responsible for effectively coordinating all team equipment operations for all players, coaches and staff. Medlin also serves as the team’s liaison with the NFL’s sole apparel providers, Nike and New Era. In 2000 he received the Whitey Zimmerman Award and in 2016 he earned New Era’s Equipment Manager of the Year Award. In 2017, Medlin was the recipient of the Virginia McCaskey Award, presented annually to the Bears employee who has demonstrated the characteristics and values of Mrs. McCaskey: grace, humility, loyalty and dedication.

Named head equipment manager in 1997, Medlin initially joined the Bears as an assistant equipment manager in 1987. He previously served as the athletic equipment manager at his alma mater, North Carolina Central University, from 1982-87 after earning his degree in therapeutic recreation.

Medlin recently served as the chairman of the annual Chicago Bears Coat Drive. He is also involved with the “Say No to Drugs” campaign. Medlin and his wife, Chandra, have one daughter, Brandy.

President Mootry Insurance & Financial Services, Inc. Anthony K. Mootry is a south suburban native and accomplished sales professional of 20 years. A graduate of Chicago State University, his career has been split between sales as a national advertising executive and as an entrepreneur. As an advertising sales leader Mootry led revenue growth for corporations such as ABC Radio Networks, Reach Media and Black Enterprise. In servicing accounts across various industries, his tenacity and customer-focused approach led to invaluable relationships still in place. Mootry is well respected and his work was regularly complemented by clients like: General Motors, Ford Motor Company, State Farm, The Home Depot, McDonald’s and Toyota.

Today, he returns to entrepreneurship as an agent with State Farm. He is passionate about helping people secure their financial futures and leads budgeting workshops aimed at educating the public. He is a member of Governor State University’s College of Arts & Sciences Advisory Board and First Baptist Church of University Park’s Ministry of Vision & Planning. Mootry’s State Farm office is located in Richton Park.

Carleton Q. Nolan Chief Technology Officer and First Deputy Commissioner City of Chicago

Fred Mitchell Vice President, Development UNCF Fred D. Mitchell is the Vice President, Development for UNCF’s Northern/Midwest Division, overseeing fundraising operations of 12 offices responsible for raising $16 million annually. Joining UNCF in 2001 as Regional Director, Corporations, in Chicago, Mitchell has served as Area Development Director in Indianapolis and Newark, and as Regional Development Director in New York.

residents, and businesses.

Carleton Nolan is the Chief Technology Officer and First Deputy Commissioner for the City of Chicago’s Department of Innovation and Technology where he is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the department. In addition, Carleton oversees the use of technology solutions to support the policies, directives, and strategic business objectives that meet the needs of City departments,

Mitchell has received numerous awards for his work in various communities, being honored with the key to the City of Indianapolis in 2005. In 2010, he was selected for the American Express Leadership Academy for non-profit leaders. Between 2014-2016 Mitchell and his teams secured three of the largest gifts in UNCF history and received the FY2015 Division of the Year Award for outstanding performance.

Previously, Carleton served as Managing Deputy CIO where he led the teams responsible for the City’s Enterprise Application Portfolio. Carleton joined the City as an I.T. Director. In this role, he led the implementation of Open311, an Open Government initiative which provides transparency and insight into the operations of the City. Carleton has also held various leadership positions within technology, marketing, and sales at Fortune 500 corporations.

Fred is a former Trustee of Quinn Chapel AME and served on several Chicago area boards including South Central Community Services, DuSable Museum of African American History. Mitchell earned a B.A. in business administration/marketing from Clark Atlanta University (CAU) and is a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.

Carleton is a graduate of Florida A & M University-School of Business and Industry. He is a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. and the Original 40 Club of Chicago. Carleton also serves on the boards of Black Tech Mecca and the Center for Economic Progress.

Gregory Mitchell Alderman – 7th Ward City of Chicago Greg Mitchell was elected Alderman of the 7th ward in May 2015, and shortly thereafter, elected 7th ward Democratic Committeemen. He serves as the Vice-Chairman of the Committee on Housing and Real Estate and is a member of 6 other City Council committees.

Focused on the mission of building a better 7th ward, Greg’s number one priority is to provide “above and beyond” service to his constituents. He has implemented strategies to address public safety issues, promote development, recruit businesses and increase home ownership. He has sponsored legislation that addresses problem businesses and provides incentives for residential and commercial development. Greg collaborates with city, county and state departments, agencies and elected officials to direct resources and investments to the 7th ward.

Greg holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting with minors in Finance and Computer Information Systems from Grambling State University. He worked 21 years at the CME Group and held several positions including: Auditor, Financial Analyst, Project Manager, Network Engineer and Manager of IT Operations. Greg is a former Futures Trader, mentor and a member of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated. #CDMOE2018

William C. Owens Jr. Partner/Chief Development Officer Krismon Technology Group LLC William C. Owens (Bill) is a partner at Krismon Technology Group (KTG), founded in 2014 with a focus on donating IT services to urban communities. Bill began donating technology services and funding to financially exhausted non-for profits and schools in 2013.

In 2015, KTG gained notoriety for designing the POC for an alternative free wi-fi solution designed for the Greater Englewood Community Development Center and the Englewood Community. Recently KTG designed the Illinois Black Chamber of Commerce “B2B cross pollination program” for African-American small business owners.

The community advocate spirit in business extends to Bill’s personal associations as a Life Member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. and as a member of the 100 Black Men of Chicago, Inc. Bill obtained his Master’s degree in Training and Development from the University of St. Francis; Bill also attended Governors State University, where he completed his Bachelors’ degree.

Bill feels his greatest achievement however is as a family man. He has a beautiful wife, Chauntelle, a banking professional, and one son, William III, a high school junior.

Chicago Defender Men of Excellence | 9

Brian J. Packer

Dr. Paul Phillips

Account Supervisor Flowers Communications Group

Owner Better Man Than Me

Brian J. Packer is an award-winning public relations professional with Flowers Communications Group (FCG) in Chicago. In his role he manages media relations, influencer/ celebrity engagement, event sponsorships, social media and strategic marketing initiatives for brands like AT&T, McDonald’s, MillerCoors and Jack Daniels.

Dr. Paul Phillips is the founder of the Better Man Than Me Foundation, which was launched in April of 2011. His organization has served over 5,000 young men in the Chicagoland area during various mentoring sessions. The foundation has awarded 8 scholarships to young men entering college.

With more than a decade of expertise, Brian’s professional background includes a mix of marketing communications for consumer goods, nonprofits, educational institutions and sports & entertainment properties.

Phillips holds a bachelor’s degree in Accounting, an MBA with concentration in both Management and MIS, and a Doctorate in Divinity. He is a Certified Information Systems Auditor and a Certified Information Security Manager.

Brian received his B.A. in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing from Morehouse College and a M.A. in Media and Communication from DePaul University. He also is a 2018 fellow in the IMPACT Leadership Development Program with the Chicago Urban League and University of Chicago Booth School of Business.

He has worked as a part-time professor for several universities and other various institutions of higher learning for 16 years. Dr. Phillips has spoken for several organizations across North America, Africa, and Europe. He is the executive producer of multiple works of art including documentaries and music releases and the host of the weekly Man Cave Radio Show. He has been a guest on several radio stations, TV Shows and has been featured in multiple newspapers. He mentors young men from all walks of life, exconvicts to professional business men.

In his spare time, Brian is a dedicated father to his daughter, Clarke Brianna. He enjoys traveling, watching films and attending sporting events and concerts. Brian is a member of the Black Public Relations Society and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated and actively volunteers as a mentor with Urban Prep Academies and sits on the alumni board of High Jump Chicago.

Congratulates

Ty Cratic 10 | Chicago Defender Men of Excellence

This past Christmas, Christmas in the Wards was able to assist 900 families in 18 wards on Chicago’s south and west side, in large part because of the hard work, commitment, and stewardship of Ty Cratic and Bryan Porter. These Men of Excellence are true ambassadors whose passion and expertise enabled us to have the most successful events of our 21 year history, reaching underserved communities with the spirit of Christmas through needed resources and technology gifts to deserving families and students. Our motto is “It takes a city to do what we do”, in truth, it takes men like you to do what we do. Congratulations Ty and Bryan, 2018 Men of Excellence!

Bryan Porter #CDMOE2018

Bryan Porter Field Project Supervisor Walmart, Inc. Bryan Anthony Porter was born on the South Side of Chicago, as the son of Shirley and Willie Porter. Over the past 30 years, Bryan has developed a strong bond with his family, where he developed his foundation of life and garnered his core values of integrity, patience, respect and vision. Bryan holds a BA in Political Science; also he recently, received his certification in Leadership & Culture.

After completing his post-secondary education at Fisk University in 2009, he returned home to serve his university, alumni, and community as the President of the Chicago Area Fisk University Alumni Association, Inc. He is currently serving on the Executive Board as the Public Relations & Information Resources Chairman. Bryan is dedicated to the continued growth and uplifting of his community through his involvement with various organizations—Greater Chicago Food Depository, Susan G, Komen Chicago, Christmas in the Wards (Chicago), and serving as a Life Member of Alpha Phi Omega National Service Fraternity, Inc. Bryan is currently residing in Chicago and is celebrating his 5 year anniversary with Walmart as a Field Project Supervisor.

#CDMOE2018

Hon. Travis Richardson Judge Cook County Circuit Court The Hon. Travis Richardson was elevated by the Illinois Supreme Court to the Circuit Court of Cook County on February 14, 2017. He currently is assigned to the First Municipal Division and regularly presides over felony preliminary hearings, misdemeanor trials and traffic matters.

Judge Richardson received his undergraduate degree from the University of Pennsylvania and his J.D. from the University of Michigan Law School. He was a public school teacher before pursuing a career in law. His practice included all aspects of civil and criminal litigation, including bench and jury trials in state and federal courts. Judge Richardson has been appointed as a Cook County Special Assistant State’s Attorney, as well as a City of Chicago Special Corporation Counsel. He also was part of the team of lawyers who investigated Officer Burge torture allegations.

Judge Richardson has been found Qualified or Recommended by every local bar association and has received a plethora of endorsements from organizations such as the Chicago Federation of Labor and the Chicago branch of the National Organization of Women among others.

Chicago Defender Men of Excellence | 11

Frederic Robertson Doctor of Chiropractic Halo Medical Professionals Biography Not Available

Rev. Adron Robinson

Pastor Hillcrest Baptist Church Biography Not Available

Will Smith Jr. President Will Smith Jr. Security Services Will Smith Jr. has dedicated his life to Safety and Security for over 40 years as the Director of Special Events Security and Metal Detector Operations for the Chicago Public Schools.

In 2010, he founded the Will Smith Jr. Security Services LLC. to provide security to public and private sectors. The company offers assessments as well as implementation methods for individuals and large-scale arenas (Beyoncé’s 2016 Soldiers Field Concert). Smith’s client list also includes the City of Chicago.

Smith is a board member of Percy L. Julian Alumni Association, Jaguar Foundation (President), and Judge Carl B. Boyd Youth Foundation. He received the “Hall of Fame” award from the Percy L Julian Alumni Association and the “Head, Heart, and Hand“ award for his community service. He is Head Mentor to the Balfour Company At-Risk Males Program, participant in the CPS Network 12 “Positive Black Males Moving Forward Tour.”

In addition, Smith is an opportunity creator because he hires men and women from the community to get them “off the street” to become self-sufficient.

Dr. Louis Rutland III Dentist The Rutland Dental Group Dr. Louis C. Rutland D.D.S., M.B.A. is a General Dentist with 24 years of providing excellent dental care. Dr. Rutland is committed to providing the most advanced dental treatment and is amongst the most accomplished general dentists in Chicago.

Attending Indiana University as an undergraduate and Meharry Medical College for his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree, Dr. Rutland is as committed to giving back to his community as he is to providing outstanding dental care. The focus of his volunteer work centers around young men, whereas he volunteers with the Victors Program at Homewood Flossmoor High School, and is a founding board member of Project Outreach Prevention. He is also chairman of the Social Action Committee, Delta Sigma Boule, Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity.

Committed to giving back to the community, he also volunteers at St. Basils Free Dental Clinic. Dr. Rutland is a member of the American Dental Association, Illinois Dental Association, and the Chicago Dental Society. Dr. Rutland is also a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. and Omicron Kappa Upsilon Dental Honor Fraternity.

Dr. Ronald Sam Physician Home Health Medical

2018

Man of Excellence UNCF Chicago and the Midwest Region salute Fred D. Mitchell, our Vice President as being a 2018 Man of Excellence.

Dr. Ronald E. Sam is the founder of Home Health Medical, LLC and CEO of Donte Medical Corporation in Chicago, Illinois. He specializes in senior care and internal medicine and also works in intensive care and emergency medicine.

Dr. Sam’s accomplishments include serving as the Medical Director of Healthcare Consortium of Illinois, Department of Healthcare and Family Services Entire Care Program; Medical Director of Envision Unlimited; participating in the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Initiative; receiving the Ambassador Community Service Award; and receiving the Mission, Value, and Philosophy: MVP Award, Advocate Christ Hospital.

Dr. Sam’s community and public service includes the Chicago Urban League Health Care Initiative: National Rainbow Push Convention; Chicago Area Health and Medical Careers Program, and several more.

Dr. Sam has been a member of the Emergency Medicine Club National Chapter since 1990; and has extensive experience in publications and research at Johns Hopkins University. Medical Credentials include Residency at John H. Stroger Hospital of Cook County; Iowa College of Medicine and Surgery 1993; Loyola University BS, 1989 and Loop Junior College Associate Degree, 1983.

12 | Chicago Defender Men of Excellence

#CDMOE2018

Ricardo Spivey

Stuart A. Taylor II

Alderman – 4th Ward City of Country Club Hills

CEO Analytic Innovations

Ricardo Spivey is known throughout his community as a leader, mentor and friend. Ricardo obtained his education at Northeastern University and the University of Phoenix, holding a Bachelor Degree in Business and in Marketing.

Noticing many social ills in the South Chicagoland area, Ricardo began organizing with Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. to bring greater awareness to food deserts in various communities. It was during this time that Ricardo began his involvement with the 100 Black Men of Chicago, Inc.

Stuart A. Taylor II is CEO and founder of The Taylor Group. He formed The Taylor Group in late 2001 following a 19-year career on Wall Street. The Taylor Group is a non-traditional private equity firm focused on building or acquiring businesses in partnership with high potential minority and/or female entrepreneurs. Currently the firm has eight major investments in its portfolio in industries ranging from healthcare to technology to business services.

In 2015, Ricardo was urged by the residents in his community to accept an appointment as Alderman of the 4th Ward in Country Club Hills, IL. They supported him in running for re-election in 2017 and he is currently serving.

Prior to forming The Taylor Group, Taylor was a Senior Managing Director and head of Bear Stearns’ Investment Banking operations in the firm’s Chicago office. Prior to joining Bear Stearns, Taylor spent time with CIBC World Markets and Bankers Trust. He began his career at Morgan Stanley.

Ricardo has formalized an annual Turkey Giveaway and is working with School District 160 on STEM programs. Every year he provides for students to attend the HBCU Chicago City Classics at no charge to their families.

Taylor is a graduate of Yale University with a Major in History; he received an MBA from the Harvard Graduate School of Business with a concentration in Finance. He serves on several boards and is co-chairperson of the nationally acclaimed Becoming a Man (B.A.M.) Program.

Ricardo’s greatest goal is being a good husband to his wife Judy and a provider/father to his daughter Lauren.

The Brothers of Breaking Bread

Congratulate our brother

Toussaint Werner

on being recognized as one of the

Black Men of Excellence

www.breakingbread079.com Donate | Join the movement today #CDMOE2018

Chicago Defender Men of Excellence | 13

Bryce O. Walker National Director of Network Engineering & Operations - Verizon Wireless Bryce O. Walker is the National Director of Network Engineering and Operations leading Verizon Wireless’ Network Operations Center (NOC). He leads a team of 300 charged with round the clock network surveillance and support of interdepartmental and regional personnel, while ensuring that customers seamlessly experience its network’s exceptional quality.

Raised in the Englewood area, Bryce’s life has been shaped by the challenges he has had to overcome. Those challenges have fueled his drive for community empowerment. Bryce is active in the Verizon Minority Male STEM Leadership program. Most recently he led a presentation at the Verizon Innovation Center in San Francisco, CA, that was featured in Black Enterprise.

Bryce is a graduate of Lindblom Technical High School, the University of Illinois in ChampaignUrbana (BS) and Purdue University – Calumet (MBA). He is a member of: the NAACP, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., South Holland Jets Football and Cheer Association. He is also a local real estate investor focusing on affordable housing.

Dr. Lloyd Walton Counselor National Basketball Association

Eric Washington Deputy Chief Chicago Police Department Eric Washington is a 31-year veteran of the Chicago Police Department. A native Chicagoan, he attended Lindblom Technical High School and continued his education at Purdue University and Calumet College of St. Joseph, where he attained a BS in Law Enforcement Management and a MS in Law Enforcement Administration. He is married with a son and daughter.

During his years of service with CPD, Eric has worked in numerous units, including Patrol, Narcotics, Gangs, Education and Training and the Office of the Superintendent. He has served as a Commander in the 011th District and Narcotics Division. Eric is currently the Executive Officer in the Bureau of Internal Affairs and previously served as the Deputy Chief of the Community Relations Division.

Eric has worked diligently in CPD’s efforts to improve Community and Police Relations during his career, serving as a CAPS Beat Team Leader, CAPS Trainer, CAPS Sergeant & CAPS Lieutenant and as member of CPD’s command staff. His community service is also exemplified in his membership and participation in the Chicago Chapter of NOBLE and Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity (Evergreen Park, IL Alumni).

Toussaint Werner Graphic Artist Calumet Creative

Lloyd Walton is a retired NBA player. He grew up in Chicago, Illinois and played high school basketball at Mt. Carmel High School, and for the legendary coach Al McGuire at Marquette University. He was the 42nd pick by the Milwaukee Bucks, and he played for them for 5 years and 1 year for the Kansas City Kings.

Toussaint Werner is the founder of Calumet Creatives, a design strategy firm. Calumet Creatives specialize in logo design, branding, experiential design and offers services to businesses of all sizes around the world, ultimately improving their bottom line by crafting creative solutions to their business problems.

He has served in various professional capacities related to prep, collegiate and professional basketball i.e. Assistant Coach at Marquette University, Scout for the New York Knicks. Lloyd has also held several positions in the public sector, Bureau Chief of the Illinois Department of Human Service, Executive Director of Washington Park YMCA, Executive Director of James Jordan Family Life Center.

Calumet Creatives clients have included the likes of Nike, Chicago Public Schools, Chicago Police Department, University of Chicago, The Obama Library. He is the recipient of the 2016 Golden Trumpet with Jasculca Terman Strategic Communications.

Lloyd is currently a Career Counselor for the National Basketball Players Association, where he has over 1,000 counseling sessions with NBA Players. In 2009, he created Lifelong Winners, a personal development model for athletes. Lloyd received his Doctoral Degree in 2015 from Argosy University, becoming only the third player in NBA history to achieve this level of education.

ROPES & GRAY

Toussaint is also a notable activist/advocate for change. He founded and Co-chairs an organization called Breaking Bread. Breaking Bread works within communities riddled with gun violence, disproportionate wealth, and equity disparities. The mission is to promote honest, open communication about poverty and its relationship to violence, and how to leverage entrepreneurship and political engagement to safeguard access to financial freedom. Toussaint recently added Emmy nominated to his title for his work on a film with Northwestern University Grad students. The film, Fearless, is a documentary based on work Toussaint and Breaking Bread initiated on the 79th street corridor of the South Side of Chicago.

Jeffery Whaley Jr.

congratulates

Agent State Farm

Reginald Guy II on being named one of the Chicago Defender’s “50 Men of Excellence.”

Jeff Whaley hails from the West Side of Chicago. He credits his faith in God and support and encouragement from his family for his success.

As a State Farm Agent, Whaley has a strong sense of community and responsibility. He says it is his responsibility as a business owner to educate individuals and families about proper protection.

He is a deacon at Rock of Ages Baptist Church and lives by the scripture, “For whom much is given, much is required.”

ropesgray.com Attorney Advertising © 2018 Ropes & Gray LLP.

14 | Chicago Defender Men of Excellence

He is married to Lisa and has two sons, Joshua and Elijah. #CDMOE2018

Gregory R. White CO-CEO Legacy Rail Operations, LLC Greg White is Co-Founder & CEO of Legacy Rail Operations, the only rail operations consulting firm in the country.

Legacy’s team of over 50 consultants all from the CTA represent over 1,000 years of rail operations experience. As a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise, Legacy has teamed with the best design build firms in the world on projects that total over $1 billion.

Greg began his career working within the power utility industry as an engineer for ComEd, an Exelon company. After successfully emerging as a senior level manager within ComEd, White was compelled to try his skills as an entrepreneur. He formed Promet Energy Partners LLC, which grew to become a Black Enterprise top 100 company.

White received his Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering in 1985 from the Illinois Institute of Technology. He also received his Master of Science, Finance, with a Credit Risk Management and Energy Trading concentration from the Illinois Institute of Technology in 2000. White, now a seasoned entrepreneur, has focused his efforts in assuring the success of Legacy Rail Operations.

George Wright Director Midwest Region Citi Community Development George Wright serves as Director of Community Relations for Citibank’s Global Consumer Group. In his role, he is responsible for Community Development for the Midwest Region, which includes 17 states in the U.S. and Canada.

George rejoined Citi in July of 2007.

Prior to Citi, George served as Director of Emerging Markets at Washington Mutual and Senior Vice President for CRA / Fair Lending & Customer Care at GMAC Bank. George began his career at Citicorp / Citibank in Illinois as a Loan Originator and was trained on all Bank sales-related products.

George received his BS degree in Psychology from St. Joseph’s College and did his graduate studies at Illinois Institute of Technology. He has served and continues his participation in a host of activities that promote fairness in the area of financial services, including the Philadelphia Predatory Lending Task Force and the Mortgage Credit Access Partnership Executive Council. He’s also received several awards for his contributions to underserved communities.

Dr. William Yates Medical Director Northwestern University Biography Not Available

#CDMOE2018

Chicago Defender Men of Excellence | 15

Save the Date

This year, The Black Women’s Expo will continue its tradition of celebrating Phenomenal Women by partnering with the Chicago Defender in hosting the Women of Excellence awards.

This highly anticipated event will take place on April 5th and will recognize Chicago’s most accomplished and influential African-American women.

Thursday, April 5, 2018 • 6-9 pm Hyatt Regency Chicago

Regency Ballroom • 151 East Wacker Drive, Chicago For sponsorship packages, tables and tickets, please contact 312-225-2400 or dlewis@chicagodefender.com

Join the conversation 16 | Chicago Defender Men of Excellence

#WOECD18 #CDMOE2018