www.chicagocrusader.com
Blacks Must Control Their Own Community
AUDITED BY
•C•P•V•S•
VOLUME LXXIII NUMBER 14—SATURDAY, JULY 27, 2013
PUBLISHED SINCE 1940
25 Cents and worth more
Council approves $10 million settlement By J. Coyden Palmer The financial fallout from the actions of former Chicago Police Lt. Jon Burge continued this week even as Burge himself sits in a federal prison in Florida. The city council approved a $10 million settlement to be paid to one of his victims on July 24. This latest settlement brings the total to nearly $70 million Chicago taxpayers have shelled out in Burge related cases, which includes legal fees. Eric Caine, 47, spent 25 years in prison on a 1986 murder charge. He was later released after it was determined the confession he gave was coerced. His co-defendant Aaron Patterson was pardoned by former Gov. George Ryan in 2003, but Caine languished in a state prison as his case winded through the judicial process. Patterson has since returned to prison, serving a 30-year sentence after his conviction on trying to purchase illegal guns in 2005. In approving the settlement, many longtime aldermen said they will be glad when all of the Burge cases are finally settled. They said Burge has done irreparable damage to the Black community when it comes to trusting the police. “These cases are horrible and not the type of relationship citizens need to have with police,” said Ninth Ward Alderman Anthony Beale. “They have also cost us a lot of money
at a time when we need every cent.” Alderman Carrie Austin (34) said the Burge cases make a tough job [policing] even tougher because citizens do not want to cooperate with detectives. She said the “no snitching” street rules are a problem in her ward and many others throughout the city. Other African American alderman the Crusader spoke with had similar complaints. Alderman Howard Brookins (21) believes this latest settlement was in the city’s best interest and he was convinced to vote for it after city corporation counsel Stephen Patton told council members last week if the case went to trial it could be triple the amount. “We have a fiscal responsibility to taxpayers, in addition to being held accountable for bad actions by city employees,” Brookins said. “We will be suffering for years trying to rid the city of Burge’s reputation and honestly I don’t think we can really begin changing that reputation until we get all of these cases behind us.” Burge was convicted in June 2010 of perjury and obstruction of justice for lying in a civil court case when asked if he knew of the alleged torture that went on under his watch. A special prosecutor assigned by Ryan said torture charges against Burge and many of his men could not be filed because the statue of limitations had expired. In April of this year, however, Judge Paul Biebel said another
ERIC CAINE SPENT more than two decades in an Illinois prison for a crime he did not commit. This week the city agreed to pay Caine $10 million. special prosecutor should be assigned to investigate at least five more allegations of torture by victims who recently came forward. Biebel said the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office could not lead the investigation
because of an “inherent conflict of interest” that goes all the way back to when former Mayor Richard M. Daley led the States Attorney’s Office and the allegations of torture began.
Local economist calls CPS layoffs unnecessary By J. Coyden Palmer During a press conference held at the Chicago Teachers Union in downtown Chicago last week, a local economist told reporters that city and school officials are not being truthful when they say they do not have the money to keep public schools open. Dr. Joe Persky, a member of the Illinois Council of Economic Advisors and a professor of Urban and Regional Economics at the University of Illinois-Chicago, said Chicago is a rich city that has made bad financial decisions. Persky also questioned the will of Mayor Rahm Emanuel and his hand-selected school board to fix the financial problems the schools system is facing. Persky also presented three plans; he claims could be implemented to solve all of the school districts money problems. “We are a rich city; not a poor city,” Persky began. “We’ve heard about all of the projects that we do find funding for like
LOCAL ECONOMIST DR. JOE PERSKY attends a Chicago Teachers Union news conference and explains to the audience that the city of Chicago and its suburbs are not in the dire financial straits Mayor Rahm Emanuel portrays when discussing recent Chicago Public Schools teacher layoffs.
INSIDE THIS ISSUE Chicagoans demand a Federal investigation (See story on page 2)
NATO meetings, bicycle programs, and real estate developers who seek out TIF funds to build a sports stadium for a private university,” said Persky, talking about plans to build an arena near McCormick Place for DePaul University. “Never the less, we are being told education is a luxury; a luxury we can no longer afford.” Persky said if you look at the Chicago region, the per capita GDP (gross domestic product), which indicates what is being produced, is $60,000 per year for every man woman and child in the region. For a family of four, that equates to nearly a quarter of a million dollars. Persky said that indicates people in the Chicago region are earning a good living and many of the surrounding suburban school districts are thriving. “So you have to ask yourself are those (Continued on page 16)
CRUSADERNEWSPAPERGROUP
@CRUSADERNEWSPAP
NEWS
Tax dollars could help fund more trauma centers By Wendell Hutson Federal tax dollars are used to fund Medicaid, a health insurance program for low-income individuals, and should also be used to help fund more trauma centers, said U.S. Rep. Bobby Rush. “A federal tax is one way the government could fund more trauma centers especially on the South Side of Chicago where there are more ‘trauma deserts’ than any other city in America,” Rush said at a news conference recently outside Jackson Park Hospital on the South Side. “The South Side is ground zero when it comes to trauma and a lack of health facilities people can go to get treated.” To address what Rush described as a “cancer to low-income communities” he has introduced the Trauma
Relief Access for Universal Medical Assistance Act, which would provide $100 million for trauma center use. “I know $100 million is a drop in the bucket when it comes to running a trauma center but it’s a start,” Rush said. Had there been a trauma center on the South Side it could have saved Kevin Ambrose, who died May 7 on his way to Stroger Hospital on the West Side, said Michael Dye, who was with Ambrose the night he was murdered. “He (Kevin) was coming to the train station to pick me up when someone opened fire and shot him,” recalled Dye, 19, who joined Rush at the news conference. “We were at the Green Line station at 47th and Calumet but the paramedics told me they were taking
HAROLD WASHINGTON COLLEGE student Michael Dye recalled a May 7, 2013 night when his best friend Kevin Ambrose was shot dead while picking him up from the Green Line train station in Bronzeville. He was among 20 community residents who attended a Monday news conference outside Jackson Park Hospital with U.S. Rep. Bobby Rush (looking on) calling on the government to do more to fund trauma centers.
U.S. REP. BOBBY RUSH speaks at a Monday news conference outside Jackson Park Hospital about new legislation he is sponsoring to help fund more trauma centers. him to Stroger Hospital even though Provident and the University of Chicago were less than 10 minutes away.” There are currently no adult trauma centers on the South Side. The closest trauma center for residents on the far South Side is at Advocate Christ Hospital in south suburban Oak Lawn. Ambrose died on his way to Stroger. “I beat the ambulance to Stroger, which was kind of weird when you consider it was a 30-minute drive at 11 o’clock at night,” added Dye, a Harold Washington College student. Minutes count when trauma is involved, according to Dr. Marie Crandall, an associate professor of Surgery at Northwestern Universi-
ty’s Feinberg School of Medicine. “When a person receives definitive care within the hour they are less likely to die,” said Crandall. “Definitive involves a CAT scan, neurology and obviously surgery.” That type of medical care is what Kandice Denard said her brother, Damian Turner, needed when he was shot and killed Aug. 15, 2010 at 61st Street and Cottage Grove Avenue. She was among 20 community residents who joined Rush to share their trauma stories. “My brother would have made it if the University of Chicago still had its (adult) trauma center. He was taken to Northwestern Hospital where he died on the way,” said Denard, 23. “If it were whites at risk of losing their lives instead of Blacks, I believe there would be
plenty of trauma centers on the South Side. Kenneth Polonsky, dean of the University of Chicago Medical Center, said he agrees that more trauma centers are needed, but the university is not in a place to provide one. The U of C does have a pediatric trauma center though. Dr. William Dorsey, CEO of Jackson Park Hospital, 7531 S. Stony Island Ave., said while he did not have an exact dollar amount, running a trauma center is very expensive. “I would love to have a trauma center at Jackson Park but operating one is very expensive. And until a funding source can be identified there will continue to be a lack of trauma centers on the South Side,” Dorsey said.
Chicagoans demand a Federal investigation By Andrea Watson Chicago and 100 cities across the country held protests Saturday, July 20, demanding that the Justice Department investigate the night George Zimmerman shot and killed 17-year-old Trayvon Martin last year. On a scorching day, more than 300 people gathered outside of the Dirksen Federal Building, to send a strong message that Chicago wants the U.S. Department of Justice to conduct a complete investigation on Zimmerman. They said they want to know if he violated the federal civil rights of the Black teen. The volunteer Sanford, Fla. neighborhood watchman was found not guilty of second-degree murder and manslaughter the week before the protest at the Dirksen building. A jury of six women, five white, determined that Zimmerman had no choice, but to defend himself, there2
Saturday, July 27, 2013
fore, the state’s Stand Your Ground law came into effect. Many people said Martin was racially profiled and that justice has not been served. Public officials, social activists and entertainers openly expressed their anger to the crowd, getting attendees energized and ready to take action, but one young girl captured everyone’s attention. Twelve-year-old Avery Bolden, who attends Skinner West Elementary School looked her age, but sounded wise beyond her years. In a strong, powerful, voice, Bolden said Martin should not have died for what she does all the time, wearing a hoodie and walking back from a corner store with candy. She said her parents have her reading advanced books like “The New Jim Crow,” by Michelle Alexander, but since the verdict, Bolden said she’s been reading the Miranda Rights because Martin could have been anyone, but especially her. “Anyone can relate, whether you’re
African American or not. I’m pretty sure everyone has had Arizona Tea before or Skittles, or wore a hoodie, so it’s simple ways to relate, but I can relate because I’m African American and I’ve never done anything wrong like him,” she said. The not guilty verdict has caused performers like Stevie Wonder and the gospel duo, Mary Mary to boycott the state of Florida. There are even online petitions circulating asking tourists to stay away until the Stand Your Ground Law is changed. The Rev. Jesse Jackson agrees with the boycott plan. “No more conventions, no more concerts, no more parties, no more spring breaks, Stand Your Ground until Florida’s laws are abolished,” said Jackson. “There’s a Trayvon in every household including the White House...This is a global human rights fight. We cannot stop in Washington. We’ll take our case to
HUNDREDS GATHERED OUTSIDE of the Dirksen Federal Building Saturday, July 20, to pressure the Department of Justice to bring charges against George Zimmerman. the UN; the whole world must watch us fight back for global justice,” he said. Fr. Michael Pfleger of Saint Sabina Church told the crowd “sisters and
BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
brothers, it’s not good enough to just come here and honor Trayvon, it’s not good enough to just come here and remember Trayvon, but we (Continued on page 16) www.chicagocrusader.com
NEWS
Lawmakers targeted over same-sex marriages By Wendell Hutson Two Black lawmakers are being targeted by a group of Black clergy for their support of same-sex marriages. The African American Clergy Coalition, opposes the marriage equality bill. The organization is continuing the robo-calls that began last month to constituents of Democratic state Reps. Elgie Sims and Andre Thapedi to inform them about the legislators’ intent to vote for the bill. “All legislators should be looking for a constitutional way out when it comes time to vote on the marriage equality bill. It is irresponsible on the part of state lawmakers not to confer with their constituents first before voting on something as controversial as this bill,” contends Bishop Lance Davis, a member of the AACC and pastor of New Zion Covenant Church in south suburban Dolton. Sims said while he personally supports the bill he would make his vote based on what his constituents want. With that said, I must take away my personal feelings and vote for legislation my constituents support. And that is the only way I vote,” Sims said. And so far some constituents said they support same-sex marriages. “No one else has come up with a
better solution for marriage for these people and until they do I support them getting married,” said Dorothy Tarver, a Chicago Public Schools teacher, who lives on the South Side. “I know the Bible does not support same-sex marriages but treating people like animals is down right wrong.” Linda Johnson, 56, said she does
Andre Thapedi not have a problem with two men or women being married. “To each it’s own. I don’t see anything wrong with it. If two people love each other then they should be able to get married,” Johnson said. “I support the same-sex bill and my Representative Sims’ decision to do
the same. “The Black clergy leader had harsh words for President Barack Obama, who said he supports same-sex marriages and has been featured in a radio advertisement along with first lady Michelle Obama endorsing it. “One reason why I voted for President Obama was because he campaigned on the promise that he would not become a victim of special interest groups. But now he has caved in to political pressure and supports gay and lesbian lifestyles, which God frowns upon repeatedly in the Bible,” added Davis. “Our president has lost his way just as state lawmakers and even some Black clergy.” Thapedi, who voted for civil unions in 2010, did not return calls seeking comment. Some of his constituents were available and said they would support his decision to vote for same-sex marriages. “You have to do your own thing nowadays. I am all for anything that makes a person happy,” said Ken Smith, a 25-year-old engineer and Park Manor resident. “And if I hear one more person quote a scripture from the Bible to justify why same-sex marriages are a sin, I am going to scream. People like to focus on one sin and stick with it.
Elgie Sims These days it is homosexuality. What about murder, gambling, stealing and lying? Those are all sins but I don’t hear people quoting scriptures to justify doing it.” ReShawn Nelson, a 26-year-old chef, simply said, “if that’s what a person wants to do then they should do it.” The marriage equality bill also has the support of thecivil rights organization, Chicago Urban League. “We have been a supporter for a while. Gay couples have a right to marry,” said Andrea Zopp, president and chief executive officer of
the CUL. “This is an issue of equality, something the Urban League believes strongly in for everyone.” The Rev. Jesse Jackson said state lawmakers should pass the bill so Gov. Pat Quinn could sign it into law, which Quinn said he would gladly do. “If Dr. King and our civil rights movement have taught us anything, it’s the fundamental principle that all people deserve equal protection under the law. LGBT people deserve equal rights including marriage equality,” Jackson said.
Pfleger to haters: “I will not surrender”
Zimmerman but to design a new civil rights bill and to restore the voting rights the U.S. Supreme Court recently watered down by striking down a key section of the 1965 Voting Rights Act. Pfleger also called on President Obama and the congress to declare violence a public health issue so that federal funding can flow to urban areas that are being besieged with violence.
By Chinta Strausberg Father Michael L. Pfleger recently told his haters he would not be intimidated by the hate messages he has been receiving in the form of e-mails, calls and faxes because of his strong stand against George Zimmerman who was acquitted for murdering 17year-old unarmed Trayvon Martin and his call for justice. Standing his ground, Pfleger, who had posted on his Facebook page a request to pray for the conviction of Zimmerman, said he will not apologize for likening Zimmerman’s acquittal by an all white jury to the 1955 murder of Emmett Till—an act that sparked the Civil Rights Movement 58 years ago or anything else he said about this controversial issue. “We have to go beyond the Trayvon Martin…to the deeper issue of race, racial profiling. We have to have courage in this country to get to the bottom of” incidents like this when they raise their heads and cause so much pain and cause so much turmoil in our country. “I received an enormous amount of hate this week,” he said after Fox News aired a story. A number of people called for www.chicagocrusader.com
Referring to the acquittal, last week Pfleger said, “Yesterday, we watched the justice system fail miserably again. Trayvon Martin was murdered again by an injustice system.” He said America “is full of Trayvon Martins.” FATHER MICHAEL L. PFLEGER recently held up a copy of thousands of hate e-mails he received because he spoke out on the George Zimmerman acquittal of killing 17-year-old unarmed Trayvon Martin. Pfleger told his haters, “I will not surrender.... I will not apologize for anything I have said.” (Photo by Chinta Strausberg) Pfleger’s resignation and wrote to the Archdiocese seeking his dismissal. To all his haters and Fox News, Pfleger said, “I do not intend to surrender,” he said noting the importance of a prophet in the choice is critical in these troubling times. Pfleger said he received a call from the Archdiocese. “They
just wanted to give me a snippet of the kind of stuff they were getting,” he said holding up numerous pages of hate e-mails that accused him of “race-baiting.” “I will not become a watereddown…preacher…. I believe the role of the church is to wrestle with our conscious, and wrestle with righteousness and truth. I will not apologize for anything I
said.” Saying he will not be intimidated, Pfleger said Trayvon Martin’s death “is real. The people killed in Chicago last night are real. The violence is real. Racism is real.” Pfleger is calling on President Barack Obama and U.S. Attorney Eric Holder to not only open a civil rights case against
BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
“The murder of Trayvon Martin reminds us of America’s travesty that race, whether we want to acknowledge it or not, is still a defining and crippling reality in America. It reminds us that though we are 150 years past the Emancipation Proclamation Black men are still not free in America,” Pfleger stated. “It reminds us that the dream of Dr. King articulated 50-years ago next month in Washington, D.C. is still an unrealized nightmare. Saturday, July 27, 2013
3
EDITORIAL
EDITORIAL CONCEALED CARRY WHILE STANDING YOUR GROUND? A number of states across the U.S. have adopted “Stand Your Ground” laws, which allows ordinary citizens the right to use deadly force in the face of a perceived threat. Another law, wherein the state of Illinois became the last state to adopt, is the “Concealed Carry” law. This will allow law abiding citizens to carry registered weapons. Apparently the idea is that would-be wrongdoers would hesitate before wreaking mayhem if they think that a potential victim may be “packing.” Proponents of Stand Your Ground argue that it has helped reduce violence in the areas that have adopted it. This may or may not be true, depending upon whom you ask. What does seem to be true is that it was a detriment to Trayvon Martin, and provided a handy excuse for George Zimmerman to shoot down an unarmed Black teenager. Proponents of Concealed Carry laws also point to supposed successes in reducing violence. These laws say a lot about America, and what they say is not good. They seem to mark a return to the days of the Wild, Wild West, where the gun ruled the land and lawlessness was rampant. Danger lurked at every turn. This feels like regression; our society cannot move forward with backward thinking. As the saying goes, if we adopt an eye for an eye attitude, we will never see the light. In this case, the light is the reality that you can’t legislate morality, and force will always be met with more force. Newton said it best (paraphrased): For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction. So, what this means is that the more guns that people have and the more they feel entitled to “stand their ground,” the more chaotic it might become in a “concealed carry” America. To make matters worse, lawmakers in several states are calling for either the national guard to step in to help contain violence, or they are calling for dramatic increases in the number of policeman. These approaches, too, have their drawbacks. For one, to a national guardsman charged with keeping order in urban areas, everyone is fair game, both crook and victim alike. Ultimately, the logic of the concealed carry and stand your ground laws fail dramatically when it comes to seeing how they are played out among the mostly Black and Brown young men who are killing each other. For example, gangsters who stalk and kill other gangsters have guns, and their opponents have guns. The knowledge that their opponents have guns serves as a zero deterrent to their usage of them. The gangland lifestyle, in other words, serves as a microcosm of what concealed carry coupled with standing your ground could possibly become. For some people, carrying a weapon imbues a false sense of security, but it does not guarantee them safety any more than having thousands of police on patrol; people are still getting killed in outrageous numbers. It is understandable that advocates of these laws want them enacted. They want to do something about a problem that is “thinning the herd.” They are to be commended for actively seeking solutions to this problem. The reality is, though, that fighting fire with fire seldom, if ever, works. All it does is increase the violence. We must face the fact that America in general, and the Black community in particular, are facing a mammoth spiritual crisis. It is the lack of love along with a descent into materialism, selfishness and rampant greed that is hurting us. And until we face these facts and change our ways, we’ll go deeper into Dante’s hellish inferno as a nation and as a people. A luta continua. 4
Saturday, July 27, 2013
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR It’s time for the young ones to lead Dear Editor: Maybe it is because of Trayvon Martin’s age at the time of his death last year or maybe it is because too many young people are tired of seeing their friends killed in Chicago streets, but regardless of the reason young people are picking up the mantle of protest, and demanding change. It was a very welcome sight to see so many people in their 20s and 30s at the Daley Plaza recently to protest George Zimmerman’s not guilty verdict. And when that was followed approximately one week later even more in that same age group took part in the 100 cities protest. They are presenting themselves as bright, articulate and committed, all attributes that we need now. Today’s young protesters unlike many in the previous generation seem far more interested in delivering a message and affecting change more so than garnering headlines. Today there also is the advantage of technology that provides a means of notifying potential participants in a few minutes, as well as raising money form throughout the world. What might be most important is that the young protesters recognize they don’t need to completely “reinvent the wheel,” so they are seeking advice from some of the old school folks, and actually following some of that advice. It is a perfect blend of worlds.
People who demonstrated and protested in the 60s and 70s do need to support this current crop of young people who want change and a better society. As my grandmother used to say “nothing beats a failure but a try.” Ronnie Altman
Right time and right place for AG Holder To the Editor: It wasn’t that long ago that a lot of people, including a lot of African Americans, were calling for the Attorney General’s departure. They didn’t care if he was fired, resigned or fell off the face of the Earth – they wanted him gone. There were a number of reasons, and being a Black man in charge of the Department of Justice (DOJ) was one of the unspoken ones. I have to wonder though now that the DOJ is giving a hard look at bringing charges against George Zimmerman for violating Trayvon Martin’s civil rights if folks, particularly Black folks, wish someone else was in Holder’s seat. I really doubt it because given the House and Senate’s track record of confirming President Obama’s appointees, the attorney general’s office probably would be vacant now. If that were the case, there would not be a speck of hope that George Zimmerman would face any civil
BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
charges. This is a classic example of being careful what you wish for. Had Holder or the President caved into the pressure calling for Holder’s resignation we would be in a very horrible place right now, worse than the bad place we are already in. This is a winning opportunity for Holder and the DOJ. Even if he doesn’t prevail in a civil action, many around the nation will give him props for trying. I really believe Trayvon’s case and the mem(Continued on page 7)
CHICAGO CRUSADER (U.S.P.S. 596080)
Editor-Publisher
Dorothy R. Leavell Advertising Director
J.L. Smith 6429 South King Drive Chicago, Illinois 60637 773-752-2500 An independent newspaper serving the Southside Westside and Northside, printing the news impartially empowering what it believes to be right and appealling what it believes to be wrong without regard to party politics. Devoted to the Industrial, Educational, SocioPolitical and Educational advancement of Black people. __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
VOL. LXXIII NO.14JULY27 2013 _______________________________________________________________________________________
Published Weekly NATIONAL ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE
New Concept Media Service P.O. Box 377946 Chicago, IL 60637 Member National Newspaper Publishers Association __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Subscription Rates - $25 Per Year $14.00 for 6 months $44.00 for 2 years
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Periodicals Paid at Chicago, IL POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: THE CHICAGO CRUSADER 6429 South King Drive Chicago, IL 60637
www.chicagocrusader.com
COMMENTARY
Juice on Only One Side of the Aisle BEYOND THE RHETORIC By Harry C. Alford NNPA Columnist In the past there were so many hangings, beatings, shootings and bombings. They went without justice being applied. During the past few decades we have shown national outrage from Emmitt Till, Mississippi civil rights workers shootings, Rodney King, etc. and now we have the heartbreaking death of little Trayvon Martin. Oh, there will be an enormous amount of talking, marching, debating and accusations. But in the end, nothing is going to change. Nothing is going to make a difference. When will the next outrage come? Conversations on the television and press conferences will have little impact. Voting power does not answer the predicament. We have elected officials like never before. At the city council level, mayoral level, state legislative representation and the congressional level there are more of us than ever before. Too bad we weigh our political ideology all to one side – the Democratic side. My Lord, we have the President and the Attorney General and what could they do – nothing! The
Harry C. Alford problem is we don’t have “juice” on both sides of the aisle. Our sphere of influence is afflicted. We for the most part take our marching orders from the Democratic National Committee. They have us wrapped around their finger and there is nothing we can do, even with a Black President and a Black Attorney General. So what! They have us where they want us: Slaves without chains from a socio-economic perspective. The great Frederick Douglass ad-
monished us about this. “Power concedes nothing without a demand.” As Harriet Tubman said at her retirement party, “I guess I have saved over 1,000 slaves in my career. I could have saved a 1,000 more if they had only known they were slaves.” Then Booker T. Washington came along and preached that education is a must. After education comes entrepreneurship and the recycling of our own economy. He admonished us, “If white slaves from Eastern Europe arrived here without literacy or English and became self-sufficient and independent, surely we can too.” His vehicle was the National Negro Business League which he founded in 1902 (ten years before the U.S. Chamber of Commerce) and this became the prototype for the National Black Chamber of Commerce. These Republican giants laid the foundation for our empowerment. But oh, the “wolves are of another mind.” The white liberals in upstate New York had a strategy to counter this economic empowerment idea of Mr. Washington. They formed the NAACP to counter the Business League activities down South. They urged Blacks to look towards good government to provide their needs and
wants. Sounds familiar? A few years later the National Urban League was founded. Like the NAACP, the principals of this group were white northern liberals. They urged Blacks living in the South to come up North and blend into the cities and find work rather than build their own businesses. 100 years later, we, Black America, are still beholden and dependent on a one sided political doctrine that will never empower us. It might as well be the 19th century. We must fully understand that there will be no change in this great capitalistic society until we understand that collective economic power is the Great Equalizer. Justice, respect, alternatives to violence and prosperity can only come from political balance and an understanding of the beauty of the true American system. It is all right to be liberal and it is certainly all right to be conservative. If our votes are taken for granted and we can be manipulated by others who choose to use us as “pawns” and like the pawns on a chess board we will be the first to fall and have no choice at all in the management of this nation. Wake up Black folks! This isn’t about profiling, demonizing white
Republicans. You will get beat up in a school yard if you are considered easy going with no self-respect or dignity. Even if you can’t fight too well, you will be respected and left unharmed if the bully knows you will fight back regardless. Stop crying, stop whining about “help me.” It is holy to provide charity but it is sinful to sit down and receive it (food stamps, public housing, Medicaid, etc.) on a lifetime basis. Stop clinging to the liberals like a happy slave. We can have our own just by following Booker T. Washington instead of the northern Niagara Movement liberals. We don’t have to take the abuse we get. With economic empowerment, we will have the respect of judges, police, lawmakers, etc. because they know there will be recourse if they trample on our civil liberties. Don’t be naïve to think if we just elect a Black official things will get better. Have they yet? Ha! Keep it balanced with the R/D ratio. Remember, “Pharaoh” does not have you. So let Pharaoh go. Be your own boss! Mr. Alford is the co-founder, President/CEO of the National Black Chamber of Commerce®.Website: www.nationalbcc.org. Email: halford@nationalbcc.org.
Finally, the Barack Obama I Voted For By George E. Curry NNPA Columnist For more than four years, I have said that I liked candidate Barack Obama better than I like President Obama. Candidate Obama addressed the question of race head-on when pressured to distance himself from Rev. Jeremiah Wright, the Chicago pastor who led him to Christianity. But President Obama has been a different story. According to research conducted by Daniel Q. Gillion, an assistant professor of political science at the University of Pennsylvania, in Obama’s first two years in office, the nation’s first Black president made fewer speeches and offered fewer executive policies on race than any Democratic president since 1961. Frederick C. Harris, director of the Institute for Research in African-American Studies at Columbia University, noted that Obama’s 2011 State of the Union address was the first by any president since 1948 to not mention poverty or the poor. In the words of scholar Michael Eric Dyson, “This president runs from race like a Black man runs from a cop.” Obama’s first comment on www.chicagocrusader.com
Trayvon Martin was that if he had a son, he would look like Trayvon. But he didn’t say what he would do to make sure Black male teenagers are not treated the way Trayvon was treated by George Zimmerman. Obama’s first words in the aftermath of Zimmerman’s acquittal were predictably insipid. In his written statement, Obama said: “The death of Trayvon Martin was a tragedy. Not just for his family, or for any one community, but for America. I know this case has elicited strong passions. And in the wake of the verdict, I know those passions may be running even higher. But we are a nation of laws, and a jury has spoken. I now ask every American to respect the call for calm reflection from two parents who lost their young son.” To quote another president, I thought, “Well, there he goes again.” But last Friday, candidate Barack Obama and President Barack Obama finally became one. He spoke with passion, without the aid of a TelePrompter or notes, about what it’s really like to be a Black man in America. “There are very few African American men in this country who haven’t had the experience of being followed when they were shopping in a department store.
George E. Curry That includes me,” he told reporters in the White House briefing room. “There are very few African American men who haven’t had the experience of walking across the street and hearing the locks click on the doors of cars. That happens to me — at least before I was a senator. There are very few African Americans who haven’t had the experience of getting on an elevator and a woman clutching her purse nervously and holding her breath until she had a chance to get off. That happens often.” He explained, “And I don’t want to exaggerate this, but those sets of
experiences inform how the African American community interprets what happened one night in Florida. And it’s inescapable for people to bring those experiences to bear. The African American community is also knowledgeable that there is a history of racial disparities in the application of our criminal laws – everything from the death penalty to enforcement of our drug laws. And that ends up having an impact in terms of how people interpret the case.” While being candid about how whites generally treat Blacks, President Obama was equally frank when he said a Black person faces a greater likelihood of being killed by another African-African than by a white person. “I think the African American community is also not naïve in understanding that, statistically, somebody like Trayvon Martin was statistically more likely to be shot by a peer than he was by somebody else. So folks understand the challenges that exist for African American boys. But they get frustrated, I think, if they feel that there’s no context for it and that context is being denied. And that all contributes I think to a sense that if a white male teen was involved in the same kind of scenario, that, from top to bottom, both the outcome and the after-
BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
math might have been different.” The president demonstrated real courage by addressing race in America without being forced to as was the case with Rev. Wright. Moreover, he challenged us not to let the last chapter of Tayvon’s life be marked a misguided not guilty verdict. “And for us to be able to gather together business leaders and local elected officials and clergy and celebrities and athletes, and figure out how are we doing a better job helping young African American men feel that they’re a full part of this society and that they’ve got pathways and avenues to succeed – I think that would be a pretty good outcome from what was obviously a tragic situation.” George E. Curry, former editor-in-chief of Emerge magazine, is editor-in-chief of the National Newspaper Publishers Association News Service (NNPA.) He is a keynote speaker, moderator, and media coach. Curry can be reached through his Web site, www.georgecur-ry.com. You can also follow him at www.twitter.com/currygeorge and George E. Curry Fan Page on Facebook. Saturday, July 27, 2013
5
COMMENTARY
TAKING A DEEP LOOK AT OURSELVES
(Dr. Conrad Worrill, National Chairman Emeritus of the National Black United Front (NBUF), located at 1809 East 71st Street, Suite 211, Chicago, Illinois, 60649, 773-493-0900, Fax# 773-493-9819, E-mail: nbufchic@sbcglobal.net, Web site: nbufront.org)
Dr. Conrad Worrill The current crisis in America and the world requires that we as African people take a deep reflective look at our condition in light of the streams of violence in our communities. Day in and day out we can ob-
serve the increased number of African people killing each other, mentally and physically abusing each other, stealing from each other, being dishonest with each other, and the list goes on and on. These negative incidents occur, in part, because segments of the African community in the United States are disconnected from the moral and ethical traditions that have characterized relationships among African people in the past. The problem with segments of African people in this country being disconnected from the great contributions of African people to the civilizations of the world has resulted in far too many of us believing that the current situation we find ourselves in cannot be changed. Many African people believe that the condition of African people in America is permanent and there is nothing we can do to change our circumstances. Therefore, this disconnected group of African people has chosen the easy road. They travel on the road of cooperating and collaborating with the forces of white supremacy who continue to demonstrate they will do any and everything in their power to keep African people in this country, and the rest of the world on the bottom. This has resulted in many African people in America (and the world
community), developing a “bottom mentality.” In other words, many of our people buy into whatever the white supremacy forces feed us through the media, (mis)educational institutions, and religious institutions. What we are constantly being fed is that we are on the bottom and we will remain on the bottom. What the white supremacy forces offer individual African people in America, is that as an individual you can get off the bottom if you join us, if you “pull yourself up by your bootstraps.” Never mind your group, your family and your cultural ties, “there is nothing that can be done with those people. Join us and everything will be alright.” If you join us, “you can obtain a good job, buy a nice house in a good neighborhood, buy a nice car, take nice vacations, and some of you, whom we chose, can even live with us.” We were not always like this as a people. We did not have a “dog eat dog” mentality and this is what we must examine as we continue to struggle to overthrow the system of white supremacy and its impact on us as a people. The Creative Force of the universe has endowed us with the capacity to make great contributions to the world. A simple inspection of the ancient Nile Valley civilization of
Kemet (Egypt) should inspire all African people to respect their history and to hold themselves in high esteem. Kemet and the Kemetic people, our ancestors, were the creators of math, science, architecture, writing, governance, astronomy, astrology, medicine, art, and so much more. The Kemetic people amassed great wisdom that was left as instructions written in Medew Netcher (Divine Speech) or what Europeans call hieroglyphs. One place we can examine this ancient Kemetic wisdom is in a book entitled, Selection From the Husia: Sacred Wisdom of Ancient Egypt. The Husia gives insight into how our ancestors viewed life, death, human relations, marriage, parenting, use of power, God, family, and the standards of moral and ethical conduct. Reading these spiritual texts elicits strong feelings in and for African people in a most profound and spiritual way. Peruse these words from The Husia: The Book of Ptah Hotep: “Do not terrorize people for if you do, God will punish you accordingly. If anyone lives by such means, God will take bread from his or her mouth. If one says I shall be rich by such means, [he] she will eventually have to say my means entrapped me.”
This passage continues: “If one says I will rob another, he will end up being robbed himself. The plans of men and women do not always come to pass, for in the end it is the will of God, which prevails. Therefore, one should live in peace with others and they will come and willingly give gifts, which another would take from them through fear.” Written about five thousand years ago, the wisdom of these words of instruction should cause African people to reflect on their significance as we struggle to create a greater good for our race. The wisdom of our ancestors should give us the inspiration to rededicate ourselves to the continued struggle for the liberation of African people worldwide. As a race of people our survival and development is dependent upon each other. A greater responsibility is placed upon those of us who proclaim the African Way after the ravaging of African civilizations, African culture, African minds, and African lands. As I have repeated many times in previous columns, we have a responsibility and a duty to our brothers and sisters to build institutions based on African spirituality, ethics, and morals, and give back (Continued on page 16)
WHAT AFRICAN AMERICANS CAN LEARN FROM SOUTH AFRICA By Julianne Malveaux Nelson Mandela turned 95 years old on Thursday, July 18. He has been hospitalized for more than a month, and the world holds its breath as we witness the decline of the lion that roared for freedom in South Africa. Mandela’s insistence and persistence for freedom for Black South Africans, which included a 27-year jail sentence, reminds us of the persistence it takes to make structural and institutional change. We African Americans have been far more episodic in our quest for freedom. We galvanized around Brown v. Board of Education, again around the Voting Rights Act and the Civil Rights Act. Fifty years ago, we were on the Mall in Washington, as Dr. Martin Luther King delivered his “I Have a Dream” speech, the most well known of the several speeches delivered that day. We continued to fight for college admission, fair housing, and diverse police forces. And as these gains were attained, some of us stopped fighting. Many in the Black middle class 6
Saturday, July 27, 2013
Julianne Malveaux didn’t know what they should fight for. They had good jobs, nice homes, and good cars. They had gone to college and their children were, as well. Unless they were dyed in the wool civil rights activists, they were content to coast along. To be sure, there were microaggressions they needed to manage, much as Ellis Cose’s “Rage of a Privileged Class (Harper Books, 1993) detailed. While there is a connection between many kinds of profiling, there is a big difference between being hassled at a
department store and being unarmed and killed on the street. The South African fight was clear, just as the fight for African American rights was in the sixties. The difference? African Americans made gains that were tenuous without continued protest. In South Africa, the pressure for protest has been continuous despite the gains that have been made. Even as Black Africans have been elected to leadership in South Africa, many see past the titular gains to ask about the living conditions of those who are not middle class, not moneyed, still living without electricity in townships. In contrast, few African American politicians speak for the least and the left out, the poor, the unemployed, the marginal. That there is an African American President of the United States has been more a muzzle than a motivator. Reluctant to criticize President Barack Obama, too many activists have swallowed their ire even as our president has ignored them. As Nelson Mandela struggles to maintain life, one is reflective about the ways he was denied his
freedom for so long. Mandela made a life for himself on Robben Island, as he navigated captivity and restriction, broken promises and crippled dreams. Because of Mandela’s persistent and gentle spirit, however, he prevailed enough to be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize (along with Frederik Willem de Klerk) in 1993. Dr. Martin Luther King also earned a Nobel Peace Prize in 1964 for his work in the civil rights movement. In accepting the Peace Prize, he said “I have the audacity to believe that people everywhere can have three meals a day for their bodies, education and culture for their minds, peace and freedom for their spirits.” King laid out a game plan that many have only reluctantly embraced. We still have hunger, illiteracy and dissent in U.S. life. Few have stepped up to deal with these matters with the persistence that Nelson Mandela and the African National Congress had. When President Obama establishes a middle class task force, what does this mean for the poor? Perhaps the comparison between U.S. Black people and those in
BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
South Africa is unfair. WE have had leaders like Nelson Mandela – Dr. Dorothy Irene Height comes immediately to mind – who have given their lives to the freedom struggle and have not wavered or cowered in the face of challenge. South Africa, like the United States, has class divides between the middle class and the poor, with a sometimes indifferent middle class more interested in profits than people. But when I think of Nelson Mandela’s persistence, I think of the many ways that we, African Americans, have dropped the ball. Trayvon Martin is not the first young man to have been massacred in the streets, nor is he the first to garner national attention. Little has changed because we have not been persistent in our protest. The details in providing equal opportunity in South Africa may be flawed, but they represent movement. The episodic engagement of African Americans around justice issues pales in the face of South African persistence. Julianne Malveaux is a DC based economist and author. www.chicagocrusader.com
GOSSIPTARY By Ima Gontellit
-Ima-
-Ima-
EDITOR'S NOTE: This column is published as political satire, street gossip and humor, and therefore should not be considered as fact but rather as matter of opinion. None of the items therein are collected by the news gathering staff of the Crusader Newspaper Group. Items forwarded to The Chatterbox are kept confidential unless otherwise requested by the author in writing. For submissions please forward to: AChicagoCrusader@aol.com. Original photography and artwork are permitted. Thank you for reading!
ON THE STREETS
MARCHES UNITED!!!
Siohvaughn Funches Wade, exwife of basketball star Dwayne Wade was on the streets for real last week claiming that she is living on the streets because Wade has not paid her money from his endorsement deals. It’s one of those sad situations that childhood sweethearts could not survive stardom and marriage. Siohvaughn received 1 million dollars and $25,000 per month, in the divorce settlement, but her attorney said she is unable to pay her mortgage and other bills because of the withholding of the
The marches staged in over 100 cities this past weekend were a big success. It brought out Beyonce and Jay Z in New York, along with Trayvon’s mother and the organizer of the marches Rev. Al Sharpton. On the west coast was Jaime Foxx et al. Here in Chicago Rev. Jesse Jackson and Father Michael Pfleger were prominent speakers. Just when you thought mass demonstrations were of yesteryear and commemorative plans were being made for the 50th year celebration of the March on Washington, Rev. Al had to call for US to hit the streets again after the ridiculous verdict those six
Rev. Jesse Jackson women (five white and one who knows what) rendered in the killing of Trayvon Martin. While, Ima don’t think the Justice Department will be able to render justice to this situation, the NRA and Tea Party folks better know we know how to march and organize and dey better not forget it.
Jamie Foxx
Father Michael Pfleger
DAMN IF YOU DO AND DAMN IF YOU DON’T!!! I betcha you heard this before, but maybe not in connection with the White House. Ima and her friends concluded that this saying fits the backlash President Barack Obama received when he spoke out about the Trayvon Martin case. He was criticized by mostly African Americans when he didn’t say much for six days following the not guilty verdict and then he was criticized mostly by whites when he spoke by citing his own personal experiences as a Black man. It is hoped that a long overdue discussion on race will follow, but Ima ain’t betting on it. Surprisingly though it seemed to bring together a strange group on “Meet The Press,” when Obama apologist
www.chicagocrusader.com
Marc Morial Marc Morial and to a lesser degree Atty. Charles Ogletree, Obama critic Tavis Smiley and middle of the road Congressional Black Caucus Chairperson Marcia Fudge met up. Somehow they managed to di-
Travis Smiley alogue without any blows being passed, so maybe there won’t be no race discussions, but maybe Obama critics and supporters will be speaking again.
Siohvaughn Funches Wade endorsement money. Now, it’s hard for Ima to figure out who is right and who is wrong here, but where is the gurl living that she can’t pay her mortgage? And what kind of bills does she have since she don’t have to pay no bills for the chil’ren? Oh well, it’s just heartbreaking to see dis kind of demonstrating going on in the Loop.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR (Continued from page 4) ory of him will be with us for awhile. Anyone who tries to undo the smears the defense did in
BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
Zimmerman’s case will be more than appreciated. In the meantime I say ‘Go For It Bro. Holder!’ Eli Clare
Saturday, July 27, 2013
7
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
LEARN TO DANCE FROM PROFESSIONAL INSTRUCTORS FREE AT SUMMERDANCE IN THE PARKS: Learn to dance and enjoy live music at SummerDance in the Parks – an admission-free series that is part of Chicago SummerDance – coming to five different Chicago Park District facilities through Wednesday, August 28: Theater on the Lake; 63rd Street Beach house in Jackson Park; Ping Tom Memorial Park; Austin Town Hall; and the Humboldt Park Boathouse. On Wednesday, July 31, Las Bom Pleneras play bomba and plena and Ivelisse Diaz of Bombera de Corazon teaches bomba and plena dancing at the Humboldt Park Boathouse, 1359 N. Sacramento Avenue. (312) 7427549). The SummerDance series offers introductory one-hour dance lessons by professional instructors at 6 p.m. followed by live music and dancing from 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. The diverse lineup showcases various traditional and modern dance styles from all corners of the globe. For more information, visit chicagoculturalplan.org and nightoutintheparks.com. SUMMER NIGHTS HEAT UP WITH THE SIGHTS, SOUNDS AND SIPS OF JAZZIN’ AT THE SHEDD: With the long hot days of summer upon us, take a break from the heat and indulge in the coolest after-hours event in Chicago. Shedd Aquarium’s annual Wednesday night summer event, Jazzin at the Shedd, sponsored by Bank of America, invites guests to explore its colorful galleries and soak up the sounds of the region’s hottest urban jazz musicians, while sipping signature cocktails and relishing breathtaking views of the Chicago skyline. Be sure to stay late enough to take in the fireworks show that is put on by Navy Pier every Wednesday at 9:30 p.m. – the best view in the city can be had on the Bill and Stephanie Sick Family Lakefront Terrace at the aquarium. On Wednesday, July 31, Rio Bamba will be featured on the North Terrace. Now in its 19th year, Jazzin’runs every Wednesday through September 4 and offers guests the opportunity to discover the aquarium’s more than 32,000 animal residents as they explore Shedd’s vibrant Abbott Oceanarium, the wonders of Wild Reef and the pulsating beauties of Jellies. Guests have the option of enhancing their Jazzin’ experience by reserving a seat in the Aqua Lounge, located in the Soundings Café and available to guests 21 years and older. The indoor, air-conditioned lounge features the same breath-taking skyline view during the evening fireworks display, as well as an appetizer buffet, a complimentary cocktail and a private performance by various jazz musicians throughout the season. The lounge is 8
Saturday, July 27, 2013
open during each Jazzin’ event from 6 pm -10 pm. Admission to the Aqua Lounge is $52.95. Check availability and purchase tickets online at Ticketmaster.com. KIN KILLIN’ KIN–THE ARTS AS AN AGENT OF CHANGE: On Thursday, August 1, 6:30 p.m. – 9 p.m. Dr. Carol Adams, President and CEO of The Dusable Museum of African American History, speaks about “KKK — Kin Killin’ Kin” opening at the museum. “KKK – Kin Killin’ Kin” is a powerful and thought-provoking visual experience that reflects James Pate’s deep love and even greater concern for the epidemic of youth violence in the African American community. In the “KKK – Kin Killin’ Kin” series, Pate showcases a negative social reality in hopes of finding collective and positive solutions to a problem that touches us all directly or indirectly. In this gallery talk, James Pate, along with Willis Bing Davis, the curator of the exhibition, discusses how the arts can be used as an agent of change. The exhibit is organized by SHANGO: Center for the Study of African American Art and Culture, Inc., and EbonNia Gallery and curated by Willis Bing Davis. This is a FREE event. For more information, call 773-947-0600 ext. 254. ONE WORLD, ONE SKY-BIG BIRD’S ADVENTURE: This original ONGOING planetarium show in the Definiti Space Theater is based on the popular children’s show Sesame Street. Big Bird, Elmo and their friend from China, Hu Hu Zhu, take viewers on a tour of the night sky to learn about the Big Dipper, the North Star, the Sun and the Moon. Elmo and Hu Hu Zhu want to learn more about the Moon, so they take an imaginary trip there and realize that it is very different from Earth. With Big Bird’s help, they return to Earth and celebrate that Elmo can see the same stars on Sesame Street that Hu Hu Zhu sees in China. The planetarium show, which is presented on an all-digital, 360º screen, is designed for young children. One World, One Sky: Big Bird’s Adventure was created as part of a global partnership between the Adler, Sesame Workshop, the nonprofit educational organization behind Sesame Street, the Beijing Planetarium and the Liberty Science Center (Jersey City, NJ). For more information, call 312-922-7827 or visit www.adlerplanetarium.org. CREATURES OF LIGHT: NATURE’S BIOLUMINESCENCE: This major exhibition at The Field Museum is ONGOING through September 8, 2013, and explores the extraordinary organisms that produce light, from the flickering fireflies
found in backyards to the alien-like fishes and other fantastic creatures that illuminate the depths of the oceans. In Creatures of Light, visitors move through a series of re-created environments, from the familiar to the extreme, to discover the variety of ways in which organisms use light to attract a mate, lure unsuspecting prey, or defend against a predator. Highlights of Creatures of Light include: The Introduction; A Summer’s Night; A Mysterious Cave; A Sparkling Sea; Night Dive; In Altered Light; Borrowed Light; The Deep Ocean; and A Deep Sea Theater. Tickets to Creatures of Light are included in both Discovery and AllAccess passes to the Museum. Discounts are available for Chicago residents. Tickets can be purchased at fieldmuseum.org. Special rates are available for tour operators and groups of 10 or more. The Field Museum is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day of the year except Christmas Day, and is located at 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive. For more information, contact Field Museum Public Relations at 312-665-7100/media@fieldmuseum.org.
ILLINOIS COMPTROLLER Judy Baar Topinka spends a few moments with Stephanie Love Patterson from the Center for Abused Women and Their Children during the Illinois Nonprofit Advisory Council meeting. Topinka recently established and appointed members to the Council. (Photo by Teresa Paaziak)
Extended Coverage trunks and limbs, but don’t lie down. ***
Lightning! Professional outdoors people—from pro golfers to ballplayers to camp directors, and more—know you don’t fool around with thunder and lightning. *** The basic rule: get off the course and off the playing field, get out of the pool and get protected. *** Best shelter is a large building with plumbing and electrical wiring—a house, a school or office building. Or get in a car or bus with windows rolled up. Even indoors, avoid touching hardwired phones and computers, plumbing or electrical appliances.
Milton E. Moses
Your safety is our concern. We’re the protection people at Community Insurance Center, Inc., 526 E. 87th Street, your insurance headquarters. We have been serving the community since 1962. For more information about the services we provide, call (773) 651-6200. You can also reach us via email at: sales@communityinsurance.com or visit the website at www.communityins. com.
*** How far away is the lightning? When you see it flash, count the seconds until you hear the thunder’s bang. Divide that number by five to calculate the distance in miles. *** If you can’t get to a shelter, find a low spot away from trees, fences and poles. In the woods, crouch down as far as you can from BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
www.chicagocrusader.com
BUSINESS
Cordray’s CFPB Confirmation: A hard-fought victory for the nation By Charlene Crowell Life poses a series of challenges for individuals, families and communities. But every now and then, a real victory comes along that reminds us that what is fair and just will eventually prevail. That was the lesson of the twoyear saga to confirm Richard Cordray, President Obama’s nominee to lead the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. The idea of a federal office focused solely on protecting the nation’s consumers arose in the wake of the worst financial calamity since the 1930s Great Recession. More than two million homes were lost to foreclosure and nearby homes lost value even while neighbors remained current on loan payments. The tsunami of foreclosures in communities of color drained nearly
$1 billion of wealth. Eventually, unemployment grew as workers who through no fault of their own were laid off. A then-little known Harvard professor, Elizabeth Warren conceived the idea of a federal consumer watchdog; but was flatly rejected to become its first director. President Obama then nominated Richard Cordray, a former Ohio Attorney General. Cordray received broad support across party lines. But fierce opposition to the idea of a consumer watchdog led to 44 U.S. Senators sending a letter advising President Obama that no nominee to lead the Bureau, regardless of ability or experience, would be confirmed. In the meantime, CFPB staff went to work protecting consumers. They held field hearings, requested comment on proposed rules and as required by the
Girls school taps AT&T executive to lead board The city’s only public all-girls school, Young Women’s Leadership Charter School (YWLCS)recently selected Kimberly E. McCulloughStarks as its new board president. Starks, director of external affairs for AT&T Illinois, also is a board member for Habilative Systems,; Back of the Yards Neighborhood Council; Calumet Area Industrial Commission; Cosmopolitan Chamber of Commerce; Austin Chamber of Commerce, and the Chicago State University Foundation Board. “As a product of a Chicago public school system, I am excited to help shape the future of YWLCS so that more young women in the city have the opportunity to succeed not only in high school, but in college and beyond,” McCullough-Starks said. At AT&T, she is responsible for establishing relationships with community and civic leaders, elected officials and other key stakeholders in Chicago. She also manages programs that promote good corporate citizenship and enhances good will. YWLCS prepares approximately 350 girls in grades 7-12 with the skills to attend college and lead fulfilling and productive lives, according to school officials. That officials also said the school, at 2641 S. Calumet, has been recognized for graduation and college acceptance rates that exceed those of other non-selective Chicago high schools. Every member of the graduating class of 2013 was accepted into college. Deniece Fields, school director, said “Young Women’s Leadership Charter School is honored to have McCullough-Starks as our new board president and we look forward to www.chicagocrusader.com
4 Dodd-Frank Act, made regular reports to both chambers of Congress every six months. Over five million consumers contacted CFPB with financial questions. An online consumer complaint system offered convenient access to not only file a complaint; but also to check its status. To date, CFPB has returned nearly $500 million to consumers who were sold unfair or deceptive products in credit cards, auto loans and more. Despite these measurable proconsumer actions, opposition to CFPB continued. Opponents insisted that the Bureau’s governing structure change from a director to a commission. In response, major news outlets from Portland, Maine to Los Angeles and markets between ran in-
dependent editorials and commentaries – all calling for Cordray’s confirmation. The July 11 Los Angeles Times editorial wrote, “According to the official Senate historian, lawmakers have never before blocked a nominee because they didn't like the way an agency was structured.” Activism also played a major role. On July 15, Americans for Financial Reform (AFR) and the Center for Responsible Lending (CRL) announced poll results that revealed still-growing support for CFPB. Taken July 8-11, the survey found that consumer support for CFPB grew by more than 10 percentage points over a year ago. Strong support was evident among Independents, Democrats and Republicans, with 83 percent saying that Wall Street should be held accountable with tougher rules and enforcement. A second survey released the same day by Consumers Union, the policy arm of Consumer Reports, found that 74 percent of respondents supported approval of a CFPB director to ensure that the Bureau’s work is not interrupted. On the day of the confirmation vote, consumer advocates delivered over 160,000 signed petitions calling for Cordray’s confirmation to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid’s office. The effort was mobilized by AFR, Consumers Union, the American
Federation of Labor, and the National Council of La Raza. Finally after years of debates and delays, a vote on the confirmation was held and received a 66-34 tally. With a director confirmed for a full term of office, CFPB gains the full use of its powers. Commenting on the confirmation vote, the CRL said, “As businesses compete under the same set of rules, working families will receive fair financial services. We celebrate this great achievement and look forward to working with the Director to bring overdue relief to families who have dealt with abusive financial practices for far too long.” For all the frustrations now felt throughout the nation – but particularly in communities of color – the hard-fought CFPB outcome should inspire others to fight for what’s right. It took many voices and many actions focused on achieving a single goal. Yes, other numerous challenges remain. Yet our collective resolve should never fade or grow weary. A better day will arrive when we dedicate our best efforts. Charlene Crowell is a communications manager with the Center for Responsible Lending. She can be reached at: Charlene.crowell@responsiblelending.org.
Kimberly E. McCulloughStarks having her help in leading the effort to support and empower our students to be successful in school and beyond,” About Young Women’s Leadership Charter School Each year, Young Women’s Leadership Charter School, the only allgirls public school in Chicago, takes approximately 350 urban girls grade 7-12 and prepares them with the tools to graduate high school, continue post-secondary education, and go to lead fulfilling and productive lives. As a public charter school, YWLCS is non-selective and does not charge tuition. With the support of a dynamic community, YWLCS students are successful and continue to thrive at colleges such as the Smith College, University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana, Spelman College, and Michigan State University. BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
Saturday, July 27, 2013
9
EDUCATION --
Mayor and First Ladies highlight success of Urban Alliance Chicago Recently Mayor Rahm Emanuel, First Lady of the United States Michelle Obama, and Chicago’s First Lady Amy Rule highlighted the accomplishments of the nonprofit organization Urban Alliance, which empowers youth to work and succeed by providing them with professional experiences and mentorship. Mayor Emanuel joined First Lady Obama and First Lady Rule, who is the Board CoChair for the Urban Alliance Chicago, to meet with 60 high school seniors who participated in the Urban Alliance program the past school year and to draw attention to their successes. “The Urban Alliance is making a tremendous impact on the lives of Chicago youth by providing them with real work experience that they can build upon for a successful future,” said Mayor Rahm Emanuel. “I am pleased to see the accomplishments that these extraordinary high school seniors have made through this initiative and look forward to the Urban Alliance’s continued success through their investment and commitment to Chicago children.”
MAYOR EMANUEL, First Lady Rule and First Lady Obama meet with youth from Urban Alliance Chicago. (Photo by Brooke Collins/ City of Chicago)
Seaway Bank to host Annual KidsFest On Saturday, July 27, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Seaway Bank and Trust Company will host the fourth annual "KidsFest," a back-to-school
Arts, and games for the entire family. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Admission and activities are free and open to the public. Food,
commercial bank that emphasizes quality service and community commitment and is one of the largest Black-owned banks in the nation.
AMY RULE, wife of Mayor Rahm Emanuel, shares some of the highlights of working with Urban Alliance Chicago – an organization helping youth recognize and fulfill their potential. First Lady Rule began working with the Urban Alliance and the City in 2011 to bring the successful organization and their targeted strategies to Chicago. For the Urban Alliance Chicago’s first year, the organization selected six Chicago schools to partner with: Dunbar Vocational Career Academy, Wendell Phillips Academy High School, Curie Metropolitan High School, Gurdon S. Hubbard High School, Percy L. Julian High School and Crane Tech Prep. The organization’s mission is close to First Lady Rule’s heart and she remains actively involved as Board Co-Chair in reaching out to companies and organiza10
Saturday, July 27, 2013
tions to partner with the nonprofit. The Urban Alliance provides year-long paid internships for under-resourced high school seniors, who are selected for the program after a rigorous application process. The interns work part time with a public or private sector job partner four days a week and attend professional development workshops one day a week. The Alliance continues to support interns after finishing the program, providing them access to the Urban Alliance Alumni Services. Based in Washington, D.C., the Urban Alliance also has a program in Baltimore, MD.
SEAWAY BANK KIDSFEST - Dance performances by students at Mayfair Academy at last year’s KidsFest. celebration. Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their children to the bank for an afternoon of fun, including face painting, music, prizes and more. "It's a unique opportunity for us to give back to the community. We're proud to continue our legacy as a community-based, family-oriented bank," states Walter E. Grady, President and CEO of Seaway Bank. The event will take place in the parking lot of the main bank. Activities include DJ Reggie Robinson spinning the latest music, the DuSable Museum mobile unit, performances by Mayfair Academy of Fine
school supplies, and prizes are available, while supplies last. Community residents are urged to come and bring the family. KidsFest attendees will also have the opportunity to open a Young Savers account for children with only a $5 deposit. Seaway Bank and Trust Company headquarters is located at 645 East 87th Street in the Chatham neighborhood. For more information, call (773) 602-4865. About Seaway Established in 1965, Seaway Bank and Trust Company is a full-service
BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
Assets have risen from $5 million during the first year of operation to more than $600 million today. Seaway Bank has eight branches in the Chicago area, a branch in Milwaukee, WI and foreign currency exchange centers and banking outlets at O'Hare and Midway international airports. For more information about Seaway Bank and Trust Company, call VPIMarketing Officer Claudette Harris at 773-602-4865 or visit www.seawaybank.us. Seaway Bank and Trust Company is an FDIC member and an Equal Housing Lender. www.chicagocrusader.com
COMMUNITY
Dolton plays host to the World’s Largest Steppers Cook Out Steppers were out in force with their families recently at Green Lakes Forest Preserve. Besides dancing, there was entertainment and a health fair. The health fair was coordinated by Tamara Smith and Kimberly Harrington, nurses from Chi Eta Phi Sorority. The third largest
steppers cook out is being planned for next year and organizers are looking for volunteers. Those interested in volunteering or being a vendor can contact Ken Bedford at 312-608-6358. Organizers promise a larger dance floor and discounts at area hotels.
KEN BEDFORD, (kneeling center) ORGANIZER of the world’s largest steppers cook out, is joined by a host of south suburban elected officials and friends, including Thornton Township Supervisor Frank Zuccarreli, Cook County Commissioner Debra Sims; U.S. Representative Robin Kelly (D-2); and former State Representative David Miller.
STEPPERS FROM ACROSS the country descended on Green Lake Woods Forest Preserve in Calumet City recently to take part in the Second Annual Steppers’ Family Day Cook-Out and Bar-B-Que. It is billed as “the world’s largest steppers cook out.”
MARSHALL THOMPSON (center) of the Chi-Lites was among the featured performers July 7 at the steppers cook out and bar-bque in Dolton. The date for next year’s event is July 6.
ONE OF THE driving forces in the world’s largest steppers event held in Dolton was Gus Redmond of Quest Music. www.chicagocrusader.com
BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
Saturday, July 27, 2013
11
ENTERTAINMENT
By Elaine Hegwood Bowen, MSJ By Raymond Ward WINDY SCREEN: If you’ve watched films such as “Native Son,” or “Soul Food,” and television programs like “Chicago Fire” and “Good Times” and then wondered ....”why even though the film or show was set in Chicago, how did it come to be filmed there?” Well.....from the dawn of the silent era, when one out of every five films in the world was made in Chicago, to modern hits such as The Blues Brothers and Wanted, the city on the shores of Lake Michigan has provided a picturesque and rich landscape for Hollywood directors. Whether the city played central role in a film, as in Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, or stood in for Gotham City in The Dark Knight, Chicago provides a truly distinct backdrop for many of the seminal films of our time.
Newly revamped to include contributions made by the Windy City to recent blockbusters and indie films alike Hollywood on Lake Michigan: 100 Years of Chicago and the Movies (Chicago Review Press, $18.95) by Michael Corcoran and Arnie Bernstein is the premier guide to Chicago’s history on the silver screen. Ranging from the earliest days of film to today’s box office hits, Hollywood on Lake Michigan chronicles over a century of filmmaking in Chicago and significant contributions that helped propel the industry.
Award-winning Hip Hop Poet Marc Bamuthi Joseph’s Word Becomes Flesh Award-winning hip hop poet Marc Bamuthi Joseph’s powerful “Word Becomes Flesh” returns to Chicago, re-invented with an ensemble cast from a new genera-
document nine months of pregnancy from a young single father’s perspective. “Word Becomes Flesh” fuses tender stories, playful wit and, at
Michael Turner, Khalil Anthony, Dahlak Brathwaite tion, in a one-night-only performance, at the Reva and David Logan Center for the Arts Performance Hall at the University of Chicago, 915 E. 60th St., Tuesday, August 6, at 7:30 p.m. Featuring a series of performed letters to an unborn son, “Word Becomes Flesh” uses spoken word, dance and live music to
times, purposeful rage to give voice to complexities and contradictions surrounding race and gender in America. With deep honesty and raw physicality, the play integrates hip-hop theatre and contemporary dance performance to deconstruct Black male identity in the 21st century. “Word Becomes Flesh” critically, lyrically and choreographically shares one man’s experience of fatherhood—and in doing so examines the legacy of patriarchy and male privilege, the continuum between fathers and sons, and the relationships of women and men. Together these narratives confront the intersection between the reality and the mythology of the Black male body—from the cotton field to the athletic field and all spaces in between. Originally created in 2003 by Bamuthi Joseph, who performed the work as a solo piece at the Museum of Contemporary Art in 2006, “Word Becomes Flesh” is as meaningful as ever. It has been recreated for a cast of six by The Living Word Project, the resident theater company of Youth Speaks Inc., a San Francisco-based non-
Corcoran and Bernstein also offer film junkies behind-the-scenes stories of studio films, independent work and cult classics. Film lovers and Chicago history buffs will discover the earliest development of film technology, find the birthplace of gore films, see the origination and growth of movie palaces, and realize the importance of theaters—-such as Second City and Steppenwolf— -as training grounds for some of Hollywood’s biggest names. In an easy-to-read and entertaining format, Hollywood on Lake Michigan features new film locations, more photographs and new and exclusive interviews, making it the perfect guide for both film and Chicago lovers alike.
DAVEED DIGGS in The Living Word Project
12
BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
Saturday, July 27, 2013
profit organization seeking to empower the youth through art, mostly theater and spoken-word. Written and directed by Marc Bamuthi Joseph, the work is
written and performed here by Dahlak Brathwaite, Daveed Diggs, Dion Decibels, Chicago native Khalil Anthony, Michael
KHALIL ANTHONY, Chicago native, in The Living Word Project. Turner and Carvens Lissant. Notably, this one-night-only engagement launches Youth (Continued on page 16) www.chicagocrusader.com
ENTERTAINMENT STYLE
19th Annual Black Harvest Film Festival-August 2 through August 29 From August 2 through August 29, the Gene Siskel Film Center presents the crowning event in its summer programming, the Black Harvest Film Festival, now in its 19th amazing year of celebrating the stories, images and history of the Black experience and the African Diaspora. The harvest of new talent is bountiful, as seen in an exciting array of narrative features, documentaries and attention-grabbing short films. The festival kick-off is on August 2, when NBC 5’s LeeAnn Trotter emcees the program A Black Harvest Feast, which includes the presentation of this year’s Deloris Jordan Award for Excellence in Community Leadership to acclaimed installation artist Theaster Gates, who is committed to the revitalization of inner city neighborhoods through combined urban planning and art practices. Closing night on August 29 promises to be a provocative funfest when HBO sponsors a sneak preview of Whoopi Goldberg’s directorial debut, Whoopi Goldberg presents Moms Mabley, followed by a closing night party. Breaking racial and sexual boundaries as a pioneering comic talent, the African-American stand-up comedienne Jackie “Moms” Mab-
ley has long been an icon in the comedy world. First-time director Whoopi Goldberg explores Mabley’s legacy through recently unearthed photography, rediscovered performance footage, and the words of numerous celebrated comedians, entertainers, and historians, including Eddie Murphy, Joan Rivers, Sidney Poitier, Kathy Griffin, Harry Belafonte, Bill Cosby, Quincy Jones, Jerry Stiller and Anne Meara. Mabley tackled topics such as gender, sex, and racism, making her one of the first triple X-rated Whoopi Goldberg
Moms Mabley
comedians on the comedy circuit. Once billed as “The Funniest Woman in the World,” she performed on stage and in television and film up until her death in 1975. This is a complimentary screening courtesy of HBO. Seating is limited; to reserve a seat go to www. homeboxoffice.com/rsvp/mm_chicago. Whoopi Goldberg presents Moms Mabley will air on HBO in November. Immediately following the screening, there will be a dessert reception hosted by HBO and the Gene Siskel Film
Center. Additional special events include a tasty reception sponsored by Real Men Cook preceding the August 16 screening of “Home Again,” and a screening of “Things Never Said” dedicated to the memory of Ebony magazine editor and writer Terry Glover, who had participated in the founding of Black Harvest. New films by Chicago independent filmmakers are always a special feature of the festival, and this year they include: “For the Cause,” a legal drama by Katherine Nero; “The Man in the Silo,” a thriller by Phil Donlon; “Mound Bayou: Jewel of the Delta,” an engaging documentary by Jon Ross and John H. Rogers III; and more. “Action! The Real Deal About Filmmaking: Money, Casting, Production, and Distribution,” this year’s edition of the ever-popular Black Harvest panel discussion and DIY workshop, will cover every aspect of production for the aspiring filmmaker and feature down-toearth tips and practical information from our guest producers and directors. Be there if you’re even thinking about making a film! Photographs by Rashayla Marie Brown, curated by Gan Kanji Uyeda, will be on exhibit in the gallery/café throughout the festival.
Eddie Murphy The Black Harvest Film Festival is supported by the Illinois Arts Council, a state agency; and Orbitz. This project is supported in part by an award from the National Endowment for the Arts. Art Works. Special thanks to festival consultant Sergio Mims, the Black Harvest Community Council and to the many filmmakers who help make the festival possible. For more information, visit www.siskelfilmcenter.org/blackharvest2013.
Celebrities Share “Untold Stories” of The Kinsey Collection National art tour in honor of the 150th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation continues with storytelling campaign Wells Fargo & Company joins forces with a few of the most recognizable faces in entertainment for an interactive campaign to ex-
the African American experience from the 1600’s to present. Jordin Sparks, Lauren London, Lance Gross and Talib Kweli serve as featured curators in a four-part short film series, “Untold Stories: Our Inspired History,” that consists of documentarystyle narrations taking viewers through specific points in history represented by artifacts in The Kinsey Collection. The series can be viewed online at www.youtube.com/wellsfargo. Additionally, fans are encouraged to join in the conversation and share their own untold stories via Twitter using the #KinseyUntold hashtag. “Wells Fargo’s primary goal in
Jordin Sparks tend its year-long celebratory tour featuring The Kinsey Collection: Shared Treasures of Bernard and Shirley Kinsey - Where Art and History Intersect. The renowned collection features African American art and artifacts chronicling www.chicagocrusader.com
Lauren London
collaborating with the Kinsey family to bring this collection to audiences across the country was to create an opportunity for others to engage in dialogue around the rich history of African Americans,” says Lisa Frison, African American segment manager. “The Untold Stories campaign is an exciting extension of this partnership, and an innovative way to continue the discussion about the significant contributions of African Americans.” The series is designed to educate viewers about the historical impact of African American history on modern life using the perspective of each celebrity curator. In one video, Lance Gross describes the trials faced by Josiah Walls, an early African American statesmen in the 41st and 42nd Congress. Another features Jordin Sparks sharing the accomplishments of a young Phillis Wheatley, the first African American woman poet to be published. “The Kinsey Collection strives to give our ancestors a voice, name and personality, enabling the viewer to understand the challenges, obstacles, triumphs and extraordinary sacrifice of African Americans who’ve greatly contributed to the success of this country,” said Bernard Kin-
sey, “We are delighted to join with Wells Fargo in honoring the 150th Anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation by sharing this collection with national audiences.” The Wells Fargo “Untold Stories: Our Inspired History” campaign extends into social media with the launch of multiple video vignettes (scheduled for July) featuring prominent lifestyle bloggers sharing their personal stories. The robust social media influencer strategy aims to broaden the reach of the campaign by tapping into the networks of each influencer to emphasize the role of history and its significance to today. Denene Millner—participating influencer and New York Times Bestselling author named one of the most influential Black female writers by Black Voices—recently shared personal reflections via her popular My Brown Baby blog on the Family First short film featuring Talib Kweli. For more information or details on the “Untold Stories: Our Inspired History” campaign, please visit www.wellsfargo.com/kinseycollection. An exhibition of the renowned Kinsey Collection is currently on tour in honor of the 150th Anniversary of the Emancipation
BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
Proclamation. Presented by Wells Fargo, the tour officially launched during Black History Month at the Museum of the African Diaspora (MoAD) in San Francisco, CA. On June 29, the tour kicked off its second stop at the Harvey B. Gantt
Talib Kweli Center in Charlotte, NC. It will move to Baltimore’s Reginald F. Lewis Museum in November. For a limited time, customers wishing to “own a piece” of the collection can personalize their Wells Fargo debit and/or credit card with a select piece of art (Continued on page 16) Saturday, July 27, 2013
13
ARTS & CULTURE
Lang Lang to headline Ravinia Festival’s Gala Benefit
Barbara Wright-Pryor NANM to meet in Nashville for 94th anniversary The National Association of Negro Musicians, Inc. (NANM since 1919) will celebrate its 94th anniversary in Nashville, Tennessee from July 28 through August 1. With a theme of “Still We Rise: A Celebration of AfricanAmerican Women in Classical Music,” musicians and patrons of the arts of all ages from around the country will gather at convention headquarters, The Inn at
bers will be held throughout the remaining four days. Events will be held at convention headquarters, Jubilee Hall at Fisk University and other venues in the historic city of Nashville. The 2013 Organ Scholarship Contest under the direction of National Scholarship Chairperson Dr. Marvin Curtis will see four classically-trained organists between the ages of 18 and 30 competing for scholarship awards totaling $6,250 on Sunday evening, July 28. Chicago will be represented by its two local branches, the R. Nathaniel Dett Club of Music and Allied Arts, Paul-Martin Bender, President, and Chicago Music Association, Branch No. 1, NANM, the founding branch of NANM in 1919, Barbara Wright-Pryor, President. The National Association of Negro Musicians, Inc. (NANM) was established in 1919 in Chicago by musicians from around the country under the leadership of Nora Douglas Holt, President of Chicago Music Association, in order to provide performance
Chicago Music Association, Br. No 1, NANM, Inc. Opryland, for the week’s activi- venues for classically-trained ties. Black musicians who were denied Business sessions, convention opportunities to perform in conchorus rehearsals, regional meet- cert halls and opera houses. ings, a series of workshops, a NANM is an EOE organization. Sylvia Olden Lee roundtable dis- Membership is open to musicians cussion, master classes, and vocal and music lovers regardless of and instrumental noontime and race, religion, ethnic background nighttime concerts performed by or gender. For more information, adult, collegiate and youth mem- visit nanm.org.
Ravinia welcomes back international megastar Lang Lang to the same event that launched his career in 1999, the annual Gala Benefit Evening. The 2013 affair, which takes place at 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 27, features Ravinia Festival Music Director of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra residency James Conlon leading the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Lang Lang first stepped onto the Ravinia Pavilion stage in 1999 at the age of 17 to replace an ailing André Watts at the annual Gala. He became famous immediately. Since that triumphant debut, his career has enjoyed sold-out recitals and concerts in every major city in the world and has on numerous telecasts. In 2004 Lang Lang was appointed an international goodwill ambassador by UNICEF. For the Gala Benefit Evening, Lang Lang will perform Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 1, as well as Prokofiev’s Piano Concerto No. 3. The program also includes Verdi’s Overture to La forza del des-
Lang Lang tino, Wagner’s “Ride of the Valkyries” from Die Walküre and Britten’s March from Matinées Musicales. The performance also continues the celebration of the centennial of Britten and the bicentennials of Verdi and Wagner. The special black-tie portion of the evening will begin with cock-
tails and hors d’oeuvres on the lawn at 5 p.m. At 7:00 p.m. benefit guests will be escorted to the Pavilion for the concert which will have no intermission. Immediately following the concert dinner will be served in the Gala Marquee on the north lawn. Hosted by the Ravinia Women’s Board, the annual Gala is the only performance fundraiser benefiting the not-for-profit festival and its mission, especially its efforts to bring music back into schools through its REACH*TEACH*PLAY education programs. The CSO began its summer residency at Ravinia two weeks ago with guest conductor Christoph von Dohnanyi leading the Orchestra and pianist Emanuel Ax in two evenings of all-Beethoven programming. Week number two saw Ravinia Music Director James Conlon return to the Ravinia podium to lead the Orchestra in music by Wagner and Benjamin Britten and the return of the violin virtuoso Maxim Vengerov to the Festival after a twenty-five year absence.
COT appoints Henry Fogel Board President Chicago Opera Theater (COT) Board Pres., Gregory O’Leary, recently announced the appointment of Henry Fogel as the company’s new President of the Board of Directors, effective July 16, 2013. As COT enters its 40th season, Mr. Fogel will succeed Gregory O’Leary who has held the position since July 2010. O’Leary was voted a COT Board of Director member in April 2008 and he will remain a member of COT’s Executive Committee. COT’s General Director Andreas Mitisek said, “We are fortunate to have Henry Fogel volunteer his immense expertise to succeed Greg. One excellent President is followed by another.” Henry Fogel has been a part of the COT Board since 2009. In July 2009, he was appointed Dean of the Chicago College of Performing Arts at Roosevelt University after having served as President and CEO of the League of American Orchestras spanning
2003-2008. From 1985-2003 Fogel was President of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Association, leading the organization through a period of enormous change, increasing the Orchestra’s endowment from $19 million to over $160 million, and overseeing the $125 million renovation of Orchestra Hall. From 1981-1985, Fogel was Executive Director of the National Symphony Orchestra of Washington, D.C. He was also the Orchestra Manager of the New York Philharmonic from 1978-1981 and has served on other notable non-profit boards including Chicago Classical Music Recording Foundation, the Avery Fisher Artist Program, WFMT Committee of the WTTW Board in Chicago to name a few. Fogel is the recipient of honorary doctorate degrees from Roosevelt University, Northwest-
ern University, the Curtis Institute, Columbia College Chicago, and a Cultural Leadership Citation from Yale University. He received the League of American Orchestras’ Gold Baton Award in June of 2009. In 1990, he was named by Business Week magazine as one of the five best managers of cultural organizations. “It is an incredible honor for me to be asked to serve as President of Chicago Opera Theater. COT has a long and wonderful record of great and innovative artistic achievement which has been carried to new heights in the past year by Andreas Mitisek. The ability to work with the highly engaged and committed board, with Andreas and his excellent staff, is both an opportunity and a responsibility to which I look forward. Following in the footsteps of Greg O’Leary, whose leadership has frankly been a model of nonprofit governance makes this an even greater honor.”
Bobby McFerrin conducts the Filarmonica della Scala captured live in HD Ten-time Grammy Award-winning vocalist and conductor Bobby McFerrin conducts La Scala’s philharmonic orchestra in a MusicEmotion concert to be shown in HD Sunday, August 11, 11:30 a.m. at The Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Avenue. Chicago’s Music Box Theatre shows off the full power of its newly remodeled, state-of-the-art second screening room (“The Mini-Music Box”) with MusicEmotion: Symphony in Cinema, a series of captured live musical matinees broad14
Saturday, July 27, 2013
cast from Milan’s renowned La Scala opera house for an Old World musical experience in high definition. Each MusicEmotion program captures the nuances of the Filarmonica della Scala, its conductors and soloists. The Filarmonica della Scala inaugurated the project bringing great symphonic music live in HD from La Scala to moviehouses in Italy and abroad in 2012 to mark its thirtieth anniversary. Bobby McFerrin’s August 11 program includes Leonard Bernstein’s Candide Overture, Gabriel Fauré’s
Bobby McFerrin Pavane, Antonio Vivaldi’s Concerto per due violoncelli, Bobby McFerrin’s Solo Improvisations and Felix
Mendelssohn-Bartholdy’s Symphony no.4. Directors Francesco Micheli and Joelle Williams go behind the scenes, interviewing the artists and introducing each concert from places associated with the lives of the composers. McFerrin’s career — marked by collaborations with the jazz and pop greats, 10 Grammy Awards and sales of more than 20 million records — took an unexpected turn after the worldwide success of the song “Don’t Worry, Be Happy.” McFerrin studied conducting (including with
BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
Leonard Bernstein) and worked with the world’s greatest orchestras, including the Wiener Philharmoniker. For nearly 30 years the Music Box Theatre has been the premier venue in Chicago for independent and foreign films, festivals and some of the greatest cinematic events in Chicago. It currently has the largest cinema space operated full time in the city. Tickets are $10 in advance at musicboxtheatre.com/collections/musicemotion or in person at the Music Box Theatre box office, subject to availability. www.chicagocrusader.com
SPIRITUALLY SPEAKING
A Moment to Supersize Your Thinking By Effie Rolfe Living Thanks is just as important as Giving Thanks. “In everything give thanks for this is the will of God…1 Thessalonians 5:18.” Thanksgiving is a state of mind. Most of us are familiar with giving thanks, when we extend sincere praise to God for the many blessings and obstacles we overcome during our journey of life. However, we must also realize that it’s equally important to ‘live thanks’ simply put, to take action by doing or giving something of value to others if nothing but a smile, heartfelt love, compassion and prayer. It’s a choice that you make. William Shakespeare referred to as being “…twice blessed: It blesses him that gives and him that takes.” The average person loves a giver, especially when you’re on the receiving end but what a
blessing when you can share in giving as well. It’s similar to paying it forward—giving is the gift that keeps on giving. Allow me to share a story that’s a great example of living thanks. It involves Mable, who strongly felt that her gift was helping people, she often said, “I wish I could sing but since I can’t…my love is to help people.” So she began to use her gift caring for a person she considered as a brother who was a stroke victim. This man in his early 50’s was basically paralyzed and couldn’t do for himself. Mable asked him if she could assist by helping him to bathe and later getting him out of the house and go-
Most Rev. Joseph N. Perry attendance at WYD Chicago: A Midwest Celebration and will present a special Catechetical Session at 4 p.m. for the participants. The www.chicagocrusader.com
because of one woman’s random act of kindness by responding to an urgent need. Mable says, I will continue to seek ways of helping because I feel it’s my calling and my purpose.” Let us also choose to bless through deeds and not words only. There is power in thanksgiving but there is greater power in thanks living. Who have you helped today…? Effie Rolfe is the author of “Supersize Your Thinking,” a media personality and Motivational Speaker. You can contact her at effierolfe.com or on twitter.com/effiedrolfe.
The Crusader Gospel Corner Effie Rolfe
Midwest Catholic celebration set for Chicago Heights Approximately 2,000 Catholic teens and young adults from across the Archdiocese of Chicago and the Midwest will commemorate the 13th bi-annual World Youth Day Celebration on Saturday, July 27, from 1 p.m. to 11 p.m., at Marian Catholic High School, 700 Ashland Avenue in Chicago Heights. Francis Cardinal George, OMI, Archbishop of Chicago will be in
ing to church. While at church, people noticed that he wanted to go to the altar, but couldn’t move. So their hearts were touched to leave the altar and go to him. Among the prayers was a 7-yearold that was desperately trying to get to him, but because he was so small, the people had to lift and carry him to the man so he could say a prayer. Amazingly, once the little boy finished, the power of healing was obvious and the congregation could feel the positive charge in the atmosphere. That man’s healing was confirmed days later, as he was able to once again care for himself like he did before the stroke. His healing took place
Cardinal will also be the main celebrant at the Closing Liturgy beginning at 9:15 p.m. Also in attendance at the event will be Most Rev. John R. Manz, Most Rev. Joseph N. Perry and Most Rev. Andrew P. Wypych, Auxiliary Bishops of Chicago and Most Rev. Michael J. Byrnes, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Detroit, who will be the homilist at the closing Mass. Beginning with a welcome ceremony and opening prayer, World Youth Day Chicago will host two well-known keynote speakers. Noelle Garcia-McHugh, a World Library Publications recording artist, has chosen as her topic, “I Praise You for I am Wonderfully Made” and Pat Rinker, Director of the Office for Youth Ministry in the Diocese of Lansing Mich. will develop the topic, “Be Transformed.” Joining participants from parishes in Chicago and suburban Lake and Cook counties will be Catholic teens and young adults from the Archdiocese of Detroit, Diocese of Kalamazoo and the Diocese of Lansing. Other groups will also be attending from Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Ohio. World Youth Day Chicago is being hosted by the Archdiocese of Chicago’s Office for Catechesis and Youth Ministry. More information and online registration can be found at www.youthministrychicago.org. World Youth Day 2013 will be celebrated from July 23 to 28 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Pope Francis announced earlier this year that he will travel to Brazil in late July to lead World Youth Day in Rio, where about two million youths are expected.
After decades of classic hits, Chicago Mass Choir continues to bless the masses on stage as well as off stage. As the powerful lyrics recorded by Rev. Daryl Coley “…when the music stops is when I sing my song...” in other words that’s when you really live the life you sing about in song. Well this year, Chicago Mass Choir made a generous donation to the AIDS Foundation of Chicago during the choir’s 14th Annual Spring Concert in May. The Grammy nominated choir’s President, Dr. Feranda Williamson, presented the donation to staff members from the AIDS Foundation of Chicago, which has assisted many people in
First Pentecostal Church of God, Inc. and the Evangelist Ministry recently welcomed Inspiration 1390 AM Personality, Angela Martin, as guest commentator for the 2nd Annual People of God, Walking in God’s Favor Fashion Show held July 20 at Harris Park District. The glamorous Evangelist Lynn Mack coordinated the amazing event. Apostle John T. and Prophetess Rosemary Abercrombie greeted hundreds each night under the 18th Annual 2013 Tent Crusade entitled, ‘The Winds of Change’ on the grounds of Truth and Deliverance International last week. The powerful ministry couple welcomed renowned speakers including Bish-
Tim White, Ms. Tiff Joy and the Voices of Mt. Ebenezer. Special guest will be the lovely Stellar Award winner, Kierra Sheard. For details call 877- 238-3741. Pastor Bernard Sutton invites all to the 15th Acme Community Outdoor Festival 2013 this Saturday, July 27 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Experience free food and fun for the entire family and highlights such as the Maurice Sutton’s puppet show, Stuart’s Classic Maurice Auto show and The Jessie White Tumblers. Several local choirs and recording artists will share including Light of Love, Valley Kingdom Unity Choir, New Direction Choir,
Chicago Mass Choir the Chicago area. Williamson expressed the choir’s gratefulness for the foundation’s work, “Each year as a part of our annual spring concert, we give a financial donation to a nonprofit org, this year was very special to have the opportunity to support the AIDS Foundation of Chicago, given that so many of our church community family members have been impacted by HIV and AIDS.” This is a local and national leader in the fight against HIV/AIDS and was founded in 1985 by, community activists and physicians.
op William Hudson, Drs. Jamal Bryant, Cindy Trimm, Rev. Craig Melvin Smith and Pastor Willie James Campbell, who ministered an outpouring of blessings and more. The church serves as a beacon of light at 3 S. Laramie in Chicago and you are invited to their regular anointed services. Mt. Ebenezer Church and Pastor Miller presents An Intimate Worship Experience on Friday, July 26 at the JLM Abundant Life Center, 2622 W. Jackson in Chicago. Experience the music ministries of
BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
Gideon Army 3, Larry Jones and True Holiness Radio Choir, Arthur Sutton and Gift of Praise and more. Also, on hand will be a Wellness truck to take blood pressure screenings, diabetes testing, free immunizations, as well as school supplies will be given to the children. Effie Rolfe and Janet Sutton of WBGX 1570 AM will host the event held at the parking lot of Acme Baptist Church, 8747 S. Paulina in Chicago. There will be a live broadcast of the festival during the Christian Community Broadcast show from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. on 1570 AM. Saturday, July 27, 2013
15
Local economist calls CPS layoffs unnecessary (Cont’d from page 1) funds impossible to find or are people just unwilling to look for them,” Persky said. He went on to question how Tax Increment Financing funds (TIF), which were meant to be used for education, are being used. Persky maintained 60 percent of those funds are going into prosperous city neighborhoods. “You want to ask yourself, what are those monies going for? Are they going for something that is more important to us than education? My guess is no. That’s a simple place to start looking because it’s $250 million a year that we
could bring to financing our schools,” Persky said. The economist was not alone in his sentiments regarding TIF. A bloc of Chicago City Council members who call themselves the Progressive Caucus recently demanded Mayor Rahm Emanuel examine the city’s TIF districts and find money to eliminate the 3,000 CPS layoffs. Cook County Clerk David Orr recently reported that the city’s 165 TIF districts raked in $457 million in revenue in 2012. Alderman Scott Waguespack (32) said when former Mayor Richard M. Daley declared a $187 million TIF surplus, $90 million of
those dollars were directed to CPS. The alderman said Emanuel could do the same thing and resolve the CPS current budget issue. Waguespack said redirecting the surplus could mean tens of millions of dollars for local schools. The mayor has countered that the root of the problem is the state General Assembly failed to take action on a $400 million increase CPS must pay into the teachers pensions fund. However, Kevin Huber, director of the Chicago Teachers Pension Fund (CTPF), called Emanuel’s assessment “mis-leading.” CTPF issued a news release
ENTERTAINMENT: CHICAGO STYLE (Contimued from page 12) Speaks’ 16th Annual Brave New Voices International Youth Poetry Slam Festival, taking place at the Logan Center and in Chicago, August 7-11. A portion of the ticket proceeds from “Word Becomes Flesh” will benefit the festival. For more information on
Youth Speaks or the Brave New Voices Inter-national Youth Poetry Slam Festival, visit http:-//youthspeaks.org. Ticket information: Marc Bamuthi Joseph’s “Word Becomes Flesh” will be performed at the Logan Center for the Arts Perfor-
mance Hall, 915 E. 60th St., Tuesday, August 6, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets, priced at $25 ($15 for under 21, with ID), may be purchased online at ticketsweb.uchicago.edu, at the Logan Center box office, or by calling 773.-702.ARTS (2787).
which read in part, “Founded in 1895, the CTPF was adequately funded by the Chicago taxpayer for more than 100 years. In 1995, the City of Chicago, struggling with financial problems, sought and received General Assembly approval to divert property tax levies that were earmarked for teacher pensions. “From 1996 to 2005, Chicago collected $2 billion in tax revenues intended for teacher pensions, but spent the money elsewhere. In
HOUSES FOR SALE
2010, the General Assembly granted CPS’ request to postpone another $1.2 billion in payments as “pension relief.” Based upon the CTPF information, which includes a Feb. 11, 2013 report prepared by CTPF for the Crusader the district is seeking to restructure the $400 million, and subsequent $600 million annual payment, and that is not pension reform as Emanuel and CPS spokesperson Becky Carroll has insisted.
Chicagoans Demand (Cont’d from page 2) must come here and make up our minds that the bullet that killed Trayvon, woke us up and we ain’t going back to sleep ‘till justice blows down,” he said. More well-known attendees were Rep. Mary E. Flowers (D-Maywood), Congressman Danny K. Davis, Congresswoman Robin Kelly (D-IL), rapper MC Lyte and Andrea Zopp of the Chicago Urban League. The National Action Net-
work organized the protest and worked with WVON 1690AM to spread the word. To sign the petition visit WWW.NationationalAction-Network.Net.
HOUSES FOR SALE
Celebrities Share “Untold Stories” of The Kinsey Collection (Cont’d from page 13) from The Kinsey Collection. Customers can visit Wells Fargo Card Design StudioTM at: www.wellsfargo.com/carddesignstudio and select Kinsey Art in the image library. About Wells Fargo Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE: WFC) is a nationwide, diversified, community-based financial services company with $1.4 trillion in assets. Founded in 1852 and headquartered in San Francisco, Wells Fargo provides banking, insurance, investments, mortgage, and consumer and commercial finance through more than 9,000 stores, 12,000 ATMs,
(Continued from page 6) that which the Creator has given us, “All Life, Power, and Health, like the Sun Forever.” I urge all African people to take a meditative moment and look deeply inside of ourselves as a people. Let us restore what the ancient Black people of Kemet called Maat: Divine Order, Harmony, Balance, Truth, Justice, Righteousness, and Rec16
and the Internet (wellsfargo. com), and has offices in more than 35 countries to support the bank’s customers who conduct business in the global economy. With more than 270,000 team members, Wells Fargo serves one in three households in the United States. Wells Fargo & Company was ranked No. 25 on Fortune’s 2013 rankings of America’s largest corporations. Wells Fargo’s vision is to satisfy all our customers’ financial needs and help them succeed financially. About The Kinsey Collection The Kinsey Collection strives to Educate, Motivate & Inspire Americans to learn more
iprocity. We had, and lived by Maat before the coming of Europeans. We must return to the ways of Maat so we can survive the white supremacy genocidal onslaught. We must look deep into ourselves! And as our respected ancestor Dr. John Henrik Clarke often said, “If we did it once, we can do it again!” In view of what is happening in the world, we must never
Saturday, July 27, 2013
about the remarkable contributions of African Americans in building America. The Kinsey Collection has been featured on CBS Sunday Morning and scores of television/radio shows and newspapers/magazines nationally. It has been cited in three national awards including the nation’s highest honor, The President’s Medal for Museum and Library Services, and was selected as one of the “Top Ten exhibits to see in the world”. With their son Khalil, the Kinsey’s have developed a 198-page coffee table book that has been adopted by the State of Florida to teach African American history, and a companion lecture series titled “What You Didn’t Learn in High School History”. The
lose sight of who we are and our condition. COMMERCIAL/ WHOLESALE SPACE
Commercial/Wholesale space for rent in the Chatham area…11,000 square feet. Contact Bob at 773-488-1411.
LEGAL NOTICE To whom it may concern, I am caretaker/custodian for the property at 9006 South Colfax /Anthony, Chicago, Il 60617. Contact, Flo Mills 7/13, 7/20, 7/27/ 2013
Kinsey Collection exhibition has been on display in eight museums including the Smithsonian National Museum of American History, with an iteration of the collection showing at EPCOT Center, Walt Disney World Resort through 2015.
ADOPTION Considering adoption? Mixed-race Asian mother with adopted African-American son seeks to adopt a second child. Stable, multicultural home full of love and hugs. Bilingual Spanish/English. To learn more, contact: Family Resource Center, (800) 676-2229, (773) 334-2300, email: adoption@f-r-c.org
LEGAL NOTICE TO: CJ, CASEY, BIG T OR ANY OTHER UNKNOWN FATHER OF A FEMALE CHILD BORN ON THE 26TH DAY OF MARCH, 2012; IN THE STATE OF IOWA. THE MOTHER OF THIS CHILD IS MCKANZIE BREWER. You are notified that there is now on file in the office of the Clerk of Court for Muscatine County, a petition to terminate parental rights in case number JV005647 which asks that your parental rights be terminated as it relates to your child born on the 26th day of March, 2012, in the State of Iowa. For further details contact the clerk’s office. The petitioner’s attorney is Oubonh White, Assistant Muscatine County Attorney, Muscatine County Attorney’s Office, 420 East Third Street, Muscatine, IA 52761, 563-263-0382. You are notified that there will be a hearing on the petition to terminate parental rights before the Iowa Juvenile Court for Muscatine County, at the Courthouse in Muscatine, IA on the 29th day of August, 2013, at 10:30 o’clock a.m. You are further notified that unless on or before this time and date of hearing, you appear, or, you serve, and within a reasonable time thereafter file, a written special appearance, motion or answer, in the above-named Court at the Courthouse in Muscatine, IA, judgment by default will be rendered finding your parental rights to be terminated as demanded in the Petition. You are further notified that you are entitled to be represented by an attorney. If you are unable to employ counsel, you may apply to have counsel appointed by filling out an affidavit of your financial situation. You should do this immediately. Jeff Tollenaer Dates of Publication: _______________________ _______________________ _______________________
BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
Clerk of the Juvenile Court Muscatine County Courthouse Muscatine, Iowa 52761
www.chicagocrusader.com
HOUSES FOR SALE
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: D13134896 on the 2nd day of July, 2013 under the Assumed Business Name of Always Onyx, with the business located at 1727 E. 86th Place, Chicago, IL 60617. The true and real name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/partner(s) is: Sylvia Snowden, 1727 E. 86th Place, Chicago, IL 60617. 7/13, 20, 27, 2013
www.chicagocrusader.com
BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
Saturday, July 27, 2013
17
HOUSES FOR SALE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT CHANCERY DIVISION DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR LONG BEACH MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2005-WL2 Plaintiff, -v.NARLY LAUGHLIN, PATRICK LAUGHLIN, JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, PRAIRIE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION Defendants 12 CH 01323 5636 S. PRAIRIE AVE., UNIT 2S & P8 Chicago, IL 60637 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on November 14, 2012, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on August 12, 2013, at the The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive 24th Floor, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 5636 S. PRAIRIE AVE., UNIT 2S & P8, Chicago, IL 60637 Property Index No. 20-15-110-028-1005 (UNIT 2S); 2015-110-028-1016 (PARKING UNIT P8). The real estate is improved with a residential condominium. The judgment amount was $156,005.48. Sale terms: The bid amount, including the Judicial sale fee for Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, shall be paid in certified funds immediately by the highest and best bidder at the conclusion of the sale. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. 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. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee or the Mortgageeʼs attorney. 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. For information, contact Plaintiffʼs attorney: HEAVNER, SCOTT, BEYERS & MIHLAR, LLC, 111 East Main Street, DECATUR, IL 62523, (217) 422-1719. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee or the Mortgageeʼs attorney. 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. HEAVNER, SCOTT, BEYERS & MIHLAR, LLC 111 East Main Street DECATUR, IL 62523 (217) 422-1719 Attorney Code. 40387 Case Number: 12 CH 01323 TJSC#: 33-14720 NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiffʼs attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. I544714
18
Saturday, July 27, 2013
BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
www.chicagocrusader.com
HEALTH
Summertime Blood Donors Needed Heartland Blood Centers, a nonprofit independent medical organization providing blood products to 49 Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana hospitals, asks all healthy individuals to “roll up their sleeves” and give blood in July. Current and prospective donors are asked to include donating blood or sponsoring a blood drive in their summer plans. Holidays, vacations, weddings, and other celebrations keep many regular donors from giving blood. If you have not yet made your summertime blood donation, you are urged to do so this month. Heartland has 17 center locations and blood drives open to the public 7 days a week, making it convenient and easy to donate blood at any time of the year. As a “thank you” to those who support the volunteer blood donor program, all donors who give blood in July will receive a certificate good for $7.00 in retail purchases at Oberweis Ice Cream and Dairy Stores, compliments of Heartland Blood Centers. This promotion recognizes and rewards blood donors who take time out of their
busy summer schedules to donate blood at any Heartland center location or mobile blood drive. For the few communities not located near an Oberweis Ice Cream and Dairy Store, other “thank-you” gifts may be substituted. In addition, all blood donors who join Heartland’s “Warm Hearts” club by going to www.heartlandbc.org, will earn points toward premium gifts and gift cards of their choice. “Summertime is historically the time of year when blood centers across the country struggle with their blood inventory levels. We are no exception.” said Dennis Mestrich, President and CEO of Heartland Blood Centers. Mestrich also states “Schools close for the summer, and workers go on vacation. This compounds our challenge to collect the blood needed to maintain safe and adequate blood inventories.” Patients in the 49 area hospitals who rely on Heartland for all of their transfusion needs require more than 600 units every day for their surgery and treatment. After assuring that these patients’ blood needs are met, Heartland maintains a limited sur-
BLOOD CENTERS ACROSS the country usually have their lowest levels of blood for transfusions during summer months. The Heartland Blood Centers with facilities in Illinois and Indiana encourage residents to take the time to donate blood to help save lives. plus supply of blood products on with written parental permission; zation that has 10 or more members hand in order to respond to any local weigh at least 110 pounds; be symp- interested in donating blood, contom free of cold, flu and allergies; and tact Heartland Blood Centers to or national emergencies. be in general good health. Donors find out how you can help the many To be a blood donor, individuals who have traveled outside the Unit- patients in your community needmust be at least 17 years old or 16 ed States within the past 12 months ing blood this summer. Don’t leave should contact Heartland at 1-800- this important community respon7TO-GIVE to determine eligibility sibility to others. Remember, the or visit www.heartlandbc.org. need for blood never takes a vacaIf you belong to a group or organi- tion.
St. Anthony names cutest kids More than $3,750 in prizes distributed to the community Saint Anthony Hospital recently announced the winners of its First Annual Cutest Kid Contest. The first contest focused on children from the hospital’s service areas and named winners in three different categories. Participants entered online for a chance to win a grand prize of $1,000, second place of $250 and to be a part of the hospital’s pediatric advertising campaign. More than 400 children entered into the online contest. Parents were encouraged to ask friends and family to vote daily. The top contestants in each category participated in the final round of judging conducted by three Saint Anthony Hospital pediatricians: Dr. Romeen Lavani, chairman of the department of pediatrics, Dr. Shruti Trehan and Dr. Shilpa Singh. The contest concluded on June 8 at the hospital’s annual Summer Fest/Car and Bike show. During the event, contestants participated in a photo shoot with Maya Moody of Moody Photography and met with judges. Judges met with children and their parents and evaluated each on charisma and asked each one the question “Why do you love your doctor?” “We have never done anything like this before and were pleasantly surprised by the number of contestants that entered the contest,” said www.chicagocrusader.com
Senator Hunter hosts health and fitness fair State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-3) wants her constituents and other Chicagoans to get the facts about their health situations, and learn to maintain good health and fitness during a health, fitness and fun fair August 3 at Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT), 33rd and State streets. Hunter said the Ninth Annual Fitness Fair offers eye exams, health screenings, massages, and entertainment for senior citizens. Part of the festivities include line
A ST. ANTHONY HOSPITAL contest to name the cutest kids earned Trevon a first place award recently. Lavani. “We met amazing kids and families and we look forward to running the contest again.” About Saint Anthony Hospital For more than 115 years, Saint Anthony Hospital has served more than 410,000 residents on Chicago West and Southwest Sides. Saint Anthony Hospital is committed to providing quality health and wellness services, and a wide variety of
free bilingual community health education/outreach programs. Saint Anthony Hospital staff work with community-based organizations, schools, parishes and other agencies to offer health education, early childhood and mental health services. More information is available at www.SAHChicago.org or call 773.484.1010. Find them on Twitter@SaintAnthonyHos and on Facebook at Saint Anthony Hospital Chicago.
State Senator Mattie Hunter dancing and a Hula Hoop contest. A balloon launch will serve a salute to victims and survivors of
BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
breast cancer. The fair lasts from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. The entertainment line-up includes the South Shore Drill Team, the Jesse White Tumblers. The drill team performs at 10 a.m. and the tumblers perform at 12:30 p.m. Students will receive back-to-school book bags with school supplies and a book. There also will be free haircuts for students and interactive games. “I am urging all Chicago residents to take advantage of the free services and fun offered at this festival,” Hunter said. Hunter is partnering with the Institute for Positive Living, founded by the Rev. Marrice Coverson. It promotes the quality of community life with a special focus on helping families solving educational, social and economic problems. The Institute also has the Open Book Program that centers on values of creativity; empowerment; excellence; integrity, and opportunity, according to Coverson. IIT, Chicago Area Project, University of Chicago Medical Center, Walgreens of the Human Resources Development Institute are sponsors. ComEd is the presenting sponsor. Saturday, July 27, 2013
19
20
Saturday, July 27, 2013
BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
www.chicagocrusader.com