www.chicagocrusader.com
Blacks Must Control Their Own Community
AUDITED BY
•C•P•V•S•
VOLUME LXXIII NUMBER 15—SATURDAY, AUGUST 3, 2013
PUBLISHED SINCE 1940
25 Cents and worth more
S.O.S. program needed now By J. Coyden Palmer Last month the Chicago Public Schools announced they would be laying off 2,000 teachers and support staff for the upcoming school year. In response to the news, many critics have said those who will be put at most risk will be students with special needs. Not only those with learning and physical disabilities are at risk, but those students with past behavioral issues and those who have been identified as being at risk of being victims of Chicago street violence could lose essential services. Those cuts come in addition to the 855 teachers given pink slips in June. Dr. Michelle Hoy-Watkins, Department Chairperson of Forensic Psychology at The Chicago School Forensic Center, said she is worried many of her former clients will be put in peril by the school closings and subsequent layoff of staff. Hoy-Watkins created a program Save Our School Children [SOS] four years ago that is designed to work with male youth in the 6th through 12th grades with a focus on violence prevention. Last
school year, Hoy-Watkins went into five different schools and facilitated weekly life skills groups that focused on conflict resolution, anger management, problem solving, self-esteem building and other essential skills. The program also focused on goal development, future planning, vocational training and helping students fill out job applications. The idea is to give students different skill sets so they can make better decisions that will result in a reduction in their contact with police and the criminal court system, in addition to a reduction in disciplinary problems in school and to improve academic achievement. “It’s my belief that these kids can be helped,” Hoy-Watkins said. “There is no bad child or adolescent. Just like other people, kids can make poor choices. We’re in a position to help provide opportunities to kids so they can make better choices. I’ve seen radical changes in some youth and I do believe if we provide a kid with the right resources and alternatives, along with the right opportunities change can happen.” Hoy-Watkins explained the population fo-
Dr. Michelle Hoy-Watkins cus group in the program is based on the school identifying a student whom they feel needs assistance or is at risk of being a perpetrator or victim of violence. Many of the students are involved in gang activity and are on probation or home confinement. Others have multiple suspensions at school and are
having trouble with their academics. It is a challenging population. Most of the kids in the group are at a point where they need some kind of intervention in order to be successful, Hoy-Watkins said. “I think for the kids the most critical thing needed is opportunities in the community,” she said. “Whether it’s wrap around services for kids when they get out of school, resources… the kids critically need opportunities. I’ve worked with a lot of kids who have only seen things from one perspective; a negative one. If they have an opportunity to shadow an African American male who is successful, I think that in and of itself can have a positive impact on a child.” The S.O.S. program was at Claremont Academy, Crane High School, Kenwood Academy, Dumas Elementary and Innovation High School (alternative) last school year. Dumas is one of the 50 schools being closed by CPS officials this year. HoyWatkins is concerned about her former students at Dumas and is not optimistic those students will get the attention they need at (Continued on page 16)
Jobs still a key issue 50 Years after historic march By George E. Curry NNPA Editor-in-Chief PHILADELPHIA (NNPA) – One of the primary goals of the 1963 March on Washington was finding or creating jobs for Blacks. At a panel discussion during the annual convention of the National Urban League, jobs was mentioned more frequently than any other topic as leaders discussed the famous march 50 years ago and an upcoming one planned for Saturday, Aug. 24. Barbara Arnwine, president and executive director of the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, said employers are increasingly using measures that have nothing to do with job performance that disproportionately limits the ability of African-Americans to gain employment. “I need you to make sure that your state has a law that says very clearly that you cannot use the fact that somebody has been arrested as a reason not to employ them,” she told convention delegates. “A (Continued on page 3)
PANELISTS ON THE National Urban League’s Redeem the Dream panel were (from left to right) Al Sharpton, Lennox Yearwood, Melanie Campbell, Marc Morial, DeVon Franklin, Barbara Arnwine and Jesse L. Jackson, Sr. (National Urban League Photo by Lawrence Jenkins).
INSIDE THIS ISSUE New option gives CPS students second chance (See story on page 10)
CRUSADERNEWSPAPERGROUP
@CRUSADERNEWSPAP
NEWS
Civil Rights Leaders Meet with President Obama on Voting Rights By Freddie Allen NNPA Washington Correspondent WASHINGTON (NNPA) – The Voting Rights Act is down, but not out and civil rights leaders joined President Obama and Attorney General Eric H. Holder, Jr. at the White House Monday to discuss renewed efforts in the fight against voter discrimination. In a statement released after the meeting, Al Sharpton, civil rights activist and president of the National Action Network said: “Today the United States President and Attorney General met with a broad coalition of civil rights and voting rights leaders to assure us that they will continue to work with us to protect every American’s right to vote.” Sharpton continued: “We had a
Eric Holder great alarm when the Supreme Court ruled against Section 4 of the Voting Rights Act but after meeting with the President and the Attorney General we were assured that the Voting Rights Act may be wounded but it is not dead. It is not even critically wounded; it can and will be revived.” Last month, the Supreme Court, struck down Section 4 of the Voting
Rights Act of 1965, effectively neutering what many called the crown jewel of the Civil Rights Movement. Section 4 required all or parts of 15 states with track records of voter discrimination to get “preclearance” from the Justice Department or a federal court for any changes they wanted to make to voting laws. Within hours after the Supreme Court ruling in Shelby County v. Holder, a number of state lawmakers from previously covered states announced plans to move forward with restrictive voting laws that disproportionately affect minorities, the elderly and young voters. Texas is one of those states. The Lone Star State has a history of voting discrimination, the latest entry due to redistricting plans that disproportionately affected minority voters. During a speech at the National Urban League’s annual convention Attorney General Eric Holder said that, “the State of Texas should be required to go through a preclearance process whenever it changes its voting laws and practices.” Holder plans to use remaining sections of the law go after states that continue practices that intentionally discriminate against voters. Barbara Arnwine, president and executive director of the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, said that uncovering and fighting voter discrimination in the current landscape is a daunting task, but she was encouraged to see how much the Department of Justice is strategizing and positioning itself to be a real force in combating racial discrimination. Kasim Reed, mayor of Atlanta said that civil rights leaders and voting rights advocates will be doing more education than ever. “While there are a number of adverse tactics being used to under-
REV. AL SHAPRTON and other voting rights advocates speak with press after meeting with President Obama (NNPA Photo by Freddie Allen). mine the right to vote,” said Reed. “While there are a number of adverse tactics being used to undermine the right to vote, if we do our job we will make sure that people maintain access to the ballot.” Reed said that he plans to work with mayors across the nation to form partnerships with civil rights organizations to assist in voter engagement and education. Marc Morial, president and CEO of the National Urban League, said that voters must “be particularly vigilant on proposals in state legislatures when they happen, not when they gain momentum, but when they happen.” Arnwine said that her group will be looking at all the states and plans to conduct hearings nationwide to assist Congress in obtaining the data that will be necessary to create a new voting map. “[President Obama] is committed to making sure that the right to vote
is secure and strong and that he’s also calling on people to do everything they can to protect their right to vote,” said Arnwine. “Ultimately, it’s about what the citizens will do.” Arnwine’s group is part of a larger coalition formed to assist embattled voters around the nation (The Election Protection Website is www.866ourvote.org; telephone, 866/OURVOTE). Melanie L. Campbell, president and CEO of The National Coalition on Black Civic Participation, said that young voters have increased their civic engagement, rallying around recent Supreme Court decisions on affirmative action and the Voting Rights Act. “Our young people are connecting the dots,” said Campbell. “They connect the Stand Your Ground law to the voting rights law, so part of what’s going to happen during the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington, you will
see young people coming here for training and teach-ins, because they understand that the rights that need protecting all center around the Voting Rights Act.” The commemorative march in Washington will be on Saturday, Aug. 24. “The Supreme Court decision has had a catalyzing effect. The Trayvon Martin tragedy combined with the Supreme Court decision [in Shelby v. Holder] really has energized people,” said Morial. “You’ve got Moral Mondays in North Carolina the Dream Defenders in Florida. The great thing about the Dream Defenders is seeing young people that are engaging and they’re not looking for permission.” Read more: http://www.nnpa.org/civil-rights-leaders-meet withpresident-obama-on-voting-rightsby-freddie-allen/#ixzz2aXqdmtWO
Congressional Black Caucus convenes to Stop the Violence By Royce Strahan Hundreds of Chicagoans gathered at Chicago State University (CSU) recently to discuss solutions to the increasingly publicized gun violence. Political and community leaders were also in attendance to answer questions and discuss what they could do to curb gun violence. Members of the Congressional Black Caucus, including Illinois congressmen Bobby Rush, (D-1), Danny Davis (D-7) and Maxine Waters (DCA) met with Jesse Jackson and other local leaders recently at the National Summit on Violence in Urban Communities to discuss what can be done to take more kids off the street and put more in classrooms. A number of sessions led to a town hall meeting where the public was able to express their opinions on what could be done. “It went well because 2
Saturday, august 3, 2013
what we have is the elected officials from the area asking us to weigh in so that we could draw more attention to what was going on in Chicago as they struggle with how to address these issues of violence that create so much concern,” said Waters. Michael Skolnik, political director for Russell Simmons and Editor-inChief of GlobalGrind.com, moderated the town hall discussion. The Rev. Michael Pfleger of St. Sabina, was also in attendance with his group Peacemakers from the church. “What these guys [Peacemakers] are doing every day is bringing brothers out, talking to them and letting them know there’s nothing wrong with them getting help and having options,” Pfleger said about the Peacemakers. “These are the kind of brothers who need to be the ones who are not just on the street, but the ones telling folks what has to happen to de-
crease violence.” The common sentiment among participants on the panel and attendees was having more positive figures in communities speak to youth and guide them toward making better choices. While some felt the summit was beneficial to talk about the things that could be done to decrease violence, others expressed that action after the summit is required to actually see a change while commending leaders who have already assumed this role. “We’ve been having forums of people coming together to talk about what needs to be done so we have to commend brothers like Father Mike for actually doing it instead of talking about it,” said Curtis Tolar, member of Peacemakers. “If it wasn’t for brothers like him giving us a chance, we would still be products of our environment and doing things that we
did before.” Congresswoman Robin Kelly of Illinois’ 2nd District shared stories of dealing with tragedies during her years as a counselor for victims of child abuse and domestic violence. She also lost a cousin and volunteer to domestic violence, which has led her to fight for those in abusive situations. “I’m here because of the Blair Holts, Hadiya Pendletons, Derrion Alberts and the Ben Wilsons,” said Kelly. “Because we’re losing a generation of young people and we cannot afford to do it. Hopefully there are solutions to this because we don’t want any more parents crying.” The summit was planned after Democratic members decided the violence had gotten out of hand following a 4th of July weekend in which 74 people were shot and 12 were fatally wounded in the city. “We’re seeing television coverage of
BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
the disruptions in Cairo (Egypt), but they pale in comparison to the carnage in Chicago,” Rush said at a press briefing when the emergency summit was announced. “We will not tolerate this type of bloodshed on our nation’s streets.” Please visit www.chicagocrusader.com to read how local pastors are working to help five Oklahoma college students fight unjust criminal charges.
www.chicagocrusader.com
NEWS
New website designed for South Side residents By Wendell Hutson A new website, southsidehealth.org, designed by the University of Chicago Medicine now allows health care professionals as well as residents to find resources, such as churches, laundromats, restaurants, and banks, in several South Side neighborhoods. High school students, who are hired, to work full-time during the summer compile the data. This year 80 students, who are paid $8.25 per hour, participated in the eight-week MapCorps program. The program began July 8 and ends Aug. 15, according to Dr. Stacy Lindau, director of the South Side Health and Vitality Studies at the University of Chicago Urban Health Initiative. There are more than 10 categories of information for users and provides addresses and phone numbers for each institution listed. “The idea to start this program began with a conversation in 2008 when a group of doctors (at the university) realized that there was no valid, comprehensive data out there available,” she recalled. “Not even the census could accurately tell you how many restaurants and their locations were in one neighborhood since the census is conducted once every 10 years.” There are 20 neighborhoods covered by the MapCorps website, which Lindau said are within the university’s service areas. The goal
though is to eventually cover all 34 neighborhoods, she said that make up the South Side. Dr. Daniel Johnson, an associate professor of Pediatrics at the university, heads up the program that began July 2009. Since then the program has continued each summer with groups of students and one university graduate student assigned to different neighborhoods. “Maybe when the census was conducted a church on the corner was open but now it is a liquor store,” said Lindau. “There’s no way to know this by simply looking it up on the Internet.” A NEW WEBSITE–southsidehealth.org–allows Chicagoans to find information on health care professionals, services, and business locations in 20 South Side communities. This is the home page of that website.
Dr. Stacy Lindau For students participating they said the experience is informative and eye opening. “Some preconceived notions you
may have had about a particular neighborhood quickly get dispelled or validated,” said Devonta Dickey, a 17-year-old Lindblom Math & Science Academy High School senior assigned to the Auburn Gresham community. Other students also working in Auburn Gresham had only one complaint. “If we had a car that would help because we do a lot of walking. That’s my only complaint,” said Saleema Muhammad, 17, who graduated in May from Perspective High School. “Overall, people have been helpful when we ask them questions.” High crime is one thing Auburn
Gresham is known for but Amy Hansen, a 21-year-old senior at the University of Chicago, and a group coordinator, said she has not had any issues with crime. “Things have ran relatively smooth for us. No one has tried to rob us or anything like that,” Hansen said. “Everyone has been good about pointing out certain aspects about the neighborhood like how long a business has been closed.” Students are paid a stipend from the After School Matters nonprofit organization, “Most of the students chosen to work on the project came from neighborhood organizations like
the Greater Auburn-Gresham Development Corporation,” said Tiffani Washington, a spokeswoman for the University of Chicago Medicine. “But the program is open to all high school students from across the city.” Rather than write information, students are given smart phones to use to update information found. Part of the funding for the program comes from a $5.9 million grant the university received to use over three years from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, said Lindau, who added that students participating also learn about science, technology, engineering and math.
Jobs still a key issue 50 Years after historic march (Continued from page 1) mere arrest tells you nothing.” Sounding more like an evangelical preacher than the lawyer that she is, Arnwine drew loud applause when she said, “You need a state law that says to employers that credit checks have nothing to do with your ability to work. If your credit is bad, it’s because you don’t have a job. Get real.” Al Sharpton, president of the National Action Network, said the private sector needs to assume a larger role in reducing Black unemployment, which stood at 12.7 percent when Obama took office and rose to 13.7 percent in June, twice the white employment rate of 6.6 percent. According to the Department of Labor Statistics, more than 2.5 million Blacks are unemployed. “Ever since President Obama has been in, there has been an increase in jobs in the private sector, but Black unemployment has not decreased. Why? Because we work [disproportionately] in the public sector,” he explained. “So while the private corporations who now don’t have to deal with us because the Supreme Court is knocking down affirmative action, they are not hiring us. The public secwww.chicagocrusader.com
tor is being cut down with agencies and programs – we’re being minimized in the public sector.” But Sharpton said Blacks have the economic leverage to force companies to hire more African-Americans. “We need to renegotiate Black America’s understanding – we called them covenants – with the private sector,” he said. “The court can say all it wants about affirmative action, we have the consumer power to say to companies that do business in our communities that, ‘You must have targets of doing jobs in our community.’ They can’t make us buy from those who won’t hire us.” Jesse Jackson said that all levels of government should also be held accountable. “In Chicago, there are 81,000 vacant lots,” he stated. “They cut public housing and they foreclosed on private housing. They’ve cut public transportation, cut trauma care. Cut public schools. There is no present plan to bring us out of that isolation. And I think the government has some obligation.” Especially a government and nation as rich as the U.S., according to Marc Morial, president and CEO of the National Urban League.
Jesse Jackson Sr. “We’ve got a $15 trillion economy in the United States of America, the largest economy in the world,” he stated. “And it is unacceptable – Dr. King talked about it and Whitney Young talked about it – for there to be these vast oceans of poverty amid all the plenty. So many are doing well and so many people are left behind.” He said many U.S. tax and trade policies are misguided. “American public policy is focused on job creation,” Morial said. A significant part of it is focused on job creation in the wrong places. For example, there’s a huge infrastructure
rebuilding program that the people of the United States are paying for. The problem is it’s for the reconstruction of and rebuilding of Bagdad. It’s for the reconstruction of Kandahar…Your and my tax dollars are being invested. That could be and should be redirected to Philadelphia, to Baltimore, to Boston. Secondly, United States trade and tax policies are encouraging job creation. But they are encouraging job creation in China, in India and overseas.” Closer to home, far away from Iraq and Afghanistan, Rev. Lennox Yearwood, Jr., president and CEO of the Hip Hoop Caucus, said that unlike civil rights veterans, many youth are not eager to participate in marches. “My generation just doesn’t want to march for marching’s sake,” he said. “We got to march for a reason. Trayvon is one reason. Voting rights is one reason. We must push for policy.” Proving Yearwood’s point, a young member of the audience gently questioned the value of marching. “I’m concerned about those who are tired of marching who have never marched,” Jackson said. He noted that all demonstrations were undertaken with specific goals in mind and
BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
Barbara Arnwine marching is simply a means to an end. Sharpton agreed. “You say why march about voting?” he asked, rhetorically. “Well, that’s how we got it the first time. We did not get voting rights at a cocktail sip, trying to have racial harmony sessions. We got it by organizing and galvanizing and the only way we are going to make changes is by organizing and galvanizing.” Morial said recent changes in federal student loan programs are threatening the existence of some historically Black colleges. Saturday, July 27, 2013
3
EDITORIAL
EDITORIAL WAR ON BLACK AMERICA! Recently, a number of prominent civil rights leaders met with President Barack Obama and Attorney General Eric Holder, Jr., regarding the recent gutting of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 (VRA). While the country was focused on the shenanigans surrounding the George Zimmerman trial and its absurd verdict, the Voting Rights Act was under attack. Basically, one of the most important protective features of the VRA, Section 4, was thrown out and will probably result in the disenfranchisement of minority voters. Section 4 laid out a requirement for 15 states that had a track record of voter discrimination to have to go through “preclearance” from the Justice Department or a federal court before they could make any changes to voting laws. Apparently, the Supreme Court felt that the provision was no longer needed. The Supreme Court’s action sent ripples of differing kinds throughout America; ripples of fear and indignation in the African American community on the one hand, and ripples of glee from some in the previously covered states. According to an National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) article entitled “Civil Rights Leaders Meet with President Obama on Voting Rights Act” written by NNPA Washington Correspondent Freddie Allen, “Within hours after the Supreme Court ruling in Shelby v. Holder, a number of state lawmakers from previously covered states announced plans to move forward with restrictive voting laws that disproportionately affect minorities, the elderly and young voters.” The fact that some of these covered states are moving so quickly to take advantage of the VRA’s changes speaks volumes. It is an “in your face” confirmation of the need for laws that protect the rights of America’s minority voters. It also uncovers the lie of an alleged “post-racial society” wherein protective laws are not needed. And, most importantly, it flaunts a blatant disrespect for potentially disenfranchised citizens. Among the leaders meeting with President Obama and Attorney General Eric Holder around the VRA’s changes and related consequences were Rev. Al Sharpton, president of the National Action Network; Barbara Arnwine, president and executive director of the Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law; Kasim Reed, mayor of Atlanta; Marc Morial, president and CEO of the National Urban League; and Melanie L. Campbell, president and CEO of the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation. Campbell, in what can be seen as an optimistic stance, said “Our young people are connecting the dots. They connect the Stand Your Ground law to other voting rights laws, so part of what’s going to happen during the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington, you will see young people coming here for training and teach-ins, because they understand that the rights that need protecting all center around the Voting Rights Act.” Marc Morial also affirmed that “young people are engaging and they’re not looking for permission.” All of this sounds good, but it is up to the entire community to join in the struggle for voter enfranchisement. President Obama and Attorney Holder have vowed to aggressively fight against voter discrimination, and while we may want to expect miracles from them, the truth is that they cannot do it alone; it is up to all of us to be the boots on the ground who will be active and vigilant in the fight for voting rights for minorities. Let’s face it: war has been declared on Black America, and, as in any war, soldiers are needed. The generals can’t do it alone. A luta continua! 4
Saturday, August 3, 2013
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR There is more than one point of view
programs, or food pantries, or anything that will improve the quality of life on the South Side and West Side?
Dear Editor: I was appalled and grateful at the same time to read in the Crusader that a group of preachers are trying to force state reps Elgie Sims and Andre Thapedi to vote against a pending same-sex marriage bill. I was appalled that these so-called men of God have no tolerance for people who think differently than them. They have paid a firm to do robo-calls to the legislators’ constituents. Of course, the preachers will continue to try to hide behind the Bible and talk about what it says about same-sex relationship. The Bible speaks to many things that people should not do, and preachers, especially Black preachers, do many of them. There are a number of whisper campaigns about which Black preachers are involved in down-low activities. How many of them have not only the “first lady” they are married to, but the “second lady” they are meeting in hotels on the sly? The legislators represent thousands of people with varying views. If they vote for their constituents’ interests, then they have done their jobs. These preachers trying to bully them into a position is simply wrong. It seems to me that our community has problems that are much bigger than this who is marrying whom. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if these same preachers devoted this energy and money to after school
Sidney Harris
They’re lying… it’s that simple Dear Editor: The latest news out of City Hall and the Chicago Public Schools central office is there has to be even more cuts in the school district’s budget to cover this deficit they claim. It seems every week there is a new announcement different from an earlier announcement. When someone or some organization has to change stories as much as CPS and City Hall have, the only logical conclusion is they were lying in the first place. To date, nothing Rahm Emanuel has told us about his plans for our schools has stood up. He wanted a longer school day and got it. New teachers for the longer school day were hired, but last week they were fired. When he was talking about closing schools, everyone was told there would be this huge savings. Less than a month after the schools were announced, the district said the savings had been over-estimated by 25 percent. He and the school district spokesperson said that the cuts would be kept as far away from the classroom as possible. That is a quote. It doesn’t seem like the cuts are being kept away from the classroom when close to 2,000 teachers are
BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
fired in a two-month period. This man, no doubt will ask for our support, next year when it is time to campaign for the mayor’s job again. How can we trust him? He has lied to us repeatedly, and the school district has not improved with anything the mayor has promised. He has politicized the education system here more than Mayor Daley could have ever dreamed of. Now he wants us to believe that pension reform is going to help the district. That is such a crock. (Continued on page 16)
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.15 AUG.3, 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
Detroit has Finally hit Bottom – Let’s Rebuild! By Harry C. Alford It has been a long and rocky ride down the economic slope for the Motor City. The first time I moved to Detroit was 1974. I was just discharged from the United States Army as a 2nd Lieutenant and motivated to excel in my new civilian career. Procter & Gamble hired me out of the University of Wisconsin as I graduated in 1970. Knowing I was about to be drafted they placed me in Toledo, OH for training and assured me that I would be placed in Detroit after my service. When I was discharged I found the sales office to have left the city of Detroit and moved to nearby Dearborn, MI. This was part of a big migration by corporate Detroit which had given up on the city and its firebrand mayor, Coleman Young. That was the beginning. Year after year and decade after decade the businesses, white middle class and then Black middle class left for the suburbs or across the country. The declining tax base, increasing crime rate, blight and debt beyond belief became too common for any good. Authorities “kicked the can” down the street on an annual basis (pretty much like our federal government
Harry C. Alford today). Now Detroit is in very dire straits. It has a debt of $20 billion and can only generate about $1 billion per year for its annual costs. Bankrupt indeed! I am glad to see the “bottom” because now we can only go up. Detroit is too big of a city with a great heritage for us to turn our backs on it. This is the stuff great things are made of. What we need now is a Project New Detroit Commission appointed by the Michigan Governor. Members of this panel should
be made up of nonpoliticians and credible business managers. If I ruled this matter here is how I would throw down on the bleak situation. There is rampant corruption. All city officials involved in any process where money is involved such as licensing, procurement, taxation, etc. should take a lie detector test and undergo a background check (revenue exceeds noticeable income). If anyone resists it should be considered a resignation. This should be handled by the prosecutor’s office after he and his office goes through the same scrutiny. Gangs are the biggest distributors of drugs and the violence and crime related to it. Gang leaders (captain level and above) are to be identified and then prosecuted for Racketeering under the RICO statutes. No more leaders; no more gangs. Good riddance! More than half the property tax owners do not pay their tax bills. Give them 90 days to catch up or make strict arrangements. Failure should lead to property seizure and quick auctions. This cash flow is critically needed for the city treasury. The school system of Detroit is one of the worst in the nation. Effective immediately, there should
be a Charter School licensing system. All schools charter and tax funded must teach literacy and mathematics with some science to grade efficiency beginning with first through twelfth grades. Elementary public schools can be replaced with these charter schools whenever practical. High schools should be considered for merger with others or just closed when literacy and math levels are inferior. Libraries will be privatized. You can’t have a great city without a quality workforce. Detroit is the Capital for unions. This will end. All city related union contracts should be voided immediately and payroll and benefits will be in accordance with the Bankruptcy Committee and the ability to pay by the employers and shareholders. The city will no longer be responsible for the parks and recreation facilities. The ownership remains with the city but the maintenance, grounds keeping, security, etc. will be privatized via a Request for Proposal process (3 year terms). All utilities and hospitals will be privatized. RFP’s will be renewable on 10 year terms. City or county commissions will provide oversight and regulatory enforcement.
In regards to empty buildings and vacant lots, proposals will be accepted and reviewed. If viable and up to code, proposals will be approved deeded for $1. Development must begin immediately. 90% of workforce during the developmental stage and permanent hiring thereafter must be residents of Detroit. City and school bus systems will be privatized as soon as possible. Revenue sharing will be between the new owners and the city. Ownership can be for the entire city or particular zones. The new Department of Transportation will be responsible for upkeep and repair of city streets, alleys, roadways and snow removal. A multiple or single privatization process will be applied with oversight done by a citywide commission. Well, I think the above is a good start. Any comments or additions are welcomed. Here’s to a safe, vibrant and family friendly Detroit – devoid of corruption and blessed by our Lord. Mr. Alford is the co-founder, President/CEO of the National Black Chamber of Commerce®. Website: www.nationalbcc.org. Email: halford@nationalbcc.org.
Focus on Poverty, not the Middle Class By George E. Curry NNPA Columnist Several of us were sharing our views on radio Sunday night with Gary Byrd when my friend and colleague Cash Michaels urged us to remember that Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated while organizing poor people. This is a good time to remember that as President Obama seeks ways to strengthen the middle class and civil rights leaders focus on celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Aug. 28, 1963 March on Washington. The idea of organizing a Poor People’s Campaign was discussed during a Nov. 27-31, 1967 Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) planning session in Frogmore, S.C. With the nation’s attention focused on the Vietnam War, Dr. King wanted to redirect the conversation to what the Bible calls the least among us by focusing on jobs and income. Dr. King’s idea was to bring poor people from all over the country to Washington, D.C. in order to put a face on the suffering of people. While still firmly committed to nonviolence, his plan was for a dramatic presence that would disrupt traffic and shut down the nation’s capital. www.chicagocrusader.com
“We ought to come in mule carts, in old trucks, any kind of transportation people can get their hands on. People ought to come to Washington, sit down if necessary in the middle of the streets and say, ‘We are here; we are poor; we don’t have any money; you have made us this way,’” King said. “And we’ve come to stay until you do something about it.” Just as his close advisers had urged him not to give his “I Have a Dream Speech” in 1963, variations of which they had heard earlier, most of Dr. King’s inner circle disagreed with his decision to embark on a Poor People’s Campaign. Children activists and former civil rights attorney Marian Wright Edelman recalled in her book, Unfinished Business, “William Rutherford, who had organized the Friends of SCLC in Europe in 1966 and was appointed executive director of SCLC during the summer of 1967, declared that, ‘basically almost no one on the staff thought that the next priority, the next major movement, should be focused on poor people or the question of poverty in America.’ At the time James Bevel wanted to remain focused on combating slums in northern cities, Hosea Williams promoted voter registration campaigns in the South, Jesse Jackson wanted to continue to develop Op-
George E. Curry eration Breadbasket, and Andrew Young worried that SCLC’s budget of under a million dollars necessitated smaller campaigns in the South.” But Dr. King forged ahead, calling for $30 billion to be spent on antipoverty measures, employment and housing construction. King was helping organize garbage workers in Memphis when he was assassinated. Ralph D. Abernathy, his successor and close friend, continued with plans for the Poor People’s Campaign. Instead of the militant protest Dr. King had envisioned, however, the highlight of the Poor People’s
March to Washington was not shutting down the capital, but the erection of Resurrection City, a collection of tents pitched in D.C. Various executive agencies were lobbied on behalf of the poor and leaders called for an Economic Bill of Rights. The shantytown was disbanded after six weeks. In the view of many observers, Dr. King posed a greater threat to the power structure when he began organizing poor Blacks and whites. But there is an even better opportunity to unite poor people today because so many whites have become impoverished as a result of a recession and high unemployment. Poverty is officially defined as a family of four living off of $23,021 or less a year. Today, a record 46.2 million people –15 percent of the U.S. population – are considered poor. The Associated Press reported: For the first time since 1975, the number of white single-mother households living in poverty with children has surpassed or equaled Black ones in the past decade. Since 2000, the poverty rate among working-class whites has grown faster than among working-class non-whites, rising 3 percentage points to 11 percent. Still, poverty among workingclass non-whites remains about double that of whites.
BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
Mark Rank, a professor at Washington University in St. Louis, believes Dr. King was on to something when he sought to unite poor people across racial lines. “Poverty is no longer an issue of ‘them,’ it’s an issue of ‘us,’ he told the Associated Press. “Only when poverty is thought of as a mainstream event, rather than a fringe experience that just affects Blacks and Hispanics, can we really begin to build broader support for programs that lift people in need.” This is no time to keep Dr. King frozen in the memory of the 1963 March on Washington or his “I Have a Dream” speech while neglecting his true calling to eradicate poverty five years later. As he said, “If you can’t fly then run, if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do, you have to keep moving forward.” 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.georgecurry.com. You can also follow him at www.twitter.com/currygeorge and George E. Curry Fan Page on Facebook. Saturday, August 3, 2013
5
COMMENTARY
GARVEY AND FREEING THE AFRICAN MIND
(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 In this present era of economic and educational onslaught against the African Community in America, it is important that we understand that the rise of the African Centered Education Movement
should be linked to our quest for economic independence. We must free the “African mind” through African Centered Educational activities so that we might better understand the importance of economic self-reliance. One model that we draw strength from in pursuing economic and educational liberation is the model established by the Honorable Marcus Mosiah Garvey and the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA) in the 1920s. The more I read and study about Marcus Garvey, the more I am amazed at the great contributions he made to African people to become a self reliant and self sufficient people. At the core of Marcus Garvey’s program was his urging of African people to acquire education and economic power. As he always started, “A race without power is a race without respect.” When we examine the economic condition of Africans in America, and throughout the world, we find one glaring problem— African people do not control our economic resources at the level we should. This is primarily due to our miseducation as a people. In a disproportionate manner, African people depend on the European and Asian world for food, clothing, and shelter. More often than not, the Euro-
pean and Asian worlds are the producers, processors, distributors, and wholesalers. African people are the consumers. This was one of the major problems that the Honorable Marcus Mosiah Garvey addressed during his lifetime and that Minister Louis Farrakhan continues to address. As Dr. Tony Martin writes in his book Race First, which is one of the best books written on the works of Marcus Garvey, “Marcus Garvey, unlike his major rivals in the United States, built a mass organization that went beyond civil-rights agitation and protest and based itself upon a definite, well thought out program that he believed would lead to the total emancipation of the race from white dominion.” To implement his program, Garvey set up the Negro Factories Corporation (NFC). Its objective was to build and operate factories in the big industrial centers of the United States, Central America, the Caribbean, and Africa. The NFC established a chain of cooperative grocery stores, a restaurant, a steam laundry, tailor and dressmaking shop, a millinery store, and a publishing house. Mr. Garvey also established a steamship company, The Black Star Line. He envisioned a fleet of steamers carrying passengers and es-
tablishing trade among African people of the United States, Central America, the Caribbean, and Africa. In the summer of 1920, Garvey launched his full blown program at the First Annual Convention of the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA) of which he was the founder and first President General. On August 2, 1920, after a massive parade of thousands of well drilled, uniformed ranks of the UNIA, 35,000 delegates from all over the United States and some twenty-five countries convened at Madison Square Garden, in New York City. It was, according to the New York Times, one of the largest gatherings in the history of the hall. Dr. Martin explains that, “Central to the ideological basis underpinning Garvey’s program was the question of race. For Garvey, the Black man was universally oppressed on racial grounds, and no matter how much people try to shy away from this issue, the fact is, this is still true today.” As Malcolm X used to say, it was our Blackness “which caused so much hell not our identity as Elks, Masons, Baptists or Methodists.” If we are ever to become a liberated people this idea must be deeply
rooted in the day to day organizing and mobilizing of our people as we seek economic and educational liberation. Far too many Africans in America have abandoned this idea in their organizing projects. Mr. Garvey understood that the foundation of our liberation was economic and educational independence based on racial solidarity. There are numerous lessons we can learn from the legacy of the Honorable Marcus Mosiah Garvey. Without economic independence tied to the acquisition of political power, African people in America and African people everywhere will continue to be the subjects of the whims of other people. In this regard, Garvey said, “...you can be educated in soul, vision and feeling, as well as in mind. To see your enemy and know him is a part of the complete education of man... Develop yours and you become as great and full of knowledge as the other fellow without entering the classrooms.” Dr. Conrad Worrill, Director/ Professor, Carruthers Center for Inner City Studies (CCICS), located at 700 East Oakwood Blvd, Chicago, Illinois, 60653, 773-268-7500, Fax: 773-268-3835. E-mail: c-worrill@neiu.edu, Web site: www.ccicschicago.org, Twitter: @CCICS_Chicago.
STUDENT LOAN RESOLUTION – BETTER THAN NOTHING? By Julianne Malveaux The United States Senate finally stepped up to ensure that student loan rates would not double, as might have happened. There have been weeks of back and forth, but now the Senate says they will tie student loan rates to the federal funds rate, which means that in the short run the lowest student loan rates will be 3.86 percent; this will be up slightly from 3.4 percent. At the same time, these loan rates may rise up to a rate of 8.25 percent depending on the way interest rates rise. All other loan rates – those for graduate student, for Parent PLUS loans, and others, will rise as well. It may seem a victory that student loan rates don’t rise much higher than they were in June. The connection of rates to the federal funds rate, however, connects the notion of supporting students to the oscillations of the economy. We need talented students to enter the labor force, as encumbered as they might be, whether the economy is rising or tanking. The notion that student 6
Saturday, August 3, 2013
Julianne Malveaux loan rates will be tied to the federal funds rate offers students no security. One might argue that many have no economic security. The mortgage holder with a variable mortgage is subject to interest rate fluctuations as they manage a balloon payment. Those with underground mortgages are victims of interest rate variables as they try to
dig themselves above ground. Surely, though, students who are financing their education in order to invest in the health of our nation should have different rules. When I graduated from college in 1974, interest rates hovered between 9 and 10 percent. The student loan interest rate was two percent. Why? My cohort was no more or less brilliant than any other. We were part of our nation’s plan for its future, which should be the case for today’s young people. Many hoped that the deal on student loan interest rates would take into account the fact that the federal funds rate (the rate to which the Federal Reserve Bank offers to banks) is well below one percent. From that perspective, even the existing rate of 3.4 percent suggests that the government is taking in more than it gives out. It’s complicated – there are other costs that must be considered in the lending process. It’s complicated, but shouldn’t our students get as close to the same deal that banks and others get? Allowing student loan interest
rates to fluctuate, to the detriment of students in an environment when rates are certain to go up is to slap our students in the face. President Obama says he wants more students to graduate from community colleges or four-year institutions; we need more graduate and professional students in the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) programs. It seems hypocritical to articulate these needs and then to undercut the means to meet them. There are more than one trillion dollars outstanding in student loan obligations. The average student graduates with $27,000 in debt. Since nearly half of all students graduate with no debt at all, this means that the average debt for those who borrow is closer to $40,000. Many students with a talent for organizing, human resource allocation, or classroom teaching are diverted from their goals because their first priority is to pay student loan debt. WE are starving our civil society institution, and those who would serve them, by placing money over affinity and creativity.
BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
This has been happening for decades, but the current student loan dustup reminds us that we have not provided the safe space for our young people that we should. The Senate bill passed 80-18 with some Democrats rejecting the bill because of its flaws. Others, like the progressive Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), elected as a financial whiz and people’s advocate, chose to go with the one-year “okey-doke” rather than dig her heels in for the long run fight. In some ways Warren is right. The finger in the dike approach saves students this year, and so it is better than nothing. When, though, is better than nothing simply not good enough? Stay tuned. The vote on reauthorization of the Higher Education Act will happen next year. Are students waiting and watching? What about parents? Is there a political lobby to turn this mess around? Julianne Malveaux is a D.C. based economist and author. www.chicagocrusader.com
GOSSIPTARY By Ima Gontellit 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!
MONIQUE LIKED DA PO PO Summa yall ain’t convinced that it’s gangs out here shooting other gang members, but it is the Chicago po po wearing costumes and shooting our folk. Ima got ahold of a letter that State Rep. Monique Davis sent to the Crusader (but don’t tell the publisher I was rambling through the mail) and Mo says her like the po po. She wrote about being on a Detroit radio show and da host asked her about Chicago’s unsolved crimes. She said she tole em “Some people believe that the police are involved. Do I believe that? No. I have no evidence to suggest police officers are responsible. I believe that if such evidence existed, the Chicago Police Department would be the first to demand a full investigation. I believe the Chicago Police Department is doing the best it can with
www.chicagocrusader.com
State Rep. Monique Davis the resources it has to keep our streets and families safe. I know our police have an extremely difficult job and responsibility every day. I have the utmost respect for them and their jobs in putting their lives on the line for our city every day. When crimes and murders go unsolved, it creates an unbelievable level of frustration. While I know that the men and women of the Chicago Police Department are working hard to keep our community safe, some people in the community harbor a distrust of law enforcement officials. The same distrust also prevents community members, law enforcement officials and local leaders from fully working together to curb violence on our streets. We are tired of seeing our families fall victim to violence. We want the violence to end. We need a greater police presence on our streets to protect our families. However, we also need to do our part. It is up to us – the community – to help rid our neighborhoods of criminals and murderers by making sure they are
held accountable for their crimes. When people have information about a crime, they should report it to the proper authorities so those responsible can be brought to justice. People are outraged by the murder of our children each day. Too often, these killers are not brought to justice. Let me be clear, the police are working to solve these murders, but they’re working through enormous workloads. I believe the Chicago Police Department is doing the best it can with the resources it has to keep our streets and families safe. We want to work together to rid our streets of the day violence that is plaguing our neighborhoods. We must work together to end the violence.” Ima glad that Mo ain’t proposing another march or summit or some kumhbya session. We sure hope folks is listening to her.
specially since he let folk go overboard with that post-racial crap. Airybody know intergration done more harm den good to the Black community. Well Ima is done found out just like dey claim there is something called reverse discrimination, now we got reverse post-racial. If y’all don’t believe Ima check out Bookface or Facebook, whatever it is and see all dem people talking about Mayor Daley and his new boo- Dr. Adele Cobbs, a sister. At 41 Doc young enough to be da mayor’s daughter, but dat ain’t slowing his roll. Now Ima kinda glad her invitation to the Mellody Hobson-George Lucas wedding got lost in the mail; cause if I seed da mayor and Doc at the wedding Ima woulda had to ask him if he trying to outdo Gov. Quinn. Y’all already know. -Ima-
-ImaREVERSE POST-RACIAL? Anybody dat been reading Chatterbox for any length of time know Ima ain’t no fan of President Obammy,
Mayor Daley & Dr. Adele Cobbs
DON LEMON ON THE DEFENSE Folks are still trying to figure out which side Don Lemon is on. He caused a stir last week when he criticized the sagging pants of yung and not so yung folks that comes from the prison fashion styles and conservative radio host Larry Elder and Micheal Skolnik jumped on him with all four feet. Now Ima is in agreement that our kids need to know where the style came from and I’se tired of seeing butt cracks, which Lemon said. But Skolnik has a point when he says 2.2 million people are in jail and blamed drugs mostly for those locked up, dey went in as drug addicts and came out criminals from being locked up he says. Ima was still
BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
Don Lemon wid them. But when Elder said that Lyndon Johnson’s war on poverty was the blame for our problems and Ronald Reagan was the president responsible for getting jobs for Black men, he took it too far for Ima. Lawdy, lawdy, lawdy if we could just harness the good and throw away the political views that don’t make sense, we just might get somewhere. -ImaIS BLACK BACK IN SEASON? I’se just asking? The President has actually said more about Black folks and met with more Black folks than all of his five years in the White House recently. Now if he would integrate his administration and actually do something for Blacks folks, grant an interview to the Black Press and invite Rev. Jesse Jackson to the White House we might remember that he bees 50% a brutha. Just sayin!!!
Saturday, August 3, 2013
7
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
THE POETRY FOUNDATION LIBRARY PRESENTS CHILDREN’S POETRY DAY: On Saturday, August 3, the Poetry Foundation hosts the second annual Children’s Poetry Day. In partnership with WTTW Chicago and Whole Foods, this special weekend event for kids will include a variety of interactive crafts and activities. Guitarist and percussionist Jennifer Trowbridge, joined by clarinetist Don Jacobs and singer Alexis Hope, will perform original musical adaptations of classic poems. Kids will also have a chance to read and record poems and participate in a scavenger hunt. Plus, poetry-related episodes of Arthur will be screened in our performance space, and Arthur himself will come by for a visit! The Poetry Foundation, publisher of Poetry magazine, is an independent literary organization committed to a vigorous presence for poetry in our culture. It exists to discover and celebrate the best poetry and to place it before the largest possible audience. The Poetry Foundation seeks to be a leader in shaping a receptive climate for poetry by developing new audiences, creating new avenues for delivery, and encouraging new kinds of poetry through innovative literary prizes and programs. For more information, please visit www.poetryfoundation.org. KEEP THE LAKES GREAT WITH SHEDD AQUARIUM THIS SUMMER DURING NEW GREAT LAKES ACTION DAYS! As we move into the dog days of summer, there’s still plenty of time to take action to restore local habitats with Shedd Aquarium. This summer and fall, Shedd is inviting volunteers to adopt and restore local habitats with the return of its popular AdoptA-Beach series and the new Great Lakes Action Days program. Shedd volunteers are invited to soak in some fun in the sun, while doing something good for the environment by participating in beach cleanups, invasive plant removal, and more conservation-focused activities. Great Lakes Action Days, volunteers will get their hands dirty, maintaining trails, planting native flora, and collecting important data through citizen science projects. Events are scheduled through October and held throughout the local Great Lakes area, including the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, 12th Street Beach, 63rd Street Beach, Openlands Lakeshore Preserve and Illinois Beach State Park. In addition to this new initiative, Shedd will continue with Adopt-A-Beach™, the Alliance for the Great Lakes’ beach stewardship program. Armed with tally sheets and bags, committed volunteers comb the beach for garbage and recyclables which are then disposed of appropriately. The annual Adopt-A8
Saturday, August 3, 2013
Beach™ season hosts cleanup events regularly through October to help keep the beaches clean and safe. Great Lakes Action Days are held on first, third and fourth Fridays at 10 a.m., unless otherwise noted. For more information on Shedd Aquarium’s conservation efforts, please visit www.sheddaquarium.org/greatlakeshelp. To RSVP as a volunteer, please e-mail Reid Bogert at rbogert@sheddaquarium.org. MARQUETTE BANK EVENTS: Business Networking Event – On Tuesday, August 6, Marquette Bank will host a business networking afterhours event at the Marquette Bank located at 8020 S. Harlem Avenue in Bridgeview. Enjoy an evening of refreshments, door prizes and excellent networking opportunities. Businesses are welcome to attend from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. To register, call 888- 2549500 ext. 1811. And a Neighborhood School Supply Drive will continue until Friday, August 9. Marquette Bank is celebrating the backto-school season with its annual Neighborhood School Supply Drive. Customers, employees, neighbors and businesses can donate school supplies at any of Marquette Bank’s 23 through August 9. Call 1-888254-9500 for details. FREE KIDS’ DAYS AT BROOKFIELD ZOO: Families looking for one last staycation before the start of the school year can head to Brookfield Zoo and receive FREE admission for children ages 11 and under on August 5, 6, and 7. (Admission for adults and parking fees still apply.) For families who have not been able to visit the zoo’s seasonal attractions this summer, Free Kids’ Days are a perfect opportunity to see these exhibits before they close. Butterflies!, which features hundreds of North American winged wonders, will flutter away on September 2. The cownose rays at Stingray Bay will be heading south for the winter on September 29. Also, the prehistoric creatures at Dinosaurs Alive! will be going extinct at the end of October. On Free Kids’ Days, Brookfield Zoo is open from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission for adults is $15 and $10.50 for seniors 65 and over. Parking is $10. For further information, visit www.- CZS.org. The Chicago Zoological Society, which manages Brookfield Zoo, inspires conservation leadership by connecting people with wildlife and nature. The Chicago Zoological Society is a private nonprofit organization that operates Brookfield Zoo on land owned by the Forest Preserves of Cook County. Open every day of the year, the zoo is located off First Avenue between the Stevenson (I-55) and Eisenhower (I290) expressways and is also accessible via the Tri-State Tollway (I-294),
Metra commuter line, CTA, and PACE bus service. For further information, visit www.CZS.org. TALL SHIPS VISIT CHICAGO: The breathtaking sight of numerous Tall Ships sailing on Chicago’s Lake Michigan is a not-to-be-missed event. This armada is a festive and educational celebration and exploration of Chicago’s rich maritime heritage! There is so much excitement and entertainment on the lake and land at Navy Pier, you don’t want to miss it! Events: Wednesday, August 7: Parade of Sail: 2 pm – 4:30 pm; Thursday, August 8 – Saturday, August 10: Festival: 10 am – 9 pm; Sunday, August 11: Festival: 10 am – 6 pm. For more information regarding Tall Ships 2013, please visit www.navypier.com/tallshipschicago. SOUTH CENTRAL / BACK TO SCHOOL FESTIVAL: South Central Community Services, Inc. will hold its annual Back To School Festival on Friday, August 9th at the Community Center located at 1021 E. 83rd Street. This event is free and we’re inviting students and parents in the Chatham, Greater Grand Crossing and Avalon Park
THE NEW HOMELESS was recently a photographic exhibit at the Dolton Library by Dolton resident Fred Bridges. His photos chronicle the fact the face of the homeless has changed from the person with a cup and sign to those who work low wage jobs or may have lost their homes to foreclosure or a natural disaster. communities to come out and join us. There will be free back to school health screenings, games with prizes, a petting zoo, a bounce house, horseback rides, face painting, music, food and more. South Central will also
give away hundreds of book bags filled with school supplies for both grade school and high school students. For more information, contact Ms. Daniels at 773-493-0412 or Mr. Shelton at 773-483-0900.
Extended Coverage al millions cost less.
Do you need an “umbrella?” Probably. Umbrella insurance provides an extra layer of liability protection for you and your family over and above what your auto and property insurance offer. ***
For instance, if you were found responsible for a multi-car accident, your auto policy’s liability coverage might not be adequate to cover all the injuries of several people and the damage to all the cars involved.
Milton E. Moses
*** Get the peace of mind you want—and the insurance you need—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.
*** The umbrella policy would add $1 million or more (depending on the size of your umbrella) where the auto policy left off. *** How much umbrella coverage do you need? That depends on the value of your assets. Your 401(k) is protected in a lawsuit, but your home, your IRA and a portion of your salary may be a risk. *** Some experts recommend adding up your non-retirement assets, then adding $1 million for peace of mind. The first million costs about $200 a year; additionBLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
www.chicagocrusader.com
BUSINESS
Don’t Let Auto Dealer Markups Take You for a Ride CFPB warns dealers to comply with fair lending law By Charlene Crowell The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) recently issued a warning to banks, finance companies and credit unions that these institutions will be held accountable for discrimination in auto lending. In announcing its intention to hold auto lenders accountable for illegal, discriminatory markups, CFPB also published a bulletin detailing ways lenders should incorporate practices designed to honor fair lending laws. At the crux of CFPB’s concern is a practice known as “dealer reserve” or “dealer participation.” Both are synonyms for a markup on financing cost that is typically hidden from the consumer. The fact that consumers are unaware of the additional interest makes it difficult to negotiate prices fairly with full information. These fees add more cost to the consumer and more profit for the dealer. For consumers, it’s an important action. Rather than waiting for discrimination to occur,
CFPB’s oversight intends to stop biased pricing before it happens. It should also be welcome news for consumers with problematic credit. The potential buyers at the greatest risk are those who lack other financing options. Adding vehicle financing to an auto purchase enables dealers to raise the loan’s interest rate and keep some or all of the difference as commission. As a result, these consumers typically receive the worst deals. Keep in mind that interest rate markups occur at the dealers’ discretion and many times have no relation to actual credit risk. Financial exploitation is a form of discrimination. The Dodd-Frank Financial Reform Act gave CFPB the authority to supervise more than 150 of the nation’s largest financial institutions, including those with $10 billion in assets. This supervision applies whether the lender is a bank, credit union or an affiliate. In 2012, 15.7 million auto loans contributed to $783 billion in consumer debt. Car notes are also the third largest source of household debts, after mortgages and student loans. It is also yet another sign that discriminatory actions will persist in the absence of strict enforce-
Charlene Crowell ment. Just as HUD oversees the Fair Housing Act, communities of color are legally protected from discriminatory practices through the Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA). ECOA makes it illegal for a creditor to discriminate in any aspect of a credit transaction on bases including race, color, religion, national origin, gender, marital status or age. Despite these laws, some lenders continue to ignore the spirit, if not the letter of the law. Research by the Center for Responsible Lending (CRL) released in
2011 found that discriminatory auto lending pricing was evident. A series of class-action lawsuits challenged how African-Americans and Latinos disproportionately received interest rate markups more frequently and to a greater degree than their similarly-situated white counterparts. CRL also found that consumers pay over $25.8 billion in interest rate markups over the lives of their loans. Beyond higher markups, poor credit ratings can lock consumers into finance rates so high that repossessions become the norm, rather than the exception. Through an analysis of 25 auto finance companies that together accounted for 1.7 million vehicle finance accounts by the end of 2009, CRL discovered that although vehicle sales declined by 20 percent from 2007 to 2009, the total markup volume during this same period grew 24 percent from $20.8 billion in 2007. Now, thanks to the CFPB’s watchdog role if or when financial violations occur, dealers are assured that swift enforcement will be taken. Further, it just makes sense for consumers to shop for the best auto lending rates, just as con-
sumers are encouraged to shop for the best mortgage rate for a home. Most importantly, consumers should be keenly aware that the convenience of buying and financing a vehicle from a dealer will likely be more costly than if financing and sales were handled separately. Shopping for financing first enables consumers to learn their credit scores, current competitive rates on loans and how much of a loan is affordable in comparison to their other expenses and debts. Deciding up front the household comfort zone for new debt and how long it should last, would lead to loans that are better managed and affordable. CRL salutes the CFPB for exercising their power to ensure that the marketplace is fair for all consumers. Just as the historic Brown v. Board of Education decision held that in education, separate was inherently unequal, the same can be said of lending: let it be equal. Charlene Crowell is a communications manager with the Center for Responsible Lending. She can be reached at: Charlene.crowell@responsiblelending.org.
Viewing trends from coast to coast By Cheryl Pearson-McNeil Have I told you how much I love being part of the cutting edge research of the latest and greatest in technology and how consumer trends and behaviors impact that technology; or how much I especially love sharing that knowledge with you? It is empowering to know that our tech savvy world we live in continues to evolve at rapid speeds, largely because of our preferences as consumers. It’s interesting, too, that our tastes and trends vary, not only by our rich diversity of race, gender and age, but by where we live in the country. Nielsen recently released its first ever Local Watch Report, which explores the media consumption trends of U.S. consumers, depending on where they live. Y’all know I’m always saying we are spoiled rotten because we can now entertain ourselves with whatever we want to watch – whenever, wherever and however we want to watch it. According to the latest Nielsen insights, the cross-platform, or multiple viewing options we have gets even more specific by region. Let’s begin with traditional TV, which is still the way most of us watch our favorite programming. www.chicagocrusader.com
Cheryl Pearson-McNeil Viewership on this medium is actually up in several markets over the last year. As a group, Blacks log more TV viewing hours, about six and a half hours a day, (including both live TV and DVR playback) than any other demographic. But, what’s also interesting, is the viewing time, detailed what area you live in these great United States. The leading cities in live TV consumption in daily hours and minutes are: Pittsburgh (five hours, 28 minutes, up 21 minutes from 2012); St. Louis (five hours, 23 minutes, up 15 minutes from 2012); Balti-
more (five hours, 19 minutes, up eight minutes from 2012); Philadelphia (five hours, 18 minutes, and that’s down 11 minutes from 2012) and Detroit (five hours, 15 minutes, up six minutes from 2012). Consumers are watching the least amount of TV in San Francisco (two hours, 57 minutes, down eight minutes from 2012); followed by Los Angeles (three hours, 39 minutes, down 15 minutes from 2012); Denver (three hours, 45 minutes, down 11 minutes from 2012); Seattle (three hours 50 minutes, down 24 minutes from 2012) and Minneapolis (four hours, also down 24 minutes from 2012). When we talk traditional TV, we also have to keep in mind the other times-shifted choices. In addition to live TV, DVR playback, VOD (video on demand) and viewing over-thetop content (video delivered via the Internet) are also measured. Let’s get back to that over-the-top content viewing for a minute. Smart TV (also known as connected or hybrid TV, a television set that integrates the use of the Internet or is connected to a set-top box (signal receiver), Blu-Ray player or game console) ownership is experiencing some growth in popularity. The largest penetration of these Smart
TVs with their over-the-top video streaming capabilities is in San Francisco, where there is eight percent ownership. On the other hand, Smart TV ownership is lowest in Charlotte with 2.9 percent. As for other options to view content portable is also the way to. For example, we love our smartphones, because 69% of African-Americans own them. It appears that we are taking a little longer, though, to warm up to tablets – about 11% of us overall own these gadgets. And, just as we watch the most TV, we use our mobile devices for watching video at a 30% higher rate than the rest of the population. The percentages of our device ownership tend to jump, however, when we check out the numbers market by market. These are the top African-American Markets for smartphone penetration: Chicago (75%),
Washington, D.C. (73%), Atlanta (72%), New York (72%) and Dallas (72%). Here are our top areas for tablet ownership: Tampa (28%), Atlanta (27%), Boston (26%), New York (26%) and Washington, D.C. (26%). What does all of this mean to any of us? It means that marketers and manufacturers have a myriad of opportunities to understand, appreciate and reach you as unique and diverse consumers in locations (as equally diverse) each with their own personalities. Best of all, you get to choose. So, you drive the market. Cheryl Pearson-McNeil is senior vice president of Public Affairs and Government Relations for Nielsen. For more information and studies go to www.nielsenwire.com.
The Crusader Newspaper Group is interested in our readers’ ideas, thoughts and opinions, whether you’re in Chicago, Northwest Indiana or any part of the U.S. we encourage you to send a letter to the editor at crusaderil@aol.com. please limit your letters to 200 words.
BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
Saturday, August 3, 2013
9
EDUCATION --
New option gives CPS students second chance Chicago Public Schools students ages 14-20 who are out of school or off track to graduate now have a new option to graduate from high school, ready for college and a career. This new option, called Ombudsman Chicago, is now enrolling students for the 2013-14 school year. Students and their families can learn more or enroll in Ombudsman Chicago by visiting www.ombudsmancps.com or by calling (312) 806-9022. Ombudsman Chicago offers: • Morning and afternoon sessions that allow time for family,
friends, work and school; • Two convenient locations in the Chicago metropolitan area, one on the North Side at 7500 N. Harlem Ave. and a South Side location anticipated to be 3214 W. 63rd St.; • One-on-one attention from caring teachers; • A welcoming, safe and technology-rich environment; • Post-secondary counselors, a Career Development Center, internships and job-shadowing opportunities so students can learn about academic and career paths; • Emotional and behavioral support, including a licensed social
A NEW OPTION for Chicago Public Schools students ages 14-20 who are out of school or off track but interested in graduating and pursuing college or a career is Ombudsman Chicago. The school is now enrolling students for the 2013-14 school year. Students and their families can learn more or enroll in Ombudsman Chicago by visiting www.ombudsmancps.com or by calling (312) 806-9022.
AN OMBUDSMAN TEACHER provides one-on-one attention to a student. Chicago Public Schools now offers Ombudsman Chicago as a new convenient, flexible and free option for students who are out of school or off track to graduate from high school. worker and individual and group “Ombudsman students feel val- who have dropped out, schedule incounseling to develop the skills to ued, confident, independent, ac- take appointments and assist with establish positive relationships and cepted, proud of what they accom- the enrollment process. In addition, the self-confidence to be successful; plish – and hopeful for their future,” CPS will refer eligible students who • Focused instruction for English Ombudsman Chicago principal are enrolled in a district school but at language learners; Chaun Johnson said. “Ombudsman risk of dropping out. • A special education teacher to as- Chicago is one of the new options Ombudsman is accredited by the sist students who have Individual CPS is offering to help students grad- North Central Association of ColEducation Plans (IEPs); and uate from high school prepared to leges and Schools and AdvanceED; • Free tuition. make positive choices about college, the curriculum is aligned with CPS Ombudsman Chicago is operated a career – about life – after high and State of Illinois graduation reby Ombudsman Educational Ser- school.” quirements to ensure students earn vices, which educates students in Ombudsman is partnering with an accredited diploma. more than 120 public school dis- CPS Re-Engagement Centers and During 2011-12, 84 percent of tricts in 20 states. In a recent survey, Zero Dropouts, a national organiza- Ombudsman students graduated, 83 percent of Ombudsman stu- tion that creates innovative ap- completed the academic year at dents said they believe Ombuds- proaches to help students who have Ombudsman, or returned to their man prepares them for life after dropped out return or re-engage their district schools closer to or at grade high school. education, to help identify students level.
Concordia University Chicago Ranked a Top College
Concordia University Chicago has been recognized on The College Databases’ list of Top Colleges in Illinois with the Best Student-Teacher Ratios. Ranked fourth out of all private, non-profit and public colleges and universities in Illinois, with a student-teacher ratio of 9-1, Concordia-Chicago has proven itself as a university focused on the personal attention and individual success of its students. “With thousands of co-eds flooding college campuses each fall, it’s important for students to find schools where they can easily converse with professors and peers,” said Maggie Evans, managing director of The College Database. “ConcordiaChicago is a fantastic education option for thousands of college students.” “One of our main goals at Concordia-Chicago is to enhance the student experience,” noted Marilyn Reineck, senior vice president for academics at Concordia University Chicago. “We are thrilled to be recognized with this honor and will continue to provide the individual, personalized instruction our students have come to expect from us.” “We take pride in knowing our 10
Saturday, August 3, 2013
students are not only receiving an exceptional education through small class sizes, but that our professors are taking the time to invest in each and every student they teach,” Reineck said. Concordia University Chicago also topped The College Databases’ Top U.S. Colleges and Universities for Teaching Education in June 2013, ranked as 22nd in the country for its high-quality educational options for its teacher candidates. Concordia-Chicago’s inclusion on The College Database’s Top Colleges in Illinois with the Best Student-Teacher Ratios is available at www.onlinecollegesdatabase.org/on line-colleges-in-illinois/#best-student-teacher-ratio-colleges.
CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY CHICAGO with a 9-1 student-teacher ratio recently garnered a ranking as a top college for personal attention by the College Database.
200 agencies receive literacy grants Secretary of State and State Librarian Jesse White recently awarded nearly $5.5 million in Fiscal Year (FY)14 Adult Literacy Grants to help students develop and enhance their reading, math, writing and language skills. “I am pleased to provide nearly 200 local literacy providers with
funding that will allow adult students to achieve their utmost potential,” White said. “I will continue to do all I can to ensure that every citizen of this state has access to quality literacy programs.” Nearly 22,000 students are served by adult literacy programs around the state. More than 8,500 volun-
teer tutors provide training for students to obtain skills that put them on the path to lifelong learning. The Adult Literacy Program is administered by the Secretary of State’s Illinois State Library Literacy Office and awards grants in three categories: • Adult Volunteer Literacy Grants
BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
provide training for volunteers who tutor adults over age 16 in basic reading, math, writing or language skills. Participating literacy providers may include libraries, volunteer tutoring organizations, community-based organizations, community colleges, regional of(Continued on page 16) www.chicagocrusader.com
COMMUNITY
South Side McDonald’s gets honors, and a facelift The first inner-city McDonald’s that has been transformed through the corporation’s new remodeling program is at 70 E. Garfield. The event was marked by a number of festivities includ-
ing a marching band, award presentations, and a visit by the alderman representing the 3rd ward, Pat Dowell, as well as other special gusts. A tour of the re-designed store also was offered.
EVERYONE WAS ALL SMILES for the grand opening of the first remodeled McDonald’s in the inner city. Pictured here from left are Ronald McDonald, City Alderman Pat Dowell and 25 year Black McDonald’s Operator Association veteran Keith Allen.
KEITH ALLEN IS presented a plaque recognizing his 25 years of service and commitment to the community.
PICTURED FROM LEFT TO RIGHT are Field Manager Joe Goc, Business Consultant Wendy Ross and Ronald McDonald, joining Mr. Allen and his son, doing the honors of inaugurating the re-opening of the new store with the official ribbon cutting.
Brookfield offers free kids days
THE SOUTH SHORE Drill Team captured the spirit of the occasion, wowing onlookers with their high impact performance.
Families looking for one last staycation before the start of the school year can head to Brookfield Zoo and receive free admission for children ages 11 and under on August 5, 6, and 7. (Admission for adults and parking fees still apply.) For families who have not been able to visit the zoo’s seasonal attractions this summer, Free Kids’ Days are a perfect opportunity to see these exhibits before they close. Butterflies!, which features hundreds of North American winged wonders, will flutter away on September 2. The cownose rays at Stingray Bay will be heading south for the winter on September 29. Also, the prehistoric creatures at Dinosaurs Alive! will be going extinct at the end of October. On Free Kids’ Days, Brookfield Zoo is open from 9:30 a.m. to 6:00
p.m. Admission for adults is $15 and $10.50 for seniors 65 and over. Parking is $10. For further information, visit www.CZS.org. The Chicago Zoological Society, which manages Brookfield Zoo, inspires conservation leadership by connecting people with wildlife and nature. The Chicago Zoological Society is a private nonprofit organization that operates Brookfield Zoo on land owned by the Forest Preserves of Cook County. Open every day of the year, the zoo is located off First Avenue between the Stevenson (I-55) and Eisenhower (I-290) expressways and is also accessible via the Tri-State Tollway (I-294), Metra commuter line, CTA, and PACE bus service. For further information, visit www.CZS.org.
Marshfield Plaza Sponsors Family Membership at The Salvation Army Ray & Joan Kroc Corps One lucky family of six received a sponsored Salvation Army Ray & Joan Kroc Corps Community Center membership courtesy of the Center’s neighborhood community shopping center, Marshfield Plaza. The Ogden family, who were already frequent visitors of The Kroc Center, is grateful and ecstatic to join the 9,000 plus members. Eager to join and participate in the various programs and classes The Kroc Center offers, the Ogden children are especially excited to spend time at the Kroc indoor waterpark. www.chicagocrusader.com
“We’re grateful for the generosity of businesses in the community that want to see families utilize our Center,” said Major Darlene Harvey, Program Administrator, The Salvation Army Ray & Joan Kroc Corps Community Center. “We appreciate Marshfield Plaza’s support of our community.” The Salvation Army Ray & Joan Kroc Corps Community Center thanked Marshfield Plaza for their generous gesture and welcomed The Ogdens to the Kroc family.
Left to right: Major Darlene Harvey, Program Administrator of The Salvation Army Ray & Joan Kroc Corps Community Center, The Ogden family, Alderman Carrie Austin of the 34th Ward and Pam Chiakas of Marshfield Plaza. BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
Saturday, August 3, 2013
11
ENTERTAINMENT
By Elaine Hegwood Bowen, MSJ By Raymond Ward CHICAGO’S VERY OWN!: You’ve seen him in countless films and television programs...and although you might not know his name, you surely know his work! Harry Lennix returns to television this Fall in the new NBC-TV series, “The Black List,” and he also has a new film coming out entitled “Mr. Sophistication” in September. Currently he can also be seen in the new “Superman” movie. Harry Lennix is an accomplished film, television and stage actor who appears in Warner Bros. “Man of Steel.” Other recent credits include The CW’s “Emily Owens, M.D.” HBO’s “Little Britain,” as well as the critically acclaimed series “24” as Walid Al-Rezani. Lennix made his Broadway debut in August Wilson’s Tony nominated play, Radio Golf, and was seen on the big screen in “State of Play.”
Fruitvale Station looks urban, Black male life right in the eye First time director Ryan Coogler didn’t realize that his movie Fruitvale Station would be widely released shortly after the not guilty verdict in the George
after a brawl breaks out as partygoers are on their way back into Oakland after seeing fireworks in San Francisco. The death of Grant made head-
was unnecessary. Even though there had been a slight scuffle on the train, when police officers arrived they just started pulling young Black men off the train
ARIANA NEAL AS Tatiana and Michael B. Jordan as Oscar Grant share a moment during a scene from Fruitvale Station.
In 2006 Lennix starred in the Golden Globe nominated ABC-TV show “Commander in Chief” as Jim Gardner, the Chief of Staff to the President of the United States. His other appearances include the Academy Award-winning film, “Ray,” “The Matrix: Reloaded,” and “The Matrix: Revolutions.” Lennix received critical acclaim and a Golden Satellite Award as Aaron in Julie Taymor’s “Titus” starring Anthony Hopkins. A host of other film credits include “Across the Universe,” “Barbershop 2,” and “Love and Basketball.” Lennix has starred as the legendary Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. in Showtime’s “Keep The Faith Baby,” for which he won a Black Reel Award and was nominated for both an NAACP Image Award and a Golden Satellite Award. He continued to make his presence known with recurring roles on “ER” and “Diagnosis Murder” and other guest starring appearances on shows such as “Law & Order: Los Angeles.” As a stage actor, Lennix was the first distinguished recipient of an Ollie Award for his portrayal of Malcolm X at the Goodman Theater in Chicago and two Joseph Jefferson Citations for his roles in Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom and Caught in the Act. He also starred as King Headley II, another play by August Wilson at the Mark Taper Forum. In 2001, he was part of the first American company to be invited to the Royal Shakespeare Company in the production of Cymbeline. Lennix has also been extremely active in his native Chicago community where he was an English and music teacher before becoming an actor. He founded Legacy Productions with renowned director Chuck Smith in 1989. The company is dedicated to promoting significant works about the African American experience. He is on the staff of the Goodman Theater Company and is also active in various civic groups and the Advisory Council for his alma mater Northwestern University.
Zimmerman case. But as things lined up, theatergoers have been able to see Fruitvale Station, which is a re-creation of the final day of an Oakland, California, man 22year-old Oscar Grant. The film starts out with a grainy cell phone video of the incident on early New Year’s Day 2009, when Grant was shot in the back by BART transit officer Johannes Mehserle, while Grant was on his stomach on the train platform. In the movie, Michael B. Jordan plays Grant—a Black man who for all cases was getting his life back together, after having spent a couple of times in jail. He is committed to his 4-year-old daughter Tatiana, played brilliantly by Ariana Neal and girlfriend, Sophina, played by Melonie Diaz. He is also trying to prove to his mother, Oscar winner Octavia Spencer, that he can stay on the straight and narrow and work a job to support his family. But whether Grant would keep all these promises is never known, because he is killed after being forcefully removed from the train
12
BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
Harry Lennix
Saturday, August 3, 2013
lines across the nation, just as the death of Trayvon Martin initially made headlines last year and continues to do so. The officer who
and harassing them on the station platform. Recently, I saw the 27-year-old director and Jordan on the Tavis
Michael B. Jordan, second from left, as Oscar Grant, and others are detained on a BART platform, shortly before Grant is shot in the back. was charged in the case claimed Smiley Show, and I agree—as he thought he had pulled out his they had discussed—that even Taser and not his gun on that though you know that Grant morning. The entire round up of (Continued on page 16) Black men from a BART train www.chicagocrusader.com
ENTERTAINMENT STYLE
The Bookworm Sez “What We Talk about When We Talk about God”
By Rob Bell, read by the author c.2013, HarperAudio$14.99 / $16.99 Canada 4-1/2 hours, 4 CDs For most of your life, you’ve had a good relationship with God. He’s a close personal friend, in fact, and you talk to Him often. He even lives nearby; so close, that you visit Him often. He’s a good listener, too. But is the God you know the same God your friend knows? Can the reality of God mesh with science, nature, and culture? In the new audiobook “What We Talk about When We Talk about God,” written and read by Rob Bell, you’ll see how we’re at the very edge of a whole new way of answering those questions. Turn on any news channel or pick up the paper, and it seems like everybody knows what God wants. The thing is, says Bell (a
pastor for more than twenty years), “we have a problem with God.” That is, two people who talk about Him are talking about “two extraordinarily different realities while using the exact same word.” When we talk about God, “we are all over the place.” And yet – people want to talk about Him: what they were taught, what they believe, and what makes them hopeful. Even when in a group of atheists, Bell was asked about the miraculous. And how can there not be miracles? Bell points at the universe, its size, and how the miracle of you (“a phenomenon that simply didn’t exist here for billions of years”) leads to holism, which leads to God – who defies analysis and description. We talk about God using words, but He goes beyond words. Still, God is with us. He’s there when we realize we’re seeing something our soul wants us to remember: the big moments, and the small ones. He is for us and wants the best for all of humanity, whether they believe in Him or not, whether we know we need help or not. And He is ahead of us, “pulling us forward” for greater and
greater understanding, rights, and peace. Talking about God, says Bell, isn’t so much about the words said, as it is about being open in heart and mind while you’re saying them. It’s about recognizing that spiritual life isn’t separate from regular life. It’s about knowing that “we are loved and we belong and we are going to be just fine.” Written and read by author and pastor Rob Bell, “What We Talk about When We Talk about God” is packed with grace and goodness. There’s also a lot of thought provoking here, which is why I enjoyed this audiobook so much. In meshing evolution and science with Bible teachings, and atheism with Christianity and surfing, Bell brings God to modern readers. Along the way, he questions his own faith and uses anecdotes from friends and family to illustrate God in his life. That adds up to what will be the best, most helpful sermon you’ve ever heard, in an audiobook you’ll want to share. I think, in fact, that “What We Talk about When We Talk about God” is definitely something you’ll shout about.
South Sider Faith L. Walls continues research in Sweden, starts life coach business By Elaine Hegwood Bowen Nearly a year ago, I wrote about a Howard University graduate who has been making her mark in the field of research and detailed her fellowship at a school in Sweden. South-sider Faith L. Walls, 29, has been continuing her research on bullying among girls, even after her fellowship ended earlier this year. Originally from the Southwest Side, Faith graduated from Maria High School in 2001, and later received a B.S. in Psychology and a Master’s in Education from Howard University. She returned to Chicago and Maria, where she worked as the Dean of Students.
She, as well, is a lifetime member of the Girl Scouts of the USA, and an assistant Girl Scout leader in her childhood troop at Emmanuel Baptist Church. Her scholarship in Sweden was partially funded by the Malmberg Scholarship from the American Swedish Institute, and her work involved research at Oxbacksskolan and Fornbackaskolan, which are located in Södertälje, Sweden. Her work also involved examining the social and cultural differences of native Swedish youth and their immigrant peers. Although this may seem very far away, there is a global perspective in Faith’s research, as bullying is prevalent within our local
FAITH POSES WITH instructor Anna Cavallin after a recent presentation in Sweden. www.chicagocrusader.com
schools. Walls recently returned to Sweden to present her findings, shortly after she shared them with residents of Chicago’s North Side, some of whom were originally from Sweden. Walls spent an evening at the Swedish American Museum, discussing some of the similarities in bullying abroad and bullying in schools here in the United States. Faith, who is an educational consultant, has also presented her findings in Minnesota. Faith’s personal and academic endeavors have led her to 25 countries and five continents, but she is a well-grounded and mannered young woman. “Faith exemplifies the epitome of global leadership. Her travel to Sweden, driven by her determination to study, understand and merge educational methods, is unprecedented in many administrators in the American educational system,” said Byron D. Hughes, Howard alum and Georgetown Medical School ’14. “The transparency of her work will benefit all of those who come in contact with her, as well as the global educational community.” Faith says that Sweden is close to her heart, because it reminds
her so much of Chicago. In addition to conducting research in Sweden, Faith began work on a book dedicated to girls without mothers as a tribute to her mother, who died suddenly in 2007 during her first trip to Sweden. “At Oxbacksskolan, Södertälje, Sweden, Miss Walls has presented her research both to the school staff and to the local board. We were all very fascinated to take part in her findings about work against bullying in
Others hold Faith in high regard. “Faith presented her interesting and ambitious research project on bullying mechanisms in Swedish schools, for a class of enthusiastic students at The Swedish Program, Liberal Arts at The Stockholm School of Economics, Stockholm, Sweden,” said Anna Cavallin, M.A. instructor Stockholm University. The problems with multiculturalism and assimilation in Sweden are not unlike other coun-
FAITH, CENTER, POSES with students from the Gender Studies class. Sweden and in the United States,” tries’ issues. “It’s very important said Jerry Norrbom, Headmas- in today’s world to have cultural ter/Principal of Oxbacksskolan. and professional exchanges, like “We are really looking forward to Faith’s. This is particularly true in reading her new book and to fol(Continued on page 16) lowing her career.”
BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
Saturday, August 3, 2013
13
ARTS & CULTURE
The Orion Ensemble opens 21st Season with “Celebrating Brahms” Johannes Brahms is the focus of the 2013–14 season opener of The Orion Ensemble, winner of the prestigious Chamber Music America/ASCAP Award for Adventurous Programming. These performances include debuts at two venues—September 8 at First Baptist Church of Geneva and September 11 at PianoForte Studios in Chicago—as well as a return to Music Institute of Chicago’s Nichols Concert Hall in Evanston September 22. Joining Orion is guest horn Gregory Flint, associate professor at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and member of the award-winning Asbury Brass Quintet, Tower Brass of Chicago and Fulcrum Point Brass Quintet. The program “Celebrating Brahms” features two contrasting trios by the early 19th century German composer, written more than 25 years apart. Both reveal the composer’s emotional depth and intensity, as well as his superb musical craftsmanship and understanding of the varied instruments he used in combination. In the Trio in E-Flat Major for Horn, Violin and Piano, Op. 40, Brahms honors his mother, who passed away shortly before he composed this work, as well as his father, with the use of his instrument, the horn. Other than the hauntingly beautiful Elegie, the movements have a youthful energy; the high sounds of the violin and horn, the characteristic folk and hunting-call motives associated with the horn and the rhythmic play between the instruments contribute to that aesthetic.
Brahms wrote the Trio in A Minor for Clarinet, Cello and Piano, Op. 114, after he had retired from composing. However, he was so moved after hearing clarinetist Richard Mühfeld he began to work on this trio. He juxtaposes themes in ways that sound inevitable, as are the imaginative combinations of sounds from the three instruments. Also on the program is the edgy Café Music for Violin, Cello and Piano (1986) by Paul Schoenfield. The music of this Jewish American composer and pianist clearly shows his keen interest in jazz and the folk music of many cultures, particularly his Jewish roots. About Café Music he said, “My intention was to write a kind of high-class dinner music— music that could be played at a restaurant, but might also (just barely) find its way into a concert hall. Early 20th century American, Viennese, light classical, Gypsy and Broadway styles are all represented,” as well as a Hasidic melody. Orion’s 2013–14 season Orion’s “Musical Travels” season continues with a series of Beethoven Trios, one on each of the three remaining programs, which include “Danube Destinations” in October and November, featuring guest violist Stephen Boe and other works by Hindemith and Mozart; “Sounds of Russia” in March, featuring guest pianist Sebastian Huydts, violist Stephen Boe, a guest narrator from the Chicago High School for the Arts and other works by Stravinsky and Rachmaninoff; and “Czech and American Romance” in May and June, featuring violist Stephen Boe
THE ORION ENSEMBLE (above) will be joined by guest horn Gregory Flint during performances at two venues—September 8 at First Baptist Church of Geneva and September 11 at PianoForte Studios in Chicago—as well as a return to Music Institute of Chicago’s Nichols Concert Hall in Evanston September 22. and other works by Amon, Gersh- Florentina Ramniceanu (violin), Di- dation. The Orion Ensemble’s “Celebratana Schmück (piano) and Judy win and Dvorak. In addition to its annual four-con- Stone (cello)—who have performed ing Brahms” concert program takes cert series in three areas, Orion ap- throughout North America, Europe place Sunday, September 8 at 7 p.m. pears on the broadcast series “Live and Asia, as an ensemble and individ- at First Baptist Church of Geneva, from WFMT” in November 2013 ually in solo, orchestral and other 2300 South Street in Geneva; (date TBD) and on March 24, chamber music roles. The Chicago Wednesday, September 11 at 7:30 2014. Orion also tours, performing Tribune called Orion “one of Chica- p.m. at the PianoForte Studios, 1335 in chamber music series across the go’s most vibrant, versatile and dis- S. Michigan Avenue in Chicago; and country. Its most recent CD is Twi- tinctive ensembles,” and the Chica- Sunday, September 22 at 7:30 p.m. at go Sun-Times said Orion is “what Music Institute of Chicago’s Nichols light of the Romantics. Founded in 1992, The Orion En- chamber music should be all about: Concert Hall, 1490 Chicago Avenue semble, winner of the prestigious Individual virtuosity melded into a in Evanston. Single tickets are $26, Chamber Music America/ASCAP group personality.” The Orion En- $23 for seniors and $10 for students; Award for Adventurous Program- semble is supported in part by grants admission is free for children 12 and ming for its critically acclaimed mil- from the Illinois Arts Council, a state younger. A four-ticket flexible sublennium celebration “An Inside agency; the MacArthur Fund for the scription provides a 10 percent savLook at Contemporary Music,” fea- Arts and Culture at The Richard H. ings on full-priced tickets. For tickets tures a roster of four superb musi- Driehaus Foundation; and the Gay- or more information, call 630-628cians—Kathryne Pirtle (clarinet), lord and Dorothy Donnelley Foun- 9591 or visit orionensemble.org.
Cast is set for Lyric Opera’s premiere Sound of Music Lyric Opera of Chicago’s general director Anthony Freud recently announced that two internationally acclaimed opera singers, American sopranos Christine Brewer and Elizabeth Futral, have been cast for the new production and company premiere of The Sound of Music, to be presented next spring. “We are excited to confirm two exceptional cast members: Christine Brewer as Mother Abbess, and Elizabeth Futral as Baroness Elsa Schraeder,” said Freud. “Christine is a Grammy Award winner who wowed Lyric audiences in Die Frau ohne Schatten and is hailed internationally for her glorious voice. It will be wonderful to hear her sing the iconic ‘Climb Ev’ry Mountain’ in this wonderful score. Elizabeth is a longtime Lyric favorite who most recently charmed us as Musetta in La Bohème and has also entranced audiences as the leading ladies of la traviata, The Merry Widow, The Pirates of Penzance, and Candide at Lyric.” Freud also announced key mem14
Saturday, August 3, 2013
productions. “This beloved musical by Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II – their final collaboration – is one of the greatest American musical stage works, and is also known the world over for its film adaptation” Freud noted. He added that 37 members of the Lyric Opera Orchestra will perform with a 25-member ensemble (including 12 members of the Lyric Opera Chorus). Lyric chorus master Michael Black will prepare the chorus for this company premiere, which marks the second work in Lyric’s American Musical Theater Initiative.
THE SOUND OF MUSIC, a perennial favorite with audiences of all ages, will have 17 performances at Chicago’s Lyric Opera House. bers of the creative team for The whom have scored triumphs with ternationally. Costume designer Sound of Music: “We are delight- this work and have extensive Alejo Vietti, whose designs will be ed to have The Sound of Music Broadway and music-theater ex- seen on Broadway next season, has make its Lyric Opera debut under perience,” Freud said. “Set design- done extraordinary work with mathe baton of Broadway’s Emmy- er Michael Yeargan has won Tony jor theater and opera companies nominated conductor Rob Fisher Awards for two Broadway produc- all over America. Choreographer in a new production directed by tions and has created numerous Denis Jones has impressive credenthe brilliant Marc Bruni – both of acclaimed opera productions in- tials in Broadway and regional BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
The remaining cast and creative team members will be announced at a later date. The new production of The Sound of Music, will have 17 performances (including eight matinees) April 24-May 11 at the Civic Opera House, with tickets starting at $29. Lyric subscribers receive a 10 percent discount through November 1. www.chicagocrusader.com
SPIRITUALLY SPEAKING
A Moment to Supersize Your Thinking By Effie Rolfe Knowledge is Power! Too many people are perishing because of a lack of knowledge, while information of every kind is available at the click of the mouse (Hosea 4:6). Unfortunately, too many Christians are in the church and dying from lack while living in the land of plenty. This should not be. We must walk in the knowledge that we are spiritual beings made in the image and likeness of an Almighty, Omnipotent, Omniscient, Omnipresent and Eternal God. Instead of living an ineffective life that does not mirror Christ, we must believe God for an abundant life according to St. John 10:10 or at least know it’s a God given right! With information—you know your rights. One can have confidence even in prayer and go boldly to the throne of grace to make your
requests known unto God, with the certainty of favor (Hebrews 4:16). The Power of His word created the heavens, earth and everything that was, is and will ever be manifested. Just think—God spoke and it was!!! It is important to know that you can exercise that same power to “call forth those things that are not as though they already are.” Why? Because we are
Rev. Jeffery L. Ball activities are at the church 256 W. 147 St. The first 150 children will receive free tote bags with school supplies and other goodies, according to Ball. Throughout the day parents and their kids can enjoy walking around and visiting the variety of booths as well as sit and enjoy the workshops www.chicagocrusader.com
lows you to kneel boldly before the throne of Grace in search of a loving God that will answer prayers. Are you using your power...? 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
New Joy City Church hosts gospel back-to-school fair The New Joy City Church of God in Christ is inviting Harvey residents to the church’s fourth annual back-to-school fair from noon until 4 p.m. August 3. The Rev. Jeffery L. Ball, New Joy pastor, said the event is intended to help families prepare for the upcoming school year by offering gospel choirs, informational sessions, games, arts and crafts, facepainting, dancing, as well as basketball and balloon artists. All
made in the image and likeness of God…we are his children, heirs of God—joint heirs with Christ. He desires to give us a hope and a future—to live a blessed prosperous life now and forever (Jeremiah 29:11). When we walk in wisdom and understanding of God’s word—we are equipped to exercise authority, boldness and power. This knowing al-
and stage entertainment. Local area businesses will be on hand to provide information on topics such as health & wellness, safety, local resources, childcare, after school programs, school supplies, tutors, children’s retailers and more! Some of the sponsors include Walt’s Foods of South Holland, Niche Salon, Country Club Hills, Harvey Fire Department. It’s even a BUZZ that the Mayor of Harvey, Eric Kellogg and Alderman Michael Bowens may stop by. The Rev. Jeffery C. Ball was the founder and first pastor of New city. The church was originally called Full Gospel Outreach Mission and was then located at 4625 S. Laramie. As the church grew, Ball relocated it to 452 N. Harding and moved to 4100 W. Madison after a fire destroyed the Harding location. It ultimately settled on the Harvey location. In 2000, the elder Ball turned the church’s leadership to his son, Jeffrey C. Ball. This annual event will feature gospel choirs that will sing gospel melodies known by all, informational speaker sessions, dancers, games, arts & crafts, face painting, basketball, balloon artist and a whole bunch of fun! The 2013 event will take place outside of what the Congregants call New Joy City the “Big Church Inside of a Little Church.” Members have been known to say “once you have experienced the joy in our church, you’ll know why we gave it that name.” For more information, contact Public Relations Ministry at New Joy City, C.O.G.I.C. at (708) 333-6549 or visit our website: www.newjoycitychurchcogic.com.
Congratulations to Chicago businessman and philanthropist, Dr. Willie Wilson, who celebrated his 26th anniversary of Singsation! The Host and Executive Producer of the Emmy Award-winning gospel television show, features top recording artists on WGN TV Channel 9 reaching millions each week. This past Sunday, fans and friends gathered at Morgan Park Apostolic Church of God along with the Pastor Bishop William Ellis for an anointed service of bless-
yourself. You study and you will know it better. You can understand things better. When you go to church and you have already studied you know what that person is saying or you can help somebody clarify the word of God, shared Wilson. Also, the Louisiana native was unsure how long he would remain Chairman of the seminary, “As long as the Lord allows me, I’m there. I’m here to serve—I’m a servant,” said Wilson. The highly successful businessman commented, “I don’t know anyone else who can step up to the plate that’s more committed financially to keep the school alive. I will stay as long as the Lord allows me to stay.” In the meantime, get ready for the 27th year of the popular show. “If the Lord’s will I am going to be taping next year,” Wilson said. The CEO shared, “Omar Inc was incorporated in 1996—the name, but I just started to do something with it a few years ago. We have offices in Chicago, Tennessee, L.A., New Jersey and China.” Also, Chicago Baptist Institute is at 5120 S. King Drive in Chicago.
Dr. Willie Wilson ings. “We appreciate the hundreds of Pastors and the diverse denominations of Pastors and to see all of us come together. It was also good to have Congressman Davis and the Governor (Pat Quinn)…I appreciate the fact that he made it Willie Wilson Day and I appreciate the kindness he does,” said Wilson. “We appreciate anything anybody does good towards us and thanks to you and Merri Dee for hosting and making the program run smoothly,” stated Wilson, who donated all of the proceeds to the Chicago Bible Institute. According to the Louisiana native, he assumed responsibility of the struggling institution two years ago, “Basically, I’m trying to keep the school alive financially as well as recruit more students to the school so they’ll become men and women in Christ. Instead of listening to someone else talking about the scripture or Christ—when you come to school you know it for
*** This Sunday, Aretha Franklin along with the Nelson Entertain-
Aretha Franklin ment Group has joined forces in collaboration for “A Salute to the Maestro Fred Nelson, III” to spotlight his musical genius. “I love music—there is no favorite as long
BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
Maestro Fred Nelson, III as it reaches the soul. It’s how we use it to raise people up or to destroy them,” said Nelson, affectionately known as the Maestro. “I’ve been called the Quincy Jones of the Midwest, because he did the same thing, when you see how big and how diverse his career was as a producer,” he said. Nelson’s love for music and spirit of excellence has also garnered a stellar reputation attracting the likes of Anita Baker, Jennifer Hudson, the late Phyllis Hyman, Celine Dion, Neil Diamond and the O’Jays. The Music Director and Conductor of The Stellar Awards will have guests including Teresa Griffin, Joshua’s Troop, First Church of Deliverance Choir, GMAC, Dr. Lou Della Evans Reid & Traditional Gospel Choir, and Christ Universal Temple Ensemble will give tributes. Pastors and leaders throughout Chicago will help the Queen of Soul honor her Music Director’s impact in the music industry. Additionally, Stellar Award winners, Kurt Carr, Joshua’s Troop, Teresa Griffin, Rodrick Dixon, Divine Divas, Dr. Lou Della Evans Reid & the Traditional Gospel Choir, and First Church of Deliverance will share the music that Nelson created during the highly anticipated celebration! The salute is Sunday, August 4th, 6 p.m. at Christ Universal Temple 11901 S. Ashland in Chicago where the Senior Pastor is Derrick B. Wells. For tickets call 773-568-2282 ext. 245 or visit eventbrite.com. Saturday, August 3, 2013
15
ENTERTAINMENT: CHICAGO STYLE (Continued from page 12) will be killed, when it hap- and playing games with her. pens in the movie, you just Coogler shows two sides to grab your heart because it is Grant: one a loving father, so compelling and heart son, grandson; and the other a young Black man living in wrenching. Indeed, Grant is no boy an urban society where he scout, but you see where he must figure out how to suris, in fact, trying to get his life vive. Local musician Psalm One back on track, and you see the compassion that he has weighed in on her thoughts for others—even a dog that is about Fruitvale Station, as run over near the gas station she was living in San Francisco during the time that this when he is filling up his car. He does normal things that shooting occurred. “I lived in San Francisco any father should do: eating breakfast with his daughter, during that time (which is as the girlfriend does the right across the Bay Bridge dishes, seeing his daughter from where most of the story off to school, picking her up takes place), and Fruitvale
Station captured the feeling of the Bay pretty successfully. Apparently some of the actors actually spent time living in Oakland, to get a better feeling of the characters and setting. Many times while watching, I felt like I was right back in San Francisco, or Oakland, or even on the BART. One of the more realistic scenes was when Grant, our protagonist, his girlfriend and his buddies were delayed on the BART going to San Francisco, minutes before the New Year. Someone on the train had the ‘good sense’ to play music through personal
the fundraising dollars last year they were able to pay one of the participants to work at a local YMCA as an apprentice. He went from 3:30 p.m. until 7 p.m., which was an alternative to what he was previously doing after school, selling drugs. “So not only do we need fundraising dollars, we need support services for our kids,” Hoy-Watkins said. “I need church-based organizations and community agencies that I can partner with to offer similar types of assistance so that between those critical hours of 3:30 until 7 or 8 p.m. students have somewhere safe to go and are off the street doing something constructive.” Last year S.O.S. held a tie drive at Claremont Academy. The school has a uniform policy where boys must wear a tie with their white shirts. HoyWatkins discovered many of the boys did not have a tie. She wanted to do some sort of community service where the boys could be involved that would help impact their school. After months of dona-
tions from members of the community, they were able to get each boy in the school several ties to wear with their uniform.
speakers (a practice I loathe because it happens so often on public transportation); aptly Mac Dre. Dre is a fallen rap hero of the Bay Area, a pioneer of the independent scene and was killed in 2004 right before what many think was his inevitable national rise to fame. His song ‘Feelin Myself’ is a Bay Area classic and is one of the many reasons this film is a thoughtful, yet dramatic look into Grant’s tragic story.” The officer in the Grant case was convicted of involuntary manslaughter and spent 11 months in jail, which led to riots on the streets; just as the Martin case
has prompted uprisings throughout the nation, since the case was first publicized and the subsequent trial outcome. Fruitvale Station is in theaters now. It is an excellent movie that shows in great detail just what so many Black men face daily, as they go about their business under the watchful eye of law enforcement and regular citizens. It seems the simple question for many Black
men—whether they are on the streets or hailing a cab— is: Which mask will I have to put on today to make it through one situation after another?
Local Hip Hop Artist Psalm One contributed to this review.
HOUSES FOR SALE
HOUSES FOR SALE
S.O.S. program needed now (Cont’d from page 1) their new school. The S.O.S. program initially started with only high school freshmen and was to work with them until they graduated. But Hoy-Watkins and her staff quickly realized even when dealing with 13 or 14 year-old freshmen, they had already been impacted by so many negative influences that she felt the intervention needed to begin in the middle school. “I think identifying at risk at an earlier age is always best because you can get the help to them before things get really bad,” she said. The most pressing need for the S.O.S. program is funding. They are funded based on donations and they do various fundraisers throughout the year. She said without the dollars, the help they can give kids are limited. “The more fundraising dollars we have, the broader the reach we have in terms of what we can do for the kids.” Hoy-Watkins said out of
200 agencies . . . . . (Cont’d from page 10) fices of education, schools (individual and public), preschool programs, school districts, domestic-violence shelters and correctional facilities. • Penny Severns Family Literacy Grants provide educational services to parents and children to enhance basic reading, math, writing or language skills. Programs must partner with an adult literacy provider, child-at-risk agency and a library. • The Workplace Skills Enhancement Project provides onsite instructional services to employees of participating Illinois businesses, enabling them to enhance their basic 16
reading, math, writing or language skills and improve their chances for promotion. Eligible employees must read at or below the 9th-grade level. Grantees must match the grant award and may also provide instructional services to prospective employees. The fiscal agent and submitting agency may be either the educational partner or the business partner. People interested in becoming volunteer tutors are encouraged to contact the Illinois Adult Learning Hotline at 1-800-321-9511. For a complete list of recipients please visit www..chicagocrusader.com.
Saturday, August 3, 2013
To learn more about the
S.O.S. program or make a donation, you can contact HoyWatkins via email at: mhoy@thechicagoschool.edu or visit the website http://forensiccenter.- org/save-our-school-children-s-o-s/.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR (Continued from page 4) Emanuel and everyone in top management at CPS know that the $400 million payment due the pension fund later this year will not be eased or affected by any sort of pension reform. Emanuel is simply trying to shirk the district’s responsibility. It has been years since the agreement was forged to allow CPS to make partial payments, with a plan of making their
position whole this year. No doubt Emanuel will be asking us next year to vote for him. Given the number of lies he’s told about CPS, and I am sure folk have lost track of how many lies he has put in front of us regarding city operations. Hopefully, people are prepared to make him one-term Rahm. Wash Reynolds
South Sider Faith L. Walls (Continued from page 13) Sweden - a country that subtitle “Race and Tolerused to be very homoge- ans in the USA.” nous until maybe 30 years ago, and is now grappling All this serves Faith up with multiculturalism, dis- well as a role model to othcrimination and racism,” er young women. And as said Karin Henriksson, she is on track to achieve long-time Washington D.C. her professional goals, she -based correspondent for the is using her psychology deleading Swedish daily Svens- gree to help her start her ka Dagbladet. “…And sim- life coach business. “I am ply what it means to be so honored and excited to Swedish today when a big be able to blend my various portion of the population is experiences—both proforeign born. I was very fessional and personal— happy to include a few with girls and women quotes from Faith in my throughout the world by new book, of which the becoming a life coach and Swedish title is, “En droppe author.” If you are interestsvart blod,” which trans- ed in learning more about lates to “A Drop of Black Faith, visit www.msfaithBlood,” followed by the elle.com
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) 6762229, (773) 334-2300, email: adoption@f-r-c.org BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
www.chicagocrusader.com
HOUSES FOR SALE
HELP-WANTED Telemarketer, Exp. required. Part-Time, Weekdays. Near Transportation. 79th and Western Location. Call Toni 773-737-9900.
COMMERCIAL/ WHOLESALE SPACE Commercial/Wholesale space for rent in the Chatham area… 11,000 square feet. Contact Bob at 773-488-1411.
www.chicagocrusader.com
BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
Saturday, August 3, 2013
17
HOUSES FOR SALE
18
Saturday, August 3, 2013
BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
www.chicagocrusader.com
HEALTH
City Colleges of Chicago expects GED jump this year Expanded Gateway Program Supports GED Graduates in Transition to College City Colleges of Chicago recently announced that more than 900 students are expected to receive GED diplomas (high school equivalency certificates) in the 2013 school year, an expected 20 percent increase from 2012. Final numbers won’t be available until the end of August. The increase is driven by efforts to make GED classes more accessible by expanding locations and providing additional supports to help students overcome obstacles to academic success. As a result, FY2013 GED enrollment to date increased by 21 percent over the GED enrollment in FY2012. “Through Reinvention, we’ve given increased attention and resources to the Adult Education program at City Colleges of Chicago to expand the opportunities for more Chicagoans to pursue college and careers,” said Chancellor Cheryl Hyman. “We want to ensure our students are receiving the best education possible in their community and that they have a goal to work toward after completion of the program.” City Colleges of Chicago has expanded its Gateway program, which provides Adult Education students an opportunity to take college credit courses at a reduced cost while receiving additional advising
support. Many of this year’s graduates participated in the Gateway program, including GED graduate Edgar Arroyo. “I enrolled in the GED program with the goal of getting a promotion at work, but I was laid off before I could finish,” said Arroyo, a 26-yearold Wright College student. “The Gateway program made it possible for me to advance my education. And now I have new, bigger goals in mind: earning my associate degree, transferring to a four-year institution to pursue my bachelor’s degree and earning my photography certification to work as a professional photographer. My success with this program inspired my younger brother to return to school as well. We received our GED certificates together and will be enrolled in credit courses in the fall.” Matthew Bruce, another Gateway scholar, is retraining at age 52 to ensure he can compete in the increasingly competitive job market. “I spent 20 years working in sales and traveling from city to city, but when I returned to Chicago, I found out my experience wasn’t enough. I needed my GED and computer skills to compete,” said Bruce, an OliveHarvey College student. “Thanks to the help and support of adult education instructors, I successfully earned my GED in March and received an A in my first college course at OliveHarvey College. I’m going to keep
Cook County State’s Attorney Anita Alvarez recently honored 13 local students for their award-winning artwork that will be featured in the State’s Attorney 2014 calendar. The annual contest, which is open to all sixth, seventh and eighth grade students in Cook County, asked students to depict positive alternatives to drug use. The 13 winners were chosen from more than 700 entries submitted
from public, private and parochial schools throughout the county. “These students showed talent and wisdom beyond their years with their artistic displays that illustrate the consequences of drug use and show positive alternatives,” Alvarez said. “I want to thank all the students who submitted entries to the contest. They are all to be commended for their hard work and creative efforts,” she added.
CITY COLLEGES OF CHICAGO’S expanded “gateway” program is fueling an increase in students getting their GEDs and begin college careers. working to earn both my associate and bachelor’s degree.” According to the 2010 census, almost 330,000 Chicagoans, or nearly one-sixth of city residents of employable age (18 and over), lack a highschool diploma. Yet, only about 45,000 people are enrolled in a GED or an ESL program in the city. After a rigorous review of current locations and need across the city, City Colleges opened more than 30
new locations in neighborhoods from Brighton Park to Englewood to Avondale, supporting adults looking to earn a GED, improve their English language skills or become college ready. City Colleges’ new off-sites target particularly high-need “adult education deserts,” which have lacked adequate GED/ESL instruction availability. In these areas, at least 30 percent of the adult population is lacking a high-school diploma or English flu-
ency. A map of all adult education sites can be found here. All City Colleges of Chicago adult education classes are free. For more information on GED classes call 773-COLLEGE or by visiting http://www.ccc.edu/departments/ Pages/Adult-Education.aspx for information on how to contact the Adult Education Office at any of the seven City Colleges of Chicago.
Young artists receive State’s Attorney awards Besides having their artwork appear in the State’s Attorney 2014 calendar, the winners received numerous other prizes, and the three first place winners received scholarships from the School of the Art Institute. The awards ceremony was at the National Museum of Mexican Art and ABC-7’s co-anchor Alan Krashesky was the emcee for the event. Go to www.statesattorney.org to see the winning posters.
PICTURED ARE THE 6th grade winners of Cook County State’s Attorney’s Anti-Drug Poster Contest: (sitting, left to right): Jocelyn Costea and Daniela Morelos, Louis Pasteur Elementary School (Chicago); Bianey Iman, Cicero East School (Cicero) and McKenzie Martin, Calvary Academy (South Holland). Also pictured are (standing, left to right): Alan Krashesky, Co-Anchor on ABC 7 Chicago, who served as emcee for the event, Tracy Skorupski, Assistant Director Enrollment Services/Continuing Studies, School of the Art Institute of Chicago, State’s Attorney Anita Alvarez, ASA Brian Sexton, Bureau Chief, State’s Attorney’s Narcotics Prosecutions Section, and Russell Archuleta, General Manager, Key Lime Cove. www.chicagocrusader.com
PICTURED ARE THE 7th grade winners of Cook County State’s Attorney’s Anti-Drug Poster Contest: (sitting, left to right): Taya Raymond, Liberty Jr. High School (Burbank), Jose Jimenez, Robert L Grimes School (Chicago), Merrill O’Shaughnessy and Gigi Couri, St. Athanasius School (Evanston).
PICTURED ARE THE 8th grade winners of Cook County State’s Attorney’s Anti-Drug Poster Contest: (sitting, left to right): Sara Veliciu, Lincoln Hall Middle School (Lincolnwood), Erin Armstrong, St. Edward School (Chicago), Samantha Martinez, Richard Yates Elementary School (Chicago), Taylor Reid, Calvary Academy (South Holland) and Menen Habtu, St. Thomas of Canterbury School (Chicago).
BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
Saturday, August 3, 2013
19
20
Saturday, August 3, 2013
BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
www.chicagocrusader.com