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VOLUME LXXIII NUMBER 17—SATURDAY, AUGUST 17, 2013
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Chancellor’s compassion drives CCC By Glenn Reedus City Colleges of Chicago (CCC) Chancellor Cheryl Hyman is quick to tell you she takes things, especially negative things said about the seven-college chain system, personally. As an Olive-Harvey College graduate, the 40-something-year-old chancellor said, “My number one mission is to ensure that every student becomes a chancellor story. I know that this institution can do it because it did it for me.” Hyman said she took it personally that CCC had a 7 percent graduation rate when she took the helm three years ago. Through a system-wide initiative termed “Reinvention,” CCC’s graduation has edged up to 11 percent – but still below Hyman’s expectations. The drop out rate was horrendous but Reinvention has started to bring incremental changes – up to 66.9 percent from 66.3 percent. Hyman projects by 2018 the retention rate will have jumped to 71.6 percent. Hyman’s personal umbrage has transformed the city colleges into an institution that has pushed up the number of degrees awarded to almost 4,000 – the highest amount on record in CCC’s history. Hyman also plied her mathematics skills to create three successive years of balanced budgets with no tax increases. The West Side native, smiling said she is optimistic all major outcomes will improve
CHANCELLOR CHERYL HYMAN describes her transition from a corporate executive to leading the seven-school City Colleges of Chicago as “moving from a career to a calling.” thanks to CCC’s five-year plan termed Reinvention7. Reinvention was the strategy implemented two years ago to assess the system’s effectiveness and success compared to
other community colleges. It also was an introspective look at the overall system. Reinvention7 will be deployed throughout all seven colleges – Daley, Kennedy-King,
Malcolm X, Olive-Harvey, Truman, Washington, and Wright. She termed the fiveyear plan “very aggressive.” (Continued on page 3)
Jesse Jackson, Jr. and Sandi will both serve time By Freddie Allen Washington Correspondent WASHINGTON (NNPA) – After openly weeping and apologizing for his behavior, former U.S. Rep. Jesse L. Jackson, Jr. was sentenced to 2 ½ years in federal prison on Wednesday for using $750,000 in campaign funds for personal use. “Your honor, throughout this process I’ve asked the government and the court to hold me and only me accountable for my actions,” Jackson told U.S. District Judge Amy Berman Jackson. He said, “I am the example for the whole Congress. I understand that. I didn’t separate my personal life from my political activities, and I couldn’t have been more wrong.” He also said, “I misled the American people, I misled the House of Representatives.” Dabbing his eyes with tissues, he said, “I was wrong and I do not fault anyone.”
JESSE JACKSON, JR. and his wife Sandi hold hands Wednesday as they enter federal court to learn their fate. He was sentenced to 30 months in prison, and she was given a one-year sentence. He will report to an Alabama prison November 1.
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Chicago Board of Elections Chief praises “Mother Jennings’’ (See story on page 2)
Bud Billiken Parade Photos
(See story on page 11)
As the younger Jackson delivered his statement, his father, Jesse Jackson, Sr., sat in the first row listening as tears ran down his cheeks and his mother, Jacqueline, donned sunglasses for much of the proceedings. Jackson’s wife, Sandi, a former Chicago alderman, was sentenced to a year in prison and will have to serve all 12 months. She must also repay $22,000 taken from her own campaign account for alderman. Family members wept when she was sentenced. Based on time off for good behavior, Jackson, Jr. could be released after completing 25.5 months. In addition, Jackson, Jr. must perform 500 hours of community service. Because the couple has two children, aged 13 and 9, they will serve time consecutively, with the husband entering prison first. Prose(Continued on page 3)
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Jacksons are ho-hum among state’s political criminals By Glenn Reedus A scorecard would be handy for anyone trying to determine where former Congressman Jesse Jackson, Jr. ranks among Illinois politicians wearing the felon label when he reports to an Alabama federal prison Nov.1. Jackson, who represented Illinois’ Second District for eight terms, is a 48-year-old Chicago native, and was sentenced August 14 to 30 months in federal prison. And his wife, Sandi, who was a Seventh Ward alderman, also was sentenced to one year in prison. The husband will serve his sentence first. He represented Illinois’ Second Congressional District at the time of his resignation last December. One month later, Sandi stepped down. The congressman pleaded guilty to using about $750,000 from his campaign coffers to purchase a range of personal items, celebrity memorabilia and some exotic purchases including elk head. Sandi Jackson is accused of not reporting approximately $600,000 in income to the Internal Revenue Service. During his sentencing hearing, Jackson told the judge “I misled the American people, I misled the House of Representatives,” Jackson said as he dabbed his eyes with a pile of tissues. “I was wrong and I do not fault anyone.” He asked to serve his term in Alabama, “far away from everybody for awhile.” Besides his prison time,
Jackson was ordered to perform 500 hours of community service. The work cannot be related to politics. The son of the Rev. Jesse L. Jackson and Jacqueline Jackson received a bit more than half of the four-year sentence the prosecution was requesting. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Graves called Jackson’s crimes “staggering,” in part because the couple had sufficient independent financial resources, earning nearly $350,000 in 2011. “These were extreme abuses that strike at the integrity of the campaign finance system,” Graves said. Jackson’s 30 months is not the longest term, nor is he the highest ranking Illinois elected official to be sentenced. His predecessor Mel Reynolds, served more than two years in prison on a misdemeanor charge related to criminal sexual assault involving a 16-year-old female campaign worker. Later, he was convicted of federal wire and bank fraud. He was sentenced to six years but former President Bill Clinton commuted his sentence January 20, 2001. Prison was avoidable for Gus Savage who represented the Second District from 1980-1991. Savage, the perennial controversial congressman, was accused of unwelcomed advances on a female Peace Corps worker in Zaire in 1989. The matter was dropped after Savage wrote a letter of apology. One of the state’s most powerful former congressmen, Dan Rostenkowski, rose to be chair of the
SANDI JACKSON IN happier times shares a laugh with husband Jesse Jackson, Jr. The couple displayed a political acumen not previously seen between local husband and wife elected officials. House Ways and Means Committee, Are they still serving their sentences simply people waiting their chance however the rank was of little good at different times? I don’t feel 30 at the public trough?” when the congressman pleaded months is fair, but then I am not sure Craig May, who also lives on the guilty to mail fraud. After serving 17 what would be fair in these circum- South Side said in his Facebook post, months at the Oxford, Wis. federal stances, it is certainly not fair that “More than anything this story is prison, the18-term congressman was they get to serve one after the other, if sad. I mean like, Greek tragedy sad. pardoned by former President Bill that’s true. I don’t care for the way he So much promise and so much poClinton. ducked out of explaining by way of tential. As recently as 2008 I felt Several Chicagoans who opined on saying he was bi-polar. Is that some- strongly that he would succeed Facebook about the sentencing pro- thing you can acquire, that he didn’t Richard M. Daley as mayor of vided an array of views and senti- have it when he initially ran? And Chicago. I thought that was the poments about the Jacksons. Sandi was an alderman? Does this litical end game he was shooting for. Southsider Brian Ray posted “I still mean we will never have the kind of “So after hearing his name come feel like the Second District is cursed, political acuity in our community to up in the Blagojevich mess, shortly and $750k is an awful lot of money. elect politicians of substance and not after the election, I was shocked. But I can’t say I feel sorry for Jesse Jr. or Sandi. They were Black political royalty in this city and had no reason to from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., Thursday in flush it down the sewer for pieces of the lower level of the Waterfront Ter- junk and pricey junkets. “The real victims, after their young race, according to Ruby Morris, children, of course, are the long-sufmarketing director for the Waterfering constituents of the 2nd Disfront Terrace. trict and 7th Ward. How much Born to Maggie and Joseph more should these poor folks have to Spencer in Tchula, Mississippi, Jenendure just to get the representation nings is one of seven children. Her sister, Thelma Montgomery, is cur- they deserve and desperately need? rently 88-years-old and resides in Las From Gus Savage to Mel Reynolds Vegas with her daughter, Elaine En- and now Jackson Jr. Their luck with aldermen hasn’t been much better.” nols. Federal Judge Amy Berman JackJennings attended school in Tchuson, who is not related to the defenla, Mississippi where she only went dants, granted Jackson’s request to to the fourth grade. be assigned to a federal prison in AlIn 1945, Jennings moved to abama – the closest federal city to Chicago’s South Side where she mar(Continued on page 3) ried Curtis Jennings. The couple had three children, Curtis Jennings, Jr., Scan this QR Myrtle Hatcher and Ella Mae, who (quick response) died at the age of 3, all of whom preceded her in death. Her husband alcode to go to so passed in 1997. www.chicagocrusader.com Asked if she can remember any to read breaking news. racism in Mississippi, Jennings said she could not recall any instances of racism. A Christian, she remembers being very good with young adults and was very committed to her min“Mother” Magnolia Jennings istry. The daughter of Mississippi farm- biggest birthday’s when she turns ers, Magnolia Jennings has spent 106-years-old. When asked if she voted for Barack most of her life being a housewife A resident at the Waterfront TerObama, America’s first Black presiand mother of three, but on Thurs- race, 7750 South Shore, since 2005, dent, Jennings said she was very hapday she is expected to have one of her Jennings is having a birthday party py to cast her vote for Obama.
Chicago Board of Elections Chief praises “Mother Jennings’’ She saw the right for women to vote By Chinta Strausberg Chicago Board of Election Commissioners, officials late Tuesday praised “Mother” Magnolia Jennings, who turned 106 on Thursday, August 15th, and praised her consistent voting record that included casting her ballots in the last presidential and special elections. “We are so proud to count Magnolia Jennings among our most experienced — and most reliable — voters in Chicago,” said Langdon D. Neal, Chairman of the Chicago Board of Elections. “In Magnolia, or as we would call her out of respect and endearment, Mother Jennings, we have a woman who was there to see women first gain the right to vote, just three days after her 13th birthday back in 1920.” “Mother Jennings continues to exercise the precious access to the electoral franchise, as recently as the 2012 presidential election and again during this year’s special elections. Mother Jennings is among the best examples of a dedicated voter, and a reason why Chicago leads the region in voter engagement and turnout,” said Neal. 2
Saturday, august 17, 2013
BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
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Chancellor’s compassion drives CCC (Continued from page 1) A major component of that plan is “increasing the relevance of the work a student does at city colleges. That has translated into CCC officials identifying the six top areas where jobs will be over the next decade and developing the Colleges to Careers program. According to a CCC report more than 500,000 job openings are expected to be available in six areas and the respective numbers are; healthcare (84,000), advanced manufacturing (14,000), transportation, distribution and logistics (110,000), information technology (44,000), business/professional services (300,000), and culinary arts/hospitality (24,000). According to Hyman, “there are substantial openings at area companies, despite persistently high unemployment rates. This stems in large part from the skills gap and an information gap that our College to Careers initiative is designed to help address, by offering training and retraining that empowers individuals with the tools to seize the jobs of today and tomorrow.” More than 100 companies and organizations have partnered with CCC on the College to Careers program translating into more than 700 students finding jobs or paid internships in the six industries previously indentified. Hyman explained CCC’s previous low performance was the driving force behind launching Reinvention. “We needed to figure out what really is happening. Whether it is unique to the City Colleges of Chicago, and finally what do we do about it.” An IIT computer science graduate who also holds an executive master of business administration degree from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Business Management, Hyman said she learned in the process leading up to Reinvention that “we were set up to focus on access and not outcomes. So when I launched Reinvention it was to try to shift the focus.” Her expertise in math brought her to the decision that all college programs and policies had to be tied to “measurable outcomes that held everyone accountable.” She
added that it was imperative college officials move away from the belief that funding sources would always be the same. CCC already had a number of best practices Hyman noted. Her desire to have best practices in more areas prompted her to create faculty-staff-and-student teams charged with visiting other community colleges review their operations and “if it working for somebody else we can borrow it.” That work and visits were followed by 65,000 work hours logged by 100 faculty members during one semester to find solutions. The chancellor said that many of the elements needed for a transformation involved common sense. She elaborated that it is evident that many college students have many issues going on in their lives that impair their abilities to fully focus on academics. She said to address that CCC opened wellness centers on all seven campuses. These centers provide personal counseling, support groups, stress and time management, and referrals to community resources. Because so many Chicagoans are returning from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, CCC has two veteran specialists at every campus to facilitate the veterans return to civilian life. Many future CCC students will learn in new environments as City College’s new $524 million capital campaign that will include academic enhancements on all seven campuses. The Malcolm X campus will get a $251 million makeover, and $45 million will be spent for a Transportation, Distribution and Logistic Center at Olive-Harvey. Hyman’s CCC success to date mirrors her corporate career, including a 14-year stint with ComEd where she reached the senior vice president level when she was 38, making her the youngest senior vice president in the company’s history. She worked in information technology, transmission and distribution, community and economic development, as well as government and legislative affairs.
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CHANCELLOR CHERYL HYMAN has put all of the strategic and financial elements in place to ensure that Malcolm X College – one of seven in the City Colleges of Chicago system – is completely transformed.
Jacksons are ho-hum among state’s political (Continued from page 2) Washington D.C. The former congressman will be sent to the federal prison in Montgomery, Ala. It is a minimum security facility that houses male offenders. FPC Montgomery is located on Maxwell Air Force Base, off Interstates 65 and 85.
Mel Cragwell also wrote on Facebook “I thought that it was interesting that some folks think that he’ll be back in public service after he serves time. I think not. He may, however, end up on air doing talk radio on ‘some’ local radio feed....ahem! Just think, 2008, he was Barack Obama’s
national co-chair. Five years later, he is in court sobbing for his transgressions. Because she was sentenced to exactly one year, Sandi Jackson will not be able to have her sentence cut short for good behavior.
Jesse Jackson, Jr. and Sandi will both . . . (Continued from page 1) cutors had asked that Jackson Jr. be sentenced to four years in prison and his wife 18 months. U.S. District Judge Amy Berman Jackson said that Jackson treated campaign funds as “a personal piggy bank.” The judge acknowledged that in the past lawmakers were more loose with the use of campaign funds, but Jackson’s actions far exceeded even those limits. “There may be blurred lines for Congress to follow when their lives are political, this case did not come near those areas,” she told Jackson, Jr., who represented Chicago’s South Side for 17 years, “This was a knowing, organized joint misconduct that was repeated over many years.” Jackson, Jr., once a rising political star and the oldest son of civil rights leader Jesse L. Jackson, Sr., pleaded guilty to conspiracy, making false statements, mail fraud and wire fraud. His wife Sandi was charged with filing false tax returns. According to the federal information filed in federal court, Jackson knowingly misspent campaign funds from about August 2005 through July 2012. It said Jackson and his wife conspired to “enrich themselves by engaging in a conspiracy and a scheme to defraud in which they used funds donated to the campaign for their own person-
al benefit.” Prosecutors said among the unauthorized spending was a $43,350 gold-plated Rolex watch for Jackson, Jr., more than $22,000 in Michael Jackson memorabilia, $11,130 for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. memorabilia, $10,105 for Bruce Lee memorabilia, $9,587.64 worth of children’s furniture shipped from New Jersey to the couple’s Washington home, a $5,000 football signed by American presidents, $2,775 on Jimi Hendrix memorabilia, $2,200 for Malcolm X memorabilia, a $1,500 black and red cashmere cape, and a $1,200 mink reversible parka. Reid Weingarten, Jackson Jr.’s attorney, sought to minimize his client’s action, saying Jackson did not victimize helpless widows or operate a Ponzi scheme. However, Matt Graves, an assistant U.S. attorney, called Jackson’s crimes “staggering.” He noted that the couple had earned nearly $350,000 in 2011. Graves spoke of Jackson being “wasted talent” who had participated in one of the largest violations of federal campaign laws. Graves even belittled Jackson’s bipolar disorder, saying there was no medical evidence presented in court to support that claim. The judge agreed, noting that there was evidence to show that the purchases were made during a
BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
bipolar episode and that none of the extravagant items were returned. The judge called evidence provided to support the defense’s bipolar disorder claim “thin.” Reading from a prepared statement, Sandi Jackson cried and said. “My heart breaks every day with the pain this has caused my babies.” But the judge reminded her, “It’s not the government that put your children in this position.” She recommended assigning the former congressman to a minimum-security federal prison camp in Montgomery, Ala., or a low-security facility near Raleigh, N.C. She recommended that Sandi Jackson be sent to a similar facility in Florida. However, the Bureau of Prisons will make the final decision. “The judge rendered a sentence that we’re satisfied was fair,” said Weingarten after learning Jackson’s fate. “The system worked well.” Weingarten continued: “We fully believe that our client, Jesse Jackson, Jr. is going to have another important chapter in his life. He will come back out, and we believe, that he will do great things.” Jackson, Jr. said he hoped his wife can earn enough money to support the family while he is in prison. “”When I get back, I’ll take on that burden,” he said. “By then, I hope my children will be old enough that the pain I caused will be easier to bear.” Saturday, august 17, 2013
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EDITORIAL
EDITORIAL BLACK POLITICAL POWER UNDER SIEGE These are very special times in Black America. These are times of crisis, and also times of opportunity. As things go, though, the challenges are taking the upper hand and are adversely impacting the Black political structure during a period when it is needed the most. On the heels of the Trayvon Martin murder, the attacks on affirmative action, and the weakening of the Voting Rights Act, a number of prominent politicos and other persons of power are being targeted for alleged various and sundry wrongdoing. Among these are Sen. Donne Trotter; former congressman Jesse Jackson Jr. and his wife, former alderman Sandi Jackson; Larry Huggins, who was allegedly forced to retire from the Metra Board in anticipation of fishy revelations, and Quinshaunta Golden, the former chief of staff for the Illinois Department of Public Health, who was indicted for allegedly accepting bribes and kickbacks totaling at least $433,000 for directing grants and contracts to certain providers. The latest fiasco, however, takes the cake and involves international intrigue. It reaches all the way to Africa and threatens to create even more havoc among Black elected officials. Basically, Prince Asiel Ben Israel and C. Gregory Turner (Gregory Turner), two Chicagoans, have been accused of attempting assist Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe by lobbying in an attempt to have economic sanctions against that beleaguered country removed so that they could do business with that country. This took place in late 2008 and 2009. A Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) article released by the Chicago Division said that $3.4 million was offered toward this end. Sanctions were originally imposed by President George W. Bush in 2003 and have been continued by the Obama administration. The sanctions were put in place based on charges of corruption, including the alleged use of funds from Zimbabwe’s industries, especially the diamond trade, to enrich Mugabe’s own family and to engage in influence peddling. Both Ben Israel and Turner have been accused of violating the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), a charge which, if they are found guilty, can result in a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $1 million dollar fine. This is incredible. It is not as though Ben Israel and Turner were out to swindle the world; they were attempting to do what many Blacks, for years, have said what must be done; that we must establish trade with Africa. It is unfortunate that in this case, the government chosen for that purpose has been placed in economic limbo by the United States’ economic sanctions. Actually, if you look at the situation with closer scrutiny, the reason for the sanctions against Zimbabwe take on a more sinister tint. If the U.S.’s actions were based on altruism and a sincere desire to protect African citizens, then sanctions might be warranted. On the other hand, Mugabe, you may recall, enacted a policy wherein he took land from white people in that country in order to return it to African ownership. This outraged whites, and the economic sanctions placed on Zimbabwe may actually have this as an underlying motive. Ultimately, if you think about it, the U.S. government, in this case, is effectively interfering with the Kujichagulia, i.e., Self-Determination, of the Black community. While they go and meddle in the affairs of other countries like Iraq, Afghanistan and others toppling leaders at will, they are placing the handcuffs on Blacks who are trying to do business that could ultimately benefit Blacks in America and in Africa. This seems hypocritical at best! A luta continua. 4
Saturday, august 17, 2013
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Boo for Hales Franciscan Dear Editor: I was stunned to pick up my copy of the Crusader and read that Hales Franciscan is turning into a co-ed school. This is an incredible mistake. Adding girls to the institution that is Hales will boost revenues but there probably aren’t any other benefits. Some claim that making the school co-ed will help boys develop better and earlier social skills. School is not about social mingling, but rather about developing a strong and focused work ethic. The presence of girls will change the entire culture of the school and not necessarily for the better. I can tell you first hand that girls will prove to be a distraction at the formerly all-male school. You will notice that other formerly all boys schools that turned coed have segregated the genders on different campuses. They want the dollars from the tuitions but not the potential headaches of comingling. Hales’ move is understandable because the school’s leadership and population have not been stable the last several years. A stream of new students might stabilize the enrollment for a while but the Hales decision makers will have to abandon a businessas-usual mindset and find a reason to make Hales stand out among its competition – especial-
ly after the novelty of being co-ed has worn off. There is so much flux and upheaval in schools in and around the city; it would have been good if Hales had not jumped in that mix. I wish them luck. We will just have to wait and see how it all works itself out. Corey Baker
Just annex Dixmoor Dear Editor:
tential candidates, internal and external might not be too keen on working with a fuse as short as Armstrong’s. Dixmoor was already drawing attention to itself for its budget problems. Firing the chief, who did the right thing, makes the village’s situation appear worse than it is – especially to outsiders. Everybody knows the mayor is in charge. There was no reason for her to be so brusque. Joe Willis
CHICAGO CRUSADER (U.S.P.S. 596080)
Editor-Publisher
The village of Dixmoor should be shut down. It is that simple. Police in every community have some issues or problems, but they try to work through them, not walk off the job like two cops in Dixmoor did. They are sworn to provide safety and when those two walked away from their duties, they violated their oath of office. If that wasn’t bad enough, the mayor fired the police chief after finding out he called Sheriff Tom Dart’s office for help after the cops walked off the job. The mayor’s response to the issue was wholly unprofessional. She made the situation worse by not having enough integrity to meet with the chief and discuss her issues with him calling in the sheriff. Apparently Mayor Armstrong doesn’t realize the way she fired Chief Fox will make it that much more difficult to replace him. Po-
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COMMENTARY
Betrayal in Chicago By Harry C. Alford NNPA Columnist Like a typical American city, Indianapolis was a venue of mass discrimination against Black owned construction business. I had been working since 1989 to change that. For the most part we were very successful. The “Indy Way” was complete diversity in the labor force and in business ownership. So I guess it wasn’t made clear to United Airlines that when they chose Indianapolis as the site of their new maintenance hub they would have to show diversity in the building of this $1 billion project. Mayor William Hudnut made it clear and would not sign the deal (incentives, agreements, etc.) until there was a signed agreement by all three parties: United Airlines, City of Indianapolis and the State of Indiana. To my surprise the Economic Development Director for Mayor Hudnut asked to meet me for breakfast. He informed me that the Mayor was leaving politics at the end of the month (which we all knew) and wanted me to know something. The Mayor knew that the agreement was partly a sham. After his departure the State (Governor Evan Bayh) would only hold
Harry C. Alford them to one of the two parts of the deal. There was a requirement to have a 13% minority workforce after the completion of the hub. Also, there was a requirement to have 13% participation in all phases of the contracting. The Governor’s office secretly told United they didn’t have to do the contracting phase. The Mayor relayed to me, “They are going to reneged on the contracting part. You can’t divulge that I told you this but I want you to assure me that you will
stop them. You are the only one who can stop them.” I was flattered with the challenge and accepted graciously. As President of the Hoosier Minority Chamber of Commerce, I attended the first minority business outreach session for the project. As I introduced myself, the United representative responded that the Minority Supplier Development Council would be doing the compliance monitoring for the project. I publicly replied that format could not work as United is a major member of that organization and the “fox should not be watching the hen house.” Then I responded, “The HMCC is going to watch over this project to ensure that you are going to make all goals. We know that you don’t intend to but we are going to make you.” It was at that point that the “war” started. Little did United know that Indianapolis was now doing the real thing when it came to minority contracting. Unlike Chicago, their home base, where fronting and outright fraud is used in declaring minority participation we meant serious business. We didn’t care what our Governor’s office said. It will be the real deal or nothing. I used the 5 Black-owned newspapers and a few Black newscasters to
people were not only from Indianapolis but from Black contracting groups representing Kansas City, St. Louis, Cleveland, Detroit, Columbus and DC. We now had the majority for a vote. The meeting started and we were informed that CEO Wolf would not be coming. We confronted BCU and United by stating “No Wolf, no meeting – get out!” Suddenly, the United representative pointed her finger at the BCU director and stated, “Jerome, we had a deal! You will pay for this!,” and marched out of the room. Then we knew, Black Contractors United was bought off and was trying to sink us. Things reversed on them and United had no alternative now but to “surrender.” We soon met at the office of Indianapolis new mayor, Stephen Goldsmith, and closed on a new agreement. Every phase of the project must have 15% Black (not minority) participation – guaranteed by United and our new mayor. We did it! I knew former Mayor Hudnut was somewhere grinning.
prove my point. Weekly they would issue progress reports on the contracting. I would verify and then disclose the lies they were telling. My “Fudge Reports” would contrast the number of jobs and real cash that could have gone to the local Black community versus the false numbers that equated to nothing. It became clear to our local Black elected officials and leaders that the whole project was just a sham. Our position became very credible as we turned up the public heat. United was truly embarrassed about the exposure. But they were so adamant about not doing the right thing they decided to discredit me rather than run an honest program. The local Black construction association in Chicago was Black Contractors United. United Airlines asked the BCU to convene a meeting in Chicago between the HMCC and United. Knowing how dirty Chicago based companies and groups play I suspected a “set – up.” Supposedly, United’s CEO Stephen Wolf would be at the meeting. The BCU, our “friend,” would moderate and bring closure to the controversy. I gave them the number of people who would be coming with me. What they didn’t know was that
Mr. Alford is the co-founder, President/CEO of the National Black Chamber of Commerce®. Website: www.nationalbcc.org. Email: halford@nationalbcc.org.
Jackie Jackson: A Mother’s Love By George E. Curry NNPA Columnist On Wednesday, Aug. 14, Congressman Jesse Jackson, Jr. was scheduled to be sentenced to prison in connection with using campaign funds for personal use. Dozens of letters were sent to the judge on his behalf, but none more touching than the one written by his mother, dated May 28. She began by noting, “I am Jacqueline Jackson, the mother of five children, one of whom I am writing about, my son Jesse Jackson, Jr.” Her letter shed light not only on her son’s problems growing up in his famous father’s shadow, but provided a peek into the family’s early struggles. “…My husband was granted a Rockefeller Scholarship to attend Chicago Theological Seminary. With a family of almost three in 1964, we arrived at McGifford House on Woodlawn Avenue in Chicago. By the time my son was born, my husband was attending school and organizing the Kenwood Oakland Community Organization (K.O.C.O) and was its first Executive Director (an unsalaried position),” Mrs. Jackson wrote. “Because of the success of this organization, and based on the recommendation of www.chicagocrusader.com
Rev. James Bevel, my husband was hired to work for the Southern Christian Leadership Conference for $75. If my memory serves me correctly, that was his weekly salary. To sustain our family, we were given food baskets by our Pastor, Rev. Clay Evans and the members of Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church, where my son Jesse Jr. chose later to be baptized. I learned to provide the other necessities by frequenting resale shops, lawn sales, learning to preserve and can foods, and sewing and mending things that did not fit. But most of all, I learned to express my appreciation and gratitude for the kindness of others.” Just as her family struggled in the early stages, so did Jesse, Jr., Mrs. Jackson wrote. “Contrary to the belief of many who only see us as we are today from a televised perspective, Jesse Jr., was not born with a silver spoon nor was he born privileged. Jesse Jr., my second child and my eldest son, was born during the turbulent sixties, the period of terrible hatred for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and those who followed Dr. King and the principles of non-violence he espoused. Our son, Rev. Jackson’s namesake, inherited his friends and enemies. As a child, Jesse Jr. held jobs waiting tables, cleaning floors and other odd jobs. Growing up in
George E. Curry the shadow of his father, Jesse Jr. has always tried desperately to live up to the expectations we have had for him. I think perhaps too hard, he has tried.” And she recalled that Jesse, Jr. was not always successful. She wrote, “I recall how disappointed Jesse Jr. was when he discovered he could not enter high school without repeating the 9th grade. My husband finally convinced him to accept this as his challenge. Rev. Jackson said, ‘Sometimes you must go down to
come up’ and Jesse Jr. prevailed. He completed his undergraduate studies in three years, received a Juris Doctor degree and received his Master’s degree in Theology. His passion for the word of God led me to believe and hope he would find his niche in Theology. However, he chose public service, the United States Congress, and we are proud of his choice and the good he accomplished during his 17 years of perfect attendance and sterling voting record.” She recalled when Jesse Jr.’s illness was made painfully clear to her. “I received a call from my daughter Santita, who requested that I check on Jesse Jr. because she was concerned for him,” Mrs. Jackson recounted. “Sometime during the last weeks of June 2012. I did as she requested, and found my son grossly underweight and in poor health. He asked that I take him to the office because he had an upcoming vote. When I took him to his Capital Hill office to prepare for the vote, the office was in total disarray, which was most unusual for my son. A security guard approached me and said, ‘Please take care of Jesse. Last week he collapsed on the floor of the House and was taken to the hospital by ambulance.’ My heart sank. No one had shared with me my son’s condition. I called my husband.
BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
We told our son to ‘come with us. We are going to get help for you.’ He did not offer any resistance which made us know his condition was dire. Everything that has happened since that day is public record. My son is much better now.” She closed her letter with this paragraph: “My mother says, ‘there is always some good in all things.’ There was a transforming moment during the horrific trial experience. As my son Jesse Jr. faced the judge, he turned around to look for his father’s support just as he did when he had to repeat the 9th grade. His lips shaped the words, ‘I love you and I am so sorry.’ I shall never forget that moment because my heart leapt. I then realized the joy and love that sustains all mothers. I love my son. May God guide your decision.” 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 17, 2013
5
COMMENTARY
TEACHING THE TRUTH THROUGHOUT THE SCHOOL YEAR
(Dr. Conrad Worrill, National Chairman Emeritus of the National Black United Front (NBUF), located at 1809 East 71st Street, Suite 211, Chicago, Illinois, 60649, 773-493-0900, Fax# 773-493-9819, E-mail: nbufchic@sbcglobal.net, Web site: nbufront.org)
Dr. Conrad Worrill
The movement to implement an appropriate African Centered Curriculum in predominately African in America inner city schools is critical to the on–going struggle for
the liberation of African people in this country. We must continue to demand that the truth be taught throughout the school year. This movement has now become popularly known as the African Centered Education Movement. Simply stated, it focuses on teaching the truth concerning the contributions of African people to the development of civilization in all subjects. During this new school year we must heighten the dialogue concerning the importance of this movement, particularly as it relates to the future of our children. Throughout the country, Africans in America have become more sensitive to challenging the racist and white supremacist basis of the African public school curriculum. Through the National Black United Front (NBUF) and its world African Centered Education Plan, more Africans in America are beginning to see the need for massive curriculum change in the public schools of this country and the youth must take leadership in this project. There is not a day that goes by that someone does not call my office seeking information and help on how to start the process of changing the curriculum in their school. Parents are becoming more and more dissatisfied with what
their children are being taught. They are also beginning to realize how much isn’t taught. It is clear that the public school system is the place where African America children receive a significant portion of their view of the world and the history of the world. And, it also is a place where large numbers of African in America youth are miseducated under the system of white supremacy through the ideas and interpretation of history that is presented to them. Let’s turn to Carter G. Woodson’s great book, The Mis-Education of the Negro to get some further insights into this problem. Woodson observes “the so–called modern education, with all its defects, however, does others so much more good than it does the Negro, because it has been worked out in conformity to the needs of those who have enslaved and oppressed weaker people.” For example, Woodson says, “The philosophy and ethics resulting from our educational system have justified slavery, peonage, segregation and lynching. The oppressor has the right to exploit, to handicap, and to kill the oppressed.” Continuing on Woodson explains that, “No systematic effort toward change had been possible for, taught the same economics, history,
philosophy, literature and religion which have established the present code of morals, the Negro’s mind has been brought under control of his oppressor.” Concluding on this point Woodson states, “The problem of holding the Negro down, therefore, is easily solved. When you control a man’s thinking you do not have to worry about his actions.” Therefore, it is inspiring to see so many of our people waking up all over America and seeking the truth concerning the real contributions of African people to the world. Through study groups, conferences, Black talk radio, information network exchanges, African Americans are coming into a new African consciousness that seeks to reclaim the African mind and spirit. Through the Portland Model Baseline Essays, the work of the Kemetic Institute, the Association for the Study of Classical African Civilizations (ASCAC), and other writings and curriculum materials, Africans are becoming much more aware of the following points that must be incorporated into the curriculum. 1. Africa is the home of early man. 2. Africa is the cradle of modern man. 3. Africa is the cradle of civiliza-
tion. 4. Africa once held a position as world teacher including the teacher for the western world. 5. There was and there still is a continental-wide unity in Africa and in the African communities around the world. 6. The first time Africans left the continent was not on slave ships. 7. Africa and African people all over the world have been under siege for nearly 2,000 years and only recently by European slavery and colonization. 8. There is an African Diaspora all over the world today. 9. African people have resisted domination on the continent and all over the world. 10. Even under slavery, colonization, segregation, apartheid, African people have made monumental contributions to arts, science and politics. These ten points, and others, have become the basis upon which we can judge the white supremacy public school curriculums content in textbooks and other learning materials. In other words, these points have become the basis of determining whether the truth is being taught in the public schools of this country. The Truth will set us all free!
DROPPING THE BATON By Julianne Malveaux Research shows that this generation of young people, no matter their race, are likely to do less well than their parents did. Shackled by a trillion dollars worth of student loans and a flat labor market, the New York-based Demos organization says the student loan burden prevents young people from buying homes and amassing wealth. While there are some racial gaps, many young people enter the labor market already behind the space their parents occupied. As I spend time with young people, especially young African Americans, I understand their frustration. They want to know what the civil rights generation has done to pass the baton of activism and improvement to them. They want to know how they should move forward. While they are wiling to participate in marches and civic action, they want to know what’s next. And they want to know why their voices are not heard in Black leadership. Those who are seasoned offer their history of activism as proof 6
Saturday, August 17, 2013
Julianne Malveaux that they should lead. They forge the student nonviolent coordinating committee (SNCC) who didn’t ask their elders for permission. They pushed elders to move to a more active position and when elders would not meet them, they
pushed themselves. There was no shame in their game. Whether militant or moderate, they embraced parts of the Black Panther Party political program, which begins with these words, “We want freedom, we want the power to determine our destiny.” Too many of us, African Americans, young people, progressives, do not determine our destiny now. We flow with the wind. Too many have dropped the baton, but continue to act as if they are clasping it. Too many mouth their interest in young leaders, but fail to bring them to the table. Too many who are 40 and 50 describe themselves as young, but if you tell the truth and shame the devil, these folks are solidly middle aged. So where are their protégées, those who will take, not snatch, the torch from them. As I move around the country to speak, organize, and motivate, I am stunned by events that focus on youth, but have only a few (and often none) young people present. Imagine if young people had the opportunity to have meaningful exchanges with their elders. Too often young people are segregated into a
“youth” program when interaction with adults would be both motivating and stimulating to them. If we kick young people to the curb, we drop the baton that was handed to us. We Baby Boomers have a responsibility to both Generation X and Generation Y. We have shirked that responsibility. I do not know how to describe Rev. Cecelia Bryant. I could call her mentor, role model, or friend. Or I could say that she is a great inspiration and, in a simple sentence, she has encapsulated the work that we must all do to move our community forward. You have to replicate yourself seven times, she said, and you have to ask those you replicated to replicate themselves seven times. In other words there has to be an embrace, and a responsibility to embrace the next generation not only politically but also personally. Who are the people who will come behind you? Who will incorporate your work into their own? Who will understand that you put your hand on them because somebody put their hand on you, and who will feel obligated to put their hand on others?
BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
The Civil Rights generation made massive progress, but in many ways they dropped the ball. While they made it clear that there was work to be done, too many of them did not choose those who would do it. Too much energy and focus has been placed on one or two people, and we need cohorts of the next generation to work together. The Baby Boom Generation (mine) has dropped the ball as well. We have been beneficiaries of the Civil Rights Generation, but we have not passed our largess or our lessons on. The Baby Boom Generation has been, in many ways, one of the most economically privileged generations of African American progress. So why do so many of us, who enjoy the legacy of this progress, fail to recognize the people and organizations that have brought us to this place? The Rev. Willie Barrow says that we are not as much divided as disconnected. When the baton has been dropped, what can we expect but a generational disconnection? Julianne Malveaux is a D.C. based economist and author. www.chicagocrusader.com
MINI EVENTS
Many Events Planned for March on Washington By George E. Curry NNPA Editor-in-Chief WASHINGTON (NNPA) – In addition to the long-planned March on Washington scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 24, the White House has announced that President Obama will speak at a commemorative service at the Lincoln Memorial on Aug. 28, the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington for Jobs and Justice. “National Action to Realize the Dream March” on Aug. 24 will be co-chaired by Al Sharpton and Martin Luther King, III. According the list of speakers announced thus far, it will be held in the spirit of the original march. On the other hand, the King Center in Atlanta, headed Bernice King, is more commemorative. It is celebrating Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” speech by asking communities to organize “Let Freedom Ring” bell-ringing events on Aug. 28 at 3 p.m. Eastern Standard Time to observe the exact time Dr. King delivered his historic address. The Let Freedom Ring” commemoration and call to action” will be held on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. on August 28. The program begins with an interfaith service from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial on the National Mall, followed by the “Let Freedom Ring” ceremony at the Lincoln Memorial from 1 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. President Obama is scheduled to speak at the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. Ironically, Obama accepted his party’s nomination on 45th anniversary of the march on Aug. 28, 2008 in Denver. In his acceptance speech, he made reference to Dr. King but did not call him by name, preferring to refer to him as “a young preacher from Georgia.” Obama’s second inauguration in January of this year fell on the day of national observance of Dr. King’s birthday, but Obama referred to “a King,” but again did not mention MLK by name. On Aug. 28, he gets a third time to be more specific. Throughout most of his presidency, Obama has been reluctant to address the issue of race. But that apparently changed with the shooting death of unarmed 17-year-old Trayvon Martin and the subsequent acquittal of George Zimmerman on second-degree murder charges. The Aug. 28 platform will provide him another opportunity to address race. With one member of the King family – Martin III – helping lead the Saturday march and another – Bernice – the driving force behind the March 28 event at the Lincoln Memorial, some supporters are worried that holding two separate
Women, will host a free evening program that will include a special appearance by Elder Bernice King, chief executive officer of The King Center and daughter of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King. Rev. King will receive the NCNW’s 2013 Leadership Award. Moderated by Sirius XM radio host, Joe Madison, the event will also feature a discussion with journalist and author of Shocking the Conscience: A Reporter’s Account of the Civil Rights (Continued from page 17)
marches might reduce attendance at each event, sending the wrong message about Blacks’ determination to fight regressive actions and court decision. Trying to put the best face on the situation, organizers argue that because the Obama announcement came so late, it will not interfere with the Aug. 24 march because those planning to attend have already solidified their transportation and hotel plans. Both the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) and the Bayard Rustin Institute are holding their annual conventions in Washington that week. Obama’s speech will culminate a week of activities centered around the original march. Among the events planned: Wednesday, August 21. Praise and Worship Service for 50th Anniversary Celebration 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm Mt. Airy Baptist Church 1100 North Capitol Street, NW Washington, DC 20002 Hosted by the National African American Clergy Network OPEN TO THE PUBLIC Thursday, August 22, 2013 Celebrating the Legacy of Women in the Movement Women in the Movement: Past, Present & Future Intergenerational Roundtable 11:00 am – 1:30 pm Venue TBD Washington, D.C. Hosted by NCBCP Black Women’s Roundtable, National Council of Negro Women, National Action Network in partnership w/The King Center, Planned Parenthood Invitation Only Celebrating the Legacy of Youth in the Movement Protect Our Voting Rights & Social Justice Youth Organizing Training 10th Annual Black Youth Vote! National Civic Leadership Training Conference Highlights: Unity Breakfast, Tribute to Jamal Rose, Gathering of Black Men “I Am Trayvon” Dialogue, Sister Circles, Issue Organizing Breakouts, Regional/State-Based Organizing Strategy Sessions 9:00 am – 9:00 pm National Education Association 1201 16th Street, NW Washington, D.C. Hosted by National Coalition on Black Civic Participation, NAACP, NEA, Generational Alliance, NAN Youth Move, The Praxis Project, NUL Young Professionals, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., BK Nation, 100 Black Men of America, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. “Covering Civil Rights: On the Front Lines” 7 p.m. Newseum, 555 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, D.C. The Newseum, in partnership with the National Council of Negro
will return next week www.chicagocrusader.com
BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
Saturday, August 17, 2013
7
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
NATIONAL VETERANS ART MUSEUM TO HOST EDUCATION OPEN HOUSE: On Saturday, August 17, from 1 pm - 5 pm, the National Veterans Art Museum (NVAM) will host an education open house to introduce students, teachers, administrators and parents to a wide range of new educational offerings and new museum partnerships to enhance programming. The event will also mark the public debut of The Things They Carried Interactive, a new, interactive, student-facing website that uses art and artifacts to teach history and civics. The day’s events will include Chicago Summer of Learning badge earning stations, guided tours of current exhibits, educator tours of online and on-site educational tools, artist talks, information and sign-up stations for field trips and student tours, a chance to tour the McCormick Foundation’s Freedom Express, and the launch of The Things They Carried Interactive. The Things They Carried Interactive is a brand new website dedicated to expanding the educational potential of the museum’s popular The Things They Carried exhibit, inspired by Tim O’Brien’s book of the same name. The Things They Carried is required reading in the majority of schools nationwide, and The Things They Carried Interactive is designed to make this art and artifactrich interactive website available to student learners unable to visit the museum in person. The Things They Carried Interactive links images of art and artifacts to veteran interviews and literature to teach civics and history. The National Veterans Art Museum is located at 4041 N. Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago, Illinois. The National Veterans Art Museum will be open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 am - 5 pm. Admission is free. For group admission reservations, call the Museum at 312/326-0270 or visit www.nvam.org. MARQUETTE BANK EVENTS: Marquette Bank will host a Switch to Neighborhood Banking Day on Saturday, August 17at all 23 bank locations. Neighbors are encouraged to join the movement and help strengthen the local economy by switching to a local bank. Stop by any Marquette Bank location for new customer specials and free credit history reports. For more information, visit www.emarquettebank.com or call 1-888-2549500. Also on Saturday, August 17, Marquette Bank will host a Free Senior Celebration Event at the Marquette Bank located at 7447 W. 63rd Street in Summit. Enjoy games, trivia, food and refreshments between 1 pm and 3 pm. The event is open to the public. For more information, call 708-563-4105. Also on Saturday, August 17, Marquette Bank will host a Free Kids Party at the Marquette Bank located at 8855 S. Ridgeland Avenue in Oak Lawn. Enjoy family fun, games, prizes and re8
Saturday, August 17, 2013
freshments between noon and 2 pm. The event is open to the public. For more information, call 708-5995431. And on Saturday, August 17 & 24, Marquette Bank will host a Free Homebuyer Education Course at the Marquette Bank located at 6316 S. Western Avenue in Chicago. The twoday course will help you determine an affordable home price, understand your financing options and anticipate what to expect when it’s time to close. After completing the course, participants will earn an 8-hour Homebuyer Education Certificate. The two-day course will be held on August 17 & 24 from 9 am until 1 pm. Seating is limited. To register, call 773-918-4568. CHICAGO AIR & WATER SHOW: The Chicago Air & Water Show will be held Saturday, August 17, and Sunday, August 18, 10 am 3 pm at North Avenue Beach, 1600 N. Lake Shore Drive (Take Bus #72). Trick pilots and aviation teams, such as the U.S. Navy Blue Angels and the U.S. Army Golden Knights Parachute team, dazzle crowds at North Avenue Beach for two days at the largest free event of its kind. For more information, call 312-744-3315 or email chicagoairandwatershow.us SOUTH SHORE SUMMER FESTIVAL: The South Shore Summer Festival will be held at the South Shore Cultural Center on Sunday, August 18, from 10 am - 9 pm. The South Shore Cultural Center is located at 7059 S. Shore Drive (between 70th and 71st Streets) in Chicago. Soothe the soul with R&B and jazz at the South Shore Cultural Center. The Blue Notes, SWV and Dru Hill are among those taking the stage. The local South Shore Drill Team gets the crowd amped. For more information, call 773-955-9559 or send email to southshorechamberinc.org SUMMERDANCE: On Wednesday, August 21 at the Austin Town Hall, 5610 W. Lake Street, Carpacho y Su Super Combo plays Colombian and salsa music and Latin Rhythms teaches salsa. Learn to dance and enjoy live music at SummerDance in the Parks – an admission-free series that is part of Chicago SummerDance – happening at five different Chicago Park District facilities Wednesdays through August 28: Theater on the Lake; 63rd Street Beach house in Jackson Park; Ping Tom Memorial Park; Austin Town Hall; and the Humboldt Park Boathouse. The series offers introductory one-hour dance lessons by professional instructors at 6 pm followed by live music and dancing from 7 pm - 9 pm. The diverse lineup showcases various traditional and modern dance styles from all corners of the globe. For more information, call 773-287-7658 or visit chicagoculturalplan.org and nightoutintheparks.com.
ED MCELROY, HOST of “The Ed McElroy Show,” at Access Comcast, channel 19, recently interviewed Illinois Secretary of State, Jesse White and Michael Barrett, Attorney at Barrett & Sramek Law Firm. McElroy is Past National Commander of Catholic War Veterans, U.S.A. Pictured left to right are Michael Barrett, Ed McElroy and Secretary of State Jesse White. JAZZIN’ AT THE SHEDD: On Wednesday, August 21, the Chris Green Quartet will be featured on the North Terrace of the Shedd Aquarium as part of its annual Wednesday night summer event, Jazzin at the Shedd. Now in its 19th year, Jazzin’ runs every Wednesday through September 4 and offers guests the opportunity to discover the aquarium’s more than 32,000
animal residents as they explore Shedd’s vibrant Abbott Oceanarium, the wonders of Wild Reef and the pulsating beauties of Jellies. BRONZEVILLE NEIGHBORHOOD COLLABORATIVE KICKOFF: You’re invited to a wine, cheese, art and community celebration to
launch a brand new inclusive organization for individuals, community, business, ecumenical and political organizations working together to harness the power of all to improve the quality of life in Bronzeville. It will take place on Friday, August 23, 6 pm - 9 pm at Gallery Guichard, 3521 S. King Drive, Chicago, 60653.
Extended Coverage
Bad things do happen—hurricanes, wildfires, tornadoes, floods. Is your home ready to withstand the worst? Weather catastrophes have cost more than $1 trillion from 1980 to 2011!
***
*** At risk for hurricanes? Install roof-to-wall connectors next time the roof is shingled; at least drive additional nails into the framing. Add removable storm shutters. ***
Milton E. Moses
More protection: the right homeowners insurance to cover whatever DOES happen. See us 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.
Create a fire-resistant zone around your home, trimming trees and other vegetation. Adding metal flashing between a wood deck and the house will reduce the odds of fire spreading. Storm windows of tempered glass are less likely to shatter in a fire. *** In flood zones, raise ventilation and electrical systems as high as you can to prevent their destruction; protect your home with a sump pump in the basement. *** To protect against earthquakes, strengthen the connection between home and foundation with strapping or bolts. BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
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BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
Saturday, August 17, 2013
9
EDUCATION
Irvin Foundation providing school supplies By J. Coyden Palmer As Chicago students prepare to start the new school year, a family known more for coaching basketball is giving back in a big way, partnering with Beautiful People Organization’s Linda George for a bookbag giveaway full of school supplies. The Mac and Louise Irvin Foundation is one of several social organizations participating in the event, in which students from the Englewood community will directly benefit. The Irvin family is known as the “First Family” of high school basketball and has helped over a thousand players in the Chicago area get basketball scholarships over the last 20 years. “We wanted to do something for the children in these neighborhoods because they are in need of help,” said Cynthia Irvin. “This is our first year doing this and we are overwhelmed with all of the support we are getting, but we are seeing the gravity of how much in need many people are. We’re getting contacted by several schools who say their students are in need too. We plan on starting in these two communities and then grow each year.”
The Irvin Foundation is partnering with George, who does a different drive every month. During a telephone interview with the Crusader earlier this week, George said last year she went to a homeless shelter the day before school was to start and found 62 kids there with no school supplies at all. “I called the Soul Rebel, a local motorcycle club that I work with and we quickly organized a ride over there with school supplies,” George said. George said there are thousands of kids in Chicago who are in need of help because their family cannot afford school supplies. She works tirelessly trying to make a difference and has even driven to people’s homes to pick up items. For the Irvin family, they say partnering with George was the perfect opportunity to carry on the work of the family patriarch Mac Irvin, who died in 2011. Known as the “Godfather” of basketball, Mac and his widow Louise were a constant source of love and support for children in the community. “My father always said, ‘I love helping kids and doing all I can do to help them in life’,” said his son Nick Irvin, head coach of the Class 3A
Clerk Dorothy Brown celebrates back-to-school with the community Dorothy Brown, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County, is surrounded by two young supporters and close to 100 marchers at the 84th Annual Bud Billiken on August 10, 2013. Clerk Brown’s marchers and her float were accompanied by the exciting youth performers of DraMatiq ImpaQT and the Chicago Ultimate Tumblers, and the students of Magic Johnson’s Bridge- scape Program, Books over Balls. Members of the Black Women Lawyers Association and of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. were also eager participants of Clerk Brown’s large and impressive entourage in the parade. “I applaud Chicago Defender
The late Mac Irvin State Champion Morgan Park High School Mustangs. “Ever since he has left us, we have continued to do his work as a family just as he would have wanted us to do. Our family is about helping kids, regardless of whose they are or where they come from. We’re a family of educators and coaches.” Traditional school supplies are welcomed in the bookbags, but Irvin family members said the economic crisis facing CPS has put them in a
Saturday, August 10, 2013
coach for the men’s basketball team, sent a bookbag stuffed with supplies. She has also contacted friends who have done the same. Contacted via telephone, Wheeler, who now lives in New Jersey, said it breaks her heart to hear of the situation many CPS students are in. She said though she no longer lives in Chicago, the city will always be first in her heart because of the people like the Irvin family. “The Irvin family does a lot for the city, even when they themselves are going through a tough time. But that doesn’t stop them from doing their work and they always have smiles on their faces whenever I see them,” Wheeler said. “It was an honor for me to participate in this cause.” All of the items donated will be taken to a homeless shelter in Englewood on Saturday, Aug. 24. Donated items can be dropped off at the offices for Beautiful People Organization, located in the Hyde Park Bank building at 1525 E. 53rd St. Suite 632. If you have items that need to be picked up, you can contact them at (773) 273-9775 or email help@beautifulpeopleorg.com.
Charities for creating this time honored tradition that inspires community spirit focused on our youth,” said Clerk Brown. “I’m proud to have the opportunity to highlight these young people and their unique achievements in the Bud Billiken Parade.” Along the parade route, Brown greeted Ms. Cleopatra CowleyPendleton, mother of Hadiya Pendleton, the King College Prep High School student who was tragically killed in January 2013. Together they sent best wishes to Chicago area students, and students throughout the country, for a safe and productive school year.
MAYOR EMANUEL VISITS with children at Tonti Elementary School. (Photo Credit: Brooke Collins/City of Chicago)
CLERK OF THE Circuit Court Dorothy Brown (center) is joined by hundreds of marchers and supports in the 84th Annual Bud Billiken parade. The parade encourages young people to go back to school. 10
position where they are asking donors to include toiletries as well. “All of the things that we sometimes take for granted are items that we need,” said Paula Rice-Irvin, an elementary school teacher for CPS. “Items like toilet tissue, paper towels, facial tissue, soap and hand sanitizer are all really needed.” Two months ago, Principal Sabrina Gates at Shoesmith Elementary in the Kenwood community, said because of a slash in her budget and individual schools having to include janitorial supplies in their yearly budget, she was forced to cut out a Spanish program for her students in addition to cutting back on music, science and math programs. “It’s disheartening that we have to ask for toilet tissue to be put in these school bags but this is the reality of our situation,” said Lance C. Irvin, a teacher at Harper High School. “The good thing is we can get most people to donate rolls of paper products due to their relatively low cost. But it is a sobering reality of just how bad things have gotten.” Help is coming in from all over the nation. Laura Wheeler, who grew up in the Chicago area and was a student at DePaul when Lance was a
NORTHWESTERN COLLEGE RECENTLY volunteered at the Ronald McDonald House in Hyde Park. Here, Miriam Ortiz and her son Sergio relax outside at the end of the evening on a bench with Ronald McDonald.
BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
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2013 BUD BILLIKEN PARADE THE BUD BILLIKEN PARADE drew tens of thousands of onlookers and picnickers, who at times were 10-deep along the King Drive route. The parade, considered the largest in the country, is in honor of a mythical character invented to remind children of the importance of returning to school each Fall.
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BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
Saturday, August 17, 2013
11
ENTERTAINMENT
By Elaine Hegwood Bowen, MSJ By Raymond Ward LONI'S LOVE NOTES!: Ladies....actress-comedian Loni Love is about to become your new best girlfriend. Growing up in the Brewester Douglass Housing Projects in Detroit, Loni quickly learned a thing or two about what a woman needs to do to keep it all together in life and love. Ever since her high school days, Loni has been doling out level-headed relationship advice and now as a regular panelist on E!'s Chelsea Lately, co-host of FOX's new daytime talk show, The Real and a staple on Dr. Drew's Loveline (she thankfully left her job as a project manager at Xerox to pursue her lifelong dream of comedy), Loni is finally taking her hilarious advice to the page. "Love Him Or Leave Him, But Don't Get Stuck With The Tab" (Simon & Schuster; $24.00), is a frank, sassy and fresh advice book guaranteed to deliver answers to your most pressing relationship questions. "Listen up: Loni Love is a force to be reckoned with. She will give you confidence, boost your game, and call you out on all your stupid decisions. She's like Simon Cowell with a weave."....Sherri Shepherd If you're in a great relationship, Loni outlines tips for keeping it strong. If you're having irreconcilable differences (your fiance has an active profile on
Loni Love an online dating website), Loni has advice on how to get yourself out of that situation faster than she can knock back an adult beverage. But no matter what, don't ever let yourself get bullied, taken advantage of, or "stuck with the tab." As Loni says, "You can love him or you can leave him, but the day a man starts taking advantage of you is when you need to remember that putting yourself first is the most important step in finding love. That's the foundation for all the advice I give, because it's a message so many women need to hear, over and over, like multiple orgasms." "If Loni Love is half as good at giving advice as she is at drinking Hennessy, the world is about to be a much better place."....Chelsea Handler Each chapter in Love Him Or Leave Him marks a different stage in relationships---from Meeting Up to Hooking Up to Breaking Up and Making Up---plus everything in between. With letters from Loni's readers and priceless been-there-done-that tales from her own wildly entertaining experiences, (one time a gust of wind blew her wig off during a romantic dinner cruise), Loni arms women with useful tips and guides to improve their approach with men, manage expectations, and ensure they get what they want in their quest for happiness. "The funny stuff comes from Loni, the advice comes from me. When do I get a book deal?"....Momma Love Loni tackles everything from getting back on the dating scene (never trust a man with Velcro shoes--he's lazy) to cheating (never get involved with someone who is already in a relationship. Casual sex turns into casualty sex). In Loni's "Dos and Dont's for a Perfect First Date," she advises, "Don't treat the date like a job interview: unless you're in the FBI or Secret Service, you don't need to be asking your date a whole bunch of questions about his past. That's what Google is for." In Love Him Or Leave Him, But Don't Get Stuck With The Tab, Loni's unique take on love, sex and dating is so laugh-out-loud funny, you'll (Continued on page 13) 12
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The latest Denzel Washington movie gets kind of confusing and convoluted, but he and Mark Wahlberg carry it off, because it is chock full of entertainment for audience members. 2 Guns, which is playing in theaters every-
2 Guns
all the time and wanting more action in some circumstances than is really needed. Robin Thicke’s wife, Paula Patton, stars as Debi, an FBI agent and love interest of Washington’s character Bobby. The beautiful
where her brains aren’t put into much use. At the end of the movie, Bobby and Stig are successful in finding the bounty of cash and paying off all the major players who had
DENZEL WASHINGTON AND Mark Wahlberg prepare to face their enemies in 2 Guns. where, stars Washington and Wahlberg and is a funny copbuddy action thriller, where they find that they must work together, while not really trusting each other. Washington plays Bobby, a U.S. D.E.A. agent, and Wahlberg plays Stig, who is working to get back into active duty as a U.S. Navy intelligence officer. While not one of Washington’s better movies, the movie harkens back to Lethal Weapon movies, which starred Danny Glover and Mel Gibson. Bobby and Stig must work undercover as members of a narcotics squad, when they unsuccessfully try to get closer to a Mexican drug cartel. Afterward, PAULA PATTON AND Denzel Washington square off as they plot to rob a bank, which Bobby tries to get information in 2 Guns. they believe the drug cartel uses to stash money, but their plan Patton seems to be getting back at placed them under such stressful goes awry. They become hunted Thicke for his widely popular situations. 2 Guns will keep your both by the FBI and members of “Blurred Lines” video, one ver- attention, because it is played out the cartel, which is led by Papi, sion of which features topless in the desert, with beautiful dancers. Patton goes pretty much scenery. It’s summer, the movie is played by Edward James Olmos. As with most “buddy” movies, topless in this movie, in intimate fast moving and both Wahlberg the two of them have opposite scenes between herself and Wash- and Washington are handsome personalities; while Bobby is cool ington. Her expertise as a D.E.A. enough and cool enough to get and laid back, Stig seems hyped agent is lost in the other scenes, moviegoers in the seats. BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
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ENTERTAINMENT STYLE
eta Giving Honor to Those Who Give Ed Gardner, Spencer Leak, Sr., Lupe Fiasco, Dee Robinson Reid and WVON Radio will be the honorees at eta’s benefit gala Saturday, September 7, 2013. “Giving Honor to Those Who Give” is the theme of the annual fundraiser. The event takes place from 7 p.m. – midnight at eta Square, 7558 S. South Chicago Ave. General chairs are Les F. Bond, Jr., CEO, Attucks Asset Management and Attorney Anthony Schumann, owner, Grant Schumann, LLC. Contribution is $125. For tickets and information, call 773-752-3955 or visit www.etacreativearts.org. Rhythm will define an evening of riotous fun and festivity. Dancing to the Latin-influenced rhythms of Crosswind, moving to the African beats of Muntu Dance Theatre, hoofers tapping out rhythms with their feet, comedy and more are all part of the lively entertainment. There’s also a silent auction of great goodies, a buffet of scrumptious cuisine, cocktails, dancing to steppin’ and house music, and the centerpiece of the evening, recognition of the honorees. “All of the honorees have been selected because of their generosity,” said Phillip Thomas, president & CEO of eta. “Their lives and mission
Sheen Products from his basement in 1964. The company grew into a multimillion dollar enterprise and a global force. Committed to service, Gardner heavily financed the successful campaign for Chicago’s first Black mayor, founded Black on Black Love to combat crime, and purchased and restored the old Avalon Theater, resurrecting the New Regal Theater. In 2012 Gardner came out of retirement to seek economic justice and parity for African Americans by shutting down construction sites void of Black workers. Spencer Leak, Sr. is the president and CEO of Leak and Sons Funeral Home and prominent community
Ed Gardner
Spencer Leak, Sr. illustrate the biblical scripture that says, ‘to whom much is given, much is required.’” Edward G. Gardner is a humanitarian and a giant in the business community. Following a successful career in the Chicago Public Schools, Gardner launched Soft
leader. For many years he has made it possible for hundreds of families who could not afford burial services to bury their loved ones. A long time civil rights activist, in 1964 he joined 10,000 other civil rights activists led by his father and the Rev. Clay Evans to protest the burial policy of the racially segregated Oak Woods Cemetery in Chicago. He has worked in many public service capacities, including Commissioner on the Illinois Human Rights Commission. Grammy-Award winning artist and CEO of 1st and 15th records (Atlantic) Lupe Fiasco is a rapper, record producer and entrepreneur. Named GQ Magazine's “Man of the Year” and Rolling Stone Magazine’s "Artist to Watch,” Lupe Fiasco has been heralded since his breakout hit “Kick Push” in 2006 for his philosophical, sharp and dynamic lyrics. His philanthropic work in-
Lupe Fiasco cludes an expedition to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro called Summit on the Summit to raise awareness of the billions of people worldwide who lack access to sanitary drinking water. Fiasco also collaborated on a track called "Resurrection" to encourage donations for immediate relief and long-term recovery following the 2010 Haiti earthquake. As President and Founder of Robinson Hill Hospitality Group, Dee Robinson Reid brings a strong commitment to leading by example, motivating and inspiring youths and solid family values. A proven busi-
ness leader, she has been selected the Entrepreneur of the Year by both the Women's Business Development Center and the National Black MBA Association Magazine. In addition, she received Bank of America's Exemplary Entrepreneur Award. Putting her business philosophy into the community, Ms. Robinson Reid is dedicated to programs that teach our youth and communities to soar with their strengths. Celebrating its 50th year in 2013, WVON Radio has gone from being "The Voice of the Negro" to "The Voice of the Nation," occupying a special niche in the history of Chicago radio. WVON provides an interactive forum for the African-American community to discuss current, social, economic, and political issues. Always more than just a radio station, during the Civil Rights Movement, WVON was the voice of information for local and national affairs. It provides a platform on which Black Chicago can air its concerns, voice its differences and discuss the issues that affect our society. Established in April 1971, eta Creative Arts Foundation is the first full cultural arts complex in the African-American community. Widely known as one of the city’s leading non-
profit tax-exempt organizations, eta’s mission is to be a major cultural resource institution for the preservation, perpetuation and promulgation of the African-American aesthetic nationwide. eta provides professional training and performance opportunities for youth and adults, artists and technicians; arts-in-education programs; a visual arts gallery for the display and sale of original artwork; and exposure for the general public to authentic valid projections of AfricanAmerican lifestyles, experiences and aspirations.
The Bookworm Sez “This is How to Get Your Next Job” By Andrea Kay c.2013, Amacom $16.00 / $18.95 Canada 244 pages
By now, you should be used to hearing “no.” No, we’re not accepting applications at this time. No, we don’t have
any openings. No, we’re not hiring. There’s no chance we’ll be expanding this year. No, we looked over your resume and no, we can’t offer you a job now. You’ve filled out hundreds of applications. You’ve done your best on interviews and you still don’t have the job you want. Now, with the new book “This is How to Get Your Next Job” by Andrea Kay, you’ll be able to determine your next step.
When her husband, a small business owner, said that he had given up hope in finding the qualified employee he’d been looking for, Andrea Kay knew there was trouble. Some of his interviewees seemed unprofessional. Others just didn’t seem like a right fit… which is Kay’s first important point: when jobhunting, you may be passed over because of how employers “feel about you” or because of how you “seemed,” based upon how you act(Continued on page 19)
(Continued from page 12) struggle not to spill your drink of choice as you commiserate with girlfriends. You can act like a lady and think like a man, or admit that he's just not that into you, but the path to lasting love is looking out for number one and treating yourself like the great catch you are. NOTE: Loni Love will bring her stand-up comedy to the Chicago Improv for five shows , August 22nd thru August 24th. For tickets please call 847-240-2001. www.chicagocrusader.com
Dee Robinson Reid
BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
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ARTS & CULTURE
A message from Welz Kauffman/Ravinia Dear Ravinia Family: I’m sorry to report that James Conlon must undergo surgery to remove an inflamed portion of his colon due to diverticulitis. This has caused the cancelation of Ravinia’s Aug. 17 performances of Benjamin Britten’s The Burning Fiery Furnace, which were to feature alumni from Ravinia’s Steans Music Institute at Trinity Episcopal Church. The good news is that doctors anticipate a complete recovery after three to four weeks of rest. James has been a global leader in the celebration of the Britten centennial, and we hope to reschedule this unique work with him in a future season. An email will go out to all ticket-holders this evening to break this news and to let them know that
refunds will be automatically processed. The news will also be shared with local press and in the Ravinia newsletter. James’s publicist in New York will send an official release to national media, as he will also need to cancel an Aug. 23 engagement in La Jolla. For those audiences interested in this type of programming, Ravinia offers several adventurous concerts, including the Aug. 26 festival premiere of David Lang’s Pulitzer Prize-winning The Little Match Girl Passion, the Sept. 3 performance of Britten’s Serenade for Tenor, Horn and Strings by Ravinia favorites Nicholas Phan and The Knights, and the Sept. 7 Midwest premiere of the new John Adams “masterpiece” (NY Times), The Gospel According to the Other Mary.
James Conlon On a happier front, I also wanted to let you know that tomorrow Ravinia will release a sneak pre-
view of the 2014 Chicago Symphony Orchestra Residency, which we’ve dubbed “Ravinia’s
Summer of Love.” We began releasing these tidbits August 8 while this summer’s residency is still in session in the hopes of getting the news out to our audiences in the park. This week we will release the full schedule of our fall, winter and spring concerts. We will offer great variety in the 2013-14 $10 BGH Classics series, including two holiday concerts. All the concerts will feature a complete concert/dinner package for only $40. Tickets for this series went on sale Aug. 15, the same day it was announced. Please enjoy the final month of Ravinia’s 2013 season. Thank you all for making it a success so far. Sincerely, Welz Kauffman
Laura Emerick named Digital Content Editor at Chicago Symphony Orchestra Association Chicago Symphony Orchestra Association (CSOA) President Deborah F. Rutter announces the appointment of Laura Emerick as Digital Content Editor, effective August 19, 2013. In this newly created position, Emerick will oversee new efforts to use digital media to help the CSOA engage with audiences around the world. She will serve as the lead editor and manager of a wide range of digital content as the CSOA expands its online publishing capabilities in the coming season. “Laura is a highly regarded arts and culture journalist, and we’re delighted she’s joining the
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CSOA,” says Rutter. “We know that she will be a terrific asset to Maestro Muti, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and the CSOA as a whole as we develop new ways to use digital media to share our world-class music making with audiences around the globe.” “I am beyond thrilled to be joining the staff of one of the world’s greatest cultural institutions, especially as it approaches its 125th an-
niversary in 2016,” added Emerick. “Throughout its history, the CSO has been an innovator, and now will be taking even more bold measures with its digital initiatives.” Laura Emerick brings a wealth of editorial knowledge and vast experience covering arts and culture in Chicago. Having worked at the Chicago Sun-Times for more than 25 years, she became the primary
editor for film critic Roger Ebert, and subsequently served in a number of positions there since. Her major roles have included arts editor, culture writer, music editor, Sunday Showcase editor, Latin music/culture writer, and theater editor. Emerick is a graduate of Indiana University (magna cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa) and has taught graduate-level courses at Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism.
Laura Emerick
BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
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SPIRITUALLY SPEAKING
A Moment to Supersize Your Thinking By Effie Rolfe There’s nothing new under the sun—you’ve probably said this before—heard this before or perhaps even wrote this before. If your answer is yes, you’re probably right. The wisest man in the bible, King Solomon said, “What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun.” (Ecclesiastes 1:9) Thus, because it hasn’t been heard doesn’t mean it’s not been said and just because you haven’t done it, does not mean it hasn’t been done or won’t be done again. Since, repetition is the mother of learning and in order to undo a lie you must hear the truth 13 times. So the redeeming factor is to learn from whatever you read, hear or see. A few years ago, I had a conversation with Donald Lawrence regarding a song he wrote and produced for Karen Clark Sheard entitled, “We Acknowledge You.” The first few notes of that song
bar…so you are going to hear sounds or songs that repeat.’ My immediate thought was ‘ok, that makes sense!’ Sooner or later something you have heard, seen or read is going to resurface. The message in this is that regardless of whether you have seen it or not—the lesson is to glean the truth from it and in it. Lastly, my mom used to always say, ‘there are
Effie Rolfe sounded like the “Best of My Love” by the Emotions. I recall Donald saying something like ‘…there’s only so many notes in a
Pastor Earl Grandberry and True Rock Ministries invites you to their annual golf outing on August 17th at the Green Garden Country Club in 9511 West Manhattan-Monee Road in Frankfort. First place winner will receive $300 towards a new golf club set, second place wins golf shoes and 3rd place winner receives a putter. Registration is 8 a.m. and tee time is 9 a.m. Details available at 312-939-1109 or visit www.truerockministries.org. This weekend Country Club
Voice,” performed musical tributes to Nelson. He is a conductor, producer, and composer. When Nelson, known as the Maestro was six years old, he was the opening act for Ray Charles. The parents of slain teenager Hadiya Pendleton, received a donation from Christ Universal to support the Hayida Foundation – an organization dedicated to expand-
ing after school programs in the city. The presentation was made by the Rev. Derrick Wells, senior pastor at Christ Universal. Christ Universal’s Ensemble Choir provided a musical tribute to Lou Della Evans Reid of Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church. There also were special performances by Rodrick Dixon, Divine Diva, and Joshua’s Troop.
THE SALUTE TO Fred Nelson Committee holds proclamations for Fred Nelson III Day from Mayor Rahm Emanuel and Governor Pat Quinn. Looking on (l-r) is Octavia Nelson, Fred’s mother; Dana, a family friend; Paige Nelson, Fred’s daughter; Rev. Derrick Wells; Lou Della Evans; Fred Nelson III; Pam Morris and Effie Rolfe.
Hills Theater invites you to a Gospel Fest weekend featuring Mary Mary and Marvin Sapp. The dynamic sister duo will headline on Friday, August 16 at the outdoor venue. Opening acts for the Grammy Award winners and reality stars are the Hillcrest Baptist Church Choir of Country Club Hills along with the Victory Apostolic Church Choir and the Victory Vibrations of Matteson. Multiple Award winner, Marvin Sapp will take center stage to serenade gospel music lovers on Saturday, August 17. Local acts participating are Ashro recording artist, Shanon Harris and Shekinah Glory Ministries will appear. Tickets are available at Countryclubhillstheater.org or ticketmaster.com. Oscar winner, Jennifer Hudson, Steve Harvey, Vickie Winans, Brandy, Tamar Braxton will line up for Bishop TD Jakes’ Megafest in Dallas on August 29-31. Other celebrity participants for the 3-Day Festival include Oprah Winfrey, Cedric The Entertainer, Mary Mary, Kenneth "Babyface" Edmonds, Niecy Nash, Holly Robinson Peete, Tisha Campbell-Martin, Ray Chew, Kim Burrell, Boris Kojoe and Nicole Ari Parker, Smokie Norful, Kierra Sheard, Tye Tribbett, Mali Music, David Mann, Emmitt and Pat Smith are among the starstudded additions to its inspirational entertainment line-up featuring top celebrities from music, film, television, comedy and sports.
What do you see…? © 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.
Steve Harvey and will also conduct a Q&A session after the screening of her next film, "Winnie Mandela," slated for wide release on September 6 during the inaugural International Faith & Family Film Festival, held during MegaFest at the Omni Dallas Hotel. Steve Harvey will return to MegaFest to host the Woman of Purpose concert. Pop Star and actress Brandy will perform at the concert benefitting Autism Speaks and recognizing two families with autis-
Hudson will perform at MegaFest's Woman of Purpose Concert,
MAESTRO FRED NELSON III hands the microphone to Cleopatra Pendleton for remarks as Rev. Derrick Wells (center) and Nathaniel Pendleton (right) look on. www.chicagocrusader.com
something old?
The Crusader Gospel Corner
Fred Nelson III feted at Christ Universal Temple A salute to Fred Nelson III was among the tributes presented recently at the Christ Universal Temple on the city’s South Side. Nelson, who has been performing since he was six years old, was recently honored by a host of gospel, as well as secular singers at Christ Universal Temple. Gospel recording star Kurt Carr, along with Teresa Griffin of “The
worlds of stuff you don’t know.’ Our eyes will never see it all—our ears will never hear it all—your mouth will not be able to say it all neither will your hands be able to do it all. The circle of life exists because of divine circulation. The first will be last and the last will be first. Isn’t that just like life to teach us to see something new in
BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
Kenneth "Babyface" Edmonds
Jennifer Hudson
tic children. The highly anticipated event offering a series of fun-filled, family friendly activities for all ages and interests that include Oprah's Lifeclass, the inaugural International Faith & Family Film Festival, Just Churchin' Comedy Show, Woman of Purpose Concert and the Ball Up Streetball Classic Tour Championship; as well as a full slate of empowerment programming. The huge event will be held at the American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, TX. Saturday, August 17, 2013
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Many Events Planned for March (Cont’d from page 7) Movement, Simeon Booker, who was on the front lines of covering the civil rights story. The program is free and open to the public, but seats are limited and must be reserved at CoveringCivilRights.eventbrite.com. Friday, August 23, 2013 Redeem the Dream National Summit & Reception 8:00 am – 2:00 pm National Building Museum 401 F Street NW Washington, DC Hosted by National Urban League OPEN TO THE PUBLIC Celebrating the Legacy of Youth in the Movement Protect Our Voting Rights & Social Justice Youth Organizing Training 10th Annual Black Youth Vote! National Civic Leadership Training Conference 8:00 am – 6:00 pm National Education Association 1201 16th Street, NW Washington, D.C. Hosted by National Coalition on Black Civic Participation, NAACP, NEA, Generational Alliance, NAN Youth Move in partnership w/The Praxis Project, NUL Young Professionals, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., BK Nation, 100 Black Men of America, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. To register go to www.ncbcp.org National Town Hall Meeting on Poverty & Economic Em-
powerment Moving Together, Moving Forward: Jobs and Freedom 57th Annual SCLC International Convention Race & Poverty Panel 2:00 pm -4:00 pm Voting Rights Panel 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm Grand Hyatt, 1000 H Street, NW, Washington, DC OPEN TO THE PUBLIC Hosted by Southern Christian Leadership Conference, SCLC Poverty Institute, Rainbow PUSH. Saturday, August 24, 2013 50th Anniversary March on Washington National Action to Realize the Dream March and Rally for “Jobs, Justice & Freedom.” 8:00 am – 4:00 pmLincoln Memorial Washington, D.C. National Conveners: Martin Luther King, III and Al Sharpton, National Action Network Co-Convened by: National Conveners: National Action Network AFSCME, AFT, AFL-CIO, APRI, HRC, LCCR, NAACP, NBJC, SCLC, SEIU, NCBW, NOW, NUL, NCNW, NCBCP,The King Center, National African American Clergy Network and CWBI. Among the speakers are Al Sharpton, Martin Luther King, III, Charles Steele, Jr. the families of Trayvon Martin and Emmett Till; and Congressman John Lewis.
The Bookworm Sez (Cont’d from page 13) ed when applying or interviewing. The good news is, that’s something you can fix. Before you get that far, though, remember that there are jobs out there. Yes, there may be a thousand people applying for the position you want, but standing out is “not that hard. It’s a matter of not doing what everybody else is doing.” Next, ask yourself how you want to seem to a prospective employer. What are your strengths for this job? How will you fit? How will you show those strengths and convey that meaning clearly, without merely using words? Those are some of the questions you “must, must, must” ask yourself before you go to your next interview, while you’re there, and after it’s over. Be mindful of how people will remember you when you’re not around. Remember that your words aren’t all that’s on display during the interview; your demeanor, dress, and manners are being noticed, too. Know what you should never do, say, discuss, or wear while looking for a job, and read about
“15 Things You Should Never Do Once You Get a Job or in Your Career – Ever.” Then memorize them. Your new job may depend on it. So you think nobody’s hiring? Author Andrea Kay says you’re wrong, and in this helpful book, she shows you what to do to put yourself front-and-center in an employer’s mind and his resume pile. But that’s not all that’s inside “This is How to Get Your Next Job.” Because it’s filled with dozens of illustrative anecdotes from employers willing to share their experiences, this book is really quite entertaining. I spent lots of time being amazed that people really do the kinds of things Kay mentions, and laughing. These cautionary tales fit well in this book, and nicely prove her “tell and show” advice. This book is great for new grads, the newly unemployed, new career searchers, and anybody who needs a job soon. If that’s you, then “This is How to Get Your Next Job” will help, no doubt.
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HOUSES FOR SALE
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC Sunday, August 25, 2013 SCLC Worship Service 11:00 am – 1:00 pm Howard University Washington D. C. Convention Center Hosted by SCLC OPEN TO THE PUBLIC Monday, August 26, 2013 Legacy & Leadership Gala Time: TBD Capital Hilton 1001 16th St NW, Washington, DC To register go to: www.sclc.org Hosted by Southern Christian Leadership Conference Tuesday, August 27, 2013 9-12th Grade Educational Initiative Time and Location:To be Announced Will be Accessible via Online Streaming Hosted by the King Center, Operation Hope and the NCNW in partnership with Discovery Education To register go to: www.thekingcenter.org
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.
HOUSES FOR SALE
BLACKS MUST CONTROL THEIR OWN COMMUNITY
Saturday, August 17, 2013
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HOUSES FOR SALE
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SPORTS
Jackie Robinson West wins off the field By J. Coyden Palmer The dream of making it to Williamsport for the Little League World Series came to an end for a group of South Side baseball players over the weekend in Indianapolis. But Jackie Robinson West (JRW) succeeded in promoting the sport among African American children, giving a positive image to Black boys from Chicago and made the community proud as a whole. This year’s team made it all the way to the Great Lakes Regional Final before losing to a tough team from Grosse Pointe, Michigan 10-3. JRW was doomed by some early errors and a first inning three-run home run by Chad Lorkowski, who as a 12year-old is 6-feet, 2-inches and 200 pounds. Lorkowski also struck out 10 in five innings. But JRW’s appearance alone in the game was good for the sport, according to Chicago White Sox Executive Vice President Kenny Williams, as the low number of African American baseball players in the Major Leagues continues to baffle many. Williams and others associated with MLB have been trying for the last few years to increase the number of Black kids playing baseball and with some success. This year’s JRW team will do a lot to promote the sport because they are a team from a major media market, according to Williams and others associated with the sport. “Many of the players from JRW then come into our A.C.E. (Amateur City Elite) team after they turn 12 to get further exposure to the game,” said Williams, who said this year’s JRW team was something everyone got behind. JRW won the state title this year and had one of the best teams in the league’s history, according to league President Bill Haley. He took over the league after the passing of his father Joseph Haley in 2005. The elder Haley founded the league in 1971 as the Washington Heights community was going through a cultural change with whites moving out and African Americans moving in. Mr. Haley's goal was to provide wholesome, healthy recreation through participation in the program. Haley, an educator by profession, used the baseball diamond as an open air classroom to teach leadership skills, team work and self discipline to the players. “It’s a legacy that no one wants to be responsible for seeing die,” said Mike Outten, who played as a child and later coached with JRW up until 2010. “We have pride in our league and where we come from. Most people inwww.chicagocrusader.com
volved in the league played there. Our parents support us as they travel with ou team.” Although other leagues throughout the city have shutdown or seen their numbers diminish drastically, JRW has been able to maintain its league and high standards because of strong parental support, dedicated volunteers and a philosophy of pushing players to be their absolute best at the sport and as people, according to Outten, who is now a high school and college umpire. Two months ago during the MLB draft, three former JRW players were drafted by teams. All three played their high school ball at Simeon Career Vocational High School. Darold Butler was the head coach of this year’s squad at JRW. He said the support the team received from Chicago was felt by not just him but the players as well. He said it is important for the young boys to be encouraged, not just by their coaches and parents, but from the larger community as well. He said the exposure the team is getting with the games being broadcast on ESPN is important for Black kids who are interested in the sport. “It’s huge because the percentage of Blacks in Major League Baseball now is below 10 percent,” Butler said. “So hopefully the exposure will attract other Black kids to want to come out and play when they see someone who looks just like them playing baseball and being good at it.” Butler said baseball is the hardest of all the major sports to play and
THE JACKIE ROBINSON WEST team was lauded by community members, a major league baseball executive and parents for their winning ways, and respectful behavior, on and off the field. the difficulty can be intimidating for many Black youth. He also recognized it is a sport that has traditionally been a strong part in the father-son relationship and many boys need that extra push from a strong Black male figure when the game gets hard. Butler advises youth who take up the sport, but want to quit when the game gets harder, to stick with it, because there are rewards in the end. “Baseball does not have a size requirement like basketball and football, so it is more inclusive,” Butler said. “I’m a baseball guy, so I’m a bit biased, but at the same
time if kids can find a way to keep the game fun within itself…and they look at it as a craft and are dedicated to getting better over time, they will be happy with the results.” In addition to baseball, JRW also offers a fast pitch softball league for girls, which is growing in popularity as well. Butler said the leagues at JRW serve as an important recreational/social tool for youth because it gives them a positive outlet to focus their energy. Now that the season is over, he plans on relaxing a bit, but reflecting on what has been a great sum-
mer. For more information on the leagues at Jackie Robinson West you can visit their Face book page under the name Jackie Robinson West or the league’s website www.jackierobinsonwest.org. On Saturday afternoon, Aug. 17 at 3:30 p.m. Butler wants the entire community to join him at Jackie Robinson Park, 10540 S. Morgan Ave., for a welcome home picnic for the team. Everyone is invited to bring their coolers and grills and join in the celebration.
Special Olympics tennis athletes compete in Frankfort More than 140 Special Olympics Illinois athletes from all over the state will be taking to the courts Aug. 1718 in Frankfort in the organization’s State Tennis Tournament. The tennis competition will begin at 8 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 17, and conclude at 11:30 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 18, at Lincolnway North High School, Frankfort. Athletes competing in match play may compete in both singles and doubles play. Athletes competing in the individual skills competition will compete in skill tests include forehand volley, backhand volley, backhand ground stroke and more. There will also be Unified® doubles match play competition as well. Unified® teams include players with and without intellectual disabilities that compete against other Unified teams. Athlete participation per event: 6 athletes competing in Doubles Traditional Match Play 26 athletes competing in Singles Traditional Match Play
Knights of Columbus and Illinois Law Enforcement Torch Run. About Special Olympics Illinois
78 athletes competing in Tennis Individual Skills 8 athletes competing in Doubles Short-Court Match Play 21 athletes competing in Singles Short-Court Match Play 32 athletes competing in Unified® Doubles Match Play The Opening Ceremonies will begin at 11 a.m. Saturday at Lincolnway North High School. Athletes will have a pizza party and enjoy bowling at Morgan’s Thunderbowl
on Saturday night. Prior to 2012, tennis competition was part of Fall Games in Rockford. “Over the years, tennis has continued to grow. By making it its own tournament, we can continue the growth and provide a quality competition experience,” said Tracy Hilliard, SOILL Vice President of Sports Training & Competition. The State Tennis Tournament Gold Sponsors are the Illinois
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Special Olympics Illinois is a notfor-profit organization offering yearround training and competition in 19 sports for more than 21,300 athletes with intellectual disabilities and nearly 13,000 Young Athletes ages 2-7 with and without intellectual disabilities. Special Olympics transforms lives by empowering people with intellectual disabilities to realize their full potential in sports and in life. Special Olympics programs enhance physical fitness, motor skills, self-confidence, social skills and encourage family and community support. If you are interested in learning more about Special Olympics Illinois, volunteering or providing financial support to help make Special Olympics programs possible, contact your local Special Olympics agency, call 800-394-0562 or visit our website at www.soill.org.
Saturday, August 17, 2013
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Saturday, August 17, 2013
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