Gary Crusader 09-03-2016 E Edition by The Crusader Newspaper Group

GARY CRUSADER 09-03-2016.qxp_Sheriff 9/8/07 2007 9/1/16 1:03 AM Page 1

Gary Independence Day Parade winners announced

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

(See page 9)

Back-To-School Jamboree date set (See page 15)

Blacks Must Control Their Own Community

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Gary hosts televised forum on policing and race By Erick Johnson The first question set off a heated twohour candid conversation on race and policing. A lot of it was captured on video, but this exchange was not at a traffic light or on a street where nobody was watching. “Why does the police talk down to us?” said the Black woman from Gary. She said one officer pointed a gun at her after she reached for her purse to retrieve her driver’s license during a traffic stop. She was among about 200 people who attended a community forum about race and policing at the Genesis Convention Center on Aug. 30. Residents traveled from Gary, Chicago and other Midwestern cities to chime in on a hot issue that has divided America in recent years as police continue to kill Blacks while being accused of racial profiling and brutality. After the television cameras stop rolling and the host briefly left the stage, the majority of the audience remained glued to their seats for the second hour. It turned

TELEVISION HOST Garrard McClendon moderated a live taping of a two-hour discussion on race and policing in Gary. On the stage in the forefront from left to right is Lorrell Kilpatrick, Black Lives Matter; Troy Williams, Police Chief of Portage, IN; Gary Mayor Karen Freeman-Wilson; Garrard McClendon; Lake County Sheriff John Buncich and Hobart Mayor Brian Snedecor. out to be a heated, hour-long conversation lice Superintendent Eddie Johnson officially velopment in a story that has kept police that left emotions simmering. The crowd moved to fire four officers involved in the shootings in the news and on the minds of left with unanswered questions to a problem Laquan McDonald case, including Jason Blacks across the country, including that has torn their country apart. Van Dyke, who shot the 17-year-old 16 (Continued on page 2) As the discussion took place, Chicago Po- times in October 2014. It was the latest de-

Gary awarded $1 million in state funds Gary Crusader staff report Gary has been awarded $1 million is state roads and bridges funds that will aid greatly in efforts to improve the condition of many of the city’s streets. Lt. Governor Eric Holcomb and Indiana Department of Transportation Brandye Hendrickson announced August 24 that Gary is among the 121 communities in

northern Indiana to receive Indiana’s Community Crossings Grant, a 50/50 matching grant. The news comes at a time when residents are putting more pressure on City Hall to repair battered roads in their neighborhoods. At a community meeting two days before the announcement, some residents told Mayor Karen Freeman-Wilson that they have grown frustrated by roads that have not been repaired for years. In the summer of 2014, Gary announced a $6.4 million street paving project that would target street repairs citywide. The city has since made great strides in paving main thoroughfares and streets throughout

the city. The City’s Public Works Department is now preparing for the next round of paving for 2016. While paving continues throughout the city, the Community Crossings Grant has been earmarked for road reconstruction and paving connected to Economic Development and Redevelopment projects currently underway in the city. Freeman-Wilson said, “We are excited to receive this funding that will specifically be used for street improvements and paving related to our Northside Redevelopment and University Park projects. This is great news as we move forward with these pro(Continued on page 3)

COMING NEXT WEEK

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Sen. Randolph guest speaker for NAACP Freedom Fund Luncheon The Dynasty Banquet Hall, located at 4141 Calumet Avenue, Hammond, Indiana, is set to come alive on Saturday, September 10, 2016, from 12-3 PM, as the Hammond branch of the NAACP hosts its annual Freedom Fund Luncheon. The guest speaker will be Indiana State Senator Lonnie M. Randolph. Senator Randolph was first elected to the Indiana Senate Democratic Caucus in 1994. After the completion of his first term, he became a judge for the East Chicago City Court in 1998. Randolph was reelected to serve the 2nd Senate District in November of 2008. Senator Randolph represents Senate District 2, which encompasses portions of Lake County. District 2 communities include East Chicago, Whiting, and portions of Gary, Griffith, Hammond, Hobart, and Merrillville.

Senator Randolph advocates for legislation on behalf of all citizens of Lake County and Indiana, including women’s rights, union rights, job creation, and assistance for small businesses. Senator Randolph also worked extensively on health care legislation by examining HMO mental health policies at the Lilly Symposium. Senator Randolph graduated with a BS degree from Northern Illinois University and received his Law Degree from John Marshall Law School in Chicago. He serves on the Gary Chamber of Commerce and Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce. The Hammond NAACP Branch continues to work with every segment of the community to remove barriers for a better quality of life for all. Its success has continued because of existing partnerships with busi-

ness, education, religious, civic, and community organizations. Music entertainment throughout this event will be rendered by local area singing sensation Ms. Rhoelle

(Continued from page 1) Gary. Some 31 miles away, in a packed room filled with a diverse crowd, residents watched a panel of political leaders and top police officers from various cities exchange opinions about race and policing. The panel included Mayor Karen Freeman-Wilson; Gary Police Chief Larry McKinley; Troy Williams,

panel did not include more young speakers, while others accused the panel of being unbalanced with only one activist who represented a segment of the audience who were fed up with the way police treat Blacks across the country. Kilpatrick, at times, was the minority voice on a panel that remained supportive of police officers despite recent shootings in Chicago, Baton

police officers during the discussion, Freeman-Wilson took a softer approach to explain the importance of police in patrolling neighborhoods. She reminded the audience to use caution when police stop them for a traffic violation. “If you’re stopped, you have to comply, but once that episode is over, then you can challenge police

Blackmon and her trio. Tickets are $50.00 in advance and $60.00 at the door. For more information concerning the luncheon, tickets, donations, ad souvenir book,

and scholarship sponsorships, contact Reverend Homer Cobb at 219931-8899, homerclayjr11@yahoo.com, or P.O. Box 33, Hammond, Indiana 46320.

THE LAKE COUNTY Young Democrats hosted a “Calling for Gregg and Ritz” event on Aug. 27 at the Visclosky for Congress headquarters in Merrillville, IN. Members knocked on most doors and made record-breaking phone calls in one day in Lake County. Among the participants were Kiarra Thompson, Simone Thompson, Oneida Goudeau, Kia Farmer, Terry Stokes, Delano Saife, LCYD ViceChair and Briana Brown, Regional Field director. (Photo by Antonio Leavell)

CAUGHT ON VIDEO

with what people are experiencing,” she said. Chicago resident Richard David drew applause after questioning why police officers are not held accountable for shooting civilians during questionable traffic stops. He said 714 people died from police shootings last year. “When are we going to have accountability for police officers the same way we have accountability for ordinary citizens? Until we do that, I don’t see an end to these problems.” Snedecor acknowledged that racial biases exist in police departments. He also said such biases hurt relations between police and the communities across the country. “Until we agree to get past these biases, we can never improve rela-

tionships,” Snedecor said. Dix said many problems stem from violent, social behaviors at home and in neighborhoods. In an effort to help law enforcement officials police the streets with more compassion, Dix said his church organized a basketball game between young men and plainclothes Gary police officers. “When these kids learned that these players were police officers, they were blown away,” Dix said. “We wanted to show the officers the human side of these youth, and we wanted to show the same with these officers.” Vanessa Allen, president and CEO of the Urban League of Northwest Indiana, said similar community discussions will be held in the future.

RESIDENTS REPRESENTING COMMUNITIES throughout Northwest Indiana and Chicago’s Far South Side attended a community forum on race and policing on Aug. 30. The two hour forum became more heated during the second hour. police chief of Portage, IN; Hobart Mayor Brian Snedecor; Pastor Ray Dix II of Bethel Church’s Gary branch; and Lorrell Kilpatrick of Black Lives Matter. Garrard McClendon, host of “Counterpoint with Garrard McClendon,” on Lakeshore Public Television, moderated the discussion, which was aired on Aug. 31. The televised portion of the discussion ran an hour long, but the entire conversation ran for nearly two hours. During the discussion, some said they were disappointed that the 2

Rouge and Minneapolis. As part of the discussion, several members of the audience were given a microphone to ask the panel questions that ranged from police training to law enforcement policies and officials’ behavior towards Blacks. Unlike many cities, Gary has not had controversial police shootings or cases of police brutality in recent years, but residents say the force still needs to treat its residents with respect to avoid escalating situations. Though she largely supported

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2016

in a different setting.” That’s when Kilpatrick spoke up. “I don’t think compliance is that simple. I’ve seen women who complied in situations where they were raped and sodomized.” Williams blamed the media for creating anti-police sentiment. He accused the media of exaggerating the problems of police shootings around the country. Kilpatrick disagreed saying if were not for the media, police shootings and cases of brutality would not be reported. “I think we have to be realistic Blacks Must control their own coMMunity

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West Calumet residents opt to relocate despite EPA’s promises There are 1,100 residents living in the West Calumet Housing complex. The children living there number 670 who can no longer play outside in, near or around the soil because lead levels have become a growing concern by the parents. The housing development is located in East Chicago, Indiana and it is occupied predominately by African Americans. As residents of the West Calumet Housing Complex were dealing with the knowledge that the soil outside their homes contained staggering levels of lead, East Chicago Mayor Anthony Copeland announced last month that resident had to move out of the complex and that it would be demolished. The area of the complex is said to be located north of a U. S. Steel Lead smelting plant and near a former smaller smelting operation that was designated as a Superfund site in 2009. The En-

vironmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Superfund program is responsible for cleaning up contaminated land and responding to environmental emergencies, oil spills and natural dis asters. This includes efforts to protect public health and the environment, with a focus on making a visible and lasting difference in communities, ensuring that people can live and work in healthy, vibrant places. While residents begin the process of relocating and rebuilding the lives of their families, they are asking why they were not informed that the level of top soil in their yards contained up to 30 times more lead than the level safe for children. They also want to know why the state and other government agencies were slow in addressing the problem. Copeland questioned why government agencies, specifically, EPA were slow in addressing the problem and accused the agency of

RESIDENTS OF THE West Calumet Housing Complex attended a town hall meeting sponsored by EPA and HUD to get information regarding the remediation and relocation process for the residents. The meeting was held Tues., Aug. 30 at Carrie Gosch Elementary School in East Chicago, IN. withholding information regarding EPA Acting Regional 5 Adminis- is estimated the remediation will the levels of lead and arsenic conta- trator Robert Kaplan said he un- begin in September or October of mination in the soil. derstood the mayor’s concern re- this year. He accused the agency of being garding when EPA shared soil test Meanwhile, HUD is continuing aware for more than a decade “of results for the USS Lead Superfund to process vouchers for residents the unprecedented high levels of sites. Kaplan went on to assure seeking to be relocated. The lead contamination in the soil, Copeland that he is “committed to agency began making the vouchthe EPA neither performed nor more effectively sharing informa- ers available in August and resirequested testing of residents’ tion with you moving forward to dents were able to start using blood (lead) levels,” Copeland constructively and collaboratively them at the beginning of Septemstated in a letter sent to EPA offi- address environmental and public ber. HUD initially released $1.9 cials in July. health issues at the site.” million for the relocation effort According to Copeland after city Recently, Copeland acknowl- and is seeking and additional $1.2 officials became aware of the high edged that since initially contact- million in assistance for the level of lead in the soil in May ing the EPA communications be- process. 2016, the city immediately began tween city, state and federal A meeting was also held this testing. That preliminary test re- agencies have improved. week between the EPA, HUD vealed hundreds of children are Earlier this week, EPA officials and the residents to address consuffering from excessive lead in announced that the cleanup of cerns and deal with complaints their blood. the site would take place without regarding the cleanup and the reResponding to Copeland’s letter residents having to be relocated. It location.

RESIDENTS WORE T-SHIRTS to show their concern for the lack of timely response by government officials.

Gary awarded $1 million (Continued from page 1) jects, but more importantly for from Mississippi to Grant Street, our community and the opportu- 37th Avenue from Grant Street to nity for job creation for Gary resi- Georgia Street, 35th Street from dents.” Broadway to Martin Luther King Northside Redevelopment in- Boulevard, Georgia Street from cludes the Horace Mann area, 39th St. to I-90/I-84, MontEmerson, Downtown, Aetna and gomery Street from 1st Street to the Miller community. University Oak Street, Hemlock from Lake Park includes the areas surround- Street to Grand Street, 10th Street ing Indiana University Northwest from Lake Street to Aetna Street, and Ivy Tech Community Col- Virginia Street from 5th Ave. to lege. Central Ave., 7th Ave. from Grant Areas slated for paving through Street to Wabash Street and Aetna THE EPA HAS posted this sign throughout the complex to discourage children from coming in contact with the soil. (Photos by Ruth Needleman) the recent award include: 8th Ave Street from 37th to 35th St. www.garycrusader.com

Blacks Must control their own coMMunity

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A GREAT JOURNALISTIC PEN HAS BEEN SILENCED George Curry has unexpectedly left the journalistic building, and the African American community has lost a great warrior. Curry, who was a former Editor-In-Chief of the NNPA News Wire, passed away from a reported heart attack on Saturday, August 20, 2016. He was 69 years old. Curry had also formerly served as Publisher/Editor-In-Chief of ‘Emerge,’ a news magazine that targeted issues important to the Black community. Moreover, Curry had a syndicated column that regularly appeared in the Crusader. George Curry was a journalist who was on the frontlines of the Civil Rights movement, and he could be trusted to tell the truth that had to be told. He did not mince words. He thoroughly researched his content. He also had a history of mentoring young journalists. According to Ruth E. Thaler-Carter, he co-founded the Greater St. Louis Association of Black Journalists (GSLABJ) and launched its journalism workshop for minority high school students interested in journalism careers. This organization is approaching its 40th year of service to young people and the journalism profession. Also, Curry was part of a Black media delegation that worked with the Black AIDS Institute to cover the 2016 International AIDS Conference in Durban, South Africa. These are just a few among many other accomplishments. Dorothy Leavell, publisher of the Crusader Newspapers in Chicago, IL and Gary, IN, stated, in an article written by Stacy M. Brown (NNPA News Wire Contributor), “Curry was a consummate journalist with integrity as his mantra.” “We shall miss this voice of reason and thought-provoking columns full of researched facts. It was just the week of August 13th that George wrote a column titled, ‘Even Funerals Are Not Family Reunions Anymore.’ Leavell continued, “He used his family as an example of the loss of closeness that he had enjoyed during his childhood and early adult life and bemoaned the fact that at his cousin Charlene’s funeral the week before that closeness was no longer there.” Curry pledged to help get his family back together, and most likely would have succeeded had he lived. Curry’s death reverberated far and wide, touching people in all walks of life, from the Black Congressional Caucus to presidential hopeful Hillary Rodham Clinton. Rev. Al Sharpton called him a trailblazer, and Rev. Benjamin Chavis said, “The legacy of freedomfighter journalists like George Curry will never pass away, but will always be kept dear and present in our continued struggles to liberate all from injustice.” In 2003, Curry was named “Journalist of the Year” by the National Association of Black Journalists and he’s also on NABJ’s list of the Most Influential Black Journalists of the 20th Century. Ultimately, the accolades going forth for the life of this great journalist are far too numerous to list here, but we can rest assured that the world of journalism has been left with a gaping hole. The Black community, in particular, has lost a very loud and effective voice. Of course, there are others who will take up the mantle, but Curry undoubtedly helped point the way. George Curry’s demise underscores the importance of the Black Press. Too often, Black people lament the dearth of Black businesses and Black institutions. The Black Press is alive and well, and Curry knew the power that it could have in helping to shape policies and communicate important information that would otherwise not be addressed in the mainstream media. In this regard, he served as a role model for others coming behind him. Hopefully, many of them will come to understand the power of the Black Press and to use their journalistic talents to help uplift the Black community as he did. Without the Black Press, the community would really be in the dark. Pioneers like Curry help to shed light in very dark places. George Curry will truly be missed; a great pen has been silenced, and the Crusader sends condolences to his family and friends. May he live forever in our hearts! A luta continua. 4

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR We have talked about race enough Dear Editor: No doubt the Gary police, the mayor, the Urban League and others are getting a lot of atta boys for the decision to hold the town hall meeting on race and policing. I am at the other end of that spectrum and I see such meetings and discussions as a pure waste of time. We have been talking about improving race relations for at least 75 years. I guess white folks believe as soon as they wiped the Jim Crow laws off the books racism was eliminated. Then, when President Obama was elected they must have doubly believed racism was behind us. Well, they were wrong on both counts. The Town Hall Meeting on Race, Justice, Community and Policing is just another avenue for white people to feel a little less guilty how their ancestors and recent relatives treated Black people. In my seven decades on Earth I have watched, attended and participated in too many of these sorts of sessions. They all work the same—white people proclaiming they have Black friends or work with Black people so they can’t be racist; Black people citing example after example of racist behavior they’ve encountered; a Black person standing

up and saying he agrees with one of the white people who spoke earlier; then every white person who speaks after that references the Black guy who said he can agree with one of the white guys. No one says anything new, and no one has any solutions. That is why I firmly believe we have talked about this issue enough. In my opinion the way it should work is white people who truly are interested in seeing the plight of Black people improve should talk to their not-so-understanding co-workers, relatives and neighbors about not being so racist. Don’t try to explain to Black people that you sympathize or empathize with us. Blacks need to talk to other Black people about improving our community by patronizing Black-owned businesses, stopping criminal activity among Black people against Black people, and doing everything we can to get an education whether it is a technical school, university or trade school. The other problem with forums like the one the other night at the Genesis Center is one is not enough to solve anything. These sorts of events bring out more people who want to talk than those who want to listen. The people who see some benefit in them should organize such meetings to be in several increments in smaller settings. There also are likely to be scores, if not hundreds of people who for a variety of reasons, could not make the one night. That translates into their thoughts and ideas never being heard.

Blacks Must control their own coMMunity

To host a two-hour town hall meeting and expecting something substantive is just plain foolish. It is like determining the World Series champion based on an Opening Day game. I know some will argue that it is a first step. Those are the people who should remember that every wrong thing we have done in life had a first step. Earnest Jones

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THE REAL ISSUE

CIRCLE CITY CONNECTION By Vernon A. Williams It’s not a question of whether or not Colin Kaepernick had the right to sit out the national anthem. If this is still America, there’s no doubt about that. And can all the garbage about the time and place. It’s never the wrong time to say or do right. The real deal is that there are two issues that are much more important – not quite as simplistic or black and white. This so-called controversy will be a missed opportunity if we don’t dig deeper than normal and I hope we use this situation to go there. Move Past the Symptom to the Disease First, every time we have St. Louis players emerging from the tunnel with hands up after Ferguson, or the Lebron-led Miami Heat players donning hoodies in respect of Trayvon, or the WNBA sisters in Minnesota protesting the recent infamous police shooting there, or Beyonce producing

a defiant Super Bowl presentation and music video – America gets its wrong. Most people in the general public look only at the protesters – millions from the hood to the highest degree earners in the wake of a 12-year-old with a toy gun murdered or following a brother in New York choked to death by police on video complaining in a whisper, “I can’t breathe,” or rejecting the rhetoric to explain away the hanging death of Sandra Bland. Looking at the protesters without the stimulus is like a doctor trying to offer a diagnosis or prognosis solely based on the symptom that patient is reporting. It can’t be done. Any medical official who’s not a quack has to do an examination, including X-rays and blood tests. They have to include a review of not only that person’s medical history – but also his entire family. So it is with the protests of this or any other day. When John Lewis and his compadres decided to sit down at a Woolworth’s counter that prohibited Black people, the question wasn’t how a peaceful lunch was disturbed for those eating when they arrived. And how ignorant is it to call them to

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR School district is making several smart moves Dear Editor: We certainly need to applaud the local school district board and administration for a host of smart moves the district has taken or is about to take. All indications now are the district will take its lowprofile, yet valuable art collection to a company in Chicago that specializes in storage. Most of the art is paintings and they certainly need the right environment to maintain their value. It also is a wise move because we have all learned here that some unscrupulous people have been vandalizing a couple of shuttered schools in Gary. It sounds good too that Mr. Clemons, president of the school board, is willing to sell some of the artwork as a means of propping up the district’s budget. It is refreshing to see a public official take a business rather than emotional position when it comes to money. There is no doubt the artwork has sentimental value for thousands of people who have attended Gary schools over the decades. However, the bigger issue is the district needs all of the cash it can get, and it needs it soon. Let me say too, that it’s also impressive that Mr. Clemons promises not to proceed www.garycrusader.com

with any sales actions until he and the other board members have been able to assess how the community feels about selling some or all of the artwork. It also is a positive step that the superintendent and board president want the entire board involved in collecting information on contracting for some services that are currently done by district employees. If there is a consensus and the numbers are right, the district will save several thousands of dollars in salaries, pension contributions, health insurance and other benefits. Although the district pays $5 million on custodial and maintenance services, it is not rushing foolishly to save money by outsourcing with little to no input. Right now, it seems the district has the perfect blend of administrators and board members. What had often been a tumultuous existence in the past seems to have morphed into a full-blown relationship. I don’t believe there is a need to spend much time on why the superintendent-board relationship is so tight, we should just accept that it has improved substantially. We are seeing the kind of cooperation and mutual respect that leads to getting the job done. Hopefully other boards, commissions, etc. will adopt the same attitude because that is a big part of what it takes to return Gary to her glory days.

Vernon A. Williams task because they know how racist bigots would respond. The environment doesn’t matter. The risks are secondary. It is a worthy cause, you just do it. The quintessential representation is, of course, Muhammad Ali who forfeited his championship belt, much of his fortune, a modicum of fame and faced incarceration to take a stand. He would not be deterred. Dr. King once said America is confused if she thinks African Americans marched in the 60s to be disruptive. The iconic warrior told a congregation that he didn’t have a martyr complex and like many, he wanted to live a long life. But in the end, he had to do what’s right. The disease was far worse than any symptoms and could not be tolerated.

Why can’t Black and White America stop dwelling on the symptoms (forms of protest) and start examining the disease (racism, oppression, prejudice and discrimination). Despite optics to the contrary, when you see supporters of the GOP presidential nominee spewing venom, I am persuaded that there are more goodhearted, well-meaning whites than racists. Yet, sometimes they fail to recognize their own complicity in the matter – again, looking more at the symptom rather than engaging in genuine exploration of the disease. If nothing else, I hope that Kaepernick’s protest will spur dialogue between the races that forces to the front painful truths and the roles we all play in perpetuating the chasm. Stand up or sit down…you can’t have it both ways The second point is this. For all of you trying to second-guess the way in which his protest was made, or even his right to make it given how blessed he has been as an American athlete – shame on you. You can’t have it both ways. We are forever lambasted selfabsorbed athletes who take pride in NOT being role models – who mock bolder fellow athletes. Perhaps you would enjoy the denial of O.J. Simpson who at the height of his career argued the existence of a racial problem. Or maybe you’d rather have the attitude of Tiger Woods who distances himself from his roots by claiming equal allegiance

to all of the other 13 or 14 hereditary strands he proudly claimed to dilute his Blackness. Or maybe you prefer Michael Jordan who was a hell-raiser on the hardwood but their little angel when it came to social issues or anything having to do with his people. One of his teammates said it would be impossible to get Mike to an event like Indiana Black Expo because he sold his soul in a $60 million “lifetime” contract with Nike. We want our athletes, our entertainers, and our celebrities to stand up and be counted with our struggle – no matter how far away their success has taken them. Look no further than Jennifer Hudson and Dwayne Wade to see how wealth doesn’t separate you from the suffering of those you love. The hardest job a coward faces is looking in the mirror of morality and consciousness, only to wince in pain in the constant realization that she or he has no reflection. CIRCLE CITY CONNECTION by Vernon A. Williams is a series of essays on myriad topics that include social issues, human interest, entertainment and profiles of difference makers who are forging change in a constantly evolving society. Williams is a 40-year veteran journalist based in Indianapolis, IN – commonly referred to as The Circle City. Send comments or questions to: vernonawilliams@yahoo.com.

Esther Gordon Blacks Must control their own coMMunity

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Support the Freedom-Fighting Legacy of George E. Curry By Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. The freedom struggle and Civil Rights Movement of Black people in America and throughout the world has lost another courageous iconic, freedom fighter journalist, leader: George Edward Curry. The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) salutes, respects, and supports the freedomfighting legacy of George Curry. NNPA publishers, editors, journalists, and photographers from across the nation attended the “Celebration of Life” home-going service for George Curry in Tuscaloosa, Alabama at Weeping Mary Baptist Church on Saturday, August 27, 2016. George at the age of 69 died from heart failure on August 20, 2016 in Takoma Park, Maryland. George Curry was our beloved Editor-In-Chief of the NNPA News Wire Service and after decades of outstanding contributions and service to the Black Press in America, George evolved to be admired by fellow journalists as the “Dean of Black Press Columnists.” As a foot soldier in the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s, I person-

ally have been blessed to have known and worked with George Curry as a fearlessly effective freedom fighter. If I could find one word in the English language to describe the professional and brotherly tenacity of George Curry, it would the word “courageous.” He used his pen and his wit to openly challenge injustice in the face and presence of oppression. George had the courage to both write and speak truth to power without compromise of principle or ethics. The Reverend Jesse Jackson and The Reverend Al Sharpton both travelled to Tuscaloosa to pay tribute and to eulogize the memory and legacy of George Curry. Rev. Jackson affirmed, “George was a freedom fighter.” Dr. Charles Steele Jr., President of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), also a native of Tuscaloosa and lifelong friend of George paid tribute to Curry’s leadership and activism as a “freedom movement” journalist. In the eulogy rendered last Saturday, Rev. Sharpton emphasized, “”George never knew he was much more of a minister to me than I

Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. ever was to him… George Curry not only helped to mentor and bring along students and the next generation, but he also did it to many of us that you see out there on the front line.” Sharpton concluded that Curry was “part of a long tradition, but he was one of a kind.” Roland Martin, accomplished

news anchor for TV One and former editor of the Chicago Defender, as well as a lifelong colleague of George Curry, passionately stated, “There was no newspaper, no magazine George Curry could not have worked for, but he chose to work in Black media… He chose to do that because he said there has to be an independent voice that is unapologetic, that thinks about Black people from the moment they wake up to the moment they go to sleep.” The passing of George Curry now raises the question of “Who will take his pen?” Who will step forward to keep the freedom-fighting legacy of George Curry alive today and into the future? Before George died, he had established www.EmergeNewsOnline.com. The NNPA supports George’s legacy and we encourage all to support the efforts to ensure that what George envisioned and worked hard to establish will continue to grow and expand with success in the marketplace. In my remarks on behalf of the NNPA at the Celebration of Life of George Curry, I shared that, “I have been in the presence of Mal-

colm X. I have been in the presence of The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. I have been in the presence of the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan. I’ve been in the presence of some of our giants, male and female, but I want to say on this public record, in my life, I’ve never met a brother that’s had more courage than George Curry.” As we face the immediate future, let us all first be thankful that we had the opportunity and blessing to work with George Curry. But we must show our gratitude by making sure that his courageous example of journalism continues. There is an African proverb that says, “Freedom fighters do not in spirit pass away, their spirit lives to inspire the next generation of freedom fighters.” We all know that George Curry supported mentoring and guiding the development of young journalists who are committed to the Black Press. Such is the case that the NNPA is now working with our Discover the Unexpected (DTU) NNPA Journalism Fellows. May these young journalist and others be guided by the great example set by George E. Curry.

Scholarhips for future minority teachers available Deadlines loom for two scholarship programs for minority Hoosiers with an interest in teaching Minority students who plan to teach in Indiana K-12 schools after graduating from high school may be eligible for up to $4,000 in financial aid. Two scholarships—the William A. Crawford Minority Teacher Scholarship and Earline S. Rogers Student Teaching Stipend for Minorities—offer financial aid for minority students who meet academic requirements and commit to teaching at least three years after earning a college degree. Deadlines are approaching for both scholarships. Applications for the William A. Crawford Minority Teacher Scholarship were accepted through Friday, September 2, 2016. For the Earline S. Rogers Student Teaching Stipend for Minorities, applications are accepted according to when students plan to student teach. For those who student teach this fall, applications are due by Tuesday, October 4, 2016. Students who plan to student teach in spring 2017 should apply by Tuesday, January 31, 2017. Full requirements and applications are available on the Indiana Commission for Higher Education website at www.in.gov/che/4498.htm. 6

Originally called the Minority Teacher’s Scholarship and the Student Teaching Stipend for Minorities, both scholarships were renamed during the 2016 legislative session to honor two Indiana state legislators for their commitment to ensuring equity in education and closing achievement gaps: William A. Crawford, a long-standing state

representative from Indianapolis who passed away in 2015 and Earline S. Rogers from Gary, who will retire from her state Senate seat this year. The William A. Crawford Minority Teacher Scholarship was created in 1987 to encourage minority students (defined as Black and Hispanic individuals) to pursue careers in

education. Qualifying students can receive as much as $4,000 for tuition and fees. Since its creation, more than 3,000 students have utilized the funds. In 2013, the Earline S. Rogers Student Teaching Stipend for Minorities was created to provide additional financial aid for minority student teachers, who often spend

hundreds of hours student teaching in the K-12 classroom before earning their degrees. Qualifying students may receive up to $4,000 for supplemental financial support. About 100 students have utilized these stipends. For more information or to apply online, visit www.in.gov/che/4498.htm.

Gary Summer Program concludes with a surprise guest A partnership with the Gary Community School Corporation (GCSC), Ivy Tech Community College (ITCC), and Institute of Leadership and Performance Improvement (ILPI) delivered a Customized Service Learning Program (Program) for Youth Leadership and Character Development Program, entitled Momentum 2.0, for rising 6th, 7th, & 8th grade students in the GCSC. The six-week Program was free to Middle School Students and was held at the Gary Area Career Center. Students received free transportation, breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The Program consisted of guest speakers, classes and workshops that supported a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) curriculum. Students were able to enroll in classes that consisted of performing arts, cosmetology, barbering, sci-

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2016

STUDENTS PARTICIPATING IN a 6-week STEAM curriculum observe a demonstration in one of the classes. ence, culinary, and more. Students Glen Theatre. During the last few days of retook field trips, hosted a Block Party and a Community/Emergency Man- hearsal, students were surprised by a agement Services/Health Fair that guest visit by former WWE Superstar, Nitro Girl, and Miss Black were open to the public The final event of the Program was America, Sharmell Sullivan-Huffa Soul/R&B Revue, directed by Al- man. Sharmell is a Gary Roosevelt tovise Ferguson that was held at The High School and Spelman College Blacks Must control their own coMMunity

graduate and is married to WWE 2013 Hall of Fame Inductee and owner of Reality of Wrestling (Houston, TX), Booker T. Sharmell stated, “These students are outstanding performers. The show will be great! Atlovise did a fabulous job working with the students. It is important for programs, like this, to continue to use the Arts in their curriculum. The Arts are so important in the overall education of students. The Arts have allowed me to do many things in my career.” Sharmell also had a chance to talk with the other students and encouraged them to strive for excellent in school. Sharmell shared how her education has allowed her to travel the world and work with incredible artists like James Brown, the Notorious B.I.G., the Hip-Hop/R&B group, 112, and many others. She also shared how injuries (Continued on page 8) www.garycrusader.com

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Local Financial Investment Advisor shares advice on financial fitness Recently, Financial Investment Advisor Delta Jones-Walker hosted a Financial Fitness workshop in her offices at Atled Financial in Schererville. Young professional women from across Lake County attended the session titled, “Financial Fitness 101” to learn more about the importance of saving, investing and wealth building. “Women are always known for taking care of others,” said Jones-Walker. “Taking care of personal finances and

planning for the future is a way we can take of ourselves and our families.” Jones-Walker says it is important for these conversations on money to be had and she will continue to share her message in a variety of settings with women, men, families, organizations, etc.

Delta F. Jones-Walker, founder of Atled Financial LLC, has been in the Financial Service Industry for 20 years. Atled Financial is a full-service financial firm committed to helping people pursue their financial goals. The firm offers a wide range of financial products and services to individuals and business owners. Sound financial information and education is provided by Jones-Walker to help clients identify their financial objectives. She specializes in re-

tirement planning, estate planning, disability protection, and the preparation of financial plans. Jones-Walker certifications and licenses include: Wharton Certification of Retirement Planning, Series 7, 24, 63, 65, 66, and L & H. She currently maintains registrations in the states of Indiana, Illinois, Alabama, Georgia,

DELTA JONES-WALKER conducting the Financial Fitness 101 Workshop recently in her offices in Schererville. Tennessee, Colorado, Virginia and Sales Results, and Rookie of the Year Science. Award. The firm offers free financial conNew Jersey. Jones-Walker is an active member sultation and books speaking engageShe has presented and facilitated numerous financial seminars for of the National Association of Insur- ments with Delta Jones-Walker. The various organizations including cor- ance and Financial Advisors, Mil- Securities and advisor services offerporate, academic, civic and govern- lion Dollar Round Table (MDRT), ed are through Woodbury Financial mental agencies. Her seminar topics Community Health Net, National Services, Inc., which is a member of include preparing and funding your Association of Female Executives FINRA/SIPC. The Insurance serretirement, legacy building and (NAFE), National Association of vices are offered through Atled Firound table discussions providing fi- University Women (NAUW), Al- nancial Group. The office is located nancial awareness to the women’s pha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. at 717 B Main Street in Schererville, (AKA), LINK Women, Jack & Jill Indiana. For more information on market, just to name a few. Her accomplishments have gar- Inc., The Girl Scouts of Greater booking a speaking engagement or free financial consultation with Delta nered her the following awards: The America and Step Up. She is a graduate of Howard Uni- Jones-Walker, call (219) 513-3710, Echoes of Excellence Award, Developing District Award, Centurion versity, where she obtained a Bache- email crelf@atledfinancial.com or Producer Award for Outstanding lor of Science Degree in Political visit www.atledfinancial.com.

Gary Summer Program concludes... (Continued from page 6)

FORMER WWE SUPERSTAR, Nitro Girl, and Miss Black America, Sharmell Sullivan- Huffman surprised the students during the final event of the Program. It was a Soul/R&B Revue, directed by Altovise Ferguson that was held at the Glen Theatre. caused her to stop wrestling and youth and community leaders to concentrate on working behind globally with knowledge and opscenes. Sharmell and her hus- portunities in the area of servant band, Booker T founded Reality leadership and civic engagement. of Wrestling (ROW) is an indepen- ILPI goals are to empower youth dent professional wrestling promo- with leadership skills, foster persontion based in Houston, Texas. al character development, emphaThe Institute of Leadership and size a positive self-image, inspire a Performance Improvement’s (ILPI) desire for building understanding mission is to inspire and equip and diverse communities. 8

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City initiates campaign to help those troubled with domestic violence By Carmen M. Woodson-Wray In May this year, Gary Mayor Karen Freeman-Wilson, along with the City of Gary in conjunction with the National Initiative, the Gary for Life and the Gary Police Department launched a Domestic Violence Awareness Campaign in an effort to help those in need and in time of trouble. One of the first events of the campaign was a “Fill A Purse” activity where the community was asked to support Domestic Violence Awareness through donations of new or gently used women’s handbags or knapsacks filled with toiletries. Sharon Mark-Taylor, executive director of the Gary Commission of Women said it was a team effort of all involved who collected quite a

few purses filled with personal care items for ladies in the two shelters associated with the Gary Commission for Women. The two shelters are the Rainbow Shelter, a domestic violence shelter for women and children and the Ark Shelter, a transitional housing for women and children. Many of these shelters now have waiting lists Mark-Taylor said it has been a very good idea to have a “Fill A Purse” campaign. She said, “It’s good for them to at least have a purse because sometimes they have to flee with absolutely nothing from domestic violence. It’s going to be an ongoing effort because our clients change constantly.” Taylor said many domestic violence problems are not reported by both men, and women with chil-

PURSES ARE LINED up that will be donated to women housed in the two shelters associated with the Gary Commission for Women as a campaign initiated by Gary mayor Karen FreemanWilson and other city organizations.

SUPPORTERS OF GARY’S Domestic Violence Awareness campaign join the Mayor at its first event titled, “Fill A Purse.” From l-r: Mayor Karen Freeman-Wilson; Roxanne Morton, Director Rainbow Shelter; Sharon Mark-Taylor, Executive Director of the Gary Commission for Women; Joy Holiday, Gary for Life Commission Officer; LaShaun Brooks, City of Gary; Wanda Jackson, Chaplin, GPD; and Larry McKinley, Police Chief. dren. “They tell our staff some of their reasons for needing help is because they have gone thru verbal abuse, physical abuse and even some mental abuse” she said. Women can stay at the Rainbow Shelter for 45 days and receive assistance from the staff in getting their lives back together. Taylor said, “If those 45 days are not enough they can stay at the Ark Shelter for up to 2 years, where they can get job

housing resources, help with getting their children in school, medical assistance and counseling. But then there are those that decide to go back home.” The city has received a number of bags filled with requested items that will be donated to the Gary Commission for Women. Mayor Karen Freeman-Wilson presented the bags to the agency on August 16 at the Commission for Women’s of-

fice located at 839 Broadway, Suite 300. Mayor Karen Freeman-Wilson thanked the citizens that donated items in the city’s effort to create more awareness about domestic violence and urged the community to continue to join the city as they work to reduce domestic violence in the City of Gary. She said, “It Could Happen to anyone women and men.”

Gary Independence Day Parade winners announced

PETE JULOVICH AND Delores Brown accepted MAYOR KAREN FREEMAN-WILSON awarded winners of the City of Gary’s 2016 Independence Parade the Best Overall Winner trophy for the Green with trophies during a press conference at Gary City Hall recently. Urbanism/Environmental Affairs Division. Mayor Karen Freeman-Wilson recently held a press conference at City Hall to announce the winning entries in the annual Independence Day Parade held on Saturday, July 2, 2016. The parade was a celebration of the national holiday showcasing the festive spirit of the community. The city also observed the state of Indiana’s Bicentennial Birthday durwww.garycrusader.com

ing the parade selecting “Celebrating History…Igniting the Future” as the parade theme. The theme is the state’s 200th Birthday theme. Judges awarded first, second and third place trophies to winners in four different categories; float, vehicle, walking unit and musical marching unit. The 2016 Best Overall Winner was a float entered by the

GSD/Gary Storm Water Management District and Green Urbansim/Environmental Affairs Division. Other winners in the various categories, as well as what place they won are as follows: Float – Recycling Department, 1st; Pop On Teen Violence & Methodist Hospitals Trauma Center, 2nd; and the Calumet Township Trustee, 3rd;

Blacks Must control their own coMMunity

Vehicle – Corvette Club, 1st; 219 Riderz Motorcycle Club, 2nd; and Power & Light Church, 3rd; Walking Unit – Asia’s Dance Factory, 1st; Dynamic Dancing Divas, 2nd; and Janet Jackson Featuring Missy Elliot, 3rd; Musical Marching Unit – Power & Light Church, 1st; McKinley Boy’s Drumline, 2nd; and Michigan City Soul Steppers, 3rd. SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2016

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Ferguson Protest Pastor keynotes awards luncheon The Northwest Indiana Federation of Interfaith Organizations announced recently the keynote speak-

Rev. Tommie Pierson

er for the 2016 King-Chavez Citizen Education Institute and Awards Luncheon will be the Rev. Tommie Pierson, pastor of Greater St. Mark Family Church in St. Louis County and a member of the State of Missouri House of Representatives. The event will take place on Saturday, September 17, 2016 at the Genesis Convention Center. Registration will begin at 8:30 a.m.when a continental breakfast will be served. Pierson, a faith based community leader, joined the struggle for justice in Ferguson in concert with local Black Lives Matter organizers and became a central figure in the movement against the police killing of unarmed teenager Michael Brown. According to Pierson, the city and the police prey on Black communities, but when people do not organize against injustice, they end up just trying to survive. “When you neglect people long enough, they tend to tolerate it.” The message he will bring to the

CHURCH CALENDAR “Two Steps” hosted by the Men of Trinity

son is the Senior Pastor of St. John Baptist Church. A 98th Anniver(Continued on page 11)

Pastor Dwight Gardner luncheon will be that congregations, disenfranchised and progressive communities still have a very vital role to play in achieving social justice. When people are under siege they need to collectively organize on every level to combat racism, inequality and lethargy. He cites the fact that after the community reacted to the murder of Michael Brown, they no longer tolerated the local city council being run by whites even though the city is pre-

Mayor Richard Gordon Hatcher dominantly African American. In the April 7 elections, two Black candidates were elected in Ferguson. The Citizen Educational Institute will host three 40-minute panels beginning at 9 a.m. that will focus on the related topics of education, employment and building community wealth. A Q&A session will follow each panel. The Awards luncheon will begin at 12 noon with recognition to be giv-

The Men of Trinity will present a Trinity Two-Step on Saturday, September 17, 2016, 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. at Three Rivers County Park, 28 Colorado Street, Lake Station, IN. Trinity Baptist Church is only "two steps" from turning 100 years old! Join them for an enjoyable walk/run in the park. There will be prayer, music, work out demos, healthy snacks, vendors and a Financial Fitness workshop, donation only $10.00. For more information about vendor opportunities and registration, call 219- 712-3182 or email clstalling@yahoo.com. Rev. Dwight A. Gardner is the pastor of Trinity Baptist Church.

Sen. Earline Rogers en to those who have shown social justice leadership in Northwest Indiana. Honorees will include Pastor Dwight Gardner, former mayor Richard Gordon Hatcher, Sen. Earline Rogers, Stop the GEO allies and the ECHO After School program. Tickets are $50.00 per person and $500 a table and may be bought by contacting the Rev. Cheryl Rivera at 801-4872 or Chairperson Iris Russi at 219-718-1261.

98th Anniversary Celebration at St. John Baptist Under a theme based on Psalm 145:4 “Generations: Remember the Past, Embrace the Present, Visualize the Future” the St. John Baptist Church located at 2457 Massachusetts in Gary, Ind. is celebrating 98 years of service to God. The 98th Anniversary Celebration Service is planned for Sunday, September 25 at 4:00 p.m. with Pastor Dwight E. Mobley, Sr. delivering the anniversary sermon. Leading up to the Anniversary Service will be a 3-night Fall Revival starting Tues., Sept. 20 at 7:00 p.m. with Dr. Otis Moss III; Wed., Sept. 21 with Pastor Dewan M. Bynum and on the final night of the Fall Revival – Thursday, Sept 22, Dr. Otis Moss III speaks again. Rev. R. E. Robin10

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E. C. church saves on electricity by installing largest solar system By Carmen M. Woodson-Wray The idea for churches saving money on their electric bills is beginning to catch on especially after Pastor T. Brian Hill of New Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church of East Chicago applied for and received a $25,000 grant from the Office of Energy Development within the State of Indiana. According to Pastor Hill there have been quite a few other churches throughout Northwest Indiana that have been applying for grants, but it was his church that was approved for 50% of the grant to install a solar system. With the help of the $25,000 grant, a $14,000 pledge paid by members of the congregation and the church itself writing a check for

$14,000 that made the total cost of the system $53,000. Installed by Jefferson Electric out of Indianapolis the 20 kwh solar system has 80 solar panels located on the south facing roof of the church’s educational wing. Pastor Hill said before they had the solar system the church was paying roughly $2,500 during a threemonth period on their electric bill. “Now for a three-month period we only paid $844. People across the country are starting to look at how to save within the environment especially when it comes to solar energy. That’s why if you have any type of church to invest in this is definitely something everyone should look into. The grant was truly a blessing,” he said. According to Pastor Hill the system

that they have installed has a 30 year or longer life span, for the next 30 years and they can expect a saving of at least 30% on their electric bills. Pastor Hill said, “We have also put in place other cost saving measures within our church to reduce other energy costs like putting timers on machines within the church that need not run all night long, upgrading some lights to LED and using programmable thermostats.” Electric Bills

MEMBERS OF THE JEFFERSON Electric Company stand on the roof of the church after completing their work installing the system.

April 2015 $682.82 May 2015 $677.12 June 2015 $735.82 ---------------$2095.76

April 2016 $321.49 May 2016 $174.03 June 2016 $348.89 --------------$844.41

City Human Resources Manager Wendy McLaurin retires after 41 years By Carmen M. Woodson-Wray For millennials staying on a job until retirement is unheard of now because the average time they spend at one job is 4.6 years, according to data available from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Fortunately, there are still people like Wendy McLaurin who defy the statistics with 41 years of service at the same company

Although McLaurin’s last official day was August 31, she has already made plans for what she will do once she starts her retirement. For one thing she plans to take her shoes to the shoe shop. She said, “If I can do that then that’s a winner.” McLaurin says she has had some memorable moments working in the Human Resources Department. “By working in the insurance de-

tires including first of all spending her first day sleeping. Then she plans to going shopping, traveling possibly to Hawaii and devoting more time to her ministry. McLaurin is also an evangelist and this will give her time to promote her book “Healing The Offspring of Salvation.” She said, “I wrote this book four years ago and I would like to do some traveling promoting it with a book signing tour, but my passion is my ministry. As time goes on I would like

to eventually become a consultant in Human Resources and Benefits.” Working for the city’s Human Resources Department has been very astonishing for McLaurin. She says she will never forget the opportunities she was given especially to see the first African American President of the United States Barack Obama when he came to Gary to campaign. She said, “When I saw him I knew he would be an amazing president and a great leader.” Another one of her passions is her

love for walking which she calls her time of peace—a time for her to talk with God. “It’s always something to talk to Him about and walking has been a blessing,” she said. McLaurin says she has worked for six of Gary’s mayors. In her retirement letter she stated, “It has been a privilege to work for each of them because all of them made an impact on the City of Gary. I’ve seen many people come and go, but now it’s my time to let someone else take over the reins.”

WENDY MCLAURIN ACCEPTS well-wishes from Mayor Karen Freeman-Wilson at her recent retirement party. and a successful career. partment you get to help people McLaurin has worked 41 years with issues they may not be able to with the City of Gary in one depart- solve. For instance, there was one ment, except for two years spent employee that was in the doctor’s ofworking for the Gary Police Depart- fice and was having trouble getting ment. One day McLaurin came to his baby put on his plan and I was the decision that she had served able to help him right away. It was a enough and that she was ready to re- simple thing to me, but a big matter tire. to him. There have been other cases She has worked as the City’s Hu- where people have lost their insurman Resources Insurance Depart- ance coverage and I was able to get ment Benefits Manager for 39 years. them restored.” Before becoming manager, she was There are many other things assistant manager of the department. McLaurin plans to do once she re-

CHURCH CALENDAR (Continued from page 10) sary Souvenir Book with ad op- event or the ad book contact the St. portunities is being prepared to John Baptist Church office at (219) memorialize this event. For more 886-7769 or Garthell Elkins at 217information on the anniversary 714-5174. www.garycrusader.com

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LEGAL NOTICES

EDITOR’S NOTE: The following column is a gossip column. We ask that items contained herein be judged by individuals that read it as such and not as documented facts gathered by the newsgathering personnel of this publication.

and fellow board members need to own up to. This thing didn’t happen overnight and there is more than enough blame to go around.

TRYING TO PUT IT ALL TOGETHER

Amidst the violence being perpetrated around the country by police on unarmed Black victims, Black athletes and entertainers have found their voice and are speaking out. Whether it is basketball players like LeBron James, Dwyane Wade or Michael Jordan, they are taking a stand say-

The Gary schools are back in session and from what Nosey hears, the opening day came and went without much fanfare. It won’t be known for a couple of months what the total enrollment is for this school year. That doesn’t stop school officials from hoping that the enrollment has increased. More students means more money from the state and the Gary Schools could

-NoseyIS THAT BLACK ENOUGH FOR YA?

Colin Kaepernick

Antuan Clemons definitely use an infusion of cash right about now. It looks as if most have given up on the Gary Schools and don’t believe things will turn out for the better. Many school board meetings are poorly attended, as are many of the committee meetings. While things may look bad – there’s still a few who aren’t ready to throw in the towel yet. Well, while there’s a few who have volunteered to continue the fight, and among them will be those seeking seats on the school board election this November. However, one incumbent board member is saying that he is calling it quits. Antuan Clemons, the current board and At-Large member said he is not seeking re-election. Though he claims that business concerns led to his stepping down, Clemons did acknowledge that the Gary Schools are drowning financially. He says that many of the school system’s financial woes were brought on by the state and that the state needs to bail the Gary Schools out. That may be true and would be helpful in resolving the problem, but there is a certain amount of blame that Clemons 12

ing enough is enough! The most recent athlete to lend his name to the cause is Colin Kaepernick, the San Francisco 49ers quarterback. Outraged by the violence-taking place, Kaepernick is refusing to stand when the National Anthem is played prior to a game. It’s cool to see them taking a stand much like those who went before him decades ago in fight-

Nate Parker ing against racism and war and were willing to put their careers on the line to stand up for what they believed in. On the other hand, while there are times when it appears that we’re finally getting it together, a situation comes along that will cause many of us to take our eyes off the ball. That seems to be what’s happening in the case of Nate Parker. This brilliant actor was probably first brought (Continued on page 15)

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LEGAL NOTICES

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LEGAL NOTICES

To: OWNERS, OCCUPANTS AND ANY OTHER PERSONS WHO CLAIM OR APPEAR TO CLAIM A SUBSTANTIAL INTEREST OF PUBLIC RECORD INCLUDING: Anthony Hayes, 6223 S Langley, Chicago, IL 60637, Smith-Rothchild Financial Company, 221 N. LaSalle Street, Suite 1850, Chicago, IL 60601, Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems Inc (MERS), its successors and assigns, P.O. Box 2026, Flint, Michigan, 48501-2026, Maxim Mortgage Corporation, 1431 Opus Place, Suite 410, Downers Grove, IL 60515, EMC Mortgage Corporation, 2780 Lake Vista Drive, Lewisville, YX 75067, Home Solutions Partners LLC, 8117 Preston Rd, Suite 160, Dallas, TX 75225, and any joint tenancy in common with rights of survivorship and any and all interested parties. NOTICE OF TAX SALE AND REDEMPTION PERIOD

Pursuant the provisions of Indiana Code 6-1.1-25-4.5 as the owner of record or a person with substantial interest of public record in the real property described below, you are hereby notified of the following:

Joshua Perry purchased a Tax Sale Certificate on the property listed below. You are hereby notified that a Petition for Issuance of Tax Deed will be filed on or after Friday, September 16, 2016 on the following real estate: Location: 302 Hamlin St, Gary, IN

Legal Description: GARY CITY ESTATES 4TH. ADD. ALL L.30 BL.2 Key Number or Parcel Number: 45-07-01-151-007.000-004

This property was sold to Joshua Perry on May 18, 2016. Any person may redeem this tract of real property.

Components of the amount required to redeem: Minimum bid: $20,241.41 If not paid more than after the date of the sale: 110% of minimum bid amount. If paid not more than 6 months after the date of the sale: 115% of the minimum amount. Amount paid if any that exceeded the minimum bid plus 10% interest. Reimbursement to Joshua Perry for legal fees, cost of giving notice, cost for title search and any other expenses reported and filed with the Auditor’s office on form 137b. For the actual amount required for redemption, the Lake County Auditor will complete the todate Costs. You may contact the Lake County Auditor for the exact amount of redemption or for further information regarding the sale by phone: 219-755-3154. This real property has not yet been redeemed. In the event the Real Estate is redeemed, the purchaser or the purchaser’s Assignees is entitled to the re-imbursement of additional taxes or special assessments on the real estate that were paid by the purchaser subsequent to the tax sale and before redemption plus 10%-15% per annum on these taxes and special assessments together with the cost of giving notice under that statue and cost of examining and updating the title and court costs. The date of expiration of the redemption period is Thursday, September 15, 2016. Joshua Perry is entitled to receive the deed for this tract of real property if it is not redeemed before the expiration date.

To: OWNERS, OCCUPANTS AND ANY OTHER PERSONS WHO CLAIM OR APPEAR TO CLAIM A SUBSTANTIAL INTEREST OF PUBLIC RECORD INCLUDING: Premnauth Sukhram, 2112 Newton Rd, Groveland, FL 34736, any joint tenancy in common with rights of survivorship and any and all interested parties. NOTICE OF TAX SALE AND REDEMPTION PERIOD

Legal Description: RESUB. GARY LAND CO’S. 13TH SUB. ALL L.9 BL.6 Key Number or Parcel Number: 45-08-03-477-006.000-004

This property was sold to Joshua Perry on May 18, 2016. Any person may redeem this tract of real property.

Components of the amount required to redeem: Minimum bid: $3,267.93 If not paid more than after the date of the sale: 110% of minimum bid amount. If paid not more than 6 months after the date of the sale: 115% of the minimum amount. Amount paid if any that exceeded the minimum bid plus 10% interest. Reimbursement to Joshua Perry for legal fees, cost of giving notice, cost for title search and any other expenses reported and filed with the Auditor’s office on form 137b. For the actual amount required for redemption, the Lake County Auditor will complete the todate Costs. You may contact the Lake County Auditor for the exact amount of redemption or for further information regarding the sale by phone: 219-755-3154. This real property has not yet been redeemed. In the event the Real Estate is redeemed, the purchaser or the purchaser’s Assignees is entitled to the re-imbursement of additional taxes or special assessments on the real estate that were paid by the purchaser subsequent to the tax sale and before redemption plus 10%-15% per annum on these taxes and special assessments together with the cost of giving notice under that statue and cost of examining and updating the title and court costs. The date of expiration of the redemption period is Thursday, September 15, 2016. Joshua Perry is entitled to receive the deed for this tract of real property if it is not redeemed before the expiration date.

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Chicago Football Classic Week beefed up More events aimed to boost excitement, turnout at the big game Crusader staff report A pep rally at NBC. Several rounds of golf. Tailgate parties. A proclamation from the mayor’s office. They are among a string of events that are beefing up the week of the Chicago Football Classic as part of an effort to generate excitement and boost turn-out for the September 10 showdown between Clark Atlanta and Central State University at Soldier Field in Chicago. Event organizers on Tuesday, August 30, released a completed schedule of events that will be held throughout Chicago leading up to the 19th Annual Chicago Football Classic. In addition to private events, a golf

outing and coaches’ luncheon will be held on Friday, September 9 at the Flossmoor Country Club, 1441 Western Avenue, Flossmoor, Il.. Participation in the event costs $300. That same day, a pep rally and preview of the HBCU Halftime Battle of Bands will be held at NBC Tower, 455 N. Cityfront Plaza (Columbus Dr. and Illinois Street). Spectators and alumni of Clark Atlanta and Central State are urged to wear their school colors at the event. Organizers have also released information for spectators hosting tailgate parties. Tailgating will be allowed in the South Parking Lot, the Adler Planetarium parking lot and the Upper Waldron Deck. Football fans will also shop during a vendor marketplace that will take

place inside the stadium at 1:30 p.m., two hours before kickoff. The highly anticipated High School Battle of the Bands will take place at 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, September 10 on the Great Lawn located on the east side of Soldier Field. Organizers are still finalizing the list of high school bands participating in the event. For the first time in the competition’s history, a high school band from Gary will participate in the battle of the bands. The South Shore Drill Team will participate in this year’s Chicago Football Classic, but it’s still not clear when the group will perform. On Thursday, August 18, Mayor Rahm Emanuel issued a pro-clamation, praising the Chicago Football

Back-To-School Jamboree date set State Rep. Vernon G. Smith (DGary) said the Back-to-School Jamboree will be held from 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 17 on the Indiana University Northwest (IU Northwest) campus. “The Back-to-School Jamboree is an event that energizes students as they enter a new year of adventure in school,” said Dr. Smith, who is an education professor at IU Northwest. “South African President Nelson Mandela, whose words continue to live beyond his earthly existence, wisely said, ‘Without education, your children can never really meet the challenges they will face. So, it’s very important to give children education and explain that they should play a role for their country.’ “Children in our communities can become leaders, like Presidents Barack Obama and Nelson Mandela, but they must obtain a good education, as these great men did,” continued Dr. Smith. “But educa-

lege-bound high school seniors. Students peruse various booths seeking information on the college admission process, financial aid opportunities and scholarships.

CHICAGO FOOTBALL CLASSIC EVENTS Friday, September 9 golf outing and coaches luncheon, 9 am Flossmoor County Club 1441 S. Western Avenue Flossmoor, IL 60422 8 a.m. Registration Rally, Battle of Bands preview 12 noon NBC Tower, Columbus Dr. & Illinois Street

Saturday, September 10 CFC/HBCU College Fair, 9 am to 12 PM Soldier Field - Midway Club High School Battle of the Bands 12 noon Solder Field – Great Lawn Vendor marketplace,1:30 pm TO 6:30 PM Soldier Field (Must have game ticket to enter) CHICAGO FOOTBALL CLASSIC GAME, 3:30 PM

CLARK ATLANTA VS. CENTRAL STATE Halftime show: HBCU Battle of the Bands And the South Shore Drill Team

PHOTOGRAPH SHOWS YOUTH participating in last year’s three-on-three basketball tournaments. around them.” be from noon-5 p.m. with a DJ Dr. Smith said the Back-to-School providing the music. Additionally, Jamboree will feature activities for there will be a dance contest, a students of all ages, including the al- Double Dutch Jump Rope comways popular, three-on-three bas- petition and a video game tournaketball tournament. The contest ment. will take place from 8:30 a.m.-4 Face painting, finger painting, p.m. in Savannah Hall Gymnasium and a drawing contest will be ofon the IU Northwest campus. Dr. fered for the younger children. Smith urged teams to register early Area agencies will have exhibit to secure a position. The early regis- booths and pass out information about what those organizations offer students. Booths will be available for rental to groups that offer youth services or have products to sell. Dr. Smith may be contacted at 887-2046 for additional information about booth rentals. The Jamboree is sponsored by Dr. Smith; the African-American Achievers Youth Corps, Inc.; the FACE PAINTING IS one of the many events planned at this I.U. Dons, Inc.; Indiana University year’s Back-to-School Jamboree. Northwest; Haywood & Fleming tion must be seen as a great adven- tration fee is still only $30. Applica- Associates Insurance Agency; the ture that opens the wonders of the tion forms can be obtained by visit- Gary Crusader; the 411 News; universe for those who are curious. ing the Beautiful Things store at Geminus Corporation; Fresh CoThe Back-to-School Jamboree seeks 3570 Village Court in Gary or by unty Market; King Milan Barber to excite young people about learn- calling Dr. Smith at 887-2046. Shop; Familia Dental; the Indiana ing, so they may meet challenges to The film festival is scheduled Commission on the Social Status achieve their fullest potential and from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. inside Savan- of Black Males; and the Indiana make a difference in the world nah Hall Auditorium. Dancing will Civil Rights Commission. www.garycrusader.com

Classic for raising over $2 million in scholarships in its 18-year history. Each year, the Chicago Football Classic holds a HBCU College Fair & Empowerment Summit for col-

Blacks Must control their own coMMunity

(Continued from page 12) to attention for his role in the movie the “Great Debaters.” After that he LIKE A GOOD went on to star in a few other proNEIGHBOR, GARY’S jects, but last year the buzz began ALWAYS BEEN THERE about a project that he was going to write produce and star in, a film Shortly after Dean White anabout Nat Turner and the Great nounced he was pulling the plug on Slave Rebellion. The film had been the Radisson Hotel and Star Plaza, set to be released last week, that was word reached Nosey that Lake until all hell broke lose. Controversy County’s tourism head was pushing surfaced about his past and it wasn’t to get a new convention center built pretty, according to reports while in somewhere in the county. Nosey alcollege he was accused of rape. Al- so heard that some lobbying is unthough he was acquitted, years later derway to get county business leadthe victim-committed suicide. The ers to support a food and beverage incident has come back to haunt tax to support the construction cenhim and the future of the film is in ter. While they are out shopping the jeopardy. As the story began to sur- idea of constructing a new facility, face, a number of premiers of the it wouldn’t be a bad idea to look at film have either been canceled or some of the ones that already exist. postponed, along with promotional It would take less money to upinterviews. There is speculation that grade the Genesis Convention the film industry bigwigs were be- Center than it would cost to build hind the derailing of the movie be- a new facility. lf efforts were made cause of the subject it deals with, to open the coffers of the county and with the climate they didn’t business community along with want to promote something that their minds, major upgrades could may cause Blacks to take to the be made to make it a more profstreets. itable venture. -Nosey-

-NoseySATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2016

GARY CRUSADER 09-03-2016.qxp_Sheriff 9/8/07 2007 9/1/16 1:04 AM Page 16

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2016

Blacks Must control their own coMMunity