GARY CRUSADER 1-28-2017.qxp_Sheriff 9/8/07 2007 1/25/17 8:20 PM Page 1
The shortest month could have the greatest impact for Black America
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Learn the 10 warning signs of Alzheimer in 2017
(See pages 7)
Blacks Must Control Their Own Community
(See pages 15)
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Gary’s State of City Address Set for Feb. 24 Speech to highlight institutions, communities Gary Crusader staff report Mayor Karen Freeman-Wilson will deliver her annual State of the City address at 11:30 a.m. on Feb. 24 at the Genesis Convention Center, 1 Genesis Plaza. The mayor will once again outline progress in the city as she continues to work lifting Gary out of an economic decline that began years ago and worsened over the decades, including the Great Recession of 2008. Freeman-Wilson’s speech is expected to focus on the growth of institutions operating in Gary neighborhoods, instead of large-scale projects that have shaped Gary/Chicago International Airport and other public spaces in years past. Hospitals and institutions of higher learning continue to move forward with ambitious expansion plans that will promote Gary as a wellequipped city with great health and educational facilities. At a meeting of the Gary Chamber of Commerce on Jan. 11, Freeman-Wilson gave a sneak preview of her message. During her speech, she said the city created smaller-scale projects that fed off larger projects at Indiana University Northwest (IUN) and Methodist Hospitals Northlake.
Gary City Hall IUN’s $45 million Arts and Science building on Broadway is slated to open in mid-2017. The 126,300 sq. ft., three-story building will add more classroom space for students at both
IUN and Ivy Tech Community College’s campus in Gary. Methodist Hospitals’ Northlake Campus in Gary will soon open its outpatient behavioral
Trump’s promised interview with Black Press By Erick Johnson With the celebrations over and the White House move-in complete, the clock has begun ticking as the Black Press waits for a promised interview with President Donald Trump. It will be the first major one-on-one Black Press interview with the new president since Trump was sworn into office January 20. It will also be a major departure from his predecessor, former President Barack Obama, who despite being the nation’s first Black president, was often criticized for not granting interviews with the Black Press. Before Trump officially became America’s 45th president, Omarosa Manigault, Director of Communications in the Office of Public Liaison for the Trump administration, promised
Dr. Benjamin Chavis
the first Black Press interview with President Trump. Benjamin Chavis, president and CEO of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) will interview Trump once a date has been set. NNPA represents 200 historic Black newspapers nationwide, including the Chicago Crusader. According to the Black weekly, The Washington Informer, Manigault’s promise of the interview was disclosed during a closed-door meeting she had with Chavis and the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) representatives in January. During the meeting held at the American Enterprise Institute, a think tank in Washington, D.C., Manigault made the promise after a NABJ representative “stressed the importance of Black reporters interfacing with the president,” according to the Informer. No member of the working press was allowed in the meeting, billed as a “listening session” with Manigault and senior members of Trump’s transition team, according to the In(Continued on page 3)
health treatment facility. It will have an inpatient psychiatric unit and feature six beds for children between 13-17 years old; 16 beds for those 18-54; and 12 beds for people 55 and older. The behavioral health facility became a reality after the federal government designated Gary as a city where there is a shortage of mental health providers. In a recent community survey, Methodist Hospitals identified mental health care as one of the greatest health needs in Gary and in nearby Merrillville. Freeman-Wilson also cited the $30 million upgraded emergency room at Methodist Hospitals Northlake as a project that could benefit the city in some way. She said the projects fit in with the plans that Gary officials are trying to create in boosting the University Park neighborhood and the Glen Park community. “We’re trying to leverage someone else’s dollars,” Freeman-Wilson said. Last year, Gary officials turned the site that was once the Ivanhoe Gardens public housing complex into a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) district that would entice businesses to move to the area by offering tax incentives. City officials said developers have suggested that a warehouse with some 287,000 sq. ft. of space could be built on the site and result in a $16 million investment that could create up to
(Continued on page 2)
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Medical residency program one step closer to reality Health care leaders sign letter of intent to form IUSM-led consortium Leaders from nine Northwest Indiana health care institutions gathered at Indiana University School of Medicine - Northwest Gary (IUSM-NW-G) on Tuesday, Jan. 24 to sign a formal letter of intent leading to the creation of the Northwest Indiana Graduate Medical Education Consortium (NWI GME). The signatures represent a promise from leading health care providers in the region to create and apply for residency positions in their organizations. Also, the consortium can apply for newly created state startup funding for those positions, a milestone that IUSM-NW-G Associate Dean and Director Patrick Bankston, Ph.D. expects to see happen sometime this spring. Residency training for future doctors based at local hospitals, community health centers and mental health agencies will be a first for Northwest Indiana, Bankston said. Studies have shown that most often, doctors end up practicing in the same area where they complete their residency training. Providing students with that option is a major step in combating the local physician shortage. The Class of 2019 will likely be the first class to be able to apply for those residencies, expected to number roughly 165 in the first couple of years. A handful of those students were on hand at the ceremonial signing. Habiba Choudhry, a secondyear medical student, called today’s event a “huge milestone that will benefit the medical students
who wish to practice in Northwest Indiana.” Choudhry earned her undergraduate degree from IU Northwest and then went directly to IUSM-NW-G for medical school. She is going to be completing her 3rd and 4th year rotations in Northwest Indiana, too. The prospect of landing a residency locally is exciting, she says, because it will be the best preparation for what she wants to do—primary care for the medically underserved in Northwest Indiana. “Training here would help me achieve that and also help me be more involved in the community,” she said. “I'd become more familiar with the (various populations) of Northwest Indiana specifically and it'll better help me meet the needs of my future patients when I work here as a physician after residency.” Helping Northwest Indiana Thrive “The formation of residency programs would complete the medical education continuum for our region, having established the third- and fourth-year programs five years ago and now establishing residencies, of which currently none are based on our local hospitals, clinics and mental health agencies,” Bankston said. “The long-term goal would be to increase the quality of care in the region, allowing our patients to seek care here rather than in Chicago or Indianapolis, providing a flow of excellent doctors to practice here to help with our physician shortage.” Partners with IUSM-NW-G in the Northwest Indiana Graduate Medical Education Consortium include: The Community Healthcare System (Munster Communi-
qualified Marram Health Center. He noted a particular physician shortage in the field of psychiatry. “This will be an opportunity to hopefully bring in some candidates that will go through the residencies and then relocate to or remain in Northwest Indiana,” he said. “It’s nice to have the collaboration of multiple healthcare organizations working together for a common goal.” The NWI GME Consortium will be the second in the state where a regional cooperative approach is being planned. The other is in Southwest Indiana with four regional hospitals participating. Both consortia are planning to apply for state startup funds made available in the last legislative session for the development of increased residencies. If past growth is any indication of the future of medical education in Northwest Indiana, Bankston certainly can be encouraged by the story of IUSM-NW-G.
DR. JANET SEABROOK signs a formal letter of intent to form the Northwest Indiana Graduate Medical Education Consortium. ty, St. Catherine Hospital, St. Mary Medical Center); Methodist Hospitals; Porter Health Care System; and La Porte Hospital; as well as federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) and mental health centers, including: Community HealthNet Health Centers, HealthLinc, Inc.; Regional
Mental Health Center; PorterStarke Services; and Edgewater Systems. Rocco Schiralli is chief executive officer of Porter-Starke Services, which operates a community mental health center and the federally
“The Northwest campus's medical school was born in 1972 with four students and four faculty members and offering only the first year of medical school at the Gary campus,” he said. “In the 1980s, we moved to offering the second year of medical school with about a dozen faculty members. Now we have the third and fourth years of medical school with 32 students in the entering class. Now it looks like we are moving toward the ability to provide residency training and that will complete the full picture of medical education possibilities in Northwest Indiana.
Gary wins $5,000 Home Depot Community Impact Grant The City of Gary is a recipient of a $5,000 Community Impact Grant from the Home Depot Foundation. The foundation provides grants to support small home modification projects.
teria at the city’s Community Development Department located at 839 Broadway. Applications must be completed between February 1 and February 20, 2017.
Applications are now available to Gary veterans meeting the cri-
Residents should also bring a recorded deed, a tax bill, an identification card, a utility bill, proof
of homeowners insurance, verification of income and proof of veteran status. The amount allocated for residences will be determined based on need, cost of materials and number of applications received. Applications will be reviewed and approved on a firstcome-first-served basis.
Gary’s State of City Address Set for Feb. 24 (Continued from page 1) $14 million of assessed property value for Gary’s tax base. Gary continues to make gains in demolishing vacant structures as well. Last year, the city’s demolition program outperformed those in other 2
Indiana communities. The achievement will help Gary secure a larger share of federal funds as the city continues to knock down empty structures. By the end of 2015, the state had paid claims for the removal of 270
SATURDAY, JANUARY 28, 2017
structures in Indiana through the Hardest Hit Fund Blight Elimination Program. More than a third of those were in Gary. Due to a time lag between demolitions and payment of claims, the actual number of structures removed is higher. Blacks Must control their own coMMunity
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Federal Goverment fines Uber $20 Million By J. Coyden Palmer Uber, the popular ride-sharing service, was hit with a huge fine last week by the Federal Trade Commission for lying to potential drivers about how much money they can make, and how affordable its vehicle financing plans were. FTC officials and Uber negotiated the settlement.
taxi industry nationwide, according to the alderman. “I’ve had concerns about this company for a while because they were unwilling to release their data to us,” Beale told the Chicago Crusader at the beginning of January. “My main concern was safety. I want people to know who they are getting into a vehicle with, and if the vehicle is safe and if the person is who
drivers.” But those who use the service, whether to make a living or for affordable transportation, say that without the service of Uber and its rival company Lyft, many people, especially those who live in poorer areas, would be left out in the cold. Customers and drivers say the ride-sharing industry exists because traditional cab compa-
UBER WAS FINED by the U.S. government $20 million for lying to potential drivers about how much money they could make and how affordable its vehicle financing plans were. Last year, Chicago Alderman Anthony Beale (9th Ward) held hearings into the business practices of the popular company, which is hurting the
they say they are. My proposed ordinance would have made all ride-sharing drivers go through the same procedures as taxi and other livery
nies often ignored them, showed up in an untimely fashion, or had rude drivers. However, FTC officials say the San
Trump’s promised interview with Black Press (Continued from page 1) former. However, the Informer said the meeting drew dozens of leaders from 30 nonpartisan and nonprofit organizations. The Informer did not state a specific date for the interview with Chavis, who was also mum on details but provided a general statement to the newspaper. “2017 marks the 190th year of the Black Press in America. [Our] tradition has been to engage whoever is in the White House on behalf of Black America. There are issues that affect our quality of life and we cannot afford to be excluded from the position and the power that would impact the quality of life of Blacks,” Chavis said. The Black Press has become a critical medium for Black America as Trump’s administration threatens to reverse advances made in recent years on civil rights, police brutality and health care. The presidential interview would also be a significant step for Trump to repair relations with the Black community after his divisive campaign, and his recent social media www.garycrusader.com
Barack Obama attack directed at civil rights leader and Congressman, John Lewis. During his race for president, Trump promised to address the high crime rate in Black communities like Chicago. He also pledged to help rebuild inner cities. The Black Press will be invaluable in reporting on whether or not he does so. While Trump continues to have a complicated relationship with the mainstream media organizations, he has no connection at all to the
Black Press. No Black newspaper interviewed him during his presidential campaign and none are qualified to have correspondents in the White House because they are weekly publications and not daily newspapers. However, Trump’s anticipated interview with the Black Press will be a significant improvement over Obama’s relationship with Black newspaper publishers and journalists. While Obama granted interviews with Black Enterprise, BET, the Reverend Al Sharpton, and Joe Madison, for eight years he did not speak one-on-one with Black newspapers which have been operating far longer than broadcast media. Nationally syndicated journalist George C. Curry, who died last year, unsuccessfully requested several interviews with Obama but was never granted one. Many Black journalists still remember a press conference where four journalists representing Black newspapers sat in the front row of a White House press conference where they were not called on by then President Obama.
Blacks Must control their own coMMunity
Francisco based company, which now has a global business platform, has not been honest with the public. “Many consumers sign up to drive for Uber, but they shouldn’t be taken for a ride about their earnings potential or the cost of financing a car through Uber,” said Jessica Rich, Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. “This settlement will put millions of dollars back in Uber drivers’ pockets.” Beale added he does not believe the company’s claims that their drivers serve parts of the city where hailing a cab is nearly impossible. Beale said while Uber has a lot of drivers on the South and West Sides of Chicago, he believes most of those drivers make their money at the airport, downtown, or picking up users on the North Side. “I think they may pick up somebody in the hood when they are starting out their day or returning home, but not spending most of their driving hours in these depressed areas as they claim,” Beale said. Upon hearing the FTC had levied a fine, Beale issued the following statement: “It‘s unfortunate the FTC had to levy a fine against Uber to call them out on their deceptive ridesharing practices which we’ve called attention to in the past. I guess when a company is as interested as Uber in deploying fleets of self-driving vehicles that it wishes will eliminate any need for human drivers, this should come as no surprise. But hopefully this action will force Uber to see the error of their ways and force them to start making honest and transparent statements to its drivers about the reality of what drivers can expect to earn.” The FTC alleges that Uber claimed on its website that UberX drivers’ annual median income was more than $90,000 in New York and over $74,000 in San Francisco. The FTC alleges, however, that drivers’ annual median income was actually $61,000 in New York and $53,000 in San Francisco. In all, less than 10 percent of all drivers in those cities earned the yearly income Uber touted. The FTC also alleges that Uber
made high hourly earnings claims in job listings, including on Craigslist, but that the typical Uber driver failed to earn those advertised hourly amounts in various cities. In addition to imposing a $20 million judgment against Uber, the stipulated order prohibits the company from misrepresenting drivers’ earnings and auto finance and lease terms. The order also bars Uber from making false, misleading, or unsubstantiated representations about drivers’ income; programs offering or advertising vehicles or vehicle financing or leasing; and the terms and conditions of any vehicle financing or leasing. Uber has claimed there was a discrepancy between how it and the government calculated earnings. The company also defended itself regarding its lending practices for drivers with bad credit, claiming it could get anyone a leased vehicle to drive regardless of credit history. But federal investigators say the fees for leased vehicles were expensive and Uber had no oversight over the terms of those leases, which were arranged through third-party sub prime auto companies. “We’ve made many improvements to the driver experience over the last year and will continue to focus on ensuring that Uber is the best option for anyone looking to earn money on their own schedule,” read a statement from Uber. Unlike taxi drivers, who have unions, drivers for ride sharing companies are independent contractors and often have no one to turn to when they are wronged, said Jim Conigliaro, founder of the US Independent Drivers Guild, based out of New York. He said with the dynamic of the transportation industry changing because of Uber, drivers must be aware of the terms and make informed decisions. “The reality of being a ride-sharing driver is a far cry from the rosy picture these apps describe and it is encouraging to see the FTC take them to task and refund drivers,” Conigliaro said. “Drivers deserve the fair pay they were promised.”
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HISTORIC WOMEN’S MARCH The United States has a new President: Donald J. Trump. He is one of the most controversial and unorthodox individuals to lead this nation and this fact has not gone unnoticed. He has threatened to undo almost every progressive policy signed into law during the Obama administration. Because of his ascent to power, there was a GINORMOUS Women’s March on Washington, which actually took place in many cities around the world, the day after the inauguration. The latest estimate is that there were probably 3 million women worldwide who marched to send a message to the Trump administration. The messages varied. Some were concerned about Trump’s proposed changes to the Affordable Care Act, Medicare, Medicaid, mortgage assistance to low income people, LGBT rights, and other policy issues. Others were concerned about the way President Trump has allegedly treated women. There were numerous other concerns, and the plethora of creative signs about them carried during the march demonstrated the creativity of the human spirit. The marchers clogged up streets in many areas, and even women in faraway places like Iceland joined the party. The march’s participation far exceeded the expectations of the organizers. Numerous celebrities spoke at events including Angela Davis, Janelle Monae, Madonna, Alicia Keys, Gloria Steinem, Michael Moore, Ashley Judd, and many others. Moreover, the marches were reported as being very orderly. Men and children also participated in the marches. One unusual aspect of the march was the participation by Black Lives Matter and other African American groups. Previous to now, there have always been complaints from Black women that the women’s movement ignored the plight of women of color. This time, Black women were a major part of the event. Now that women have demonstrated that they are a force to be reckoned with, the question remains…what now? Where do we go from here? The euphoria exhibited by march participants can be translated into momentum around issues that affect us all. Women can ignite a renaissance of resistance. But resistance to what? Basically, anything that impacts women, who represent onehalf of the Earth’s population, affects everyone. The changes that we are bracing for in the United States as a result of the new presidential administration will touch everyone in America in one way or another. With women at the vanguard, a new day can actually become a reality. Americans are in for a very interesting ride. Major changes are facing us. Because of this, whatever benefits the majority of people should be enthusiastically embraced. And like many other situations that Americans have faced, Black Americans stand to be doubly impacted. Yes, these times may be troubling and uncertain, but some of the uncertainty can be erased by deliberate action on the part of the collective. This is a time when the seven principles, the Nguzo Saba, should seriously be implemented. Now more than ever, we need Umoja –Unity; Kujichagulia -Self-Determination; Ujima - Collective Work and Responsibility; Ujamaa - Cooperative Economics; Nia – Purpose; Kuumba - Creativity and Imani - Faith. With that said, the Black women who took part in the Women’s March on Washington, wherever they may reside, need to inject into a post-march agenda these principles, and apply them to the Black community. They should also reach out to Black men and others who are ready to work in coalition to oppose the looming threats facing us as a result of an electorate gone wild enough to elect someone to office who is determined to set us back to previous conditions. We must remember that we, the electorate, outnumber those who are in the seats of power. Our vote and civic participation can make all of the difference in what happens to us. It is time for our community to change, and we are faced with a great opportunity to change things so that the community benefits. We have only to make the decision to do this. A luta continua. 4
SATURDAY, JANUARY 28, 2017
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Another reason to already miss Obama and Biden Dear Editor: It seemed that throughout the Barack Obama presidency every quarter or so Gary received some sort of federal assistance, whether it was technical advice, financial support or a combination of those two. There also was a persistent rumor that the Obama administration was going to snatch up Mayor Karen Freeman-Wilson and appoint her the nation’s drug czar. The support also extended into several areas from housing to economic development to transportation. It was never done with a lot of fanfare but the support kept coming. If there was any question about how much support our city will receive from the new administration, it seems like it has been answered by Vice President Mike Pence. As we all know prior to joining the Trump presidential ticket, Pence was Indiana governor. No doubt everyone recalls that Pence was like his predecessor Mitch Daniel who found every reason not to help Gary and the surrounding communities. Pence kept up that tradition right before leaving the governor’s office.
The City of East Chicago was getting national attention because like Flint, MI, the little Indiana city was having a huge problem with lead and arsenic in its water system. There was no disputing the contamination. The city did all it could to try to eliminate the problem. When city officials reached out to thenGovernor Pence, they got a delayed, and unequivocal no. Even though lives, especially school children’s were being put in harm’s way, the governor wasn’t budging. Now that Pence is the number two elected official in the country there are countless things he could nudge his boss to do for Northwest Indiana. It is not likely, however, that we will see anything coming from Washington, D.C. to help resolve some of the economic development, housing or infrastructure needs we have here. It is shameful that Pence and his boss are familiar with Gary and are likely to ignore it. I am sure many of your readers will recall when Trump had a casino here and promised big things, but delivered on none. Now that I think more about it Trump might be too embarrassed to have his name associated with Gary considering how he left here several decades ago. Of course, that should not stop city officials from reaching out to the new administration. I guess if they did so and there was no response no one would be surprised. From my way of thinking, if they
Blacks Must control their own coMMunity
were smart Trump and Pence would flood Northwest Indiana with resources, and when the area started an economic turnaround, they could take credit. Gary could be their ongoing model for success. The reality though is that idea is probably a pipe dream at best. Mark Craft (Continued on page 5)
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An Open Letter To President Donald Trump Dear Honorable President Trump: I am an advanced senior citizen, African-American male Democrat, and have been so all of my adult life, as were my progenitors. Congratulations on being sworn in as America's 45th President. I would like to humbly offer you a few suggestions that I think will assist in and enhance efforts toward the reunification of our Beloved Country, the United States of America. They are as follows: 1. All parties should recognize the historical contributions of ALL Americans. For example, The Honorable Congressman [John] Lewis' historical contributions to the Civil Rights struggles in America should be recognized publicly in the immediate future. As the Governor of the State of Maine so eloquently stated recently, Congressman Lewis should recognize the historical accomplishments of the Republican Party to AfricanAmericans, Democracy in America, and to the World, starting with the historical contributions of President Abraham Lincoln among which was the Emancipation Proclamation, January 1, 1863; his drafting of the
13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution ratified 1865; the Republicans who sponsored, authored and ratified the 14th Amendment, ratified 1868, and 15th Amendment, ratified, 1870 et seq. President Lincoln, a Republican, also led and won the Civil War that ended legalized slavery in America. Republicans, who authored and sponsored the Post-Civil War Civil Rights legislation and the like should constantly be recognized by all AfricanAmericans. (Team Trump, American and World Democracy???) Please see the enclosed speech I respectfully and humbly delivered at the 2nd Katie Hall Educational Foundation, Inc., Public Service Awards Luncheon on April 5, 2014, at the Gary Genesis Center, Gary, Indiana, entitled: "Deacon-Atty-Dr. Hall's comments in Defense of the KHEF, Inc., Award to Former President Ronald Reagan, a Republican, at the 3rd KHEF, Inc., Scholarship and Public Service Awards Luncheon." That speech explains in more detail how many local citizens opposed the Katie Hall Foundation for awarding posthumously The Honorable President Ronald Reagan the High Profile and Distinguished Award for signing
Deacon-Atty. John Henry Hall the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Holiday Law, H. R. 3706, AKA as “The King Bill” November 2, 1983. The speech immediately quelled many vociferous, vitriolic, and vehement negative comments against me and the Katie Hall Educational
Foundation, Inc. Attorney Junifer Hall, JD, MPA, MBA, CEO and Founding President of the Foundation, sustained substantial vituperative, invective, and vitriolic comments about the Public Service Award being presented to Former President Reagan posthumously. President Reagan's signing of the Congresswoman Katie Hall Bill was not only "A Giant step for AfricanAmericans, but it was a quantum leap for Americans in general, and Democracy in America and around the World." 2. Secondly, I, again humbly suggest that The Affordable Care Act AKA "ObamaCare," be "Reviewed, Reaffirmed, Reorganized, Revised and/or Amended" instead of being repealed, replaced [and remonstrated against]. The Act should be reviewed to determine which provisions should be reaffirmed and which provisions should be revised and/or readjusted for unification of our beloved nation, and not remonstrate
so scurrilously against. "Why attempt to reinvent the wheels???" 3. As you have so wisely historically demonstrated over the years and so aptly stated in your Inauguration Delivery, and I paraphrase, We should think big and dream even bigger, and act wiser, more justly, fairer, more impartially and more equally. "Equal justice under the law," is the Attorney John Henry Hall Law Office slogan, as well as the slogan of the Congresswoman Katie Hall Educational Foundation, Inc. 4. May God continue to shower abundant blessings upon you, your beloved family, staff, cabinet, America and the world. Humbly and Respectfully Submitted, Deacon-Atty. John Henry Hall, J. D., Ed.D., LL.MJ Legal Advisor and Chaplain for the Katie Hall Educational Foundation, Inc.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR (Continued from page 4)
If we ever needed an example here it is Dear Editor: Sometimes when we are trying to address a problem or issue we need to get out of our own way and let the children handle it. It is pretty rare for young people to overthink a problem. They seem to look at the basics, tweak the possibilities and voila, come up with a solution. We saw that a couple of weeks ago when students at the Watson Boys Academy decided they want to help the Gary Homeless Shelter. They didn’t try to figure out where they could get a grant, or how much they could raise through a Kickstarter campaign. These boys came up with a plan that helped the shelter and allowed everyone at the school to participate. Some of the students organized a penny drive. They understood even the smallest thing, such as a penny, can have a big impact when pooled with other small things. By pooling their pennies, the boys at the school were able to raise about $450 for the shelter. Homelessness is a problem that isn’t going www.garycrusader.com
away soon so the people dealing with it need all the help they can get from as many sources as possible. The Watson boys recognized this and immediately took on the challenge. It is so heartwarming to see a group of young Black men step up like this. Of course it is something they didn’t have to do, but wanted to do it, just to help. It will be interesting to see how much media attention this story gets because we know the Indiana newspapers are very vigilant about covering the negatives about our young Black males, but not so quick to put out news when they are doing positive things. Fortunately, the students didn’t undertake the penny drive for notoriety. They did it because they wanted to help. There is a huge lesson in that kind of thinking for all of us. That lesson is that when we know there is a need, the issue of being recognized for helping address that need is not an important one. The only important thing is that we help. The additional lesson is that acting alone our impact might not be that great, but, when we act as a collective, we can truly be a force to be reckoned with. There is no doubt the boys feel good about what they did, and the people they helped feel even better. Dane Byers Blacks Must control their own coMMunity
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Indiana Chamber submits list of federal rules that need repeal to Vice President Pence The Indiana Chamber of Commerce is championing the repeal of “the most egregious rules, regulations and executive orders that occurred in recent years.” These targets for the Trump administration were submitted to Vice President-elect Mike Pence last week, just ahead of the inauguration. The list, per Indiana Chamber President and CEO Kevin Brinegar, contains “issues we have repeatedly heard about from our member companies because they hinder their ability to prosper and provide more jobs for Hoosiers.” These issues include increased EPA air quality standards leading to much higher energy bills with minimal environmental impact, the overtime rule that would jeopardize jobs and business growth, costly rules related to Obamacare, misguided workplace safety regulations and a fear that the FCC’s net neutrality position could stifle innovation. “It was all too common for President Obama to circumvent Congress by issuing executive orders and to encourage federal agencies to overreach their authority and diminish economic growth,” Brinegar says. “The Indiana Chamber is very hopeful this troubling pattern will change under President Donald Trump, and we have encouraged his administration to take action to undo many of the detrimental measures enacted in this manner and to get our economy moving again.” The 17 suggestions for repeal and their impacts are available below and at www.indianachamber.com/federal. The Indiana Chamber also made the state’s congressional delegation aware of these priorities.
Environment and Energy - EPA regulation setting limits on the carbon dioxide emissions from newly built coal- and natural gas-fired power plants, based on the amount of electricity they produce. IMPACT: Dramatic increase in energy prices for business and residential consumers with minimal improvement in air quality. - Clean Power Plan which mandates a cut in the entire power sector’s emissions. IMPACT: Dramatic increase in energy prices for business and residential consumers with minimal improvement in air quality. - EPA ozone regulation issuing new National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for fine particulate matter (PM 2.5) (effective Oct. 24, 2016). IMPACT: Under an increasingly tighter and more costly ozone standard, businesses and industries may be forced to relocate out of nonattainment areas or relocate overseas to countries with less strict environmental regulations simply because they cannot afford to operate under such extreme conditions in the U.S. - New definition of Waters of the US (WOTUS)/Clean Water Act that gives the EPA greater jurisdiction – aka makes small waterways like wetlands and ponds subject to federal rule. IMPACT: Erodes the state’s ability to define jurisdiction within its bounds. Also, the case-by-case determination creates significant uncertainty for the regulated community. - Fracking rule from the Interior Department’s Bureau of Land Management designed to make it more difficult to conduct hydraulic fracturing for the extraction of oil or gas (fossil fuel). (Federal judge overturned the rule and the Obama administration
Vice President Mike Pence has appealed.) IMPACT: Risks significant increase in natural gas prices and progress with energy independence (fracking led to the major price drops seen in the last decade). - Army Corps of Engineers block of final portion of the Dakota Access Pipeline (93% already complete) which threatens energy infrastructure investment if approvals can be so arbitrarily revoked. IMPACT: Creates dangerous precedent of a federal entity reversing course near the end of an approved project. Finance - Proposed Consumer Financial Protection Bureau rule seeks to remove “mandatory arbitration” for financial company consumers, thereby allowing these customers to seek class-action lawsuits against compa-
nies. IMPACT: Opens up financial institutions to more consumer litigation. - Rulemaking from federal bodies which oversee banking and other financial institutions that have great bearing on how those entities conduct their businesses. (Authority directed by the Dodd-Frank Act; however, rulemaking changes can occur at the agency level.) IMPACT: Vast overreach that is costly for these businesses (to comply with) and, ultimately, their customers. - Recently finalized Department of Treasury rules (under IRC section 385) re-characterize certain transactions between related companies, treating the resulting debt as equity instead. (Intended to address corporate inversions; effective on debt issued after January 1, 2017.) IMPACT: Will unfairly reflect the internal operations of businesses, resulting in unjustified taxation. Health and Workplace Safety - Orders that support Obamacare. IMPACT: Perpetuates the higher cost of health care premiums for employers and their workers. - FDA menu labeling rules requiring restaurants and grocery stores to list calories for the food they sell. (Provision of ObamaCare that has previously been delayed; goes into effect May 2017.) IMPACT: Puts restaurants, in particular, in an impossible position to fulfill the rule due to menu special or-
ders. - OSHA rule to limit workers’ exposure to respirable crystalline silica to 50 micrograms per cubic meter of air, averaged over an eight-hour shift. (Effective June 23, 2016; companies have one year from that date to comply.) IMPACT: Viewed as unachievable; could drive many foundries and construction companies out of business. - OSHA recordkeeping and reporting rule requiring certain companies with 250 or more employees to make all injury and illness data public via electronic forms. (Lawsuit filed Jan. 2017 with the U.S. Court of Appeals.) IMPACT: This system doesn’t capture close to all of the pertinent information, yet allows OSHA to now cite employers even without an employee complaint. Labor Relations - Overtime rule would double the salary threshold – from $23,660 to $47,476 per year – under which most salaried workers are guaranteed overtime (preliminary injunction has this on hold). IMPACT: Immediate payroll hikes for many employers, which could jeopardize jobs and business growth. - Paid sick leave for federal contractors which requires companies that do business with the federal government to provide their employees with at least seven days of paid sick leave each year, including paid leave to al(Continued on page 9)
An influential Chicago official to address chamber monthly luncheon The Gary Chamber of Commerce will hold its Monthly General Membership Meeting/ Luncheon on Monday, February 13, 2017, 11:30 a.m. at The Gary SouthShore RailCats Administration Building, 2nd Floor, One Stadium Plaza, Gary. Join the Chamber as they welcome one of the most powerful and influential elected officials from the neighboring state of Illinois. The honorable Toni Preckwinkle, President Cook County Board of Chicago, Illinois will be the guest speaker. Preckwinkle will discuss some of her innovative programs and successes on behalf of the residents of Cook County and the state of Illinois. Some initiatives might parallel with the business community here in Northwest 6
Toni Preckwinkle Indiana. The cost of the luncheon is $20 per person reserved reservations, $22 at the door. Call the Chamber office (219) 885-7407 to reserve a seats.
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The shortest month could have the greatest impact for Black America CIRCLE CITY CONNECTION By Vernon A. Williams Okay, African American History Month is the shortest month of the year. Get over it. Just imagine what a difference it would make if Black Americans committed to one action for each of those 28 days to step-bystep construct the change they want to see. I have thoughtfully compiled daily watchwords for “our” month. These are not open to debate because they reflect my point of view. You are free to accept any or all, or come up with your own list. In either case, we are at the place at which we need to stop talking about it and start being about it. Freedom takes more than verses of “Lift Every Voice” and paltry reminisces of “I Have a Dream.” Changes for the body, mind and spirit are required to take our situation to the next level. Here are my recommendations for each day in February: 1. Write to your legislators and the White House to insist on increased funding for Historically Black Colleges. 2. Become active – not just financial – in a community, civic or social organization that is action-oriented on its focus on the Black community. 3. Along with tithing, offerings, praise, worship and feeling self-sanctimonious, be a driving force in your church doing more for Black youth and senior citizens. 4. Examine what role your company is playing in improving the condi-
tion of African Americans and, no matter what it is, help take it to the next level. 5. Become a big sister/brother, tutor or mentor for a student anywhere from pre-K to graduate school, sharing both your knowledge and your wisdom. 6. Be part of a watchdog organization for elected officials at every level – both African American and others – to hold each trusted individual accountable. 7. In the quest for leadership, stop recycling the same old names and uplift unsung heroes and “sheroes” of all ages in your community. 8. Most of you never heard of the three real-life women featured in the classic movie, “Hidden Figures,” so stop claiming you already know all there is to know about Black history. Study. Knowledge is power. 9. Refuse to cower away from articulating alternative perspectives when your colleagues, friends, neighbors or supervisors speak out of order regarding Black America and Americans. 10. Document your family history in writing, orally and on video with as much detail as possible, going back as far as you can, to share with descendants now and in the future. 11. Get therapy if you need it but shed that inferiority complex that makes you believe the lie that brothers and sisters are somehow less competent, less trustworthy, or less hard working. 12. Celebrate the progress of Black colleagues, neighbors, fellow parishioners, relatives, friends, associates and strangers without envy, judgment or contempt. 13. Please at least consider the negative impact on children who see so
Vernon A. Williams many Black adults – men and women – with dyed blonde hair and/or blue contacts lenses. 14. Consider requesting that in lieu of flowers, donations go to your favorite scholarship fund or educational institution on your transition. 15. There is no such thing as “normal” so if you are 21 or older, act like an adult and get past any family issues or hostilities that you harbor. 16. Reclaim the ‘hood’ starting by learning the names of some of the people you pass on the regular and may - or may not - speak to but never actually converse. 17. No matter how recent or how long ago, reject the phrase ‘cold case’ and stay on the case of law enforce-
ment to solve violent crime in the Black community. 18. Each day try to do three things: (1) say something nice to a stranger, (2) say something nice to an acquaintance, and (3) perform a random act of kindness – anonymously if possible. 19. Cut down on mindless television shows, movies, music and video games for your children - instead urging them to use time more productively – with you leading by example as often as possible. 20. Whenever you need to purchase goods and services, make an extra effort to find a Black business that can satisfy your needs at a comparable cost. 21. Support African American-oriented events in and around your community throughout the year – not just in February. 22. If you don’t like Indiana Black Expo, the Urban League, the NAACP, 100 Black Men, the Center for Leadership Development, Black Greek Organizations, the Citywide Ministerial Alliance, Black alumni groups and similar initiatives, either come up with something better or become a part of them and push for change. Aimless grumbling on the sidelines is a cop out. 23. Remind yourself of the bitter hatred and inhumanity that compromised our heritage and stop being so “color struck” by light, bright and near white (and stop calling such complexions “fair” as that suggests those opposite are less fair).
24. Denounce the term “racial tolerance” since it suggests willingness to cope with a negative. People of color deserve respect, not affirmation. 25. Reject those who claim to be “color blind,” instead urging them to open their eyes in unconditional recognition of our unique beauty and culture - seeing Black people for what they proudly are. 26. Teach the children the fact that their history did not begin in the United States, that there is no such thing as a “slave” (but rather people subjugated to slavery), and that the validation of others is not a prerequisite for their dreams. 27. Prioritize mental and physical health, not just in words but as well in your diet, physical regimen, disposition, thoughts, deeds, words and habits. 28. Step up your worship life, individual praise, spirit of faith and genuine obedience to the word of God. Never forgetting that, if it had not been for the Lord on our side – where would we be? 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.
Can the Media Hold Politicians Accountable? By Lee H. Hamilton If you watched Donald Trump’s recent press conference, you may have overlooked a telling and worrisome moment. A CNN reporter tried to ask the president-elect about the extent of his ties to Russian officials. “No! Not you. No! Your organization is terrible,” responded Mr. Trump, and moved on to the next question. The fact that a politician would seek to sidestep an uncomfortable question isn’t unusual. What should cause concern is what happened next: Nothing. The press corps moved on, without protesting or taking up CNN’s line of questioning and pushing for an answer. Why do I find this disquieting? Because journalists play a crucial role in our representative democracy’s health. Though power may seem to rest in Washington, state capitols, www.garycrusader.com
and city halls around the country, in the end it is wielded by citizens who have the ability to seat and unseat elected officials, to organize around issues, and through concerted action to affect the policy agenda. But citizens cannot act responsibly if they’re kept in the dark. And it’s the media’s role to make sure that does not happen. Its performance in recent years, however, has not been reassuring. Before the election, how much were you reading or seeing about the depth and intensity of the frustrations in large swaths of the country that enabled Mr. Trump’s victory? How much coverage do you see about climate change, or poverty, or the impact on our communities and individuals of the income inequality that has become a hallmark of this era? Sure, there’s plenty of news coverage of politics. But it’s just that — (Continued on page 11) Blacks Must control their own coMMunity
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Indiana students to get free FAFSA filing help at College Goal Sunday Financial aid professionals will be volunteering at 40 sites in Indiana to help college-bound students and their families open the door to financial aid during College Goal Sunday. The event is set for 2 p.m. (local time), February 12, 2017. The free program assists Indiana students in filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA form is required for students to be considered for federal and state grants, scholarships and student loans at most colleges, universities and vocational/ technical schools nationwide. The FAFSA MUST be filed by March 10 to be eligible for Indiana financial aid. College Goal Sunday is so impor-
their families can get free help and file the form online. Now in its 28th year, College Goal Sunday has helped more than 90,000 Indiana students and families complete the FAFSA properly and on time. College Goal Sunday is a charitable program of the Indiana Student Financial Aid Association (ISFAA). College Goal Sunday Doubles the Help Offered tant since completing this required form correctly and by the deadline is sometimes perceived to be complicated and time consuming. In less than one afternoon at a College Goal Sunday event, students and
“The event on February 12th will be the second College Goal Sunday ISFAA is offering this FAFSA filing season. With the FAFSA opening last October, College Goal Sunday made
Ivy Tech Community College Honors Local Student Leaders Thirteen students from Ivy Tech Community College’s Northwest region were among those honored recently through the Ivy Tech Student Leadership Academy. A total of 160 students from across the state were recognized at a ceremony Dec. 9 at the Conrad Hotel in Indianapolis. The Ivy Tech Student Leadership Academy is a leadership development program designed specifically for Ivy Tech students. SLA provides students with an opportunity to further develop their leadership and professional development skills, while learning more about the history and traditions of the college. This state-wide program has a standard structure and curriculum that is offered to students through the region in which they are enrolled. “The Student Leadership Academy is a unique program in the sense that select students from across the state receive a shared leadership experience,” Uzoma Obidike, director of Student Life, Development and Leadership, said. “Every SLA student brings value to the program and they all learn from each other. The academy continues to receive more applications each year, which shows that Ivy Tech students are invested in their leadership development.” The students were chosen through a competitive application process, with more than 600 students applying. Students from each region were chosen to participate in the co-curricular program, which runs either five or 10 weeks, depending on the region. The students were honored at a luncheon, where they were addressed by Ivy Tech President Dr. Sue Ellspermann. In addition, Sam Centellas, the executive director of La Casa de Amistad from South Bend, provided the keynote address. Area students honored at the event were Nibal Abdelsalam, Haley Brooks, Julie Burton, Mitchell Chmielewski, Kelly Davidson, Tamara Golden, Crystal Grasso, Christine Madrigal, Miguel Molina, Kyle Sanchez, Christina Sears, Jacob Williams 8
the decision to add a November event in addition to this traditional February event,” said Bill Wozniak, co-chair of College Goal Sunday. “We hope all Hoosiers who have not filed already, take advantage of College Goal Sunday events across Indiana, file the FAFSA, and get one step closer to fulfilling their educational goals.” According to the Indiana Commission for Higher Education (CHE), programs like College Goal Sunday are reaching first-generation college students. In recent years, according to CHE statistics, more single-parent Hoosier families have filed for financial aid, indicating programs like College Goal Sunday are reaching highrisk students and their families. “Students who don’t complete their financial aid paperwork properly and on time are often very disappointed when they find out how much financial aid they lost,” said Wozniak. “This is why the Indiana Student Financial Aid Association not only continues to provide College Goal Sunday, but added the second event this year. If our assistance gives students a better chance at higher education and less debt, we’re fulfilling our mission.” What students should bring
STUDENTS FROM IVY Tech Community College Northwest were also among 160 statewide recognized from the school’s leadership program. Pictured from left, Director of Student Life Uzoma Obidike; Associate Director of Student Life April Gabbert-Strang; student Jacob Williams; Vice Chancellor of Enrollment Management Lisa Shaffer; students Miguel Molina, Crystal Grasso, Christina Sears, Kelly Davidson, Haley Brooks and Nibal Abdelsalam; Ivy Tech President Sue Ellspermann, Senior Vice President/Chief Operating Officer Andy Bowne and Chancellor Thomas Coley. and Annastesia Workman. • Develop students’ leadership skills; Each SLA graduate received a spe• Develop students’ professional decially designed medallion that they velopment skills; will be permitted to wear during com• Develop future student and alummencement. In addition, they will re- ni leaders; ceive a scholarship for a three-credit• Enhance retention of students hour course that can be used during from fall to spring semester; and the spring semester. The goals of the • Increase participants’ pride in the program are to: college.
Students should attend College Goal Sunday with their parent(s) or guardian(s), and parents should bring completed 2016 IRS 1040 tax returns, W-2 Forms and other 2016 income and benefits information. Students who worked last year should bring their income information as well. Students 24 years of age or older may attend alone and bring their own completed 2016 IRS 1040 tax return, W-2 Form or other 2016 income and benefits information. Students and parents are encouraged to apply for their U.S. Department of Education FSA IDs at fsaid.ed.gov before coming to the event. Volunteers will walk through the online form line-by-line and answer families’ individual questions as
needed. All sites offer FAFSA online capabilities and many have Spanish interpreters. A complete list of sites is available at CollegeGoalSunday.org. Attendees may win educational prizes Students may also win one of ten $1,000 scholarships. Students who attend any of the College Goal Sunday sites and submit a completed evaluation form will automatically be entered in a drawing for a $1,000 scholarship. The winners will be notified in April, and prizes will be sent directly to the higher education institution selected by the winning students. 21st Century Scholars benefit 21st Century Scholars are incomeeligible students who sign a contract in the seventh or eighth grade promising they will graduate from high school, meet grade point requirements, fulfill a pledge of good citizenship, and apply for college financial aid. Upon high school graduation, scholars who have fulfilled the commitment receive state funds to help cover their college tuition and fees for eight semesters at eligible Indiana colleges. To fulfill their pledge, scholars must submit a completed FAFSA form on time. College Goal Sunday can help. Program is a national model College Goal Sunday originated right here in Indiana, and is now a national model. Following Indiana’s example, College Goal Sunday events organized by more than 34 states have opened doors to higher education for hundreds of thousands of students all over the country. For more information about College Goal Sunday visit CollegeGoalSunday.org.
DR. MARLON MITCHELL, president of Ivy Tech Community College’s Gary campus, recently signed the Presidents for Entrepreneurship Pledge for the National Association for Community College Entrepreneurship. Signers of the pledge promise to promote economic development. Dr. Mitchell signed the pledge during a Society of Innovators board meeting at the college. Pictured during the signing ceremony are, front row from left, Richard Marrell, Society of Innovators chair; Dr. Mitchell; and O’Merrial Butchee, director of the Gerald I. Lamkin Innovation & Entrepreneurship Center. Second row from left: Society member Cindy Hedge; Maggi Spartz, Utility Foundation of LaPorte County; Brandon Griffin, SMDG LLC; and Michelle Golden, The Golden Studio. Back row from left: John Davies, Society managing director; Lynnette Fulton-Driver, Lamkin Center administrative assistant; Eric Horon, The Times of NW Indiana; Jared Riddle, Ivy Tech faculty; David White, Arcelor Mittal; Larry Galler, Galler & Associates; Gordon “Big Daddy” Biffle Jr., Society member; and Tom and Frank Szczepanski, IV Diagnostics.
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INDOT LaPorte District Kicks off 2017 Paint the Plow Campaign Program pairs local INDOT units with high school or college art programs to paint a snow plow blade The Indiana Department of Transportation announces the kick off of its 2017 Paint the Plow campaign, a community outreach pro-
Stephon Watts remembered with rally and march for justice February 1 marks the 5-year anniversary of the murder of 15year-old Stephon Watts by the Calumet City police. Stephon, who had autism, was shot and killed in front of his father in his own home by officers William Coffey and Robert Hynek. To this day, the courts and police department have failed to deliver any measure of justice to the Watts family. Young Black males are nearly three times as likely to be killed by
Stephon Watts police than their white counterparts. Moreover, at least half of the people killed by police have dis-
abilities. (Melber, A., Hause, M., “Half of People Killed by Police Have a Disability.” NBC News, 3/12/16) As a Black teenager with Asperger’s syndrome, young Stephon fell at the intersection of these stigmatized identities. At 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2017, the family of Stephon Watts will be joined by community supporters at the intersection of 154th and Torrence Avenue in Calumet City IL for a rally and march. Black Lives Matter NWI – Gary will be among the community supporters rallying, against racist police terror, the continuing call of justice for Stephon, as well as for police accountability. The groups will demand that State’s Attorney Kim Foxx prosecute Officers Hynek and Coffey; a federal Department of Justice investigation into the Calumet City Police Department; a comprehensive disability training for first responders, including police, firefighters, paramedics, and dispatchers, incorporating legislation already proposed through Stephon’s Bill introduced by Robin Kelley; an annual mental/emotional competency screening for police officers to determine their ability to fulfill their civil roles safely and effectively; and finally, the establishment of an Independent Civilian Review Board in the area, to better monitor and create public oversight of the police.
gram designed to promote safety and awareness of INDOT’s Winter Operations all year long. INDOT LaPorte District invites high schools within district boundaries to paint an INDOT snow plow blade with original artwork to represent their school. Applications and additional program details can be found at www.in.gov/indot. In addition to being seen in full
service during the winter weather months, the blades may be used at events within the school’s community to enhance public awareness, promote safety and foster greater appreciation of both INDOT and the school’s art program. Paint the Plow is open to all high schools and career-technical schools in Lake, Porter, LaPorte, Saint Joseph, Newton, Jasper, Starke, Mar-
shall, Pulaski, Fulton, White, Cass and Carroll Counties. Only students who are currently enrolled in the applicant school may participate in the creation, execution and completion of the art project. For more information or questions about the Paint the Plow campaign, contact Doug Moats at 219-3257526 or by email at dmoats@indot.in.gov.
STUDENTS PARTICIPATING IN INDOT’s “Paint the Plow” program paint the blades on one of INDOT’s winter plow trucks. The program was created as a community outreach program to promote safety and is available in several communities in NWI through an application process.
Indiana Chamber submits list... (Continued from page 6) low for family care (effective Jan. 1, 2017). IMPACT: Will put another unnecessary and costly burden on smaller employers in particular. - Federal Acquisition Regulatory Council’s final rule and the Department of Labor’s guidance implementing the “Fair Pay and Safe Workplaces” executive order, which subjects existing and prospective government contractors and subcontractors to a broad new set of record-keeping, reporting and compliance requirements or risk blacklisting (preliminary injunction has this on hold). www.garycrusader.com
IMPACT: Would result in fewer qualified bids for federal contracts, as well as needless delays and litigation – thereby crippling the contract award process. Technology - The FCC’s net neutrality rule to regulate broadband; 2015 rules require service providers to treat all web traffic equally. IMPACT: Essentially gives regulatory control of the internet to the federal government. One potential unintended consequence is slowing down innovation. Blacks Must control their own coMMunity
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A Moment to Super Size Your Thinking To thine own self be true—it must follow the night as the day then thou canst be fault to any man (Shakespeare). I have always loved that truth. It reminds me of what Mark Twain once said, “If you always tell the truth—you never have to remember what you said.” Of course, this not only applies to what you say, but also what you do concerning your life. Going back to the previous cliché,
which came to mind after a conversation regarding attending church with a friend, Stanley. Although, he has been attending services regularly for the past few years, now that his pastor is soon to relocate, Stanley is considering going back into withdrawal mode. In other words, he’s about to give the right hand of fellowship to the “Church of God Within.” Some might refer to it as Bedside Baptist. For the past 12 years, Stanley’s cry
Church Calendar City of Refuge Christian Church of NWI to host two events Emma’s Transition House for Single Women of Indiana soon to be completed For over ten years the City of Refuge Christian Church has been community driven working with community partners of Northwest Indiana toward a common goal to end homelessness, drug and alcohol addiction and poverty. In addition to community service the group works very close with Lake County Community Corrections (L.C.C.C.) to assist work release residents obtain employment, counseling, housing and spiritual guidance so they can become the best person they can be upon leaving L.C.C.C. Emma’s House will open on or before May 2017, but for that to happen Emma’s House needs to have more hands, materials and dollars to get the doors open. The public is invited to come out to see the work that has been completed. It is their hope visitors will be inspired to make donations or contributions toward the completion of Emma’s House. The first event is planned for Friday, February 17, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. The City of Refuge Christian Church will host a walk-through of Emma’s Transition House for Single Women located at 616 Maryland Street in Gary. On, Saturday, March 18, 2017 the City of Refuge Christian Church will host its second event from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.– Emma’s House Shower in the Lake Room at the Genesis Center, One Genesis Center Plaza in Gary. The shower is also hosted by State Representative Linda Lawson (D-Ind.) and Kellie Bittorf, Executive Director, Lake County Community Corrections. These women deserve a second chance. Emma’s House will have space for twelve women to stay up to 24 months to get the help they need. Women will have a safe bed to sleep in and a community of support during their stay. Emma’s House has already established significant part10
ners, including Lake County Community Corrections, NWI Urban League, SIBIS Counseling, Awakening Counseling Center, Goodwill Industries, and Work ONE. The shelter will rely heavily on donations from the church and general public. State Representative Linda Lawson (D) and Kellie Brittof, Executive Director Lake County Community Corrections are working tirelessly with us to complete this project. For more information visit Emma’s House at www.corccnwi.org or call (219) 427-1156
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Effie Rolfe has been ‘there’s no hurt like that from the Black church.’ This mindset caused him to become a recluse and avoid attending Sunday morning worship. Now in my opinion, it’s nearly impossible for any church member past or present not to experience some type of offense. Every person has a different personality and opinion—so we just have to
deal with it. It’s called life and comes with the territory. We must ever be mindful to keep our eyes on the prize or your primary goal for you can become easily sidetracked by people and leaders (Philippians 3:14). After we talked for a few minutes, I concluded that the bottom line was to ‘do you’ —translation—whatever makes you happy. As long as you and God are good with it and you can look yourself in the mirror—go for it. My mother used to say, “If you like it—I love it.” After our conversation ended, I pondered on the Shakespearean cliché even more. Most people probably don’t live their convictions. So often, I even find myself reflecting on family traditions and values before moving forward. Of course, morals and mores are a necessity in anyone’s life. However, in the final analysis—it’s all about you. No one can live your truth, but you. Therefore, it’s essential that you don’t hide behind you family, the church or anyone or anything else. Last week, I mentioned that God constantly speaks to us, but too often, that ‘still small voice’ is silenced by the noise and clutter of our daily lives. In the end, you have a God given
Blacks Must control their own coMMunity
assignment and mission in this world—right here and right now. No excuse or reason is justifiable when it comes to defaulting the Master’s plan concerning your life. We are talking about all of you— your entire life. Not just bits and pieces, but as it relates to your day to day operations, career, family, finances—any and all things concerning you. The conclusion of the whole matter is to do what makes you happy. You and you alone must also be content with the naked truth of your life that will stare you back in the mirror. Always be mindful that with any choice you do or don’t make— comes consequences. In addition to being fearless with your life’s path— be audacious to stand up to the consequences that are sure to forever haunt you. Are you true to yourself...? © Effie Rolfe is an Author of “Supersize Your Thinking,” Media Personality and Motivational Speaker. You can contact her on twitter.com/ effiedrolfe. Listen to her show daily on urbanpraiseradio.org (2015 Stellar Award Winner for Best Internet Radio Station).
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THE BOOKWORM SEZ “Audacity: How Barack Obama Defied His Critics and Transformed America”
by Jonathan Chait c.2017, Custom House / William Morrow $27.99 / $34.99 Canada 272 pages If you can’t say something nice… Sometimes, it’s hard to say nothing at all. There are times when you need to speak out, to confront, share your opinion, rant, or vent. And then there are times, as in the new book “Audacity” by Jonathan Chait, where
when it looks like the latter. Obama, he says, however, absolutely succeeded at what he set out to do, and this book follows that argument. Though the Civil Rights movement was forty-some years prior to the day a Black man moved into the White House, racial issues keenly split the country over the last eight years, not along lines of race, but on political lines. White America often denied it, but Obama forced a harder soul-search on racism. He reportedly had a large agenda upon taking office in 2009, but it quickly became clear that his work would be to avoid, rather than fix, another Great Depression. He succeeded, but no President gets kudos for things like that. Instead, says Chait, there was – and still is – criticism about his actions, economically. Health care legislation insured millions of Americans who otherwise would have no coverage, thanks to Obama and a surprising number of ideas that first came from the Republicans. As a new President, Obama boosted the economy by spending money on green energy, with an eye toward global climate concerns. He helped restore America’s world-wide “standing” and foresightedly recognized China and India as budding superpowers. So why is anyone questioning his audacity, or the legacy he leaves be-
hind? The answer to that lies in the recent past, and in the history of Twentieth-Century American politics. Understanding both, and what happens from here, is enhanced by learning what’s inside “Audacity.” Just know first that there’s a lot to absorb. Because author Jonathan Chait is also a political columnist, the goingson behind-the-scenes in Washington are presented in great detail in this book. That can be both a good thing and a bad thing: good, because Chait is clear in reasoning and thorough in fact-finding, in favor of arguments for a stellar Obama legacy; bad, because this thoroughness becomes quite heavy at times. That could turn away readers with a lesser palate for politics, although one wouldn’t have to look hard to see why persevering is important: Chait explains how Obama’s tenure as President ultimately turned out as it did, and why many voters are still, perhaps wrongly, disappointed in his work. Chait then goes on to clearly illuminate what happened at the last election, and why. Give yourself time for a careful read of this book, especially if you might disagree with its author. There’s argument in here that may – or may not – change minds; either way, “Audacity” might at least give you something nice to say.
Artopia Program at the National Lakeshore Jonathan Chait you must praise. For perhaps the last few months of Barack Obama’s presidency, media outlets have debated about something that definitely matters: was he one of the best presidents, or one of the worst? It’s the former, says Chait, even though he admits there are times
Get an early start celebrating African American History Month with a special art program at Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore’s Paul H. Douglas Center. Join Rhonda Cox, executive director of the Artopia Arts and Crafts Cultural Academy, on Saturday, January 28 from 1:00 to 3:00 pm at the center as we create lizard beads in African American colors. You will
be able to take home your creation and the program is free. Throughout the day, a variety of fun, hands-on activities and exhibits featuring national park sites with an African-American connection will be available. Try the indoor scavenger hunt to win a small prize. These exhibits will remain on display at the Douglas Center through March 1st.
If there is an inch or more of snow on the ground, try out cross country skiing or snowshoeing for free in Miller Woods. It is a wonderful time to see clues of animal activity in the snow. The Douglas Center winter hours are Monday through Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The Paul H. Douglas Center for Environmental Education is located in the western portion of the
national lakeshore at 100 North Lake Street, about one mile north of U.S. Highway 12 in the Miller neighborhood of Gary. For more information on this or other programs at Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, call 219-395-1882 or visit our website at www.nps.gov/indu and our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/IndianaDunesNL.
Can the Media Hold Politicians Accountable? (Continued from page 7) coverage of politics, polls, personalities, and campaigns, and much less on the substance of policy issues or what’s at stake for the country as they’re debated. Last year, early in the primary season, the CEO of CBS said of Mr. Trump’s presidential run, “It may not be good for America, but it's damn good for CBS." He later contended he’d been joking — but somehow, I don’t find myself reassured that media corporations today are as committed to serving the public good as they ought to be At the same time, politicians have become adept at manipulating the media. The president-elect’s news conference, for instance, was held on the same day that Republicans in the www.garycrusader.com
Senate were holding multiple confirmation hearings on his cabinet nominees and were releasing their budget plans. This was divide and conquer at its most effective: they essentially overwhelmed the circuits and avoided the sort of in-depth, extended public scrutiny Americans deserved. This is unlikely to change, especially in the White House. As Pete Vernon noted recently in the Columbia Journalism Review, with “unabashed boosters in the studios of certain Fox News hosts, the morning hours of MSNBC, and the pages of Breitbart, as [well as] direct access to 17 million followers through his own Twitter feed, Trump has a greater ability than any previous president to push his message unchallenged.”
Lee Hamilton President Obama, Hillary Clinton and Mr. Trump have held very few open news conferences. We are losing important ways and means of holding politicians accountable. Nor are citizens helping. In the mo-
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dern media universe, they get along with only the information they want to believe, look at sources that tell them only what they want to hear, and shut out anything they don’t like. They seek the media that confirms their views. This is worrisome. But even worse would be a press that doesn’t push on regardless. I want to see media coverage of public affairs that’s dogged, skeptical and aggressive, that investigates actions of government and politicians, that checks facts, calls candidates and office-holders to account, and flags misstatements, half-truths, and outright lies. I want the media to be very tough on politicians and candidates and not let them get away with the evasions and manipulations
they find increasingly easy to practice. Democracy works only with accountability and is strengthened by strict accountability of elected and appointed officials to the people of the country. Without citizens insisting on it and the media demanding it, our system of representative government is in peril. Lee Hamilton is a Senior Advisor for the Indiana University Center on Representative Government; a Distinguished Scholar, IU School of Global and International Studies; and a Professor of Practice, IU School of Public and Environmental Affairs. He was a member of the U.S. House of Representatives for 34 years.
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Brain health is a civil rights issue for Blacks Prominent African American Advocate Calls Brain Health the greatest 21st Century Civil Rights Issue As our country recently celebrated the remarkable life and legacy of the late Martin Luther King Jr., author and advocate Dan Gasby was joining forces with the American Brain Foundation (ABF) to raise awareness of the tremendous racial disparities that exist between African Americans and non-Hispanic whites when it comes to the diagnosis, treatment and lack of adequate studies of brain disease. “Brain Health is the greatest 21st Century civil rights issue,” said Gasby. “When you lose your cognitive ability, your rights as a human being are greatly diminished.” Gasby says this is particularly devastating for African Americans, who are twice as likely as non-Hispanic whites to develop late onset Alzheimer’s and less likely to have a diagnosis of their condition, which often results in little time for treatment and planning. Gasby’s wife, B. Smith, a national-
ly recognized celebrity chef, supermodel and lifestyle maven, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2013. “From my experience as a caregiver, I know that brain disease robs sufferers of their dreams and ambitions and of their hopes and even their homes,” said Gasby, who coauthored the moving memoir, “Before I Forget” with his wife. “Our brain health is often directly tied to our socioeconomic status. We need more funding, more awareness and more compassion for the more than 50 million Americans afflicted with brain diseases.” Kevin Goodno, Board Chair of the ABF, a national charity whose mission is to bring researchers and donors together to defeat brain disease, said Gasby’s election to the Board continues to diversify the organization and better positions the ABF to address the critical need for funding to ac-
world-renowned neurologists, a former NFL Super Bowl champion, Vice President Walter Mondale (Honorary Chair) and the most recent new member Susan Schneider Williams, artist and widow of late actor and comedian
Robin Williams. For more information about the American Brain Foundation or to learn more, visit www. AmericanBrainFoundation.org, or find the Foundation on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and YouTube.
B. Smith and Dan Gasby celerate research. “Each of our Board members shares our organization’s collective passion to find a cure,” Goodno said. “Throughout our history, the American public has successfully rallied
to beat back pervasive threats to our personal and public health, such as polio, cancer and HIV/AIDS. It’s now time to defeat brain disease.” Gasby joins a distinguished ABF Board that includes
Learn the 10 warning signs of Alzheimer in 2017 Early Detection Empowers Families to Plan for the Future After the holidays, questions are often raised by family members about changes in cognitive health of parents and grandparents they may not see often during the year. As a result, the Alzheimer’s Association, Greater Illinois Chapter has seen an increase in calls to its 24/7 Helpline, 800.-2723900, after the New Year. In Illinois alone, more than 220,000 people are living with Alzheimer’s disease, and that number is expected to increase to 260,000 by 2025. It is more crucial than ever to educate others about the disease, support those living with it and their families, and fuel critical research efforts for a cure. • More than 5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s • It is the 6th leading cause of death in the United States •Every 66 seconds, someone in the US develops Alzheimer’s disease • Alzheimer’s kills more people each year than breast cancer and prostate cancer combined • 1 in 3 seniors in the United States dies with Alzheimer’s or another dementia In 2016, Alzheimer’s and
other dementias will cost the nation $236 billion “If you don’t know anyone with Alzheimer’s disease right now, you will soon. With the Baby Boomers aging, the number of people living with the disease continues to in-
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crease and is expected to triple by 2050. It’s best to learn and understand what the early signs of Alzheimer’s are and where to receive help if and when it comes to that.” – Hadi Finerty, Senior Manager of Education and Outreach at
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the Alzheimer’s Association, Greater Illinois Chapter. Alzheimer’s Association 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s • Memory loss that disrupts daily life. • Challenges in planning or solving problems. • Difficulty completing familiar tasks at home, at work or at leisure. • Confusion with time or place. • Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships. • New problems with words in speaking or writing. • Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps. • Decreased or poor judgment. • Withdrawal from work or social activities. • Changes in mood and personality. If you notice any of the 10 early warning signs of Alzheimer’s in yourself or someone you know, don’t ignore them. With early detection, those affected can get the maximum benefit from available treatments and explore treatments that may provide some relief of symptoms and help you maintain a level of independence longer.
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THE BOOK, “BEFORE I FORGET: Love, Hope, Help, and Acceptance in Our Fight Against Alzheimer’s” is a memoir that chronicles the debilitating effects of the disease on restaurateur and former fashion model B. Smith, her husband and daughter.
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