Gary Crusader 12-03-2016

GARY CRUSADER 12-03-2016.qxp_Sheriff 9/8/07 2007 12/1/16 7:20 AM Page 1

Blacks Must Control Their Own Community

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VOLUME LV NUMBER 32 —SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2016

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Hammond minister thanks Rev. Jackson for holiday food Gas explosion destroyed food pantry

By Chinta Strausberg A Hammond, Indiana minister whose food pantry, kitchen and dining areas were destroyed due to a gas explosion, thanked Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, Sr. for sharing Thanksgiving food items with his parishioners.

Rev. Joseph Alford, senior pastor of the Bethel Church of God in Christ, said he is doubly blessed because no one died in that explosion.

Only one person, church deacon Craig Williams, who remains in the hospital, was in the building at the time of the explosion. He is recovering from second-degree burns. The church, which is separated from the dining facility by an alley, was not affected by the explosion.

Alford made his remarks during a press conference held over the weekend with Rev. Jackson and his supporters. The gas explosion prevented Alford from feeding more than 150 people who were depending on his annual holiday gifts. He turned to Rev. Jackson who invited him to the Rainbow PUSH Coalition Along with a number of veterans and families, Rev. Jackson shared his Thanksgiving food with Rev. Alford and his wife, Norma, then sent them home with enough food to feed more than 150 people. “I thank God for Rev Jackson,” said Alford. “He’s always reaching out ….”

Alford said, “Thank God for having a man like Rev. Jackson that is standing point, standing tall and willing to help the community no

REV. JOSEPH ALFORD, senior pastor of the Bethel Church of God in Christ, talks to the media about the gas explosion that destroyed their Hammond, Indiana church on Monday, Nov. 21, 2016.

“Thank God for sparing my deacon. He was ford said, “Deacon Williams is doing tremenmatter where it is. It has nothing to do with color or race. He’s just a man who wants to on the job opening up the church, getting dously well. He recently came out of a coma, help the community itself and we thank God ready to have choir rehearsal. I am thanking while I was there; so he should be talking now.

God that he got in at the time that he did. Had His hands and arms have second-degree burns for his support.”

When asked his reaction to the gas explosion, he not, then it would have possibly been 10 to on them, but everything looks good. We are Rev. Alford said, “I am totally devastated by the 20 people that would have been killed, hurt or upbeat about his recovery,” he said. explosion that we experienced, but I am also injured in that incident, so we thank God for He added that “right now my heart is with the thankful that all that we basically lost was the that.” situation with my deacon. That is my responsiAsked about the condition of his deacon, Al- bility right now, to make sure that he is stable building and the food that was there. and is able to recover and get back on his job serving the Lord 110 percent.”

Asked about how the church explosion impacted the community, Alford said the food President and CEO Ray Grady, Methodist pantry would be down in that area, where the Hospitals sent out Requests For Proposals church was serving anywhere from 500 to 800 to a number of health systems. Out of the people per month. The explosion was devastat16 responses the board of directors nar- ing to the community because not only will the rowed them down to three candidates. “It food pantry not be there, nor will the kitchen is my understanding that the board is still be open to serve meals.

“We’re praying that we have a speedy recovery in discussions with the three finalists, and that the board has agreed to make public and that the insurance company will not give us their choice when everything is finalized.”

(Continued on page 3) Another concern that the board has to consider as they move forward is the 1979 federal consent decree that Methodist is under. The decree was issued during the administration of then Gary Mayor Devastating election is Richard G. Hatcher. It requires that there be parity between Methodist Hospitals’ a force to reinvigorate North and South Lake Campuses. Any disBlack America cussion of selling the hospital would be void as long as the decree is in effect.

(See story on page 7) “Actually the decree is in effect until Torrance Johnson named Richard Hatcher or I say that it is no longer so,” said Brown, one of the plaintiffs that CCAC Player of the Week sued Methodist in Federal Court.

(See story on page 15) President and CEO Ray Grady, (Continued on page 2)

Methodist Hospital future being discussed The Methodist Hospitals’ Board of Directors is reviewing the future of Methodist Hospitals. At issue is whether the hospital system which operates two facilities in Northwest Indiana, will continue as an independent facility or partner with another health care system.

It has been reported that the board has been in discussions with Franciscan Health, which currently has several hospitals within its system. However, during a meeting with a number of physicians in practice at Methodist, the majority of the doctors indicated displeasure with the Franciscan system.

According to State Rep. Charlie Brown who maintains contact with Methodist

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

GARY CRUSADER 12-03-2016.qxp_Sheriff 9/8/07 2007 12/1/16 7:20 AM Page 2

Indiana law is specific in claims of wrongful death Contributed By: The 411 News Attorney expects “uphill battle” in lawsuit seeking answers in drowning death of Domonique Smith “It will be an uphill battle to uncover what happened that day,” Atty. Trent McCain said about the wrongful death of a child lawsuit Vicki Olds is bringing against the pastors of Munster’s Family Christian Center. Atty. McCain is Old’s attorney in the lawsuit.

McCain said the pastors were in communication with Olds until July 2016 when Olds was allowed to view a video recording Schererville detectives obtained from security cameras at the Munsey home on the day of Domonique’s drowning. “After that she had questions, but the Munseys stopped talking,” he said.

During a press conference November 17, held at the Lake County Government Center in Crown Point and on the day of the lawsuit’s filing, Olds said she believed the video was altered because about 15 minutes of the recording was missing.

McCain said, “Olds had been very patient, but her patience has run out. The only way to examine the video is through a lawsuit. We want to interview witnesses. We want to depose the Munseys under oath and

Domonique Smith have them tell us what happened.

And we want to get law enforcement involved.”

Domonique ‘Nikki’ Smith, Olds’ 18-year-old daughter, died after she was found, floating face down in the swimming pool of the Schererville home of pastors Stephan and Melodye Munsey. Smith was found unresponsive in the pool on May 29, 2015 and was declared dead 3 days later.

The lawsuit states that Smith was a Family Christian Center member who worked at the church and was a babysitter in the pastors’ home for their granddaughter. Named as defendants, along with the pastors, are the Indiana Land Trust Company, which owns the Munsey’s home in Schererville; Darryl Smith, Domonique’s father; and the

Family Christian Center church.

Indiana allows 3 types of claims in its Child Wrongful Death statute. A parent or guardian can claim loss of child’s services, loss of love and companionship, and

expenses and debts arising out of the child’s death such as medical care, hospital bills, and burial.

The statute does not permit punitive damages against the defendant but damages under the loss of love and companionship claim can be awarded until the death of the parent or guardian.

Atty. McCain said the Munseys did not contribute to Smith’s medical care and expenses that arose from her death.

The lawsuit cites negligence by all defendants except the father, Darryl Smith. He was included as a co-defendant to answer as to his interest. If he chooses, he has the right to join his ex-wife Vicki Olds in her lawsuit. “Defendants, except Smith, owed a duty of care to Domonique and others invited to use the Wilderness Drive prop-

erty’s swimming pool, but instead of fulfilling their duty of reasonable care to supervise and watch over the Plaintiff known to be swimming in the pool, Defendants, except Smith, were reckless, negligent, and failed entirely to supervise the persons swimming in the pool.”

Her death was determined as an accidental drowning by the Lake County coroner. The lawsuit states, “According to Nikki’s toxicology screening, she tested negative for drugs or alcohol. According to her medical records, water was not present in Nikki’s lungs.” Because Domonique had selected to be an organ donor, there was no autopsy.

And the lawsuit notes she was an excellent swimmer and had earned lifeguard certification.

McCain said the defendants have 20 days to respond to the suit.

Lake County Sheriffs have all returned from North Dakota Sheriff John Buncich released a statement recently to clarify the public concerns about officers from the Lake County Sheriff ’s Department that had been deployed to North Dakota.

Officers of the Lake County Sheriff’s Department had been deployed to North Dakota to assist in controlling the crowds created by the protesters. It was in support of the Department of Homeland Security and those officers returned home more than three weeks ago. All expenses for this

special assignment were paid by the State of North Dakota at no cost to the taxpayers of Lake County, Indiana. Sheriff Buncich stated, “We decided to bring our officers home over three weeks ago. This decision was made in part because of the controversial nature of the situation.”

The Lake County Sheriff ’s Department is one of many agencies throughout Lake County, the State of Indiana, and the nation

with personnel assigned to Homeland Security. The Lake County Sheriff ’s Department officers’ assignment was to lend assistance to law enforcement in that area, who had a shortage in personnel. Our officers were assigned to this particular task for less than two weeks and they have been back in Lake County for over three weeks. In addition to assignments like this one, Lake County Sheriff ’s Department participation in Homeland Security involves sending officers to natural disaster areas such as New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina.

The Lake County Sheriff ’s Department asks that any questions or complaints regarding the deployment of Indiana law enforcement resources to North Dakota be appropriately directed to the Department of Homeland Security in Indianapolis.

Methodist Hospitals’ Northlake Campus in Gary, IN

Methodist Hospital future being discussed (Continued on page 1) Earlier, Methodist President and CEO Ray Grady issued a statement regarding what he and the board of Directors were in engaged in.

“Methodist Hospitals’ Board of Directors is continuing to explore whether Methodist Hospitals should remain independent or partner with another leading health care system. We have narrowed the list of potential partners and the Board is currently 2

conducting its due diligence to carefully examine and evaluate the potential partners to determine who can best serve our communities. At this time, no definitive agreement has been made. Our promise is to take our time to thoughtfully evaluate what is in the best interest of our patients, employees, physicians and the communities we serve. Our hope is to have more information to share with you before the end of the year.”

Recently Grady met with mem-

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2016

bers of the Northwest Indiana Federation of Interfaith Organizations to express their concerns regarding Methodist Hospitals. The members shared their concern that the hospital remains a source for providing quality care for the residents of Gary and Northwest Indiana. During the meeting Grady assured the members that they would be kept up to date on the negotiations and that there will be community forums held to update the community of the progress.

Blacks Must control their own coMMunity

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GARY CRUSADER 12-03-2016.qxp_Sheriff 9/8/07 2007 12/1/16 7:20 AM Page 3

Black-White earnings gap returns to 1950 levels After years of progress, the median earnings gap between black and white men has returned to what it was in 1950, according to new research by economists from Duke University and the University of Chicago.

The experience of AfricanAmerican men is not uniform, though: The earnings gap between black men with a college education and those with less education is at an all-time high, the authors say. The research appears online in the National Bureau of Economic Research working paper series.

The paper looks at earnings for working-age men across a span of 75 years, from 1940 to 2014. The earnings gap between black and white men narrowed during the civil rights era. Then, starting around 1970, the gap between black and white men’s wages started widening once again.

“When it comes to the earnings gap between black and white men, we’ve gone all the way back to 1950,” said Duke economist Patrick Bayer, who co-authored the paper with Kerwin Kofi Charles of the University of Chicago.

The picture for black men looks very different at the top of the economic ladder versus the bottom, the authors say. Since the 1960s, top black salaries have continued to climb. Those advances were fueled by more equal access to universities and highskilled professions, the study finds.

Meanwhile, a starkly different story transpired at the bottom of the economic ladder. Massive increases in incarceration rates and the general decline of workingclass jobs have devastated the labor market prospects of men with a high school degree or less, the authors say.

The changing economy has been hard on all workers with less than a high school education, but especially devastating for black men, Bayer said. “The broad economic changes we’ve seen since the 1970s have clearly helped people at the top of the ladder,” Bayer said. “But the labor market for low-skilled workers has basically collapsed.”

“Back in 1940 there were plenty of jobs for men with less than a high school degree. Now education is more and more a determinant of who’s working and who’s not.”

In fact, more and more working-age men in the United States

aren’t working at all. The number of nonworking white men grew from about 8 percent in 1960 to 17 percent in 2014. The numbers look still worse among black men: In 1960, 19 percent of black men were not working; in 2014, that number had grown to 35 percent of black men. That includes men who are incarcerated as well those who can’t find jobs.

“The rate at which men are not working has been skyrocketing, and it’s not simply the result of the Great Recession,” Bayer said.

“It’s a big part of what’s been happening to our economy over the past 40 years.”

The situation would be even

worse if not for educational gains among African-Americans over the past 75 years, Bayer said.

On average, black men today have many more years of schooling than black men of the past, and the education gap between white and black men has shrunk considerably. Nevertheless, a gap remains: These days, black men have about a year’s less education than white men, on average.

“In essence, the economic benefits that should have come from the substantial gains in education for black men over the past 75 years have been completely undone by the changing economy, which exacts an ever steeper price

for the differences that still remain,” Bayer said.

The findings show the need for renewed focus on closing racial gaps in education and school quality, which have been stuck in place for several decades, according to the authors. They also suggest that any economic changes that improve prospects for all low-skilled workers will have the important side effect of reducing racial economic inequality.

“We clearly need to create better job opportunities for everyone in the lower rungs of the economic ladder, where work has become increasingly hard to come by,” Bayer said.

A RIBBON CUTTING ceremony was held Tuesday, November 29 for the opening of the Edgewater Primary Care practice. The opening of the Gary office located at 3535 Broadway in the Glen Park section of Gary is the second successful primary care practice acquired by Edgewater Systems. The other office is located at 1212 Broad Street in Griffith, IN. Both facilities will offer primary care services that include: health care promotion, disease prevention, health maintenance, counseling, patient education and treatment of acute chronic illnesses. Photographed from left to right: Justin Mount, Mark Lopez, Councilwoman Linda Barnes-Caldwell, Regina Biddings Muro, Representative Charlie Brown, Dr. Danita Johnson Hughes, Janelle St. John, Dr. Okechi Nwabara, Brad Vosberg, Sharon Shirley, and Chuck Hughes. (Photo by Ted Brown)

Hammond minister thanks Rev. Jackson for holiday food (Continued from page 1) a great big hassle. Let’s get the building back up and serve the community.”

Asked about the holidays and what happened, Alford said, “None of the feeding of residents was done. There was no food to be given out. We’re saddened.” He would have served from 100-150 people during the Thanksgiving holiday had the gas explosion not occurred.

Alford said he is hoping his building will be rebuilt within a year. “You know construction. Going into the winter, it always depends on the weather. As soon as we get the OK we will finish demolishing the building and then start rebuilding the www.garycrusader.com

building. As soon as it is open we will be back on point, doing what we’ve been doing for the past 20 years.”

In the interim Alford hopes to turn the basement of his church into a serving area. “If we can get the freezers in the storage areas, then we can start using the church within a month, but we need freezers, tables, things like that where we can store the food.”

Asked what was destroyed, Rev. Alford said, “The pantry, and kitchen were destroyed, and also the dining area where we served people.”

When asked if the community is devastated by this, Alford said he does feel “they are devastated. All the ones I’ve seen walking by there, none of

the heads are lifted up. No one is rejoicing. All heads are down. The community is saddened.”

Alford said currently he does not have any “manner of feeding or serving food; therefore, we need help to get back on point, where we were, so

we can do what we got to do for the rect the building.” community where we’ve been for This is not the first time Rev. Alford over 25 years.” has had a brush with disaster. Three years ago almost to the day, a tornado To the community, his message was barreled down on Hammond, strikclear, “Community, let’s come togeth- ing his church and destroying the er, stay together, let’s pray and give the North and West walls of the church. support that you can, to help resur- It also damaged the church roof.

Attend the Swearing-In Ceremony of the new Art, History and Culture Commissioner Junifer Hall, JD, MPA, MBA, Chairman and CEO of the Katie Hall Educational Foundation, Inc. will be sworn in on Tuesday, December 6, 2016, as a Commissioner for the Art, History and Culture Commission, City of

Blacks Must control their own coMMunity

Gary, Indiana.

Chairman and CEO Hall is one of several newly appointed Commissioners selected by The Honorable Karen Freeman-Wilson, Mayor, City of Gary, Indiana to

serve on this Commission.

The Swearing-In Ceremony will be held in the Chamber of the Gary Common Council, Gary City Hall beginning at 9:00 a.m.

The General Public is invited to attend. Admission is free.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2016

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GARY CRUSADER 12-03-2016.qxp_Sheriff 9/8/07 2007 12/1/16 7:20 AM Page 4

STAND UP WITH STANDING ROCK Editor’s Note: The Dakota Access Pipeline protests are a grassroots movement that began in the spring of 2016. The protests are in reaction to the approved construction of Energy Transfers Partners’ Dakota Access Pipeline. The approved pipeline would run from western North Dakota to southern Illinois. This past April LaDonna Brave Bull Allard, a Standing Rock Sioux elder, established a camp as a center for cultural preservation and spiritual resistance to the pipeline.

Has America come full circle with the Dakota pipeline issue? Once upon a time white people from across the big waters came to this land and through guile and outright chicanery were able to take it away from the indigenous people. What we now call Native Americans were placed on reservations. Today, white people in corporate America are once again encroaching upon Native American territory.

Most people by now know that the Standing Rock Sioux tribe is opposing the 1,200-mile Dakota Access Pipeline that is being built on their land in North Dakota. Not only will this impact a section of a sacred burial ground, but it stands to create a serious environmental problem.

It is being built by the Texas-based Energy Transfer Partners, and is slated to pass under the Missouri River, the primary source of drinking water for the Standing Rock Sioux. Of course, proponents say that their project is safe and that the water would not be compromised, but that is extremely questionable, since the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has reported more than 3,300 incidents of leaks and ruptures at oil and gas pipelines since 2010.

The Standing Rock Sioux and other protesters have at least two giant problems related to trust in this regard. One is that oil pipelines do leak, and the other is that, once again, Native Americans are being asked to trust untrustworthy interlopers. They probably remember the time in the early years when smallpox-laden blankets were given to unsuspecting natives.

A lot of other groups are joining in the protests. President Barack Obama was called to intervene several months ago, and he was able to get a temporary cessation, but today building of the pipeline continues.

A very disturbing aspect of the current situation is the violence that the United States government is meting out to protesters. They have been beaten and jailed, attacked with water cannons in cold weather, and some protesters are saying that the government has resorted to using crop dusters to spray poisons on them. This is a very grave atrocity occurring right under our noses, and is a situation that is making America look like a villain that is attacking its own people.

The pipeline issue highlights the tone of the country in which big moneyed white imperialists believe they have the right to do whatever they choose to do to others because to them, money trumps everything.

On another note, this issue couldn’t have cropped up at a more crucial time in American race relations. Incidents of racial animosity are growing at an alarming rate, possibly because of a “whitelash” against the outgoing Black president as well as others being emboldened by the assumption of power of the new president elect, who they think is a supporter of their cause.

It remains to be seen what will happen, especially since Donald Trump stands to gain if the pipeline is built. He has a distinct financial stake in what’s happening; it is reported that he holds hundreds of thousands of dollars in stock with the company that is heading the pipeline project, and that the CEO donated at least $103,000 to his campaign. This is just another wrinkle in the brand new territory of a presidency that has the great potential for huge conflicts of interest in a tangled financial morass.

The bottom line is that the Standing Rock Dakota Pipeline issue is one that ALL Americans should pay close attention to because it poses a serious environmental challenge connected with fracking, a highly volatile strategy for extracting oil that many feel could cause earthquakes; and it threatens the water utilized by people in the region.

But one of the greatest issues of all, however, is the lack of respect that is being shown to people on land that they own! Because of this, all Black and Brown people, as well as others who have been traditionally disenfranchised by these tactics, should lend support to the protesters, either in person or through encouraging legislators to oppose the pipeline. Today they mistreat others, tomorrow they will come for you. Take heed. A luta continua.

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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2016

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR No decision yet is good news Dear Editor: As I travel across Gary every day I am amazed at the attitude so many people have about the possibility of the state dissolving our school district. Every time someone tells me the state is going to take our schools I can’t help but reply the state isn’t taking anything. We gave them our schools.

Some people say it almost with glee in their voices. That is the really bothersome part. What people seem to forget is what is at stake is the future of all of our children. I guess it is easy to forget because so many have never had our kids’ futures on their collective radar. Yes, we have had countless ad hoc committees and organizations formed to help the district and/or its students. Usually though, those entities lacked proper funding and expertise. Goodwill will only take you so far when there is a crisis. Thank God those people did step up, otherwise the situation might be even worse, We heard last week that the state doesn’t yet have a plan on how to dissolve the district. The other encouraging sign is the state has not rejected a request to have the millions of dollars the district owes to be forgiven.

If through some miracle Gary schools are not divvied up among neighboring districts, we all need to take a new and different look at our school operations. Personally, first and foremost, we have to get rid of the idea that the district and its problems are the exclusive domain of the school board, the superintendent and staff. We need organizations such as the NAACP and the Urban League involved and not just give lip service. We need every graduate of any Gary high school the past 30 years to find a role he or she can play in helping shore up the district.

Surely, there are some among us who have a strong financial or accounting background. These are the ones who can lend a few hours a month to identify cost-saving measures, as well as apply some private sector efficiencies to this public sector operation.

The people with no particular skills that connect to operating a school district should consider forming the largest booster club fundraising operation Indiana has ever seen. Fundraising for the district needs to be large and ongoing. There can be a Kickstarter campaign for band instruments, or supplies for the science labs in all the high schools.

Actually, the list is almost endless.

The big message is we must commit to all hands on deck. Everyone who can read this can play some sort of role in helping bolster our schools and restore some pride in them.

Blacks Must control their own coMMunity

Richard Seay

Councilwoman Hatcher’s move is disappointing Dear Editor: Let me start by saying I have the (Continued on page 5)

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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 news-gathering personnel of this publication.

Hillary Clinton er fraud that no doubt took place.

Thanks to the Supreme Court’s cutting a significant portion of the Voting Rights Act there was probably a lot of fraud and voter suppression going on. While a recount won’t change the results of the election, it may serve as proof that sections of the Voting Rights Act that

Jill Stein SORE WINNER It doesn’t seem that the nightmare known as the 2016 presidential election is going to be over any time soon. It’s bad enough that many of us are having to get used to the idea that Donald Trump will be president for at least four years, now we’ll have to go through the recount mess. Jill Stein, the Green Party candidate wants the votes in Wisconsin, Michigan and California recounted, not because she thinks she was cheated out of winning, rather it is to uncover the vot-

ArtHouse were removed should be put back.

In the meantime, we just have to deal with the fact that Hillary Clinton received way more votes than Trump, and if this had happened anywhere other than the USA, she’d be preparing to move into the White House instead of The Orange Crush.

-NoseyBLACK FOLKS AND THE ELECTORAL COLLEGE For the second time in the last sixteen years the person receiving the most votes didn’t get the prize, and we have the Electoral College to thank for that happening. In a way we have Black folks to thank for that system being put in place.

Actually, it’s slavery that brought about the Electoral College. When the founding fathers were trying

Donald Trump

CAN’T FIGURE OUT WHAT TO DO WITH IT

House had it’s grand opening a week ago Saturday. According to what the Nose been told, the event was well attended with folks from the Northwest Indiana and the Chicagoland area checking out the facility. While those who were there expressed delight that it was open and how having something like this in downtown Gary is a major plus, when it came to explaining the project concept and how the city will benefit from it being there, most were at a loss. Seems like the ArtHouse is taking on a lot of activities and is trying to be all things as opposed to doing one thing really well. If so, it may not succeed.

But it is still early and we’ll just have to adopt a wait and see attitude. Maybe it will be able to meet all of its expectations.

Word reached Nosey that the Art-

-Nosey-

to come up with a way to elect a president, the idea of the equal vote per state was discussed but was later scrapped because at the time the northern states out numbered the South. The only way to have balanced it out would have been to allow the slaves the right to vote and you know that wasn’t gonna happen. So they decided to come up with the Electoral College. See, if they had done right by Black folks way back then, we wouldn’t be in the fix we now find ourselves in.

For some strange reason this country just can’t get it right when it comes to Black Folk.

-Nosey-

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR (Continued from page 4) utmost respect for Councilwoman Regan Hatcher. I guess that is why it was such a disappointment when I saw her last week pull what looked like a rookie, underhanded move at the council meeting.

When the topic of the proposed industrial park costs, including repaving Chase Street, came up, Hatcher just unloaded with a ton of financial questions. On the surface it might have looked like she was probing because she had residents’ interests at heart. A closer look, in my opinion, shows she is, for whatever reason opposed to the industrial park, but just doesn’t want to come out and say it.

The troubling part was she asked city staffers to get answers to several questions by the time of the next meeting. That gives an indication that she wants to move quickly regarding a decision on the park. It also is an indication she is posturing politically. There was no good reason the councilwoman could not have picked up the phone right after the idea for the park was www.garycrusader.com

proposed months ago and asked these questions. To wait until what appears to be the 11th hour, Hatcher comes off as grandstanding. That impression is reinforced by the fact that she has served previously on the common council.

She brings an understanding about city business that a firsttime council member probably doesn’t possess. Maybe in her mind, Hatcher was simply doing her due diligence. If that is the case then part of that due diligence is to be aware of what is going on in other communities like Gary in and outside the state of Indiana. Other council members might not do that but because of her legal and political background I expect Hatcher would.

Maybe I am holding her to a higher standard. I don’t have a problem with that. The common council is a pretty cohesive unit right now, but I believe it can use the kind of unofficial leadership Hatcher can provide – as long as she doesn’t play anymore of these “gotcha: last-minute games.”

Beulah Greer Blacks Must control their own coMMunity

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2016

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GARY CRUSADER 12-03-2016.qxp_Sheriff 9/8/07 2007 12/1/16 7:20 AM Page 6

Stacker Project completed at Burns Harbor Terminal Self-perform industrial contractor MC Industrial, Inc., an independent McCarthy company, recently completed the FAM Stacker Reclaimer Equipment Installation Project for ArcelorMittal’s Steel Mill Facility in Burns Harbor, Ind. The project began in September of 2015 with MC Industrial providing the mechanical and electrical erection of the Stacker Reclaimer, a 1,700-ton bulk material machine supplied to ArcelorMittal from Germany-based manufacturer FAM. The project was a critical capital investment to ArcelorMittal’s ironmaking operation, replacing a previous machine that had collapsed, and requiring an aggressive project schedule to avoid disruption to the terminal’s production.

“MC Industrial’s technical expertise in Stacker Reclaimers and work history at the ArcelorMittal Burns Harbor site gave our team a solid foundation on this project from the start,” stated Phil Radin, project director of MC Industrial.

“Our team took a turnkey approach with the supplier and owner, communicating directly with FAM and ArcelorMittal throughout each phase of the project to ensure the construction objectives and ArcelorMittal’s overall business objectives were met success-

fully.”

The project was successful on a number of fronts, including safety, schedule, scope and cost. With a fast track pace of the project, an accelerated engineering and fabrication schedule, and material delivery of large modular pieces from China and Germany, MC Industrial led the project with critical planning and engineered lifts in order to meet ArcelorMittal’s schedule goal. The engineered lifts were performed during the winter months using 440T and 330T cranes to maximize the crane capacity and successfully construct the machine to align with ArcelorMittal’s existing infrastructure on the jobsite.

“MC Industrial was instrumental in the successful completion of this project. They executed well, had an impeccable safety record, met schedule and were well organized,” stated Barry C. Felton, senior project manager of ArcelorMittal Burns Harbor.

In the face of a significant loss of one of the critical pieces of material handling equipment for the terminal, the team achieved no interruptions in the operation of iron production. Nearly 10 million tons of materials are handled in the making of five million tons of steel and a substantial amount of

ST. LOUIS CONTRACTOR MC Industrial, Inc. recently completed this FAM Stacker Reclaimer Equipment Installation Project. It was installed at ArcelorMittal’s Steel Mill Facility in Burns Harbor, Indiana Plant. that material is handled by the as excellent highway and railroad tions/steelmaking/burnsharbor.

Stacker Reclaimers. The project transport. It is the only steelmaking ABOUT FAM completed with MC Industrial facility in the U.S. that is bordered supporting full commissioning of on two sides by a national park. The the machine in June of 2016. plant operates two blast furnaces FAM, or Förderanlagen Magdeand is capable of producing five mil- burg, is a privately owned and opABOUT ARCELORMITTAL lion tons of raw steel annually. Burns erated company headquartered in BURNS HARBOR Harbor primarily serves the auto- Germany. The company, whose motive industry. Other key markets history dates back to the first half ArcelorMittal’s second largest include appliance, automotive, con- of the 19th century, manufacUSA facility, Burns Harbor, is a struction, converters, distribution tures materials handling systems fully integrated steelmaking facil- and pipe and tube. Principal prod- for the mining, stockyard, minerity located on Lake Michigan in ucts made at this location are hot- al processing, loading and conNorthwest Indiana, 50 miles rolled sheet, cold-rolled sheet and veying, port technology and othsoutheast of Chicago. The loca- hot-dipped galvanized sheet. More er heavy industrial markets. More tion allows for prime shipping ac- information is available at http://- information is available at www.cess to the Port of Indiana, as well usa.arcelormittal.com/ouropera- fam.de/.

New York AG, CFPB Join Forces to Fight Illegal National Debt Collection Scheme

By Charlene Crowell A new federal lawsuit alleges that since at least 2009, two major players in the debt collection industry have illegally operated, harassed, threatened and deceived millions of consumers across the country – often for debts that were either inflated or not even owed. The scheme based in Buffalo, New York, also netted tens of millions of dollars in revenue each year.

The case seeks to shut down the illegal scheme, secure compensation for victims and assess civil penalties against the companies and its partners.

On November 2, New York’s Attorney General Eric Schneiderman and Richard Cordray, Director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, filed charges against the scheme’s two principals, Douglas MacKinnon and Mark Gray. “[W]e are taking action against the ringleaders of this operation,” noted Director Cordray, “so they can no longer prey upon vulnerable consumers.”

“Living with debt is difficult enough, without the added stress of being harassed and threatened by debt collectors,” Attorney General Schneiderman said. “These collection shops inflated debts, threatened victims and deceived them out of millions. This suit sends the mes6

sage that debt collectors that employ abusive tactics will be held accountable.”

In recent years, debt collection abuses have emerged as a growing consumer finance issue for communities of color. Both research and investigative news have found that consumers of color, along with low and middle-income communities are frequently targets of collection lawsuits that today represent a stillgrowing $13 billion industry.

According to the lawsuit, MacKinnon and Gray operate a network of at least 60 fly-by-night collection shops to collect on large debt portfolios purchased by three interrelated firms: Northern Resolution Group, Enhanced Acquisitions and Delray Capital, all based in Buffalo, New York. MacKinnon and Gray created, operated and oversaw the illegal operation.

Among the actions cited as illegal violations included: • Falsely threatening legal action; • Impersonating law enforcement officials, government agencies and court officers; and • Inflating consumer debts and misrepresentations of amounts consumers owed.

These kinds of actions violate both the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act and the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Pro-

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2016

CHARLENE CROWELL SAYS that in recent years, debt collection abuses have emerged as a growing consumer finance issue for communities of color. tection Act. of employment.

Enacted in 1978, the Fair Debt Similarly, the Dodd-Frank Wall Collection Practices Act protects Street Reform and Consumer Proconsumers from abusive or decep- tection Act specifically bans unfair tive fraud in debt collection prac- and deceptive acts or practices in the tices. It applies only to the collection consumer financial marketplace in a of debt incurred by a consumer pri- variety of lending areas that include marily for personal, family, or mortgages, student loans, debt colhousehold purposes. Two of its lection and others. most important provisions are that Last year, CFPB returned $360 a debt collector cannot phone a million to consumers wronged by consumer’s residence before 8:00 unlawful debt collection practices a.m. or after 9:00 p.m.; nor attempt and collected over $79 million in to contact a consumer at their place fines. In addition, the Federal Trade Blacks Must control their own coMMunity

Commission separately received approximately 900,000 consumer complaints on debt collection.

In recent comments to the CFPB, the Center for Responsible Lending advised, “CRL strongly supports the concept that a debt collector must possess a reasonable basis for making a claim that an individual owes a debt . . . . The burden rightfully should be on debt collectors to establish that they have the legal right to collect the debts and are collecting from the right people, for the right amount of money.”

For Lisa Stifler, CRL’s deputy director of state policy, the joint action taken by New York’s Attorney General and CFPB is representative of what should happen more often to better protect all consumers.

“Consumers need the protection of both state officials and CFPB to rid the marketplace of bad actors and illegal debt collection practices.

It’s an encouraging sign that one of our most populous states is working in concert with CFPB to end financial abuse. It’s an example worth emulating by other states.”

Charlene Crowell is the communications deputy director with the Center for Responsible Lending. She can be reached at Charlene.crowell@responsiblelending.org. www.garycrusader.com

GARY CRUSADER 12-03-2016.qxp_Sheriff 9/8/07 2007 12/1/16 7:20 AM Page 7

Devastating election is a force to reinvigorate Black America CIRCLE CITY CONNECTION

By Vernon A. Williams This is a message for those who believe that the recent election was a mandate to nullify African Americans. To you we say, you are dead wrong. You must not know that Black folk have never been scared of hard times.

If you thought that those embracing bigotry and intolerance would deflate our ego or drain our will and determination, you have sorely miscalculated the resiliency, resolve and resourcefulness of Black Americans.

First of all, we believe in a God who can make a way out of no way.

Do you have any idea how powerful of a concept that is? That means when you’ve thrown your best punch and we appear to be sprawled on the canvas, we refuse to be down for the count and instead spring back to our feet swinging.

We believe in a Savior who teaches us that greater is He within us than within the world, that no weapon formed against us will prosper, that we are more than conquerors, that our enemies will be transformed into our footstools and nothing is impossible.

I could go on, but you get my gist.

It’s not who we are, but whose we are that fills us with confidence and faith and joy and praise even in the darkest hour.

You also need to know that the resistance goes well beyond our Christian faith. Thanks to your tyranny, the coalition includes lots of “ands” again from Muslims and Buddhists and Jews, to non-denominational believers and atheists and agnostics and intellectuals who just don’t care.

Their common denominator is opposition to your will.

This new movement consists of gays and straights, young and old, degreed and uneducated, affluent and impoverished. For the first time in a long while, Blacks of every strand are convening across the na-

Vernon A. Williams tion on virtually the same page.

The young African Americans that you chose to label as thugs because they wear hoodies, enjoy hiphop and speak a language different

KANYE WEST IS MELTING DOWN – WHAT CAN WE LEARN?

By Julianne Malveaux Kanye West is melting down. He didn’t perform to expectations at two concert dates, declaring at one, that he would have voted for Donald Trump for President, generating boos for his statement.

In a subsequent concert he performed just a couple of songs, and abruptly ended a performance that should have lasted at least an hour. A couple of days later, he was hospitalized in a “psychiatric hold.”

Dr. Julianne Malveaux Some say he is simply exhausted, sleep-deprived and stressed. Some say it is more. His mother, Dr. Donda West, died in November 2007. Nine years later, is he especially vulnerable to outbursts and erratic behavior on that anniversary? In any case, even as many of us have admired Kanye West as a boldly audacious entertainer, we are also concerned about his very public meltdown and its implications.

African American people don’t pay enough attention to the challenges of mental health issues. We are more likely than whites to experience mental health challenges, but far less likely than whites to seek help. We miniwww.garycrusader.com

mize mental health challenges, laughing and calling those who are challenged crazy and cray-cray (I confess, I do this from time to time). We don’t respond to their very public cry for help.

Yes, Kanye West was crying for help. His inappropriate public behavior could have been interpreted as asking for someone to take him, hold him, comfort him, hear him. Instead, West had a challenging concert schedule, a schedule that would have brought him millions of dollars.

Cancelling the schedule may have saved his health but it has cost him millions of dollars. Imagine the pressure he must have felt – can I go on and save the day? Must I step aside and take a hit?

Most African Americans who face mental health challenges face some of the same concerns Kanye West must have. If you share your mental anguish, you are cray-cray, the object of jokes and ridicule. If you hide it, you are eaten alive by an anguish that forces you to say “fine,” or “OK,” when people ask you how you are doing.

Just like we tell people to take an annual physical, to feel their breasts for lumps, to get the prostate checked, we need to encourage folks who are behaving a bit erratic to check in with their doctors about their mental health.

We don’t do that and indeed, many health plans limit access to mental health professionals. But the mental health status of African Americans too often collides with the law enforcement system when “erratic” behavior on the part of some African Americans is seen as simply criminal.

People who are mentally ill and need help are too often incarcerated or killed because some police forces lack the tools to recognize and manage a mental health crisis, one that is likely growing.

Consider the case of Anthony Hill, (Continued on page 12)

Blacks Must control their own coMMunity

than you and yours are joining hands with Blacks you’re more comfortable with who wear suits, drive nice cars and live in lavish homes. You won’t be able to tell freedom fighters just by looking at them.

Only your vitriol could have drawn us together. Without a doubt, the recent election may turn out to be the single most unifying force for Black America since the Selma march. You have united masses by giving us a clearly defined common enemy.

And just as in the case of Selma, suppressed people of African descent are being joined in their struggle by Whites, Latinos, Asians and every other ethnicity and nationality raising a voice to decry tyranny, bigotry and inhumanity. This marvelous militancy looks and feels like the rainbow and will cut like a knife.

It’s heartbreaking to see children harassed at school in the wake of this election with no repudiation from local authorities or national leaders.

There have been more than 300 “reported” instances of hateful confrontations and assaults since Nov. 8th. While that may get worse before it gets better, know that we will fight back.

Those who celebrate the election with confrontational ‘in your face’ bravado had better slow down. After the middle passage, slavery, reconstruction, domestic terrorism of lynching, constant harassment, police brutality, institutional discrimination and Jim Crow – Blacks are up

to the challenge.

We will forcefully take our legitimate discontent to the media, to the work place, to the boardroom, to the classroom, to places of recreation and leisure, to the sanctuary, to the market place, and most certainly to the street.

As said at the outset, Blacks don’t embrace hard times we endure them.

And just as what merely appears to be a worthless lump of coal can be pressured into a priceless diamond, so will African Americans respond to this latest round of oppression. We’ve been here before, so there is no need to panic.

Those who are trying to destroy or negate us better sleep with one eye open because we will retaliate by any means necessary. Over the next four years, the power structure will realize that the oppressed won’t simply go quietly into the night.

And if it’s a fight they want for freedom – then a fight is exactly what they will get.

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 differencemakers 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.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2016

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GARY CRUSADER 12-03-2016.qxp_Sheriff 9/8/07 2007 12/1/16 7:21 AM Page 8

Hammond APA announces winter musical The Hammond Academy for the Performing Arts (HAPA) recently announced its winter production, “Scrooge! The Musical.”

Based on the Charles Dickens classic, “A Christmas Carol,” this musi-

cal is a heartwarming retelling of the title character’s journey to a better understanding of compassion, love and the value of friendship. With book, music and lyrics by Leslie Bricusse, this production is closely adapted from the music and screenplay of the 1970 musical film “Scrooge,” starring Albert Finney.

The cast of this adaptation is comprised of students from the HAPA, Morton High School, Kenwood Elementary and Morton Elementary schools in Hammond.

HAPA senior Joshua Knox, who plays Ebenezer Scrooge in the HAPA production, believes the retelling of “A Christmas Carol” is so popular because the essence of the story is so relatable.

“Scrooge himself is seen as this ter-

rible old man, but over the course of the show, the audience begins to understand why he acts the way he does. As he journeys through past, present and future, the audience is able to watch the transformation of the man through a better understanding of himself,” he said.

Kathleen Dominiak-Treasure and Justin Treasure direct this production, with musical direction by Nick DeJarlais and Connie Pruitt-Alley, choreography by Kathleen Dominiak-Treasure, costume design by Stephanie Naumoff, set design by Ann Davis and Melissa Brassard and lighting design by Guy Rhodes.

“Scrooge! The Musical” opens Friday, Dec. 9 and runs through Sunday, Dec.18. Performances are Friday and Saturday evenings at 7 p.m. and Sunday afternoons at 2 p.m.

Tickets are $9 for adults and $7 for students and seniors.

All performances will be performed at Morton High School, 6915 Grand Ave. in Hammond.

Tickets can be purchased in advance at scroogehapa.brownpapertickets.com or on site before each performance. Groups of 20 or more are encouraged to reserve tickets by call- HAMMOND ACADEMY FOR the Performing Arts student Ahmad Morocco plays Jacob ing the HAPA Box Office at (219) Marley (top) and student Josh Knox plays Ebenezer Scrooge (bottom) in the production of 989-7316 ext. 1889.

“Scrooge! The Musical.”

‘Little Shaq: Star of the Week’

By Shaquille O’Neal, illustrated

by Theodore Taylor III c.2016, Bloomsbury Children’s Books $9.99 / $10.99 Canada 74 pages Being a responsible kid has its rewards.

First, there’s the feel-good; you did well, and you can be proud of yourself. That leads to the second benefit: adults see your responsibility, and you’ll have earned their trust. And in the new book “Little Shaq: Star of the Week” by Shaquille O’Neal, illustrated by Theodore Taylor III, there are other bonuses, too.

It was Friday, and Little Shaq was excited but not because it was almost the weekend. He was excited because it was Walter’s last day as their class’s Star of the Week, and 8

Little Shaq was sure he’d be chosen next. Part of the job was taking care of Flopsy, the class rabbit, but that wasn’t what Little Shaq looked most forward to. He thought Show and Tell was the best part of being Star of the Week.

For months, Little Shaq had been saving things to “show.”

When Mrs. Terpenny announced his name, Little Shaq was happy but nervous, too; his first important task was to take Flopsy home, and that was a big responsibility. But when Little Shaq noticed a poster about a Pet Fair in the neighborhood, he had an idea: maybe, if he did a good job with Flopsy, his parents would finally let him get a pet.

For awhile, Little Shaq had been asking for a kitten of his own; all his friends had dogs or cats, and he loved animals. But then his mother pointed out that he needed to be reminded to do his chores and make his bed. How could he be responsible for a pet when he was so irresponsible with everything else?

It was a long week for Little Shaq, and it started when his brother, Tater, lost Flopsy. Then Little Shaq lost his voice, taking attendance.

He was in charge of afternoon snacks and that got messed up, too.

How could he ever show the adults in his life that he was a responsible kid after all?

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2016

Take out the garbage. Put away your toys. Clean up the table.

Make your bed. The list of chores is already a long one for your child so, go ahead, add another: read “Little Shaq: Star of the Week.” That’s a task he probably won’t mind.

In this latest series book, author Shaquille O’Neal turns his attention to another lesson for children

to gently learn: work hard, and you may get what you want. Fortunately, kids won’t find this story to be too preachy or unreachy; O’Neal’s main character admits how hard it is to be responsible and how, sometimes, it’s no fun. Even so, there’s a happy ending to this story and its illustrations by Theodore Taylor III, and kids are set up nicely for

the next installment.

Though there are some big words inside this book, I think early elementary schoolers should be able to tackle it and slightly older kids will enjoy it, too. At the end of a long, hard day, “Little Shaq: Star of the Week” will make a great reward.

CALUMET NEW TECH High School in Gary, congratulates senior, Racyne Johnson, as she accepts a golf scholarship from Trinity Christian College in Palos Heights, IL. Racyne is a member of the National Honor Society and recently named to the Greater South Shore Conference Academic All Conference team. She is the daughter of Glenn and Audra Johnson of Gary.

Blacks Must control their own coMMunity

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Attend the GCSO Season Opener Dec. 12 The public is cordially invited to the 33rd annual "Christmas Dinner Concert," featuring The Gary Civic Symphony Orchestra (GCSO) on Monday, December 12, 2016 at 6:00 p.m. at the Genesis Center, 5th and Broadway in downtown Gary, IN. Seating begins at 5:30 p.m. Tickets for the concert, program and dinner are $45 in advance, $50 at the door and $25 for ages 18 and under. Tickets may be reserved or purchased by calling or texting (219) 902-0524 (The Gary Historical and Cultural Society, Inc./ GHCS) or purchased from Mademoiselle’s Health and Beauty Salon, 2247 Grant St. in

Gary. To contact Mademoiselle’s Health and Beauty Salon call (219) 944-7983.

The Gary Civic Symphony Orchestra will perform a variety of Christmas “Holiday Favorites” under the baton of Conductor Michael Carson, a well-known musician, educator and composer.

Also featured will be the popular Christmas carol “Audience SingAlong” and selections from Handel’s Messiah, such as “The Halleluiah Chorus” and “The Trumpet Shall Sound,” featuring tenor-

baritone soloist Carl Stewart and Dr. Odies Williams, trumpet soloist. Guests will also enjoy a delicious catered dinner, door prizes and Christmas Steppin’.

For tickets, ad rates, or to have tickets mailed or delivered or put “on hold,” call or text The Gary Historical and Cultural Society (219) 902-0524, or email: ghcs@email.com, or contact a GCSO Women’s Support Group member.

The GHCS mailing address is: P.O. Box 64603, Gary, IN 46401. Program booklet ads are due Dec. 5.

Holiday Traditions at Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore Join staff and volunteers at Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore as we celebrate “Holiday Traditions in the Dunes.” The program takes place on Saturday, December 10, from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m at four locations within the park: Chellberg Farm, Bailly Homestead, the Paul H. Douglas Center, and the Indi-

Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore programs announcement Traditional Holiday Music at Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore

219-395-1882 or visit the park’s website at www.nps.gov/indu.

The public is invited to a night of festive holiday music and singing with the Save the Tunes Council on December 16, from 7:30 p.m.– 9:00 p.m. at the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore Visitor Center.

The Save the Tunes Council is a group of local musicians devoted to preserving and passing on folk songs in the traditional way, using a variety of musical instruments including guitar, autoharp, dulcimer, banjo, harmonica, bagpipe, penny whistle, hurdy gurdy, and other obscure instruments.

The Indiana Dunes Visitor Center is located at 1215 North State Road 49, about one mile north of Interstate 94. For more information on this or other programs at Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, call

Kids Acrylic Painting Class at the National Lakeshore

www.garycrusader.com

Children 12 and over can join master instructor Susan Young for a free acrylic painting class at Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore’s Paul H. Douglas Center on Saturday, December 17 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

The painting will focus on the beautiful Miller Woods and participants will get to take home their masterpiece. Free painting materials are furnished. Pre-registration is required and space is limited, so please call Julie Larsen at 219-395-1821 to register.

The Paul H. Douglas Center for Environmental Education is located 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 219-3951882 or check out our park website at www.nps.gov/indu and our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/IndianaDunes NL.www.nps.gov.

The Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore is one of 414 units of the National Park System ranging from Yellowstone to the Statue of Liberty.

Located in Northwest Indiana, the park includes 15 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline and 15,000 acres of biodiverse beaches, woods, prairies, and marshes. Up to 2 million visitors come to the Indiana Dunes each year. Check our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/IndianaDunesNL.

Blacks Must control their own coMMunity

ana Dunes Visitor Center. It’s a wonderful opportunity to learn more about the region’s cultural history while enjoying a fun-filled afternoon with family and friends.

A traditional Swedish Christmas will be presented at the national lakeshore's Chellberg Farm. In the farmhouse, volunteers in traditional dress will explain the Swedish holiday decorations on display while Jul Tomte (Santa) shares the story of

the Christmas tree. Then meet Papa and learn how the Santa Lucia legend is celebrated in many Swedish households. Finish your tour in the kitchen where various Swedish foods of the holiday season will be displayed and a traditional holiday cookie will be given to each visitor.

Walk the trail or take a free shuttle to the Bailly Homestead, a National Historic Landmark, to discover the French-Canadian holiday customs that may have been prac-

ticed by early settler Joseph Bailly and his family. Staff and volunteers in the Bailly house will share these holiday customs through story and song. Visitors will also see a display of traditional food and get a taste of a Christmas Yule Log cake. Hot apple cider will help warm visitors up before they hop back on the shuttle bus to the parking lot.

At both the Paul H. Douglas Center and the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center, children will get to make traditional holiday decorations and put them up on the Christmas tree or take them home.

At the Douglas center, there will also be free refreshments and light snacks available.

Chellberg Farm is located in Porter, Indiana on Mineral Springs Road between U.S. Highways 12 and 20. The Indiana Dunes Visitor Center is located at 1215 North State Road 49, about one mile north of Interstate 94. The Paul Douglas Center is located at 100 North Lake Street, about one mile north of U.S. Highway 12 in the Miller neighborhood of Gary. The For more information on this or other programs at Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, call 219-3951882 or check the park’s website at www.nps.gov/indu or Facebook page at www.facebook.com/IndianaDunesNL.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2016

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GARY CRUSADER 12-03-2016.qxp_Sheriff 9/8/07 2007 12/1/16 7:21 AM Page 10

A Moment to Super Size Your Thinking

By Effie Rolfe Life is like a vapor. Once you get started—it may be hard to stop, but then you turn around and you’re dead. The brevity of life never ceases to amaze me. James 4:14 emphasizes, “…For what is your life? It is even a vapor, that appears for a little time, and then vanishes away.” I’d like to pose the question, ‘If your life ended tomorrow—what would you do differently today?’

Unfortunately, none of us is aware when the last tomorrow will take place. In most cases it comes extremely quickly. We used to sing a

song years ago with lyrics “This may be my last chance, this may be my last chance, this may be my last chance, it may be my last chance I don’t know.” Only God knows our days (Psalm 139:16).

Think about what if this really was your last year, week or day to live (the time is winding down). Again, what would you choose to do differently?

Over the Thanksgiving holiday, I was watching a television show and this particular scene showed passengers on an airplane experiencing turbulence. Once the turbulence ended, one of the passengers that had

CHURCH CALENDAR Women’s Day Celebration Weekend The New Friendship MB Church, located at 1656 Waite Street in Gary will host its annual Women's Day Celebration Weekend, starting on Saturday, December 3, 2016 at 9:00 a.m. with the Women's Ministry presenting a Prayer Breakfast Conference in the Rev. Dr. B.J. Holmes Fellowship Hall. Registration is $10 and guests may register at the door. The keynote speaker is Sis. Stephanie McDonald. The theme is "Women Living in Obedience by Faith." The second day of the celebration begins at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, Dec. 4, 2016 with guest

10

evangelist Elder Alysha Davis. The event will climax with the Annual Women's Day Musical at 4:30 p.m.

Special Guests will be Shante Gray and Chrysanne Moore.

The public is invited to this annual weekend event to support the women of New Friendship MB Church. Contact the church office at (219) 949-4279 for more information.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2016

Effie Rolfe previously sneered at an obese woman was later found holding that same woman’s hand. She smiled and spoke pensively, ‘I thought I was going to die. I almost died knowing my hus-

band is cheating on me. The children are grown and out of the house. I’m getting a divorce.’ Too often, only in these moments and when these crises arise are we forced to look seriously at the brevity of life. Just as that airline passenger received an epiphany during a momentary crisis, we should pause, and plan with purpose, and not because panic strikes.

Make the switch now. How would you make the paradigm shift? When would you make it? What would motivate you to do it?

One of the last songs the legendary ‘King of Pop’ Michael Jackson recorded was entitled “This is it!” The reality is—this life is not a rehearsal—this is it! You have got to give it all you got for tomorrow isn’t promised.

A biblical reminder says, “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all of your might, for in the realm of the dead, where you are going, there is neither working nor planning nor knowledge nor wisdom.” (Ecclesiastes 9:10) It’s very important to remember that tomorrow isn’t promised. So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. (1 Corinthians 10:31). Therefore, give and give it all. The talents and gifts

Blacks Must control their own coMMunity

that God has given to you are to be used for His glory as well as to impact the world.

Now is the perfect time to live like there is no tomorrow. The next 10 minutes or 10 seconds of your life are not promised. If there is someone you love, let that person know. If you want to see someone or go somewhere—do it. Finish that book. Say what’s on your mind. Live every moment. Not recklessly, but with praise and purpose. Seize each opportunity you have.

Right now is all you have—so learn to enjoy and take full advantage of this moment. Do it or die trying. Life is made of moments.

Enjoy it. When life is over—that’s it. “From life to death. From a vapor—to rigor mortis—back to God.” Life is just like that. What is your life like? © 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)

www.garycrusader.com

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Barker Mansion Christmas Events An annual holiday tradition, Michigan City’s Barker Mansion will open its decorated rooms to the community for viewing on Saturday, Dec. 3, 2016 at 10 a.m. Popular traditions from the past will return throughout the month, including musical performances, cupcake decorating with Uptown Cakery, and kids’ crafts. Standard Christmas admission is $8 per adult and $5 per youth, ages 15 and under.

New this year, the mansion has been decorated by local non-profit groups and volunteers. Each room takes a different theme, chosen by the groups. Everything from “A Very Victorian Christmas” to “Christmas is for Cardinals” is depicted in the rooms. Part of the tour includes a demonstration of a working train set, which is assembled in the ballroom by the Hesston Steam Museum to the theme of All Aboard for the Holidays. The display features the smallest functional steam engine in Hesston’s collection.

“We were very happy to see the community become more involved in Barker Mansion’s Christmas activities,” said Director Jessica Rosier.

“It was wonderful to have the nonprofit groups bring their ideas and creativity to the mansion, especially vations are not needed.

The mansion’s Christmas schedule varies by week; visit www.barkermansion.com for a printable calendar or call (219) 873-1520 for de-

tails. The mansion is only open during advertised dates and times; the building will be closed on certain days for upkeep and City holidays.

The Barker Mansion is located at

631 Washington Street in Michigan City, IN. The 38-room mansion was built by freight car industrialist and philanthropist John H. Barker in 1905.

BARKER MANSION CHRISTMAS events feature lots of activities for the children. Musical performances, cupcake decorating and kids’ crafts headline the mansion’s December calendar. Pictured above, area elementary school children relax in one of the mansion’s Holiday decorated rooms following a group tour. those groups that brought children to help decorate.”

A highlight of the Christmas season will include a Behind the Scenes Tour on Friday, December 16 at 6 p.m. During the event, the Behind the Scenes Tour will delve into the history of the mansion alongside holiday traditions of the Victorian era.

Cost is $15 per adult and $10 per youth. Reservations are required by www.garycrusader.com

calling (219) 873-1520.

The following evening will bring another special event, Glowing Lights Night. During this self-guided tour on Saturday, December 17 at 5 p.m., visitors are given glow stick necklaces and can wander the mansion at their leisure with the only illumination coming from the glowing Christmas tree lights. Standard admission charges apply for this event and reserBlacks Must control their own coMMunity

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2016

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GARY CRUSADER 12-03-2016.qxp_Sheriff 9/8/07 2007 12/1/16 7:21 AM Page 12

Despite Progress, Colorectal Cancer Claims Thousands of Black Lives

By Dr. Patricia Maryland (NNPA Newswire Guest Columnist) Few diseases cause as much pain and suffering as cancer. While survivors, activists, policymakers and healthcare professionals have been successful in raising awareness for some types of cancer, others are not as high profile. Among them: colorectal cancer, the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among men and women combined in the U.S. Even less widely known is the fact that African-Americans have the highest incidence and mortality rates for colorectal cancer The disparities are impossible to ignore. African-Americans are about

PATRICIA A. MARYLAND SAYS that there’s also a need for a broader conversation about increased risk and the need for prompt, diligent colorectal cancer screening in the African-American community.

25 percent more likely than Whites to be diagnosed with this form of cancer, and about 50 percent more likely to die from it. This is particularly troubling when considering that, in many cases, colorectal cancer can be prevented and is highly treatable, if it’s detected early, according to the American Cancer Society.

While we’re still working to understand why African-Americans are more susceptible to this type of cancer, one of the causes of the disparity in mortality is that minorities lag behind in screening for colorectal cancer. Researchers at the University of Texas have shown that AfricanAmericans are less likely than White patients to receive a colonoscopy — the most common form of colorectal cancer screening — even when controlling for health insurance coverage and access to quality healthcare providers.

Both patients and providers bear some responsibility for the lower rates of colorectal cancer screening among African-Americans. On the patient side, African-Americans may not know that they are at a heightened risk of experiencing colorectal cancer earlier than other groups. In the African-American community, the share of colorectal cancer cases that occur before the generally recommended screening age of 50 is almost twice as high as among Whites.

That’s why experts advise AfricanAmericans to begin screening at age

KANYE WEST IS MELTING DOWN . . .

(Continued from page 7) a naked and unarmed Atlanta Air Force veteran who was acting erratically in his apartment complex in early March. Someone called 911 because a naked man was knocking on doors and “acting deranged.” When DeKalb police officer Robert Olsen encountered Hill, he asked him to stop, and when he did not, he was shot twice.

Mr. Hill didn’t have a weapon, and anybody who is hanging out naked is clearly mentally impaired. Meanwhile Officer Olsen had a Taser, but he chose to use his gun, but he chose to use his gun against a naked, weaponless man.

Olsen was charged with murder and indicted and, in October, was ordered to stand trial. The trial may begin late this year or early next year.

Meanwhile, it is significant to note that Anthony Hill was believed to be bipolar, and suffering from post-traumatic stress syndrome. He served our country in Afghanistan, and tried unsuccessfully to get an appointment, and some help, from the VA hospital in Atlanta. Might the outcome of his erratic episode have been different if mental health professionals, not a trigger-happy officer, were deployed to intervene?

Should mental illness be a death sentence? It was for Anthony Hill, and for many others who don’t get the help they need. Even as the incoming President attempts to reverse some aspects 12

45, five years earlier than other demographics.

But encouraging early and proactive screening is complicated. The invasiveness of the procedure, coupled with fears of pain, often causes African-American patients to rule it out as a preventive measure. What’s more, a lack of access to a physician they trust leads many members of the African-American community to delay this important procedure until it’s too late.

In addition, healthcare providers sometimes contribute to the low colorectal cancer screening rates among African-Americans. A recommendation from a physician has been shown to increase the likelihood that a patient will get a colonoscopy, but according to the American College of Gastroenterology, African-Americans

are roughly one-third less likely than Whites to get such a recommendation.

These racial and ethnic disparities illustrate the need for a patient-centered, culturally competent approach to healthcare. As with many diseases, a broad range of factors determine a person’s risk of developing colorectal cancer. Genetics, family history, personal medical history, diet, weight and physical activity all can have an impact.

That’s why healthcare providers must treat each patient in a way that takes into account all of the influences on their health. This includes their race and ethnicity, which in the case of colorectal cancer is a critical factor in determining whether a physician should recommend a colonoscopy, when a patient’s screening should start

and concerns a doctor should address about the procedure.

Training healthcare professionals to understand the unique colorectal cancer risks of African-Americans, as well as the unease with which many view colonoscopies, is an important step toward increasing screening rates and catching more cases in their early stages. There’s also a need for a broader conversation about increased risk and the need for prompt, diligent colorectal cancer screening in the African-American community.

This disease is expected to claim the lives of over 7,000 African-Americans this year alone. It’s time to make sure the impact of colorectal cancer is just as widely known as that of other forms of cancer. And it’s time to replace misperceptions and fear by embracing a culture of health that puts awareness and prevention first. Fortunately, incidence and mortality rates for colorectal cancer have been on the decline among both African-Americans and other racial groups across the board, but substantial gaps in health outcomes remain. Healthcare providers and the African-American community must work together to ensure that all patients have and take advantage of the opportunity to access a colonoscopy or other screening procedure that could save their life.

Patricia A. Maryland, Dr.PH, is the President of Healthcare Operations and Chief Operating Officer of Ascension Healthcare, a division of Ascension.

of the Affordable Care Act, conscious health advocates must insist that mental health coverage is as important as physical health coverage. It is disgraceful that a veteran should be shot because his mental illness got the better of him. It is disgusting that dozens of others who are unarmed and mentally ill are shot because people untrained to manage mental illness are sent to communities, gun ready, and oblivious to alternatives.

And it is disturbing that Kanye West is melting down in plain sight, drowning his pain in angry vitriol. When can we African Americans talk about the mental health crisis that exists in our community? It isn’t going to get better, as hate crime escalates and swastikas begin to adorn our city walls. Some of us will want to fight, and others will be driven to despair.

We must speak of mental health and healing, and we must speak of it often.

One of Kanye West’s colleagues, 9th Wonder said, “Been knowing the brother upwards of 13 years. Mental healing is a serious thing, no matter what. Stay strong Kanye West.” Ashe.’

Julianne Malveaux is an author and economist. Her latest book “Are We Better Off? Race, Obama and Public Policy” is available via www.amazon.com for booking, wholesale inquiries or for more info visit www.juliannemalveaux.com.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2016

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GARY CRUSADER 12-03-2016.qxp_Sheriff 9/8/07 2007 12/1/16 7:21 AM Page 13

HUD’s Plan to Make Public Housing Smokefree the American Lung Association is focused on four strategic imperatives: to defeat lung cancer; to improve the air we breathe; to reduce the burden of lung disease on individuals and their families; and to eliminate tobacco use and tobacco-relat-

Lung Association in Indiana strongly supports HUD’s rule and stands by to assist public housing authorities that go smokefree The American Lung Association in Indiana applauds the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for its announcement recently that will require all public housing agencies to go smokefree. This rule will protect two million Americans, across the country, from exposure to secondhand smoke in their homes. This includes those most vulnerable to the effects of secondhand smoke, including 760,000 children and more than 300,000 adults over the age of 62. The policies apply to residential units as well as common areas.

“Smokefree housing is a win-win – residents breathe better and it costs housing authorities less when their buildings are smokefree. We are glad to see smokefree housing which has been so successful here in Indiana be expanded nationwide,” said Tanya Husain. “Home should be a place safe from the risks of secondhand smoke exposure,” said Tanya Husain. “The American Lung Association welcomes this life-saving announcement that will protect so many from those risks, especially the most vulnerable – children, the elderly, low-income Americans and those with chronic lung disease.”

Nine housing authorities in Indiana are already smoke-free, including: Indi-

ed diseases. For more information about the American Lung Association, a holder of the Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Guide Seal, or to support the work it does, call 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872) or visit: Lung.org.

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FAMILIES THAT LIVE in public housing will soon enjoy smokefree buildings.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development recently announced all HUD properties would become 100 percent smokefree. anapolis, Fort Wayne, fections and asthma. Asth- housing authorities nationKokomo, and Evansville. In ma has a disproportionate wide have already gone the last 12 months, the impact on low-income resi- smokefree, protecting their Lung Association has assist- dents living in federally sub- residents and reducing the ed more than 20 properties sidized housing and expo- risk of fires and costs to in going smoke-free with the sure to secondhand smoke property owners. The Lung Smokefree Housing Indiana can trigger asthma exacerba- Association continues to asprogram. Smoke-free Hous- tions. Children with asthma sist housing authorities, ing Indiana partners with lo- are especially sensitive to sec- property owners and resical tobacco coordinators to ondhand smoke, and may dents who are acting volunprovide technical assistance suffer from more frequent tarily to make their public on policy development, staff asthma attacks and more housing smokefree, and has and resident education, im- and longer hospitalizations also created resources to asplementation, and enforce- as a result. sist property owners and resment of smoke-free policies “Because there’s no effec- idents, including an online for properties. Visit http://- tive way to prevent smoke course, fact sheets and poliINsmokefreehousing.com for from travelling from one cy briefs, which can be more information about unit to another, the only found at Lung.org/smokesmokefree housing. way to fully protect residents free housing.

According to the U.S. Sur- of multi-unit housing from geon General, there is no secondhand smoke, is for About the American safe level of exposure to sec- their building to go 100 perLung Association ondhand smoke. Across the cent smokefree,” said HuU.S., more than 41,000 sain. “To help in this The American Lung Assodeaths per year and a wide process, the Lung Associa- ciation is the leading organiarray of damaging health ef- tion stands ready with tools zation working to save lives fects are caused or made and resources to help public by improving lung health worse by exposure to sec- housing authorities go and preventing lung disease, ondhand smoke, including smokefree.” through research, education lung cancer, respiratory inMore than 600 public and advocacy. The work of

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LEGAL NOTICES

I.U. DONS 48th RADIO-A-THON The I. U. Dons, Inc. will sponsor their Annual Radio-A-Thon via WLTH Radio on Friday, December 9 from 6 a.m. to noon in the WLTH Studios, 115 East 5th Avenue in Gary. The Radio-A-Thon is a part of the Dons’ 48th Annual PennyA-Ton Drive for the Needy. The idea is to raise a ton of pennies, which is equivalent to $3,000, to provide clothing, food, and toys to those in need this Christmas.

Dr. Vernon G. Smith, Dons’ President, said the Dons are asking you to stop by some time during the hours of 6 a.m. and noon and bring in your donation. The event is being sponsored by Northshore Health. Pledges can be made my calling 885-1371 or 805-6040 and a Gary police officer will pick up your donation.

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LEGAL NOTICES

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Torrance Johnson named CCAC Player of the Week After a career-performance that helped lead the Purdue University Northwest men’s basketball team to its first conference win, junior forward Torrance Johnson has been named the Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference Player of the Week.

Johnson (Chicago Heights, Ill./

Hope Academy) netted career-highs in both points (34) and rebounds (14) in the Pride’s 87-84 CCAC win over Olivet Nazarene Nov. 22. The 6-foot-6 junior shot just over 70 percent from the floor, hitting 12 of his 17 shots and 10-of-15 from the free-throw line, including two that helped hold off ONU with just un-

der four seconds to play.

He added two steals and two assists in 34 minutes on the court.

This win was Purdue Northwest’s second in seven games in the current season.

The award marks Johnson’s first CCAC weekly award and the first for PNW men’s basketball this season.

RECENTLY NAMED THE Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference Player of the Week, Torrance Johnson, is shown delivering one of his career performance shots.

Torrance Johnson

Purdue Northwest hoops earns 69-63 victory over IUSB The Purdue University Northwest men’s basketball team earned a 69-63 victory over Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference opponent IU South Bend on Wednesday, Nov. 30, at the Student Services and Activities Complex.

The Pride (3-5, 2-2) picked up its second-straight CCAC win in a row, after defeating the Titans (6-4, 1-2) thanks to a trio of double-digit scorers which led the Black and Gold.

Junior guard Tyree Coe (Fishers, Ind./Fishers) led the way for the Pride, recording a team-high 19 points on 6-of-14 shooting with two rebounds, two assists and two

steals.

Franklin Nunn (Anderson, Ind./Liberty Christian) notched a career-high 16 points with eight rebounds while Torrance Johnson (Chicago Heights, Ill./Chicago Hope Academy) recorded a double-double with 14 points and 12 rebounds.

After the Titans took an early 15-7 advantage, the Pride went on an 8-0 run led by a pair of trifectas from Coe which evened the score at 15-15.

Both teams would go back and forth for the rest of the half, with the Black and Gold taking a 2827 lead heading in to the break.

With just under 10 minutes re-

maining and both teams being tied at 48-48, PNW would jump out to a 57-52 advantage later in the period.

The Titans would try and make a comeback, but the Pride would

hold on and pick up the 69-63 victory.

IUSB shot 39.7 percent from the field compared to 33.8 percent from the Pride, but PNW would force 16 turnovers and

outrebound the Titans 45-39.

The Black and Gold return to action Saturday, Dec. 3, when they host Trinity International at the Fitness and Recreation Center at 3 p.m. (CT).

PLAYING AT HOME the Pride, in the Black and Gold uniform, forced 16 turnovers against IU South Bend’s Titans to win 69-63. www.garycrusader.com

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GARY CRUSADER 12-03-2016.qxp_Sheriff 9/8/07 2007 12/1/16 7:21 AM Page 16

2016 Lakeshore Classic Corporate Basketball Challenge

For high school basketball lovers the 2016 Lakeshore Classic Corporate Basketball Challenge was a riveting display of athletic prowess and sportsmanship as teams competed against one another during the Thanksgiving Holiday Weekend. Both boys and girls basketball teams competed for two days in the Gary West Side High School gymnasium.

In addition to the basketball games, the event provided opportunities for students to attend a college/university recruitment and vendor fair. The team that played basketball at the challenge were Gary West Side High School girls and boys teams, East Chicago Central boys team, Chicago’s Marshall High School boys, Thea Bowman Academy boys, Chas. A. Tinley High School boys, and Griffith High School boys

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