Gary Crusader 2-25-2017 by The Crusader Newspaper Group

GARY CRUSADER 2-25-2017.qxp_Sheriff 9/8/07 2007 2/23/17 4:45 AM Page 1

Black business man designs creative shirts of all kinds

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

47th Annual Xinos Scholarship Ball

(See pages 6)

(See pages 11)

Blacks Must Control Their Own Community

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Tapes released after fire that killed three children Crusader staff report Dramatic audio tapes that recorded frantic callers who saw three children perish in an apartment fire in 2016 were released Wednesday, February 21, rekindling the horrific moments that shocked a community in Gary. The fire happened two months ago at the Oak Knoll apartment complex, located in the 4400 block of West 23rd Court. Here, three young cousins, Jayden Mitchell, 5, A’laya Pickens, 4, and Yaleah Cohen, 2, died in the early morning hours of Christmas Eve after being trapped inside as their apartment became an inferno. Neighbors and relatives stood helpless and horrified as they watched the flames engulf the twostory apartment and the children inside. According to the newly-released audio tapes, the calls started coming in at 11:23 p.m. on December 23. “Lord Jesus Christ, Lord Jesus Christ. Oh

my God,” one terrified woman told a dispatcher. Amid screams and failed rescue efforts, callers struggled to describe the scene, but many were overwhelmed with shock. Dispatchers heard “Oh my God” many times. One neighbor said so much black smoke was coming out of the door that she was unable to read the apartment number to tell responders. “It’s literally smoke and flames. You can’t see,” another caller said. One caller witnessing the fire said, “I think the parents are screaming and hollering.” In a few of the calls, a woman is heard wailing. “Who’s screaming in the background?” a dispatcher asked a caller. “I think that’s the mom,” a female caller responded. JAYDEN MITCHELL, 5, and A'laya Pickens, 4, died in a Christmas Eve fire in Gary along with Yaleah Cohen, 2. (Provided by Willie Carter)

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Holcomb visits East Chicago to restore trust after lead crisis By Erick Johnson Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb visited East Chicago on February 17, trying to salvage whatever trust in government is left, nearly eight months after his predecessor ignored the pleas of residents living in areas with high levels of lead contamination. Holcomb, who was elected governor last November, spoke with residents of the complex and other parts of East Chicago during his visit, hoping to restore trust after former governor Mike Pence declined requests to come to the

Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb

city last December. Holcomb later met with East Chicago Mayor Anthony Copeland and community leaders, who listened as the governor outlined steps from his Emergency Disaster Declaration, which he announced February 9. “We had a very positive and productive meeting today,” Holcomb said. This is my first visit, but it’s not my last.” Mayor Copeland described Holcomb’s visit as “the first step toward restoring public trust. I think the people thought no one was listening and that he would never come. I think that reflects hope,” he said.

The Declaration would provide 30 days of enhanced state assistance in relocating the 86 families that remain in limbo at the West Calumet Complex. The order also authorizes state agencies to coordinate efforts with federal officials and petition for grant money that could be used to replace lead pipes. Money remains a big concern as East Chicago officials seek to demolish the West Calumet Complex, a 322-acre site that is one of three residential cleanup zones in East Chicago. In some areas of the complex lead levels were 200 times higher than the limit set by the Environmental

Protection Agency. For most of the 1,000 residents at the West Calumet Complex who have already been relocated, Holcomb’s Emergency Disaster Declaration came too late. East Chicago housing officials aim to have the 86 families who remain in the complex out by March 31. Copeland said the remaining families would be relocated to public housing units that the city is currently rehabbing in the North Harbor area. Holcomb’s visit marked the first time a highranking state official has come to East Chicago since residents learned their lives were in danger, nearly eight months ago. Former Governor Mike Pence left office without visiting, or assisting East Chicago’s residents in finding a safer place to stay. The lead crisis sparked heavy criticism toward the state’s Republican lawmakers, who have been accused of doing little to help the hundreds of families in East Chicago living at the West Calumet Complex. Holcomb’s disaster declaration will help in the relocation. In news reports, Holcomb said he would evaluate the situation at the end of the 30 days of enhanced state assistance to determine whether an extension is necessary.

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Gary honors Powers & Sons’ 50 years From homebuilder in 1967 to now one of the nation’s largest Black-owned firms The construction company, Powers & Sons, a firm with roots in Gary and known throughout the Midwest was honored on its 50th anniversary at Tuesday night’s city council meeting. “Today is a great day for Powers & Sons Construction, in the city for 50 years,” said Mayor Karen FreemanWilson, as part of the ceremony honoring the company that got its start in February 1967 as a homebuilder in Gary. Today, it is a commercial, industrial and institutional construction company. The company that Mamon Powers, Sr. founded with 3 employees has grown to 70 with offices in Chicago and Indianapolis. Under the leadership of Mamon Powers, Jr. and his brother Claude Powers, the company is among the largest Black-owned firms in the nation. The mayor named the local construction projects – RailCats Stadi-

um, YWCA, Methodist Hospitals, Marquette Park Pavilion, Lake Central High School, Williams Elementary School, and First AME Church. The Powers & Sons website shows hundreds of construction projects, including its most recent completion in February for the Culver’s Restaurant chain in Joliet, IL. This new 4,323square-foot restaurant is the first Culver’s that Powers & Sons has constructed. The project was completed ahead of schedule, in less than three months, and within the budget. “There are some in the audience who’ve been with us close to 60 years and we’ve been to lots of places,” said Mamon Powers, Jr. “We’ve been to Miami and the Everglades. We’ve persevered; as long as someone else can build it, we can build it too. That’s the way we operate.” Seated in the council chambers audience were nearly 30 current and past Powers & Sons employees. The company’s connections to its hometown are strong. Powers & Sons support community causes such as the

POWERS & SONS CONSTRUCTION, one of the most successful Black-owned businesses to be started in Gary, was honored at the February 21, 2017 Gary City Council meeting on its 50th Anniversary. Numerous employees past and present joined the Powers & Sons, Inc. leadership for the event in City Hill. Current Powers leaders are l-r: (third from left) Kelly Powers Baria, Claude Powers, Mamon Powers, Jr., Mamon Powers, III and Cynthia Powers. United Negro College Fund, Frontiers ana, Northern Indiana Links, and Unit- ment Foundation, Purdue University, Indiana State University, Indiana UniInternational Service Club, Friends of ed Way. Wirt-Emerson, Legacy Foundation, It funds higher education scholarships versity and Ivy Tech Community ColBoys & Girls Clubs of Northwest Indi- with the Gary Educational Develop- lege.

Tapes released after fire that killed three children (Continued from page 1) Another caller said that a man from the apartment “is burnt up.” Some of the emergency calls were hangups. Some were broken up portions of a single call, However, dispatchers were able to piece together information to help the Gary Fire Department when they arrived. A few callers who described the scene to dispatchers that night wondered how the fire could have spread so quickly. One woman asked, “How in the world did that happen?” Another said, “Somebody had to do this, I swear, be-

cause how the (expletive) is the (expletive) whole house just on fire like that?” Another woman told a dispatcher, “You can’t even go in there, sir. It’s engulfed. Can’t nobody go in there.” People could hear screaming and crying in the background. Indiana State Fire Marshal has finished its investigations. The Gary Police Department is conducting a criminal investigation after the Gary Fire Department concluded that arson caused the blaze. Hurry, hurry, hurry,” a caller said.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2017

“They’re on the way,” a dispatcher responded. Dispatchers quickly pieced together that there were three children inside the two-story apartment on fire. One man went inside the apartment, but quickly left the unit after he realized that he was on fire. Later, responders

would find two of the children in an upstairs room and the third at the top of the stairway. As a dispatcher stayed on the phone with a man, she asked, “Is it getting bad?” The man paused in silence and replied, “Oh my God. I don’t know what to do.” One caller described seeing peo-

Blacks Must control their own coMMunity

ple rush to the scene to help while some tried to kick the door in to get to the children, but the fire had grown too big. The Indiana State Fire Marshal was called in to complete their own investigation. Officials have not yet released the report.

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Luncheon to honor Hatcher’s 1967 Historic Election To Be Recognized At Katie Hall Educational Foundation Luncheon The Katie Hall Educational Foundation, Inc. will recognize former Gary, Indiana mayor, Richard Gordon Hatcher, during the 5th Annual Katie Hall Public Service Awards Luncheon on Saturday, April 8, 2017. The occasion will mark the 50th Anniversary (1967-2017) of Hatcher’s election as the first African-American mayor of the City of Gary, the first AfricanAmerican mayor in the State of Indiana, and the first AfricanAmerican mayor of a major U.S. city During his tenure as mayor of Gary, 1968 to 1987, Hatcher became internationally known as a fervent and distinguished civil rights leader. He was known for developing innovative approaches to urban problems. As Gary’s first African-American municipal leader, Hatcher often delivered speeches alongside Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Robert F. Kennedy, and Jesse L. Jackson, Sr. In September 1982, Hatcher appointed then Indiana State

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Senator Katie Hall (3rd District) to represent Indiana’s First Congressional District in the United States House of Representatives in Washington, D.C. In 1983, Representative Hall authored and sponsored House of Representatives Bill, H.R. 3706: the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. National Holiday Law Bill. It was signed into federal law by Ronald Reagan on November 2. Dr. King is the only African-

Mayor Richard Hatcher

American honored in the history of the United States Congress with a national holiday: the third Monday in January, each year since 1986. Throughout his political career, Mayor Hatcher was responsible for propelling numerous AfricanAmericans to local, county, state, and national offices across the United States. The Katie Hall Foundation luncheon on April 8th, will acknowl-

edge Richard Hatcher’s bold political stance by running for Gary’s highest elected municipal office 50 years ago. The Foundation’s Chief Legal Counsel, John Henry Hall said “Mayor Hatcher’s victory in 1967 represents American democracy at its best.” For more information contact: katiehallfoundation@aol.com or the Law Office of Attorney John Henry Hall,Ed.D.,LL.M. at (219) 883-7711.

Gary Mayor tours Schneider Trucking Facility; partners to employ residents By Carmen M. WoodsonWray Mayor Karen Freeman-Wilson said that Gary residents are often unaware of what we have here in the city of Gary. Few residents know that one of the biggest businesses in the country is based right here. That business is Schneider Trucking Service.

Recently the mayor took a tour of the trucking facility to see the type of employment opportunities the city of Gary can offer its citizens. She said, “People want to travel want to see the country and what a better to see it than by driving a truck while making money. We held two job fairs for Schneider Trucking last year that were very successful.” FreemanWilson met with com-

pany executives John Gerth, Division Manager of Vans; Ezra Berries, Division Manager of Bulk; and Pattie Ingram, Driver Services Leader. Ingram said the mayor’s tour of the facility was one way the company could show what it has to offer in terms of helping the community by working for Schneider National. Ingram remarked, “We are interested in

Blacks Must control their own coMMunity

hiring Gary people. Interested applicants should come in with CDL Licenses. They would be trained in divisions, maintenance, parking and driving the trucks as well as on our simulator.” The city of Gary is again planning a Jobs Fair for Schneider Trucking on March 20th at City Hall, at 2 p.m. See photos online at www.garycrusader.com.

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THERE ARE “HEROES IN THE HOOD” History has shown that there are always individuals who make sacrifices that result in the wellbeing of their communities. These volunteers are not always recognized for their good deeds because the problematic elements of the community receive more attention. For example, because of the volatile nature of the Black-on-Black murders in Chicago, those who are working behind the scenes to help oppose this situation are often ignored. One of the best ways to combat negativity is to focus on the positives. This reinforces the good and provides psychological and emotional fuel to the souls of those who have made a decision to be an uplifting force in their communities. There exists such a program in Chicago that can have very positive results in the long run in this regard. It is the “Heroes in the Hood” campaign. In 2017, the “Heroes in the Hood” campaign celebrates 24 years of honoring youth and youth organization leaders who have chosen to volunteer for community service. The campaign was founded in 1993 for the purpose of recognizing the contributions of teens between the ages of 12 – 18, as well as those of adult leaders of youth groups who support economically disadvantaged neighborhoods in Chicago. The current sponsors are the Chicago Crusader, Founding Sponsor; GO Airport Express, Founding Sponsor; WVON-AM1690, Nomination Promotion and Founding Sponsor; and DuSable Museum of African American History, Host Venue and Founding Sponsor. Awards are presented in the following categories: Individual Teen Male and Female; Teen Group; Adult “Stop the Violence.” To date, 3000 teens have participated in the awards ceremonies honoring more than 500 actual award recipients. Schools and community-based organizations are solicited for nominations through print and broadcast media; a panel consisting of civic leaders and others serve as judges. Winners are invited to a complimentary reception and awards ceremony held at the DuSable Museum of African American History. Past adult leaders cited as “Honored Role Models” who have addressed the audience during the awards ceremonies include former Chicago Bull Bob Love; Richard Dent, former Chicago Bear/1985 NFL Champion; Chef Jeff Henderson, The Food Network’s Chef Jeff project; Minnie Minoso, Chicago White Sox; Amy Hilliard, Fashion Fair Cosmetics; Tuskegee Airmen Chicago DODO Chapter; and Regina Taylor, Emmy and NAACP Award winning actress and playwright. Dorothy Tucker, award-winning veteran CBS News Anchor and Chicago NABJ Chair will be the 2017 MC. Darlene Hill, FOX-TV News Anchor, previously served in this position. This year the “Heroes in the Hood” campaign will target the Parkway Gardens Apartments, a 35 building complex running from 63rd to 67th and King Drive, in Woodlawn. The campaign strives to help Black residents of this historic complex by fostering community activism and by celebrating the selfless volunteers who reside in that community. The “Heroes in the Hood” campaign was timely when it was initiated 24 years ago and remains very timely today. While President Donald Trump reaches into his arsenal of strategies for fighting crime in Chicago by pulling up the very regressive “Bring in the Feds” model, a more prudent approach is right here under his nose. Tapping into the human potential in communities by providing economic and other resources to reinforce the positives, would be the best strategy with long-term impact. The Black community continues to lament the poverty and crime in our communities, and rightly so. Energy would be best spent in helping to support those initiatives that promise to yield the greatest benefits. The “Heroes in the Hood” campaign is one of the best examples of such a strategy. Positive recognition of personal effort is one of the best sociological motivators available, and is extremely cost-effective. Please keep this in mind the next time you look for long-term solutions to community problems, as opposed to the quick fix of oppressive force now being bandied about by the current administration. A luta continua. 4

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2017

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Bailout is a better deal for Gary schools Dear Editor: Thanks in no small part to recently elected State Senator Eddie Melton, the Gary Community School Corp might be able to exhale. Melton convinced his colleagues to vote unanimously for the bill that would rework how the district has to repay the state for some outstanding loans. In fact, there is a possibility the loans will be forgiven. That is the best news I have heard about our school district in a very, very long time. On paper Mr. Melton gets the credit, but I have to believe his Black counterparts in the state house - representatives Vernon Smith and Charlie Brown - gave a lot of behind-the-scene counsel and guidance, that is how it is supposed to be, the oldtimers lend their expertise and the newly minted legislators heed that input. I seriously doubt that any of these politicians will be trying to elbow the other out to get credit, They have been performing like a well-oiled machine. What is most important is the school district will soon have a clear path to fulfill its mission. Yes, the bill still has to get through the state house, I can’t help but believe that

with the influence Mr. Brown and Dr. Smith hold, the bill will make it through successfully. To me, it will be a small price to pay to lift the huge burden of $31 million owed the State of Indiana. Essentially, all the district has to do is sit up and pay attention. In short, Gary schools will get a new financial arrangement that includes a financial management board. I believe the legislation said that will be three people, including one appointed by the mayor. Gary schools also become eligible for grants and interest-free loans when they meet the requirements of the state’s distressed unit appeals board. Maybe, most importantly, the bill would remove the day-to-day headache of someone inside trying to manage the money. That job will go to a chief financial officer. It sounds like the district will be run like a corporation instead of a public sector entity. In Gary’s case that is overdue. I am sure I am not the only one that it is a huge relief to. Remember it was just a month or two ago there was talk about disbanding the Gary school district? Personally, that would have been a disaster. Whoever suggested that needs to be run out of office now. We owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to the district administration, board members, some folks at city hall and of course our senators and representatives in Indianapolis. Collectively, they kept the faith in the district’s

Blacks Must control their own coMMunity

future. There was no finger-pointing, or calls for resignations or the usual nonsense that comes with a city or a school district facing overwhelming financial problems. This is the best lesson we have had in cooperative governing, I applaud everyone involved. Moses Radcliffe

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Black business man designs creative shirts of all kinds By Carmen M. Woodson-Wray Some 20 years ago, Patrick Broden discovered the love he had for artistic designing so he enrolled in school to further his skills. Now after years of furthering his artistry Broden has now started his own business designing T-shirts under the name Tension Design. He started his business by selling is shirts going to barber shops, beauty shops and car washes to anyone interested in his designs. Now that his business has picked up tremendously he designs shirts for individuals, family reunions, church groups and even for schools with their logos and their sporting teams. One of the schools he has designed shirts for is the Heritage Institute of Art and Technology in Merrillville. Broden said one of his most interesting shirts depicts a shadow of a per-

it, Don’t Worry About It”. He does not use ink on his shirt designs which makes the wording last longer than the shirts. He said, “I make the designs on my laptop vinyl which is very durable when you wash

it. It will be there forever and outlast the shirt.” Broden says he is learning more and more about his craft because of all the technology available. “I’m 50 years old. I’ve been out her for 15 years. I

HOLDING A T-SHIRT with one of his designs is Patrick Broden. He is the owner of Tension Design in Gary. son in three stages that their life could one shows it dead and the third shows possibly take. He said, “The shirts it as a graduate.” Broden says he gets the ideas for the show a person’s shadow in three life directions. The first shows a person’s wording on his shirts from God. One life that could be in jail, the second of his shirts says “If You Prayed About BRODEN AND HIS son displaying two designs Broden created. came back into it when my 8-year-old son was playing football and my wife told one of the parents that that I did Tshirts and that’s what encouraged me Hammond The 14-day culinary promotion be- 54 Main Bistro, Hobart to get back into it. If I do it, I’m going Cabela’s Black Oak Grill, gan Feb. 20 and will end March 5. 95ate5 Brew Pub, St. John all the way with it. I was born with this Hammond Twenty-nine local restaurants have Asparagus Restaurant, and it’s not hard for me to do. I’ve been Crown Brewing/Carriage Merrillville currently submitted menus. working in the mill for 17 years and Court Pizza, Crown Point Restaurants participating in the 3rd Bartlett’s Gourmet Grill and this keeps me rounded.” Chick-fil-A, Merrillville Annual Savor the South Shore in- Tavern, Beverly Shores Borden’s shirts are available in all sizes Byway Brewing Company, clude: (Continued on page 7) up to 7X.

Savor the South Shore continues Region restaurants will offer 3-course menus at discounted prices Savor the South Shore Restaurant Weeks offer residents and visitors 3course meals at discounted prices.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2017

Blacks Must control their own coMMunity

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Here is a SAFE prescription for your pain – with no adverse side effects CIRCLE CITY CONNECTION By Vernon A. Williams This is a column about pain and – spoiler alert – I’m not a physician, surgeon, pharmacist, hypnotist or preacher. Just a man with a message for our times. This is serious. People are suffering. Emotions range from frustration, to anger, to fear. The struggle is real. There are people wrestling with this period like nothing they have ever experienced. Church people leave stirring sermons of encouragement girded up for whatever the world brings. But for many of the faithful these days, it is something like the proverbial Asian dinner, you are full after consuming it but hungry again a half hour later. The measure of trepidation people feel directly correlates to their condition, of course. That two-income family with a quarter million dollar

home in the “burbs” may be less startled by issues of the day than a single mother with three children barely surpassing minimum wage. To be certain, there were people going through rough times when Mr. Obama was in the White House, and Clinton, and both Bushes, and Reagan and beyond. America has never been Utopia where people of color and the financially challenged are concerned. What’s new is the misery of suffering is exacerbating when those at the top – and most who represent their authority – could care less. The fact that a person is wounded isn’t nearly as troubling as the lack of a bandage, antiseptic, or prescription to ease, if not alleviate the pain. Too many so-called “evangelicals” delight in selective Bible reading, quoting verses that fit their political agenda while meticulously ignoring that which would inspire more involvement with the poor and downtrodden. People should deem it painful to see men and women of God embrace tyranny. A true walk within the Word com-

Savor the South Shore continues (Continued from page 6)

Ciao Bella, Schererville Dark Star of the Dunes, Michigan City DOC’s Smokehouse and Craft Bar, Dyer don Quijote, Valparaiso El Taco Real, Hammond Fahrenheit Two-Twelve, Crown Point Farmhouse Restaurant, Fair Oaks Freddy’s Steakhouse, Hammond Gamba Ristorante, Merrillville Giovanni’s Restaurant, Munster J’s Breakfast Club, Gary Jack Binion’s Steakhouse, Hammond Majestic Chop House, Gary Patrick’s Grille, Michigan City Pikk’s Tavern , Valparaiso Sage Restaurant, Valparaiso Stadium Sports Bar, East Chicago www.garycrusader.com

Vernon A. Williams mands so much more. Self-pious deportment does not substantiate service to God. Citizenship is a verb, not a noun. Or as Bishop Lambert W. Gates Sr., presiding Bishop of the PCAF, said last week, too many people want “scripture without structure…they want benefits without the job.” There is no panacea, no silver bullet, no single solution. But no degrees or qualifications are required to confirm that if we sit back and do nothing, things will get worse. Though suffering of the righteous is redemptive, it makes it no less painful. In truth, pain is often a prerequisite for moving to the next level of your purpose, your assignment –

growing pains, if you will. Consider the miracle of life that is the aftermath of labor pains. Life pain often births new levels of self-esteem, awareness, resolve, focus, resilience, determination, independence, direction and strength. When it comes to social ills, remember that life goes in cycles, or – as the saints of old would say – “trouble don’t last always.” Don’t jump ship before it reaches safe harbor. It doesn’t matter how slow or methodical the progress, when you are moving in the right direction, you eventually reach a destination. Three things are required for change. Call it the SAFE concept and embrace it in good times and bad—without fear or apprehension, without impatience. • Sacrifice. Shed fear of the unknown and leave that comfort zone. Give what is most valuable to you, most often. Scripture says it will come back to you. • Activism. Whether in your neighborhood, workplace, organization, church or everyday comings and goings – speak up, speak out and get, no STAY involved. • Faith. Realize that while the battle

is not yours, the work is. Believe that it’s already done, that the victory is won, that your enemy will become your footstool. • Empathy. No matter how many acts of inhumanity occur, or to whom, or the severity, never stop caring. Never become numb to the suffering and injustices of others. Never accept wrongdoing as the new normal. That’s it. SAFE is just a reiteration of what you already know. No earth shattering revelation from Mount Sinai. SAFE is just a small thought submitted for your consideration during troubled times. Small, like a mustard seed. 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.

Tapas Café, Merrillville Teibel’s Restaurant, Schererville Timbrook Kitchens, Munster Veterans’ Café and Grill, Merrillville Specially priced menus are listed online at www.alongthesouthshore.com/savor. Customers do not need a coupon or discount code, they only need to ask to order from the Savor menu. Savor Restaurant Weeks and participating restaurants will also be promoted through Facebook at www.facebook.com/SavorSouthShore and through the VIP Text List by texting “Savor” to 36000 (standard text rates apply). Savor the South Shore was created by the South Shore CVA to promote area restaurants, attract new customers and highlight specialty menu items and pairings. Learn more atwww.alongthesouthshore.com/savor or call the South Shore CVA at 219-989-7770. Blacks Must control their own coMMunity

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Church’s historic trove being preserved with technoloSchool of Informatics and Computing faculty at Indiana UniversityPurdue University Indianapolis are using a $57,000 Indiana University grant to help save a historic trove of archival documents and objects from the Bethel AME Church, Indianapolis' oldest African-American church. The church, located at 414 W. Vermont St., closed its doors last year after the historic downtown building was sold. School faculty members Andrea Copeland, Albert William, Zebulun Wood and Ayoung Yoon received a New Frontiers of Creativity and Scholarship award from the IU Office of the Vice President for Research for a unique collaboration in preservation and 3-D virtual environments. Their project, "Virtual Bethel: Underrepresented History and Primary Source Education through Virtual Reality," is "a wonderful demonstration of the interplay between informatics and digital archiving," said Mathew J. Palakal, executive associate dean of the School of Informatics and Computing. The preservation efforts of the faculty and students include producing a virtual 3-D walk-through of the church. When complete, the 3-D model will be publicly accessible through the Indiana Historical Society. The

THE BETHEL AME CHURCH with its rich 180-year-old history in the lives of African Americans will be preserved using Virtual Reality technology. It will enable future researchers to not only review documents, but to experience being in the church through 3D imaging. digital images used to create it will anapolis. Project Back Up, initiated a plan to be housed in IUPUI's University LiBaptismal records, tithing records, save the church's records. Copeland, brary. The digitized archive will re- $1.35 in change from a collection -- a faculty member in the school's Deside at the Indiana Historical Soci- the preserved items will tell a rich and partment of Library and Informaety, along with the original archival vibrant story that includes Madam tion Science, provided additional asrecords. C.J. Walker and many other promi- sistance, along with Kisha Tandy and Founded in 1836, the Bethel AME nent Black Indianapolis residents Wilma Moore of the Indiana HistorChurch played vital roles in the Un- who attended Bethel AME. ical Society. derground Railroad and the foundFor the past three years, containers School of Informatics and Coming of Indiana's NAACP and the puting alumnus Rodney Freeman, a of records, memoirs and memorabilSchool for Black Children in Indi- library administrator and founder of ia have been painstakingly recorded

and organized into 200 archival boxes by Tandy and Moore. Students from the school's 3D Production class photographed every square inch of the church, collecting 3,000 images for the 3-D modeling process. The Bethel AME project aligned with a course Wood and William were teaching, enabling them to involve students in the project. "It's exciting to consider these projects as an outlet for student work," Wood said. "Having a niche in virtual re-creation is a great prospect for our students." Wood, William and their students will go on to create a detailed virtual learning space complete with blue stained-glass windows, an authentic re-creation of the pulpit and chair from the church, and various documents. A bare-bones first version of the space has already been designed. The Bethel AME work exposed faculty and students to an incredible historic community landmark that existed right next to the IUPUI campus. "Digital technology helps us understand history and our cultural heritage," William said. "I have lived here for years, and now that I know, it's amazing."

Church Calendar Be Refreshed at church’s 92nd Anniversary Service Christ Temple Church of Christ (Holiness) USA is celebrating its 92nd Anniversary on March 12, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. The pastor of the church, Bishop Dale L. Cudjoe will be the speaker for the 92nd anniversary service. Founded in 1925, the church is located at 4201 Washington Street in Gary. The theme for the anniversary event is “A Time to Refresh, Reconnect & Recommit and is based on the scripture Jeremiah 31:25 (NIV), which says, “I will refresh the weary and satisfy the faint.” Give someone else a prom to remember Somebody’s Closet Clothing Ministry of Trinity United Church of Christ-Gary will host a “Prom Dress Give-Away” on Saturday, March 25, 2017, 8:30 a.m. until 12:00 Noon. The church is asking for donations of new or slightly used dresses and accessories, such as jewelry, shoes, and dress bags. For further information, call Maxine Brown at 219201-0840. 8

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2017

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WON’T HAVE TO PULL EM UP FOR NOW

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.

Word the issue of sagging pants won’t be an issue the City Council ! be considering anytime soon. Afwill

ter a bit of discussion on the issue last year it appears that no one is interested in taking it on. Even the city’s youth council seems to have moved on to something else. Actually, the fact is that if passed, a law banning

sagging pants would not have been upheld in court, and city officials are going to spend money on a losing issue. So it look’s like the sagging pants crowd had their own battle that they didn’t know they were in.

!"#$#!%&'$#!()&*+'"*+&,-&*+"#.!/01"%& "#$%$&'%!

Word reached Nosey that the Charter Schools in Gary are losing staff and that the Gary Schools are proving to be a place of refuge for these folks. Heard recently the Gary School’s hired someone who used to work at the Charter Schools of the Dunes and is paying them a hefty salary. Meanwhile at the Gary Career Center they gave a $10,000 bonus while ignoring the person that’s been running the school’s radio station. Now what’s that about? -NoseyBOUT TO GIT PAID Word reached Nosey that upon leaving the White House the first couple stands to walk into a major windfall. Now it’s true that with his presidential salary kicking in $400,000 a year not to mention his senate pension, clearly the Obama’s ain’t strapped for cash, but it’s bout to git better ya’ll. Saw the other day that one book publisher is offering to pay them between $20-$45 million a piece for the rights to their memoirs. That’s on top of the $10 million Prez is sitting on from his previous books. Talk about cha ching! Cha ching! They’s about to sho nough get paid. It is worth it for all the hell they endured during his time in office. If everything works out they will far exceed what Bill and Hillary and G. W. got for their book deal. Way to go Barack and Michelle.

()!(*+,-)..)!/0+1!#2).3.!#451060! 7!"#$%&'(")*+,&*-.'(#/"*0/128! %2)649!:4-;1!<=!>?@A! (+!>BC! Barack and Michelle -NoseyWHAT YA UP TO? Inquiring minds have been wondering why several members of the Northwest Interfaith Organization seem to have become regular fixtures around city hall these days. It was thought that after the group successfully helped in getting the city council to defeat legislation for a detention center to be built in the city, that they wouldn’t be as visible. In fact, a few folks were wondering if the reason for members of the organization’s constant presence at council meetings was to make sure that the legislation didn’t resurface. Come to find out the regular visits to city hall have to do with meetings the Interfaith has been having with the administration, and several members of the council, to discuss a local jobs training program the group wants to see get off the ground. Sounds like a good idea and hopefully it will happen, meanwhile the Interfaith group should be careful in dealing with the administration and make sure they don’t lose their independence. -Nosey-

“Not knowing is not as bad as not wanting to know” !

Trinity United Church of Christ-Gary 1276 West 20th Ave. Gary, IN 46407 219-944-0500 Rev. Dr. John E. Jackson, Sr., Senior Pastor www.tuccgary.org

RONALD SIMMONS PHOTOGRAPHY

Weddings Baby photograph Class Reunions And Family Reunions

For more information call 219-588-1075 www.garycrusader.com

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Make becoming an aviator a reality for your child Bernard C. Watson Boys Academy recently announced a unique partnership that will provide both male and females students age 12-14 years old the opportunity to attend U.S. Space & Rocket Camp in Huntsville, AL in Summer 2017. The partnership is with DSH Entertainment, Inc. and it is to give parents who have children interested in careers in aviation or aeronautics the chance to take advantage of a lifetime event through a scholarship. DSH Entertainment is seeking to award four fully paid scholarships. The curriculum is offered in six day sessions designed to balance education and entertainment. The Space Camp, operated by the Alabama Space Science Center, provides residential day camp and educational programs for children including space oriented camp programs, aircraft themed Aviation Challenge camps, and outdoor oriented XCamp programs. These programs are designed to promote science, math, engineering, aviation, and exploration. On Monday, February 27 at 6:00 p.m., an informational session explaining the criteria for eligibility will be held at Bernard C. Watson Academy, 2065 Mississippi St, Gary, IN. The event is free and open to everyone. For more information or to RSVP, contact Principal Maceo Rainey

at (219) 886-6569. There will be a question and answer session after the presentation, followed by a meet and greet. Light refreshments will be served. The mission of DSH Entertainment, Inc. is to reach children while they are young and help them set goals that promote a healthy and safe lifestyle.

HELP WANTED/DRIVERS

LEGAL NOTICES

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MBE/WBE COMPANIES WANTED

LAKE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS SEEK MINORITY BUSINESS ENTERPRISES ANO WOMAN BUSINESS ENTERPRISES LOCATED IN LAKE COUNTY, INDIANA

The Board of Commissioners of Lake County is seeking to identify companies who are minority business enterprises and woman business enterprises (hereinafter “MBE” or “WBE”) who can provide products and services that are routinely purchased by Lake County. In the past, Lake County has experienced difficulty in identifying MBE and WBE companies and notifying them of proposal and bid deadlines.

Any MBE or WBE that is interested in doing business with Lake County Indiana must submit a letter expressing their interest along with the documentation of their MBE or WBE status to Commissioner Kyle Allen, Sr., 2293 N. Main Street, Crown Point, Indiana 46307.

In the letter, the MBE or WBE must identify the type of service(s) and/or product(s) that they can provide to Lake County, Indiana. Lake County may or may not have a need for the type of service(s) or product(s) from a responding MBE or WBE. However, this information will be retained by Lake County and referred to should these service(s) and/or product(s) be needed in the future.

Any request for clarifying information also must be submitted in writing to Commissioner Kyle All en, Sr., Board of Commissioners, at the above address. BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE COUNTY OF LAKE Michael Repay Kyle Allen, Sr. Jerry Tippy

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47th Annual Xinos Scholarship Ball AFTER A YEAR of activities 19 young ladies were presented to the public at the recent 47th Annual Scholarship Ball. From left to right: (1st Row) Madison Wilson, Tamia Gholson, Amaya Butler, Ke’leica Junigan, Zharia Dodson, Jazmyne Magee, and Kalynn Cooper. (2nd Row) Kennedie Armstrong, Daveisha Ratcliff, Alexis Wood, Jordan Kincade, Jada Wheeler, Kayla Armstrong, Kelechi Greene, Deverieux Coleman, Razariah Combs, Nadia Jones, Daria Johnson, and Imani Butts. (Not pictured is Aaliyah Stewart.) The Xinos recently presented their 47th Annual Scholarship Ball at the Avalon Manor. This youth guidance group is comprised of young ladies from various high schools and sponsored by The National Sorority of Phi Delta Kappa, Inc.– Beta Mu Chapter of Gary. The ball is a culminating activity of the sorority’s efforts in 2016 to promote grace, charm and commitment in young ladies and to familiarize youth with the appropriate attire for various occasions. Nineteen young ladies and their escorts were presented to the community. This year’s elegant ball theme was “You’re So Beautiful.” The talented Ms. Sharise Belle, former Xinos, choreographed the most graceful and entertaining dance routines. The Xinos and their escorts performed each dance with precision and poise. The most gladdening dance of the evening was the fathers and Xinos dancing to the tune of “’Dance with my Father.” All of the routines captivated the audience and were very well executed. One senior was acknowledged for her achievements throughout high school. The senior was Jazmyne Magee of Merrillville High School. She was presented with a bouquet of flowers in her school colors. In addition to the captivating dance performance, Mike Carson and the Wirt/Emerson Jazz Band entertained the audience with several musical selections. The highlight of the evening was the crowning of Ms. Xinos, Razariah Combs of Merrillville High School. She was crowned by Ms. Xinos 2015, Jae’lynn Johnson. The 1st runner- up was Alexis Woods, Calumet High School; 2nd runner-up, Madison Wilson, Munster High School; and honorable mention, Zharia Dodson, Thea Bowman Leadership Academy. They received 10 percent of the money raised from the event, a banner and trophy. The Xinos’ escorts were: Paul Lopez, Daryn Shine, Raisuli Muhammed, Eric Kendrick, Derrick Tarver, Malik Bradley, Ronier Dupree, Jordan Adams, Karlen Coker, Aviante Jawan Douglas, Myles Lewis, Darion Johnson, Jaylen Matthews, Dominique Watts, Terry Sabbath, Jacob Tottle, Roy Wood, Moses Jones and Steven Burrell. www.garycrusader.com

CROWNED JUST MOMENTS earlier are the 1st runner-up, 2nd runner-up and honorable mention at the 47th Annual Xinos Scholarship Ball. Pictured with their awards from left to right: Ms. Xinos 2016, Razariah Combs; 1st Runner Up Alexis Wood; 2nd Runner Up, Madison Wilson and Honorable Mention, Zharia Dodson.

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