Gary Crusader 3-11-2017 by The Crusader Newspaper Group

GARY CRUSADER 3-11-2017.qxp_Sheriff 9/8/07 2007 3/9/17 2:46 AM Page 1

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

New Friendship’s latest recording wins Best CD of the Year Award (See pages 8)

Don’t forget to set your clocks one hour forward on Sunday for Daylight Savings Time

Blacks Must Control Their Own Community

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EdisonLearning approved to manage Roosevelt State approves new contract with historic school Crusader staff report EdisonLearning Inc. was officially given another opportunity to manage Roosevelt College and Career Academy when the State Board of Education approved a new contract to operate Gary’s oldest historically Black school. Under the agreement, EdisonLearning will continue running Roosevelt, but will do so with support and guidance from the Gary Community School Corporation. Both organizations will oversee Roosevelt’s academics and performance goals. They aim to transform Roosevelt into an innovative network school under the state law that established state turnaround guidelines. The contract will begin in July and will run for five years. It’s the second contract for EdisonLearning, which began managing Roosevelt after the state took over the school in 2011, following six straight years of F grades. EdisonLearning was paid with Gary’s share of tuition support money for Roosevelt, about $3 million to $4 million annually. Since then, Roosevelt continued receiving F

grades under EdisonLearning’s leadership. However, state educators saw a glimpse of hope after test scores and graduation rates improved slightly. Roosevelt’s graduation rate improved from 41 percent in 2012 to 57 percent last year. Today, 85 percent of Roosevelt’s graduates are enrolled in two or four year college or vocational programs, compared to 60 percent in 2012. Attendance at Roosevelt has jumped from 71 percent to 92 percent. The improvements were not enough to lift Roosevelt’s F grade. During that time, EdisonLearning operated Roosevelt by itself, amid friction and tensions from educators and administrators. Under the new contract, the Gary Community School Corporation and EdisonLearning are more optimistic about working together to turn around the academic climate at Roosevelt. Superintendent Cheryl Pruitt, and EdisonLearning CEO and founder Thom Jackson, told state board members that they are moving forward with a transitional model to improve achievement and the career potential for students. Built in 1923, Roosevelt is Gary’s oldest predominately Black high school with a storied his- ROOSEVELT CAREER ACADEMY will be managed by EdisonLearning Inc. tory. It was built specifically for Blacks when for the next five years, but the Gary Community School Corporation will help (Continued on page 2) oversee the school's academic progress

Companies volunteer in tearing down vacant homes By Ciara Smith

closed schools and over 5,000 abandoned buildings, the vacant buildings and empty lots strewn amongst the city have long been a sore spot for residents. On March 7, five construction compa-

nies took to the Aetna area to tackle the problem head on. Many have gone as far as calling Gary a Rieth-Riley Construction, C. Lee Con“ghost town” when comparing the city to struction Services, P & C Trucking, McAlits former glory. With nearly two dozen lister Equipment, and Hasse Construction partnered with Gary’s Demolition Department to demolish up to 10 residential properties over the course of two days. In a continued outreach effort, Jim Wiseman led the project for the second year in a row at no cost to the city. Wiseman and his colleagues targeted five locations in the Miller area last year, and this year, turned their focus to Fayette, Cass and Benton Streets—a project that would otherwise cost upward of $100,000. In a statement, Wiseman mentioned his goal was to inspire others to get involved with his hometown. “When I first came up with this idea it was because I wanted to give back to not only the community we serve at Rieth-Riley, but also my burning desire to give back SEVERAL VACANT HOMES in Gary were demolished for free on Tuesday in a to my hometown that raised me. When I project that saved the city at least $$100,000. (Photo by Ted Brown) see an administration working for one

common goal, it only inspires me to help. Our hope has always been to make a difference in the communities we serve and to give back. More importantly, we hoped that we would inspire others to step up and offer to help us in our outreach campaign. Well, it worked.” He went on to say, “It’s gratifying to be a small part of a bigger picture.” Next year, he says his goal is to demolish 20 homes. “While we have received significant help from the state and federal government through the Hardest Hit Fund, we also know there is a need for other sources of support. And, we are so happy that that has come from our corporate community,” Mayor Karen Freeman-Wilson said of the tremendous financial gift to the city. (Continued on page 2)

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New Arts and Sciences building to open Aug. 25 IU Northwest to mark opening with dedication, tours Those who pass by the Indiana University Northwest campus as they drive down Broadway near 35th Street simply cannot avoid a glance at the towering façade of the muchanticipated Arts & Sciences building, under construction since 2015. At three stories tall and 126,300 square feet, the structure dominates the Broadway view, and although it may appear quieter these days, with bundled-up builders no longer hoisting and hammering away, the interior is far from quiet. Inside, dozens of workers are busy every day, adding the finishing touches on the décor, and outfitting the building with the state-of-the-art technology that will make the new space an impressive learning environment. By the time the fall 2017 semester begins, the faculty and staff will have moved into their offices, and classes will be taking place. Perhaps best of all, there is one feature that has

everyone talking, not only the IU Northwest and Ivy Tech Community College campuses, which will share space in the building, but also the entire community. Those who remember the great loss of Tamarack Hall, home to the campus’ signature theatre, in the flood of 2008, have long awaited its replacement. That day is here, and the community can now officially celebrate the return of a 500-seat, state-of-the-art theatre, as well as a smaller studio, “black box” theatre. “The return of the theatre will bring the arts front and center to the Gary community, helping to anchor the city’s redevelopment plan for University Park, which aims to focus on investment along Broadway and TOURS, CEREMONIES WILL be held to open the new IU Northwest Arts and Science Building later on 35th Avenue,” said IU North- this year on Aug. 25, 2017. the very first performance – a com- pany of IU Northwest’s Department as the building offers plenty of west Chancellor William J. Lowe. IU Northwest is proud to an- plimentary concert by the North- of Performing Arts, but also other space to display the works and hone nounce the public opening and ded- west Indiana Symphony Orchestra area groups, which will collectively the talents of fine arts students and ication of the Arts & Sciences build- — in the new theatre. The show will transform the campus’s southeast faculty, who will display the phokick off entertainment brought to corner into a destination for the arts. tography, sculpture, painting and ing on Friday, Aug. 25. That evening, special guests and the region by not only Theatre other media that they create in the Art lovers will not be disappointed, new studio facilities. community members will attend Northwest, the performance com-

Companies volunteer in tearing down vacant homes (Continued from page 1) Once the third largest city in Indiana, Gary has experienced steady population loss since the 1960s, and as a result, the city has thousands of abandoned homes and businesses, and it can cost $15,000 per demolition. In 2014, Gary received $6.6 million to help with the city’s redevelopment from the Hardest Hit Fund Blight Elimination Program. The U.S. Department of Treasury and the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA) partnered to allow all 92 Indi-

ana counties to compete for $75 million to be released in six rounds. Five successful BEP applicants were awarded a total of over $15 million dollars, with Gary receiving the largest endowment. A second round of funding was announced in 2016 for $4.4 million. The areas slated to see demolition in the second phase are: Aetna, Horace Mann, Emerson, Froebel, Glen Park, and Miller neighborhoods One of Freeman-Wilson’s top priorities for 2017 is for similar demolition campaigns to further emphasize the city’s dedication to blight

MAYOR KAREN FREEMAN-WILSON poses with construction workers who volunteered to tear down vacant homes in a project that saved the city $100,000.

elimination. “I think the community will be encouraged by the mass show of effort. To get so many houses down at a time shows that we are paying attention to what’s going on, and we have a strong desire to meet those needs in a variety of ways,” said Freeman-Wilson. “Sometimes people get frustrated when all they hear is plans, but when they see the execution of those plans, I hope that’s a source of encouragement.” To Mary Tyler, an Aetna area resident for 63 years, government efforts to restore the city sounds promising, but frustrating. Counting the vacant lots surrounding her home, the 79-year-old says she’s more interested in next steps. “That’s great! At least somebody is coming back and thinking about it. It’s a step in the right direction, but if you knock a house down and put nothing in its place, who’s going to keep it up?” asked Tyler. “I’m tired and I can’t do it anymore,” she said of mowing both her lawn and those adjacent to her property. “It makes no difference to me what’s done after the fact, as long as they keep it up. That lot is going to be next to the park. But if the park department isn’t going to

keep it up, who’s going to mow the grass?” Wiseman maintains high hopes for his initiative building community morale, but recognizes that city rehabilitation will not be an easy feat. “With all the obstacles that the city and mayor face, they can’t do it alone. I had a conversation years ago just before she took office. She said she wanted to build from the outside

in. She said she wanted to reach out to Portage to Merrillville, Crown Point and Valparaiso, because it’s all part of Northwest Indiana. If we build from the outside in instead of the inside out, we can have a future,” said Wiseman. “And my philosophy is Gary is, was and always will be the heart and soul of Northwest Indiana. When Gary goes, all of Northwest Indiana will go.”

EdisonLearning approved to manage Roosevelt (Continued from page 1) Gary and its high schools were heavily segregated and predominately white. Since then, Roosevelt has produced some of America’s most prominent Black leaders, including 2

Mayor Karen Freeman-Wilson. In the last several decades, the school fell on hard times. Like many urban schools across the country, dwindling enrollment and budget woes have taken a toll on Roosevelt.

SATURDAY, MARCH 11, 2017

Like other Gary schools, enrollment has also declined. Today, Roosevelt has about 600 students in grades 712. “The climate, safety and the graduation rate has improved,” Pruitt said. Blacks Must control their own coMMunity

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Special needs students emerge as top priority By Ciara Smith For years Gary Community School Corporation’s academic and financial underachievement were top concerns with school and state officials. Now, students with disabilities are taking priority. According to the Department of Education, the total enrollment for GCSC’s 2016-2017 school year was 5,823 with one in six Gary students identified as having a disability. Despite the large number of students with disabilities in the school system, Gary’s special education department has been troubled for years. A new bill authored by Senator Eddie Melton (D-Merrillville) will ensure the school corporation has funds to meet the unique needs of students with disabilities. Senate Bill 475 cleared the Senate by unanimous vote on February 23, changing the statute for learning disabilities in the state of Indiana. Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), developmental delay is currently a category reserved for students between three

and five years of age. SB 475 would require the State Board of Education to amend its rule, and add developmental delay as a category for mild and moderate disabilities. As of July 1, 2018 the age cap extends to nine years old. Marianne Fidishin, Executive Director of special education for Gary schools, says the age increase is warranted. “Many children have disabilities that early intervention can address, and many times it allows full psychological and special education professionals to accurately assess a student’s abilities, said Fidishin. “Eliminating developmental disabilities at certain years of age could be a disadvantage.” The second bill to be approved from the Gary native’s 2017 legislative agenda, SB 475 allocates an additional $2,300 per student. Beginning in Fiscal Year 2019, special education grants are expected to increase from $4.4 million to $7.7 million. “The level of services [special education students] need are above and beyond that of general students and it could mean many domains. There

Sen. Eddie Melton are a lot of supplies and materials that general students wouldn’t require for their learning process,” said Fidishin. “All students deserve fair and comprehensive education, especially in the formative early years,” Senator Melton said. “I am hopeful that SB 475 will continue to move through the House of Representatives in an effort to ad-

dress this gap in legislation.” This comes on the heels of a promise for financial solutions for Gary schools. Senate Bill 567, co-sponsored by Senator Melton and Senate Appropriations Chairman Luke Kenley, was met with unanimous approval earlier in February. The current bill declares the School Corporation a distressed political subdivision and forwards financial decisions to a state controlled Fiscal Management Board and the Distressed Unit Appeals Board (DUAB). However, a similar proposal penned by Melton, has also been introduced. Senate Bill 564 would allow the appointment of a local fiscal management board with the same powers and duties as the governing school corporation. Comparatively, Gary Mayor Karen Freeman-Wilson, the Gary Community School Corporation, and the superintendent of public instruction, will each select a representative to serve on the board in an advisory capacity under Senate Bill 567. Three additional initiatives authored

or co-authored by Senator Melton focus on school safety, early education, and environmental health for Indiana schools and children. Senate Bill 556 would mandate that any school or special purpose buses placed into operation after June 30, 2018, be equipped with 3-point lap and shoulder seat belts, should they be used to transport elementary or high school students. The legislation would also require the Department of Education to provide grants to aid with implementation expenses. Melton co-authored Senate Bill 276 with Senators Travis Holdman, Eric Basler, and Randall Head to extend the early education grant pilot program to any eligible providers in an Indiana county. Bill 483 coins the term lead contamination area and would require the state department of health to establish a grant-yielding program to enable children in affected areas to receive therapy appropriate to their needs. These bills await committee hearings in the Senate.

Groups Petition EPA for step up efforts for East Chicago In response to the drinking water crisis in East Chicago, Indiana, a coalition of local citizens, environmental law clinics, state, and national groups petitioned the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on March 7, to take emergency action to secure safe, clean water for the city’s residents. Problems with lead contamination in the soil thrust East Chicago into the national spotlight in 2016. The discovery of lead contamination in the city’s drinking water threatens increased, cumulative lead impacts on an already overburdened community. “The disastrous effects of lead in our soil have already taken a toll on our community—but lead coming through our taps takes this mess to a whole new, unacceptably horrible level. We live in America; we should not be left drinking poison while officials ponder away at long-term solutions. If the city and state cannot help us quickly, it is time for the federal government to help its citizens,” said Sherry Hunter, an East Chicago resident. In September 2016, a Reuters investigation found elevated blood levels in children living in the vicinity of the Superfund site and, more broadly, in East Chicago. That fall, the EPA conducted a drinking water pilot study at the Superfund site, concluding that the data showed a “system-wide” problem in the drinking water for this city of 29,000. Similar to the water crisis in Flint, Michigan, inadequate corrosion control chemicals and the existence of lead service lines resulted in elevated levels of lead in drinking water. On December 1, 2016, before the EPA study www.garycrusader.com

contaminated drinking water, a basic need of every American. But the damage is even more acute here, as East Chicagoans have shouldered the weight of legacy contamination in the soil and air for decades from polluting facilities around their city. The EPA must act to protect the community’s health until effective long-term fixes are in place,” said Anjali Waikar, staff attorney with the Natural Resources Defense Council. The petition comes in the same week the Trump administration announced massive staff and budget cuts at the EPA

pen. That was really the problem.” There is no safe level of lead exposure. The toxic effects of lead on virtually every system in the body, and particularly on the developing brains of young children, are well documented. Lead can also contribute to high blood pressure and other health problems in adults. Even low levels of lead in the blood have been shown to affect IQ, ability to pay attention, and academic achievement, effects that are irreversible.

Wieser is new Chairman of Lake County Democrats findings were released to the public, the City of East Chicago sought a declaration of emergency from then-Governor Mike Pence before he left office to serve as Vice President of the United States. Pence’s office rejected the city’s request. Since then, the City of East Chicago and the State of Indiana have begun implementing long term measures to address the water contamination—including action from new Governor Eric Holcomb—but these efforts have not yet secured a safe source of drinking water for residents. Among a series of requests to protect the health of residents, the petition urges that the EPA immediately order the city and state to provide East Chicagoans with an alternative, free source of safe drinking water, such as water filters or bottled water. “Nobody should be forced to endure

that could impact the Agency’s ability to enforce public protections like those needed in East Chicago. New EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt has also signaled a potential reduction in enforcement actions, but both he and President Trump have made clear that situations like the one emerging in East Chicago and the water crisis in Flint require federal attention. In his confirmation hearings, Pruitt stated: “[T]he Flint tragedy was a failure at every level of government,” noting his personal disturbance that the “EPA did not take action until long after they became aware of the elevated lead levels in Flint drinking water.” Then-presidential candidate Donald Trump responded to the Flint water crisis on the campaign trail, saying, “I think it’s a horror show that it was allowed to happen and … it should have never, ever been allowed to hap-

Blacks Must control their own coMMunity

Buncich breaks tie in close election Crusader staff report Attorney James Wieser was elected Chairman of the Lake County Democrats on Saturday, March 4 after his predecessor, Lake County Sheriff John Buncich, cast a tiebreaking vote in the tight race for the top spot. Buncich announced his choice of Wieser at the SS Helen and Constantine Church in Merrillville as he and Lake County Commissioner Mike Repay, D-Hammond, remained locked in a 305-305 tie. Buncich’s selection of Wieser was reportedly booed by a hostile crowd, which interrupted him several times during the speech. Buncich decided not to run again for the position after he was indict-

ed on bribery charges last November. Buncich had served as Chairman of the Lake County Democrats since 2014 after his predecessor, Hammond Mayor Thomas McDermott, stepped down. With his own credibility under fire, many Lake County Democrats questioned Buncich’s choice of Wieser as his successor. “My decision does not have any bearing on the liking of one person over another,” Buncich told the crowd. “I know, I know what you’re saying, OK, that this is a decision that has to be made. I have the highest respect …Yes, I do, Yes I do… for Jim Wieser and Mike Repay.” In the race for Vice-Chairman, Gary City Councilwoman Lavetta Sparks-Wade lost to Michelle Fajman, the county’s election director. Peggy Katona beat Tammi Davis to become party treasurer.

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SLAVERY BY CONSENT? Recently, the President of the United States, Donald Trump, met with representatives of the Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) during Black History Month. He signed an executive order designed to give the HBCUs more clout. Before he could put pen to paper, however, the new Secretary of Education, Betsy DeVos, made an interesting statement about the HBCUs. She stated, “HBCUs are real pioneers when it comes to school choice. They are living proof that when more options are provided to students, they are afforded greater access and greater quality. Their success has shown that more options help students flourish.” Apparently, it flew wide over the new Secretary of Education’s head that the creation of the HBCUs wasn’t just a matter of “school choice.” They were forced to create themselves because of a lack of access to other colleges and universities. This lack of understanding on the part of the highest education officer in the land is disturbing and appalling. It shows how out of touch she and others of her ilk are when it comes to Black Americans. Another gaffe by a member of the Trump cabinet is even more unbelievable. The pioneering and celebrated African American neurosurgeon, Dr. Ben Carson, made an incredible statement in his first address to his staff as the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). He said, “America is a ‘land of dreams and opportunities’ that has drawn millions of people from overseas throughout its history. There were other immigrants who came here in the bottom of slave ships, worked even longer, even harder for less. But they too had a dream that one day their sons, daughters, grandsons, granddaughters, great-grandsons, great-granddaughters might pursue prosperity and happiness in this land.” This is absurd coming from the lips of a Black American. The slaves weren’t immigrants: they came here as property. They did not consent to slavery! What hopes and dreams did they have as slaves? To be free? To be back home in the land from whence they were snatched? Maybe Dr. Carson did not think through his address before he gave it. Later, after being apprised of the flack that his “immigrant” statement created, he backtracked somewhat, but by that time it was too late. It’s sad, but Donald Trump really knew how to pick his acolytes; they seem to be clueless! The message that these two situations sends is that Donald Trump and others connected with his administration seem to have no understanding of the true plight of Black people in America. From Donald Trump thinking that Frederick Douglass is a contemporary figure to these current embarrassing missteps, they seem to think that Black people had a choice in what happened to them centuries ago when they were forcibly brought to America. They did not come here voluntarily; they didn’t start the HBCUs because they wanted to have “choice.” Ultimately, it is scary that the highest executives in the land are so out of touch with the actual condition of a significant segment of the American population: African Americans. And since this is the case, how can they ever hope to address problems that confront the Black community? How do you start from behind point zero? The Trump administration has a lot of catching up to do if it really wants to help the Black community address its problems. After all, you cannot work from a position of ignorance if you want to be effective. If the administration is serious about the wellbeing of its African American constituents, it will have to do far better than it is doing now. But then, if President Trump sticks to his plan of “Making America great again,” the Black community should take their cues from that statement. Any backward move in America finds African Americans behind the eight-ball, all the way from Jim Crow back to slavery! Caveat emptor, let the buyer beware! A luta continua. 4

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Wanted: Legislative Action on Townships

How many more township officials have to go to jail and how many more thousands of taxpayer dollars have to be stolen before the General Assembly takes action? Legislators, who is willing to step up to the job?

Dear Editor: A recent story about charges being filed against a township trustee in Henry County for stealing taxpayer funds between 2013 and 2015 is unfortunately not surprising. It is yet another arrest in a long series of criminal incidents involving township employees that have occurred around the state. The Indiana Chamber first communicated on the topic of local government reform and ongoing abuses by township officials nearly 20 years ago. The fact that we still must do so today is depressing and unforgivable. State legislators were provided a playbook in 2007 when the Kernan-Shepard Commission called for the elimination of this unnecessary level of government. In a statewide survey, two-thirds of Hoosiers acknowledged they had never used township services. State lawmakers have repeatedly failed to act upon that recommendation; that’s simply inexcusable. With more than 1,200 bills filed in this session, the number that take on the outdated – and as we continue to see, criminal – practices of townships is a big fat zero.

Kevin Brinegar President and CEO Indiana Chamber of Commerce

have been cash-strapped for years. Its superintendents have closed schools, laid off staff, cut spending, begged the state for money, and are still in a financial hole. Sure, there is the possibility that the folks in Indianapolis will forgive much, if not all of the millions the district owes the state. However, it sure doesn’t seem right that the first (Continued on page 7)

GARY CRUSADER

Trustees Moore and Tolliver put students first Dear Editor: Carlos Tolliver is new to the Gary Community School Corp. board, but he along with another Trustee Nellie Moore, seem to be the only ones looking out for our students. When schools Superintendent Cheryl Pruitt recommended the board hire a part time consultant Moore and Tolliver were the only ones with enough common sense to object. The consultant the board was considering, local attorney Clorius Lay, was coming with a price tag of $50,000. The big question is couldn’t the district make better use of $50,000. My answer is yes and without a doubt. The part that doesn’t make sense to me is that Gary schools

Blacks Must control their own coMMunity

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Dr. Michael Eric Dyson and Ron Clark to keynote Indiana Black Expo Indiana Black Expo announced today that nationally renowned educators and authors Dr. Michael Eric Dyson and Ron Clark will keynote Indiana Black Expo’s 10th Annual Education Conference presented by Indiana Civil Rights Commission and Cummins Inc. The conference will take place on Thursday, July 13th from 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. A Meet & Greet Reception hosted by Indiana Wesleyan University will take place immediately following the conference. “We are excited to have Dr. Dyson and Mr. Clark for our 10th Annual Education Conference,” says Tanya Bell, IBE President & CEO. “IBE celebrates 10 years of partnership with education advocates and supporters, educators and administrators across the state to enhance K-12 outcomes for students, particularly students of color,” added Bell. This year, IBE has added a post-secondary education track that will share best practices on access and retention of African-American

Dr. Michael Eric Dyson students and teacher preparation courses on classroom management, social justice and other topics. IBE will offer Professional Growth Plan

Methodist Hospitals hosts panel of distinguished Gary authors The Gary Literacy Coalition in partnership with Methodist Hospitals hosted “Black Authors’ Voices ‘From Pen to Pages’” on Tuesday, February 28 at St. Timothy’s Missionary Baptist Church in Gary, Indiana. GLC’s Executive Director Era Twyman, selected seven phenomenal Black women authors from around the region that included: Dr. Danita Johnson-Hughes, Imani Josey, Shar-

suggestions and motivational discourse. Following the panel, the audience posed questions. Before departing Twyman, in keeping with GLC’s mission of enhancing liter-

SOME OF GARY’S Black Authors participated in a panel discussion to encourage up and coming writers to take the next step and become published authors. Sponsored by the Gary Literacy Coalition and Methodist Hospitals the Black History event was held at St. Timothy’s Missionary Baptist Church on Feb. 28. Participants pictured, l-r,: Era Twyman, Chairperson Gary Literacy Coalition, Danita Johnson-Hughes, Imani Josey, Mogdo Walker, Tavetta Patterson, Adra Young, Krissy Mosley and Sharon Mallory. on Mallory, Krissy Mosley, Tavetta acy opportunities, sent the panelists Patterson, Mogda Walker and Adra home with a publication written by Young. The authors presented in a Gwendolyn Brooks. Everyone in atpanel discussion speaking on subjects tendance received a copy of Lerone ranging from challenges in writing; Bennett, Jr.’s (grandfather of Imani tips for potential writers and sugges- Josey) Great Moments in Black Histions on getting published. Each of tory. Natalie Ammons of WLTH the speakers imparted priceless tips, AM 1370 was the evening’s emcee. 6

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(PGP) points to conference attendees. Early Bird Registration for the conference is $40.00. Visit https://www.indianablackexpo.com/sum mercelebration/education-conference-registration/ to register. Named by Essence magazine as one of the 50 most inspiring African Americans in the U.S., Michael Eric Dyson is also a best-selling

author, one of the nation's most renowned public intellectuals, and he has revitalized the title with the fervor of an ordained Baptist minister. Called “a street fighter in a suit and tie,” he takes on the toughest and most controversial issues of the day, including race, politics and pop culture, with his fearless and fiery

Loves and Demons of Marvin Gaye deeply probe social themes and cultural politics. Known to many as "America's Educator," Ron Clark is the 2000 Disney American Teacher of the Year, a two-time New York Times Bestselling author, the subject of a television movie and the founder of

rhetoric. An MSNBC political analyst and former host of NPR’s The Michael Eric Dyson Show, Dyson is also an award-winning author. His speeches and books both provide some of the most significant commentary on modern social and intellectual thought today, interwoven with a combination of cultural criticism, race theory, religion, philosophical reflection and gender studies. Works such as Making Malcolm X; I May Not Get There with You; Holler if You Hear Me; and Mercy, Mercy Me: The Art,

The Ron Clark Academy. Ron is regularly featured on network and cable television (The Today Show, CNN and Oprah,) and was dubbed by Ms. Winfrey as her first "Phenomenal Man." Ron Clark brings charisma, energy and devotion to the education profession. Ron pioneered innovative projects in rural North Carolina working with minority students in a low wealth area. His highly effective programs garnered national attention and led to a White House invitation to be honored by the President of the United States.

Enbridge Summer Engineering Camp PNW offers week-long camp for middle and high school students interested in a hands-on learning experience Purdue University Northwest and Enbridge are partnering to offer enrichment camps this summer for middle and high school students interested in learning more about engineering disciplines. The Purdue Northwest Enbridge Summer Engineering Camps are scheduled in June on the PNW Hammond Campus to introduce students to fundamental concepts of civil, mechanical, electrical and computer engineering through hands-on, laboratory and classroom experiences. PNW offers engineering degree programs in all four disciplines. Camp dates & details The camp session for middle school students is June 5-9; the high school camp is June 12-16. Sessions of both camps meet from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily. Student cost is $295. The application deadline is May 12. Students must be entering sixth grade or higher next fall to be eligible to attend. A letter of recommendation from a teacher, counselor or principal is required. Students attending either camp will participate in activities that explore various areas of engineering.

HANSUNG KIM, Purdue University Northwest, assistant professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, works with students attending the 2016 summer engineering camp. Students attending the 2017 summer camp will enjoy a number of educational opportunities with Dr. Kim and other PNW professors. All materials will be provided and attendees will interact with current PNW students and faculty. Guest speakers from local industry will discuss career opportunities in engineering. Awards will be presented at the end of each camp during a closing ceremony Friday afternoon. For information about the camp or to register, visit http://academics.pnw.edu/engineering/engineering-summer-camp/or contact Dyan Murphy of the PNW College of Engineering and Sciences at (219) 9892472 or Dyan.Murphy@pnw.edu.

Blacks Must control their own coMMunity

Enbridge Enbridge and Purdue Northwest announced a partnership last fall in which Enbridge would become the named sponsor of the Purdue Northwest Enbridge Summer Engineering Camps. Enbridge’s Chicago Region transports North American crude oil and natural gas liquids from Canada and North Dakota to refineries in the Great Lakes Region and beyond. Enbridge is regionally headquartered in Schererville and operates a terminal for its liquid transportation system in Griffith. www.garycrusader.com

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Oscar gaffe stirs a painful reminder for Miss Gary Pageant organizers CIRCLE CITY CONNECTION By Vernon A. Williams I feel your pain, Oscar. Academy Awards organizers fielded scorching criticism. Skeptics charged conspiracy theory. Even the sympathetic wonder “how?” From die-hard movie fans to casual observers – there was this seismic “OMG!” For comedians and social media mania, the ridicule was both brutal and unending. It was the worst that could happen – the most horrifying blunder imaginable at the most conspicuous time of this global event when “La La Land” was announced best film when the actual winner was “Moonlight.” Awkward. But truth is, even amidst the best intentions, stuff happens. I am a witness. For 13 years, I served as Executive Director of the Miss Gary Scholarship Pageant sponsored by the Lake County Association of Black Communicators (LCABC). It was the official local preliminary competition for the coveted Miss America title and the primary fundraiser for our organization. In 1981, the LCABC crowned the talented, smart, effervescent Gary Roosevelt High School senior Veleta Jenkins. An elated Veleta ab-

solutely beamed as the dazzling sash draped her shoulders, before embracing a huge bouquet while a glistening tiara was deftly placed atop her coif. The ritual climaxed with her regal runway promenade. It was a storybook moment. The next morning, I was awakened before the Sunday alarm clock could go off. Even more surprising was the voice on the other end of the phone. It was my lifelong friend Lanel Chambers, who happened to be treasurer of the organization. His pageant responsibility was chairperson of judges. In his customarily stoic tone, Chambers tersely remarked, “I’ve got some bad news.” My groggy response was, “Tell me anything but that we crowned the wrong queen.” Without missing a beat, Chambers’ deadpan response was simply, “We crowned the wrong queen.” The error was procedural. Judges use all categories to determine the five finalists for the pageant. Afterwards, the finalists compete from point zero – meaning there is no order in which they were determined. Every contestant has an equal chance of emerging victoriously. The problem was that the head judge failed to discard previous points in his or her tabulation – yielding a false score. On review of the judging sheets, Chambers discovered that if the previous scores had been discarded

Vernon A. Williams – as rules stipulated – the winner announced would have been Lisa Lee, a young lady every bit as smart, talented and personable. We immediately engaged LCABC co-founder and president Imogene Harris, Gary Info Newspaper icon. After getting over the initial shock, the three of us concluded there was only one thing that we could do. We had to correct the painful error and maintain the integrity of the process. We were an organization of journalists. Back then, credibility still meant something. Chambers, Harris and I converged at the Jenkins’ modest west side home. We told them that we

needed to talk - without revealing details. We were welcomed in by the entire family. They were surrounding the morning issue of the Gary Post-Tribune where pageant results appeared on the front page. The warm hospitality and cheerful expectation soon dissipated and was transformed into a deep chill as we had to break someone’s heart reclaiming a tiara, a sash, a trophy, and worst of all, a title. We finished the conversation with her amazingly understanding and kind, though soundly disappointed parents - long after a devastated Veleta retreated to her room in tears. Obviously, the drive to Lisa Lee’s home less than a mile away concluded in the opposite scenario. Admitting the error was a gutwrenching ordeal but it was something that had to be done. Both Veleta and Lisa went on to impressive accomplishments over the ensuing 26 years. As a matter of fact,

knowing her interest in media, I involved Veleta in the local cable news telecasts that I anchored and produced back in the day. The pageant blunder created one of those days I wish had never happened. The Oscars fiasco conjured the bitter memory - a reminder of how painful innocent mistakes can be for people with the best intentions involved in a good cause; and how life goes on and, mercifully, time really does heal wounds. 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.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR (Continued from page 4) move after that is to start stuffing perintendent needs yet another the payroll again. Mr. Tolliver consultant when the state has all made an excellent point at the but promised a dedicated financial board meeting when he asked if it manager to the district. That move was more important to have a le- takes quite a bit off of the superingal assistant or having plumbers tendent’s plate, maybe part of her servicing our schools. That was so salary should be used to pay a conon point because the district has sultant since the superintendent laid off some of its custodians. will have fewer areas to deal with. This sends a really, really bad mes- We know though that won’t hapsage to the community. There is pen. no doubt that down the road the The consultant obviously will district will need community sup- serve in an advisory role, but what port for something, who knows is the measure that determines if what at this point? When that his advice is any good? Why does happens no one should be sur- the district need to rush into a conprised when the response is have tract with him? That is the part that your consultant do it. really makes this whole move susIn the big scheme of things re- pect. Is there something the congarding school district budgets, sultant and superintendent hope $50,000 is not a huge amount. the trustees overlook in bringing However, it is when you are talk- on this advisor? Why can’t the ing about that much for Gary and board wait until the state makes its a part time job. Like it or not, final determinations on how it will many Garyites, because of a histo- assist the district? To me that would ry in the mills see $4,400 a month be the prudent thing to do. Nofor part time work as an astro- body should be surprised in a few nomical amount. Throw in the months after this consultant has fact that he won’t be working been on board most of us are saymore than 20 hours per week and ing Moore and Tolliver were right. that really gets the blood boiling. Wilma Montgomery I don’t understand why the suwww.garycrusader.com

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New Friendship’s latest recording wins Best CD of the Year Award By Carmen M. Woodson-Wray Ever since New Friendship Missionary Baptist Church’s Anointed Voices Choir recorded its CD “Longtime Coming, Legacy Fulfilled,” choir members have been traveling and performing with some of the legendary gospel artists in the country. Now they have received another pertinent recognition, winning the “Best CD of the Year” at the Texas Gospel Music Excellence Awards. The choir, under Director of Music Antoinette Gaines, released the CD in December 2015. Since then they have performed throughout the Chicagoland area. They have appeared in Indianapolis as well, for Dr. Bobby Jones, as a new artist on his Nashville, Tennessee television show, “The Bobby Jones Hour.” According to Gaines the sale of the CD is doing quite well locally as well as digitally. She said, “We’ve done very good on sales of the CD.” The 60-voice choir’s lead song on the CD is “Just Like You” which is also performed as a single. The choir is presently preparing to travel to Las Vegas to sing for the Gospel Stellar Awards, March 23-24. They will also be a part of the Pre-

Stellar Awards Weekend at the “All White Welcoming Party.” They will also perform at the “Empowerment Breakfast.” Gaines said, “We’ve done well for our church. The Stellar Awards is a big deal because we get to promote our

CD in front of producers, radio announcers and record labels. You don’t know who you are performing in front of when you are at these types of events.” The choir is also preparing for the church’s annual choir concert entitled

“Burning the Midnight Oil.” It will be held June 2 at 10 a.m. The choir’s organist Anthony Gaines, the choir’s organist won the “Musician of the Year” award during the 19th Annual Texas Gospel Music Excellence Awards.

AND THE WINNER is … the Anointed Voices Choir of New Friendship Missionary Baptist Church in Gary! The choir recently took home the Best CD of the Year award at the Texas Gospel Music Excellence Awards in Houston. The choir is now preparing to perform at the upcoming Stellar Awards in Las Vegas, March 23-24.

The pastor of New Friendship Missionary Baptist Church in Gary, Indiana, is Reverend Royce F. Thompson, Sr.

ANTOINETTE GAINES, DIRECTOR of Music for the Anointed Voices Choir at New Friendship Missionary Baptist Church in Gary, holds the choir’s Best CD of the Year Award, presented recently at the Texas Gospel Music Excellence Awards.

Church Calendar Trinity Shares Good News Throughout Community Trinity United Church of Christ-Gary recently announced the services and events that were performed in March as well as upcoming community services that will take place in the near future through their various outreach ministries. On Saturday, March 4, 2017, the Somebody’s Closet Clothing Ministry served over 17 families with sweaters, shoes, and accessories. In conjunction with the church’s Chakula Soup Kitchen, Trinity serves the community hot meals and gives away good clothing each Saturday. Trinity United Church of ChristGary will celebrate the ordination and installation for Rev. Dena Holland-Neal on Saturday, March 11, 2017 at 4:00 p.m. Somebody’s Closet Ministry will host a “Prom Dress Give-Away” at 8:30 a.m. - 12:000 Noon on Saturday, March 25, 2017. The church is planning to celebrate Father’s Day, June 18, 2017 with “Real Men Cook.” Trinity United Church of Christ-Gary is located at 1276 W. 20th Avenue in Gary. For more information on any of the upcoming events or community outreach services contact the church at (219) 944-0500. 8

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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.

Mayor Karen Freeman-Wilson GONNA KEEP THE DAY JOB Ever since Mayor Karen FreemanWilson appeared on an episode of Undercover Boss the reviews on her performance have been mixed. Some thought it was a really cool thing she did while others couldn’t find enough negative things to say about doing the show. But in her typical fashion she took it all in stride – the praise and criticism. Recently, word reached Nosey that the Undercover Boss show wasn’t her first foray into the world of en-

Gladys Knight tertainment. It seems several years ago she stepped on stage as Gladys Knight and, along with three members of Gary’s finest backing as the Pips, did a lip-sync to “Midnight Train to Georgia.” Looks like we may have to add star of stage and screen to the mayor’s resume before it’s over. -NoseySEEKING TO BUST A MOVE Word reached Nosey that Sixth District Councilwoman Lavetta Sparks-Wade and former State Rep. www.garycrusader.com

Lavetta Sparks-Wade

Tammi Davis

candidate Tammi Davis were unsuccessful in their bids for positions in the Lake County Democratic Precinct Organization. Wade was seeking the vice presidency and Davis was seeking to be the organization’s treasurer. If both women had been successful it would have been change in the Lake County political structure. Both candidates faced an uphill battle in seeking votes within an organization dominated by white folks. With whites still outnumbering Blacks in the organization, Wade and Davis’ chances of victory against opponents, who were two white women well entrenched in the organization, was a difficult task. As always the Black vote was split among the candidates giving the two white candidates the advantage. Might as

well forget “We Shall Overcome” and instead sing, “Change We Can Believe In.” It’s back to business as usual.

been introduced downstate aimed at bailing out the beleaguered school system, things just don’t seem to be happening fast enough to begin digging the school out of the financial hole. For what it’s worth Gary ain’t the only school system in the state with financial problems. Nosey hears that the East Chicago and Munster school systems will hold a referendum this spring asking the taxpayers of those communities to bail them out of their financial holes. While the state property tax caps may have been seen by some as a blessing, for many of the school systems around the state the caps have been nothing but a burden.

Cheryl Pruitt

-NoseyCLOSING THOUGHTS ON BIG FISH TO FRY

-NoseyAIN’T OUT THE WOODS YET Thangs had got so bad the Gary School Board of “Mis-Education” had to hold a meeting last week to address the school system’s nagging financial problems. With payday just around the corner the board was meeting to work out how the school system employees won’t have to miss another payday. Eventually, the board was able to get a loan to cover paying the employees. While legislation has

There are a couple of songs made popular during the 70s that pretty much could serve as anthems for the state we find ourselves in right about now. While the Gary Community School Corporation is in the midst of a major financial crisis, the Superintendent chooses to take legal action against one of the board members claiming that she is being harassed and stalked by the board member. Meanwhile, the Lake County Democratic Precinct Organization despite all indications that there needs to be a major change to the system, decided

Carlos Tolliver that business as usual was the best way to go as opposed to making changes to the party’s current status quo.

Lake County Commissioners’ TAX SALE Each spring, Lake County, Indiana holds its annual Commissioners’ tax sale, selling properties in Lake County for which owners have not paid their county property taxes for at least two years. This is a common practice, as counties and municipalities across the state hold similar auctions of tax delinquent property. These tax delinquent properties were first included in the Treasurer’s sale last fall and were not sold by auction. In this year’s Commissioners’ sale, 15,000 properties in the County are up for auction, approximately 12,000 of which are located in Gary. The Commissioners’ tax sale is scheduled to occur on March 14-16, 2017. The vast majority of properties eligible for Commissioners’ sale are not purchased. In a study conducted by the Center for Community Progress found that over a six-year period, 92% of properties offered at auction did not sell and were certified for the following tax sale. The Commissioners’ tax sale is not run by the city of Gary, but it is important for Gary residents to understand Lake County’s process so they are not confused about whether their properties are affected by this

sale. How do I find out if my property is affected? Properties whose owners have not paid county property taxes for at least two years are eligible to be auctioned. Owners of tax delinquent property received multiple notices over the last two years, informing them that their tax payment is overdue. They also received notice that their property is included in the Commissioner’s sale. I’m concerned my property might be on this list. How can I confirm? A full list of names and property addresses for properties included in the sale were published by the county in the Hammond Times and Northwest Indiana PostTribune on three dates. A full list of those properties, as well as a copy of the ad published in the newspapers, is available online here at www.onyxelectronics.com/auctions/lake/ Concerned citizens who believe or know they are overdue on their payments and have further ques-

Blacks Must control their own coMMunity

tions can contact the Lake County Auditor. There are multiple ways to contact the Lake County Auditor. By Phone: 219-755-3155 In Person: 2293 N. Main Street, Crown Point, Indiana 46307 - Building “A,” 2nd Floor Via the Auditor’s website: https://www.lakecountyin.org/po rtal/media-type/ html/user/anon/page/feedback?oid=43 My property is on the list. How do I keep it from being auctioned? We encourage you to contact the Lake County Auditor to discuss your case and specific questions. Residents, who want to pay their overdue taxes and maintain ownership of their properties, keeping them off the sale, can do so by paying their back taxes in full to the Auditor by March 10. My property is eligible to be auctioned, but I can’t afford to pay the taxes. What can I do? You need to contact the Lake County Auditor to discuss your case and specific questions. There

are multiple ways to contact the Lake County Auditor. By Phone: 219-755-3155 In Person: 2293 N. Main Street, Crown Point, Indiana 46307 - Building “A,” 2nd Floor Via the Auditor’s website: https://www.lakecountyin.org/por tal/media-type/ html/user/anon/page/feedback?oid=43 If my property is auctioned, can I get it back? Lake County residents who want to keep their property off the sale must pay their back taxes in full to the Auditor by March 10 in order to do so. Otherwise, their property will be auctioned. Residents have until July 14th to reclaim their property but will have to pay additional fees. What role does the city of Gary play in the Commissioners’ tax sale? The City of Gary plays no formal role in running the Lake County Commissioners’ tax sale. However, cities in Lake County have the ability to buy tax delinquent properties within their boundaries.

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Support for small businesses emerges in Miller Community By Dezimon Alicea According to a recent article in Forbes, eight out of 10 entrepreneurs that start a small business fail within the first 18 months. That’s a staggering and alarming number. The current White House leader-

ship plans to focus on small business growth and development. With the recent appointment of Linda McMahon as the head of the Small Business Administration, it seems as though President Trump is taking a different approach to the sector of small businesses. McMahon had this to say regarding the future direction of small businesses under her tenure, “I am honored to join the incredibly impressive economic team that President Trump has assembled to ensure that we promote our country’s small businesses and help them grow and thrive.” Many would argue that small businesses are the backbone to this country’s economy. Many would also say that without proper guidance a small business will not have the sustainable growth it needs. This question continues to be a thorn for many entrepreneurs and small business owners in the Gary community. To meet this

prevalent need, “The Stage,” a Small Business Incubator was established. It is funded by the Gary Miller Spotlight’s Jobs and Economy Action Group, The Miller Business Association and ACCT/ Carmella’s Stage on Shelby. The idea of an incubation program

is not uncommon. Incubation programs have been around since the late 1950’s. Business Incubation programs are often sponsored by private companies or municipal entities and public institutions, such as colleges and universities. Their goal is to help create and grow young businesses by providing them with necessary support and financial and technical services. The Stage opened its doors in February of this year, and it is the first of its kind in this community. The mission and goal of The Stage is to provide a creative place for education, useful resources and unadulterated synergy to the entrepreneur. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, “Small businesses represent 99.7 percent of all employment firms. Since 1995, small businesses have generated 64 percent of new jobs in the U.S. So, the benefit of small businesses is there. But with-

A BANNER GREETS guests inside the door to welcome people to the grand opening of a small business incubator called, “The Stage” in February of this year. The small business incubator will provide small businesses and entrepreneurs with access to education and resources to grow successful businesses. out the proper guidance and sup- and technical support services. They ana is doing what it can to contribute port a small business will either get also provide shared office spaces, light to the overall success of the more lost in the shuffle or close its doors industrial space, networking opp- than 400,000 small businesses. And, altogether.” ortunities, access to equipment and “The Stage” feels as though they are With the right tools a small busi- flexible lease terms. doing their part as well. ness can grow into a global force, Gretchen Sipp, manager of “The “The Stage” is taking a community over time of course. Before McDon- Stage” had this to say, “The hope is approach to supporting small busiald’s was serving their 99 billion cus- that “The Stage” will provide a plat- nesses. In their search to support tomers, they were a local restaurant form for emerging entrepreneurs, small businesses people who may in San Bernardino, California. Be- freelancers, small business owners, want to donate office equipment, fore Wal-Mart was the one stop shop creatives, and the community as a software, or other business related for all consumer needs, it was a mom whole to gain knowledge, build a so- items can contact The Stage Small and pop store called, Waltons 5&10. cial foundation, and turn their pur- Business Incubator and Co-working These businesses were able to flour- pose into profit while building and Space at 219-237-4252, or by email ish with determination and guid- supporting our city.” thestagegary@gmail.com. And if any ance. The Stage has ways to provide With 493,832 small businesses in entrepreneur or aspiring small busithat type of support to local small Indiana and their contribution to the ness owner wants to know more business owners. Some of those ways local economy one can see why the about the different programs offered, include management assistance, mar- sustainability of small businesses is so they can contact the phone number keting support, access to financing, vitally important. The state of Indi- and email address listed above.

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Gary native returns home for bestselling book signing By Carmen M. Woodson-Wray Venessa D. Anderson-Abram, a native of Gary and a 1988 Horace Mann High School alumna will be returning to her roots to share her accomplishments. She is a “BestSell- ing” author on Amazon.com for her book “Self-Discovery. A Daily Journey-Positioned to Prosper.” She will be holding her book signing at the church she grew up in as a young child, New Mount Moriah Baptist Church Sunday, March 12 between 1 and 3 p.m. Abram explains the content written in the book was birthed from a myriad of life experiences that resulted in her rededication to God that created rebirth, redirection, repositioning and most of all self-

discovery that allowed her to prosper on purpose. She says her organization SelfDiscovery. A Daily Journey: Positioned to Prosper was birthed in 2015 in Atlanta, Georgia. The mission of her movement was to inspire, empower, coach, mentor and develop souls to walk boldly into their purpose and be set apart. A manager at State Farm Insurance in Atlanta, Abram says the reason she wrote the book is because life experiences taught her that there was purpose in being paid. She said, “Anything I do I’m coming back home to my roots in Gary. I grew up in New Mount Moriah under the leadership of Rev. W. N. Reed. He was like a spiritual father to me when I was experiencing the storms

of life. He always provided me with instruction, wisdom, discipline, and scolding, all laced with love.” Abram is the daughter of the late LaVern Anderson who was an avid community advocate for the Horace Mann School District. In 2012-2014 the City of Gary Proclaimed September 30th “LaVern Anderson Day” and the Gary Community School Corporation participated in a tree planting and dedication ceremony in her memory at McCullough Academy. She said, “In honor of my mother I am grateful for her love, life, and the legacy that she has left that will forever live and not perish.” Abram says she is dedicating the book signing to her brother, the late Randolph Davison, Jr., affection-

ately known as Ruddy, who passed in September 2016. She has both a

T-shirt and bracelet line that will be available at the book signing.

THE BOOKWORM SEZ “Madame President: The Extraordinary Journey of Ellen Johnson Sirleaf ” those parts that are uncomfortable to read, they inherently tell readers more about who Sirleaf is and why her Presidency is so remarkable. Though you’ll cringe often when reading this, it’s a book that’ll make you want to cheer, too. World history buffs will truly enjoy “Madame President,” as will fans of international politics and women’s issues. And if that’s you, then it follows that you’ll love it, too.

By Helene Cooper c.2017, Simon & Schuster 27.00 / $36.00 Canada 336 pages Your friends follow what you have to say. Whether on social media or otherwise, they listen to you and understand, ask your opinion, seek your wisdom, and look to your lead. With them, you live a good life. Have followers like those, as you’ll see in “Madame President” by Helene Cooper, and you can change the world. “This child will be great.” Roughly translated, that’s what a local prophet said about Ellen Johnson when she was born in Liberia in October 1938. Those words were repeated in praise and in sarcasm as Johnson grew up, but no one had any idea then, how right the man would be. Though illiteracy was very common in Liberia, Johnson’s parents strove to educate their children in a manner befitting their upper-class status. Johnson expected to go to Europe for college but when her father fell ill, she knew that college would no longer be possible. Instead, she married Doc Sirleaf, a man several years her senior. The babies started coming almost immediately; shortly after their fourth son was born, Sirleaf and her husband seized an opportunity to go to America, to Wisconsin, for college. Leaving her children was difficult for Sirleaf, but it wouldn’t be the last time. It would, however, be a few years before she’d leave her abusive husband. By then, she was working for Liberia’s Treasury Department and it was obvious that there were problems. Politically and socially, things had been shaky for some time, in part because of a two-tiered society that wasn’t funcwww.garycrusader.com

VENESSA D. ANDERSON-ABRAM, the author of the book “Self-Discovery. A Daily Journey-Positioned to Prosper” is scheduled to hold a book signing at her home town church New Mount Moriah Baptist Church Sunday, March 12 from 1 to 3 p.m. Abram is pictured with her longtime supporter Lawrence Miller.

tional anymore. Sirleaf attempted to continue working in-place but her connection to Liberia’s controversial president Tolbert made her vulnerable, so she applied for a job in America with the World Bank. It, and the fact that she was a native Liberian, probably ultimately saved her life. In 1980, following the Liberian government’s overthrow and Tolbert’s murder, Sirleaf continued being vigilant while working for the new President, as well as for World Bank. She knew she could do more if she stayed in-country during Liberia’s civil war, but her outspokenness was consequently perilous: she was jailed in 1985 for her rebellious actions, which outraged the country’s marketwomen. They helped get her released. It would be two decades before they’d get her elected President. Whew. Reading “Madame President” could very well wring you out. Starting with birth and a basic history of Liberia, author Helene Cooper takes us through a half-century of turmoil with a woman who, considering what surrounded her, possessed grit and guts. Cooper tells Sirleaf’s story as one that’s triumphant but also brutal and raw with violence, in a little too much gruesome detail; still, despite Blacks Must control their own coMMunity

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Gary’s basketball star shines at Emporia State By Carmen M. WoodsonWray The family of Kelly Moten is extremely proud of her. Not only because she will be graduating from Emporia State College in Kansas City in May, but because she is the Player of the Year in basketball at Emporia. Moten, a 2012 graduate of Roosevelt High School, has plans to hopefully play professional basketball overseas for five years, then return to the states and study law. The star athlete plays guard on the Emporia State College women’s basketball team. In the last game of the season she scored 27 points, 11 assists and eight rebounds. She holds the title of 3rd in scoring for the school. Emporia defeated Oklahoma in the Division AA MIAA Tournament with a score of 62 to 56, and now moves on to the NCAA on March 10.

Jeffery Tucker and other members of the family traveled to Kansas City last weekend for Moten’s game. Tucker said his cousin has been playing basketball since she was a little girl. He said, “She used to walk down the street bouncing a ball and every time you would see her she had a ball with her.” The second of eight children, Moten started playing basketball at Norton Elementary School, went on to play at Pulaski Middle School, and then to Roosevelt. One of the opposing basketball team coaches once said this about Moten, “We’ve got about 14 players on our team that can’t wait for her to graduate because they don’t want the ball when she’s guarding them. She is just phenomenal.” According to Moten’s cousin Tucker, she will be entering the upcoming NCAA Tournament as the fourth-leading scorer in her school’s history after four years of making things happen from base-

EMPORIA STATE COLLEGE Basketball Start Kelly Moten from Gary, Indiana—Kelly Moton, a 2012 graduate of Roosevelt High School is scoring leaps and bounds at Emporia State College for their basketball team. She holds the title of Player of the Year there. line to baseline. He said, “She has ity to drive to the hoop with ca- long range.” shown stunning accuracy from reer marks of 44.7 percent from Moten maintains a Grade Point beyond the arc, as well as the abil- the field and 33 percent from Average of 3.4.

Edgewater Eagles 2017 Champions of Steel City Biddy Basketball Eleven and 12 year old players on the Edgewater Eagles boy’s basketball team are the new 2017 Steel City Biddy Basketball champions. Their season record of 131, earned them the title. The Edgewater Eagles team is a part of Gary Indiana’s Steel City Biddy Basketball. The team has been sponsored and supported by

Edgewater Systems since 2009. The Edgewater Eagles usually meet every Tuesday and Thursday to practice at the Hudson-Campbell Sports Center, 455 Massachusetts St. in Gary. The games are most frequently played on Saturdays. In addition to making the youth the best basketball player they can be athletically, coaching

sessions also include tutoring time and homework assistance. Two main coaches volunteer their expertise to make the team a success. David Lloyd has many years of experience coaching various youth basketball teams. Lloyd is a thera-

pist at South Shore Commons. He is described as someone who brings the passion for the game, and commitment to youth, to his coaching. Head Coach Billy Madgett is a staff member at Edgewater Sys-

tems in the Rapid Access Center. Madgett too has years of coaching experience. He has coached the Edgewater Eagles team for the past seven years. In addition to co-coaching a winning 2017 season, Madgett also led the team to victory in 2014.

THE EDGEWATER EAGLES are the 2017 champions of the Steel City Biddy Basketball tournament. The team is photographed after the championship game: Top row (l-r): JaiVon Gordon, Javier Cardona, Coach David Lloyd, Adonis Emery, Nissiah King, Coach Jamaal Ward, Montrell McLaurin, Keishawn McLaurin, Jakar Gordon and Head Coach Billy Madgett. Bottom row (l-r): Jeremiah Metcalf, Cornelius Brown Jr. and Jayden Ryan. 12

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