Gary crusader 9/12/2015 E-Edition by The Crusader Newspaper Group

GARY CRUSADER 9-12-2015.qxp_Sheriff 1/8/13 2013 9/10/15 2:44 AM Page 1

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Services set for mother of Reverend Jesse L. Jackson

(See page 2)

Blacks Must Control Their Own Community

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Gary State Bank experiencing a rebirth

THE HISTORIC GARY State Bank building in the city’s downtown will be renamed the South Shore Technology Center when renovations are completed. Centier Bank set to open next month in historic building The 109-year-old Gary State Bank building, an elegant relic of the city’s illustrious past, is undergoing a rebirth that city leaders hope will spark new life into its business district. Gateway Partners LLC, of Hobart has

completed the first of the development phase of renovating the neoclassical building, which will be called the South Shore Technology Center. In addition, Centier Bank is set to open a branch in the historic building, located at 504 Broadway, less than a block from Gary City Hall. A family-owned bank, Centier has 51 lo-

cations in Allen, Elkhart, Hamilton, Lake, LaPorte, Marion, Marshall, Porter, St. Joseph and Tippecanoe Counties. It also has three branches in Chicago. Centier is currently serving more than 26 communities with 750 employees and more than $2.8 billion in assets. The bank is also expected to bring dozens of jobs to Gary. Centier bank has drawn many accolades from corporations and business organizations. The Indiana Chamber of Commerce named Centier Bank as the best placed to work. And the American Banker Magazine named Centier as the best bank for employees. The opening of the bank will finally bring an end to several months of delays, but city leaders are banking on Centier’s success in inspiring other businesses to open up shop in the city’s beleaguered downtown. Many businesses in Gary’s downtown remain boarded up and vacant. The city’s downtown today remains in stark contrast to a bygone era where big name department stores and thriving businesses were humming with shoppers on Gary’s main artery. City leaders hope to recapture the magic of the past with Centier Bank operating out of an important landmark. Construction for Centier Bank started in 2014 when Mayor Karen Freeman-Wilson led a cere-

monial groundbreaking with city and business leaders. During that ceremony, Freeman-Wilson announced plans to restore the 10-storybuilding, known for decades as an anchoring edifice in the heart of Gary’s business district. “This is another giant step for Gary as we work to revitalize the downtown area,” said Freeman-Wilson at the press conference in 2014. “A team of devoted people put their passion and vision together to develop a plan designed to spark even more growth on this corridor.” At the groundbreaking, Mike Schrage, President and CEO of Centier Bank shared his excitement about the bank’s investment in Gary. “Success for Gary means success for Northwest Indiana,” said Schrage at the ceremony. “We expect to see other businesses come, invest and build on what we have started.” Gateway Partners received $2.8 million in revenue bonds from the Gary’s Redevelopment Commission. In 2014, the Gary Economic Development Corporation voted to create a tax-increment financing district that would help finance the renovations. The approval came after officials of the corporation remain deadlocked in a 2-2 vote (Continued on page 3)

Group to address concerns of public safety retirees By David Denson The concerns of the Gary Police and Fire personnel have been and continue to be a major concern. For decades the rank and file of both departments has complained about the low pay and deplorable working conditions they had to endure. It is believed that the low pay is what has contributed to officers leaving Gary to find better paying positions with other police departments. Often, the concerns of the current fire and police personnel take front and center on the public stage, and little if any attention is given to those who have retired. Enter the Gary United Retired Fire and Po-

MEMBERS OF THE Gary United Retired Fire and Police Association, Chapter 9, gather for a group photo following their monthly meeting held a the Gleason Park Golf House. The 90-member organization is affiliated with the State Retired Police and Firefighter’s Association, the FOP and the Indiana Firefighter’s Association. The organizations are the lobbying arm for retired public safety workers. (Photo by Ted Brown) men and policemen pension issues. The lice Association. The organization of retired vivors. public safety workers serve to protect the penThe group will also lobby for law and legis- group will continue to serve Gary and sursion benefits of its members, widows and sur- lation pertaining to the best interests of fire(Continued on page 2)

GARY CRUSADER 9-12-2015.qxp_Sheriff 1/8/13 2013 9/10/15 2:44 AM Page 2

NEWS

Services set for mother of Reverend Jesse L. Jackson Funeral services for the mother of Reverend Jesse L. Jackson, Sr. will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, September 14 at Springfield Baptist Church, 600 E. McBee Ave. in Greenville, SC. A viewing and musical celebration to remember Helen Burns Jackson will be held from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday, September 13 at the same church, where Helen was a former member. Helen died Monday, September 8 while in hospice care at Greenville Memorial Hospital, according to a Greenville County councilwoman. She was 91. Jackson told television station WYFF in Greenville that his mother died after life support was disconnected. On Monday, Jackson tweeted: "My loving mother Mrs. Helen Jackson has made her transition to be with God. My family thanks you for your love and prayers." The family will establish a scholarship in her name through the Jackson Family Foundation. Jackson said the scholarship will go to local students who want to pursue a career in the arts. In lieu of flowers, the foundation

asks that donations be sent to the scholarship fund, which could be made through Springfield Baptist Church. Helen gave birth to Jesse Jackson in 1941 during her marriage to Noah Louis Robinson, a former professional boxer, who died in 1997. Jackson went on to become a national civil rights leader who founded the Rainbow Push Coalition, whose headquarters are located in Hyde Park in Chicago. According to its website, the organization has offices in Washington, D.C., Atlanta, Detroit, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, and Oakland, CA. During a press conference Tuesday, Jackson said his mother was a pillar in the Greenville community and a leader for social equality. "Our house was a conversation about fairness and social justice in part because mama could not vote until she was forty," Jackson told the media. "It really was a call to service. Mama had the capacity to move beyond social blocks. She learned to love people across lines of race."

Helen Burns Jackson

Survey: whites say Blacks need help to achieve equality Beliefs growing in light of national events according to the latest research A major survey by the Pew Research Center said more Americans from various racial and ethnic groups believe that the country needs to make more changes to give Blacks equal rights with whites. The national study also concluded that a growing number of Americans view racism as a big problem

in society. Based in Washington, DC, the Pew Research Center is a 25-year-old think tank that conducts extensive research and surveys on attitudes and trends shaping America and the world. The survey on racial equality was conducted July 14-20 and included 2,200 Black and white participants. The study asked numerous questions on race, issues and equality in America. Some of the findings in the study

Group to address concerns of public safety retirees (Continued from page 1) rounding communities. Chapter 9 of the State Retired Police and Firefighters Association is also affiliated with the Fraternal Order of Police and the Indiana Firefighter Association. Earlier this year, the organization was instrumental in the passage of pension relief to municipal governments. State HB1001 allows the State of Indiana to rebate the cost of fire and police pensions. According to Chapter 9 president Will Smith, Jr. “It’s important that we provide assistance to the widows and our fallen comrades and also to be the face for our retired public safety officers.” In addition to the concerns for the members and their families, the organization is also supporting several youth initiatives. “We will be supporting Pop Warner Football Leagues, little leagues and other youth programs that have gone by the wayside. We believe that we can be an integral part in helping to address the crime issue by being 2

mentors, ” said Smith. A number of retirees are battling Alzheimer’s disease, and the association will work with area organizations to help combat the disease. Although the work of the organization will center around retirees and their concerns, the association will lend support to the rank and file to secure them better pay and improved working conditions. “We are carefully walking side by side with our active firefighters and if there are some issues where they need our support, we are ready to stand by them in any way that we can,” said Smith. Being able to lobby on the local and state level for the members continues to be a priority. Smith says members will engage in lobbying for better pay for police and firefighters. “As far as the existing police and firefighters we stand ready with them whenever they call us. Whether we are active or retirees, we are still public safety officers and we have a commitment to the community.”

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2015

stated that roughly six in 10 Americans (59%) say the country needs to continue making changes to achieve racial equality, while 32 percent say the country has made the changes needed to give Blacks equal rights with whites. A year ago and at previous points in the last six years, public opinion was much more closely divided on this question. Though a substantial racial divide in these views remain, a majority of whites (53%) now say more needs to be done. Last year, just 39 percent of whites said this, and although large majorities of Blacks have consistently said that changes must continue to be made to achieve racial equality, 86 percent see the need now than in the past. At the same time, there is a more widespread sense among the public that racism in society is a significant problem. Currently, 50 percent say that racism is a big problem in our society today. Five years ago, just 33 percent of Americans identified racism as a big problem, and in January 2009, only about a quarter (26%) said this. Nearly three-quarters of Blacks (73%) now characterize racism as a big problem, along with 58 percent of Hispanics. Although whites are far less likely to say racism is a big problem (44%), the share of whites expressing this view has risen 17 points since 2010. This shift in public opinion is seen across the board. Growing shares in all regions of the country and across all demographic and partisan groups say that racism is a big problem and that more needs to be done to achieve racial equality. Still, significant partisan divides remain on these questions, with Republicans less likely than Democrats to hold these views.

The survey also finds that the Confederate flag continues to raise complicated emotions following a national debate sparked by the use of the flag’s imagery by the gunman in a racially motivated killing of nine Blacks in a Charleston, S.C. church in June. Clearly, the debate over the flag has resonated strongly with the public: 89 percent have heard about the debate, including 64 percent who have heard a lot about it. Most Americans (57%) support the recent decision by South Carolina’s government to remove the flag

Blacks Must control their own coMMunity

from the statehouse grounds; 34 percent see this as the wrong decision. Though majorities of whites (56%), Blacks (76%) and Hispanics (52%) say the flag’s removal was the right decision, there are more substantial partisan divides: Fully 74 percent of Democrats say this was the right decision, while Republicans are more divided (43% right decision; 49% wrong decision). Growing shares in all groups now say that more needs to be done to achieve racial equality, and there are no substantial age or educational differences on this question. www.garycrusader.com

GARY CRUSADER 9-12-2015.qxp_Sheriff 1/8/13 2013 9/10/15 2:44 AM Page 3

NEWS

September is National Voter Registration Month The National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS) established September as National Voter Registration Month as a non-partisan means of encouraging voter participation and increasing awareness about state requirements and deadlines for voting. NASS has also declared September 22, 2015 as National Voter Registration Day.

Promotes Awareness for October 5th voter registration deadline Indiana Secretary of State Connie Lawson is reminding citizens that September is National Voter Registration Month and encouraging all Hoosiers to register. Gary residents who plan on heading to the polls in the November 3 General Election must register to vote by the October 5 deadline. “Registering to vote is simple in Indiana,” said Secretary Lawson. “Thanks to technology, you can register anywhere, at any time, within seconds using the Indiana voters app on your smart phone or from your home computer. If technology is not your thing, you can also register at several public offices. I encourage all Hoosiers to register this month and to make their voices heard on Elec-

This month, make sure to:

tion Day.” The election includes the mayoral race between incumbent Karen Freeman-Wilson and for-

2015 drunk driving campaign ends The Gary Police Department on Tuesday, September 8 announced the completion of the national and statewide 2015 Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over enforcement mobilization campaign. During the annual 20-day enforcement period, 392 tickets were written, and 12 arrests were made within Gary. “The importance of driving sober cannot be overstated,” said Lt. Dawn Westerfield. “Ensuring drivers understand the risks of driving impaired are a priority we share all across the state. This campaign drives home the message that sober driving is the only safe way to drive. “Keeping impaired drivers off the streets is a must. Impaired drivers pose a significant risk to not only themselves but to the community as a whole. Removing impaired drivers from our street also reduces the risk of motor vehicle crashes due to impairment. Safer travels for all is the goal.” According to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2012, an average of one alcohol related driving fatali-

ty occurred every 51 minutes. Further, NHTSA statistics show each year on average, more than 10,000 people die on U.S. roadways, due to intoxicated driving. “Eliminating impaired driving is a priority in our state,” said Indiana Criminal Justice Institute Director, Dave Murtaugh. “With help from all of our partners, we will continue to raise awareness and enforcement on such an important topic – until our Indiana roadways are the safest roadways in the country.” Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over is an annual enforcement effort supported by federal highway safety funding. The Indiana Criminal Justice Institute distributes funding to more than 250 participating Indiana law enforcement agencies. For more information regarding the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over enforcement mobilization campaign, visit: http://www.nhtsa.gov/drivesober/. To learn more about Gary Police Department, visit: http://www.gary.in.us/- city-departments/police-department.

mer Gary Police Chief Douglas Wright, and independent candidates Syron Sy Smith and Robert L. Campbell. The race also includes Eddie Tarver Jr., who is running under the Unicratic Party. Republican candidate Charles R. Smith is also running in Gary’s mayoral race. For the Gary Common Council, five candidates are competing for three Council At-Large seats. They are Democratic candidates Kyle W. Allen Sr., Ronald (Ron) G. Brewer, Sr., Ragen H. Hatcher and Republican candidates Douglas Grimes and Jayson H. Reeves. Hoosiers have several options when it comes to registering to vote. Register online at Indi-

anaVoters.com or at your local county clerk’s office or Bureau of Motor Vehicles. Voters can also register to vote using the Indiana Voters app, which is available on iTunes or on your mobile app store. The app allows Hoosiers to register to vote, confirm their voter registration, look up their polling place, get driving directions to their polling location, find out who’s on their ballot, track their absentee ballot application or provisional ballot information and contact local election officials. It is a full service application designed to make voting easy for Hoosiers by making election information accessible from anywhere.

• Get registered to vote. Eligible citizens who are 18 years of age or older may register to vote. • Check your voter registration information. Updating voter registration information is critical for people who have recently moved or changed their name. You can do this online at Indianavoters.com or on the Indiana Voters app. • Host a voter registration drive in your community. Anyone can host a voter registration drive. Be an advocate in your community and make sure people are registered to vote. Register your event at nationalvoterregistrationday.org. Find out more about how to register to vote in Indiana at www.Indianavoters.com. For more on National Voter Registration Day and information on how to become a partner, check out www.NationalVoterRegistrationDay.org.

Gary State Bank experiencing a rebirth (Continued from page 1) to finance the renovations. The developers are now seeking tenants for the proposed data center. After tenants sign on the project, Gateway Partners will build a $30 million central utility plant on the site of the building’s parking garage. The facility will provide the power for the South Shore Technology Center. In the meantime, Centier Bank on the south of the bank is expected to be completed next month.

To build the bank, three adjacent buildings south of the bank were demolished to make way for the 2,500 square foot bank, drivethrough banking lanes, surface parking and landscaping. Over the years, the Gary State Bank building has had several banks as tenants. Chase Bank was the last occupant of the building, but moved out in the 1990s. At the time, Gateway acquired in the building, it was 80 percent vacant. Building the Centier Bank in-

side the structure wasn’t easy. Construction was halted in August when workers hit a gas line in the spot where support posts for the canopy were to be installed. In 2014, the construction for the Centier drive-through was also delayed when contractors uncovered asbestos that wasn’t found in the initial inspection. To resume the project, workers had to removed the asbestos to comply with the Department of Environmental Management.

CENTIER BANK WILL have drive-through banking lanes, parking and landscaping. (Rendering courtesy of Centier Bank) www.garycrusader.com

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SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2015

GARY CRUSADER 9-12-2015.qxp_Sheriff 1/8/13 2013 9/10/15 2:44 AM Page 4

EDITORIAL

EDITORIAL AMAZING BLACK ACHIEVERS There is increasing polarization going on around the world, and it is manifested in many different ways. There is a growing schism between the rich and poor; between some whites and some Blacks; between gang factions, between Christians and Muslims, and between Dominicans and Haitians, just to name a few. But one that is most appalling is the growing gap between Black people who love Black people and Black people who do not. One of the tell-tale signs of Blacks who do not love Blacks is instant self-hatred whenever a Black person achieves something amazing. These people value light skin over dark skin, wear expensive hair weaves grown on the heads of non-Black women overseas, and some of them buy skin lighteners. On the other hand, there is a growing appreciation for Black accomplishments among another group of Black people. This can be seen in the large numbers of African American women who have discovered the unique beauty of wearing their hair natural and in dressing in “afrocentric” clothing. They are also inclined to “buy Black” whenever possible, and to see through the propaganda that paints Black life and culture with a negative brush. Though it’s okay for people to have differing preferences, as the Black community itself is diverse, it is a wonder that some Black people hold onto the notion that white is better when you look at the incredible accomplishments Black people have achieved all over the globe. Black people have excelled in every endeavor that has been attempted throughout the Diaspora, and this has happened in spite of extreme oppression. Black people have influenced world culture to such an extent that even in countries like Japan there are young people who are adopting Black fashion. Black music can be heard around the world. People like Oprah, Michael Jackson, Michael Jordan, Denzel Washington, Beyoncé, Jay-Z, Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith, Barack Obama, Pelé, Jack Johnson, Magic Johnson, John H. Johnson, Spike Lee, and others too numerous to name have achieved heights above and beyond what the world says is possible. One of the latest and most exciting things happening in the realm of Black achievement is the incredible tennis triumphs of the Williams sisters. Venus and Serena Williams were coached by their father, Richard Williams at a very early age, and the girls have gone on to tennis greatness. They have been vilified because the white press has not been able to appreciate their very special kind of beauty. The attacks that Serena Williams, in particular, has had to endure, seem to increase with each new win. Admittedly, reasonable people have expressed admiration for the incredible accomplishments demonstrated by Serena and her older sibling, Venus. They are both at the top of their tennis game, with Serena currently ranked at number one by some observers. Previously, Venus was also ranked at number one. They faced each other in the US Open Tennis 2015 in the Quarter Finals, and Serena won the match, advancing to the Semi-Finals. Venus and Serena Williams’ achievements are spectacular by any yardstick, but when you look at their accomplishments amidst the backdrop of Compton, California, their hometown, they are truly phenomenal! It is being said that Serena will probably go down in history as one of the best players of all time! This type of success has been achieved in diverse fields of endeavor by many other Black people, both known and unknown. Black people who cannot see through the anti-Black hype need to take their blinders off and look at things objectively. As the great Marcus Mosiah Garvey once said, “If you have no confidence in self, you are twice defeated in the race of life. With confidence, you have won even before you have started.” A luta continua. 4

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2015

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR What’s happening at city hall? Dear Editor: In the last year or so, maybe the last 18 months, it seemed the City of Gary was on quite a roll. The Sheraton got knocked down, the city documented every abandoned building and their potential uses, grants were flowing in from the Feds to do any number of projects and developments, but now BAM! I don’t hear anything. There are no updates about the big initiatives the city had or any news of new deals in the pipeline. I know that things slow down during summer months but it seems we could be told what’s happening with those things that were announced many months ago. Is the 5x5 cleanup campaign still going on? Personally, big or little, I would like city officials to keep residents up to date on progress. Please don’t get me wrong Mr. Editor. I am not blaming anyone. It is just that I like to know what is going on in my city. In fact the, Gary Crusader, does an excellent job of keeping us abreast with community news but when it comes to what is going on in city government I just believe there can be more coming out of city hall. Yes, I read about people lining up to challenge the incumbent mayor, and in my opinion that is a

complete waste of time. Gary has not had a mayor as effective and concerned as this one since Richard Hatcher. That is why we need to know what is going on. We have a mayor and council that are both doing what they were elected to do-get things done in a positive manner. So if we were made more aware of what’s happening at city hall we might be able to pull together in one direction, rather than having “headline seekers” distracting us. David Pope

Police commission is a joke Dear Editor: At a time when the Gary Police Department needs as much support and leadership it can get, the Gary Civil Service Police Commission is acting like the Keystone Kops. At its last meeting the commission had trouble with the simple process of scheduling interviews for promotions. It is hard for me to imagine how these people are capable of deciding who is promotion-worthy but have trouble telling time. I am not certain if it is the city or the state that caused the commission to be created. But whichever body it is, there needs to be a hard look at the qualifications for commission members. These individ-

Blacks Must control their own coMMunity

uals can determine how successful a cop can be. Given that they have problems scheduling, how can they be trusted to handle decisions that impact people’s lives and futures? The Gary PD is in a very sensitive place right now. The members of the department need all of the leadership and support that can be mustered. The haphazard way commission members are approaching their responsibilities is a strong (Continued on page 5)

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GARY CRUSADER 9-12-2015.qxp_Sheriff 1/8/13 2013 9/10/15 2:44 AM Page 5

NOSING AROUND

EDITOR’S NOTE: The following column is a gossip column. We ask that items contained herein be judged by individuals that read it as such and not as documented facts gathered by the newsgathering personnel of this publication. WHEN YA GONNA GIVE BACK If ya been down on 25th & Grant Street you no doubt have seen this gang of kids dart in and out of traffic hitting folks up for money. There they are every weekend carrying buckets, which they put the money into. Word reached Nosey the panhandlers ain’t raising money for some charitable cause, rather hustlin, money to pay for their trip to a dance contest sponsored by BET. They must be going to the contest every year, cuzz they be out there begging every weekend year after year. They got to be breaking some kind of law and the city ought to crack down on ‘em and cease the constant hustlin. Now it would be different if they was raising money for some noble cause, but that ain’t nowhere near the case. So it’s bout time a halt was brought to this shameless begging.

person was stalking him and he thought some harm might come to him. Now Higgs might be on to something with these orders of protection, and maybe it might not be a bad idea if some of our council members took a page out of his book. There are several folks who attend council meetings with the intent to disrupt the meetings. It might be a good idea to take some legal action against them. Then maybe they wouldn’t be so eager to clown at the meetings. But then again, if they ain’t threatening bodily harm, then they really aren’t a threat. Given the scrappiness of some of our council members, it may be the detractors that may need protection.

Genesis Convention Center

-NoseyKEEPIN’ AN EYE ON THE STATE OF THINGS Nosey heard a rumor that a vacancy may be coming up in one of the State Legislative offices next year. Word is one of our veteran legislators is talking about step-

-NoseyMIGHT BE SOMETHING TO CONSIDER

ping down and Nosey hears that there has been talk going around regarding who may run for the vacant seat. It’s rumored that two current elected officials one from this neck of the woods and another who lives in the district but in another town is thinking about running. It is also rumored that someone from the private sector, who is said to have a good chance at winning the seat is looking at throwing their hat in the ring. Course right now it’s all speculation, because that legislator may change their mind at the last minute and decide to run again. Stay tuned for further developments.

to the Genesis Center to get a diner to go only to find out that the place had been closed. Imagine the disappointment especially since one of us had a serious taste for

some Mac-an-Cheese. But not to worry, heard they’re back in business down at the Genesis Center and Nosey has plans to be one of their customers.

-NoseySaw where Hammond City Councilman Anthony Higgs has taken out an order of protection against one of his former opponents. According to what Nosey hears the order barred the person from coming to the County Building where he works and was also barred from entering City Hall. He said the

PASS ME THE ROLLS Started to say it’s amazing how rumors get started, but duh, that’s kinda dumb given that we’re in the rumor business. Be that as it may, not too long ago Nosey had planned to send somebody down

Anthony Higgs

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR (Continued from page 4) signal they do not have the best interests of the men and women on the police force at heart. At a time when the city council and mayor are trying to slow the

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rush of officers leaving the department, while simultaneously looking under sofa cushions for enough money to give them raises; the commission needs to be very tight with its business. Fol-

lowing this last meeting, it is hard to take them seriously when it seems they can’t take themselves seriously. Tate Green

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SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2015

GARY CRUSADER 9-12-2015.qxp_Sheriff 1/8/13 2013 9/10/15 2:44 AM Page 6

BUSINESS

Chinese delegation visits Gary/Chicago International Airport’s Runway 12/30

CHINESE DELEGATION WITH Airport Authority Board members Denise Dillard and Alesia Pritchett, executive director Dan Vicari, chairman Stephen Mays, and Gary Economic Development director Bo Kemp. Part of official educational tour on best practices in successful brownfield redevelopment projects throughout the United States On Friday morning, Sept. 4, the Gary/Chicago International Airport hosted a seven-member Chinese delegation to tour the former brownfield site. The delegation, representing three environmental consulting firms and three research centers in China, was in town for the National Brownfields Training Conference in Chicago. The conference included a ‘Standards in Trade’ workshop to introduce select Chinese experts to U.S. technology companies, scientific experts, and standards experts experienced in environmental remediation. The Chinese government has identified environmental remediation as a national objective, and this workshop explored best

practices in the United States. ‘Brownfield’ refers to land that was previously used for industrial purposes and may be contaminated with hazardous waste or pollution. Brownfields must be cleaned up before being returned to productive use. Due to rapid development and urbanization, China is facing a surplus of abandoned industrial sites that must be rehabilitated. Global engineering firm AECOM, one of the main contractors on the airport’s Runway Expansion Project, arranged for the delegation to tour the airport and experience one of the region’s redeveloped brownfields first-hand. “We completed an exhaustive, complex rehabilitation of the surrounding land in order to complete the runway expansion,” said airport executive director Dan Vicari, who also served as project manager of the Runway Expansion Project. “The

successful expansion garnered national attention and I am proud now to share Gary’s best practices with an international audience.” The City of Gary and the Northwest Indiana Regional Development Authority have received numerous federal grants to fund the City’s Brownfields Program, making Gary the perfect location to highlight the impact of redevelopment on abandoned or underutilized land. The Gary/Chicago International Airport is one of the program’s big successes. The land that is now covered by the new runway extension was unused and heavily polluted from prior industrial use. After significant environmental remediation, that land was transformed into an asset for the airport and economic driver for the city. The visit was part of a multi-city tour which includes metropolitan areas in New York and California.

East Chicago Mayor receives gift from resident On September 2, East Chicago resident Elizabeth Samaniego met and presented Mayor Anthony Copeland with a handmade portrait. Elizabeth Samaniego painted

the portrait at her home after receiving a mailer during the last election. Mayor Copeland stated, “I was quite surprised to receive such a nice gift from one of our own tal-

ented residents. I will proudly display it in my office.” I wanted to paint his portrait because he is a good mayor and he cares for the community, said Elizabeth Samaniego.

MAYOR ANTHONY COPELAND accepts a portrait of himself from Elizabeth Samaniego, who painted it in honor of his service as mayor. 6

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2015

High demand for middle-skills jobs By Glenn Augustine For Chris Madden, the idea of a career in the trades began in high school when he took courses at a career and technical education center. He enjoyed the hands-on work of building a house and was intrigued by the electrical work. Some of Madden’s friends already were pursuing electrical apprenticeships and providing information about following in their footsteps. Interest coupled with information provided inspiration and a pathway to Madden’s future. Still a question lingered. What about college? A report from The Institute for College Access and Success found Indiana students who earned bachelor’s degrees in 2013 from public and not-forprofit colleges accrued debt averaging $28,466. And while a college degree typically results in greater lifetime earnings, some college grads find landing their first job difficult. “It’s kind of hard to (go to college) and not be promised a job right out of school if you go four years,” Madden said. “(The apprenticeship) was very attractive to me to be able to know that I would be guaranteed work for the next five years. And I also had a trade that I could have for the rest of my life. I could take it anywhere I wanted to go, any state or anything like that.” Employers across Indiana need more Chris Maddens. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported Indiana’s unemployment rate for July was its lowest since April 2008. Just because Hoosiers are filling jobs doesn’t mean Hoosier employers don’t have more openings to fill, and they will for the foreseeable future. Consider these findings from the Indiana Chamber of Commerce 2015 Employer Survey: 1. 75 percent of the respondents’ workforce is estimated to be eligible for retirement within the next five years. 2. 73 percent of respondents say filling their workforce was either one of their challenges or their biggest challenge. 3. 58 percent of respondents expect their workforce to increase in the next 12-24 months. 4. 43 percent of respondents said their companies left jobs unfilled in the last year due to underqualified applicants. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, these middle skills jobs aren’t generally low-paying. Last year, skilled trade workers in Indiana made a median wage of $21.89 an hour. In fact, Gary, Indiana was one of the top-paying metro areas in the nation for con-

Blacks Must control their own coMMunity

Glenn Augustine struction at $30 dollars an hour. Employers say retiring Baby Boomers and expected job growth result in a list of available occupations with a range of education and skill levels, from high school graduates to doctoral degrees. But 39 percent of the jobs listed in the survey require either a workforce credential or an associate degree, both of which can be earned in two years or less. Subaru of Indiana Automotive (SIA) operates an 18-month internship program that allows trainees to earn $30,000 while obtaining a workforce credential or an associate degree from Vincennes University. Madden’s five-year apprenticeship included a $40,000 per year salary while earning an associate degree in applied sciences from Ivy Tech, said Jim Patterson, director of the Electrical Training Institute. “In the way we have the trades set up now, when you get that associate’s degree with Ivy Tech, then you can go right into IU or Purdue and continue your education,” Patterson said. Many employers also offer tuition reimbursement that allows employees to pursue bachelor’s and advanced degrees. “We need workers who can think critically, problem solve and work on a team,” said Brad Rohrer, SIA’s manager of training and performance management. “There are good jobs available with advancement possibilities, but we need people to get the appropriate skills first, and we will help them do that.” Ivy Tech offers programs statewide to train students for the skilled trades or technician level jobs but doesn’t have enough students in the pipeline to meet employers’ demand, said Sue Smith, vice president for Ivy Tech’s Technology Division. That’s why organizations such as the Electrical Training Institute, the Indiana Plan, the Indiana Construction Roundtable and Indiana’s Regional Works Councils—local partnerships between business, education, and manufacturing—are trying to increase awareness about the opportunities that are available in the skilled trades, advanced manufacturing and related fields. www.garycrusader.com

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COMMENTARY

CIRCLE CITY CONNECTION The media can’t escape its share of the blame for decadent society By Vernon A. Williams The media can no longer escape blame. Much of the moral decay permeating American society today is a direct result of the incompetence, lack of integrity and disconnection of news providers and the people who rely on them. Let’s deal with incompetence first. As a journeyman and constant student of the craft, the rubric by which to assess performance of print and broadcast journalism is no mystery. Technology has changed – not standards. Because news organizations are far more intent on being first than being accurate, men and women rush in front of the camera or into publication with the facts as they have them rather than – as the New York Times opines – all the news that’s fit to print. These days, ready or not…here it comes. If you happen to fall into the category of “millennials,” you likely have no idea that there actually was a time when the news featured investigative reporting. Folks would approach a story with no preconceived notions and ferret out the

facts – not just what they were told. And they got both sides of the story. They fail to point out inaccuracies in the presentation of information by newsmakers, partly because they haven’t done the homework to discern truth from fiction. One of the real flaws of today’s news people is that they shamelessly lack a frame of reference when conveying information. Because history for too many of them goes back about as far as 1990, they are devoid of knowledge from people, places and things past that impact the news of the 21st Century. So it is virtually impossible for them to address context. Now let’s deal with integrity – or the lack of it. I remember as a budding reporter back in the 1970s that there were concepts that were held dead, even if not always adhered to. They included fairness and objectivity. Only editors, analysts and columnists were allowed to openly present their opinions or personal perspectives. These days, that’s all you get. You can’t trust an anchor or reporter who has an agenda, or an axe to grind, or displays an obvious bias. Fox News is the quintessential

Vernon Williams news provider devoid of a soul. Fox stories are characterized by such a pointed slant toward their ultraconservative editorial policy that the network has become the laughing stock of the industry. And it would be funny except for the fact that millions of television viewers confuse their vitriolic rhetoric with truth. Media influence thoughts, actions and processes – for good, indifferent and evil. Thus, the impact of those who assume the role of information authorities with-

out also embracing the responsibility that accompanies it is a major threat to society. Finally, there is a serious disconnection between those who roll out the events of our times and those who consume news. Obvious from virtually every local newscast in the country, decisionmakers are convinced that at least a dozen of the first 15 stories of each broadcast must feature crime, corruption and tragedies – the latest rapes, robberies, murders, scandals, deadly accidents or fires, and the most gruesome tales of inhumanity. Make no mistake. These morose choices in stories don’t happen because there’s nothing else available. They reflect a conscious preference of what broadcast and print media prefer reporting. They are not selected merely because of their salacious content, but because those at the top actually believe it’s what viewers and readers want most. They are merely out of touch… disconnected. The proliferation of crime shows as TV drama and TV news magazines dominated by murder mysteries, provide further confirmation. Along with all of the above, the

national news media adds dirty politics into its arsenal as they take deadly aim at both thinking and non-thinking viewers, listeners and readers. Donald Trump isn’t getting the most attention because he’s the smartest. As a matter of fact, old-fashioned, thorough journalism with principles would’ve already unveiled the farce that is his candidacy. Media bosses are too disconnected to recognize the need of the people. Expect more of the same as we plod along a laborious election year. Nothing will change. As a matter of fact, expect much worse before it even gets a little better. For media, sensationalism trumps (no pun intended) competence, integrity and relevance all day, every day. CIRCLE CITY CONNECTION by Vernon A. Williams is a series of essays on myriad topics that include social issues, human interest, entertainment and profiles of difference makers who are forging change in a constantly evolving society. Williams is a 40-year veteran journalist based in Indianapolis, IN – commonly referred to as The Circle City. Send comments or questions to: vernonawilliams@yahoo.com.

New lawyer’s president will bring changes By Glenn Reedus When one takes into account that of the nation’s lawyers 88 percent are Caucasian, the statistic speaks volumes about Paulette Brown’s career and reputation in the legal arena. Brown, an African American, was recently in Chicago for her swearing-in ceremony as the new president of the American Bar Association. When she lowered the gavel August 4 she made history as the first AfricanAmerican female in the ABA’s 127year history. Black attorneys have only been allowed to be members since 1943. Today about 400,000 of the nation’s 1.2 million practicing attorneys belong to the ABA. The Baltimore native’s resume also includes a stint as president of the National Bar Association, the nation’s largest trade association of African American lawyers. Brown joins former Detroit Mayor Dennis Archer as being the only attorneys with the distinction of presiding over both organizations. While Brown plans to advance the traditional ABA standards that include increasing and exceptional service to its members, “I really would like to increase the membership because the more members you have, the bigger voice you have,” she offered. www.garycrusader.com

Brown added her one-year term will have a stronger push for diversity than seen by her predecessors. Her goal, Brown said is “to become the gold standard in the industry for diversity.” The 63-year-old Seton Hall University law school graduate noted the legal profession is among the least diverse in the U.S. One of her first initiatives was to develop an ABA commission on diversity. It will be an all-out effort to identity and root out implicit bias, something she said, “no one is exempt from implicit bias.” The diversity commission will provide judges, prosecutors and public defenders videos to help them better understand implicit bias, and how to keep it out of the courtroom. An individual might enter a guilty plea to a crime for the sake of expediency. The individual takes the plea because the only thing he or she is told by an attorney is it will move them through the judicial process sooner. The long-term consequence of that plea, possibly losing the right to vote, difficulty in finding a job, or other common discriminatory practices aren’t shared with the defendant, according to Brown. She offered it is incumbent upon judges when sentencing someone pleading to first find out if that person fully understands what she calls

Paulette Brown

Blacks Must control their own coMMunity

“collateral consequences” of that plea. The ABA and the U.S. Department of Justice, according to Brown, are compiling a database of all collateral consequences and will provide all judges with that information in September. Brown’s ceremony at the Hyatt Hotel in downtown Chicago was packed with judges, attorneys and others in the legal profession. A contingent of 35 students stood out however. They were eventually introduced as Brown’s special guests, members of the James Jordan Boys and Girls Club. Two other high school students shadowed Brown during her time here. Young people will be a priority during her term. She has already visited about half of the states since becoming president-elect last year. “I have had the opportunity to meet some wonderful young people,” she said. Her plans call for her to visit a boys and girls club or some youth center every month. Brown, a Howard University political science grad was the first in her family to attend college. She has worked at several Fortune 500 companies, as well as starting her own firm that specialized in civil rights, product liability and employment law. Ten years ago she joined her current firm Edwards Wildman as a partner. SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2015

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EDUCATION

Free haircuts at Back-To-School Jamboree Sept. 12 State Rep. Vernon G. Smith (D-Gary) said King Milan Barber Shop will offer free haircuts again this year at the Back-toSchool Jamboree on Saturday, Sept. 12. In addition, Dr. Smith said local mascots, including Ronald McDonald and the Gary South Shore RailCats’ Rusty and Rascal, will be special guests at the Jamboree. They will be available for photographs with children and adults. The Jamboree will run from 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. on the Indiana University Northwest (I.U. Northwest) Campus. “King Milan Barber Shop’s free haircuts were a big hit at last year’s Back-to-School Jamboree, so we’re pleased to have King Milan participating again this year,”

said Dr. Smith. “We’re also excited to have the Mascots attend the Jamboree. Everyone loves to have their pictures taken with these unique celebrities, especially the children. The Jamboree has so much to offer young people of all ages as we get students excited about the start of a new school year.” The three-on-three basketball tournament competition will be 8:30 a.m.- 4 p.m. in Savannah Hall Gymnasium. Teams should register early to secure a position and to save money on the registration fee. Early registration is still only $30 for each team. Onsight registration will be $45 per team. Application forms can be obtained by visiting the Beautiful Things store at 3570 Village Court in Gary or by calling Dr. Smith at (219) 887-2046.

IN WHAT HAS become a tradition at the Back-to-School Jamboree students receive free haircuts. The annual Jamboree Film Fes- test, a Double Dutch Jump Rope tival will be from 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. competition, and a video game inside Savannah Hall Auditorium tournament. and a DJ will provide music for Face painting, finger painting, dancing from noon-4 p.m. In ad- and a drawing contest will keep dition, there will be a dance con- the younger children active.

Additionally, area agencies will have exhibit booths where literature will be distributed about what those organizations offer students and their families. Booth rentals are available for groups that offer youth services or have products to sell. Dr. Smith may be contacted at (219) 887-2046 for more information about booth rentals. The Jamboree is sponsored by Dr. Smith, the African-American Achievers Youth Corps, Inc., the I.U. Dons, Inc., Indiana University Northwest, Haywood & Flemings Associates Insurance Agency, the Gary Crusader, the 411 News, Geminus Corporation, State Farm Insurance, U.S. Steel, Majestic Star, Fresh Country Market LLC, King Milan Barber Shop, Petro Gary Shopping Center, and Methodist Hospital.

Karl Besel, Ph.D., named IU Northwest Dean Besel brings experience in administration, non-profit management Indiana University Northwest announces the appointment of Karl Besel, Ph.D., as the Assistant Dean and Director of the School of Public and Environmental Affairs (SPEA). He joined IU Northwest in July, 2015. The School of Public and Environmental Affairs invites the campus and community to meet Besel and colleagues, and learn more about SPEA academic programs, at a “Meet and Greet” event planned for 3:30 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 29 in John W. Anderson Library Conference Center, room 105. Besel brings extensive experience working in administrative roles and running non-profit agencies to his position, in addition to his academic experience which includes teaching, research and numerous publications and awards. He comes to IU Northwest from IU Kokomo, where he served as a professor of public administration and health manage-

graduate programs, especially in the health care and non-profit management realms. This is an area Besel feels is already in demand among students and is expected to increase. “The jobs of the 21st century are going to be in health care and biotechnology,” Besel said, “and there is much that can be done on the leadership and policy side in those fields. In fact, there is much unchartered territory in these disciplines, which will open a lot of doors for graduates of our programs.”

Besel earned his Ph.D. in urban and public affairs, specializing in organizational administration, and his master’s degree in social work, specializing in direct practice mental health, both from the University of Louisville. Besel attended Valparaiso University where he earned a bachelor’s degree in social work. His research interests include new urbanism, economic development, nonprofit management, executive succession planning, civil society and organizational sustainability. In

2013, Besel co-authored a book, “Back to the Future: New Urbanism and the Rise of Neotraditionalism in Urban Planning,” with Viviana Andreescu. A native of Los Angeles County in California, Besel first moved to the Midwest with his family as a teen. Besel is currently living in Carmel, Ind. with his wife and daughter, who is finishing her final year of high school. In his spare time, he enjoys racquetball, hiking and bicycling.

Karl Besel ment and also the graduate program director. While at IU Kokomo, Besel developed a full-fledged graduate degree program from what had been only a graduate certificate, resulting in an increase from about 15 students in that program to about 60 over just a few years. Prior to that, Besel ran a health clinic at the University of Louisville’s Kent School of Social Work. In his role at IU Northwest, Besel hopes to further develop SPEA

History demonstrations at Indiana Dunes, Sept. 12-13 Indiana Dunes State Park invites guests to relive the history of the dunes area on Sept. 12 and 13. Members of the Ouiatenon Brigade, a re-enacting group, will land on the beach and set up camp, just east of the beach pavilion. The brigade portrays the French-Canadian voyageurs of the 1700s in dress, food and lifestyle. Interpretive naturalists will lead hikes to the encampment from the nature center. Saturday night will feature an insect program at the Wilson Shelter. 8

Purdue University researchers will highlight recent beetle diversity research and have special night lights to capture and display unique insects found in the dunes. The program starts at 8 p.m. CDT. Funding for this program is courtesy of the Friends of Indiana Dunes group. For more information, call (219) 926-1390. Indiana Dunes State Park (stateparks.IN.gov/2980.htm) is at 1600 North 25 E. Chesterton, 46304. To view all DNR news releases, please see dnr.IN.gov.

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ENTERTAINMENT

“Black Man in a White Coat” by Damon Tweedy, M.D.

by Damon Tweedy, M.D. c.2015, Picador $26.00 / $29.99 Canada 295 pages Lately, you haven’t been feeling like yourself. You’ve always been a bounce-outof-bed kind of person, but not anymore: you’re achy now, tired, and you can’t think straight. Did you pick up a bug of some kind or – as you’ll learn in the new book “Black Man in a White Coat” by Damon Tweedy, M.D. – does the color of your skin have something to do with it? Damon Tweedy knew he was a rarity. In 1996, the year he entered medical school at Duke University, just seven percent of all medical students in the U.S. were Black. That minority-within-a-minority, he says, led to unintended racism in the classroom. Working at the hospital, he also saw racism’s effects: many of Tweedy’s patients were Black, and the state of their health opened his eyes. He’d grown up in a solidly middle-class neighborhood with two parents who demanded education. Those were

Damon Tweedy things that most of Tweedy’s Black patients never had, and that mattered. As he worked his way from student to intern to resident, Tweedy gained experience and tried several branches of medicine before deciding on psychiatry as a specialty. But long before that, he worked in Labor & Delivery and learned that “more than 70 percent of Black children are born to unmarried women,” a rate that’s more than twice that of white babies. He saw the affects of poverty while volunteering at a “safety-net clinic” in rural North Carolina. There, he found that “poor Blacks were four times as likely as the general population to receive care” at such facilities. Hypertension is “50 percent more common in Black people than in

Kirk Franklin: A Concert of Hope Continues the West Side Theatre Guild’s 19th Season of “Serving the Community…One Performance at a Time.” The West Side Theatre Guild opens its 19th season with gospel legend, Kirk Franklin in concert! For nearly two decades, Kirk Franklin has been a multi-platinum-selling purveyor of majestic fusions of gospel and contemporary music. Franklin is also the host and executive producer of the gospel talent show "Sunday Best," the highest-rated gospel program in BET network history now heading into its eighth season. To date, the trendsetter has garnered nine GRAMMY® Awards, Kirk Franklin 39 Stellar Awards, 16 Dove Awards (CCM), eight NAACP Image the Gary area. Awards, two BET Awards, an Performance Schedule: Saturday, American Music Award, a Soul October 10, 2015 @ 7 p.m., 900 Train Award and numerous oth- Gerry St., Gary, IN 46406. ers. Franklin is the biggest selling Tickets are $10.00 for chilContemporary Gospel artist in dren $20.00 in advance for adults, $25.00 at the door and can be the history of SoundScan. The event will be hosted by purchased at Bilco’s BarberDarryll King of Rejoice 102.3 shop, 2448 Broadway, Gary, IN FM radio. Also, opening the pro- 46407, Big Daddy’s BBQ, 4213 gram will be Asia’s Dance Fac- Cleveland St., Gary, IN 46408. tory and Carl Hearne and Priest- Also, tickets can be purchased hood, both with students from at Eventbrite.com. www.garycrusader.com

whites…” Homicide is the leading cause of death for Black male teens, which can lead to survivor guilt. AIDS, once a death sentence, is treatable today – although “black people… are more than eight times as likely as whites to be diagnosed with HIV.” Overall, “Being Black can be bad for your health” but there are windows of good news… When you first glimpse “Black Man in a White Coat,” you may wonder if it’s about health or if it’s a memoir. It’s both, actually, but that scarcely matters when a book is this good. With a calm voice that belies the urgency he so apparently feels about the subject, author Damon

“Black Man in a White Coat” by Damon Tweedy, M.D. Tweedy, M.D. explains why African Americans need to pay better attention to their health and the care they get. How the system fails black patients is of particular interest to him (he, in fact, relates an anecdote of his own as illustration), and he offers opinions on the Affordable Care Act. In between this obviously useful info, Tweedy also shares with

readers his long and personal path to becoming a doctor and how he grew with each step. This is one of those books you wish wouldn’t have to end. It’s interesting, gently humorous, and – more importantly – it may save lives. And if those aren’t good enough reasons to want “Black Man in a White Coat,” then read it just for the health of it.

Join the Towle Theater for its 13th Season The Towle Theater is excited to announce its 13th Season.” The Season opens with the world premiere comedy, “Crashing with Flamingos” by Indiana native, Jim Henry. Jim is an award winning playwright and current resident at Chicago Dramatists. “Crashing with Flamingos” is about Raymond, who can do no wrong. Everything he touches seems to end up in the pink. One of his co-workers, Bury, is laid off from his job and locked out of his apartment on the same day. Raymond comes to the rescue by offering his sofa-sleeper to Bury until he is back on his feet. Instead of being rescued, Bury is thrown into the middle of the implosive relationship between Raymond and his neurotic and quirky shut-in wife Peg. What Raymond and Peg don’t know? Bury is about to heap his own pile of baggage into this magnificent mess. “Crashing with Flamingos” runs February 26-28, March 4-6, 10-13, 2016. The second show of the season is the musical “First Date.” This hilarious musical comedy deals with a blind date in real time. When blind date newbie Aaron is set up with serial-dater Casey, a casual drink at a busy New York restaurant turns in-

to a hilarious high-stakes dinner. As the date unfolds in real time, the couple quickly finds that they are not alone on this unpredictable evening. In a delightful and unexpected twist, Casey and Aaron’s inner critics take on a life of their own when other restaurant patrons transform into supportive best friends, manipulative exes and protective parents, who sing and dance them through ice-breakers, appetizers and potential conversational land mines. Can this couple turn what could be a dating disaster into something special before the check arrives? You will see this entrée on the menu on April 22-24, 29, 30, May 1, 5-8, 2016. The summer production at the Towle is a US premiere hot off the stage from London. “The House of Mirrors and Hearts” written by Eamonn O'Dwyer and Rob Gilbert is a chilling and intimate chamber musical with a striking and haunting musical score. Seven years have passed since the death of Anna’s husband in a tragic accident at his glazier’s workshop; the widow and her two daughters move through the house like shadows. The arrival of Nathan, a new lodger, casts light on a past they have all tried to keep in darkness. With an unflinching exploration of loss, family and the

Blacks Must control their own coMMunity

question of whether we can escape the past, “The House of Mirrors and Hearts” focuses on three complex but strong women and a young academic who inadvertently finds himself tangled in their story. This musical runs July 8-10, 15-17, 21-24, 2016. The final show of the 2016 season is the raucous comedy, “Secrets of a Soccer Mom” by Kathleen Clark. Three engaging women reluctantly take the field in a mothers vs. sons soccer game. They intend to let the children win, but as the game unfolds they become intent on scoring. The competition ignites a fierce desire to recapture their youthful goodhumor, independence and sexiness, paving the way toward a better understanding of themselves, their families and changes they need to make in their lives. The performances for “Secrets of a Soccer Mom” are September 9-11, 16-18, 22-25, 2016. Don’t miss out on all four show at the low price of only $55. That’s only $13.75 per ticket. This early bird price is only good until December 5. So order your Season Tickets today. For more information on purchasing season tickets, please visit www.towletheater.org or call the box office at 219-937-8780.

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CHURCH

First Vesper Service by Billy Foster at St. Timothy By Carmen M. Woodson-Wray The St. Timothy Community Church and the August Birthday Group will present “A Jazz Vespers Service” written by Billy Foster as an original sacred composition and premiering for the first time in Northwest Indiana on Sunday, September 27 at 4:00 p.m. at St. Timothy Community Church, 1600 W. 25th Ave. in Gary. Featured will be Renee’ MilesFoster, on vocals, Bruce Evans on bass and Lannie Turner on drums. Special guests will be Harry Porterfield, anchor for CBS Chicago News, Pastor Michael L. Cobbler of Union Community Church of Valparaiso, the St. Timothy Community Sanctuary Choir, Dolena Mack, director, Carolyn Williams as vocalist, Art Hoyle on trumpet and Danny Reese as vocalist. Jazz Vespers as a concept worship service and as an outreach min-

Billy Foster istry, began in New York City in the 1960s. Pastor John Gensel of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in New York City befriended the city’s musicians and designed a service of prayer and jazz for folks who couldn’t make it to Sunday morning services after playing late night gigs on Saturday night. Some were concerned that jazz music would attract a wayward, night-

CHURCH CALENDAR WCCC To Celebrate Women’s Day Western Christian Community Church is celebrating its annual Women’s Day, Sunday, September 13, 2015. The speaker for the 11:00 a.m. worship service will be Minister Linda Braggs of Chicago, Illinois. Dinner will be served following the service and after dinner Minister Braggs will engage in storytelling. Western Christian Community Church is located at 2826 West 15th Ave. Mathew Whittington is the pastor.

name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and as they give God the glory for all that He has done!,” the Chairperson said.

JAZZ KEYBOARDIST BILLY Foster is pictured with St. Timothy Community Church pastor Dr. Alfred Johnson. The church’s August Birthday group will present “A Jazz Vesper” Service written by Foster as an original sacred composition. The service is appearing for the first time at St. Timothy and money raised from the event will go towards the Rev. Robert Lowery Ministry Center. (Photo by Chris Roberts Gonzales) clubbing crowd to church. Pastor fessional musician and bandleader. cially jazz, I believe has the ability Gensel wasn’t fazed. He said, Foster will present the first Vesper to inspire, uplift and in general, “That’s the kind we want, the good Service ever held in Gary with orig- make our lives better. My hope is ones can stay home.” inal compositions he has written. that this music is inspiring in good Billy Foster is a respected pianist, He said, “My desire to write music times and something that will composer and educator. He has for jazz vesper has finally become a bring you enjoyment.” worked as a jazz piano instructor at reality. This has been a deeply movMoney raised from the service Valparaiso University for 34 years ing and spiritual journey. I have will go towards the Rev. Robert and is currently piano instructor at been pleased and I am extremely Lowery Ministry Center at St. Indiana University Northwest. He grateful to be a cancer survivor. It is Timothy. has conducted many jazz lectures, my wish to extend this blessing to Rev. Dr. Alfred L. Johnson is the clinics and educational perfor- all of you as you celebrate life giv- pastor at St. Timothy Community mances and remains active as a pro- ing your very best. Music and espe- Church.

Jerusalem M. B. Church To Celebrate Its 92nd Year Anniversary Pastor Isaac Culver, Jr. and the Jerusalem M. B. Church family cordially invite the public to their 92nd Year Church Anniversary. This celebration will be held on Sunday, September 20, 2015, beginning at 8:00 a.m. Pastor Emeritus, the Rev. Dr. J. C. Wade, Jr. of the Zion M. B. Church in East Chicago, Indiana, will bring the message. Following Sunday school at 9:30 a.m., the First Lady, Evangelist Janice Culver will deliver the 11:00 a.m. message. The theme for this milestone celebration is: “Building for God’s Glory” – Luke 6:48. For more information, please call the church office at 219/885-4014. This year’s Anniversary Chairperson is Sis. Jackie Adams and Sis. Shelia Dubose is Co-Chairperson. The pastor and church look forward to fellowshipping with guests as they celebrate a great day in the 10

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SPORTS

NASA completes its Annual Summer Baseball Camp Northshore Amateur Sports Academy (NASA) presented its eightweek summer baseball camp as part of the YWCA of Northwest Indiana’s 2015 Summer Youth Camp. Over 400 participants were taught the fundamentals of the game from former Major League baseball players and coaches. Sessions included history lessons of past and present legendary players from the area and the learning of Spanish and French languages. The Northshore Amateur Sports Academy, Inc., is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization that has been running youth programs since 2007. For more information on this program and other projects, contact Wallace Johnson at (219) 980-0070 or visit www.north- ALEXICIA MOORE WITH baseball medal and RIKAYLA WILLIAMS PERFECTING her swing at the Summer Baseball shoreacademy.org. Camp. Wallace Johnson at Appreciation Day.

Chesterton’s Eric Richardson signs on for 2016 NAIA Men’s Golf Eric Richardson, the son of Gary and Sarah, is a Chesterton High School 2016 Graduate. After graduating with an honors diploma this June, Eric plans to major in Business at Indiana University Northwest. “His academic success combined with his golfing talents makes him a great addition to our RedHawk golf program,” an IUN spokesman said. Over the past three years while playing for coach Kent Butler, Eric has posted scores of 74 at the Lake

Central Invite, a 77 at Coyote Crossing in Lafayette, as well as a 76 in Sectionals. Eric also placed in the top 25 of the nation's oldest golf invitational last spring. Eric, along with his father and Coach Butler joined RedHawk Head Coach Ryan Bishop and Director of Athletics Kristofer Schnatz at The Brassie Golf Club recently to sign his letter of intent to compete next season for IU Northwest.

Coach Bishop is excited about his first 2016 recruit. “Eric will represent our young program in a positive way both on and off the course” said Bishop. “We are committed to building a strong foundation with high character student-athletes like Eric Richardson,” he added. “Indiana University Northwest would like to officially welcome Eric Richardson to our RedHawk golfing family next fall!” Coach Bishop concluded.

CHILDREN ALSO LEARN the Lesson of the Day during the 8-week camp.

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ATTENDING THE OFFICIAL signing of the letter of intent is (seated l-r) Eric Richardson and his father, Gary Richardson. Joining them (standing l-r) Chesterton High School Coach Kent Butler and RedHawk Head Coach Ryan Bishop. www.garycrusader.com

Blacks Must control their own coMMunity

Serving and Investiting in the Community Sin i ce 1984 Thank You! SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2015

GARY CRUSADER 9-12-2015.qxp_Sheriff 1/8/13 2013 9/10/15 2:45 AM Page 16

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2015

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Blacks Must control their own coMMunity