March 28, 2008 - Strategic Human Services and North Lawndale
Transcription
March 28, 2008 - Strategic Human Services and North Lawndale
THE NORTH LAWNDALE COMMUNITY NEWS FREE 1211 S. Western, Suite 203 Chicago, IL 60608 Since 1999, More News, More of Your Issues, and More of Your Community Voices. “News that Improves Your Lives” Serving North Lawndale, East & West Garfield, Austin, Pilsen, Humbolt Park, Near Westside & South Lawndale PUBLISHER : STRATEGIC HUMAN SERVICES VOLUME NO. 8 - ISSUE NO. 7 ISSN 1548-6087 March 29- April 11, 2006 PROVIDING INFORMATION ON RESOURCES AND EVENTS THAT IMPROVE THE LIFESTYLE OF INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES IN OUR COMMUNITY BLACK WOMEN EXPO 2006: A TREAT FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY Iva Robbins Winnie Mandela spoke at the Expo On March 4-5 the 14th anniversary of the V-103’s Expo for Today’s Black Woman was held at McCormick Place, 2900 South King Drive. It was a treat for the whole family. Sponsored by The weekend approximately event occupied 12,000 twenty prominent sq. ft. of McCormick black women of the Place which included Chicago area, to four conference rooms mention a few, Fox for guest speakers, an 32- TV’s Robin entertainment stage Robinson, V-103’s area overlooking 200 Adrienne Jones, vendors, many who Christ Universal were in designated Temple’s Rev. areas such as: Literary Johnnie Coleman, Trey Songz performed at the Café, Club Expo, combined all of Expo Kid’s Korner and the their efforts to make a dynamic list of attractions. A $12 Education Recruitment Pavilion. The speakers for the Expo were admission fee for adult and $7 fee for children brought you the phenomenal local black women likelihood to find something of picked for the advisory panel for interest to everyone, giving you this event .The diverse selection of enlightening topics is what lit this your money’s worth. Teena Marie also performed at the Expo Expo with sparks, and topics from Health to Inspiration and (finance), Relationships to Divorce, Publishing to Travel, and many See Expo page 14 Building Communities One Homeowner at a Time “Under all is the land.” Begins the preamble to the code of ethics in real estate and Phyllis M. Logan believes that these words are just as profound today as they were when first written. As we recognize Women History Month, Phyllis M. Logan, President and Broker/Owner of Bryant-Logan Realty located at 5933 W. Madison St. on Chicago’s Westside is one woman who is committed to serving the community and takes her motto “Building Communities One Homeowner at a Time,” to heart and it shows by her efforts in assisting people in purchasing homes. Born and raised on the Westside of Chicago, Logan was always pursuing to better herself and the lives of her family. For years she worked in the areas of Priscilla Lucas clerical, accounting and management working diligently to secure a career that compensated her fairly in accordance with her knowledge and her work ethics. Family is very important and being one of ten siblings and a mother of four she is adamant about how children should be nurtured and loved especially young boys. She had her own style of childrearing, which meant that she made sure she was available to them at any given time. Logan expressed that working outside the home meant that she had to choose positions that worked well with her home life. “I wanted to always be in a position that if something happened with my kids during the daytime I could just stop doing what I was doing,” she said. “It was a priority to say can I leave this job if something is going wrong with my family because that was important,” said Logan. A professed workaholic and a woman that’s driven and focused she speaks about her love of the accounting field and how she transitioned over into real estate. “My first interest and love is accounting. I started doing small business accounting and then working with a lot of individuals in the field of taxation. Many of my long-term clients had interest and investments in real estate,” said Phyllis Logan Logan. “ And I knew nothing about the concept of real estate while doing taxes so I took a class just to understand the concept of real estate,” she adds. This six-week real estate course gave Logan the See Logan page 10 INSIDE THIS ISSUE APRIL BUSINESS OF THE MONTH LIVIN’ CLEAN ENTERTAINMENT PAGE - 9 ALSO INSIDE JAIRA HARRINGTON NORTH LAWNDALE NATIVE STUDYING IN DOMINICAN REPUBLIC PAGE - 6 COMMUNITY CONCERNS ABOUT VIOLENCE AND SCHOOL CLOSINGS GO UNHEARD PAGE - 6 CITY BRINGS FREE, ONE STOP SERVICE FAIRS TO SOUTH LAWNDALE PAGE - 13 BLACK LIFE HAS VALUE RALLY BRINGS CALL FOR UNITY, RESPONSIBILITY, AND RESOURCES Richard Muhammad Denise Reed, Starkesia Reed’s mom, with other family members and supporters The sanctuary, basement and overflow rooms at Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church were packed with people and others clutched babies tight against the cold, trying to squeeze their way inside. The “Chicago Stand Up Because Black Life Has Value” rally, sponsored by Clear Channel radio stations WVAZ-FM, WGCI-FM and WGRB-AM was sparked by the recent deaths of two Englewood girls, but dealt with the problem of violence and its toll on the Black community. The overarching message the evening of March 20 was that it was time for action – collective action and individual action – to end violence in Chicago. A combination of more resources, more jobs and programs, better policing, better parenting, greater spirituality, greater unity and responsibility as a community was needed, speakers said. “I am in an elite club, something that I have never wanted to be in, but I’m a mother that has lost her child to violence in the streets,” said Denise Reed, whose daughter Starkesia Reed, 14, was killed in early March. A stray bullet from an AK-47 crashed through her window, killing the honor student as she dressed for school. Reed said her daughter was now an intercessor and praying for her family and for the city to understand that Black life is precious. She was one of several parents that lost children who spoke. All expressed gratitude for the lives of their children and shared the pain at their losses. But underneath the pain was a call for more involvement in the lives of youth and anti-violence efforts. Rep. Jesse Jackson, Jr. (D-Ill.) spoke passionately and offered a somewhat different message from his father, the Rev. Jesse Jackson, who urged the audience to take to the polls the next day and exercise the ballot as a tool for change. The younger Jackson called for Blacks to police themselves, and not look for scapegoats. “It may be a constitutional rights violation, if (police) do a stop and search,” he said. “But not if you do it,” Jackson added, saying it was time for men to “man up” and take control of out of control, boys in the streets. See Rally page 7 Visit us on our website at www.nlcn.org for more articles, information, photos and opportunities. THE NORTH LAWNDALE COMMUNITY NEWS Page 2 THE NORTH LAWNDALE COMMUNITY NEWS The North Lawndale Community News is published bi- North LLa awndale Community Ne ws New Winner o off the 200 5 SBC Be yond the Call A war d 2005 Bey Aw ard weekly by Strategic Human Services. Our purpose is to help inform our community on resources, events, and issues relevant to us and our neighboring communities. Our community includes those who live, work, worship in, and/ or care about North Lawndale. Our focus is on positive, productive solutions, that will improve the lifestyle of our community members. ~~~~~~~~~~~~ awndale Community Ne ws New North LLa Winner o off the th essional District 2004 7 Congr Congressional Education Champion A war d Aw ard Board of Directors Muhammed Shakur, Vice-Chairman Nicole Cabel-Pope, Director Carolyn Lewis, Director Creative Scott, Director Bruce Miller, Treasurer Leroy Pacheco, Director Vivian Lewis, Director Brent Michelle, Director Betty Mason, Director Dennis Deer, Director Frank Bass, Director Founding Board of Director: Larry Leonard Pr esented By Congr essman Dann y K. Da vis & Presented Congressman Danny Davis Resident essional District esidentss o off the 7th Congr Congressional NLCN 2006 Focus Health, Education & Welfare Advisory Board: Cong. Danny K. Davis, Rev. Randall Harris, Fred Mitchell Laura Washington, Susan Munro, Marta Foster, Margaret Davis Consulting Editors and Writers: Joe Ann Bradley, Constanza Williams, Wilbert Cook, Bill Goosby, Fred Mitchell, Dr. Shemuel Israel, Tamiko BowieErvin, Elia Qasim, Harris, Danita Bowie, Marquita Ware, C. L. Hunter, Warren Polk, David Schultz, Wilbert Bledsoe, Towanda Abbott, Reggie Lewis, Angelic Jones, Shelton Love, Jeffery Leving, JustNita, Nofiyah Israel, Nedra LoganDye, Mary Moran, John M. Hagedorn, Richard Townsell, Clemolyn (Pennie) Brinson, Paul Stewart, Deloris McCain, Barron Willard, Priscilla Lucas, Todd Thomas, Renita Williams, Kabuika Kamunga, Sophia Karalexis, X’ernona Woods, Henry Hardee, Willie Paige,Jr. Founding Publisher & CEO: Isaac Lewis, Jr. Production/Layout Coordinator: Marquita Ware IT (Information Technology) Manager: Ronnie Allen Managing Editor: Wilbert Bledsoe Business Manager: Mileson Collins Website Consultant: Lamont Simmons Photography: Community members and writers Marketing Consultant: Dr. Shemuel Israel Staff Accountant: Constanza Williams Advertising Representative: Andre Stokes Advertising Representative: Betty Meaders Strategic Door to Door Distribution (Bi-weekly) Racheeka Dent and Community Youth Circulation: 15,000 copies Drop Site Distribution: Sybil Mason - Bi-weekly over 250 dropsites, and over 340,685 potential readers throughout North and South Lawndale, East and West Garfield, Humboldt Park, Austin, Pilsen and the Near West Communities. Mail Subscription Rates: $15.00 for 6 months. $25.00 for 1 year $45.00 for two years Attract More CLIENTS or CUSTOMERS! ADVERTISE in the North Lawndale Communty News FOR RATES: CALL 312.492.9090 For Advertisement Rates and all other inquiries contact us at: North Lawndale Community News 1211 South Western Avenue, Suite 203 Chicago, IL 60608 Phone: 312/492-9090 Fax: 312/492-7162 Website: www.nlcn.org The North Lawndale Community News is funded by the dedicated work and support of the community, and made possible with grants from The Steans Family Foundation, The Leo S. Guthman Family Fund ( Lynne C. Rosenthal), The Soderquist Family Foundation, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), JLab Institute, AfterSchool Matters , SBC (now AT&T), and contributions from our advertisers and readers. The North Lawndale Community News was started with a grant from the North Lawndale Small Grants Initiative now known as the Small Grants Human Development Corporation. Circulation Verification Council is a third party agency that audits and verifies our circulation which is currently at 15,000 issues per publication. March 29 - April 11, 2006 Writers’ Meetings!! THE NOR TH L AWND ALE ORTH WNDALE COMMUNITY NEW S EWS Where: 1211 S. Western, Suite 203 The primary focus for SHS/ NCLN during 2006 will be Health, Education, and Welfare. Health is essential to a good life. Education is necessary for the pursuit of happiness especially in an economy driven society. Welfare is unavoidable in showing man’s humanity (love) toward man. All year long NLCN will concentrate and focus on more articles related to health, education and our welfare through our newspaper, weblog, and website that serves the Westside of Chicago. There is a great disparity in the statistics of the health of a majority of our community areas. This announcement of newsprint is too small to go into great detail, but some resources that can help affirm the state of our health can be found in a survey conducted by the Sinai Health System titled Improving Community Health Survey, “The State of Black Health Care” published as a health supplement in a special edition of the Philadelphia Tribune and the Chicago Tribune in November 2005 and “Natural Cures” at www.naturalcures.com . Our articles and links will point to other resources that will go into greater detail because health, education and welfare are their core missions, ours stands as messengers. The natural cures, an interestingly new area to the masses in our society leads to solutions that have been overlooked by mainstream medicine and some corporations maybe because of the love of money or closed minded doubt to even investigate better ways to better health, or not get sick. Education can reduce and minimize high rates of unemployment and underemployment, produce healthier citizens, and reduce the dependency on traditional welfare. The Westside is changing but not always in favor of the less fortunate who have lived here for years. Throughout the year, we will connect North Lawndale resident with resources in these areas. The North Lawndale Community News will continue to provide news and information on people, issues, and events that are relevant to our readers, as well as touch on the focus for the previous years. Becoming an intelligent people we can also participate and benefit in making our community a model neighborhood. We hope by reading our community newspaper you become or remain inspired to keep moving foward to a better life. Dates: April 20, 2006 & May 18, 2006 Make sure you get every Issue Help us to keep this newspaper Alive Subscribe to Free Training in Community Journalism! The North Lawndale Community News Everyone is Welcome! 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Da vis Office Cora Danny Davis Wher e: 3559 W on (Chicago P ark District side) Where: W.. Arthingt Arthington Park When: Satur da y Ma y 6, 2006 @ 6:00 pm Saturda day May Tick et s: $40 Ticket ets: Honor ees: Honorees: Senat or Rick ey Hendon Senator Ricke Rev. Wilson Daniels Mr oft on Mr.. and Ms Ms.. LLo fton Julius Ander son Anderson Phil Jack son Jackson Bruce Miller Mary R eed Reed Dr .Lincoln Scott Dr.Lincoln Phil Jack son Jackson Wh y: TO CELEBRA TE HELPING THE COMMUNITY TO HELP ITSELF AWARD WINNER S Why: ELEBRATE INNERS AND TO CELEBRA TE ANO THER YEAR OF A JOURNEY TOWARD SUCCESS! ELEBRATE NOTHER For More Info Or To Purchase Tickets Contact Myleson Collins at 312-492-9090 Donations needed tto o help continue the mission o awndale Community Ne ws! off the North LLa New Please send tto o 12 11 S. W estern A ve, Ste 3 Chicago, Illinois 60608 121 Western Av Ste.. 20 203 A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels: (Proverbs 1:5) THE NORTH LAWNDALE COMMUNITY NEWS Page 4 March 29 - April 11, 2006 To Your Health African-American Hospice to Meet Health Needs of Community Typically when the African-American community hears the word “hospice,” several myths associated with this care emerge. The first myth asserts that it is time to give up hope because there is nothing more to be done. Another myth asserts that hospice is not affordable, or that to accept hospice is to give up one’s faith in the healing power of God. Although typical hospice care provided in the African-American community may had fueled such myths, nothing could be further from the truth of what hospice care really is at A Touch of Grace Hospice, the first hospice in Illinois owned solely by African Americans and dedicated to providing culturally and spiritually sensitive end of life care. A Touch of Grace Hospice’s focus is to embrace the role of culture and faith in the African American community while supporting families and their loved ones facing a serious illness. In addition, A Touch of Grace Hospice is dedicated to educating the community about this wonderful supportive care, that is paid for by Medicare, Public Aid, and Private Insurance. In fact, A Touch of Grace Hospice also cares for the uninsured. So, give the affordability of the care, the necessity of the care, and the fact that African Americans are disproportionately affected by the major diseases that qualify for hospice care, such as cancer, chronic heart failure, Alzheimer’s and Dementia, stroke, and AIDS/HIV, to name a few, why is it that African Americans need it the most and get it the least? Hospice developed in the United States in the 1970s as a grassroots movement to promote more humane care for dying people. The goal of hospice care is to provide medical, spiritual, social, and emotional support to families where a loved one is facing a serious/terminal illness. The goal of hospice is to keep your loved one comfortable, pain free, surrounded by loved ones, and emotionally and spiritually healthy. Care is provided by Nurses, Social Workers, Chaplains, Certified Nursing Assistants, Physicians, and trained Volunteers. This holistic approach promotes self-determination and a dignified and painless quality of life when coping with a terminal illness. Dr. Jennifer Moore’s research has revealed that the two major barriers to accessing hospice care by African-Americans is the blatant disregard for the role of faith in the Black community when facing a terminal illness, and the lack of awareness about this wonderful healthcare option. In an effort to help decrease the disparity in the use of hospice care, A Touch of Grace Hospice takes an active role in educating the community about hospice in Churches, schools, hospitals, civic organizations, and any other arena that will impact the community. Second, A Touch of Grace Hospice promotes the use of prayer and faith for hospice patients, which is why this hospice organization is the first hospice in the country to have a 24-hour prayer team ministry available for patients and family who desire someone to stand in agreement with them in prayer. Now, it may seem odd that a hospice organization, which cares for those diagnosed with an incurable disease, would embrace prayer and faith for healing. However, according to Dr. Moore, “the loved ones that we care for are strong in faith and believing in God for their healing. It is not our position to strip them of their belief. In fact, we know, and have seen people receive all kinds of healing, including physical, spiritual, and familial. It is our position, however, to make our community aware of the fact that they can get the wonderful and much needed support of hospice for families struggling to care for a loved one, and allow our staff to help them while they await God’s ultimate decision concerning their illness. And, if and when loved ones receive physically healing, they simply come off hospice. It doesn’t get any better than that” This unique approach to making hospice care available to the African American community is having an excellent impact on the quality of life African American patients and their families are experiencing throughout the Chicagoland area, which is exactly what A Touch of Grace Hospice hoped to see. After all, their motto says it all: ‘Every Life Deserves A Touch of Grace.’ Dr. Jennifer Moore, PhD Chief Executive Officer A Touch of Grace Hospice, Inc. 1033 W. Van Buren, Ste. 705 Chicago, IL 60607 PH: (312) 733-2317 FX: (312) 733-2392 www.atouchofgracehospice.com [email protected] WOMEN VETERANS SPEAK OUT ON HEALTH CARE Women veterans spoke out about their health care Saturday March 18th with a panel discussion on women veterans health care being provided at the Jesse Brown Westside VA hospital. The seven member panel included Dr. Irene Trowell-Harris Maj. Gen. USAF (Retired) director, center for women veterans, and Dr. Gwenn Garmon, director, JBVA women’s health center. Rochelle Crump, Assistant director (IDVA) wanted everyone to know that the purpose of this discussion was to insure that all women veterans active and non active will be able to receive proper health care. According to the department of veterans affairs VA has responded to the growing number of women veterans by targeting programs to meet their unique health-care needs. A veteran’s health administration office to address women’s health issues was first created in 1988. Public Law 102-585, veterans’ health care act of 1992, authorized new and expanded services for women veterans, including counseling for sexual trauma on a priority basis; and specific health services for women, such as pap smears, mammography, and general reproductive health care. This law also includes outreach and counseling services for women veterans who experienced incidents of sexual trauma while serving on active duty in the military, but even with these laws in place many women veterans feel that their health care is still not taken as seriously as their male counterparts. Women veterans have run into many stumbling blocks when it comes to health care and benefits. As one member of NWVU (National Women Veterans United) said: “when you go to other agencies to Mary Moran get help, and they find out that you are a veteran, they send you back to veteran agencies who then, turn their backs on you,” she said. One of the topics was the issue of post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Members of NWVA wanted to know why there was not a PTSD groups for women at JBVA. Dr. Garmon states that there is a post traumatic group at the hospital that is open to everyone, and that there are other groups at the hospital that are only for women. What many women veterans look at when it comes to their health is the same thing that many non veteran women look at: women health is different from men. Women veterans who have suffered (PTSD) as the result of sexual trauma do not feel comfortable talking about it in a group, dominated by men, which is what makes up the majority of the PTSD groups at JBVA. Another issue is mammograms. Right now women are sent to Hines VA in Maywood to receive their annual test. Many women feel it would be easier if the test was given at JBVA. The response to that question was numbers. Many women who are in the age range for mammograms do not use the JBVA. This can be due partially to private health coverage that they may have on their jobs. Also many women do not keep their appointments for mammograms, but women veterans argue that the wait period at Hines is long and if these women have children they cannot wait two to three hours to do their mammograms. The women clinic at JBVA is top priority for women veterans but it’s only open one half of the day. This was another numbers issue about how many women use the clinic depends on how the clinic can operate but it was made clear that it is data that is used to see how many different services that women veterans are actually using, not only in the clinic, but the hospital as well. Many NWVU members stated that women veterans wanted to use this panel discussion to put (their issues) out there so the federal government can hear it. Moreover, all of the women expressed that they don’t want “numbers” deciding their health care. Dr. Trowell-Harris will be taking these recommendations back to Washington. Mary Moran is a writer for NLCN. Mary is a veteran of the U. S. Army and a journalism graduate from Columbia College in Chicago. To comment on this article visit our weblog at: www.nlcn.org. BASIC, INTERMEDIATE & ADVANCED COMPUTER WORKSHOPS Learn how to use a Computer (Computer Workshop) Facilitator: Ronnie Allen Learn how to create business cards, flyers, postcards, etc. (Desktop Publishing Workshop) Facilitator: Meola Ivy Learn how to create your own Website (Wesite Design Workshop) Facilitator: Ronnie Allen REGISTER NOW! For More Info Call (312) 492-9090 Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding. (Proverbs 3:13). March 29 - April 11, 2006 THE NORTH LAWNDALE COMMUNITY NEWS Page 5 Page 6 THE NORTH LAWNDALE COMMUNITY NEWS March 29 - April 11, 2006 Education & Employment Training MAYOR DALEY, SECRETARY SPELLINGS ANNOUNCE READING GRANT 32 Chicago Schools Will Benefit Over Next 4 Years Mayor Richard M. Daley, U.S. Secretary of Education Margaret Spellings and Chicago Public Schools Chief Education Officer Barbara Eason-Watkins announced on March 22 a $24.5 million reading grant to 32 Chicago public elementary schools. The grant, which will run from March 2006 to December 2010, is one of eight awarded nationwide and the largest amount received by a single district. The grant will fund Striving Readers, a new program designed to raise the reading achievement levels of students in grades 6-8 in Title I-eligible schools with significant numbers of students reading below grade level. “Reading is the key to all learning, and it’s the most important part of providing a strong education,” Daley said at a news conference at Talcott Elementary School, 1840 W. Ohio St., one of 16 schools that will share the grant. “Obviously, the Department of Education recognizes that as well, and we’re pleased that they’re supporting us in our efforts to improve literacy.” Striving Readers will fund after-school tutoring for targeted students; teacher training in partnership with National-Louis University, including university coursework toward reading endorsements; staff positions to coordinate the program; assessments; technological support; and instructional materials. The program also includes staff training and special programs for “intervention” to identify and help struggling readers. Reading scores have been improving consistently in the Chicago Public Schools, having reached all-time highs on last year’s Illinois Standards Achievement Test and Prairie State Achievement Exam. The other schools included in the grant this year are: Pope Elementary in North Lawndale at 1852 S. Albany Ave., Burr, 1621 W. Wabansia Ave.; Burroughs, 3542 S. Washtenaw Ave.; Carson, 5516 S. Maplewood Ave.; Coles, 8441 S. Yates Blvd.; Eberhart, 3400 W. 65th Pl.; Fuller, 4214 S. St. Lawrence Ave.; Gray, 3730 N. Laramie Ave.; Hendricks, 4316 S. Princeton Ave.; Linne, 3221 N. Sacramento Ave.; Lovett, 6333 W. Bloomingdale Ave.; Marsh, 9810 S. Exchange Ave.;; Salazar, 160 W. Wendell St.; Telpochcalli, 2832 W. 24th Blvd.; and Volta, 4950 N. Avers Ave. Schools were selected based on Title I status and their willingness to implement the program. An additional 16 schools will be selected next year. With full implementation, the grant will impact 32 schools, 248 classrooms and 3,500 students, including 1,700 who are reading below grade level. All participating schools have at least 45 percent of their students performing below state standards on the Illinois Standards Achievement Test. The Chicago Public Schools is the nation’s third-largest school system. It includes more than 600 schools and serves about 426,000 students. Letter To The Editor COMMUNITY CONCERNS ABOUT VIOLENCE & SCHOOL CLOSINGS GO UNHEARD Derrick B. Harris, North Lawndale Accountability Commission In the last issue of The North Lawndale Community News, I wrote about Renaissance 2010 and the multiple harmful effects of school closings. One of the problems resulting from school closings is violence. Arne Duncan and the Chicago Board of Education have demonstrated disregard for the concerns of students, parents, and community residents, as it relates to the violence that has occurred as a result of students being transferred due to school closings. Recently, I attended the March 22, 2006 meeting of the Chicago Board of Education for the purpose of questioning Arne Duncan about a statement credited to him in a Chicago newspaper, “School CEO vows closings will go on despite violence.” When I rose to speak, Arne Duncan, CEO, Chicago Public Schools left the Board meeting. Consequently, I directed my concerns to Claire Munana, Vice President, and the other members of the Board who were present. According to Chicago Public School records, the violence rate in the first five months of this school year was higher in the eight largest receiving neighborhood schools than in the 2003-2004 school year just before the closings began. The black community should be outraged and “up in arms,” regarding Arne Duncan’s comments which demonstrate his reckless disregard for black children in particular, and the black community in general. Alderman Chandler proposed a resolution in the City Council for a moratorium on school closings, and Representative Soto’s proposed legislation designed to address community concerns about school closings. What is also disturbing is that there is no plan in place to address the concerns of students, parents, and the community regarding the problem of violence. Michael Scott, Board President, and Dr. Barbara Eason-Watkins, Chief Education Officer, Chicago Public Schools were not present at the board meeting. I raised the following questions to Arne Duncan in his absence. 1. Was he quoted correctly? If so, was he speaking as an individual; or, in his official capacity as CEO of the Chicago Public Schools? 2. In the article referenced above Arne Duncan was further quoted as saying, “the counselor-to-student ratio is ‘way out of whack,’ but CPS can’t afford more counselors.” If that is the case—Can he explain why Hosanna Mahaley Johnson, Chief of Staff/ Renaissance 2010 Managing Director, and her staff, got across the board raises, and a budget increase for the Renaissance 2010 Department? 3. Why doesn’t CPS have a plan in place to address the problem of violence, one of the most troubling consequences of Renaissance 2010’s “school closing component?” We must demand answers to these questions, please call Arne Duncan at (773) 553-1500. We need a minimum of one thousand (1000) people from North Lawndale, Austin, and East and West Garfield Park to call his office. And remember, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world: indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has!” Derrick Harris Is a founding member of the North Lawndale Accountability Commission. He is recognized citywide as a education thought leader on Renaissance 2010, school reform issues, parent involvement, and local community control of schools. To comment on this article visit our weblog at: www.nlcn.org. Save the Date! Strategic Human Services and The North Lawndale Community News Annual Fundraiser Saturday, May 6,2006 Help us Help the Community Stay informed and honor Eight individuals that have helped people help the Commuity See Ad on Page 3 March 29 Black Facts Walt “Clyde” Frazier * On this date in 1945, hall of fame basketball player Walt “Clyde” Frazier was born in Atlanta, Georgia. Frazier played 10 seasons with the New York Knicks and was known his flamboyant style on and off the court. He was a member of the Knicks’ 1970 and 1973 NBA championship teams. * On this date in 1955, former Houston Oiler running back Earl Campbell was born in Tyler, Texas. * On this date in 1918, singer Pearl Bailey was born in New Port News, Virginia. * On this date in 1968, students at Bowie State College seized an administration building on campus in protest of the Vietnam War. And And God said, I have given yougiven every herb seed,bearing which is seed, upon the face of the earth, Godbehold, said, behold, I have you bearing every herb which is all upon the face of all the earth, Page 7 THE NORTH LAWNDALE COMMUNITY NEWS North Lawndale Native Studying Abroad in the Dominican Republic Sister Thea Bowman Jaira Harrington, Lawndale native, is and institutions. Some of the awards she spending the second semester of her junior received include: the Chicago Public Schools/ was Pillar of Faith and year abroad in the Dominican Republic. She UNCF which covers full tuition and fees at Strength to the Black attends Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia any UNCF institution, the Jackie Robinson where she is studying Political Science and Foundation award, the PUSH-Excel Ora Lee Community Sanders Scholarship Award and the N’Digo Spanish. March 29 - April 11, 2006 Jaira Harrington on the beach in the Dominican Republic Ms. Harrington credits much of her current accomplishments to an early start in high school activities. At her fair alma mater, Kenwood Academy, she competed in scholastic competitions with the Academic Decathlon, assisting her team to place in the top five for two consecutive years, and in musical competitions including the Chicago Public Schools (CPS) Annual Piano Recital, where she was awarded the Excellence honor, and the CPS Ensemble and Choral Competitions. She also held presidential office in the National Honor Society and Kenwood Academy Concert Choir. In her junior and senior years of high school, Ms. Harrington received more than 15 scholarships from private organizations Foundation Award. Community involvement is especially vital to Ms. Harrington. As the president of the Lawndale Civic and Educational Junior Boys and Girls Club, Jaira led the organization to participate in community service activities including blood drives, bread delivery to the homeless and needy families, donation of toiletry items to women’s and children’s shelters on the Westside, amongst a host of other service activities. In her undergraduate career, Ms. Harrington has maintained the same standards of excellence. She participates in a myriad of campus activities including: the Spelman See Harrington page 15 Tamiko I. Bowie As we reflect on Women’s History Month, we honor women of purpose. These women have made a significant impact on our society. One of those women was Sister Thea Bowman. Sister Thea was a Catholic nun who was also African-American. Sister Thea was influential in the Black Catholic Movement. Since her death on March 30, 1990, many lives have been inspired and touched by the story of Sister Thea Bowman. Her remarkable life was dedicated to serving God. Fiery and charismatic, Sister Thea was not only an activist but religious throughout the world. Born Bertha Bowman in 1937 to Mary Ester (Coleman), who was a teacher and Theon Bowman, who was a doctor in Yazoo City, See Thea page 11 Rally from front page Seritha mom points down as she descrobes the day she laid her daughter Seritha to rest Rev. Charles Jenkins, pastor of Fellowship Baptist Church, called for more resources. Job training, small business loans and union apprenticeships are needed to create more opportunity and less desperation, he said. Rep. Bobby Rush agreed additional resources were needed. He noted how his efforts have brought development projects and dollars into Englewood, but Rep. Rush, whose son was killed seven-years-ago on a city street, said, “We’ve got to work to establish a neighborhood. If you’ve been blessed, it’s your responsibility to bless somebody else.” Siretha Woods told the audience about going from the burial of her daughter Seritha White, 10, killed by a stray bullet at a surprise birthday party, to the hospital where her ailing husband passed away the same day as her daughter’s funeral. “We need to stop this violence. I would have never believed I would be standing her in a predicament like this never. We got a fight, we got a battle and we are going to win. We are going to win.” She also announced a new campaign and logo, “Tell For Seritha and Starkesia,” to help combat guns and violence. “When the marches stop and the signs come down, and the politicians go home and the cameras are turned away, what will we be doing tomorrow?” asked Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.). Obama, who vowed to fight for more money and programs, stressed Blacks must make individual and collective changes. “If we don’t change how we raise our children, then it doesn’t matter how many more programs come in here. It doesn’t matter how much more money comes in here, it doesn’t matter how many politicians make speeches. There’s a reason they shot each other, because they don’t love themselves. And the reason they don’t love themselves is because we are not loving them. We’ve got work to do people,” he said. Richard Muhammad is a Chicago-based writer and contributor to the Katrina Information Network. To comment on this article visit our weblog at: www.nlcn.org. and every tree, in the which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat. Genesis 1:29 Page 8 THE NORTH LAWNDALE COMMUNITY NEWS March 29 - April 11, 2006 STATE SENATOR MATTIE HUNTER VISITS BETTER LIFE FOR YOUTH State Senator Mattie Hunter, Illinois 3rd District visited the Better Life for Youth (BLFY) program on Saturday, March 25 at the office of Senator Rickey Hendon, 5th Senatorial District. The Senator talked to youth in the program that are going to visit Historically Black Colleges in the Atlanta, Georgia area and their parents. She told the youth about the importance of going to college and that there are not many programs out there like BLFY that gives them the opportunity to visit colleges of this type. Senator Mattie Hunter was also a graduate from an HBCU college, Jackson State University. Along with Senator Hunter was Dr. Smith, who spoke about how he graduated from school and got a degree and became a doctor. He also let the students know that it is rare for organizations like BLFY to take kids on college trips and how important it to finish school. Jerome Hershell Jones, Jr. has been in the program for several months. He said that the highlight of what he heard from Senator Hunter was that they we were the future and if we don’t put a deposit in we can’t get a good return, talking about the community. Jerome is interested in going to see Clark Atlanta University. One of the interesting things mentioned by Jerome in a previous BLFY meeting was being exposed to a table etiquette presentation given by Nathan Wright. “At first, I thought it was going to be boring”, said Jerome. Better life for Youth, is scheduled to have one more meeting on Tuesday 4th, from 6-8pm. Then they are leaving for the big educational trip on Aril 6th to Atlanta, Georgia. It will be a 12 to 13 hour drive. Their first HBCU college stop will be Spellman College for women on Friday April 6th. For more information contact Better Life for Youth at 312 243-9730 or 312 671-1026. Better life for Youth leaving Saturday afternoon meeting at State Senator Ricky Hendon’s office After Senator Mattie Hunter’s visit. Honour thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise; (Ephesians 6:2). March 29 - April 11, 2006 THE NORTH LAWNDALE COMMUNITY NEWS Page 9 Harris Bank and the North Lawndale Community News Honors North Lawndale’s Small Business of the Month Clemolyn (Pennie) Brinson LIVIN’ CLEAN ENTERTAINMENT Johnson, Anderson and Clay The North Lawndale Community News and Harris Bank are proud to honor Livin’ Clean Entertainment as April’s North Lawndale Small Business of the Month. Located at 1539 S. Pulaski, the company was founded by Donald Anderson and friend/mentor, John L. Clay, Jr. It provides live performances Friday and Saturday nights from 8 pm until 9:30 pm and has a seating capacity of 50. The company also provides an opportunity for performers and would-be performers to display their acts. Auditions are held Tuesday evenings from 6 pm until 9 pm. Livin’ Clean Entertainment’s opening night was October 15, 2005 when it opened with a one-woman show that ran seven weeks. The company has a staff of seven. The idea of a performance studio came as an afterthought. Initially, the co-owners planned to develop the building into a coffee shop, already owning the Clean Cut Barbershop next door at 1537 S. Pulaski. But in researching the coffee shop business, said Anderson, they realized they could not devote the many hours required because they had other jobs. After praying and meditating, said Anderson, “as clear as day the vision came from God to turn it into the performance studio.” The men have been friends since 1977 when they met at the Better Boys Foundation. Anderson was 16. Clay taught video camera production there. “I realized from the perspective of an adult,” said Clay, “that [Anderson] was a good and special kid. I took a liking to him.” Clay took Anderson along with him on wedding shoots, and soon discovered that Anderson had “natural leadership ability in organizing and getting people together.” As time passed Clay encouraged Anderson along in various entertainment and production projects. Eventually Anderson developed his own company, which he called DA Productions. Later on Anderson took a trade at Lincoln Tech in diesel and auto mechanics and became a brakes specialist. But his heart wasn’t in it, he said, and he went back to producing. With training from Harpo Studios, he and his business partner, who has a background in theater, have since produced a host of variety shows throughout the city before establishing Livin’ Clean Entertainment. The establishment is a cozy setup designed by the owners with the help of an architect. Clay is the technical director who controls lights and sound during the shows. When the company is not putting on a show the facility is available for rent for parties and such. The proprietors also own the real estate at 1450 S. Pulaski which they plan to developed into a film production studio that will seat 200 people. “1450 not only will be a place where we will have shows, but it will subsequently be a place to train kids in the neighborhood on how things go in the entertainment business, behind the camera, the set up, lighting, directing, things of that nature,” said Bryant “Bear” Johnson, Livin’ Clean’s emcee. Johnson also has a background in film production. The company’s only challenge, said the men, is getting more North Lawndale residents involved. “Eighty percent of our audience is from the south-side and the suburbs,” said Anderson. “We’re trying to get the Lawndale community aware that we’re here and of what’s going on . . . for the general public to realize that this is a place of interest. That we See Entertainment page 14 Inside Livin’ Clean Entertainment Outside Livin’ Clean Entertainment located 1539 S. Pulaski THE NORTH LAWNDALE COMMUNITY NEWS Page 10 March 29 - April 11, 2006 Economic Development Affordable Housing Is Not Only Good IT’S THE LAW Wendell Hutson These days not every family can afford to pay market prices for homes or rent apartments so Illinois legislators did something about it. In 2003 the General Assembly passed the “Affordable Housing Planning and Appeal Act,” which encourages counties with less than 10 percent affordable housing to develop a plan to increase that percentage. And while the bill is nearly three years old, many families are just becoming aware of the new opportunities the bill is set to create. The affordable housing bill specifically states: “there exists a shortage of affordable, accessible, safe, and sanitary housing for lowincome and moderate-income households in the state; it is imperative that action be taken to assure the availability of low-income and moderate-income housing; and local governments in the state that do not have sufficient affordable housing are encouraged to assist in providing low-income and moderateincome housing opportunities to assure the health, safety, and welfare of all citizens of the state.” Real estate experts say it is important that consumers know just what “affordable” really means when searching to buy or rent properties. “Everyone is walking around saying affordable but no one is really breaking down what that term actually means and that is so important to consumers,” said Craig J. Robinson, a real estate agent for Keller Williams Reality. “Is affordable someone who can pay $100,000 to buy a house or $900 a month to rent an apartment?” Recognizing that “affordable” could have many definitions, the state outlined just what affordable housing really is in the new legislation. Logan from front page information to better aide her clientele and while working in the Downtown/Loop area her clientele base grew as this hardworking woman continued to assist people in finding houses. The advice she gives to her clients is “to buy within their communities.” “I tell everyone to buy in your community, buy in Chicago, “ she says. “I think that Chicago is possibly the best city, and will be one of the top cities soon,” Logan said. As many parts of the inner-city are going through restructuring and homes are being built with prices ranging out of reach to many families who have lived there for years many are finding themselves on the outside looking in. Logan shares her perspective on gentrification. “We look at gentrification in a negative sense…when I moved into the Austin community in 1982 it possibly could have been said that African-Americans were regentrifying the Austin area. When we moved into the neighborhood my family was possibly the third African-American family to move in 1982 “what did they call it then?” Logan said. “So they need to take that word away and let people know that the price has changed because of the cost of living has changed, because manufacturing costs has changed-what really hasn’t change and what hurts the people that live in the community the most is when their income has not changed to afford the cost of homes for sale,” she said. Real Estate is a business that has no limits in Chicago where on every corner a new building is being constructed and new agents are eager to cash in on the wealth that could be made in the market. Logan exhorts new agents to not come into this line of business looking to make huge profits. “New Agents should not come into this business with the mindset of making money. I have been taught that if you do good money will follow. Agents should have a sense of According to the new bill, affordable rather than rent thanks to the bills. “Consumers can expect to see more housing is housing that has a sales price or rental amount that is within the means of a household construction of new homes, condominiums and that may occupy moderate, low-income or very apartments at economical-low prices,” said low-income housing. In the case of dwelling Peter Feinstein, a Wall Street analyst. In Cook County alone, there are numerous units for sale, housing that is affordable refers to housing in which mortgage, amortization, first-time buyer programs available to taxes, insurance, and condominium or consumers looking to become homeowners association fees, if any, constitute no more than either by purchasing a home or condo or renting 30 percent of the gross annual income for a with the option to buy. U.S. Rep. Danny K. household size that may occupy the unit. In the Davis (D-Ill.), who started a new housing case of dwelling units for rent, housing that is program in 2003 to assist first-time buyers, sums affordable is housing for which the rent and up the cost to a person who chooses to remain a utilities constitute no more than 30 percent of long-term renter: “You know what a person will the gross annual household income for a have after 50 years of living in an apartment? A household of the size that may occupy the unit. drawer full of rent receipts.” His new program will assist first-time buyers And what about the developers? With so with the down payment and closing costs for many commercial and residential developers, how can consumers tell the difference? Well, homes purchased in his 7th Congressional the state legislator also identified what is an District. The 7th District is made up mostly of West Side neighborhoods such as North affordable housing developer is as well. It states that an affordable housing developer Lawndale and many western suburbs as well. However, the program is targeted for is a not-for-profit entity, limited equity cooperative, public agency, private individual, specific areas, and buyers must be willing to firm, corporation, or other entity seeking to build purchase a home in one of these communities. an affordable housing development. And They include Armour Square, Austin, Douglas, affordable housing development means any Fuller, North and South Lawndale and West housing that is subsidized by the federal or state Garfield Park on the West Side, and Oakland, governments or any housing in which at least Kenwood, and Washington Park on the South 20 percent of the dwelling units are subject to Side. “Of course, there are other communities covenants or restrictions that require that the dwelling units be sold or rented at prices that within the 7th District that preserve them as affordable housing for a period also need affordable of at least 15 years in the case of for-sale housing, housing, but we are concentrating in these areas and at least 30 years for rental. Real Estate analysts predict a surge in for now,” Davis said. “And affordable housing developments and more only 28 percent of housing assistance for families looking to own homeowners in the district pride and a real understanding of the product and who you’re servicing,” Logan said. “The focus has to be to help people and if your focus is not on helping people then you shouldn’t even be in this business because it doesn’t work like that.“ She emphasized that a career in real estate is a service business and one must learn the basic of serving people in this line of business. As she lectures in classes that its important to buy homes that fix your needs and she goes about servicing her clients to ensure that she meets their needs. There is no boundary in the State of Illinois that Ms. Logan will not venture out to survey for prospective clients and her inspiration comes from many African-American Women who have paved the way for others to succeed in a man’s world. “I have been inspired by knowing that there are many African-American women who have reached a high plateau. Just knowing that there are women that are higher positions, whether it is in education or jobs, knowing, that they got there tells me whichever level I want to go – I can go,” Logan said. She credits her mother for introducing her into politics and exposing her to a different way of making choices and experiencing life with a positive outlook. When asked where would she like to be in ten years, she laughs and reflects about her aspirations. “I do have aspiration to climb finally into politics, I want to set my feet firmly, “ Logan said. “In ten years I can definitely see myself in the midst of politics,” she said. In the meantime she is busy preparing her children to become a part of the family owned business and as she speaks lovingly of her children you know that family is vital and important in her life. “Building Communities One Homeowner at a Time,” words that she has coined and made possible to many families in Illinois. Logan’s commitment and insight to the changes in the community and how African-American can achieve their dreams of home ownership is enlightening and truly inspiring. Her desire to serve others is a trait that is worthy of recognition and a living testament to others to follow. Priscilla Lucas is a North Lawndale resident and a journalism major at Columbia College. Priscilla is a student intern at NLCN. To comment on this article visit our weblog at www.nlcn.org. are black. This shows a huge gap in home ownership. Keep in mind that 650,000 people [according to the U.S. Census Bureau] reside in the district.” The city of Chicago offers first-time homebuyers low-interest mortgages through its City Mortgage Program, which is coordinated through the Department of Housing. The program provides mortgage financing and optional assistance to qualified buyers of owneroccupied residential properties. This assistance is up to 4 percent of the mortgage amount, and must be used to pay closing costs or as down-payment assistance. According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), a first-time buyer is someone who has never owned property or has not purchased property within the last three years. And unlike states, which sometimes have its own interpretation of affordable housing, HUD defines what low and moderate-income housing should consist of. “Low-income housing” is affordable for either home ownership or rental, and that is occupied, reserved, or marketed for occupancy by households with a gross household income that does not exceed 50 percent of the median gross household income. “Moderate-income housing” is property that is owned or rented, and is occupied, reserved, or marketed for occupancy by See Housing page 14 March 29 - April 11, 2006 Thea from page 7 Sister Thea Bowman Mississippi. While growing up in Canton, Mississippi, Sister Thea was called an “Old folks child” because her parents were older and spent a lot of time around their friends who were grandparents and great grandparents. After discovering she still could not read after five years in a public school, her mother sent her to a Catholic school. As a high school junior, Sister Thea decided to enter the convent. She entered the Franciscan Sisters Community in LaCrosse, Wisconsin, She eventually took the name of Sister Thea, which means “Of God.” After professing her first vows, she began teaching at the Blessed Sacrament School in LaCrosse. Sister Thea felt becoming a Catholic nun , she would be part of an effort to help feed the hungry, find shelter for the homeless and teach the children. Upon graduating with a Bachelor’s degree from Viterbo College in La Crosse, Wisconsin, she began teaching. She taught THE NORTH LAWNDALE COMMUNITY NEWS English and vocal music at Catholic schools in Wisconsin and Mississippi/ After ten years of teaching, her community asked her to attend the Catholic University of America to prepare for college-level teaching. She received a Master ’s degree and then completed a Doctorial degree. Those degrees helped provide Sister Thea with opportunities to teach and lecture at universities across the country. She shared her black heritage and spirituality in her many lectures and speeches. It gave her great joy in sharing her culture in the Catholic faith. In 1979, she became the Diocese of Jackson, Mississippi’s Consultant for Intercultural Awareness and taught at the Institute of Black Catholics at Xavier University in New Orleans, Louisiana. In 1984, Sister Thea was diagnosed with breast cancer. She began using a wheelchair and was required to travel with a companion. In the book: Sister Thea Bowman , Shooting Star: Selected Writings and Speeches (Edited by Celestine Cepress) is part of that ethic that enables me to do that. “Old people in the black community taught us that we should serve the Lord until we die. We can even serve the Lord on our death beds or in any circumstances in life. If we have faith, hope and love, we can pass it on,” she said. Sister Thea’s abilities in sharing her Godgiven talents, drive and strengths are admirable. Throughout the years before her death, Sister. Thea performed works to help people in need. At one point, she returned to Canton to care for her elderly parents. She continued her one woman show of scriptural singing and narratives across the country. In 1987, Sister Thea was profiled on “60 Minutes.” The segment, while being interviewed by correspondent Mike Wallace, was a testament of her life as an inspirational See page 15 Page 11 Save That Penny For A Sunny Day X’ernona Woods The state of Illinois has over 487,363 children who live in poverty. Eight years ago the poverty rate was at 13.8 percent and is steadily climbing. Single parents are hit the hardest a whooping 46 percent of single parent households face economic hardship. The median income of African Americans is $34,369 in comparison to Whites: $55,768 and Asian Pacific Islander’s $63,251. Their annual income is far less than whites, yet African-Americans are the one of America’s largest consumer group. African-Americans earn far less, but spend more not only do African Americans spend more money that is spent, less than two cents remaining within the community. The graffiti dilapidated buildings, young men gambling, currency exchange, liquor stores and tons of unhealthy corner restaurants that pay tribute to high blood pressure, hypertension and ever the prevalent cancer. A common mural that is seen throughout the urban African-American communities. Communities where a small percentage own their homes, and youth rock $150.00 sneakers, gleaming white T-shirts, and pressed designer jeans all while standing on a corner for hours on end. Women who pay $200 and up for popular micros and nail fillins ranging from $15 to $25, toting a blue American Express a.k.a. Link card compliments from our state government in their phony Louis Vuitton handbags. As I drive away from the hood and over the railroad tracks I see neatly trimmed grass, and not one brick is out of place from the $300,000 gated home, the corners are free and clear and I spot one 7-Eleven convenient store. Although African-Americans significantly make less money, African-Americans must learn to save more and stop living just to get by. Q. How can I get my child who is fourteen years old to begin to save her allowance? She spends every dollar and asks me for money before her next allowance? A. Sounds, like your daughter is setting up the “living paycheck to paycheck” plan at a young age. You and your daughter should visit various banks and compare their percentage rates on there savings accounts Find a bank or credit union that often have higher percentage rate than banks that is geared towards children setting up accounts. Teach her to pay her self first and give 10 percent to charity or tithe at the end of every month take a special trip to the bank where she will receive her banking statement. You can show her how to her money can work with her instead of against. It is important that kids realize that parents are not ATM machines. Q. I want to purchase a home and I earn $30,000 a year. Is it possible for me to afford a home? A. Yes, if you can pay rent, you can own a home. If you multiply your salary by 2.5 it will give you how much home you can afford. Q. I want to start my own business, but I don’t have the money for start up cost. Are their any organizations that can support starting my own business? A. Here are a few websites that will support your search for funding: womensnet.net/ambergrants, score.org and score-lansing.com. X’ernona Woods is a freelance writer and host of her own cable television show. To comment on this article visit our weblog at: www.nlcn.org. FREE TAX & BUSINESS SEMINAR SATURDAY, APRIL 1st 9:00AM to 12:00 At the North Lawndale Community News Office 1211 S. Western Avenue, Suite 203 James E. Bohm, CPA, Entrepreneur, Businessman, College Professor, Tax Specialist, Consultant Co-Sponsored by the North Lawndale Community Newspaper Topics to be Discussed & Analyzed 1. How to satrt and fund a business (Profit & Non-Profit) 2. How to write a successful Business Plan 3. Preparation of 2005 Tax Returns - $70 or less paid out of tax refund. We guarantee the largest REFUNDS! 4. Free review of previous year’s tax returns 5. Confidential advice and help with any IRS problems 6. Help in credit clearing 7. Financial planning with CPA 8. How to purchase a home vs. renting Please call (312) 492-9090 to register for the FREE seminar and reserve your space. All are welcome. Make this the first step to change and improve your financial life for you and your family. No obligations, just solid, informative advice for taxes and business on a one-to-one basis. James E. Bohm, CPA, Tax Preparer, Businessman (312) 953-2854 THE NORTH LAWNDALE COMMUNITY NEWS Page 12 March 29 - April 11, 2006 Entertainment & Sports AT THE FLICKS What It Iz In The Biz David Schultz, Film critic Marquita Ware Evan Ross and Tip “T.I.” Harris in Warner Bros. ATL A T L (**1/2) The film’s title is short slang for Atlanta Georgia. The movie is set in the south side area known as Mechanicville, where this urban coming-of-age comedy drama is based. The movie centers on the lifestyle and relationship between two brothers, Rashad (Tip “T.I.” Harris) and “Ant” Swann (Evan Ross) living with their Uncle George (Mykelti Williamson) who operates a janitorial service. Rashad (Tip “T.I.” Harris) represents the moral voice of the film, who tries to advise and protect his younger brother, who is selling “weed” from the school to the streets, and he’s already in debt to a pimp truck riding kingpin (Big Boi). But in watching this movie unfold, this factor isn’t apparent enough to matter much, because the film doesn’t dramatize what led them into music. Still, “ATL” is a decent film about growing up Black and it has its moments. The film fails to bring much new that we haven’t seen before. PG-13; 110min. A Warner Bros. Pictures Release – presented at selected theaters BRICK (***1/2) Nerdy-looking high school student Brendan Fry (Joseph Gordon Levitt) receives a distressing phone call from his ex-girlfriend, Emily (Emily de Ravin). Two days later he finds and hides her dead body inside the darkened tunnel of a water system. Brendan turns himself into a relentless amateur sleuth seeking clues and information to the reason behind her murder. His singular determination turns this high school /teenage haven into an old/new “film noir” remix that is intense and compelling to watch. “Brick” is a crafty, hip, intense thriller done with piercing vision and style that helps create something new and vibrant from a familiar film noir that gives this movie its own distinction and a new cinematic experience. R; 110min. A Focus Feature Release – Opens Fri. April 7 at LandmarkCentury Centre and other selected theaters LUCKY NUMBER SLEVIN (***1/2) This movie begins with the brutal murder of two separate, yet crooked bookies who worked for the mob. There was news of a doped-up race horse considered to be a sure thing. The horse dies while crossing the finish line. A family man trying to make some quick money, bets on that race and owes money to the mob. The story is told in flashback by a mysterious man, Mr. Smith (Bruce Willis.) Enter Slevin (Josh Harnett), a young man having a bad day, losing his job, finding another man with his girl in their apartment. He wanders off with nowhere to go when he receives a phone call from his friend, Nick who invites him to New York. The film is filled with intrigue and fun. The audience will enjoy seeing which way the story and characters reveal themselves and how the movie manages to tie itself up neatly. In short, as mentioned in the film, this movie does its own “shuffle” on its audience with entertaining results. “Lucky Number Slevin” is a deceptively clever and intriguing mob thriller with a dry sense of humor, cheeky style See Flicks page 14 ON VIDEO Compiled and Reviewed by David Schultz DIRTY (**) Cuba Gooding Jr. tries to follow Denzel Washington’s bad cop role, starring in this gritty urban drama with Clifton Collins Jr. as an ex- street gang member working as a rookie cop whose loyalty is put to the test between his former and current life. While these two patrol cops on an anti- drug duty. They are also investigated for the accidental killing of a bystander during a previous drug bust incident in this poor man’s rip-off of “Training Day”. Wyclef Jean and Taboo costar as stereotypical gangsters R; 97 min Sony Pictures Home Video; Available: April 4 GET RICH OR DIE TRYING (***) Curtis “50” Cent” Jackson puts in his ‘two cents’ in his acting debut for this semiautobiographical account of the life of abandoned street kid who forged a living through drug dealing until able to get straight as a rap star. Irish–born filmmaker Jim Sheridan who did “In Country” and knows something about immigrants and revolution delivers the goods from this compelling and gritty script from “The Sopranos” writer Terence Winter. Terence Howard who replaced Samuel L. Jackson co-stars with another credible performance. R; 114min. Paramount Home Video FUN WITH DICK AND JANE (**) Jim Carrey seems to have taken a step backwards to his hyper physical comedy roots in this quickie movie remake of the 1977 George Segal – Jane Fonda comedy that should have been more of a biting satire Skandar Keynes, Georgie Henley, Anna Popplewell and William Moseley in Walt Disney Pictures’ The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe on social ills than a wild romp. Carrey plays a successful executive promoted to media fall-guy for an Enrontype industry that boss Alec Baldwin embezzled the money that left the employees out of a job. Unable to find work, Carrey and wife Tea Leoni decide to maintain their suburban lifestyle through robberies. Until Carrey meets up with his ex-boss’ assistant (Richard Jenkins) who intend to retrieve the company money kept in bank bonds. PG; 90min. Sony Pictures Home Video; Available: April 11 THE CHRONICLES OF NARNIA: THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE (***) Based on the first of seven C.S. Lewis’ fantasy adventure novels; Forced to leave their England home during the German air raid bombings, The Pevensie children are sent to live with a reclusive professor in a countryside mansion. When the baby sister discovers a wardrobe closet that is also the entry into a magical, wintry landscape created by an evil witch in search See Video page 15 All you ladies out there stand up and be accounted as we celebrate Women’s History Month.I know I have made some history! Rapper Corey C-Murder Miller was released from prison on March 20th after his conviction of second degree murder was overturned on March 10th. He posted a $500,000 bond after having being imprisoned for four years. He will be under house arrest at his Louisiana home were he will be allowed to leave only for court appearances and is not allowed to talk to anyone except family and his legal team. G-Unit member Young Buck is being sued by celebrity chef Irving Brown III. Young Buck never paid the chef the $5600 when he catered his 3 day 25th birthday party at Nashville’s King of Clubs. Brown was initially supposed to cater the 3 day bash but Buck cancelled after saying that he could not afford it. (WHAT!) On March 23rd, a Los Angeles judge issued Suge Knight an ultimatum to appear at a court hearing to discuss his assets or else. Suge is currently in a legal battle with Lydia and Michael Harris, the couple who claimed they helped him start the Death Row label. Harris who claimed he gave Knight 1.5 million dollars to start the label is serving a 28 year sentence in San Quentin prison. Even though Knight denied the claims, he was ordered to pay $107 million. Michael He and his wife who has since divorced said Knight is not making his payments. The hearing is set for April 1st and I will keep you updated. A judge has issued a temporary restraining order requiring David Hasselhoff to stay away from his estranged wife, according to court papers unsealed this week. Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Mark A. Juhas signed the order March 6 ordering the former “Baywatch” star to stay at least 100 yards from actress Pamela Bach except for “peaceful contacts related to court ordered visitation” of one their two teenage daughters. Bach, 42, has custody of one daughter while Hasselhoff, 53, has custody of the other. A hearing for April 4 to decide whether to extend the order to three years. In her request for the order, Bach claimed instances of domestic violence in December and February. In one incident, police officers were summoned but didn’t give Bach an emergency protective order, according to court documents. Hasselhoff filed for divorce Jan. 12, citing irreconcilable differences after 16 years of marriage. Bach filed her own divorce papers a day later, also citing irreconcilable differences. Hasselhoff played lifeguard Mitch Buchannon on “Baywatch” from 1989 to 2000. He also starred in the 1980s TV series “Knight Rider,” in which his character, Michael Knight, teamed with a talking Pontiac Trans Am sports car to fight crime. Bach appeared in the soap opera “The Young and the Restless” and in numerous episodes of “Baywatch” and “Knight Rider.” Sources: www.bet.com www.msnbc.com, Marquita Ware is the Production/Layout Coordinator for the North Lawndale Community News. A Season to Remember Todd Thomas 2005/06 was a season to remember for Chicago Public League basketball players, students and fans. Several highly regarded players players capped off stellar seasons in glorious fashion during the city and state championship tournaments, while up and coming underclassman took the required steps to become leaders of the pack next year. Three teams were especially strong this year including West Side schools Marshall and Crane and of course, city and state champion the South Side Simeon Wolverines. MARSHALL: The Marshall Commandos (32-3) were ranked No 1. for most of the year and finished in third place at the state tournament. Their up-tempo and no-holdsbarred style was thrilling to fans and gyms were often packed to capacity to see their games. The sensational Patrick Beverly led the Commandos. The incredibly agile 6-3 senior guard was awesome, averaging 32 points, 6 rebounds and five steals. Beverly was not only a high flier and scorer he was also a major force on defense and when his shot wasn’t falling he had several teammates to defer to. Junior guard Mike Stovall (18ppg), senior forward Darius Gators, and sophomore guard Ryan Hare (22ppg) all played well throughout the season and the two underclassman should make them a strong team again next year. Coach Lamont Bryant is a fierce competitor with a very demonstrative style and should be able to guide the already talented squad to another winning season. CRANE: The Crane Cougars were a little overshadowed by Marshall on the West Side but they too had an excellent season (24-6). Senior Guard Sherron Collins provided most of the firepower. The 5-10 senior guard averaged 26 points, 8 rebounds and 8 assists per game. The rugged ballhandler, who is also All-State in football, was unstoppable. His dexterity with the ball is magical and he For I give you good doctrine, forsake ye not my law. (4:2). causes chaos for opponents with his relentless defense and will to succeed. Some observers have said that Collins is the best athlete to come out of the Chicago area in 30 years. Although Collins will be departing for the University of Kansas, the Cougars should be in good hands with Dion Dixon, Brandon Mcgee and Lavonte Douglas all returning. Coach Anthony Longstreet seems to truly love coaching his kids and the camaraderie and chemistry he teaches will be critical for Crane next season. SIMEON: The undisputed city and state champions (33-4) won their first state title since 1986 on a last second buzzer-beater in overtime by junior forward Derrick Rose. The highly touted Rose averaged 20 points, 7 rebounds, 8 assists per game and during the city and state tournaments he blossomed into the kind of team leader many basketball pundits had predicted him to be. Rose is an awesome athlete with a combination of toplevel speed, jumping ability and a solid shooting touch. He is also an excellent defender and rebounder and despite his many talents he always seems more interested in keeping his teammates involved in the game than stealing the show for himself. But Simeon is far from a one man gang and junior center Tim Flowers and a cast of others will all be returning with Rose next season. Coach Robert Smith, having led Simeon to the state title in only his second season should have a great time guiding the Wolverines to another exceptional season next year. North Lawndale Prep had an outstanding season in Class A. The Phoenix went into the state tournament with a 30-2 record but fell in the quarterfinals 58-40 to the eventual state champions Chillicothe. Todd Thomas is a freelance writer for NLCN and other publications. To comment on this article visit our weblog at: www.nlcn.org. March 29 - April 11, 2006 THE NORTH LAWNDALE COMMUNITY NEWS CITY BRINGS FREE, ONE-STOP SERVICE FAIRS TO SOUTH LAWNDALE The City’s second Chicago Works For You Service Fair will kick-off April 6 at Little Village High School, 3100 S. Kostner. The three-day fair offers residents free, immediate access to a range of city services at one convenient location. The April 6 - 8 fair at Little Village High School will operate from 12 noon to 8pm on Thursday and Friday, and 9am – 5pm on Saturday. “The Chicago Works For You Service Fairs are designed to help low-income families build financial security and enrich their daily lives,” said Sheryl McGill, Acting Commissioner of the Chicago Department of Human Services. More than 18 City departments, 2 state agencies and 20 private organizations will be on-site to provide services and conduct workshops. Services relate to education, employment, health, finance, housing, senior citizen support, small business, special needs, transportation and more. “What sets these fairs apart is that participants can leave with something tangible in their hands,” said McGill. “Visitors can create and post a resume, open an e-mail account, get screened for a variety of health issues, learn about housing opportunities, enroll their child in youth activities and receive tax assistance.” SERVICE FAIR HIGHLIGHTS For Children and Young Adults: · Enrollment information for local Head Start and Child Care programs. · On-site enrollment in youth activities · On-line financial aid for college students For Seniors and People with Disabilities: · Assistance applying for Medicare Prescription Part D · Information on how employment impacts Social Security benefits for people with disabilities. · Services for grandparents raising grandchildren For All Ages: · Blood pressure tests, screening for breast cancer, HIV/AIDS, Prostate cancer · Create and post resumes, conduct job searches, open e-mail accounts · Tax assistance · Enrollment in the Historic Chicago Bungalow Program · Employment and housing opportunities for people with disabilities · CTA trip planning Applications for Food Stamps will be taken on site from noon to 5pm on Thursday, April 6 and Friday, April 7 only. The next Chicago Works for You Service Fair is scheduled for May 18, 19 and 20 at Truman College . Guests will be greeted by a knowledgeable volunteer, who will help them plan their time at the fair effectively and locate services they need. While the focus of the fair is to provide immediate results, followup service will be available for those who want it. In the fall of 2005, the City and its partners established an assistance center for victims of Hurricane Katrina. Thousands of Gulf Coast families passed through the center and were able to resolve multiple needs on the spot. The success of this operation inspired the concept for the Chicago Works for You Service Fairs. They are designed to bring the same level of coordinated, easy access service to Chicago’s own families. The first fair was held in late February at the Hamilton Park Field House in Englewood. More than 700 families benefited over the three-day period. Five additional fairs, including the one scheduled at Little Village High School, will take place this year. Information on specific services and the dates and locations of future fairs is available by calling 311 or visiting: www.cityofchicago.org/humanservices. Page 13 Will Black-Jewish Divide Impact Governor’s Race? Richard Muhammad during an appearance on WVON-AM’s Cliff Kelley Show. She and other Nation officials beat back the charges of anti-semitism. They found support from callers. “I am so tired of those who have made their life agenda, and the ADL is one of those, to demonize the Minister and to continue to misinterpret, attack and discredit him. They can’t dispute his truth and when you can’t dispute the truth of what somebody is saying, you attack the personality and discredit the person, so people won’t listen to the truth,” said Father Michael Pflegher, Father of Saint Sabina Church, during a call. The governor has broached the idea of dialog between the two groups, which Jewish organizations rejected. A suggestion from other panel members to hold closed door discussions was also dismissed as a violation of Illinois open meeting laws. The clamor arose after Muhammad invited commission members to hear Min. Farrakhan’s Feb. 26 Saviours’ Day address at the United Center. It continued after his remarks. In the speech, Min. Farrakhan criticized U.S. policy in the Middle East, warned of divine judgment against America for her moral failures, and domestic and international injustice, and spoke out against the war. The Bush administration is pursuing a doomed policy in Iraq and by putting Israel at the center of its Middle Eastern policy, Min. Farrakhan said, speaking to thousands inside the United Center. “These neo-cons and Zionists have manipulated Bush and the American government and our boys and girls are dying in Iraq and Afghanistan for the cause of Israel, not for the cause of America,” he said. The synagogue of Satan spoken of in the bible is not a religious house for Jews, but a gathering place for like-minded people, he continued. That includes the Christian right, some influential White House advisors, Zionists and others poisoned by the doctrine of white supremacy and committed to U.S. imperialism, said Min. Farrakhan. The Bush administration and the religious right see the modern state of Israel as vital, but it is the “spiritual Israel,” represented by Blacks in America, that God wants protected, he said. A Jew is one engaged in a covenant relationship with God, not a nationality, just as Christians are bound to the example and teachings of Jesus and Muslims bound to the way and word of Muhammad, the Minister said. Obedience to God determines whether one who takes the name of faith is a true believer, he said. White Christians used the bible to justify slavery and murdering Blacks that had nothing to do with the teachings of Jesus and the prophets, Min. Farrakhan noted. Black America must make a decision, Min. Farrakhan said. The choice is to separate from wickedness and pursue righteousness, or integrate into a rebellious, wicked nation, he said. “It’s not about Black and white. It’s about wrong and right,” said the Minister. Another focus of the Saviours’ Day speech and weekend events was the plight of Blacks after Hurricane Katrina. Mutagulizi Sanyinka, a New Orleans resident and activist, spoke before the Minister’s keynote address. Sanyinka appealed to Black America to stay focused on the need to obtain justice for their brothers and sisters evacuated from the Big Easy. “Don’t let Katrina fatigue set in to your soul,” he said. Sanyinka urged support for Katrina evacuees by passage of city resolutions backing their right to return to the city; by helping evacuees participate in upcoming April elections; by keeping hearts open to their needs; by forming citizen disaster and survival committees and by joining a national movement to reclaim New Orleans and protect its African American presence. Richard Muhammad is a Chicago-based writer and contributor to the Katrina Information Network. To comment on this article visit our weblog at: www.nlcn.org. While Gov. Rod Blagojevich has won the Democratic Party primary, a Black-Jewish battle over an African-American political appointee to a state hate crimes commission could impact the governor’s race. According to a March 24 article published by Haaretz.Com, members of the Jewish community upset by the governor’s failure to oust an aide to Nation of Islam Min. Louis Farrakhan are being courted by the GOP in efforts to attract voters and money. “The Jewish community in Illinois is not pleased with Governor Rod Blagojevich, whom they helped elect: When it came to the question of placating the state’s Jewish community or avoiding angering the larger African-American one, Blagojevich decided in favor of the latter,” said the article. “Some members of the Jewish community now find themselves on the horns of a dilemma. Should they abandon the Democrat Blagojevich come November and vote for Judy Baar Topinka, who won the Republican primary Wednesday?” it asked. The problem arose publicly in February with complaints by the Anti-Defamation League regional director Lonnie Nassitir, who complained about the presence of Claudette Marie Muhammad, Nation of Islam chief of protocol, on the commission. His denunciations led to demands that Claudette Muhammad repudiate alleged anti-semitic remarks by the Minister or resign. Eventually five Jewish members of the panel stepped down in protest. Meanwhile, Black lawmakers and allies of the Nation of Islam condemned the effort to force Muhammad out. A gay rights member of the panel also said Muhammad should stay. The governor responded with criticism of Min. Farrakhan, but did not ask Muhammad to step down. She has served on the commission since August 2005. “For those who try to condemn me because of the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan’s remarks ... perceived by some as anti-Semitic, it’s ridiculous, absolutely ridiculous,” Muhammad said March 7 For the waywardness of the simple will kill them, and the complacency of fools will destroy them; Proverbs 1:32 THE NORTH LAWNDALE COMMUNITY NEWS Page 14 Flicks from page 12 Denzel Washington and Jodi Foster in Inside Man and high caliber name cast. R; 110min. A Weinstein Company Picture Release – Opens Fri. April 7 at selected theaters TAKE THE LEAD (**1/2) From the classroom to the ballroom, “Take the Lead” puts an alternative twist to a familiar movie genre that starts out being “inspired by a true story”. Antonio Banderas gets the chance to portray a real person whose talent and unorthodox methods helps ignites a group of inner city, underachieving high school teens to rise above their impoverished conditions and lifestyle. Pierre Dulane (Banderas) is an internationally renowned professional dancer who finds himself in need of stimulation from teaching self centered pupils belonging to wealthy parents at his New York dance academy. The film opens shifting back and forth from Banderas observing and teaching his pupils to the structured ballet and ballroom dancing. Rob Brown is a troubled teenager (Jason Rockwell), the lone, remaining son trying to overcome an abusive, alcoholic father who is still grieving over the loss of the older son killed by street gang violence. Although this film is based on the life of Pierre Dulane, the script tends to show too much of its influence from other films. The movie attempts to dance to a different drummer, even though it skips a beat here and there. PG-13; 100 min. A New Line Cinema Housing from page 10 households with a gross household income that is greater than 50 percent but does not exceed 80 percent of the median gross household income. The Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) is among the scores of agencies that offer assistance to Illinois residents looking for purchasing assistance. “Because IHDA is a state of Illinois agency, we can offer qualified first-time home buyers a 30-year fixed rate that are significantly below the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) and conventional market rates,” said Kelly KingDibble, executive director for the Illinois Housing Development Authority. “IHDA also offers a special tax credit program [called the Mortgage Credit Certificate program or MCC] where home buyers can take advantage of dollar-for-dollar reduction in the federal income taxes equal to 25 percent of mortgage interest paid for the full 30-year life of the mortgage. This program is a bit more sophisticated, but can often result in purchasers qualifying for bigger mortgages and saving more money after taking taxes into consideration.” Effective Jan. 1, the bill empowered the IHDA to be the governing body to decide which counties are exempt from the bill appeals process. Specifically, IHDA will determine which municipalities are exempt from the operation of the bill based on the total number of yearround housing units in the most recent decennial census for each local government within the state and by an inventory of for-sale and rental affordable housing units, as defined in the bill, for each county from the decennial census and other relevant sources. Wendell Hutson is a freelance writer for NLCN and various publications. To comment on this article visit our weblog at: www.nlcn.org. Release – Opens April 7 at selected theaters INSIDE MAN (**1/2) When is a heist movie, not a heist movie? When the movie fakes its caper in order to serve an ulterior motive and built suspense. A heist drama usually involves committing the “perfect crime” by getting away with it. “Inside Man” creates the illusion of a bank heist with star power on loan. This is a movie you want to believe in more for the participants than the story. Already demoted to desk work for a possible corruption scandal under investigation, Hostage negotiator Keith Frazier (Denzel Washington) and his partner, Bill Mitchell (Chiwetel Ejiofor) are given a second chance to redeem themselves when the detectives are assigned to a Manhattan bank hostage situation in progress. Dalton Russell (Clive Owens) is the mastermind leader of a group of disguised bank robbers, first posing as painters that position themselves inside the Manhattan Trust bank. While it might seem clever to create a crime that wasn’t committed, this wasn’t what was advertised, or what we were led to expect. We feel more “bamboozled” by this film and that is more the fault of the writer, than the director Spike Lee who continues to diverse a creditable cinematic career. R; 128min. A Universal Pictures Release – Presented at selected theaters FRIENDS WITH MONEY (**1/2) This is a small social comedy that centers on the lives and relationship between three L.A. women who have money and husbands and their friend who is not married. . They all gather for lunch regularly to discuss what charity organization should receive their money; new about their husbands and social trends. The movie affords women viewers more to chew on from these on-screen issues, doubts and ambiguous form of disenchantment, with the men playing second fiddle throughout the picture. Clearly, a film for and about woman “Friends with Money” is a genuinely nice and balanced movie. An engaging and enlightening movie that seems to end just as it was getting interesting. R; 88min. A Sony Pictures Classics Release – Opens Fri. April 7 at selected theaters David Schultz is film critic for NLCN and other publications. To comment on this article visit our weblog at: www.nlcn.org. March 29 - April 11, 2006 Expo from front page Entertainment from page 9 other issues of relevance to the community of women who attended. Upon entrance, the forum was very visible so you can set aside time to hear your topic of interest and/or your favorite speakers. Touching on a few out of the many discussions, Killing Me Softly: Lupus, Breast Cancer and Uterine Fibroids, The Write Stuff: From Pen to Print, You Deserve to Be Wealthy. These and many other well-structured discussions made the admission fee well worth it. Speakers like the inspirational Les Brown tripled the value of the event by taking the time to share information with attendees. The stage area was always occupied with an assortment of entertainment. Whatever entertained you, the stage area had it: Fashion shows, Dance performances, Gospel Choirs and entertainers such as Tina Marie and Trey Songz made this expo a bash of events. Pattie Labelle made an appearance at a separate location, not included in the fee. Not notable to the first-time goers of the Expo, but to annual goers of this event were some quality out-of-state vendors. Some local vendors received plenty of attention. Vendors with services for massages, and products such as oil paintings, black legendary posters and portraits made the shopping experience great. Some venders offered 2006 calendars and rare footage of black legendaries on DVDs such as Malcolm Speaks, The Story of Miles Davis, and many more. There were key chains with positive messages, hand-made jewelry, and other goods that gave the Expo culture. Corporate America showed their support with the presence of many big companies that had incentives or passed out discount coupons and free samples of known products. Also present in large numbers were higher educational schools advertising their curriculums. The Literary Café was flocked with book readers. Young ones who want to See page 15 are doing something that contributes, positively to this changing community.” Their principle goals at this time are to get more North Lawndale residents out to see the shows, and to get more of them to come out and audition. “There’s a lot of wasted talent in North Lawndale; unseen talent, with no place to develop it,” said Anderson. Clay advises, “If you feel that you have some kind of talent, there’s a place you can come and express that. If you think you have something you can do in a performance level.” They also advise that entertainers come prepared. Anyone who would like to audition for a stage performance as a singer, comedian, dancer of any sort (tap, ballet, etc.), poet, musician, whatever your talent, remember the name and come with appropriate material. Come confident, knowing your material just like you would for any other audition. If selected, Livin’ Clean Entertainment will have the opportunity to incorporate the entertainer into one of its shows, and will give he, she, or them the opportunity to be on stage before an audience and learn the procedure of stage performance. Scheduled for March 31 are comedians, Marlon Mitchell, Baldhead, and Reggie Red. On April 1 there will be comedy acts from Baldhead, Reggie Red, and Special K. Admission is $12. Minimum age without an adult is 16. The following weekends Livin’ Clean Entertainment will feature gospel singers including Cerita Brown, and Darren Tidwell. Complimentary snacks will be served. The establishment is an alcohol-free, smoke-free, safe and comfortable environment. Patrons can park in the church parking lot across the street. For information on performances or auditioning call 773-521-9150. John L. Clay, Jr. served in the military during the Vietnam War where he received training in environmental systems of airplanes. He studied theater at Columbia College. Donald Anderson has a background in sports television production covering Bulls, White Sox, and Cubs games. Clemolyn (Pennie) Brinson is a poet and writer for NLCN and Residents Journal. To comment on this article visit our weblog at: www.nlcn.org. Intellectual Helotry Part 3 of 4 Julius Goodman Everything that is associated with evil, hatred, sin, and hedonism has the basis of black in America. In American society, if you are excluded socially you are blackballed. If you have been defamed, you have been blackened. Society as decided that Black Americans have their own form of English called Black English. A pirate flag is a black flag designed with the symbols of a skull and crossbones. A rude or unscrupulous person is a blackguard. A lawless secret society engaged in criminal activities is called the backhand. If you are on the list of persons who are disapproved of or who are to be punished or boycotted then you are on a blacklist. If you are extorted by threats of public exposure or criminal prosecution you are black mailed. Illicit trade in goods or commodities in violation of official regulations, or in other words if you got something illegal you got it on the black market. A discreditable member of a respectable group is a black sheep. And the newest word was created right after the most recent stock market crash, Black Monday. It is this kind of psychological genocide that has been perpetuated and manifested into government policy. The designs of America are against black. When you take a nation of people out of their natural environment for the purpose of complete social dominance and degradation, your brain washing begins to work. No more physical slavery, now you have mental slavery. The black mind has been saturated with oppression. Schools in America teach the history of America from the social majority view. Black Americans are not taught about themselves; they are taught the values of the majority. All of this is very confusing. America is confused. Imagine what this confusion has done to a nation of black people over five centuries. This black nation is also confused. Black Americans are so busy thanking the majority for all they have done for so few, many black Americans become stagnant and their view on success becomes so cloudy and tiresome that many struggle no more. The majority of Black Americans only reaches out and touches what is made available to them. All Black Americans have become a nation divided. Families divided. Senseless abandonment of children (these children will be the next generation of Black Americans) by fathers! What does a father represent? A father represents: responsibility, honor, discipline, respect, direction, leadership, producer, builder and creator. A great many Black Americans look and live like they don’t care. Care is the reality of thinking. Black Americans have basic needs and work habits and desires. However, because of this continued social problem these desires can breed negative results. Julius Goodman is poet and motivational speaker. He is also a student at National Louis University majoring in Behavioral Science. This article is Part two of a four part series. If you missed part one or would like to comment on the series visit our weblog at: www.nlcn.org or call Mr. J. at: 773/ 387-5600. Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding. (Proverbs 3:13). THE NORTH LAWNDALE COMMUNITY NEWS March 29 - April 11, 2006 FREE CLASSIFIED AD WITH A DISPLAY AD OF 1/8 PAGE OR LARGER. Page 15 THE NORTH LAWNDALE COMMUNITY NEWS’ CLASSIFIED MARKETPLACE DO YOU HAVE SOMETHING TO BUY, SELL, TRADE, RENT OR ANNOUNCE? DO YOU WANT TO BUY OR SELL A CAR? ARE YOU LOOKING FOR EMPLOYMENT OR LOOKING TO HIRE? YOU CAN BUY, SELL, RENT, HIRE OR TRADE WITH RESIDENTS OF NORTH LAWNDALE, AUSTIN, GARFIELD, PILSEN AND THE MIDWEST COMMUNITIES. JUST CALL AND ADVERTISE IN THE NORTH LAWNDALE COMMUNITY NEWS’ CLASSIFIED MARKETPLACE. CALL 312/492-9090 TO PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED AD! OFFICE SPACE APARTMENTS 2 OFFICE SPACES FOR RENT – 3708 W. Roosevelt Rd. $350-$450. Month to month leases. Please call 773/638-1700 HELP WANTED HELP WANTED EXPERIENCED TELEMARKETERS Sales experience a plus. Salary plus commission. Fax resume to (312) 421- 8909 or email [email protected] APT FOR RENT 2 bedroom, cozy basement apartment $675/mo For more info call 773-814-6896 COMPUTER SYSTEM 7 ROOM APARTMENT FOR RENT 3 bedroom Newly Decorated 750/mo + sec. Call 773-762-1090 11:00am—7pm ASK FOR BARNEY Complete Computer System including: Computer, Monitor, Keyboard, Mouse, Internet Ready and in Good Condition. EDUCATION $1 00 $100 CATALYST SCHOOLS CHICAGO NEW CHARTER SCHOOL OPENING IN NORTH LAWNDALE AT 16 TH & SPAULDING. Applications being accepted Now for 4th and 5th grade through April 14th For the Fall of 2006. Small classrooms, Individual Attention, Longer School Day, Longer School Year, Strong Parental Involvement. Call today for an application. (773) 535-8664, for more information click on www.catalystschools.org SPERTUS COLLEGE OPEN HOUSE April 24th at 6pm. Learn how a degree in Nonprofit Management can boost your career. To attend the open house, RSVP at [email protected] or call 312-3221707. Reservations required Please Call COMMUNITY/ CURRENT EVENTS THE NORTH LAWNDALE PARTICIPATING PARTNERS INVITE COMMUNITY MEMBERS TO AN INFORMATIONAL MEETING REGARDING THE NEW JUVENILE JUSTICE PROCESSING CENTER. The meeting will take place on Tuesday, April 4th at 5:30 p.m. at Sinai Institute, 2653 W. Ogden. For more information contact Frances Wooley, Sankofa Safe Child Initiative, at: 773/ 542-8624 or email: [email protected]. AFRICAN-AMERICAN CONGREGATIONS IN CHICAGO AND ACROSS ILLINOIS WILL HOST BASUAH (BROTHERS AND SISTERS UNITED AGAINST HIV/ AIDS) EDUCATIONAL SEMINARS about BASUAH and HIV/Aids on April 30, May 28 and June 25. For more information contact Melaney Arnold at: (217) 558-0500. (7 08)460-60 35. (708)460-60 08)460-6035. Orland Park, IL DNA TESTING CERTIFIED DNA TESTING Paternity - Are you the father? MaternityAre you the mother? Grandparents Studies – Is she my grandchild? Sibling Studies – Are we brothers and sisters? Twin Studies – Are we identical or fraternal? LOW LOW PRICES CALL NOW! 773-209-5920 R. Johnson Harrington from page 7 Expo from page 14 get their hands on both Terry McMillan’s and Fantasia’s new book and older readers who appeared interested in healthy eating cookbooks purchased items. Despite your age, the Literary Café had what you wanted to read. Also, free books were available and passed out by the authors themselves who were promoting their books. Club Expo was another popular area, for adults only. Here there was an abundance of alcoholic beverage vendors. Each gave out free miniature cups of alcoholic beverages. They also liberally gave out free t-shirts with advertised alcoholic beverages; in addition, a dance floor was set aside where stepper CD’s were sold right outside of this area. At the Kid’s Korner, the teens were left on the karaoke stage with an adult host and the Brookfield Zoo gave out gadgets, one of many treats for kids. Hats off to the sponsors of Black Expo for Today’s Black Woman; they earned straights Es’ for an Excellent Effort to have something for everyone at their local annual event. The Black Expo is an annual event hosted by V103. Iva Robbins is a community resident. To comment on this article visit our weblog at: www.nlcn.org. College Glee Club, the Dark Tower Project, the MorehouseSpelman Pre-Law Society, Amnesty International and Trailblazers International Society. She was recently inducted into the Golden Key Honor Society which represents the top 15 percent of the class. She is frequently involved in community service activities throughout the Atlanta community. In summer 2005, Ms. Harrington participated in the highly sought after Congressional Black Foundation Summer Internship program. She worked for nine weeks with Congressman Danny K. Davis in Washington DC on Capitol Hill. This voyage to the Dominican Republic is not only Ms. Harrington’s first experience studying abroad; it is her first time outside of the country. Through a series of articles, it is Jaira’s hope to enlighten and encourage students to take advantage of opportunities such as this. Thea from page 11 nun, teacher and singer. Wallace offered a forward in the book: Sister Thea Bowman, Shooting Star: Selected Writings and Speeches. He stated in his introduction of her in the “60 Minutes” profile: “Thea Bowman was born a Protestant in Canton, Mississippi. At the age of twelve, she startled her parents with the news that she was going to become a Catholic. A few years later, she delivered even more shocking news: she would become a nun. Today at forty nine, Sister Thea is still shaking things up , preaching a new black Catholic Gospel powered by the conviction that when something’s wrong, you change it. Change it, she did,” Wallace said. Sister Thea Bowman left an impressionable mark on her Catholic faith and to the world. Tamiko Bowie is a North Lawndale resident. Tamiko is a freelance writer for NLCN and other publications. To comment on this article visit our weblog at: www.nlcn.org. Video from page 12 of a child to extend her life. A visual spectacle within an adventure about empowerment and family values. Not close enough to the “Lord of the Rings” caliber, “Narnia” sets a wondrous tone for this promising movie franchise. PG; 135 min. Walt Disney Home Video; Available: April 4 MEMOIRS OF A GEISHA (***) The scope, pageantry outweighs the story of a poor girl (Ziyi Zhang) from a fishing village who overcome the adversity from her aged and newcomer rivals played respectively by Gong Li and Michelle Yeoh; to become the most celebrated geisha of the 20th century, while winning the heart of ‘The Chairman” (Ken Watanabe). Handsomely mounted under the direction of Rob Marshall whose first film was the Oscar winning “Chicago”. PG-13; 140min. Sony Pictures Home Video David Schultz is film critic for NLCN and other publications. To comment on this article visit our weblog at: www.nlcn.org. So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, and apply thine heart to understanding; (Proverbs 2:2) Page 16 THE NORTH LAWNDALE COMMUNITY NEWS Community People Westside Youth makes National Honor Society March 29 - April 11, 2006 INTERSTATE Aut utomotiv omotive Muffler & A Repair ut omotiv eR epair 2158 South Pulaski (corner of Cermak & Pulaski) Chicago 773-522-0122 773-522-0 122 4 Locations to Serve You! Ogden & Western 312-733-5333 Diagnostic Testing $ OIL CHANGE, FILTER, TOP OF THE FLUIDS & ENGINE FLUSH 39.99 $ Struts Mufflers Front or Rear Installed $ Grandmother, Diane Spence, Grandson Marcus Spence National Honor Society recipient and Mother, Felicia Spence Marcus Spence was selected by the National Honor Society for academic excellence. Marcus is in the 7th grade at Victor Herber Elementary School located at 2131 West Monroe. The Principal is Ms. Denise M. Gamble. “I study hard, read alot, and stay focused and do my homework” said Marcus shyly, about how he received this honor. “He loves to read. He is always reading something and he plays basketball, baseball, and football. He’s an AllAmerican.”, Ms. Spence, his grandmother said. Marcus says he reads 2 books a week. Even after interviewing Marcus for this story I was sitting in my car and I saw him go across the street to the car where his mother Felicia was sitting. He was carrying a newspaper along his side. “I am proud of my son,”said Felicia Spence, his mother. At a recent meeting 5th District meeting of State Senator Rickey Hendon, the Senator announced Marcus Spence’s accomplichment. He was awarded a donation by the Senator and the crowd of meeting members who were in attendance. Marcus received $164 dollars that night.Marcus said he is putting his gift in the bank for his college education. Four main purposes have guided the chapters of the National Honor Society (NHS) from the beginning: “To create enthusiasm for scholarship, to stimulate a desire to render service, to promote leadership, and to develop character in the students of secondary schools.” (from the NHS Constitution) These purposes also translate into the criteria used for membership selection in each local chapter. INSTALLED 99 $ 19.99 119. MOST CARS & LIGHT TRUCKS MOST CARS & LIGHT TRUCKS Full Tune-Up Service 39.99 Converter Inspect exhaust system for leaks. Labor Extra. 199.00 MOST CARS & LIGHT TRUCKS Front or Rear Brakes Service 6cyl. 4 cyl. $ $ 39.99 $ Radiator Flush $ 179.00 00 159. 59.99 Front or Rear 8cyl. $ $ 00 199. Includes plugs, wires, fuel filter, air filter, P.C.V. valve cap, rotor, oil change and filter. MOST CARS & LIGHT TRUCKS Includes installation of front pads, inspect inspect rotors, wheelbearing, calipers, hydraulic system and road test. Pads and shoes extra. MOST CARS & LIGHT TRUCKS
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