TTHEHE NNORORTHTH LLAAWNDWNDALEALE

1211 S. Western, Suite 203 FREE Chicago, IL 60608 CCOMMUNITYOMMUNITY NNEWEWSS Since 1999, More News, More of Your Issues, and More of Your Community Voices and Faces. “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. 24 ISSN 1548-6087 November 1 - November 1, 2006 PROVIDING INFORMATION ON RESOURCES AND EVENTS THAT IMPROVE THE LIFESTYLE OF INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES IN OUR COMMUNITY Governor Hopefuls Court Minority Voters INSIDE Laura Onstot THIS ISSUE week leading up to the intensive, grassroots effort shortly election, albeit in drastically before Nov. 7 to secure a large different ways. turnout of African-American voters. Incumbent Gov. Rod So far, however, the only event Blagojevich has aligned the candidates were scheduled to with Cook County attend together was spoiled when Presidential candidate Todd Stroger was almost two hours late Stroger in an attempt to and Blagojevich never showed. appeal to black voters in Stroger campaign officials said Chicago, where Stroger is an he was delayed by earlier campaign alderman in the 8th ward. appearances, while Blagojevich Blagojevich has made campaign officials said he never STROGER FIGHTS Stroger part of his campaign committed to the event and instead FOR FATHER’S OLD pitch, including at recent had staff members there on his stops in the city’s black behalf. POST WITH HIS neighborhoods. The A disagreement over how much OWN VOICE Chicago Tribune reported money Blagojevich will donate to Republican candidate for Gov. Judy Baar PAGE - 3 Gov. Rod Blagojevich that on Oct. 21, Blagojevich Stroger’s campaign could be holding Topinka shouted, “Vote for Rod and Todd!” up the “Rod and Todd Show.” The leading candidates in the during a South Side campaign stop. Stroger says he has approached ads against Republican challenger governor’s race are looking for It is believed that Blagojevich Blagojevich for financial assistance Tony Peraica. inroads with black voters in the and Stroger plan to launch an upwards of $100,000 to help run TV See Governor page 15 ARREST MADE IN LAWNDALE CHURCH ROBBERY Aricka T. Flowers CHICAGO URBAN An 18 year-old male is being threatening to kill the children held without bond for his alleged among them if they did not follow LEAGUES 11TH role in the October 18th robbery his orders. The gun jammed after ANNUAL YOUTH of the Israel of God Church, the first shot. Investigators say CELEBRATION DAY located at 3737 W. 18th St. Anderson and his accomplice made “Johnny Anderson and an off with $300. PAGE - 6 accomplice entered the Israel of The second man, who has not God Church while services were been arrested, allegedly cornered in process and announced a three victims in the church lobby, robbery,” says Officer Marcell where he held hostage a woman, Bright of the Chicago Police her infant child and an older man. Department. “He and his Police say both robbers were accomplice robbed the victims of wearing nylon face masks, which money, cell phones and jewelry.” turned out to be semi-transparent Israel of God Church, located at 3737 W. 18th St. According to police, under the church lights; making Anderson, armed with a 9 mm recognition possible. Officer of attempted robbery and one count of robbers came into play in the gun, entered the church around Bright says Anderson was aggravated unlawful restraint. capturing of Anderson. GOVERNOR 8:20 p.m. and ordered more than identified by a number of witnesses The Chicago Tribune reports At press time, no one from the BLAGOJEVICH 40 churchgoers to put their in police lineups. that an anonymous tipster is said to church was available for comment. DECLARES PUSH belongings into a plastic bag. Upon his arrest, according to have aided in the arrest, but it is Arika Flowers is NLCN’s th FOR MINIMUM When they took too long to follow police reports, Anderson offered to unknown whether 24 Ward Ald. health reporter and is a graduate his instructions, police say, take a lie-detector test and then failed. Michael Chandler’s $2,000 reward of the Northwestern University WAGE HIKE Anderson became infuriated and Anderson has been charged with eight for information leading to the Medill Graduate School of LEGISLATION fired a shot into the ceiling, counts of armed robbery, 22 counts seizure and conviction of the Journalism. PAGE - 9 NORTH LAWNDALE STUDENTS GET POLITICAL ALSO INSIDE Ben Protess Peraica campaign as part of the ELECTION North Lawndale students work at Peraica's campaign headquarters last Mikva Challenge Elections in Action SCHEDULE & month civic leadership program’s partnership with NLCP. 24TH WARD As the campaign for Cook As part of their Government County Board President enters its POLLING PLACES class, NLCP juniors and seniors final week, Republican candidate researched the candidates running in PAGE - 7 Tony Peraica is receiving support the upcoming county board, from an unlikely source. governor, and state treasurer In an ad posted on the website elections. The students then attended YouTube, four North Lawndale AT THE FLICKS a candidate forum on Sept 23, where College Preparatory High School they were able to ask each candidate PAGE - 13 students pledge their support to a question. Peraica. “We encouraged students to “I like Tony Peraica because he identify what issues are important to knows what he wants to do for our SPORTS them and then ask the candidate community,” said Monique Bonds, about them [at the forum],” said ROUNDUP one of the students featured in the Sonia Mathew, social studies teacher ad. PAGE - 13 Bonds became involved in the See Political page 9 Visit us on our website at www.nlcn.org for more articles, information, photos and opportunities Page 2 THE NORTH LAWNDALE COMMUNITY NEWS November 1 - November 7, 2006 THE NORTH LAWNDALE COMMUNITY NEWS North Lawndale Community News The North Lawndale Community News is now published Winner of the weekly by Strategic Human Services. Our purpose is to help inform our community on resources, events, and issues 2005 SBC Beyond the Call Award relevant to them 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 North Lawndale Community News community members. Winner of the Board of Directors th Muhammed Shakur, Vice-Chairman Nicole Cabel-Pope, Director 7 Congressional District 2004 Carolyn Lewis, Director Creative Scott, Director Bruce Miller, Treasurer Leroy Pacheco, Director Education Champion Award Vivian Lewis, Director Brent Michelle, Director Presented By Congressman Danny K. Davis & Betty Mason, Director Dennis Deer, Director Residents of the 7th Congressional District Frank Bass, Director Reginald Jones, Director Founding Board of Director: Larry Leonard Advisory Board: Cong. Danny K. Davis, Rev. Randall Harris, Fred Mitchell NLCN 2006 Focus Laura Washington, Susan Munro, Marta Foster, Margaret Davis, Larry Leonard Consulting Editors and Writers: Health, Education & Joe Ann Bradley, Constanza Williams, Wilbert Cook, Bill Goosby, Fred Mitchell, Dr. Shemuel Israel, Tamiko Bowie-Ervin, Elia Qasim, Welfare Danita Bowie, Marquita Ware, Warren Polk, David Schultz, Wilbert Bledsoe, Towanda Abbott, Reggie Lewis, Angelic Jones, Shelton The primary focus for SHS/ NLCN during 2006 is Health, Love, Jeffery Leving, Mary Moran, Clemolyn (Pennie) Brinson, Paul Education, and Welfare. Health is essential to a good life. Stewart, Deloris McCain, Priscilla Lucas, Todd Thomas, Renita Education is necessary for the pursuit of happiness, especially Williams, Kabuika Kamunga, Sophia Karalexis, X’ernona Woods, in an economic driven society. Welfare is unavoidable in Henry Hardee, Willie Paige,Jr., Jasmine Stuart, Melinda Lee, Zaki showing man’s humanity (love) toward man. All year long A. Muhammad, Ben Protess NLCN will focus on articles related to health, education Founding Publisher & CEO: Isaac Lewis, Jr. and our welfare throughout our newspaper, weblog, and Production/Layout Coordinator: Marquita Ware website that serves the Westside of Chicago. IT (Information Technology) Manager: Ronnie Allen There is a great disparity in the health statistics in a Managing Editor: Wilbert Bledsoe majority of our community areas. This announcement of Business Manager: Constanza Williams newsprint is too small to go into great detail, but some Communications Manager: Ben Protess resources that can help improve our health can be found in Copy Editors: Angelic Jones and Crystal Robinson The Sinai Health System’s Improving Community Health Website Consultant: Lamont Simmons Survey: “The State of Black Health Care” published as a Photography: Community members and writers supplement in a special edition of the Philadelphia Tribune Marketing Consultant: Dr. Shemuel Israel and the Chicago Tribune in November 2005, and information Staff Accountant: Constanza Williams on the “Natural Cures” website www.naturalcures.com. Advertising Representative: Andre Stokes Adult insurance also available for: NLCN articles and links refer to other resources that will go Advertising Representative: Betty Meaders into greater detail on health, education and welfare. The “Natural Cures,” an interesting new resource leads to solutions Strategic Door to Door Distribution (Bi-weekly) Racheeka 5 FAMILY PLANS Dent & Community Youth that have been overlooked by mainstream medicine and some PARENTS Circulation: 15,000 copies 5 corporations, perhaps because of greed or closed mindedness. Education can reduce and minimize high rates of Drop Site Distribution: distributed weekly over 280 GRANDPARENTS dropsites, and over 340,685 potential readers throughout North 5 unemployment and underemployment, produce healthier and South Lawndale, East and West Garfield, Humboldt Park, SIBLINGS citizens, and reduce the dependency on traditional welfare. Austin, Pilsen and the Near West Communities. 5 The West Side is changing, but not always in favor of the Weekly Mail Subscription Rates: $15.00 for 3 months. 5 CHURCH BEQUEATH less fortunate who have lived here for years. $25.00 for 6 months $50.00 for 1 year 5 Throughout the year, we will connect North Lawndale For Advertisement Rates 5 MORTGAGE INSURANCE residents with resources in their areas. NLCN will continue and all other inquiries contact us at: to provide news and information on people, issues, and events that are relevant to our readers, as well as touch on the focus North Lawndale Community News of our previous years. Becoming an intelligent people we 1211 South Western Avenue, Suite 203 Chicago, IL 60608 Writers’ Meetings!! can also participate and benefit in making our community a Phone: 312/492-9090 Fax: 312/492-7162 model neighborhood. We hope by reading this community Website: www.nlcn.org newspaper, you will become or remain inspired to keep THE NORTH LAWNDALE moving foward to a better life. The North Lawndale Community News is funded by the dedicated work and support of the community, and made possible with COMMUNITY NEWS grants from The Steans Family Foundation,The John D. and Make sure you get every Issue Catherine MacArhtur Foundation, Harris Bank Foundation The Where: 1211 S. Western, Suite 203 Help us to keep this Leo S. Guthman Family Fund ( Lynne C. Rosenthal), The Time: 6:00 p.m. Soderquist Family Foundation, U.S. Department of Housing and newspaper Alive Urban Development (HUD), J-Lab Institute, AfterSchool Matters Date: November 16, 2006 & Subscribe to , SBC (now AT&T), The Illinois State Board of Education (State Senator Rickey Hendon), State of Illinois Depart of Commerce December 21, 2006 The North Lawndale Community News and Economic Opportunity.(Digital Divide Program under Gov. Free Training in Community Journalism! Rod Blagojevich) and DCEO through Sate Rep. Art Turner The Everyone is Welcome! Complete and Mail this Form McCormick Tribune Foundation and contributions from our community, advertisers, and readers. The North Lawndale FOR MORE INFORMATION: CALL 312.492.9090 Name______Community News was started with a grant from the North Address______Lawndale Small Grants Initiative now known as the Small Grants Index Phone______Human Development Corporation and the Steans Family Organization______Foundation.. To Your Health Page 4 Commentary/Poetry Page 5 Please check one: Education & Employment Page 6 3months $15 6 months $25 Spiritual Life Page 7 1 yr $45 Community People Page 8 Mail to: Business of the Month Page 9 Economic Development Page 10 The North Lawndale Community News Circulation Verification Council is a third party agency 1211 S. Western - Suite 203 that audits and verifies our circulation which is Entertainment & Sports Page 12 currently at 15,000 issues per publication. Current Events & Classifieds Page 15 Chicago, IL 60608 November 1 - November 7, 2006 THE NORTH LAWNDALE COMMUNITY NEWS Page 3 STROGER FIGHTS FOR FATHER’S OLD PERAICA SELF PROCLAIMED REFORM CANDIDATE FOR COOK COUNTY PRESIDENT POST WITH HIS OWN VOICE Ben Protess Ben Protess Republican Candidate for County conservative and a moderate social Todd Stroger grew up hanging around the He attended Xavier University in New Board President Tony Peraica arrived on conservative. fifth floor of the Cook County Building. Orleans, his father’s alma mater and where his the board four years ago after winning a Peraica, a lawyer from Riverside, views Now Stroger, the Democratic candidate father served on the board of trustees. hard-fought primary and general election himself as the reform candidate for County for board President, hopes to make it his He also worked as an investment banker, fight. Board President. office. a job he admittedly received through family When Todd was seven years old, his connections. His arrival in America was even more He dismisses suggestions that more father John Stroger, was elected to the county But Stroger wasn’t satisfied working in the hard-fought. study is needed to decided how to reform board. In 1994, the elder Stroger was elected private sector. Peraica, 49, was born in Croatia and county government, saying he would move President of the board. “I probably could have gone to grad school lived there until he was 13. quickly if elected to cut 4,000 to 5,000 jobs Todd Stroger wants voters to know that and gone to a big investment firm and done After both his parents died of lung through attrition and streamline despite his familial and political ties to his pretty well right now,” Stroger said. “But I’ve cancer, Peraica moved to Chicago’s departments within the president’s father; he is very much his own man with been a public servant my whole life.” Bridgeport neighborhood, unable to speak administration. different ideas of running county So John Stroger’s ward organization government. selected the younger Stroger to run for state any English. The Republican is seeking both the “My father was a great leader,” said representative in 1992 and arranged for his He became involved in the Democratic presidency and re-election as Stroger. “But he’s 77 and the system is appointment in 2001 as 8th Ward alderman, a Party in Bridgeport, home to Mayor Daley. commissioner of the west suburban 16th antiquated and he wasn’t always open to position he still holds. John Stroger had been In 1994, however, Peraica left the District. A Peraica victory would put a change.” the 8th Ward Democratic Committeeman years Democratic Party and became a Republican in the president’s office for the Yet there is no denying Stroger, 43, has before. Republican. first time since Richard Ogilvie won it in benefited from his father’s powerful In his nearly nine years in the legislature, Peraica considers himself a fiscal connections. See Stroger page 8 See Peraica page 8 STROGER AND PERAICA IF YOU ARE UNEMPLOYED OR SQUARE OFF IN DEBATE Myleson Collins SEEKING CAREER ADVANCEMENT In what was supposed to be a forum for voters to determine the best candidate for Cook County Board President, the only live televised debate between Republican Tony Peraica and Democrat Todd Stroger turned into a finger pointing match late Thursday night. Join us at our For more than half the debate the two candidates attacked each other. Peraica said Stroger’s “political success came from the power that his father (John Stroger) possessed in the years that he was [the County Board President].” Stroger said wants voters to know that despite his JOB TRAINING RESOURCE FAIR genetic and political ties to his father; he is very much his own man with very different thoughts of running county government. Stroger’s friends and supporters talked of his “thoughtfulness” and his resolve to change the Cook County government. “I can see him making some Job Recruitment Resources changes,” said state Sen. Donne Trotter (D-Chicago). “His dad came from a different era.” Employment Resource Information Although Stroger has been under a cloud of corruption speculation, the democrat emphasized the role Peraica’s friends played in various scandals and Computer Training Resources corruption trials. Stroger mentioned how Peraica beat incumbent commissioner Al Carr in the Republican primary with the aid of Betty Loren-Maltese, former Employment Resources Cicero mayor who is now in prison. Peraica said those officials used him only to get rid of Carr and that he won without their support. As he did in their previous debates, Stroger painted Peraica as an extreme, “George Bush” Republican, When: SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2006 out of step with most voters while Peraica blasted Stroger as a puppet of corrupt Democratic ward bosses. Peraica said he is a reform candidate while 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Stroger said he is a consensus builder who could bring change to the county. “We are very different,” said Stroger, a Chicago alderman. “I am new to county government. My opponent has served on the County Board and has Where: Old Sears Tower Bldg. achieved little.” Peraica, a county commissioner from Riverside, rd said Stroger was installed by Democratic officials to 3333 W. Arthington, 3 Floor “maintain the status quo.” “I am my own person. No one calls my shots,” Peraica told Stroger. “No one will pull my string as Keynote Speaker will be State Representative Art Turner they pull your string.” The Republican is seeking both the presidency and Other guests Include: UPS, Symbol Job Training, Westside Health Authority, Greater West to be re-elected as commissioner of the west suburban Town Community Development Project, Noth Lawndale Employment Network, Family 16th District. A Peraica victory would put a Republican in the president’s seat for the first time since Richard Focus, Safer Foundation, Garfield Workforce Center, The Good Samaritan Project, Ogilvie won the race in 1966. Philemon Project, Center for Employment Training, Healthy Families Chicago, Skill The 30-minute debate was sponsored by the League of Women Voters and was broadcast on ABC- Builders of the City of Chicago and Jack Clark Family Recovery TV Channel 7 immediately following its 10 p.m. newscast. It was the final debate of the campaign. The FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL 312/492-9090 election is Nov. 7. WHAT THE COUNTY BOARD Funded by a grant from the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity under Governor PRESIDENT CONTROLS Rod Blagojevich. Sponsored by: Strategic Human Services/North Lawndale Community News and - Over $3 billion Budget for 2006 ($4 million anticipated deficit for 2007) Lawndale Christian Development Corporation. See President page 15 Page 4 THE NORTH LAWNDALE COMMUNITY NEWS November 1 - November 7, 2006 To Your Health WEST SIDE M.D. FIGHTS RACIAL HEALTH DISPARITIES Aricka T. Flowers

An African-American baby born today is “There is an even greater disproportion hardening of the arteries,” says Dr. Marwah. care. expected to live 5 years less than a white baby, in the area of sub-specialists,” Marwah said. “The three biggest health problems I see in “It was jarring for me to see how different according to the Centers for Disease Control “On the North Side there are about 8 hospitals my African-American patients are diabetes, the health situation is in the two offices I work and Prevention. The life expectancy for in a small area and they have specialists, the hypertension and obesity. I don’t see these in, which are barely 12 miles apart,” he African-Americans is 72.3 years, while whites latest equipment, programs and studies. problems as much in my Lincoln Park office.” explains. “We are providing a good number can expect to live 77.7 years. These statistics Generally speaking, the sophistication of Diet and exercise play a significant of education programs for our patients and back up three new studies that found racial community hospitals is not as high as private role in controlling cholesterol, blood pressure get samples of medicine from pharmaceutical disparities in health care in the United States. hospitals like Northwestern Memorial and sugar levels. It is well documented, companies for our patients, since paying for According to one study conducted by Hospital and Illinois Masonic. As a result, however, that blacks have less access than medication is a large problem. We are also researchers from Harvard and Brown medical patients do not have access to the same sort whites to health food supermarkets and easier working with nearby hospitals to help get low- schools, blacks are less likely than whites to of facilities and highly specialized access to fast food restaurants. income patients some of the services that have major surgeries in hospitals where the physicians.” Dr. Marwah says income disparities play require a long wait at community hospitals.” procedures are done most successfully. The Harvard and Brown study, which a crucial role in the inequality of health Dr. Marwah says he’s also attempting to Dr. Birindir Marwah, chief of geriatrics looked at more than 430,000 people in 151 maintenance between the races. bring in geriatric specialists to his 41st St. at Illinois Masonic Hospital and a member of Medicare managed care plans, also showed “In order to eat a healthy diet, it requires office so elderly patients don’t have to travel the Access Community Health Network, that blacks fared much worse than whites in the money to shop for certain food materials,” across the city for treatment. Marwah believes agrees. He says the racial disparity in health controlling blood pressure, sugar levels and he says. “It is much easier to eat unhealthy these solutions are among the first steps to care comes, in part, from the access whites cholesterol. than healthy. The economic status of the creating a more equitable health care system have to higher quality hospitals. In cases where patients had a previous patient affects how much attention they give for blacks and other racial minorities. “The difference in health care comes in heart attack, 71.6 percent of whites were able to their diet. If a person is more affluent, they For more information on Access that the physicians who practice in Caucasian to get their cholesterol under control have more income to spend on their physical Community Health Network’s programs, go areas are highly efficient,” explains Dr. compared to 57.2 percent of blacks. well-being by way of a health club to www.accesscommunityhealth.net or call Marwah, who works out of an office on 41st Maintaining proper levels in these areas is membership or home gym equipment.” (866) 882 2237. St. and Martin Luther King Dr. as well as one crucial to avoiding diabetes, heart disease, Although the study found racial health Arika Flowers is NLCN’s health reporter in Lincoln Park. and consequentially, early death. disparities are prevalent regardless of the and is a graduate of the Northwestern “The leading cause of health plan, Dr. Marwah is working to University Medill Graduate School of death in this country is the improve the quality of low-income health Journalism.

Your can write an article and get it in the North Lawndale Communiy News? Please call (312) 492-9090 Or email [email protected]

I-H SYNDROME: A Behavioral Disease Continued Julius Goodman

If you recall from the last issue (NLCN slavery has left us what the social disease called I-H October 18,) we were reviewing the I-H Syndrome. (“I-H Syndrome,” Part 1, 2, 3 and 4: April 27 Syndrome; a Behavioral Disease. This is the thru June 20) second part of our review. We will follow up Briefly, the I-H Syndrome is a disease that attacks and this column with interviews from people in the controls behavior. Mentally we have to recognize and be community and with accredited behaviorist in the community able to identify wrong behavior that’s perpetrated on us by looking for answers to cure this behavior. As I said “We us, and then we could correct it when we see it happening. have to correct this negative behavior ourselves”. But if you try to do it by yourself (alone) you will never get Tell me how can a group of people like Mexicans and enough practice to change your behavior. Changing behavior Puerto Ricans can come together 10,000 strong in a moments takes practice. notice if it’s something they have to address for themselves. As this disease was being revealed to me I began I am talking about their most recent march at city hall to get searching for some answers. “It has been said: Our greatest the law for illegal aliens changed. Illegal Aliens are people fear is not that we are inadequate; our greatest fear is that that come to America without permission. They do not have we are powerful beyond measure” (“Searching,” July 5). And visas or work permits. These people are criminals and yet we have the power within ourselves to help ourselves and they banded together and spoke up about something that be a better people to each other. We are an intricate part of will help them have a better life. We (black folk) have been this society and we must fight together to respect ourselves in this country since the beginning and we still don’t act, as a nation and other nations will give us the respect we feel, walk, talk, and love each other like this is our country. truly deserve. The difference between other cultures and us is they know In the article I-H Syndrome cont….Recognize Your who they are. Who are we? [See the article, “Who are we?” Enemy;” parts 1 and 2 August 2 and August 29, 2006, we April 26, 2006] we are constantly given new names. Now have discovered at least one enemy. That enemy is profanity. we are African Americans again, that is somebody “We recognize that our current generation uses profanity somewhere decided for all of our benefit that the national more than any other generation in the history of our culture. title of “African American” is the best name for our nation We have let our children, our young people; embrace and (Black Folk) here in America. No one ever asked me, I just accept these words. This is a behavioral metamorphosis woke up one day and I looked at the news and somebody that has perpetuated itself over a period of time. There has told me I was an African American. This happen right after been a changing of the seasons.” I woke up one day (while I was in High School) and found Now it is time for direct action against this disease. In out I was a Black Man. This happen one day when I was in the article” Domestic Violence and the Black Community” grade school and I found out I was not a nigger, they told me we touched on some behavior that we do to each other and I was a Negro when I become a nigger I will let you know. we suggested resources to help fight. As I was walking through my community and I spoke to my Julius Goodman is poet and motivational speaker. He neighbor I learned that I was a Nigga at home and an African is also a graduate from National Louis University with a American at work. degree in Behavioral Science. To comment on this article Now we are not physical slaves and yet the effect of visit our weblog at: www.nlcn.org. November 1 - November 7, 2006 THE NORTH LAWNDALE COMMUNITY NEWS Page 5 Education and Training Chicago Teaching Fellows Working for Change in North Lawndale Schools Colleen Freyvogel

Anthony Hunt spends his days in North attend National Louis University, 122 S. teachers boot camp. They had to teach academic services (the teacher can Lawndale teaching seventh grade at the Michigan Ave., to earn their certification. summer school under a lead teacher and take provide),” she said. Charles Evans Hughes Elementary “It’s a good program but it’s hard,” said college level education courses at night. After graduating from State University School. Hunt. Leaving his suburban Naperville home Allison Karsh, program manager for the of New York, Hammer said he wanted to He wants to make a difference in urban around sunrise allows him to beat the morning teaching fellowship, said the fellows learn do something that would make a social education. rush hour and read his student’s journals. lesson planning, classroom management and impact and after looking at teaching Hunt is one of 130 professionals “They write like they talk but the ideas differentiated instruction. programs around the country he applied to enrolled in the Chicago Teacher Fellows are all there,” said Hunt an ex-marine and “They are bringing energy, enthusiasm become a teaching fellow. Program— a program that allows former accountant. “The challenge is to get and prior skills, and they are going to offer Now Hammer, who holds a psychology individuals without a background in them to understand the importance of learning additional opportunities to students,” she said. degree, teaches fifth grade at Theodore education to teach in the city while earning how to write, speak and do math.” “(They are) individuals who are committed Herzl Elementary School in North their alternative teacher’s certification in He said his 15 years as an accountant to the students who need the most.” Lawndale. one year. prepared him for this diverse environment. Karsh said 43 percent of the teaching “I didn’t want to work for a corporation; “I thoroughly enjoy my students,” Hunt His goal is for each student to succeed fellows are male and 41 percent are I wanted to work for people that needed help said. “I find them all really interesting.” and to see them continue through high school. minorities. to give back a little bit to society,” he said. Though tired at the end of each day, “My biggest fear is that they won’t stay Cleo Aquino, program manager for His plan is to stay in Chicago for five Hunt and the others believe they are making on track,” Hunt said. “If they can stay in teacher pipeline programs, said the teaching years and move to another urban area in a difference. “It’s nice to go where you’re school they can do so many things and get fellows are making a difference as they need. needed,” Hunt said. away from bad things (in the community).” address the teaching shortage in the city’s “I am sort of doing this as a means to Two to three days a week the teaching Hunt and another teaching fellow Daniel school system. fellows meet in downtown Chicago to Hammer participated in a summer-long “We recruit based on content and See Teaching page 14 IL House Task Force Addresses Chicago Dropout Crisis Zaki Muhammad

The Illinois House Task Force on Re-enrolling Students Who Dropped out of School met Tuesday, October 24 at the Union League of Chicago to jumpstart its efforts and lay out an overview of its goals. The task force, which was created last spring by the Illinois General Assembly, is responsible for examining and researching existing drop-out policies and developing ways to re-enroll, teach and graduate students who left school before earning their diploma. The 2000 Census data indicated that in 2001 there were 210,193 dropouts between the age of 16 and 24 in the state of Illinois. 71,658 of those dropouts were between the ages of 16 and 19. To get these numbers down and improve Illinois’ graduation rate, the governor’s current budget includes $18.1 million for the Illinois State Board of Education’s Truant Alternative and Optional Educational program. Another $18.5 million is earmarked for the Regional Safe Schools program, with an additional $24 million set to fund after-school programs throughout the state. Darian Haywood, a student at Olive –Harvey College, opened the meeting by giving a brief synopsis of his life, describing how he dropped out of school and got into trouble. “Now school is my job,” he told the crowd. Haywood went on to say that he has maintained a 3.0 grade point average and is looking forward to going to Xavier University to study medicine and hopefully be a plastic surgeon. Elected officials, educators and former students gathered at the meeting to show their support for students like Haywood, who are getting a second chance at education. The keynote speaker for the event was Illinois State Senate President Emil Jones Jr. who explained that this issue “is very close to my heart.” He described the difficult road he and his colleagues had to take to get legislation passed that would address the large number of drop-out students in Illinois. He talked about Blue Ribbon studies that have researched the problem and mentioned that he had worked on similar legislative initiatives 20 years ago. “It’s funny how life is,” Jones told the audience. “You meet people 20 years ago and the very same issue is being put forth today. “Don’t get too close to the edge, when we look at it, too many young people are falling off the cliff. We do not provide a safety net. A high school diploma is something that shows they are productive.” “Instead of losing money, re-enrolling kids in school would save money” Jones went on to talk about how some communities in the state now depend on prisons, not schools as their mainstay in economic growth. According to Sen. Jones, the $25,000 it costs taxpayers to keep a young person incarcerated is not only an enormous cost, but also an enormous waste of resources. In an attempt to improve the opportunities in at-risk communities, the government needs to spend more money per child for education, he said. He told listeners that they should contact See Dropout page 15 Page 6 THE NORTH LAWNDALE COMMUNITY NEWS November 1 - November 7, 2006 CUL 11TH ANNUAL YOUTH CELEBRATION DAY YWCA Lawndale Jasmine Dowden Hosts Week provided for me.” Hosted by Ramonski Love and Joe Soto, Without Violence disk jockeys for V103 radio station, there was never a dull moment. “We were blessed to Community Panel be asked for three years straight to host, that Calvin Crayton tells me that we are getting a message out to the youth and I think that’s the key,” said Soto. YWCA Lawndale Outreach Services held “Sometimes people don’t have direction and a panel discussion on Tuesday October 17 to maybe that’s what they needed most today, we provide social service organizations an are not so much directors but informers, we opportunity to discuss marketing strategies to like to have a little fun as we inform, and if we attract black clients to their organizations. got through to one person we did our job.” The Panel was hosted by Congressman Through acappella flows, metaphors, and Danny Davis (D-IL). flat out reality, Rhymefest, a Chicago rap Other panelists included Bryan Mattox, artist, dropped some words of wisdom on the Burrel Communications, Mariamme Kaba, 200 students in attendance. Besides honor and Rogers Park Young Women Action Team, and recognition each student received an I-Pod, or Sharron Powell, Black Girl Anti-Violence MP3 player, the top ten students in each category Project. were awarded laptop computers with printers. Congressman Davis explained how his “This was a blessing from God,” said office building at 3333 W. Arthington will be Kendra Sterling, an honoree and sophomore developed into condos with subsidies that would from Thornwood High school who has earned allow low-income people to be able to afford a 4.O gpa. “This is a great opportunity for them at $150,000. other children to see this and know that they Davis spoke about the power of one can do it too.” The atmosphere was filled individual doing what they could to vote and Ramonski Love Kendra thompson Joe Soto with hope and achievement. put people into office that would represent the leadership. The event was sponsored by “It’s important for African Americans kids peoples’ need. Empowerment, encouragement and several major corporations. The corporations to have big dreams and to think beyond what It was not clear, however, how low-income entrepreneurship, were highlighted in the include Coca-Cola, the lead sponsor, they see on T.V.,” said Cheryl Johnson, individuals would be able to afford even the Chicago Urban League’s (CUL) 11th annual Southwest airlines, Nike, State farm, Clear president of CUL. “We need to reach beyond subsidized cost of the condos. Youth Celebration Day. Through jokes, musical Channel communications, and the black what was achieved in the past. I really want Attempts to reach Congressman Davis’s performances, and inspirational speakers the McDonald’s operator’s organization. kids to get exposed early, to all the possibilities office about the development project resulted students had a chance to revel in an environment “Youth celebration day is exactly what it that are before them, to be more than an athlete in his office referring NLCN to the building’s of praise, motivation, and possibility. is on this day, it’s a celebration of our youth or entertainers, there are a lot of other things management office. “This event is fabulous, we have to and its our way of saying congratulations and out there to strive and work hard for. Our job According to the management office, this acknowledge and lift up our students who do continue on because much success is ahead with CUL is to help them reach their mark.” project was mentioned a year ago and there are well as well as the ones who don’t do well, of you,” said Anthony Taylor, community For more information on the Chicago several partners working out details. But the this event is very near and dear to our hearts,” relations director for Coca-Cola enterprises. Urban League visit the web at www.cul.org. company also wondered how $150,000 condos said Romonski Love, dj for V103. “It is important that coca-cola gives back Jasmine Dowden is a general assignment would be considered for low income residents. Youth Celebration Day recognizes to the community, I think it’s very important reporter for NLCN and a graduate of Paul Congressman Davis could not be reached students from all over Chicago whom have to me personally being a product of the Quinn College in Dallas, Texas with a for further comment. exhibited excellence in the areas of Chicagoland area, that in some shape, form, concentration in journalism. To comment on The North Lawndale Community has a academics, community service, and youth or fashion I give back to the community that this article visit our weblog at: www.nlcn.org. See YMCA page 14 November 1 - November 7, 2006 THE NORTH LAWNDALE COMMUNITY NEWS Page 7 Hull House Continues to Serve North Election Lawndale Residents Schedule Sophia Karalexis

The North Lawndale branch recently relocated to 1211 S. Western Ave. They have Oct. 30: This was the last day to request successfully continued the mission started by an absentee ballot through the mail. To get Jane Addams. Hull House is no stranger to a ballot, apply online at North Lawndale the agency has provided www.voterinnet.com, call (312) 603-0906, services to thee community for over 20 years. or visit the 5th floor of the County They provide an array of social services that Administration Building at 69 W. train and place unemployed workers in Washington. Chicago. Oct. 31: It’s still possible to run, this is Hull House offers an array of social the last day to file a notice of your intention services. The agency’s Work First Program to run as a write-in candidate. assist women receiving Temporary Assistance Nov. 2: If you have an emergency, this to Needy Families (TANF) aid from the is the last day to request an absentee ballot Illinois Department of Human Services to to a hospital or similar location. secure full-time employment. The welfare to Nov. 2: Early voting began in mid- work program helps women make the October and ends today. Early voting transition by providing job training site allows you to vote in person with a voting placement, counseling as well as job referral machine. There are locations throughout and placement services. Cook County, but the closest location for Another program provided at the North Westsiders is the concourse level of the Lawndale facility is the Mayor’s Office of Cook County Administration Building. Work Force Development program Voting hours from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. (MOWD.) MOWD assists residents of North Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 12 Lawndale and Little Village gain full-time p.m. Saturday. employment. Though MOWD, clients receive Nov. 6: This is the last day to pick up individualized case management, job an absentee ballot in person from the Cook readiness training, placement services and County Administration Building. retention services. Nov. 7: General election In addition to the other services, Hull Polling Place Info: House has a tech center that helps clients Visit http://www.chicagoelections.com/ involved in any of the above programs learn pp_status.asp to verify your polling place. computer skills. This website allows you to find the “We use our tech center as an added piece location, as well as the name of your polling to teach basic skills for job searching, we place. Check back often as circumstances teach basic computer literacy and use it to may arise necessitating the changing of a help clients in the community that don’t have location. If in doubt call the polling place resources,” said Marian Chisum-McGill, department at: 312-269-7976 See Hull House page 10 NLCN Writer Describes Experience at Mandela Book Signing Kabuika Kumunga

Just reading those words, I got excited. ‘I prepare, the dynamics in the room changes will be in the same room with my hero, my when Mr. Mandela walks in,” the fellow idol,’ I thought. photographer said. I looked through the rest of the book to Sure enough, as soon as Mandela walked find more wonderful photography, Mandela’s in, everybody stood up to honor him. We letters, newspaper clips and other mementos, reporters in the back could not see a thing. including some rare pictures of Mandela in On the tip of my toes, I lifted my camera and prison. The black and white pictures of started shooting pictures blindly. As Mandela Mandela’s past, spanning all 88 years of his took his seat, he said something that I could life, were so expressive that as I sat at my not hear, but many in the room laughed. Just desk in the newsroom, tears came to my eyes. as Annan said “[Mandela] was making It was as if I was reliving the harsh experience everybody around him feel completely of his time, the torturous treatment he relaxed through his unique mix of humor, received in Robben Island prison. warmth, informality and dignity.” Although I In preparation for Mandela’s book event, did not hear the joke, I still smiled. The good- I washed my dreadlocks and picked out my natured energy in the room was contagious. best suit. When I arrived at the Nelson The event’s Master of Ceremony was Mandela Foundation, which serves as Ahmed Kathrada, a cellmate of Mandela, who Mandela’s logistical and administrative arm, spent 25 years in prison with him. Kathrada the pressroom was already packed. All one constantly cracked jokes, making Mandela hundred seats were taken; there were at least laugh, and giving the audience bits of another hundred people standing along the information that made Mandela more walls. personal to us. Former South African President Nelson Mandela at his book signing “I should have come an hour before the Even though Mandela did not speak at the If I had to make a list of the world’s most system was amongst them! scheduled time for journalists!” I thought, book launch, I left the event inspired by his famous people, Nelson Mandela would be Inspired by Mandela’s triumph, I wanted scolding myself. Instead of being in the front greatness and humility. I felt determined to near the top. So, when I got the chance to to further my journalistic training in South as I had hoped, I had to go all the way to the be a better person. I thought that if Mandela attend Mandela’s latest book launch in South Africa. As a graduate student at Northwestern back and squeeze in between the big TV could manage to pardon his torturers, I maybe Africa, I jumped at the opportunity. University, I could have gone anywhere in camcorders. Still, I felt blessed just to be there. I could manage to let go of the anger in my I was in Chicago when he was released the world to study, but I wanted to go to As I was taking the flash out of my bag, I own life. from prison. As people in South Africa danced Mandela’s home country. noticed that none of the other photographers I highly recommend Mandela’s new book. while he walked out of prison, Chicagoans At the book launch, I held my copy of, had any. I wondered why, since the light in It is more than a biography. It contains the danced in front of the South African consulate. “Mandela. The Authorized Portrait,” like a the room was not that bright. A photographer observations, anecdotes and perspectives of When Mandela came to New York to precious stone. It was a heavy, thick coffee table from a South African daily paper soon 58 people from around the world, who speak at the United Nations, every single book. On its cover, Mandela stared at me from explained. “The flash hurts Mr. Mandela’s interacted with him as friends, fellow black man and woman in America was a black and white close up photo. I was already eyes, so no one uses any,” he said. He quickly prisoners, prison warders, celebrities, probably glued to the television set. Some in awe, and I hadn’t even opened the book. showed me how to set my camera so that I employees and colleagues. even made the trip to New York to get a When I did, I found a foreword by Kofi could shoot decent pictures without a flash. I Kabuika Kumunga is a native of the glimpse of him. However, many black men Annan, the U.N. Secretary-General. “Once would have to hold my breath when I shot in National Republic of the Congo. Kabuika is in the Big Apple could not get a taxi, as taxi inside the General Assembly, he had the vast order to avoid getting blurry pictures, but I a journalism student at Northwestern drivers were reluctant to stop for black chamber spellbound,” wrote Annan, didn’t mind. I was too excited. I knew that in University’s Medill School of Journalism and people. How ironic, here they were victims describing Mandela’s last speech at the a few minutes I would see Mandela in person, a correspondent for the Medill News Service. of racism in “democratic” America while the United Nations General Assembly before he with my naked eyes! To comment on this article visit our weblog very icon of a victory over the racist apartheid retired as President of South Africa in 1998. “Don’t worry. No matter how well you at: www.nlcn.org. Page 8 THE NORTH LAWNDALE COMMUNITY NEWS November 1 - November 7, 2006 Community People

from page 3 deeply affected him. considered for the position. Stroger Health problems are not foreign to the Peraica has called Todd’s nomination a Stroger sponsored or co-sponsored 30 bills that Stroger family. John Stroger suffered a career- “monarchical transfer of power from a father became law, most of which were minor. He ending stroke March 14 of this year, one week to a son who is not qualified and not cites a bill that increased the fine for illegal before the Democratic primary. Stroger still interested.” dumping as the legislation he’s most proud of won the primary, defeating commissioner Todd admits he “wasn’t pushing to be the initiating. Forest Claypool. replacement,” but insists he is qualified to be Stroger, who was chairman of the Labor Many voters were introduced to Todd County Board President. Stroger does not think and Commerce Committee, says he introduced, Stroger as his family’s spokesman when the he is unqualified simply because he has “a lot of good legislation that got held up” public was largely stonewalled on his father’s benefited from his father’s political capital. because a Republican majority in the General medical condition. For three months, he said “You’d be hard pressed to find a politician Assembly opposed it. very little publicly about his father’s condition. who didn’t have someone support them and Stroger was also absent from 340 roll call Finally, in May Stroger said his father would encourage them to get where they are. Mine votes during his tenure in the house. He return to office. just happened to be my father,” Stroger said. explained that it’s “the House culture,” to Democratic Candidate for Cook County President, On June 30, however, John Stroger Amidst the stress of a campaign, and frequently miss mandatory voting sessions. Todd Stroger resigned, four days after the deadline for looking after his father, Todd Stroger is trying “You depend on your neighbor to pull the independent candidates to declare for election. to remain positive. switch and do the right thing,” Stroger said. Stroger also emphasizes his disagreement Todd insists this was not a political decision “My family is very strong,” Stroger said. “Now my neighbor may not have always done with Peraica on health care. on his part, saying, “I don’t even know when the “My father has had people trying to beat him the right thing.” After spending 14 years as an “Health care is such an important thing,” independent deadline is. I’m a Democrat.” “My down for 25 years. We’re used to the criticism elected official, Stroger is looking to take over Stroger said. “We need more clinics and hope was by July he’d be in front of cameras.” by now, we have thick skin.” his father’s old job as president. preventative care. We need to make sure In July, Democratic leaders slated Todd If he wins, Todd Stroger would be the first Yet, the younger Stroger is trying to patients are treated right,” he said. Stroger to replace his father, ignoring long-time son to follow his father as Cook County Board distance himself from the family connections Stroger has accused Peraica of wanting to commissioner Bobbi Steele’s and president since Dan Ryan, namesake of the that have benefited him in the past, especially cut important health and human services, and Congressman Danny Davis’s wishes to be South Side expressway, was elected in 1954. as a federal investigation into county hiring even close Providence hospital, a charge practices under his father heats up. Peraica vehemently denies. Stroger also is communicating to voters Stroger identifies health care as a main how different he is from his opponent, issue of importance to West Side residents. C H I LD C A RE S E RV I C E S Republican Tony Peraica. In each of the “Health care is a big issue for people on candidates’ debates and in his few TV ads, the West Side,” Stroger said. Stroger has painted Peraica, a board Although he is from the South Side, Stroger commissioner from Riverside, as a “George believes “it’ll be easy to carry the West Side Bush Republican.” vote because, “I think our issues on the South Peraica called Stroger’s ads “libelous” and Side and the West Side are the same.” is threatening to sue his campaign. Stroger also stands strongly in favor of gun FELICIA’S HOME LITTLE ANGEL’S Stroger attended elementary school at St. control, specifically banning assault weapons Felicitas Catholic Church, the family parish a in Cook County. DAYCARE CHILDCARE block from their home. In 1981, he graduated Peraica insists that his stance on guns is (On 77th & Kedzie) (On Roosevelt & Sacramento) from St. Ignatius High School and is still a not relevant because county government has Providing 18hrs. practicing Catholic. Yet, he disagrees with the no authority over gun ordinances. Providing 18hrs. Church on abortion and supports a woman’s Todd was not always the heir apparent to of child care services. of child care services. right to choose. his father. It was long believed that Todd’s Ages 6wks - 12yrs old Ages 6wks - 12yrs old Stroger highlights his difference with older brother, Hans, was the son more likely 6:00am to 12:00 midnight Peraica on that issue. Peraica opposes abortion to follow in his father’s footsteps. But in 1982, 6:00am to 12:00 midnight rights although he has vowed not to alter Hans died of an asthma attack at age 22. To 773-398-6978 Felicia 773-592-5134 Ann Dotton abortion services in the county’s health system. this day, Todd remains quiet about a death that DISCOVER A NEW WAY TO SAVE MONEY Do You Have A Daycare You can save money at KidBiz, Inc. where Center, provide After-School brand name kids clothes are at reasonable Programs or Offer Childcare prices. Do your kids grow so fastv you need the next size, Services for Children. If So, reading level or Place an Ad In Our Childcare interest? You’ll love the bargains at KidBiz, Inc. Service Section. ...because kids grow fast... For More Information Call 537 S. Dearborn (between Harrison & Congress) 312/492-9090 M-F 10-6 * Sat 10-5 * 773.356.9898 9am on Thurs for Shop & Drop To Place Your Ad Here!!! Peraica from page 3 CLASSIFIED ADS Do You Have an Apartment for Rent, car for sale, property for sale, announcement, legal notice, or employment Republican Candidate for Cook County President, Tony Peraica opportunity? 1966. Personal: Tony Peraica Party: Republican Age: 49 If so, advetise with us in Birthplace: Trogir, in what is now our classified section. Croatia our classified section. Residence: Riverside Classifieds are now $10 Current position: Cook County Board commissioner When you advertise for 2 weeks) Professional training: Lawyer Married to Nilofar since 1979, has two children, Marko and Anisa. If you need to place a Bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Illinois in classified ad with us Chicago and law degree from John Marshall Law School. please call 312/492-9090 November 1 - November 7, 2006 THE NORTH LAWNDALE COMMUNITY NEWS Page 9 GOVERNOR BLAGOJEVICH DECLARES PUSH FOR MINIMUM ON VIDEO WAGE HIKE LEGISLATION Compiled and Reviewed by David Schultz Annual Cost of Living increase would also be tied to the $1.00 minimum wage boost from $6.50 to $7.50 an hour by July 2007 $5.15 is the federal minimum wage minimum wage. and has been at that level since “For the hard working men and women 1997, almost ten years. who work for a minimum wage while their The significant difference of this wages have gone up in Illinois, so has the increase is that it will be tied to a cost of living gone up. That’s why what cost living increase that will be we’re proposal is so important,” said determined by the rate of inflation Governor Glabojevich, speaking of the Shawn and Marlon Wayans in Little Man (the cost of goods and services). built-in cost of living increase. That means Since the last increase in 2004, the when the cost of heat, gas, electricity, or LITTLE MAN (**) The latest consumer price index grew by over other goods or services go up the wages of cinematic silliness from the Wayans brothers 6 percent, so a family that paid rent minimum wage employees will go up features Marlon Wayans technically altered totaling $6000 for the entire year in annually. to appear as a pint size parole criminal (What! 2003 would now pay $360 more. For the workers who may be receiving Tony Cox of “Bad Santa” fame wasn’t Alderman Ed Smith of the 28th less than the minimum wage currently set available?) who teams up with dim witted Ward initiated the start of the press at $6.50 there is already a minimum wage partner-in-crime (Tracey Morgan) for a conference and introduced all speakers hotline that was setup by Gov. Blagojevich jewelry heist that includes a particular gem On Saturday, October 28th at 10 S. starting with State Senator Jacqueline Collins to protect workers who have been cheated that a mob boss (Chazz Palminteri) wants. Kedzie, Governor Rod Blagojevich (Democrat-16th District). She gave mention by employers out of wages owed to them. It But with the cops tailing the criminals for promised to push for a second minimum to the local officials and community leaders is enforced by the Illinois Department of the jewels, Marlon ditches the gem inside a wage increase during the November Illinois that attended and then Ald. Smith introduced Labor. The number to call is 1800 478-3998. purse of a married couple in which the legislative veto session. Each state has the Mayor Richard Daley. To listen to the entire press conference go husband (Shawn Wayans) desires to have a right to increase its own minimum wage “It’s important that we stand by his to our website at www.nlcn.org. You can also child from his workaholic wife (Kerry guidelines. In 2003, Blagojevich signed proposal”, said Daley. He also stated that it go to the State of Illinois website for more Washington). legislation increasing the minimum wage for brings economic opportunities to all in the info. Their press release is at: The pint size criminal decides to pose as the State of Illinois from $5.15 to $6.50 an state not just to Chicago. Daley also http://www.illinois.gov/PRessReleases/ an abandoned infant, in order to infiltrate their hour. That was an increase of $1.35 per hour. commented on hopefully changing the federal PressReleasesListShow.cfm?RecNum=5466 house to retrieve the gem. While the film delivers many outrageous and hilarious moments. The film isn’t credible enough when the movie tries to warm and sincere. National City Raises $1.7 Million Toward Breast Cancer As both men experiences together leads to some life altering results toward what each found was missing in their lives. Regardless of this sentimentality, this is National City has raised $1.7 million toward breast cancer. still the Wayans brothers, who will do In the October 25 issue of the North Lawndale Community anything to get the laugh! News, front page “Task to Address Breast Cancer” story, a study PG-13; 100min. Sony Pictures Home by Sinai Health System found that receiving fewer and inferior Video; Available: Nov. 7 mammograms may be the cause in the rate of African American CARS (***) The latest animated offering from Pixar is the first one that falters from women dying of breast cancer compared to white women. If what they’ve achieved in recent films. The black women had the same mortality rate of white women, 80 movie is better designated for older kids, fewer black women would die each year. teens and their parents, the story centers A breast cancer awareness seminar, in partnership with around a self centered sports car, Lightning Y-ME National Breast Cancer Organization, will be held on McQueen (Owen Wilson) who gets stranded November 2 at National City’s Roosevelt-Homan branch, 3340 in a forgotten town whose residents help re- W. Roosevelt Road, featuring free mammogram sign-ups. shape his perspective and priorities through Patrick McGee(gray suit) Branch Manager of National City Bank located at Roosevelt his first time discoveries of love from Sally and Homan at Museum of Contemporary Art with staff person See Video page 12 Political from front page it’s how they deal with the problems,” Bonds apathetic,” said Mathew. “When young said. “We’re looking for people to help us.” people are involved in campaigns, it’s going at NLCP. Peraica, a County commissioner from to make politicians more accountable to Mikva Challenge also provided a Riverside, has maintained throughout the young people.” campaign internship orientation for the campaign that he can appeal to black voters. Richart is excited to see students students, who then volunteered with the “This campaign is not about race, it’s overcoming the political disenfranchisement campaign of their choice for one day. The about reforming county government,” said young people face because they are not students canvassed their neighborhood, Peraica Spokesperson Eric Kohn. “That legally allowed to vote. handing out promotional flyers door-to-door. message has resounded with all people and “It’s been very successful as far as “I told them if you do campaign work, that’s evident from the support we’re getting students involved in politics,” said it’ll make what we’re doing in the classroom receiving from the diverse areas of Cook Richart. “Kids have given me feedback that more relevant,” Mathew said. County.” this is interesting to them and they want to According to Mathew, approximately 15 Elections in Action coordinator, Jeremy get involved in politics in college. They feel students went back on their own to work for Richart, emphasized that Mikva Challenge is valued for it.” the campaigns. Peraica’s aides approached non-partisan and that students are free to Over 150 students from 15 different high Bonds and three classmates in their second campaign for any candidate they chose. But schools are participating in the Mikva stint as volunteers about appearing in an ad Richart is not surprised that a few more Challenge program and working for each for the candidate. students are choosing Peraica, because his major candidate in the Nov. 7 election. “When we were canvassing, [Peraica’s campaign is providing opportunities to “We try to focus on students and schools staff] said do you mind doing a video just volunteer in North Lawndale. in low-income and poorly served saying we support Tony Peraica.” “Peraica is making it easier, giving better communities in the hopes that our programs That’s just what they did. The four female opportunities for students to campaign open the door into politics, and that those students are featured in the ad with Peraica because he’s doing it in their neighborhood,” students will consider running for office or signs in hand saying, “We’re supporters of he said. managing a campaign someday,” said North Lawndale students gather at Peraica's Tony Peraica.” Stroger spokesperson Jennifer Koehler Richart. campaign headquarters with Peraica aide. Tupac Shakur’s “Changes” is played in said she “thinks it’s great that high school Bonds is pleased with her first political the background of the ad, while the screen students are getting involved in the political experience and is now encouraging her watch?v=PjrRS8MtJUY flashes “Changin’ starts with us” and “Support process,” but did not say whether she was friends to join her in future efforts. Ben Protess graduated from change support Tony Peraica.” concerned by their support for Peraica. “I think other students should get involved Northwestern University in June 2006 and When Mathew showed Bonds the finished Mathew is proud of her students’ efforts, in it too,” Bonds said. “Some people think is working as a staff writer and video entitled, “North Lawndale students 4 regardless of which candidate they support. that just because you’re a teenager you’re not communications manager at NLCN as part Peraica,” she described it as “cool.” “It’s a great way to learn the different important. [Mikva Challenge] is a good of the Northwestern Public Interest Although Peraica’s opponent, Todd aspects of our democracy and to understand opportunity for teens to get involved in Fellowship. He has worked for CBS 2 Stroger, is African-American, as are 99 how these people get into these positions of politics and this makes teenagers feel Chicago and St. Leonard’s Ministries on percent of NLCP students, Bonds felt Peraica power,” she said. [important].” Chicago’s West Side. To comment on this better understood the needs of her community. “I think it’s exciting to see young people To view the Peraica ad featuring Bonds article please visit our weblog at: “It don’t really matter what race they are, involved in a generation that’s seen as visit http://www.youtube.com/ www.nlcn.org. Page 10 THE NORTH LAWNDALE COMMUNITY NEWS November 1 - November 7, 2006 Economic Development over 100 people will come through the tech Hull House fom page 7 center where Harris teaches computer skills. Mayor Introduces New Clients have differing levels of knowledge director of economic development. “The tech and Harris is able to help teach the most basic center is a place where all the clients from all of skills, as well as help clients who have the the programs can come and learn computer Affordable Housing Plan knowledge, but need the resource for job skills. It proves to be a valuable resource for hunting. “They gave me the opportunity to Wendell Hutson those applying for jobs because they will often pick which field I wanted to work in,” said find that certain employers only accept Mayor Richard M. Daley Harris. Harris wants to continue working for applications through the internet.” announces new affordable housing Hull House and has a goal to one day be in a policies at a City Hall news Hull House and Senior Director of higher position. conference. Photo Courtesy of the Economic Development, Mariann Chisum- As for Hull House they will continue the Chicago Department of Housing McGill tries to retain many of the clients that mission started by Jane Addams. “Here at financial assistance. come through their programs. They get entry Hull House we say we serve from the cradle The ordinance would level jobs and work their way up employed to the grave because Hull House services by Hull House. Current employees of Hull further require that at least 10 infants to senior citizens,” said Chisum- percent of the units must be House that were once part of a Hull House McGill. affordable in any developments program prove to be an asset when working Jane Addams founded the Hull House in with new clients. with 10 or more units that Chicago in 1889. Hull House was one of the receive any of these forms of “Some new clients may be forced to be first of its kind in the country to provide social assistance. involved in a program and may not want to services to the poor and underprivileged. be there. “The biggest frustration for us is Ald. Ray Suarez (31st), Today, Hull House assists 60,000 people chairman of the City Council’s making the client realize that this is for real,” through over 47 programs within Chicago. Committee on Housing and said Chisum-McGill. It can prove to be Acknowledging that affordable housing For more information on the services inspirational when a former client, now an often takes a backseat to expensive housing Real Estate, has been appointed by Mayor provided by Hull House contact: 312/850- Daley to head the task force. employee, tells people they used to be where developments, Mayor Richard M. Daley 3183 or e-mail Mariann Chisum-McGill at The goal of the task force is to find ways they are at the moment. “We believe in hiring recently introduced new policies designed to [email protected] people that come through the program. With increase affordable housing options in to protect buyers and ensure quality Sophia Karalexis is a graduate in English construction, and to recommend a all my staff alone, 50 percent were clients at Chicago. from DePaul University. Sophia also earned comprehensive condo conversion policy to one point,” said Chisum-McGill. Part of this initiative involves the creation a minor in Journalism. Sophia is a general One such employee is Katrice Harris. of a task force that will be responsible for be implemented next year, Mayor Daley said. assignment reporter for NLCN . To comment However, 25 aldermen have thrown their “She is one of our shining stars,” said Chisum- finding new ways to keep condo conversions on this article visit our weblog at: support behind a revised affordable housing McGill. Katrice was a former client of the from displacing low-income residents and www.nlcn.org. reducing the amount of rental housing. This ordinance sponsored by Ald. Toni welfare to work program and since task force consists of aldermen, community Preckwinkle (4th) that requires developers of has become financially independent activists and affordable housing developers. new and rehabilitated housing to set aside 15 and has had huge success in terms “Our challenge is to harness private percent of their units for low- and moderate- helping others. On a monthly basis market forces to provide affordable housing,” income buyers. Daley said at an Oct. 10 news conference at And Preckwinkle said she’s not about to The Park, 1225 S. Michigan Ave., which will throw in the towel just because Daley has Advertise with be the first new rental housing to be built expanded his incentives. downtown in many years. “We must continue “I’m always grateful when the mayor the North to use the power of economic development takes action that will increase the supply of to invest in our communities and provide help affordable housing. [But] I remain convinced Lawndale for people who most need our support.” that the set-aside ordinance, which will cover Community News He added that his new policies will also all developments in the city, would result in produce more than 1,000 new units of substantially more units, given the deficit of If you have an affordable housing each year. affordable units in the city [pegged at] 20,000 Since 2003, developers vying for city units in the 2000 census,” she said. Apartment subsidies have been required to make at least Preckwinkle noted that she already has 20 percent of all residential units affordable. reduced the percentage — from 25 percent for Rent The requirement is 10 percent if they want to to 15 percent — to minimize opposition from build on city-subsidized land. developers and attract the 26 votes she needs Ads are only Instead of limiting the affordable housing for passage. mandate to city-subsidized projects, Mayor Kevin Jackson of the Chicago Rehab $10.00 Daley said he wants to broaden the umbrella Network, agreed that incentives are not a Call to include all city land, all plan developments substitute for mandatory set-asides. and all zoning changes that increase “There are areas in the city that are not 312 492-9090 residential density. going to be able to avail themselves of all of Developments with 10 or more units these wonderful programs because they’re all whose projects fall into those new categories private money,” he said. would be required to make at least 10 percent Yet, Mayor Daley said that those types of of all units affordable. mandates just don’t work. The mayor would also ask the City “They just move someplace else,” he said. Council to expand the Affordable “I don’t believe in mandatory set-asides. Requirements Ordinance, which currently People have to pay property taxes.” requires 20 percent of units to be affordable As part of Daley’s plan, the city would in residential developments that receive City See Housing page 14 November 1 - November 7, 2006 THE NORTH LAWNDALE COMMUNITY NEWS Page 11 ILLINOIS RECEIVES FUNDS TO FIGHT LEAD POISONING Wendell Hutson After months of lobbying, Gov. Rod Reed said. “To this end we will vigorously Blagojevich and groups of concerned activists range of activities, including cleaning up lead- reduce and eliminate lead dust dispersion pursue compliance with this rule.” have secured federal funds to use in based paint hazards and improving the living from demolition of older housing, according Federal housing officials add that the stiff combating in-home safety hazards like lead- conditions of lower-income families. Through to UIC officials. fines are meant to serve as a wake up call to based paint. seven grant programs, HUD’s Office of In fact, the U.S. Department of landlords who rent out unsafe units. Alphonso Jackson, secretary for the U.S. Healthy Homes and Lead Hazard Control Environment (EPA) recently cited four “This should send a message to all Department of Housing and Urban promotes local efforts to eliminate dangerous Chicago-area landlords for violating the landlords that they have a responsibility to Development (HUD) said Chicago will share lead and other hazards from lower income Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Act of warn their tenants of potentially dangerous a $118 million federal grant with other Illinois homes, stimulates private sector investment 1992. As a result, each landlord was fined lead,” said Dr. David Jacobs, director for communities, public health organizations and in lead hazard control, educates the public for the violations and agreed to clean up the HUD’s Office of Lead Hazard Control. scientific research institutions. about the dangers of lead-based paint and lead-based paint in their units. “There can be no greater priority than In addition, HUD is making another $39 supports scientific research into innovative The lead disclosure rule requires that protecting the health and safety of children.” million in funding available to clean up lead methods for identifying and eliminating health landlords and sellers of housing constructed Lead exposure causes reduced IQ, hazards in communities with the greatest hazards in housing. prior to 1978 provide each purchaser or tenant learning disabilities, developmental delays, need, specifically cities with a high incidence The Cook County Department of with a lead hazard information pamphlet, any reduced height, poor hearing and a host of of lead poisoning and older homes. Health will receive $760,259 to address information and/or reports concerning lead- other health problems in young children. To facilitate the greatest number of multiple housing-related childhood illnesses based paint hazards in the property and a Lead Many of these effects are thought to be applicants for these grants, HUD will be and injuries in south suburban Harvey, Warning Statement to be signed by the parties. irreversible. aggressively promoting the Department’s Riverdale and Robbins. Sellers are required to provide purchasers At higher levels, lead can damage a child’s Lead Hazard Reduction Demonstration The Health Department has established with an opportunity to conduct a lead-based kidneys and central nervous system and cause Grant Program to mayors and other county partnerships with organizations like the paint evaluation. anemia, coma, convulsions and even death. officials across the state. American Lung Association of Metropolitan Harpoon Partnership in Chicago was Nearly one million of the nation’s 22 million “Today, we take another step closer Chicago, the University of Illinois at Chicago fined $56,980 for 45 violations in nine children under the age of six have blood lead toward ending childhood lead poisoning and and many other local agencies to help identify apartment units, Meljenko Protega in Crete levels high enough to impair their ability to making our homes safer and healthier places the best way to allocate these funds. was fined $102,410 for 92 violations in 19 think, concentrate and learn. in which to raise our children,” said Jackson. On the West Side, the University of apartment units, Josip Tudor in Calumet City According to the Chicago Department of “While we’ve made great progress in Illinois at Chicago will be awarded $848,500 was fined $154,440 for 106 violations in 21 Public Health, more than 15,000 children reducing lead poisoning, we cannot rest until to characterize lead dust emissions from apartment units and Henry Maglio in Lansing under the age of six were diagnosed with lead we banish this preventable disease to the scattered site single-family housing was fined $83,380 for 130 violations in 26 poisoning in 2000. history books.” demolition and evaluate means to control apartment units. The Centers for Disease Control and HUD grants will help 63 state and local these emissions. This project will help In 2001, Chicago-based Wolin-Levin Inc., Prevention (CDC) reports childhood lead projects around the country to conduct a wide professionals identify practical ways to Hyde Park Realty Co., East Lake poisoning remains one of the most widespread Management and Development Corp., and childhood diseases. west suburban Oak Park Real Estate Inc. were For example, in areas with older housing The Digital Development Corporation also fined by the EPA for lead-based paint occupied by low-income families, the CDC violations in their apartment buildings. reports that 27 percent of all children are still Brings New Ideas to the Community Phyllis Reed, chief of the regional poisoned by lead. While average blood lead Pesticides and Toxics Branch for the EPA, levels have declined over the past decade, one Kenya Nalls said more enforcement is needed to ensure in six low-income children living in older the public’s safety. housing suffers from lead poisoning The Digital Development Corporation “Technology is taking over slowly so we “By carrying out these enforcement Wendell Hutson is a freelance writer for and Oversight Committee (DDCOC) held a need to know more about computers. It was actions, the EPA is restating that protecting NLCN and various publications. To comment grand opening for their new technology a good program that opens up more doors children’s health from lead-based paint on this article visit our weblog at: revitalization program on Chicago’s West for us,” said Lawrence Murphy, recent exposure is one of our highest priorities,” www.nlcn.org. Side. The event took place at Allison United graduate. Foundation for Better Living, 4540 W. “Because we are convicts it is harder for Washington Blvd., on October 21. us. This program is making it easier for us to The new program provides technology enter society with us registering to go to city training to first time criminal offenders who colleges,” Murphy said. choose to enroll in boot camp instead of Another recent graduate, Norris pleading their case in court. McDonald did not know much about Business Cards “We give kids [who are] small first time computers so the program helped him learn offenders an option to go to prison or boot more about important technology. camp to do a certain amount of months of “I plan to take this program further probation where they learn more about because now that I have my foot in the door Quantity Black & White Spot Color Full Color computers,” said Lowry Taylor, CEO of the and the opportunities are there for me, I’m DDCOC. going to take it and run with it,” said “The boot camp is a four month rigorous McDonald. 250 $15 $25 $40 military style training that will hopefully The DDCOC works with first time teach the kids some discipline,” said Taylor. criminal offenders in order to help them 500 $25 $35 $60 For the last 45 days of the program, the overcome their lack of job experiences and students then start with the technology side skills. The organization focuses on 1000 $35 $50 $75 where they separate the electronics gear, take technology training to bridge the racial and the computers apart and then put them back economic gap in computers access, a together. The next phase of the program is phenomenon known as the digital divide. going back into the classroom to teach the The Digital Divide is a social-political crisis You Need Them, We Make Them!!* students the basics of the computers. referring to the socio economic gap between The students then receive a certificate communities that have access to computers and of completion and three hours of college the Internet and those who do not. The North Lawndale Community News course credit. After that the students have The DDCOC plans to keep their 1211 S. Western Suite 203 - Chicago, IL. 60608 the opportunity to continue their education partnership with the Allison Foundation in city colleges or they can stay with the Outreach Ministry to provide mentoring for program and be set up with Malcolm X the entire community. The Allison (*Bring in your old card or we will design you a new one for free.) College. Foundation will provide job development “Once they come here we give them a and case management, while the DDCOC certificate, and then they get more detailed will teach how to repair and build computers. You can call at: 312/492-9090 in the computers area,” said Taylor. “The The goal for this project is to produce 36 students then start working for [non-profit certified technicians by the end of the year. agencies] and churches. After we do all that, “We’re working with the boot camp to we start getting case management for job bring in more people,” said Taylor. “We want You can Fax us at: 312/492-7162 placement, which makes it easier for them,” to change their world and follow up on our he said. goals so they will not return back to jail or The students believe the program is prison.” COME IN AND TALK TO SOMEONE IN PERSON. beneficial to them, helping in continuing Kenya Nalls is a general assignment their education after they have completed reporter for NLCN. To comment on this the program. article visit our weblog at: www.nlcn.org. Attract More CLIENTS or CUSTOMERS! ADVERTISE in the North Lawndale Communty News FOR RATES: CALL 312.492.9090 Page 12 THE NORTH LAWNDALE COMMUNITY NEWS November 1 - November 7, 2006 Entertainment & Sports AT THE FLICKS David Schultz, film critic

separately gave us “Shrek” and “Wallace and tricking him. Instead, Sid makes Roddy fall Sacha Baron Cohen puts aside his Da Ali G Gromit” into the toilet bowl intended for him. Where persona from his HBO series for another The trouble begins from misleading the Roddy gets flushed down into an underground equally popular characterization that is clearly audience on its initial story premise that world through the sewers into a ghetto-like Cohen’s best. suggests a rich-living pet mouse and a poor metropolis populated by rats, frogs, maggots Always in character, retaining his sweet sewer rat switches lives to find humor and and slugs. innocence, even in the most extreme and real moral lessons in their alternative worlds Still, though all its shortcomings of its situations; Cohen plays the inquisitive yet that resembles an animated counterpart to story, “Flushed Away” remains very funny dimwitted Kazakhstani TV correspondent, Eddie Murphy and Dan Aykroyd in their 1983 throughout due to its clever amusing dialogue Borat Sagdiyev who gleefully introduces us hit comedy, “Trading Places”. that seems to offer the right balance between to his rural homeland poverty with real-life But somehow this notion gets thrown out the British wry humor to the American sight Kazaks. Picking out a male villager as “the here, leading the viewer left with not much gags and pop culture references. Spike (voiced by Andy Serkis), Whitey (voiced by town’s rapist”, passionately tongue-kissing a Bill Nighy), Le Frog (voiced by Jean Reno) and of what was anticipated in “Flushed Away”. This is an animated feature that is little peasant girl and remarking that “she is my Toad (voiced by Ian McKellen) are after Roddy The adventures, lessons and humor come more for the adults, but without ignoring the sister! The fourth best prostitute in the (voiced by Hugh Jackman) and Rita (voiced by Kate more at the expense of the well groomed and kids who will find some things to be amused country!” Winslet) in DreamWorks Animation’s Flushed Away proper pet mouse, Roddy St. James (voice with here. But the movie doesn’t have enough Borat convinces his prime minister to by Hugh Jackman) who is allowed to take that will stick with its audience throughout. grant limited funding for him and his obese FLUSHED AWAY (**1/2) Continuing over the spotless and ritzy Kensington PG; 83min. A DreamWorks SKG Picture producer, Azamat Bagatov (Ken Davitian) to the pace of the most animated features apartment. release-Distributed by Paramount Pictures travel out of his country to New York to released in one year. “Flushed Away” offers While his rich humans take off on a family BORAT: CULTURAL LEARNINGS interview real people about American the collaborative talents and efforts of vacation. Roddy literally has the run of the OF AMERICA FOR MAKE BENEFIT lifestyles and customs for a series of TV claymation meets computer generated house watching the semi-finals of the World GLORIOUS NATION OF reports. animation along with the droll British humor Cup soccer games. Until his peace and KAZAKHSTAN (***1/2) Yes, that is the While TV’s “Seinfeld” director Larry offset by the fast paced, pop culture reference freedom are disrupted and invaded by a street entire title to this outrageously funny Charles (who replaced Todd Phillips half way American humor that results into an amusing savvy sewer rat, Sid (Shane Richie) who documentary spoofing a third world television during the film’s production) and editor Craig yet unfulfilling escapade from Aardman bubbles up from the kitchen sink. journalist’s cross-country trip and naïve Features and DreamWorks Animation, who Roddy tries to get rid of the intruder by impressions of America. British comedian See Flicks page 14 THE PURE SOUND OF MUSIC Sports Roundup Demetrius Aaron Porter Todd Thomas If you took a second out of your busy experience a song on a more personal level. excellent passer and the team day and just for one minute placed your right “My mission is to “help young guys The wait is now officially seems to have all-important hand over your heart what do you feel? And, accomplished something else besides being over and the concern that the confidence his leadership. if you had a stethoscope and placed over on the street corners,” Jenkins said. “I want Chicago Bears were suddenly on The one down side of the your heart what do your hear? You can feel get to the “big picture” by working with the wane after their great afternoon was seeing fallen and hear music the universal language that artists such as the beautiful Janet Jackson uncharacteristic performance safety Mike Brown on the is translated through something called and by being the number one sound against the Arizona Cardinals two sidelines on crutches. He is sound. company in Chicago.” weeks ago can be put to rest after definitely done for the year and Tom Jenkins owner of Perfect Cure, Mr. Jenkins has done music in Atlanta, the Bears routed the San it’s hard to accept that he won’t Sound Services Corporation, located on the Detroit, Saint Louis, Arkansas, and Virginia. Francisco 49ers 41-10 at Soldier be on the field again to enjoy his west side of Chicago at 3022 West Madison, And, he has worked with head lines such as Field to improve to 7-0 on the teammates awesome defensive since 1997 has become somewhat of a the “crunk” Lil Jon and the East Side Boyz, season. exploits. crusader for music and sound by perfecting the controversial Ja Rule, and the The tone for this game was Up next for the Bears are the the music of starving artists and giving them “whispering” Ying Yang Twins. In addition, set early on when the special Chicago Bears defensive end Miami Dolphins on Sunday, Nov a chance to rehearse their acts. In addition he has been working with recording group teams caused a 49er fumble and Adewale Ogunleye sacks 5. The Dolphins are 1-5 and have to owning Perfect Cure, Jenkins works at Risque, for the last 12 years that you can Thomas Jones responded with a San Francisco 49er not played well. They will be hard Poly Cleaners, which is the down the street hear on WGCI and other Chicago radio nifty touchdown run from 7-yards quarterback Alex Smith as Bears defensive end Mark pressed to make a dent in the from his studio. station, who has been recently signed by out. Then it didn’t take long for Anderson looks on. Chicago Bear armor when the Jenkins started playing the drums in Atlantic Records. the defense to start their usual come into Soldier Field. 1974 at John Marshall High school, on Some of the services that Mr. Jenkins derailment the opponent by The Chicago Bulls begin their 2006 season Chicago’s west side, in the school’s band studio provide are rehearsal space, creating turnovers and havoc to the best of their on Oct 31. Against the Miami Heat. They play taught by legendary music teacher Mr. professional sounds, stage lighting, Dj’s, and ability. They began by stripping 49er ball carriers Lebron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers a O’Bannon. Then from there Jenkins formed other services. Another service Mr. Jenkins causing fumbles, tipped a ball for an interception week later on Nov. 9. The Bulls might sneak up his own group in 1976 entitled “Perfect provides and probably the most important and then a sack. Chicago’s offense responded on some people this year and challenge for one Cure” leading him to go into the studio to service is giving artists the chance to perfect to each 49er turnover with scores and San of the best records in the East. record music that influenced him to become their craft by making their sounds sound Francisco was done for the day. The Niners trailed Locally – The Collins Cobras are out of a sound engineer. professional enough that music goers can 24- 0 after one quarter. A record for points scored playoff competition after losing to Hyde Park in A medium such as music created by enjoy the everlasting effect that music has by a Bear team in one quarter. the Chicago Great Lakes Conference quarterfinal instruments such as a keyboard, drums, to the human ear. The offense was on fire and quarterback Rex playoff game. piano, guitar, and other instruments that Demetrius A. Porter is a North Crossman was on top of his game. He threw for Collins had a good season and several players create a sound of harmony and melody that Lawndale resident. Demetrius graduated 232 yards and three TD’s with no turnovers. were named to the All-Conference team: Sean can “sooth the savage breast;” therefore, it’s from Marshall High School and Robert Running Back Thomas Jones ran very effectively Fletcher, Jeffrey Smith, Cordario Walker, and essential that a sound person like Tom Morris College with an A.A.S. in Legal and rushed for 111 yards on 23 carries. And the Jimmy Williams. Jenkins clarify music by amplifying each Office Assistant. To comment on this article wide receivers and tight ends came up with big The North Lawndale Prep girls volleyball instrument so that the individual listening can visit our weblog at: www.nlcn.org. catches and touchdowns. Muhsin Muhammad had five grabs and a touchdown and tight end team was also eliminated from playoff alter the ordeal by inviting the estranged Desmond Clarke had eight grabs and two scores. competition when the were defeated by Walther Video fom page 9 grandfather (Garry Marshall) to attend –two Muhammad showed again why he is such a Lutheran High School in regional play. (Bonnie Hunt), a hot attorney Porsche car, weeks before the event. special receiver when he deftly caught several Todd Thomas is a freelance writer for NLCN and friendship from a country bumpkin tow This conjures up ill feelings from Piven balls with his hands that many other receivers and other publications. To comment on this truck, Mater (Larry The Cable Guy) and toward Marshall’s character for his absence would have dropped. He has a rare ability to catch article visit our weblog at: www.nlcn.org. responsibility from the town’s judge, Doc during his childhood. Meanwhile, the poorly thrown balls and to hold Hudson (Paul Newman) with a secret racing grandfather helps Benjamin understand a onto the ball when he is hit. He past. Another visually stunning achievement, written passage that he must recite during the will have a big impact on the but the story and situations might be too ceremony. A funny and heartwarming first Bears’ fortunes this season. personal and not spirited enough for younger film from director Scott Marshall that is also Game Ball – The game ball viewers. G; 116min. Walt Disney Home occasionally enlightens through its humor goes to Rex Grossman for his Video; Available: Nov. 7 within this dysfunctional family situation. near flawless leadership of the KEEPING UP WITH THE STEINS Coming Soon to Home Video: Disney’s Bear offense. He handled the (***) Being Jewish for a kid can certainly have “direct-to-video” release,”Cinderella II: A team well in running and passing its complication in this entertaining “coming Twist in Time” arrives Feb. 6, 2007; The situations and he avoided any of age and terms” comedy. Jeremy Piven and Platinum edition of Disney’s animated classic, costly mistakes. He mixed things Jami Gertz as a theatrical agent and his wife “Peter Pan” due March 6, 2007. up by throwing to several plan an elaborate bar Mitzvah celebration for David Schultz is a film critic for NLCN different receivers and using their reluctant son, Benjamin (Daryl Samara and other publications. To comment on this running backs Thomas Jones and of “Spy Kids” fame) who seeks to prolong and article visit our weblog at: www.nlcn.org. Cedric Benson. Grossman’s an November 1 - November 7, 2006 THE NORTH LAWNDALE COMMUNITY NEWS Page 13 RAPPER MAKING MUSIC WITH A MEANING Todd Thomas He will be performing at the New Promise of Chicago but many young people don’t music. Baptist Church on Nov. 5. The church is take advantage of them in Farmby’s “I heard George Bush speaking about located at Roosevelt & Central Park. opinion. community colleges. What better intro could Todd Thomas is a freelance writer for “On the West Side Malcolm X College I have for the son?” Farmby said. “He’s hated NLCN and other publications. To comment is right there but people get caught up in by a lot of people and he’s loved by a lot of on this article visit our weblog at: the other side of things because Rockwell people, and some people are undecided about www.nlcn.org. Gardens is also there. It’s kind of like they him. But it’s still an inspiration were in- between the road getting hit on coming from the president – It’s good both sides,” Farmby said about the to know to know that he recognizes proximity of the college to the projects. “I community colleges,” Farmby said. guess it’s best to get hit on both sides than Farmby’s been rapping since one side, especially if you’re out there in around the year 2000 and he’s also Robert “SauL” Farmby in front of his high school the streets. At least you can get a visual of been writing R&B and gospel music. alma mater. it.” He is dedicated to the church and did Hip-Hop music has been attacked often In the lyrics of the single “Community his first performances there. recently because of its use of violence in songs College” Farmby gives shout-outs to all of “My first shows were in my and videos. The use of graphic imagery and the colleges around the city and he even gives church and at different churches in the glorification of some of the criminal mention to Southern Illinois University and Chicago doing gospel rap and elements of inner-city living might seem like the online college The University of Phoenix, spiritual rap,” Farmby said. I grew a sure way to quickly sell a few thousand but the most interesting shout-out on the track up with a Christian background so records but there is another avenue to is from none other than President George W. it’s already in my nature. I’m just becoming a successful rapper and Robert Bush. The song actually opens with an audio using my talent to actually shed light “SauL” Farmby, a 1998 graduate of Marshall clip of him championing the cause of on what I had knowledge of, and I High School, is trying to carve a niche in the community colleges: have knowledge of the Bible.” rap game by glorifying education. There are jobs available in America Farmby’s music is a creative use Farmby, who goes by the rap moniker The thing we’ve got to do is be able of hip-hop to make a strong SauL, attended community colleges in the To match the worker with the job presentation for the community Chicago area after graduating from Marshall And a great place to do so is the colleges. Listening to him read off Academy. His experiences in higher learning Community College – Bush said. the impressive list of them in the song at Harold Washington College and Olive Many rappers have chastised Bush for his is a strong reminder that access to Harvey College prompted him to write and insensitivity toward black people, but Farmby college-level coursework is available record his first single “Community College.” says he has no problem with using Bush’s in the area. These institutions are located all over the city comment about community colleges in his AN INTERVIEW WITH JESSE WHITE, SECRETARY OF STATE Clemolyn (Pennie) Brinson “Winning is for me; losing is for someone else,” said Jesse White, Secretary president? NLCN: And the Jesse White Tumblers. fund where we distribute hundreds of of State. White: No. How does a person become a Tumbler? thousands of dollars to the citizens of the This rings as true today as it did when NLCN: Did you say you are for capital White: Auditions are in September and state of Illinois: for kids who need clothes he ran for his first office in 1994. White is a punishment? January. Six years old to high school age. and shoes for school; for people successful sportsman, former professional baseball White: Yes. Here in Illinois it costs the They have to be able to come to our tryout in getting a job but need car fare and lunch player, former paratrooper of the 101st taxpayers between $16,000 and $68,000 to location with their report card and have at money, or work clothes; for those that have Airborne Division, US veteran, advocate for put one person in prison for a year. This is least a C average. They have to be able to do had their electricity or gas shut off; for literacy, and the founder of the Jesse White hard to justify when we have problems trying a backward roll, forward roll, cartwheel, pharmaceuticals. We provide 5,000 toys Tumbling Team. to provide $7,000 to $8,000 a year to round off, flip- flop, then we refine the rest. for needy families and over 10,500 hams Recently, in an exclusive interview with educate a child. NLCN: What if the kids can’t keep their and turkeys every Christmas. NLCN, he told us his opinion of the Iraq NLCN: You said at a literacy ceremony grades up? The Secretary of State’s office has many war, capital punishment, sports and school, that you maintained a C average in school White: We have teachers that help the helpful departments. One of those is the and spoke a little about the famous so that you could participate in sports. kids with their homework. They can continue Court of Claims. If you are a victim of Tumblers. White: Yes. While in high school, I was to train but can’t perform with the team until crime, you may qualify for up to $27,000 NLCN: What is your position on the war encouraged to try out for the basketball their grades are back up to par. in assistance (for example, lost wages in Iraq? team, the baseball team, and the drum NLCN: What if they get in trouble with because of an injury or an attack). If you White: I’m a military guy, love my corps; I ended up becoming the captain of the law? do not have any other resources, you may military, love my country, but I think right the basketball team in a school that was White: We have had over 10,600 young file a claim with us by calling (312) 814- now it’s a waste of meaningful resources in predominantly white. I won a scholarship people, and in our last count, only 96 have 5010. terms of loss of life. Not only loss of life, but to Alabama State College in Montgomery, gotten themselves in trouble. Clemolyn (Pennie) Brinson is a poet also for those people who struggle to Alabama. I became an all-conference NLCN: What do you want the public to and writer for NLCN and Residents readjust to civilian life. basketball and baseball player, and a Hall- know that they might not know? Journal. To comment on this article visit NLCN: Would you consider running for of-Famer. White: I am a member of an emergency our weblog at: www.nlcn.org. NTRC OFFERS TRAINING AND LOW-COST COMPUTERS Clemolyn (Pennie) Brinson

he Neighborhood Technology There is an NTRC site in North Lawndale address, pay bills online, or maybe find out www.ntrconline.com. at 3517 W. Arthington. The cost per class is about a refund. Clemolyn (Pennie) Brinson is a poet and TResource Center (NTRC) West $12. The classes at the West Town site are Thru NTRC, students are also eligible to writer for NLCN and Residents Journal. To free. obtain computers for as low as $150. They comment on this article visit our weblog at: Town location at 1170 W. Erie is McCoy said it is easy to learn basic can buy a computer plus accessories including www.nlcn.org. opening its doors again to adults who want to computer skills today. “Every year technology a color inkjet printer and 1-year warranty for learn basic computer skills whether for gets easier and easier and more friendlier,” $257. personal enrichment or whether to become she said. “Usually things are point and click. “It’s worth the money and the travel time prepared for the job market. They use a lot of icons and pictures. to come here and be able to use the internet Visit Our Weblog NTRC provides free computer training in Computers are nothing like they were twenty for free and take care of your business, look an effort bride the digital divide and improve years ago where you had to remember all the for jobs, print out a free resumes, and learn at www.nlcn.org computer literacy in the community. Every commands. Usually when we sit someone some new skills,” said McCoy. “There are Monday NTRC provides job training for down here to teach them, after a couple of places where it costs 20 cent a minute to go to comment on adults, which includes job-hunting online, and days they have learned well enough to be on online.” help with preparing decent resumes. Every their own.” Adults are able to work on the computers other Friday NTRC will provide training in People come to the site to learn how to from 10 am until 2:30 Monday thru Friday. these and other some type of computer program such as use the computers and programs not only to “Technology is changing everyday. Get Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. look for employment, said McCoy, but some started right now so you won’t be left behind.” articles from our “We’re trying to get everybody Internet come for personal reasons. Some want to NTRC is a nonprofit organization and has savvy,” said Jasmine McCoy, Site learn how to create holiday cards, business served underserved communities since the newspaper Coordinator. “Now, everybody wants you to cards or fliers thru computer software called year 2000. For more information contact email your resume, or look them up online.” Publisher. Some come to obtain a free email Jasmine McCoy at 312-633-9057 or visit Page 14 THE NORTH LAWNDALE COMMUNITY NEWS November 1 - November 7, 2006 The Financial Corner Constanza Williams of Brunei. Get over it. “The only constant is change.” India Arie apply a new concept: saving. It does not ¨ Are you using tax-deferred opportunities · Make saving automatic. Only savers Financial management is too much work! matter how little you earn. You should start to fund your retirement? save. If you’re not a saver, raise your hand Save for this; pay that. Invest in this; spend saving a portion of your income. Learning to ¨ Do you have a will and an estate plan? — now use it to pick up the phone and arrange for that. What is all this for anyway? I just pay yourself is key to financial success. Most answers to these questions will be for automatic transfer forms to be express- want a nice wife/husband, a split-level home, Making your money work for you is the no. That’s O.K. Now you can begin your mailed to your home or office, so that 10% is a couple of kids and a happily ever-after story. goal of saving and investing. However, financial planning process. You can start by transferred to your new short-term savings Is that too much to ask for? investing is about more than just making creating a budget to help you accomplish your account every single paycheck or month. If No, it is not. However, anything worth money. It is to help reach the goals and dreams financial goals. Many people have created a you can’t manage 10%, start with 5% and having is worth the time it takes to obtain. for you and your family. Although my dreams budget. Unfortunately, very few stick with a build up to it. Then get a copy of David Bach’s The reality is that success in anything, be it are simple, they require planning and funds. budget. But how you spend your money is “The Automatic Millionaire.” It’s a great marriage, child rearing, home ownership, Investing helps me to accomplish my goals, the real indicator of how well your budget book. education or retirement, takes effort, planning because even when I am not working, my (plan) is working. The task of keeping your · Are you willing to change? Regardless and time. This can take up quite a bit of your money is. So when I don’t feel like managing committed expenses to 60% of your gross of your income, you can take control of your time. So the first decision to make is why are my money or when I am too tired to be income is challenging. But this plan will get financial situation today! Various key you or why should you be managing your bothered about my spending habits, I just stop and keep you saving. Set up separate accounts principles of financial management are: money? and think about what I am trying to for saving. 1. Making informed decisions. The destructive part of the contemporary accomplish. This helps to put my time, · CUT UP YOUR CREDIT CARDS. 2. Understanding our financial attitude. welfare system is that it is an incentive not to priorities and choices into perspective. The First Law of Money Dynamics states that 3. Transforming our financial attitude. work. The concept of welfare is not wrong Five steps to financial control if you have plastic you will use plastic. At the 4. Learning self-control, self-discipline but rather the way it has been used. The It works like this: very least, stop carrying anything but a debit and self-sufficiency. system promotes non-productivity. And in · Start a spending plan. You decide how card and leave the credit cards at home. Pay 5. Spending responsibly. doing so, the recipients of welfare become much to spend based on the reality of your for it now or learn to say no to yourself. Cash 6. Planning and budgeting our resources. dependent on the very system created as a bank balance. management involves cash flow, building a 7. Improving our finances and character stepping-stone to bigger and better dreams. Budgets can be tricky. You can begin liquidity fund, effective positioning of your through our work. For some, the dream is continual welfare your financial plan today by answering these available cash, and building your net worth. Constanza Williams is a Financial support. Work is the best way out of poverty few questions: · Get real. I see people making the Consultant with CW Accounting and and into financial strength. ¨ Do you have an emergency an same mistake over and over: They believe Consulting Services. She provides financial For many of us, we have learned to emergency cash fund? their money problems will be solved by advisory services and risk management to “make a dollar out of fifteen cents”. We have ¨ Are you properly insured in all areas? someone or something else, somewhere down individuals and small businesses. To been taught to work and stretch our money ¨ Do you have a defined investment the line. So let’s get one thing straight: You’re comment on this article visit our weblog at: for financial survival. We now must learn and strategy? not going to win the lottery or marry the Sultan www.nlcn.org.

Flicks from page 12 yet human folly trilogy from director NOV 1 BLACK FACTS Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu and writer Guillermo Arriaga that started with “Amores Perros” and continued with the widely John H. Johnson, acclaimed, “21 Grams”. Founder of Such as in a prior scene, a Hispanic maid, Eboney Magazine Amelia (Adriana Barraza) is ordered by her employers, an upscale married couple vacationing out of the country, to take * On this date in extended time to care for their two children 1945, John H. (Elle Fanning and Nathan Gamble) until they Johnson published return. Cate Blanchett and Brad Pitt in Paramount the first issue of But Amelia has a prior commitment to Sacha Baron Cohen in Borat Classics’ Babel Ebony magazine. The first issue sold 25,000 attend a family wedding across the border. copies. In 1942, Johnson also launched his With no else to call while trying to protect Alpert do a solid job of keeping the film tight But somehow this movie comes off first publication: The Negro Digest on her job from her illegal alien status, Amelia and the laughs coming that along with feeling more like an international version November 1. decides to take the children with her to the Cohen’s sense of comedic timing makes of “Crash”. Because of how these adults and * On this date in 1995, Black South festivities. “Borat”, the most funniest comedy of the children’s’ lives seem to run into each other Africans voted in the first all-race local They are all driven by her relative, season that you’ll laugh at with such disbelief at times. .It’s kind of unfortunate because it government elections in the nation’s history. Santiago (Gael Garcia Bernal) who along with that you’ll have to see this movie more than takes some of the original spark away this The election signaled the end of apartheid rule th others subject the children’s’ “innocent eyes” once. R; 82min. A 20 Century Fox Pictures makes “Babel” fall short of its intended in South Africa. to a sometimes harsh and colorful rural ethnic release – presented at selected theaters goals as compared to what was achieved in * On this date in 1890, the state of lifestyle and traditions. BABEL (***) The gift of an old its previous cinematic chapters. Mississippi passed legislation denying These are pivotal, stand-out moments that Winchester rifle and its accidental usage R; 142 min. A Paramount Vantage African-Americans the right to vote. The galvanize this movie and characterizes the helps set off an interesting and provocative Picture Release – presented at selected Mississippi Plan used literacy and other tests woeful nature of these people caught in crisis chain of events and circumstances that has theaters to disenfranchise Blacks. and conflicts that that makes “Babel”, the kind its effects on both children and adults alike David Schultz is film critic for NLCN * On this date in 1910, W.E.B. DuBois of riveting movie experience that still in these varied but interwoven stories that and other publications. To comment on this published the first issue of the NAACP fascinates. makes for the final chapter of this cinematic article visit our weblog at: www.nlcn.org. monthly magazine: The Crisis.

YMCA from page 6 Starting next year, the Chicago Housing from page 5 Housing from page 10 Department will also access more than $400 population with half of it’s’ people below the Teaching million to support 12,000 units of affordable poverty level. North Lawndale’s average commit $40 million in new money to develop housing. This includes $150 million in tax- get experience because I know this is one household income is $12,570. The U.S average new affordable rental housing and expand exempt bonding authority to support first-time of the most challenging school systems in household income is $29,000. Of Chicago’s rental assistance for families, seniors and home buyer programs. the country,” Hammer said. “It’s been very 77 communities, North Lawndale residents rank people with special needs. The Chicago Low “This budget offers the new steps we’ll challenging and exhausting, but absolutely amongst the neediest. Income Housing Trust Fund would also take to help secure Chicago’s future for never boring.” The 23-year-old Humboldt According to Claude Ansen of Power provide rental subsidies to 4,000 very-low- everyone, especially those who most need our Park resident said breaking down the Economics, in order for a community to have income renters, double the number who are support,” he said. “It lays out how we’ll make barriers with each child can make a economic power, there must first be a helped today, added Mayor Daley. Chicago even better and give people a greater difference. community. In the average community the dollar The $5.7 billion budget for 2007 will chance to achieve their aspirations in life.” “There’s a lot of work to be done. It’s changes hands twelve times before it leaves the allow the city to do a lot more for Chicagoans, He added that organized labor is a much sort of overwhelming,” Hammer said. “I’m community, however, the dollar leaves the North especially when it comes to housing, Mayor needed partner in the city’s effort to improve giving my life to what I believe in right Lawndale community after one change of hand. Daley said. It calls for a new Foreclosure housing opportunities and plans to work more now and not a lot of people get a chance According to Mr. Ansen, in order for a Prevention Call Center at 311 to help people closely with them. to do that in their lives.” Chicago Public community to achieve economic empowerment who are having difficulty paying their rent or “By continuing to work with developers Schools began accepting applications for there has to be reinforcement from businesses mortgage. The new budget also will expand and our community-based partners, we will the 2007-08 school year last week. within the community. Where there is poverty its home buying programs to assist nearly 200 help Chicago’s working families achieve the For more information go to and employment (27.3 percent in North police officers, fire fighters, paramedics and dream of home ownership and provide www.chicagoteachingfellows.org. Lawndale) crime and violence are always higher. school teachers. Another $2.4 million in assistance to those who need it most,” added Colleen Freyvogel is NLCN’s YWCA programs are available and can be Skyway funding will be invested in the Plan Mayor Daley. education reporter and is a graduate accessed by calling 773-265-9500. to End Homelessness, while an additional Wendell Hutson is a freelance writer for student at the Northwestern University Calvin Crayton is community resident and $600,000 will be invested in services to help NLCN and various publications. To comment Medill School of Journalism. writer on spiritual matters. To comment on this individuals and families remain in permanent on this article visit our weblog at: article visit our weblog at: www.nlcn.org. housing. www.nlcn.org. November 1 - November 7, 2006 THE NORTH LAWNDALE COMMUNITY NEWS Page 15 THE NORTH LAWNDALE COMMUNITY NEWS’ CLASSIFIED MARKETPLACE DO YOU HAVE SOMETHING TO BUY, SELL, TRADE, RENT OR ANNOUNCE? ARE YOU LOOKING FOR EMPLOYMENT OR LOOKING TO HIRE? YOU CAN DO IT HERE IN THE NORTH LAWNDALE COMMUNITY NEWS CALL 312/492-9090 TO PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED AD! APARTMENTS HELP WANTED LEGAL NOTICE NICE 3 BEDROOM CONDO Close to I- ARE YOU OPINIONATED? ARE YOU 290 and Blue Line Central Air, Storage, NOTICE IS HEREBY given, pursuant to “An A GOOD WRITER? NLCN is launching Washer, Dryer in unit Near shopping, Act in relation to the use of an Assumed an editorial page later this month. Please movies, park. $1,050 mo. Call: 815/713- Business Name in the conduct or transaction call Wilbert Bledsoe or Ben Protess at 312- 6869 of Business in the State,” as amended, that a 492-9090 if you are interested in writing a certification was filed by the undersigned letter to the editor. with the County Clerk of Cook County, file ANNOUNCEMENTS US CENSUS BUREAU Looking for no. D06104579 on October 12, 2006, under Field Interviewers to conduct personal the Assumed Name of Strutt & Associates Governor Blagojevich announces Winter visit & telephone interviews using with the place of business located a 3250 W. heating assistance Grants available laptop computer. Hours vary, but will be Washington Blvd. Ste. 2E, Chicago, IL tomorrow, urges eligible households to apply approximately 30-50 hours per month, 60624. The true name and residence address now. Households advised to take steps must be available 3 weekdays, 4 of the owner is: Geneva Gayles,3250 W. before extreme cold hits Illinois. For energy weeknights, and Saturday 8-4. Washington Blvd. Ste. 2E, Chicago, IL assistance and weatherization tips visit Requirements: US Citizenship, valid 60624. www.keepwarm.illinois.gov or call toll-free driver’s license, auto, and home-based 1-877-411-WARM telephone. $13.07/hr & 44.5 cents/mile. For testing info call 1-888-722-8995 FREE CLASSIFIED AD WITH FUNERAL E.E.O.E HELP WANTED BUTCHER, A DISPLAY AD OF 1/8 SERVICE GUIDE CASHIER, STOCK PERSON Call Jermaine Jordan (773) 653-6640 PAGE OR LARGER.

Check with us first for price Hite & Donaldson Caskets “Quality Caskets at Affordable Prices” Advertise with the North Lawndale In Home Consultation FREE FLORAL PIECE Community News If you have an Apartment Mr. Hite (773) 870-3437 Mr. Donaldson (708) 253-7911 for Rent Ads are only $10.00 P.O. Box 209181 Chicago IL 60620 Call 312 492-9090 Governor from front Blagojevich would focus on income families. For instance, he has page expanding healthcare to low- enacted state subsidized preschool “I’ve had discussions with the income individuals statewide. for up to 10,000 3- and 4-year-old governor,” Stroger told the Chicago “He wants to make [health students considered at-risk Tribune. “I suspect that he’ll open care] available to every citizen in financially or educationally. And up his wallet soon.” the state and I think that’s vitally since July college students from While campaigning on the important to a place like North families who make less than South Side, Blagojevich said he will Lawndale,” Scofield said. $200,000 can apply for $500 grants be providing financial support to Blagojevich has already from the state to cover non-tuition Stroger’s campaign, but wouldn’t expanded eligibility for Medicaid, costs. say how much money he has the state and federal health The governor has proposed pledged. insurance for the poor and selling or leasing the lottery to help Representatives for Stroger and disabled. finance schools. Peraica did not respond to requests Earlier this year, Blagojevich McGovern said Topinka would for comment. created the All Kids program, increase the amount of money the Blagojevich spokesman Doug which provides state-subsidized state commits to education per child Scofield declined to comment on children’s health insurance. by $1,000. Topinka would fund the requests for financial support from Blagojevich has made All Kids a initiative by pushing for an on-land the Stroger camp, but said voters key component of his campaign, casino in Chicago, he said. can expect at least one joint while Topinka claims the governor McGovern said that 10 casinos appearance before Nov. 7. is spending millions of tax payer are allowed under Illinois law. “[Blagojevich] supports dollars to promote himself as much Currently, only nine are being used. [Stroger] and endorses him and I’m as the program. Topinka, he said, would seek to have sure before the election they’ll do Blagojevich also announced the 10th become a steady revenue President from page 3 something together again,” Scofield this weekend his plan to boost the stream for the state, providing Dropout from page 5 said. minimum wage in Illinois, a funding for education. - 25,400 Full-time-equivalent John McGovern, spokesperson proposal that has become a “We feel it’s important to be able their legislators, because this serious employees for Republican candidate for linchpin of his re-election to identify a steady stream of issue not only affects the future of - Over 65,000 Acres in Forest Governor Judy Baar Topinka, said campaign. revenue to fund things like education Illinois, but the future of the Nation Preserve District their campaign has been running ads “He’s committed to raising the and health care and other social as well. THE COUNTY CONTROLS: on Spanish language radio and minimum wage again,” Scofield services without raising taxes,” he “We should invest in the front,” - Three public hospitals television stations to reach out to said. “That’s a stark contrast to his said. McGovern said that if Topinka he said. - Cook County Jail Hispanic voters. Topinka also has opponent.” is elected and the casino plan comes He closed his remarks by saying - Cook County Circuit Court set up a full-time campaign office Topinka argues that Illinois has to fruition, the right to run the casino that it “takes courage and will and - Property tax system in South Chicago to connect with fallen to 42nd in the country in job will be awarded through the state leadership” to make the necessary - Administration of elections in minority groups there. creation, so she favors an increase bidding process. He also said changes. Although the process is just the suburbs Topinka’s campaign said the in the minimum wage nationally, treatment for problem gamblers beginning, he anticipates that this THE PRESIDENT DIRECTLY outreach has worked to make “so all states are treated equally and would be incorporated into the initiative will succeed, saying, “This CONTROLS: inroads among traditionally Illinois employers are not unfairly operation of the casino. is a very good bill.” - Health system, which also democratic voters. disadvantaged.” To learn more about these Four more meetings are includes a network of neighborhood “Obviously, she supports Tony Representatives for both candidates as well as Green party scheduled to take place before the - Medical examiner’s office Peraica, but what’s interesting is the candidates said they would seek Candidate Rich Whitney, visit their report goes to the Governor and - Zoning board of appeals number of city democrats who have incentives for small businesses to websites: General Assembly on January 10, - County’s finance team quietly offered support and are promote job growth. http://www.judyforgov.com/ 2008. The next meeting is scheduled - Bureau of human resources helping the campaign,” McGovern On the education front, http://www.rodforillinois.com/ for November 9, 2006, from 2:30 Myleson Collins is a young said. Scofield said Blagojevich is http://www.whitneyforgov.org/ p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Proviso Math savvy business man who has The gubernatorial candidates committed to making instate joomla/index.php and Science Academy, 8601 W. attended Trinity International have different priorities for college tuition available to all Laura Onstot is the civic affairs Roosevelt Rd., Forest Park. University. He received an Chicago’s minority communities, Illinois residents regardless of reporter for NLCN and is a graduate Zaki A. Muhammad is West Side education in International including the west side, their immigration status. student at the Northwestern resident and writer. To comment on Business. To comment on this representatives said. Blagojevich has focused his University Medill School of this article please visit our weblog article visit our weblog at: Scofield said if reelected, education initiatives on moderate- Journalism. at: www.nlcn.org. www.nlcn.org. Page 16 THE NORTH LAWNDALE COMMUNITY NEWS November 1 - November 7, 2006 INTERSTINTERSTAATETE Muffler & Automotive Repair 2158 South Pulaski (corner of Cermak & Pulaski) Chicago 773-522-0122

4 Locations to Serve You! Ogden & Western 312-733-5333

OIL CHANGE, Diagnostic FILTER, TOP OF Radiator Testing THE FLUIDS & Flush ENGINE FLUSH $39.99 $39.99 $39.99

Struts Mufflers Converter Front or Rear $ 99 INSTALLED Installed 19. $ 99 $ 00 Inspect exhaust 119. 199. system for leaks. Labor Extra. MOST CARS & MOST CARS & MOST CARS & LIGHT TRUCKS LIGHT TRUCKS LIGHT TRUCKS Full Tune-Up Front or Rear Service Brakes Service 4 cyl. 6cyl. $159.00 $179.00 $59.99 8cyl. Front or Rear $ 00 199. Includes installation of front pads, inspect inspect rotors, Includes plugs, wires, fuel filter, air wheelbearing, calipers, filter, P.C.V. valve cap, rotor, oil hydraulic system and road test. change and filter. Pads and shoes extra. MOST CARS & LIGHT TRUCKS MOST CARS & LIGHT TRUCKS