The Voice Newspapers, Serving Chicago's West Side: 2010-05-30

Friday, June 4, 2010

FATHERS WHO CARE PRESENTING 10th EXPO FOR TODAY’S MAN JUNE 5 AT MALCOLM X

Atty. Jeffery Leving and Comedians Eddie Griffin & Tony Sculfield Appearing

Fathers Who Care is presenting its 10th Annual Expo For Today’s Man on Saturday, June 5, 9:00 AM-3:00 PM, at Malcolm X College, 1900 West Van Buren Street. Theme for this year’s Expo is: Fathers United to Empower Our Families – Where Do We Go From Here?
    Admission to this event is free and features an array of workshops on family-building, finance, relationships, legal rights, offender re-entry, and other issues, led by experts. A free health screening and information fair is provided.
    Attorney Jeffery Leving, crusader for fathers’ rights, will conduct a symposium and comedians Eddie Griffin and Tony Sculfield will make appearances.
    The mission of Fathers Who Care is to educate and empower low-income fathers and their families in the areas of responsible fatherhood involvement, healthy relationships, offender re-entry opportunities, men’s health, community empowerment, and social justice.
    Rev. Walter Jones, Jr., founder and Executive Director of Fathers Who Care, explains the goals of this year’s Expo, saying: “Real men must attend so they can become Rejuvenated, Revitalized, and Spiritually Uplifted in their roles as leaders of their families and communities.”
    Sponsors of this year’s Fathers Who Care Expo For Today’s Man are: Illinois Department of Human Services, Illinois Department of Children & Family Services, Illinois Department of Public Health BASUAH, Fathers’ Rights and dadsrights.com, Illinois Department of Healthcare & Family Services, U.S. Representative Danny K. Davis (IL-7), Malcolm X College, Senator Rickey Hendon, and Senator Kimberly A. Lightford. For information on this Expo and services provided by Fathers Who Care, call 773/638-2052.

DORTCH CYCLING VOYAGERS DISCOVERING CHICAGOLAND ON WHEELS FOR 12th EXCITING YEAR

Get Around – Don’t Sit Around This Summer!

Dortch Cycling Voyagers discover Navy Pier among their daily travels.

The Dortch Cycling Voyagers Camp is planning a 12th exciting summer for boys and girls ages 10-15 years. Every year, a convoy of young bicycle riders tour Chicago’s neighborhoods, including the Loop, Lakefront, and Museum Campus, and then head to the western suburbs and Forest Preserves. Cycling campers go swimming every day and enjoy fun sports events in a variety of settings.
    Cost of the Cycling Voyagers Bike Camp is only $170 for a 6-8 week summer program. Camp runs from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday through Friday. Each camper must provide his or her own bike in good operating condition. Every camper receives a team helmet, two team Tee shirts, free bicycle maintenance & repair, lunch and dinner outings, and daily field trips.
    The Cycling Voyagers Camp starts Monday, June 21. All payments must be made by June 18 (a $30 late fee applies after this date). First week of the Camp is training & orientation – all Campers must attend. Trips start Week 2. Participants gather at convenient West Side locations.
    For information and to register, contact Mr. Dortch at 773/724-9933.

All-White Construction Crew Protested

Eliah Colston of West Garfield Park and a member of Laborers Union Local #6 is arrested for protesting an all-White construction crew working to repair South Central Ave. at Van Buren in Austin. He was released without charges, but a week later protested a street construction site at Grand Ave. & Pulaski Rd., where the crew again had no Black workers. He was told to go to Orland Park to apply for a job. Colston is asking where Black West Side elected officials are in demanding that African American union members be hired for City & State construction projects in Black communities.

THE VOICE NEWSPAPERS HOSTING 25th & 5th ANNIVERSARY AWARDS LUNCHEON JUNE 29

THE VOICE Newspapers is celebrating 25 years of publishing THE AUSTIN VOICE and 5 years of THE GARFIELD-LAWNDALE VOICE, the largest circulation weekly community newspapers serving Chicago’s West Side neighborhoods. A gala Anniversary Luncheon with our readers enthusiastically invited to attend is being held Tuesday, June 29, at Saranecki Bros. Garden Manor Banquet Hall, 4722 West Armitage Avenue.
    The luncheon also features an Awards Program honoring individuals, businesses, and organizations making outstanding contributions to building a stronger West Side community. VOICE readers are being asked to nominate candidates for consideration in seven categories:
•    PUBLIC SERVICE – An elected or appointed official (past or present) who has provided extraordinary leadership on Chicago’s West Side
•    EDUCATION – A person, school, or organization providing outstanding service in assisting citizens young or old to expand their intellectual abilities
•    BUSINESS – A corporate citizen of Chicago’s West Side that has improved the quality of life for its customers and fellow citizens
•    HEALTH CARE – A person or institution that has promoted a higher quality of life through wellness
•    YOUTH MENTORING – A person or organization that has helped ensure a brighter future for all of us by assisting young people
•    COMMUNITY SERVICE – An individual or organization that has made life better through selfless actions or outstanding contributions
•    THE MICHAEL SCOTT SPIRIT OF THE WEST SIDE AWARD – Named for an outstanding West Sider who spent his entire life serving his community, this award recognizes an individual, business, or organization that exhibits the highest qualities of creativity, compassion, and leadership in assisting others and building a more livable community.
    Nominations may be submitted for any category with a brief supporting statement at www.voice25awards.webs.com. Nomination forms can be found in THE VOICE Newspapers and may be filled out and faxed to 773/889-5168, or mailed to:         VOICE 25 AWARDS NOMINATIONS
        THE VOICE Newspapers
        5236 West North Avenue
        Chicago, Illinois 60639
    Tickets can be reserved for the June 29 Anniversary Awards Luncheon by logging onto www.voice25awards.webs. com; gmailing to: voice25awards@gmail. com; faxing to 773/889-5168; or by calling THE VOICE at 773/889-0880.
    Tickets are $30 per person and $300 for a table of ten, with proceeds providing a fund for employing local youth at the newspapers.

SUMMER REGISTRATION OPEN AT WRIGHT COLLEGE

Registration is currently open for the summer semester at Wright College, 4300 North Narragansett Avenue, offering the opportunity for Wright students, college and university students home for the summer, and persons seeking educational enrichment to earn extra credits and obtain needed skills. The shortened summer session, beginning June 9, allows students to fill gaps in course requirements that they were unable to achieve during the fall and spring semesters.
    Courses are available in 37 departments, including biology, English, and mathematics. Other departments offering courses over the summer are business, environmental technology, computer information systems, and many others. Go to wright.ccc.edu for a complete listing and schedule of classes.
    For university students, the summer semester at Wright is an opportunity to complete general education requirements at a lower tuition cost. Wright course credits are generally accepted at such schools as Northwestern University, University of Illinois-Urbana, University of Illinois-Chicago, and many other colleges.
    Wright tuition is only $87 per credit hour for Chicago residents. Financial aid is available.
    New students interested in starting during the summer semester should register immediately because they must complete one of the free placement exams. No student is ever turned away. The test merely determines placement in appropriate classes for new students.
    Returning students can register anytime online at my.ccc.edu or by phone at 312/553-3450. A full summer course schedule is available online at wright.ccc.edu. For information, call the admissions office at 773/481-8200.

NORTH AUSTIN LIBRARY POETRY SLAM JUNE 19

Local poets are invited to perform their works and network with other poets to share ideas at the next Poetry Slam presented by the North Austin Branch Library, 5724 West North Avenue, on Saturday, June 19, 2:00 PM.
This free event is part of the Chicago Public Library’s City Verse series of poetry presentations. Published local artists conducting the North Austin Library Poetry Slam include Ida Hayes Barnes, Beverly A. McLaughlin, and Frank Alexander.
For information, call 312/746-4233 or see Branch Librarian Michael Schorsch.

REP. LA SHAWN K. FORD PRESENTING CAREER FAIR AT MALCOLM X COLLEGE JUNE 23

State Representative La Shawn K. Ford (D-8) is hosting a free Career Fair at Malcolm X College, 1900 West Van Buren Street, on Wednesday, June 23, 10:00 AM-3:00 PM. Employers will be present accepting resumes and conducting interviews.
Sponsors of the free Career Fair are: The Chicago Urban League’s Workforce Development & Diversity Center in partnership with the Illinois Department of Central Management Services, and THE VOICE Newspapers.
For information, contact Tina J. Crawley at 773/602-3044 or Rep. Ford’s office at 773/378-5902.

LEAMINGTON FOODS PRESENTING FREE NORTH LAWNDALE FAMILY HEALTH FAIR JUNE 5

Leamington Foods and an array of North Lawndale health agencies are presenting a free family health fair on Saturday, June 5, 10:30 AM-3:00 PM, in the parking lot of Leamington Foods, 3240 West Roosevelt Road.
Various screenings will be available, plus childhood immunizations, health care referrals, and information, plus 30-minute fitness workouts will be held, with dance aerobics. No appointment is necessary. For information, call 773/257-2685.

SINAI URBAN HEALTH INSTITUTE OFFERING FREE DIABETES-FRIENDLY COOKING CLASSES

Sinai Urban Health Institute and its Block By Block North Lawndale Diabetes Community Action Program is offering free Diabetes-friendly Cooking Classes on Fridays, beginning June 11 and continuing through July 30. The classes are being held at Family Focus Lawndale, 3517 West Arthington Street, from 1:00 to 3:00 PM.
Participants must have a diagnosis of Type 2 Diabetes and live in North Lawndale. For information and to reserve a space, call 773/257-6024, or sign up at Family Focus Lawndale.

MARKET DAY ON MADISON STREET SET FOR JUNE 12 – VENDORS NEEDED

The Greater Garfield Park Chamber of Commerce is seeking vendors for the 4th Annual Market Day on Madison Street, being held Saturday, June 12, 12 noon to 8:00 PM, at 2800 West Madison Street at California (in the plaza).
For information and cost for food and non-food vendor space, call 773/722-6650.

CLARK PARK HOLDING ACT AUDITIONS & SIGNING UP VENDORS FOR JUNE 26 FESTIVAL

Linda McWright announces that auditions of Hip-Hop, R&B, gospel performers, plus dance acts are currently being held for individuals and groups wishing to appear at the June 26 Festival in Clark Park, 4615 West Jackson Boulevard. Registration fee to audition is $25 and auditions are being held every Wednesday and Friday, 5:30-6:30 PM. For information and appointments, call 773/287-7794.
Vendors for the Clark Park Festival are also being signed up now. Fee for food vendors is $175 and for non-food vendors is $75. All vendors must present appropriate City licenses to participate. To reserve booth space, call 773/287-7794.

Tuesday, June 1, 2010

RYERSON COUGARS WIN CITY BASKETBALL TITLE ON SKILL & SCHOLARSHIP

Principal Lorenzo Russell and Basketball Coach Randy Stonewall emphasize that at Ryerson Elementary School, academic success leads to athletic success. This year, the 7th & 8th grade varsity boys basketball team proved it with a 51-8 record on the court and scholarship in the classroom. Team members take pride in both accomplishments.
    But, the road to the championship was not a smooth one. Russell pulled the plug on the 2008-09 season and disbanded the team because student athletes were not taking their academics seriously. This year, the law was laid down: Scholastic Responsibilities Come First! All team members must participate in the mandatory Homework Center & Tutoring Program. Athletes must turn in all assignments, maintain good grades, and have good behavior records in order to participate in the basketball program. Russell says it hurt him to cancel last year’s season, but his students weren’t getting the message.
    “The students’ test scores showed they had the ability – they just weren’t putting forth the effort in the classroom,” Russell explains. He emphasized three stages are required of Ryerson athletes:
1.    Academics are paramount
2.    Practice is necessary for team success, and
3.    Students must help raise money to pay for transportation and to enter tournaments (He says schools are not allocated money for competitive sports or team transportation.)
    Coach Stonewall adds that when his players go on to high school and college, they will understand what is expected of them and not feel that as athletes they are privileged and can slide through on a free ride. He notes that Ryerson athletes sign contracts with the school promising to keep their grades high, maintain good behavior, and agreeing to participate in after-school programs.
    The Ryerson varsity won the Mayor Daley Sports Fest, the Kelly YMCA Holiday tournament, and played in the Crane, Austin Town Hall, Columbus Park, and Garfield Park Tournaments.
    Coach Stonewall is losing eight players at graduation, but the Ryerson 5th & 6th grade team made it to the Area semi-finals with a 7-2 record. Still, he hesitates to predict a Ryerson basketball dynasty. Principal Russell says he’s looking forward to a dynasty of scholars.

DR. JANE GOODALL PRESENTS YOUNG LEADERS AWARDS AT AL RABY HIGH SCHOOL

Renowned primatologist and ecologist Dr. Jane Goodall returned to Chicago’s West Side to honor seven Chicago Public High School students with Pearson Young Leaders Awards at Al Raby High School for community and Environment. The Pearson Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Pearson, an educational services and technology company, sponsored the awards recognizing young people for exemplary community service.
Recognized with Pearson Youth Leader Awards were Idella Butler of Al Raby High School, William Diaz of Chicago Academy High School, Victor Wright of Orr Academy High School, Kellina Mojica of Julian High School, Alberto Aguilera of Curie High School, Phuoc Duong of Amundsen High School, and Pranee Pairs of Walter Payton College Prep High School.
Dr. Goodall congratulated the winners and spoke to Al Raby students about her efforts to raise global awareness of environmental issues and promote global citizenship.

To view pictures of this event click Here.

COLUMBUS PARK FOOD PANTRY OPEN EVERY FRIDAY, 8-11 AM

Despite the auto accident that hospitalized Executive Director Marjorie Cobbs, the Columbus Park Food Pantry remains open at the Refectory, 5701 West Jackson Boulevard, every Friday morning, 8:00-11:00 AM. Anyone in need of help obtaining food – individuals and families – is eligible to register and obtain food. There is no registration fee, appointment process, and no proof of income or address required. All services are free. Clients are requested to bring a strong box capable of carrying 50-75 pounds of food. Persons interested in volunteering time at the Pantry may inquire during Friday business hours. Financial contributions are appreciated to defray expenses because there is no paid staff. Contributions may be sent to: The Columbus Park Food Pantry, Refectory Building, 5701 West Jackson Boulevard, Chicago, Illinois 60644. All contributions are tax-deductible.

THE VOICE NEWSPAPERS HOSTING 25th & 5th ANNIVERSARY AWARDS LUNCHEON JUNE 29

SISTERHOUSE: Emotional and Social Support on Drug Treatment Completion

By Glenance Green

    Did you know that individuals whom feel that others will provide appropriate assistance to meet their needs are less stressful and more likely to succeed? According to a research study endorsed by the National Institute on Drug Abuse and the Office of Research on Women's Health, women who use drugs and have more social support may resort to substance abuse less often than women with less social support because they may feel less need to turn to drugs in response to stressful life events. Women users with strong emotional and social support systems tend to be more responsive and take an active role in initiating the first steps toward recovery and following through thereafter.

    According to the social network theory, social networks are some very important sources of social support. Social networks for individuals seeking recovery can be family, friends, church members, and Alcoholics/Narcotics Anonymous (AA/NA) support groups. For women in recovery, social networks can provide the social, emotional, and material resources they need to address the myriad concerns that confront them, especially in the early stages of recovery (Becker & Gatz, 2005). Women in recovery generally have less social support than women who are or have not been chemically dependent.

    Research has found that ethnicity, age, and drug of choice has little effect on women’s social networks, however, once those networks are developed they tend to be influential, long-term, and ethnically similar. These networks can be either positive or negative depending on the goal and purpose of the social connection. Positive networks can create emotional and social support on women in recovery and the bonds developed from these relationships can be long-standing and extremely beneficial for drug treatment program completion.

To receive more information on SISTERHOUSE’s services for women and/or volunteer opportunities, please call 773/626-0525.

LEAMINGTON FOODS PRESENTING FREE NORTH LAWNDALE FAMILY HEALTH FAIR JUNE 5

CLARK PARK HOLDING ACT AUDITIONS & SIGNING UP VENDORS FOR JUNE 26 FESTIVAL

MARY PEGUE PULLINS, ONE OF CHICAGO’S OLDEST CITIZENS, DIES AT 108

Mary Pegue Pullins, a dynamic labor leader, mother of broadcasting legend Richard Pegue, and aunt to Rev. Dr. Marshall E. Hatch, Pastor of New Mount Pilgrim Baptist Church, has died at the age of 108. She was one of Chicago’s longest living citizens and received congratulations from President Obama and Mayor Daley.
Ms Pullins’ funeral is being held Friday, May 28, at Carter Funeral Chapel, 2100 East 75th Street, beginning at 10:30 AM.

SINAI URBAN HEALTH INSTITUTE OFFERING FREE DIABETES-FRIENDLY COOKING CLASSES

MARKET DAY ON MADISON STREET SET FOR JUNE 12 – VENDORS NEEDED

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REPORT FROM ALDERMAN EMMA MITTS

Ald. Mitts Urges All to Stay Updated & Safe Via the CHI311 Mobile App Also Stay Safe with Smart 911

As your Alderwoman, and as the 2023 holiday season draws near, I encourage everyone to use the city’s CHI311 Mobile App. This great new app helps you create new requests, explore other neighborhoods, and track requests you submit. You can also receive benefits from many city partners! Also, check out the Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OMEC) Smart911 Program. This city initiative provides accurate, timely and effective dispatch of crisis emergency resources. Smart911 is available to all residents and visitors in the city of Chicago. Are you Aware of CHI311 Mobile App and Smart911? Sign Up for Both - it’s Easy & Convenient Sign up for the CHI311 Mobile App at www.311.Chicago.gov and Smart911 at www.Smart911.com or download the free apps in the iTunes & Google Play stores now. Get life-saving capabilities at your fingertips, 24/7. Have You Heard About Smart911? Smart911 is a free, online platform allowing users to securely enter important medical and household information in their Safety Profile to help plan ahead for an emergency situation. This information automatically displays for dispatchers when the user dials 9-1-1. Currently, over 32 million people use Smart911 nationwide to stay safe. How can Smart911 keep your family safe? 75% of 911 calls today come from cell phones, which sometimes challenges operators to determine exact locations of emergencies. Seconds Count! Create a Smart911 Safety Profile with current information. 911 dispatch staff can better quickly assist you and your family in an emergency. Create your Safety Profile, including: • Allergies – Anyone in your family have food or medication allergies? 911 dispatchers can immediately inform first responders. • Autism - Is your child Autistic? Do they wander or hide when scared? Upload a photo and physical description of your child makes them easier to locate in emergencies. • Alzheimer’s - Parents /older relatives have Alzheimer’s or dementia? First responders can respond more quickly. • Animals - Pets? Smart911 helps firefighters safely rescue everyone, including pets. • Hearing Impairments - Loved ones who are deaf, hearing-impaired or nonverbal? 9-1-1 operators can initiate Safety Profiles to send text messages to offset disconnected calls or poor cell phone coverage. • Critical Info – List current medications, disabilities, home layout, emergency contacts, and more.

Non-English-speaking Chicagoans? Add Information in any language and Smart911 will automatically translate it. This way, 911 can immediately engage language interpreters for residents in emergencies. Got a question or concern? For more information, contact the 37th Ward Alderman’s Office at 773-379-0960 or ward37@cityofchicago.org.

AS I SEE IT By Representative La Shawn K. Ford

Violence and Mental Health

The epidemic of violence continues to destroy families and communities in Chicago. We need mental health support to match the police deployment on the South and West sides of Chicago.
At least 108 people were shot and 17 were killed in Chicago over the 2021 Fourth of July weekend, according to the Chicago Tribune. This compares with last year during the pandemic, when 79 people were shot and 15 were killed over the 2020 Fourth of July weekend, according to the Chicago Sun-Times.
Whenever there are killings in schools or workplaces, trauma support is routinely sent in to help the people directly impacted by the acts of violence. The city of Chicago continues to experience deadly violence, and there has been little to no mental health response for the people affected in our communities.
In addition, I believe in the public health approach to violence, which sees violence as being preventable, not inevitable. We must curb violence and stop it before it starts. Preventing violence is not solely a punitive approach. We need a comprehensive approach to prevent violence, starting with immediate deployment of state, county, and city of health departments to organize and bring in mental health support for the communities impacted by ongoing violence. We must strengthen the work of violence interrupters who are working now by augmenting their work with mental health outreach trauma workers.
Although Black and Latino people have similar rates of behavioral health disorders as the general population, they have substantially lower access to mental health and substance use treatment services, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). In 2018, 69.4% of Black and 67.1% of Hispanic adults with any mental illness reported receiving NO treatment the previous year compared with 56.7% of the overall US population, according to a recent SAMHSA report.
However, we must not stigmatize those with mental illnesses. Studies have repeatedly shown that the majority of individuals with mental illness are not violent, and that the majority of violent acts are not committed by those with mental illness, according to a 2020 review by Emilee Green of the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority (ICJIA). The MacArthur Violence Risk Assessment Study, one of the most robust and detailed studies examining the link between mental illness and risk for violence, found after controlling for a co-occurring substance use disorder, those with mental illness had no greater risk of violence than those without mental illness.
I like to quote Rashad K. Saafir, Ph.D., President & CEO of the Bobby E. Wright Comprehensive Behavioral Health, because what he says is so important. Dr. Saafir says, “It is time that we recognize that violence in Black and Brown communities is deeply rooted in historical and cultural factors including racism and ethnocultural discrimination. These factors have produced social and environmental conditions that impair the ability of some Black and Brown people to contribute productively to the community. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), mental health is “a state of well-being in which the individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community.”
So, what can be done? In the review by Emilee Green, in contrast with risk factors that increase the likelihood of violent behavior, protective factors work to prevent or deter violent behavior. The American Psychological Association notes that factors such as a person’s family, career, and home environment can reduce risk of violence. Other protective factors may include religious beliefs, positive peer relationships, and involvement in prosocial activities. For those with mental illness, the strongest protective factor may be effective behavioral health treatment. What is considered effective may vary person to person, but effective treatment plans often include psychotherapy, medication, lifestyle changes (e.g., exercising, eating healthy), illness self-management (e.g., developing coping skills, setting goals for recovery), and joining support groups.
Fazel and colleagues (2010) noted that for those with substance use disorders, treatment may be the most protective against violent behavior due to the strong relationship between these disorders and violence. Receiving integrated treatment for co-occurring disorders can reduce substance use and increase motivation for treatment in persons with mental illness.
Violence is something that impacts all of us directly or indirectly, and it will take all of us working together to save lives in Chicago by paying attention to treatment and protective factors, while effectively bringing trauma care to the families that have been so greatly affected by violence.

For more information, contact one of Ford’s Constituent Service Offices: 816 S. Oak Park Avenue in Oak Park at 708-445-3673, 4800 W. Chicago Avenue in Chicago at 773-378-5902 or in the Stratton Office Building in Springfield at 217-782-5962, or visit www.lashawnford.com.

What Does God Have To Do With It? Who’s Running It?By Angie Mims

WAR

“I’m not religious in any way, but this is the closest I have felt to God in my entire life! Fantastic service! I wish we had these in Australia!” – Marcus Backman

These are the words of an Australian man who witnessed via YouTube, a snippet of the potent anointing that rests within the hands of Willie James Jones Jr. With close to one million views, Dr. E. Dewey Smith, senior pastor of The House of Hope in Atlanta and Macon, Georgia, marveled as Jones Jr. seamlessly graced the keys of a Hammond B3 organ.
Hailing from Chicago, Jones Jr. is the proud product of Pastor Willie and Loretta Jones Sr. At fourteen years of age, his interest in music reached a monumental mark as he admired his mother’s ability to play the piano. Through unrelenting determination, Jones Jr. mastered the art of atmospheric change through the conduit of music. And while many effective artists have the capability of changing an environment, it is Jones Jr.’s zeal to change the atmosphere for the glory of God that makes him stand out from the rest.
When Pastor Emeritus Charles Jenkins of Fellowship Baptist Church in Chicago saw an unmatched gift within Jones Jr. and began collaborating with him, this professional bond took his musical aim to heights that only a sovereign God could achieve. With an outstanding fusion of both music and technology, he was able to impact many globally. Billboard hits like “War” and “Awesome” are just some of the songs that he’s helped arrange.
Jones Jr. is extremely creative. He’s been a part of great projects with artists such as Anita Wilson, Erica Campbell, Kevin Vasser and many others. Needless to say, his zeal remains the same. Whether he’s in London, Barbados, Italy or in his hometown, Chicago, he remains planted in the gospel genre. Perhaps this is why he’s been able to laugh it up with iconic actors such as Chris Tucker or why he’s able to be a part of national programs such as Cathy Hughes’ Urban One Honors. He now knows, without fail, that his immense gift is because of God our Father.
So, what does God have to do with it? All of his accomplishments haven’t been itemized in this article and yet, you better believe war was inevitable in his journey. From health complications, family challenges and career decisions, Satan has certainly tried to wear him down.
From time to time, Jones Jr. will reference “the dark room.” In these dark rooms are thoughts that many aren’t privileged to see. Not many know of the inner struggles that successful people have to face. It’s true – we see their glory but we don’t know their story. We don’t always get the chance to witness the tears that stream down their face in private times. We don’t always get the chance to experience their fleeting moments of defeat. Nor do we get the chance to journey to the “dark places” that many impactful artists like Jones Jr. have had to travel – alone.
As a graduate of Chicago State University, receiving his Bachelor of Arts degree in Music Education, he will tell you, much like Langston Hughes, “life for me ain’t been no crystal stair.” And yet, Jones Jr. decided to wage war in the spirit realm. He’s taken ownership of his own missteps and isn’t quick to always point the finger.
Often times, in the midst of intense projects, he will speak words of affirmation, declaring victory before it’s been won. His life often times epitomizes Donald Lawrence and The Tri-City Singers’ declaration, “Encourage Yourself.” With prayer and the inner strength of a king, given to him by God, he continues to press towards the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
Conceivably, we can take a chapter from Willie James Jones Jr.’s book – you want success? Be willing to wage a war to preserve what God has given you – life. Even the unsaved will marvel at the warrior within.

Angie Mims is a radio personality for the Promoting Precision Radio Show. She has interviewed many greats on her show such as NBC 5’s Art Norman, CLTV News Dr. Garrard McClendon, Dr. Jamal Harrison Bryant, Ebony Magazine’s Senior Editor, Lynn Norment, the former president of Nigeria, General Olesugun Obasanjo, NBA players and many others. Visit her online at www.promotingprecision.com. Angie loves to meet new people and is in a constant attempt to unite people from all over the world. If you have a great story, don’t hesitate! Email her at AngieMims@PromotingPrecision.com today! You may also call (708)-612-4864. Support The Austin Voice Newspaper and let them know your thoughts about her column.

REACHING BEYOND THE WALLS By Reverend Dr. T.C. Thomas, Sr. Pastor

SON Rise!

Grace and peace to you all! As we are preparing to celebrate resurrection Sunday, we should be excited about HIS story. Jesus came to share his ministry of redemption thus allowing anyone who asks him for salvation will receive it. John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him may not perish but may have eternal life.” Jesus came to be the light of the world and to spread the good news of His saving grace.
We are thrust into this season and how amazing that we are alive to march towards Easter. When the SON rises, the sun will shine no matter what the struggles or the issues, God is still on the throne. As we prepare to celebrate this Easter service, remember the extreme sacrifice that Jesus endured for us to have the right to the tree of life. He hung, bled and died, then rose again for us all. Don’t let this praise moment and opportunity pass you by. Worship and praise His name!

Stay rooted and grounded in Him!

Rev. Dr. T.C. Thomas is the Pastor of Walls Memorial C.M.E. Church, 200 S. Sacramento Blvd., on Chicago’s west Side. He is a strong advocate for children, education, healthcare and most of all the people of God “being better and not bitter.” Rev. Thomas is the author of the young reader series: “Who Am I Really?” and “Me and My Crew, Change is Coming.” Copies may be purchased by contacting the church office. Rev. Dr. Thomas may be contacted at 773-533-2721.

A Call To Action: By Reverend Charles C. Brown, Ph.D. - Pastor, New Heaven Christian Church

You Do Not Have To Bash Your Ex To Get Over The Relationship

I am often amazed at how quickly our perspectives change after the relationship ends. When times were good, we dare not speak an ill word regarding our love interest. However, after the relationship deteriorated, the conversation transformed into a profound discourse of character assassination. Suddenly, he was no good, or she was not wife material. He was a cheater, or she was the devil’s spawn. Before the foundation began to crumble, our significant other was the apple of our eyes, and the best thing to happen to us since sliced bread. Now, all of a sudden, all men are dogs, or all women are gold diggers. However, he or she is the same person who used to make our hearts race, and our lips utter melodious words of praise, affection, and adoration.
Truthfully, the only thing that changed is our relationship’s status. The person is still the same, which is why we are so angry in the first place. Internally, we feel like we were lied to or disappointed, and frustrations were born. Now, our shattered dreams are staring us in the face, and our only reasonable course of action is a verbal attack. It is out of deep emotional hurt and pain that jilted lovers lash out, and it is this same emotional pain that verbally pierces our victim’s heart like a double-edged sword. At this point, we cut a little deeper with each spoken phrase, and we feel a little better as we unleash our wrath. We tell our stories to anyone willing to listen, and secretly, we hope the words get back to the ears of our intended target.
Nevertheless, verbal attacks are often counterproductive, and emotional pain often produces toxic speech. These are hate-filled words intended to inflict a tremendous amount of pain, and the phrase hurt people hurt others is one of the most accurate statements that humanity has ever uttered. It is not only universal, but it clearly explains the intense emotions you experience whenever you find yourself in a heated argument, debate, or venting session. At this point, your words escape your lips long before the brain has time to process what we are saying. In turn, we often say too much, go too far, and later regret how we said it.
Therefore, the key to healing is learning how to redirect this negative energy into a positive outlet, which means accepting our situation for what it is. If we believe dating our ex-significant other was a poor choice at the end of the relationship, it stands to reason that they were the same way before the relationship began. Nevertheless, something attracted us to them in the first place, so we do not have the luxury of bashing or belittling someone we chose. Considering this, we must learn how to deal with our emotions and grow from our experiences.
Dragging our ex-lover’s name through the mud or vilifying an entire gender serves us no purpose. Furthermore, if they were flawed, and we were with them. What does that say about us? If we are hurt, disappointed, or upset, say that, but do not stay there. Heal from within, focus on the future, and do not look back. If the relationship is truly over, then we must live like it is.
Pastor of New Heaven Christian Church, Professor of Psychology, author, columnist, Illinois 8th District Chair of Higher Education, Member of the Westside Heroin/Opioid Task Force, Co-Chair for the 37th Ward Pastors Alliance, Member of the New Baptist Ministers Fellowship, Prior Member of Prosser Career Academy’s LSC, and Prior Member of the Board of Directors for the Chicago Low-Income Housing Trust Fund.

Pastor of New Heaven Christian Church, Professor of Psychology, Advisor to State Representative LaShawn K. Ford, Illinois 8th District Chair of Higher Education, Co-Chair for the 37th Ward Pastors Alliance, member of the New Baptist Ministers Fellowship, and Board of Directors for the Chicago Low-Income Housing Trust Fund.

JESUS FREEWAY EXPRESS by Apostle/Prophet Emanuel Dada

A REPLY TO IMMORALITY ON FACEBOOK

Greetings my Dear Brethren, Note: The message I sent to facebook below in response to evil videos of women totally nude (naked) with nothing on, even having sex with men on facebook. Please read on: Today’s very important message is for my Dear Sisters who 2 days ago exposed themselves to the whole world in Total nudity (Naked); even showing sexual activity video on Facebook without regard for the moral values of Facebook and its public users in general. Dear Sisters in public nudity on Facebook, Be aware of The Living God for He created you In His own image In Holiness ------- Do not pollute your body with sexual immoralities (indecent exposure of your ladyship, note Galatians 5:19--21). God calls you Special and He will not tolerate another Sodom and Gomorrah which was destroyed by God due to their extreme sexual public immoralities. If your Facebook sexual exposure is for money; you can be sure that Father God will supply all your needs according to His riches in Glory by Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:19). Don’t yield to the devil (Satan) to deceive you and lure you to commit these abominations (sins) in order to get you destroyed in hell with his demons torturing you while satan himself laughs at you saying, “l fool you.” Stop, Stop, Stop! Repent, change to be Forgiven by God. Run to Jesus Today before you die in the sins --- then it is too late. So many regrets in hell because No pardon (No Forgiveness of sins) by God in hell ---it is too late!!! and the devil (satan) knows it. God loves you. Don’t hurt His feelings any longer. Turn your life around Now. Jesus is waiting to welcome you back to God --- Make God happy with you; Run to Jesus Today. Be born again.Tell the loser (satan) to go to hell with his demon workers of hell, and run away from him. Don’t follow him to suffer forever and ever --- Big Regrets. T’is time to Repent and clean up!!! Jesus is the way, the truth and the life (John 14:6). Start Reading The Word (Bible). God wants to speak to you Today --- You will be happy to hear from your Heavenly father God. Start Reading Psalm 23 of The Bible. Jesus loves you and God bless you. In the vineyard of Christ, Jesus is my strength and hope. Your brother In Christ, Apostle/Prophet & (Mrs.) Evangelist Dada. As always, please call for prayer support at (630)965-0256. God bless. Apostle/Prophet E. Dada.

For Prayer support, please call me at (630) 965-0056. Thanks and God bless. Pastor (Senior Apostle/Prophet) Emanuel Dada.

Dr. James Poulos Presents:

Teeth Grinding

“Keep a stiff upper lip” or “get a grip!” That’s often the advice we get—and give—on how to cope with stress. If you take it literally, the result could be grinding your teeth or clenching your jaws. It’s called bruxism, and often it happens as you sleep.
Teeth grinding can be caused not just by stress and anxiety but by sleep disorders, an abnormal bite or teeth that are missing or crooked. A study in the November 2016 issue of the Journal of the American Dental Association suggests that teeth grinding is also associated with alcohol and tobacco use. People who drink alcohol and smokers are approximately twice as likely to grind their teeth.

The symptoms of teeth grinding include:
• dull headaches
• jaw soreness
• teeth that are painful or loose
• fractured teeth

Your dentist can fit you with a mouth guard to protect your teeth during sleep. In some cases, your dentist or physician may recommend taking a muscle relaxant before bedtime. If stress is the cause you need to find a way to relax. Meditation, counseling and exercise can all help reduce stress and anxiety.
Teeth grinding is also common in children. However, because their teeth and jaws change and grow so quickly it is not usually a damaging habit that requires treatment and most outgrow it by adolescence.
Although in adults teeth grinding is often the result of stress, the same is not always true with children.

Other possible causes of teeth grinding in children include:
• irritation in the mouth
• allergies
• misaligned teeth

If you’re concerned about your child’s teeth grinding, ask your child’s dentist about the potential causes and, if necessary, the possible solutions.

James Poulos, DDS, leads a team of dental specialists at Madison Pine Dental Clinic, 5470 West Madison Street, Chicago. Kidzone is a part of Madison Pine Clinic providing care to children and teenagers in a comfortable, nonthreatening setting. The clinic provides orthodontic care, braces, implants, and cleaning, in addition to fillings, crowns, and dentures for patients of all ages. Madison Pine accepts Medicaid patients and most insurance plans. For an appointment, call (773) 287-2277.

COMMENTARY - Rev. Mitchell Johnson

$200 million to fund our community’s needs – the case for safe and legal sports wagering.
With underfunded health care facilities and schools in our communities crying out for resources, it is essential that we look for new state revenue sources that can address these challenges – immediately.
There is now a simple and responsible way to generate $200 million to help our state meet its budget needs. A recent US Supreme Court decision effectively allowed all 50 states to legalize, regulate and tax wagering on sports if they so choose.
Other states are already bringing in millions to address their budget needs by legalizing sports wagering – and they are helping their residents by taking the market out of the shadows where it was dominated by unethical black-market operators and unregulated offshore websites. As a talk show host, resident, and community organizer who works with blighted communities, I have seen the negative impact that dangerous and illegal operators have had preying on our community. Change is sorely needed.
If Illinois acts quickly and implements a simple and fair sports wagering policy, it can almost immediately start generating revenue for key state services without further burdening taxpayers, while creating jobs and better protecting its residents. Every day that Illinois waits to legalize, regulate and tax sports wagering, significant amounts of money go to other states, which have already done so -- or to the illegal black market.
There is a big difference between legalizing sports wagering and other gaming expansion proposals such as building new casinos. Most importantly, legalized sports wagering can begin generating significant revenue for the state almost immediately after its enactment and implementation. Alternatively, the process of licensing and building new casinos will take many years and can be fraught with unforeseen challenges and delays. Illinois has pressing budget needs – particularly for education and health care – that cannot wait for years to be met.
Illinois already has ten operating casinos and over 30,000 video gaming machines in 6,000 locations. Expansion of casinos may simply further cannibalize an existing and saturated industry, forcing communities and casinos to fight for smaller slices of the same pie. This could put at risk the jobs of 6,200 employees at the existing casinos. Alternatively, legalized responsible sports wagering will bring an entirely new market out of the shadows and generate revenue and jobs without harming existing businesses. The large demand for sports wagering in Illinois is already clear; residents already wager on sports through offshore websites, through the large black market, or by traveling to the states that have already successfully legalized sports wagering. These wagers currently generate zero dollars for our community’s needs.
The creation of a legal and responsible sports wagering system in Illinois – run by experienced and qualified operators - will dramatically reduce the reach and impact of unethical and dangerous black market operators who prey on our communities, while helping us fund vital services and projects.
Illinois should pass a simple and responsible sports wagering legalization plan in to law as soon as possible. It is the right thing to do for our budget, our residents and our communities.

MONEY RUN By Kevin Pearson

Plan to Plan

Have you ever wondered why do I need a business plan? One may say to ones self “ I know what I want to sale. Can I just open my doors and start making money.” This is a thought that has crossed many entrepreneur minds, but having or not having a business plan can be the beginning or the end of ones business.
In early 2001, you all may know I published a hip-hop magazine that circulated in Chicago and two other major cities. The idea to start the magazine came over night. I can remember sitting on the floor in my brother’s room flipping through some old magazines. I looked him right in the eye and said, “ I want to start a hip-hop magazine.” Neither of us had writing experience and definitely no publishing experience, yet he was all in. Our entire business plan was fluttering in our imaginations.
Finally in 2003, after hundreds of hit or miss (only by the grace of God) we put out a full color glossy magazine. The hip-hop community loved the publication. We were on the media list of major music labels; we got passes to just about every hip-hop event. So what was wrong with that you ask? NO MONEY. We had zero revenue coming in, and no strategy in place to get any. We were the new guys on the block, and no ad agency would touch us. Also, big hip-hop publications where adding online versions of them selves, called e-zines, yet we still owed the printer. We hung on for a few years but closed shop in 2006.
In the end, we had a great product and tenacity, but no plan to execute anything. Today I plan everything, ever phone call, email, I even wrote a plan to write this column. “Remember no business has ever been totally successful with out a plan in place to make it successful.”

Want to increase your customers and profit, but don’t know where to start? Let us help, contact the Voice Newspapers at Ph: 773-889-0880 or email: austinvoiceads@gmail.com

PCC WELLNESS CENTER By Alexandra T. Chavez, Development Coordinator

PCC Offers Care Centered Around You
Pregnant and struggling with addiction?

With growing heroin use on the west side of Chicago, PCC Community Wellness Center (PCC) has started a chemical dependency program that offers combined prenatal care and substance abuse treatment for pregnant women. In this program, the treatment of heroin, alcohol, and prescription drug abuse is offered right in the doctor’s office.
PCC’s goal is to meet patients where they are in their recovery and help them to set goals without judgment. PCC can help improve the patients’ health and the health of their babies. Patients in this program receive safe, medication-assisted treatment with buprenorphine and counseling. They visit weekly, are given ultrasounds, and deliver their babies at West Suburban Medical Center with a PCC doctor.
Services are available at our Chemical Dependency Clinic, located inside PCC Walk-In Wellness Center at West Suburban Medical Center at 1 Erie Court, Suite 1300, Oak Park, IL 60302. Pregnant women and their families in this program may continue to receive primary care, pediatric care, and behavioral health care at a nearby PCC location.
PCC accepts Medicaid, Medicare, and many health plans and also offers a sliding fee program for patients without insurance. They do not deny services because of inability to pay.

CANCER SOCIETY WARNS WOMEN OF THREAT FROM RADON EXPOSURE

A new report finds a statistically significant positive association between high levels of residential radon and the risk of hematologic (blood) cancer in women. This study is the first prospective population-based study of residential radon exposure and hematologic cancer risk, leading the authors to caution that it requires replication and whether it truly differs by sex.
Radon is a naturally-occurring byproduct of the decay of radium and is a known human lung carcinogen, the second-leading cause of lung cancer in the United States. Modeling studies show that radon delivers a non-negligible dose of alpha radiation to the bone marrow and therefore could be related to risk of hematologic cancers. More than 171,000 new cases of hematologic cancer and more than 58,000 deaths are expected in the United States in 2016. Hematologic cancers are the most expensive cancers to treat per quality-adjusted life year gained.
For the current study, researchers led by Lauren Teras, Ph.D., of the American Cancer Society used data from the American Cancer Society Cancer Prevention Study-II Nutrition Cohort established in 1992, to examine the association between county-level residential radon exposure and risk of Hematologic cancer. The analysis included 140,652 participants among whom there were 3,019 hematologic cancers during 19 years of follow-up. They found women living in counties with the highest mean radon concentration had a statistically significant 63% higher risk of hematologic cancer compared to those living in counties with the lowest radon levels. They also found evidence of a dose-response relationship.
The authors say men may have a higher baseline risk, possibly because of more exposure to occupational or other risk factors for hematologic cancer, reducing the impact of any additional risk from residential radon. In women, who have a smaller baseline risk, residential radon exposure might be a larger contributor to overall risk. Another reason may be that the women of this generation spent more time in their homes, so had more residential exposure than men.
According to Dr. Teras, “Radon is already associated with lung cancer and if other studies confirm the link to blood cancers, we think it would warrant strengthened public health efforts to mitigate residential radon risks.”