WEST SIDE STUDENTS STAR IN 2010 PREVENTION BOWL

Excited students from 13 elementary and middle schools from Chicago’s West Side neighborhoods and south suburbs gathered at Soldier Field prepared for a titanic battle of the minds. The event was the 2010 PREVENTION BOWL, the 4th competition staged by The Prevention Partnership, Inc., pitting 4-student teams against each other in a high-pressure, quick-response game show setting.
The purpose of the PREVENTION BOWL is to provide students with a forum for displaying their knowledge and understanding of the dangers of narcotics, alcohol abuse, and tobacco use. They also showed their awareness of the risks of HIV/AIDS and sexually-transmitted infections and how to avoid them.
Students were also asked questions about refusal techniques when faced with dangerous or potentially violent situations. They explained nonviolent conflict resolution, anger management, and answered questions about self-esteem, leadership, personal finance, and nutrition.
And the students performed with grace in the great football cauldron made famous by the Chicago Bears!
The sponsorship list is growing each year, led by the Illinois Department of Human Services, Division of Community Health & Prevention; and Treatment Alternatives for Safe Communities (TASC). Other sponsors include US Bank in Oak Park, State Farm Insurance agent Larry C. Williams, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity-Iota Phi Sigma Graduate Chapter, Firestone of Oak Park, Chicago Heights South Suburban Family Wellness Alliance, and Home Depot. The goal of PREVENTION BOWL creators is to take the competition national and ultimately include it in the events of the Super Bowl.
The number of participating schools is growing annually, also. This year’s PREVENTION BOWL showcased students from 13 schools. The ultimate winner was the team from George Rogers Clark Elementary School in Austin. Coming in second was Washington Junior High School of Chicago Heights. Third Place winners were the students of Rosa Parks Middle School in Dixmoor. Fourth Place team is Horatio May Elementary School in Austin, and the 5th Place team is Anton Dvorak Technology Academy in North Lawndale. Teams consist of four 7th & 8th grade students with one alternate. Teams are provided with a study guide from which questions are taken.
Other schools participating in the 2010 PREVENTION BOWL are: Milton Brunson Math, Science & Technology Specialty School, Jefferson Middle School, Herbert Spencer Technology Academy, The Learning Network Center, West Park Academy, Charles Evans Hughes Elementary School, Martin A. Ryerson Elementary School, and St. Angela Elementary School.
In addition to the team awards, individual Character Awards were presented to students displaying motivation and teamwork. Contrell Jackson of Rosa Parks Middle School won the Teamwork Award and MyKail Jones of St. Angela School was named Most Motivated. Both students won mountain bikes.
Schools interested in competing in the 2011 PREVENTION BOWL should contact Adam Bates at The Prevention Partnership, Inc., 773/378-4195. There is no entrance fee to participate.

SPENCER STUDENTS LEARNING BOXING SKILLS TO PREVENT FIGHTS

It sounds like the opposite of the goal the school wants to achieve, but Herbert Spencer Math & Technology Academy Principal Shawn Jackson says teaching his students boxing skills is actually encouraging them to avoid physical altercations. The after school program launched last year is called P.U.N.C.H. – Perseverance & Unity to Nurture Character & Heart.
The project is facilitated by Anton Colbert, a special needs resource teacher and 20-year staff member at Spencer, 214 North Lavergne Avenue. Colbert started boxing as a teenager and competed in Golden Gloves, Chicago Park District matches, and trained at Windy City Gym. He convinced the principal to let him conduct the program as a means of preventing violent, aggressive, and provocative behavior by giving students the poise, self-confidence, and ability to defend themselves, if necessary.
However, Colbert emphasizes that boxing is a martial art that promotes discipline, self-control, respect, character, and heart. In addressing concerns regarding students using what they learn to harm others, each participant signs a code of conduct contract, agreeing that they will not use the boxing skills they are taught to “perform bodily injury on ANY of their schoolmates.” If they violate this agreement, they will be removed from the program and face disciplinary action.
What about the potential for injury? Students do not fight each other. Utilizing the latest in technology integration, students use the techniques they develop in the program to fight simulated opponents in the Wii gaming system.
Participants meet twice per week after school and complete a regimen that includes circuit training (jumping rope, heavy bag, speed bag, and the jab bag) and practicing their skills in virtual boxing matches.
According to Colbert, “In the beginning of the program, these guys couldn’t even jump rope. Their conditioning was extremely poor and they knew nothing about boxing.” They learned proper stance, how to jab, how to throw basic punches, slipping and blocking, and their conditioning has improved dramatically. Their focus has improved in the program and in the classroom.
The boxing program has helped participants receive acceptance and respect from their peers and given them the opportunity to experience successful learning in a different context. Mr. Colbert says he believes these young men have the PUNCH to be successful through high school and beyond.
This program is not limited to boys, although no girls have yet joined in. Colbert also provides similar training for fellow staff members to help them relieve stress and improve their conditioning and fitness. Staff and student sessions take place on separate days. Colbert says he is impressed with the progress of his staff members, who enjoy the training despite sore muscles.
Principal Jackson says he is observing fewer disciplinary problems among student participants and improved classroom performance. That makes the Spencer boxing program a knock-out!

Living Word food distribution at Louis Armstrong

ALD. GRAHAM LAUNCHES DID YOU KNOW? CAMPAIGN FOR SUCCESSFUL SCHOOLS

MANDELL METHODIST PRESENTING HIP-HOP STOP-THE-VIOLENCE BLOCK PARTY JULY 31

On Saturday, July 31, 12 Noon-6:00 PM, Mandell United Methodist Church and Rev. Sirchester Jackson are presenting their Annual Hip-Hop Stop-The-Violence Block Party at 5000 West Congress Parkway. This is the climax to a week-long series of events aimed at preventing violence in the community.
    The Block Party kicks off with the World’s Largest Prayer Circle. From 1:00-6:00 PM, the stage is alive with fun and inspirational performers. There will be free games, a college step show, food, and celebrity appearances throughout the day.
    To volunteer or contribute, call Tamara Medlin at 773/626-3626.

GET YOUR BARACK OBAMA SOLAR KEYCHAINS

Be the first to show off your President Barack Obama Solar-powered Keychains. Six different styles are available at $10.00 each. Proceeds benefit the Homes 4 Haiti Fund. Call 888-725-0359 to order or e-mail steponit.info/sandalsale123@aol.com.

FAR WEST 5 BLOCK CLUB HOSTING PARTY JULY 24

The Far West 5 Block Club is holding a big summer party on Saturday, July 24, 11:00 AM-6:00 PM, on Pine Avenue between Augusta & Walton. There will be a Jumping Jack, refreshments, games, music, fun, and lots of socializing. Admission is free and the public is invited to join the celebration.
    The Far West 5 Block Club united to bring about positive change in our community, creating a safe environment for our families and friends.

ALD. MITTS HOLDING JOB CONNECTION RESOURCE FAIR JULY 22 & 29

Alderman Emma Mitts, in partnership with the Business & Human Resource Center and the Illinois Department of Employment Security, is presenting a free Resource & Job Connection Fair at Prosser High School, 2148 North Long Avenue, on Thursday, July 29, 10:00 AM-2:00 PM.
    The Job Connection is a 2-day resource and employment fair geared toward unemployed workers in Chicago, including youth, dislocated workers, ex-offenders, persons with disabilities, and veterans.
    The focus of the June 22 program is applicant registration, assessment, referrals for social services, and an invitation to meet with employers on Day 2 of the fair.
    On Thursday, July 29, employers will be present to start the interview and application process for qualified job seekers.
    Interested residents and those looking for work are encouraged to come to the July 22 session to register and network with social service agencies in preparation for the July 29 job fair employer interview session.
    For information, contact the 37th Ward Service Office at 773/745-2894 or Sam Long at 773/261-0207.

6th ANNUAL SEEDS OF PEACE BRINGING YOUTH TOGETHER JULY 29

Life Directions is hosting the 6th Annual Seeds of Peace conference and celebration on Thursday, July 29, at Farragut High School, 2345 South Christiana Avenue, 12 Noon-4:30 PM. The public is invited to attend and participate. Admission is free.
    Palestinian and Israeli youth will meet Life Directions students from Marshall, Farragut, and Community Links High Schools and exchange life experiences. Last year’s Seeds of Peace dedicated the Garden of Forgiveness adjacent to First Church of the Brethren, on the site of Dr. Martin Luther King’s Chicago office.
    This year, a new Community Garden & Playground at Amor de Dios United Methodist Church is being dedicated at 2356 South Sawyer, adjacent to Farragut High School. It is hoped this will become a venue for peaceful conflict resolution and a catalyst for eliminating violence from the schools and communities.
    For information on Seeds of Peace and Life Directions, call Van Bensett at 773/265-5806 or e-mail vanb@lifedirections.org.

SISTAS OF THE HOOD SPEARHEADING YOU ARE NOT FORGOTTEN PROJECT

Sistas of the Hood is implementing a project to address the concerns of incarcerated women who have been told that they will never be free in our society again. They are planning a day of celebration to let women incarcerated with life sentences know they are not forgotten.
    On Friday, September 10, Sistas of the Hood is presenting an uplifting program to provide 30 chosen women with a day of fellowship.
    There is a limit of 40 women who can participate. To become involved, please call 773/804-1916.

SISTERHOUSE: Recovery, it’s Not Just for Celebrities!

As the media covers the failings and shortcomings of Lindsey Lohan, people all over the country enter drug and alcohol treatment with no cameras, judges’ orders, or press releases.  SISTERHOUSE, a faith-based recovery home in the Austin community, provides housing and supportive services for women seeking recovery from substance abuse.
 
Amidst the paparazzi and glamorization of celebrity lifestyles, the chaos of addiction remains.  Today, let’s thank the organizations in Chicago who help bring ordinary people out of chaos and into long-term recovery.  Countless facilities around Chicagoland provide medical detoxification and rehabilitation for thousands of people.  The Cara Program offers case management and employment assistance.  Healthcare Alternative Systems (HAS) offers many treatment options, including intensive outpatient and aftercare.

These facilities are staffed and funded by everyday heroes who empower those struggling with substance abuse to find a way out and become heroes themselves.  The legacy of SISTERHOUSE is only a small piece of the recovery community in Chicago, and it is an honor to work with many amazing organizations, helping ordinary people change their lives every day.

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

NORTH AUSTIN LIBRARY PRESENTING SKETCHING WORKSHOP AUG. 2

The North Austin Branch Library, 5724 West North Avenue, is offering a Sketching Workshop on Monday, August 2, 2:30-3:30 PM, as part of the summer Art-RAGEOUS program.
    This fun, 60-minute program is for ages 6 and up. Join Steve Musgrave, the featured summer reading program artist, in this hands-on sketching workshop.
    The workshop is free, but participants are asked to pre-register by calling 312/746-4233. For information, call Jacqueline Primm at the North Austin Library.

HEALING TEMPLE INVITING COMMUNITY TO PARTICIPATE IN SAY NO TO DRUGS PARADE JULY 31

    Healing Temple COGIC is holding its 22nd Annual Dr. Arthur Lockhart SAY NO TO DRUGS PARADE & HEALTH FAIR on Saturday, July 31. Individuals, organizations, businesses, and churches are invited to enter a car, van, bus, drill team, drum line, or a float.
    Registration is at 8:00 AM, and the parade steps off at 9:00 AM from 4941 West Chicago Avenue. The Jesse White Tumblers are scheduled to participate, as is the South Shore Drill Team. A health fair follows the parade. For information, call 773/378—9649.

878 MOST WANTED CLUB HOSTING SIX FLAGS TRIP JULY 24

The 878 Most Wanted Club is offering a trip to Six Flags Great America on Saturday, July 24, 9:00 AM-10:00 PM. The bus leaves LaFollette Park at 10:00 AM. Cost is $60.00 per person, including admission, bus, and food. Money is due by July 9.
    For information, call Money-D at 773/398-6834, Ms Wiggles at 773/507-3385, Passion at 773/908-7868, or Ms Forty at 773/823-6031.

ST. CATHERINE/ST. LUCY PARISH HOLDING FREE COMMUNITY HEALTH FAIR AUG. 7

St. Catherine/St. Lucy Catholic Church, 38 North Austin Boulevard, is offering a free, community-wide Health Fair on Saturday, August 7, 9:00 AM-1:30 PM.
    The free Health Fair is being offered in collaboration with THE VOICE Newspapers, Loretto Hospital, Saint Anthony Hospital, Jewel-Osco, Congressman Danny K. Davis, State Representative La Shawn K. Ford, Pathfinders Prevention Education Fund, St. Angela School, The Austin Senior Satellite Center, and numerous other medical and healthcare providers.
    Screenings, exams, immunizations, counseling, and information will be available for persons of all ages. For information, call 708/386-8077.

CIRCLE FAMILY HEALTHCARE NETWORK HOLDING 2 HEALTH FAIRS IN AUSTIN JULY 28 & AUG. 11

Circle Family HealthCare Network is holding two Community Health Fairs with social services and linkages. On Wednesday, July 28, 10:00 AM-3:00 PM, Circle is holding a Health Fair on the Austin High School Campus, 231 North Pine Avenue. This event is free and open to the public.
    Childhood immunizations will be available to children accompanied by parents and guardians. Bring medical records showing inoculations, if possible. Screenings will be conducted for lead, hearing, vision, dental, blood pressure, diabetes, HIV, and kidney function. There will be asthma education and mental health assessments.
    The Greater Chicago Food Depository and SNAP Program are participating, along with WHOLE Foods, the State Treasurer, University of Illinois, Sickle Cell Association, Illinois Maternal & Child Health Hospital, Chicago Department of Public Health, Athena Dental, Loretto Hospital, National Kidney Foundation, CEDA, Hartgrove Hospital, Bright Dental, and Lupus Foundation, among others.
    Physical exams are available for $15. There will be a Children’s Tent with fun activities.
    On Wednesday, August 11, the Health Fair moves to 4909 West Division Street from 10:00 AM-3:00 PM. No appointments are necessary at either Health Fair.

HOPE CDC HOSTING 4th BACK 2 SCHOOL EVENT JULY 31

H.O.P.E. CDC is sponsoring its 4th Annual Back 2 School Event on Saturday, July 31, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, to prepare Kindergarten through 12th grade students for the upcoming school year. This annual block party-style event, located in the 900 block of North Mayfield Avenue, features free lunches, games, and prizes for all ages and an opportunity for the community to join together in support of local young people.
    All families with school-age children are welcome to attend and K-12 children will be given free Back-to-School supplies, free school physicals and immunizations, free library cards, and free haircuts for the boys.
    Parents of school-age children should not miss this important event sponsored by H.O.P.E. CDC, 5900 West Iowa Street. For information, contact 773/921-1153.

PREVENTION FORCE FAMILY CENTER HOLDING COMMUNITY MARKET DAY JULY 28

Prevention Force Family Center is presenting Community Market Day on Wednesday, July 28, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, at the Homan Square Building (Homan Avenue in the A Lot). This event is open to the public. Admission is free. There will be food, designer jewelry, clothes, beauty products, and household items for sale. Children’s books, school supplies, and piggy banks will be available. Used computers and printers for sale starting at $1.00. Vendor space is available. For information, call 773/826-5543.

Police News

Marcus Floyd, 19, of the 3100 block of West Lexington Street, the 4th offender involved in the incident resulting in the death of Chicago Police Officer Thomas E. Wortham, was arrested and charged July 13 with two felony counts of Murder-First Degree, and one felony count of Attempt Robbery-Armed/Discharge Firearm.

Dancing At George Rogers Clark!

The “Having a Ball” competitors from George Rogers Clark School had fun and danced their way into the Semi-Finals. (Photo by Brad)

Jeremiah Thrasher, 4th grade, receives an Honorable Mention certificate, plus a bag of books from Bernie’s Book Barn, and other prizes for representing George Rogers Clark School in the Young Author’s Competition. (Photo by Brad)

 Victor Rodriguez, 5th grade, celebrates winning 1st Place in the Area 3 Young Author’s Competition for his original book, The World’s Toughest Angler. He placed 2nd in the Citywide competition. (Photo by Brad)

 Lisa Riebe, author of the science fiction/adventure novel Pond Punkies, explains to George Rogers Clark Young Authors how she develops her ideas and characters in writing her popular books. (Photo by Brad)

Goings on at Prosser High School

Prosser students participating in Rev. Reuben Robinson’s Moving Forward support program learn how to deal with negative situations with positive actions. Students’ grades rose as a result and participants displayed more positive attitudes. (Photo by Brad)

 Rev. Reuben Robinson, his wife Sherry, Prosser High School Principal Ken Hunter, and Alderman Emma Mitts join student participants in the weekly Moving Forward Program’s concluding ceremony. Throughout the year, students receive positive reinforcement, encouragement, and positive information on how to handle challenging life situations. (Photo by Brad)

 Prosser students participating in Rev. Reuben Robinson’s Moving Forward support program learn how to deal with negative situations with positive actions. Students’ grades rose as a result and participants displayed more positive attitudes. (Photo by Brad)

Fun at Horatio May School

WEST SIDERS IN THE SERVICE

AIR FORCE RESERVE AIRMAN BRITTANY BELL, daughter of Eunice Reed of North Leamington Avenue, graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas. Airman Bell completed an intensive 8-week program that includes training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills. By completing basic training, she earned four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force. Airman Bell is a 2007 graduate of John Hope College Preparatory School in Chicago.