REP. FORD HIRES JONATHAN TATE AS 8th DISTRICT VETERANS OUTREACH COORDINATOR

State Representative La Shawn K. Ford (D-8) announced the appointment of Jonathan Axel Tate as 8th District Community & Veterans Outreach Coordinator. He is based out of Rep. Ford’s Oak Park Constituent Service Office, 816 South Oak Park Avenue.
    Tate has served in both the U.S. Air Force and the Army. He is currently serving in the Illinois Army National Guard.
    “The unemployment rate among our nation’s military veterans is a serious issue,” says Ford. “We owe it to the men and women of our Armed Forces to provide sufficient work opportunities for the next transition of their careers. Tate has served our great country and I feel confident that his military experience can help improve outreach to veterans and the entire 8th District.”
    According to the Department of Labor, one in three veterans was unemployed in the first quarter of 2011. Rep. Ford seeks to increase the number of veterans who are employed and he has introduced the Veterans State Employment Plan (HB3787) that aims to improve overall state employment and provide services to veterans in Illinois. The bill has bipartisan support with 48 cosponsors.
    For information on services, programs, and other assistance available to veterans, call either of Rep. Ford’s offices: 708/445-3673 or 773/378-5902.

COMMUNITY THROWS SEND-OFF CELEBRATION FOR ARMY RECRUIT JAMAL MULLINS

Representative La Shawn K. Ford and Austin residents organized a gala surprise send-off celebration for Jamal Mullins, who enlisted in the U.S. Army and is heading to boot camp at Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri. The party was held at St. Martin De Porres Catholic Church, 5112 West Washington Boulevard, on Sunday, January 29. Rep. Ford explained the reason for the celebration, saying, “It is not often the Austin community gets to show their appreciation for the sacrifices our local men and women will make when choosing to enlist in military service. As a community, it is just as important to show moral support for our recruits and demonstrate that their selfless acts of volunteer military service are supported and very much appreciated. Jamal Mullins is an Austin Role Model and future Austin area hero!”