THE VOICE NEWSPAPERS

Friday, April 6, 2012

Around Town

New 25th District Police Commander Hector Rodriguez addresses officers during a joint 15th & 25th District outdoor Roll Call at Division St. & Lawler Ave., an area with high gang activity and violent crime. (Photo by Brad)

New 25th District Commander Hector Rodriguez discusses concerns about crime & public safety with Austin residents after an outdoor Roll Call at Division St. & Lawler Ave. (Photo by Brad)

Annette Gurley, Chief of Austin-North Lawndale Network Schools, greets new West Side Police Commanders Barbara West of 15 and Hector Rodriguez of 25 during an outdoor Roll Call at Division St. & Lawler Ave. (Photo by Brad)

Terry Hannah, a junior at Austin Business & Entrepreneurship Academy, recently received awards for Outstanding Achievement in Accounting and passing the certifying WISE Exam in Accounting. (Photo by Isaac Jones)

Principals of six Austin-North Lawndale Network elementary schools received letters of congratulations from Mayor Emanuel for leading their schools to earn the Illinois State Board of Education’s 2011 Academic Improvement Award. On the Illinois Honor Roll are Dr. Jacqueline Robinson of Robert Emmet School; Crystal Bell of Ella Flagg Young School; Dr. Shirley Dillard of Ronald McNair Academic Centre; Minnie Watson of Oscar DePriest School; Dr. Carol Wilson of Milton Brunson Math & Science Specialty School; and Colette Unger-Teasley of Frazier International School. Introducing the principals are Chief of Schools Annette Gurley and Deputy Chief Chandra James. (Photo by Isaac Jones)

ST. MARTIN’S CHURCH & UIC LAUNCH EMBRACE THE SPACE ART & CULTURE SERIES

    Who knew there was such a thing as a disability art and culture?!! And what is it, anyway? If you come to St. Martin’s Episcopal Church this Sunday, March 25, at 1:30pm you can experience it for yourself as St. Martin’s kicks off “EMBRACE THE SPACE” a disability arts and culture series at 5700 West Midway Park. With funding from the Chicago Community Trust, Bodies of Work, a program of the University of Illinois at Chicago, is partnering with St. Martins to introduce this unique form of artistic expression to parishioners and neighbors in the Austin community.
    Disability Art refers to the creative work by people with disabilities that reflects a disability experience, advances the rights of disabled people, and widens society’s understanding of what it means to be human. It can be found in every artistic medium from the performing arts, literature, and visual arts to comic books, film, and design. Disability art plays a key role in articulating what disability means politically and personally, and that meaning translates into what many in the disability community consider its “culture.”
    Opening the series this Sunday, March 25, at 1:30pm is solo performer, playwright, director and educator, Tekki Lomnicki. Tekki will present her story in a solo performance of “Paper Doll,” and then teach you how to use your experiences to tell your own story in her entertaining workshop, “What’s Your Story.” Be prepared to laugh and have a good time.
    Coming on Sunday, April 15, is a printing workshop with artist Sandie Yi. In it you get to create some wearable art that you can take home! Two workshops, one designed for kids 6-12 years old, and another for adults are limited to a total of 40 people, so reserve your spot ASAP! Then on Sunday April 29, Alana Hodges Wallace, founder and artistic director of Dance>Detour, Chicago’s first physically integrated dance company, will lead a movement workshop - “So You Think You Can’t Dance” - for people of all abilities. The series closes on Sunday, May 20, with Carrie Sandahl presenting “Images of Disability in Films for Kids,” with a screening of film clips and a discussion with the audience of how Hollywood portrays people with disability in children’s films.
    All events are FREE, wheelchair accessible, sign language interpreted, and audio described. And all are welcome – young people, single people, couples with or without children, and elders — everyone from the young to the young-at-heart. Food and refreshments will be served.
    St. Martin’s is the ideal place to host this festival. No stranger to the Arts St. Martin’s recently commissioned the St. Martin’s Austin Repertory Theatre (SMART) as a forum for artists “on the margins” to perform, create, educate and transform lives. And, now in its 7th year, St. Martin’s has hosted “Blues in the Sanctuary” and “Jazz in the Sanctuary” to celebrate different styles of music, particularly American art forms that revolutionized music internationally. Learn more at www.cct.org.
    For Embrace the Space program information, disability accommodations and to RSVP, phone 312/996-1967, or email tpacio1@uic.edu. For Information about St. Martin’s Episcopal Church contact Rev. Christopher E. Griffin, Vicar, at 773 378-8111 or visit www.stmartinschicago.org.

WEST SIDE VOICES

A NOTE FROM THE PRINCIPAL OF JAMES WELDON JOHNSON SCHOOL OF EXCELLENCE
First of all, I would like to thank THE VOICE for the very positive article promoting the hard work the staff, students, and community have done in turning around The James Weldon Johnson School of Excellence. (THE GARFIELD-LAWNDALE VOICE, Vol. 8 #10, March 14)
    However, there are two mistakes that need to be corrected concerning the turnaround. First, the article stated the windows were painted black prior to the turnaround. This is not true. The windows were entirely covered with outdated and filthy blinds that indeed blocked the sunlight. The action I took was to immediately remove the blinds.
    The second correction concerns the staff percentages. 75% of the staff were first-year teachers and 25% were veteran CPS teachers. In fact, only one former James Weldon Johnson teacher was retained.
    Thank you so much for your attention to this matter. I would not like to unfairly represent the former school, nor misrepresent any action taken. Thank you, again, for the article and positive reporting.

Alice Felice Henry, Principal
AUSL – Johnson School of Excellence

STATEVILLE INMATE SAYS THANKS FOR THE BOOKS
Dear West Siders:

    First of all, let me say that a retraction is in order. I stated that public perception of inmates has left no room for compassion. However, I owe an apology. I received the books which I requested and I thank you very much indeed. [He requested VOICE readers to send copies of In The Belly Of The Beast and Soledad Brothers – Prison Letters, neither of which are in the prison library.]
    The Books we have we hold almost by force of arms, and I mean that literally! You see, Books are dangerous where there is injustice because oppressed men know the value of books on a different level altogether. Once again, Thank You!

Respectfully,
Namore Smith #C-01355
P.O. Box 112
Joliet, Illinois 60434

Friday, March 30, 2012

Motown Showcase

THREE CHARGED IN LARAMIE & LAKE BEAUTY SUPPLY ARMED ROBBERY AND POLICE SHOOT-OUT

Leevon Carter (left), Richie Cole (right), and Omar Young were arrested and charged with the March 14 armed robbery of a beauty supply store at Laramie & Lake, and for their assault on a police officer.

Three armed offenders were apprehended after a shoot-out with police responding to an armed robbery of a beauty supply store in the 5100 block of West Lake Street on Wednesday night, March 14.
Leevon Carter, 21, of the 100 block of North Lockwood Avenue, is charged with one count of Armed Robbery with a Firearm. Omar Young, 23, of the 300 block of North Lockwood, is charged with one count of Armed Robbery with a Firearm, one count of Aggravated Assault of a Police Officer, and a Parole Violation. Richie Cole, 19, of the 100 block of North La Crosse Avenue, is charged with one count of Armed Robbery with a Firearm and a Parole Violation.

Celebrating 134 Years of Faith on Washington Boulevard PASTORS SAMS & HATCH MARK BIRTHDAY MILESTONES

Two outstanding and beloved West Side clergymen reached milestones recently and their friends and congregations saluted the happy occasions. Pastor Willie J. Sams of New Evangelical Bible Church, 4636 West Washington Boulevard, celebrated his 80th birthday at a formal banquet arranged by his congregation. Reverend Dr. Marshall E. Hatch celebrated his 54th birthday with a rollicking Gospel Jam at New Mt. Pilgrim M.B. Church, 4301 West Washington Boulevard, featuring the best vocal performers and more.

WINDY CITY DOLPHINS CELEBRATE CHAMPIONSHIP SEASON WITH GALA AWARDS BANQUET

For 17 years, the Windy City Youth Football League, sponsors of multi-level competitive sports programs for boys and girls, have been capturing national attention for winning football and cheerleading championships and mentoring young people to be good citizens and scholars, as well as outstanding athletes. This year, the teams and cheerleaders went to the national championships in Tampa, Florida. On February 19, more than 400 young athletes and their parents joined their coaches for a festive awards banquet and celebration at Hanging Gardens Banquet Hall. For information on registration for the 2012-2013 season, call Coach Hoye at 773/370-7448.

Friday, March 23, 2012

Celebrating Red Tails TUSKEGEE AIRMEN SALUTED WITH MOVIE, APPEARANCES & HIGHWAY

FOUR GENERATIONS CELEBRATE FAMILY UNITY IN NORTH LAWNDALE

A BRIGHT NEW DAY FOR LEARNING AT JAMES WELDON JOHNSON SCHOOL OF EXCELLENCE

When Alice Felice Henry first walked into James Weldon Johnson School in North Lawndale, she knew the turnaround she was about to undertake would have to be total. Ms Henry says the building at 1420 South Albany was filthy, with holes in the walls and graffiti scrawled across hallways. Windows overlooking Douglas Park with a view of downtown Chicago from uniquely-designed common areas on each floor were painted black so children could not see out and light could not come in, giving the school a dark and depressing atmosphere. She made her first task to draw up work orders to clean and repair the building and change the entire mood of the school. She had the paint scraped off the windows and the whole building received a fresh, bright paint job. Then Ms Henry set about to hire staff that matched the new environment with an enthusiasm for teaching that would inspire the students.

James Weldon Johnson had been designated by CPS as a turnaround school three years ago and given to the Academy for Urban School Leadership (AUSL) to manage. Alice Felice Henry was selected as Johnson’s Principal because of her 22-year professional career in education. She served for ten years as principal of an alternative school with experience working with young people displaying behavioral, substance abuse, and mental health issues. Her teaching career includes schools in Atlanta and Chicago. Ms Henry knew she needed to improve the school environment quickly. She selected 75% of her new faculty from AUSL-trained teachers and retained 25% of the existing staff.

Johnson is a Chicago public school and all faculty members are union teachers. Johnson School of Excellence is NOT a charter school. As principal, Ms Henry reflects the AUSL philosophy of teamwork and support, ensuring teacher success. The assistant principal is still a model teacher. Henry’s mantra is, “Actions against adversity: Don’t do things that get in the way of instructional activity.” She emphasizes attention to detail. Henry observes, “If it isn’t done right on the first day, you will be correcting it the rest of the year.” So, she was determined to set the right tone from Day One. Henry explains that schools need to be turned around “because they are horrifically dysfunctional – dangerous, with no learning going on.” This was the case at James Weldon Johnson. Before she took over, police were a daily presence in the school. She met the local commander shortly after the opening of school and he said he thought Johnson was closed because he had received no calls for service.

But, Ms Henry emphasizes that it is the adults who matter in changing the school environment. “We didn’t change any children,” she says. Like all AUSL schools, James Weldon Johnson is a neighborhood school, drawing its entire student body from the surrounding community. Currently, Johnson has rebuilt its enrollment to more than 355 students. The school was built for 500, but only 230 students were registered when AUSL took over management because academic standards had deteriorated and the school was so unsafe. This year, the staff has worked to reduce transfers and encourage neighborhood children to return. Average daily attendance rate is 97% at Johnson.

Other factors reducing enrollment were the closing of the nearby public housing projects and the foreclosure crisis. It is expected that the closing of Lathrop Elementary School at 1440 South Christiana at the end of this year will result in its 80 students attending Johnson in the fall. AUSL operates teacher-training academies in Chicago and then pairs resident instructors with experienced mentor teachers. In addition, Johnson utilizes City Year Americorps volunteers to work with students and provide tutoring assistance. North Central College students perform clinical service hours tutoring Johnson students. Ms Henry and the staff have designed the common areas of each floor around themes. The 2nd floor is Just Like Home; the 3rd floor has a garden theme; and the 4th floor is an Internet Café.

Teachers take classes to these informal lounge areas for individual reading times, special projects, and tutoring. Christopher Cuengras is the Choral & Keyboard Teacher. Ms Henry stresses that Johnson has the same budget as every other Chicago public school its size. She chooses to utilize a portion of her funding for music and a Fine Arts Classroom. Johnson is still a work in progress, Principal Henry explains. When she took over, less than 40% of Johnson students were meeting or exceeding state standards.

Currently, over 60% meet and exceed. And, the trend is upward. Henry says her biggest challenge was getting parents to interact appropriately and become involved at Johnson. She says parent involvement has evolved. At James Weldon Johnson School of Excellence, it is clear that everyone is working as a team and the children are major partners in their academic progress.

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REPORT FROM ALDERMAN EMMA MITTS

Carrying Her Mother’s Legacy: LaTonya Mitts Reflects on Family, Faith, and Community:

For many residents on Chicago’s West Side, Emma Mitts is a familiar name. As longtime alderman of the city’s 37th Ward, she has spent decades serving residents, attending community meetings, and helping constituents navigate everyday challenges. But long before the public saw her leadership, someone else was witnessing it up close—her daughter, LaTonya Mitts. From childhood, LaTonya watched her mother dedicate herself to community service. Those early memories—riding along to meetings, observing conversations with residents, and seeing how people relied on her mother for help—left a lasting impression that continues to shape LaTonya’s own path today. “I’ve been around it all my life,” LaTonya said. “I watched people come in and share their concerns. I saw my mother help them, pray with them, and listen to their stories.” Growing Up Around Community Leadership LaTonya remembers being just seven or eight years old when she first began accompanying her mother to community meetings. “I remember riding with her to beat meetings and CAPS meetings,” she said. “At the time I didn’t know what those meetings were about. I was too young to understand. But I remember going with her.” Those early memories included watching her mother help organize political campaigns long before becoming an elected official herself. One campaign LaTonya recalls clearly was when her mother assisted Tony Daggett, who ran for office in Chicago’s 37th Ward. For LaTonya, those experiences planted seeds she would only fully appreciate later. “I’ve been around it all my life,” she explained. “I’ve watched people come in and get services completed. I’ve watched constituents come in crying and tell their stories. I’ve watched her pray with people. I’ve watched her listen.” Every campaign her mother ran included LaTonya’s support—whether she was phone banking, helping organize, or simply showing up. “This legacy means a lot to me,” she said. “Because I’ve seen it firsthand.” A Family Built on Similar Values LaTonya is the only daughter of Emma Mitts and has one brother, James Mitts. Like her mother, she also raised two children—a daughter and a son. Her daughter Taendrea, now 25, and her son Dylan, 19, grew up around the same type of community-centered environment that LaTonya experienced as a child. One memory that still stands out to her involves the day Taendrea was born. “My mom was on a trolley doing something in the community,” LaTonya recalled with a laugh. “When she got the call that I was going into labor, she told everyone, ‘I’m getting ready to have a grandbaby!’ and rushed off the trolley to come home.” Moments like that, she says, remind her how deeply intertwined family and community service have always been in their lives. Education and Early Entrepreneurship LaTonya attended Ella Flagg Young Elementary School before graduating from John W. Garvey Elementary School on the city’s North Side. She later attended Von Steuben Metropolitan Science Center, graduating in 1995. Her mother intentionally sent her to schools outside her immediate neighborhood to broaden her experiences. “She wanted me to be exposed to different people and different cultures,” LaTonya said. “That school wasn’t predominantly African American, so I got to meet and interact with different nationalities.” After high school, LaTonya followed a passion she had already been developing—cosmetology. She went to Pivot Point for cosmetology school. “I was already doing hair for my classmates while we were in high school,” she said. Soon after graduating from beauty school, she began building a loyal client base, often styling hair right in her mother’s kitchen. “People still come up to my mom and say, ‘I used to get my hair done in your kitchen,’” she laughed. Eventually, LaTonya opened her own salon near North Avenue and Mason Avenue on Chicago’s West Side. Working in the beauty industry also helped her develop the people skills that later became central to her community engagement. “That’s where I learned how to communicate with people,” she said. “In a beauty shop, you talk, you listen, and you connect.” Latonya also worked for the Skyway Toll Bridge and for the City of Chicago with the Department of Transportation. A Faith-Driven Perspective LaTonya credits her outlook on life to faith and gratitude. “God wakes me up every morning,” she said. “My limbs are working. I can talk, move around, take care of my kids, go to work. I don’t have any reason to be angry.” That positivity is something people often notice about her immediately. Some describe her energy as high, she admits—but she embraces that. “I just want to celebrate people, help people, and serve,” she said. Whe attends Eagles Nest Christian Ministries located at 4416 W. Gladys, where the pastor is Marcus Brady. Listening to the Next Generation One of LaTonya’s strongest passions is working with young people. Over the years, many of her children’s friends have come to see her as a trusted mentor. “They all call me Mama T,” she said. Through conversations and relationships with youth, she says she’s learned how much young people simply want someone to listen. “They want somebody who’s not going to judge them,” she explained. “If they come to you and talk, it means the people around them probably aren’t listening.” For LaTonya, that realization has fueled a vision for stronger youth support systems. She believes communities should prioritize resources that help young people thrive—including accessible counseling and mentorship programs. “Our kids are dealing with a lot internally,” she said. “We need to make sure they have support, resources, and opportunities.” She also emphasizes civic awareness among youth. “They need to know who the governor is, who the senator is, who their representative is,” she said. “They need to understand how these leaders affect their lives.” Stepping Out of the Background Despite her lifelong proximity to politics and public service, LaTonya says stepping forward herself has been one of the biggest challenges she’s faced. “I’ve always been the person in the background,” she said. “I just wanted to help.” Running for office required her to overcome nervousness and self-doubt. “I’m my own worst critic,” she admitted. “I always ask myself, ‘Did I answer that right? Did I do good?’” Before taking that step, she says she turned to prayer for guidance. “I had to pray,” she said. “Because I knew I couldn’t do this without God.” That faith continues to guide her path. “When I walk into a room, I pray before I go in,” she explained. “If I’m not supposed to be somewhere, I don’t go.” Continuing a Legacy of Service Looking back, LaTonya realizes that the lessons she absorbed as a child—attending meetings, watching her mother help residents, and witnessing the impact of community leadership—prepared her for a path she once never expected. “I’ve lived a life here,” she said. “I really have.” Now, as she steps more fully into public leadership, she carries not only her own experiences but also the example set by her mother. And for LaTonya Mitts, the mission remains the same as it always has been: listen to people, support the community, and serve wherever help is needed. Emma Mitts is the mother and Latonya is the daughter Thank you for clarifying. The article I wrote already reflects that Emma Mitts is the mother and LaTonya Mitts is the daughter, but I can tighten the framing so the relationship is clear immediately for readers. Here is a revised opening and headline that makes that clear from the start. .

The 37th Ward office, 4924 West Chicago Avenue, is open Monday-Friday, from 10:00am – 2:00pm. Contact the 37th Ward Office at 773-379-0960 or ward37@cityofchicago.org. You can also follow Alderman Mitts on Twitter: @EmmaMittsAld371

AS I SEE IT By Representative La Shawn K. Ford

Remembering 9/11: 25 Years of Courage, Service & Remembrance

Twenty-five years ago, on September 11, 2001, I was living and working here in Chicago when our nation was attacked. Like so many Americans, I remember the shock, fear, sadness, and uncertainty of that day. We watched events unfold that were almost impossible to comprehend, knowing that thousands of families were facing unimaginable loss. At the time, I was not yet a state representative. I was a Chicagoan, an educator, a businessman, and a father concerned about my family, my community, and my country. I remember how suddenly the things that divide us seemed so small compared with what united us as Americans. People prayed together, gave blood, checked on neighbors, thanked first responders, displayed the American flag, and looked for ways to help people they had never met. Twenty-five years later, I still believe unity holds an important lesson. Today, September 11, 2026, marks the 25th anniversary of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001—a day that forever changed our nation and the lives of countless families. On this Patriot Day, we pause to remember the 2,977 innocent lives lost at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and aboard Flight 93. We honor their families, whose lives were forever changed, and recognize the firefighters, police officers, emergency medical personnel, members of our Armed Forces, and ordinary citizens who showed extraordinary courage and selflessness that day and in the years since. As an Illinois State Representative, I also want to remember, by name, the Illinoisans whose lives were taken from us that day. Based on the records and historical accounts we have researched, we remember: Kathy Bantis of Chicago Andrea Lynn Haberman, who was living in Chicago Suzanne Kondratenko of Chicago Darya Lin of Chicago Vanessa Kolpak of Lincolnwood Mari-Rae Sopper of Naperville Christine Olender of Chicago Lt. Darin Pontell of Arlington Heights Susan “Sue” Sauer of Chicago Robert Arthur Rasmussen of Hinsdale Jeffrey “Jeff” Peter Mladenik of Hinsdale Lt. Cmdr. Patrick Jude Murphy, U.S. Navy, who grew up in Flossmoor Cmdr. Dan F. Shanower, U.S. Navy, of Naperville Chip Chan of Peoria Mary Lenz Wieman of Arlington Heights We speak their names because they were more than victims of a national tragedy. They were Illinoisans. They were our neighbors. They were part of families, workplaces, congregations, and communities. They had dreams, plans, loved ones, and people who loved them. We have worked to research and identify the names of Illinoisans who lost their lives on September 11, and we sincerely hope we have not unintentionally omitted anyone from this remembrance. If there is another Illinois victim whose name should be included, we honor that person as well. Every life matters, every family matters, and every name deserves to be remembered. Twenty-five years later, an entire generation of Americans has grown up without a personal memory of September 11. That makes our responsibility to remember, educate, and preserve the history and stories of that day even more urgent. We must teach future generations not only about the tragedy and the lives lost, but also about the courage, sacrifice, service, and unity that emerged in its aftermath. September 11 is also recognized as a National Day of Service and Remembrance. I encourage all Americans to honor those we lost by serving others. Volunteer in your community. Help a neighbor. Thank a firefighter, police officer, EMT, veteran, or member of our Armed Forces. Support a family in need. Find a way, big or small, to strengthen the community around you. As we remember September 11, we should also remember that patriotism is more than love of country—it is service to our country and to one another. It is a commitment to the principles that strengthen our democracy: freedom, justice, equality, opportunity, service, and respect for every person. At a time when our nation can feel deeply divided, September 11 reminds us that there is far more that unites us than divides us. Our diversity is one of America's greatest strengths. We should never allow differences in race, religion, political party, neighborhood, or background to keep us from recognizing our common humanity and our shared responsibility to one another. On this solemn 25th anniversary, I ask everyone to take a moment to remember those who never made it home, pray for and support the families who continue to carry their loss, and honor those who ran toward danger to save the lives of others. May we honor their memories not only with our words but also with our actions—by serving our communities, protecting our democracy, caring for our neighbors, and working together to build a stronger, safer, and more compassionate United States of America. Twenty-five years later, we remember their lives. We speak their names. We honor their sacrifice. We serve in their memory. We will never forget.

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.

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

Narcotics Anonymous: A Path to Recovery and Healing

Substance use and abuse is a complex and often devastating condition that affects millions of people from all walks of life. It knows no boundaries, does not discriminate, and is not limited by age, gender, or social status. It is a destructive disease whose grip seems unbreakable. However, there is hope through Narcotics Anonymous (NA), a global community-based organization that provides help and support to individuals recovering from substance use and abuse. Founded in 1953, NA follows a 12-step approach to recovery, emphasizing the importance of personal accountability, peer support, and spiritual growth. NA provides a path to healing, and I know individuals whose lives were transformed through NA and went on to help others overcome their struggle with substance use and abuse. The 12-step program, the foundation of Narcotics Anonymous, is adapted from Alcoholics Anonymous or AA’s principles. However, these principles are modified to address substance use, making NA an inclusive space for all struggling with addiction. These steps encourage individuals to acknowledge their powerlessness over addiction, seek help from a higher power (as they understand it), make amends for past wrongs, and commit to continuous self-improvement. It is a program based on accountability and ownership of one’s issues, and to heal, an individual must utilize and implement the program’s principles. Consequently, the four main principles that govern NA are the concepts of anonymity, spirituality, attending meetings, and seeking sponsorships. Anonymity is a significant factor that makes the program so successful because it ensures that members can share openly and honestly without fear of judgment or exposure. During meetings, people talk freely while others listen without judgment. This confidentiality fosters a safe and supportive environment where individuals can openly discuss their concerns, hesitations, and struggles with a sense of vulnerability and trust. NA’s emphasis on spirituality moves the individual outside of themselves, inspiring a sense of hope and connection. Although NA as a program is not affiliated with any religion, members are encouraged to seek strength from a higher power, which can be defined in a way that aligns with their personal beliefs. This open-ended approach makes NA accessible to people of all faiths, as well as those who identify as agnostic or atheist. It is essential to recognize that the spiritual aspect of NA is not about promoting a specific religion but rather about discovering a source of strength and guidance that resonates with everyone. Without a doubt, meetings serve as the core or foundation of NA’s support system, providing a sense of support and connection. Although the meetings vary in format and structure, they all provide a judgment-free space where recovering people with a substance use disorder can share their experiences and support one another. Ordinary meeting formats include: • Speaker Meetings – A member shares their story, focusing on their journey through addiction, recovery, and personal growth. • Discussion Meetings – Members discuss specific topics related to recovery, such as coping with cravings, dealing with emotions, or rebuilding relationships. • Step Study Meetings – Participants study and reflect on one of the 12 steps, exploring how to apply it in their lives. Meetings can be held in person or virtually. There are also specialized meetings for certain groups, such as women, LGBTQ+ individuals, or those in the early stages of recovery. The wide variety of meeting formats makes NA accessible to individuals in all situations, which adds to NA’s success rate. Sponsorship is also a valuable aspect of NA. A sponsor is an experienced member who offers guidance and support to newcomers. They help individuals navigate the 12 steps and provide encouragement during difficult times. Sponsors play a crucial role in maintaining accountability and fostering long-term sobriety. As a member of the West Side Heroin and Opioid Task Force, a collaborative effort aimed at addressing the opioid crisis in our community, I have witnessed the devastating effects of substance use disorder on many lives. While some have lost hope, it is essential to remember that help is available. Together, as a united community, we can restore lives and bring back hope.

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.

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.

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.”

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