1211 S.

Western, Suite 203 Chicago, IL 60608 Since 1999, More News, More of Your Issues, and More of Your Community Voices and Faces. PUBLISHER : STRATEGIC HUMAN SERVICES VOLUME NO. 13 - ISSUE NO. 40 ISSN 1548-6087

the north LawndaLe Community news FREE

November 3 - November 29 2011

Serving North Lawndale, East & West Garfield, Austin, Pilsen, Humboldt Park, Near Westside & South Lawndale
PROVIDING INFORMATION ON RESOURCES AND EVENTS THAT IMPROVE THE LIFESTYLE OF INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES IN OUR COMMUNITY

Proving that social services agencies do positively impact the economic health of the communities they serve, Habilitative Systems Inc. (HSI) recently dedicated The Enola A. Dew Apartments for Senior Living. Located at 4623 West Gladys Avenue, the development is HSIs third senior/disability complex, and promises to be an economic engine on the West Side. Named for community health educator and community organizer Enola A. Dew, the $10 million, 60-unit complex was funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the City of Chicago Department of Housing. It comes with a green roof and each one-bedroom unit is air conditioned and fully accessible. Mrs. Dew, who passed away several years ago, worked with

HABILITATIVE SYSTEMS, INC. HOSTS RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONY FOR ENOLA A. DEW APARTMENTS FOR SENIOR LIVING

Talking Wireless Cell Phone Store Launches Grand Opening

Nicholas Short

Senator Annazette Collins, Representative Camille Lilly, Alderman Michael Chandler, Representative Derrick Smith, Alderman Emma Mitts, Commissioner Barbara McGowan, Donald Dew, Melvin Brooks, Elois McCoy, Commissioner Robert Steele, Reverend Dale Kelley.

Antonio Robertson

24th ward Alderman Michael D. Chandler Shepherds City Council Resolution In Honor of Historic K-Town

Congressman Danny Davis in the 1970s to bring health and wellness programs to the West Side. Mrs. Dew was a tireless advocate for the disenfranchised, Congressman

Davis said. She didnt believe people should suffer or be left behind due to their circumstances. Her spirit lives on in the important See Dew page 3

Talking Wireless, a cell phone store that also provides bill paying services, is holding its grand opening on November 7. Technically, the store has been providing services for 2 to 3 months. But Antonio Robertson,

the stores owner, said that the store has never had a grand opening ceremony. Located on 2177 S. Millard Ave., the store offers a variety phones and services. Robinson

See Wireless page 3

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Als Under The L Grand Opening Brings Unity To The Community

PAGE - 4

The City Council resolution honoring Historic K-Town is read in City Council Chambers.

The Chicago City Council adopted a resolution acknowledging the K-Town Historic District during the Real Estate Committee meeting on Wednesday, November 2, 2011. This recognition by the city was a crucial step by the K-Town Historic District Committee in fostering a fresh look at North Lawndale. The committee hopes that with this honor, the Black working class will consider K-Town and all of North Lawndale when looking for a place to move and raise their families. With these new families, better schools, shopping and more jobs should follow. We would like to express our

sincerest thanks to our alderman, Michael Chandler and his fine staff for introducing and shepherding this resolution through the city council, and for having the foresight to recognize the far reaching potential that this honor holds for the 24thWard, said Paul Norrington, Co-Chairman of the Historic K-Town District Committee. We also invite the ward to join us in vigorously promoting our communitys strengths while continuing the fight against our negatives. A cellphone video of the proceedings may be found at http://www. youtube.com/user/jpninc123 The K-Town Historic District

Alderman Michael D. Chandler (far right) looks on as members of the delegation representing Historic K-Town sign the attendance sheet acknowledging their presence for the occasion.

Brizard says CPs not PreParing students for CoLLege

was placed on the National Register of Historic Places by the National Trust for Historic Preservation on September 9, 2010. The district is bounded by Pulaski Road on the east, Cermak Road on the south, Kostner Avenue on the west and Cullerton Street on the north. In an effort to maximize the potential benefits of this important designation, local block clubs and concerned neighbors within the district came together to pursue the goal of helping build a better North Lawndale by leveraging the historic districts recognition. Using the Jan Hus Memorial

building, currently Greater St. Paul A.M.E. Church, as a formal meeting place, the K-Town Historic District Committee was formed. It feels good to know that the City is recognizing the Historic K-Town District, said Tawanna Calvin, Co-Chairman of the Historic K-Town District Committee. This area was developed in the late 1800s and remains stable, in the face of the adversities our community has faced over the past 50 years. Norrington, concurred. We See Historic page 5

PAGE - 5

LANE CHANGE: West Side Officials Show Up, Back Community Law Day

PAGE - 6

Visit us on our website at www.nlcn.org for more articles, photos, information and more.

WEEK Page 2 The North Lawndale Community News

November 3 - November 9, 2011

North Lawndale Community News Winner of the 2005 SBC Beyond the Call Award North Lawndale Community News Winner of the 7th Congressional District 2004 Education Champion Award Presented By Congressman Danny K. Davis & Residents of the 7th Congressional District

Health and Education

Ten Years has past since the New Millenium scare of the year 2000, a time of uncertainty. In 1999, we began by thanking God for making the newsletter possible. Much has happened since October of 1999 when we first published the North Lawndale Community News more than eleven years ago. Many have contributed, supported, volunteered, written, taken photos, done research, and/or completed our workshops. We have helped many and many have helped us. Health is essential to a good life. Education is necessary for the pursuit of happiness in an economy driven society. In 2001, our focus targeted the Revival of the Family. In 2002, we targeted Wholistic Wellness. In 2003, we targeted Education and Training. In 2004, the North Lawndale Community News focused on helping our community acquire a better quality of life through higher levels of reading and responsible wealth creation. In 2005, it was Technology, Business Development, and Employment. In 2006, the primary focus for SHS/ NCLN was Health, Education, and Welfare. In 2007, the primary focus for SHS/ NLCN was People and Education. In 2008, the primary focus for was the Church, Financial Literacy, and Technology. In 2009, the primary focus for SHS/NLCN was HEALTH & THE ECONOMY. In 2010, our primary focus was to live and reflect on our previous years of focus, as we progress to a better quality of life. So many things remain a high priority in our life. As we struggle to enjoy life, many have neglected the necessary choices that preserve and extend a healthy and abundant, spirit, mind, and body. So along with health, there is education (knowing) and the need to have the resources to act upon the knowledge for a better quality of life. The North Lawndale newspaper was and is created to help fulfill the mission of Strategic Human Services. That mission is to provide information on resources and events that improved the lifestyle of individuals and families. This is our primary objective that includes all of the sub-objectives that help to reach that primary objective. There is a saying that if yourre not sure where yourre going, yourre liable to end up someplace else- and not even know it. Even though tough times are among us setting positive objectives and staying committed to them will be the focus of our news for this 2011 year.

NLCN 2011 Focus

The North Lawndale Community News is now published weekly by Strategic Human Services. Our purpose is to help inform our community on resources, events, and issues relevant to them and our neighboring communities. Our community includes those who live, work, worship in, and/or care about North Lawndale. Our focus is on positive, productive solutions, that will improve the lifestyle of our community members.
Board of Directors Frank Bass, Chairman Marlo Kemp, Treasurer Carolyn Lewis, Secretary Vivian Lewis, Director Betty Mason, Director Dennis Deer, Director Creative Scott, Director Marlone Finley, Director Norman Baldwin, Director Dr. Betty J. Allen Green, Director

The North Lawndale Community News

ROD OUTS
Sewerlines and Plumbing Repair WATER GOING DOWN SLOW! Sinks * Toilets * Bathtubs * Catchbasins Grease Traps * Sewerlines * Faucets Hot Water Tanks * Drains * Ejector Sump Pump * Low Water Pressure Heating * Air Conditioning * Refrigeration Installation & Repair Work For More Information Call: TRAVIS (773) 491-1967 or 68

Former Founding Board of Director: Larry Leonard

Advisory Board:

Cong. Danny K. Davis, Rev. Randall Harris, Fred Mitchell, Laura Washington, Susan Munro, Marta Foster, Margaret Davis, Larry Leonard

Consulting Editors and Writers: Nicholas Short, Travles Lane, Tali Bakhit, Valerie Leonard, Wilbert Cook, Dr. Shemuel Israel, David Schultz, Mary Moran, David Tenario, Guillermo Martinez

Founding CEO & Publisher: Isaac Lewis, Jr. Production/Layout Coordinator: Marquita Ware IT (Information Technology) Manager: Ronnie Allen Staff Accountant: Kelly Florian Communications Manager: Resource Project Director: John Moore Marketing Consultant: Dr. Shemuel Israel Advertising Manager: Advertising Consultant: Technical Assistant: Website Consultant: Lamont Simmons Photography: Community members and writers Strategic Door to Door Distribution (Weekly) Community Youth Circulation: 15,000 copies Drop Site Distribution: Phillip Lewis, John Ray Lewis, Gregory Patterson, and Caprice Ware, Mac Strong distributed weekly over 280 dropsites, and over 340,685 potential readers throughout North and South Lawndale, East and West Garfield, Humboldt Park, Austin, Pilsen and the Near West Communities.

Weekly Mail Subscription Rates: $25.00 for 3 months. $45.00 for 6 months $75.00 for 1 year $125 for 2 years
For Advertisement Rates and all other inquiries contact us at: North Lawndale Community News 1211 South Western Avenue, Suite 203 Chicago, IL 60608 Phone: 312/492-9090 Fax: 312/492-7162 Website: www.nlcn.org

YOUR AD GOES HERE CALL 312 492-9090

Black & White Prints - 10 cents each Black & White Copies - 10 cents Each Color Prints 35 cents each Color Copies 35 cents Each copy
Bulk Rate Discounts Available

Writers Meetings!!
The North Lawndale Community News Where: 1211 S. Western, Suite 203

The North Lawndale Community News is funded by the dedicated work and support of the community, and was made possible with grants from The Steans Family Foundation,The John D. and Catherine MacArthur Foundation, Harris Bank Foundation The Leo S. Guthman Family Fund ( Lynne C. Rosenthal), The Soderquist Family Foundation, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), J-Lab Institute, AfterSchool Matters , SBC (now AT&T), The Illinois State Board of Education (State Senator Rickey Hendon), State of Illinois Depart of Commerce and Economic Opportunity.DCEO through Sate Rep. Art Turner, The McCormick Tribune Foundation, the National Black Caucus of States Institute, Advocate Bethany Fund, and contributions from our community, advertisers, and readers. The North Lawndale Community News was started with a grant from the North Lawndale Small Grants Initiative now known as the Small Grants Human Development Corporation, and the Steans Family Foundation.

Free Training in Community Journalism!

Date November 17, 2011

Everyone Interested in Writing is Welcome!
For More Information Call 312-492-9090

Time 6:00pm

Circulation Verification Council is a third party agency that audits and verifies our circulation which is currently at 15,000 issues per publication.

CALL 312 492-9090

1211 S. Western Ave, Ste 203

November 3 - November 9, 2011

The North Lawndale Community News

Page 3

Dew from front page

Larry Huggins, Donald Dew, Congressman Danny Davis

work being done by Habilitative Systems. U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill) who was not able to attend the event, said in a statement, The apartment complex will offer safe and affordable housing to the seniors who will make it their home, This federally funded project is a testament to the positive impact government investment can have when paired with local agencies and organizations. This facility was built to improve the quality of life for one of the citys most vulnerable populations senior citizens, said HSI President and CEO Donald Dew. The building is named for his mother. She was one of the best strategic planners Ive ever seen, Dew said. She came to Chicago from Louisiana in search of a better life. She found it, and wanted to make sure that others enjoyed the same inspiration and support she was able to provide her family. HSI is one of the largest human services employers on the West Side, with 200plus employees serving more than 7,000 Chicagoans at risk of institutionalization, hospitalization, incarceration and mortality. In the last 10 years, HSI has invested $100 million in the West Side community. HSI Board President Melvin Brooks described the Dew apartments as a social service and economic success, creating opportunities for minority construction contractors and middle-income jobs for local residents. One of the reasons I gravitated to this organization is because it goes beyond the public service aspect to create private-sector opportunities, said Brooks, a Chicago attorney with Cochran

& Montgomery. The fact that we have the ability not only to employ a substantial number of people in the field of social work but also created substantial opportunities in the private sector is a great achievement by a public service agency. The development team is listed below. Habilitative Systems, Inc. Owner, McHugh/Riteway Joint Venture General Contractor, Tyson and Billy Architects, P.C. Architect, Barclay, Dixon & Smith, P.C. Attorney, Hanks Consulting, LLC Consultant , Truitt, Brown & Truitt Consultant, Valerie Leonard - Consultant, and Prairie Management Property Manager This project was developed with significant input from the community, including residents of the Elois McCoy Village Apartments, many of whom were in attendance at the ribbon-cutting ceremony. Other attendees include members and friends of the Dew family, representatives from local block clubs and social service agencies, Congressman Danny K. Davis, State Senator Annazette Collins, State Representative Camille Lilly, State Representative Derrick Smith, Elois McCoy Cook County Commissioner Robert Steele, Water Reclamation District Commissioner Patricia Horton, Water Reclamation District Barbara McGowan Alderman Emma Mitts, Alderman Michael D. Chandler, Elois McCoy, Reverend Dale Kelley, Pastor of Claire Christian United Methodist Church; Donald Dew, CEO of HSI; Melvin Brooks, HSI Board President and Larry Huggins, President and CEO, Riteway Construction.

Wireless from front page

HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS WANTED FOR 10- WEEK JOURNALISM TRAINING RECEIVE $100.00 AT END OF TRAINING PLUS SUMMER JOB OPPORTUNITY
North Lawndale Community News Youth Journalism Program Creating Youth News
1. Learn how to Create Videos 2. Learn how to take photographs 3. Learn how to interview students and teachers 4. Learn how to interview for Videos 5. Learn about the 1st Amendment 6. Take field trips to where they make the news 7. Meet professional news people 8. Improve your writing skills 9. Improve your computer skills 10. Improve your writing skills 11. Social Media Training and guest speakers If you are interested, the North Lawndale Community News staff wants to work with you after school. CALL 312-492-9090 for more information.

said it sells phones and services from AT&T, Simple Moblie, T-Moblie and other phone companies. Flip phones, android phones, and smart phones are among the types of phones that the store offers. I have any phone that someone wants. If I dont have it here, I can get it. No problem, Robertson said. The price range of the stores phones is $15 to $300. When asked about what is the best phone his store has, Robertson said that all of his phones are the best. He does not play favorites with his products. He appreciates every product in his store. He said that he provides his customers with cell phones that suit their needs. If, for instance, a customer wants a high quality phone that does not cost too much, he finds one for that customer. To him, the customer is very important, so he treats each customer with respect. He values his customers because he says, without customers, you wouldnt have a business. So far, the customers he has helped has been a combination of the good, the bad and the ugly. When he meets a customer that is not satisfied, he does everything he can to make sure that customer is satisfied when he or she leaves. The customer is the most valuable thing to me, he said. The store is also a haven for anyone who needs to pay their billsnot just cell phone bills, but light bills, gas bills and several other types of billsin their own neighborhood. Instead of traveling far distances to pay their bills, people can pay their bills at Robertsons store. I deal with over 3,000 companies as far as bill payments, so you can pretty much pay any bill that you have, he said. He also said that his store provides a cheaper alternative to the Currency Exchange, which also allows people to pay their bills but offer high fees for its services. He said that people come to his store everyday to pay their bills. Everyone has a bill [that is] due. If its not a phone bill, its a utility bill, he added. Robertson started his business by going to Lowry Taylors entrepreneur program last year. Taylor, the director of the Digital Development Corporation, provided classes that allow people to develop business contacts; create a business plan; and learn basic skills in marketing, advertising, and sales. Robertson finished the classes in six months but it took him a year to launch his business. Starting off with $600 and five phones, he used money he earned while working at Jewel Osco to start the business. Soon, he made contacts with such companies as U.S. Cellular, AT&T and T-Moblie. He started the business because he wanted to be his own boss and to be responsible for his own financial stability. He used to live from paycheck to paycheck, and he felt that, in order to create a financial future for himself and his family, he had to start a business.

He chose to start a cell phone business because he believed that telecommunication is the wave of the future. Everything is about to be wireless, he said. In addition to managing the store, he said, he also helps young people whenever he can. He explained that sometimes young people come to his store and he helps them with their homework and their resumes. Kids sometimes pass out store flyers for him. Outside of work, he said, he is attending the Keller School of Management where he is getting a master of business administration (MBA). He has earned a bachelors degree in Computer Information Systems while attending DeVry University. Congressman Danny Davis, 24th Ward Alderman Michael Chandler, and Representative Arthur Turner were invited to the grand opening ceremony, but Robertson wasnt sure if they could come. About Antonio Robertson Sometimes people ask me how I got to this point. Honestly, life has become so busy, that very seldom have a chance to reflect on the steps that bought me here. As a child I was always wanted to work for myself. Unfortunately, I did not follow that dream until I was in my mid twenties. I worked numerous part time and full time jobs. I knew the only way that I could improve my quality of life, was to further my education. I enrolled in Devry University and earned a Bachelors in Computer Information Systems. Currently, Im enrolled in Keller School of Management for a Masters of Business Administration. Like most graduates, it was very difficult to find employment. My god Mother (Cecil Givens) told me about the job program at Congressman Danny Daviss office. There I met a wonderful woman named Mary Reed. Instantly, she began to help me. She introduced me to Lowry Taylor from Digital Development Corporation. There, I enrolled in their Entrepreneurship program. After I learned the fundamentals of business development, me Lowry sat down and I gave him my idea of a telecommunication business. This business not only focused on phones and services. It was based helping bridge the Digital Divide. Our plan is to tutor seniors on how to use smartphones and integrate the handsets with computers. Majority of us that own a smartphone, only use 25% of its functionality. These devices are powerful, if used wisely we could benefit from this technology. For example, seniors could order their prescriptions from anywhere at any time. I am not the first and I will not be the last with this idea. I hope that I could put a dent into the Digital Divide and help empower community as whole. For more information please contact Talking Wireless at 312-446-6195 or visit them at 2177 S. Millard .

Page 4

The North Lawndale Community News

November 3 - November 9, 2011

Als Under The L Grand Opening Brings Unity To The Community

Tali Bakhit

Employee of Als and raffle winner

Employee of Als and raffle winner

Employee of Als and raffle winner

Owner of Als Under The L, Larry and Regina McCullum brought the community together with their grand opening last Saturday with lots of free gifts and dollar dogs for the whole day. According to the McCullums it was one of the most important parts of opening the restaurant in order to allow the community to know that they are there to service them but as well, to let them know who is in there community. Both McCullums grew up on the West side of Chicago and have been customers of the famous Als restaurant never knowing that they would one day become owners of the famous restaurant which is known for its polishes, double cheese burgers and fine quality of beef. Although Mr. MCCullum didnt arrive into Chicago until 1959 at the age of 11, he still remembers his first Als experience. He remembers the great customer service and the great family oriented atmosphere and this is what he says his branch of Als will provide to the community. During the actual grand opening two flat screen televisions were raffled off, and were given away to two customers who live in the community. Mr. McCullum also wants West siders to know that he has brought forth jobs within the community

and the majority of his staff live right in the the community in which Als resides. Mr. McCullum says that his grand father was a slave, his father was a hard worker and although he is a first generation business owner, he wants to inspire people who have dreams to become business owners to more forward with their dreams. Before becoming a business owner, Mr. McCullum was the first black Director of Investigations for the Department of Revenue and retired to become a business owner---his first business, was a hotdog stand. Mr. McCullum then decided to buy Als in order to help out the prior owners. Knowing that it would add great substance to the community due to its well reputation and service to the community McCullum decided to fix the place up and rename it, giving it a unique twist Als Under The L. Mr. McCullum, plans to continue to support the community by way of Als, with community initiatives allowing the community to know that he cares, and that he is willing to give back and according to McCullum, that is what the grand opening was all about. Mr. McCullum says We service our customers and wouldnt feed them anything that we wouldnt eat---the food is good

and clean and so is the customer service. Michael Cotton one of the cooks says This position is hands on and this is the way that I like to work, I like to service the people. From the looks of it, it seemed as if every customer who came in to purchase, came in with a smile and conversations with the employees---this was my personal observation as I watched the interactions. I also had a chance to experience the food, As I am not much of a meet eater---I must say that the turkey polish was Off the hook with grilled onions, mustard and hot peppers. While many business owners who come into West side communities dont know what it takes to receive the respect of the people---the McCullums seem to understand that its not always about taking but its what you give back to the community is what allows the community to know that you care----this is what creates the positive results of unity. Cashier Briana Burrade wants the community to know that Als Under The L, provides to the community a family service and that the staff are here to service you. We are clean, we are good people and the food is better---this is why you should

Employee of Als and raffle winner

Employee of Als and raffle winner

come to Als under the L, says Briana. The McCullums are members of Living Word church and want all to know that they realize that the restaurant is definitely a blessing from God. Mr. McCullum adds I prayed for the place and I got it. For more information about Als Under The L just drop in to enjoy great tasting food and wonderful customer service at 2908 W. Lake or call 773-8261239.

November 3 - November 9, 2011

The North Lawndale Community News

Page 5

Brizard says CPS not preparing students for college

La Risa Lynch
A North Lawndale school is the success story that Chicago Public Schools Chief Jean-Claude Brizard wants replicated in all city schools. Frazier International Magnet School, 4027 W. Grenshaw, has the coveted 90-90-90 trifecta where 90 percent of its students are minorities, 90 percent are on the free or reduced lunch program and yet 90 percent of its students meet or exceed state standards in reading and math. Frazier was the only CPS school in 2010 in both the city and state to achieve that goal, which it repeated a year later. I wish I could tell you that this picture is consistent across the city. I wish I could, but I cant, Brizard said in a recent speech at the Chicago Urban League. He spoke to a packed audience at CULs south side headquarters, 4510 S. Michigan Ave., about his vision for closing a staggering achievement gap among Black students. CPS is failing miserably to provide all children in Chicago with access to a world-class education, he said. That failure equates to only 57 percent of CPS students graduating from school last year. And one in three students sit every day in lousy schools that are not preparing students for post-secondary education, Brizard added. Last year, only 7.9 percent of CPS 11th graders tested college ready. This year, only 31 percent of eighth graders tested on the path to college, he said. Also only one in seven Black high school students had an ACT score of 20 or above. The college admission benchmark is 21. A recent study by the Consortium on Chicago School Research backed up Brizards claim. The study found that the racial achievement gap has steadily increased but just the opposite for Blacks and Latinos. Test scores of Black and Latinos students are still far behind their white counterparts. Black students test scores improved the least since 1995 when the school system went back under the mayors purview. Graduation rates have improved across the board, but those gains were not shared among Black students, the report also indicated. CPS schools poor performance has led to a drop in Black student enrollment. Ten years ago Blacks comprised half of all CPS students. Now its 42 percent. Brizard said parents are choosing to send their children elsewhere. Key to closing the achievement gap and making youths college ready begins with CPSs plans for a longer school day. However, the Chicago Teachers Union says that plan violates their union compact, a ruling upheld by the Illinois Education Labor Relations Board. Several schools have already implemented the longer school day. Brizard said students education has taken a back seat to union contracts and politics. CPS has already made strides to improve educational outcomes. CPS has expanded kindergarten classes and plans to roll out a new curriculum that focuses on college readiness and vocational careers. CPS also wants to close low-performing schools, a decision Brizard said will encounter some resistance. But he added the process will be transparent with community input. He also wants to develop a system to create a pipeline of good principals. Brizard said there is a hodgepodge of skills and effectiveness among principals. To that pipeline, Brizard wants principals to go through a one year residency program to develop their principalship experience and skills. He said the goal is not just about getting rid of bad principals but elevating experienced qualified individuals. Part of building stronger schools begins with shoring up local school councils (LSCs), Brizard said. The most important job of an LSC is to hire the principal. If they are not doing a great job at that we have a problem. Brizard wants to mentor and train LSCs in what to look for in hiring good principals something CPS has not done before. Additionally, Brizard noted, CPS must provide LSC with a pool of highly qualified principals to minimize the error in selection. Parent engagement also must be cultivated to improve schools. In too many instances, parents do not know how to advocate for their children and CPS doesnt make it any easier for them, Brizard said. CPS has 43 websites that parents must comb through to get information on school policies. Even applying for high school can be cumbersome since CPS has 45 different high school applications. It is a whole different process for charter schools, Brizard added. He said CPS wants to engage community groups, churches and have parents attend Board of Education meetings to ask hard questions. The more educated, the more astute, the more demanding parents we have in the school, the better it gets [for students], he said. But for Frazier International Magnet School the formula for success is meeting students where theyre at. Fraziers principal Colette Unger-Teasley students are not tested to attend Frazier. They come through a lottery system and you can get a student in the ninth percentile or the 90th percentile, she said. To accommodate that wide range of academic performance, Frazier provides additional learning options, like Saturday school, summer homework and tutoring for remediation, Unger-Teasley said. And the other part of that success is professional development for teachers. You have to have teachers on aboard with your vision, she said.

6415 S. State Street Chicago, IL 60637

773-723-4444

Historic from front page

Members of the Historic K-Town Delegation strike a pose in front of the Council Chamber. Members include (First Row): Valerie F. Leonard, Vivian Ojikutu, Tawanna Calvin, Co-Chairman; Matt Cole, Program Director, NHS. Second Row: Jannie Jamison, Paul E. Norrington, Co-Chairman; Elisabeth Logman, Historian

would like to see the community organize around our history and culture, to spur economic development. We are thankful to Mr. Charles Leeks and Ed Jacobs of Neighborhood Housing Services for leading the charge and ensuring continued investment in K-Town. It doesnt hurt to have great neighbors who have stood the test of time. Historic K-Town District Committee Mission The K-Town Historic District Committee formed to unite the neighbors in

this area through representation from each block. We are committed to maintaining and redeveloping the entire historic district through safety, beautification, information and marketing. We are a voice to businesses, organizations, media and political leaders. We welcome concerned neighbors who wish to share their ideas and aspirations. We embrace all residents who seek to inspire and motivate each other to work toward these goals.

Page 6

The North Lawndale Community News

David Schultz, film critic

November 3 - November 9, 2011

AT THE FLICKS
Precious fame). a former Burger king employee turned trainee bellhop, Enrique (Michael Pena) and the near retirement doorman, Lester (Stephen Henderson) for his general manager boss, Mr. Simon (Judd Hirsch). Then one day at work, Josh observes on security monitor what he believes to be the billionaire being kidnapped entering a laundry truck in the service area in back of the hotel. As another form of taking ones job too seriously, Kovacs begins to chase after the truck on the street. When Josh is suddenly tackled down by a plain clothes officer. While the truck flips and crashes on its side, FBI agents led by special agent, Claire Denham (Tea Leoni) surrounds the truck to arrest the billionaire that Kovacs is told wasnt being kidnapped, but was trying to flee the city for embezzling billions of dollars out of the people that includes bilking the pension fund from the hotel employees that was suppose to be invested like a 403K plan that Kovacs okayed Shaw to do on their behalf but without their knowledge. For some reason the shame for what Josh did doesnt sink in. Until Lester reveals what Josh did lost him everything ($73,000) for his retirement that leads to the doorman trying to commit suicide in the subway. Now, Josh wants to make things right. Josh tries to confront Arthur Shaw where he enacting some revenge by damaging his prized vintage sport car inside the condo apartment that leaves to his dismissal along with Pena and Casey. Because of Joshs actions in Shaws spacious condo that was viewed on the security videotape by the authorities Special agent Denham (Tea Leoni) seeks out Josh at a bar to offer her endorsement along with some drinks that lead to her slipping out some information that plants an idea in Josh to get back the employees money. Somewhere in that apartment is hidden $20 million, Josh gathers up Charlie, Enrique and Mr. Fitzhugh to participate in his plot to storm the castle to find the money. Charlie is quick to remark that they know nothing about stealing. Josh responds thats okay he knows someone who does. Whatever vision intended by Murphys idea for this movie is now reduced to him being the only black whos always loud and fronting off when Stillers character walks to and from work. Until Murphys character is seek out from his criminal experience by Stiller. Shouldnt we be a little bit offended by only blacks are being regarded as the true criminal element here? Even Sidibes Jamaican character happens to be knowledgeable in safecracking. Even though it is good to see Murphy(even though its not until late into the film) without being in a fat suit or doing voiceover in animated films. Murphys resurfacing his 1980s loud mouth; fast talking image only conjures up some minor nostalgia for his better days before he made The Golden Child and Best Defense Of course, there is the customary plot twists and turns that are mostly incidental and inconceivable to the clueless Charlie becoming the new building manager to Murphy trying to beat the other guys to the condo in a double cross... Until the guys realize upon breaking into Shaws condo during the Macys Thanksgiving parade. Their discovery that the money expected in a secret safe has been converted into gold hidden as part of the sports car that earlier Josh (Ben Stiller) broke out the windows earlier that led to his dismissal. Tower Heist is not that cleverly written or funny as it should have been. Even though the second half of the movie moves better than the first half; this overall isnt saying much for the sham of a heist movie and less on the laughs this movie is to its audience. PG-13; 104min. A Universal Pictures Release Presented at selected theaters THE DOUBLE (**1/2) Essentially, true to the format, The Double is an intriguing little spy game that has its moments, but does not fully play itself out without trying to outmaneuver itself on the viewer through its elusive characters. plot twisting script and direction, Compared to Richard Gere and Topher Graces performances that each play to their roles and not to the weakness of its script while clearly carrying this movie on their backs. Right from the start, this movie is trying to throw the viewer off course. As the film opens under several seemingly unrelated and unexplained situations that begin with an immigration raid that turns into a minimassacre over the Mexican border. And then the film switches over to a republican senator sprouting his concern over Russias reemerging cold war tactics during a taped interview that hes watching on TV in his hotel room that is under FBI surveillance. Suddenly, the two FBI agents tap into a phone call received by the Senator from a caller with a Russian dialect offering a deal for the senator who expresses no interest and abruptly hangs up. Soon after the agents observe on their video monitor, a slight glimpse of a shadowy figure that slashes the senators throat in the alley of the hotel. Enter the CIA director, Tom Highland (Martin Sheen) who questions the agents and takes over the crime scene from the FBI. Highland recognizes the M.O. of the assailant belonging to an elusive Russian assassin known as Cassius that is supposed to be dead by now. Paul Shepherdson (Richard Gere) seems to be living a rather lonely. empty existence as a retired CIA agent taking in a little league game a few blocks from his house. When he returns home hes met in his living room by Highland who questions Shepherdson about Cassius who was the one that got away from Shepherdson who believes the senators murder was done by a copycat. The CIA director thinks otherwise and brings Paul out of retirement to go after his nemesis. By having Shepherdson team with a young operative rookie on his first field mission, Ben Geary (Topher Grace), a Yale graduate who has researched everything there is about Cassius. Paul doesnt think much of the pairing, seeing the young recruit as nothing more than a librarian But since Paul never caught Cassius. The CIA director wants Paul to prove his belief that Cassius is dead. But in watching any halfway descent spy movie, you cant always believe what you see. As the film goes through its cloak and dagger motions between the characters played Gere and Grace and who they encounter along the way. Its clear that Paul and Tom have history together that began in the 1980s before Highland became the bureau chief. But less than clear, but an interesting twist is that border shootout was committed by Russians that suggests somehow Cassius existence. Then later similar murders begin to mount up with the same marking that was done to the senator. This begins to make Ben suspicious about his partner. While Paul warns Bens wife, Natalie (Odette Yustman) that her husband is dangerously out of his league on this case that Ben refuses to walk away from. This leads the film to take on several twists and turns, in order to show us that naturally no one is as they appear to be. Or are they? Still, The Double

TOWER HEIST (**) There is no comparison this movie can bring that compliments the real life outrage of the working class in their occupancy Wall Street and other major cities protests and the Bernie Madoff styled ponzi scheme that also swindled billions out of the rich and not-so-rich. But its clear enough where this movie stole its inspiration from, in order to create this caper comedy for the common man. Still even if you keep your expectation low. (considering the talent involved!) You wont be nowhere near impressed, pleasantly surprised or too amused here. Reportedly conceived by Murphy as a possible all-black attempt at Oceans 11 that would have been done better more like 2010s late summer hit, Takers that would at least possibly make it more fun to watch. But instead Tower Heist has been reshaped; taking up too much time searching for humor through its cast of blue collar misfits than firmly establishing its setup before committing the caper. Ben Stiller plays Josh Kovacs, the ghetto residing; duty bound building manager who works for the upscale at the most elite, highly secured and luxurious hi-rise residential hotel building in New York (that conceals its true identity as Trump Tower). Where Kovacs is astute and takes his job seriously toward the knowledge and needs of the residents that include playing computer chess after hours with the hotels rooftop billionaire, Arthur Shaw (Alan Alda) to trying to help out by delaying the eviction of an exWall Street broker, Mr. Fitzhugh (Matthew Broderick). While Josh sharply oversees his staff in their efficiency that includes am expectant father whos a clueless concierge. Charlie (Casey Affleck), a Jamaican house maid, Odessa (Gabourney Sidibe of

See Flicks page 7

LANE CHANGE: West Side Officials Show Up, Back Community Law Day
A Commentary by Travles R. Lane - The1tlane@yahoo.com

In addition to the bachelors degree in criminal justice and an associates in business administration she says she has earned, 29-yearold West Side resident Zenobia Mills also has accumulated a pair of illegal weapon possession charges on her record. She has served a year of probation. While the former achievements highly qualify the 1999 Westinghouse High School graduate for the career of a probations officer that she aspires to someday attain, her twin legal transgressions present a tremendous hurdle to her hopes, and led her last Saturday (Oct. 29th) to join a dozen local elected officials and nearly 100 other people for a Community Law Day event in West Garfield Park. In addition to promoting support for Illinois House Bill 100, which would reduce the criminal liability for possession of small amounts of marijuana in the state, the event offered information on efforts to expand the range of sealable offenses and reduce the waiting period for sealing records after the completion of probationary sentences such as Mills. Organized by the Wiley Resource Center legal services non-profit organization and backed by a corps of sponsors, including the Westside Black Elected Officials (WBEO), the program was hosted at the United for Better Living, Inc. facility at 4540 W. Washington Blvd. Mills, who is unemployed and lives with her mother, was likewise accompanied at the Community Law Day summit by a contingent of local black politicians, who held a joint press conference at the gathering, focusing on their support for Illinois House Bill 100. Introduced by 8th District Rep. LaShawn K. Ford, the bill would reduce the criminal liability attached to the possession of small amounts of marijuana to a simple citable offense much like a traffic ticket. We need to stop making criminals of black youngsters in our communities and putting up these legal roadblocks to their ability to become productive, contributing citizens, Ford said. Currently in committee since mid-March, the bill states in part: A person who knowingly

Working to Overcome: Zenobia Mills listens during Community Law Day event Oct. 29. possesses not more than 28.35 grams of any substance containing cannabis is guilty of a petty offense and shall be fined $500 for a first offense, $750 for a second offense, and $1,000 for a third or subsequent offense. Making it state law, says it supporters, would greatly benefit communities and budget-strapped local governments as well as the employment opportunities for Mills and thousands of other young black Chicago offenders who find themselves blacklisted by hiring managers because of minor black marks on their records. We are not in the position of denying people access to work, and thats what this is all about, Ford said. Illinois Senator Annazette Collins (5th), Cook County Commissioner Earlean Collins and Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (MWRD) Commissioner Barbara McGowan, Alderman Emma Mitts (37th Ward) and 28th Ward Democratic Committeman Ed Smith also voiced their support for Fords measure during last Saturdays press conference. In related political developments, Ald. Danny Solis 25th) has recently proposed similar legislation in the Chicago City Council and Cook County President Toni

***** Refreshments Will Be Served *****

See Law page 7

The Views and Opinions Expressed by writers are not necessarily those of the North Lawndale Community News

NLCN Disclaimer

November 3 - November 9, 2011

The North Lawndale Community News

Page 7

THE NORTH LAWNDALE COMMUNITY NEWS Do You Have Something to Buy, Sell, Trade, Rent or Announce? Are you Looking for Employment or Looking to Hire? You Can Do it Here In the North Lawndale Community News Call 312/492-9090 To Place Your Classified Ad!
FOR RENT
BEAUTIFUL APT FOR RENT beautiful, spacious, newly rehabbed 2 bdrm unit in a 2 flat bldg. The unit is completely rehabbed with beautiful kitchen, spacious lvg rm and dining rm. Very close to shopping center and grocery stores, great elementary and high schools. No pets allowed. For more details call me today at 708/264-5711. Sec. 8 welcomed NORTH LANWDALE ARE. APTS FOR RENT,Beautiful vnitage greystone building, newly renovated 2 and 4 bdrm apts, hrdwd floors, ceiling fans and jacuzzi. Completely remodeled kitchen cabinets, counter tops, and ceramic flrs. 1 mnth rent and sec. required. Section 8 wel. Call Mr James at 773-257-0900 or 312-965-6911. APT FOR RENT 7 Rm 3 bdrm. Recently decorated, huge backyard. $1000/mo plus 1 month sec. 5000 blk of West Washington. Close to schools and transportation. For more information please contact Mrs. Green or at 773/626-5081. BEAUTIFUL APT FOR RENT If you are looking for a beautiful, spacious, clean, newly rehabbed 3 or 4 bedroom unit, this is it! They have ADT security system installed and are gated in the front and back. These units are in a beautiful brick 2 unit building and we are looking to rent them quickly. They are newly rehabbed with beautiful, roomy kitchens and spacious living rooms with attached dining rooms. The bedrooms and bathrooms are also very spacious. They boast brand new rear porches for your enjoyment. These apartments wont last long so call me now at 773-934-3706! They are available immediately and are located on Flournoy near Sacramento Blvd. They are very close to i290, blue and pink lines, police station, great elementary and high schools and shopping malls. They are also very close to the medical district and UIC. For more details call me today at 773-934-3706 before they are all gone. Sec 8 welcome.

CLASSIFIED MARKETPLACE

LEGAL NOTICES
APARTMENTS FOR RENT Perfect for seniors, Well kept,Gorgeous,Quite, Secure,Avail.Now Two Bd. Incl. Appl, Heat, Hot Water, Lndry & Strg.Rm, Hrdwd Flrs, Beautiful Bck.Yrd. 950 N. Kildare, Newly Renovated,Large, very nice, Three Bd. Quite, Secure. Incl. Appl,hot water,Strg.Rm 1650 S. St. Louis. 773-838-8471 A NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, pursuant to An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name in conduct or transaction of Business in the State, as amended, that a certification was filed by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County under file No. D11127564 on October 26, 2011 under the Assumed Name of T.N.T. Transportation with the business located 2750 W. Roosevelt Rd., Chicago, IL 60608. The true name and residence address of the Addition owner is Vanessa M. Jones 828 N. Laramie, Chicago, IL 60651.

OFFICE SPACE
OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT 3708 W. Rioosevelt Rd. 1-$250 2-$350 1-$500. Contact Eric at 312-296-6551

Law from page 6

Preckwinkle recommended cops stop making arrests for such offenses as a feature of her current budget plans. Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel has reportedly adopted a stance of noncommittal thus far. Other WBEO members standing with Ford last Saturday also included U.S. Congressman Danny Davis (D-7th), State Reps. Art Turner Jr. (9th), Derrick Smith (10th) and Camille Lilly (78th), Ald. Michael D. Chandler (24th) and MWRD Commissioner Patricia Horton. Though not in attendance, Ald. Jason Ervin (28th), who stopped by the assembly, but had to leave before addressing it, Cook County Commissioner Robert Steele (2nd) and former State Sen. Rickey Hendon (5th) were also co-sponsors of the Community Law Day. West Side NAACP president Karl Brunson also made brief comments to the audience. You need to be the witnesses that the Westside black elected officials came out here today to speak on these issues and are going to move forward on them, Wiley Resource Center Executive Director Melissa L. Williams told the dozens of people attending. But its not about seeing them and taking pictures and hearing them give their words to support our efforts. Thats not what its about. When we leave here today, we are going to have to actively make some moves if we want to see some changes. The criminal law program of the day-long event was followed by presentations to inform and assist attendees in the areas of housing and real estate (foreclosures, landlordtenant issues and fair housing); consumer issues (fraud, bankruptcy, businesses, non-profits and churches) and family law (marriage & divorce, child paternity and support & custody). Reams of literature were made available in the assembly area. Mills also acknowledged that her attendance had made her better informed on where and how to start as she faces the tough road ahead in her efforts to overcome her legal setback. And yes, I did learn more today about what I need to do, she said. Her mother, Tammy Mills, who is anxious to see her daughter independent and out on her own, echoed the benefit of their attendance. However, she, like all the other West Siders there or not, who are represented by all those WBEOs present, will only be ready to move with their leaders only when those officials also put their backs to the plows and back up their words with work.

FREE FREE FREE - Free cable (150 channels), Internet (10 MB) and unlimited nationwide calling. Free 40 plasma tv, STUDIOS, 1, 2 & 3 BDRMS. Newly remodeled kit./bath. Near transportation, secured/privacy. Call (773) 921-1771 ask for Ms. Norton.
APT FOR RENT 3 bdrm apt. hardwood floors, Newly decorated. Stove and refrigerator included. In the Lawndale Community. Rent $1300/month. Sec 8 welcome. Call 773-8829424

HELP WANTED
Mgmt. Co.DBA/McDonalds seeking General Managers Includes: Salary, Benefits & Training Interested parties can email their resume to: lms3inc@aol.com or fax to 815-730-9594

Flicks from page 6

doesnt explain much as it should have. But what makes the film tolerable is Richard Gere who is almost seamless and natural in his performance. And yet , Gere can still display some action moves that happen to be swift and skillful as his nemesis that could have been naturally inherited from chasing after and knowing his elusive adversary. This brings out an intriguing psychopathic angle that isnt played with enough in the script as it is through Geres character. While, Topher Grace gets to be physical that happens to add a new dimension to his acting repertoire. The best that can say that The Double is adequate thriller because of Gere and Graces participation. PG-13; 98min. An Image Entertainment Picture Release Presented at selected theaters LIKE CRAZY (***) Like Crazy is an intimate look inside the anatomy of a conventional love story that has been stripped down and acted out in a very simplistic form through co-writer and director Drake Doremus naturalistic approach to the subject and his two average principals. Portrayed well by Anton Yelchin and Felicity Jones that looks honest and real. While the film the film occasional feels a bit mundane at times to watch for some moviegoers who might be expecting a little more for escapism than insight. From the opening scene, its love at first sight between an American furniture finish designer Jacob (Anton Yelchin) who becomes mesmerized by an aspiring, self confident writer from England, Anne (Felicity Jones) reciting one of her abstract poems in class. There is very little timer wasted in their pairing. Jacob shows interest and compliments Anna on her poetry. Anne feels likewise towards him enough to leave a lengthy note on his car that suggests shes not a nut case by her actions. They meet up at a diner followed by a casual street walk together. Where they continue to chat on about themselves. There is an instant attraction that Anna and Jacob have, in that they enjoy being with each other in public settings and the intimate ones at their respective apartments. The couple even invites Annas English parents, Jackie and Simon (Alex Kingston and Charlie Bewley) to a restaurant dinner. By all accounts Jacob

taps into every response toward Anna. For instance, Jacob caps off one evening by replacing Annas writing chair with a personally created art deco style wooden chair with the inscription underneath, Like Crazy (Hench, the films title to signify their love and passion) But their blissful relationship hits a stumbling block. When Anna is reminded over dinner by her father that the time on her visa is running out. In which she has to return home to spend the summer with her parents before she can return stateside again. So in those last few days, Anna and Jacob share as much time as they can with each other. Still, the thought of being without and/or not seeing each other for the next two and a half months presents a difficult challenge. Still on the last day each offers token gifts to remember the other by. Anna created a special book of her thoughts in poems for a book of love. While Jacob gives Anna a beautiful necklace. Then the couple lies in bed together dreading their separation. Suddenly Anna decides to change her mind and spend the summer lying in bed with Jacob. (Imagine all that bed time and she doesnt come off pregnant?!). Anyway, when Anna returns home to her parents in England. The young lovers have a difficult time keeping in touch due to the hour differences and personal obligations, in which Jacobs life seems to be taking off. But when they finally make the hookup by phone and after a brief hesitation on her part. Anna decides to invite Jacob over to visit her in the UK. The couple share dinner with her parents light mentions the difficulties in having an intercontinental relationship. Annas father mentions during the conversation, how the young lovers problems and expenses would be easily solved if they were to get married. The response shown through the simultaneous facial stare Anna and Jacob have is funny and honest in a singular moment that is without being said or responded to with a punch-line joke. The couples reaction is like marriage might ruin how good their relationship already is. In fact, this movie simplifies a lot of situations that occur by the young couples facial stares before the film fade to back to move on to the next scene. Then soon after when Anna flies back to the U.S. to visit Jacob. While Jacob is on route to pick her up from the airport. Anna finds herself detained for violating her visa permit and is kept at the airport awaiting the next flight to send her back to the UK. Eventually young love manages to prevail over such trivial adversities without the usual Hollywood tomfoolery. Like Crazy is a mirror to life and love. But it is also a movie that requires a certain mind set to watch, that strips away the entire Hollywood pretense throughout the proceedings that is usually associated in most romantic comedies. And this is what gives Like Crazy its unconventional distinction. This is a different kind of movie love story that is real and basic. A refreshingly made alternative that I feel women might appreciate better. While some men might feel a bit weary in this examination on the human condition. PG-13; 90min. A Paramount Vantage Pictures Release

Page 8

The North Lawndale Community News

November 3 - November 9, 2011

INTERSTATE Muffler & Automotive Repair

(corner of Cermak & Pulaski)

2158 South Pulaski Chicago

773-522-0122

II