CNW 26 04.12.23

aPRIL 12 - April 18, 2023 • The Voice Of Black Chicago • Vol.1 No 26

Beckham Unplugged

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April 12 - April 18, 2023

President & Publisher Kai EL’ Zabar

Editor-In-Chief Terri Winston

Vice President

Darnell Pulphus

Art Director

Editors Danielle Sanders Managing Editor Dr. Mila K. Marshall Cannabis Corner Editor Staff Writers

Dr. Sharice Braford Liz Lampkin Marcus Bouldin David Pierce Tammy Gibson Shaneen Murray Marti Worell

Contributors NNPA Newswire Mare Evans Eric Grant Cover Photography Gabriel Montgomery

8348 S Stony Island Avenue Chicago, IL 60617 (773) 437-3096 Vol. 1 No 26 Wednesday, April 12, 2023 Chicago News Weekly is published weekly on Wednesday. www.cnwmedia.com advertising@cnwmedia.com editorial@cnwmedia.com Subscription $104 year

April 12 - April 18, 2023

Change is AFOOT

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daho passed legislation last week banning adults from helping minors cross state lines to get an abortion without parents’ consent.

This is significant because Idaho recognizes that abortion remains legal in neighboring states such as Washington, Oregon, Nevada, and Montana. Under Idaho’s new law, any adult who assists a minor obtain an abortion pill or a surgical procedure within Idaho or across state lines commits “trafficking.” While the U.S. Constitution continues to restrict states’ authority to ban reproductive services provided outside their borders; Idaho’s law distinctly relies on the parent consent clause.

After an exhausting day last Thursday in which Tennessee State Rep. Gloria Johnson and her two Democratic colleagues, faced trumped up charges of misconduct on the Chamber floor. Finally, the verdict resulted in the expulsion of two Black male members of the Tennessee State Assembly Chamber. When their colleague, Rep. Johnson, a white woman, remained saved by one vote, she was asked why she thought she was spared since the three had stood united on the House floor in a call for meaningful gun reform in the aftermath of the Covenant School shooting in Nashville.

“It might have to do with the color of there skin,” Johnson told reporters outside the chamber. Surely, that had some baring but there were also two other significant differences between her and her comrades.

First, there were discrepancies regarding the formal complaint. The errors of facts regarding Johnson, charging that she had shouted, using a megaphone, carried a political sign and pounded a barrel while standing in the well with Pearson and Jones. However, a video screened at the start of Thursday’s proceedings by the state’s Republican machinate clearly showed she had done none of those things.

The apparent Republican payback is real. The supermajority had gone ahead and expelled Pearson despite Speaker of the House Cameron Sexton’s false claims that the trio’s six-minute, non-violent protest represented an insurrection that was “at least equivalent, maybe worse” than the storming of the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 202. Seriously?

The fact is Pearson and Jones had only raised their voices above a conversational volume and used a megaphone after Sexton had turned off the microphone at the podium and announced the house was in recess. They did not break or disrespect the bylaws.

Lastly, the final distinction separating Johnson from her colleagues Pearson and Jones is her first hand encounter with a shooting at Central High School in Knoxville in 2008 where Johnson had been a special education teacher. Most likely someone was smart enough to realize that expelling her would have been a P.R., nightmare, hence the one vote that spared her.

And then there’s Justice Clarence Thomas, sworn in 1991 to the Supreme Court. The Judge is looking guilty of accepting gifts from the wealthy far beyond what is permitted.

Supreme Court judges are subject to laws that require disclosing gifts that are more than $415 in value, including any transportation that substitutes for commercial transport.

photo credit: Dot Ward

Chicago News Weekly Cheryl Mainor Norman

E notes

Kai EL’ Zabar Editor-in-Chief Thomas has repeatedly used Texas billionaire Harlan Crow’s private jet for travel and vacationed with him, including on his super yacht and at Crow’s private resort in the Adirondacks, where guests stay for free, ProPublica reports, citing flight records, internal documents, and interviews with Crow’s employees.

The justice has stayed at Crow’s resort “every summer for more than two decades,” according to ProPublica, and reportedly makes “regular use” of Crow’s private jet, including as recently as last year and for as short as a three-hour trip from Washington, D.C., to Connecticut in 2016. Reality check: if Thomas had chartered the plane and the 162 ft yacht himself, the total cost of the trip could have exceeded $500,000. And he’s been doing this for years.

Kyle Herrig, president of Accountable.US, said: “First Justice Thomas hid decades of lavish gifts and travel funded by Harlan Crow, but now he’s outright lying when he says this major conservative donor had no interest in the work of the supreme court.”

So, folks, here we are witnesses to what Kellyanne Conway, coined as Alternative facts,” during a “Meet the Press” interview on January 22, 2017.

The very clear manipulation of ‘what is’ fact, has been shoved in our faces as something other than the truth. Clearly Idaho is stepping outside its state jurisdiction, while Tennessee enforced a rule upon three State Representatives which they clearly did not break and expelled two from its roster. And finally, Justice Clarence Thomas wants us to believe that accepting gifts over $500,000 annually for over 15 years is acceptable when their cap is $415.00 annually. How does that make sense?

Chicago’s new Mayor Brandon Johnson will take office May 15, 2023, ushering in a new era of governing. We know that it has electrified progressives, according to experts who saw the race as a referendum on the future of the Democratic Party. Is it and what does that really mean? Stay Woke!

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Dollars & Sense

Financial Literacy Month Sharice Bradford, PhD CNW Staff Writer

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pril is Financial Literacy Month. Well, April was Financial Literacy Month, and now the term literacy is being changed to Capability. According to the National Endowment of Financial Education, “the name transitioned to Financial Capability Month in 2021 to emphasize the importance of opportunity when using financial knowledge.” So welcome to National Financial Capability Month and welcome to the opportunity to increase your financial knowledge.

Depending on where you are on the spectrum, that could mean a lot to you, or it could mean nothing at all. There is never a good or bad time to have a financial check-in. Just as we are intentional about health checkups, financial checkups are just as necessary.

First recognized in 2004, Financial Literacy Month is a way to highlight the importance of financial education, providing an opportunity to increase financial savvy and wealth building. Now recognized annually

by Presidential declaration. According to the US Department of Homeland Security: “Financial literacy is key to understanding how to save, earn, borrow, invest, and protect your money wisely. It is also essential to developing short and longterm financial habits and skills which can lead to greater financial well-being.”

No matter what your financial situation may be, there is always the opportunity to improve or maintain your level of financial wellness. From knowing if the infor-

mation on your credit report is accurate, to understanding interest rates and savings, there is never a right or wrong time to increase your level of financial literacy.

If however, your financial situation has been a source of stress and you have been feeling that you don’t know where to start, here are a few tips to help you improve your financial well-being.

1. Know that you do not have to pay anyone to help you fix, repair or improve your credit.

You can ask for help but understand that it is not necessary to PAY someone to help you. There are hundreds of free and reputable sources available to assist you on your credit improvement journey. Locally State Treasurer Michael Frerichs and City Treasurer Melissa Conyears-Ervin both have free financial literacy resources available on their websites.

2. If you are struggling financially, ask for help.

Immediately contact your credit union or bank, credit card company, utility provider, mortgage company, or landlord. Although it’s never easy to ask for help, it’s better to work out a payment arrangement than to let the account fall behind.

3. Check your credit report.

Pulling your credit report once a year to make sure the information is accurate, complete and up-to-date.

Reviewing your credit report will also help to guard against identity theft. Since the Public Health Emergency Period, consumers have been able to access their credit reports on a weekly basis. www.annualcreditreport.com is a recommended source.

4. Begin Budgeting Having a budget allows you to have a clear view of your income and expenses all in one place. It will help you live within your income, prioritize saving, and meet financial goals, today and in the future. Organizations such as the National Credit Union Association (NCUA) encourage you to use their Money Basics Guide to Budgeting and Saving. Many other organizations have tools t help you develop and stick to a budget.

5. Be mindful of scams and fraud.

Each year scam artists and identity thieves become savvier at stealing billions of dollars from unsuspecting consumers. Learn how to recognize common scams, protect yourself and your money, and take action if you think you are a victim of fraud.

6. Learn Something New If you are comfortable with your credit score but do not have any investments, learn more about investing.

Learn more about consumer protections or retirement plans. Learn to negotiate interest rates or how to ask for increases on credit cards. Research any topic that may be of interest to you.

Resources: www.chicagocitytreasurer.com www.illinoistreasurer.gov www.mycreditunion.gov

lEST wE fORGET A Look at Black Chicagoans who Shaped History Tammy Gibson CNW Staff Writer

Dr. Lloyd Hall: Pioneer who devoted his life to food preservation

loyd Hall played an essential role in the food industry. He invented a way to preserve foods.

Lloyd Hall was born in Elgin, IL, on June 20, 1894. His father, Augustus Hall, was a Baptist minister. Hall’s grandfather was one of the founders of the historic Quinn Chapel A.M.E. Church in Chicago and was the church’s first pastor in 1841.

Hall was an honor student and captain of the debate team and played baseball, track, and football at West Side High School in Aurora, IL. After graduating from the top of his high school class, Hall received his Bachelor of Science from Northwestern University in 1914, a Master of Science from Northwestern in 1916, and a Doctor of Science from Virginia State College in 1944.

Before Dr. Hall’s inventions, the only way to preserve food was by using salt which tasted bitter. Hall experimented using sodium chloride, with tiny crystals of nitrate and sodium nitrate, to suppress the nitrogen that spoiled the food. Hall then developed antioxidants, including lecithin, to stop foods’ fats and oil from spoiling. Hall discovered spices, including cloves and ginger, had large amounts of bacteria, yeast, and mold that were dangerous. He also invented a system

that used ethylene oxide gas in a vacuum sterilization process to purify foods that effectively destroyed food-borne microbes. This system was later adapted to sterilize hospital supplies, cosmetics, and prescription drugs.

Hall served in many capacities in the field of food preservation. He served as junior and senior Sanitary Chemist of Chicago’s Department of Health laboratories from 1915 to 1919. Hall served as chief chemist for John Morrel and Company of Ottuma, IL, from 19191921, was President of the Chemical Products Corporation, Chicago from 1921 to 1924. He also served as a consultant for Griffith’s Laboratories from 1925 to 1929, and later as Technical Director and Chief Chemist of Griffith’s Laboratories in Chicago from 1929 to 1946 and Technical Director from 1946 to 1959.

Dr. Hall held over 100 patents worldwide in food chemistry and different sterilization techniques.

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After retiring from Griffith’s Laboratories, he became a consultant to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, where he was responsible for sharing his advances to keep food with flavor and fresh.

Dr. Lloyd Hall dedicated his life to as a public servant.

He served on the Chicago Executive Committee of the NAACP and the Board of Directors of the Chicago Urban League. Hall served on the Illinois State Food Commission and the Institute of Food Technologists and on the Board of Trustees for the Chicago Planetarium Society along with being a Science and Education Advisor for the Adler Planetarium. In 1962, Hall was appointed American Food for Peace Council by President John Kennedy to oversee the donation of food to developing nations.

Dr. Hall received honorary degrees from Howard University, Tuskegee, and Virginia State University.

Hall passed away on January 2, 1971, at the age of 77.

In 2004, Dr. Hall was posthumously inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame.

Dr. Lloyd A. Hall revolutionized the science of food preservation that is still being used today.

Tammy Gibson is a Black history traveler. Find her on social media @sankofatravelher.

April 12 - April 18, 2023

City News

Englewood Residents Say “No” to New Save-A-Lot Grocery Store Danielle Sanders CNW Residents and elected officials gathered outside of the new site of the Save-A-Lot grocery store in Englewood to protest the company’s planned opening. Residents say their concerns about the proposed grocery store were ignored. Save A Lot grocery store is owned by the company Yellow Banana. Yellow Banana operates six additional stores in Chicago under the Save a Lot Brand.

Englewood residents were joined by Alderman Stephanie Coleman, Raymond Lopez, and Jeanette Taylor Wednesday during a “preview” of the store in advance of its grand opening which is slated for May 2023. Resident leaders say they’ve requested to meet with the executives at Yellow Banana to no avail. “This is no way to enter a community. In order to build trust and get to know us you have to show us you will be good stewards or good neighbors”, Alderman Stephanie Coleman said.

Alderman Coleman said while the company has been invited to community meetings, Yellow Banana representatives have not indicated a desire to work with the community. Shortly after residents and officials demanded to speak with Yellow Banana’s CEO, Joe Canfield, the company canceled the “soft opening” and said all food brought into the store for the event would be donated to a local shelter. Canfield said, “We heard from the community tonight and the alderman that they would like us to take a different approach and we want to listen to them. So, I think being a good corporate citizen and good businessperson is listening to the communities you operate in. We’ve done a lot of community outreach, but it is clear we have to do more.”

According to a 2020 study published by the American Heart Association, limited access to fresh food in communities plagued with higher rates of obesity and diseases contributes to higher death rates. Residents in communities like Englewood have life expectancy rates that are 30 years shorter than their downtown counterparts. Food insecurity also affects one’s mental health, with poor diet often linked to mental illnesses like depression, and anxiety. Neighborhoods like Englewood also suffer eco-

Managing Editor

nomically. Communities that lack grocery stores often force residents and their dollars out of the community.

Residents say historically, Save-A-Lot stores offer less quality products than other stores such as Mariano’s and Jewel/Osco. The SaveA-Lot store replaces Whole Foods which closed last year. Outspoken Alderman Raymond Lopez says the city should break the lease agreement with Save A Lot. “They promised us a yellow banana but it’s really a rotten banana”, said Lopez. Yellow Banana CEO, Joe Canfield says the “soft opening” was designed to show the community the store and alleviate any concerns about the store’s quality.

“We know that it is a different experience to what neighbors are used to and from what they typically think about Save-A-Lot. The faster we can get open and show that experience to people the better off we would be”, Canfield explained. The store’s CEO said he plans to meet with officials and residents to address their concerns.

“We’re not always going to be perfect but when we make mistakes, we are going to own those mistakes. We are going to listen to our customers, and we are going to try and do better.”

For now, the opening of the Englewood Save-A-Lot remains on hold.

Byron and Sharnice Sellers: From Minimum Wage to Millionaires Marcus Bouldin CNW Staff Writer

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obile Home Elite Investors (MHE), owned by Chicago residents, Byron, and Sharnice Sellers, is a success story that began with a podcast and a leap of faith.

After Byron and Sharnice became unemployed in 2017, Byron began driving for the drive share company Lyft. While driving for Lyft, Byron came across a random podcast discussing investing in mobile homes with low money down and not-so-great credit. Byron was intrigued by the information, so he shared it with Sharnice.

With the couple facing financial hardship, they agreed to take a leap of faith. They accepted a high-interest loan of $10,000 at a 24% interest rate and purchased two mobile homes for under $5,000. Within a month, they had flipped the homes for a profit of $19,500. “When I was employed by the Chicago Gas Company, my yearly salary was $39,000,” Sharnice says. “Once I saw we could make half of my previous salary in a month, I knew we were on the right path.”

Since the couple’s initial investment,

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Byron and Sharnice have converted hundreds of mobile homes into profitable and affordable housing over the past few years. They’re now earning 7 figures annually from investing in mobile homes.

Sharnice says they were blown away by the costs of investing in mobile homes.

“Not only did we see this opportunity as a great way to make profits. We also see it as a way to provide affordable housing.” The Sellers currently own four mobile home communities between Illinois and Indiana with plans to expand.

Byron and Sharnice say investing in a mobile home can be as low as $500.

“You’ll find that mobile homeowners often give away older homes that require intensive work. The renovation cost can range from $10,000 to $15,000. And the investors are left with an asset that can generate passive income or be converted for a profit,” the Chicago couple explained. “Mobile homes offer several advantages over traditional single-family homes. This includes affordability, energy efficiency, and lower maintenance costs. They can also be moved from one location to another, giving the homeowner flexibility.”

In addition, Byron says investing in mobiles can be lucrative. “Mobile homes are the largest cash-on-cash return in the real estate industry.” He states that it can take the couple up to 15 days to flip a mobile home after the purchase. They then sell or rent the mobile home at the affordable housing market value, and by the end of the tenant’s term, they’ve either doubled or tripled their investment.

For those interested in learning more about investing in mobile homes, MHE has developed an online educational platform (Mobile Home Elite Investors Program) to educate potential investors on the industry. “The information we offer our new investors helps avoid costly mistakes and provides tools to be successful in the business,” says Byron. MHE’s Mobile Home Elite Investors Program offers free and paid live training. The training includes self-paced coursework, hands-on training, YouTube videos, Facebook videos, Instagram, and Tik Tok videos focusing on mobile home investing.

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City News

Chicago State University Faculty Strike Danielle Sanders CNW Managing Editor

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fter months of negotiations, faculty at Illinois’ only predominantly black university, Chicago State decided to strike on April 3rd. Faculty say issues surrounding compensation and workload are at the heart of their demands. According to the National Education Association, faculty in Chicago state are among the lowest-paid faculty in Illinois. Chicago State University serves nearly 4,000 students of which 70% are Black. At a rally at CSU, the faculty union president, Valerie Gross said, “I don’t understand why it is that our students have to endure faculty who are being paid less than faculty at any other institution.

This is not an equitable picture.”

The faculty at Chicago State includes more than 160 professionals who are represented by the University Professors of Illinois Local 4100. They were joined on the picket line by members of the American and Illinois Federation of Teachers and the Chicago Teachers Union. Faculty members say they are paid at an annual rate less than the average salary for public university professors in Illinois. In a statement, CSU administration said that classes would continue amid the strike in addition to student support services but stressed that financial constraints limit what they can do to address pay concerns by faculty.

“We have reached an agreement on significant issues, including workload, office hours, parental leave, and other points as they were raised during our bargaining sessions. Yet the financial realities at the University remain. We intensely recognize the dedication and needs of our faculty but must also ensure that CSU can continue its commitment to our students, staff, and community into the future.”

However, when it comes to salary, CSU’s President, Zaldwaynaka Scott is one of the highest-paid university presidents in the state. With an annual salary of $395,00, she ranks 4th among the highest-paid university leaders in Illinois. 98% of faculty union members voted to authorize a strike in late March, many citing an inability to retain and attract staff at the current salary levels. Professors at Chicago State University earn an average of $88,000 a year compared to $95,000 a year for public university instructors in the state of Illinois.

CSU isn’t the only public university intent to strike.

Faculty unions at Eastern Illinois and Governors State University also recently filed notices of intent to strike.

While state funding has in“I want the freedom to enjoy creased since 2019, smaller quality time in retirement.” universities still struggle with funding, often relying on public funding in addition to Visit AceYourRetirement.org for: tuition.

• 3-minute online chat with a digital retirement coach • Free personalized roadmap based on your retirement goals • Free tips to start boosting your retirement savings now Negotiations continue between both parties.

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April 12 - April 18, 2023

Walmart Shocks Community with Store Closings Giant retailer to shutter stores, communities will be hard hit.

CNW Staff Report

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n Tuesday Walmart announced that it will close four of its stores in Chicago with little notice.

The stores are slated to close on Sunday, April 16, 2023.

The four stores closing are: #5781 Chatham Supercenter, the Walmart Health center, and the Walmart Academy, 8431 S. Stewart Ave. #3166 Kenwood Neighborhood Market, 4720 S. Cottage Grove Ave. #5645 Lakeview Neighborhood Market, 2844 N. Broadway St. #5646 Little Village Neighborhood Market, 2551 W. Cermak Road A news release from the company said in part, “Our Chicago stores have not been profitable since we opened the first one nearly 17 years ago - these stores lose tens of millions of dollars a year, and their annual losses nearly doubled in just the last five years. The remaining four Chicago stores continue to face the same business difficulties, but we think this decision gives us the best chance to help keep them open and serving the community.

The company said all associates at the store are eligible to be transferred to another Walmart location. The pharmacies at the closing locations will remain open to serve patients for up to 30 days.

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City News

Retiring 21st Alderman Howard Brookins who worked closely with Chatham businessmen in the 1990’s fought to get Walmart in the Chatham area and for it to reopen after the civil unrest in 2020.

“To hear today, a couple of hours ago, that they are going to close, a profound disappointment and sadness overcame me,” he said.

The company said it has tried different strategies, including building smaller stores and offering services beyond retail, but says they have not improved stores’ performance.

Last year, the Chatham community welcomed the Walmart Academy located in the parking lot of the Stewart Ave. store, offering classes and workshops to the community. All those programs have been canceled, although a Walmart spokesperson said the company plans to donate the academy for community uses.

Most recently, the store held a ribbon cutting heralding the opening of the Walmart Clinic inside the store,

promising comprehensive health care options for the community at affordable prices. Both the Academy and the health clinic will also close.

Mayor-elect Brandon Johnson released a statement on the closings, saying, “Walmart’s decision to close four locations in Chicago will leave a void in the communities they serve, particularly stores located in communities that have historically lacked options for grocery stores and pharmacies. These stores served as a crucial lifeline for communities to obtain fresh, affordable produce. We are committed to identifying ways to fill the gaps these closures will leave in neighborhoods and find creative solutions to repurpose these facilities to the community’s benefit.”

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National News

Howard University Appoints Stacey Abrams, Esq.

As Inaugural Ronald W. Walters Endowed Chair for Race and Black Politics CNW Staff Report

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ow fortunate is Howard University, having Stacey Abrams, Esq., join its academic institutional home as the inaugural Ronald W. Walters Endowed Chair for Race and Black Politics?

Howard University President, Wayne A. I. Frederick, commented that “Stacey Abrams has proven herself an essential voice and eager participant in protecting American democracy – not just for certain populations, but for everyone with the fundamental right to make their voices heard. Perhaps the most important statement that the university president made is, “As the inaugural Ronald W. Walters Endowed Chair, Ms. Abrams’ selection not only honors the work and legacy of renowned political strategist and scholar Dr. Ronald Walters, it expands on that legacy by bringing

Howard students in dialogue with a contemporary candidate whose work has directly influenced today’s political landscape.”

It goes without saying that Abrams is literally perfect for the position. She has established her political persona in the American arena of politics where she has made a difference in moving the agenda forward. Without question her work has exhibited her commitment to justice and equity. Less known is her popularity as a novelist in the thriller genre, as well as her Political writings. In her role, as the endowed chair, Abrams will foster interdisciplinary collaborations across the University on critical issues of race and Black politics, especially those issues that affect Americans of the African diaspora. In her new position, Stacy Abrams will inspire research and encourage broad discussions of scholarship for real-world solutions to complex, seemingly insoluble societal problems that adversely affect African diasporic communities and other vulnerable populations. Her acumen for these important issues is necessary and perfect to lead such thought provoking discussions.

It is a documented fact that an educated and or informed community fosters the ideology of democracy from the vantage point of understanding how everyone serves to benefit in a democracy.

In addition, Abrams, will lead a vibrant Ronald W. Walters Speakers Series, with invited guests on a range of topics representing diverse perspectives.

“I am honored to serve as the ‘inaugural Ronald W. Walters Endowed Chair for Race and Black Politics’, having had the privilege of knowing and learning from Dr. Walters,” said Abrams. “We are at an inflection point for American and in-

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ternational democracy, and I look forward to engaging Howard University’s extraordinary students in a conversation about where they can influence, shape, and direct the critical public policy decisions we face. From my alma mater, Spelman College, I have carved out a career that allows me to weave together policy analysis, political leadership, social justice, business, environmental, entertainment, and more. Through this post, I hope to emulate Dr. Walter’s diasporic lens on our world and be a part of how Howard University continues to contribute to the broader political discourse.”

Abrams is an HBCU graduate having hailed from Spelman College, magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts degree in interdisciplinary studies (political science, economics, and sociology) and was named a Harry S. Truman Scholar in 1994.. She then received a master’s degree from the Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs at the University of Texas at Austin and earned a J.D., from Yale University. After practicing tax law for a major firm, she was appointed the Deputy City Attorney for the city of Atlanta.

In 2007, Abrams began her professional political career in the Georgia General Assembly, serving as a state representative for over a decade until 2017. Abrams served as the minority leader of the Georgia House of Representatives from 2011 to 2017. As minority leader, Abrams was the first woman to lead either party in the Georgia General Assembly, and the first African American to lead in the House of Representatives. In 2018, Abrams made history by becoming the first African American woman to win a major party nomination for governor in the United States as the Democratic nominee in Georgia.

She’s not finished yet. . .

Now Available

Online

www.cnwmedia.com April 12 - April 18, 2023

Hot Topics Chicago to Host the 2024 Democratic National Convention CNW Staff Report

Choice Highlights Importance of the Midwest’s Democratic Values, Commitment to Labor in 2024 General Election

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he Democratic National Committee today announced the selection of Chicago as the official site of the 2024 Democratic National Convention. The event, which will serve as the party’s nominating convention for President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris in 2024, will build on the city’s history of successfully hosting large-scale events that draw visitors from around the world—putting Chicago and Illinois’ democratic values, commitment to labor, and world-class amenities on the global stage. It will also highlight the importance of the Midwest as a key voting bloc in the 2024 election, offering President Joseph R. Biden and Vice President Kama-

la Harris an ideal backdrop to tell their stories to the American people.

“Chicago is a great choice to host the 2024 Democratic National Convention,” said President Joe Biden.

“Democrats will gather to showcase our historic progress including building an economy from the middle out and bottom-up, not from the top down. From repairing our roads and bridges to unleashing a manufacturing boom, and creating over 12.5 million new good-paying jobs, we’ve already delivered so much for hard-working Americans – now it’s time to finish the job.”

“The 2024 Democratic National Convention in Chicago will welcome people from across the nation to an

unforgettable event highlighting our party’s vision for lifting up working families and those who too often have been left out and left behind,” said Illinois Governor JB Pritzker. “Our great global city and its diverse communities, unparalleled hospitality, and world-renowned venues shows off the best of America and its people represent the heart of our country.”

“I am deeply honored that President Biden and the DNC have chosen Chicago,” said Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot. “I want to commend all the City government leaders who demonstrated with a proven track record of excellence that by choosing Chicago, the DNC, convention delegates, volunteers, and others would be treated to a first-class experience in our worldclass city. The DNC will create once-in-a-generation opportunities for job creation and business growth here in our city, and I’m proud that we got it done for the people of Chicago.”

“Chicago is a world-class city that looks like America and demonstrates the values of the Democratic Party,” said Mayor-Elect Brandon Johnson of Chicago. “We are unmatched when it comes to hosting events of this scale. I look forward to working closely with the DNC to facilitate a spectacular convention that showcases Chicago’s diverse culture, our beautiful lakefront, our renowned hospitality sector, and our best asset: our amazing people.”

We look forward to elevating the convention experience to new levels as we welcome President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, and delegates from across the nation.”

The United Center will play host to the 2024 Democratic National Convention as the DNC announced this week that Chicago won the bid to host over several American cities, “Chicago provides the best stage for the Democratic National Committee to tell its story,” said Jerry Reinsdorf and Rocky Wirtz, Co-Chairs of United Center Joint Venture.

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Cover Story

Shaneen Murray CNW Staff Writer

BECKHAM UNPLUGGED portant to me because I’m the third generation Phillip Beckham III is a man Beckham that has never worked for anyone.” about town cutting deals at In fact, he says “The only checks I’ve ever gotten are from Beckham, they have Beckham City Hall and on the city’s on it, they were signed by Beckham and my low end, putting in the work name was on it.” Phillip feels fortunate to have a blueprint to follow and an opportunity to be the change he wants to continue the Beckham legacy in the exact to see. A staple amongst the same neighborhood as his grandfather.

His maternal grandfather was a farmer and business community, you’ve owned 200 acres of land in Mississippi supplyseen him around, but do you ing white-owned grocery stores with livestock and more, which was very rare. His paternal really know who he is? grandfather, Phillip Beckham was one of the I sat down with the Real first licensed Black contractors and master Estate Investor, Hotel Own- men. He often shares pictures of the Beckham carpenters in the city of Chicago during the great migration. P.L. Beckham & Sons Coner, and Entrepreneur to talk family showing how proud he is of his family’s struction built 50 homes in the Morgan Park living legacy. about his vision for redevelarea and homes in Bronzeville.

Phillip grew up watching Black men achieve In the 1940’s his grandfather and other Black oping the city’s south side. great things while uplifting each other and the business owners from Bronzeville created the

The Blueprint Beckham lived for a short time off 47th and Wabash and later moved to Harvey, Illinois as a youth . After graduating from Thornridge High School, Beckham enrolled at Iowa State University where he jokingly says he majored in “football and networking. I caught up with Phillip at his favorite coffee shop, Sip & Savor, or “ground zero” as he calls it. The pieces are all coming together for Phillip Beckham III, although it’s not surprising, he was destined for greatness.

Phillip talks candidly about his family’s entrepreneurial spirit, paying homage to both sides and doting on his rich family history. He was born into entrepreneurship, coming from a family of historical Black businessApril 12 - April 18, 2023

community, he saw Black men building a life of freedom.

You can tell he has a deep admiration for his family’s ambition to build generational wealth and he is proud to wear the Beckham name. “Phillip Beckham III is very im-

Negro Chamber of Commerce and held its first business expo. In the mid-1960s his father, Phillip Beckham II, started a transportation company with a fleet of school buses.

Can’t Knock the Hustle Phillip Beckham III stands on shoulders of great men. He is walking into his destiny like a boss, and reshaping the world of Black Chicagoans. Taking a page out of his grandfather’s book and bringing it full circle, Phil gathered a group of professionals for coffee at “ground zero” to have a meeting of the minds to help him figure out how to assist budding businesses. After putting his resources together in one room, something magical happened at ground zero and the Mid-South Business Association & Resource Center (MSBARC) was formed.

You may have heard of MSBARC, a nonprofit organization that offers business development and top-notch coaching in professional development, finance, web design, and retail specialists for entrepreneurs. He gets a kick out of mentoring business owners and watching their vision come to life from the beginning, “we’re a hand-holding company,” says Phillip, Founder, and Executive Director of MSBARC. Continue on page 12

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Continued from on page 11

Beckham’s 43rd Street Project brings him full circle.

Phillip is fully grounded in his roots as he carries on the Beckham legacy but his grandfather isn’t the only person who inspired the idea behind MSBARC, he also speaks highly of Chicago 3rd Ward Alderman Pat Dowell. Her leadership at a nonprofit organization she led prior to becoming Alderman impressed him so much he named part of his organization after hers. There’s no way around it, Phillip Beckham is a good guy who always finds a way to pay it forward while still paying homage.

No reasonable doubt

His parents would say “whatever business it is, it’s still people,” so he is intentional about fostering new relationships and nurturing old ones.

When opportunity knocks, Phil always answers. A master craftsman aware of his strengths and weaknesses, he jokes “I can’t build stuff, I can tear stuff up… but I always understood the deals and I always understood the people,” something he says he learned from his mother. He fondly recalls his mother’s ability to draw people in, “I watched her work rooms, I watched her and how she connected with people and for me that’s all business is, a connection and finding out what the other person needs, fulfilling that and not doing it to get something in return, but to make sure that they have a trust and they think of me even when I’m not in the room for other deals.” If you’ve been around Phil it’s easy to see he’s a people magnet and the people he attracts are some of the city’s heavy hitters.

Phillip makes the work of a real estate developer look easy but when you live out of your integrity the right opportunities will find you. If the saying “it’s not what you know, it’s who you know” was a person, that person would be Phillip Beckham.

While he may not be good at building with his hands he’s an expert at building relationships. “Ev12

Beckham Family contractor business in 1955.

erything I’ve always done has been based on rela- Chicago on 43rd Street. The city is proud of the new tionships.” I guess the proof is in the pudding, Phil innovation on the south side. has only been in the real estate development game The ten-story, 100-unit residential building located four short years and already landed a sweet multi-million dollar deal. For the first time banks were competing to give him money to bring his vision to life, picture that.

He’s not only building in Chicago, Beckham signed a deal to build a boutique hotel in Miami. Phil is taking relationship building to another level and says the key is to never say no. He admits he may not know how to do everything but “I don’t say no I figure it out, I just get on the ledge, I jump and I build my wings as I go down and I enjoy it.”

Empire state of mind

Good things happen to good people and the good times are rolling for Phillip Beckham III. Life has come full circle for Beckham as he is developing in the very community of his early years. He has positioned himself to reimagine one of the most historic areas in the city right along the Green Line train station at 43rd Street. His latest venture, 43 Green, is a game-changer for the Bronzeville community. This joint venture between The Habitat Company of Chicago and P3 Markets, a boutique real estate developer where Phillip is the Managing Partner, is exactly what the community needs. The multi-million dollar, multi-phase 43 Green project is a high-quality, transit-oriented development that offers a mix of affordable housing and market rates with ground-floor retail space that will house some of your favorite local businesses. Celebrities, visitors, and friends alike are stopping by to take pictures and posting them to social media using the hashtag #43Green.

Chicago native, actor Larenze Tate, recently stopped by the site to take a tour of the new affordable property, posting a video of himself in a hard hat overlooking

on Chicago’s low end at 43rd Calumet has Studio, 1 and 2-bedroom units plus indoor and outdoor amenities and is being marketed to young, early career professionals. Phillip wants to create an atmosphere where community members won’t need to move from the south side neighborhoods they are connected to for better housing; he’s bringing better housing to the south side with a downtown vibe and affordable prices.

A groundbreaking ceremony for Phase 1 took place last July and the building is on schedule to open for occupancy this May. From the looks of it, 43 Green is what the community has been missing, they already have a waitlist of 500 potential residents.

Groundbreaking for Phase II of the 43 Green Development is set to take place later this month.

When he’s not closing deals or mentoring the youth he’s hanging with his tribe of close friends and his amazing children, a son and twin daughters, who are by far his greatest accomplishment. He brags about how excited he is to be in the “cool dad” realm where his kids are now asking to hang out with him.

Phillip is a simple man with grandiose ideas and the means to make those ideas turn into new realities. A creature of habit forging his own way while sticking close to his roots because it gives him a sense of familiarity, which is what his entire life’s journey has been based on. He is a visionary with a passion for helping others and a heart for change. Whether he’s assisting startups or going over floor plans, Phillip Beckham III is a visionary. Beckham is part of building better Black communities, opening doors on the south side of Chicago and fulfilling a vision that has been years in the making. Salute.

April 12 - April 18, 2023

City News

Mixed Income Development Breaks Ground in Englewood CNW Staff Report

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ayor Lori E. Lightfoot was joined

by City officials and DL3 Realty to break ground today on Thrive Englewood, a $40.2 million INVEST South/West project in Englewood that will bring a mixed-income, transit-oriented development to the 900 block of West 63rd Street.

“I am thrilled to join our partners at DL3 Realty and celebrate this groundbreaking,” Mayor Lightfoot said. “Projects like Thrive Englewood are a hallmark of my administration’s INVEST South/West initiative and its mission to create economic opportunities in our neighborhoods.

With this latest groundbreaking, we are delivering mixed-use, affordable housing and promoting a pedestrian-friendly corridor in Englewood that will serve residents for years to come.”

City support for the minority-led project includes $13.5 million in Multi-Family loan funds, $5 million in Tax Increment Financing (TIF), $1.5 million in Low-Income Housing Tax Credits, and $240,000 in donation tax credits.

Located at 914 W. 63rd St., the project’s first phase consists of 62 one- to three-bedroom apartments, 51 of which will be affordable for households earning up to 60% of the area’s median income (AMI). Two of the units will be for live-work tenants.

The six-story project includes an on-site fitness room, a community room, bike storage, and laundry facilities on each floor. Nearly 2,500 square feet of ground-floor retail space is anticipated to include casual dining options.

Designed by Perkins+Will, the building will be constructed utilizing fiber cement panels, masonry brick, metal siding and canopy, floor-to-ceiling windows, and aluminum and glass storefronts.

The 2.4-acre project site will include a second phase with 44 mixed-income apartments. Both buildings and the retail space will be served by a landscaped, 65-space parking lot.

“Thrive Englewood evolved out of a City request for proposals for the nearby Green Street firehouse, which is being transformed into a culinary food hub and business incubator,” Department of Planning and Development Commissioner Marice Cox said. “Together, these projects are revitalizing more than four acres of vacant City land where the people of Englewood can live, work, visit and call home.”

Thrive Englewood will close out the final phase of Englewood Square Phase I, which began with the development of the Englewood Square shopping plaza in 2016. The new buildings will add density and commercial activity to transform 63rd Street into a pedestrian-friendly, walkable corridor.

“Thrive Englewood embodies the transformative aspirations of INVEST South/West, and meaningfully leverages its proximity to public transit,” Department of Housing Commissioner Marisa Novara said. “In addition to aligning with the City’s equitable Transit Oriented Development principles, the project will have more than 80% of its units made affordable to tenants at 60% AMI and below. The project therefore creates intersectional benefits for this historically marginalized South Side community.”

“DL3 Realty is excited to partner with the City of Chicago to bring the first modern, luxury, affordable residences to Englewood in over 75 years,” added DL3 Managing Partner Leon Walker. “Thrive Englewood will help build a vibrant and walkable community that encourages both families and businesses to re-invest in the future of this proud and historic community on the South Side of Chicago.”

April 12 - April 18, 2023

DOF Department of Finance

ADMINISTRATIVE DEBT RELIEF (ADR) HARDSHIP PROGRAM

If you have unpaid administrative hearings (AH) debt owed to the City of Chicago, you may qualify for the benefits below!

APPLICATION: • Apply online at www.chicago.gov/adr through December 31, 2023.

QUALIFYING DEBT: • Most AH debt, including but not limited to violations issued by the Departments of Streets and Sanitation, Health, Police, Buildings, and Business Affairs and Consumer Protection.

BENEFITS: • Get interest, costs, and fees waived by paying 50% of the fine amount or enrolling in a payment plan by December 31, 2023.

ELIGIBILITY: • Open to individuals only. Must be currently enrolled in Utility Billing Relief or Clear Path Relief, or have a household income less than or equal to 300% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines based on the 30-day period prior to application.

For more information, visit www.chicago.gov/adr or call (312) 742-3317, M - F | 8am-5pm 13

Living Chicago

Learn, Give and Live this Earth Month

C

Mila K. Marshall, PhD CNW Cannabis Corner Editor

hicago in the past was notorious for extreme cold. If you haven’t noticed…our winters are much milder, rain events are more intense, and extreme heat days are increasing. Chicago’s climate is changing and Black Chicago is disproportionately vulnerable to the negative impacts of volatile weather. Where do we fit into the conservation conversation? How does Black Chicago position itself considering the new leadership of Mayor-Elect Brandon Johnson? How impactful will the Department of Environment be for Black people? Can the City Council advance ordinances that reduce the negative impacts of climate change specifically on Black bodies and businesses?

According to the U.S. Census data Chicago has lost 30% of its Black community in the past 30 years, will efforts in the city increase displacement and gentrification? Earth Month is celebrated around the nation to bring awareness to the state of our natural systems. For Black Chicago, Earth Month is 30 days of reminding urban Blacks about how systemic inequities have resulted in our communities having the dirtiest air, most vulnerable infrastructure, most complications with clean water access, and disproportionate health consequences. Be inspired to learn. Find ways to give and contribute to efforts to protect the environment. Enjoy living in a city where environmental equity is part and parcel of a revitalized Black economy.

LEARN

BIG hosts Vincent Davis on racism in emergency management April 18, 11:30 am-1:30 pm

RSVP @ bit.ly/BIG_AprilLecture

On April 18th at the Green Living Room on 6431 S. Cottage Grove, Blacks In Green welcomes Director of Disaster Services, Feeding America Founder-President, Preparedness Matters, LLC, Vincent Davis. His talk

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the built environment. “What you will see is a host of future and current technologies around water, air, and energy that make a quality living. People can go and learn about futuristic stoves that use magnets and see what that looks like,” says A.J. Patton, CEO and Founder of 548 Capital. He serves as one of over 30 host committee members raising capital for this impressive and timely museum. Patton, named 40 under 40 by Crain’s Business Chicago is a developer with a passion for sustainability.

“I would call myself an environmentalist. My company has a number of energy-efficient, solar-powered, all-electric and passive house projects with level 3 EV charging stations, there are no fast chargers in Black communities,” shared Patton.

When asked why this museum is so important for Black Chicago Patton stated, “these decisions start at the top, we need more developers, architects, general contractors and engineers taking the lead on clean energy and sustainable development as well as to normalize thinking and talking about the climate crisis.”

LIVE

will cover Racism in Emergency Management and its Impact on Black Disaster Outcomes. Blacks In Green is a local environmental organization focused on advancing healthy Black communities through its Sustainable Square Mile movement. Monthly lectures provide opportunities for community members and leaders to listen, share, and network.

GIVE

Chicago is building a Climate Action Museum!

April 22, 6 pm-9 pm Follow them on IG @climateactionmuseum Join this amazing fundraiser to support the world’s seventh museum focused on climate. The Climate Museum highlights breakthroughs in climate technology for

Enjoy a free day at the zoo Daily 10 am-5 pm Visit their website www.lpzoo. org Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the few free zoos left in the nation.

Located at 2001 N. Clark the zoo is open 365 days a year from 10 am - 5 pm. Check out the seal feeding and training, find out how apes are taken care of by the excellent animal care team, or take a ride on the AT&T endangered species carousel. Pack a lunch or dine on-site for a fun day in Chicago. The zoo is accessible by public transportation and along Lake Shore Drive. Grab your bike and ride the lake for a low-cost day in the best city in the world. Want more?

The zoo offers dozens of events for youth and adults throughout the year.

April 12 - April 18, 2023

Cannabis Corner

Broader Bud Perspectives

By Mila K. Marshall CNW Cannabis Corner Editor

Mike Tyson, Chad Bronstein, Rick Flair

T

raveling the world of cannabis and equity takes some patience. For some entrepreneurs, social equity is a buzzword with little energy and for others it’s a lifestyle. This week’s Cannabis Corner highlights the Benzinga Conference in Miami where we chat with a few Chicagoans who found their way down south and catch up with a budtender who paints an inclusive picture of the existing harms of the industry on Chicago’s Hispanic community.

Chicago Catches flights not feelings Miama Benzinga welcomed hundreds of industry insiders and advocates. Local Chicago advocate Belcia Royster, Founder & Chief Equity Officer of the Social Equity Empowerment network spoke candidly about providing pathways to ancillary experiences on the Translating Policy into Action moderated by founder of BIPOCANN Ernest Toney. “S.E.E.N. provides education and holistic approaches to align skill sets that are relevant in the cannabis space.”

Royster was joined by Loriel Alegrete CEO of 40 Tons and cannabis business attorney Rachael Ardanuy of RZA Legal. Royster further expressed the need for organizations like hers to be in partnership with cannabis businesses. “Ultimately it is about culture, community and connection.

A lot of CEOs don’t understand what workers are experiencing. It can result in your company being more unsuccessful. “Penetrating the legacy market hasn’t been easy,” said Royster “but engaging organizations that have the trusted relationships with the community and can bridge gaps between the community and corporate,” she said.

Shaquita Love, nurse and owner of Love Rx Organics also traveled from Chicago. Love and a number of oth-

April 12 - April 18, 2023

Ennis Gilbert, Taranda Ransom, Marne Madison of HerbloCo. ers received social equity scholarships. “I would have wanted to be here but without the scholarship I don’t know if I could afford the investment,” she shared. The award waived registration fees which for some would have been at a minimum a $500 investment.

Gia Morón, President of Women Grow has a partnership with Benzinga and the applications her company uses for expo space inviting 7-8 women businesses owners to exhibit in the space. Gia shared, “We in cannabis have to become more active not just in the industry but we need make sure we are voting and getting to now political leaders at local levels.”

About 100 scholarships were awarded to women and minority attendees totaling more than $50,000 to support attendance at Benzinga. Taranda Ransom, CEO, HerbloCo (pictured with Marne Madison, COO HerbloCo., and Ennis Gilbert, CMO HerbloCO.) currently hold a transportation license in Illinois and were recipients of the scholarship to attend. “We need to be in these rooms because it is important for us to provide solutions and strategies to those individuals who are invested in minority inclusion in cannabis,” shared the budding CEO. Budtender Tales Jojo Plascencia’s family migrated from Jalisco, Mexico in 2010 to settle in Chicago. Coming from a farming family working in the Cannabis Sector came as second nature to Jojo. His family first lived in Roseland and recently moved to Blue Island just two years ago.

“Cannabis has been in my life as long as I can remember, a lot of families grew cannabis as a regular crop,” shared Jojo.

He was only 20 years old when cannabis legalization gained traction. “I remember on the day I turned in my resume it was my 21st Birthday and I got an op-

Jojo Plascenci

portunity to work for Bedford Grow, a woman owned business that allowed me to get in the legal side of cannabis,” shared Jojo. Currently he works for Mission Dispensary and is enjoying working with the public.

Placencia is in a precarious position. While social equity conversations are plentiful, he believes there is a missed opportunity to work towards accomplishing equity unless is clear on how other marginalized groups are impacted. “Cannabis is still federally illegal; when applying for citizenship you are required to be a good citizen and since this plant is still a Schedule 1 drug, any contact with this industry anytime you apply you are denied citizenship,” shared Placencia.

Chicago News Weekly confirmed Placencia’s denial of citizenship due to “lack of morals.” Jojo and other entrepreneurs, advocates and employees in the industry are fighting two battles at once. In order for holistic equity approaches to be authentic, the nuances of industry equity pitfalls must be understood by all.

Non-citizens can’t vote in America. As the Black cannabis community works towards lobbying and getting allies to support Black equity centered initiatives it will require votes at multiple levels. While immigration has rarely been discussed relative to social equity, the push for federal legalization to protect efforts is clear as day.

Application denials are costly. Filing for citizenship is nearly $1,000. When asked about if he would reapply Jojo Responded, “Honestly if its going to happen for me. I’m deep into the industry. I’ve made the choice to just let it go, there’s nothing people can do to argue and technically you are committing a crime,” said Jojo.

Placencia wants the public to see Latino’s and Blacks can work together for cannabis equity. Indeed, more should be done for all cultural communities. Jojo has taken a brave first step in sharing his story to put us on for a community some of us are foreign to ourselves.

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Arts & Culture

A Soldier’s Play Marti Worell CNW Staff Writer

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he setting is an army barracks at Fort Neal, Louisiana. It is 1944 and the world is united in a war against its greatest threat, Hitler and Communism. But this is a story about the American-created war of racism, segregation, and prejudice being fought in our own country.

Sgt. Vernon C. Waters, portrayed exquisitely by veteran actor, Eugene Lee, is the hard-nosed, non-commissioned Negro officer in charge of this barracks, home to six Negro soldiers. Waters’ is a tortured soul who has nothing but contempt for his men. A man who believed that if he did everything according

to militaristic edicts, he would be rewarded with what he sought after most in the world, acceptance and respect by the white military leadership. However, he was constantly reminded that in the eyes of the white military, he would never be anything more than a colored boy in a uniform.

When Waters is murdered, the obvious conclusion is it was a racially motivated crime. But there are subtle signs pointing to the possibility of something more heinous and requiring a much deeper investigation. Enter Captain Richard Davenport, portrayed powerfully, and with great dignity by SAG, Emmy, Tony, and Grammy award nominee, Norm Lewis. Mr. Lewis imbues Capt. Davenport with an air of authority generally expressed by white military personnel. An attitude his white counterpart, Captain Charles Taylor, finds quite disconcerting.

Determined to get to the truth, Lewis begins to gain an understanding of the manner of man Sgt. Waters was through a series of interviews with the men in his charge as well as two white officers who interacted with Waters the night of his death.

As we watched the complex, and yet familiar, dance of power play out, what really happened to Sgt. Waters is slowly revealed. Through a series of flashbacks masterfully interwoven throughout the present-day scenes,

the shocking, painful truth is brought to light.

All the actors in this play brought their “A” game.

Sheldon D. Brown as Private C.J. Memphis gave a stellar performance as a farm boy from Mississippi and the greatest recipient of Waters’ hatred and disdain. A soft-spoken, well-liked, musically gifted gentle giant, C.J. treated everyone with the respect born of being raised in the rural south, especially Sgt. Waters.

Howard W. Overshown as Private James Wilkie delivered an outstanding performance as the ultimate yes man to Sgt. Waters with his own ulterior motive.

Tarik Lowe was awesome as Private First-Class Melvin Peterson working hard to keep his angry feelings for Waters’ in check.

The other members of the ensemble, Alex Michael Givens, Will Adams, Malik Esoj Childs, William Connell, Matthew Goodrich, Chattan Mayes Johnson, Brandon Davon Lindsay and Alex Ross contributed strong, solid performances.

Director Kenny Leon directs this fast-moving story with skill and a clear understanding of it subject matter as if peeling the delicate layers of an onion, revealing with each layer, the complex nature and fine lines between racism, perceived superiority, and prejudice.

I have discussed this story with many as well as read several comments about it and I am struck by some seeing the sergeant’s treatment of his men as racist. Conversely, I view it as prejudicial. Primarily because I view racism as a feeling that exists between different ethnic groups while prejudice can happen within the same group and speaks to a feeling of superiority. I believe the confusion comes in because the feeling of superiority is at the root of both racism and prejudice.

Charles Fuller’s Pulitzer Prize-winning thriller, A Soldier’s Play, returns to Chicago for a limited run through April 16 at the CIBC Theatre, 18 W. Monroe. If you’ve never seen it, add it to your list of must-see theatre!

(Sidebar, for me, it’s leaps and bounds better than the movie!)

Mail check or money order to: Freda Madison P.O. Box 437151 Chicago, IL 60643 Send Payment electronically:

Zelle: Freda Madison/fmadi623@gmail.com Cash App: Freda Madison/$realestate73

Contact the hotel directly for reservations at (847) 671-6000 Hotel rate: $109 (excluding tax). Parking is $15.00 per night.

Click link

Book your group rate for Westinghouse Reunion

For additional information contact Kevin Madison (773) 983-2373, Freda Madison (773) 516-3782, Susan Anderson-Lucas (630) 740-6935 or Carol Ward (312) 545-1972.

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April 12 - April 18, 2023

Mental Health Matters: The Psychology of Uncertainty

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e have all spent time dealing with uncertainty. Whether it was waiting for the check to come in the mail, a call from the doctor’s office with test results, or the news that you got the job you had been waiting for. In many cases, the time between the event and the results can be a period of uncertainty and while this is a part of life, the meantime in between time can be stressful and a source of discomfort.

The same happens when the seasons change and when major life changes happen such as the recent election season. As one administration switches to the next, many find themselves in a season of uncertainty. That can be workers who fear losing their jobs in the transition process. It can be residents worrying about changes in tax, public safety, and transportation. While change is certain in many circumstances and situations, it does not always mean that something bad or negative will happen.

hEALTH & WELLNESS

Sharice Bradford, PhD CNW Staff Writer

Many people have been able to retain positions, or even be promoted when major changes happen in companies and governmental administrations. There are instances where major life improvements happen once power positions shift. The thing to remember is that the worst is not always the outcome. There are times when things change for the better. Why is it that when we find ourselves waiting, we tend to think of the worst cases scenarios?

According to Helen Santoro in an article published by the American Psychological Association, “Many of us spend the time anxiously ruminating over every possible outcome and anticipating the worst one.” The truth of the matter is that psychologists have not really studied this phenomenon in detail but Kate Sweeny, Ph.D., a professor of psychology at the University of California, Riverside (UC Riverside) has been working with researchers to learn more about the Science of Uncertainty.

While researchers are working diligent-

ly to figure out the science, here are a few tips to help you navigate a season of uncertainty.

1. Find ways to distract yourself This could be as simple as reading a good book or magazine, enjoying reruns of your favorite television show, or listening to your favorite music. If you have a hobby that you have not been able to engage in, go back to your hobby.

Start a new workout routine or switch up your current routine. The point is to allow yourself some time to not think about whatever the impending situation or outcome may be.

2. Keep things in perspective If you are waiting on a health diagnosis, do your best to not focus on the negative.

In the meantime, you can make sure to do your research so that any questions or concerns you may have can be addressed with your medical professional. If you are awaiting test results review the information that you may have found problematic while waiting for the results. If you are waiting on a payment (tax re-

On Addressing Church Mess in Ministry, and Why it Must Be Stopped

turn, settlement, etc.) look for ways to save or invest as much of the money as you can. Don’t spend in advance of receiving the payment can be another way to keep things in perspective.

3. Manage your expectations It is important to control your thoughts about the situation. This can help reduce anxiety about the situation during the waiting period. Be open to suggestions and possible changes once the waiting period is over. Try as much as possible to maintain a positive outlook.

While there is still a great deal to learn about the Psychology of Uncertainty, when we encounter uncertain situations, it is important to know that there are ways to minimize or eliminate the anxiety or stress that comes with uncertainty.

The tips shared here are just a few to help you navigate that space of uncertainty.

Faith

Liz Lampkin CNW Staff Writer

C

hurch people can be some of the messiest people on the face of God’s green earth. No matter what denomination or ethnicity, people are people and they will keep up mess in sanctuaries near and far.

They will often start rumors, confront church leaders about petty matters of the heart. They become territorial about ministry work, lie, gossip, backbite and some often leave the church because they cannot continue to keep up messy matters. The body of the church is its people and ministry work could not go on without them. However, when the focus is not completely on the work, ministries begin to suffer and ultimately fail.

When ministries fail, membership begins to fade and the church suffers. Messiness in ministry must be acknowledged, addressed and corrected in order for the church to return to itself. Here’s how this can be done.

Pray and ask for guidance on how to eliminate the messiness at your church. Pray and ask for hearts, minds and actions to be changed and guided back to the work of ministry.

Identify and address the person or group of people who keep up everything but the business of God. Once you’ve identified them, address them with the love of God and respect. Be clear on the behaviors you’ve noticed and how they are hindering the work of the church. It’s never easy to have difficult conversations with people, especially when you’re addressing their negative behaviors, so when it’s time to approach them,

April 12 - April 18, 2023

do it with the best of intentions and love.

Also, before you approach them about the mess they may partake in, be sure that your slate is clean and clear of any confusion.

Make sure the congregation understands that ministry work is the work of the church, and not one particular group or person’s work. Now let’s be clear, at times it is difficult to get people involved in church work. Many don’t have time, they don’t see the value in it or they refuse to get involved in certain ministries simply because they don’t get along with the leader or they don’t like the people who are a part of the ministry team. Church leaders must make it clear that in order for the church to thrive and fulfill its purpose they must understand that the people must work together.

Don’t participate in a mess of any kind. If you hear an untruth going about, if you hear backbiting or gossiping, walk away from it or respectfully stop it. Iron is designed to sharpen iron, not weaken it. Participating in any kind of mess only weakens the body and the work of the church.

Church leaders can address confusion in sermons or it can be included in Bible Study or Sunday School lessons. The only way a wound can be healed is to treat it. The only way mess can be stopped is to address it in

more than one way.

Make sure everyone is on one accord. One reason mess and conflict occur anywhere is because people are not on the same page and they lose sight of the purpose for the work. In order for everyone to be on the same page, the purpose for each ministry must be made clear, and everyone must stick to the purpose.

Everyone in the church is spiritually gifted in some way. The body of the church needs everyone to work together. One cannot survive without the other, and the church cannot thrive in the manner in which God designed it if the mess of the church continues.

Liz Lampkin is the “Wright Now Writer.” She creates Faith and Lifestyle stories to give a voice to the unheard. Follow her on social media @Liz_Lampkin.

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Food & Wine

Tasty Scones For Kids Mare’ Evans CNW Contributing Writer

F

eeding kids can be a monumental feat, especially if they are finicky or riddled with allergies. Today there are so many things to consider. I mean gone are the days when you could whip up a peanut butter and jelly sandwich for your kid. It was healthy, filling, and satisfying their hunger cravings. Today it’s a ‘no, no,’ because so many children are allergic that peanuts are not allowed in most public schools, meaning as a parent, you cannot send your child to school with a packed lunch that contains any product that may contain peanuts. And we haven’t even gotten to your children’s personal and individual likes or dislikes.

As a parent, you just want your child to eat, be healthy, and be safe. You must manage that. I’m going to share with you a recipe that’s fun, healthy, tasty, and filling. Plus, as a bonus, most kids like it.

Presenting a tasty new treat to your breakfast table with this buttermilk scone recipe just may your day with the kids. I’m always looking for the best product for the recipe and for this one I use BRIANNAS ((brand) Classic Buttermilk Ranch dressing to create the added savory flavor that makes kids happy. There’s something about the buttermilk that speaks to them. Try it!

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Ingredients: • 2 cups all-purpose flour • 3 tablespoons sugar • 2 teaspoons baking powder • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, minced.

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced.

• 2 tablespoons fresh chives, minced.

• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

• Zest of one lemon • 1/4 cup butter • 1/2 cup BRIANNAS Creamy Buttermilk Ranch Dressing

PRODUCT ATTRIBUTES: BRIANNAS CREAMY Buttermilk Ranch Dressing Kosher Certified Gluten-Free No HFCS Vegetarian No MSG Low Sugar • 1 egg

Directions:

1. Combine dry ingredients, herbs, cheese, and lemon zest. Cut in butter.

2 Beat egg and mix with dressing, then pour over dry ingredients, mixing with a fork.

3.. Turn dough onto a floured board and knead briefly. Form into a 7-inch circle and cut into wedges.

4. Place in a circle on an ungreased baking sheet and bake at 350° for 15–20 minutes.

5. Serves 6.

April 12 - April 18, 2023

Broadway off Broadway A Chat with Norm Lewis...

A Soldier’s Play

Entertainment

Kai EL’ Zabar Editor in Chief

T

he Pulitzer Prize-winning play about a murder of a Black Army sergeant in 1944, on a Louisiana Army base is on the road following its 2020 Tony Award for Best Revival is currently, at CIBC Theatre in Chicago and is a must-see.

CNW had the opportunity to speak with Norm Lewis, actor extraordinaire who portrays Captain Richard Davenport. . . .“I intend to carry out my orders and I like these glasses,’ they’re like MacArthur’s,” says Captain Davenport making a powerful statement about himself to his white counterpart, Captain Charles Taylor who at this point recognizes that Davenport is confident and conscious of who his equal ranking officer is.

Captain Charles Taylor responds at some point in their introductory exchange, . . . “But I never met a Negro with any education until I graduated the Point hardly an officer of equal rank. So, I frankly wasn’t sure how I’d feel until right now, and (Struggles), I don’t want to offend you, but I just cannot get used to it the bars, the uniform; being in charge just doesn’t look right on Negroes!“ We began our discussion with the play’s importance.

Written by Charles Fuller and published in 1981, the play tells a multi-layer story that captures a slice of the African American’s experience. So, why is it still relevant?

Norm answered, “It’s relevant because it’s about those things that are just so cyclical. We have been fighting for years for our civil rights, equality, and inclusion.

Though written in the 80s, it’s about the ‘40s and now it’s revived in the 2000s. Thus, there’s nothing new under the sun, as the Bible says.” He continues, “I think it’s reflective of who we are as African Americans revealing a very strong demonstration of brotherhood as well as the other. The Black soldiers wanted to defend their country because they thought that by fighting for their country would bring them respect. Most Black people didn’t get what they were due. A lot of them were spit on and hung, even though they fought for this country.

All that’s relevant.

THE SCANDAL EFFECT

I asked Norm, about his role on the hit show “Scandal“and he calmly stated, “I tell people all the time that the fact that I starred opposite Kerry Washington, engaged in a romantic entanglement made the difference and helped my television and film career flourish.

Viewers got to know me as Senator Edison Davis in seasons two, three, and five making a huge difference from if I had made a single guest appearance. The fact that I shared scenes with Kerry was definitely a boost.”

His Popularity Margin

Norm is modest when asked about his current popularity. He says, “Well, I’m no Tom Cruise. But I will say that I get the finger pointing like, ‘I know you,’ a lot. And once, I say “Scandal,” they react, “Yeah,” . . .

Again, I attribute that to Kerry.”

April 12 - April 18, 2023

Of course, those of us who watched him alongside Kerry know that his modesty is endearing because he definitely held his own.

We chatted about the 9 years since he played the lead in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s, “The Phantom of the Opera” when he got the role in 2014.

Norm sat back and said, “I’ll try to make it short, but I’ll start from the beginning. I saw the show back in 1994 while in Toronto. I’d watched clips of Robert Guillaume playing the role in Los Angeles, who made history in 1990 as the first African-American to play the title role in “The Phantom of the Opera.” And I thought I had to bring that star quality and name recognition to the production. In interviews, I was often asked ‘what is your dream role?’ I’d say I want to play the Phantom. Twenty years later, my good friend was playing the Phantom and did not renew his contract.

I seized the opportunity and auditioned. Before I walked onto the stage, I felt the souls and the voices of people who had come before me, William Warfield, Paul Robeson, even those who are still living, you like Andre DeShields, and, and I heard them say audibly go get it! So, I walked out on that majestic stage with all the confidence in the world. And whatever I did on that stage, there was nothing else I could do.

And fortuitously, they chose me.”

BECOMING A LEGEND

I asked him about the conversation in the universe about his growing reputation as a legend. And it was wonderful to see him blush. He responded, “I’ve been told that I have that title. My sense is that I’m an actor, grinding, trying to get the next job, and hopeful to have doors open for me to enter and be chosen for whatever job I go for.” He pauses then continues, “I am fortunate to have been in some rooms that a lot of African Americans haven’t been able to get into. I hope that I can be inspirational as that symbol that others can look at to see as one who broke through, so they feel like they can do it too.”

The COVID Impact

Though COVID as a major threat is behind us, America is still finding its rhythm of that before Covid during COVID we saw 7 plays by Blacks on Broadway

emerge from the social-political climate so what are the pros and cons of that?” I asked.

Without hesitation, Norm responded, “There’s a couple of answers to that question. I would say the fact that it was an immediate response to the pandemic slash George Floyd. There were, a lot of emotions and politics that came into play. Broadway looked at Black plays in light of all that. Another perspective expressed by some is that the producers/promotors thought, ‘Well, we’ll give you a chance to do what you can do. But it was during a very vulnerable time. So, our concern had to be, is it a setup for failure? And respond, ‘Oh, well, we gave you a chance. And it didn’t work out.” We’re still in the aftermath, so we don’t know.”

I’m hoping that that’s not the case. But I will say that there shows that are coming to Broadway, like Fat Ham, currently is. What I do know is that people are now open to hearing different stories, of different people and cultures. I’m hoping that this will continue. I am part of a group called Black Theatre United and we are looking to make sure that the accountability for those kinds of stories are told, and reflected on stage.”

Interview edited for length and clarity. To read the full interview, visit www.cnwmedia.com

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