The Challenge 2017 News Magazine May and June 2017

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Edition: May/June 2017

Since 1979

‘The Truth Network’

‘The System That Works For Criminal Rehabilitation’

Page 4

‘Featured Stories’

Banks derive trillions of dollars from tithes and offering deposits, in return what’s donated back to the church?

Story page 8

An Act of Treason.

Story page10

Illinois legislators and Chicago officials convicted. Story page 13 Five myths about Gospel music in Chicago.

Story page 15

‘In Search of Justice: The Sad Saga of Former Secret Service Agent Abraham Bolden’

‘News: Gospel World’

Exclusive: By Dr. Juanita Bratcher

Bob Marovich interviews Rev. Joe Williams, of the

In his search for truth & justice, former Secret Service Agent Abraham Bolden has encountered many battles in life, and has faced untold obstacles in his 53-year quest to clear his name of a crime he said he never committed - all to no avail. According to Bolden, he was framed by the government – the Secret Service and Dr. JuanitaBratcher other law enforcement officials.

Bolden, the first Black Secret Service Agent on a U.S. Presidential Detail, was personally picked by President John F. Kennedy Continue on page 22 Continue story on page 5

Jackson: “100 days of Trump Trauma is destroying Civil Rights”

Dixie Hummingbirds and Sons of The Birds.

Story page 12.

Exclusive: By Chinta Strausberg While President Donald Trump continues to boasts he has done more than any other president in just 100 days, the Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, Sr. said Trump is slowly destroying gains made by people of color.

“What we won with blood and legislation, we lost in laws and deregulation…. Unfortunately, we’re facing a traumatic days of Chinta Strausberg deregulation and pain. We hope that he can see the light and make the commitment to reinvest in America” including “fortifying” the Affordable Care, “not repeal it.”

Continue on page 28

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Bob Marovich interviews Dianne William and Allen Cathey, of the Cosmopolitan Church of Prayer-Chicago.

Story on page 3.

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PCC Network Presents Bob Marovich ‘Conversations with The Legends’

Featuring

‘Cosmopolitan Church of Prayer-Chicago’

‘PCC Network Internationally Heard Around the World’

WWW.ProbationChallenge.org

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‘The System That Works For Criminal Rehabilitation’

‘Under-educated blacks can lead to crime, drugs and murder’ ‘It’s known that street-smart youth can become very completive in most job markets’

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Chicago, Illinois

Chicago Crime ~~~~~~

Safest Chicago neighborhoods ~~~~~

W Gunnison St / N Melvina Ave S Western Ave / W 103rd St Sauganash N Caldwell Ave / N Lehigh Ave W Howard St / N Albany Ave S Western Ave / W 99th St S Pulaski Rd / W 55th St

s Illinois State and City officials stand idly-by falsely representing their constituents…

meaningful efforts of giving support surrounding the subject education. They however find ‘unlimited dollars’ to incarcerate the same body youth. The fact is, if youth were educated well they wouldn't have to be incarcerated, and it’s less expensive to educate!

Strangely, the denied youth without an education becomes prime canSome know drugs only! didates for the criminal justice system… And, their hearts are void of now with little or no hope reaching the hearts of of achieving an educaChicago youth, they have tional future, they resortmade a conscious decied to guns, drugs and sion to not educate youth violence to occupy their in the Chicago Public wasted time.

Schools System! Illinois Rational minded persons Gov. Bruce Rauner and cannot denied that racChicago Mayor Rahm ism and the love of monEmanuel say they don’t ey on many levels... are have the capitol to eduthe basic cause of allowcate! However, both poliing youth to fall subjected ticians sit without any to the lack of education

when in reality there are dollars on many fronts!

It’s established that money is readily available to

‘Idle Youth’ incarcerate without any questions! Remember, getting in the way of certain folk ’locking blacks up and throw away the key’ would detrimental!

long as they are not theirs’ … Any politician saying that spoken words are not truth is a blatant open-air-liar … and liken unto the president of these United States.”

Under the cloth of darkness, drugs used to be distributed from seedy places, but now citizens are able to view drug transactions from behind shades or drapes. It has been suggested that if the public can see deals being made—can’t black policemen who live next door not see! Youth cannot grow up to become what they don’t see.

Rev. Bailey was asked if Chicago mayor or governor has adequately adIt’s apparent that some dress murders in Chicaas Bailey said, “They find go or offered any soludelight in sending youth tion? He answered withto what’s called: ’The out reservations... “No!” waiting rooms to hell, as

‘Deceitful-Stench from Washington and Chi-Town’

F

rom the Capitol White House, to the Illinois State House, to the Chicago City Hall, all houses have the aroma of countryside latrines!

W Berwyn Ave / N Canfield Ave

Deceitfulness coupled with intentional misgivings transmits an incredible stench, especially as it relates to liberty and justice-for-all! But most assuredly, justice for all includes African Americans and Hispanics … in these Not-So-United-States!

W Peterson Ave / N Lincoln Ave

At the very offset blacks in chains arrived to the U.S. shores, they were then written off as meaningless slaves. As slaves, they were only to be used by those who sat in ruthless authority over their very lives!

These thieves of humans were not wise, nor educated enough to know that they had stolen affluent individuals away from a land of wealth where they ruled in royalty as Kings and Queens. Needless to say, the robbers were demented and prostitutes giving over to that which they were compensated. These white superiority attitudes were passed on to others during gatherings or entertainment at the dinner table. Now, down through the corridors of time, this slave mentality was transfer

W Foster Ave / N Lamon Ave

Truth continued on Page 7

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President Donald Trump and Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel continue to twiddle while Chicago and nation collapses around them!

‘Chicago Mayor Emanuel wants 1.3 million for each city’s 50 aldermen’

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ayor Rahm Emanuel on Friday made it clear he has no intention of doing away with a program that allows each of the city's 50 aldermen to decide how to spend their own $1.3 million pots of money on construction projects.

His defense of the so-called menu money came the day after Inspector General Joseph Ferguson recommended axing the program and instead letting the city Department of Transportation make those decisions.

Emanuel said the program allows residents, through their elected representatives, to have direct input on how the money is spent.

"I actually think you want the neighborhood input and you want the aldermanic input," Emanuel said after announcing an $18.2 million rehab of the CTA's Quincy Loop station. "And I think that's a good way to go, and I don't think those ideas should be generated out of downtown. I think they actually should come from the residents that make up our many, many different neighborhoods."

Emanuel, a former U.S. representative, contended that Congress "has been totally, 100 percent dysfunctional" since reformers ended earmarks, which let lawmakers individually greenlight pet projects.

‘Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel and City Council’

Left unsaid by the mayor was the political battle he'd have on his hands if he tried to ax the menu program, which was launched under then-Mayor Richard M. Daley about 20 years ago, not long after a near-majority of aldermen staged a council floor revolt demanding more money for local street repairs.

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Saturday, July 15th, 2017

‘The rafters of the DuSable Museum will rise to the occasion as the Quinton de'Alexander presents the fabulous ‘We Dream In Color’ production.

Acclaim Guests: Candace Jordan and Cynda William, will take to stage as mistress’ of ceremonies.

Quinton de’Alexander

Awardees are achievers from various avenues of endeavors who have experienced great trials and tribulations but yet are strong survivors.

Candace Jordan

Mark Your Calendar: Saturday, July 15, 2017 6:00 PM DuSable Museum—740 East 56th Place

Cynda Williams

Chicago, Illinois Ticket Information call: 773.621.3372

‘Human Trafficking Next Door’

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By Brandy Bailey

s life passes and laws change, it forces us to take a broader look into the community and some of the plight just around the corner...Or maybe next door.

I think it is time that our Village gather and draw from Golden Wisdom. We must go back to paying attention to our youth! Did you know that youth (boys and girls) are sometimes pulled into the Commercial Sex Industry (CSI) by another youth? Have you ever thought about the fact that laws have criminalized VICTIMS Within the CSI BY locking up children for prostitution? Did you know that a large percentage of the CSI are VICTIMS of sexual abuse? Did you know that Social networking is a tool used to lure children into the CSI ..even children that come from "good" homes?

Did you know that many Gangs are recruiting youth for the CSI and there are members appointed to do so? Do you know how YOUR child got a pair of shoes that you didn't pay for? WE MUST PAY ‘Human Trafficking’ ATTENTION AND START ASKING QUESTIONS! A simple search for "human trafficking" may be a great place to start your education process or Rights4girls.org. A YouTube search for "Beautiful: How I got into the life" may be a good video to share with the Village, as well.

Now please , let's start having these conversations with our youth (boys and girls) and remember 12-year-olds have been arrested for prostitution as well!

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Continued from page 4

‘Political Stench: Blacks and Hispanics Written-Off’

on to those who thought they had inherit rights/powers to not allow Kings, Queens, to go near a book, for fear it would ‘rub-off’ on them. A hint of slaves ever acquiring read and writing was a no-no, as was the mention of education! This saga of miss-educating blacks lingers into the 21stCentury as the ‘elites powers-that-be’ continues to spit in the faces of the deprived and undereducated… while ignoring and violating their very existence. While numerous injustices are mounded upon blacks and Hispanics, some elected white and black politicians make money in this insulting demeanor.

Without the taste of an education, how would youth ever suspect that irrefutable persons are spying them out as viable candidates for jail and prison.

Scrutinize as to who benefits, then vote your troubles away!

‘Blacks and Hispanics’

Murder!

God Knows ~ And Cares!

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•THE BLACK CHURCH vs INSTITUTIONAL BANKS •

Chicago, IL: In African American church Institutions, most members are requested to bring their tithes and offerings into what is known as the ‘store-house.’ The ‘store-house receipts’ are prudently transferred to a privileged bank. That bank then becomes responsible for the security of said deposit… bank also becomes the executor!

Seldom mentioned: As church-dollars are entrusted to said bank; that bank consequently earns bulks of revenue off the primary dollars.

As dividends are acquired by the said bank, seldom are questions asked by the depositor as to who would reap the monstrous mega-benefits bestowed upon the bank! One would think that if the church designated pastor/ minister would request financial assistance of the bank … said bank could/ should comply with church investor.

Question: In the event the designated church executor, minister/pastor, request of said bank to donate toward a planned project which would yield dollars – which would then enhance the banks’ profits. For what reason would a donation request be rejected?

Disapprovingly: Some bank officials instead of monetary donations have offered gift cards, baskets and other inconsequential novelties. A monetary contribution to the investing church could/should be considered as a wellthought-out investment into the community.

Banks ask unlimited questions as church executor seeks not even a 5% in cash to help the church raise dollars to help in the communities.

What is requested, are but dismal amounts, in comparison to the thousands/millions/trillions sealed behind the bank’s walls.

We should quickly be reminded that the said banks dollars are multiplied as they are reaping tremendous benefits but for whom becomes the question!

‘Banks and their business of making money’ The first thing that should be understood about banks is that they exist to make money. Banks are businesses. However, instead of providing manufactured products, or offering some of the professional services we expect when we think of business, banks “buy” and “sell” money. It is stated that banks provide ‘other’ services. What are perhaps those ‘other’ services … and to whom do they provide such ‘other’ services? It is said that some banks do provide other services related to finances, including selling insurance and sometimes offering access to securities.) Matters of such are rarely explained to the consumer, nor included in any financial overtures. Question: Why then are pastors and their churches not included in give-away or monetary projects?

‘Banks “buy” money from depositors… and churches?’

Then, they can lend that money out, “selling” it to borrowers. Banks often pay interest on deposit accounts. This is especially true regarding savings accounts, certificates of deposit and money market accounts. Banks may also pay interest on checking accounts. Banks want to attract more depositors to their institution. This way, there is more money available for banks to lend out! But, lend-out to whom becomes the question?

Loans made to other bank customers (and sometimes to other banks) provide a bank with a way to earn more money. A bank may pay interest on a deposit, but the interest a bank receives on a loan is much higher. If you put $1,000 in a high yield savings account, you might only earn around 1.35%.

The said bank, though, might be able to loan $900 of that money out at an interest rate that is much higher. Auto loans might garner a rate of at least 5% for banks, and mortgage are in that neighborhood as well. Other types of loans can provide more than 14% interest (especially credit cards).

The difference between the amount of money a bank pays out in interest, and the money it earns from loans, can make it a rather profitable business.

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Church vs National Bank

Continue from page 6

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Bottom-Line: The Church Revenue is of immense value to the Institutional bank, however often is there little or no return on primary dollar-deposit •

The way that banks earn money illustrates one of the reasons that banks compete for depositors. The more depositors a bank has, the more money it can loan to others for better returns. It is worth noting, though, that banks can’t always lend out all the money it has in deposits. The Federal Reserve requires that depository institutions hold a certain percentage of their funds in reserve. For banks with net transaction accounts of $10.7 million to $58.8 million, that number is 3%. Banks with more than $58.8 million net transaction accounts must hold 10% of those funds in reserve. However, even with the requirement to hold funds in reserve, banks can still earn quite a bit – and the Federal Reserve (as of 2008) pays interest on required reserve balances.

It is suggested that dollars flowing from the church into various banks are supporting many to live and worship other than the inner city, while executives flee rapidly into unknown venues while other flee to various suburbs.

‘Note: Bank of the West Commitment to Community’ In the last five years, Bank of the West has supported under-resourced communities with $39 billion in loans, investments and philanthropic contributions. Through volunteerism, philanthropy and responsible approaches to financial services, we aspire to help our communities grow into vibrant places to live and work.

‘Note: United Bank Program’ “Through our Community Sponsorships Program, we participate in community events, aid non-profit organizations and support programs that our employees are involved in.”

Again, why is there not built into the financial Institutional equation ideologies to help those churches who help the banking institutions to thrive and survive? Researched by: Dr. Harold E. Bailey.

Are Particular Banks Robbing the African American Church of

Tithes and Offerings With No Returns?

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Black People and Flu Shots -- Why Many Are Saying "No Way!" Public campaigns circulate heavily before and during the flu season, reminding people to get their annual flu shots. Yet, more than half of all adult Americans do not get them. Black Americans are even more likely than white Americans to avoid getting their flu shots. But why?

According to the U.S. Centers For Disease Control and Prevention, 47 percent of white adults get flu shots but only 41 percent of black adults in the U.S. get flu shots. Surprisingly, the reasons among each group are different.

Reason #1 - A recent survey among 800 white American adults and 800 black American adults revealed that black adults were more concerned about possible side affects from flu shots, while white Americans who avoid getting flu shots simply don't think it is important to do so. So, more black people than white were concerned about how safe flu shots really are.

Blacks: No Way!

Reason #2 - On the other hand, the survey showed that white and black women and older people were more likely to believe that there was more risk in getting the flu virus than getting a flu shot.

More education needed While reasons may be similar or vary as to whether or not getting flu shots is a good idea, the fact still remains that more than half of all adult Americans still do not get flu shots.

According to researchers, more education is needed by both blacks and whites about the benefits and risks of flu shots and the flu virus. hhis will allow more Americans to make better decisions based on the facts rather than emotion or fear.

Open Letter: Mother admonish son’s murder!

Murder, I trust you slept will last night because I didn’t! I have not rest much at all since you took the life of my only child.

My family put all our love and affections into that child and the little money we could afford we save it for an education – for my child.

I taught my baby to go to school to learn and to listen to what the instructor said, because one day you would be someone she would be proud of… my child.

When the authorities told me that you had taken the life out of my child while he just stood on the street in route to home… my child.

They… being those that gathered around had little to say for fear of their lives – and the gang code. But, one day that same hoodlum because of the lack of nothing to do will shoot one of them. One said how sad they felt for me in the deaths of… my child, but no one said little about the man who shot – my child.

Authorities offered their words of sorrow but none could reach into my heart and replace that which I had lost…they of course would go home to their family, kiss them, and love them for being who they are… But, through the night I would have to suffer the pain that wouldn’t go away.

‘All Grief-Stricken Mothers’

Murder, for the sake of killing someone for maybe a gang banning order, had you thought about your tomorrows when you marry and have kids, did you think that your child would maybe have to reap just what you have done? Did your family teach you to love God and others? Son, after my talking to God about you … you won’t be able to do much sleeping.

After many years to come, the family and I will maybe go on with our lives…but you won’t! The blood of Jesus will continue to follow you to the day of judgement where no gang-chief will be able to plead your case. Your mother and father will not be able to cope a plea for you.

You then must stand on your own and reap just what you have sown.

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‘Chicago Judge Raymond Myles Killed’ A tragic case unfolded in Chicago’s Southside neighborhood earlier in the fatal shooting of Circuit Court of Cook County Judge Raymond Myles. Authorities say they’ve arrested Joshua Smith and in a bizarre twist of fate, Smith faced Judge Myles in court back in 2001.

Judge Raymond Myles

Roland Martin took a look at the still-developing case on NewsOne Now this week, making note that Smith shot another woman who was later revealed to be Myles’ girlfriend. Accord­ ing to a Chicago hribune report, Smith hatched a robbery plot aimed at Myles’ girlfriend. In a videotaped statement, Smith said he tracked the girlfriend’s moves for two to three weeks before laying in wait with an accomplice. hhe confrontation and killing took place in the early morning hours as the girlfriend was heading to the gym as was her custom. Smith reportedly shot the 52-year-old woman in the thigh as she left out the rear garage and which led Myles to confront a gunman and was struck by bullets five times. hhe girlfriend survived wounds.

‘Mystery Surround Death of Judge Found in Hudson River’

By ALAN FEUER and WILLIAM K. RASHBAUMAPRIL hhe last time someone heard from Judge Sheila Abdus-Salaam apparently was on huesday when she called her chambers in the Graybar Building in Manhattan to say she wasn’t well and would not be coming in. At some point, she had left her apartment in Harlem, law en­ forcement officials said, departing without her wallet and cellphone, and locking the door be­ hind her.

Judge Sheila Abdus-Salaam

When Judge Abdus-Salaam — the first black woman to serve on New York State’s highest court — failed to appear at work on Wednesday, her assistant grew concerned and contacted her husband, who reported her missing, the law enforcement officials said. hhen that afternoon, there was a terrible discovery: hhe judge’s body floating, fully clothed and with no apparent signs of trauma, in the Hudson River. hhe unexpected death was shocking and saddening and even set off some suspicions among Judge Abdus-Salaam’s friends and col­ leagues, many of whom said she had given no indication that any­ one — including herself — would want to do her harm.

In the hours after her body was found, the police said they were treating her death as a suicide. hhe judge, 65, had recently told Judge Abdus-Salaam in 2013 with Attorney General Eric friends and a doctor that she was suffering from stress. And trage­ H. Holder Jr., left, and Lt. Gov. Robert J. Duffy, far right, dy had followed her closely: On Easter in 2012, her mother com­ after she was sworn in by New York’s chief judge, Jona- mitted suicide at age 92, according to two law enforcement offi­ cials. hwo years later, around the same holiday, her brother shot than Lippman. Credit Hans Pennink/Associated Press himself to death, the officials said.

Since 2013, Judge Abdus-Salaam had been one of seven judges on the high court. Before that, she served for about four years with the First Appellate Division of the State Supreme Court, and for 15 years as a State Supreme Court justice in Manhattan.

She was previously a lawyer in the state attorney general’s office.

Judge Abdus-Salaam was known for her steadfast liberal voice, regularly siding with immigrants, the poor, and people with mental illnesses against established interests. She also leaned toward injured parties who brought claims of fraud or misconduct

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Is Mayhem in Chicago ‘God’s Punishment?

Respected New York reverend James David Manning says American blacks need to look hard at the current batch of leaders that are running the country and find new ones. Otherwise, the terrible violence, lawlessness, joblessness, and poverty that has been plaguing African Americans in most major cities around the U.S. will continue unabated.

— By Dave Gahary — Barely in office three weeks, President Donald J. Trump has made no fewer than four public statements on the killings that are consuming Chicago, the third-most populous city in the United States. The Windy City—33% black, 31% white, 29% Hispanic—has been rocked by a murder-by-gun-and-knife epidemic that has even the most jaded and cynical on edge. While over 75% of those killed last year were black, around 20% Hispanic, and less than 5% white, no one has been spared, from infants to senior citizens.

After experiencing a decline in homicides, Chicago saw nearly 800 murdered in 2016, the worst in 20 years and a 58% surge from 2015.

On Jan. 24, Trump warned, “If Chicago doesn’t fix the horrible ‘carnage’ going on, 228 shootings in 2017 with 42 killings (up 24% from 2016), I will send in the feds!”

Two weeks after Trump’s “tweet,” the death toll has increased by 50%, hitting 63 on Feb. 6. One reason for the rise in murders may be police tactics. Street stops, a Pres. Obama and Rev. James David Manning preventive measure with proven success, have been steadily declining “since early 2014, when they peaked at 80,000 stops per month,” reported The Atlantic magazine the same day Trump tweeted his warning. By October of the following year they were down to 60,000 per month, and a mere two months later plunged to 10,000.

Not everyone is convinced, however, that the blood in the streets, parks, and homes can be ascribed to mere mortal undertakings. One of those is the wildly popular black pastor, James David Manning, who has been heading a church for the past 35 years in Harlem, N.Y. Manning was born in 1947, when America was still a segregated society.

Harlem, a neighborhood in northern Manhattan, has, since the 1920s, been a major black enclave.

In 1910, only 10% of Harlem was black, but that soared to 70% by 1930, due to the “Great Migration” of over 6 million blacks from the South. The black population reached 98% in 1950, dropping to 77% in 2000 and steadily declining since then.

‘The Dixie Hummingbirds’ and ‘Son’s of The Birds’

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s excitement filled the PCC studios, their were people delighted to be among saluted legends. Such a privilege to see the Rev. Joe Williams ‘Gospel Music History Maker’ in the flesh. Minister Williams, Philadelphia, Pa., was guest of Bob Marovich, cele­ brated host of Conversations with gospel Legends. William, a well spoken gentleman bought to the PCC Network, invaluable his­ tory regarding the award winning Dixie Hummingbirds and The Sons of The Birds. View show at: WWW.ProbationChallenge.org Probation Challenge and PCC Network Presents Bob Marovich with ‘Conversations with The Legends.

WWW.ProbationChallenge.org

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Illinois: ‘State and City Officials Convicted of Crimes’

Illinois State Representatives State Representative Keith Farnham (D) convicted of distributing child pornography. (2014) State Representative Derrick Smith (D) was arrested and convicted of accepting a $7000 bribe. (2014) State Representative La Shawn K. Ford (D) pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor tax charge. (2014) State Representative Constance A. Howard (D) convicted of mail fraud. (2013) State Representative Ron Stephens (R) was found guilty of repeated drug abuse and a DUI(2010)

Chicago Aldermen and Suburb Mayor Alderman of Chicago, William Beavers (D) convicted of tax fraud. (2013) Alderman of Chicago, Sandi Jackson (D) pleaded guilty to one count of filing false tax returns. (2013) Comptroller and Treasurer of Dixon, Rita Crundwell (D) was sentenced to 19 years and 7 months in prison for fraud. (2013) Alderman of Chicago, Isaac Carothers (D) convicted of corruption. (2010) Mayor-elect of Markham, Illinois, Roger Agpawa, convicted of mail fraud in 1999

Governors and State Officials Governor of Illinois Rod Blagojevich (D) was charged with conspiracy to commit mail, wire fraud and solicitation of bribery. He was impeached and removed from office by 59-0 votes of the Illinois Senate.[270] On August 17, 2010, he was convicted on just one of 24 federal charges. In a retrial in 2011, he was found guilty on17 other counts and sentenced to 14 years in prison.

Governor of Illinois George H. Ryan (R) was convicted of 18 counts of corruption and sentenced to 6 years and six months. (2006) State Representative Patricia Bailey (D) was convicted of perjury and fraud. (2005)

Chicago, Illinois Chicago Alderman Arenda Troutman (D) was convicted of bribery. (2005)

State of Illinois Officials State Treasurer Jerome Cosentino (D) was convicted of bank fraud and sentenced to nine months home confinement. (1991) State Representative James DeLeo (D) caught in the "Operation Greylord" investigation of corruption in Cook County. He was indicted by a federal grand jury for taking bribes and negotiated guilty plea on a misdemeanor tax offense, and was placed on probation (1992) State Representative Joe Kotlarz (D) convicted and sentenced to jail for theft and conspiracy for pocketing in about $200,000 for a sale of state land to a company he once served as legal counsel (1997)

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Mother Christine M. Moore

Information: 310-316-3636

Chicago, Illinois

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— By Bob Marovich — Given that much of the world considers Chicago the font of traditional gospel music, we need to clear up some persistent myths about the music’s early history. Though long ago dispelled, the following five myths are still articulated as if they were the words of God: 1. Pilgrim Baptist Church is the birthplace of gospel music.

This is the most tenaciously held myth because the Father of Gospel Music, Thomas A. Dorsey, was Pilgrim Baptist Church’s music minister for many decades. But actually, Ebenezer Baptist Church at 45th and Vincennes is the rightful holder of the title of Birthplace of Gospel Music. It was at Ebenezer in late 1931 that Dorsey and Theodore R. Frye organized the first modern gospel chorus. It was only after the Ebenezer choir generated local attention that Pilgrim’s pastor, the Reverend Junius Austin, hired Dorsey to organize a gospel choir for his church.

Pilgrim Church

2. Albertina Walker organized the Caravans.

One of the most popular gospel groups of all time, the Caravans started out as the Good Shepherd Singers, a group of female background vocalists that gospel singer Robert Anderson organized in the late 1940s to support him on programs and records. At some point, Anderson changed the group’s name to the Gospel Caravan. In April 1952, with Albertina Walker as its newest acquisition, the Gospel Caravan split with Anderson to become the Caravans.

As the Caravans’ popularity soared, so too did the amount of travel. Because they were raising families, the original members could not commit that much time away from home. One by one they departed the group. Walker, later to be crowned the Queen of Gospel, became the Caravans’ manager and set out to rebuild the ensemble.

Albertina Walker The replacements, including Shirley Caesar, Inez Andrews, Dorothy Norwood, Dolores Washington, and James Cleveland, turned the Caravans into national sensations and popular recording artists.

3. No gospel choirs existed before Dorsey’s first gospel chorus.

Thomas Dorsey

In late 1931, Dorsey and Frye organized a group of Ebenezer Baptist Church members to sing in the effervescent style we now associate with the gospel choir. But according to Dorsey biographer Michael Harris, “gospel choruses” existed in Chicago as early as 1910. These groups were typically comprised of a handful of singers from a church’s large senior choir whose responsibility was to render gospel hymns and spirituals for special occasions, such as funerals. These groups did not sound like the Ebenezer chorus. They sang in the more classical-influenced senior choir style typical of the early twentieth century.

4. Thomas A. Dorsey stopped writing and performing blues after his initial success in gospel music.

In 1932, Dorsey was dizzyingly busy directing the Pilgrim Gospel Chorus, organizing other gospel choirs, writing new gospel songs, and developing the Chicago Gospel Choral Union. Despite this work, he still kept one foot in secular music. It was understandable: Dorsey had the carpet ripped out from under him numerous times in his pursuit of sacred music success. Blues was the one sure thing in his life. Even after he recorded two of his gospel songs for Vocation as “Thomas A. Dorsey, the Gospel Singer,” he performed blues. It was not until fall1932, ‘1st Deliverance’ after the death of his wife Nettie and day-old son Thomas Jr., that Dorsey forsook secular music forever.

5. First Church of Deliverance was the first African American church in Chicago to broadcast its worship services on radio.

This is a myth even First Church of Deliverance does not reiterate. In early 1933, two years before First Church began airing its services over radio station WSBC, Elder Lucy Smith and her All Nations Pentecostal Church on Langley Avenue were broadcasting their lively worship and healing services on WIND. So there you have it—five myths dispelled.

One point that cannot be dismissed is that Chicago is the rightful birth home of gospel music. It was in Bronzeville where transplanted Southern migrants first melded the sounds of the black church with the beat of the city to create gospel music, now heard and loved around the world.

Bob Marovich

R

obert M. Marovich is producer and host of “Gospel Memories” on WLUW-FM, host of “Conversations with the Gospel Legends” on the PCC Network, editor-in-chief of the Journal of Gospel Music, and author of A City Called Heaven: Chicago and the Birth of Gospel Music (University

of Illinois Press, 2015).

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I

n these Not-So-United-States people are timidly shirking around the word ‘treason’ which is becoming more of a bother everyday, especially when it flows from the bowels of the national government. If ignorance is the answer, who knows? Is underestimating the intelligence of the American people is the mind-set, who know? When serious undertakings have been entrusted with those shown to uphold the flag and not to risk the secrecy of the U.S. government… yet, without getting governmental permission are found with proof speaking ear-to-ear with the Russian government… how is this really to be perceived?

The move marks an extraordinary and unprecedented standoff between America’s top intelligence agency and a sitting president. After dropping a criminal investigation on the White House’s doorstep, Comey told Congress that his office will pursue the issue “no matter how long it takes.”

Moreover, according to CNN, Trump’s team “communicated with suspected Russian operatives to possibly coordinate the release of information damaging to Hillary Clinton’s campaign.”

Up until now, Trump has brushed off the Kremlin scandal as a politically motivated “fake news” story cooked up the Democrats and the “lying” media to undermine his presidency. But, yesterday’s statements from the FBI mark the first public acknowledgment of the case, adding fresh credibility to the allegations.

Considering why government heads do what they do … well, when the head is sick the body distresses!

The widening scandal has already claimed the scalp of Trump’s national security advisor Michael Flynn. In February, it transpired that the retired general had lied about the nature of his conversations with the Russian ambassador.

As a private citizen, Flynn had illegally discussed lifting sanctions on Moscow before taking office.

According to congressional investigators, two years ago Flynn also received over $65,000 from groups linked to Russia, including a US cybersecurity firm which reportedly has ties to the Kremlin.

A few weeks later, the scandal began to engulf the attorney general Jeff Sessions. He was forced to recuse himself from any investigations related to Moscow after failing to disclose that he had met the Russian ambassador in the months leading up to the election.

When financial deals are rendered between an defendant and a foreign government without U.S. governmental consent—what is that called? Call a spade a spade!

Exactly what signals are we sending America’s youth who many have labeled those who are outcast… many of ‘those’ persons are not considered as governmental deceivers, nor do they risk the lives of an entire nation. Our commanders President Trump and Mike Flynn -and-chiefs who were selected as examples for thousands and thousands of young men and women! Was this leadership selected to be a secret-order-ofdoing-thing? Should this act be noted as ‘THE SCULL AND THE BONES’ ... God forbid.

Let us examine those who have done far less than what’s being presently thrown down the throats of the U.S. tax payer. Then again, those people in power play such a rude and crude game right in our face … and tell us its raining… The question just ought to be— who’s going to prison. We however must remember that when the head is sick—the body ails!

Convicted of Treason in United States Philip Vigol and John Mitchell, convicted of treason and sentenced to hanging; pardoned by George Washington; see Whiskey Rebellion.

John Fries, the leader of Fries' Rebellion, convicted of treason in 1800 along with two accomplices, and pardoned that same year by John Adams.

Governor Thomas Dorr 1844, convicted of treason against the state of Rhode Island; see Dorr Rebellion; released in 1845; civil rights restored in 1851; verdict annulled in 1854.

John Brown, convicted of treason against the Commonwealth of Virginia in 1859 and executed for attempting to organize armed resistance to slavery.

Continue on page 17.

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An Act of U.S. Treason?

Continued from page 16. Aaron Dwight Stevens, took part in John Brown's raid and was executed in 1860 for treason against Virginia.

William Bruce Mumford, convicted of treason and hanged in 1862 for tearing down a United States flag during the American Civil War. Walter Allen was convicted of treason on September 16, 1922 for taking part in the 1921 Miner's March with the coal companies and the US Army on Blair Mountain, West Virginia. He was sentenced to 10 years and fined. During his appeal to the Supreme Court he disappeared while out on bail. United Mineworkers of America leader William Blizzard was acquitted of the charge of treason by the jury on May 25, 1922.[11] Herbert Hans Haupt, German-born naturalized U.S. citizen, was convicted of treason in 1942 and executed after being named as a German spy by fellow German spies defecting to the United States.

Martin James Monti, United States Army Air Forces pilot, convicted of treason for defecting to the Waffen SS in 1944.

He was paroled in 1960.

Robert Henry Best, convicted of treason on April 16, 1948 and served a life sentence.

Iva Toguri D'Aquino, who is frequently identified with "Tokyo Rose" convicted 1949. Subsequently, pardoned by President Gerald Ford.

Mildred Gillars, also known as "Axis Sally", convicted of treason on March 8, 1949; served 12 years of a 10- to 30-year prison sentence.

Tomoya Kawakita, sentenced to death for treason in 1952, but eventually released by President John F. Kennedy to be deported to Japan.

18 U.S. Code ยง 2381 - Treason Whoever, owing allegiance to the United States, levies war against them or adheres to their enemies, giving them aid and comfort within the United States or elsewhere, is guilty of treason and shall suffer death, or shall be imprisoned not less than five years and fined under this title but not less than $10,000; and shall be incapable of holding any office under the United States.

Can Public Smell Treason?

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Executive branch General David Petraeus (R) Director of the Central Intelligence Agency. On April 23, 2015, a federal judge sentenced Petraeus to two years’ probation plus a fine of $100,000 for providing classified information to Lieutenant Colonel Paula Broadwell.(2015)

Legislative branch Chaka Fattah (D-PA) was convicted on 23 counts of racketeering, fraud, and other corruption charges. (2016) Dennis Hastert (R-IL) Speaker of the United States House of Representatives pleaded guilty in court for illegally structuring bank transactions related to payment of $3.5 million to quash allegations of sexual misconduct with a student when he was a high school teacher and coach decades ago. (2016)

Michael Grimm (R-NY) pleaded guilty of felony tax evasion. This was the fourth count in a 20-count indictment brought against him for improper use of campaign funds. The guilty plea had a maximum sentence of three years; he was sentenced to eight months in prison. (2015) Trey Radel (R-FL) was convicted of possession of cocaine in November 2013. As a first-time offender, he was sentenced to one year probation and fined $250. Radel announced he would take a leave of absence, but did not resign. Later, under pressure from a number of Republican leaders, he announced through a spokesperson that he would resign. (2013) Rick Renzi (R-AZ) was found guilty on 17 of 32 counts against him June 12, 2013, including wire fraud, conspiracy, extortion, racketeering, money laundering and making false statements to insurance regulators. (2013) Jesse Jackson, Jr. (D-IL) pleaded guilty February 20, 2013, to one count of wire and mail fraud in connection with his misuse of $750,000 in campaign funds. Jackson was sentenced to two and one-half years' imprisonment. (2013) Laura Richardson (D-CA) was found guilty on seven counts of violating US House rules by improperly using her staff to campaign for her, destroying the evidence and tampering with witness testimony. The House Ethics Committee ordered Richardson to pay a fine of $10,000. (2012)

Judicial branch Mark E. Fuller (R) U.S. District Judge was found guilty of domestic violence and sentenced to 24 weeks of family and domestic training and forced to resign his position. (2015)

Executive branch Scott Bloch (R) United States Special Counsel. pleaded guilty to criminal contempt of Congress for "willfully and unlawfully withholding pertinent information from a House Committee investigating his decision to have several government computers wiped ..." On June 24, 2013, U. S. District Judge Robert L. Wilkins sentenced Bloch to one day in jail and two years' probation, and also ordered him to pay a $5000 fine and perform 200 hours of community service.(2010) David Safavian (R) Administrator for the Office of Management and Budget[20] where he set purchasing policy for the entire government.[21][22] He was found guilty of blocking justice and lying,[23] and sentenced to 18 months. (2008) Lewis Libby (R) Chief of Staff to Vice President Dick Cheney (R). 'Scooter' was convicted of perjury and obstruction of justice in the Plame Affair on March 6, 2007 and was sentenced to 30 months in prison and fined $250,000. His sentence was commuted by George W. Bush (R) on July 1, 2007. (2007) Lester Crawford (R) Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration, resigned after 2 months. Pleaded guilty to conflict of interest and received 3 years suspended sentence and fined $90,000. (2006) [27] Claude Allen (R) Director of the Domestic Policy Council, was arrested for a series of felony thefts in retail stores. (2006) He was convicted on one count and resigned soon after.

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‘Trusted Lawmakers Who Violated Law’ William J. Jefferson (D-LA) was charged in August 2005 after the FBI seized $90,000 in cash from his home freezer. He was reelected to the House in 2006, but lost in 2008. He was convicted November 13, 2009, of 11 counts of bribery and sentenced to 13 years in prison. (2009)[29] Jefferson's Chief of Staff Brett Pfeffer, was sentenced to 84 months for bribery. (2006) Jack Abramoff CNMI scandal involves the efforts of Abramoff to influence Congressional action concerning U.S. immigration and minimum wage laws. See Executive branch convictions. Congressmen convicted in the Abramoff scandal include: Bob Ney (R-OH) pleaded guilty to conspiracy and making false statements as a result of his receiving trips from Abramoff in exchange for legislative favors. Ney received 30 months in prison. (2007) Duke Cunningham (R-CA) pleaded guilty November 28, 2005, to charges of conspiracy to commit bribery, mail fraud, wire fraud and tax evasion in what came to be called the Cunningham scandal and was sentenced to over eight years in prison. (2005) Frank Ballance (D-NC) admitted to federal charges of money laundering and mail fraud in October 2005 and was sentenced to four years in prison. (2005) Bill Janklow (R-SD) was convicted of second-degree manslaughter for running a stop sign and killing a motorcyclist. Resigned from the House and given 100 days in the county jail and three years probation. (2003) Jim Traficant (D-OH) was found guilty on ten felony counts of financial corruption, sentenced to eight years in prison and expelled from the House of Representatives. (2002) 1993–2001 (Clinton (D) presidency)

Executive branch Wade Sanders (D), Deputy Assistant United States Secretary of the Navy, for Reserve Affairs, was sentenced to 37 months in prison on one charge of possession of child pornography. (2009) Darleen A. Druyun (D), Principal Deputy United States Under Secretary of the Air Force.[39] She pleaded guilty to inflating the price of contracts to favor her future employer, Boeing. In October 2004, she was sentenced to nine months in jail for corruption, fined $5,000, given three years of supervised release and 150 hours of community service.(2005).[40] CBS News called it "the biggest Pentagon scandal in 20 years" and said that she pleaded guilty to a felony.

Legislative branch Mel Reynolds (D-IL) was convicted on 12 counts of sexual assault, obstruction of justice and solicitation of child pornography. (1997) He was later convicted of 12 counts of bank fraud. (1999) Reynolds served his entire sentence stemming from the first conviction and served 42 months in prison for the bank fraud conviction at which point his sentence was commuted by President Bill Clinton.

[42] As a result, Reynolds was released from prison and served his remaining time in a halfway house.

Bob Packwood (R-OR), 19 women accused him of sexual misconduct. He fought the allegations, but eventually, the US Senate Ethics Committee found him guilty of a "pattern of abuse of his position of power and authority” and recommended that he be expelled from the Senate. He resigned on Sept. 7, 1995.

Wes Cooley (R-OR), was convicted of having lied on the 1994 voter information pamphlet about his service in the Army. He was fined and sentenced to two years probation (1997)[46] After leaving office, Cooley was convicted of income tax fraud connected to an investment scheme. He was sentenced to one year in prison and to pay restitution of $3.5 million to investors and $138,000 to the IRS. Austin Murphy (D-PA) was convicted of one count of voter fraud for filling out absentee ballots for members of a nursing home.

(1999) House banking scandal [49] The House of Representatives Bank found that 450 members had overdrawn their checking accounts, but not been penalized. Six were convicted of charges, most only tangentially related to the House Bank itself. Twenty two more of the most prolific over-drafters were singled out by the House Ethics Committee. (1992) Buz Lukens (R-Ohio) convicted of bribery and conspiracy.

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‘Trusted Lawmakers Who Violated Law’ Carl C. Perkins (D-Kentucky) pleaded guilty to a check kiting scheme involving several financial institutions (including the House Bank Carroll Hubbard (D-Kentucky) was convicted of illegally funneling money to his wife's 1992 campaign to succeed him in congress Mary Rose Oakar (D-Ohio) pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor campaign finance charge not related to the House Bank.

Walter Fauntroy (D-District of Columbia) was convicted of filing false disclosure forms to hide unauthorized income.

Congressional Post Office scandal (1991–1995) was a conspiracy to embezzle House Post Office money through stamps and postal vouchers to congressmen.

Dan Rostenkowski (D-IL) was convicted and sentenced to 18 months in prison, in 1995.

Joe Kolter (D-Pennsylvania) pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy and sentenced to 6 months in prison.(1996) 1989–1993 (George H. W. Bush (R) presidency) Executive branch Catalina Vasquez Villalpando, (R) Treasurer of the United States, pleaded guilty to obstruction of justice and tax evasion. (1992]

Legislative branch Nicholas Mavroules (D-Massachusetts) was convicted of extortion, accepting illegal gifts and failing to report them on congressional disclosure and income tax forms. Mavroules pleaded guilty to fifteen counts in April 1993 and was sentenced to a fifteen-month prison term. (1993) Albert Bustamante (D-Texas) was convicted of accepting bribes and sentenced to three and one-half years in prison. (1993) [62] David Durenberger Senator (R-Minnesota) denounced by Senate for unethical financial transactions and then disbarred (1990). He pleaded guilty to misuse of public funds and given one year probation (1995) [63] Jay Kim (R-CA) accepted $250,000 in illegal 1992 campaign contributions and was sentenced to two months house arrest. (1992) [64][65][66][67] 1981–1989 (Reagan (R) presidency)

Executive branch See also: Reagan administration scandals Operation Ill Wind was a three-year investigation launched in 1986 by the FBI into corruption by U.S. government and military officials, and private defense contractors.

Melvyn Paisley, Assistant Secretary of the Navy,[68] was found to have accepted hundreds of thousands of dollars in bribes. He pleaded guilty to bribery and served four years in prison.[69][70][71] James E. Gaines, Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy, took over when Paisley resigned his office.[72] Gaines was convicted of accepting an illegal gratuity and theft and conversion of government property. He was sentenced to six months in prison.[73] Victor D. Cohen, Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Air Force, was the 50th conviction obtained under the Ill Wind probe when he pleaded guilty to accepting bribes and conspiring to defraud the government. He was sentenced to 33 months in prison.[74][75] Housing and Urban Development Scandal was a controversy concerning bribery by selected contractors for low income housing projects.[76]

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In Search of Justice: The Sad Saga of Former Secret Service Agent Abraham Bolden Continued from page 1 to join his presidential detail while Kennedy was on a trip to Chicago in 1961. He was elated, and who wouldn’t be elated. After all, it was a time of racial strife in the country and an offer like this to a black man was unimaginable to say the least. At the time he was a local Chicago Secret Service agent.

Clearing his name is something that is sacred to him, and even at 82 years old, he is still mindful of that duty to himself, family, friends, and supporters, that he must never give up on that goal.

And in spite of his many trials and tribulations, which included three heart attacks, a pace maker and a bout with cancer – Bolden has not given up, and he said he “will never give up, because God is in the plan.

In King James Version of the Bible, John 14:1, it states: Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. And in John 14:6, Jesus says, “I am the way and the truth and the life, no one comes to the Father except through Me “ President John Kennedy

Abraham Bolden has been talking about his dismal plight now for a very long time; how he was railroaded by the U.S. Secret Service and other law enforcement officials while he was a secret service agent. He’s been fighting a long time to clear his name, after spending three years and three months in federal prison for a crime he emphatically says he never committed. He was fired from the Secret Service in August 1964, spent three years and three months in federal prison, and paroled in 1969. He is deeply rooted in history. He is an American hero, a black man that won’t give up his fight to clear his name. God was in his life at a very early age, when he was a young kid. He grew up, believing in the justice of God.

Abraham Bolden

Bolden, the East Saint Louis native who was the first black Secret Service Agent, became an agent in 1960.

And since that time, he’s had a long history of fighting a battle he never imagined, and also feels betrayed. Not only did he face racism from his fellow agents while on the job, but he has spent most of his life fighting to clear his name.

Bolden was accused of taking It has been a long haul for Bolden and one helluva ride for a patriotic and courageous man in his quest to seek justice and clear his name. He has spent most of his life toward that goal – 53 years to be exact – all to no avail. Bolden is aware that it’s been a slow road to attaining the dream of clearing his name, he was denied pardons by three U.S. Presidents (Presidents Richard M. Nixon, Bill Clinton and Barack Obama), yet, he has no intentions of ever giving up in his endeavors to clear his name. Even after the three heart attacks, a pace maker and a bout with cancer he still has a whimper of hope in clearing his name, which has evaded him for so many years.

a $50,000 bribe from a counterfeiting ring that he had helped break, which he denies, and eventually did time for bribery. He has spent most of his life fighting a grave injustice done to him.

Bolden is an historical figure.

Bolden was accused of taking a $50,000 bribe from a counterfeiting ring that he had helped break, which he denies, and eventually did time for bribery. He has spent most of his life fighting a grave injustice done to him.

Prior to joining Kennedy’s presidential detail, Bolden served as a former Illinois state trooper and a Secret Service Agent in Chicago.

He graduated cum laude from Lincoln University in Jefferson City, Missouri, with a B.A. degree in music composition.

President Kennedy told Bolden he was the “Jackie Robinson of Baseball”. Some have said he was framed because he knew too much.

In published reports it was stated that after two incredibly unfair criminal trials the first in which the sitting judge instructed the jury that Bolden was guilty of all counts in the indictment. Bolden was convicted; however, but the case against Bolden began to fall apart when one of the witnesses, Joseph Spagnoli, who testified against Bolden, confessed that he and another witness, Frank William Jones, concocted and fabricated the criminal case against Bolden with the help of an Assistant United States Attorney. In spite of Spagnoli’s confession and the government’s refusal to deny the charges levied by Spagnoli, Bolden was sent away to the penitentiary.

After an initial mistrial, Bolden was convicted and served three years and three months in federal prison before he was paroled in 1969.

Continue on page 23.

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In Search of Justice: The Sad Saga of Former Secret Service Agent Continued from page 22. Bolden was arraigned in Chicago on May 20, 1964 on federal charges that he had solicited a bribe from a counterfeiting ring that he had helped break. He was accused of seeking $50,000 in exchange for a secret file on the investigation.

The government's case rested primarily on the testimony of the two men, Frank Jones and Joseph Spagnoli, both facing criminal charges. Bolden was not accused of receiving or was he ever found to be in possession of any illicit funds from the accused felons who testified against him. He maintained his innocence, asserting that he had been framed because he planned to expose dereliction among the agents assigned to guard Kennedy in front of the Commission. The Secret Service denied Bolden's claims Reportedly, there were two witnesses who testified against Bolden at his trial. One of them, who accused Bolden of soliciting bribes, admitted that federal prosecutors had asked him to lie about the case. However, when Bolden appealed and requested a new trial it was denied and Bolden began serving a six-year sentence in 1966, and paroled in 1969.

Bolden is a strong man, a very focused man, a religious man, a patriotic man, a man of integrity That was noted in many articles that I read about him pertaining to his plight. Where does that strength come from? From God, his wife (he and his wife Barbara were married 49 years), mother, children and many supporters.

Bolden focused on two voices he heard while in his prison cell. The dark room lit up and the voice told him not to be afraid. Another voice asked his name and said “God is with you.” Bolden said he knew the voices were spiritual messages from God. He talked fondly about President John F. Kennedy. Kennedy, he said, “meant a lot to me, I will miss him for the rest of my life.”

You can watch the complete interview with Dr. Juanita Bratcher and Secret Service Agent Abraham Bolden on Youtube.com. https://www.youtube.com/watch?

And On a Final Note: To Secret Service Agent Abraham Bolden

By Dr. Juanita Bratcher When things go wrong, as they sometimes will And change one’s life and living at will You fight to the end to clear your good name But nothing goes right, and you’re labeled insane It seems that the world stands still and there is no hope But God sees all and there’s room to cope So when you scream to the top of your voice and ask God that justice prevails You’ll see, all will go well.

Rev. Dr. Harold E. Bailey, Editor and Publisher 23

‘Pastor Mitty Collier’ 24

‘The love of God’ had everything to do with the hun-

dreds of people who traveled in the rain to show support for Pastor Mitty Colliers’ “What Love God To Do With It’ Benefit, Concert, Production.

P

astor Mitty Collier, More Like Christ Ministries, recently celebrated her production of What’s Love God To Do With It, held at the Life Center Church of God in Christ, Chicago, Illinois, Bishop T.L. Barrett. The people can to show much love in the rain!

Pastor Mitty Collier’s “What’s Love Got To Do With It” Benefit Concert Production, was a successful benefit where the proceeds were shared with the Feed-A-Neighbor Ministry and twelve participating churches.

This were twelve acts consisting of 3 male pastors, 3 female pastors, 3 pastors with his or her spouses and 3 praise dance ministries from 3 churches.

•‘Feed-A-Neighbor’ Feed-A-Neighbor began in 1985 for the purpose of feeding, clothing, and sharing the Word of God with the homeless and less- fortunate from the street corners each second Saturday of the month. They have not missed a month during this period rePastor Mitty Collier gardless of weather conditions. Feed-A-Neighbor has been funded primarily by members of the Bible Study Telephone Prayer Line (BSTPL), along with other concerned individuals who have a passion for the less fortunate

Pastor Collier, will once again present her service to garner dollars to aid in her program to feed and cloths those in need. At Christmas no child leaves empty handed. She has a heart for God and the people of the community Because of the economy, donations have been very low and sporadic, and it has been very difficult to supply all of the services they would like to provide. Recognizing that there are other ministries who also lack funds to help them to continue, the opportunity was given to them to join in this benefit fundraiser.

Pastor Mitty Collier, born in Birmingham, Alabama, as a child she would sing around the city and wherever people delighted in hearing her sing. She with other youth were inspired to harmonized together while some in later years went on to become noted gospel recording artists. Money was not the objective ... she merely wanted to sing gospel music. Later she was offered an opportunity to travel the world allowing her to cross spiritual borders to sing R&B music. After an historical moment in the presence of God ad the lost of her vocal cords… she repented and returned to her first love.

This God-fearing woman-of-God, with a long history of feeding and clothing the various communities of the city, she has now been noted as one with stability. And, because of her vision to feed God’s people, the hand of God allowed again for the multitude of people to come-forth in the immense rain.

Event Photos: Geri Patterson 25

President Trump using treat of war to distract attention?

WAR?

It’s been suggested over-and-over again that both leaders Donald Trump and Kim Jong-Un are suffering from mental deficiencies. But will they in their madness go too far in their minds … and play the game of war?

A

s the world of politics increase on every front and pressure building in the President Trump’s camp for more answers regarding Russia … and now North Korea! No honest answers have come forth from day one at the White House. Those with liberty to speak have been fired!

However each move to get Congressional quires responded to—are blocked by yet another Hard-Core-Trump-Lie! One hurtful lie included suggesting that the former President Barack Obama had him wire-taped. Trump is obsessed with the former president and his success, that at each turn he has to mentions his name—but for what reason… could it possible racism and looking for an opportunity for his followers to join rank?

Many over pretentious moves have come and gone to divert the publics attention away from what is gong to eventually be a matter of … IMPREACHMENT! Question becomes: What in the world are lawmakers and security representatives waiting for?

Kim Jong-un appears to be preparing to launch a nuclear weapons test after satellite images showed “continued activity” at North Korea’s Punggye-ri test site.

The images appear to show that the North is “primed and ready” for what would be its sixth nuclear test.

Earlier Pyongyang warned that it would retaliate “by powerful force of arms” after a US Navy aircraft carrier was deployed in to the Sea of Japan.

Kim's state-owned news agency KCNA quoted the foreign ministry as saying: “We will hold the US wholly accountable for the catastrophic consequences to be entailed by its outrageous actions.

"The DPRK is ready to react to any mode of war desired by the US.” Donald Trump has said the he is sending "an armada" to follow the aircraft carrier in response to the gorwing threat of North Korea's 26

‘Defiant North Korea hints at nuclear tests to boost force 'to the maximum'

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orth Korea suggested on Monday it will continue its nuclear weapons tests, saying it will bolster its nuclear force "to the maximum" in a "consecutive and successive way at any moment" in the face of what it calls U.S. aggression and hysteria.

U.S. President Donald Trump has said a "major, major conflict" with North Korea is possible over its nuclear and ballistic missile programs, while China said last week the situation on the Korean peninsula could escalate or slip out of control.

In a show of force, the United States has sent the nuclear-powered USS Carl Vinson aircraft carrier group to waters off the Korean peninsula to join drills with South Korea to counter a series of threats of destruction from North Korea, formally known as the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK).

"Now that the U.S. is kicking up the overall racket for sanctions and pressure against the DPRK, pursuant to its new DPRK policy called 'maximum pressure and engagement', the DPRK will speed up at the maximum pace the measure for bolstering its nuclear deterrence," a spokesman for North Korea's foreign ministry said in a statement carried by its official KCNA news agency.

‘Trump rally attendees call for 'complete idiot' Paul Ryan to be fired’

S

upporters at President Trump's rally in Harrisburg, Pa. on Saturday agreed on two things: Trump deserves high marks for his first 100 days in office, and House Speaker Paul Ryan needs to go.

"Ryan is a complete idiot," said rally-goer John Knepper speaking with AOL.com. "If I was Trump, boom, he'd be out of there in no time."

SEE ALSO: Trump rally-goer roughed up after being wrongly IDed as a protester Tensions between establishment Republicans and Trump have seemingly heated up since the administration and Congress failed to repeal and replace Obamacare shortly after the president took office. And while the president does not have the power to remove Ryan as speaker, some in the Republican camp have called for him to step down.

In March, after the health care repeal bill failed to secure enough votes in the House, President Trump urged the public to watch "Justice with Judge Jeanine" on FOX News the night Judge Pirro called for Ryan to step down during the opening segment of her show, which quickly spurred speculation that Trump wanted Ryan out.

Supporters at the president's 100-day rally seem to be on Pirro's side which states that Ryan is the main roadblock keeping Trump from major legislative successes, including health care.

‘Congress makes tentative deal on $1.1 trillion spending bill’ U.S. House and Senate negotiators reached a tentative bipartisan deal Sunday night on a $1.1 trillion bill to keep the government open through the end of September, according to Republican and Democratic aides.

GOP leaders eager to focus on health care and tax overhauls bowed to Democratic demands to eliminate hundreds of policy restrictions aimed at curbing regulations from the bill, leaving the Trump administration with few victories.

The White House sought funding to begin building the border wall, a well as $18 billion in cuts to domestic agencies, and both demands were rebuffed. The spending deal includes money for Planned Parenthood, despite Republican demands to defund the group over its provision of abortions. The deal’s provisions were described by aides on condition of anonymity ahead of a formal announcement.

President Donald Trump will be able to point to a $15 billion boost for the Pentagon, although $2.5 billion of that money is contingent on the administration delivering a new plan to fight Islamic State. Trump also will get a $1.5 billion for border security, but it can’t be used for the border wall or additional Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents, according to a congressional aide. There are also no new restrictions on money going to so-called sanctuary cities that don’t fully enforce federal immigration laws.

"Reports that the package makes a major down payment towards the president’s security priorities are encouraging," John Czwartacki, a spokesman for the White House Office of Management and Budget, said in a statement.

Republicans failed to get a provision in the bill that would have blocked the Labor Department’s fiduciary rule limiting financial advice to retirees.

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‘Trump with Malice Toward Obama’ It’s Apparent President Donald John Trump has Consuming Malice Regarding Former President Barack Obama

By Rev. Dr. Harold E. Bailey Also, noted are President Trumps malicious behaviors causing spiritual conflicts coupled with extremist rebellion around the world.

Sources of faith based communities believe President Donald Trump’s conduct to be demonic with criminal intent.”

It’s quite evident that there is a personal vindictiveness going on with the United States President Donald John Trump! There’s something apparently deviously troubling this autocrat as it relates to former President Barack Obama, and if Mr. Trump is not careful his compulsion to destroy others will eventually swallow him up in pride! And, pride comes before the fall!

President Barack Obama and his family proceeds gracefully into the sun-set of their lives not looking back at the White House where he governed without a hint of a scandal! However, on the slippery-slop of reality, massive day-to-day scandals continue surfacing with Mr. Trump and a dubious administration!

While in the mist of Trump’s false accusations and biased name calling, president Obama progresses onward without casting any aspersions!

Trump has suffered administrative failures one-after-another, yet continues to point blames at others, while continuing to place at the top of his agenda – an assignment to devour President Obama. Is it simply because the revered President Obama, was president for not a select body of individuals but governed thoroughly for all the people!

On the flipside of this reality show presentation, Donald Trump sources have stated that he behavior’s as an individual who is with a demonic spirit. This new way of the president’s doing things are unbecoming a leader of the free-world.

In the U.S. history, various personalities from around the world have always watched America with an admiration – wanting to follow in the foot-steps of these United States and its principles.

The U.S. then represented honesty and values coupled with respectable leadership – others sought to emulate us! Now, What Has Now Taken the Place of Trust and Honesty?

Mr. Donald Trump for the first time in the history of this country has desecrated the memory of those who fought in all wars for freedom and the dignity and safety of this county. Those admiring us came from distant lands to these native shores based on a thing called love. However, Mr. Trump playing god, has with distant lifted his arrogant voice of authority to declare as to who can and cannot visit these shores. Ah, but God has a master plan for this gentleman!

I’ve lived long enough to deem Mr. Trump’s behavior as the works of a racist! Or, could it be the actions of a bigot who has little else to think of while he’s temporary sitting on the seat of authority… knowing spiritually, it is merely a matter of time!

Well, in the scriptures it is stated that Lucifer is going to and through the earth seeking who he can devour … devour especially those who have lived in the likeness of Christ, knowing the disciples of Christ would have an impact on those desiring to do good.

It’s rather difficult to conceive how tons of bible reading, church-believers have been taken- in by the world’s offering of those bearing: deceit, hate, confusion, and only come to; rob, steal and will destroy! These negative along with other offerings are brought to the people in pretends of peace on the lips … but not in the heart! This spirit which comes to deceive is real and will fool the very elect – if possible!

A former politician who many say represents yet another with an evil-spirt – speaks of WAR! The scriptures speak of many Anti-Christ (s) but in the latter days there would be a strong one, and would be a deceiver!

The Holy Scriptures tell us that there will be many embodied spirits of Anti-Christs, dwelling among us, however do we yet see that one (1) Anti-Christ who’s seeking to rule with great power? This one (1) is Promised to Be a Liar and Dangerous!

It’s advised that the people of God, read the scriptures and note if this spirit of dissention and confusion be of God! God is not the author of confusion! Lean not unto your own understanding but in all your ways acknowledge God and He shall direct your path.

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Jackson: “100 days of Trump Trauma is destroying Civil Rights” Continued from page 1.

“We are witnessing the most vicious assault on Civil Rights in 50 years,” said Rev. Jackson. “What we earned with blood and legislation, President Trump is trying to take away with ink and deregulation. He is winning the anti-Civil Rights struggle, deregulating justice, undermining Dr. King’s work. America is suffering from Trump trauma.”

Rev. Jackson admitted Trump is winning among his “40 percent base of conservative Confederate supporters. That’s why 96 percent of the people who said they voted for him in 2016 said they would vote for him again if the election were held today.

“You may think Trump is crazy, is psychologically unstable and a pathological liar, but among his supporters he’s still a winner. His problem is his base that so far is limited to that 40 percent and has not expanded since he became president.” Jackson stated.

But he warned that the damage Trump is doing could take years or perhaps decades to repair. Of greater concern is that “after four years of neglect, opposition and sabotage, there may be some things like global warming of the environment that may be irretrievable.”

Rev. Jackson said what Trump is doing to America now has been done in the past like after the American Civil War, from 1861-1865 Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr, Rev. J. Wilson and Rev. Jess where there was a period of “12 years of Reconstruction followed by violent resistance, state constitutional conventions to limit African American rights and Supreme Court rulings (Plessy v. Ferguson, 1896) that legalized apartheid for 58 years.”

And then thee was the 1950 ”We’’s and the 1960’s, where Jackson said there was a second Reconstruction effort which manifested a Civil Rights movement in which we gained a Brown decision (1954), a 1964 Civil Rights Act, a 1965 Voting Rights Act, a 1968 Open Housing Act, a war on poverty, an Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, Medicare, Medicaid, Jobs corps and more.

“We’re living through a period when mostly white conservative Confederate political forces, that expressed themselves with the election of Donald Trump as president in 2016, are engaged in a second post-Reconstruction effort to turn back the clock. What we earned with blood and legislation, Trump is taking back with ink and deregulation.”

Rev. Jackson said another problem is Trump’s cabinet beginning with his appointment of Jefferson Beauregard Sessions who Jackson said was named after Confederate heroes as his attorney general. Sessions supports the Shelby decision—the U.S. Su‘Civil Rights Movements’ preme Court’s June 25, 2013 ruling 5-4 decision that altered the Voting Rights Act of 1965. The Shelby decision struck down a key provision of the act, the preclearance section, calling it unconstitutional. As a result, 13 mostly Republican states introduced laws demanding came up with voter restriction laws like demanding voters to provide photo ID or a passport before they could vote.

Another troubling Trump cabinet member is U.S. Secretary of Education Betty DeVos “who has spent her entire adult life and millions of dollars undercutting public education. Trump is winning” among his base, warned Rev. Jackson.

And, then there is Trump’s appointment of Scott Pruitt to head the EEPA. Jackson called Pruit “a climate change denier” who once sued the agency 14 times before he was appointed to head the EPA. Pruitt, Jackson said, “is undoing every environmental protection he can Trump is winning” among his base.

And then there was Trump’s appointment of Neil Gorsuch, a right winger, to the U.S. Supreme court a man who “could to 75 years or more of damage.” Jackson said Trump chose Gorsuch from a list supplied to him by the Federalist Society and the Heritage Foundation. Gorsuch is so extreme that Jackson said the Senate had to change its long established filibuster rule in order to et him through on a 51 votes. “Trump is winning” among his base.

Jackson said Trump appointed Ben Carson, a black, as his Secretary of Housing and Urban Development “who has no expertise in the field, and he appointed Rick Perry to head the Department of Energy, a department in 2012 he wanted to eliminate….”

“In a matter of days and weeks, President Trump has set in motion forces that will set American back not move America forward with appointments, a focus on privatization, an antipathy toward the public sector, an emphasis on states rights with ink in executive order signings and through deregulation.” Jackson Photos: Chinta Strausberg

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Officer fatally shoots 15-year-old boy in car in Dallas suburb.

A 15-year-old boy was fatally shot by police Saturday night on a residential street in the Dallas suburb of Balch Springs.

By Sunday, two versions of what prompted the shooting had reached the public.

Balch Springs police chief Jonathan Haber told reporters at a news conference Sunday afternoon that officers dispatched to the 12300 block of Baron Drive in Balch Springs after receiving a 911 call at 11 p.m. reporting several drunken teens walking the neighborhood.

Once officers arrived, they heard gunshots, Haber said. In what police described as an “unknown altercation,” a vehicle then began “backing down the street toward the officers in an aggressive manner.” One officer shot at the vehicle, Haber said, striking the front seat passenger.

Family later identified the passenger as high school freshman Jordan Edwards.

Edwards, 15, was transported to a hospital where he died.

The officer, whose name has not been released, was placed on administrative duty. The Dallas County Sheriff’s Department and the Dallas County District Attorney’s Office are conducting their own investigations into the shooting, and the Balch Springs police department will oversee an internal investigation.

“On behalf of the entire Balch Springs Police Department and the city of Balch Springs we express our sincere condolences with the family,” Haber said during the news conference. “I have reached out and personally met and spoken with the parents and expressed my condolences as well.”

Jordan Edwards

Lee Merritt, a civil rights attorney representing Edwards’ family, has challenged the police account of Saturday night’s fatal shooting, claiming the five teens inside the car were not driving aggressively, but backing out of a parking space.

“Another family ripped apart by police brutality,” he wrote on Twitter Sunday.

“There was absolutely no justification for this murder. We demand justice!”

In a phone interview with The Washington Post Sunday night, Merritt said Edwards, his 16-year-old brother and three other teen boys were at a party on Baron Drive when they learned that police were on the way.

They went to the car parked outside and saw flashlights and heard gunshots, Merritt said. As they climbed into the car, the teens apparently heard somebody yell profanities. Then they were being fired upon.

They fled for about a block, Merritt said, before they noticed there was smoke coming from Edwards’ head. The driver of the car, the boy’s older brother, stopped the car and they flagged down an approaching police cruiser for help.

Several of the teens played on the football team together. Edwards, a freshman, was going through spring training for next year’s season.

“They’re never going to be the same,” Merritt said. “These kids are never going to be the same.”

Merritt claimed three bullets were fired into the car. They came through the driver’s side window, he said.

Edwards and the four teens with him had not been drinking, according to Merritt. They were not cited for underage drinking and have not been charged with any crimes, he said.

According to reporting from the NBC affiliate in Dallas, all Balch Springs squad cars have dash cameras and officers wear body cameras. Merritt said he was told there is body camera footage of the incident and that it has been turned over to the sheriff’s office.

Requests for comment from The Washington Post were not immediately answered by Balch Springs police, including what policies the department has on shooting into moving vehicles.

Many major law enforcement agencies, federal officials and policing experts advise against shooting into moving vehicles, according to a 2015 investigation by the Guardian. The risk of harming an innocent party is too great, the Guardian reported, and the shots don’t often stop the vehicle.

In 2016, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department — the largest sheriff’s department in America — wrote a new policy essentially banning officers from firing into a moving vehicle unless they feel threatened by something else, like a weapon.

Reprint: Washington Post 31

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