PHOENIX NEWS
Home Rule in Phoenix!
Village Residents Vote for Volume 5 Number 1
2006
“Home Rule gives the village the power to pass laws that are in some cases stronger than those passed by the state.” Phoenix did it’s part in helping Katrina victims!
-Photos on Pg. 5
Mayor Terry Wells Makes History!
Longest serving mayor in the history of Phoenix! New Public Works Facility Completed!
PHOENIX NEWS
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WHAT’S INSIDE Phoenix Historical Wall Unveiled Page 7 Phoenix Fest Photos! Page 12
Rev . Derr ick S immons and family Welc omed to Daniel Chapel Page 16
New Townhomes Coming to Phoenix Page 17 School News Page 20
PUBLISHED BY VILLAGE OF PHOENIX 633 East 151st Street Phoenix, IL 60426 (708) 331-1455
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Mayor Terry Wells
EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Jannie L. Beasley Johnnie M. Lane
EDITORIAL BOARD Albert Kirklin Joseph D. Ross Joda Boykin Arthur T. Burton Jerome Ferrell Jr. LaNita Stewart
LAYOUT & DESIGN Benny Williams
R O M T H E VILLAGE CLERK
If a homeowner is performing construction work, he too, must complete an application and let the building inspector make the decision as to whether or not a permit is required. Some contractors have had their license revoked by the State of Illinois due to complaints filed with the Better Business Association. The Attorney General files those complaints with us if the contractor has been issued a citation and is not allowed to work in the State of Illinois. Therefore, we can pass that information along to our citizens. 2006 VEHICLE STICKERS The deadline to display 2006 vehicle stickers was February 15th. The late fee in the amount of $10.00 will be added to the regular price. The fee to purchase stickers are as follows: Passenger vehicle $20.00; Senior Citizens and Disability $10.00 (with proof of age and or proof of disability); Trucks according to size $25.00, $30.00 and $35.00. DOG LICENSE All dogs are required to be licensed in the Village. A dog tag can be purchased from the CLERK’S OFFICE. The fee to purchase a dog tag is $3.00. GARBAGE PICKUP DAY FOR THE VILLAGE OF PHOENIX IS TUESDAYS. The scavenger service picks up garbage in the Village of Phoenix, every Tuesday. The only time this will change is, if the scavenger service observes a holiday that falls on Tuesday. In that case, the pick up day will be Wednesday.
Village Staff Sporting A New Look For 2006
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Johnie M. Lane
THE FOLLOWING HOLIDAYS ARE OBSERVED BY OUR SCAVENGER SERVICE: •New Years Day •Memorial Day •Independence Day •Labor Day •Thanksgiving Day •Christmas Day.
We encourage our citizens to dispose of tree limbs, branches and shrubbery by cutting the limbs and branches into lengths no longer than 4 feet, tie them into a bundle and place them out with your regular garbage. The scavenger service is not responsible to pick up construction material. You must get a dumpster for disposing of construction material. HUNTING AND FISHING LICENSE Hunting and Fishing license may be purchased at the Village Hall. The fee is set by the Department of Conservation. The fees are posted in the Village Hall. OFFICE HOURS The Water Department and Clerk’s Office is open 6 days a week, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Wednesday and Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. The Village of Phoenix holds REGULAR BOARD MEETINGS twice a month on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month. All Board Meetings are open to the public and are held in the Village Hall, 633 East 151st Street, at 7:00 p.m.
PHOENIX NEWS
Greetings
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from the Mayor
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n behalf of the Board of Trustees, we would like to thank all of you for your support over the past year. In April 2005, I was reelected to a 4th term as Village President, thus making me the longest serving Mayor in the history of Phoenix. Thank you for allowing me to continue to serve this great community. This past year we saw America experience the greatest natural disaster in American History, Hurricane Katrina. The storm highlighted the inability of our government to help large numbers of people in a crisis. But, it did showcase the spirit of Americans helping others in need. Nowhere was that more apparent than in the Village of Phoenix. When we asked for donations for the Katrina victims, this community came up with thousands of dollars worth of food, money for supplies for the Gulf coast victims. This was a classic example of the quality people that we have in this community. In the past year, we have made several changes in our administration. In August 2005, Dorothy Carter resigned as Village Trustee and was
appointed as Village Administrator. Her position on the Board of Trustees was filled by Joda Boykin. Joda had previously served 8 years as a member of the Board of Trustees and thus returns with a wealth of experience in municipal government. Trustee Boykin will serve as chairperson of the finance department. Ms. Carter will oversee the various departments in the village and work directly with Board of Trustees and department heads. n the area of Public Safety, we completed several major projects in 2005. In July, we completed our new Public Works facility. This building will allow us to repair and store our street department equipment in a safe and comfortable setting. The Police Department has purchased several pieces of surveillance equipment that will allow us to better monitor high traffic areas in the Village. The renovation of the Fire Station is complete along with all new fire fighting gear. We are planning an Open House in the Summer so that residents can tour the three facilities to see all of the
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Continued on page 4
PHOENIX NEWS
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Greeting Continued from page 3
improvements. The grants for the Police Department’s equipment were made possible by the help of Commissioner Deborah Sims and Cook County Board President John H. Stroger, Jr. We are pleased to have these two hard working elected officials work on behalf of the Village of Phoenix. We have several projects that we are hoping to complete in 2006. We have been approached by two developers. One will build single-family homes, the other will build several town homes. The groundbreaking for these projects will begin soon. As we are improving our housing, we will begin an aggressive demolition program. We have identified 18 structures in the Village that we hope to demolish this year. With the building of new homes and the demolition of dilapidated structures, we will clean up our vacant lots and increase property values. We will also renovate the Woody Winston Health Clinic. The number of residents that are served by the clinic has grown steadily in the past few years. Therefore, major renovations are necessary to continue the quality service that residents have become accustomed to. We would like to thank the residents for supporting the Home Rule Referendum which was passed on March 21, 2006. Home Rule gives the Village the power to pass laws that are in some cases stronger than those passed by the state. We can speed up demolition procedures, acquire property and regulate railroad crossings. As you can see, we’ve had a busy year in 2005 and hopefully 2006 will be even better. Thank you and God bless you all.
The Fire Station is complete along with all new fire fighting gear.
Dorothy Carter will oversee the various departments in the village and work directly with Board of Trustees and department heads. Joda Boykin will fill the position of chairperson of the finance department.
Our new Public Works facility will allow us to repair and store our street department equipment in a safe and comfortable setting.
Dorothy Carter
PHOENIX NEWS
KATRINA
Phoenix helped bring relief to victims of
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“This was a classic example of the quality people that we have in this community.”
PHOENIX NEWS
ACHIEVEMENTS PHOENIX SALUTES OUR RESIDENT’S
◆ Altha Stoudemire passed away in 2004. But before she passed, she had written a book. The title of the book is “Are You Listening”. She lived in Phoenix, Illinois since 1941. Her home was always open to everyone and she was a dedicted member of New Covenant Missionary Baptist Church. The book maybe purchased for $15.00 by calling 708-331-8301 or 708-5963375 ◆ Craig Wilson is all state football player at Thornton High School. He has been awarded an athletic scholarship to the University of Illinois.
◆ Brittanye Allen, granddaughter of Christine Jones, appeared on the Wheel of Fortune on October 28, 2005. ◆ Michael Berry is attending Texas Southern University. ◆ Jacqueline Anderson recently received her Bachelors Degree in accounting from Robert Morris College. ◆ Art T. Burton, South Suburban College History Instructor and “Wild West” historian, released his third book May 3, 2006, through the University of Nebraska Press. The title of the book is “Black Gun, Silver Star”: The Life and Legend of Frontier Marshall Bass Reeves. His other books are “Black, Red, and Deadly” released in 1991 and “Black, Buckskin and Blue” released in 1999. ◆ Curtisha Brown is ranked #8 in her sophomore class at Thronton High School. ◆ Aisha Burton is ranked #7 in her sophomore class at Thornton High School. ◆ Joevan Catron has accepted a basketball scholarship to the University of Oregon. He was selected first Team All State by Chicago Sun Times. ◆ Tiaunna Monique Dickens received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Biology from Fisk University, in Nashville Tennessee, on May 8, 2006.
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◆ Brittani Nolan is currently #2 in her sophomore class this year. She is a three-sport athlete, basketball, softball and volleyball and a Distinguished Scholar at Thornton. She is a member of the Ambassadors’ Program and will travel to Europe this summer representing Thornton High School and District 205. Anyone wishing to help Brittany realize her dream of being a part of the Ambassadors’ Program can call 708-331-6964.
◆ Nathan Holmes is #6 in his class. He is a member of Thornton Baseball Team and has been a Distinguished Scholar all three years at Thornton High School.
◆ Anthony Anderson, pictured with former U.S. President Bill Clinton, is CEO of the Pacific Region of Ernst & Young, the largest accounting firm in the country.
◆ Trinette Amanda Simon received her Bachelor of Arts in Humanities and Spainsh from Southern University at New Orleans, on May 13, 2006. ◆ Theresa Little played the part of Jasmine Sinclair in the play “Back In The Day” which was held at DuSable Museum of African American History. The play was presented by Southwest Chamber of Commerce & Blue Energy Productions. ◆ Deanna Monique Mahaffey attended the Illinois Principals Association Student Recognition Breakfast on May 5, 2006. She received straight “A’s” each marking period for second grade and third grade along with numerous academic awards. ◆ Kenyon Ross has just completed the film, The Truth Behind Nine Block. It is a full-length movie of Phoenix, Illinois. The movie was shown at the Village Hall on May 5 and May 6, 2006 at 7:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. each night. ◆ Amber Mason received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Economics from Spellman College in Atlanta, Georgia, on May 14, 2006. ◆ Angela Beard received her Bachelor of Science Degree on May 6, 2006 from Eastern Illinois University. She has been accepted at Howard University where she will be taking a graduate course in Speech Pathology.
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PHOENIX NEWS
You are invited to see the Village of Phoenix Historical Wall at South Suburban College that was dedicated in 2005. It is located on the third floor of the College, at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, IL.
A Dedication to The Past...
Phoenix Historical Wall Unveiled at South Suburban College
PHOENIX NEWS
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BEYOND THE BADGE
would like to thank the Village of Phoenix for the overwhelming support and cooperation given to the Police Department. Since becoming Chief of Police three years ago, the Village has demonstrated excellent community oriented policing in such areas as problem solving, cleanliness and respect. All of which are great examples of what a community can achieve by communicating with each other and working together. I would like to extend thanks to the many residents of the Village who helped to make my job as Chief very simple. I hope that we can continue on our goal of being one of the elite villages in the south suburban area. I give much credit for the reduction in crime rate and the overall well being of this community to the caring, family oriented residents of Phoenix. To each and every resident: I thank you, my Department thanks you and we all hope that 2006 will bring added joy to all. New Police Personnel The Phoenix Police Department would like to extend a warm welcome to the following members who have joined the force since the last publication: •G. Bowman •G. Grayer •S. Lindley •B. Bryant •J. Gunn •M. Mitchell •M. Dill •L. Howard •A. Nettles •D. Flores •P. Jackson •R. Slaughter B.A.D.G.E. Grant Thanks to a B.A.D.G.E. Grant that was awarded to the Police Department in early summer, we have instituted a Police Cadet Program that allows interested youth to participate in the everyday operations of the Department. Participants assist on minor police calls and traffic control. They also attend weekly mentoring sessions to discuss future careers in law enforcement and to help guide them in a positive direction and one day become police officers. Along with the cadet Program, this grant allowed the Police Department to sponsor several field trips for area youth. These trips included the Shedd Aquarium, Du Sable Museum, Brookfield Zoo and the Museum of Science & Industry. We are currently in the preliminary stages of organizing a Boxing Club. Residents will be updated on this project as it progresses. Eyes in the Sky The Village of Phoenix now has even more surveillance cameras. Since the initial installation of these cameras, there have been no major crimes and the sale of open market drugs has reduced tremendously. Surveillance cameras now cover approximately 60 percent of the Village.
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BY POLICE CHIEF MELVIN DAVIS
News TIP Hotline The Police Department would like to thank residents for reporting crime. Anonymous calls have assisted the detective unit in solving crime and has immensely helped the Department to counteract and decrease criminal activity. We Thank you for your continued support. Please keep the following “news TIP” number and e-mail address in a convenient location for future use: (708) 339-3939; detectives@ppdil.us. Crime Rate Down in Phoenix According to an annual report from the State of Illinois, since 2001, the crime rate in the Village of Phoenix has reduced by 70%. Credit for these statistics are due to the huge commitment from residents and from several part-time officers within this Department. These officers continue to keep the Village of Phoenix one of the safest communities in the south suburbs and an ideal community to raise a family. We have a vision that we can one day move in the direction of becoming a full-time Department in order to serve better the citizens of Phoenix. Boxing Program Underway The Phoenix Boxing Program is well underway. In spite of our inability to find a suitable location within the Village of Phoenix, the South Suburban YMCA at 178 East 155th Street in Harvey has proven an ideal location for this program. Although the venue for our program is in Harvey, it still flies the Phoenix flag. We have been active since December 19, 2005. Currently twelve children are enrolled. Although, the greater number of children are from the Village of Phoenix, we have opened our doors to children from the greater community as well. As you are aware, Sergeant Arnold Harper is the officer in charge of the day-to-day operations of this program. Sgt. Harper is assisted by Officers Patrick Carroll and Michael Mitchell. At present, most of the activities are centered on good sportsmanship and physical training. The specialized boxing training will commence in the upcoming months. Our hours of operation for the program are Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 6 p. m. to 9 p.m. We encourage parental participation and usually have 2-3 parents present at any given time. During the current year, with the aid of the B.A.D.G.E. funds, we will start to sponsor our twelve children with YMCA membership as well as being able to compensate our officers and trainers for their time.
Chief Davis “Seals the Deal”
Police Department has made great strides in combating the potential challenges of drugs and gangs that now affect so many suburban communities. We have long stood in admiration of the initiatives and accomplishments associated with the B.A.D.G.E. Program that focuses on law enforcement leadership, yet community involved programs. Thanks to John H. Stroger, Jr., Cook County President, Deborah Sims, Cook County Commissioner and Tracey Lewis, Coordinator. 2005 was our first year of participation in the B.A.D.G.E. program. Our goal to increase the peace in the community by fostering creative programs of drug and gang elimination while providing youth with positive means of outlet and involvement was accomplished. Pictured is Mel Davis, Chief of Police with Dan Coughlin, Cook county Executive Director of the Cook County Judicial board as he seals the deal for the B.A.D.G.E. Grant in the fall of 2005. This deal approved a $52,000.00 grant that allowed the Police Department to enhance their Cadet Program, form a Boxing Club and sponsor various field trips for area youth. Because the program went over so well, Cook County has already awarded the Village an additional $27,000.00 to continue in 2006!
PHOENIX NEWS
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ENGINE CO. 1706
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FIRE DEPARTMENT NEWS BY FIRE CHIEF BRANDON TURNER, JR.
bring you greetings from the Phoenix Fire Department. We are always ready to serve the residents of the Village in any way we can. During the holiday season, the firefighters had a chance to spread cheer to a family in the Village. This is the kind of work that makes us feel good. There have been some exciting happenings in the department. The department received a FEMA Grant to purchase and upgrade seventeen sets of new gear and air packs. This is vital equipment that all firefighters must have during a fire. We are thankful to have received this grant. In the past year, we were fortunate to receive a working fire engine from the City of Chicago. It was a well-received “gift�. The fire station has been remodeled. The
bay area and the living quarters have been painted and newly furnished. The kitchen has been equipped with new cabinets, counter tops, and new dinette set. The sleeping quarters have new beds. This project was made possible by the use of CDBG funds and the help of Commissioner Sims and President Stroger. Residents, it is imperative that your house must have address numbers clearly visible. If we are called to your residence, the firefighters must be able to find your house number without having to search for it. We would like to pay tribute to two outstanding men who served as Fire Chiefs of the Village, Grover Smith and Clarence Elmore. They were true servants of this town and have helped make Phoenix a better place
Female Firefighters in Training
PHOENIX NEWS
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DO YOU KNOW?
aKenya Kinnard, age 18, has been an academic scholar since Coolidge. She received the Pershing Broome Award, the Greta Morris Award and was inducted into the National Junior Honor Society at Coolidge. At Thornton, she received high honors and became a Distinguished Scholar.
Newsletter Question:
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BY TRUSTEE LANITA STEWART
hiquita Kinnard, age 16, is following in her sister’s path. She was also a member of the National Junior Honor Society at Coolidge and is now a Distinguished Scholar at Thornton High School. She is in the top 10 of her class. LaKenya and Chiquita are members of the Demoiselle 2
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Femme, an abstinence education program offered by the F a m i l y C e n t e r e d LaNita Stewart Educational Agency (FCEA). These two sisters are definitely two of Phoenix’s finest.
When you were growing up in Phoenix, who was the finest boy/girl in town? Who would you place on this list? James Bell . . . . . . . . . . .1960s Lawrence Watkins . . . .1970s Brandon Turner, Sr. . . .1960s Carla Cantrel . . . . . . . .1970s Charles Burton . . . . . . .1950s Marie White . . . . . . . . .1970s Willliam Hawkins, Jr. .1950s Roche Hill . . . . . . . . . . .1970s Susan Ellison . . . . . . . .1960s Audrey Russell . . . . . .1970s
Pat Fuller . . . . . . . . . . .1960s Anna Suggs . . . . . . . . . 1970s Jackie Dright . . . . . . . .1960s Brenda Shephard . . . . .1970s Esther Mullins . . . . . . .1960s Jimmie Winter . . . . . . .1970s Pearl Hamilton . . . . . .1960s Derrick Jackson . . . . . .1970s Ira Hamilton . . . . . . . . . 1960s Johnny Belmont . . . . . .1970s
Do You Remember? You are a true old timer if you can remember the following:
•The Shabby Bus •Teen Town •The Custard Stand •Thrumps Frams •Hughes Tavern •Village Inn •Talk of The Town •Maxine’s Bar-B-Cue •Joe Tarala’s Store •North Inn •Mr. Curley’s Barber Shop •Hughes Tavern •Mr. Sawyer’s Store •Bills Tavern •The Pool Hall, •Ward’s Tavern •Herman’s Barber Shop •Mr. Johnson’s Store •Sanita’s •Mr. Ward’s Store •Pete & Mary’s •640 •Mrs. William’s Freezer Cups •Williamson’s Bar-B-Cue Go Go • Mrs. Massey’s Store
Gordon White . . . . . . .1960s “Cookie” Jones . . . . . .1970s Roosevelt Thomas . . . .1960s Garland Mays . . . . . . .1960s Theodore Hutton, Jr. . .1980s Betty Coleman . . . . . . .1960s Yvonne Watt . . . . . . . . .1960s Rosemary Davis . . . . .1960s Jean Livingston . . . . . .1960s
PHOENIX NEWS
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RESIDENTS HAVE A FARWELL CELEBRATION FOR “MS. PAT”
Pat Bielenin
PARK DISTRICT NEWS Phoenix Fest, Inc. 1964-2004 (Ruby Anniversary) Over 40 Years of Service to the Community “We’re Proud to Serve Our Village” The Phoenix Park District holds its meetings on the 3rd Thursday of each month at 7:00 p.m. Our commissioners are as follows: •Patrice Burton, President •Dr. Mildred West-Garcia, Vice-President •Annette Broome, Treasurer •Tonya Renee Anderson, Acting Secretary •Lori Hagler, Commissioner
Recipients of the Phoenix Fest, Inc. Scholarship Awards in 2005:
•Ellen Malone, attending Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin •Sheena McKinney, attending ITT Technical Institute •Tiffany W. Ross, attending Eastern Illinois University •Chanae Ross, attending Eastern Illinois University
Recipients of the Phoenix Fest, Inc. Continium Scholarship Awards in 2005: •Danielle Coopwood, attending Purdue University •Tiaunna M. Dickens, attending Fisk University •Amber N. Mason, attending Spelman College •Ji’Nal Thompson, attending Robert Morris College
Congratulations to Bryan McMillin who won the Split-the-Pot raffle at Phoenix Fest 2005 that paid $300.00.
Don’t forget to pick up your Early Bird Fest Booths applications at the Village Hall for Fest 2006.
See photos of Phoenix Fest 2005 on pages 12 and 13!
FOUR
PHOENIX NEWS
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YEARS OF
GIVING
2005 marked the fourth year the Renegade Riders Motorcycle Club has presented Christmas gifts to local children. We are so grateful for their support in helping to make a joyous Christmas for the children of our community.
The National Golden Age Club of Phoenix
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Robert Jackson, President he meetings are held every first Saturday of each month at 11:30 a.m. at the William Hawkins Multi-Purpose Center, 650 East Phoenix Center Drive (151st Street and Fourth Avenue,) Phoenix, IL. The dues are $15.00 annually. Each year the club awards a scholarship to an outstanding student who will be graduating from high school and have been accepted by a college or university. The interested students must fill out a scholarship application and submit their academic information requested along with the application. The scholarship application forms for 2006 scholarship will be available May 1, 2006. The 2005 scholarships were awarded to the following students: •1st Place: Eric J. Beasley, FINAL RANK: 38 of 345 CUME GPA: 3.41304. He is currently attending DePaul University. •2nd Place: Quincy Goodwin, FINAL RANK: 63 of 345 CUME GPA: 3.10435. He is currently attending Parkland College.
• 3rd Place: Dominique Majors, FINAL RANK: 72 of 345 CUME GPA: 2.97959. She is currently attending Southern Illinois University. The club held its 21st Annual Black History Celebration on February 18, 2006. Thanks to all who attended.
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PHOENIX NEWS
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PHOENIX LIBRARY DISTRICT NEWS
he Phoenix Public Library District has begun hosting monthly “book club” sessions. Since November, the book club has read four books and has met to discuss these books with other interested citizens. The books that have been read are: Casting the First Stone, Too Much of a Good Thing, The Best Kept Secret, Dreams From My Father, by Senator Barack Obama, and God Don’t Like Ugly. Any interested citizens are welcome to attend the discussion sessions. The sessions are held at the William Hawkins Multi-Purpose Center. Other activities that were held by the Library included a trip to the Theater Building in Chicago to attend a play entitled “Josephine Tonight”. This was a musical retelling Josephine Baker’s rise to fame. The library also held Summer Reading for Minutes, Library Visits, Movie Days, Safety Day, Family Reading Night, and Wednesday Afternoon Homework Sessions. For more information, call 331-2636. Trustees of the Library Board are: Jessica Buckner, Loretta Wells, Dorothy Carter, Ernestine Proctor-
Family Reading Night: A Night of Books, Fun and Prizes
Phoenix Library Book Club
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Harris, Martina Lane-Mahaffey, Tonya Renee Anderson and Elizabeth Bateman. Special Events:
•July 6, 2006 at 7:30 p.m. Library Book Club Discussion.The featured book is The Honeymooners by John Patterson. •July 12 through August 16, 2006. Summer Reading Contest every Wednesday 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. •June 17, 2006 Safety Day. •July 26, 2006 at 5:00 p.m. Library Movie Day at the Phoenix Village Hall. •Spelling “B” and Friends of the Library Board fundraiser date to be announced.
PHOENIX NEWS
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VILLAGE OF PHOENIX CHURCH DIRECTORY Evans Community Church 723 E. 153rd Street, Phoenix, IL. 60426 Phone 708-339-0469 Rev. Tyrone Coleman, Pastor Sunday School every Sunday 9:30 a.m. Worship Service every Sunday 11:00 a.m. <><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>
Daniel Chapel A.M.E. Zion Church 15250 Third Avenue, Phoenix, IL. 60426 Phone 708-339-1990 Rev. Derrick Simmons, Pastor Sunday School every Sunday 9:15 a.m. Worship Service and Children’s Morning Worship every Sunday 10:50 a.m. Wednesday Prayer Service and bible Study 10:30 a.m. Wednesday Night Prayer Service and Bible Study 6:45 p.m. <><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>
Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church 15354 – 8th Avenue – P. O. Box 2545 Phoenix, IL. 60426 Phone 708-339-1026 Rev. Edward L. Jones, Pastor Sunday School every Sunday 9:30 a.m. Worship Service every Sunday 11:00 a.m. <><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>
New Covenant Missionary Baptist Church
Fellowship of Love Christian Center
15213 – 5th Avenue – P. O. Box 1358 Phoenix, IL. 60426 Phone 708-331-3661 Rev. Dr. Richard D. McCreary, Pastor
Mailing Address: P. O. Box 1016 – Harvey, IL. 60426 Currently holding Sunday Worship Service at: William Hawkins Multi-Purpose Center, 151st Street & 4th Avenue Phoenix, IL. 60426 Phone 708-335-0680 Rev. Derrick M. White, Pastor
Worship Service every Sunday 11:00 a.m. Midweek Service and Bible study every Wednesday 7:00 p.m. <><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>
Peace and Goodwill Church of God in Christ
Worship Service every Sunday at 10:00 a.m. <><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>
15311 Third Avenue, Phoenix, IL. 60426 Phone 708-339-0440 Elder Fisher Cook, Pastor
Faith Fellowship and Love COGIC
Sunday School every Sunday 9:00 a.m. Worship Service every Sunday10:15 a.m. <><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>
Welcome Missionary Baptist Church
701 East 151st Street, Phoenix, IL. 60426 Phone 708-342-1887 Rev. Parthenia Stegall, Pastor Bible Class and Deliverance Prayer Service: Thurasday at 6:00 pm. Sunday School: 10:00 am every Sunday
15110 – 9th Avenue, Phoenix, IL. 60426 Phone 708-225-1788 Rev. S. L. Dudley, Pastor
EYEOPENING New Book!
Sunday School every Sunday 10:00 a.m. Worship Service every Sunday 11:00 a.m. <><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>
Daniel Chapel Welcomes New Pastor
One of The Most Influential Books You Will Every Read!
M (L-R) Rev. Tyrone W. Coleman, Rev. Derrick Simmons and Mayor Terry Wells. (Inset photo: L-R) Mrs. Loretta Wells, Mayor Terry Wells, Rev. Derrick Simmons, and Mrs. Debra Simmons during “Welcoming Celebration.”
On January 7, 2006, the congregation of Daniel Chapel A.M.E. Zion Church put their arms around Rev. and Mrs. Derrick Simmons and their two sons, Derrick II, 14 and Bradford, 9, when they were officially welcomed to the church and Phoenix at a well-attended reception. Pastor Simmons comes to Daniel Chapel from Knoxville, Tennessee where he had been pastor for six years. He completed his under graduate studies at Western Michigan University. He continued his studies at McCormick Theological Seminary, in Chicago, Illinois and Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee where he received a Masters of Divinity. Pastor Simmons is glad to be home. His parents still live in Gary, Indiana where he grew up. Daniel Chapel feels truly blessed to have this man of God to lead them forward. The doors of Daniel Chapel are always open and the congregation and Pastor Simmons invite all to come and worship with them.
any books have been written about the Nation of Islam but none in such a compassionate perspective as Torn. The author has beautifully adhered to the bible’s instructions to “tell the truth with love.” The author has changed spiritual direction, after spending nine years of his life under the leadership of Minister Louis Farrakhan. If you are Christian, this book is must-have study material. If you are Muslim, it will definitely be one of the most influential books you will every read! The reader is constantly reminded of God’s love and how the author is writing out of love and obedience to God. It is a wonderful writing and mandatory reading for both Muslims and Christians.
ORDER ONLINE AT www.thebooktorn.com
PHOENIX NEWS The Village of Phoenix joins the families in remembrance of their loved ones. Robert Doss, Sr., 2004 Bernice LeGrand-Curtis, 2005 Anthony Beard, 2005 James “Grover” Smith Howard Fisher, Sr., 2005 Served as the Village Fire Chief and was a Arthur T. Burton, Sr., 2005 Sergeant of the Police Dario M. Dillard, 2005 department. Gladys D. Acree, 2005 James Grover Smith, 2005 Allie Allison, 2005 Ruby Clark, 2005 Johnnie Proctor, 2005 Clarence A. Elmore, 2005 James Abbott, Jr., 2005 Clarence A. Elmore. Employed by Village of Darvis Hannah, 2005 Phoenix since 1984. James Griffin, 2005 He was Fire Chief for over six years. Chanie Butler, 2005 Donald Lewis, 2005 James M. Griffin, Sr., 2005 Dorothy O. Ware, 2005 Classie R. Wilson, 2005 Nellie Sorrell, 2005 Edith Jackson, 2005 Frederick Jeffrey Virginia H. Chandler, 2005 Richardson, Sr. Yvonne Smith-Vaughn, 2005 Police officer for many years. Also served as Sarah Long, 2005 Chief of police. Minnie Varnado Carter, 2005 Frederick Jeffrey Richardson, Sr., 2005 Isiah Karon Sincere Kirkwood, 2005 Alberta B. Jones, 2005 Violet Puckett, 2005 Rebecca Marie Moore, 2005 Reba Johnson-Halbert, 2005 Walter F. Jones, 2005 Mary “Johnson” Ray, 2005 Renee Michelle Wright-Williamson, 2005 Vivian Y. Mayes, 2006 Alberta Alexander, 2006 Aubrey Lane, Jr., 2006 Arnold Taylor, 2006 Curtiss Parham-Griggs, 2006 Dorothy Mae Love, 2006 Joseph Warnell, 2006 Viola Terry, 2006 Dorothy J. Harris, 2006 Catherine Brown, 2006
Aubrey Lane, Jr. A former Village Trustee.
If we missed anyone, please accept our apologies. You may call us at 708331-1455 to report any omissions.
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WE SUPPORT OUR LOCAL BUSINESSES •Superior Rug & Upholstery Cleaners
•Rudy’s Auto Repair
•Gil’s House of Beauty Phaze II
•KTM Electronics
•Smitty’s Lounge
•Brown Brothers Auto Repair
•Moses Wills Trucking Co.
•Gibson’s Citgo & Quik Mart
•Whisperwood Funeral Chapel •Phoenix Fabrication
•R. Williams Contracting
•Smiling Faces Daycare Center
•D & D Construction Co.
•D. Anderson Contracting Inc.
•Sister2Sister Catering & Soul Food Carryout •P & R Quick Stop •Mr. Clean Car Wash
South Suburban New Townhomes College Students coming to Phoenix continue to build Ms. Evelyn J. Perkins, a former Phoenix resihas purchased land in the 153rd block homes in Phoenix dent, of Seventh Avenue and will be building town homes this spring.
Mayor Terry wells (left), Phoenix resident Nacy Webster and Congressman Jesse L. Jackson Jr. pause to take a photo duing an annual Frank Zuccarelli picnic.
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PHOENIX NEWS
T
he 7th grade Coolidge Tigers just finished up a successful 2005-06 year. The Tigers finished the season with a 12-6 record. They lost their last game in the regional championship game to Brooks Middle School. One of their accomplishments was winning the Schamburg Holiday classic. Team members include: Jeremy Parker, Kevin Parker, Ashonte English, Jovan Kay, Jalon Taylor, Cody Smith, Bruce Rhea, Martell Catron, Marcell Nelson, DeAndre Grant, Marquies Wells, and DeAndre Woods. 6th graders playing with the 7th graders were Malcolm Majors, Darrin Stewart, and Lamar Miller. The boys were coached by Mr. Baranski, Mr. Ellison, and assisted by Mr. Hill. The 8th grade boys worked hard on their game and it showed. The 8th grade team was led by a solid group of guards. Team members include: Curtis White, Darion Dyson, Lee Martin, Cory Campbell, Dion Weaver, DeAndre Brewer, Brandon Parker, Dajon Maye, Rodney Washington, Antwan Mason, Kesho Acox, Kendall Wilson, and LaDarius Williams. Lee Martin, Darion Dyson, and DeAndre Brewer were selected to play in the 8th grade Suburban All-Star Classic. The All-Star Classic will be played at Rich South High School in the spring. The girls volleyball season is just under way. The 7th graders are 3-1 and the 8th graders are 2-2 for the year. 7th grade team members include: Shaneka Boyd, Kanesha Davis, Erica Dillard, Nancy Flores, Dierdra Flowers, Amver James, Karen Mendoze, Carmela Orozco, Brittany Tucker, and Tiarra Tucker. The 6th graders playing with the 7th graders include: Desiree Epps, Shelby Gordon, and Jennifer Trudel. Students playing on the 8th grade team include: Carmeece Bellenger, Jessica Brown, Christina Garza, Amanda Humphries, Daisy Johnson, Kaita Jones, Andrea Ortiz, Shayna Robinson, Avery Wilson,Veronica
19 Winston, and Angela Wynn. The teams are coached by Ms. Citro and Ms. Myros. Under the direction of Mr. Moody, the Coolidge Middle School band is having one of their most successful years in recent
Dixon, Kaiita Jones, Temmi Adeyeni, Jessica Anderson, Kashell Benn, Chiquira Frazier, Tonielle Hayes, Amanda Humphries, Garrah Kent, Porshay Lloyd, Kyla Mack, Tenetia Tarver, Faye Thomas,
history. They have played at MB National Bank in South Holland, and a Concert at Thornridge. There are 120 members in the current band. The band is divided into three groups: the 6th graders Concert, 7th and 8th graders make Symphonic. The jazz band is called Sounds of Soul (SOS). The jazz band played at Thornwood on Martin Luther King’s birthday. Choral is lead by Mrs. Manley. They performed with SOS at the Bank, the Concerts at Thornridge, and in the District Band Tour. They also performed at the Black History program. Members include: Cameece Ballanger, Jessica Dixon, Jessica Anderson, Griana Jones, Kalia Johnson, Marilyn Roby, Brittney Onley, Ebony Burton, Gaberille Dillon, Breanna Wilson, and Latashia Lee. The Step-Drill Team is under the expert direction of Mrs. Foxworth. Team members include: Breonna Starciel, Alicia Tarver, Shana Nunn, Dimeetry Tate, Jasmine Young, Jessica
Raven Townsel, Brianna Wells, and Veronica Winston. One new addition to Coolidge Middle School is a new drama department. The drama club meets after school from 2:30-3:30. The club has about 60 students. The club is divided into four areas: Actors, Poets, Stage Design, and Costume Design. Under the leadership of Mrs. Rush and Mrs. Proctor-Harris the club has performed in the Martin
COOLIDGE SPORTS
Luther King Assembly at Coolidge Middle School and Phoenix Family Reading Night at the Multi Purpose Center in Phoenix. Another new club is the dance team that is sponsored by one of our parents, Mrs. Fobbs. The teams are divided by grade level. Mrs. Fobbs teaches modern, ballet, and spiritual. 35 girls are participating in the club that meets on Monday, Thursday and Friday. On February 23 the club performed at Coolidge Middle School for the Black History Program. Among the other clubs at Coolidge is a male mentor program run by Mr. Winston and Dr. Foster. The mentor program takes young men who are on the honor roll and those that are close to the honor roll and make them into positive role models for our other males at Coolidge. The mentor program has 25 boys in it. Coolidge also has a program for our gifted artists. The art club was organized by Ms. Zega and offers different projects throughout the year. This year, the 10 members will be working on a mural at Coolidge. Mrs. Richards has started a Social Studies program for all of her Constitution students. She tutors about 20 students in Social Studies. Every 8th grade student must pass the U.S. Constitution test in order to graduate.
COOLIDGE BAND NEWS
The Coolidge Band ended the school year with these exciting events! May 18, 2006: Odyssey Fun World (Cadet Band) May 20, 2006: Awards Banquet (Symphonic Band) May 23, 2006: Great America Performance (Concert & Symphonic Band) May 26, 2006: Memorial Day Program (All Schools) May 29, 2006: S.H. Memorial Day Parade (Concert & Symphonic Band) May 31, 2006: 8th Grade Graduation (SOS Jazz Band) Thornridge High School 7:00 p.m.
PHOENIX NEWS
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MADISON SCHOOL
Mrs. Regina Davis-Bridges, Principal Phone 708-339-2117 Fax 708-210-3250
SECOND QUARTER HONORS
A Honor Roll •Michael Stephens
A/B Honor Roll •Jessikah Campbell •Antonio Berry •Lashaun Johnson •Destiny Mahaffey •Paul Watkins •Johnny Washington •Atonna Bridgemon •Angel Hill
Super Citizens •Asia Dillard •Lashaun Johnson •Ka’lia Blasingame •Justin Montgomery
EISENHOWER SCHOOL Dr. Rhonda Towner, Principal Phone 708-339-5900 Fax 708-210-3252
FIRST AND SECOND QUARTER HONORS
First Quarter •DeMaris Crump •Sakihya Durden •Cheyenne Ezell •Brittanee Foster •Javon Fulton •Deanna Mahaffey •Deandre Mahaffey •Alexis Moffett •Steph Von Rogers •Samuel Taylor
Second Quarter •Cheyenne Ezell •Brittanee Foster •Javon Fulton •Deanna Mahaffey •Deandre Mahaffey •Steph Von Rogers •Samuel Taylor •Arnold Wheatley •Daniel White
FIRST SEMESTER STUDENTS OF THE MONTH
•Deanna Mahaffey •Charles Brooks •Devin Huff •Tiarra Wilkins •Markiya Turner •Juwan Murray State Representative William Davis was the “Principal for a Day” at •Cheyenne Ezell Eisenhower on October 14, 2005. He addressed the entire student body durFIRST SEMESTER READERS OF THE MONTH ing an assembly and performed administrative duties such as listening to students read, visiting classrooms, and supervising bus dismissal. Representative Davis also participated in Eisenhower’s Fall Harvest celebration on October 28, 2006. He participated in the costume parade, assisted in judging the costume contest and held a pizza party for the entire school.
•Titanna Brackett
•DeMaris Crump
PHOENIX NEWS
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TAFT SCHOOL
Anthony Palomo, Principal 393 E. 163rd Street Harvey, IL. 60426 708-339-2710
ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS
Taft School runs a program called Helping Taft Parents (HTP2). This program runs once a month. The purpose of the program is to invite our Kindergarten and First Grade parents and to show them the skills and techniques that teachers use in class. It gives parents a better understanding of what we do here at school. This helps parents when they’re working with their child at home. Taft School has a new playground for the children. It
is located on the west side of the building. Our official opening of the playground will be announced at a later date due to the weather. It is open to the community when students are not in session. Taft School has new modular units in order to provide a learning environment more suitable for our teachers and students. Taft School will be offering an All-Day Kindergarten program for the 2006-2007 school year. We are in the planning
stages of our program. Students will have to be the age 5 before September 1 to be eligible for the program. More information will be coming soon. If you have
questions about the Kindergarten Program, please call Taft School at 708-339-2710.
We have a birth to three program here at Taft that works with our Parents Coordinator, Mrs. Baker, on developmental issues for toddlers. Her class schedule is as follows: T.O.T.S. 2005-2006 Schedule Monday: Infants, Newborn-12 months 9:45-11:00 a.m. Tuesday: Toddlers 12-24 months 9:45-11:00 a.m. English Class Wednesday: 24 months and older 1:00-2:15 p.m. Thursday: 24 months and older 9:45-11:00 a.m. Friday: Home Visits
THORNTON TOWNSHIP HIGH SCHOOL Mr. Angelo Amstead, Principal 15101 Broadway Avenue Harvey, IL. 60426 DISTINGUISHED SCHOLARS FIRST SEMESTER
•Rose Bourne •Brittney Brooks •Curtisha Brown •Aisha Burton •Nathan Holmes •Breann Jones •Chiquita Kinnard •Kenosha Prater •Ebony Snoddy •Zhamarr Thompkins •Gregory Wynne
HIGH HONOR ROLL FIRST SEMESTER
•Feshawn Berry •Marquis Eady •Brendan Gilbert •Jasmine Hikes •Janai Hudson •Laquana Lockhart •Adrian Rodriguez
HONOR ROLL FIRST SEMESTER
•Aaron Beasley •Tashia Bullock •Jennifer Harris •Jocquell Ivory
•Lyala Sample •Dante Scott •Chase Simmons •Dominque Wheatley
HONOR ROLL THIRD QUARTER
•Aaron Beasley •Feshawn Berry •Brittney Brooks •Curtisha Brown •Aisha Burton •Marquis Eady •Brendan Gilbert •Jennifer Harris •Jasmine Hikes •Nathan Holmes •Janai Hudson
•Breann Jones •Chiquita Kinnard •Lakenya Kinnard •Andrew McByrd •Brittani Nolan •Kenosha Prater •Adrian Rodriguez •Lyala Sample •Ebony Snoddy •Gregory Wynne •Terry Wells, Jr., T’wood
PHOENIX NEWS
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SOUTH SUBURBAN COLLEGE George Dammer, President 15800 S. State Street South Holland, IL. 60473
The following are outstanding students from the Village of Phoenix who qualified for the Dean’s List of Scholars for the Fall 2005 semester: •Yvonne Akinsola •Anthony Cooper •Theresa Little •Charmaine Campbell •Lori Hagler
To be named to the Dean’s List, full-time and part-time students must have a 3.50 grade point average (GPA) calculated on at least 12 semester hours of 100 level or above, while part-time students must have a minimum of 3.50 grade point average of the credit hours earned in the given semester and have completed at least
12 semester hours of prior course work of 100-level or above. Both full and part-time students must be in “good standing” at the College. Their commitment to an education is to be commended as it sets an example for others striving to meet similar goals…goals that pave the way to a successful career and future.
People You Should Know Arthur Burton
Dorothy Carter
Johnnie M. Lane, Village Clerk, has been a Phoenix resident since 1961.
Jerome Ferrell
Albert Kirklin, Village Trustee and chairperson of Public Works Department.
Joseph Duval Ross, Village Trustee in charge of Police and Fire. Joda Boykin, (not pictured) Village Trustee and chairperson of the finance departement.
Arthur T. Burton, Jr. (Art), Village Trustee and chairperson of public property.
Jerome Ferrell, Jr., Village Trustee of Phoenix Water Department.
Albert Kirklin
LaNita Stewart
Johnie M. Lane
Joseph Duval Ross
LaNita Stewart, is Village Trustee in charge of Ordinance and Resolution. Dorothy Carter, Village Administrator.
PHOENIX NEWS
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Phoenix Salutes Coolidge School Honor Students
6th Grade Honor Roll Fatima Cornejo Jasmine Daniels Juvenal Estrada Cydnei Gadsden Kamariyah Muhammed Jazmyne Kelloggs Melissa Blanco Alejandra Ceron Bridgett Allen Tony Hicks Ivette Salazar Jasia Young Ashley Bryson Desiree Epps Terrance King Precious Credit Shannyn Haradin Maurice Miller Christian Ramos Ashley Sullivan
Names in Red are students who live in Phoenix.
7th Grade High Honor Roll
Cherjuan Williams Aleli Alcaide Alexzandria Clemmons Nicholas Clemmons Michelle Quiroz Lorado Atkins Brittani Batts Deanna Coleman Amber James Tatiana Smith Maya Tomes Brianna Wells Taylor Wells
7th Grade Honor Roll
Jose Arambula Faye Thomas Mellody Strahan Karen Mendoza Joshua Hunter Fernanda Barajas Kaitlyn Knight
8th Grade High Honor Roll
Jessica Anderson Garrah Kent Elvira Navarro Fernando Williams Juana Leon
8th Grade Honor Roll
Jessica Anderson Garrah Kent Elvira Navarro Fernando Williams Juana Leon Rene Ruiz Raven Townsel Andrea Farias Brittany Sheppard Jasmine Walker Temmi Adeyeni Cristina Garza Saudia Mallicott Magdalene Agbehia Cameece Ballenger Edward Escobedo Christina Estrada Kaiita Jone
T
National Junior Honor Society
he Coolidge N.J.H.S. induction ceremony was held Tuesday, April 4, 2006 @ 7:00 p.m. in the Coolidge Gym. The participants in the ceremony were inductees, current and former members. Our guest speaker was Nishaat Farooqui, a former Coolidge N.J.H.S. member. Dorothy Owens and Adrienne Dendrinos organized the Coolidge N.J.H.S. sixteen years ago. They had the insight to promote the excellence of students. The students have exemplified the five criteria of the N.J.H.S., Scholarship, Leadership, Citizenship, Character and Service. The current inductees are:
Alei Alcaide Jose Arambula Cameece Ballenger Fernando Barajas Alexzandria Clemmons Nicholas Clemmons Andrea Farias Joshua Hunter Amber James Saudi Mallicott Karen Mendoza Elvira Navarro Tatiana Smith
Mellody Strahan Kayla Vaughn Jasmine Walker Brianna Wells Taylor Wells Cherjuan Williamson
The current advisors of N.J.H.S. are: Toni Foxworth, Dorothy Owens and Doelynn Strong.
How many Honor Rolls did you make? How many photos are you in?