The Hispanic Times.com

Cinco de Mayo, Secretary of State Mobile Services, "Before I die" Wall, College Workshop, Lucy Parsons Art Exhibit, Events

2012-05-03T00:00:00.000-05:00

IT’S FIESTA TIME: Mexicans, Mexicans-Americans and others will be celebrating “Cinco de Mayo” this weekend, Saturday, May 5, 2012 with music, food and festivities. It is an event that has become very popular in the United States. However, Cinco de Mayo is often confused as Mexico’s Independence Day.

CINCO DE MAYO is the celebration of the Battle of Puebla, Mexico in 1862 with Mexico’s victory against a French invasion. It honors the bravery of the small Mexican militia of 4,000 in a fierce battle and victory against a strong powerful French army of 8,000 of Napoleon III.

Gen. Ignacio Zaragoza

WHENEVER “Cino de Mayo” is mentioned the name of General Ignacio Zaragoza immediately comes to the minds of Mexicans who live in Mexico. Gen. Zaragoza was their hero because he led the Mexican army to the victorious Battle of Puebla [Batalla de Puebla]. At the age of 33, Gen. Zaragoza contacted typhoid fever which led to his premature death on Sept. 8, 1862.

THE UNITED States Postal Service issued the first Cinco de Mayo stamp in 1998. It was re-issued in 1999 with a 33 cents face value.

FESTIVAL: The Little Village Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring a 3-day “Cinco de Mayo” festival. The festivities will begin on Friday, May 4th from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday, May 5th from 12 Noon to 11 p.m. and Sunday, May 6, 2012 from 12 noon to 11 p.m. at 26^th St. & Kostner Ave.

FEATURED ENTERTAINMENT by special guests Cynthia Rodriguez, Erick Sandoval, Estilo Especial, Adikto, Julie Cortez and the explosion de la cumbia and Group Veloz. There will be music, food, a carnival and games at the festival for everyone to enjoy. For more info call 773/868-3010. Mexicanos, Happy Cinco de Mayo!

LVCC MOBILE SECRETARY OF STATE SERVICES: Anyone in need of any of the services listed below from the Secretary of State’s Office is invited to come to the Little Village Community Council, 3610 W. 26^th St. from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday, May 18, 2012, no appointment necessary.

SERVICES provided at the Secretary of State mobile LVCC event as follows:
[Driver’s License/State I.D. Card fees]

Basic Drivers License/Renewal $30
Commercial Driver’s License Renewal [CDL] $60
Driver’s License for persons age 18-20 $5
Driver’s License for persons age 21-68 $30
Driver’s License for persons age 69-80 $5
Driver’s License for persons age 81-86 $2
Driver’s License for persons age 87 and older FREE
Corrected or Duplicate Driver’s License or Permit $5
Renewal M or L classification [motorcycle] $5
State ID issued for five years $20
Correction – State I.D. issued $10
Duplicate State I.D. issued $20
State I.D. for persons 17 & under $10
State I.D. for persons 18-64 $20
State I.D. for persons 65 or older FREE
State I.D. for persons with disability issued FREE
State I.D. for persons Homeless FREE
License Plate [standard] Stickers $99
Motor Voter registration with renewal of DL/ID
Organ donor registration with renewal DL/ID
Seniors age 75 and up. Need to visit DMV to renew driver’s license.

PROPER identification will be needed for the above services. Form of payment: Cash, Check, Credit Cards accepted [American Express, Master Card, Discover, NO VISA].

"Before I die" wall at the Manuel Perez Jr. Memorial Plaza

THE WALL: There was a gathering of young people and adults from Little Village at the Manuel Perez Jr. Memorial Plaza, 26^th St. & Kolin Ave. on Saturday, April 21, 2012. Residents were asked to finish a sentence printed on the wall that reads: “Before I die……. ”.

Gardeners plant hydrangea

The concept is part of an interactive public art project which invites people to share their wishes, hopes or dreams within a public space. Similar to a “bucket list” people wrote, in chalk, their aspirations.

“Before I die…..” project is sponsored by the Little Village Chamber of Commerce, Chicago Urban Art Society, Uprising organization and Good News Gallery. Some of the writings on the wall are: “Before I die I would like to see world peace.” “I would like to visit my abuelita’s [grandmother’s] pueblo in Mexico.” I would like to see the Cubs win the World Series.” “I would like to become a fashion stylist.” I wrote “I would like to see more Latino’s voting!” This is an ongoing process with room for more participants. Pilsen, Edgewater, Hyde Park and Brighton Park have similar walls.

Nilda Esparza & Abigail Wood-Lizalde

NILDA ESPARZA, Executive Director of the Little Village Chamber of Commerce and her staff oversaw the “Before I die” project. Abigail Wood-Lizalde represented Universidad Popular and her UPRising group helped with the installation. Landscapers from Brickman Co. installed flowers in front of the wall.“We encourage people to visit the wall,” said Esparza. The “Before I Die” wall is turning into a global art project, expanding to cities around the world, including Amsterdam, Portsmouth, Queretaro, Almaty, San Diego, Lisbon, Brooklyn, London and beyond.

ARTIST CANDY Chang is the creator of the “Before I die” wall. She turned the side of an abandoned house in her New Orleans neighborhood into a giant chalkboard, painted and stenciled the sentence “Before I die I want to"

COLLAGE WORKSHOP: More than 75 high school students and parents attended the Scholarship Informational Workshop sponsored by Chicago Public School [CPS] West Side High School Network and the Little Village Community Council at Benito Juarez Community Academy High School Thursday, April 26, 2012.

PRESENTATIONS given by: Marcia Boyd, CPS Office of Pathways to College and Career featuring Financial Literacy; Maria Bucio, assistance for undocumented students; Abel Montoya, Illinois Student Assistance Commission: State Student Aid; Kristen McRoberts and Carole Wood, City Colleges of Chicago. The event was a success.

LUCY GONZALEZ PEREZ

ART EXHIBIT: Carlos Arango, President/Director and Efren Beltran, Originator-Curator at Casa Aztlan, 1831 S. Racine St. [18^th & Racine] are extending an invitation to the public to visit its Art Show Exhibition opening reception Friday, May 4 at 6 p.m.

THE EXHIBITION is honoring the life and legacy of Lucy Gonzalez Parsons [1853-1942]. Parsons was an activist, feminist and labor organizer in 1915 Chicago. Theme of the event is: Hard Day and Time of Change [Dias Dificiles – Tiempo de Cambio]. Artwork by Victor Montanez with guest artist-activist Diane Kahlo. The exhibition will be open from Friday, May 4, 2012 to Friday, May 25, 2012.

OTHER PARTICIPANTS will be Arturo Miramontes, Diana Solis, Esperanza Gama, Oscar Romero, Victor Montanez, John Weber, Roman Villarreal, Jose Andreu, Jesus Macarena, Rachel Heuman, Saul Aguirre, Eric Garcia, Griselda Laureano and Edgar Solorzano. Music will be provided by Maestro Chuy Negrete who will sing the “Corrido Lucy Parsons”.

FOR MORE information contact Patricia Perez, Executive Assistant at 312/666-5509x122.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Thursday, May 3rd to May 6--Cinco de Mayo Festival at Douglas Park, Ogden Ave. & California Ave. from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sponsored by Cermak Chamber of Commerce.
Friday, May 4th from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday, May 5th from 12 Noon to 11 p.m. and Sunday, May 6, 2012 from 12 noon to 11 p.m. "Cinco de Mayo" Festival at 26th St. & Kostner Ave. sponsored by Little Village Chamber of Commerce.

Sat., May 5th Cinco de Mayo Tequila Festival presented by Hispanic Pro, 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Vertigo Sky Lounge, 2 W. Erie St. Early bird online ticket price: $15. Call: 312/867-0631.

Farragut National Honor Society, 31st Street Seniors, Earth Day, Events

2012-04-26T00:00:00.000-05:00

HACKED: I have been notified by AT&T Internet Services Security Center that my e-mail account has been compromised. AT&T said: "One or more addresses attached to [your] the account were found to be sending spam using authentication. My e-mail ID password has been hacked. To all who received bogus e-mails like "hey" from my account, please delete and sorry for the inconvenience.

Farragut Career Academy

National Honor Society Officers

Left to right: Class of 2012. Uriel Ramirez, President; Mariela Alcantar-Villagomez,
Vice-President; Guadalupe Arreola, Secretary; Milika Reyes, Treasurer.
Class of 2013. Maribel Flores, Secretary; Humberto Castellanos, President;
Veridiana Saucedo, Treasurer; Diana Loyola, Vice-President.

HONOR SOCIETY: A breakfast was held at Farragut Career Academy, 2345 S. Christiana Ave. on Wednesday, March 28, 2012 for students, and their parents, celebrating their induction into the National Honor Society. The breakfast celebration was organized by Farragut teacher Mrs. Victoria Park-Keeney who has done fabulous work with the students. These students have a high GPA, are involved in extracurricular activities, sports, clubs and service learning. National Honor students focus on college, service, leadership and character development. The students are eligible for scholarships upon graduation. “I hope that in spite of financial and other obstacles I can help them succeed so that they can give back to their community,” said Park.

TONYA HAMMAKER, Interim Principal at Farragut said to the students: “We are here to celebrate your amazing accomplishment of being inducted into the National Honor Society. Each of you have made great achievements in the realms of Scholarship, Leadership, Community Service and Character. Becoming a member of the National Honor Society is not an easy task. I congratulate each of you and your parents. You are the best and brightest in this school and I am very proud of you, as are your teachers, who are here to honor you today. And, parents, thank you for supporting your children in their academic pursuits. We wish you all continued success in the future!”

FARRAGUT NATIONAL HONOR: FARRAGUT SENIORS, Class of 2012: Mariela Alcantar-Villagomez, Daniel Almanza, Guadalupe Arreola, Christopher Carmona, Cristal Castro, Noel Fontanez, Eva Gallegos, Jazmine Garcia, Fernando Gonzalez, Deysi Gutierrez, Selene Hurtado, Daisy Isidoro, Froilan Marchan, Raul Raigoza, Uriel Ramirez, Milika Reyes, Jasmine Romero, Carina Ruiz, Betsabe Salgado, Diana Sanchez, Vanessa Sanchez, Oliva Tenorio, Laura Topete and Yurivia Vargas.

SOCIETY JUNIORS, Class of 2013: Katherine Abeja, Maria Aguilera, Joanna Arroyo, Ricardo Astorga, Maria Bahena, Ashlie Blanton, Humberto Castellanos, Maria Claro, Eduardo Contreras, Karina Corral, Maribel Flores, Jonathan Gallegos, Estephany Garcia, Maria Garcia, Veronica Gonzalez, Cecilia Gutierrez, Yessica Guzman, Magaly Islas, Jennifer Lopez, Diana Loyola, Cynthia Martinez, Alexandra Navarrette, Michelle Padilla, Beatriz Sanchez, Veridiana Saucedo, Alicia Torres and Brenda Velasquez.

Arlene Zriny

31^ST ST. SENIORS: Arlene Zriny, President of the 31^st Street Senior Club in Little Village announced the club is conducting a membership drive. Anyone interested in joining the 31^st Street Senior Club should call Piotrowski Park at 312/474-6608 to register. Club members meet every Monday at 9:30 a.m. to 12 Noon at Piotrowski Park, 4247 W. 31^st in Little Village.

PRESIDENT ZRINY said: “We socialize, drink coffee, snack on baked goods, play bingo, enjoy the company of others and occasionally take trips.” A trip is scheduled for Thursday, May 24, 2012 to Silver Lake Country Club for a luncheon and entertainment. It’s called a “Happy Birthday to All” event and the members and friends will be leaving Piotrowski Park, 4247 W. 31^st St. at 10 a.m. Cost: $41.

A FUN TRIP to the Horseshoe Casino in Hammond, Ind. is scheduled for Monday, June 18, 2012. Club members and friends will leave from Piotrowski Park at 9:30 a.m. and return at 4:15 p.m. Cost: $5.00. “The 31^st St. Senior Club has been in existence for more than 75 years. It was the first club organized at the park when the park was built, known at Keeler Park. Later it was changed to Piotrowski Park. We are the oldest Senior Club in Little Village”, said Zriny. Sally Martinez is the Vice President of the Club. Donations and financial support are always needed. “We welcome the support of public figures,” said Martinez.

Left to right: Christian Acuna, Jose Juarez, Abertano Rivera,
Jonathan Hinojosa, Saul Silva, Adriana Perez

EARTH DAY: Cleaning up the Little Village neighborhood is a weekly chore. Volunteers and members of the Little Village Community Council are always organizing clean-up campaigns throughout the year. In the winter we shovel snow for seniors and the handicapped, then it is spring cleaning followed by summer sweeping and trash pick-up. Members and volunteers are reminded that we must take pride in our community by keeping our neighborhood as clean as possible.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Every Thursday from 7 p.m. to midnight Mechanical Bull ride at Lobo De Mar Restaurant, 5503 W. Cermak Road. 708/298-9182.

Sat., May 5th Cinco de Mayo Tequila Festival presented by Hispanic Pro, 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Vertigo Sky Lounge, 2 W. Erie St. Early bird online ticket price: $15. Call: 312/867-0631.

Sat., May 5th Grand Opening 24th District Community Service Office in Little Village, 26th St. & Tripp Ave. at 11 a.m. Hosted by State Rep. Lisa Hernandez and State Sen. Steve Landek. All residents are invited.

College Workshop, Fiesta Time, Golden Gloves, LV SSA #25

2012-04-19T00:00:00.000-05:00

COLLEGE WORKSHOP: Chicago Public School [CPS] West Side High School Network and the Little Village Community Council will be hosting a Scholarship Informational Workshop. The workshop will be held at Benito Juarez Community Academy High School, 2159 S. Laflin St. in Pilsen Thursday, April 26, 2012 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

SERVICES available by:

CPS Office of Pathways to College and Career

Financial Literacy

Undocumented students

U.S. Department of Education

Federal Financial Aid

Illinois Student Assistance Commission

State Student Aid

City Colleges of Chicago

FAFSA Workshops

Illinois Education Foundation

HIGH SCHOOLS targeted are Farragut Career Academy, Spry Link High, and the Little Village Campus Schools: World Language, Social Justice, Multicultural and Infinity.

FOR MORE information contact CPS West Side High School Network at 773/534-9770.

Vania Lopez & Elisa Bigurra

Los Bom Pleneras

FIESTA TIME: "Culture Night" was hosted by Columbia College Latino Alliance organization. Students were celebrating the organization’s 25th Anniversary with a fiesta. The celebration was held at the school's Conaway Center, 1104 S. Wabash Ave., Chicago. Food, music, dancing and a raffle was enjoyed by students, friends and family. Advisor to the Latino Alliance, Mark Kelly, said, "Latino students and alumni are young, creative, and will shape the world in the future. Latino culture will become the most exciting.”

Oveous Maximas

ENTERTAINMENT was provided by Las Bom Pleneras, an all female, Bomba and Plena musical ensemble; poet & Hip Hop rapper Oveous Maximas, and dance group Juventud Boliviana and a female singer and guitar player. The entertainment was exceptional and the food was delicious and plentiful.

THE JUVENTUD BOLINVIANAs’ ten dancers are Miriam Bigurra, Vania Lopez, Ellsa Bigurra, Mauricio Herrera, Geraldoyn Lopez, Ina Schaeffer, Melanie Schaeffer, Ximena Biguerra, Patricia Gonzalez and Diana Martinez. For more information about the group contacted Miriam Bigurra at 224/595-8078 or email miriam.bigurra@artristan.com

LAS BOM PLENERAS can be reached by contacting directors Ivelissa Diaz at 773/441-1650 or Jessica Rodriguez at 773/386-5685. Or, Facebook.com/bomplen.ras or Bomplenera@gmail.com

Katie Popawski
Champion

GOLDEN GLOVES: It was a night of champions at the 2012 Golden Gloves Tournament Saturday, April 14, 2012 at Gordon Tech High School. Fifteen bouts of three rounds, each weight class pitted the best thirty amateur boxers in the Chicagoland area to become champions.

Open 123 Weight Class: Champion Adrian March [Scottsdale Park] beat Kevin Martinez [Jaw Breakers Boxing Club].

Senior Novice 156 Weight Class: Champion Leonard Brady [Garfield Park] beat Matt Mannina [Leydon/Veteran Park].

Female Senior Novice 119 Weight Class: Champion Katie Poplawski [Fist Law BC] beat Merdeth Lyons [Chicago BC].

Novice 147 Weight Class: Champion Eddie Ramirez [Jesse Torres BC] beat Raymond Doroteo [Will County BC]. Flores is a tough fighter.

Eddie Ramirez
Champion

Novice 125 Weight Class: Champion Jose Rivera [Rum Mai BC] beat Hector Guifarro [Park City].

Female Senior Novice 139 Weight Class: Champion Jaime Jacobson [Fist Law] beat Shelley Kahles [Flo Mma]. This was the best fight of the evening. It was a slugfest and the crowd reacted by giving them a standing ovation.

Female Senior Novice 147 Weight Class: Champion Natalie Yakhorwky [KMI BC] beat Jill Rizzo [Chicago BC].

Open 165 Weight Class: Champion Limberth Pone [Alley Cat BC] beat Nathaniel Gallimore [Alley Cats].

Novice Heavy: Champion Mitch Nix [KMI BC] beat William Hoyfield [Unattached].

Master Class: Champion Ralph Vera [52] [Chicago BC] beat Phil Ranstrom [55] [Degerberg Academy].

Novice Super Heavy: Sebastian Antosiewicz [Chicago Fight Club] beat Renee Pina [Pina BC].

_____________________________________________________________________

Little Village Special Service Area #25

Commission Meeting

3rd Tuesday of the Month

SCHEDULE

Tuesday, May 15th

9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.

LV Chamber Office

2458 S. Millard Ave.

Latino Wards, F.A.C.E., America's Career Institute, El Dragon, Mike Wallace, Alijah Shell, H.E.A.L. Meeting

2012-04-12T00:00:00.000-05:00

NO SHOW: Here are the stats on how many registered voters voted and how many did not vote in the eight Chicago Latino wards in the Tuesday, March 20, 2012 Democratic Primary Election.

Registered Votes Votes

Voters Cast NOT Cast

WARD 1: 26,893 3,661 23,232

WARD 12: 13,134 2,195 10,939

WARD 22: 14, 961 2,582 12,379

WARD 25: 21,023 3,285 17,738

WARD 26: 22,029 2,697 19,332

WARD 30: 19,794 2,184 17,610

WARD 31: 20,085 2,912 17,173

WARD 35: 21,860 3,603 18,257

IF WE are to have a strong voice in government, we must get out the VOTE!

Alexandra Lopez

F.A.C.E.: Alexandra Lopez is the CPS Family And Community Engagement (FACE) Manager for the West Side High School Network. She works with 26 high schools located in the Pilsen, Little Village, Humboldt Park, Austin, Garfield and North Lawndale areas. "Most of my schools are predominantly Latino and African American with most students are from low-income families," Lopez said.

LOPEZ's passion is for school, family and community engagement and making sure all three have long-lasting partnerships. FACE is a new initiative designed to promote these partnerships. "The most important thing is communication and working as a collaborative. My approach is to reach parents on a very constructive level in order for them to stay up-to-speed with what is going on in the school and to be involved with the children on a day-to-day activities," said Lopez.

LOPEZ wanted to join the Chicago Public Schools Office of Family and Community Engagement to help empower parents so that they are actively involved in their children's lives and become engaged community leaders. Her role as FACE manager is to bring parents resources that they may not have by collaborating with Principals, Community Stakeholders (Aldermen, Community Organizations etc.) and CPS.

ACCORDING to Lopez it is a proven fact that extensive communication, along with family and community engagement, student achievement increases. Lopez said, "High school students need a lot of guidance and we have to start by reaching their parents. We want to ensure that every child has access to a world class education and graduates college and career ready." To learn more about FACE, call Alexandra Lopez at 773/534-9773.

HAIRCUTS: Students from America's Career Institute, in Berwyn, gave haircuts and manicures to more than fifty residents in Little Village Sat., April 7, 2012. The event was a "win-win" for the community and ACI students. "Students enjoy coming to the Little Village Community Council, they gain experience and credit hours; the residents save on haircuts and manicures," said Patty Caraballo, owner of the Institute. Their next scheduled visit to the LV Council will be July 7, 2012.

BUSINESS OF THE WEEK: The Chinese Restaurant, El Dragon, 3331 W. 26th St. opened its doors one week ago. The manager, Jenny Hsu, said they have been in the restaurant business 10 years. The restaurant has been upgraded and remodeled in Chinese decor. It is comfortable and clean. El Dragon serves Chinese [not Mandarin] food improved and with a Mexican flare. Jenny said, "Our chicken wings are very popular." Meals are served with sweet, spicy or sour sauce and El Dragons' servers are attentive and bilingual. "We like it here [Little Village] because it is a family orientated community and a perfect location for our viable business venture," said Jenny.

Jenny Hsu

EL DRAGON is open for business Tuesday through Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Closed Mondays. Prices are competitive. No delivery available yet, but carry-outs are welcome. Phone: 773/823-1830 and FAX 773/833-1835 and website: www.eldragonchinese.com Go to El Dragon and enjoy a delicious Chinese meal!

IN REMEMBRANCE: Mike Wallace, 93, died Saturday, April 7, 2012. He was the "best television interviewer ever" said one of his colleagues. Several years ago, I met Mike Wallace when he came to City Hall [Chicago] to visit Mayor Richard M. Daley. I was working in the Information Booth in City Hall; and as Mike Wallace was passing the booth I asked him if I can take a picture with him. "Yes, if you have a camera," said Wallace. In this brief moment, I told Mike Wallace "60 Minutes" was one of my favorite shows and I enjoyed his style of interviewing. Wallace thanked me for my comment. I will always remember Mike Wallace as being an icon giant in journalism. He was candid and straightforward in interviewing his guests. In his lifetime, Wallace interviewed seven presidents, plus the infamous Ayatollah Khomeini, China's Deng Xiapoing, Dictator Manuel Noriega, Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin and Libyan strongman Moammar Gadhafi. Wallace was a Communications Officer in the U.S. Navy during World War II, than worked in Chicago as a reporter for WMAQ, WGN and WBBM. Wallace said, "I have a special feeling about this town [Chicago]”. He was highly respected by his peers and I admired Wallace as a reporter, he was a class act. Watch "60 Minutes" Sunday, April 15 at 6 p.m., on Channel 2 for a special program dedicated to Mike Wallace.

August Sallas and Mike Wallace

Alijah Shell

IN MEMORY: The wake of young Alijah DeAnna Shell [10/11/05-3/17/12], 6, killed Sat., March 17, 2012 in Little Village was held at Lawn Funeral Home in Burbank and Mass at Good Shepherd Church in Little Village. There were only two public officials who attended the wake to pay their respects, Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel and Police Superintendent Gary McCarthy. Anyone wishing to make a donation to help pay for funeral expenses can do so by sending checks to Alijah Shell Fund, Chase Bank, Acct. #982308355, Routing #071000013. May young Alijah rest in peace.

PUBLIC MEETING: Irene R. Acosta, Uprising Prevention Specialist, announced that the next HEAL meeting is Monday, April 30, 2012 at 7 p.m. at Universidad Popular, 2801 S. Hamlin Ave. The meeting will be open to any member of the Little Village community in the following categories: business within the community, resident/volunteer in the community, civic or volunteer organizations, college/university or other schools, Faith based organizations, Healthcare professionals, Law enforcement agencies, local state courts, media, mental and behavioral health agencies and youth serving organizations. For more info call Irene R. Acosta at 773/733-5055.

Chavez Holiday, Presidential Proclamation, PRAA Roberto Clemente Reception, LVCC Free Haircuts

2012-04-05T00:00:00.000-05:00

Cristina Barillas, Andrew Gasca, Rep. Hernandez, August Sallas,
Ruben Almendarez, Sara Echevarria, Carlos Carrillo

CHAVEZ HOLIDAY: Saturday, March 31, 2012, on Cesar Chavez's birthday Hispanic labor leaders met with State Rep. Elizabeth "Lisa" Hernandez and she presented them with House Resolution No. 911. State Rep. Hernandez offered to the House of Representatives, 97th General Assembly, the resolution honoring the Life of Cesar E. Chavez. The House Resolution was adopted March 30, 2012 and states, “Resolved, by the House of Representatives of the ninety-seventh General Assembly of the State of Illinois, that we honor the life and legacy of Cesar Chavez and his contributions to the downtrodden of our society; and a suitable copy of the resolution be presented to the family of Cesar Chavez as a symbol of our great esteem and respect." The Resolution was signed by Michael J. Madigan, Speaker of the House and Timothy D. Mapes, Clerk of the House.

HISPANIC LABOR discussed with Rep. Hernandez the enactment of an Illinois State Holiday honoring Cesar E. Chavez. The Chavez Holiday Committee was formed consisting of myself, August Sallas, Chicago Typographical Union; Ruben Almendarez, IBEW Local 134; Cristina Barillas, Plumbers Local 130; Andrew Gasca, Bricklayers, Local 21; Sara Echevarria, Chicago Teachers Union and Carlos Carrillo, former Teamsters Local 703. Rep. Hernandez will introduce a bill for the Chavez holiday as an "in school" holiday for students to learn about the life and legacy of Chavez, and not a day off of school.

THE COLLECTION of discarded keys to build a Chavez statue was also discussed by Hispanic labor. More keys are needed and anyone who wants to donate keys can call 312/286-3405 for pick-up.

Barack Obama

THE WHITE HOUSE: Cesar Chavez Day, 2012 by the President of the United States of America: A Presidential Proclamation:
"ONE OF our Nation's great civil rights leaders, Cesar Estrada Chavez came of age as a migrant farm worker, witnessing the injustice that pervaded fields and vineyards across California. Facing discrimination, poverty, and dangerous working conditions, laborers toiled for little pay and without access to even the most basic necessities. Yet amidst hardship and abuse, Cesar Chavez saw the promise of change--the unlimited potential of a community organized around a common purpose. Today, we celebrate his courage, reflect on his lifetime of advocacy, and recognize the power in each of us to life up lives and pursue social justice.

Cesar E. Chavez

INSPIRED by Mahatma Gandhi, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and other visionary leaders, Cesar Chavez based his campaign on principles of nonviolence, which he called "the quality of the heart." Through boycotts, fasts, strikes, and matches that demanded both endurance and imagination, he drew thousands together in support of "La Causa"--a mission to ensure respect, dignity, and fair treatment for farm workers. Alongside Dolores Huerta, he founded the United Farm Workers of America [UFW], an organization tasked with defending and empowering the men and women who feed the world.

AS A TRIBUTE to Cesar Chavez's life and work, my Administration designated the Forty Acres site in Delano, California, as a National Historical Landmark last year, forever commemorating the birthplace of the UFW. In May 2011, the United States Navy named the USNS Cesar Chavez in recognition of his service during World War II. And this month, we honor ten Americans as Champions of Change for their commitment to realizing Cesar Chavez's dream of a more just tomorrow. Decades after his struggle began, Cesar Chavez's legacy lives on in all who draw inspiration from the values of service, determination, and community that ignited his movement.

ON THIS 85TH anniversary of Cesar Chavez's birth, we are reminded of what we can accomplish when we recognize our common humanity. He told us, "We cannot seek achievement for ourselves and forget about progress and prosperity for our community. Our ambitions must be broad enough to include the aspirations and needs of others, for their sakes and for our own." As we honor his broad ambitions and expansive vision, let us pledge to stand forever on the side of equal opportunity and justice for all.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim March 31, 2012, as Cesar Chavez Day. I call upon all Americans to observe this day with appropriate service, community, and education programs to honor Cesar Chavez's enduring legacy.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-third day of March, in the year of our Lord two thousand twelve, and of the Independence of the United State of America the two hundred and thirty-sixth. /s/ BARACK OBAMA

Roberto Clemente

A CELEBRATION: You are cordially invited to a Roberto Clemente reception hosted by the Roberto Clemente Community Academy and the Puerto Rican Arts Alliance [PRAA] at 6 p.m. Thursday, April 12, 2012 at the Roberto Clemente Community Academy, 1147 N. Western Ave., Chicago. The event called, "Beyond Baseball. The Life of Roberto Clemente", will feature Roberto Clemente Jr. and Luis R. Clemente; the sons of the legendary baseball player Roberto Clemente. This celebration is a prelude to the upcoming PRAA Smithsonian exhibit of Robert Clemente. Refreshments and appetizers will be served. Please confirm your attendance by emailing: info@praachicago.org or call 773/342-8865. Carlos R. Hernandez is the Executive Director of PRAA Cultural Center.

THE LEGEND: Robert Clemente Walker [1934-1972] was born in Carolina, Puerto Rico to Don Melchor Clemente and Luisa Walker. He was the youngest of seven siblings. Roberto worked delivering milk cans because his family had limited resources. He studied at Vizcarondo High School, a public school in Carolina. Clemente showed interest in baseball early in his life and played against neighboring barrios. He played in an amateur league at the age of sixteen years old. On Nov. 14, 1964, Roberto married Vera Zabala at San Fernando Church in Carolina. They had three children: Roberto Jr., Luis Roberto and Enrique Roberto.

CLEMENTE was a baseball right fielder. He played 18 seasons for the Pittsburgh Pirates from 1955 through 1972. He was awarded the National League [NL] Most Valuable Player [MVP] Award in 1966 and was on the NL All-Star team 15 times. Clemente received 12 Gold Glove Awards, and led the NL in batting average four times. In 1972, Clemente got his 3,000th major league hit. In 1971, he received the Babe Ruth Award. His number 21 with the Pittsburgh Pirates was retired in 1973, the same year he was the first Latin American selected to the Hall of Fame.

A statue of Clemente
stands outside PNC
Park in Pittsburgh

OFF THE FIELD, Clemente was involved in charity work in Puerto Rico and other Latin American countries delivering baseball equipment and food. He died in a plane crashed off the coast of Isla Verde, Puerto Rico on Sunday, December 31, 1972, delivering aid to earthquake victims in Managua, Nicaragua. Clemente's body was never recovered.

A MARINE: In 1958-59, Clemente joined the United States Marine Corps Reserve. He spent six months in active duty commitment at Parris Island, South Carolina, and Camp LeJeune in North Carolina. He served in the Marine Corps Reserve until Sept. 1964.

HONORS: The Major League Baseball [MLB] presents the Roberto Clemente Award every year to the player who best follows Clemente's example with humanitarian work. In 1973, Clemente was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal and the first Presidential Citizens Medal. In 2002, he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom. In 2003, he was inducted into the United States Marine Corps Sports Hall of Fame.

FREE HAIRCUTS: This Saturday, April 7, 2012 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Little Village Community Council, 3610 W. 26th St. the students from America Career Institute will be giving free haircuts and manicures to LV residents.

HAPPY EASTER TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY!

State Sen. Steven M. Landek, Ward Committeemen, Keys for Chavez & Holiday, Pope Benedict XVI, Movie Review, Bert Sugar, Events

2012-03-29T00:00:00.000-05:00

Steve Landek

12^th SENATORIAL DISTRICT: Steven M. Landek was appointed to fill the vacant seat left by retired State Sen. Lou Viverito in January 2011. In the General Primary Election Tuesday, March 20, 2012, Landek was elected as the new State Senator of the 12th District, which includes the Little Village community.

OTHER communities in the 12th Senatorial District include Bedford Park, Berwyn, Bridgeview, Burbank, Cicero, Countryside, Hodgkins, Justice, LaGrange, LaGrange Park, Riverside, South Lawndale [Little Village/Chicago] and Stickney. Landek campaigned in the Little Village community seeking votes, was well received and elected overwhelmingly over his Hispanic opponent. His campaign donated food to the Little Village Community Council Food Pantry for area residents and Landek has patronized several local restaurants. "I enjoy Mexican food," said Landek.

August Sallas & Steve Landek

A STATEMENT: Illinois State Senator Steve Landek released the following victory statement: "I would like to thank all of the voters of the new 12th District for their vote of confidence in my leadership. I want to also thank the community and elected leaders in the district who supported my candidacy for election in this new Senate District. I look forward representing the Democratic Party in the general election in November.

DURING THE past three months, I've addressed the issues the district's residents are concerned with and I focused on the district's needs. I visited every neighborhood and community to meet with constituents and I listened to their concerns. The 12th District is a very diverse district and I look forward to fighting for the needs of all of the district's constituents as I have always done during my career in public service," said State Sen. Landek.

LAST YEAR, Sen. Landek served as "Principal for a Day" at Heritage Middle School in Berwyn. After a tour of the school he spent the day visiting with students and teachers talking about the importance of education.

LANDEK is a lifelong resident of Bridgeview. He attended St. Blase Grammar School and Argo Community High School. He received his Bachelor's degree in Public Administration from Roosevelt University. Landek has been a dedicated public servant for 35-years. His district office is located at 6215 79th Street, Suite 1A, Burbank, IL 60459, phone: 708/430-2510. We congratulate Sen. Landek.

WARD RESULTS: Most voters are unaware that every four years each Chicago Ward and/or suburban Township elects a Ward Committeeman. Depending on a voter's affiliation, the voter will vote for their Democratic and/or Republican party political Ward Committeeman. In Chicago, Democratic Ward Committeemen dominate the political scene because there are very few Republican voters. However, the few Republicans elect a Ward Committeeman. The Ward Committeeman is elected to be the political leader of their respective political party in the Ward and/or Township. Voters on Tuesday, March 20, 2012, elected a Ward Committeeman in each of the fifty [50] wards in Chicago.

MOST VOTERS don't know what the role is of a Ward Committeeman. The Ward Committeeman is a political party position, the party leader in the ward and non-salary position. The responsibility of each Democratic and/or Republican Ward Committeeman is to register voters, choose judges of election [who work in the polling places on election-day], getting-out-the vote for their party, and most importantly to push for the election of the party slate of candidates. Depending on votes in the ward, he/she has political influence.

A WARD Committeeman sits as a member in the Central Committee of the Cook County Democratic Party or the Republican Party and has a voice and vote as to whom will be the slated candidates for the party. Depending on the number of votes a Ward Committeeman is able to get for their party on election-day, these "weighted votes" gives the Committeeman a stronger voice in party matters.

Joseph Berrios

A COMMITTEEMAN who is loyal to the party, a team player, and who works hard to get the party's slated candidates elected, is rewarded politically. The election of a good Ward Committeeman benefits the party, voters and the political future of the ward and/or township.

LATINO DEMOCRATIC Ward Committeemen in Chicago and Suburban Township elected in the General Primary Election March 20, 2012 are: 1st Ward: Proco "Joe" Moreno, 12th Ward: Anthony "Tony" Munoz, 15th Ward: Raymond A. Lopez, 22nd Ward: Ricardo Munoz, 25th Ward: Daniel "Danny" Solis, 26th Ward: Roberto Maldonado, 30th Ward: Ariel E. Reboyras, 31st Ward: Joseph Berrios. In the Town of Cicero, Charles Hernandez is the Democratic Committeeman elected March 4, 2010 for a 4-year term ending in 2014. Committeeman Joseph Berrios is the Chairman of the Cook County Democratic Party.

KEYS FOR CHAVEZ: Several years ago members of the Hispanic American Labor Council began collecting discarded keys for the purpose of creating a statue in the likeness of Cesar E. Chavez [1927-1993]. The statue, constructed from melted down keys, would be erected in the Little Village neighborhood. HALC members continue the collection of discarded keys. Anyone willing to donate keys for the construction of the Cesar E. Chavez statue in Little Village should call 312/286-3405.

Pat Quinn

AS HALC President I have said on many occasions: "Cesar Chavez was a great labor leader and we must honor his life and legacy." Mayor Rahm Emanuel signed a City Proclamation designating Sat., March 31, 2012 [Chavez's Birthday] as "Cesar E. Chavez Day in Chicago."

STATE HOLIDAY: Hispanic labor leaders will be meeting this Saturday, March 31, 2012 with State Rep. Elizabeth "Lisa" Hernandez [24th District] to discuss the possibility of a state holiday in honor of Cesar E. Chavez. Gov. Quinn is committed to the idea and would support the holiday. Quinn made this commitment to Hispanic labor leaders when he [Quinn] was Lt. Governor and when he ran for governor.

CHAVEZ QUOTE: "We can choose to use our lives for others to bring about a better and more just world for our children. People who make that choice will know hardship and sacrifice. But if you give yourself totally to the non-violence struggle for peace and justice you also find that people give you their hearts and you will never go hungry and never be alone. And in giving of yourself you will discover a whole life full of meaning and love," said Cesar Chavez.

Pope Benedict XVI

IN MEXICO: Pope Benedict XVI visited Mexico Catholics on Sat., March 24, 2012 and celebrated Mass on Sunday in Guanajuato gathering 300,000 people. The Pope urged Mexicans to wield their faith against drug violence, corruption and poverty. Mexico is suffering from all the killings by drug cartel which has been affecting Mexico’s tourist trade. The Pope's only public remarks Saturday were for 4,000 children and their parents, giving the Mexican people hope. Fabiola Ganzalez, 17, said: "We're excited to hear his words, not just for this moment, but to carry in our lives and to know God better." Pope Benedict also met with Mexican President Felipe Calderon during his visit.

MOVIE REVIEW: "Act of Valor" movie is a true documentary about the Navy SEALS. In the movie, the SEALS engage in two dangerous missions, both riveting and action-packed. Valor is the centerpiece of the movie and how all the SEALS perform courageously. These men of valor, trained as SEALS, know how to survive while executing their mission to rescue and destroy. I enjoyed the movie so much I went to see it twice. It's hard to find the movie in theaters today; I had to go to LaGrange to see it again. I give it four stars.

A TEN COUNT for boxing writer and sports historian Bert Sugar, 75, who died Sunday of cardiac arrest. Bert was an iconic boxing showman whose trademark was a fedora and cigar.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Sat., April 7--For Little Village residents Free haircuts and manicures at the Little Village Community Council, 3610 W. 26th Street from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. No appointment necessary.

Thurs., April 12--CAPS meeting, 6 p.m. Beat 21-22-13-14 at 10th District Police, 3315 W. Ogden Ave.

Wed., April 18--CAPS meeting, 6 p.m. Spanish speaking, Beats 31-32-33-34 at 10^th District Police, 3315 W. Ogden Ave.

Sat., April 21--"Clean & Green" campaign in Chicago. Register by calling 311 for clean-up equipment.

Latino Democratic Winners, Chavez Proclamation, CAPS Meetings, Clean & Green Campaign, Aliyah Shell, Calendar of Events

2012-03-22T00:00:00.000-05:00

Silvana Tabares

WINNERS: Our congratulations to all the Democratic Latino winners in the 2012 Primary Election held Tuesday, March 20, 2012. The winners are as follows: Cook County State's Attorney Anita Alvarez, Representative in Congress [4th District] Luis V. Gutierrez, State Senator [1st District] Antonio "Tony" Munoz, State Senator [2nd District] William "Willie" Delgado, State Senator [11th District] Martin A. Sandoval, State Senator [12th District/Little Village] Steven Landek. State Representative [3rd District] Luis Arroyo, State Representative [21st District] Silvana Tabares, State Representative [24th District] Elizabeth "Lisa" Hernandez, State Representative [2rd District] Edward Acevedo, Judge, Illinois Appellate Court [1st District] Jesse G. Reyes, and Judge, Cook County Judicial Circuit Cynthia Ramirez.

EARLY VOTING: Unfortunately, many Chicago voters did not take advantage of Early Voting. Early voter numbers in the Latino wards were extremely low. In the eight Latino wards early voter tallies are: 1st Ward: 391; 12th Ward: 197; 22nd Ward: 289; 25th Ward: 355; 26th Ward: 316; 30th Ward: 230; 31st Ward: 286; 35th Ward: 551. The early voting system in Chicago is very costly and the low response may persuade the Chicago Board of Election Commissioners to make some cost-saving changes.

Cesar E. Chavez

CHAVEZ DAY: A Proclamation has been signed by Mayor Rahm Emanuel designating Saturday, March 31, 2012 as "CESAR E. CHAVEZ DAY IN CHICAGO". From the Office of the Mayor, City of Chicago: A Proclamation reads as follows:

WHEREAS, Cesar E. Chavez [1927-1993] was the founder and president of the United Farm Workers of American [AFL-CIO]; and

WHEREAS, Cesar E. Chavez, a union organizer, civil rights leader and non-violent social activist, worked to improve the standard of living, wages and working conditions of farm workers; and

WHEREAS, Cesar E. Chavez was a tireless advocate for justice and equality of all people; and

WHEREAS, Cesar E. Chavez dedicated his life to the service of others and strove for justice, individual advancement, community prosperity and cultural diversity; and

WHEREAS, the work of Cesar E. Chavez called national attention to the plight of workers and

WHEREAS, Cesar E. Chavez was awarded the Martin Luther King, Jr. Peace Prize during his lifetime and posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation's highest civilian honor; and

Rahm Emanuel

NOW, THEREFORE, I, RAHM EMANUEL, MAYOR OF THE CITY OF CHICAGO, do hereby proclaim March 31, 2012 to be CESAR E. CHAVEZ DAY IN CHICAGO, in celebration of his life and legacy, and I encourage all Chicagoans to recognize his important contributions to workers’ rights.

DATED this 9th day of March, 2012

/s/ Rahm Emanuel, Mayor

MEXICAN HERO: Cesar E. Chavez dedicated his life to the labor movement. He struggled and fought to organize farm workers into a Union to better their working life. He was a great union organizer. He used his organizing skills effectively to form the United Farm Workers of America. Cesar built his Union with the weapons of boycotts, picketing, strikes and non-violent. He visited Chicago several times seeking support in boycotting grapes and lettuce. I admired Chavez's tenacity, perseverance and leadership. His message was loud and clear: migrant farm workers are treated unfairly.

Cesar E. Chavez

CESAR ESTRADE CHAVEZ was born in San Luis, Arizona, near Yuma on March 31, 1927. He was a Mexican-American who worked full-time in the fields after graduating the 8th grade to help support his family. Cesar parents, Librado and Juana, had lost their farm during the Depression.

AT THE AGE of 17, Cesar joined the U.S. Navy during World War II. When he returned home he labored as a farm worker in California and became farm worker labor leader. He married Helen Fabela in 1948 and raised 8 children. Both Cesar and Helen taught Mexican immigrants how to read and organized voter registration drives for new U.S. citizens.

INFLUENCED: Cesar was greatly influenced by the peaceful philosophy of St. Francis of Assisi and Mohandas Gandhi. Chavez's motto was "Si, se puede," [Yes, it can be done] and used his lifetime quest for social justice as "Viva La Causa" [Long Live the Cause]. Cesar Chavez died on April 23, 1993.

CAPS MEETINGS: Two important CAPS meetings are scheduled in the 10th Police District, 3315 W. Ogden Ave. next month. On Thursday, April 12th at 6 p.m. Beat: 21-22-23-24; on Wednesday, April 18th at 6 p.m. Spanish speaking: Beats 31-32-33-34. New District 10th Commander Maria C. Pena will be present at both meetings. Residents are strongly encouraged to attend the beat meetings. Mark your calendar now.

CLEAN-UP: The annual Chicago's citywide "Clean & Green" volunteer clean-up campaign will kick-off on Saturday, April 21, 2012. Residents and community organizations are urged to help in the Clean-Up campaign of their neighborhood. "Help beautify your communities by cleaning up and recycling accumulated litter and trash," said Thomas G. Byrne, Commissioner, Streets and Sanitation.

STREETS & SANITATION DEPT. will provide community organization with brooms, rakes, shovels and bags needed to get the job done. To register or for more information call 311. Registration deadline is April 13, 2012. "Keep Chicago Beautiful!"

CONDOLENCES: Our deepest condolences to the family of Aliyah Shell, 6, who was shot and killed, in broad daylight, in front of her parents in Little Village Saturday, March 17, 2012. This tragedy was unfortunate and senseless. Young Aliyah was a “happy child”, said her uncle Roy Aguilar. She was a beautiful girl with her life ahead of her. May justice prevail.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Sat., April 7--For Little Village residents Free haircuts and manicures at the Little Village
Community Council, 3610 W. 26th Street from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. No appointment necessary.
Thurs., April 12--CAPS meeting, 6 p.m. Beat 21-22-13-14 at 10th District Police, 3315
W. Ogden Ave.

Wed., April 18--CAPS meeting, 6 p.m. Spanish speaking, Beats 31-32-33-34 at 10th

District Police, 3315 W. Ogden Ave.
Sat., April 21--"Clean & Green" campaign in Chicago. Register by calling 311 for clean
-up equipment.

Primary Election, CPS Principal Search, Benito Juarez, Cesar Chavez, Maria T. Mooning, America's Career Institute, Golden Gloves, IBEW Local 134

2012-03-15T00:00:00.000-05:00

CRUNCH TIME: Candidates running for public office in the Primary Election Tuesday, March 20, 2012 have only four days to convince voters to vote for them. However, most voters have their minds made up, or have already voted. For those who have not voted remember: Voting is important, Get-Out-And-Vote, and Vote Democratic!

FARRAGUT: Kudos to members of Local School Council [LSC] at Farragut Career Academy, 2345 S. Christiana Ave. for opening the process in the selection of a new Principal. The LSC held four separate meetings to hear opinions and comments from stakeholders; LSC members met with the community on Tuesday, Feb. 14, parents on Tuesday, Feb. 21st, students on Tuesday, Feb. 28th and with teachers and staff on Friday, March 9, 2012. Each group expressed its own concerns and opinions.

POSTING FOR the position of a new principal at Farragut Career Academy was announced by Chicago Public School [CPS] on Feb 15, 2012; and closed March 1, 2012. Applicants had to e-mail their resume, cover letter and requested application materials to CPS Central Office. CPS Central Office will review the resumes for eligibility and send qualified candidates to the LSC. The LSC members will review and interview perspective candidates, selecting three. The three finalists will be introduced to the stakeholders of Farragut Career Academy; at a Candidates Forum. The forum is designed to give the candidates an opportunity to address the school stakeholders.

PRINCIPAL OPENING: There is an opening for a principal at Cyrus H. McCormick Elementary School, 2712 S. Sawyer Ave., Chicago, Il 60623. Position information available by contacting Amirah Salah, Chair Principal Selection Committee, CPSPrincipals@cps.k12.il.us

Application deadline is March 21, 2012.

MEXICAN HEROES: The birthdays of two famous and historical Mexican leaders are celebrated this month. Benito Juarez [1806-1872] on March 21 and labor leader Cesar E. Chavez [1927-1993] on March 31. Both of these men's life and legacy made a tremendous impact on the lives of Mexicans and Mexican Americans. Here's a very small portion on the life of Benito Juarez.

Benito Juarez

BENITO JUAREZ was born in a small adobe in the village of San Pablo Guelatao, Oaxaca, Mexico. His parents, Marcelino Juarez and Brigida Garcia, were peasants who both died of complications of diabetes when Benito was three years old. Benito was raised by an uncle. Benito described his parents as "indios de la raza primitiva del pais," ["Indians of the original race of the country."].

AT THE AGE of 12, Juarez worked in the corn field and as a shepherd. He was illiterate and could not speak Spanish, only Zapotec at that time, and walked to the city of Oaxaca de Juarez to attend school. A lay Franciscan, Antonio Salanueva, arranged for Benito to be placed in the city's seminary. In 1834, Juarez became a lawyer and politician of Zapotec origin from Oaxaca. In 1843, Benito married Margarita Maza. He served five terms as President of Mexico: 1858-1861 as interim, then 1861-1865, 1865-1867, 1867-1871 and 1871-1872. In the Ley Juarez [Law of Juarez] of 1855 declared all citizens equal before the law and severely restricted the privileges of the Catholic Church.

JUAREZ fought against the French intervention of Mexico that proclaimed Emperor Maximilian von Habsburg I of Mexico in 1864. The last of Maximilian's forces were defeated in 1867. U.S. President Andrew Jackson gave diplomatic recognition to the Juarez government and supplied weapons and funding to Juarez. Benito Juarez died of a heart attack in 1872 while reading a newspaper social section at this desk in the National Palace in Mexico City.

TODAY, Benito Juarez is remembered as being a progressive reformer dedicated to democracy, equal rights for his nation's indigenous people, his antipathy toward organized religion, especially the Catholic Church, and what he regarded as defense of national sovereignty. His leadership is known in Mexican history as La Reforma del Norte [The Reform of the North].

Maria Mooning

MARCH 21 is a national holiday in Mexico, which has continued to grow in acceptance within Mexican culture. Juarez's famous quotation continues to be well-remembered in Mexico: "Entre los individuos, como entre las naciones, el respeto al derecho ajeno es la pas", [Among individuals, as among nations, respect for the rights of others is peace."] A high school is the Pilsen neighborhood is named Benito Juarez Community Academy High School, 2150 S. Laflin St. The principal is Juan Carlos Ocon. Check encyclopedia of World Biography for more information on Benito Juarez.
PROFILE: Maria T. Mooning was born in Chicago and has spent the last sixteen years at Farragut Career Academy High School. She has an impressive academic background: Masters of Art in Education, 1994 and Master of Art in English, 2003. Notable contributions are in areas of student, community, and professional service and with CPS projects and programs at Farragut, namely, Student of the month Director, and the Mayor Daley Book Club Head Facilitator. At Farragut she is the English Department Chair, the JROTC English Lead Teacher, instructor of Urban Student Empowered and is a fluent Spanish speaker.

HER PASSION, the US Empowered program, aims to help juniors and seniors prepare for college. "Fifty percent [50%] of students, nationally, who enroll in college drop out in the first year," said Maria. Students drop out [of college] because they were not matched with the right college and lacked the support system needed to succeed. "My goal is to have every student in the Urban Students Empowered program graduate from college," she stated.

PRESENTLY there are 25 students, thirteen girls and twelve boys, enrolled in the US Empowered program at Farragut. For these students their first year in college is an E-line program. Ms. Mooning said her students can contact her anytime during office hours to discuss their experiences. "I will be there for them on anything," said Maria.

TEN of her twenty-five students have been nominated for the National Honor Society which recognizes the best in any school. "It gives the student prestige and makes the student more marketable when they are applying for college, I enjoy what I am doing and there is nothing else I would rather do," said Maria.

Sitting: Patricia Caraballo

FREE HAIRCUTS: Cosmetologist and Nail Technician students from America's Career Institute, Inc. in Berwyn will be giving free haircuts and manicures to residents of Little Village on Sat., April 7, 2012 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Little Village Community Council, 3610 W. 26th St. No appointment is necessary.

AMERICA'S Career Institute, family operated since 1997, is dedicated to helping women and men to develop and express their creativity in a career in the beauty industry. ACI students gain the knowledge and skills for work as hair dresser, hair colorist, nail technician, instructor, makeup specialist, salon owner, product demonstrator or technician to a manufacturer. Students reach their creative goals leading to employment and a lifetime career of opportunities.

THE SCHOOL DIRECTOR of America's Career Institute is Patricia Caraballo. ACI is located at 7000 W. Cermak Road in Berwyn. For information on the school, call 708/795-1500.

BOXING: The schedule for the Chicago Golden Gloves 2012 amateur boxing program at Gordon Tech High School, 3633 N. California Ave. is as follows:

March 15, 16 and 17^th

March 22, 23 and 24^th

BOUTS begin nightly at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10 for the March 15^th event. Tickets are $15 on March 16, 17, 22, 23 and 24th. The championship will be contested on April 12, 13 and 14. Championship bouts begin at 8 p.m. Tickets are $20 General Admission, $35 Main Floor and $50 Ringside. Tickets can be purchased at the door on event evenings beginning at 6 p.m.

THE GLOVES provides scholarship money to worthy boxers and donate equipment to needy local boxing gyms. I'll see ya at the "gloves"!

LOCAL 134: The International Brotherhood of Electricians, Local 134 Political Action Committee is hosting a "Meet Your Elected Officials and Candidates" reception and fund raiser on Saturday, March 17, 2012 from 12:00 Noon to 6:00 p.m. at Local 134 Union Hall, 600 W. Washington Blvd. At the event will be food, pop and beer. There will also be door prizes and raffles. Donation is $20. For more information call Ruben Almendarez at 708/563-1004.

Vote Early, Elizabeth Hernandez, Aurelia Pucinski, Ariel E. Reboyras, H.A.L.C. "Meet the Candidates", Jessica O'Brien, Edward J. Maloney, San Patricios

2012-03-08T00:00:00.000-06:00

VOTE EARLY: Deadline for voting early is Thursday, March 15, 2012. Call the Chicago Board of Election at 312/269-7984 or log on chicagoelections.com to find the nearest polling place to your job or home. Voters should take advantage of voting early. The "early voting" system offered by the Chicago Board of Election provides plenty of time to vote. There should be no more excuses for not voting! Based on my experience when I asked people why they didn't vote, I heard every excuse possible: "I forgot," "I was busy." Yes, people have shopping, banking, laundry, carpool and many other chores to do. My advice to them is not to wait until Election Day, Tuesday, March 20, 2011 to vote. Avoid the long lines.

VOTE NOW, VOTE EARLY. You have until March 15 to vote early: Monday thru Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Elizabeth Hernandez

VOTE HERNANDEZ: State Representative Elizabeth "Lisa" Hernandez’s campaign is suffering from vicious and aggressive vandalism by her "independent" opponent. Her opponent and his workers are running around the 24th District stealing and tearing down all of her posters and campaign signs, some even on private property with total disregard of the law. "They have stolen 600 signs. They are wiping me out of my campaign literature," said Rep. Lisa Hernandez. It's shameful Rep. Hernandez’s opponent is engaging in such dirty campaign politics. This behavior proves he is not worthy of public office or the public trust. PUNCH 63 FOR LISA HERNANDEZ!

HIGHLY QUALIFIED: Aurelia Pucinski is a Democratic candidate for Supreme Court Cook County. She has been a lawyer since 1976, has heard more than 10,000 domestic violence cases, served as Appellate Court Justice and a Circuit Court Judge.

CHICAGO BAR ASSOCIATION says, "Justice Pucinski has heard a number of major civil and criminal appeals. Justice Pucinski's management experience, knowledge of administrative law and commitment to public service would serve her well on the Illinois Supreme Court."

Aurelia Pucinski

COOK COUNTY BAR ASSOCIATION says: [Judge Pucinski] is "Recommended because [she] you possess the basic legal skills including a demonstrated awareness of the importance of diversity issues and character to be an effective Supreme Court Justice."

PUCINSKI is endorsed by the Chicago Bar Association, Cook County Bar Association, Sheet Metal Workers #73, IBEW #9, Italian American Political Coalition, The Chicago Police Sergeants' Association, Hispanic Lawyers Association of Illinois, David Roldan, President, Hispanic Illinois State Law Enforcement Association and many more. Give her your vote!

30TH WARD: Ald. Ariel E. Reboyras is seeking re-election as the Democratic Committeeman in the 30th Ward in the Tuesday, March 20, 2012 Primary Election. He was sworn in as Alderman of the 30th Ward on May 7, 2003 and has been the Democratic Committeeman since 2006. Ariel is a native of New York City and was relocated by his parents to Chicago at the age of twelve. He majored in Education while attending the University of Illinois at Chicago and was the Co-Captain for the UIC "Flames" baseball team. Ariel began his career as a teacher with the Chicago Public Schools at Roberto Clemente High School and was the Assistant Coach for football and wrestling.

Ariel E. Reboyras

AFTER HIS tenure as a teacher, Ariel began his career with the City of Chicago driving a truck for the City, worked as an Equipment Dispatcher, headed up an Underground Storage Tank Remediation program for Fleet Management, became an Equipment Coordinator for the Water Department and assisted with design specifications for the Fleet management Division. Ariel's dedication to public services was recognized and he was promoted to Deputy Commissioner in the Department of General Services.

IN THE COMMUNITY Ariel has volunteered his services to various parks and non-profit organizations, including Little League baseball and youth football programs. He is the co-founder of the Northwest Youth Basketball Association and "Marathon San-Juan," an 8K Road Race in collaboration with the Chicago Puerto Rican Parade. Ariel is a member of the Healthy Streets Campaign Drive with Care's steering committee, a member of the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials [NALEO], and serves on the Pace Citizen Advisory Board.

AS ALDERMAN of the 30th Ward, he is a member of the Budget & Government Operations, Committees: Rules and Ethics, Finance, Housing and Real Estate, Public Safety, Transportation, Vice-Chairman of Aviation and Vice-Chairman of License and Consumer Protection. He is in his third term as the Alderman of the 30th Ward. Ariel is a dedicated public servant and deserves to be re-elected.

HISPANIC LABOR: More than 100 Hispanic Labor leaders and union members attended the "Meet The Candidates" dinner meeting held Wednesday, Feb. 29, 2012. The dinner meeting was held at Mi Tierra Restaurant in Little Village.

DEMOCRATIC CANDIATES who attended the "Meet the Candidates" dinner meeting and presented their qualifications and candidacy were Cook County State's Attorney Anita Alvarez, Cook County Clerk of the Circuit Court Dorothy Brown, [Punch #82]; Supreme Court Cook County Judge Aurelia Pucinski [Punch #102]; Appellate Court Judge Rudy Garcia, [Punch #123]; Judge Jesse G. Reyes, [Punch #122]; Judge Cynthia Ramirez [Punch #149]; Judge Jessica O'Brien, [Punch #159]; Judge Edward J. Maloney, [Punch #156]; Judge James Michael McGing, [Punch #115]; Judge Diann Karen Marsalek, [Punch #153]; Metropolitan Water Reclamation District Democratic candidates Patrick Daley Thompson, [Punch #74]; Patricia Young, Stella Black, [Punch 71]; Debra Shore, Patricia Horton; Judge Kay Marie Hanlon, [Punch #113]; 10th Congressional District Farah Baqai, [Punch #12]; Judge Pamela Leeming, Judge Mathias William Delort, Judge Alfred M. Swanson, [Punch 169]; Judge William Stewart Boyd [Punch #124]; Judge Michael Forti [Punch #158]; Judge Stanley L. Hill, Judge James A. Wright, Judge P. Scott Neville, Jr., Democratic Committeeman Ald. Ariel Reboyras [30th Ward], Judge Rodrick F. Wimberly, Judge Nathaniel R. Howse, Jr., Democratic Town of Cicero Committeeman Charles P. Hernandez representing his wife State Rep. Elizabeth "Lisa" Hernandez [24th District] who was in Springfield. Clerk of the Circuit candidate Ricardo Munoz was present but had to leave to attend another function before the introductions began. Munoz did not speak or present his candidacy to the Hispanic Labor leaders. The "Meet the Candidates" event was a huge success. All the candidates in attendance appreciated the opportunity to speak, "work the room", and distribute their campaign literature. As HALC President, I thanked all the Unions and their members for attending the informative event.

Jessica O'Brien

QUALIFIED: Democrat Jessica O'Brien [Punch #159] is a candidate for Judge of the Circuit Court of Cook County to fill the Simmons vacancy. O’Brien was born and raised in the Philippines, trained as a chef and rose from bussing tables to senior management. She learned culinary arts in Switzerland and England. Jessica went to law school and worked in private practice before joining the Illinois Revenue Department. Attorney O'Brien is acting chief counsel for the Lottery and is active in the local bar association.

CANDIDATE O'BRIEN gave a rousing speech during the Hispanic American Labor Council's dinner meeting and was endorsed by Hispanic labor, Chicago Federation of Labor, Construction Trades Council, Chicago Firefighters Union Local 2, IBEW Local 134, IVI-IPO, Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #7, Maine Township Regular Democratic Party & Committeeman Laura Murphy, 6th Ward Alderman & Committeeman Roderick T. Sawyer, 34th Ward Alderman & Committeeman Carrie M. Austin, Pipe Fitters Union Local 597 and many more. To contact Jessica: jobrienforjudge@att.net or call 312/965-6737. Punch #159!

HIGHLY QUALIFIED: Democratic Edward J. Maloney [Punch #156] is a candidate for Cook County Circuit Court Judge to fill the Pucinski vacancy. He is the only candidate in this race endorsed by the Illinois Committee For Honest Government and found qualified and recommended by ALL Bar Associations.

Edward J. Maloney

MALONEY'S QUALIFICATIONS: He graduated from John Marshall Law School and worked as a Cook County Assistant State's Attorney since 1989. Maloney has over 20 years of courtroom experience, tried hundreds of felony trials, with appellate court experience in both criminal and civil court. He has argued cases on appeal in state and federal court, U.S. Court of Appeals Seventh Circuit, U.S. District Court for the Northern Districts of Illinois, Trial coach, Chicago Public School and B.B.A., University of Iowa.

MALONEY is endorsed by the Chicago Federation of Labor [CFL], Chicago Firefighters Union Local 2, Wheeling Township Democratic Organization, Democratic Party of Leyden Township, Chicago & Cook County Building Trades Council, Laborers District Council, Chicago County of Carpenters, IBEW Electrical Workers, Locals 9 and 134, IUOE, Operating Engineers, Locals 150 and 399, Ironworkers Local 1, Machinists & Aerospace Workers, Local 126, Painters, Local 14, Sheet Metal Workers, Local 73, Cook County College Teachers Union, Local 1600, Hispanic Illinois State Law Enforcement Association, Italian, German, Polish, Greek American Police Associations, Cook County Sheriff's Police FOP Lodge #4. Give him your vote!

MEXICAN HISTORY: As we celebrate St. Patrick's Day on Sat., March 17th, Mexicans must be reminded of the historical bond between Mexicans and the Irish people. The bond forged when the St. Patrick's Battalion, mostly Irish soldiers, 500 deserted the U.S. army to fight on the side of Mexico during the U.S.-Mexican War 1846-1848.

THESE BRAVE IRISH soldiers were led by Captain John Riley of County Galway and were known as the San Patricios. They followed their conscience and crossed the Texas Mexican border to fight against an unjust invasion of Mexico; to be on the side of a Catholic country. "A fine documentary by Mark R. Day exonerates these heroes, giving Irish and Irish-Americans, Mexicans and Mexican-Americans great cause for pride and celebration" says Thomas Cahill, Author of How the Irish Saved Civilization. Learn more about this historical event by logging on: YouTube, click on "One Man's Hero" video and learn more about the San Patricios.

Early Voting, Recommended Candidates, Dirty Politics, 31st Senior Club, Kid's ID, Golden Gloves, Manuel Perez Jr. Birthday, Movie: "The Wild Bunch", Events

2012-03-01T00:00:00.000-06:00

EARLY VOTING: There are only 25 days until the Primary Election, Tuesday, March 20, 2012. However, early voting began Monday, Feb. 27th and will end on March 15th. Chicago voters may use any voting site regardless of where the voter may live. Voters don't need any reason for wanting to vote early, but will need to show a government-issued photo ID to receive a ballot. There are 51 Early Voting sites in Chicago [Google: chicagoelections.com] that will be open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Board of Election offices at 69 W. Washington will also be open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. including on Sundays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

THE EIGHT Latino wards Early Voting sites are as follows:

1st Ward: Goldblatts Building, 1615 W. Chicago Ave.: Mon. thru Sat., 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

12th Ward: Davis Square Park, 4430 S. Marshfield: Mon. thru Sat., 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

22nd Ward: Piotrowski Park, 4247 W. 31st St., Mon. thru Sat., 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

25th Ward: Chinatown Library, 2353 S. Wentworth Ave., Mon. thru Sat., 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

26th Ward: Humboldt Park Library, 1605 N. Troy St., Mon. thru Sat., 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

30th Ward: Portage Cragin Library, 5108 W. Belmont Ave., Mon. thru Sat., 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

31st Ward: Blackhawk Park, 2318 N. Lavergne Ave., Mon. thru Sat., 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

35th Ward: Logan Square Library, 3030 W. Fullerton Ave., Mon. thru Sat., 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

REMEMBER: "Your Vote, Is Your Voice!", " Su Voto, Es Tu Voz!" and Get-Out-And-Vote! Someone said: "It's Cool To Vote!" Voting only takes 5 minutes depending on the time you arrive at the polling place. Vote for the candidates of your choice, but check their credentials and qualifications. A candidates experience in government, plus dedication in serving the community, is vital.

DON’T BE FOOLED by candidates who use political affiliation phrases like "independent", "progressive," and "reformer"; these are empty phrases and used by candidates who typically do not have much to offer. Ask the candidate the important question, "What have you DONE to improve the quality of life in our community?” Campaign promises are good but what has the candidate done to deserve your vote?

RECOMMENDED CANDIDATES

Anita Alvarez* Elizabeth Hernandez* Steven Landek* Rudy Garcia*
Cook County State's Attorney State Rep. 24th Dist. State Sen. 12th Dist. Judge, Appellate Court

Cauthetemoc Morfin Cynthia Ramirez Carlos Claudio Michael Cabonargi*
State Rep. 2nd Dist. Circuit Court Judge Sub-Circuit Judge Board of Review, 2nd Dist.

Antonio Munoz* William Delgado* Edward J. Acevedo* Silvana Tabares

State Sen., 1st Dist. State Sen. 2nd Dist. State Rep. 2nd Dist. State Rep., 21st Dist.

*incumbent

DIRTY POLITICS: State Representative Elizabeth "Lisa" Hernandez [D-24th District] Ad benches are being vandalized by her "independent" opponent. The defaced benches advertising her candidacy are located down 26th St. business district in Little Village, part of the 24th District. Her opponent plastered his political signs with his name over Hernandez's name. "Advertising my candidacy on Ad benches cost our campaign a lot of money," said Representative Hernandez. "If my opponent wants his name on Ad benches he should rent the benches," concluded Hernandez. A police report was made by the Hernandez campaign.

Rep. Lisa Hernandez,
Sally Martinez & Arlene Zriny

HERNANDEZ'S campaign also reported four men wearing black hoods were observed stealing Hernandez's 4x4 campaign signs in Berwyn at night. "They stole a total of 25 signs, many on private property" said Hernandez's campaign. In the 22nd Ward, dirty politics is not new. Two years ago when State Rep. Daniel Burke was running for re-election his opponent defaced Burke's billboards in the 22nd Ward with black paint.

CANDIDATES who engage in this type of campaigning do not deserve the support of the voters. A candidate who resorts to vandalism is demonstrating their lack of character, integrity, and lack of respect for property value or freedom of expression. Stealing is illegal; this includes stealing political signs. A candidate who steals, engages in vandalism, or condones this illegal activity, especially a politician, cannot be trusted to hold public office and should not be elected.

Dathna & Alexander Aguilar,
Louisa Keefe

KID'S ID EVENT: Chicago City Clerk Susana Mendoza's staff person, Louisa Keefe, registered and photographed 35 Little Village children and adults with KID's and medical ID cards Saturday, Feb. 25, 2012. The plastic ID cards carry vital information for the child and adult safety. Each card displays the Seal of Chicago and they are filed in the City Clerk's office for emergency use. The youngest child registered Saturday was a 4 month old baby by her parents. The City Clerk provided this free service at the Little Village Community office, 3610 W. 26th St., Chicago. Call the City Clerk's office for the KIDs and Medical ID service.

HONORS: Omar Headen, Ph.D., Coordinator, Culture of Calm at Farragut Career Academy announced the following students who were honored as “Students of the Month”:

Vanessa Avalos, Avelar Maribel, Willie Burns, Viviana Chavez, Rosalva Diaz, Darryl Magitt, Alyssa Manzanarez, Daniel Morales, Rodrigo Pantoja, Cristian Ramirez, Melissa Sotelo, Nancy Valasquez, Andres Vargas, Dulce Quintero. Congrats to all the students!

BOXING: The schedule for the Chicago Golden Gloves 2012 12 nights of amateur boxing at Gordon Tech High School, 3633 N. California Ave. is as follows:

March 8, 9 and 10^th

March 15, 16 and 17^th

March 22, 23 and 24th

BOUTS begin nightly at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10 on March 8, 9, 10 and 15. Tickets are $15 on March 16, 17, 22, 23 and 24th. The championship will be contested on April 12, 13 and 14. Championship bouts begin at 8 p.m. Tickets are $20 General Admission, $35 Main Floor and $50 Ringside. Tickets can be purchased at the door on event evenings beginning at 6 p.m.

PFC Manuel Perez Jr.

THE CHICAGO GOLDEN Gloves Charities sends a championships team to the National Golden Gloves Championships held annually in May and hosted by different cities. The Gloves also provides scholarship money to worthy boxers and donate equipment to needy local boxing gyms and the Chicago Park District. I'll see ya at the "gloves"!
A HERO: PFC Manuel Perez Jr. [1923-1945] a Mexican-American was born March 3, 1923 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Perez Jr.'s birthday will be celebrated at noon this Saturday, March 3th by the members of the Little Village Dr. Hector P. Garcia AMVETS Post 326. AMVETS Commander William Luna said: "This is the tenth year that the members of the AMVETS, Manuel Perez Jr. American Legion Post 1017, Mexican American Veterans Association [MAVA] and the Military Order of the Purple Heart are celebrating Perez Jr.'s birthday." The celebration will be held at the Manuel Perez Jr. Memorial plaza at 26th St. & Kolin Ave. The Farragut ROTC Color Guard will post colors at the event and Rick Murray, a Korean veteran, will sing the National Anthem.

PEREZ JR. was a United States Army soldier killed in action and posthumously received the Medal of Honor, the United States' highest military decoration, for his heroic actions in the Battle of Luzon during the Philippines campaign of World War II. The Manuel Perez Jr. American Legion Post 1017 is located at 27th St. & Hamlin Ave. in Little Village.

Emilio "El Indio" Fernandez

FREE MOVIE: The classic movie, "The Wild Bunch" will be featured on a full screen at noon this Saturday, March 3, 2012 at the Little Village Community Council, 3610 W. 26th St. Free popcorn will be served to the audience. Famous Mexican actor Emilio "El Indio" Fernandez plays a Colonel in the Mexican army in the movie that gets into a fierce bloody battle with the "gringos."

FERNANDEZ, the model for the Oscar, posed nude as the naked Knight holding a sword for the statuette in 1929. Other actors in the movie are William Holden, Ernest Borgnine, Robert Ryan, Jaime Sanchez. It’s an action packed movie directed by Sam Peckinpah. I give this movie four stars plus.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Thursday, March 1^st to March 28 -- Cesar Chavez Food Drive sponsored by State Rep. Elizabeth "Lisa" Hernandez. Drop off donations at Hernandez's Service Office, 2137 S. Lombard Ave., Suite 205, Cicero. Items needed: Paper towels, canned fruits and vegetables, sugar, bottled water, etc. For more information call 708/222-5240.

Saturday, March 3--"The Wild Bunch" movie at the Little Village Community Council, 3610 W. 26th St. at Noon. Free admission. Emilio Fernandez, William Holden, Ernest Borgnine, Juan Sanchez.

Sunday, Mar. 4--LAPA "Si Se Puede!" Comedy Jam with comedian Jose Sarduy direct from Texas. Joe's Bar, 940 W. Weed St., Doors open at 7:30 p.m. Tickets $20 each. For ticket information contact www.lapa961.com or call Ruben Dominguez at 773/501-2277.

Kids & Medical IDs, Hispanic Labor, ATU Latinos, Cuahutemoc Morfin, Terry Gallagher, Francisco Juarez, Events

2012-02-23T00:00:00.000-06:00

CITY CLERK: Chicago City Clerk Susana Mendoza’s staff will be making KIDS ID [Kids Identification Systems] and Medical ID cards at the Little Village Community Council, 3610 W. 26th St. from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. this Saturday, Feb. 25, 2012.

Susana Mendoza

FREE TO CHICAGO PARENTS is an ID card with their child's digital photograph and fingerprint produced by new inkless technology. The data, stored securely in the City Clerk's office, will be used only when police and family report a child missing.

THE I.D. CARD will have the telephone number to call after reporting a missing child to police. The KIDS program will produce a document containing the child's picture and biographical and descriptive information provided by the parents. The information will then be posted via the Internet distributed to law enforcement, the media and other search groups.

MEDICAL ID: The Medical ID program offers a free medical identification card to Chicago residents of all ages. The program provides medical information and vital statistics readily available to healthcare and emergency providers. The front of the Medical ID cards provides: A photo, name, address, date of birth, emergency contact, and phone number. The reverse side of the card provides: Primary Care Physician name and phone number, medical conditions [if any], blood pressure status and any medical allergies.

NO APPOINTMENT is necessary to obtain the KIDS ID or Medical ID card at the Little Village Community Council. No es necesario pedir cita para la KIDS or Medical ID tarjeta.

HISPANIC LABOR: More than 100 Hispanic labor leaders and Union members will be gathering Wednesday, Feb. 29, 2012 for a political "Meet The Candidates" dinner meeting at Mi Tierra Restaurant, 2526 S. Kedzie Ave. from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Dinner will be a Mexican buffet with a cash bar. Ticket donation per person is $40.

DEMOCRATIC state, county and judicial candidates will be given an opportunity to speak to the group about their candidacy, distribute their campaign literature and "work" the room. Labor leader Jesse M. Rios, Chicago Federation of Labor Sgt.-at-Arms will be attending the dinner. Jesse has been a Union Leader for 46 years with the United Auto Workers [UAW] and the American Federal Government Employees Union [AFGE-AFL-CIO].

UNIONS REPRESENTED at the dinner will be the Sheet Metal Workers Local 73, Carpenters Union Local 181, Ironworkers Local 1, Plasters' Local 5, Chicago Teachers Union, Amalgamated Transit Union Local 308, United Steel Workers Local 9777, District Council of Laborers, United Steel Workers Sub 1 Council, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 134, Bricklayers Union, AFSCME Local 2946, AFSCME Council 31, Plumbers Local 130 and members of the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists. For more information contact HALC at 312/286-3405.

ATU LATINOS: The Chicago Chapter Latino Caucus of Amalgamated Transit Union 241 "Sweetheart Dinner Dance" sponsored Saturday, Feb. 11, 2012 at La Casa Puertariquena was a gala event. Special guests were Javier M. Perez, Jr., International Vice President of the Amalgamated Transit Union AFL-CIO and International Latino Caucus Vice-President Wilson Rios.

Abel Camacho, Carlos Feliciano, Wilson Rios, Ray Berrios,
Luis Aviles, Javier M. Perez Jr.

THE BANQUET hall was decorated with colorful balloons with candy hearts on the tables. There was a special corner decorated with inflatable red hearts for taking a photo with your sweetheart. The food was delicious and plentiful with great tropical music by a special group of musicians and DJ Santiago. More than 100 people attended the Sweetheart dinner.

CHICAGO Chapter Latino Caucus was organized in 1994 and has a membership of 70 with 35 active members. Their membership is anyone who works for ATU 241, including spouses. ATU is the largest labor organization representing transit workers. The organization consist of bus, van, subway and light rail operators, clerks, baggage handlers and maintenance employees. ATU Chicago Latino Caucus officers are President Abel Camacho, Vice President Carlos Feliciano, Treasurer Ray Berrios, Secretary Luis Aviles.

Javier M. Perez Jr. and Jose Guerrero

FORMER ATU Local 241 Vice-President, Jose Guerrero, also attended the dinner. Jose has been a member of ATU for 38 years. He now spends his retirement serving as a board member of the National Labor Council for Latin American Advancement [LCLAA] [AFL-CIO] and is an Executive Committee member of the Hispanic American Labor Council.

A FUNDRAISER: Cuahutemoc "Temoc" Morfin, Democratic candidate for State Representative, 2nd District was honored at a "Businesspeople For Morfin" reception held Friday, Feb. 10, 2012 at Morfin's Campaign Office, 2120 S. Halsted St. in Pilsen. Many businesspeople in the district were present showing their support for Morfin. Special guest was Appellate Court Judge Rudy Garcia who is a candidate for election in the Primary Election March 20, 2012. Garcia announced his endorsement for Morfin at the reception. Delicious Chinese food and refreshments were served to the many guests.

Rudy Garcia and Temoc Morfin

MORFIN SAID: "I will help the business community in the 2nd District survive these difficult economic times. A tax credit should be given to businesses who hire more workers. I will also support a training program which will provide the needed skills for future employees of businesses.”

Clave Suave Trio

MUSIC AT Morfin's event was provided by the "Clave Suave Trio" members Eddie Garcia [lead guitarist] , Gonzalo Cordova [second guitar] and Sammy Torres playing the bongos. The group started in 2007. Their specialty is Caribbean Spanish music, Cuban, Mexican, Vera Cruz, rumba, boleros, Flamingo and son. They will be playing at the Caliente Mexican Restaurant, 1960 N. Clybourn the first and last Saturday in March. The Trio can be contacted at 773/933-7971.

JUDICIAL: Terry Gallagher is an endorsed Democratic candidate for Judge of the 4th Judicial Sub-Circuit. He has been endorsed by the seven Democratic Committeemen in the 4th Judicial Sub-Circuit, Fraternal Order of Police, Chicago Lodge #7 Chicago Firefighters Union.

Terry Gallagher

GALLAGHER, an experienced trial lawyer, will address the Polish National Alliance Seniors, Tuesday, Feb. 28 at 10 a.m. at Mayfield Banquet Hall, 6072 S. Archer Ave. He will discuss the importance of knowing when it is in your own interest to consult a lawyer.

TERRY attended Loyola Academy, St. Mary's University and graduated from Seattle University School of Law, Seattle Washington with a Juris Doctor Degree. He spent three years overseas with the U.S. Navy in the Navy Judge Advocate General's Corps. prosecuting and defending cases in the Navy and Marine Corps. He assisted military members and their dependents on a variety of civil matters, helping them with debt collectors’, preparing wills among other matters.

Maria Ellen Juarez, Francisco Juarez, Maria Silva

CURRENTLY, Gallagher focuses his practice on assisting individuals who have been charged with a crime, assisting those whose Constitutional and civil rights have been violated and assisting individuals who have been injured due to negligence. Terry is the father of five children. Give him your vote.

FELIZ CUMPLEANOS: Happy Birthday to Francisco Juarez, 81. His birthday was celebrated Saturday, Feb. 18th with his daughters Maria Silva and Maria Ellen Juarez and family. Family and friends gathered around Francisco and sang him "Las Mananitas" with guartist Phillipi. Francisco blew out his birthday candles. Everyone enjoyed a piece of a large strawberry cream cake. Francisco was born in town of Santa Cruz, Guerrero, Mexico.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Thursday, Feb. 23 to March 28 -- Cesar Chavez Food Drive sponsored by State Rep. Elizabeth "Lisa" Hernandez. Drop off donations at Hernandez's Service Office, 2137 S. Lombard Ave., Suite 205, Cicero. Items needed: Paper towels, canned fruits and vegetables, sugar, bottled water, etc. For more information call 708/222-5240.

Wednesday, Feb. 29--"Meet the Candidates" dinner meeting hosted by the Hispanic American Labor Council. Meet State, County and Judicial candidates at Mi Tierra Restaurant, 2528 S. Kedzie Ave., Chicago/Little Village, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Mexican buffet/Cash Bar, Open Seating. Donation: $40. Mail and make check payable to Hispanic American Labor Council, 2538 S. Christiana Ave., Chicago, 60623.

Saturday, March 3--"The Wild Bunch" movie at the Little Village Community Council, 3610 W. 26th St. at Noon. Free admission. Emilio Fernandez, William Holden, Ernest Borgnine, Juan Sanchez.

State Sen. Landek, Wildcats, Carlos Claudio, BGA Watchdog, 26th Ward, Lincoln Park Zoo, Movie Review, Calendar of Events

2012-02-16T00:00:00.000-06:00

STRONG LEADERSHIP: Steven M. Landek is the new 11th District State Senator representing Stickney, Lyons, Berwyn Townships, 13^th and 23^rd Wards and part of the 22nd Ward Little Village community in Chicago. Landek is the endorsed candidate of the Democratic Party based on his experience and many years of public service. He is seeking election in the Primary Election Tuesday, March 20, 2012.

Steven M. Landek

LANDEK BEGAN his career in public service at the age of 19 when he was elected as the youngest Park District Commissioner in the State of Illinois. He became the Director of Parks in 1977, and served until 1996. In the Village of Bridgeview, Landek was elected as a Village Trustee from 1983 to 1987 and is currently Mayor of Bridgeview.

SEN. LANDEK said, "My priority is to strengthen the southwest side and suburbs to ensure that we get equal treatment, equal services, and equal state funding. My priority has always been to bring jobs and economic support to our village and to the region."

ONE OF Sen. Landek's high-profile projects was the construction of Toyota Park in Bridgeview. He was instrumental in the development and spearheaded the drive to find the funding and support for the stadium. The stadium is home for the Chicago Fire soccer team and a venue for local and star attractions such as Jimmy Buffet, Eric Clapton and David Beckham of the Los Angeles Galaxy. The stadium has provided full and part-time jobs to the area.

ANOTHER PROJECT was the underpass for 71st Street in Bridgeview. The underpass increased traffic flow and added safety for vehicles and pedestrians. It was a $20 million project and one of the first CREATE projects funded by state and federal governments.

LANDEK is a lifelong resident of Bridgeview and a graduate of Saint Blase Grammar School and Argo Community High School. He received his Bachelor's Degree in Public Administration from Roosevelt University. In 1998 Landek was elected Lyons Township Democratic Committeeman and in 2000 he was elected the suburban chairman of the Democratic Party and in 1998, he was elected Lyons Township Highway Commissioner and Lyons Township Supervisor in 2010.

STEVE LANDEK has built a reputation as a dedicated public servant with a long list of impressive accomplishments achieved during his over 35 year career. "I am proud to serve the community and I am honored for the privilege to represent the community's interest and goals," said Landek.

SEN. LANDEK senate committee assignments: Human Services [Vice-Chairperson]; Appropriations II; Commerce; Revenue; Local Government, Committee of the Whole; subcommittee on Amendments; Subcommittee on Special Issues; Subcommittee on Annexation and Subcommittee on New District. His District Office is located at 6215 79th Street, Suite 1A, Burbank, IL 60459. Telephone: 708/430-2510, FAX 708/430-2610 and Springfield telephone number is 217/782-0054.

Loretta J. Alonzo

WILDCATS: The Fraternal Order of St. Francis Wildcats are celebrating their 74th Anniversary Annual Scholarship & Award Banquet at the Lexington House, 7717 W. 95th St., Hickory Hill, Illinois on Saturday, April 14, 2012 from 6:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. Tickets are $65 each. A full-course meal will be served, open bar and entertainment provided by the Immaculate Heart of Mary Youth Marimba Ensemble and dancing music by the Together band. Door prizes, raffles with 5 cash prizes and a 50/50 "split the pot" raffle.

HONOREE Loretta J. Alonzo will be honored at the banquet as the "2012 Wildcats Person Of The Year". She is the first Hispanic President of the Illinois Association of Realtors and is a member of the Century 21 Alonzo & Associates team. Alonzo & Associates is located at 1011 East 31st St., La Grange Park, IL. and serves 72 municipalities helping clients buy or sell a home. In 2011, Loretta received recognition as a "Quality Service Producer" for her outstanding work as a real estate agent.

THE ORIGINAL "Wildcats" were formed in 1938 in a basketball expansion program at the Old Town Boy's Club, 1300 S. Newberry Ave. After World War II, it was reorganized under the direction of Father Patrick McPolin and Father Severino Lopez at the new St. Francis of Assisi gym. In 1947, the Wildcats joined the Mexican Federation Baseball League and won the championship in 1952. In 1977, the Wildcats organization was chartered with the State of Illinois as a non-profit organization. The success of the Wildcats comes from the support of the community with programs such as the Annual Banquet and Scholarship Banquet, annual picnic, the Needy Children's program and the sponsorship of the Little League Baseball teams.

John Ayala

WILDCATS OFFICERS: John Ayala, President; Jose Guidino, Vice-President; Ruben Casares, Treasurer; Louie Raya, Secretary. Board of Directors: Adolph Learas, Phil Ayala, Al Martinez, Lorenzo Gonzalez. For banquet tickets contact Albert Martinez at 773/284-0890 for ad book information contact John Ayala at 312/806-3889 or Joe L. Guidino at 708/220-6826. Deadline for ads is April 3, 2012. Proceeds from the banquet will support the Wildcats Pilsen Athletic Conference, Kid's Christmas Party and awarding of scholarships to deserving college students.

QUALIFIED: With the campaign slogan, "Justice Over Politics" Carlos Claudio, 42, is a Democratic candidate for Judge in the 6th Sub circuit. He graduated from Kelvyn Park High School, DePaul University in 2002. J.D. in Criminal Law and graduated from DePaul University in 1995 with a B.A. in Political Science.

CLAUDIO has spent his entire career as a lawyer working for justice and fairness. "I want to ensure that fairness and justice are upheld in the judicial system in the State of Illinois," said Claudio. Claudio is currently an Administrative Law Judge [ALJ] at the Illinois Department of Employment Security.

Carlos Claudio

CAMPAIGN BASH: Friends and supporters are invited to join candidate Carlos Claudio for judge at his last campaign bash on Saturday, Feb. 25, 2012 at the Martini Club, 3124 N. Central Ave., 8:00 p.m. until ? Music all night by Chicago's Very Own DJ "E", two hours of Open Bar, free food, free parking, full club access. Tickets $50 in advance, $75 at the door. For more info. call 773/225-8333. Claudio's E-mail address is carlosclaudio2012@gmail.com and website: www.completecampaigns.com/public

BGA WATCHDOG: Andy Shaw, CEO & President of the Better Government Association announced that BGA is sponsoring a "BGA Citizen Watchdog" training session hosted in partnership with Saint Xavier University Center to "Study Fraud and Corruption" in government. Andy said: "Tired of public officials taking advantage of your tax dollars? Fed up with politics that benefit politicians instead of citizens? Come to the BGA Citizen Watchdog Training session."

Andy Shaw

“CITIZEN TRAINING empowers you to keep an eye on government by giving you the tools you need to access government,” said Shaw. Learn from legal experts how to obtain public information using the Illinois Freedom of Information Act and the Open Meetings Act.

CITIZEN WATCHDOG training session will be held at St. Xavier University, 3700 W. 103rd St., Chicago in the Warde Academic Center-Butler Reception Room, Thursday, Feb. 23, 2012 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. This training is FREE and open to the public. Space is limited. RSVP required to Barb Macholz at bmacholz@bettergov.org or call 312/821-9025. BGA Office, 223 W. Jackson Blvd., Suite 900, Chicago.

26th WARD: Ald. Roberto Maldonado said: "In light of the recent strong armed robberies against area women we are hosting a FREE, 2 hour ‘Survival Awareness’ workshop for women”. The workshop will be Tuesday, Feb. 28, 2012 at 6:00 p.m. at Casa Puertorriquena, 1237 N. California Ave. The instructor is Ray Bosques, a martial arts expert, has been teaching survival techniques for over 15 years.

Roberto Maldonado

RAY BOSQUES said, "The ‘Survival Awareness’ workshop teaches people how to be more aware of their surroundings, plus hints and tips on how to avoid being caught in a bad situation. During the workshop the women will learn vital points of the body and which strikes work better. I believe that this workshop will have a positive impact on our community and it will be for free." RSVP for the workshop to prpyc1@gmail.com or call 773/292-1414 and leave a message.

LINCOLN PARK ZOO: Kids can receive a scholarship for a free session of Conservation Camp or Zoo Crew. Free summer camp at Lincoln Park Zoo. Scholarships are awarded on the basis of a participant submission, recommendations by a non-related adult and participant's financial need. To apply, visit www.lpzoo.org/summercamps today.

MOVIE REVIEW: The movie "The Girl With A Dragon Tattoo" it's a thriller. Full of suspense, murder, sex, a mystery with a plot, and a subplot which will keep you on the edge of your seat. Actor Daniel Craig is an investigator hired to find out what happen to the niece of a rich family in Sweden. Actress Rooney Mara [the girl with the dragon tattoo] portrayed Craig's assistant, whose excellent performance should earn Mara an Oscar for "Actress in a Leading Role" and the movie should receive the Oscar for "Best Picture" in 2012. I give it three stars.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Jose Sarduy

Thursday, Feb. 16 to March 28 -- Cesar Chavez Food Drive sponsored by State Rep. Elizabeth "Lisa" Hernandez. Drop off donations at Hernandez's Service Office, 2137 S. Lombard Ave., Suite 205, Cicero. Items needed: Paper towels, canned fruits and vegetables, sugar, bottled water, etc. For more information call 708/222-5240.

Saturday, Feb. 25--The Office of City Clerk Susana Mendoza will provide free Kid ID's and Senior Medical ID's from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Little Village Community Council, 3610 W. 26th St. For more info call 312/286-3405.

Voter Registration Deadline, Emilio Fernandez, Abraham Lincoln, James A. Sifuentes, Movie Review, Calendar of Events

2012-02-08T18:00:00.000-06:00

ELECTION: There are only 51 days left until the Primary Election scheduled for Tuesday, March 20, 2012. The deadline to register to vote is Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2012. If you are eligible to vote, you can register at the City of Chicago Board of Election Office, 69 W. Washington St., 6th Floor, or by submitting a mail-in form. Google: Chicago Board of Election, log on "Register to Vote" and download the mail-in form: Illinois Voter Registration Application, Form 275. After you complete the form, mail it to the Chicago Board of Election. If you have any questions, call the Chicago Board of Election at 312/269-7984.

TO REGISTER to vote you must:

be a U.S. Citizen
be at least 18 years of age by Election Day
live in your precinct at least 30 days before the election
not be in prison/jail serving time for a conviction; and,
not claim the right to vote elsewhere.

OSCAR TIME: On Sunday, Feb. 26, 2012, the 84th Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences award ceremony will be televised from Hollywood. The Oscar statuette was designed in 1929 by MGM art director Cedric Gibbons. In need of a model for his statuette, Gibbons' future wife Dolores del Rio, a very close friend of Mexican film director and movie star Emilio "El Indio" Fernandez, introduced the two men. She suggested Emilio pose for the trophy because of his muscular physique. Emilio, reluctant at first, was finally convinced to be the model and posed nude as the naked knight holding a sword known worldwide as the "Oscar" statuette.

Emilio Fernandez

THE NEW GOLD- plated Oscar statuette is cast, molded, polished and buffed by R. S. Owens & Company, 5535 N. Lynch Ave., a Chicago-based awards manufacturer retained by the Academy since 1982. The 24-karat gold Oscar is 13 1/2 inches tall and weighs in at 8 1/2 pounds. The Oscar Knight stands on top a movie reel with five spokes representing the five original branches of the Academy: actors, directors, producers, technicians and writers for their excellence in the movie industry. The moniker "Oscar" was given by the Academy librarian Margaret Herrick who said the statue resembled her Uncle Oscar. The Academy did not officially adopt the nickname until 1939.

EMILIO FERNANDEZ [1904-1986], 82, died in Mexico City, Mexico. He was born in Hondo, Coahuila, Mexico. His father Fernando Garza was a 1910 revolutionary and his mother was a Kickapoo Indian, hence the nickname "El Indio". Emilio stars is the movies, "The Wild Bunch" an American masterpiece as a colonel in the Mexican army and "Bring Me The Head of Alfredo Garcia" both directed by Sam Peckinpah. "El Indio" Fernandez’s notable performances included playing in movies opposite Charles Bronson, John Wayne, Yul Brynner, William Holden, Ernest Borgnine, Warren Oates, Pedro Armendariz and directed many movies, too numerous to mention. He is the most famous person in the history of Mexican movies.

THE MOVIE, "The Wild Bunch" will be feature at the Little Village Community Council, 3610 W. 26th St. FREE on Saturday, March 3, 2012 at noon.

AN INSPIRATION: America will be celebrating Abraham Lincoln's birthday Feb. 12. He was the 16th President of the United States and considered by historians the greatest President in American history. Lincoln's strong leadership saved the Union of the States with his wisdom and prowess.

IMPORTANT FACTS about the life of President Lincoln [1809-1865] which should inspire young people not to despair in following their career.

Failed in business, 1831

Defeat for Legislature, 1832

Again failed in business, 1833

ELECTED TO LEGISLATURE, 1834

Nervous breakdown, 1836

Defeated for Speaker, 1838

Defeated For Elector, 1840

Defeated for Congress, 1843

ELECTED TO CONGRESS, 1846

Defeated for Congress, 1848

Defeated for Senate, 1855

Defeated for Vice President,1858

Defeated for Senate, 1858

ELECTED PRESIDENT, 1860

President Lincoln, 56, was assassinated by John Wilkes Booth, April 14, 1865.

ST. ANTHONY HOSPITAL: James A. Sifuentes, 48, is Vice President of Mission and Community Development at Saint Anthony Hospital located in the Pilsen/Little Village community at 2875 West 19th St., Chicago. VP Sifuentes was born and raised in the Back of the Yards neighborhood and is a resident of the Garfield Ridge neighborhood. He is married and has two daughters, Amanda Pilar and Sadie Gabriella. Sifuentes graduated from Saint Xavier University where he received his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology. He is a Fellow of Leadership of Greater Chicago Class of 2003.

James A. Sifuentes

HE HAS held membership on the Board of Directors of the following organizations: Board of Advisors to the President at Saint Xavier University and Alumni Board of Directors at Saint Xavier University, Leadership Greater Chicago and Eighteen Street Development Corporation.

SIFUENTES began his career as a site coordinator for the Catholic Archdiocese of Chicago, running the Mercy Home for Boys and Girls Friends First program. After six years, he took his experience into managing and implementing several programs for various organizations such as Loyola University, Chicago Park District and Lutheran Social Services of Illinois.

AT ST. ANTHONY hospital, Sifuentes leadership is focused to assure core values, mission and beliefs of the hospital and the Catholic Church, which are visibly integrated throughout the hospital. Jim said, "I've been blessed to have been born and raised in the Back-of-the-Yards. And, to be associated with St. Anthony Hospital who fights for our community and advocates on behalf of the community." St. Anthony Hospital service area is Pilsen, Little Village, Back of the Yards, North Lawndale, Austin, Brighton Park and the McKinley Park community. St. Anthony Hospital has a 114-year history as a community hospital.

COMMUNITY EVENTS: St. Anthony Hospital sponsors an annual Summer Fest providing free health screens and information to 3,000 people in the community. Free backpacks were given to all the children who attend. Another event is their annual Thanksgiving/Christmas Food Baskets providing food baskets and gift cards to 160 families in the community. St. Anthony Hospital works closely with the community and has many community partnerships.

SERVICES: St. Anthony Hospital provides the community with free pregnancy tests, prenatal classes, First Time Moms Club, Child Development Consultations, Interactive Parent Toddler Group and Parent Education Series. The Hospital also gives public benefits and referral services with free application assistance and insurance counseling and free information and referrals. Health Education and Workshops, Health Screenings and Individual Health Counseling is also available free of charge. For Senior Wellness: Free counseling on Government Benefits, Free Medicare Part D Assistance, Free Circuit Breaker Applications and Free Senior Breakfast Club. For more info call 773/484-4152 or log on www.saintanthonyhospital.org

MOVIE REVIEWS: Here's my brief review on four movies "The Artist", "The Iron Lady", "The Descendants" and "Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy". The silent movie, “The Artist”, was well produced, funny, entertaining with a good romantic story line and good actors. Even the dog in the movie was talented and entertaining. I give it three stars. The “Iron Lady” is a historical setting of former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. Meryl Streep did an excellent job of portraying Margaret Thatcher. Streep's acting was very believable and deserves recognition. I give it two stars. “The Descendants” with George Clooney was boring, plus the storyline was not entertaining. It was a waste of time and money. I give it a zero! The movie, “Tinker Tailor” etc. was confusing and hard to follow because of all the editing done to the movie. Every scene was a different location and setting. It didn't flow smoothly. However, Gary Oldman is one of my favorite actors. Because the plot was hard to follow, I give it only two stars.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Thursday, Feb. 9 to March 28 -- Cesar Chavez Food Drive sponsored by State Rep. Elizabeth "Lisa" Hernandez. Drop off donations at Hernandez's Service Office, 2137 S. Lombard Ave., Suite 205, Cicero. Items needed: Paper towels, canned fruits and vegetables, sugar, bottled water, etc. For more information call 708/222-5240.

Saturday, Feb. 11--Sweetheart Dinner Dance sponsored by the Chicago Chapter Latino Caucus at La Casa Puertoriquena, 1237 S. California Ave. from 7:00 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Music by DJ Santiago, dinner music by a Special Trio Group. Cash Bar. Donation $15. For tickets call Abel Camacho 773/704-8243, Carlos Feliciano 773/392-5092, Roman Berrios 773/627-9678 or Luis Aviles 773/623-9266.

Saturday, Feb. 25--The Office of City Clerk Susan Mendoza will provide free Kid ID's and Medical ID's from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Little Village Community Council, 3610 W. 26th St. For more info call 312/286-3405.

Saturday, April 14--Universidad Popular's 40th Anniversary Gala starting at 6 p.m. at UPs Community Center, 2801 S. Hamlin Ave. in Little Village. Tickets $50. Dinner, dancing, presentations and a silent auction. Tickets are available on UP's website: www.universidadpopular.us/news-and-events.php or call Joanna Zuckerman Bernstein at 773/733-5055x14.

Obama's Speech, Stephen Ngo, Scholarship Alert, Events

2012-02-02T00:00:00.000-06:00

OBAMA's SPEECH: Watching and listening to what President Obama had to say in his "State of the Union" speech Tuesday, Jan. 23, 2012 was interesting, inspiring and informative. What I liked about his speech was how he explained the problems of America; following up with suggestions on how to fix the problem or what action he would take to solve the problem. However, when it came to the problem of illegal immigration the subject was void of a solution.
IN CASE you missed what President Obama said in his "State of the Union" about the problem of illegal immigration. Here it is, verbatim:
"And let's also remember that hundreds of thousands of talented, hard-working students in this country face another challenge; the fact that they aren't yet American citizens. Many were brought here as small children, are American through and through, yet they live every day with the threat of deportation. Others came more recently, to study business and science and engineering, but as soon as they get their degree, we send them home to invent new products and create new jobs somewhere else. That doesn't make sense. I believe as strongly as ever that we should take on illegal immigration. That's why my administration has put more boots on the border than ever before. That's why there are fewer illegal crossings than when I took office. The opponents of action are out of excuses. We should be working on comprehensive immigration reform right now. But if election-year politics keeps Congress from acting on a comprehensive plan, let's at least agree to stop expelling responsible young people who want to staff our labs, start new businesses, defend this country. Send me a law that gives them the chance to earn their citizenship; I will sign it right away. You see, an economy built to last is one where we encourage the talent and ingenuity of every person in this country."

MY OPINION: Here's what President Obama and his administration must do now:
STOP ICE from separating families who have children that are legal citizens.
STOP the pain and suffering of families of illegal immigrants.
STOP harassing employers who hired Mexicans.
STOP raiding factories and companies who employ Mexicans.
STOP States from illegally passing and enforcing laws against Mexicans.
STOP prosecuting illegal immigrants.
STOP making hallow promises to the immigrant community.
IT HAS been reported that ICE has deported more illegal immigrants during Obama's administration than any previous administrations. Putting "more boots" on the border is not a solution. What is needed is a "comprehensive immigration bill" coming from the Office of the President to solve the problem of illegal immigration. Obama should push and lobby aggressively for a comprehensive immigration law as he did for National Health Reform.

Dolores Huerta

SEVERAL YEARS ago I suggested to former Gov. Bill Richardson of New Mexico to lead a group of prominent Mexicans of national stature to meet with President Obama to discuss the problem of illegal immigration. The group should also include other top Mexican leaders in politics, labor, business, entertainment, sport, medicine, law; plus organizations like MALDEF, La Raza, LULAC, G.I. Forum, LCLAA and USHLI, Dr. Juan Andrade Jr. For starters acclaimed personalities such as Dolores Huerta, Edward James Olmos, Henry Cisneros and Antonio Villaraigosa come to my mind.
THE TIME for this idea is NOW. Obama wants Congress to send him a [immigration] bill which he can sign. We must ask Obama to send Congress a comprehensive immigration bill to consider; and a bill he will sign.

Stephen J. Ngo

NGO PROFILE: Stephen J. Ngo is the Principal of World Language High School at the Little Village Campus in the Little Village neighborhood. He has been the principal for the past three years and has work in Chicago Public Schools [CPS] system for 15 years. The number of students enrolled at World Language is 373.
"MY EXPERIENCE here at World Language has been that students have a high level of respect for the staff. It is a real pleasure to be here. From academic probation, we have now moved to Level II Good Standing. We have the tools to do better. We have great kids here," said Ngo.
WORLD LANGUAGE has a relationship with Busan, Korea and the school is presently developing a relationship with Spain. Ngo wants his students to achieve literary skills to be successful, to graduate and to continue their education. "I want to put the students in the best possible position to be successful at a University, trade school, junior college after graduation. Some type of post secondary education", said Ngo.
STEPHEN NGO graduated from Dominican University with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, May 1989; The University of Illinois at Chicago with a Master of Education in Instructional Leadership, August 1994; Loyola University in Instructional Leadership [Type 75 Administrative], March, 2003 and Loyola University, Doctor of Education, Administration & Supervision anticipated May, 2013.
FURTHER EXPERIENCE includes Harvard University, Graduate School of Education with a Certification and completion of Data Wise course, June, 2011 and United States Marine Corps Educator Workshop in San Diego, CA in February 2011.
NGO's PROFESSIONAL background experience includes being a student teacher at Argo Community High School in 1994 teaching World History and Criminal Law; English teacher at Matsubushi Prefectural High School in Saitama, Japan [1994-1997], teaching English grammar, writing, reading and oral comprehension; Social Studies Department Chairman [2003-2005] at Steinmetz Academic Center High School, Chicago; and Social Studies Teacher [International Baccalaureate History of the Americas] and Assistant Principal at Steinmetz Academic Centre High School [2005-2009].
PRINCIPAL NGO served as a Sergeant in the U.S. Army Reserve, 86th Army Reserve Command in Forest Park. He was the Public Affairs specialist/Photo Journalist responsible for all aspects of public relations for the second largest Army Reserve Command in the U.S. from 1986 to 1994.
ORGANIZATIONS: Ngo is presently a member of the Association for Supervision & Curriculum Development, International society for Technology in education and National Staff Development Council. He received the two following awards: 2002 SUAVE Performance Plus Award and 2005 Chicago Public Schools DRIVE finalist.
LITTLE VILLAGE High School is located at 3120 S. Kostner Ave., Chicago, 60623. Phone: 773/534-4376 and FAX 773/535-4276. We congratulate Stephen Ngo on his accomplishments and outstanding work as an educator.
SCHOLARSHIP ALERT: REACh is the acronym for "Resources for the Education of Adults in the Chicago Area" helping adults in the Chicago area who want to return to college. REACh is non-for-profit consortium of educational, civic and corporation organizations. Check out information for REACH Scholarships at www.reach-chicago.org/scholarships/

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Bobby Hull

Saturday, Feb. 11--Cicero President Larry Dominick Presents: RIC Blackhawks Sled Hockey Team vs. Cicero Fire & Police Dept. at Bobby Hull Community Ice Rink, 3400 S. 53rd Ave. from 11 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. FREE outdoor hockey game. For more info call Kathy Ordman at 708/656-3600, ext. 537.

Tuesday, Feb. 21--Little Village Special Service Area #25 Commission meeting at 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Little Village Chamber of Commerce office, 2458 S. Millard Ave.

Wednesday, Feb. 29--"Meet the Candidates" dinner meeting hosted by the Hispanic American Labor Council. Meet State, County and Judicial candidates at Mi Tierra Restaurant, 2528 S. Kedzie Ave., Chicago/Little Village, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Mexican buffet/Cash Bar, Open Seating. Donation: $40. Mail and make check payable to Hispanic American Labor Council, 2538 S. Christiana Ave., Chicago, 60623.
Thursday, Mar. 1--Friends of M. Frank Avila reception Honoring Commissioner Frank Avila from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at 6201 W. Touhy Ave., Suite 2. Hosted by the Hispanic American Labor Council. Individual ticket $150. Make check payable to Friend of M. Frank Avila. Pay at the door or call 773/763-2300.

Ward Remap, Cynthia Ramirez, LAPA, Scholarship Alert, Joe Baca, Mickey Ibarra, Events, Announcement

2012-01-26T00:00:00.000-06:00

MY OPINION: The coalition of 41 Chicago Aldermen who voted for the "compromise" remap of the 50 wards ought to be congratulated. By the majority of the Aldermen adopting a new remap of the wards, it will save the Chicago taxpayers the cost of a lawsuit and a referendum election costing $100,000. Politics is the art of compromise. Most political issues are complicated and all decisions are not fair. However, in a democratic society the majority prevails. Ald. Proco Joe Moreno [1st Ward] said the map is fair.In the future the 13th, 14th, 33rd and 38th Wards will become Latino wards because of the increase of the Latino population. Every 10 years it's a power struggle for incumbent Aldermen to survive in the process of changing the ward boundary lines. The new ward map will not affect the March 20th Primary Election, but will affect the Nov. 6th General Election.

Proco Joe Moreno

WITH THIRTEEN majority "Latino" wards, our Latino community must wake up and start getting into the habit of voting. For years the most common criticism I've heard is "Latinos don't vote!" It's true. Latino wards, unfortunately, have the lowest number of voters. In the 22nd Ward there are 14,000 registered voters but only 4,000 come out to vote on Election Day. We are losing 10,000 votes, and there is no excuse.
THIS MUST CHANGE if we expect our voices to be heard and respected. For those of us who are in leadership positions within Hispanic communities, we must unite and get-out-the-VOTE! It is our responsibility to educate our communities on the importance of voting. We must tell our Latino community to vote for the future of their children [para el futuro de sus hijos!].
CASUALTIES: Two Latino politico casualties Ambrosio "Ambi" Medrano, who lost to Ald. Danny Solis last year, has been remapped into Ald. James Balcer [11th Ward] and Raymond Lopez [15th Ward] is now in Ald. Michael Zalewsk's [23rd Ward]. Last year Lopez lost in a runoff election against Ald.Toni Foulkes. Now, Lopez is a candidate for Democratic Committeeman in the 15th Ward.
QUALIFIED: Cynthia Ramirez is the only Latina woman running for countywide judicial position in Cook County. She was born and raised in Chicago, of Mexican and Puerto Rican descent, and grew up in Wicker Park neighborhood. Cynthia attended Thomas Drummond Elementary and Wells Senior High School. She currently resides in the Dunning Square area.
CYNTHIA received her Bachelor's degree from Loyola University of Chicago in 1986; and her law degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison Law School in 1989. Cynthia has more than 21 years of trial and judicial experience in both civil and criminal practice.

Cynthia Ramirez

SHE STARTED her legal career serving six and half years as an Assistant Public Defender. During this time, Cynthia tried complex criminal and civil matters before the Juvenile Justice, Child Protection, First Municipal and Post Conviction divisions of Cook County Circuit Court. In private practice, she tried criminal and civil matters before the Juvenile Justice, Child Protection, Criminal and Traffic divisions of Cook County Circuit Court. As an Administrative Law Judge, Cynthia presided over regulatory and licensure hearings for more than 13 years.
ATTORNEY RAMIREZ is a member of the Women's Bar Association of Illinois, Hispanic Lawyer's Association of Illinois and the National Hispanic Bar Association. She is also a parent member of the Friends of Lincoln Park High School.
CYNTHIA RAMIREZ is rated Qualified by the Chicago Bar Association, Chicago Council of Lawyers, Illinois State Bar Association and the Asian American Bar Association. Rated Highly Recommended by the Decalogue society of Lawyers, Hispanic Lawyer's Association of Illinois and the Puerto Rican Bar Association of Illinois.
SHE IS rated Recommended by the Cook County Bar Association, Black Women Lawyers' Association of Greater Chicago, Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago, Hellenic Bar Association and the Women's Bar Association of Illinois.
CYNTHIA is endorsed by the Cook County Democratic Party, Chicago Federation of Labor, Fraternal Order of Police and the Latin American Police Association [LAPA].
CPD LAPA: Police Officer Michael Chuchro is of Puerto Rican and Polish descent and is the President of the Latin American Police Association. For the past eleven years, Michael has served with the Chicago Police Department [CPD] and has received two Life Saving Awards, two Department Commendations, forty four Honorable Mentions and five Complementary Letters.

Michael Chuchro

MICHAEL has been the President of LAPA for the past five years and is an active member of the Hispanic Illinois State Law Enforcement Association [HISLEA] from 1997 to 2010. With HISLEA, he served as an Executive Board Member and Treasurer.
MICHAEL attended Robert Morris University [RMU] and graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor in Business Administration, 2007. While attending RMU, Michael was listed on the President's Honors List and was inducted into the sigma Beta Delta International Honors society in Business, Management and Administration. After attending RMU, he went on to study at the Morris Graduate School of Management where he graduated with a Masters in Business Administration and a Masters in Information Systems, 2010.
LAPA PRESIDENT Chuchro said his vision for the LAPA organization is to continue to uphold the traditions of LAPA and move the organization forward by mentoring young Hispanic officers. To work with Hispanic community to develop new relationships and to deliver assistance where needed. "I also want to ensure that LAPA continues to provide for scholarships annually to deserving Hispanics who have entered college to pursue a degree," said President Chuchro.
LAPA OFFICERS: Ruben Dominquez, Vice-President; Falsino Lerma, Treasurer; Gina Mata, Secretary; Ramon Ferrer, Assistant Secretary. LAPA General Membership meeting will be Tuesday, Feb. 14, 7:00p.m. at Chicago FOP Lodge #7, 1412 W. Washington St. For more LAPA info log on: www.LAPA1961.com
SCHOLARSHIP ALERT: The HSF/HSBC-North American Scholarship Program is available on a competitive basis to outstanding Hispanic seniors in the 2012-2013 academic year. Application Postmark Deadline is Jan. 31, 2012. Applicants must be a U.S. Citizen, Hispanic heritage, legal permanent resident or eligible Non-U.S. citizen. Have a minimum cumulative grade point average [GPA] of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale and have plans to enroll FULL-TIME at a four year U.S. accredited institution in the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Island or Guam during the 2012-2013 academic year.
STUDENTS must plan on attending a four-year college or university where they will be a SENIOR in the 2012-2013 academic school year. Must be majoring in one of the following majors: Accounting, Business Administration, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Economics, Finance, Informaiton Technology [IT/MIS], Management, Marketing, Public Relations. The student must plan to apply for federal financial aid by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid [FAFSA] beginning January 2012.
for more information call 1-877-473-4636 or e-mail scholar1@hsf.net
USHLI CONFERENCE: The 30th National Conference of the United States Hispanic Leadership Institute to be held in Chicago on February 16-19, 2012 and will be honoring two outstanding Hispanic Americans, Congressman Joe Baca and the Honorable Mickey Ibarra. These two distinguished Hispanic Americans will receive special recognition at the USHLI conference. Congressman Joe Baca and Mickey Ibarra will be honored during the Latino Officials Recognition Luncheon at 12:15 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 18, 2012.

Joe Baca

CONGRESSMAN Joe Baca has represented the 43rd District in California since 1999. He successfully fought against English-only and anti-immigrant legislation in the House of Representatives. His peers in Congress elected him to serve as Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus in the 110th Congress from 2007-2008. Congressman Baca was the first Latino elected to the Board of Trustees with the San Bernardino Valley College District in 1979. He was elected in 1992 to the State Assembly and became the first Latino Speaker Pro Tem and was later elected to the State Senate in 1998. Congressman Baca will receive the Edward R. Roybal-Henry B. Gonzalez Award for Excellence in Public Service.
MICKEY IBARRA is President of the Ibarra Strategy Group, a government relations and public affairs firm based in Washington, D.C. He served in former President Clinton's administration as Director of Intergovernmental Affairs. He is the founder and Chairman of the Latino Leaders Network, a non-profit organization dedicated to establishing relationships and dialogue on issues important to the Latino community. Mickey Ibarra will receive the USHLI's inaugural Medallion for Excellence in Government Relations and Public Affairs. HSHLI is led by Dr. Juan Andrade Jr.
TO REGISTER for the USHLI Conference link on www.regonline,com/USHLI30thNational or call 312/427-8683 or email tdeavours@ushli.org

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Sunday, Jan. 29--A benefit fund-raiser for Carlos Claudio's campaign for Judge of the 6th Subcircuit Court of Cook County. Blues Night at Rosa's Lounge, 3420 W. Armitage Ave. Doors open at 6 p.m. Tickets $25-$50. A fun evening of blues music performed by talented local blues artist Pete Galanis. For more info call 773/417-6114.
Tuesday, Jan. 31--Fundraiser Reception honoring Cynthia Ramirez, Democrat for Cook County circuit Court Judge, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at 10 S. Wacker Drive, Suite 2300, Chicago. Hosted by Dykema. Donation: $50, Friend: $250, Supporter: $500. RSVP contact Rosa Tumialan @ 312/627-2139. Make check payable to: Ramirez for Judge.
Tuesday, Jan. 31--Court Advocacy Training, 1160 N. Larrabee Ave. from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Light refreshments. RSVP, ASAP to CAPS.018District@chicagopolice.org or call 312/742-5778 and ask for Officer Incaprera. All interested parties are welcome!
Tuesday, Jan. 31--Join the Honorable Mayor Rahm Emanuel for a Fundrasing Reception honoring Cook County Board of Review Commissioner Michael Cabonargi at Rosebud Prime Steakhouse, One South Dearborn St., Chicago from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Individual ticket $150. RSVP at rsvp@p2consultinginc.com or cabonargi.com/donate or call 312/854-8018.
Saturday, Feb. 11--Sweetheart Dinner Dance sponsored by the Chicago Chapter Latino Caucus at La Casa Puertoriquena, 1237 S. California Ave. from 7:00 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Music by DJ Santiago, dinner music by a Special Trio Group. Cash Bar. Donation $15. For tickets call Abel Camacho 773/704-8243, Carlos Feliciano 773/392-5092, Roman Berrios 773/627-9678 or Luis Aviles 773/623-9266.
Sat., Feb. 25--The Office of City Clerk Susan Mendoza will provide free Kid ID's and Medical ID's from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Little Village Community Council, 3610 W. 26th St. For more info call 312/286-3405.
Wednesday, Feb. 29--"Meet the Candidates" dinner meeting hosted by the Hispanic American Labor Council. Meet State, County and Judicial candidates at Mi Tierra Restaurant, 2528 S. Kedzie Ave., Chicago/Little Village, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Mexican buffet/Cash Bar, Open Seating. Donation: $40. Mail and make check payable to Hispanic American Labor Council, 2538 S. Christiana Ave., Chicago, 60623.
Tuesday, March 20, 2012--Primary Election.

Chinatown, Tonya Hammaker, Chevo Razo, LAPA, Cynthia Ramirez, Fernando Valenzuela

2012-01-19T11:05:00.000-06:00

Tony Shu, Esq.

CHINATOWN: U.S. Senator Richard Durbin was the keynote speaker at the Chinatown Business Luncheon held Thursday, January 12, 2012. The luncheon, hosted by Tony Shu, Esq., president of the Chicago Chinatown Chamber of Commerce, was held at the Triple Crown Restaurant in Chinatown and attended by more than 150 people. Ald. Danny Solis [25th Ward] was introduced and gave the opening remarks. Sonia Avalos, Agency Recruiter for State Farm Insurance also made brief remarks. President Shu introduced Sen. Durbin, an eloquent speaker, who touched upon several interesting topics: travelling to China, his Lithuanian mother, sales tax and the internet, for-profit colleges and finally the postal system.
DURBIN SAID he enjoyed a two week "jaw-breaking" experience in China last year. He reported that in the next five years China will be building fifty [50] new airports to accommodate all types of Boeing aircraft.

Dick Durbin

DURBIN IS A FIRST generation American. He said his mother immigrated to America from Lithuanian. She left everything behind to come to the United States. "This is the story of many immigrants," said Durbin.
"ILLINOIS IS LOSING a lot revenue by not receiving sales tax from internet sales," said Durbin. Ten years ago Congress did not want to pass a law requiring sales tax when purchasing through the internet; this was based on the idea that internet sales would remain small. Consumers were expected to pay a sales tax voluntarily. Today millions of people are making internet purchases without paying a sales tax. This system is unfair to businesses on the main streets of America who are required to collect sales taxes. Internet businesses have an unfair advantage because no sales tax is required on items such as CD's, books, shoes, etc.
FOR-PROFIT COLLEGES: Sen. Durbin told the audience how, for the first time in history, student loans are higher than credit card loans. "Colleges and universities are charging too much for students to receive an education", said Durbin. He told a story of a young woman, studying law enforcement, who unknowingly attended a non-accredited college for five years. After completing her education at the college she applied for jobs at a police department and sheriff's department. She was told her "credits" from the past five years were not acceptable because the college she attended was not an accredited school. The young woman was 28 years old, wasted 5 years on an education that carries no weight in the real world and in serious debt. Durbin said something must be done to weed out these for-profit colleges.

Dick Durbin and Temoc Morfin

"AMERICA HAS THE BEST POSTAL system than anywhere else in the world. You can send a letter anywhere in America for less than 50 cents," said Durbin. Texting and e-mails has caused our U.S. postal system to lose revenue.
DURING THE Q & A period, Cuahutemac Morfin, a 25th Ward 30-year resident in Pilsen, took the floor thanking Sen. Durbin for his support of the Dream Act. Morfin asked why Congress has not done more to help homeowners from losing their homes. Durbin responded by saying he has spoken to President Obama about foreclosures but at this time he couldn't give an answer. Durbin received a resounding applause for his remarks. The Chicago Chinatown Chamber of Commerce business luncheon was a success. Sponsors of the event were State Farm, Citibank, and AT&T. The Chinatown Chamber is celebrating its 100 year anniversary [1912-2012]
INTERIM PRINCIPAL: Tonya Hammaker has been appointed the interim principal at Farragut Career Academy, 2345 S. Christiana Ave. in Little Village. She received the full support of the Farragut Local School Council members. LSC members will be following a hiring process for a new full time principal.

Tonya Hammaker

MS. HAMMAKER is no stranger to Farragut. At Farragut she was a social studies teacher from 2004-2006 and worked as Dean of Curriculum and Instruction from 2006-2010. In the fall of 2011 Tonya accepted an assistant principal position at Austin Polytechnical Academy. At Austin, as assistant principal, Ms. Hammaker worked closely with the principal in transforming Austin from a Level III to a Level II. Her experience at Austin gave her an in-depth understanding of what it takes to drive a school toward a higher level of achievement. After her time at Austin she accepted a position at O'Keefe Elementary as assistant principal gaining experience in the curriculum and learning about the environment students are exposed to at the elementary level.
ORIGINALLY from Iowa, Ms. Hammaker received her BA in Psychology at the University of Iowa. She has a Masters of Art in Teaching and a Masters of Education in Educational Leadership. For the past 12 years Hammaker has worked on the West Side of Chicago.
"MY VISION for Farragut is to provide all students with the means to become responsible and productive citizens with strong critical thinking skills. I believe this can only be accomplished with the support of family, community and staff. The bottom line--I would like to see my students have a successful future in the career of their choice and I would like Farragut to be part of the support system that helped them gain the skills for success. I look forward to working again with students, parents, staff and community at Farragut. I believe Farragut is on the right track to improving student achievement and I am glad to be back," said Interim Principal Hammaker.

Eloise & Chevo Razo

RETIREMENT PARTY: Former police officer, Eusebio "Chevo" Razo's, retirement party was held at the American Legion Hall, 10508 S. Ewing Ave., Sat., Jan. 14, 2012. More than 150 family, friends, policemen, educators, public officials and city workers attended the party. Chevo, dressed in a tuxedo, thanked all of his guests for attending his retirement party. At City Hall, Chevo had worked as executive security [personal body guard] for Mayor Richard M. Daley. Guests enjoyed dinner, refreshments and live music by George Garcia's band, Past Life; a very popular band in the '70's, '80's, and '90's in South Chicago. Comedian Joey Villagomez cracked jokes during the band's intermission. Chevo is now moving on with his life in the teaching field. We wish Chevo well.
LAPA ENDORSEMENTS: The Latin American Police Association announced the following endorsements for the 2012 Primary Election stating: "After careful consideration the Latin American Police Association [LAPA] is proud to announce their support and endorsement for the following candidates on the March 20, 2012 Primary Election ballot.

Cuahutemac Morfin, State Representative, 2nd District.
Jesse G. Reyes, Judge Illinois Appellate Court.
Joy V. Cunningham, Judge Cook County Circuit Court.
Diann K. Marsalek, Judge Cook County Circuit Court.
Maritza Martinez, Judge Cook County Circuit Court.
Cynthia Ramirez, Judge Cook County Circuit Court
William B. Raines, Alternate Candidate for Judge.

LAPA SAYS, "The above candidates have been endorsed because LAPA believes they will best represent the citizens of the City of Chicago, County of Cook and State of Illinois. LAPA knows they will address the tough issues that affect our neighborhoods, Police Department and our city."
FUND RAISER: You are cordially invited to attend a fundraiser honoring Democratic candidate Cynthia Ramirez for Cook County Circuit Court Judge Tuesday, Jan. 31, 2012 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. The event is hosted by Dykema at 10 S. Wacker Dr., Suite 2300, Chicago.
SUGGESTED donation: $50; Sponsorship friend $250 and Supporter: $500. To RSVP or for more information, contact Rosa Tumialan at 312/627-2139 or RTumialan @dykema.com Kindly make your check payable to Ramirez for Judge. Ramirez is endorsed by the Cook County Democratic Party.

Fernando Valenzuela

MATINEE MOVIE: "Fernando Nation" a story about Mexican baseball player Fernando Valenzuela will be presented this Saturday, Jan. 21, 2012 at the Little Village Community Council, 3610 W. 26th St. Free admission and popcorn. Valenzuela captivated the Mexican community in Los Angeles with his pitching. He became an overnight sensation by "proving with his signature look to the heavens and killer screwball that the American dream was not reserved for those born on U.S. soil." Director Cruz Angeles says, "20 years later, 'Fernandomania' still lives." This is a documentary about Valenzuela, a baseball hero, and the struggle of a Mexican community who were uprooted by the building of Dodger Stadium in L.A. I give it four stars.

A Tribute, Lisa's Agenda, Rahm's Bluff, Register to Vote, Alivio Event, Valentine Dance, Longoria Affair

2012-01-12T00:00:00.000-06:00

Dr. Hector P. Garcia

A TRIBUTE: This month all Hispanics should celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Hector Perez Garcia (1914-1996). Dr. Garcia was a Mexican American physician, surgeon, World War II veteran, founder of the American G.I. Forum, and a tenacious civil rights leader for the Mexican American community nationally. He has earned his place in American history, but few know how significant his work was in the civil rights movement.
BORN on JANUARY 17, 1914 in Llera, Tamaulipas state, Mexico to Jose and Faustina Perez Garcia. Jose and Faustina home schooled their seven children and instilled the importance of a good education. Dr. Garcia graduated as valedictorian of his high school class and graduated with honors from the University of Texas in 1936. In 1940 he earned is M.D. degree from the University of Texas medical school in Galveston, Texas.
VOLUNTEERING in 1942 for Army duty during WWII, he served as an infantry officer and a combat engineer officer. He was awarded a Bronze Star with six battle stars for his service on the battlefields. He was named alternate ambassador to the United Nations in 1967, appointed to the United States Commission on Civil Rights in 1968, was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation's highest civilian honor in 1984. He was named to the Order of St. Gregory the Great by Pope John Paul II in 1990. Garcia died July 26, 1996.
DR. GARCIA'S birthday will be celebrated by members of the Little Village Dr. Hector P. Garcia AMVETS Post 326, Manuel Perez Jr. American Legion Post 1017, Mexican American Veterans Association [MAVA], Military Order of the Purple Heart and the Little Village Community Council this Saturday, January 14th.

Felix Z. Longoria

IN CELEBRATION of Dr. Hector P. Garcia memory a free showing of The Longoria Affair documentary will be featured at the Little Village Community Council, 3610 W. 26th St. Sat., Jan. 14th at 1 p.m. The showing is open to the public. The Longoria Affair, is a film by John J. Valadez of Private Felix Z. Longoria who died fighting the Japanese during World War II. When Longoria's body was sent home to Three Rivers, Texas the only funeral parlor in town refused Longoria's widow, Beatrice, the use of their chapel. The owner said, "the whites wouldn't like it." Dr. Garcia was contacted by the sister-in-law of Beatrice about the refusal of the funeral owner to wake her husband. Garcia sent out telegrams to many elected officials informing them about Longoria and U.S. Sen. Lyndon Johnson responded, became involved and took action.

Lyndon Johnson

"THE INCIDENT sparked national outrage and brought together two stubborn and savvy leaders, Senator Lyndon Johnson and activist Dr. Hector Garcia," said Valadez. At that time, Lyndon Johnson was a principal at a Mexican elementary school in Cotulla, Texas 60 miles west of Three Rivers. Johnson wanted to make the school the best elementary school in Texas. "I see hunger in their eyes and pain in their bodies," said Johnson. He used part of his first paycheck to buy sporting equipment for the kids at the school, organized spelling bees and a debate club. Lyndon Johnson had served in the Navy and was livid about the Felix Longoria incident and took it personal. By his involvement, U.S. Senator Johnson was instrumental in having Felix Longoria's body buried in Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia, which overlooks the Potomac River and Washington DC.
A CORRIDO is sung by Mariachi Santiago Hernandez in the video honoring Pvt. Longoria and his story. Hernandez is the nephew of Commander/Historian William Luna of the Dr. Hector P. Garcia AMVETS in Little Village. "The Longoria Affair" is a historical struggle in Mexican history. Everyone is welcomed and to join in the celebration of Dr. Hector Garcia; a Mexican American Hero.

Elizabeth Hernandez

LISA'S AGENDA: State Rep. Elizabeth "Lisa" Hernandez [D-24 Dist.] is sponsoring two advisory committee meetings to gather input on important state issues. The Women's Advisory Committee will meet Thursday, Jan. 19th at 6 p.m. and the Crime Advisory Committee will meet on Thursday, Jan. 19th at 7 p.m. Both meetings will be held at the Cicero Public Library conference room, 5225 W. Cermak Road in Cicero. For more information contact Rep. Hernandez's Service Office: 708/222-5240.
RAHM'S BLUFF: The City Council Hispanic Caucus, under the leadership of Ald. Danny Solis [25th Ward] welcomes Mayor Emanuel's threat to cut the City Council in half--with 25 wards--if the "feuding aldermen can't avoid a $30 million repeat of the 1990 remap referendum."

Danny Solis

SOLIS SAID: "If it was 25 wards, we would be much better and more fairly represented because you're starting from scratch. This would be welcomed by the [Hispanic] caucus and me." The Hispanic Caucus drafted a ward map with 25 wards to divide evenly the wards between blacks, white and Hispanics. We salute the Hispanic Aldermen in their position. No seden por vencidos!
REGISTER TO VOTE: The deadline to register to vote is Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2012 for the upcoming Primary Election scheduled for Tuesday, March 20, 2012. You can register at the City of Chicago Board of Election Office, 69 W. Washington St., 6th Floor, or by submitting a mail-in form. Google: Chicago Board of Election, log on "Register to Vote" and download the mail-in form: Illinois Voter Registration Application, Form 275. The completed form should be mailed to the Chicago Board of Election. If you have any questions, you may call the Chicago Board of Election at 312/269-7984.
ELIGIBILITY TO REGISTER you must:

be a U.S. Citizen
be at least 18 years of age by election day.
live in your precinct at least 30 days before the election.
not be in prison/jail serving time for a conviction; and,
not claim the right to vote elsewhere.

AS A PUBLIC SERVICE: Mail-in voter registration forms are available at the Little Village Community Council, 3610 W. 26th St. from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. every Saturday .

Carmen Velasquez

ALIVIO EVENT: Alivio Medical Center is hosting their Una Presencia Activia Celebration 2012 Banquet Thursday, Jan. 26, 2012 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Drake Hotel, 140 East Walton Place. Dinner Chair is Patricia Hemingway Hall, President and CEO Health Care Service Corporation [Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Illinois]. Honored guests will be Janet Murguia, President and CEO National Council of La Raza with the Lifetime Achievement Award and The Honorable Robert Menendez, U.S. Senator, New Jersey with the Warrior Award.
ALIVIO OFFICERS: President Teresa Fraga, 1st Vice President Esther Corpuz, 2nd Vice President Alejandra Perez-Tamayo, M.D., F.A.C.S., Treasurer Wayne S. Muldrow and Secretary Mary Lebold, RN. Founder and Executive Director Carmen Velasquez.

VALENTINE DANCE: Jose G. Guerrero, member of the Amalgamated Transit Union, Local 241[bus driver's Union] and a member of the Chicago Chapter Latino Caucus announced that the Latino Caucus "Sweetheart Dinner Dance", will be Sat., Feb. 11, 2012 at La Casa Puertoriquena, 1237 N. California Ave., 7 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Cash Bar. Music by DJ Santiago. Dinner music by a special Trio Group. There will be a raffle with prizes. Plenty of street parking. Tickets: $15 per person. For more information contact: Jose Guerrero 773/283-6599.

YOU'RE INVITED TO SEE:

"THE LONGORIA AFFAIR"

Sat., Jan. 14, 2012

Little Village Community Council

3610 W. 26th St. - 1:00 p.m. - FREE

Happy New Year, LVCC Report, Chicago Magazine, Opinion, Eusebio Razo, Valenzuela, Movie Review, In Passing 2011

2012-01-05T00:00:00.000-06:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR to everyone. Every New Year marks a new beginning, a chance to make new plans, and accomplish goals which have not been reached because of obstacles, odds and drawbacks of the previous year. With a new year we can all look forward to meeting challenges, creating ideas and making new friends. A fresh start gives us all an opportunity to be effective. I say let's be positive and let's work hard in succeeding in making our communities, our country and our world a better place to live in 2012.

COMMUNITY REPORT: As President of the Little Village Community Council, I would like to report that in 2011 the Little Village Community Council met several community service goals for needy residents of Little Village. LVCC gave away free food, from its Food Pantry, and free clothing, every Saturday. The Council also sponsored the following events and projects, namely on:

Foreclosure Workshop, Sat., June 11. Attended by 56 people.
Free Haircuts & manicures, Sat., July 16. Attended by 157 residents.
"Back To School" block party, Sat., August 6. Attended by 800 people. Backpacks with school supplies given free to 400 children. Free hot dogs, pop and popcorn.
Expungement Workshop, Sat., Sept. 17. Attended by 300 people.
Halloween Party & Haunted House. Mon., Oct. 31. Attended by 1,000.
Holiday Giveaway; Free food baskets & turkeys. Tues., Nov. 22. 20 recipients.
Flu Clinic. Free flu immunization shots. Sat., Dec. 10. 107 recipients.

ON BEHALF of the Little Village Community Council, we thank all of our sponsors and supporters. We hope to expand these events and projects in 2012.

CHICAGO MAG: For political junkies, I'm recommending the Chicago Magazine, January issue 2012 featured story titled, "Lawmakers & Lawbreakers." The article, by David Bernstein and Noah Isackson, is an in depth investigation of the relationship between Chicago politicians and gang members. The authors interviewed more than 100 elected officials, gang leaders, police officials and prosecutors making for a revealing and shocking read.
FEATURED in the article are Ald. Ricardo Munoz [22nd Ward], former Alderman Helen Schiller [46th Ward], former Ald. Arenda Troutman [20th Ward] and many other elected officials. Little Village community resident Raul Montes Jr., 37, states in the article [he] suspects that Ald. Munoz has "intentionally kept [police blue-light] cameras out [of Little Village] to help protect the gangs--a position shared by several law enforcement sources and Munoz's various political opponents." Montes also says, "Why does [Munoz] oppose cameras so much?" In the article, "Munoz says 26th Street doesn't need taxpayer-funded cameras: 'The business strip should fend for themselves.' " Buy the Chicago Magazine today and read more about Chicago politicians and their relationship the gang leaders.

President Obama

MY OPINION: Republican Party leaders and their candidates think American people are going to be fooled by their political spin of blaming President Obama for the high unemployment and the down spin of the economy. Americans know the unemployment of American workers is due to the fact that American corporations and manufacturers are outsourcing their goods and services to foreign countries. It is obvious that the Republican leaders in Congress are compounding unemployment by blocking President Obama's Jobs plan which was created to help put Americans back to work. Americans also know the economy went bust because of the unscrupulous practices of banks,Wall Street traders and lenders left unregulated. And, again, its the Republicans who do not want millionaires and billionaires to pay their share of taxes.
FOR EXAMPLE: Last month I went shopping at a large department store to buy a pair of shoes, winter leather gloves and two pairs of pants. For years I have been buying Florsheim shoes because they were made in Chicago by union labor. In the store the clerk showed me a pair of Florsheim shoes and I immediately looked to see were they were made; they were made in China by non-union Chinese workers. I asked the clerk if the store had any shoes made in the U.S.A. His response was, "No, all the shoes in the store were made in China!" I wasn't happy, however, I did buy the Florsheim shoes.
THE TWO pair of pants I bought were "Dockers". One pair was made by Nicaragua workers and the other pair by Bangladesh workers. The black leather gloves, "Isotoner", were made by workers in India.
The American consumer does not benefit from cheap foreign labor on goods; American corporations and manufacturers benefit. They are reaping the increased profits from cheap foreign labor. In fact, foreign made products sometimes cost higher. Its been said that "American businesses will not sacrifice profit for patriotism." Who is to blame for unemployment and the outsourcing of American jobs overseas? President Obama? I think not.

Eusebio Razo

CPD RETIREMENT: My friend Police Officer Eusebio "Chevo" Razo, from my old neighborhood of South Chicago, will retire this month from his job at City Hall. Chevo was born at Mercy Hospital in Chicago on Oct. 31, 1956. His parents were ranchers who came to Chicago in 1952 from Pueblo Nuevo, Guanajuato Mexico.
CHEVO, raised in South Chicago, graduated from St. Michael's in 1970 and Bowen High School in 1974. He attended St. Edward's University in Austin, Texas from 1974-1978 and graduated with a BA in Criminal Justice. Chevo was hired as a Deputy Sheriff Cook County Correctional Officer in 1978 and was promoted to Sgt. on June 16, 1986. In 1989, he was assigned to Mayor Richard M. Daley's security detail when Daley was elected in 1989.
IN APRIL 2004, Chevo returned to school and earned a Masters in Education from DePaul University in August, 2007. He is certified to teach elementary from K-8 in the State of Illinois. When Mayor Daley retired on May 16, 2011, Chevo returned to the patrol division and was assigned to 001 Police District on July 10, 2011. He will be retiring from the Chicago Police Department [CPD] on January 16, 2012 and will pursue a teacher career. We congratulate Chevo on his service to the citizens of Chicago and wish him well in his new career.

Fernando Valenzuela

BASEBALL HERO: The documentary "Fernando Nation", directed by Cruz Angeles, will be featured at the Little Village Community Council, 3610 W. 26th St. on Saturday, Jan. 21, 2011 at 1 p.m. Free admission. It is a story about a Mexican baseball player named Fernando Valenzuela, 20; a captivating pitcher for the Dodgers.
IN 1962, when Dodgers Stadium was being built in Los Angeles the construction of the stadium uprooted Mexicans from their homes. The Mexican community reacted by boycotting Dodgers games. The boycott forced Dodgers owners to send their scouts to Mexico to discover a Mexican baseball player in order attract Mexicans to their games. The Dodgers scouts found a young pitcher, Fernando Valenzuela, nicknamed "El Toro" by his fans. Valenzuela, overnight, became a hero to millions of Mexican baseball fans with his pitching, especially his killer screwballs. The video jacket reads: "Director Cruz Angeles relives Valenzuela's impact on the Los Angeles Mexican community". Don't miss seeing this historical event in baseball. It's a four star video.
MOVIE REVIEW: Over the long holiday break I saw 3 movies but none of them impressed me. First, "Sherlock Holmes, A Game of Shadows" storyline was confusing and the ending was long and boring. However, I like both actors, Robert Downey Jr. and Jude Law. I give it one star. "Mission Impossible", was entertaining, had a lot of action and Tom Cruise did impressive daring stunts. But, I give it one star. "War Horse" began slow and story line was interesting; a love story between a young man and his horse. The War Horse's name was "Joey" and he did an outstanding job of acting. Joey was great in the World War I battle scenes. In a Youtube interview, Steven Spielberg said that four million horses were killed, maimed or died of starvation in World War I. I give War Horse 3 stars.
IN PASSING 2011: Here are some members of the Mexican community who passed away in 2011. All of them made a contribution to our community and will be missed. Juan Ruvalcava [businessman], Marshal Villanova [Community activist], Tina Medrano [businesswoman], Phil Corderno [businessman & community activist], Edward "Eddie" Rodriguez [Community activist].

Holiday Greetings, Teamsters Reception, IBEW 1031, Instituto del Progreso

2011-12-22T00:00:00.000-06:00

HOLIDAY GREETINGS: To all my readers, I wish you a most happy holiday season. Christmas time is my favorite holiday because it is the annual celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ; and I enjoy greeting family, and friends with "Merry Christmas" and "Happy New Year". I also enjoy giving gifts and spreading joy and happiness.
THIS PAST YEAR I've met a lot of new friends, which reminds me of what Robert Louis Stevenson once said, "Strangers are friends you haven't met yet." So true. Every person I've met has a story and as we move into a new year, 2012, we must commit ourselves to make our country a better place to live.
I CAN'T HELP but think about the undocumented Mexican families who are suffering as a result of partisan politics and a broken immigration system. These undocumented Mexicans are not criminals, but hard-working individuals. Yes, they crossed the border illegally. Why? For the American dream. Despite what some Americans believe, these individuals are part of a workforce who contribute to our economy. In states like Alabama entire Mexican communities are struggling to survive under unjust laws; laws driving undocumented workers from the state. These unjust laws are now having an adverse economic effect on Alabama's farming industry. The anti-Mexican aura exists because some Americans think illegals are the cause to joblessness of American workers. It is a known fact Mexicans are hard workers. In migrant families children are doing stoop labor, carrying on a strong work ethic.
SOLUTION: U.S. Presidents and Governors have given pardons to criminals; municipalities have given amnesty to citizens who owe for parking tickets. Amnesty should be the beginning point to our broken immigration system. We all know it is impossible to deport 10.8 million undocumented Mexicans, especially when 7 million are in the work force. Here is were reality dictates; legalizing undocumented Mexicans will make America strong. Their legalized status would fuel economic growth and stop sapping time, energy and tax dollars used debating the issue. Our government, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) needs to stop splitting up families causing suffering and anxiety for the children of the undocumented. America is a compassionate country and during this holiday season Americans need to express their compassion by making our country a better place to live, work and prosper. It is the American way.

May your holidays be the best for you and your family.

Mayor Robert J. Lovero, Jesse Miranda, Cynthia Ramirez,
Elizabeth Hernandez, Rodolfo Garcia

TEAMSTER RECEPTION: Teamster leader Jesse Miranda and Cicero Democratic Committeeman Charlie Hernandez hosted a "Meet the Candidates" reception. The reception was held on Thursday, Dec. 8, 2011 at the Club, 6033 W. Roosevelt Road in Cicero.
MIRANDA introduced the following Democratic Judicial candidates who presented their candidacy:

Judge Rodolfo [Rudy] Garcia for Illinois Appellate Court
Judge Nathaniel Roosevelt Howse, Jr. for Illinois Appellate Court Judge
Judge Alfred M. Swanson, for Circuit Court of Cook County Judge
Cynthia Ramirez for Cook County Circuit Court Judge (the only Latina slated for a judicial position)
Judge Stanley L. Hill for Cook County Circuit Court Judge
Judge Pamela Leeming for Cook County Circuit Court Judge
Michael Tully Mullen for Judge of the Circuit Court of Cook County
Jesse Reyes for Illinois Appellate Court

STATE REPRESENTATIVE Elizabeth "Lisa" Hernandez [24nd District] was also introduced. Mayor of Berwyn, Robert J. Lovero, and Committeeman Hernandez spoke to the guest and supporters. It was an informative gathering. The Primary Election is Tuesday, March 20, 2012.
IBEW 1031: Celebrated the Union's 75th "Years of Accomplishments" Anniversary [1936-2011].The event was held on Saturday, Dec. 10, 2011 at Manzo's Banquets, 1571 S. Elmhurst Road in Des Plaines, IL.

Jose A Caez

UNDER THE LEADERSHIP of Jose A. Caez, Business Manger and Financial Secretary of the International Brotherhood Of Electrical Workers [IBEW] Local 1031, the celebration started with Jose Caez thanking guests and employers for attending the event. Invocation was given by member and Deacon Freddie T. Young. Following the introductions a professional video presentation of the history of Local 1031 with many photos from the Union's archives was shown. Local 1031 was the largest labor organization in the Chicagoland area for many years, with 32,000 members. Their members work in electrical manufacturing. Music was provided by DJ Napoli. Two hundred members and guests attended the event. We congratulate Local 1031 for its contributions to the labor movement.
JOSE A. CAEZ, formerly the President of the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement [LCLAA], is an officer with the Hispanic American Labor Council, a delegate to the Chicago Federation of Labor, a National LCLAA Board member. Caez was the recipient of the 1998 "The Man of the Year" awarded to him by the Hispanic American Labor Council. Jose has been a Local 1031 union member for 37 years and worked at Appleton Electric Co. in Chicago. He served as a Business Representative for nine years and presently the Business Manager for the past 16 years.

Dr. Victoria Cooper, Artemio Murillo, Dave Inman,
Abundio Zaragoza, Tom Dubois, Ramon Toledo

CEREMONY: Instituto del Progreso Latino held a Completion Ceremony on Friday, Dec. 9, 2011 at the Instituto Health Sciences Academy, 2520 S. Western Ave. Completion Certifications were given to 17 students who completed a course on Building Energy Technologies. Weatherization Certificates were given to 17 students.
INTRODUCTION OF SPEAKERS was by Dr. Ricardo Estrada, Vice President of Education and Programs, Instituto del Progreso Latino. CEO and President Juan Salgado of Instituto del Progreso Latino gave a welcoming address to the students and guests. Guest speaker was Gerald McGleam, Deputy Program Manager for Special Projects and Building Energy Technologies Program speaker was Steinar Egeland. Dr. Victoria Cooper, Director - ETP from Wilbur Wright College, also gave a few words. Wilbur Wright College is one of the financial supporters for the Environmental Technologies Program.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT was given to all the hardworking students and their families for their dedication to the successful program.

Fund Raiser, Challenges, LV Chamber Moved, A Protest, Union Hall of Fame

2011-12-15T00:00:00.000-06:00

Sheila Simon & Michael Cabonargi

FUND RAISER: Lt. Gov. Sheila Simon was the special guest at Commissioner Michael Cabonargi's, [2nd District] Cook County Board of Review fund-raiser. The holiday reception held Friday, Dec. 9, 2011 at the Allergro Hotel in downtown Chicago was well attended by many friends and supporters of Commissioner Cabonargi. Also in attendance was Colleague Commissioner Larry Rogers Jr. [2nd District] Board of Review.
COMMISSIONER Cabonargi sponsors seminars on how homeowners can appeal their property assessment. "We want to make sure people pay [property taxes] what they have to pay and not a dime more," said Cabonargi. The Commissioner said his first job fresh out of college at the age of 22 was an intern for Paul Simon. "I drove Paul Simon around and being with Paul Simon I got to know what public service is all about. You can't be taught integrity or character, it has to be innate," said Cabonargi. He introduce Sheila Simon as someone who comes from a family of public servants.
LT. GOV. SHEILA SIMON told a story about her dad, Paul Simon, who grew up in Oregon and what he learned from his father. "Grandpa Martin was a Lutheran minister and had a Lutheran radio station. He told his listeners that we should not be interning Japanese citizens. This was the most unpopular thing to say at that time. Dad was embarrassed and neighborhood kids said that his dad was rotten. It was years later that my dad understood why his father did it. This was the most outstanding thing his father did in his life," said Sheila. She ended her speech by saying, "Do the right thing and support Mike."
CHALLENGES: Objections have been filed against the nominating petitions of the following Latino candidates who filed their candidacy for the Tuesday, March 20, 2012 Democratic Primary Election.

2nd State Representative District: Edward J. Acevedo nominating petitions are being challenged by objector Elias Espindola.
3rd State Representative District: Luis Arroyo nominating petitions are being challenged by objector Denise Garcia.
21st State Representative District: Rudy Lozano nominating petitions are being challenged by Jose Luis Garcia Jr.
24th State Representative District: Elizabeth Hernandez nominating petitions are being challenged by Kevin Wunder and David Miranda.
24th State Representative District: Neftalie Gonzalez nominating petitions are being challenged by objector Lelis V. Gonzalez.
12th Senate District: Raul Montes Jr. nominating petition objections pending.
1st Senate District: Edgar Diaz nominating petitions are being challenged by objector Elizabeth Diaz Castillo.
1st Appellate Court: Rodolfo (Rudy) Garcia nominating petitions are being challenged by objector Roberto A. Villa.
6th Subcircuit Cook: Carlos A. Vazquez nominating petitions are being challenged by objectors Ricardo Lugo and Carlos Claudio.
Clerk of the Circuit Court: Ricardo Munoz nominating petitions are being challenged by objectors Dorothy Walton, Leticia Boughton, Mark Gomolski and James Edwards.
1st Ward Democratic Committeeman Jesse Ruben Juarez nominating petition objections pending.

David Orr

COOK COUNTY ELECTORAL BOARD is chaired by Cook County Clerk David Orr along with Dorothy Brown, Clerk of the Circuit Court and Anita Alvarez, Cook County States Attorney. They will hear objections to Cook County candidate's nominating papers, petition and other disputes over candidacies. Electoral Board hearings will be held at the Cook County Administration Building, 69 West Washington St. in the Pedway Room Lower Level, Chicago. Open to the public. For scheduling of hearings call: English: 312/603-5656 or Espanol: 312/603-6767.
NEW LOCATION: The Little Village Chamber of Commerce held their Christmas Party at their new office located at 2458 S. Millard Ave. in Little Village. Their office hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The Chamber's mission statement reads: "The mission of the Little Village Chamber of Commerce is to support, promote and enhance the growth and success of our local businesses and to leverage the community's assets, contributions and unique Mexican cultural identity to generate new business opportunities."
LV CHAMBER OFFICERS: Alejandro Castro, President; Teresita Marsal Avila, Vice-President; Mark T. Doyle, Treasurer; Nilda Esparza, Executive Director and Vanessa Alvarez, Outreach Liaison. To contact the Chamber call 773/521-5387, FAX 773/521-5252.
A PROTEST: A special meeting will be held at the Little Village Community Council, 3610 W. 26th St. from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 20, 2011. This meeting is to protest the slated closing of the Otis Grant Collins Post Office, 2302 S. Pulaski Road, scheduled to be closed May 15, 2012. The post office serves the residents of the South Lawndale/Little Village neighborhood. All residents in Little Village are invited and encouraged to attend.
"THE CLOSING of our Post Office will cut postal services in our community. We are one of several minority offices targeted to close," said Baltazar Enriquez, Coordinator of the protest organized by Little Village Community Council.
GRAN PROTESTA! "Menos servicios postal en La Villita, meno entregos des cartas, linias largas, solo oficinas postales de minorias servan cerradas!", dijo Baltazar Enriquez, "cierran la oficiana del correo!"
Asistir a la reunion Martes, Dec. 20, 2011, Oficina de la Villita, 3610 W. 26th St., Hora: 4 p.m. - 6 p.m.
INVITED to the meeting is Congressman Danny Davis [7th District] and Congressman Luis V. Gutierrez [4th District] or their representative. "We also invited the Postmaster General of the Chicago Postal Stations," said Baltazar. For more info call 773/522-2552.
UNION HALL OF HONOR: The Illinois Labor History Society celebrated their 2011 Union Hall of Honor reception with an evening at The Timeline Theatre, 615 W. Welling Ave. with the production play of "The Pitmen Painters". The play was about a group of coal miners in Northern England. The miners took an art appreciation class becoming painters and creating an outstanding body of work. They became art world sensations.
THE FIVE male and two female actors in the "Pitmen Painters" gave an outstanding performance. The acting, storyline, visual arts and setting of the "Pitmen Painters" was excellent. It was serious, hilarious and enjoyable theatre-in-the-round intimate setting.
AT THE reception five artists were introduced and inducted into the Union Hall of Honor. John H. Walker, Illinois miner leader and muralists Mike Alewitz, Kathleen Farrell, Alejandro Romero and Charles White. Each artist was given a plaque for their contribution to labor history artwork.
PILSEN MURALIST Alejandro Romero was inducted into Union Hall of Honor for his murals reflecting the labor movement. He grew up in Mexico and was influenced by his neighbor and mentor, David Alfaro Siqueiros. He began is art studies in 1967 and was profoundly affected by England muralist Charles Spencer who painted murals depicting the British industrial workers.

Alejandro Romero

ROMERO came to Chicago in 1976 and has created art for unions and community organizations. The stage bill reads: "His murals' strikingly vivid colors bring joy, power and life to his portrayals of communities, working people and revolutionary leaders." Alejandro has painted murals for Central States Council and the Chicago Federation of Labor. Each of his murals are a celebration.
ILHS PRESIDENT LARRY SPIVACK said: "Today we honor a coal miner and several artists. ILHS invited our friends and members and the general public to see this play, The Pitman Painters, because it captures the essence of life for all of us and indeed, the meaning being the historical struggle for a shorter work day; the revolutionary idea that one could spend part of their day not only working to survive, but having the time to create and contribute to our humanity embedded in art, music, creativity and association."
SPECIAL GUEST at the reception was former ILHS President emeritus Les Orear,100, who said: "It's good to be alive and well and speaking to you!" The evening ended with musician Bucky Halker playing the guitar and everyone holding hands singing "Solidarity Forever for the Union makes us strong." I give the play four stars. Illinois Labor History Society, 28 East Jackson Blvd., Suite 1012, Chicago, 60604, phone: 312/663-4107.

Maggie Daley, Latinos Politicos, Holiday Reception, Remapping of Wards, Disability Rights, A Celebration, Events

2011-12-08T00:00:00.000-06:00

IN MEMORY: Maggie Daley [1943-2011] was a class act. I met Mrs. Daley in Copenhagen, Denmark Oct. 2, 2009 as a member of the Outreach Committee for the Chicago Olympic 2016 Games. Copenhagen hosted the International Olympic Committee [IOC] convention to vote for the city who would host the 2016 Olympics. Mayor Richard M. Daley lead a contingent of 500 Chicagoans to Copenhagen in support of Chicago's bid for the Olympics games.

Maggie Daley, August Sallas, Nadia Comaneci

MAYOR DALEY and Pat Ryan, Chairman of the 2016 Chicago Olympic Committee, hosted a dinner meeting for the Chicago contingent informing us what to expect while in Copenhagen. Prior to the meeting delegates had an opportunity to mingle with one another. The ambiance was festive. Three tables away from where I was sitting Maggie Daley was sitting with Olympian Nadia Comaneci.
MRS. DALEY thanked me for supporting the Chicago bid for the 2016 Olympic games and for being in Copenhagen. To meet Mrs. Daley was an honor. She was gracious to have a photograph taken with me. The trip to Copenhagen was exciting even though Chicago did not win the 2016 bid. Maggie Daley's legacy is an inspiration to all Chicagoans and cancer victims alike.
LATINOS POLITICOS: More Latinos are filing for public office and/or for party positions in Illinois and Cook County. An important observation is several Latino politicians hold more than one political position within their communities.
THERE ARE two Latino candidates who have filed for the March 20, 2012 Primary Election for a Countywide positions. Incumbent Anita Alvarez who is seeking re-election as Cook County State's Attorney and has been endorsed by the Cook County Democratic Party. The other, Ricardo Munoz, filed his candidacy for Clerk of the Circuit Count on Monday, Dec. 5, 2011. "I'm a lifelong reformer. My career has been about cleaning up government." said Munoz.

Ricardo Munoz

LATINO CANDIDATES who filed for the Office of Democratic Ward Committeeman for the Tuesday, March 20, 2012 Primary Election are:
1st Ward: Incumbent Jesse Ruben Juarez and Proco "Joe" Moreno. Moreno is the 1st Ward. Alderman.
12th Ward: Incumbent Antonio "Tony" Munoz. Munoz is the State Senator of State Senate District 1.
15th Ward: Raymond A. Lopez.
22nd Ward: Incumbent Ricardo Munoz and Neftalie Gonzalez. Munoz is the 22nd Ward Alderman, State Central Democratic Committeeman for the 4th Congressional District and a candidate for Cook County Clerk of the Circuit Court.
25th Ward: Incumbent Daniel "Danny" Solis. Solis is the Alderman of the 25th Ward.
26th Ward: Incumbent Roberto Maldonado. Maldonado is the Alderman of the 26th Ward.
30th Ward: Incumbent Ariel E. Reboyras. Reboyras is the Alderman of the 30th Ward.
31st Ward: Incumbent Joseph Berrios and Alonzo Zaragoza. Berrios is the Cook County Assessor and the Chairman of the Cook County Democratic Party.
35th Ward: Incumbent Rey Colon. Colon is the Alderman of the 35th Ward.
45th Ward: Jose L. "Joe" Rivera.

Michael Cabonargi

HOLIDAY RECEPTION: The Honorable Lt. Gov. Sheila Simon will be the special guest at a holiday reception honoring Cook County Board of Review Commissioner Michael Cabonargi [District 2]. The reception will be held at Hotel Allegro, 171 Randolph St., Friday, Dec. 9, 2011 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
DONOR LEVELS: To be a Co-Chair $2,500, Host $1,500, Sponsor $1,000, Friend $750 and for individual ticket: $150. To RSVP or for information call 312/854-8018. To purchase tickets visit www.cabonargi.com/donate.
MICHAEL M. Cabonargi was sworn-in on February 10, 2011 as the Commissioner of the Second District on the Cook County Board of Review by Chief Justice Timothy Evans. Commissioner Cabonargi served as a senior attorney and prosecutor in the Chicago Regional Office of the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) from 2005 to 2011. He has hosted several seminars on how homeowners can appeal their property assessment. Commissioner Cabonargi office is at the Cook County Building, Room 601 and his phone number is 312/603-5560.

Proco Moreno

REMAPPING OF WARDS: Ald. Proco "Joe" Moreno reported in his 1st Ward Newsletter that over the last decade the city's black population has declined by about 181,000. The number of whites dropped by about 53,000 and the Latino population grew by about 25,000. If the ethnic and racial makeup of the city mirrored its population, Chicago City Council should have 16 whites, 16 blacks, 15 Latinos and three Asian Aldermen. Presently, the City Council has 22 white Aldermen, 19 African-Americans, eight Latinos and one member of Indian descent.
NEW WARD boundaries must be redrawn every 10 years. To avoid a referendum, a minimum of 41 aldermen must vote on, and sign off on, a new remap. The 1990 remap referendum cost Chicago taxpayers around $20 million. In 2000 there was only one dissenting vote against that remap. The 50 City Aldermen must vote on a new city ward map in December of 2011. The Latino Aldermanic Caucus is seeking the creation of 14 Latino wards to reflect the increase of its population.

Jaime Cornejo

DISABILITY RIGHTS: Last week Jaime Cornejo, Staff Associate for Community Development, with the Access Living organization dropped in at the Little Village Community Council office to inform us about Access Living's upcoming educational community forum. The forum is titled "Disability Rights." The forum is for those with disabilities regardless of legal status. Jaime said the forum is for those with disabilities to learn what their rights are and the services available in order for them to live independently and have access to housing. This is Access' ultimate goal. "Be a part of your community, learn and defend disability rights and services!"
"CAMBIANDO VIDAS", a group of, and for, Latinos with disabilities invites you to participate the educational community forum on Saturday, Dec. 17, 2011 at Toman Library, 2708 S. Pulaski Ave. starting at 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The forum will be conducted in Spanish.
FOR MORE INFORMATION or to request a language/ASL interpreter or other accommodations or to RSVP call Michelle Garcia. Michelle is the community organizer for the Cambiando Vidas program and can be reached at 312/640-2194 or TTY: 312/640-2104 or email: mrobbins@accessliving.org.
JAIME CORNEJO is Chilean who has a mild physical disability but an impressive demeanor. He began working for Access Living last month. In 2009 he graduated from University of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana with a degree in philosophy and African studies. In May 2011, he graduated from the University of Chicago with a Masters degree in Educational Policy Studies.
PRIOR TO working for Access, Jaime worked for the Dept. of Human Services. "The reason for taking a position with Access is that they are great organization who advocates the needs of people with disabilities in Chicago," said Jaime. Jaime has been canvassing Little Village and said, "I didn't know Little Village had so many people with disabilities. I've met people with multiple disabilities; those in wheel and power chairs, the hearing challenged and even a person with a leg prostheses."
CHICAGO IS not ADA friendly [Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990], according to Jaime. "The only place is on the CTA buses and "L" stations mostly, but not all are handicap accessible. In terms of ADA friendly housing, it is not accessible. Disability barriers are the main issues in housing because handicap people do not have the mobility to leave their homes. Jaime believes the reason most Latinos do not know about their rights is simply because they cannot leave their homes.
INVISIBLE DISABILITIES, such as learning disabilities or blindness, are under Access' umbrella of aid and the purpose for their outreach efforts in our Latino community. If Access cannot meet a particular need, they will direct their client to another organization better suited to assist the disabled client. Access has focused on Latinos in the Little Village community because of extent of need.
WE WANT to help people with disabilities--adults and youth--to become self-sufficient and lead normal lives with dignity," Jaime concluded. Cambiando Vidas' program is under the auspices of Access Living.

Our Lady of Guadalupe

A CELEBRATION: Mexican Catholics annually celebrate December 12th as the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. This year the feast is Monday, Dec. 12, 2011. Honoring Our Lady of Guadalupe dates back to the 16th Century beginning with a story of a poor Indian named Cuauhtlatohuac, who was baptized and given the name of Juan Diego. Diego lived in a small village near Mexico City and was a 57 year old widower.
DECEMBER 9, 1531, a Saturday morning, Juan reported that on his way to a nearby barrio to attend mass he passed a hill called Tepeyac and he saw a radiant cloud and an apparition of a young maiden. The maiden told him to go to the bishop of Mexico, a Franciscan named Juan de Zumarrage, and tell him she wanted a shrine built where she stood, in her honor.
WHEN JUAN told the bishop of the Lady's request the bishop told Juan to have the Lady give him a sign. The Lady provided roses for Juan to carry to the bishop in his woven cloth called a tilma or ayate. When Juan opened his tilma in the Bishop's presence, the roses fell to the ground and the Bishop sank to his knees. On Juan's tilma appeared an image of Our Lady of Guadalupe exactly as she had appeared at the hill of Tepeyac.
JUAN DIEGO was canonized Saint Juan Diego by Pope John Paul II on July 31, 2002 at the Basilica of Guadalupe in Mexico City the major shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Saturday, Dec. 10—Vacunas gratis/free flu shots from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Little Village Community, 3610 W. 26^th St.

Monday, Dec. 12--Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe.

Saturday, Dec. 17--"Disability Rights" forum at Toman Library, 2708 S. Pulaski Ave. from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. In Spanish language and ASL interpreter. Call Michelle Garcia, 312/640-2194 or TTY 312/640-2102 or email: nrobbins@accessliving.org

Wednesday, Dec. 21: Santa Claus will be at Farragut Career Academy, 2345 S. Christiana Ave. in Little Village from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in the Breezeway. Bring your children, ages 3 – 6 years old only, to this community event. For more info call: 773/534-1300.

Food Giveaway, Latino Alliance, Maggie Daley, Events

2011-12-01T00:00:00.000-06:00

FOOD GIVEAWAY: The Little Village Chamber of Commerce gave free turkeys, can goods, and other essentials to more than 400 Little Village residents. The event was held on Tuesday, Nov. 22, 2011 at Piotrowski Park, 31st St. & Keeler Ave. "We want to thank our sponsors: Midwest Generation, Feed the Children organization, and Piotrowski Park for their generous donations and support," said Nilda Esparza, Executive Director of the Little Village Chamber of Commerce

EMPLOYEES of Midwest Generation helped bring in the 400 Thanksgiving bags and giveaway boxes into the Piotrowski Park gym. The gym was full of excited residents patiently waiting in line to receive their free food. The well organized event is another success under the leadership of Esparza and her staff.

Nilda Esparza holding Midwest Generation food bags to give away. Alma Cortez & child

Mirna Rodriguez Marina Lara

YOUNG LATINO: Jose Aguilar, 21, a junior at Columbia College, is the Student Organization Council [SOC] representative for the Latino Alliance. The SOC is a group who enforces rules which govern all the organizations at Columbia College. Jose's responsibilities include giving members of the Latino Alliance monthly update reports.

Jose Aguilar

LATINO ALLIANCE is a Latino student organization at Columbia College with 60 active members, including alumni who support the organization.
MEMBERS of the Alliance attend Latino conferences for progression of Latinos in education. The recent celebration of "Dia de los Muertos" and a pen-pal program with students at the Benito Juarez high school are two examples of projects the Alliance is involved in. The group is looking to expand into community service and a soup kitchen for the hungry.
ALLIANCE OFFICERS are Serafin Lopez, President; Alicia Valtierra, Vice President; Uri Brito, Vice President; Denise Perez, Secretary and Edgar Romero, Treasurer. For more information contact Serafin by e-mail: serafin.lopes5@yahoo.com.

OUR CONDOLENCES to the Richard M. Daley family on the passing of Maggie Daley.

Her legacy and her radiant smile will not be forgotten.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Sat., Dec. 3--"The Pitmen Painters"

live show 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. Timeline

Theatre, 610 W. Wellington. Ticket $65.
www.illnoislaborhistory.org

Sat., Dec. 10-Vacunas gratis/free flu

shots from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Little

Village Community, 3610 W. 26th St.

Sat., Dec. 10- IBEW 1031 celebrating

its 75th Anniversary at Manzo Banquet,
1571 S. Elmhurst Rd., DesPlaines.
Cocktails at 6 p.m. Program at 7 p.m.
Business Manager/Financial secretary
Jose A. Caez. Ticket: $100. 630/836-0449

Judge Garcia, Free Flu Vaccine, Paul Simon, Union Hall, Movie Review

2011-11-24T00:30:00.000-06:00

JUDGE GARCIA: With the slogan of "Qualifications and Experience Matter," the legal community was well represented at Appellate Court Judge Rodolfo "Rudy" Garcia's Campaign Kickoff Reception. The reception was Tuesday, Nov. 17, 2011 at the downtown law office of Hughes Socol Piers Resnick & Dym, Ltd.

Attorney John DeLeon, Attorney Juan Soliz, Judge Ralph
Reyna, Ret., Judge Rudy Garcia, Attorney Steve Hernandez

CO-CHAIRS of the Lawyer's Committee for Illinois Appellate Court Judge Rodolfo [Rudy] Garcia are Jeffrey D. Colman, John R. DeLeon, Terri L. Mascherin, Kalman D. Resnick, Manuel "Manny" Sanchez and William A. Von Hoene, Jr. Honorary Co-Chairs are Supreme Court Justices [Ret.] Hon. Thomas R. Fitzgerald, Hon. Mary Ann G. McMorrow and Hon. Benjamin K. Miller and numerous judges and attorneys.
JUDGE GARCIA is seeking election as an incumbent Illinois Appellate Court Judge. He served in the First District since March 2003 to the present and as a Circuit Court Judge of Cook County from April 1996 to 2003. In November 1996, he was elected from the 14th Judicial Subcircuit. Judge Garcia has written 130 majority opinions, 20 special concurrence with opinions and 17 dissents with opinions. As of August 2011, the Illinois Supreme Court has accepted for review 15 cases in which Judge Garcia issued a written opinion.

Attorney Benetta Mansfield, Attorney Christine Polk Mohr,
Judge Rudy Garcia, Attorney Marcia Lipkin

IN 2011, The Chicago Bar Association bar evaluation said: "Judge Garcia ....is well regarded for his knowledge of civil and criminal law, writing skills, strong work ethic and diligence." Rudy graduated from the University of Chicago Law School, Juris Doctorate, 1981; University of Illinois at Urbana, Bachelor of Arts Degree, 1976.
JUDGE RUDY GARCIA is highly respected by the legal community, civic, labor, business, community leaders and organizations. As an incumbent, Judge Garcia deserves to be elected!
VISIT www.Garcia4Appellate-Court.com. Friends of Rudy, P.O. Box 64322, Chicago, IL 60664-0322. You can contact Rudy Garcia at 312/493-6204 [24 Hours].

FLU CLINIC: Under the direction of Melissa Ponce, Senior Project Coordinator, Chicago area Immunization campaign, free flu shots [vacunas gratis] will be given to residents of Little Village.

Melissa Ponce

MELISSA was born in Coahuila, Mexico, raised in San Antonio, Texas and graduated from Northwestern University in 2004. She has worked for Illinois Maternal & Child Health Coalition, a non-profit organization, for the past five years. The Coalition advocates policy and education on different health issues. Melissa is now applying for her Masters in Social Studies.
"I WOULD like everyone to know about flu shots. Anyone 6 months or older should get a flu shot every year," said Melissa. The flu virus is transmitted by coughing, sneezing and by touching. "Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth and avoid contact with others if they have the flu," said Melissa.
MELISSA said, "the first defense against the flu is a flu shot." The flu shot will protect you from three different strains or type of flu, but will not protect you from a stomach virus or the common cold.
THE ILLINOIS Maternal & Child Health is located at 1256 W. Chicago Ave., Chicago. Melissa Ponce can be contacted at 312/491-8161x33.
FREE FLU SHOTS will be available at the Little Village Community Council, 3610 W. 26th St. on Saturday, Dec. 10, 2011 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Spanish speaking staff will be at the flu clinic.

Paul Simon

IN REMEMBRANCE: Former U.S. Senator Paul Simon was born on Nov. 29th. He died Dec. 9, 2003 at the age of 73 in Springfield, IL. Paul was my friend and I will be remembering him on his birthday next week. I admired Paul because he was a gentleman, a statesman and honest. He was respected by both sides of the political aisle. When I was President of the Chicago Typographical Union No. 16, I made Paul Simon on Honorary Member of the Chicago Local because he already had a Union Card as a member of the International Typographical Union. He became an International Typographical Union member while running a small newspaper in Troy, Illinois.
IN 2001, I invited Paul to be a guest on my TV show, "Political Roundtable" at Cable Access Inc. He agreed to the interview and we talked on my show for one hour. Paul had just come back from visiting Cuba, meeting with Fidel Castro. He said he met Castro at midnight because Castro was busy and he'd like to hold meetings late. Paul said, "We talked for five hours. Topics ranging from the embargo, world events and baseball. Castro liked baseball. And, we talked about the possibility exchanging baseball teams." His interview was interesting and his parting message was directed towards young people to "get involved in politics."

IN 2003 WHEN I read that Paul was sick and in the hospital, I called to wish him well. He died two days later. I attended his Memorial Service held in the auditorium of Southern Illinois University in Carbondale. It was a very moving ceremony. I miss his friendship.

Attorney John DeLeon, Judge Rudy
Garcia, Attorney Steve Wagner

Attorney Raul Villalobos, Judge Rudy
Garcia, Attorney Fernando Bustamante,
Attorney Samuel Briones

UNION HALL: The Illinois Labor History Society's 2011 Union Hall of Honor is hosting the live show "The Pitmen Painters" on Saturday, Dec. 3, 2011. The show will be at the Timeline Theatre, 615 W. Wellington Ave., Chicago. There are two performances: 4 p.m. or 8 p.m. Reception and induction ceremony into the ILHS Union Hall of Honor is scheduled for 6:30 p.m to 7:30 p.m. Reservations are required for attendance. Learn more: www.illinoislaborhistory.org. The $65 ticket price includes a performance. Tickets can now be purchased online www.timelinetheatre.com

Alejandro Romero

"THE PITMEN Painters" is a story of five British depression-era union miners and their journey to becoming accomplished artists. This widely acclaimed play by the author of "Billy Elliot". Pilsen muralist, Alejandrano Romero, will be honored and inducted into the Union Hall of Honor.
MOVIE REVIEW: The movie, "J. Edgar Hoover", starring Leonardo DiCaprio and directed by Clint Eastwood is boring and difficult to believe. How did Eastwood know about Hoover's private life? The film takes creative liberty to new heights. Some actors looked (and acted) plastic and the constant flashbacks made the story line confusing. The movie is not even worth "video" time. I give it a big ZERO!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Fall Fiesta, Post Office, Remapping, Turkey Dinner, Eva Madrano, Spina Bifida

2011-11-17T00:00:00.001-06:00

FALL FIESTA: State Representative Elizabeth "Lisa" Hernandez [D-24th District] expressed her gratitude to 200 guests who attended her Fall Fiesta fund-raiser. The Fiesta was held on Monday, Nov. 14, 2011 at Paisan's Restaurant in Berwyn. "I am greatly honored by the show of support that I am receiving from everyone in the room, and especially from the Speaker of the House Michael Madigan," Lisa said.

Speaker Michael Madigan & State Rep. Lisa Hernandez

MADIGAN praised Rep. Hernandez as a full-time working legislator. "I am asking everyone here to do whatever you can to help Lisa go back to Springfield. She has helped pass bills and sponsored bills. She deserves to be elected by her constituents in the new 24th Legislative District," Madigan said.
REP. HERNANDEZ explained her new district which includes part of the southwest side of Chicago--Little Village. Rep. Hernandez introduced the following Democratic candidates present: Judge Jean Prendergast Rooney, Judge Jesse G. Reyes, Judge Stanley L. Hill, Ald. Ricardo Munoz, candidate for Clerk of the Circuit Court; Judge Alfred M. Swanson, Judge Diann Karen Marsalek, Clerk of the Circuit Court Dorothy Brown, Karen Yarbrough, candidate for Cook County Recorder of Deeds and supporter Cook County Commissioner Jeffrey R. Tobolski [16th District]. The General Primary Election is Tuesday, March 20, 2012. Lisa also introduced her husband Charlie Hernandez, Democratic Committeeman for the Town of Cicero.
ON MONDAY, Nov. 21, 2011, Rep. Hernandez is hosting a College 101 Workshop from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., at Morton East High School [Senior Cafeteria-2nd floor], 2423 S. Austin Blvd., Cicero. Students and parents will have an opportunity to learn about financial aid resources, college admission and speak with representatives from state agencies and local universities. For more information or to RSVP, call Rep. Hernandez's service office at 708/222-5240.
POST OFFICE: The Otis Grant Collins Station, formerly known as the Hawthorn Station, 2302 S. Pulaski Road in Little Village is on a list slated to be closed. This Post Office serves the North and South Lawndale communities of zip code 60623.

Otis Grant Collins Station
2302 S. Pulaski Road

A LETTER POSTED at the entrance of the Collins Post Office by Postmaster Donald Nichols reads: "To the customers of the Otis Grant Collins Station: The Postal Service is considering the closure of the Otis Grant Collins Station for reasons stated in the accompanying proposal. During the 60-day posting period from 10/25/2011 through 12/26/2011 you are invited to provide written comments. Comments will be most helpful if they offer specific opinions and information favorable or unfavorable regarding the potential effect of the proposed change on postal services and on the community. Your comments will be carefully considered and will be incorporated into the official record which will be made public if the proposal is finalized.
COPIES OF THE proposal and optional comment forms are available upon request at the Otis Grant Collins Station, Cicero Branch and Otis Grant Collins station. If you choose to use the optional comment form and need additional space, please attach additional sheets of paper.
PLEASE RETURN the comment form to: ELVIRA PEREZ, 433 W. Harrison Street, Chicago, IL 60699-9998. For more information, you may call Elvira Perez at 312/983-8047 or write to the above address. Thank you for your assistance." /signed/Donald Nichols, Postmaster.
THE OTIS COLLINS STATION is in Congressman Danny Davis', 7th Congressional District. However, it also serves Little Village residents in Congressman Luis V. Gutierrez, 4th Congressional District. The Postal Service claims they will save an estimated $2,374,372 over the next ten years by closing the Collins Station. There are 64 craft employees assigned to this unit.
A MEETING was held on October 25, 2011 with representatives from the Postal Service at the New Mt. Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church, 4301 W. Washington Blvd. to answer questions and provide information to customers.
THE LITTLE VILLAGE Community Council is requesting that U.S. Postal Service [bilingual] representatives hold a meeting in Little Village for residents to express their opinions. As of this date, no meeting has been scheduled for Little Village residents. I've called Elvira Perez four times and left a message for her to call me. Perez has not returned my calls.

Ald. Rey Colon

REMAPPING: Ald. Rey Colon [35th Ward] reports in his Ward Newsletter that Latino's represent 29% of the City's population. Since the last census the Latino population has increased by more than 25,000 people. Every ten years after the Census data is released, a "redistricting" process begins which takes into account population shifts. Redistricting of the wards is based on the 1965 Voting Right Act to assure equal representation for constituents in compliance with the "one-person, one-vote" principal.
REFLECTING the Latino population increase, the City Council Latino Caucus is seeking the creation of 14 Hispanic majority wards. The Latino caucus is pursuing six [6] Hispanic wards on the north side and eight [8] on the south side of the city.
LATINO CAUCUS MEMBERS are: Ald. Joe Moreno [1st Ward], Ald. Danny Solis [25th Ward], Ald. George A. Cardenas [12th Ward], Ald. Ricardo Munoz [22nd Ward], Ald. Ariel E. Reboyras [30th Ward], Ald. Ray Suarez [31st Ward], Ald. Roberto Maldonado [26th Ward], and Ald. Ray Colon [35th Ward].
ALD. DANIEL SOLIS, Chairman of the caucus, said the city should have 14 wards with a Latino population of at least 65 percent. It also should have two "Latino-influence" wards, with populations that are 35 percent and 55 percent Latino, he added.
BASED UPON Latino Census numbers, it is imperative that the Latino Caucus members take whatever action necessary to create the 14 new Hispanic majority wards. Based on our numbers we should be fully represented in the political process.
WE COMMEND the Latino Caucus members for their foresight and urge them to hold steadfastly to the 14 Latino wards recommendation to the City Council.
TURKEY DINNER: The Asociacion Pro Derechos Obreros [APO/Workers' Rights Association] and the Mexican-American Veterans Association [MAVA] are inviting veterans, friends and residents of the Pilsen community to join them for a FREE Thanksgiving Day dinner. The free Thanksgiving dinner will be on Thursday, Nov. 24, 2011 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Benito Juarez Community Academy, 2150 S. Laflin Ave. [22nd St. & Ashland Ave.].
SPONSORS and contributors of the Thanksgiving dinner are: Mount Sinai Hospital, Benito Juarez Community Academy, Mexican American Veterans Association [MAVA], AMVETS Dr. Hector P. Garcia Post #326, Manuel Perez Jr. American Legion Post 1017, Kristopher's Cafe, APO Arts Center, Cafe Jumping Bean, La Casa Del Pueble, El Nopal Bakery, Nuevo Leon Restaurant, Nuevo Leon Barkery, Del Rey Tortilleria, El Trebol Liquors, El Mazcal Restaurante, La Esperanza Restaurante, El Taconazo Restaurante...Kudos to APO and MAVA for their community service.

Eva Madrano

IN REMEMBRANCE: Eva Medrano [1923-2011] passed away Oct. 27, 2011. She was the mother of former 25th Alderman Ambrosio Medrano, Felix V. Jr., Rodolfo, Adolaria, and the late Ezequiel. She proceeded in death by her husband Felix V. Medrano Sr. Eva was born in Laredo, Texas and graduated from Martin High School in 1950. She married Felix in 1951 and settled down in Chicago that same year. In 1960, Eva and Felix became business owners of their first grocery store at the corner of Grand Ave. & Peoria St. They later moved to another grocery store at Cullerton & Wood St. In 1980, with their son Ambrosio, they became joint owners of Cermak Bowl. Cermak Bowl became the home of "El Centro Children's Bowling League" organized by Michael and Francis Nares. Later, the couple became owner of the Palace Bowl in Cicero, IL. Eva was an active member of the Cicero Bible Church. May she rest in peace. Our condolences to the Medrano family.

SPINA BIFIDA

ASSOCIATION OF ILLINOIS

TOY DRIVE FOR KIDS

WITH SPINA BIFIDA

SATURDAY, NOV. 26, 2011

2:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M.

Drop-Off @ Aaron’s Sales & Lease

4830 W. Diversey, Chicago

3017 S. Cicero Ave., Chicago

New, Unwrapped Toys,

Age 0-14

Call 773/444-0305

Shut Down, Latino Advisory, Day of the Dead, Latino Alliance, Redistricting

2011-11-10T00:00:00.000-06:00

We salute members in the military and veterans
on this Veterans Day 11-11-11

Reggie

Gonzales

SHUT DOWN: Mayor Rahm Emanuel’s proposed 2012 City’s budget will cut funding for the Commission on Human Relations [CCHR]. The cut will shut down eight volunteer Advisory Councils: African, Arab, Asian, Immigrant & Refugee, Latino, LGBT, Veterans and Women Advisory Councils. All staff will be laid off on December 31, 2011.

LATINO ADVISORY Council Director/Community Liaison is Refugio “Reggie” Gonzales and Council members are Pablo Acosta, Martin Arteaga, Yolanda DeAnda, Rudolph Espinoza, Mark Anthony Flores, Mario A. Garcia, Jr., Victor Garibay, Dr. Ana Gil-Garcia, Mario I. Valadez, Veronica Loewy, Roberto Montano, Adriana Morales, Stewart A. Munoz, Rosalba Priego, Mirtha E. Quintana-Toomey, Luz Maria Solis and Grant Vitale.

"I HAVE SERVED this city for more than 16 years and my last six years as the Director of Latino Affairs has been challenging. There is too much to do with limited funds and with a volunteer team. However, every member has been a charitable contributor and a leader of our community. I wish them well in their future volunteerism tasks and pray that those who have been laid off to continue to give back to the community," said Gonzales.

Maria Silva

DAY OF THE DEAD: Students of Columbia College Latino Alliance hosted their 7^th Annual “El Dia De Los Muertos” celebration on Friday, Nov. 4^,2011. Students, family members and friends of the Latino Alliance began the “Dia De Los Muertos” celebration with a procession at 5 p.m. in front of Columbia College, 1104 S. Wabash Ave. and walked to another Columbia College building at 618 S. Michigan Ave. The William Jones College Prep school band led the procession, marching in cadence with painted “catrinas” faces, playing music. Behind the band were three large catrinas skeletons, guitar and marchers dressed in calavera costumes.

LATINO ALLIANCE PRESIDENT SERAFIN LOPEZ said: “This event signifies remembrance of our [deceased] family members. They are still alive in our hearts.” The program continued in a small Columbia College auditorium that included entertainment by student singers and guitarists, Mexican food and a video presentation. The video featured members of Latino Alliance giving testimony of their upbringing and love for their parents, grandparents and deceased family members.

SPECIAL RECOGNITION was given to Maria Silva, a Little Village resident, by Latino Alliance for her generous donation of Mexican food. “I cooked all night,” said Maria. Maria is the mother of Armando Silva Jr., Photo Coordinator for the Latino Alliance. She is a Farragut Career Academy Local School Council [LSC] member and Secretary with the Little Village Community Council. The food Maria cooked was delicious.

LATINO ALLIANCE officers are Serafin Lopez, President; Alicia Valtierra, Vice President; Uri Brito, Vice President; Denise Perez, Secretary and Edgar Romero, Treasurer.

REDISTRICTING: The Chicago Board of Elections 2012 Calendar states: “The City Council for the City of Chicago is charged with the duty of redistricting ward boundaries by December 1, 2011.

IT IS possible that the City Council, even if it adopts a redistricting plan on or before December 1, 2011, may not make such new ward boundaries effective until after the March 20, 2012 election. Until such redistricting occurs, existing ward boundaries shall apply. The signature requirements for Ward Committeeman found in this calendar are based on current ward boundaries. Watch for further announcements if the City Council adopts a redistricting plan prior to the close of the period for filing nomination papers”.

WARD COMMITTEEMAN: Tuesday, March 20, 2012 is Chicago’s General Primary Election. Voters will elect their Democratic or Republican Party Ward Committeeman. Each of the 50 Chicago wards has a Democratic and a Republican Committeeman.

A WARD Committeeman, elected every four years, is a member of the Central Committee of his or her political party. They are involved in slating of their candidates for elections, fund raising, voter registration, getting out the vote, recruiting election judges and promoting their party candidates at election time.

A COMMITTEEMAN does not receive a salary. However, they have political influence based on their weighted vote in their respective ward. Some hold two or three political positions.

ELECTION FILING PERIOD for Ward Committeeman is Nov. 28 through Dec. 5, and requires 500 to 800 signatures to get on the ballot.

LATINO WARD Committeemen are: 1^st Ward: Jesse Ruben Juarez; 12^th Ward: Antonio “Tony” Munoz; 22^nd Ward: Ricardo Munoz; 25^th Ward: Daniel S. Solis; 26^th Ward: Roberto Maldonado; 30^th Ward: Ariel E. Reboyras; 31^st Ward: Joseph Berrios; 35^th Ward: Rey Colon.