Thursday, September 4, 2014

Secretary of State Mobile Unit, Bridgeview's 46th Annual Barbeque Picnic & Boxing Fundraiser, Louis Rios Honored, Amateur Boxing, Calendar of Events

Seated: Rosana Tanon, Dawn Williams
Jose Salazar, Alice Kelly, Natalie Khan
          SECRETARY OF STATE Mobile Unit staffers, Rosana Tanon, Dawn Williams, Joe Salazar, Alice Kelly and Natalie Khan, provided services to 46 residents who live within the Little Village neighborhood.
           THIS WAS the Secretary of State Mobile Unit’s fourth year providing service to residents of Little Village. Secretary of State Speaker's Bureau Director, Ron Serpico, Jr., made the necessary arrangements for the Mobile Unit to come to the Little Village Community Council office, 3610 W. 26th St., Chicago on Friday, August 22, 2014.
          SECRETARY of State staffers worked from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and provided attendees with State ID's, driver's license, license plate stickers, gave information out regarding issues relating to DUI's and Temporary Visitors Driving License for undocumented individuals.
           THEY DID an outstanding job. Many attendees expressed their satisfaction with the assistance and service they received. “Staff from the Secretary of State were very friendly and helpful,” said Marie Zavela.
          QUICK GUIDE: Rosana Tanon, Hearing officer for the Secretary of State, helped individuals with information on DUI's and gave undocumented individuals information on the Temporary Visitor Driver's License [TVDL] under Public Act 97-H57, non-visa status individuals who cannot obtain a Social Security card. These individuals may apply for a TVDL, by appointment only, at any of the three TVDL facility locations in Chicago:
            Chicago North, 5401 N. Elston Ave., Chicago, IL 60630; Chicago South, 9901 S. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Dr., Chicago, IL 60628 and Chicago West, 5301 W. Lexington St., Chicago, IL 60644. TVDL applicants may bring an interpreter to assist with the application process. All are required to pass a vision, written and road exams.
          AN APPLICANT can also apply for a TVDL by going online at: www.cyberdriveillinois.com or by calling 855/236-1155. TVDL are valid for three years. For questions about the TVDL program or to check the status of your application: call 855/212-2687.
           PAMPLETS on information for a TVDL are available at the Little Village Community Council office, 3610 W. 26th St. El solicitante debe concertar una cita a traves de Internet en: www.cy berdriveillinois.com o llamano al 855/236-1155, Licencia temporal conducir para visitantes.
          “THE REASON we bring the Secretary of State's Mobile Unit to the LV community is because it's a matter of convenience and quick service,” said LVCC President August Sallas.
           
Steve Landek & Augie Sallas
          TOYOTA PARK:
Bridgeview Active Party Mayor Steven M. Landek, Village Clerk John Altar and Trustees: Norma Pinion, James Cecott, Patricia Higginson, Mary Sutton, Michael Pticek and Claudette Struzik hosted their 46th Annual Barbeque Picnic & Boxing Fundraiser. The event was on Sunday, August 24, 2014 at Toyota Park, 71st St. & Harlem Ave., in Bridgeview, IL.
           MORE THAN 1,547 Active Party members, friends and guests attended the event. Special guest was Paul Vallas, Democratic candidate for Lt. Governor. There was unlimited food [hot dogs, hamburgers, Italian sausage, beef, lamb and pork sandwiches, chili, corn on the cob] and beverages to enjoy.
           IT WAS a hot day, with temperatures at 88 degrees, the sound of good music traveled through the air, there were many door prizes and raffles to win, horseshoes and beanbags to play; summer fun for everyone. The highlight of the day was a boxing show of nine amateur matches under the direction of John O'Brien, a USA National Amateur boxing official. Each was 3-minute bout and a boxer won by the decision given by ringside judges. The matches created a lot of excitement; the crowd clapped, yelled and shouted support for their favorite boxer. All of the boxers put on a great show and each winner received a beautiful trophy for a skillful boxing exhibition.
          LOUIS RIOS, former President of the Illinois Amateur Boxing Association, was presented with a plaque for his 52 years of dedication to the sport of amateur boxing.
John O'Brien, Louie Rios, Ken Fletcher
           THE PLAQUE read: “Presented with Respect and Appreciation to Louis Rios for 52 Years of Dedicated Service to Amateur Boxing. Presented by The Coaches, Boxers and Officials of Illinois Toyota Park Summer Invitational, Bridgeview, IL August 24, 2014”.
           OVER THE YEARS Louie has helped many young boxers as a coach, trainer, boxing official, and as President of the Louie Rios Amateur Boxing Club. Rios sponsored the “Silver Gloves Tournament”.
           BRIDGEVIEW’S 46th Annual Barbeque Picnic & Boxing Fundraiser was a huge success. Mayor Landek thanked everyone for attending and for their continued support. “Our event is enjoyed by more and more people every year,” said Landek.


CALENDAR OF EVENTS
          TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16—Firefighter application deadline. Answer the call. Firefighter exam is Dec. 13 & 14, 2014. Must be 18 by Dec. 31, 2014, cannot be over the age of 37 per the Municipal Code of Chicago. For more info visit www.cityofchicago.org/fireapplication
          SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 27—Ninth Annual Feria del Mole starts at Noon, Little Village High School, 3120 S. Kostner Ave. Sponsored by Universidad Popular. For more info call 773/733-5055.

            SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4—The 4th Annual Little Village Expungement Workshop for adult and juvenile ex-offenders from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at New Life Church, 2657 S. Lawndale Ave., Chicago. Ex-offenders must bring a copy of rap sheet and disposition of case. DUI assistance will be available. No appointment necessary. FREE ADMISSION. For more information call August Sallas, 312/286-3405.

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Mexican Museum, Festival de la Villita, Jesus "Chuy" Negrete, Illinois Association of Hispanic State Employees, 4th Annual Little Village Expungement Workshop, Movie Review, Calendars of Events

Rosa Ibarra, Pedro Ceballos, Mike Jimenez, Manny Martinez, Bonifacio Ineguez
            MEXICAN MUSEUM: The 1st Annual Mexican American Museum fiesta [Festival de la Villita] was Saturday, August 16, 2014. The fiesta was held at the 2nd Federal Savings parking lot, 25th St. & Pulaski Road, in Little Village. There was a large assortment of Mexican historical and cultural pictorial hardboards, artifices, photos and souvenirs on display. Through out the day a DJ played Mexican music and an Aztec Indians Group performed native dances. For the children, there was a Moon Walk, face painting and a balloon artist.
          SPECIAL GUEST was Pedro Ceballos, First Latino President of the Rotary One Club of downtown Chicago.
Jesus "Chuy" Negrete
           MUSICOLOGIST, Jesus “Chuy” Negrete, a Mexican history folklore singer played his guitar and harmonica. He sang Mexican corridos [ballads] of Mexican historical struggles sprinkled with humor. Negrete said, “The musicologist is trying to understand the hidden meanings in corridos; a corridos teaches la raza [our race] the class issues of our struggles.”
          A GREAT EXAMPLE, Chuy said, “Mi tío dijo que las gallinas de arriba simplemente cagan a las gallinas de abajo!” [My uncle said that the chickens on top simply crap on the chickens in the bottom.] Another example was when “In Catholic schools the nuns changed the names of the Mexican children; changing “Juan” to John, “Roberto” to Robert, and “Guillermo” to Bill,” said Negrete. Seemingly benign, yet, changing our names is, and has been, a struggle of our own identity.
           A HIGHLIGHT of the fiesta was the presentation of a check, a donation, in the amount of $750 to the Mexican American Museum. This generous donation was from the Little Village Rotary Club. Accepting the check was Manny Martinez, President of the Museum.
          FIFTEEN vendors participated in the fiesta. The weather was ideal for the festive outdoor event. “We appreciated the involvement and support of the community,” said Manny Martinez.
          OFFICERS of the Mexican American Museum are Manny Martinez, President; Bonifacio Ineguez, Vice President and board members: Miguel Jimenez and William “Bill” Luna for more information contact Manny at 773/502-0798.
       HISPANIC STATE EMPLOYEES: The Illinois Association of Hispanic State Employees [IAHSE] will be hosting their 27th Annual Hispanic State Employees Training Conference/Job Fair. The conference will be held on Friday, Sept. 26, 2014 at the Midwest Convention Center, 401 W. Lake St., Northlake, IL 60164 starting at 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The theme of the Conference is: “A Call to Public Service—Latinos in State Government”.
         THE ISHSE's ongoing purpose is to support Hispanic employees. For more info call Candace Zepeda at 312/814-8942 or iahse.assoc.illinois.gov
        EX-OFFENDERS:  The 4th Annual Little Village Expungement Workshop for adult and juvenile ex-offenders will be held Saturday, Oct. 4, 2014 from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at New Life Church, 2657 S. Lawndale Ave., Chicago. Ex-offenders will learn from experts about how to apply for sealing of record, expungement, clemency and/or pardon. Ex-offenders must bring a copy of their rap sheet and disposition, giving the end result of the case.
          INFORMATION on employment, job training, immigration, healthcare and other services will be available; there will be a DUI [driving under the influence] Hearing officer at the workshop to give DUI information from the Secretary of State's office.
          TEN ATTORNEYS will be volunteering their services, pro bono. No appointment necessary. Free admission.
          SPONSORS of the workshop are the Little Village Community Council August Sallas, President; Attorney Jorge Montes, State Sen. Steven Landek, State Rep. Lisa Hernandez, State Rep. Silvana Tabares and H.O.P.E. organization. For more information call 312/286-3405.
          MOVIE REVIEW: The movie “Hercules”, based on the Greek mythology son of Zeus, a Greek God, and his mistress. This movie was action-packed with awesome stunts and a double-cross surprise ending. The battle scenes were unique and different. One battle scene will make you jump out of your seat, literally! Great camera work and a really good storyline; there is some humor, which makes for a well-rounded flick. I give it FOUR stars.
                                                        CALENDAR OF EVENTS
          FRIDAY, AUGUST 22-- Illinois Secretary of State Mobile Unit at Little Village Community Council, 3610 W. 26th St. The mobile unit will provide the following services to the public from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.:
  • Renewal/Correction of driver’s license
  • New/renewal/correction of State ID
  • License plate stickers
  • Motor voter registration with renewal of DL/ID
  • Organ donor registration with renewal DL/ID
  • Senior age 65 and up [no charge for state ID]
  • Seniors age 75 and up—need to visit DMV to renew driver’s license.
          Proper identification will be needed for the above services.
          INFORMATION will be available on the Temporary Visitors Driver's License [TVDL] for people undocumented. Doors open at 9 a.m. No appointment necessary.
          SUNDAY, AUGUST 24—Mariachi Tapatio musical event from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Manuel Perez Jr. Memorial Plaza, 26th St. & Kolin Ave. Sponsored by SSA #25, FREE.
          SUNDAY, AUGUST 31—Mariachi Tapatio musical event from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Manuel Perez Jr. Memorial Plaza, 26th St. & Kolin Ave. Sponsored by SSA #25, FREE.

          SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 27—Ninth Annual Feria del Mole starting at Noon, Little Village High School, 3120 S. Kostner Ave. Sponsored by Universidad Popular. For more info call 773/733-5055.

Wednesday, July 30, 2014

Illinois State Mobil Unit, Temporary Visitors Driver's License Information, State Rep. Lisa Hernandez Birthday Party/Golf Outing, Enroll America, Calendar of Events

         STATE MOBILE UNIT: The Illinois Secretary of State Mobile Unit will be at the Little Village Community Council, 3610 W. 26th St. on Friday, August 22, 2014. The mobile unit will provide the following services to the public from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. to:
  • Renewal/Correction of driver’s license
  • New/renewal/correction of State ID
  • License plate stickers
  • Motor voter registration with renewal of DL/ID
  • Organ donor registration with renewal DL/ID
  • Senior age 65 and up [no charge for state ID]
  • Seniors age 75 and up—need to visit DMV to renew driver’s license.
          PROPER identification will be needed for the above services. 
          INFORMATION will be available on the Temporary Visitors Driver's License [TVDL] for people undocumented.
          DRIVER'S LICENSE/State I.D. Card Fees:
Basic Driver's 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
          FORM OF PAYMENTS: Cash, check, credit cards accepted [American Express, Master Card, and Discover, NO VISA].
          ACCEPTABLE identification documents [photocopies are not accepted] are proof of legal name, date of birth, Social Security number and residency when applying for a driver's license/ID card.
          SPECIAL SERVICE: Secretary of State DUI [Driving Under the Influence] Hearing Officer Rosanna Tanon will be on the site to give DUI information. Doors open at 9 a.m.
           
State Rep. Lisa Hernandez at her Golf Outing holding her
 2-month old granddaughter, Vittoria Petrola.
          BIRTHDAY PARTY:
State Rep. Elizabeth “Lisa” Hernandez [D-24th District] supporters celebrated Rep. Hernandez's birthday at her 4th Annual Golf Outing fund raiser on Tuesday, July 15, 2014 at GlenEagles Golf Course in Lemont, IL.
         
Lisa & Charlie Hernandez
THE GOLF
outing featured 18 holes of golf, breakfast, lunch at the 9th hole, an open bar from 2 until 4 p.m., buffet dinner at 4 p.m.and raffles throughout the evening. It was an enjoyable day.
           OVER 250 guests attended the event attracted 175 golfers. “The outing was a success, and it gets bigger and better every year,” said husband Democratic Committeeman of Cicero, Charles Hernandez.
            THE SURPRISE of the day was the arrival of Rep. Hernandez's 2-month old granddaughter, Vittoria Petrola and her mother Jackie. It was a precious moment for Rep. Hernandez who immediately embraced her granddaughter as soon as she came into the room.
            AFTER DINNER, everyone sang “Happy Birthday” to Rep. Hernandez. She successfully blew out all the birthday cake candles and everyone cheered. A lot of raffle prizes were given away; and everyone had a good time.
Steven Venick
           ENROLL AMERICA: Steven Venick, organizer for Illinois Enroll America, is placing “Drop Boxes” in businesses in order for interested customers to share their contact information with him regarding the Enroll America program. The “Get Covered America” campaign focuses on raising public awareness and engaging consumers about the new affordable health insurance options available under the Affordable Care Act.
          YOU ARE ENCOURAGED to “drop” your contact information in the drop box. There is a “Drop Box” at the Little Village Community Council, 3610 W. 26th St., Chicago.
          “OUR CAMPAIGN has already partnered with a number of private businesses, from local grocery stores and restaurants, to large organizations like CVS and Kmart,” said Venick.
          FOR MORE information, call Steve Venick at 312/802-2011 or e-mail svenick@enrollamerica.org
                                               CALENDAR OF EVENTS
           THURSDAY, JULY 31—42nd Annual “Fiesta de Sol”, the largest Latino festival in the Midwest, 1400 W. Cermak Road [Pilsen] starting at 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. FRIDAY, AUGUST 1—11 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., SATURDAY, AUGUST 2—11 a.m. to 11 p.m. SUNDAY, AUGUST 3—11 a.m. to 10 p.m. FREE ADMISSION. For more information log onto fiestadesol.org.
            SUNDAY, AUGUST 3—Trio Los Primos musical event from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Manuel Perez Jr. Memorial Plaza, 26th St. & Kolin Ave. Sponsored by SSA #25. FREE.
            SUNDAY, AUGUST 10—Mariachi Tapatio musical event from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Manuel Perez Jr. Memorial Plaza, 26th St. & Kolin Ave. Sponsored by SSA #25. FREE.
            SUNDAY, AUGUST 17—Trio Los Primos musical event from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Manuel Perez Jr. Memorial Plaza, 26th St. & Kolin Ave. Sponsored by SSA#25. FREE
         
            UNO CARRERA: Mark your calendar. The United Neighborhood Organization [UNO] has announced that registration is now open for the 8th Annual UNO 5K Carrera De Los Muetros [Race of the Dead] scheduled for November 1, 2014 at 8 a.m. in Pilsen, Chicago.
           Last year's 7th Annual UNO 5K over 5,500 runners registered for the Carrera de los Muertos; and hundreds dressed in Dia de los Muertos costumes [skull makeup, etc.] cheered them on. Runners ran through the streets of Pilsen and University Village.
          It’s a festive event. Visit the Race of the Dead Facebook Page for more updates. Visit www.raceofthedead.com and YouTube.

Monday, July 21, 2014

Guns & Gangs, Cook County State's Attorney Anita Alvarez, Hispanic Advisory Council, Rafael Malpica, Brian Holmes, Alejandro Valadez, Valadez Law, 22nd Annual El Humanitario Award Ceremony, 6th Annual Unity in the Community Conference, Calendar of Events

Anita Alvarez & Rafael Malpica
           GUNS & GANGS:
On Wednesday, July 16, 2014, Cook County State's Attorney, Anita Alvarez, met with members of her Hispanic Advisory Council. The meeting was held in a Conference Room in the George W. Dunne Building, 69 W. Washington Ave., downtown Chicago. State's Attorney Alvarez opened the meeting with welcoming remarks followed by a report on a case involving Human Trafficking; an initiative funded by a federal grant.
           ALVAREZ reported that her office prosecuted 10 defendants involved in human trafficking. “All 10 pleaded guilty because the evidence against them was strong,” she said. Wiretap, surveillance and audiotapes were used to make the case against the defendants. The offenders could not believe their criminal activities were being watched. All defendants were all charged with the Class X felony of Aggravated Traficking in Persons. Trafficking a total of 16 victims, including 11 children and five young adults.
          STATE’S ATTORNEY ALVAREZ introduced Rafael Malpica as the new Chairman of State's Attorney Hispanic Advisory Council. Chairman Malpica also welcomed the members of the Council. “The goal of the Council is to represent our community and to collaborate between communities,” said Malpica.
            GUEST SPEAKER was Deputy Supervisor, Brian Holmes, Gang Crimes Unit and Project Safe Neighborhoods, a division of the Cook County State's Attorney office. He spoke on the issue of “Guns & Gangs” and said there is a lot of discussion in Springfield on what to do about our current gun laws. “More young people are being charged with guns; and more people are killed by guns in Chicago in a weekend than in Iraqi or Afghanistan,” said Holmes. Holmes said some young people, between 17-20 years of age, are not hardening criminals. “They get into a car and get into trouble,” he said.
          DEPUTY SUPERVISOR HOLMES receives a report every week, with over 100 sheets, on gun crimes committed in Cook County. “I check every one,” he said “Guns are coming into [Chicago] from Indiana, Wisconsin, Mississippi, Alabama, mostly southern states. A gun crime is a 2 to 10 years in jail. Holmes said a serious gun offense is the unlawful use of a gun by a gang member, a Class X Felony, a 6 to 30 year jail sentence under the Valadez Law, a non-probational sentence. Homes reported that most gun crimes are committed in Police Districts 4, 7, 9, 10, 11 and 15. Little Village is in Police District 10.
Alejandro "Alex"  Valadez
           VALADEZ LAW:
In 2010, the Valadez Law was enacted in memory of Officer Alejandro Valadez. The law mandates that any gang member found to be in the unlawful possession of a firearm must serve a prison sentence. Police Officer Alejandro “Alex” Valadez, 27, was a 3-year veteran of the Chicago Police Department, District 7. After midnight on June 1, 2009, Valadez and his partner, Officer Thomas Vargas, responded to gunshots at the 6000 block of South Hermitage Ave. Alex was shot twice. He died at Stronger Hospital. Charged with the shooting were Kevin Walker, 25, the driver of a car and Shawn Gaston, 24 and Christopher Harris, 24. Gaston was sentenced to 125 years in prison, Walker to 120 years and Harris to 105 years in prison.
           IN CONCLUSION: State's Attorney Alvarez said a young person told her an amazing thing. He said, “We got to put “neighbor” back into neighborhood to make our block safer. “Today, gun owners must report if their gun is stolen or lost. It is the law, you report your bike or car if it's stolen,” said Alvarez.
          COOK COUNTY State's Attorney Hispanic Advisory Council members are Ed Arroyo, Freddy Calixto, Salvador A. Cicero, Neusa Gaytan, Michael J. Hernandez, Jose Isais, Rafael Malpica, Francisco Menchaca, Nora Moreno Cargie, Martha O'Bryan, Maria-Teresa Roman, Victoria Romero, August Sallas, Lupe Sanchez, John B. Valencia, Blanca Vargas, Tito Vargas.
          CHRISTINE CHAN, Deputy Director, Community Outreach & Special Events, announced that she is accepting nominations until August 8, 2014 of a Hispanic Attorney serving in the Hispanic Community to be honored at the State's Attorney's 22nd Annual El Humanitario Award Ceremony. For details on how to submit your nomination, call Christine Chan at 312/603-8724. Chan also announced the upcoming 6th Annual Unity in the Community Conference to be held on Wednesday, Sept. 10, 2014, from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the UIC Forum, 725 W. Roosevelt Road, Chicago. Public invited.
                                     CALENDAR OF EVENTS
          SATURDAY, JULY 26--- Free Haircuts & Manicure from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Little Village Community Council, 3610 W. 26th St. No appointment necessary.
          SUNDAY, JUL7 27--- Chicagoland Toys for Tots Picnic and Pig Roast from 10 a.m. until dusk, at White Eagle Woods, Grove 2, 7317 40th St., Lyons, IL. All ages are welcome. B.Y.O.B. Food: Pork, hamburgers, hot dogs, ice cream, grilled corn. Meals start at $3. Games: for children of every age. Car & Bike Show: Free entry and admission. Kids pick the winners. Live Entertainment: Ground Control, Superfly Redneck. Featuring “They Found Us” and “Whiskey Road”. Bean Bags: Bring a teammate or find one here. $10 per person. Dunk Tank. Douse one of your favorite board members. For more information call George Lester Fortier Jr. 708/308-4661 or Sharon D. Allen – 773/517-5896. Come and join the fun!
           SUNDAY, JULY 27--- Mariachi Tapatio musical event at the Manuel Perez Memorial Plaza, 26th St. & Kolin Ave. from 4 p.m. To 6 p.m. Sponsored by the SSA #25 Commission. Open to the public.
           SUNDAY, AUGUST 3—Trio Los Primos musical event at the Manuel Perez Memorial Plaza, 26th St. & Kolin Ave. from 4 p.m. To 6 p.m. Sponsored by the SSA #25 Commission. Open to the public.
          THRSDAY, JULY 31--42h Annual “Fiesta de Sol”, the largest Latino festival in the Midwest, 1400 W. Cermak Road [Pilsen] starting at 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. FRIDAY, AUGUST 1—11 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., SATURDAY, AUGUST 2—11 a.m. to 11 p.m. SUNDAY, AUGUST 3—11 a.m. to 10 p.m. FREE ADMISSION. For more information log fiestadesol.org.


Tuesday, July 15, 2014

President Barack Obama's Agenda, Balance Budget, Affordable Care Act, Comprehensive Immigration Law, House Speaker John Boehner Lawsuit, U.S. Sen. Mark Kirk Shameful Idea, In Memoriam, Alan J. Dixon, Calendar of Event

  
          MY OPINION: It’s obvious to me that the Republican's game-plan since 2009 has been to undermine President Obama's agenda. Many, if not all, Republicans in Congress are mean-spirited obstructionist; doing nothing to solve the problems of America. Ironically these Republican Party members believe they are being constructive?!
          FOR EXAMPLE, our nation saw this behavior during the national budget crisis. Republicans would rather shut-down the government than find a real solution in balancing the budget. This strategy cost taxpayers $18.9 Billion. We continue to hear Republicans criticize and attack the Affordable Care Act, a law passed by Congress, signed by President Obama and upheld by the Supreme Court on June 28, 2012. Now, Republicans are blocking the passage of a Comprehensive Immigration law.
          IMMIGRATION issue: Yes, President Obama made the campaign promise that would give us [Mexicans] a comprehensive immigration law. However, as President Obama talks about immigration reform or as much as he tries to have an immigration bill voted on, House Speaker John Boehner [R-OH] refuses to bring it up for a vote. One thing is clear, Boehner is afraid of the “Tea Party” members within the Republican Party. They are adamant in their thinking and will not reason. For this, we cannot blame President Obama for not being able to keep his promise.
          THE MAINSTREAM media have quoted many Republicans saying that a comprehensive immigration bill is dead, but we know they are playing politics. The real reason Republicans continue to create obstacles and make-up excuses, for not supporting Immigration Reform, is because they know that the immigrants of today will become future Democratic voters. It’s all about the vote!
          THERE’S MORE…Now, Speaker John Boehner wants to file a lawsuit against President Obama because Obama is using his “Executive Powers”. “Executive Powers” are the president's constitutional powers to issue executive orders, which carry the authority of law but do not have to be approved by Congress. President Obama has issued 175 executive orders to date. He signed fewer in his first term than George W. Bush, Bill Clinton and Ronald Reagan in their first terms.
          PRESIDENT OBAMA calls the lawsuit a “stunt”. I call it a waste of taxpayer's money and time. Boehner said he will introduce legislation in the House later this month that would allow the House to sue President Obama. More drama.
          SHAME: Our Illinois U.S. Senator, Mark Kirk [R-IL], recently announced he wants all the undocumented children from South America, who have crossed the Mexican border into America, be given a criminal background check. These are children! Instead of treating these children like criminals, we should treat them as humanely as possible before sending them back to their country of origin. Isn't America a compassionate country? What does the sonnet inscribed on a plaque at the base of the Statue of Liberty, “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free”? This is a shameful idea coming from a United Sates Senator.
         
Alan J. Dixon
           IN MEMORIAM:
Former Illinois U.S. Senator, Alan J. Dixon, 86, [1927-2014] died Sunday, July 6, 2014 at his downstate home. Dixon had a 40 year political career. His detractors ridiculed him as “Al the Pal,” but his friends and supporters did not see it as an insult. Gov. Quinn called Sen. Dixon “a statesman, warm and friendly.” He was a real friend of the Latino/Mexican community.
          WHEN SEN. Dixon was the Democratic candidate for Illinois State Secretary of State he was endorsed by the Hispanic American Labor Council, overwhelmingly. As Secretary of State, Alan was the first Secretary to create a Secretary of State Hispanic Advisory Council for the office. He said he wanted to know what issues were affecting the Hispanic community in the Secretary of State's facilities. I was honored to be Chairman of the Hispanic Advisory Council.
          THE SECRETARY of State Hispanic Advisory Council made two recommendations to Secretary Dixon. At that time clerks in the Secretary of State's Driving facilities were confiscating documents from Mexicans who were applying for driving license; alleging that the documents looked bogus. The Hispanic Advisory Council requested that the clerks cease the confiscation of any documents from members of our Mexican community because they were not federal agents. Dixon agreed. He issued a stop order to all facilities. The second recommendation was for more bilingual clerks at the driver's facilities.
          IN AN INTERVIEW last year, Alan Dixon said, “We don't have any bipartisanship now. We've just got everybody mad at one another. There is no speaking.” Sadly, bipartisanship is missing in Washington, D.C. today. Dixon said, “Our representatives need to sit down and make a deal.”
          MY PERSONAL friendship with Alan J. Dixon will never be forgotten. He was a “pal.”
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                                               CALENDAR OF EVENT
                               FREE HAIRCUTS
                                                    AND 
                               MANICURES
                      Sabado 26 de Julio 2014 
                       10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
                      Saturday, July 26, 2014

            CORTE DE PELO y manicura, completamente GRATIS.

El Concilio de la Villita, 3610 W. 26th St. las invita, al evento de

Los esperamos.


              LITTLE VILLAGE residents are cordially invited to

 the Little Village Community Council, 3610 W. 26th from


10 a.m. to 3 p.m. for FREE haircuts and manicures.

                       FREE      FREE      GRATIS     GRATIS
________________________________________________________________

Wednesday, July 2, 2014

Carlos Martin Jimenez Macias, Consulate General of Mexico, Passaporte, Matricula Consular, Nacimiento/Doble Nacionalidad, Actos Natariales, Carde de Electro, Consulado General de Mexico En Chicago Servicios, Happy 4th of July


Consul of Mexico Carlos Macias & Augustine Sallas
          A JOINT VENTURE:
A meeting was held Wednesday, June 25, 2014 in the office of the Consulate General of Mexico, Carlos Martin Jimenez Macias, and with representatives of the Little Village Community Council. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss how the Office of the Mexican Consulate could bring their many services to the Mexican community of Little Village. Little Village is the largest Mexican community in Chicago and in the Midwest.
          OUTLINED in a letter given to Consul Macias, the Little Village Community Council requested the following: [1] Passaporte [2] Matricula Consular [3] Nacimiento/Doble Nacionalidad [4] Actos Natariales [5] Carde de Electro/ Voters Registration card.
          CONSUL MACIAS, along with his two assistants, were very understanding and open to our requests. The Consulate does have a Mobile Unit but it will only travel to Mexican communities 90 miles away from the Consulate's office. For example, Joliet, Aurora, and Elgin. Since Little Village is in close proximity to the Mexican Consulate's office, which is located at 204 S. Ashland Avenue, our neighborhood does not qualify for the Mobile Unit.
          HOWEVER, CONSUL Macias said he would check with his superiors, in Mexico, to request authorization to take the Mobile Unit to Little Village. “We would not be able to do all the services you are requesting, but maybe one of them a year,” said Macias. I suggested starting with the Matricula Consular card. The Matricula cost $27. A six-year Mexican passport cost $101. Many residents have been requesting both at the Little Village Community Council office.
          ANOTHER POSSIBILITY being explored: Macias said his staff would be willing to teach Little Village volunteers to know what documents a person must bring to the Consulate office. This has been a time-consuming issue that Macias’ staff faces daily. If a person does not bring the necessary documents to the Consulate's office for a service he/she would leave the Consulate empty handed, only to make another trip back to the Consulate. Macias would like to see the process streamlined by Little Village volunteers.
          AN OPEN invitation was given to Consul Macias to come and meet with Little Village residents to discuss their concerns. Macias said he would check his calendar.
          REPRESENTATING the Little Village Community Council was Augustine Sallas, President and Norma Calderon, Secretary. The meeting lasted one hour.

CONSULADO GENERAL DE
MEXICO EN CHICAGO
204 S. ASHLAND AVE., CHICAGO, IL 60607
PHONE: 312/738-2383
HORAS: 8:30 A.M. TO 5 P.M.
SERVICIO
COSTO
Pasaporte Ordinario por 3 años*
74.00
Pasaporte Ordinario por 6 años*
101.00
Matrícula Consular
27.00
OP-7 (permiso de los padres)
Gratis
Cartilla del Servicio Militar Nacional
Gratis
Duplicado o Correción de Cartilla
11.00
Menaje de Casa a Mexicanos
95.00
Registro de Nacimiento
Gratis
Registro de Defunción
Gratis
Registro de Matrimonio
43.00
Copia Certificada de Registro Civil
13.00
Declaración de Nacionalidad Mexicana
15.00
Duplicado de Declaración de Nacionalidad
8.00
Poder Notarial Persona Física
115.00
Poder Notarial Persona Moral (compañías)
173.00
Testamento Público Abierto
294.00
Testamento Público Cerrado
40.00
Recepción de Testamento Ológrafo
147.00
Renuncia a Derechos Hereditarios
115.00
Certificado de Importación de Psicotrópicos
62.00
Certificado de Análisis, Libre Venta, Origen y Médicos
43.00
Certificado a Petición de Parte
62.00
Certificado de Supervivencia a Pensionados Mexicanos
Gratis
Presunción de Nacionalidad Mexicana
Gratis
Autorización de personas que ejerzan patria potestad o tutela a menores de edad o incapaces
44.00
Visado a Pasaportes Extranjeros
36.00
FM-3 (Actividades No Lucrativas)
98.00
FM-3 (Actividades Lucrativas)
159.00
Menaje de Casa a Extranjeros
127.00
* LAS PERSONAS MAYORES DE 60 AÑOS Y CON DISCAPACIDAD COMPROBADA PAGARÁN EL 50% DE LAS CUOTAS ESTABLECIDAS. (Pasaporte)
El pago puede ser realizado con tarjeta de débito o crédito
(VISA, MASTER CARD o DISCOVER)
Al igual que en efectivo.
HAPPY 4TH OF JULY

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY










Thursday, June 26, 2014

Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago, Commissioner Frank Avila, David St. Pierre, Little Village Environmental Justice Organization, Antonio Lopez, Kim Wasserman, Virginia Martinez, Illinois Latino Family Commission, Calendar of Events


Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago
          L to R: Commissioner Frank Avila, MWRD; MWRD Executive Director David St. Pierre, LVEJO Executive Director Antonio Lopez and Kim Wasserman, LVEJO Project Coordinator.

          LVEJO HUDDLES: Frank Avila, Commissioner Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago [MWRD], and MWRD Executive Director David St. Pierre met on Thursday, June 19, 2014 with Little Village Environmental Justice Organization [LVEJO] Executive Director Antonio Lopez and Project Coordinator Kim Wasserman. The meeting’s agenda was to discuss an environmental clean-up project at the Chicago Sanitary & Ship Canal – Collateral Channel near 31st St. between Kedzie Ave. and California St. in Little Village. This property around the Collateral Channel is owned by MWRD.
          THE LITTLE Village Community Council and the Chicago Boy Scouts of America are supporting this clean-up project by LVEJO. The meeting promoted ideas that were shared on how to best clean up the Collateral Channel area by both parties. Officials of Metropolitan Water Reclamation District expressed their interest in the clean-up project and offered technical support; LVEJO wants to re-vitalize the severely contaminated riverfront properties adjacent to the Chicago Sanitation and Shipping Canal.
          “DURING THE summer months neighbors in the area complain a lot about the strong odor from the Collateral Channel. At LVEJO we are concerned that the waterway poses a public health threat to the community. We are excited to work with our community partners and the MWRD to resolve this important environmental injustice,” said Executive Director Antonio Lopez.
           LVEJO IS focusing on the stretch of waterway between Bubby Creek and the Collateral Channel in Little Village. Local and regional partners have come together to ensure that the public is aware of the environmental conditions of the waterway. There is also a need for access to riverfront public spaces for healthy recreation and leisure activities.
          TO LEARN more about this project contact LVEJO, 2445 S. Spaulding Ave., Chicago, IL 60623. Telephone: 773/762-6991.
           EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR PIERRE suggested filling up the Collateral Channel with rocks and making the area into a small park. “This can easily be done since we can provide the rocks,” said Pierre. The Corp of Engineers wants the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District to clean up the entire Sanitation & Shipping Canal, which is a very costly undertaking the District cannot afford to do.
           
Attorney Virginia Martinez
          INTRODUCTION: Attorney Virginia Martinez, Esq. is the Senior Policy Analyst for the newly created Illinois Latino Family Commission [ILFC]. GOV. PAT QUINN officially launch the Illinois Latino Family Commission on Nov. 1, 2013.
           THE ILLINOIS Latino Family Commission is a non-partisan, independent state commission established by P.A. 95-619 to improve the opportunities and resources available to Latino families throughout the state.
            THE ILFC advises the Governor and General Assembly and works directly with State agencies to ensure that policies, services and programs are responsive to the Latino community. Martinez with her colleagues, focuses on legislation, policy analysis, program development to promote social and economic well-being of Latino families.
            VIRGINIA MARTINEZ is a 1975 graduate of DePaul University College of Law and has spent most of her career working in non-profit organizations. She is a strong advocate for Latinos, women and children. From 1992 to 1997, she was Executive Director of Mujeres Latinas en Accion. For the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund [MALDEF], Virginia served as the Legislative Staff Attorney where she was responsible for monitoring regional, state and local legislation and policy issues affecting Latinos in the 11-state Midwest region.
          VIRGINIA has received numerous awards and has volunteered to serve with many organizations and boards over the years. She had the life-changing opportunity of participating in the 1995 UN Conference on Women in Beijing and is a frequent speaker on issues affecting Latinos. She is also the proud mother of Miguel and Natalia.
          MEMBERS appointed to serve on the Illinois Latino Family Commission are:
          Chairman Henry Martinez, Founder & Director Latino Resources Institute; Elba Aranda-Suh, Executive Director, National Latino Education Institute; Joseph Antolin, Principal, Antolin & Associates Consulting Assets Funders Network; Msgr. Michael Boland, Administrator/
President/CEO of Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago; Dr. Wanda Figueroa, Chief Executive Officer, ASPIRA of Illinois; Angel Garcia, Attorney at Law, Office of Angel Garcia; Raul Garza, Chief Executive Officer, Aunt Martha's Youth Services Center and Health Center; Lucy Gomez-Feliciano, Health Outreach Director, Logan Square Neighborhood Association; Hon. Elizabeth Hernandez, State Representative - 24th District; Rene Hernandez, Jr., Republican National Hispanic Assembly of Illinois; Maria Esther Lopez, Director of Institutional Advancement, El Valor; Roberto Ramirez, President, The Jesus Guadalupe Foundation; Dr. Derrick Wallery, Chief Executive Officer, Marque Medicos.
           ILFC STAFF: Executive Director Dr. Layla Suleiman Gonzalez, J.D., Senior Policy Analyst Virginia Martinez, Esq., Policy Associate Veronica Reyes, Community Engage ment and Media Ray Rubio and Executive Assiciate Grace Leon.
           THE ILLINOIS Latino Family Commission [ILFC] is committed to promoting the health, wealth, opportunity, and equality for Latinos across the State of Illinois. The commission will work hand-in-hand with state government agencies, community organizations, and legislators to strengthen current language access policies, develop new policies, and create best-practice models that will ensure meaningful access for Latinos.
           FOR MORE information contact the Illinois Latino Family Commission, 542 S. Dearborn St., Suite 750, Chicago, IL 60605. ILFC@illinois.gov


CALENDARS OF EVENTS
           EVERY WEDNESDAY—LVEJO Community Pot Luck dinner from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at 2727 S. Troy Ave. at Las Semillas de Justicia Garden. You can bring your favorite dish. Open to the public.
           FRIDAY, JULY 11TH—Rooftop Outing, Wrigley Field, 2:00 p.m. Cubs vs. Braves. Hosted by Rel-Elect Ariel Reboyras Committee. Single Ticket: $250. Call 773/407-4732.
          JUNE 27-SEPTEMBER 14, 2014—Chicago Summer Dance, Spirit of Music Garden, 601 S. Michigan Ave., between Harrison St. & Balbo Drive from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Dance to 35 different live bands and DJ's. Food and refreshment are available for purchase. FREE TO EVERYONE. For band schedule log on: chicagosummerdance.org
"ENJOY THE SUMMER"




Wednesday, June 18, 2014

Rooftop Outing, Ald. Ariel Reboyras, Wrigley Field, Host Committee, ACLU, American Civil Liberties Union, Colleen K. Connell, ACLU Executive Director of Illinois

Ald. Ariel Reboyras
          ROOFTOP OUTING: Ald. Ariel Reboyras, 30th Ward and Chairman, Committee on Human Relations, Re-election committee is hosting a Rooftop outing fund-raiser at 2 p.m. on Friday, July 11, 2014 at Wrigley Field, Home of the Chicago Clubs. The game Cubs Vs. Braves. Single ticket: $250.
         
          ALDERMAN Reboyras has been a strong advocate for businesses and residents of the City. He has worked tirelessly on issues regarding human rights and for our veterans. “Let's show Alderman Reboyras our support by joining him to cheer on the Chicago Cubs as they take on the Atlanta Braves”, a supporter said.
          HOST COMMITTEE: Honorable Pat Quinn, Governor of Illinois; Honorable Rahm Emanuel, Mayor City of Chicago; Honorable Joseph Berrios, Cook County Assessor; Honorable Luis Guitierrez, Congressman 4th District; Honorable Mike Quigley, Congressman 5th District; Honorable Iris Martinez, Illinois State Senator 20th District; Honorable Luis Arroyo, Illinois State Rep. 3rd District; Maritza Martinez, Candidate for Judge; Richard C. Cooke, Candidate for Judge; Frank Spula, President Polish National Alliance; Ed Kelly, Former 47th Ward Committeeman.
          ALD. REBOYRAS is one of the most popular, energetic and active alderman in the city. He learned to speak the Polish language to relate with his Polish constituency; he deserves to be re-elected.
          TO PURCHASE online tickets visit www.reboyrasrooftop.eventbrite.com
          FOR MORE information or to RSVP please email citizensforreboyras@gmail.com or call 773/407-4732 or 773/853-2073. Make check payable to “Citizens for Reboyras”, P.O. Box 411951, Chicago, IL 60641.
         
          ACLU SAYS: The American Civil Liberties Union [ACLU] has produced a small brochure in English and Spanish with information on your rights. This information is not intended as legal advice. The following information is being reprinted from the brochure.
          HERE IS what to do if police, immigration agents or the FBI stops you:
  • You have the right to remain silent. If you wish to exercise that right, say so out loud.
  • You have the right to refuse to consent to a search of yourself, your car or your home.
  • If you are not under arrest, you have the right to calmly leave.
  • You have the right to a lawyer if you are arrested. Ask for one immediately.
  • Regardless of your immigration or citizenship status, you have constitutional rights.
          YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Do stay calm and be polite
  • Do not interfere with or obstruct the police
  • Do not lie or give false documents
  • Do prepare yourself and your family in case you are arrested
  • Do remember the details of the encounter
  • Do file a written complaint or call your local ACLU if you feel your rights have been violated
          THE ACLU is our nation's guardian of liberty, working daily in courts, legislatures and communities to defend and preserve the individual rights and liberties that the Constitution and laws of the United States guarantee everyone in this country.
          THESE RIGHTS include: Your First Amendment rights—freedom of speech, association and assembly; freedom of the press and freedom of religion.
          YOUR right to equal protection under the law—protection against unlawful discrimination.
          YOUR right to due process—fair treatment by the government whenever the loss of your liberty or property is at stake.
          YOUR right to privacy—freedom from unwarranted government intrusion into your personal and private affairs.
          THE ACLU also works to extend rights to segments of our population who have traditionally been denied their rights. These include people of color, women, lesbians, gay men, bisexuals and transgender people, prisoners and people with disabilities. “If the rights of society's most vulnerable members are denied, everybody's rights are imperiled,” says ACLU.
           FOR MORE INFORMATION, contact ACLU of Illinois. Colleen K. Connell, Executive Director, 180 N. Michigan Ave., Suite 2300, Chicago, IL 60601. Phone: 312/201-9740.

           AMERICAN CIVIL LIBERTIES web page is www.actu.org.