Another Year of Progress!

Volume 4 Number 1 2005

More new homes coming to Phoenix

As promised...Advanced WaterBilling is Here!

Mayor Terry Wells

NewPublic WorksFacility!

Phoenix Mall?

“We are thankful and ourresidents were thrilledwhen the final productwas completed....Our community deservesthe best.”

-Patrice BurtonPark District Board President

Another Year of Progress!

We are proud to announce that we are currently negotiating with a company to build a strip mall in the Village of Phoenix.

We will begin theconstruction of ournew Public WorksFacility this winter

New playground equipment was one of the many Park District renovations completed in 2004.

Hello residents:

By the time you read this article, it willbe the New Year. The public works per-sonnel and I, wish you and your family aprosperous New Year.

During the past year, 2004, publicworks department has worked very dili-gently to keep our village clean, safe andappealing and also a village that we’re allproud to be a resident of. The following information isdesigned to keep our community clean throughout the year.It will also provide a safe and healthy environment and easyaccess of all streets and entryways.

On snow days, please move your vehicles off the streets,where possible, so the plows can remove snow and ice for yourconvenience. Tuesdays are the regularly scheduled garbagepickup day, with the exception of Monday holidays; it willthen be a Wednesday pickup. If in doubt, after a holiday,please call the Village Hall for proper pick-up day. Garbageand debris should not be put on curbside until Mondayevening or the evening before pickup day. Refuse provider hasa contractual agreement of pinking up only one large item perweek. Containers and other refuse equipment should be offcurbs or parkway by 12:00 noon the following day after pick-

up. The seniors and the physically challenged can call theClerk’s office for special assistance on snow removal and refusepickup.

May the service and assistance provided by the public worksdepartment give you, the citizens, a comfortable, safe andhealthy lifestyle. Looking to serve you even better in the year2005.

FROM THE VILLAGE CLERK

PUBLISHED BY VILLAGE OF PHOENIX633 East 151st Street Phoenix, IL 60426 (708) 331-1455

EDITOR-IN-CHIEFMayor Terry Wells

EDITORIAL ASSISTANTSJannie L. Beasley • Johnnie M. Lane

EDITORIAL BOARDAlbert Kirklin • Joseph D. Ross • Dorothy Carter

Arthur T. Burton • Jerome Ferrell Jr. • LaNita Stewart

LAYOUT & DESIGNBenny Williams

Mrs. Johnnie M. Lane, Village Clerk

If a homeowner is performing construction work, he too, must com-plete an application and let the building inspector make the decision asto whether or not a permit is required. Some contractors have had their

license revoked by the State of Illinois due to complaints filed with theBetter Business Association. The Attorney General files those complaintswith us if the contractor has been issued a citation and is not allowed towork in the State of Illinois. Therefore, we can pass that information alongto our citizens.

2005 VEHICLE STICKERSThe deadline to display 2005 vehicle stick-ers is February 15th. The late fee in theamount of $10.00 will be added to the reg-ular price. The fee to purchase stickers areas follows: Passenger vehicle $20.00; SeniorCitizens and Disability $10.00 (with proofof age and or proof of disability); Trucksaccording to size $25.00, $30.00 and$35.00.

DOG LICENSEAll dogs are required to be licensed in theVillage. A dog tag can be purchased fromthe CLERK’S OFFICE. The fee to pur-chase a dog tag is $3.00.

GARBAGE PICKUP DAYS FOR THE VILLAGE OF PHOENIX IS TUESDAYSThe scavenger service picks up garbage in the Village of Phoenix, everyTuesday. The only time this will change is, if the company observes a holi-day that falls on Tuesday.

THE FOLLOWING HOLIDAYS ARE OBSERVED BY OUR SCAVENGER SERVICE:New Years Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day,Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. We encourage our citizens to dis-pose of tree limbs, branches and shrubbery by cutting the limbs andbranches into lengths no longer than 4 feet, tie them into a bundle andplace them out with your regular garbage. The scavenger service is notresponsible to pick up construction material. You must get a dumpster fordisposing of construction material.

OFFICE HOURSThe Water Department and Clerk’s Office is open 6 days a week, Monday,Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Wednesdayand Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon.

The Village of Phoenix holds REGULAR BOARD MEETINGS twice amonth on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month. All Board Meetings are open to the public and are held in the Village Hall,633 East 151st Street, at 7:00 p.m.

PUBLIC WORKS DEPT.

Trustee Albert Kirklin,Chairman

2

GREETINGSRESIDENTS

Fro

m M

ayo

r Terry W

ellsWe hope and pray that all is safe

with you and your loved ones.In the past six months, we

have experienced many positive thingshappening in our community. Last sum-mer we had what many feel is our bestPhoenix Fest yet. The crowds were largeand the weather cooperated. We hadsomething for everyone including the firstcarnival in Phoenix in over 30 years.During the fest, we honored our servicemen and women who are stationed over-seas. We also dedicated our new park thatwas completed just before the fest. Weare proud of this new facility and we hopethat you are too.

We recently received a letter of thanksfrom School District 205 for our supportfor the referendum last April. Eventhough the referendum failed, it passedoverwhelmingly in Phoenix with 68% ofthe residents supporting the measure.The referendum was placed on the ballota second time in November where it alsofailed. The support given by the voters inPhoenix goes to show our commitment toeducating our children.

Due to the budget cuts at District 205,the school has cut the Construction

Trades Program. This program allowedstudents in the various shop classes tobuild a house in the Village of Phoenix.See page 22 for photos of the student-builthomes. Even though we lost this program,we were able to partner with SouthSuburban College to design a similar pro-gram so that we will still have studentsbuilding houses in our community insteadof high school; it is college students. Thestudents are currently building a 2200square foot house at 151st Street andSixth Avenue. If you get a chance, pleasestop by and check it out.

In October, we had over 150 volunteersvisit our community for Comcast CaresDay. Comcast selected Phoenix for a one-day cleanup of the homes of senior citi-zens. Along with Comcast employees wehad students from Coolidge School,FCEA, Phoenix Fest Committee andClub 22. These groups helped to cutgrass, trim hedges, paint and make minorrepairs at the homes of seniors. A specialthanks to Comcast and those who helpedto make this day a huge success. See photos on page 13.

As we continue to attempt to improve

In October, we hadover 150 volunteersvisit our community forComcast Cares Day.Comcast selectedPhoenix for a one-day cleanup ofthe homes of senior citizens. A specialthanks to Comcastand those whohelped to make thisday a huge success.

See photos of ComcastCares Day on Page 13

Continued on page 4

3

our public safety department, we will begin therenovation of our Fire Station. Although thebuilding is in need of a great many repairs, wecurrently have funding for the most seriousproblems. This winter, we will replace the roofand the heating and air conditioning units inthe building. The other needs will beaddressed when we obtain more funding fromCook County Planning Department. Wewould like to thank President John H. Strogerfor his help in securing this funding.

We will begin the construction of our newPublic Works Facility this winter. The newbuilding will house all of our street depart-ment equipment. We are hoping the facili-ty will be open by early summer.

The Village of Phoenix is proud toannounce a partnership with LevCon

Corporation. This company will beginbuilding single family homes in the Villageof Phoenix. This marks the first time inover 5 years that a developer has builthomes in our community. The sale prices ofthese homes will range from $150,000-$170,000.

We are also proud to announce that we arecurrently negotiating with a company tobuild a strip mall in the Village of Phoenix.We have prime real estate along Halstedand Vincennes and a local developer hasshown interest in building a strip mall at thislocation. More details will be coming soon.

A special thanks to Dave Bartlett of SouthSuburban College for the beautiful historicalwall erected for the Village of Phoenix. Thewall will be unveiled in March. The exhibitwill be on the third floor. If you get a chance,please visit this exhibit located on the 3rd floorof the college.

Our new water billing system is now in place.

From now on, you will receive a bill from BlueStar. The system will allow you to use a widervariety of payment methods such as credit cardpayment, direct debit payments in addition tocash and check payments. This automated sys-tem will save the Village time and money.

With all the positive things that are done,negative news always gets the most attention.On November 6, 2004, a young Phoenix resi-dent, Krissy Long-Johnson, was shot and killedas she walked home from the store. We, theVillage of Phoenix, offer condolences to theLong, Johnson and Hawkins families on theirtragic loss. This is the first time in 10 years thatwe have had a fatal shooting in our communityand we hope that it is the last. This only under-scores the need for our community to continueto work together to support and nurture ouryoung people. We need the help of all segmentsof the community; schools, churches, parents,and elected officials to prevent this type oftragedy from happening again.

GreetingsContinued from page 3

2004 was a year of advancements.More advancements to come in 2005!

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Greetings residents, from the FireDepartment Personnel. We wouldlike to say thank you, for all of your

support that you have given us this year. Weare hoping to help you in any way we can inthe near future. You are more than welcometo visit us at any time. Our station is beingremodeled and we hope that you can comeand see the work that is being done.

Here are some safety tips that will helpkeep you and your family safe. Now that fallis over, you really need to check your batteriesinside your smoke detectors. Be sure that your heater is in good workingcondition. Inspect exhaust parts for carbonbuildup. Make sure it has an emergency shutoff. Keep all space heaters away from cloth-ing and furniture and TURN THEM OFFbefore going to sleep. Never use the top ofyour range or the oven to heat your home.We will come to your home and do a freehome fire inspection just give us a call.When you get ready to put your Christmaslights up, use a power strip to avoid an over-load on your plug.

The Village of Phoenix Fire Department iscurrently accepting applications for the posi-tion of POC Firefighter. To become a POCFirefighter, you must be willing to give yourtime and hard work to the Phoenix FireDepartment. You must be 18 years old andwilling to work hard to learn about the fireservice. The Fire Department has trainingevery Wednesday night 7:00 p.m. until 9:30p.m. and it is mandatory for all cadets.Residents are welcome to observe the train-ing. So if you are interested, please feel freeto stop by the fire station and pick up anapplication.

Youth of Phoenix, if you are interested inbecoming a firefighter, but you are under theage of 18, well, the Phoenix Fire Department

will be starting a Cadet Program for youth15-18. As aCadet, you willbe training with the firefighter andthe Phoenix FireDepartmentlearning about

the operations of the fire department andhow to become agood firefighter.If interested,please stop bythe fire stationand pick up anapplication.

PHOENIX FIRE DEPARTMENT

A Special Thanks From Phoenix Fire Chief Brandon Turner, Jr.

“We would like to say thank you, for allof your support that you have given usthis year. We are hoping to help you inany way we can in the near future.”

Phoenix Fire Department in action!

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LAW & ORDER

Iwould like to start by mention-ing that the crime statistics forthe Village of Phoenix has sig-

nificantly decreased during the yea rof 2004. Curfew and loiteringordinances have been strictlyenforced, inoperable and aban-doned vehicles have been towedand the Tact Team has been con-ducting "street sweeps" in order tohelp make this community a saferplace to live. The PoliceDepartment has also implementeda new and improved detective divi-sion that consists of highly trainedand knowledgeable officers. I amvery proud of the time and effortput forth by this division.

Lastly, I would like to reiterate theimportance of your help when itcomes to solving crime. Pleasereport any and all criminal activity,criminal leads and news tips to thePolice Department in order to assistus in our continued effort to makegreater strides servicing this com-munity.

Suspect NabbedThe newly installed surveillance

cameras positioned at various loca-

tions throughout the Village havealready helped the police nab a bur-glary suspect at Coolidge School.Items taken during this burglaryincluded over $50,000.00 worth ofcomputer equipment. These cam-eras will continue to assist thepolice in making the Village ofPhoenix a safer place to live.

Community PolicingOnce again, the Police

Department is asking that you helpus to keep the Village safe. One ofthe key elements in communitypolicing is concerned residentshelping to solve crime. If you see orhear anything that appears to beunusual or may help solve a crime,please do not hesitate to call thePhoenix "News Tip" hot line at(708) 339-3939 or email yourinformation todeectives@ppdil.us.Let’s all getinvolved and keep our communitysafe. All information will remainanonymous and confidential.

Report Fee IncreasePlease make note that there has

been a fee increase for copies of

reports and tow releases. The fol-lowing fees are currently in effect:Tow Release: $25.00 for residents;$50.00 for non residents. Reports:$5.00 for residents; $10.00 for nonresidents.

Welcome “Lexus”The Police Department has "gone

to the dogs". Canine Officer,Charles Smith and K-9 "Lexis"bring a new "nose" to the depart-ment. With "zero tolerance" on thefight against drugs, this new unit isexactly what this department waslooking for.

Grant NewsThe Police Department has

recently learned that Cook Countyhas approved a "Badge Grant".Once funding is secured from thisgrant, the monies will allow thepolice department to implementmuch needed youth programs inthe community. We are lookingforward to making a positiveimpact on today’s youth in orderfor them to have a better tomorrow.

EmploymentThe Police Department is search-

ing for qualified personnel to helpestablish an eligibility list. If you feelthat you meet the criteria to becomea police officer or dispatcher, pleasesubmit your completed applicationand resume. Applications are avail-able at the police departmentbetween 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.There is a processing fee of $20.00that can be paid at the Village Hall.The Police Department is an equalopportunity employer.

Rules of the RoadThe Police Department is offering

free "Rules of the Road" books to allresidents who are beginner drivers orthose who simply wish to "brush up"on any new driving laws. The booksare available at the communicationcenter.

Chaplin’s CornerJoseph D. Ross, Police Chaplin,

continuously provides the entirestaff with spiritual leadership and asense of direction. His time, as wellas guidance, is appreciated by allmembers of this Department.

Left: Phoenix Finest assigned to secure U.S. SenatorBarack Obama pose for photograph. (L-R) Lt. Arnold Harper, Sgt. George Johnson, Ofc. JoseSarabia, Det. Biddy from Dixmoor (in rear), Ofc. RobertReyes, Inv. Reginald Muff, Det. Jesus Dominguez and Lt.Det. Mark H. Smith.

Below: Chief Melvin Davis stands for photo with BarackObama.

Phoenix Finest Secure Barack Obama

From The Desk of Police Chief Melvin Davis

6

Who are we? We are the Village of Phoenix Police

and Fire Board of Commissioners. Ourcurrent Board Members are:

•Joda Boykin •Martina Lane Mahaffey•Benny Williams•Roosevelt Williams

Board membership isattained by appointmentfrom the Mayor and Boardof Trustees and this is a vol-unteer position.

What do we do?The Board of

Commissioners is responsi-ble for the hiring of allpolice and fire personnel,excluding their respectivechiefs. The Board conductsa panel style interview foreach potential candidate.Successful candidates arethen presented to theMayor and the Board ofTrustees for final approval.

The Village of Phoenix Police and FireBoard of Commissioners would like toencourage. our Village residents to applyto the Police and Fire Departments!Applications and a listing of qualifications are available from eachdepartment. We appreciate the opportunity to serve you!

Meet The Police & FireCommissioners

CommissionerMartina Lane-Mahaffey

The law enforcement cadet program is a volun-tary program, run through the Village of

Phoenix Police Department. It is for anyone whois interested in a career in law enforcement or whojust wants to get an idea if a career in law enforce-ment is what he or she really wants. The cadets areable to get a first hand look at daily police work asthey ride along with patrol, learn the fundamentalsof the law, learn defensive tactics, arrest proce-dures, investigation, and other job performances.Most importantly, it is the mission of the PhoenixPolice Department to use this program as a vehiclefor providing positive interaction between com-munity youths and police officers. This program isopen to both males and females and is designed toboth reinforce the actions and efforts of exemplaryyouths, as well as to steer problem teens away fromgangs, drugs and the lures of the streets.

The requirements for being a Village ofPhoenix Police Cadet:• be at least 15 years old, but not have reached your19th birthday• subsequent to appointment, maintain at least a2.0 G.P.A.• pass a background check • attend monthly meetings• volunteer a minimum number of hours of serv-ice a month, including working certain city runevents, such as the Phoenix Fest• avoid gangs, drugs, truancy and teens whoengage in such conduct

Some of the duties of the Cadets are:• traffic control• security at Coolidge Middle School RecreationActivities• assisting Police with natural disaster or unusualoccurrences• providing assistance with city run eventsthroughout the year

Ride-Along-Cadets ride along with police offi-cers for an entire shift, participating in radio com-munications, field interviews, ticket writing, mapbook reading, and much more. Traffic Control-Cadets are often in charge of controlling intersec-tions during parades, fairs, and other specialevents.

Vice-Cadets, may assist detectives in the viceunit in controlling the illegal sales of alcohol andtobacco in two major ways. 1. Shoulder TapOperations- Cadets request another person to buythem alcohol after informing him/her that they areunder 21.

Security-To work security, Cadets become the

eyes and ears of the police officers. Since officerscannot be everywhere at once, Cadets fill in bylooking for any suspicious or illegal activity, andthen immediately report it on the radio.

Community Events- Cadets are often requestedfor parades, festivals, and fairs to show their sup-port of law enforcement.

How To Join• Come to Police Department 629 E. 151st Streeton the second Monday of the month at 6pm. ACadet recruiter will meet you in the lobby of themain entrance. At this meeting you will receivemore information about the Cadet Program andhave the chance to talk to Cadets or a CadetAdvisor in person. • You will be given a basic 20 question multiplechoice test on reading comprehension, spellingand direction. • Once you pass the test, you will provide infor-mation about your background that will be col-lected upon completion. • A background package will be sent with youprior to the end of the meeting. • When finished with your background package,contact and meet with your BackgroundsInvestigator. (The name and all contact informa-tion will be given and explained to you) • If you pass your background investigation, youwill be scheduled for an interview conducted by aPolice Sergeant, and two Cadets that will be simi-lar to a job interview. • Upon completion of an acceptable interview, youwill be enrolled in the Cadet academy.All cadets will be required to be in uniform. • Navy blue uniform pants• Navy blue uniform shirt• American flag on right shoulder• Phoenix Police and cadet patch on left shoulder• Name plate on right chest• P.P.D. lapel pins• Black leather shoes• Black socks

Phoenix Police DepartmentNew Cadet Program

CommissionerBenny Williams

CommissionerRoosevelt Williams

Job Well Done!The Phoenix Police Department congratulates the following officers. All successfully completedthe police academy and are now State Certified Police Officers for the Village of Phoenix!!!

George A. Johnson

Antonio Nieto

Darryl L. Starks

Sheneta L. Vaughn

Gregory K. Williams

Phillip Johnson III

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On March 28 through April1, 2005, the Family CenteredEducational Agency is sponsor-ing their annual Spring BreakCollege Tour. Students willhave the opportunity to visitthe following colleges: JacksonState University, TougalooCollege, Southern University-Baton Rouge, XavierUniversity, Dillard University,

Fisk University and TennesseeState University. Students willalso visit the Civil RightsMuseum (in Memphis, TN) toobserve historical facts of theCivil Rights Movement andreceive vital information on theprofound leaders who paved theway for the AfricanAmerican commu-nity.

To support the students who benefit from our services, send a tax-deductible contribution to FCEA, 650 E. Phoenix Dr., Phoenix, IL 60426.

FCEA Abstinence Education Highlights

The AmbassadorsThe Abstinence Education

Program of FCEA has devel-oped a new and exciting com-ponent entitled theAmbassadors. Their mission isto provide information on thebenefits of healthy living toyouth and adults in their com-munity. Future endeavors ofthe Ambassadors includes

workshop facilitation, commu-nity service projects, and pub-lic awareness campaigns. TheAmbassadors will also host aleadership summit as well ascoordinate a rally entitled"How I’m Living" for SchoolDistrict 205 in May. Look outbecause the Ambassadors areon the move!

Pictured to the right are KeenanHollingsworth and Terrence McKinneyfrom FCEA (Family Centered EducationalAgency) B.R.O.T.H.A.S. Program. Theyattended our regular Board Meeting andmade a presentation to Mayor Terry R.Wells in appreciation of the support theVillage of Phoenix has given their program.Sorry for the omission of this photo in pre-vious newsletter.

FAMILY CENTERED

EDUCATIONAL

AGENCY

An Appreciation Presentation

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From the Board President:Greetings and Happy New Year!

On behalf of our entire board, it isfitting at this time to publicly thankour Mayor for his support and con-tributions to our renovated park at155th Street & 9th Avenue. Eventhough the renovations were com-pleted in August 2004, we arethankful and our residents werethrilled when the final product wascompleted with a brand new bas-ketball court and new playgroundequipment. This was the first reno-vation that we have had in 30 yearsand I am happy to be a part of it!Our community deserves the best and I am con-fident it will be well used and enjoyed for yearsto come! Our park board unanimously decid-ed to rename the park. The new name is theTerry Wells Community Park &Playground. It’s winter now but springand summer are just around the corner andwe’re asking all citizens to become "EagleEyes" and help to protect our new equip-ment that our youth deserve.

It’s not too early to start planning forfamily reunion picnics and outdoor birthdayparties at the Pershing Broome FamilyPavilion at 151st Street & 9th Avenue. Thisarea has spacious park grounds, a barbeque pit,a kitchen, and restrooms. The rental fee isaffordable and reservations can be made fordates during the 2005 operating season, fromMay 1st until October 1st. For further informa-tion, contact our Board Secretary at 708-339-8443.

Park District Board Meetings are held thethird Thursday of each month at 7:00 p.m. inthe field house at the Terry Wells CommunityPark & Playground, 155th Street & 9thAvenue.

Patrice Burton, PresidentHerman A. Seremala, Vice-PresidentAnnette C. Broome, TreasurerAntonia Salters, Board SecretaryMildred West Garcia, Commissioner

PHOENIX PARK DISTRICT NEWS

The Residents of Phoenix Deserve the Best!

LEFT: Park District President, Patrice Burton and Mayor Terry Wellsperform Ribbon Cutting during the 40th anniversary celebration of thePark District. TOP: New basketball court was one of the many renovations of the park. BELOW: Pom Pom Girls from Phoenix perform during the Park Districts 40th Anniversary Celebration.

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People You Should Know

Terry WellsJohnnie Lane

Albert KirklinJoseph Ross

Dorothy CarterArthur Burton

Jerome FerrellLaNita Stewart

Terry R. Wells, Village President, is a lifelong resident of the Village of Phoenix,Illinois. He was elected Village President in 1993 and is currently serving his

third term. Prior to being elected Village President, he served ten years as a VillageTrustee and President of the Phoenix Library Board.

Mr. Wells have worked as an educator at Coolidge Middle School located inPhoenix, Illinois. He now teaches History at nearby Thornton High School. Hecurrently serves as a member of the Board of Directors of South Suburban College.He holds a Bachelors Degree from Illinois State University and a Masters Degreefrom National Louis University. President Wells and his wife Loretta have two chil-dren, Terry Jr., and Brianna.

Johnnie M. Lane, Village Clerk, has been a Phoenix resident since 1961. She andher husband, Aubrey, have four children and ten grandchildren. She is a mem-

ber of Daniel Chapel A.M.E. Zion Church and is an active member of the SeniorUsher Board and Steward Board.

Through her interest in the welfare of the community, she has been involved withthe University of Illinois, taking classes toward becoming a certified municipal clerk.Mrs. Lane has served as a member of Cook County Health Department and as amember and Treasurer of the Southwest Municipal Clerk’s Association. She hasbeen a member of United Way of South Cook County, serving as a Board Memberin the past. Also, an active member of the Phoenix Fest Committee since its incep-tion and continues to work with the Village officials for continued growth for thebetterment of the community. She has 23 years of experience as Village Clerk. Shewas re-elected to her sixth four-year term in 2001.

Albert Kirklin is a 45-year resident of Phoenix, Illinois. He was re-elected to histhird, 4-year term in 2003. He is Village Trustee and chairman of Public Works

Department. He is employed at Ford Motor Company as a carpenter leader for thepast 36 years. He was president of Phoenix Park District for 7 years. He was edu-cated at Thornton High School, South Suburban College and the Allied Institute ofTechnology. He and his wife, Doris, have three grown daughters and five grand-children.

Joseph Duval Ross is a 36-year resident of Phoenix, Illinois. At the age of 46, heand his wife, Joyce, cherishes a 27-year marriage with three children. He is

Village Trustee in charge of Police and Fire. He was re-elected in 2003. As anemployee of ComEd for over 21 years, his approach to problem solving has devel-oped through projects such as, Vision Through Quality, Team-Fest and United Way.He is a 1972 graduate of Coolidge Junior High School and a 1976 graduate ofThornridge High School. He is a member of St. Andrew Temple Church Of GodIn Christ located in Harvey, Illinois. He serves as an Elder in ministry.

Dorothy Carter has been a resident of Phoenix for the majority of her life. Sheis the widow of Oliver Carter and the mother of Derrick and DeAnne. She is

a member of Daniel Chapel A.M.E. Zion Church. Her education includes coursework from Governors State University, Chicago State University, as well as

Thronton Community College, where she received an Associate of Arts Degree.Mrs. Carter was elected Village Trustee in April 2001. She is currently the

Secretary of the Phoenix Library District. In this capacity, she is responsible for fil-ing reports with the County Clerk’s office, corresponding with the Board’s attorneys,and keeping all Board records updated. Mrs. Carter has involved herself in com-munity activities such as serving on the Technology and Centennial Committees.

Mrs. Carter, before her retirement, was employed at Thornton High School as aPara-Educator in English/Reading. She also coordinated an after school communi-ty-based program, 21st Century Community Learning Center. Through her Unionactivities with the Illinois Education Association as President, Vice President,Grievance chairperson and building representative of the Union of Support Staff,Mrs. Carter developed organizational and leadership skills.

Arthur T. Burton, Jr. (Art) is a lifelong resident of the Village of Phoenix. Art,who is no stranger to the Village of Phoenix, has served as Park District

Commissioner from 1981-1985 and Village Trustee from 1985-1995. He hasserved as Police and Fire Commissioner. Ins 2001, Art was again elected VillageTrustee. He and his wife, Patrice have one daughter, Aisha.

Art is employed at Columbia College in Chicago as Director of African AmericanCultural Affairs. He also is an instructor of African American Arts at SouthSuburban College in South Holland, Illinois. In his spare time, Mr. Burton haspublished two books: "Black, Red and Deadly" and "Black, Buckskin and Blue".

Jerome Ferrell, Jr. is a teacher, preached, husband and a father. He has beenworking in education as a substitute teacher and a teacher for about eight years.

He presently teaches sixth grade math and science at Coolidge Middle School inPhoenix, Illinois. At Coolidge he is the chess coach, a basketball coach, one of thestudent council advisors and one of the black history advisors.

Jerome is a trustee in the village of Phoenix where he has resided all of his life. Heis presently one of the overseers of the Phoenix Water Department. He is a mem-ber of Friends 4 Life Ministries in Flossmoor, Illinois, where he is the youth direc-tor and a praise and worship leader.

Jerome enjoys spending time with his best friend, his wife. Whenever he is notteaching, preaching or handling community business, he and his wife, Genice,delight in a quiet evening together playing scrabble, reading a book, or talking toeach other.

LaNita Stewart is Village Trustee in charge of Ordinance and Resolution. Shewas elected in 2003. She is a 4th and 5th grade teacher at Madison School in

School District 151. She has been a resident of Phoenix, Illinois for 31 years. Sheentered the work force as an employee of Allstate Insurance Company. After 5 yearsof service, she joined the world of education. She plans to make a difference in thelives of our children. She attended Coolidge Junior High School and ThornridgeHigh School. LaNita also attended Illinois State University in Normal, Illinois,where she received her Bachelors Degree. She received her Masters Degree inEducation in June 2004 at Chicago State University.

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Family Reading NightPhoenix Library Board sponsors

(Inset): Phoenix Library Board Trustess, Left to right: MartiniMahaffey, Loretta Wells, Jessica Buckner, Ernestine Proctor-Harris, Elizabeth Bateman and Dorothy Carter.

Library Board Trustess Loretta Welss and Ernestine Proctor-Harris present bicycle to the winner of raffle during Family Reading Night sponsored by Phoenix Library Board.

Reading contest winners who attended the Library Board Family Reading Night.

November is designated as “ReadingMonth” in the state of Illinois. The

PHOENIX PUBLIC LIBRARY DISTRICT participated in “FamilyReading Night” on November 20th. Thiswas the third annual Reading Night.Students from District 151 were recog-nized with certificates and gift bags. Thesestudents had read a required number ofhours and books. Other activities that areoffered by the Library District: Safety Day,Movie Days, Spring Break activities, tripsto the Harvey Library and a reading room.The “reading room” has many books for allages. The students may check out books orcome and complete homework assign-ments on Wednesdays.

The PHOENIX LIBRARY DISTRICTtrustees are as follows: •Mrs. Jessica Buckner, President •Mrs. Lena Graye, Vice President •Mrs. Dorothy Carter, Secretary •Mrs. Ernestine Proctor-Harris, Treasurer, •Mrs. Martina Lane-Mahaffey,

Recording Secretary •Mrs. Loretta Wells•Mrs. Elizabeth Bateman.

Family Reading Night

Coolidge Step Drill Team perform at the Library Board Family Reading Night.

11

Mayor Terry Wells and the Board of Trustees hosted

The 12th Annual Senior Christmas Dinner

12

Comcast Cares Day, October 2, 2004, was a huge success in Phoenix.

A special thanks to Comcast employees, Coolidge Junior H.S. students,

Club “22”, FCEA and Phoenix Fest Committee!

13

VILLAGE OF PHOENIX CHURCH DIRECTORY

Evans Community Church723 E. 153rd Street, Phoenix, IL. 60426Phone 708-339-0469Rev. Tyrone Coleman, Pastor

Sunday School every Sunday 9:30 a.m.Worship Service every Sunday 11:00 a.m.<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>

Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church15354 – 8th Avenue – P. O. Box 2545Phoenix, IL. 60426Phone 708-339-1026Rev. Edward L. Jones, Pastor

Sunday School every Sunday 9:30 a.m.Worship Service every Sunday 11:00 a.m.<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>

Daniel Chapel A.M.E. Zion Church15250 Third Avenue, Phoenix, IL. 60426Phone 708-339-1990Rev. Harry Spigner, Pastor

Sunday School every Sunday 9:15 a.m.Worship Service and Children’s MorningWorship every Sunday 10:50 a.m.Wednesday Prayer Service and bible Study10:30 a.m.Wednesday Children’s Bible Hour 4:30p.m.Wednesday Night Prayer Service and BibleStudy 6:45 p.m.<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>

New Covenant Missionary Baptist Church15213 – 5th Avenue – P. O. Box 1358Phoenix, IL. 60426Phone 708-331-3661Rev. Dr. Richard D. McCreary, Pastor

Worship Service every Sunday 11:00 a.m.Midweek Service and Bible study everyWednesday 7:00 p.m.

Peace and Goodwill Church of God in Christ15311 Third Avenue, Phoenix, IL. 60426Phone 708-339-0440Elder Fisher Cook, Pastor

Sunday School every Sunday 9:00 a.m.Worship Service every Sunday10:15 a.m.<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>

Welcome Missionary Baptist Church15110 – 9th Avenue, Phoenix, IL. 60426Phone 708-225-1788Rev. S. L. Dudley, Pastor

Sunday School every Sunday 10:00 a.m.Worship Service 11:00 a.m.<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>

Fellowship of Love Christian CenterMailing Address: P. O. Box 1016 – Harvey,IL. 60426Currently holding Sunday Worship Service at:William Hawkins Multi-Purpose Center,151st Street & 4th AvenuePhoenix, IL. 60426Phone 708-335-0680Rev. Derrick M. White, Pastor

Worship Service every Sunday at 10:00 a.m.<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>

Faith Fellowship and Love COGIC701 East 151st Street, Phoenix, IL. 60426Phone 708-342-1887Rev. Parthenia Stegall, Pastor

Bible Class and Deliverance Prayer Service:Thurasday at 6:00 pm.Sunday School: 10:00 am every Sunday

In Loving Memory Of...

Kristie-Amanda Long-JohnsonApr. 10, 1989 - Nov. 6, 2004

Krissy was like a beautiful flower that was just beginningto blossom. It was a bright future that was taken awaytoo soon.

Berthalene HerringAug. 30, 1932 - Nov. 15, 2004

Berthalene Herring was a member of the Phoenix FestCommittee, a Community Activist and a member of theNurses Board and Culinary Ministries at Daniel ChapelAME Zion Church.

Eleanor Ramona SuggsJune 19, 1917 - Sept. 28, 2004

Eleanor Ramona Suggs was a member of the NationalGolden Agers Club of Phoenix. She lead the fight todesegregate School District 151.

Bernice LeGrand (Wright) Curtis, 2005Ruth Hobbs, 2003Harold Jones, 2003Margie Dean Dright, 2004Lincoln McKie, 2004Annie Mere Huff, 2004Leslie Kendrick Watkins, 2004Elvird Lee Walker, 2004Hattie B. Johnson, 2004Ruth Bunch, 2004Jewel Parham-Jackson, 2004Ethel Lee Walker-Cameron, 2004Altha Stoudemire, 2004Harold Scott, 2004Shannon Long, 2004Sheila Moore-Thomas, 2004Elnora Robinson, 2003Michael Stoudemire, 2004 Flora Theresa McKinney-Willoughby, 2005Edra McDowell, 2005

The Village of Phoenix joins the families in remembrance of their loved ones.

We apologize forany omissions.

Please call 708-331-1455

and let us know.

Lorraine GalberthLorraine Galberth served 12 years as Trustee of theVillage of Phoenix. She served on the boards of numer-ous other organizations including District 151 SchoolBoard, NAACP Executive Board and a member of theNational Golden Age Club of Phoenix. Forth Avenuefrom 151st street to 153rd street was named Lorraine andSteve Galberth Drive in honor of her and her husbandSteve of 65 years

14

Three Years of Giving2004 marked the third year theRenegade Riders Motorcycle Clubhas presented gifts to local children

The National GoldenAge Club of PhoenixThe meetings are held every first

Saturday of each month at 11:30a.m. at the William Hawkins Multi-Purpose Center, 650 East PhoenixCenter Drive (151st Street and FourthAvenue,) Phoenix, IL. The dues are$15.00 annually.

Each year the club awards a scholar-ship to an outstanding student whowill be graduating from high schooland have been accepted by a college or

university. The interested studentsmust fill out a scholarship applicationand submit the academic informationrequested along with the application.The scholarship application forms for2005 scholarship will be available May2, 2005.

The 2004 scholarships were awardedto Ji’Nal Thompson and DanielleCoopwood.

National Golden Age Club ofPhoenix Presents...

THE 20th ANNUAL BLACK HISTORY

MONTH CELEBRATION!&

9th YEAR SCHOLARSHIPAWARD

SATURDAY • FEBRUARY 19, 20056pm-10pm

William Hawkins Multi-Purpose Center

151st Street and Fourth AvenuePhoenix, Illinois

Admission:Adults $20 • Children twelve and under $10Tickets may be purchased from a club member

or you may call 708-331-5912 and your tickets will be held at the door

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We enjoyed another well-attendedblessed event at Phoenix Fest!!!

Mayor Terry Wells presents Memorial Plaqueto Ms. BJ Wiggins at Phoenix Fest in honor ofher late son, Deputy Sheriff Alfred Brown Jr.who was killed in the line of duty.

200416

PHOENIX FEST BREAKFAST

200417

Phoenix Fest Inc.will have another breakfast...

SATURDAY, MARCH 19, 20057am- 11am

William Hawkins Multi-Purpose Center151st Street & Fourth Avenue

Phoenix Illinois 60426

Adults: $6 • Children 12yrs and under: $3

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FREE REGISTRATION

SUPPORT OUR LOCAL BUSINESSESSuperior Rug & Upholstery Cleaners

Rudy’s Auto Repair

Gil’s House of Beauty Phaze II

Dave’s Auto Repair

Whisperwood Funeral Chapel

Smitty’s Lounge

Phoenix Fabrication

Howard McKenzie Limousine Service

D & D Construction Co.

Moses Wills Trucking Co.

R. Williams Contracting

D. Anderson Contracting Inc.

Big Three Carryout

P & R Quick Stop

Mr. Clean Car Wash

Smiling FacesChild Care

Center15113 S. Halsted • Phoenix, IL 60426

6am- 7pm

Educational Prograns • Computer TrainingHot Nutritious Meals • Ages 15mos.- 6yrs

After School

Program

708-331-9133

GIBSON’S CITGO & QUICK MART

15221 S. HALSTED PHOENIX, IL 60426 (708) 596-5085

HoursMonday - Saturday 6am-10pm

Sunday and Holidays 7am-10pm

Cigarettes

Gas

Food

Lottery

Link

Money Gram

19

Front row, left to right: Ernie Dunn, Quinn Buckner, Boyd Batts, Greg Rose, Mike Bonczyk. Second row: Head Coach Ron Ferguson, Ken Rose, FredKnutsen, Joe King, Sidney Lewis Keith Hutchinson, Nee Gatlin, Bill Redman, Dave Anderson, Assistant Coach Dave Lezeau.

DO YOU REMEMBER?1972 Class AA Boys Dolton (Thornridge) State Champions

Mayor Terry Wells (left) greets Senator Barack Obama at South Suburban College

Graduation.

Super-SectionalsDolton (Thornridge) 74, Lockport (Central) 46Collinsville 78, Mascoutah 69Evanston (Twp.) 62, North Chicago 60Peoria (Manual) 61, Rock Island (Alleman) 51Hinsdale (Central) 66, LaGrange (Lyons) 59Aurora (East) 93, Hoffman Estates (Conant) 53Chicago (Crane) 75, Chicago (Marshall) 63Quincy (Sr.) 76, Kankakee (Eastridge) 70

QuarterfinalsDolton (Thornridge) 95, Collinsville 66Peoria (Manual) 82, Evanston (Twp.) 53Aurora (East) 83, Hinsdale (Central) 81Quincy (Sr.) 87, Chicago (Crane) 71

SemifinalsDolton (Thornridge) 71, Peoria (Manual) 52Quincy (Sr.) 107, Aurora (East) 96

Third PlaceAurora (East) 74, Peoria (Manual) 66

FinalDolton (Thornridge) 104, Quincy (Sr.) 69

Can The Thornton team of 2005 compete with the Thornridge Falcons of 1972?

At Phoenix News press time, Thornton’s basketball team was ranked number 1team in the state of Illinois and ranked number 3 in the nation by USA Todaynewspaper. Six of the twelve players on the team are residents of the Village ofPhoenix.

Can The Thornton team of 2005 compete with the Thornridge Falcons of 1972?

Number One!

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ARCHIVE PHOTO

Do you recognize any of the people inthis photo?

The followingladies were hon-ored during theWomen’s HistoryProgram:

L-R Seated:Patrice Payne,Ruth Barr, PatriceBurton and Mary King.

L-R Standing:Laura Livingston,Lena Graye,Jessica M. Bucknerand Johnnie Lane.

Sorry for the omission from the previousnewspaper.

Honoring Women’s History

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DISTRICT 205 CONSTRUCTION TRADE PROGRAMS STUDENT-BUILT HOMES

BUILT SCHOOL YEAR 1994-1995

BUILT SCHOOL YEAR 1996-1997

BUILT SCHOOL YEAR 1998-1999

BUILT SCHOOL YEAR 2000-2001

BUILT SCHOOL YEAR 2002-2003

BUILT SCHOOL YEAR 1995-1996

BUILT SCHOOL YEAR 1997-1998

BUILT SCHOOL YEAR 1999-2000

BUILT SCHOOL YEAR 2001-2002

BUILT SCHOOL YEAR 2003-2004

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THIS PARTICULAR HOUSE WAS BUILT IN PHOENIX

BY STUDENTS OF SOUTH SUBURBAN COLLEGE

IN THE 2004-2005 SCHOOL YEAR

WE SALUTE OUR RESIDENTS ACHIEVEMENTS

Daughter of the late EleanorSuggs, received her family

practice degree from St. Luke’sMedical Center, in Milwaukee,Wisconsin on June 11, 2004. Shealso received the Chicago MedicalSchool Dean’s Award for service tothe school.

Lorae Harper received herBachelor of Science Degreewith Accounting as her majorfrom Governors StateUniversity on June 6, 2004.She was on the Dean’s Listwith a GPA of 4.0.

Karla Beard is now appearing withRichard Chamberlain in theAmerican Premiere of "Scrooge."She plays the part of Bess. The pro-duction opened Tuesday, October19, 2004, at Chicago’s Ford Centerfor the Performing Arts/OrientalTheatre and ran through November7, 2004. Karla will go on a nationaltour with "Scrooge" Company.

Quincy Goodwin is 2004Homecoming King at ThorntonHigh School. Quincy, a seniorat Thornton, is a member of the basketball team and has been onthe honor roll every semester.His GPA is 3.4.

Village Trustee had a lecture andbook signing in Harlem, New

York City, at Hue-Man Bookstore.This was his first book signing inNew York City. Trustee Burton’sthird history book, Black Gun,Silver Star: The Life and Legend ofFrontier Marshall Bass Reeves, willbe released next fall by theUniversity of Nebraska Press.

The seventh grade girls basketball team from Coolidge middle school won the regional and sectionalchampionships. The team advanced to the Sweet Sixteen State Finals.

The Lady Tigers Go Downstate

June Ferrell graduated from Western Illinois University, inMcComb, Illinois on May 8,2004, with a degree ineconomics.

Anna Marie Land

Arthur T. Burton

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On Behalf Of Mayor Terry Wells...

Phoenix Salutes Our Over-achievers

DISTINGUISHED SCHOLARSFIRST QUARTER 2004-20059th GradeCurtisha BrownAisha BurtonBrendan C. GilbertMonica N. HamiltonChiquita M. KinnardAngela D. McByrdBrittani T. NolanAlejandra Perez10th GradeBrittney BrooksNathan HolmesGregory Wynn11th GradeBreann JonesLaKenya Kinnard12th GradeEric BeasleyEbone HurmsBrandon LongLandon MackDominique MajorsKelli McBrideDavid L. McByrdJanae Thompson

HIGH HONOR ROLLFIRST QUARTER 2004-20059th GradeKenosha N. Prater11th GradeAndrew McByrdDeshon Thomas12th GradeKyle Vandyke

HONOR ROLLFIRST QUARTER 2004-20059th GradeFeshawn L. BerryMarquis EadyEugene HudsonLaquana Lockhart10th GradeJacque GilbertDante Scott11th GradeIeshia ShieldsJasmine Stewart12th GradeOmar GarciaQuincy Goodwin

MADISON SCHOOL 15700 Orchid Drive South Holland, IL. 60473Michael Rosen, Principal

EISENHOWER SCHOOL16001 MINERVASOUTH HOLLAND, ILDr. Rhonda Towner, Principal

COOLIDGE MIDDLE SCHOOL155TH ST. & 7TH AVE.PHOENIX, IL. 60426

THORNTON TOWNSHIP H.S.15101 BROADWAY AVE.HARVEY, IL. 60426

FIRST GRADING PERIODHONOR ROLL4th GradeCesar HernandezKahlil SalterMarquise BrandRicky HillLashaun JohnsonDestiny MahaffeyMichael StephensPaul WatkinsMarchell Catron5th GradePaul WashingtonJanine Ragland

FIRST QUARTER HONOR ROLL2nd GradeTyteanna CookDevon BerryAnesha EppsSamuel MackFrank SandiferCharles BrooksSkylar BellDeMaris CrumpSakihya DardenNathan DunnDeAnna MahaffeyDaniel White3rd GradeAtonna BridgemonJustin MontgomeryJohnny WashingtonJessikah CampbellAsia DillardMaleek FarrarDevin NobleTamaria WashingtonEssence Burgess

FIRST QUARTER HONOR ROLL6th GradeBrianna WellsTaylor Wells7th GradeRobert Kearney8th GradeSaudia Mallicott

Aisha Burton, a freshman at ThorntonHigh School scored a perfect score on

the math portion of the ISAT test.

Angela D. McByrdfrom Coolidge Middles schoolwas inducted into theNational Junior Honor Societyat Coolidge Middle School last school year. However hername was omitted from ourprevious newspaper. Sorry for the omission.

Coolidge Honor Roll students (L-R):Robert Kearney, Saudia Mallicott and Brianna Wells